2015 The Peru Stater (Nebraska) - Spring issue

Greetings from Peru State Dan Hanson Peru State College President

Graduation is a special time at Peru State.

Each year, through pomp and circumstance, we celebrate dreams realized. We celebrate the students who walk across the stage as they lay claim to the degree they worked so hard to earn. We celebrate the families and friends that supported our students as they sacrificed in order to achieve their goals. And we celebrate the institution as a whole and the important role

2014 Alumni Events

we play in helping people change their lives for the better.

This year was even more special in that the college itself celebrated its own dream realized - breaking ground on the Campus Entrance Project. You will recall that the project includes widening the street and sidewalks from Casey's to the campus entrance, improved lighting and drainage, new parking, a circle drive/drop-off zone and landscaping - which will add even more trees to our beautiful Campus of a Thousand Oaks. Construction is set to begin in earnest this summer and we hope will be completed before the start of classes on Aug. 24.

Peru State Foundation Board Chair SaraBeth Donovan graciously accepted our invitation to speak at commencement and honor the Foundation, her fellow board members, the City of Peru, the Nemaha County Board and

the Nebraska State College System for their work in seeing this important project to fruition.

I want to personally recognize and thank our Foundation board members, Jim Desbian, SaraBeth Donovan, Joyce Douglas, Larry and Sue Green, Mike Guilliatt, Tim and Cindy Hoffman, Al Urwin, Rod Vandeberg and Dennis Wittmann, for the generous personal contributions they are making to the project. I also want to thank the City of Peru, Mayor Jay Moran and the Nemaha County Board for their support, funding and in-kind contributions.

We are so grateful to all of the people and entities involved in this crucial project.

This project is a model of public-private partnership and can serve as an example to other communities in need of infrastructure improvements or wishing to undertake civic

projects. Not only will the project ensure a safe byway for students, employees, community members and visitors, it will also go a long way toward improving the image of the college and the town, contributing to increased admissions, employee recruitment, town pride, campus pride and alumni relations. We believe it will serve as a catalyst for even more community improvement projects in the coming years.

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

Upcoming 2015 Alumni Events

Alumni Chili Feed T he seventh Annual Chili Feed was a success, serving about 450 people.Alumni, Faculty, current tudents, friends and family came out to the Al Wheeler Activity Center on Feb. 21 to enjoy some basketball, food and company.

Both Women and Men played Culver-Stockton. Half-time entertainment was provided by Gary's Tumbling.

Athletic Hall of Fame On September 25 and 26, the Peru State athletic department and Foundation will team up to host the Athletic Hall of Fame. Four former Peru State athletes and one team will be inducted into the Peru State College Hall of Fame.

Omaha Alumni Association Banquet

1990 Football Championship Team Reunion On October 16 and 17, the athletics department and the Foundation will team up to host the 1990 Championship Football team reunion. The 1990 football team will be honored at a special dinner on October 16 and will be honored guests at the Peru State football game on October 17.

The Omaha Alumni Chapter held a banquet on Ju ne 4. The event started with a social hour fo r guests to catch up with familiar faces and meet new attendees. Guests enjoyed dinner at Anthony's Steakhouse, received a college update fro m President Hanson, heard Coach Behrens speak about what the future holds for Peru State men's basketball and then took part in a limited live auction.

Kansas City Meet and Greet The Peru State Foundation and the National Alu m niAssociation hosted a meet and greet for Peru tate Alumni in the Kansas City area on June 24. Attendees gathered at the Marriott Country Club. Pl'aza in Kansas City for conversation, appetizers and a college update from Pre ident Hanson.

Kearney Meet and Greet On April 30, Alumni from the Kearney, Hastings and Grand Island area gathered at the Archway, located in Kearney, Neb. Guests enjoyed appetizers while visiting with friends and clac·smates-of Peru State. Chief Executive Officer of the Peru State Foundation, Todd i mpson gave an update on the college.

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50 -Year Reunion On October 30 and 31, members of the 1964, 1965, and 1966 classes are encouraged to attend the SO-Year Reunion celebration. The annual event will once again take place on Homecoming weekend. An honorary dinner for the featured class (this year's featured class is 1965) will take place on Friday, October 30 where they will receive medallions in honor of their golden anniversary.

On Saturday, October 31 members can choose to take part in the parade, along with other Homecoming festivities .

Student Senate member serving at the annual Alumni Chili Feed.

30-Year Reunion Homecoming weekend of 2015 will be Peru State Foundation's first time hosting a 30-Year Reunion. Alumni from the graduating classes of 1985 and 1986 will be invited back to campus to celebrate 30 years of being Peru State alumni! The event will include tours, dinner and mingling with classmates on Friday, October 30 and Homecoming festivities on Saturday, October 31, members can choose to take part in the parade if they wish.

Lincoln Meet and Greet The Foundation will have a Lincoln meet and greet in November. Both the date and location are yet to be determined.

Please check the Foundation website for further notice.

Please feel free to contact the Peru State Foundation with any questions at 402-8722395 or kwessel@peru.edu.

A Growing Bobcat Family Todd Simpson CFRE

Chief Executive Officer Peru Staie College Foundation

A couple of years ago I decided to take a class or two in Peru State's graduate program.

The curriculum offered in the Master of Science in Organizational Management program seemed especially appropriate to my role as chief executive officer for the Peru State College Foundation. I had always wanted to continue my education and earn an advanced degree, so I knew that this was my opportunity to go back to school in pursuit of that goal.

I had taken just a couple of classes in the program when my wife, Michelle, noticed how much fun I was having, and how much I was gaining from the challenge of college coursework. Michelle soon decided that she was also up for a new challenge. As an educator, Peru State's Master of Science in Education - Curriculum and Instruction was just right for her.

However, after observing my rather leisurely approach to the degree program - a class or two here, a class or two there - Michelle decided she would join the special accelerated cohort offered for her degree program. The accelerated e-cohort provides a community experience as students go through the program with a cadre of learners all sharing and learning with each

other. I am sure it was this learning cohort that attracted Michelle to the accelerated program, and not the thought of moving through her master's degree program at a much faster pace than her husband!

Peru State offers two Master of Science programs, and both are offered online. The online educational platform was new to me, but I found it surprisingly easy to use. The class lectures and lessons were there waiting for me when I could work them into my schedule. The professors answered questions and responded to my emails at all hours of the days and nights. The platform also provided easy ways for me to ask questions, get feedback on my assignments, and interact with fellow classmates, even though we never met face to face.

While I feel that the traditional college experience of living in dorms and taking classes on a college campus is a powerful formative experience for young adults, after working my way through the online curriculum, I am now a convert to online education for people like me who balance schoolwork with jobs and families.

I moved through my coursework at a much faster pace than I had initially planned. I am sure this faster pace was a result of the ease of accessing the classes I needed through the online platform, rather than any motivation that I might have felt at the thought of my wife outpacing me in her accelerated master's degree program!

Regardless of how we managed it, Michelle and I both wrapped up our coursework in time to graduate together. We both walked the stage this May at commencement 2015. Our son and other family members were there to celebrate

PSC Foundation Board of Directors Sa raBeth Donovan ('85), Cha ir - Vienna, VA Mike Guilliatt ('67), Vice Chair - Fremont, NE Cindy ('82) & Tim ('84) Hoffman, Treasurers - Lincoln , NE Larry ('71) & Sue Green, Secretaries - Miramar Beach, FL Dennis Wittmann - Auburn, NE Al Urwin ('82) - La Vista, NE Jim Desbien ('73) - Plainville, KS Joyce Douglas - Lincoln , NE PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors Paul ('67) and Arlene (Borcher, '67) Fell , Co-Presidents - Lincoln, NE Carlos Harriso.n ('51), Vice President - Shenandoah , IA Ed Ankrom ('91), Secretary - Beatrice, NE Ki m ('90) and Kris (Kubert, '94) Vrtiska, Co-Treasurers - Falls City, NE Elton ('88) and Connie (Sims, '87) Edmond - Lincoln, NE Dan ('76) and Cheryl Cotton - Peru , NE Nick ('87) and Laurel (Smith , '87) Harling - Fal ls City, NE Chuck ('69) and Alice (Massoth , '69) Mizerski - Lincoln , NE Fritz ('74) and.Char (Lutz, '74) Stehlik - Omaha, NE Angelia Rohwer Steiner ('90) - Sabetha, KS Al Urwin('82) - La Vista, NE

Todd Simpson, President Dan Hanson, SaraBeth Donovan, and Michelle Simpson after the commencement ceremony on May 9, 2015. with us.

Commencement is a special time for all the graduates, and for the faculty and staff who have supported and encouraged the students along the way. I saw more than a few faculty with misty eyes as they mingled with the graduates and laughed, hugged and said their goodbyes.

For all graduates, those in their early 20s looking toward first jobs, or middle-aged graduates completing degrees begun years ago, or professionals seeking to increase their capabilities with a graduate degree or certificate, this

milestone offers a time for reflecting on the journey, feeling pride in the accomplishment, and looking toward the future with greater confidence.

Thanks to the welcoming community of faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Peru State, Michelle and I have long felt like a part of the Bobcat family. At commencement, we proudly joined 423 other graduates in expanding the Bobcat Nation. We are proud to join the graduate community and grateful for the opportunity to pursue our educational goals at Peru State College.

College President Dr. Dan Hanson Editor: R. Todd Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, PSC Foundation Managing Editor/Writer: Kara Wessel ('13) Graphic Design: Chelsea Allgood ('08), Graphic Design Artist Copy Editor: Promise DeBilzan ('11) Contributing Writers: Regan Anson ('11), Director, PSC Marketing & Public Affairs Rebecca Jewell, Advancement Officer, PSC Foundation Photography: Dr. Bill Clemente, PSC Professor of English PSC Foundation Staff Rebecca Johnson ('05), Graphic Design Artist, PSC Marketing & Publ ic Affairs Ted Harshbarger ('77)

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Significant Campus and Civic Improvement Begins Following the graduation ceremony and reception on May 9, 2015, Peru State College hosted another sort of commencement, a groun<l breaking for a project that will change the face of Peru, a~d fulfill a key part of Peru State' campus master plan. Peru State College Presi<lent Dan Hanson, Mayor Jay Moran, State Senator Dan Watetmeier, Peru State College Foundation Chair SaraBeth Donovan and other dignitaries along with members of the Peru State College Foundation board gathered near the little red school house to break ground on thi historic improvement.

Presi<lent Hanson and Mayor Moran made brief remarks about the strong partnership between the college, foundation, city and Nemaha County that has been the driving force behind this project. President Hanson also thanked the foundation board of directors for their outstanding leadership that provided and inspired the initial funding for the project.

Park Avenue is the main road into the town of Peru, and it leads to the "front door" of the Peru State campus. Aside from one large sign, the campus has not had an entrance feature that alert visitors and guests that they have arrived . As the 2012 Campus Master Plan noted, "The [campus! entry is visually dominated by parking and the presence of a major intersection of two non-campus streets .... As a result, a driver may not realize he or she has arrived at the entrance to the campus."

In addition, Park Avenue sees a high volume of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. However, the narrow road without continuous sidewalks need · safety improvements for the cars, bicy-

des and walkers that frequently travel along the route, including many students who walk to Casey's General Store at the south end of Park Avenue at all hours of the day and night.

Finally, the picturesque "hills of Peru" present some civil engineering challenges from time to time. Through the partnership between the city and college, the project presented an opportunity to solve some challenges while accomplishing significant safety and aesthetic improvements.

The Park Avenue project will widen and extend sidewalks and add lighting to create a safe route for pedestrians. Environmentally friendly bio retention cells will be added to improve storm water management and eliminate problematic erosion. Curb and gutter will also be added, and new safety barriers installed.

At the north end of Park Avenue, a new entrance plaza will mark the "front door" of the campus. A circle drive will include handicapped accessible parking stalls as well as a drop-off area large enough to accommodate buses. With a new large and stately entrance sign, attractive lighting and beautiful landscaping, this improved entrance will communicate a warm welcome to all who visit Peru State.

Park Avenue will no longer join Fifth Street with a sharp 90 degree turn downhill toward the Oak Bowl. A new roadway will be created to connect the two streets with a gentle curve, allowing traffic to avoid the steep slope. The current parking area now at the corner of Park Avenue and Fifth Street will be extended to the south so the campus will be able to maintain its current parking capacity.

Foundation board members ready to break ground for a new campus entrance and an improved Park Avenue. L to R: Mike Guilliatt, Al Urwin, President Dan Hanson, SaraBeth Donovan, Joyce Douglas, and Cindy Hoffman.

"This project is so exciting! It benefits Peru State College and the City of Peru with a roadway and entrance that is befitting an established, proud community. As a new member of the Peru State College Foundation, I watched the efforts grow with private as well as public funds to move it forward. The groundbreaking on May 9 was very emotional for me because my husband, Jud D ouglas, was so dedicated to seeing the final result. Farmers Bank of Cook with our Bank of Peru Branch is very proud to be involved," said Joyce Douglas, vice president of Farmers Bank of Cook, and a Peru State College Foundation board member.

Work will focus on the road and sidewalks throughout the summer, with the intention of

having these key elements completed by the time students return for the fall. Work on the remaining elements of the renovated entrance will continue through the first few months of 2016.

Nearly $1 million has been contributed toward the nearly $2.9 million needed. A special marker in the new entrance plaza will recognize all donors who contribute $2,500 or more to this project. Gifts can also be given in honor or in memory of an individual, family or group.

If you would like to be a part of this milestone or have questions about how to make a donation please contact the Peru State College Foundation by calling 402-873-2304 or by emailing PSCFoundation@peru.edu.

Peru State College Sesequicentennial Celebration Nebraska's first college is

preparing for its biggest celebration yet! On June 20, 2017, the college will celebrate its 150th anniversary. A milestone we share with the State of Nebraska!

The new campus entrance will include a circle drive drop-off, an entrance plaza, parking, and a curving roadway leading east toward the Oak Bowl.

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"Ending Racism in About an Hour"

W. Kamau Bell speaks at his "Ending Racism in About an Hour" presentation.

W. Kamau Bell was Peru State's 12th speaker in the college's Distinguished Speaker Series.

The series has had guests that have spoken on civil rights, entrepreneurship, and much more since starting in 2010. Bell is a political satirist.

Bell presented his "Ending Racism in About an Hour" presentation in February.

Bell is a founding member of the stand-up comedy collective "Laughter Against the Ma-

chine," which, using fan funding via Kickstarter, toured the country in 2011 while filming a documentary about the role comedy plays in our society. In addition to visiting seven of the Occupy Wall Street encampments, they crossed the border in Arizona with the immigration rights groups Culturestrike and Puente, marched with striking hotel workers in Chicago, went to a Mosque in Michigan, touched the

2015 Peru State Commencement Peru State College held its annual commencement ceremony May 9 in the Al Wheeler Activity Center. Approximately 425 students earned degrees.

President Dan Hanson said, "As they embark on new careers, advance in jobs or pursue advanced degrees, we hope our graduates remember fondly the role Peru State faculty and

The 2015 graduating class moving their tassels.

levee in the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans and hung out with street artists against oil pipelines in Washington, D.C. His weekly half-hour FX comedy series, "Totally Biased with W. Kamau, Bell,',__ premiered in August 2012 and became a critically acclaimed show on FX's comedy network FXX. The show was nominated for a 2013 GLAAD Award for Outstanding Talk Show Episode for Bell's interview with Orange Is the New Black's Laverne Cox, as well as Best Talk Series at the 2012 NAACP Image Awards.

Bell has traveled to several college campuses and raised awareness for racism, while sprinkling in bits of humor to keep the bit entertaining. Students and faculty enjoyed Bell's presentation and offered feedback on the event.

"I thought the way he talked about diversity and culture was very modernized and geared towards college students, I liked that it wasn't dry, and here's the facts," said Alyssa Rodriguez, a junior psychology major and criminal justice minor.

Rodriguez is not the only one who thinks Bell puts a funny, fresh and edgy spin on topics. In 2010, Bell released his second stand up album "Face Full of Flour," which was named one of the Top 10 Best Comedy Albums of the Year by iTunes and Punchline Magazine. His first album "One Night Only" was released in 2007. Also in 2007 he developed his one-man show The W. Kamau Bell Curve: Ending Racism in About an Hour, which received rave reviews from audiences, critics and industry insiders.

staff played in their success. We congratulate them on being part of the legion of Bobcat alumni who have made this institution great for nearly 150 years and wish them all the best for a bright and successful future. It's been great to have each of them as a student at Peru State."

In order to graduate summa cum laude (with highest distinction), a student must have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.90 to 4.0; for magna cum laude (with high distinction), 3.75 to 3.89; and for cum laude (with distinction), 3.50 to 3.74.

Guest speakers at the ceremony included Biology Professor Dr. Richard Clopton and Peru State Foundation Board Chair SaraBeth Donovan.

Clopton was honored as Peru State's 2015 Teacher Excellence Award winner. This is the second time Clopton received the award, receiving it also in 2004.

Donovan spoke on behalf of the Campus Entrance ground breaking. The ground breaking took place shortly after commencement and now marks the beginning of the project's future construction.

Peru State attendees also spoke of him kindly. "Mr. Bell's presentation was funny and thought-provoking. He combined personal experience and the experiences of his peers with research and statistics. He has an edge to his comedy, but his warmth made it possible for everyone in the audience to feel somewhat comfortable with a deeply unsettling topic," said Kristi Nies, assistant professor of English.

Bell co-hosts the podcast "The Field Negro Guide to Arts & Culture" with Living Colour guitarist Vernon Reid, writes the blog "Kamau's Komedy Korner" for the San Francisco Weekly, and sits on the board of The Applied Research Center, a racial justice think tank and home for media and activism.

Media and activism were both addressed during Bell's Peru State presentation. One staff member shared what she thought of the topics.

"Racism is such a loaded word. In the end, his message was to respect others and question the wrongs we see in the world, no matter who is involved. He educated me by using real life incidents and examples of racism, discrimination, and disrespect. We all fit into one stereotype or another, and having others judge us or have prejudices against us based on false assumptions is unfair and hurtful at best. We make a positive impact in the world by recognizing discrimination and stereotyping and making a decision to practice respect in our interactions with others. Kamau Bell was a great choice for the Distinguished Speaker Series," said Marie Meland, the Tutorial/ADA Services Coordinator.

Carrie Lierz poses for a photo after receiving her degree.

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New Sculpture Coming to Oak Bowl

Victor working on the detail of the statue.

When asked why he started sculpting, Benjamin Victor responded "Because I enjoy it. I took a sculpture class, and it just worked for me. I feel as an artist you find your medium an<l that i it."

Critically acclaimed artist Benjamin Victor was on the campu March 22 through March 27 to sculpt a statue to be permanently displayed at the recently renovated Oak Bowl stadium.

The public was invited to observe the sculpting process througho ut the week.

Funding for the statue came from Nebraska's 1% for Art program. Up to one percent of capital con truction costs of public buildings are 'et aside for acquisition and permanent installation of artwork and deposited into a fund managed by the state arts agency. In effect since 1978, the program has generated more than $3 million dollar in artwork for Nebraska's state buildings, the Nebraska State College System and the University of Nebraska system.

Funding made available for art through the program typically ranges in cost from $5,000 to $150,000 or more per project. The number of projects generated each year is dependent on legi lative appropriations for new construction in excess of $500,000 and remodeling or renovation of a public building in excess of $250,000. Buildings meeting these criteria must be open to public access in order for a project to take effect.

An Art Selection Committee, coordinated through the Nebraska Arts Council, is established for each project and determines the criteria for suitable locations, art forms and artist eligibility.

Victor got hi · first large commission at age

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how he wants the facial expressions to look. To help, he researches art history for iconic figures. He looks for strong features and timeless 23. By 26, he became the youngest artist in his- faces. Taking pictures of himself (his face, his tory to have a sculpture in National Statuary arms, and his hands) is another helpful techHall in the U.S. Capitol. Nine years later he be- nique he uses. After looking at the pictures he came the only living artist to have two works in took of himself, he will add lines and shadows Statuary Hall. Currently, Victor is a profession- on his face on the photographs to make it look al sculptor and a professor of practice at Boise like the iconic figure he envisioned.

Victor's favorite part of sculpting is "anyState. thing anatomical." He likes working on the Working with all different sizes and subface, hands and the body, "Because they hold jects for his sculptures, Victor spends anywhere from one week to one year working on so much expressive potential."

After details on the clay model are finished each piece. Victor blocked out an entire year to complete the sculpture for Peru State; he start- the piece goes through a molding process. ed on the iconic football player six months be- Molds of the entire piece will be made in secfore visiting campus. The larger-than-life-size tions, and then dipped in wax. Sections are then bronze sculpture of a historic football player copied in bronze, welded together, and then the will be located near the entrance to the Oak statue will receive a final coat of bronze.

Vice President for E nrollment Management Bowl stadium. The clay figure already weighs and Student Affairs, Dr. Michaela Willis, chair somewhere around 300 pounds. Victor said he of the 1% for Art Committee, said, "We are expects the final weight of the sculpture will be excited to have this renowned artist, Benjamin about 600 pounds. This is his first piece in the Victor, as part of this important project for our state of Nebraska. institution.

As a committee, we were impressed When asked how he feels about having his by his representation of the subject matter, level artwork as a permanent part of the campus, he of detail, ability to capture idea of movement answered, "It makes me feel proud, especially and, of course, the quality of his prior work. at Peru State. It is a beautiful campus and the Mr. Victor's presence at Peru State is a great ophistory goes way back, especially in football. it portunity for people from around the region to is one of the oldest football programs I know. watch a master at work."

So it is just fun to be a part of that and to do Victor's week on campus was a part of an something special for this campus. With everyartist-in-residence program which allowed the one who has come in to see the statue, I can tell campus community to experience his artistic that this school is special to them." process.

He was grateful for the opportunity .

Victor first builds an armature or a skeleton to interact with students.

"I think it gives stufigure. This is often done out of steel to hold up dents exposure to a wider array of styles. It also the structure of the piece. Then he uses foam, provides an opportunity for a person-to-perpaper or styrofoam, to hold the weight of the son interaction that you may not get otherwise. statue. This helps build a bulk mass sculpture. see the process, the Students getting to actually Next, he adds clay which then forms around time it takes, and that sort of thing, is really the figure. Victor used steel, foam and clay to valuable," said Victor. build the Oak Bowl sculpture.

The statue is expected to be finished and The next step is to carefully add details to in the stadium by the end of summer, placed the clay model. For projects that are not based 2015. on a particular person, Victor has to decide

"Exploring Belief" Panel Examines Different Belief Systems at Peru State Coll~ge "The discussion began that evening and has continued throughout the semester."

- Kristi Nies) Councilfor Inclusion Co-Chair Experts from several different belief systems presented the panel discussion "Exploring Belief" in February in the Jindra Fine Arts Building Recital Hall at Peru State.

Panel members gave a brief introduction into their belief systems, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Humanism and Judaism. Their presentation was followed by a question and answer discussion. Audience members who were not comfortable asking questions verbal\y had the option of texting questions to panel moderator Dr. Darrin Coe, assistant professor of psychology at Peru State.

Members of the panel included: Dr. Naser Z. Alsharif, Middle East Cultural and Educational Services of Omaha; Beverly Carlson, Omaha Atheists; Liz Feldstern, Executive Director of the Institute for Holocaust Education, Omaha; Pam Griffin, Nebraska Zen Center, Omaha; Pastor Ken Miller, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Auburn.

The event was part of the Diversity Awareness Month programming presented by the Peru State College Council on Inclusion.

Kristi Nies, co-chair for the Council for Inclusion and assistant professor of English, said, "The purpose of the Exploring Belief panel was to, hopefully, encourage a greater understanding of some of the belief systems in the United States."

"The Exploring Belief panel was a wonderful evening. Each panelist was warm and open, and the audience was receptive and engaged. The discussion began that evening and has continued throughout the semester."

Left: Victor talks to Peru State College students about his work.

Rodney Vandeberg

Rodney Vandeberg

On May 23, 2015, at age 78, Rodney P. Vandeberg passed away after a lengthy illness.

Vandeberg will be remembered for his generosity, his vision, and his unwavering civic spirit. Vandeberg's extensive list of accom-

Dr. Lester Russell Makes Special Gift to College Lester Russell has been a pillar of the Peru State College community for decades: Class of 1951, Professor of Industrial Technology from 1956 - 1995, former President of the Peru State College Foundation Board of Trustees, mentor, campus leader and respected colleague. "Dan and I really consider Lester a beloved friend ," added first lady Elaine Hanson.

In December 2014, Dr. Russell made a generous gift to the Peru State College Foundation by donating property he owned in Peru .

Known as the "Larson House," this property was adjacent to the Russell home and was once the home of another legendary industrial arts professor, A. V. Larson.

Dr. Russell's t~es to Peru run deep. He was born on the faini_ly farm in rural Nemaha in 1927. Even befor~ graduating from Peru State in 1951, Russell taught in area schools. During his junior year of college, he served as the high school music teacher at Steinauer, Neb. As a senior, Russell taught elementary and high school band and chorus in Johnson, Neb. Following graduation he taught in Brock, Neb. for five years. In 1956, A: V. Larson, then head of Peru State's industrial arts program, hired Russell to

plishments includes 35 years at First National Vandeberg was born on October 1, 1936 in Peru State Foundation.

Bank and Trust in Falls City where he served Sheldon, Iowa. A banking career that lasted "I learned so much from Rod during the six as chairman, president and CEO; a four-year more than 50 years began in 1956 at City Na- years we served together on the foundation's term as mayor of Falls City (2006 -2010); leader- tional Bank & Trust in Kansas City. He served board of directors. His insight was always on ship roles with the Nebraska Banker's Associa- in the United States Army Reserve from 1958- target, and he was so proud of the opportution, the Lincoln Jaycees, the Nebraska Jaycees, 1964. Vandeberg worked for the National Bank nities Peru State College provides to those in and the Nebraska Highway Commission; and of Commerce in Lincoln, Neb., before settling southeast Nebraska and other regions of the service on the boards of directors of Lutheran in Falls City with wife Janis (Sholz) Vandeberg state. He had great vision for Peru State," said Family Services, the Vandeberg Family Foun- in 1973. In Falls City, Vandeberg became a pil- SaraBeth Donovan, chair of the Peru State dation, and the Peru State College Foundation. lar of the community and a "philanthropic gi- College Foundation board.

Vandeberg developed a strong relationship ant" according to the Falls City Journal.

In Falls City, Vandeberg's impact will be with Peru State College during his 10 years as a During his time on the foundation board felt for decades. Vandeberg made generous Peru State College Foundation board member. Vandeberg touched many lives and made his contributions to and helped raise millions of He believed that Peru State would help ensure mark in many ways. dollars for multiple landmark projects includa bright future for southeast Nebraska by pro"Rod Vandeberg was a tremendous asset to ing the Falls City Library & Arts Center, the viding access to higher education, by attracting the Peru State College Foundation board. He FC Aquatic Center, the Community Medical talented professionals to live and work in the believed in higher education and understood Center, and others. area, and by supporting the regional economy Peru State's value to southeast Nebraska. Rod Vandeberg lost his wife of 46 years in 2002. was dedicated to Peru State's continued growth He leaves behind his daughters and sons-in-law as one of its largest employers.

"Rod Vandeberg was an outstanding leader and progress. One example of his tremendous Pam and Don Sheets of Lincoln and Lori and and visionary. His passion for building for the leadership is the Park Avenue Project now Jim Parrish of Auburn; grandchildren Stacy and future was evident in his work for his commu- underway, a $3 million improvement and en- Anthony Gerber of St. Joseph, Mich., Amanda nity and Peru State. We are fortunate that he hancement of the entrance to the City of Peru and Lars Nielsen of Lincoln, Matt Sheets of was committed to strengthening Peru State and to Peru State. Rod advocated for this proj- Lincoln, Tommy and Maggie Parrish of Carroll, College through his service on the foundation ect and understood the broad and lasting im- Iowa, Emily and Brett Crotty of Auburn, Jeff board. I enjoyed my time with him and feel pact it will have. We will miss his well-informed and Emily Sheets of Lincoln and Mallory Parfortunate to have known him," said Peru State perspective and his visionary guidance," said rish of Auburn; great-grandchildren Landon, College President Dan Hanson.

Todd Simpson, chief executive officer of the Luka, Eli, Ava, Alexandria, and Nora. join the faculty full-time. Eventually, Dr. Russell and his wife, Esther ('51) moved into town, next door to Mr. and Mrs. Larson on Seventh Street in Peru. The Larsons and the Russells were neighbors for years, growing roses and gardening together. When Mr. Larson passed away, the Russells purchased the home, still known as "the Larson house," and rented it to many students, faculty and staff over the years.

"The college was a huge part of our lives," recalls Russell's daughter, Martha Brestel. "Students, especially industrial arts majors, came and went from our house all of the time. My parents welcomed them in and fed them. One time, for an industrial arts contest happening on campus, my mother baked 32 pans of cinnamon rolls, and that was typical of their involvement with everything happening at the college.

They treated everyone like family."

Brian ('71) and Patty ('71) Trottier echo that feeling. Coming to college from far away Vermont, Patty said, "It was scary. It was a long way from home. But the professors we had at that time were a rare breed. We were very fortunate to have all of the professors that we did, but Lester, and his wife Esther, were special."

Brian, an industrial arts major at Peru State, recalled, "I always felt like he was more than a professor, more like a friend. He made you feel comfortable asking for extra help. He always took the time to explain things and make sure that you understood."

"Even after we left Peru, and throughout my 38 years of teaching industrial arts, Dr.

Russell would always ask how my classes were going and about our family. Many times in my teaching I would find myself using something I learned from Dr. Russell, and each time it would benefit one or more of my students. He was a special teacher, and I continue to hold him in high regard," said Brian.

Over the years, the Trottier's two children have formed many happy memories of time spent with Lester and Esther, like Lester's popcorn-on-the-cob, and Christmas visits they enjoyed together in New Hampshire and Nebraska. "Every time we came back, it was always a highlight for us and our children to see Lester and Esther," Patty recalls.

The Trottiers were not surprised to hear of Dr. Russell's generous gift. "Dr. Russell has always loved Peru State. He's always been very dedicated to the college," said Patty. Brian added, "Lester is a very special person. His love and dedication to Peru State over the years is to be admired."

Brestel speculated that her father's high regard for the college, and an understanding of its needs as an institution, inspired this gift.

"So many people in our family attended Peru State," said Brestel. "It has always been considered a very special place."

"My dad has intended to make this gift for many years. He always felt the college needed it and would put it to good use," said Brestel.

Todd Simpson, CEO of the Peru State College Foundation, said, "The College is so grateful for this generous and meaningful con-

tribution from Dr. Russell. Contributions like this help Peru State continue to offer the personalized, high-quality college education that is a hallmark of Peru State, and which Dr. Russell exemplified through his extraordinary service."

Dr. Russell now resides in Marshalltown, Iowa, near his daughter. In spite of suffering a stroke a few years ago, Brestel says, "He is very happy. He enjoys each day. He is an avid reader, and he still tends some tomato plants every summer. He loves seeing and hearing from former colleagues and former students."

Lester Russell teaching in 1957

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7

Dr. Richard Clopton Named 2015 Teacher Excellence Award Winner

results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

"Science is a discipline learned by working Peru State College Biology Professor Dr. with other scientists and I try to maintain a Richard Clopton has been named the institu- vigorous, enthusiastic and productive laboratotion's 2015 Teacher Excellence Award Winner. ry. I am always looking for students who are Clopton was honored during the college's grad- interested and motivated to become scientists. uation ceremony in May. I feel I share this award with the rest of my This is the second Teacher Excellence department because one faculty member can't Award bestowed upon Clopton, who also re- do it alone. Active scientific engagement and ceived the honor in 2004. student mentoring is the core philosophy of Pre idem Dan Hanson said, "Dr. Clopton the Natural Science faculty at Peru State and it i. an accomplished researcher and scientist, but makes our students among the most successful also a wonderful teacher. His teaching meth- in the region." ods are a perfect example of how the faculty Clopton, who joined the Peru State faculty at Peru State works to engage students in ac- in 1995, is the Downey Family Honors Chair in tive learning. Whether it's collecting insects Science. He teaches courses in evolution, sysand parasites in southeast Nebraska, North tematics, and organismal biology and currently Carolina, or the Florida Keys, or conducting serves as chair of the college's Rank Promotion experimental work in the laboratory, he con- and Tenure Committee. He previously served tinually looks for ways to involve students in as chair of both the Institutional Review Board unique research opportunities that will give and Higher Learning Commission Self-Study them the skills they need to become scientists. Subcommittee and was head of the Division of That effort often leads to students presenting Science and Technology. Prior to joining the at conferences and having work published in Peru State faculty, Clopton was a postdoctorinternational scientific journals, which is high- al research associate at Texas A&M University ly unusual anq advantageous for undergraduate and visiting assistant professor of biology at the students."

University of Nebraska.

Clopton said, " l am pleased to receive this Clopton's current research is focused on the award, which endorses a 20-year effort to make distribution and biodiversity of North Ameria dj fference in the lives of our students, to find can cockroaches and their gregarine parasites. and train the next generation of scientists from His research interests include the evolution, the young men and women of Nebraska. Our biodiversity, and natural history of insects and research program incorporates undergraduate their parasites, though he is particularly interstudents as research colleagues who learn sci- ested in understanding how new parasitic speence by doing science. They conduct original cies evolve. Clopton's research has been supcientific research, present their findings at re- ported through consistent competitive grant gional and national meetings, and publish their

Clopton teaching in 2014

8

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support from the National Science Foundation. Since 1997 he has been awarded eight grants totaling $1 million.

Clopton and his students recently finished projects on the gregarine parasites of insects in the Nebraska Sandhills, the Texas "Big Thicket," and Belize, Central America. He also recently completed a long-term molecular phylogeny project resolving major trends in gregarine parasite evolution, establishing the first evolutionary systematic arrangement of the group. Over the last two decades, Dr. Clopton and his students have discovered and named 62 new species of gregarine parasites.

While at Peru State, Clopton served for five years as editor-in-chief of Comparative Parasitology, an international scientific journal published by the Helminthological Society of Washington. He is a member of the American Society of Parasitologists, where he has served on numerous committees as well as the executive council; the Southwestern Association of Parasitologists, where he served as president and a representative to the national council; and the Helminthological Society of Washington, where he is also a member of the executive council.

Clopton has published 61 peer-reviewed scientific papers. He serves as a grant reviewer for the National Science Foundation and is a regular peer-reviewer/referee for scientific journals in the United States, Canada and Europe. He has served as an academic and scientific consultant/collaborator for programs in California, Connecticut, Illinois, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas, as well as Canada, Argentina, Belize, Bulgaria, Italy, New Zealand, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand, the Philippines and South Korea.

Clopton holds a Ph.D. in parasitology, a master's degree in entomology, and a bachelor's degree in agriculture and entomology from the University of Nebraska. He also studied molecular genetics at Colorado State University.

The Teacher Excellence Award is given annually to one outstanding full-time faculty member at each of the three state colleges: Peru, Wayne and Chadron. To be considered, a faculty member must have a minimum of four years consecutive employment at the college, have taught a minimum of 15 credit hours during the previous academic year, and have an active and positive record of service to students as an academic, professional or personal advisor. Candidates must also have demonstrated involvement in faculty development programs, a superior level of teaching effectiveness and a record of public service.

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

Show Choir Chosen to Host Championship Series in Missouri Peru State's Prestige Show Choir, formerly known as the Misty Blues Show Choir, was selected to host and perform at FAME Branson, Missouri at the Lawrence Welk Resort in April.

FAME is a company that hosts a series of events called the "National Show Choir Championship Series." With events in Branson, Hollywood, Orlando, New York and Chicago, rugh schools compete on the national stage for a chance to appear in the National Championship of Show Choirs in late April.

Prestige members served as a host group and helped run the festival by assisting show choirs, selling merchandise and stage-managing. While Prestige did not compete at the FAME Branson event, the group performed immediately before the awards ceremony in front of a crowd of around 2,300 people.

Dr. Jake Bartlett, assistant professor of music and Prestige director, said, "This is an incredible opportunity for Peru State's talented students to be showcased at the national level. From performing on such a big stage to networking with music industry professionals, this is exactly the kind of engaging experience we strive to give our students. We are so excited to be part of this event!"

Bartlett also commented on the group's name change.

"For decades, the Peru State College show choir had been known as the Misty Blues," Bartlett said. "With the passing of beloved Music Professor and Director of Choral Activities Dr. Thomas Ediger, students and faculty in the Department of Music made the unanimous decision to retire the Misty Blues name as a way of honoring this wonderful man's memory and legacy."

Peru State Phi Beta Lambda Earned 13 First Place Finishes

Peru State Phi Beta Lambda earned 13 first place finishes this year at the 2014-2015 Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference! Students ranked in the top places in each category were eligible to compete at the National Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois in June.

Borchers Named Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Tim Borchers

Phi Alpha Theta Holds Murder Mystery Dinner Phi Alpha Theta (a professional society whose mission is to promote the study of history through the encouragement of research, good teaching, publication and the exchange of learning and ideas among historians) held a murder mystery dinner theater.

Proceeds from the 20s themed production, "Murder at the Juice Joint: A Roaring Night of

Peru State College President Dr. Dan Han- Studies, Film Studies and Theatre Arts. He was son announced the appointment of Dr. Tim named chair of the department in 2004.

Borchers as vice president for academic affairs.

While at MSUM, Borchers served as assoBorchers, a Sidney, Nebraska native, most ciate dean of the College of Social and Natural recently served as dean of the College of Arts, Sciences from 2005 -07, chair of the DepartMedia and Communication at Minnesota State ment of Communication Studies from 2007-08 and interim dean of the College of Arts and University Moorhead (MSUM).

President Hanson said, "We are excited to Humanities from 2008-10. He was named dean welcome Dr. Borchers to the Peru State fam- in 2010 and remained in that role until 2013 ily. His work with student success initiatives, when he was named dean of the College of assessment of student learning and community Arts, Media and Communication. engagement fit perfectly with our mission. It In addition to having numerous articles was clear during his campus interview that his published in national academic journals, Borchvision and experience will provide important ers authored the books Persuasion in the Media leadership for Peru State College."

Age, first published by McGraw Hill, and RheBorchers said, "Peru State's focus on stu- torical Theory: An Introduction, published by dent engagement aligns closely with my core Waveland Press. beliefs about the role of higher education. I am Borchers has presented papers at a varivery impressed with the accomplishments of ety of academic and communication industry the Peru State students and the dedication of conventions across the country. He served as its faculty to ensuring student success." an advisory board member for the Valley FoBorchers has spent his career at MSUM, rensic League, on the Editorial Review Board joining the faculty in 1996 as an assistant pro- for the North Dakota Journal of Speech and fessor in the Department of Communication Theatre for the North Dakota Speech and TheMurder, Mayhem and the Mob to Remember," will go toward a new Nebraska State Historical Society marker at the campus entrance to commemorate the college's 150th anniversary in 2017. Phi Alpha Theta has been raising money for the effort since the 2014-15 academic year; hosting chili feeds and bake sales.

Professors, friends and alumni attended and participated in the murder mystery. Each participant had a character, and worked together to solve who committed the "murder."

Overall the event was very successful and between tickets and donations the club raised over $1 500 for the historical marker.

Guests enjoying a tasty dinner and an evening of mystery.

atre Association and executive director of the Michigan Intercollegiate Speech League. He is also a member of the Council of Colleges of Arts and Sciences.

Borchers has also served as editor of the National Forensic Journal, editorial/publication board member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, associate editor of the Forensic Educator and was on the editorial review board of Speaker and Gavel for Delta Sigma Rho-Tau Kappa Alpha.

He was a member of The Chair Academy's International Practitioners Advisory Board and a moderator for the National Federation of State High School Associations' Interscholastic Debate on the China Topic: An Audio-Visual Instructional Package.

Borchers holds a Bachelor's degree in speech communication from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, a Master's degree in communications from Wayne State University (Detroit, Michigan) and a Ph.D. in rhetorical theory from Wayne State University.

Borchers' wife, Susanne Williams, and their son, Oliver, will join him.

Music Student Wins State Championship David Grubaugh, a freshman vocal performance/music education major from San Bernardino, Calif., won first place in his division at the annual National Association of Teachers State (NATS) Conference at Hastings College last fall.

Casey Myers, a sophomore music education major from Elm Creek, was a finalist in the same category (undergraduate college men with one to two semesters of voice lessons).

The state competition of NATS is open to all high schools, colleges and universities in the state of Nebraska. Students are placed in divisions based on gender and the number of semesters of vocal instruction. Students from Peru State competed against their peers from Wayne State College, Chadron State College, the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Nebraska Kearney, Hastings College, Doane College, and Western Nebraska Community College.

To be eligible for the competition students must prep two to four songs in the first five weeks of school- one opera or oratorio aria, one art song in a foreign language and one art song in the English language.

Each student sings two selections for three adjudicators who then rate the students on a scale of 1-100 with an average score of 90 being considered superior and advancing the performer to the final round.

Dr. Jake Bartlett, assistant professor of music, said, "This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to compete against their peers and get feedback from very accomplished voice professionals. It was so fulfilling to hear our students gasp when they learned that Peru State, for the first time in memory, had finalists! Their joy was even more pronounced when David won his division, competing against some of the best musicians in the state. Our students are proud to be part of this circle of excellence."

Other participating Peru State students included: • Taylor Eltiste, a freshman K-12 vocal & instrumental education and psychology major from Tecumseh • Laura Johns, a senior K-12 vocal & instrumental education major from Tecumseh • Faith Nelson, a junior business administration and music business marketing major from Wausa • Lowgaen Schmidt, a junior music performance and K-12 vocal & instrumental education major from Louisville • Roxanne Shires, a senior English major from Peru • Rebecca Smallfoot, a sophomore K-12 vocal & instrumental education major from Auburn • Katrina Umland, a senior elementary and K-6 special education major from Jansen

The Stater

9

1952 Best Peru Football Team?

By: Sharon Ocker ('53)

The full version of this article is available atfoundation.peru.edu Well, that is certainly debatable and unanswerable. The old cliche - comparing "apples to oranges" - comes to mind. Peru has had some very notable teams over all of these years - there were unbeaten squads in 1924(80), 1928(8-0), 1953(8-0), and the NAIA national champs of 1990(12-0-1). Probably that last one is the toughest to beat out. Football has changed o much in recent years that a contest between '52 and '90 would be hard to imagine.

Coach Al Wheeler's '52 edition was really special. Squad size was about 65, and it had a very mixed makeup - a few war veterans, a few with quite a bit of experience, only four seruors (Tom Hopkins, Sharon Ocker, Harley "Moose" Rector and Earl Webb), a large group of talented sophomores and a host of freshmen who were ready to contribute. Feelings were positive - after all, they had won the conference the year before, and although some good players had graduated, the barrel certainly wasn't empty. Wheeler, line coach Paul Gilbert and assistant coach Bill Johnson molded that group into a real juggernaut. They went 9-0 in the regular season and topped it off with a win in a bowl game. On with the rewind ...

Game number one was a real challenge Wa. hburn U of Topeka, KS, an NCAA Division 11 school with a large enrollment (Peru at the time was less than 300, partly due to the draft for the Korean conflict).

The Bobcats smoked the highly favored

Dr. Royal Eckert On January 23, 2015, at the age of 87 years, Dr. Royal W. Eckert passed away at St. Mary's Hospital in Nebraska City, Neb. Eckert was a loving father and a loyal friend.

"He got me through some hard times," said former profelsor Dr. Chet Harper (Auburn, NE).

Eckert and Harper were co-workers for 19 years and friends even longer.

Eckert was born on May 9, 1927, in Minneapolis Minn., to parents, Winfred Raymond and Adele (Travis) Eckert.

Eckert served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and formerly lived in Omaha, Lincoln and Auburn, before moving to Nebraska City in 1993.

10 The Stater

veteran Ichabods 43 -21 with a combination of running and passing touchdowns.

Peru was on the road again against Central College of Pella, IA, where they rolled to an impressive 37-0 victory. Central had a winning tradition, but they were no match for the Bobcats.

Chadron was the first squad to visit the Oak Bowl and fell 47-7. The headline in the Nebraska City News-Press was "Peru Teachers Nip Chadron 47-7." I wouldn't call that a "nip," would you? Peru scored first - Chadron tied it at 7-7, and then the 'Cats took over in dominating fashion.

Next up was Nebraska Wesleyan at Lincoln.

The game was a battle at the half, 7-7. Peru broke the tie in the third quarter as a result of an amazing play. The final was 27-7.

With five wins under their belts, it was time for Homecoming. The opponent was Midland.

A huge crowd was on hand at the Oak Bowl.

1952 Bobcat coaches from L to R: Bill Johnson, Al Wheeler & Paul Gilbert The Bobcats did not disappoint, cruising to still another lop-sided win, 40-7.

In closing, we will cite a few items that Peru frequently hosted one game per season ged North Central Conference (Division II) made this team so special: Coach Gilbert had a at Nebraska City. This year, 2,500 fans were on had had more than a week to recuperate and hand at Hayward Park. They got their money's prepare. The 'Cats showed their lack of rest photographic mind - he could watch a play and worth, as Peru and the Doane Tigers battled with a listless performance in the first half; and accurately tell what every player had done. Eckman had the most fabulous boot-legging ability hard in the game won by the Bobcats 13-7 for trailed 21 -14 at the intermission. you could imagine. He could hide the ball and What made this team so good? You would victory number seven. nobody knew that he had it. Most of the players Peru celebrated Halloween by scoring 21 have to say that the line play was dominant. ran up the hill from the Oak Bowl after pracpoints in the first quarter while pasting Wayne The backs were good, too, especially quartertice each day - a very steep challenge includ56-6 to clinch at least a tie for the NCC crown. back Ned Eckman, but during the season there ing the brick street on the way to the dressing The final game of the regular season was were so many backs injured from time to time, rooms.

Tom Hopkins didn't like to wear hip played at home with Kearney. Peru won 13-7. yet subs ran through holes that were hard to pads because they restricted his "swivel hip" The 9-0 record was intact and a point of great believe. We had some great tackles - All-Amerstyle.

Who can ever forget Coach Wheeler sayican Bob Lade; Rector who had reaped all-star pride and accomplishment. ing a number of times each day, "My Gawd!"

Several bowl games were interested in Peru, awards in the service; Bob Simpson, who was Lade, who liked an occasional beer, but drank but they accepted a bid to the "Buffalo Bill" All-Navy; the guards Rosenquist and Sederonly Dr Pepper during the season.

By the way, game at North Platte, NE. The problem was burg were great players; center Applegate was the next team, '53, went 8-0 to stretch the Bobthat Peru was really beat up and tired, and the excellent, and ends Trullinger and Gilmore cat winning streak to 21 and five more wins in game was scheduled for the very next Tuesday were exceptional, too.

'54 ran the overall total to 26 - that's got to be The best Peru football team ever? No one - only two days of rest - while opponent Augusan all-time best, too. tana of Sioux Falls and a member of the rug- can say for sure, but the team sincerely believed it.

Eckert taught speech and drama at Peru State from 1975 to 1994. He is remembered around campus for his stubbornness, positivity and energy. People described him as a lover of the library, a life-long-learner and being truly passionate about theatre.

E ckert directed, co-directed and helped with costumes for numerous plays at Peru State.

"The Green Archer," "Out of the Frying Pan," "Pippen," and "A Midsummer Night's Dream" are just a few that the pair worked on together.

Harper said that Eckert was "very good at directing the classics and the oldies but good-

ods and tell historic stories. Eckert also became a member of the St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Nebraska City and the Omaha Organization for the purpose of Story Telling.

E ckert will be dearly missed by many of his former students as well.

"Doc was my teacher, mentor, father figure, and friend for many years. He made a huge impact on my life and had a way of always letting me know ifl was going off course in school and in life. He holds a special place in my heart ... " Said Mary G. Beccard-Farris.

Eckert was preceded in death by his parents ies." and leaves behind his family, Carol Eckert of Coinciding with his love of theater, was his Auburn; son, Andrew Thomas Eckert of Omalove of story-telling in the community and sur- ha; daughters, Susan Lynn Eckert of Lincoln rounding area. He was "the story teller" at the and Heidi Ann Eckert of Crete; brother, James Lied Lodge in Nebraska City for many years. R. Eckert of Minneapolis, Minn.; several niecHe loved to dress-up from different time peri- es and nephews; and other relatives and friends .

Dr. Royal Eckert

1986 Graduate Wins National Writing Competition Lori (Kimball) Gottula graduated from Peru State with her bachelor's degree in language arts in 1986. Since then she has pursued a number of endeavors. From 1986-1991 she worked as administrative assistant to three presidents of Peru State, President Gallentine, Interim President Snyder and President Burns.

She has also written for the Falls City Journal, has owned a grocery store with her husband, and is currently a freelance writer who likes to write screen plays, novels, and articles.

Years ago, Gottula experienced a traumatic back injury. She faced excruciating pain.

Shortly after being prescribed pain pills from her doctor, she experienced signs of addiction.

By choosing to get help, and spending time in treatment, Gottula had a story to tell. Gottula chose to express her personal experiences and troubles through words.

As a child, Gottula always admired the articles in the periodical Guideposts, but had not read the magazine in years. One day, while waiting in the dentist's office and looking for something to read, she looked down and saw the familiar magazine. The first advertisement she read was about a writing competition. With only one day left on the entry deadline, she took it as a sign and knew she had to enter her personal story into the competition. After a

long night's work on the article, she submitted pounds! Now, living a much healthier lifestyle, tides by people all over the United States. Pubit the next day. Sharing her story paid off. In she courageously shares her story publically. lished stories usually recount how spirituality October 2014, Gottula won a national writing Gottula wants to touch lives and hearts to help or loved ones have helped the writer through competition sponsored by Guideposts mag- those struggling with addiction know they are a rough time in his or her life. The magazine azine. Out of nearly 4,000 entries, Gottula not alone, or to help family and friends under- was founded in 1945 with the intention of upwas one of only 12 winners. Winners received stand what their loved one is going through. lifting, motivating and inspiring readers. Today, Guideposts an all-expenses-paid trip to a biennial writis a Christian faith- the magazine is one of the top 30 largest circuers' workshop in Long Island, N.Y., Since the based non-profit organization that publishes lated magazines in the United States and has workshop, Guideposts has decided to publish a monthly magazine. Guideposts contains ar- around 2.5 million subscribers.

Gottula's personal story in the magazine. The story will run in July of 2015.

The workshop was five days of non-stop learning. All 12 contestants worked from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Editors of Guideposts ran the workshop, and contestants were taught editing techniques and got a better idea of what editors look for when choosing articles to be published. Each contestant was told that she was a part of the Guidepost family and can now submit ideas straight to the editors and no longer have to go through a complicated process of having her article go through several people. During the workshop, the participants were assigned to apply this new knowledge to their original stories.

Gottula had a great experience in New York and says her favorite part of the entire trip was the relationships she formed with the other writers. The biggest lesson she learned was to never give up. After entering several contests before this one, Gottula eventually won her first writing competition and is glad she persevered. She is grateful to have had this opportunity and feels as though she was able to help Above is a picture of all the competition winners along with several of the readers through her words . Gottula has been drug-free for over two years and has lost 95 Guideposts editors. Lori (Kimball) Gottula ('86) is on the far right, back row.

PSEA Celebrates Dr. Seuss' Birthday with Four Theatrical Presentations Dr. Judith Ruskamp, associate professor of The Peru Student Education Association (PSEA) celebrated the birthday of author Dr. education and PSEA advisor said, "Our teachSeuss by hosting area children on the Peru er candidates enjoy hosting this event each State College campus in March with four theat- spring because it is an opportunity for them rical presentations of "Green Eggs and Ham," to promote the importance of reading. They "Hunches and Bunches," Oh the Places You'll also gain valuable, authentic experience working with students as they continue to develop Go" and Several hundred Head Start and pre-Kin- their knowledge and skills related to teaching dergarten through fourth grade students from in the classroom. The Peru Student Education 18 area schools attended the annual event, Association appreciates that schools in our surwhich is held in ·conjunction with Read Across rounding communities continue to make the America Week. In addition to the theatri- annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Party a regular event cal production, students were asked to take a on their school calendars."

"Reader's Oath." PSEA members will donate Dr. Seuss was born Theodore Geisel in 1904. His first book titled "And To Think That books to each of the schools in attendance.

Co-chairpersons for the 2015 Dr. Suess I Saw It On Mulberry Street," published in event were Chelsea Turek, a senior English and 1936, was an instant success. His desire to expsychology major from York; Kerri Wilson, a cite children to read led him to write "The Cat senior elementary education major from Au- in the Hat" in 1954 followed by 42 other books. burn; and Mackenzie Faris, a junior early child- He won a Pulitzer Prize in 1984 and was also awarded three Academy Awards. hood education major from Tecumseh.

PSEA members celebrating Dr. Suess' birthday.

The Stater 11

Santiesteban NAIA Baseball First Team All-American

Wood and Paben Named to Capital One Academic All-America® College Division Football Team

For the first time in Bobcat baseball history, Peru State has an NAIA First Team All-American. Randy Santiesteban, senior shortstop from Hialeah, Fla., was named to the first team as an infielder to become the fir t 'Cat to earn the recognition.

Previously, Shawn Semler (1991), Brendan Raybourn (1999 and 2000), and Monte Scott (2000, 2001, and 2002) each had earned honorable mention recognition.

This past season, Santiesteban was named to the Heart of America Athletic Conference First Team as an infielder. Later, in the conference tournament, Santie teban wa named the Most Valuable Player at the conclusion of the tourney which Peru State won.

At the end of the baseball season, Santiesteban was ranked in the following NAIA 2015 Individual Rankings: eighth in batting average (.431), 16th in slugging percentage (.723), 16th in hits per game (1.527), 18th in total ha es per game (2.564), 19th in total ba es (141), 22nd in total hits (84), 23rd in total run cored (62), 24th in total doubles (20), 26th in home runs (11), 27th in runs scored per game (1.127), 32nd in home runs per game (0.200), and 39th in doubles per game (0.364).

The Bobcats made the 2015 NAIA

Senior offensive lineman Dean Wood from Gretna, Neb., and junior defensive back Logan Paben from Columbus, Neb., have been named to the 2014 Capital One Academic All-America® College Division Football Team as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).

This is the first time Peru State has had two individuals receiving the honor in the same year.

The Capital One Academic All-America® College Division football team includes student-athletes from NAIA, Canadian and two-year institutions. The honorees are selected based on their achievements on the field, in the classroom, and in outside activities.

Wood, a K-12 special education major, started several games this season on the offensive line and was a regular back-up. He is a five-time dean's list honoree and has had three 4.0 semesters. Wood has been involved in TeamMates, the national educational fraternity Kappa Delta Pi, Games on the Green, and is a Huddle Group leader. Besides officiating youth football games, Wood has participated in many community service activities including helping Auburn elementary students make thank you cards and to improve their baking skills, assisting with the Auburn TeamMates Pancake Feed, helping with the Peru City-Wide Clean-up, and also being a part of the clean-up crew following Peru State's Florida Georgia Line concert. Wood was also named a 2014 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete.

Like Wood, Paben has been an excellent student and servant leader on campus and in his community. Paben has had four perfect semesters with 4.0 averages and was also recognized as a 2014 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete. Paben earned 2013 Capital One Academic All-District First Team recognition as a sophomore and last June was selected as the NAIA's A.O. Duer Award winner - the top male student-athlete award given by the NAIA. The threeyear starter on the football team recently was named to the Heart of America Athletic Conference Second Team Defense as an athlete and was also the Third Team Kick Returner. Paben has been a Bobcat Elite Leader for two years and also is involved in TeamMates. Presently, Paben is serving as the Student Athlete Advisory Council President and was the junior homecoming attendant.

Wood and Paben join only a few Bobcat football players who have received All-America® recognition. Pat Mertens and Korey Reiman were named to the GTE College Division First and Second Teams respectively in 1983 and 1995. It was 17 years later that Tim Oehring earned First Team Capital One All-America® in 2012. Last year, Tyler Ford became just the fourth Bobcat to be honored at the national level.

The 25-member Capital One Academic All-America® College Division Football first team has an average grade point average of 3.88, which includes five student-athletes with a 4.0 G.P.A.

Dean Wood

Logan Paben

Randy Santieseteban Baseball National Championship Opening Round for the second time in four years having last made the tourney in 2012. Peru State finished the year with a 39-16 record - the second-most wins in Bobcat baseball history.

Bobcat head coach Wayne Albury was pleased to learn of Randy's honor. Albury noted, "Coming back for his senior season paid off for Randy as he earned the recognition of which he deserves. He has worked hard each of his four years at Peru State and has been one of the keys to the team's success during that stretch of time."

eru tate amily Tree Do you have relatives that graduated from or attended Peru State? The Peru State Foun9ation is making a Peru State family tree. Submit your family history connected to Peru so we can include you!

Contact us at 402.872.2395 or PSCFoundation@peru.edu

12 The Stater

Lierz and Harsh Named to Capital One Academic All-America® Volleyball Second Team For the first time in 26 years, a Peru State volleyball player has been named to a Capital One Academic All-America® team. And it is not i1:1st one Bobcat volleyball player, but two.

Seniors Carrie Lierz (from Holton, Kan.,) and Hope Harsh (from Cassoday, Kan.,) were named as Capital One Academic All-America® College Division Volleyball Second Team honorees. The two were among 12 student-athletes selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).

Lierz and Harsh are the only honorees from the states of Nebraska or Kansas or from the Heart of America Athletic Conference . .

The Capital One College Division Academic All-America® volleyball teams are comprised of student-athletes from NAIA, Canadian, and two-year institutions. The honorees are selected based on their achievements on the court, in the classroom, and in outside activities.

Peru State has only had three volleyball players honored in previous years.

Lierz, an outside hitter, was named to the 2013 CoSIDA All-District Team last season and recently earned her second Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete recog-

nition. The six-time Dean's List honoree is a member of the College's Honors Program. Last spring, Lierz was named as the Heart of America Athletic Conference's A.O. Duer nominee and was also selected as the Heart's Dr. LeRoy Walker Champions of Character winner. Lierz is a member of the Alpha Chi academic honor society, Student Senate, and Residence Hall Association (RHA). She has served three years on the Student Senate Rules and Judiciary Committee and also served two years as the RHA president. Lierz was named to the John Brown University All-Tournament team and last year received Heart all-conference honorable mention. She is a fouryear letter winner for the Bobcat volleyball team. Community service and other school activities ofLierz's include: Peru City-Wide Clean-Up, Nemaha County Gives Back, Vacation Bible School, Feeding 44, Calvert Elementary Reading, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Beta Beta Beta, and Science Club. In addition, Lierz was a homecoming queen candidate after being the junior representative in 2013.

A defensive specialist this season, Harsh has also been on the Dean's List six times with a perfect 4.0 grade point average each time. Harsh has received the Phi

Theta Kappa scholarship two times and also earned the Nebraska Society of CPA's scholarship last spring. Harsh is a member of Alpha Chi and Phi Beta Lambda (a state and national business fraternity). Harsh was a three-year starter and four-time letter winner and transferred to Peru State from Butler Community College. Harsh has also participated in the community service activities, the Feeding 44 program, and also took part in reading to the elementary students in the Auburn Public Schools. At Butler Community College, Harsh finished her two-year career second in all-time assists and third all-time in single-season assists. Harsh was the Student-Athlete of the Week at Butler and was a member of the America Volleyball Coaches Association Scholar Team. In addition, Harsh was part of Peru State's NAIA Scholar Team in 2013-14 and is a Bible School Teacher.

Capital One Financial Corporation is a financial holding company whose subsidiaries, which include Capital One, N.A., and Capital One Bank (USA), N . A., had $206.9 billion in deposits and $289.9 billion in total assets as of Sept. 30, 2013. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Capital One offers a broad spectrum of financial products and services to consumers, small businesses and commercial clients through a variety of channels. Capital One, N.A. has more than 900 branch locations primarily in New York, New Jersey, Texas, Louisiana, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.

E We need your help! Peru State Athletics is seeking updated addresses for the 1990 football championship team. If you have any information please contact Ted Harshbarger in Athletics at 402.872.2380 or tharshbarger@peru.edu or Kara essel at the Peru State Foundation at 402.872.2395 or PSCFoundation@peru.edu

Carrie Lierz

Hope Harsh

ss PERU STATE VS ll..LIAM PENN UNIV. The game will be televised by ESPN 3 on Saturday, Oct. 17, 11:00 a.m. at Peru State. The 1990 Football team will be honored during half time.

The Stater 13

Peru State College Foundation Honor Roll of Donors 2014 1930's

1950's

Lola Armstrong (1939) Madeleine Schmucker (1934) Mildred Vanderford (1933) Mildred Weber (1 939) 1940's

William & Lavonda Abernathy (1951) Bertis & Georgia Adams (1956) Gary Adams (1959) Ralph Aranza (1959) Phyllis Atchison (1954) Clyde & Betty Barrett (1956) Glendora Bell (1952) Grace Bentzinger (1953) Thomas & Leta Bosworth (1954) Leroy Buchholz (1959) Joan Buhrmann (1951) Virginia Chittick (1952) Darrell Christensen ( 1956) Fred & Marilyn Clements (1956) Rose Marie Coe (1958) Shirley Coffey (1951) Regina Colbert (1954) Jim Cotton (1956) Richard Cotton (1956) Lavon & Gleora Covault (1953) John & Ramona Crookham (1955) Alta Dakolios (1952) Nadine Danielson-Cusack (1959) Pat Davis (1952) Bob Davis (1953) Betsy Diehl (1956) Muriel Docker (1958) Jack Dodge (1959) Marian & Marea Downey (1952) Ben & Carol Duerfeldt (1954) Charles Ebel (1955) Ned Eckman (1955) Ray Ehlers (1958) Arnold & Sharon Ehlers (1959) Robert & Marion Eilers (1951) Ruth Elwell (1950) Gertrude Ettleman (1950 ) Anna Falsken (1952) Jim Furrow (1957) Wilma Geyer (1951) Donald Gibson (1958) Joseph Gillispie (1951 ) Orville & Erma Gobber (1950) Ilene Good (1953) Virginia Good (1955) Mary Gorden (1955) Charles Gude (1951 ) Ed & Betty Hanna (1950) Carlos Harrison (1951) Joyce Heidelk (1957) Kenneth & Mary Hoag (1954) Patricia Holmes (1954) Greta Holscher (1955) Jean Howland (1950) Walter & Peggy Huff (1959) Gary Hull (1959) Claude Johnson (1957) Dale & Sharon Johnson (1957) Keith Johnson (1957) Jo Kaffenberger (1953) Pete & Ardyce Karabatsos (1955) Junior & Virginia Karas (1 956) Margaret Kilibarda (1959) Rodney Knaup (1955) Donna Knoche (1951 ) Mary Koetke (1950) Shirley Krejci (1956) Chuck & Elaine Krumme (1957) Richard Kumpf (1958) David Lang (1951 ) Charlotte LeMaster (1954) Ruth Leslie (1 951 ) Bobby Livi ngston (1950) Gerald Ludwig (1958) Kenneth Majors (1959)

Lois Adam (1942) Bernard Bliefernich. (1949) George Blocher (1948) Marcille Bohling ( 1946) Delbert & Jean Bowers (1949) Rosa Brooks (1945) Arthur & Ellen Clements (1948) Frances Duckworth (1941) John Effke n (1947) Marian Elwonger (1948) Ralph & Yvonne Evans (1949) Den el Fankhauser(l944) JosephineGodown (1941) Meredith Grove (1948) Thoma & Dorothy Hallstrom (1949) Margaret Harrold (1947) William Hasenyager (1942) Ralph Hays (1942) Carolee Heim (1941) Charle Henning (1 947) Lura Herr (1948) Jean Hill (1944) Sara Hippe (1 949) Phyllis Hoffman (1 941) Max & Janice Hosier (1947) Jackson Howard (1 944) Virginia Hunt (1 942) Willard Hunzeker (1946) Max & Wilma Jackson (1942) Merritt Jensen (1940) Ni na Klaudt (1943) Melvin Lar en (1942) Donal-Deen Lewis (1947) Art Lindsey (1949) Bob Luedke (1946) Joan Marfice (1949) Jack Mast ( 1945) Gerald & Arlene Matschullat (1949) Evelyn Neve (1946) Ruth Nixon (1948) Nelda Peterson (1942) Gilbert Peterson (1949) Nelle Pfi ter (1947) Marie Pupkes (1 947) Janet Read (1946) Willard Redfern (1 949) Eldon Re utter (1 947) Marjorie Rider (1943) Shirley Rocke! ( 1948) Patricia Russell (1 945) Helen Schacht (1940) Wanda Schmidt (1 943) Hayes Sch~einer ( 1945) Virgie Lee Shaw (1 944) Wilson Sigerson (1 949) Jeanne Standerford (1949) Ruth Steele (1948) Virginia Stuhr (1 943) Rachael Taggart (1 940) Don Wagner (1949) Alverta Wells (1 946) Helen Wells (1949) Shirley Wen.zel (1 945) Helen Wilkinson (1 949) Evelyn Yanders (1 948)

14 The Stater

Gary Mayfield (1958) Earl McCain (1958) Edith McCaw (1954) Margaret McConnaughey (1957) Lois McMullen (1956) Verne Meier (1951) Shirley Meinzer (1955) Dean & Marilynn Meisinger (1955) Lois Mertes (1958) Virginia Meyerkorth (1959) Janice Moen (1956) Janet Moore (1954) Maurice Moran (1952) Lee Moren (1958) Rosemary Morrill (1952) Marilyn Naggatz (1958) Jean Niedfeldt (1950) Robert Norvell (1958) Lee Ogle (1957) Nels Overgaard (1956) Duane Overgaard (1957) Ronald & Lila Paap (1955 ) Wesley Paap (1956) Jerry Payne (1958) Grace Pfister (1951) Ronald Phillips (1957) Charles & Vickie Pickering (1956) Wayne & Gloria Pressnall (1959) Harold Rasplicka (1953) Otto Rath (1951) Barbara Rawson (1952) Dale Rexilius (1959) Elaine Roberts (1950) Richard Rosendahl (1955) Harvey & Helen Rossmiller (1959) Fred Rothert (1957) Jean &Dick Rottman (1959) Annabelle Rumbaugh (1951) Russell Ruth ( 19 50) Raymond & Rose Ruzicka (1959) Robert Ryan (1952) Wayne & Kay Rydberg (1958) William & Laverna Sayer (1955 ) Leroy Scheele (1959) Ronald Schulte (1952) Bill & Janice Schulte (1953) Henry & Marcia Schwartz (1955) Marjorie Scribner (1958) Louise Searcey (1958) Robert Shrader (1953) Carolyn Sipes (1951) Charles Smith (1951) Carol Sparr (1958) Darlene Spilker (1952) John & Gera Stilwell (1956) Eldon & Betty Teten (1958) Jean Thayer (1952) Dean & Eilene Thiesfeld (1952) Bob Utermohlen (1950) John & Doris Vacek(l950) William Voegtli (1951) Jeanne Wall (1954) Anita Webster (1955) Lewis Weick (1950) Paul Weinert (1956) Donald & Vivian Wendt (1959) Carol Whitcomb (1952) Anna White (1 952) David Williamson (1952) Samantha Williamson (1959) Kenneth Wolford (1950) Norma Wood (1951 ) Elizabeth Yohe (1954) Gayleen Zentner (1957)

1960's Joyce Able (1963)

Velma Adam (1967) Garth & Gloria Adams (1967) David Albert (1965) Ted Allison (1967) Andy & Winnie Anderson ( 1967) Steven Anderson (1969) Mildred Appleoff ( 1969) Lee Arellano (1968) Loren Argabright (1963) Marlene Ballance (1960) JoAnn Barry (1965) Jerry & Virginia Beckmann (1960) Linda Bell (1962) Mr. Benton Benton (1960) Glen & Patsy Beran (1962) Marvin Bergsten (1960) Diane Berlett (1966) John Bernadt (1969) Richard Berthold (1967) Janet Bierman (1965) Connie Biggers (1961) Kenneth Boatman (1966) Bob & Mary Bohlken (1969) Raymond & Donna Boren (1966) Marilyn Borgerding (1961) Thomas Bresnahan (1968) Thomas Buchholz (1964) Buzz Burling (1968) Robert Cappel (1969) Jerry Carlson (1960) Linda Carlson (1966) Ronald Carnes (1962) Gerald Carnes (1967) Norman Catlett (1961 ) John Christ (1960) John & Dolores Clark (1967) Larry & Norma Clinton (1963) Daniel & Carol Coffey (1965) Galen Conn (1963) Douglas Cotner (1968) Ron Cotton (1964) Anita Cox (1963) John Creamer (1969) William Daigle (1968) Gene D'Allemand (1965) Richard & Dawn Daly (1968) Jon Davis ( 1966) Janet DeMott (1965) Edna Dennis (1960) Nancy Dickerson (1961) Kenneth & Leona Dostal (1963) Larry Eden (1966) Rockwood & Penelope Edwards (1964) Robert Eichenberger (1964) Kay Farwell (1962) Antoinette Faulkner (1968) Eugene Feit (1969) Paul & Arlene Fell (1967) Glenda Fish (1967) Richard Flannery (1969) Richard & Beverly Floerchinger (1965) Ronald Foreman (1965 ) Chuck Francis (1960) Alicia Fricke (1966) Gary Fritch (1966) Louis Fritz (1966) David & Rae Fulton (l960) Lois Gager (1961 ) Doris Galbraith (1 963) Lee Garrett (1966) Lamarr Gibson (1961 ) Larry Giesmann (1965) Timothy Gilligan (1967) David & Linda Gomon (1965) Ilma Gottula (1965) Phyllis Greedy ( 1967) Alyce Green (196 l)

'

Mike Guilliatt (1967) Lee Haeberlein ( 1963) Ellen Hajek (1962) Jim Hall (1964) Mel Hamel (1963) Michael & Cecilia Harmon ( 1966) Patsy Harpster ( 1969) Bruce Haughton (1969) Butch & Dobey Haws (1969) Keith & Virginia Hawxby ( 1961) Robert Heng (1961) Larry Hennerberg (1963) Carol Henning (1967) Alvin Henrichs (1965) _ Judy Hetherington (1965) Russell Hicks (1963) Dennis & Linda Hilfiker (1960) Mary Hilt (1966) Lavelle Hitzemann (1969) David Hoffman (1961) Edward Hohman (1963) Margaret Hormel (1963) Lonnie & Nancy Houchin (1966) Joyce Hutton (1961) Glenn Irwin (1962) Donald Jackson (1960) Michael & Virginia Janis (1965) Norma Janko (1966) Melissa Jarecke (1964) Bernard Jarecke (1966) Gerald Jeanneret (1961) Stanley & Barbara Johnson (1968) Jerry & Christina Joy (1964) Ruth Kalafut (1968) Merlin Kastens (1965) Ronald Kelley (1963) William Kerins (1968) Julia Kern ( 1966) Delynn Kienker (1960) Joseph Kirby (1961) Milan Kloepfer (1963) Sharylin Knock (1963) Leroy & Linda Koehler ( 1969) Fred Koudele (1962) Jere & JanKrakow (1960) JoAnn Krause (1964) Linda Kreimeyer (1964) Vernon Krenzer (1967) Bonnie Kreshel (1964) Robert Krofta (1966) Richard & Joan Kunde (1960) Larry Landwehr (1969) Diane Laub (1969) Robert Leander (1966) Dan Leuenberger (1965) James & Judy Libal (1962) Richard Linder (1969) Luanne Lindquist (1961) Larry & Margaret Lines (1966) Jerry Littell (1963) Norma Loew (1966) Tim & Jean Logsdon (1968) Stanley Longfellow (1961) Edwin & Janet Loontjer (1965) Roger Lucas (19672 Jerry & Charlotte Lunsford (1962) Ernie Madison (1960) Harold Marshall (1966) Carol Martin (1968) Sandra Mathews (1962) Boyd Mattox (1965) Bruce & Linda Mau (1965) Darlene McCord (1961) Michael McCormick (1966) Mary McCoy (1968) Norma McKercher (1965) Leonard McLain (1962) James Meacham (1963) Ray & Myrna Meister (1962) Norma Meyer ( I 960) Marion & Barbara Miller (1965)

Haney & Karen Milstead (1961) Teresa Minard (1968) James Minor (1964) Chuck & Alice Mizerski (1969 ) Richard & Ramona Moore (1969) Linda Moree (1963) Larry Morrissey (1965) Janet Mortimore (1960) Clifford Murray (1963) Nancy Nealon (1967) Curtis Nelson (1964) Gary & Verona Neumann ( 1967) Katherine Nunnery ( 1966) Sharon Ocker (1960) Gordon Ohnoutka (1962) Paul Oliphant (1966) Lynn & Pauline Osterholm (1961) Mariedith Pagel (1965) Joseph & Susan Perina (1964) Nick & Cheri Petrillo (1969) Terry Petsche (1969) Lois Pietzyk ( 1969) Darrell Plumb (1967) Lonn Pressnall (1965) Mary Ann Privatt (1963) Delores Rahe (1962) David & Pearl Rainforth (1969) Michael & Sandy Ramirez (1964) Robert Raper (1961) Keith & Lucille Rawson (1965) Janet Reed (1968) Robert Reimers (1963) Kenneth & Jane Rhodus (1962) Alan & Martha Richard (1964) Gary Richey (1964) Robert Ridenour (1969) John Riley (1966) Bonnie Robbins (1963) Michael Roddy (1961) James Rowe (1969) Frank Ruecker (1967) Lloyd & Betty Russo (1964) Donald & Ardith Rut (1964) Linda Ruyle (1964) Mary Ruzicka (1964) Ralph Schawang (1968) Marilyn Scheinost (1969) Gary & Mary Schlange (1963) Carol Schmucker (1967) Leland Schneider (1967) Mary LouSchriner (1968) Donna Schwertley (1961) James Selk (1968) Chuck Shores (1968) Bobby & Claudette Slaughter (1961) Margaret Slayter (1966) Michael Smagacz (1968) Samuel Smith (1966) Albert & Louise Smith (1969) Richard & Margaret Smith (1969) Samuel Smith (1969) Roland Sohnholz (1963) Frank Spizuoco (1965) James Sprague (1966) James Stanosheck (1967) Dean Stapleton (1963) Frances Steinbrook (1964) Ronald Stoltenberg (1960) Kennard Stoner (1968) Donald & Donita Stuart (1967) Arlin Stuhr (1962) Carl Stukenholtz (1965) Gaylin & Carol Sudik (1962) Larry & Ramona Swett (1963) Brenda Teleen (1966) Leonard Tornlyn (1967) Perry & Carol Townsend (1969) Barbara Vaughn (1 967) Joe Verbeek (1960) Bruce Vickrey (1968) Joe & Kathleen Ward (l 965)

Gerhart Wehrbein (1969) George & Barbara Weiss (1965) Ronald & Mary Ann Wenninghoff (1960) Fran Whited (1962 ) Ralph Wiles (1968) Dianne Wilhelm (1960) John Witler (1967) William Witty (1966) Russel Workman (1963) Donald Wright (1965) Gerald Young (1967) 1970's

Jim Agnew (1972) Van Allen (1970) Arnold Allgood (1975) Gary & Marian Anderson (1970) Deborah Anderson (1975) Robert Applegate (1979) Ralph Arnold (1975) Helen Aufenkamp (1972) Virginia Baack (1979) James Bailey (1972) Jeffrey & Mary Barker (1974) Janet Barlow (1977) Russell & Julie Barnes (1975) Randy Baucke (1972) Bob Beaver (1973) Carolyn Bednar (1978) Roger & Linda Behrns (1972) Karen Bethel (1973) Robert Bethel (1978) George Bleich (1970) Sharon Bogle (1974) Lonnie Bohling (1973) Roger Borgman (1971) Joyce Boslau (1979) Neal Bower (1971) Shari Briese ( 1972) Rodrick & Wanda Bruce (1972) Evelyn Buethe (1971) Jody Bukacek (1971) Beth Butts (1974) Diana Calabro (1975) Samuel Carneal (1975) Maureen Carpenter (1972) Charles & Mary Caverzagie (1973) Paul & Linda Chatelain (1972) John Chatelain (1976) Stephen Chatelain (1978) Rhonda Chomos (1978) Ray Christie (1977) Anne Collingwood (1976) Larry Cotton (1970) Robert Craig (1975) Terry & Pat Criger (1974) Nancy Crook (1972) Dennis Curtis (1970) James Desbien (1973) Linda Dickeson (1976) James & Dianne Dickson (1972) John Dierking (1977) Marlene Dodd (1978) Don & Claudia Dougherty (1970) Donald & Ruth Doxon (1977) Wilma Droge (1970) Dale Duensing (1972) Rose Duncan (1971) Barbara Easley (1970) Elizabeth Eheler (1970) Kay Eickhoff ( 1973) Jeanne Eitzmann (1978) Bob & Wendy Engles (1973) Gail Panders (1971 ) Berton Faulkner (1970) Eldonna Forrest (1971) Thomas Froehlich (1974) John Furlong (1972) Robert Garcia (1978) Mary Givehand (1973) Terry & Carolyn Glathar (1975)

Warren Goos (1975) Lou & Jeannine Grasso (1973) Larry & Sue Green (1971) Mary Green (1974) Peggy Groff (1976) Charles & Judy Grotrian (1971) Jay Hagerman (1972) Mark & Kim Hahn (1973) Rena Hall (1973) James Hanks (1974) Gail Harmon (1976) Ted Harshbarger (1977) Sherri Helman (1979) Jayne Hlavac (1971) Don Hobscheidt (1970) Dale Hoepker (1977) Patricia Hopp (1974) William Hosack (1976) Mary Howery (1974) Don Hull (1973) Patricia Hunsberger (1972) William Iliff ( 1972) Danny Jeanneret (1972) Anna Jeffrey (1973) Michael Johnson (1971) Ronald Jones (1970) Joyce Jones (1977) Annie Jones-Rucker (1976) Kenneth Kamman (1973) Ray Kappel (1977) Mary Kellogg (1972) Kathy Kelly (1975) Richard & Penny Kimball (1978) Doug Kingery (1975) Robert Kiser (1971) Charles Klingler (1972) Mary Kloepping (1970) David Koll (1973) Joseph Kotnik (1977) Douglas Kottich (1972) Colleen Kreifels ( 1977) Phyllis Kreutzer (1979) Sally Kruse (1976) Tom & Nancy Kunkel (1971) Calvin Kunze (1979) James Landwehr (1974) Lucinda Lange (1970) Richard Leech (1974) Shirley Lewis (1979) Robert Lisee (1971) Randy Luther (1973) Maynard & Dianne Martin (1971) Donald Martindale (1978) Connie Matson (1971) Sharon Maynard (1972) Darwin McHugh (1971) Janet McMullen (1971) Sandra Meinzer (1971) Ronald & Susan Meyer (1971) Richard & Karen Mezger (1972) Roger Michaelis (1973) Sandy Miles (1973) Pam Miyoshi-Smith (1972) Linda Morris (1970) Dick & June Morrissey (1974) Terry & Marlene Neddenriep (1974) William Neumeister (1976) Chuck Niemeyer (1970) David Norton (1975) Darlene O'Brien (1971) Susan Pease ( 1977) Jeffrey & Mary Pease (1979) Robert & Judy Peterson (1972) Kenneth Pokorski (1972) Duane & Eileen Rathe (1974) Terry Ratliff (1973) Kathleen Rattell (1972) Fred & Pam Robertson (1973) Margaret Roddy (1973) Gary Rosso (1970) haron Ru ell ( 1979)

The Stater 15

1970's David Sackles (1970) Jeffrey Scanlan (1978) Kenneth Schlange (1972) Vernyce Schmidt (1970) Larry Schwan (1970) Mary Scott (1978) Alan Seybert (1976) Patricia Sheehan ( 1973) Joan Shurtliff (1972) Melissa Sis (1972) Susan Snodgrass (1975) Tommie Solie (1974) Karen Spracklin (1978) Jack Stanley (1974) Holly Steffens ( 1979) Steven Stemper (1972) Dave and Kim Stemper (1977) Debra Stinn (1975) Alice Stoltenberg (1976) Elaine Stuck (1970) Willa Stutheit (1971) Gayle Swisegood (1974) Theresa Symancyk (1975) Joseph & Joyce Tackett (1971) Steven Taylor (1971) Sherry Taylor (1978) Esther Tegtmeier (I 972) Dean Teten (1972) Robert Tipton (1972) John Trayer ( 1975) Jon Tritsch (1972) Brian &Patricia Trottier (1971) Richard & Lisa Tynon (1978) Julie Vasey (1977) Dominic Vitticore ( 1971) Terrence Volker (1973) Sheila Walters (1976) John Warren (1971) Raymond Waters (1972) Dennis & Janet Watts (1970) Mark & Kathleen Weiler (1971) Rod White (1978) Donald Wiechec (1970) Brent Wilcox (1972) Lanny & Mary Williams (1971) Dennis Williams (1975) James Wilson (1972) Kent & Nancy Wilson (1972) Lonnie Wing (1970) Bob & Lucy Winter (1974) Ron & Fran Witt (1972) Raymond & Carol Woerlen (1976) Mark Yori (1978) Nancy York (1971)

1980's Stacy Applegate (1980) Eugene & Natalie Applegate (1983) Lonnie Bane ( 1980) Ruth Beethe (1989) Leroy & Diana Behrends (1985) Vicki Beilke (1988) Colleen Befitz ( 1989) Judith Bennett (1988) Joni Berg (1987) Perry & Marsha Biaggi (1981) Robert & Jody Bowman ( 1985) Ron Brockhaus (1988) Bill Bruhn (1981) Joni Bruhn (1989) Rhonda Burbach (1983) Genelle Busch {1987) Daniel Casey (1987) Christopher Cerveny (1985) Ronda Chab (1984) Carol Chappell (1986) Polly Clark (1983) Amy Clark (1987)

16 The Stater

Curtis Cogswell (1984) Mary Comstock (1987) Susan Coonce (1985) Roxann Coudeyras (1989) Donald & Sharon Crunk (1981) Shelley Cygan (1981) Mark Czapla (1987) Joe Davis (1989) Janice Dawson (1989) Diane Denniston (1989) Christine Dietz (1983) Ronda Diggs (1981) Janet Dingman (1982) SaraBeth Donovan (1985) Steven Dunn (1980) Elton & Connie Edmond (1988) Janis Fischer (1985) Russ Freitag (1983) Barbara Froeschl (1983) Michael Gerdes (1988) Tom & Terri Glenn (1988) Roxanne Gottula (1983) Mary Grimes (1989) Philip & Kathleen Hall (1985) Don Hardekopf (1980) Sherry Heskett (1982) Scott Hoefs (1989) Tim & Cindy Hoffman (1984) Anita Hueftle (1988) Carol Isaac (1986) Tammy Jeanneret (1980) Jean Jones (1983) Mary Kenady (1986) Ruth Kirchhevel (1989) Dara Kirkbride (1981) Janet Kirkendall (1980) Janyce Kirkendall (1989) Jan Knobel (1988) Karen Koehler (1982) Lee & Rebecca Kohrs (1982) Lucinda Kopf ( 1980) Jim & Theresa Krajicek (l 986) PeggyKuser(l989) James & Anne Larsen (1988) Debra Larson (1983) Michael & Cynthia Liewer (1981) Maureen Losee (1985) Julia Martinosky (1984) Kathi Mercure (1987) Patrick Mertens (1986) Jack Moles (1980) Rodney & Janie Montang (1983) Roberta Moore (1989) Tracey Morton (1988) Ritchie Nelson (1986) Dennis & Carole Obermeyer (1987) Mark Paneitz (1987) Georjean Perez (1985) Mari-Ann Pesek (1987) Joseph Primm (1980) Kent & Becki Propst (1981) Jeff & Nancy Reed (1986) Randy Reeves (1987) Susan Rice ( 1987) Jodi Robinson (1989) Renee Rowell (1984) Ward & Melissa Ruge (1986) Judith Ruskamp (1988) Jeffrey Schiebur (l 982) Laurie Schulte (1983) Lori Seibel ( 1984) Roselyn Shaffer (1984) Stephanie Shrader (1984) Todd Slagle (1985) Jeffrey Slagle ( 1986) Pamela Slater (1982) Christopher Sluka (1984) Jeff & Robin Smith (1983) Rhea Spears (1982) Jack Spencer (1989) Deb Stemper Kinney (1981)

Carol Strecker (1987) Anne Stribling (1989) Carol Stukenholtz (1988) John Teten (1982) Linda Thomas (1983) Julie Tubbesing (1989) Al Urwin (1982) Julie Valentine (1982) Maxine Ward (1988) Theresa Waters (1987) Betty Wendt (1981) Suzanne Whisler (1983) Jay Wiechmann (1989) Terrell Williams (1983) Brent Yaw (1988) Valorie Zentner (1986)

1990's Susan Abrahams (1995) Brenda Adkins (1995) Travis Allgood (1997) Steven Andersen (1992) Todd & Brenda Anderson (1991) Ed Ankrom (1998) Angela Antholz (1992) Ellen Arthur (1990) Matt Asher (1999) Christopher & Alicia Aue (1998) Julie Bauman (1995) Theresa Baumgartner (1992) Susan Baylor (1990) John Bensley (1992) Jennifer Berck ( 1995) April Binder (1996) Timothy Boerner (1996) Brenda Brandt (1996) Deborah Breuer (1999) Gregory & Penny Brewer (1999) Joan Brown (1999) Harold Campbell (1992) John Campin (1998) John & Mary Ann Chaney (1991) Wei Chong (1992) Francis Coffey (1993) Diana Conradt-Mullen (1993) Jeffrey Cullison (1993) Robert Curry (1999) Melissa Decker (1992) Steven Defreece (1993) Lisa DeMint (1992) Peter Dennis (1994) Tracy Donner (1996) Teri Dorn (1999) Scott & Amy Douglas (1999) Joe & Jennifer Dunn (1996) Jean Everhart (1992) Becky Feagan (1994) Mary Findeis (1991) Dewey Fingar (1995) Joan Fink (1994) Michael Fitzpatrick (1993) James Florence (1992) Jason Fortik (1994) Bret Fritch (1990) Cathy Fugleberg (1999) Naomi Furnas (1993) Daniel Gauchat (1994) Sherry Gibson (1991) Mark Goes (1991) Bradley & Rachel Goracke (1994) Jeffrey Hammer (1997) Shannon Hansen (1991) Angela Hardin (1996) Zoe Harty (1994) Martin Haverty (1998) Troy & Michele Hendrickson (1992) Sandra Hilding (1991) Joseph Hlavac (1999) Mitzi Hoback (1992) Scott & Erin Hochstein (1999) Don & Terri Hogue ( 1997)

Pamela Holcomb (1995) Julie Holthaus (1994) Michael Hubert (1994) Matt & Traci Hug (1992) Holly Jenkins (1992) Merri Johnson (1992) Tina Johnson (1995) Susan Johnson (1998) Celeste Jones (1999) Paulette Joy (1994) Wilma Kelly (1991) Kim Klostermeier (1990) Robert Koeneke (1995) Jon & Tricia Kruse (1998) Denise Kurpgeweit (1997) Brett & Toni Landenberger (1994) Julia Lenners (1993) Kory Lind (1990) Michelle Manes (1993) Harat Manges (1999) Garrett & Linda Mann (1992) Jeffrey McWilliams (1992) Traci Monson (1990) Patricia Moody (1993) Joseph Neesen (1990) Lauri Novacek (1991) Marlene Oaks (1996) Barbara Oestmann (1991) Kimberly Oliver (1998) Renae Oswald (1996) Julie Parde (1994) Shirley Parde ( 1998) Deana Policky (1993) Thomas Proudfit (1996) Kevin Rabner (1995) Betsy Reed (1994) Korey Reiman (1995) Mary Richardson ( 1996) Tony Rieschick (1994) John Roddy (1996) Susan Rokey (1992) Benjamin & Jamie Royal (1995) Steven & Erin Sayer (1994) John Sayer (1998) Jeffrey & Audra Schawang (1995) Darcy Schultz (1994) Brenda Schwartz (1993) Cynthia Sellers ( 1991) Scott Shepard ( 1991) Lisa Siegel (1999) Janice Smith (1991) Christopher Stangl (1994) Jamie & Stacy Stinson (1998) Jason & Ronda Stinson (1998) Bryan & Stacy Sullivan (1993) Christy Tanner (1990) Vernon Thacker (1994) Lori Tibbs (1993) Ross & Kelli Tomjack (1997) Kristi Tunstall (1994) Donald Umland (1990) Ricki Valentino (1994) Lou & Cindy Varley (1996) Sara Veigel (1993) Alan Vervaecke (1990) Nancy Vogt (1994) Stephanie Ware (1996) John & Cherie Welter (1990) Miriam Werner (1992) Tressa Whittington (1997) Ivan Wineglass (1994) Jeffrey & Terri Wusk (1999) Monica Yankus (1997) 2000's Leslie Baker (2008) Rita Becker (2002) Charles Benson (2005) Kristen Boos (2007) David Bremer (2005) Wendy Brennan (2006)

i ~.

Lori Broady (2003) Cynthia Burki (2004) Jenifer Busing (2001) Kevin Caverzagie (2000) Conni Charles (2004) Sasha Chavez (2005) Cori Christiansen (2008) Joanna Cielocha (2006) Terry & Anita Clark (2006) Kellen Conroy (2008) Christopher Crawford (2008) James Daberkow (2007) Harold Davis (2000) Jeremy Day (2007) Stephanie Dearmont (2007) Cara DeBuhr (2005) Bryan & Heather Diekmann (2007) Jari Dunekacke (2007) Jeffrey Ely (2003) Delta Fajardo-Norton (2003) Katie Foster (2000) Glenda Fralin (2006) Carly Franson (2007) Justin Fulton (2008) Alan Gager (2003) Charles Genuchi (2002) Anne Gerdes (2007) Sheri Grotrian-Ryan (2002) Teresa Hahn (2002) Guy Hale (2008) Daniel & Nikki Hayes (2002) Amanda Hegge (2007) Steven Heine (2000) Jesse Henderson (2004) Karen Horky (2001) Marnie Huschak (2004) Adam & Aimee Johns (2001) Scott & Amy Jones (2002) Ann Kauffman (2007) Megan Kendall (2004) Mike Ketchum (2009) BryanKinder(2004) Jackie Koepke (2008) John Korthals (2008) Frank Kostal (2001) Dustin Lee (2003) Ben Leseberg (2008) Angelo Ligouri (2000) Chris & Lindsey Lindner (2005) Gerhardt Lux (2009) Travis Martensen (2000) Sara Martin (2000) Marty Martinez (2003) Gary & Stephanie Mercer (2005) A.J. & Denise Mertens (2005) Jon & Beth Mierau (2000) Adam & Denise Miller (2000) Kristopher Miller (2008) Julie Murtaugh (2008) Clinton Pebley (2004) Margaret Piper (2005) Todd Schneider (2001) Carol Schulte (2008) Ann Severin (2000) Phillip Sh eek (20,01) Lucian Smith (2004) Michael & Danni Stoddard (2007) Julie Strain (2007) Tiffany Tharp (2007) James Thompson (2002) David Turner (2004) David VanDerKamp (2004) Roger Virost (2004) Tonya Volk (2002) Tamara Westhart (2000) Cody Witt (200-7) Ralph & Evi Wusk (2006)

2010's Regan Anson (2010) Todd Bonnes (2010)

Angela Bridgmon (2015) Adam & Promise DeBilzan (2011) Jodi Evans (2010) Mark Forster (2011) Kent Freiburghouse (2011) Caroline Gathright (2012) Raedeahna Gerdes (2010) Brittany Hergott (2010) Cat Jacobsen (2015) Nicole Jensen (2010) Lynn Kemper (2012) Patrick Knabe (2012) Krista Kreifel (2011) Robert Lopez (2010) Melissa McLaughlin (2011) Nathan Meyer (2011) Nick Miller (2012) Frankie Mossa (2011) Lisa Parriott (2010) Jennifer Pitz! (2011) Susan Reynolds (2010) Todd & Michelle Simpson (2015) Eric Uher (2012) Armando Vargas (2011) Krista Waldman (2011) Robert Williamson (2012) Friends Ronald and Brenda Acers Aegon Transamerica Foundation Garry & Joan Ailes Richard Allen Maria Alonzo Jim Anderson Ken Anderson Virginia Argabright Kelly Asmussen Assurity Life Insurance Company Auburn Optimist Club Jane Awford John & Audrey Bakula Ball Corporation Baques Accounting & Associates Inc. Diane Barnes Gene Beardslee Mark Beischel Belle Terrace Linda Benham Beverly Bernhardt Kenny Bias David Bierman Dennis Bish Lezlee Bishop Black Hills Energy Jolene Block Sharon Bowen Hilary Bradford Gerry Brady Carolyn Bredemeier Kathleen Brekke Arlin & Judy Brinkman Dora Brown Nancy Brown Everett Browning Doug & Rhonda Bryan Buenos Aires Bakery II Corp Chris Buethe Ralph & Donna Buss Eulanda Cade Hugh Carman Kathy Carroll Yvonne Chandler Eugene Cherin Children's Medical Center, P.A. Colleen Christensen Donald Clark Bill Clemente ConAgra Foods Foundation Jack Cooper Cornerstone Bank Sara Crook

John Crotty Lisa Croushorn Kerby & Naomi Cunningham Mr. Dahl Susan Dailly Jean Dale Shellie Dameron Lora Damme Linda Darnell Daniel Davidsmeier Wayne Davidson Bob & Kathy Dawson Jim & Donna Defreece Helen Dixon Yurien Dorta-Munoz Joyce Douglas Ronald & Jan Douglas Shawna Douglass Mary Jane Drake Todd Drew Stacey Duerfeldt Marlene Duncan Joyce Dunn Donna Edmondson Janet Einstein Patrick Engles Engles Agency Carol Eno Kathy Ensz Ted Evans F&MBank Farmer's Bank of Cook FBL Financial Group Inc Peggy Feathers John Fettig First National Bank ofJohnson First United Methodist Church Joyce Fisher Richard Flynn Pat Fortney Laurence & Debra Fountain Dorothy Freeland Dawn Friese!

Lenhart & Helen Fritzen Adam Froeschl Froeschl Floors LLC Patricia Fuhrmann Greg Galardi Jerry Gallentine General Electric Foundation Dallen & Barbara George James and Deanne Gerking Kevin & Diana Germino Fred Gfeller Paul Gilbert Cole Giovannoni Coy Glass Vickie Glass Mary Goebel-Lundholm Harry and Patty Goeglein Virginia Gohr Glade Goings Juanita Goings David Grant James Grant Leland Graves Gross & Welch, P.C., L.L.O. David Grubaugh Cheryl Gruber Stephen & Judy Grund Candace & Dale Grundman Larry & Cheryl Grundman Colene Hance Chris Haney Dan and Elaine Hanson De Ann Hanson Harris Foundation Tammie Hart Steve & Joan Hartsock Al & Judy Ratcliff Janet Hawley

Allison & Martin Hayes Lynn Hazen Jim & Lori Heine Thomas & Janet Hemphill Amanda Henderson Mileidy Hernandez Scott & Jamie Hestermann Grant Hindman Joan Hindman Grimo Hinduan Pamela Holbrook Ronald Holmes Dan & Alice Holtz Judy Homolka Adam Horn Betty Horton Mary & James Huettner Christy Hutchison John & Betty Huttenmeyer Robert Hutton Institute For Cultural Exchange, Inc. Judith Ivey Vicki Jacobitz Rick Janssen Andy & Becca Jewell John Stewart Walker, Inc. Doug & Cheryl Johnson Neale & Pat Kelley Elizabeth Kernes Krause Kim Killen Kyle Killen Joe Kincaid Dorothy Klontz Ray & Carla Knott Knudsen, Berkheimer, Richardson & Endacott, LLP Andy & Rachel Kohls Mike Koslosky Paul & Loretta Kruse Deb Kuhn Robin Landazuri Vincie Lang Larry & Diane Larsen Craig Latscha Gary & Sally LaVoie Kris Levier Ron & Karen Licht Anton & Sharon Lintz Daryl Long Patricia Longley Nancy Luetchens Joel Lundak Leslie Lusby Charlie Lutz Carolyn Lyndes Joe Macias Anne Madison Paul Madison Shirley Majors Jerry Martin Elizabeth Mattox Manning Domenico Maurici Veronica McAsey William McBride Michael & Virginia McGinnity Howard & Bridget McNiff Bruce Meister Marie Meland Brandon Melendez Mike Melendez Mike Mulvaney Foundation Angus Miller Paul Miller Merlyn & Velda Minderman TonyMissak Doc & Betty Moller Fred & Jane Monnich Cindy Moris Deb Morris David Morrison Margaret Mosley

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Kathleen Moss Dennis Mouton Sean Mulligan Cheryl Muntz Shirley Muntz Carolyn Murphy Daniel Muziz Dale & Sheryl Myers Miguel Navarro Nebraska Bankers Insurance & Services Co., Inc. Nebraska Choral Directors Association Nebraska Community Foundation Nelnet Foundation Caleb Nelson Stephen Nelson Nelson Family Foundation, Karl H. and Wealtha H. Maria Netherland Rodney & Betty Nickel Kristi Nies Walter & Bernice Noerrlinger Daryl & Jacqueline Obermeyer James Oestmann Lori Panko Wayne & Marianne Parde Meredith Parry Jan Passmore Kristin Petersen Caroline Phillips Chase Phillips Wayne & Wanda Pohlmann Patricia Prochaska Father Raybourn & Susan Raybourn Becky Reynolds Reznicek Engineering Inc. Heidi Richard Patricia Rippe Ri.xstine Trophy Jim Robbins Gwen Rooks Wright Guy Rosenberg Patrick Rowe Ron & Aldine Rowe Ben Rubin Howard & Mary Rush Ron & Cyndie Ruyle Kyle Ryan Peter Sadloski Julie Sailors Oscar & Judy Sandberg Lee Sapp Patty Scheel Betty Schmelzer Jeanne Schmelzer Bob & Judy Schmidt Steve Schneider Greg & Darolyn Seay hell Companies Foundation Jordan Silvia Leonard Skov Angie Smeal Beth Ann & Michael Smith David & Diane Smith

Kim Smith Tim & Sharon Smulling Marilyn Snodgrass Antonia Spangler Rhonda Spiehs Sprint Foundation St. Paul Lutheran Church Doris Stanley State Farm Companies Foundation Louis Steck David Steggell Joe Stehlik Jack & Willie Stinson Evelyn Strayer Doris Stuart Judith Sullivan The Sunderland Foundation Willia..'Tl Swenson Max Sword T W Cattle Co., LLC Phyllis Tegtman John Tellini Patrick Terrazzano The Richardson Foundation Michael Toussaint Natalie Travis Troy A Kanter Family Foundation Kathy Tynon Jackie Uhri Union Bank & Trust Union Pacific Company Jerri Urlaub Karel Vance Rod Vandeberg Carol Vermeer Gil Villanueva Mary Walker John Wear Paul Weickert Kirk & Sara Welsh Jean, Tami & Susan Westland Al Wheeler John Wherry Tom Wherry Rick Whitaker Jeffrey & Ilene Whittle Wilde Tool Co. Inc. Micki Willis Daryl & Linda Wilton Doc Wininger Richard & Susan Witt Wade Witt Mel Wittmaack Dennis Wittmann Earl Wittmer Natasha Woolford Scott & Julia Yank Benjamin and Lanette Young Karen Zaranski Glenn Zonick

s We Will Miss 1930s Marjorie E. Speece ('32) of Loveland, Colorado, passed away January 6, 2015 at the age of 102. She had a love for music all throughout her life. She was skilled in playing the piano and played the keyboard for school and church programs.

Dorothy (Allen, '37) Blount passed away March 23, 2015. Dorothy was united in marriage to Harold Blount and born to t he cou ple was a son, John, and a daughter, Barbara Jean. Both Dorothy and Harold taught in Chicago after their marriage.

Ethel (Stevens-Vogt, '38) Richert passed away peacefully on March 31, 2015 . She attend ed Peru State College and the University of Nebraska. Ethel taught three years in rural schools in

18 The Stater

Nance and Cass counties.

Evelyn Tyser ('38) of Wilber, passed away January 20, 2015. She was a Cub Scout den mother and a 4 -H club leader while her two sons were active in these organizations.

1940s Rita (Russell, '40) Bolinski passed away peacefully on March 12, 2015, in Nashville, TN .

She received a B.A from Nebraska State Teacher's College and studied at The School of Art institute in Chicago before earning a M.A. in art from Colorado State University. A talented arti st, she taught middle school art in Nebraska, Iowa , Colorado, and Texas for over 30 years.

Fo llowing Reti reme nt in 1979, she pursued her interest in oil painting and leaves behind many lovely works of art.

Ellen R. 'Becky' Greenwald ('40) of Lincoln, passed away November 5, 2014. She was known for her lighthearted limericks, tucked into birthday cards or scribed and attached to cross-stitchin g and needlepoint gifts.

W. Hubert Joh nson ('40) of Beaverton, Oregon, passed away November 19, 2014. He was a teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and university administrator during his forty-six years in education. His wife, Winifred Hal l Johnson ('39) passed away December 14, 2008.

She was an elementary school teacher for thirty years. Hubert and Winifred were married sixty-nine years.

Betty Louise (Sugden, '42) Pittman of Douglas, passed away December 4, 2014. She enjoyed playing cards, visiting with family and friends, square-dancing and traveling. She was a member of the United Methodist Church for over 75 years. She always had word s of encouragement and a cheery disposition that is dee ply missed .

Dr. M. U. Broers ('43) of Schleswig, Iowa, passed away January 2, 2015. He served the U.S. Army in the Eu ropea n Theater during World War II. He served in the Medica l Corps, and was the lead singer in his army band. He had a good baritone voice and was a long-time member of a barbershop quartet. His favorite song for karaoke was "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra.

Eva Mae Rippe ('44) of Auburn passed away February 7, 2015. She was a wonderful mother to many and routinely baked and provided food for friends and vi sitors. She enjoyed farming, gardening, and dancing.

Lester Bargstadt (attended '45) of Norfolk passed away on January 15, 2015. He attended Peru State College for one semester before enlisting into the U.S. Navy on January 25, 1946.

After his discharge he became a certified barber, he worked and later owned Kirchmann Ba rber Shop until he closed it due to health.

Kathleen Duey ('46) of Falls City passed away February 15, 2015. She was active as a Girl Scout leader and in her retirement volunteered for the Humane Society and church activities.

She wa s known for her creative, outgoing personality and beautiful red hair.

Beulah Widga ('47) of Aurora, passed away December 30, 2014. She was a member of Pol k United Methodist Church, VFW Auxiliary in Clarks, a 50+ year mem ber of the Legion Auxiliary in Polk and a former Officer of Polk Senior Center. She enjoyed spending time with her grand ki ds, great-grandkids, and family.

Ma rion Iversen ('49) of Fremont passed away November 27, 2014. She taught for eight years before moving to Fremont were she was principal until retirement in 1985.

1950s Cecil "Jack" Tillman ('51) passed away April 17, 2015 in Omaha. He was a lifelong educator, coach, and school administrator in Belleville, KS and Wahoo, NE. He and his wife, Colleen, were married for over 64 years. He wa s a graduate of North Platte High School, Peru State College, and earned a master's degree in Special Education and a Specialist in Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska.

Ardyce (Howell, '56) Freeman of Table Rock passed away December 26, 2014. She was known fo r her generous heart, friendly smile, helping hands, beautiful voice, amusing stories, and endless love for children.

Margaret Cotton ('57) passed away April 7, 2015 at the Rosa Vista Nursing Home in Woodbine, Iowa. After graduating high school she received a four-year scholarship to attend Peru State College. Margaret always showed an immense musical talent as well as a brilliant mind.

Beverly (Hinds, '57) Sohnholz passed away March 16, 2015 at Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha. Beverly received her education at Peru state Teachers College and then taught in the Westside Sc hool system. She was married to Herman Sohnholz and together they have two children Dwaine and Diane.

Christian Kleine ('59) passed away April 11, 2014. He taught in Auburn for 36 years and also coached football, basketball, and track. He was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Auburn wh ere he was very involved.

1960s M. H. 'Bart' Bartholomew ('62) of Columbus passed away January 12, 2015. He accepted a teaching and coach ing position with Columbus Public Schools where he had the privilege of working with young people for 30 years.

"Pat" Joseph W. Martin ('63) of Salem passed away March 1, 2015. He owned his own business the majority of his life and worked for Restaurant Management Corp. He lived various places, managing restaurants but moved back to Bellevu e and then to Sa lem in 1944.

Ronald Pethoud ('65) of Harlan, Iowa passed away February 19, 2015. Ron was united in marriage to Linda Sherman, and together became parents to three children. Ron worked as a park ranger and photographer, but loved his teaching career most of all. He retired from the Ha rlan Community school system in 1998. He was a great story and joke teller. Most were funny, but all of them were memorable.

Luetta L. Volker ('66) ofTecumseh, passed away October 23, 2014. She liked to play cards with friends and family, and enjoyed cooking and baking for family gatherings. She was a member of the St. James Lutheran Church and taught Sunday school and Bible school for many years.

Betty Ann (Kotalik, '67) Mahoney of Pawnee City passed away January 31, 2015. Her Czech heritage, family, music, and her great love for educating children were her life. She sang, played piano, guitar, and accordion. She also loved to travel.

1970s Verlene (Dailey, '71) Hohbein passed away March 21, 2015. She graduated from Diller High School and Peru State College. She taught school for 40 years in Gage and Jefferson County, retiring in 1994. Verlene was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Beatrice where she was involved in LWML, Social club, and Dorcas society. She was also a member of NSEA, B.A.R.T.A. and several singles groups. . ,... ,....,.__ Martin E. Kelsay ('72) of Auburn passed away December 11, 2014. After college he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After his two year enlistment was over he reenlisted, spending a part of his tour overseas in Germany.

Wade Eugene Lair ('73) of Hamburg, Iowa passed away January 7, 2015. He was passionate about coaching and was a fantastic artist who could free-hand anything.

Timothy Lee Becker ('73) of Turpin, Oklahoma passed away February 2, 2015. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and his "Little Buddy" Kyeron Williams. He enjoyed playing cards, working on projects in the yard, Bingo, telling jokes, and pulling pranks.

Robert Wernsman, Jr. ('74) of Lubbock, Texas passed away March 15. 2015 . After earning hisBachelors and Masters Degrees, he went on to have a long career in the newspaper industry. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, Texas Tech University professor, mentor and friend.

Terry Burkhalter ('78) passed away October 21, 2014. He got married in 1969 to Jana Dunbar and together they were blessed with two children, Heath and Heather. Terry worked numerous jobs including being a teacher and a nurse. He was a member of V.F.W., American Legion and the D.A.V. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Music was a big part of his life. He played guitar and taught his daughter to play as well. His true love wa s his family.

1980s L. "Beth" Dorste ('83) passed away April 15, 2015. Beth grew up in Salem and graduated from Falls City High School in 1969. She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Peru State College in 1983 and started her teaching career at FC Middle School.

Jennifer L. (Gregory, '84) Williams of Omaha, passed away December 20, 2014. She loved to be home with her children and supporting them at their many activities. She loved flowers, sewing, arts and crafts, fishing, and her cats, but most of all her family.

Robin A. Grossman ('85) of Stella, passed away January 1, 2015. She was very involved with her sons' activities, including b~ing a member of People For Kids and working on post-prom committees. She played softball for the "Scoo-by-Doos" and enjoyed gardening and other horticultural projects.

1990s Gay N. Grimm (Parli, '91) formerly of Sabetha and Emporia, Kansas passed away December 27, 2014. She was involved in children's and music ministry and served alongside her family. She sang and played the organ and loved preparing meals for those she loved.

2000s Nancy J. Barton ('02) of Nebraska City, passed away January 28, 2015. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Christopher L. Kelly ('13) of Lincoln passed away July 9, 2014. Christopher played football at Peru State and was a Correctional Officer for Lancaster County.

We apologize for the error in the previous issue that listed Christopher's date of death as June 9, 2014.

J

Look· t The e Bobe ts Go! 1980s George Hanssen ('71) retired on December 31, 2014 from the Nebraska Department of agriculture after 40 years of service.

1980s Mark "Artie" Johnson ('80) was recognized by the Missou ri Footbal l Association with the Paul Martel Award in December. He worked towards the mission of the MFCA to protect, preserve, and pass-on the game of football in the state of Missouri. Mark retired after 35 years and will be introduced into th e Missouri Football Coaches Association "Hall of Fame" in December 2015.

While at Peru State College, Mark played four years of football and baseball .

Kim Schreiner ('85) was appointed Controller with the State of Nebraska Department of Labor.

Alan Mueller ('87) of Louisville is now the market president of Pinnacle Bank. He will manage loan and deposit growth while maintaining asset quality, community involvement, employee engagement, and customer servic e.

1990s Tammy Freeburg ('90) was awarded the prestigious All-Star Teacher of the Year on February 5. The award recognizes her work as a physical education teacher at Chandler View Elementary School in Omaha.

Mark Kolterman ('94) is a newly elected senator who represents District 24.

Seth Perkins ('99) was hired as vice president of Property Management. He is responsible for overseeing apartment communities as well as implementing management and financial strategies, expanding services and assuring resident satisfaction. He has over 14 years of experience in real estate, property management, and asset management.

2000s .Jon Mierau ('00) accepted the position of Business Development Manager with the Power and Gas Division of Siemens Energy, Inc. Kristina Buhrman ('06) is being hailed as a hero after helping rescue nearly 40 children from a burning school bus. As soon as she yelled "there's smoke in the bus" Buhrman immediately pulled over and hustled the students off the bus while calling 911. Florida highway patrol trooper Sgt. Mary Godino commended her actions.

Daniel Ackland ('06) will become principal of Faris Elementary School, effective in July.

Ackland earned his bachelors and master's degrees in the field of education at Peru State College. He has taught the last eight years in Valley Center.

2010s Keiyana Arnold ('10) recently accepted an internal promotion for a position in Human Resources as a Lead College Recruiter for the Technology Development Program. She will be relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area and is grateful for her Peru State education to help get her where she is today.

Mallory Lempka ('12) was appointed by the Nemaha County commissioners to serve as county assessor through January 2019.

Friends Michael Barger of Peru State College received funding from the National Science Foundationand continues to provide data to the ToD on aquatic parasites.

Bobcat LC7Ve is in the Air 1980s DiAnna Loy ('86) and Dr. James R. Nevitt were married July 16, 2012.

2000s Sam Pickerill and Leisha Tennal ('09) were married on August 29, 2014 in Beatrice. Sam is employed by Midwest Masonry and Leisha teaches Art and coaches at Beatrice Middle School.

2010s Debbie Trecek ('11) and Lee Volkens were married June 13, 2015. Debbie is the Development Coordinator at Omaha Community Playhouse and Lee is a Sheriff's Deputy at Pottawattamie County Sherriff's Office.

Morgan Hodge ('14) and Eli Bachman were married on May 23, 2015 in Falls City at the First United Methodist Church . Morgan is a Peru State College graduate and is employed at the office of Julie D. Bauman, CPA. Eli is a 2009 graduate of Hiawatha High, farms and is owner and operator of Leading Edge Ag, LLC. Kaley Witham ('14) and Jessie Clark exchanged vows February 28, 2015, at Bethany Unit· ed Church of Christ, Hiawatha. Kaley graduated with a bachelor's degree in business management and is currently a customer service representative at Rainbow Communications. Jessie is the business owner of Clark Agronomics, LLC in Hiawatha.

Erin Louise (' 15) and Brandon Doedon were married June 6 , 2015 at St. Paul Lutheran Chu rch in Auburn. The bride-to-be graduated from Peru State College with a teaching degree in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education in May. The Groom-to-be is a 2014 graduate of Northeast Community College and is currently working as a wind technician for General Electric at Chisholm View Wind Farm located near Oklahoma.

Friends Eric Perkin s and Dr. Wanda Miller were married May 30, 2015. He is working on his masters in organization management at Peru State College and she is a Licensed Psychologist at Beatrice State Development Center.

Andrew Rieschick and Erin Hoops were married Februa ry 7, 2015. Erin works as an admissions counselor for Peru State College. Andrew works for Rieschick Drilling Co. and is also founder and operator of Rieschick Engineering & Consulting, LLC.

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Keep your eyes open for PSC's new webpage Inside this Peru Stater you'll find ...

Page 4 _ .Significant Campus and Civic Improvements . Begin Page 5

2015 Commencement

Page 6

New Sculpture Coming to Oak Bowl

Page 8

Clopton Wins Teacher Excellence Award

Page 11

1986 Graduate Wins Writing Competition

Page 12

Santiesteban NAIA Baseball All-American First Team

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The Peru Stater is published twice each year by the Peru State College Foundation. Send your comments, news items and address changes to:

The Peru Stater PSC Foundation PO Box 10 Peru, NE 68421-0010 For more information about Peru State College, Nebraska's first college, visit www.peru.edu or find us on Facebook.

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