2023 The Peru Stater (Nebraska) - Summer issue

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The Power of an Excellent Team

Dr. Michael Evans President, Peru State College My first two years here at Peru State have flown by quickly, as I knew they would.

Joanna and I continue to enjoy meeting people, learning about this amazing College, and working with everyone here to continue building a bright future.

A key to that bright future is the caliber of the team working hard to ensure the College's success. We have several new people in important leadership positions, and I thought I would take the opportunity of this column to provide some updates.

At the time of this writing, Vice President for Academic Affairs Tim Borchers is wrapping things up at Peru State. He has been named the next President of West Liberty University in West Virginia, and we are thrilled for his success. Peru State has benefitted enormously from Tim's leadership; with a steady hand, he has managed the academic side of the College impressively.

When the chair of the West Liberty search committee called me for a reference, I told him Tim was the right person for the job. I said his emphasis on collaboration, his expert analytical skills, and his calm enthusiasm would serve West Liberty well, and the committee clearly agreed.

Will be missed We will miss Tim and his wife, Susanne Williams, who has served as Peru State's Retention Specialist. We wish them both great success at West Liberty, and I will enjoy watching the University grow and prosper under their leadership.

We launched the search for both positions immediately. In the meantime, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences Paul H inrichs has graciously agreed to fill in as the Interim VPAA. I am grateful for Paul's willingness

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to step up and serve the College in this important role.

Jennifer Rieken, our Vice President for Administration and Finance, has been in her position for a year now, and she is bringing wonderful vision and expertise to our business and financial operations. She is our primary liaison for the Project ROAR construction, which is profoundly complex, and she is supervising our Business Office, Facilities team, and other units admirably.

Our Marketing and Communications Office has several new people as well. Kelcie Keeling is our Director of Marketing and Communications, and if you have noticed a sharp increase in Peru State's media presence throughout the region, it is due to Kelcie's energy and hard work. The College was featured in three segments of the television program_Pure Nebraska, we have appeared in numerous newspaper articles and columns, and our visibility in digital and social media has expanded greatly. Kelcie recently hired Bekka Rinne as our new Marketing Coordinator, and they are in the process of hiring a new graphic designer.

New athletics leadership And I'm delighted to share with you that Kyle Pond is our new Athletic D irector.

Kyle had been serving as our Associate AD, and he brings outstanding experience and expertise to the AD position. I look forward to working closely with Kyle as we keep our athletics program moving forward.

Wayne Albury, who served as both the Athletics Director and head baseball coach, has accepted a position in Florida where he can be closer to family. I appreciate Wayne's leadership and greatly enjoyed working with him, and I am confident he will do great things in his new role.

We are also searching for a new Dean of the School of Education. Dwayne Chism has led the School with energy, compassion, and vision for several years, but he recently made the decision to focus his career on consulting and speaking engagements. He is a sought-afrer speaker, and anyone who has heard him will agree he is inspirational and highly motivating. We are very sorry to see him go, but we wish him well- and we hope to hire him as a consultant for us from time to time.

I'll share more in a later Stater column, but for now please join me in thanking and congratulating the new members of the Peru State leadership team. I am blessed to work with such talented and dedicated colleagues, and together we will keep the College going strong.

The Peru Stater College President: Dr. Michael Evans Managing Editor, Sports Editor: Ted L. Harshbarger ('77) Editor: Kent Propst ('81) Graphic Design: Rachel (Rippe '12) Meiergerd Contributors and Photography: Susan (Lunzmann '94) Unruh, Brandi Hull ('15), Kim Regan, Kelcie Keeling, Tyler Fangman, Dr. Tim Borchers, Bekka Rinne, Paul Rieken, Rachel (Rippe '12) Meiergerd, Ean Miller, and Reagan Connelly Peru State College Foundation Board of Trustees Chair, Jeff Greenwald ('71), Lincoln, Neb. Vice Chair, Elton Edmond ('88, Masters '16), Lincoln, Neb. Secretary, Al Urwin ('82), La Vista, Neb. Co-Treasurers, Jeff ('83) and Robin (Nelson '82) Smith, Lincoln, Neb. Julie (Ramsey '95) Bauman, Falls C ity, Neb. Connie (Sims '87) Edmond, Lincoln, Neb. Mike Gerdes ('88), Auburn, Neb. Cindy (Plantenga '82) and Tim ('84) Hoffman, Lincoln, Neb. Lori (Vrtiska '84) Seibel, Lincoln, Neb. Fritz Stehli k ('74), Omaha, N eb.

Ivan Wineglass ('94), Bellevue, Neb. National Alumni Association Board of Directors Chair Kim Vrtiska ('90), Falls City, N eb.

Vice Chair Elton Edmond ('88), Lincoln, N eb.

Secretary/Treasurer Mark Czapla ('87), Unadilla, Neb. Branden Bender ('95), N ebraska City, Neb. Dan Cotton ('76), Peru, Neb. Rich Daly ('68), Lincoln, Neb. Connie (Sims '87) Edmond, Lincoln, Neb. Carlos Harrison ('51), Shenandoah, Iowa Mary Lu (Hicks '68) McCoy, Omaha, Neb. Chuck ('69) and Alice (Massoth '69) Mizerski, Lincoln, Neb. Tyler N utsch ('13), LaVista, Neb. Mark Shively ('79, Masters '93), Palm Springs, Calif.

Fritz ('74) and Char (Lutz '74) Stehlik, Omaha, Neb. Kris (Kubert '94) Vrtiska, Falls City, Neb. Ivan Wineglass ('94), Bellevue, Neb.

Published twice annually for alumni andfa.ends ofPeru State College by the Peru State College Foundation. Please submit address changes, name changes, information for class notes, stories, suggestions and corrections by email at pscfoundation@peru.edu, by phone at (402) 872-2304, or by mail at: The Peru Stater, do Peru State College Foundation, PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421-0010.

SAVE THE OAT£ HOMECOMING2023 September 29th -30th

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The Vitality of Alumni and Friends' Support: Empowering a Small College Foundation

Ted L. Harshbarger Executive Director, Peru State College Foundation In the realm of higher education, small colleges such as Peru State College play a significant role in nurturing and shaping young minds.

However, maintaining the excellence and viability of these institutions can be a daunting task. That is where the support of alumni and friends becomes invaluable.

The Peru State College Foundation has been fortunate to have the support of alumni and friends in the past, but future support is as important now as it ever has been, to sustain and enhance the Foundation's mission and impact.

Each of you should know that I, along with our staff and the Board of Directors, really do appreciate the support.

Strengthen the Legacy Alumni and friends form an integral part of the legacy and identity of a small college.

Their experiences and memories connect them deeply to the institution and foster a sense of loyalty and pride. By giving back to the Foundation, alumni and friends actively participate in preserving and strengthening that legacy.

Your gifts provide financial resources for scholarships, faculty development, and infrastructure improvements, ensuring future generations have access to a quality education. Additionally, alumni and friends serve as role models, inspiring current students and highlighting the impact an education from Peru State College can have on their lives.

The financial support of alumni and friends is crucial for a small college foundation, like ours, which faces limited

resources and a smaller donor pool compared to larger universities. Donations from alumni and friends can fill critical funding gaps and enable the Foundation to pursue innovative programs, support research initiatives, and upgrade facilities.

A Ripple Effect These contributions also enhance the college's competitiveness in attracting toptier faculty and students. Moreover, alumni and friends' donations signal confidence in our institution's mission and create a ripple effect, encouraging other potential donors to contribute and strengthening the foundation's overall fundraising efforts.

Beyond financial contributions, the engagement and involvement of alumni and friends bring immense value to a small college foundation such as Peru State's.

Alumni possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, and professional networks that they can share with current students through mentorship programs, career guidance, and internships.

Their involvement fosters a sense of community and lifelong connections, nurturing a strong network for graduates as they navigate their careers. Furthermore, alumni and friends can contribute their time and expertise by serving on advisory boards, assisting with fundraising campaigns, and promoting the college's initiatives, thereby amplifying its reach and impact.

The importance of giving to a small college foundation cannot be overstated.

Alumni and friends serve as the lifeblood of institutions like ours, providing vital financial support, sharing their experiences and expertise, and fostering a vibrant community.

By investing in the foundation, alumni and friends contribute to the sustainability of and growth of Peru State College, ensuring its continued ability to provide an exceptional education to future generations.

Your support strengthens the bond between Peru State and our graduates, creating a powerful legacy of impact and success.

Join The Celebrations!

Alumni Event Calendar Mark your calendar and take part in activities for Peru State alumni and friends. Check out the Foundation website (peru.edu/foundation) for updates and other events.

August 17 - Lincoln Area Alumni event at Embassy Suites August 26 - 1867 Society Event, CATS Building & Oak Bowl September 9 - Winter-Spring Student-Athlete Presentation @Oak.Bowl September 26 - Natalie Hahn African Art Dedication; Distinguished Speaker Dr. Henry Glassie September 29 - All College Banquet (honoring the Class of '73, other decades, and affinity classes) September 30 - Homecoming - 'Cats from the Past October 13 - Hall of Fame Banquet October 14 - Hall of Fame Induction @ Oak Bowl October 24-25 - Annual Giving Day November 4 - PSCF Donor Recognition Day November 11 - Senior Day/Veterans Day@ Oak Bowl December 1 - End-of-Year Giving Campaign Kicks Off February 3 - Annual Alumni Chili Feed

Calendar subject to change. Ifyou have questions, or are interested in participating in or helping to organize an eventfor Peru Staters, reach out to us by email at pscfoundation@peru.edu, call (402) 872-2304, or write Peru State College Foundation, PO Box 10, Peru NE 68421-0010.

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QuadBog'23 Short term pain brings long term gain to campus SESQUICENTENNIAL PLAZA

The beautiful quad in the heart of the Peru State College campus is undergoing a transformation that will yield an even more jaw-dropping space when completed later this year.

In the meantime, though, the project - which college officials playfully tabbed "Quad Bog '23" - has rendered the center part of campus an impassable construction zone.

As President Michael Evans notes, the $5.5 million project for a geothermal well field to help heat and cool the college Library and Center for Achievement and Transition Services (CATS) building, is worth the disruption aesthetically, financially, and environmentally.

"Bringing geothermal heating and cooling to these buildings will result in much more consistent air temperature year-round," Evans said. "In addition, it will not only reduce our fuel costs- and reduce our carbon footprint- but we will save money on maintenance as well."

Funded by the State of Nebraska, the Quad Bog project will recoup its investment in energy savings in an estimated 7-10 years.

Not new to Peru Geothermal is not new to Peru State.

The technology - which involves drilling wells and circulating liquid through them to provide cooler air in the summer

and warmer air in the winter - has been installed in T.J. Majors, Delzell Hall, the Performing Arts Center, V.H . Jindra Fine Arts, the Administration Building and Campus Services.

"At a time when costs for almost everything else are going up, our utility bills have consistently been going down, or holding steady," noted Jennifer Rieken, the college vice president for administration and finance.

The difference between previous geothermal projects and Quad Bog is the well field's central location. Rieken said each of the 80 wells are 450 feet deep, smack dab in the middle of campus.

Several trees had to be removed, though all will be replaced.

Quad Bog began late in the spring semester, and students and faculty had to use alternate routes to get to class, the Student Center and residence halls.

Basically, Peru State became a back-door campus. By the fall semester, Rieken anticipates access to the quad area on three sides via sidewalks.

A better quad As the geothermal project wraps up, landscaping will kick into high gear. As Evans noted, it will not look like the "old" quad - it will look, and function, even better.

Oral History Book Coming Soon Last >'ear we shared rhar the Peru Stare College Foundation was collaborating with rhe Publishing Concepts (PCI) organization on an oral history project.

The project goal was to connect and engage alumni members with the College .

And connect you did! ~early 2,500 alumni responded, with 1,784 of you pro\·iding potential stories for publication and/or use b~- the College. Per PCI represenratiYes, we had an aboYe-a\'erage response rare in comparison to other institutions our size! W'ay to go Bobcats!

Nearly 500 of rhe stories will be published in the Peru Stare Oral History Book, along with numerous photographs submitted b>' alumni and rhe College.

PCI notes rhe publication is slated for mailing near rhe end of August.

A big Bobcat thanks to each of every one of you who answered rhe call and pro\·ided updated information or a memory of >'our rimes at Peru Stare College.

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Sidewalks will be widened, and multiple Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enhancements installed. New sidewalks won't necessarily follow the same paths as the piecemeal network that had existed.

A central plaza will have a bowl-like enclosure, seating and tables, lighting, and charging stations.

Peru State will continue to pursue funds for more geothermal projects, but rising costs and state appropriations will determine when they happen. The Quad Bog project, for which $5.5 million was provided, first included the Campus Services building.

But bids came in at double estimates, necessitating a postponement of the

project until this summer. In the meantime, a statewide building renewal fund called LB 309 funded Campus Services, leaving $5.5 million for Quad Bog. Alumni take note: the Library was built in 1905 as a chapel and used until the late 1970s as the college gymnasium. What was long known as the Library and built shortly after the chapel/gym, is now the CATS building.

As challenging as the quad bog initiative is and will remain in the months ahead, the finished product will be more than worth it. It is yet another big step forward for Nebraska's first college.

Secure Your Legacy: The Importance of Planning Ahead Are you aware of the crucial role that estate planning and giving play in securing your future and leaving a lasting impact?

Join the Peru State College Foundation for an insightful presentation that can shed light on the significance of thoughtful estate planning and the power of giving. Discover how taking proactive steps today can ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones and enable you to support causes dear to your heart.

The Peru State College Foundation will host a presentation conducted by staff from Bridges Trust of Omaha on Saturday, Aug. 26 from 4-5:30 p.m.

It will be held in the CATS (Center for Achievement and Transition Services) Conference Room, there is no cost nor obligation, and refreshments will be served.

Estate planning and charitable giving are essential components of responsible financial management. Planning ahead can make a world of difference, providing peace of mind and preserving your hardearned assets.

To reserve a seat, RSVP by emailing pscfoundation@peru.edu or by calling 402-872-2304. Limited spaces are available.

Attendees will also receive a complimentary ticket to the Bobcat football game at 6 p.m. that evening and will be guests of the Foundation in the South Suite.

Invest in your future and make a difference that extends beyond your lifetime. We look forward to seeing you at the presentation!

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Work Begins on Project ROAR, Campaign Nears Midway Point Construction on the largest and arguably most important and exciting project in Peru State College history has just begun.

For alumni and friends , the time is now to make a meaningful gift to Project ROAR and assure it will fulfill the needs of students and the region for decades to come.

Project ROAR is a more than $15 million, five-building project - Peru State's first all-new buildings in more than 4 0 years. Two-thirds of the funds come from the state of Nebraska or the C ollege itself.

Peru State, through gifts to its Peru State College Foundation, is expected to provide the rest - at least $4 million, though with rising construction costs, more may be needed to do the project as designed.

President Michael Evans noted that almost $2 million has been given or pledged in the year since the campaign launched, already making ROAR the most successful capital campaign in Peru State history.

While gifts large and small continue to come in (see list of recent ROAR donors), more are critically needed, and the clock

is ticking. At some point in the months ahead, if Foundation funding cannot be guaranteed, plans for ROAR will have to be scaled down, and the opportunity lost.

"Project ROAR will bring vitally important facilities to Peru State," said President M ichael Evans. "These buildings will house practice fields for football, baseball, and softball, as well as adding restrooms, concessions stands, coaches' offices, athletic-trainer rooms, and more to our campus. This will add outstanding versatility and provide spaces not only fo r our Varsity and Varsity Reserve teams but also for student organizations, residence hall floor activities, club sports, and other needs."

Designed to support the physical and mental wellness of the Peru State student body, Project ROAR features three buildings near the baseball and softball fields south of campus, and two on the former football practice field on the northeast edge of campus.

At present, the only indoor space for athletics and recreational activity at Peru State is the Al Wheeler Activity Center ironically, the last new building built on the Peru State campus (1980).

Helping to break ground on Project ROAR this past spring were (from left) Gary Schaffer, Bill Snyder, Tim Hoffman, Cindy Hoffman, Paul Fell, Arlene Fell, Mary Lu McCoy, Jeff Greenwald, Butch Haws, Dobey Haws, Jerry Joy, Christina Joy, and Carlos Harrison.

With 18 Varsity and Varsity Reserve athletic teams vying for indoor practice space, often using the Wheeler Center from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., time is extremely limited for use by the general student population as well as faculty and staff.

Prospective students considering Peru State have m any choices, and ROAR is our chance to offer new, flexible, and highly functional facilities that can help the C ollege build enrollment.

As President Evans emphasizes, the goal is to get students off their phones and away from their screens. The correlation between physical wellbeing and emotional happiness and mental health is indisputable, and the new facilities at Peru State College will help the campus meet the need in excellent fashion.

T he only question is, will Peru State College alumni and friends answer the call? State support and College resources are locked in, and work is already underway. Whether you are a regular donor or have not yet made your first gift, please give today.

Help us make Nebraska's first college ROAR. For more information or to discuss Project ROAR, contact Ted L. Harshbarger with the Peru State College Foundation, tharshbarger@peru.edu, or call (402) 872-2304, or write to him c/o Peru State College Foundation, PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421 -0010.

Online donations can be made at https://bit.ly/PeruStateProjectROAR.

Harrison Gift Amplifies ROAR Campaign

A savvy investment deci ion early in Carlos Harrison's career paid big dividends later in his life. Now, the Shenandoah, Iowa, resident has decided to pay it forward to his alma mater.

Harrison, a 1951 Peru State graduate, gave the College tocks he has held starting in the 1950s, and the gift yielded more than $630,000. He designated $536,000 to Project ROAR, Peru State's campaign to build five new health and wellness-related facilities at Nebraska's first college.

It is the largest single gift from an individual the campaign, launched late

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last summer (2022), has received to date, according to President, Dr. Michael Evans.

"Peru State College is deeply grateful to Carlos for his vision and his generosity," Evans said. "Project ROAR is focused on students' physical and mental well-being.

Carlos's gift will have an enormous impact on Project ROAR, on our students, and on this College for decades to come."

In recognition of his many services and contributions to Peru State, the College presented him with its highest honor the Distinguished Service Award - at Commencement ceremonies in May. Harrison, raised on the family farm near Tabor, Iowa, went on from Peru State to obtain a master's degree. He then served in the U.S. Army before returning to Shenandoah as a regional executive for the Boy Scouts of America.

Harrison then accepted a position in Omaha for a Pennsylvania-based corporation called Air Products and Chemicals. He later transferred to its California operation, where he spent much of his life and career, remaining with Air

Products until 1974. Later he worked for United Airlines, retiring in 2000 to return to his native southwest Iowa.

Part of Air Products' compensation package allowed employees to use six percent of their salary to buy company stock, an opportunity Harrison seized.

Soon after, he received his first dividend check "for the great sum of five cents," Harrison said.

Rather than receiving dividends, Harrison opted to roll all gains into the purchase of more Air Products stock.

The stock fund grew, and grew, and grew, eventually allowing him to give a portion of his portfolio to Peru State via its nonprofit fundraising corporation, the Peru State College Foundation.

Project ROAR is just the latest example of the 94-year-old's commitment to Peru Scace College. He was active in alumni chapters in California when he resided there, and he has been on Peru State's National Alumni Association board since its founding in 2002. Ac age 94, he still enjoys taking in college events and

activities.

Harrison stated, "It was a great pleasure to donate my appreciated stock at this time so future Bobcats can continue to ROAR." Harrison already endowed a scholarship in memory of his parents, Walter and Lillian Harrison, to enable students to attend Peru State. Through the years he has been one of the most steady and significant donors to nearly a dozen different causes that benefit the College.

With this latest gift, Harrison also earmarked some of the proceeds from the stock ale to his parents' scholarship fund and to another upcoming capital construction project on Peru State's radar screen.

Project ROAR represents the first construction of all-new buildings at Peru State since 1980. Evans said the plan is to break ground on its first phase chis spring.

At a more than $15 million estimated cost, Project ROAR is the largest construction project, both in terms of cost and square footage - in the more than 155-year history of Peru State.

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Wheeler Endows First Faculty Chair in State College History College Hall of Fame in 1986, the person for whom the Al Wheeler Activity Center is named, and a member of the NAIA Football Coaches Hall of Fame and Nebraska Football Hall of Fame.

Wheeler's mom, Fran, worked for Peru State as the women's physical education instructor. She also choreographed the annual May Fete and coached the Peru Prep girls' volleyball team. Their influence has not been lost on him.

of investing," said Wheeler, "I started investing as a first-year student in college and was fortunate to retire at 52.

Investing also enabled me to contribute to the Al Wheeler Scholarship fund at Peru State and donate to the Performing Arts Center." Wheeler then laughed and added, "It is important to note that I never officially retired though. I just continued working."

Impacted many

In 1996, Wheeler joined the Entomology Department at Clemson as an adjunct professor. He has spent considerable time there writing papers for scientific journals and authoring a book, Biology of the Plant Bugs (Hemiptera: Miridae), published by Cornell University Press in 2001. His research centers on plant-feeding insects, and he continues to conduct field work in the western United States and Nebraska Sandhills.

His research became the impetus for the concept of creating new opportunities for college students to become more ecologically literate. In the summer of 2022, Wheeler developed a one-page proposal for an environmental studies major. After learning more about thennew Peru State President Michael Evans, he presented the proposal to him.

"I didn't do anything with the proposal until I read about Dr. Evans," said Wheeler. "He seemed welcome to new ideas, so I thought it was a good time to

By Paul Rieken

Dr. Al Wheeler, Jr., a Peru native, has maintained a close, longstanding relationship with Peru State College. The entomologist, author, and Clemson (S.C.) University adjunct faculty member is a lifelong advocate and financial supporter of the college.

His most recent gift has created the Al Wheeler, Jr. Distinguished Chair in Environmental Management, Policy, and Sustainability (EMPS).

Wheeler grew up in Peru, attending the K-12 school in the T.J. Majors building ("Peru Prep"), and was affiliated with Peru State through his parents. His dad, legendary Peru State athletic director, coach, and professor Al Wheeler, Sr., was the inaugural inductee into the Peru State

Several firsts

It will be the first endowed chair Research in the Sandhills

"My parents were very special people and had a significant impact on the lives of many people, including me," said Wheeler. "They taught me a strong work ethic, kindness, competence, integrity, principle, and an emphasis on academics, not just athletics."

After graduating from Peru Prep, Wheeler attended Grinnell (Iowa) College where he completed his undergraduate degree in Biology. He then attended Cornell University in New York on an assistantship and earned his Ph.D. in Entomology.

Wheeler then accepted a position as a survey entomologist with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, where he worked for 25 years. He also was an adjunct professor at Penn State University for 23 of those years. He retired from full-time work at 52.

"My dad was active in the stock market and taught me the importance

move this idea forward."

Collaboration between Wheeler, Dr. Evans, the College's School of Arts and Sciences, and the Peru State College Foundation, along with Wheeler's generous financial gift, resulted in the creation of the Al Wheeler, Jr. Distinguished Chair position.

position in the Nebraska State College system and the first program in Nebraska with the EMPS title. The program will include a required course in biodiversity for EMPS majors, which will be an elective for non-EMPS majors. This course was Wheeler's idea.

Wheeler is confident that students within all majors will, through the new coursework, become more conversant with global climate change and what is happening worldwide. They will also be more ecologically literate, and the College will graduate students capable of realizing the impact of global climate change and the importance of environmental sustainability.

"The sky is the limit," Wheeler said.

"There are so many opportunities for this to be impactful." lmpactful: a word that so fittingly describes Dr. Al Wheeler, Jr., and his continued contributions to Peru State College.

THANKS To Those Who Help Us ROAR! On behalf of the students, faculty, and staff of Peru State College and of the Foundation, our thanks to the following individuals and businesses who have made a financial gift to Project ROAR since the last edition of the Stater.

We hope YOUR name will appear on this list in the next issue!

Abel Foundation Dan & Sue Anderson Charles L. Benson, Jr. Congressman Douglas Bereuter Carolyn & Edgar Bredemeier Martha & Ron Brestel Robert S. Brigham Rod Bruce Ronald N. Carnes John & Mary Ann Chaney Paul & Linda Chatelain Ryan L. Christensen

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Robert C. Craig Thomas B. Craig Mark A. Czapla Paul W Czapla Melissa K. Davis Eleta M. Eisenhauer Robert B. Engles Michael & Joanna Evans Paul & Arlene Fell Frontier Bank JEO Foundation Mark E. Leibman Family Charitable Fund

Shawn & Audrey Gibbs Jeffrey C. Greenwald Darwin R. Gushard Richard & Esther Halbert Wade & Sara Halvorsen Randy & Kathy Hansen Carlos Harrison Ted L. Harshbarger James & Pamela Head Jouvurnen G. Hinkert Jerry & Christina Joy Donald E. Kasbohm

Craig Latscha Dr. Sharon & Donna Ocker Ryan C. Odle Ron Pape Jim & Julie Pittenger Dean & Leann Pohlman Kent & Becki Propst Jennifer Rieken Charles L. Rombach Sharon & Ronald Russell Michelle & Chris Salberg Bill H. Schulte

Maynard Skinner Bill & Shirley Snyder Willa Jean Stutheit John & Marie Trayer Kathy Tynon Mark & Diana Watton Mary Ann Wenninghoff Ivan L. Wineglass

College To Dedicate African Art Collection September 26 Natalie Hahn gifts one ofregions largest collections Peru State College is becoming home to one of the largest collections of African art in the Midwest with the dedication of the Natalie Hahn African Art Collection on Tuesday, Sept. 26, President Michael Evans has announced.

Hahn is a native of Polk, Nebraska with a farm and 4-H background. She worked with United Nations programs for 38 years in Africa, Rome, and New York City.

She chose to donate approximately 250 pieces to Nebraska's first college through its Peru State College Foundation to establish the Natalie Hahn African Art Collection.

"Peru has been so collaborative, supportive and understanding on the importance of introducing African art and culture to the campus," Hahn said.

"After a 40-year search, I have finally found a great home for the collection."

Hahn graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, The Ohio State University, and with a doctorate from Harvard.

The Sept. 26 event at Peru State will feature a keynote address by acclaimed folklorist Dr. Henry Glassie. One of the 16 books Glassie penned is about a famous artist, Prince Twins Seven-Seven, entitled "Prince Twins Seven-Seven: His Art, His Life in Nigeria, His Exile in America."

Hahn was a friend of the late Prince Twins Seven-Seven in Nigeria. She has donated some of his prized work to the Peru State collection. Ironically, Glassie was a colleague of and mentor for President Evans during their days together at Indiana University, where Evans earned his masters and doctoral degrees in folklore and later taught.

Alumni, friends, and the public are invited to activities on Sept. 26. The tentative agenda, subject to change: 11 a.m . - Exhibit opens; reception in the Art Gallery in A.V. Larson Hall. The Hahn Collection art will be available fo r viewing in buildings across campus.

There is an African artisanal sale

managed by Traton Estate Sales all day, including Nigerian carvings donated by Hahn's cousins - the Dr. David Wilson family. All profits will benefit the Peru State College Foundation.

1:30 p.m. - A performance of African dancing and drumming by the African Culture Connection in the college Performing Arts Center. ACC is an Omaha professional group.

2:30 p.m. - Dedication of the Natalie Hahn Collection, Performing Arts Center.

3 p.m. - Keynote address by Dr. Henry Glassie, Performing Arts Center.

4 p.m. - Reception, art sale continues, Performing Arts Center.

About Natalie Hahn Natalie Hahn's first assignment for the U.N. was in Rome with its Food and Agricultural Organization, where she initiated programs for rural African youth. She then worked in Ibadan, Nigeria with agronomists, where 13 new food crops were introduced to rural women; the most successful was soybeans.

For this achievement, Hahn was awarded a chieftaincy by the Yoruba Tribe and given the title Balogun lyaleje, or "the person who empowers."

Hahn also assisted in organizing greater opportunities for savings and credit to support educational and

AFRICAN SUNSET Chalk Art ByTony Hudson

agricultural programs. As the UNICEF Representative to Malawi, she organized its. Campaign on Democracy is Good for Children, advocating to reduce barriers to education.

While on assignment in New York City, she was deputy director of the Program Funding office and liaison to the World Bank.

To give back to her home state of Nebraska, Hahn launched the Malaika Foundation. Malaika means "my angel" in Swahili. Its mission is to enhance global education in Nebraska schools and colleges. More than 3,500 teachers have attended workshops.

About Henry Glassie While working on his doctoral degree in folklore at the University of Pennsylvania from 1967-69, Henry Glassie was named as the State Folklorist - the nation's first state folklorist.

Starting in 1970 he spent six years as professor at Indiana University's Folklore Institute.

Next it was back to the University of Pennsylvania from 1976-88 as professor and chair of its department of Folklore and Folklife.

Glassie returned to Indiana University

in 1988 as a professor, retiring 20 years later as Professor Emeritus of Folklore and Ethnomusicology. Among addii:ional achievements, Glassie helped organize the Smithsonian's Folklife Festival and the Office of Folklife Programs; served on the first Folk Arts panel of the National Endowment for the Arts; served as President of the American Folklore Society; and was appointed by President Clinton to the National Council on Humanities.

For more information about the event, contact the Peru State College Foundation at pscfoundation@peru.edu, call (402) 872-2304, or write to Peru State College Foundation, PO Box 10, Peru NE. 68421-0010.

MANON BIKE Wooden Sculpture Artist Unknown

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Foundation News

Bauman Joins Foundation Board

Leave a Lasting Legacy: How to Endow For many, the term "endowment" is a bit of a mystery, tossed about often by charitable organizations, including t he Peru State College Foundation.

But it's actually quite simple to explain, and to establish too.

Best of all, setting one up supports the College and its students forever, and guarantees your name - or that of a friend , loved one or beloved faculty member - is never fo rgotten .

An endowment is simply a fund donors establish with the Foundation. The fund is professionally managed and invested. Each year, four percent of the endowment principal is used to fund the scholarship or program of the donor's choosing.

Another two percent is the standard Foundation management fee, helping cover operating costs (e.g. payroll, software, even this Peru Stater). Remember, the Foundation is a private non-profit corporation, and receives no funding from the state or federal government.

Investment earnings beyond the six percent noted above, are reinvested into your endowment so that it grows over time . The stock market has returned an average of 10 percent per year over the past 50 years, so your gift grows over time.

How to endow?

That's how an endowment fund works with the Peru State College Foundation.

But what about setting it up?

It's so simple. Current Foundation policy requires an endowment minimum of $10,000. We realize, "simple" doesn't necessarily mean "easy" - but you can set up an endowment with an initial smaller gift, and contribute more over time u nti l your fund reaches the $10k mark.

Meanwhile, Foundation staff will help you develop terms for use of your endowment. Do you want to support teacher education cholarships ? Maybe you'd li ke to help a volleyball player with a scholarship. Perhaps you want to support the library, or an online student.

It's up to you - and the average endowment agreement is typically three pages or less. You decide the criteria for your endowment, and t he Foundation administers it.

Note: the Foundation plays no role in selecting cholarsh ip recipients; that is done

by College personnel.

Be prudent with criteria At present the Foundation manages more than 150 endowment funds; the vast majority are for student scholarships. Thanks to the generosity of donors, endowments yielded more than $775,000 to Peru State College in 2022-23.

A word of caution when pondering criteria for your endowment: avoid making the language too restrictive. For example, if you require the recipient to be a member of the cross country team who majors in sociology and comes from southwest Iowa, the College may not always be able to find a match.

Instead, use language like "preferred." An agreement stating, for example, "the recipient shall be an English major, with preference given to a student active in theater and who is from southeast Nebraska," provides the College with flexibility.

This past year, 24 Foundation endowments went unawarded, primarily because the language in them was too restrictive.

Want more information? Ready to get your own endowment started?

Just reach out to the Peru State College Foundation at (4 0 2) 872-2304, or pscfoundation@peru.edu, or write to Peru State College Foundation, PO Box 10, Peru N E. 6 8421-0010.

Leave your own legacy- set up an endowment todtiy.

8

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1

The Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors has elected Julie (Ramsey '95) Bauman of Falls City, Neb. to its governing board. Bauman began her term at the Board's May meeting.

The Foundation is a private, nonprofit corporation whose sole mission is to support Peru State College through receipt and distribution of charitable gifts to support the College. Board members serve on a voluntary basis for a three-year term. ''A position on the Foundation Board actually was a goal of mine to achieve wanting to give back to Peru State for what built my fundamentals and career," she said. "I am sure there are so many kids in high school just like me, struggling, unsure and scared with no plan. I would like to help build their plans to take the road to Peru."

"Julie will be an excellent addition to the Foundation Board. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be beneficial as we continue to move the Foundation forward," Foundation Board Chair Jeff Greenwald ('71) of Lincoln said. "She comes from a family of Peru State alumni and is totally committed to the future success of the College," he added.

Bauman, a native of Dawson and a 1995 Peru State graduate, is the chief executive officer/owner of Julie D .

Bauman, CPA, P.C., in Falls City. Her practice is a strategic consulting firm that provides wealth and tax savings strategies to high-net-worth clients who need tax savings plans, as well as CFO and CEO or COO services to single family offices and virtual family offices. Her firm is expanding from a tax planning firm to a firm of the future with broader services.

Bauman opened her business in 2002 and purchased another accounting firm in the first year. The certified public accountant is registered in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. Prior to starting her own business, Bauman served as the senior manager for the accounting firm of Prosser and Campbell, P.C., in Falls City.

Bauman is active in her profession and in the Falls City and Richardson County area. Currently, she is a member of the Nebraska Enterprise Fund, the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AI CPA), and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). In addition, she is a board member of the Nebraska Client Assistance Program through the Nebraska Supreme Court. She previously served as the Chairman of the Board for the Nebraska Society of CPAs. Locally, she is a board member of the Richardson County House of Hope and the F & M Bank.

Her brother John graduated in 1993 and her late father, John J., was a 1963 Bobcat alumnus. While at Peru State, Julie was a football cheerleader, president of Phi Beta Lambda (now Collegiate FBLA), was inducted into Alpha Chi national honor society, and participated in intramurals.

"The road to Peru State College for me was almost missed, as at my high school graduation with diploma in my hand and just delivering my valedictorian speech, I was completely unsure if I would even go to any college," Bauman said.

"It was, most definitely expected, as my dad had graduated from PSC and my older brother John M. Ramsey was currently attending and playing basketball for the Bobcats," she added.

"Being unsure, scared and with no plan for life, my mom stepped in and signed me up for cheerleading tryouts, and from there I moved to Peru.

"What I learned in the first two weeks from my Accounting I professor, Mr. (Russell) Beldin, was that I liked accounting and was a quick learner which was not the case in high school.

"What I gained from my marketing teacher, Mr. (Bob) Lewellen, was to write down my goals, set them high, look at them every day and then reset new ones each year. This was probably the most profound attribute that I took away from Peru State College."

Mike Gerdes Extends Family Legacy

The Mike Gerdes' family ties to Peru State College don't quite reach back to its founding in 1867. But at four generations and counting, it's safe to say Nebraska's first college is in his bloodline.

The Peru State alumnus (Class of 1988), Auburn (Neb.) native, and Vice President of Auburn State Bank becomes the newest member of the Peru State College Foundation governing board following.

Gerdes' three-year term begins in August.

The Foundation is a private; nonprofit corporation founded in 1955 to support and enhance the college through charitable contributions and other gifts.

"Appearances at Bobcat football and basketball games go back as far as I can remember," Gerdes said. "So many great memories and life-long friendships were made during my time at PSC." Fifteen Gerdes family members have attended Peru State, and his grandfather, the late Harold Johnson ('38), served the College for many years. His father Marv (Class of '53) was on the Foundation board. Mike himself was a longtime leader of the Bobcat Football Booster Club until stepping down last year.

"I am fortunate to know several current Foundation board members, and I am aware of how integral the Foundation

Peru State

College

FOUNDATION

has been in supporting enhancements at Peru State," he said, citing upgrades to the Performing Arts Center, Oak Bowl football stadium, and the current Project ROAR wellness facilities as examples.

Gerdes has been part of the leadership team at Auburn State Bank since 1991.

His long record of civic service includes treasurer of the Auburn Board of Public Works, director for the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Auburn City Recreation committee, treasurer for the City of Auburn, and much more.

As several of his supporters noted, Gerdes is not a passive participant.

"You can be sure that wh(;n Mike commits to a task, he will see the task through in a professional, thoughtful manner," noted longtime PSC faculty member and former Foundation trustee Dr. Bill Snyder of Auburn.

Bob Engles, a '73 Peru State alumnus from Auburn and current member of the Nebraska State College Board of Trustees, echoed that sentiment. "Mike is not someone to sit back, and watch things happen. When action is required, Mike is the type who will roll up his sleeves and become engaged to insure successful completion of projects."

That can-do attitude is just what the Foundation seeks in its board members, noted Chair Jeff Greenwald ('71) of Lincoln. The Foundation, with approximately $20 million in assets, is amid a $5 million capital campaign to support the more than $15 million Project ROAR, the biggest construction initiative in college history.

"I have known Mike for many years. He has always been aggressive getting things done for the benefit of Peru State, and we need this commitment and tenacity moving forward for both the Foundation and the College," noted Foundation Secretary Al Urwin ('82) of LaVista.

John Chatelain ('76) and Fritz Stehlik ('74) recall earlier times during the Omaha Alumni reunion in June.

Alumni Assemble in Omaha Peru State faithful from the Omaha area and beyond came together in June to reminisce and to catch up on all things Peru during their annual reunion.

About 60 Peruvians were on hand for the casual gathering, including President Michael Evans and his wife Joanna, several Peru State Foundation staff and board members, and several Bobcat coaches and athletics staff.

Chapter President Fritz Stehlik ('74), ably assisted by his wife Charlene (Lutz '74), sister Mitzi ('76, masters '92) Hoback, and daughter Jessie ('02) Hillebrandt along with several other

alumni, conducted the event. It was held at the German-American Society Club in Omaha.

Dr. Evans provided an update on campus activities and shared information about Project ROAR currently underway.

A brief auction, featuring guest auctioneer Danny Cotton ('76) of Peru; a raffle for gift baskets; and a "money bowl" all helped raise funds for the chapter to use in support of Peru State projects.

Peru State College and the Foundation thank all who participated and supported the event.

30-Year Reunion for Bobcat Volleyball In recognition of the fir,r-ever appearance of a Peru State College volleyball team in the NAIA national tournament, the Bohcar athletic department , along with the PSC Foundation, will host a reunion for the l'J9} volleyball team.

Ir will be held in conjunction with Homecoming on September 30.

The 199} Bobcat, finished the regular ,eason with a 42-14 mark after winning the NAIA District 11 tournament, and then topped Carroll (Mont .) in rhe NAIA Bi-District 11/12 playoff, to earn the national berth .

The team, coached by Jim Callender - who will be inducted into the College's Hall of fame in October - went 2-2 in the national tournament in San Diego.

A recognition of the ream member, and coaches will rake place during the march with Culver-Stockton (Mo.) College at l l a.m. in the Al \Vhecler Activity Center.

Charter Day Drive Celebrates Past, Builds for Future Just a few weeks into the Second Annual Charter Day Scholarship D rive, initial results are exciting.

Charter D ay commemorates the time in 1867 when the brand-new Nebraska legislature passed a law establishing Peru State as the firs t college or university in the state.

As of press time in early July, contributions received total more than $45,015. As determined by the donors, gifts have been directed to specific scholarship(s) or to the Foundation's general scholarship fu nd .

In addition, the letter has prompted several individuals to consider initiating scholarship endowments in their name or for a loved one!

The Charter Day drive tru ly benefits current and future generations of Peru State College students.

If you haven't yet given to the Drive, consider doing so now.

Any contribution is helpful and appreciated.

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McAsey Student Challenge Issued for Fourth Annual Giving Day in October Board Rep To celebrate the 156th birthday of the first day of classes at Peru State, the College and its Foundation are hosting its fourth annual "Peru State College Giving Day" on Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 24 and 25.

The supportive hashtag for the event is simple "PeruStatel56" as it correlates with the 156th year of operation as Nebraska's first institution of higher learning.

The website for the giving day is https://givingday.peru.edu. It is live now with the giving opportunities opening at noon on Oct. 17!

Simple Concepts - Simple Goals Foundation Executive Director, Ted L. Harshbarger '77 notes the concepts of a giving day are simple. He stated, "The #PeruStatel56 Giving Day will be a day to celebrate the Bobcat family through volunteerism and philanthropy on October 24 and 25. The 24-hour online fundraising and volunteer event for Peru State will bring together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends to promote the College, and through philanthropy will grant opportunities for the next generation of Bobcats."

The goal for the day is to have 156 different donors and 156 different volunteers during the #PeruStatel56 giving day.

Specific Areas to Support Funds generated during the Giving Day will be used primarily in four specific areas which include: Project ROAR - Project ROAR i the College's capital campaign which, when completed, will more than double the amount of indoor recreational and athletic space on campus. In addition, the campaign is based on the idea that supporting students' physical and mental health and well-being is vitally important.

Greatest Needs - The College's Foundation supports faculty, staff, and departments, as well as performances, events, and activities which support a vibrant campus culture.

Bobcat SOS (Serving Our Students) - Bobcat S.O.S. will provide Peru State students with small grants to help with temporary financial hardships that may have a long-term, negative impact on their education. Students requesting the e grants must demonstrate their need. Every donation to this fund will have an immediate impact on our students' lives and help them to continue their education at Peru Seate.

What You Love - Donors will have an opportunity to designate their gift to any area on campus that means the most to them.

Challenge Issued The Foundation has received a challenge funding opportunity. A very generous donor has pledged $25,000 if the Giving Day raises that amount or more during the event. Donors came through last year to meet the challenge.

Bobcat alumni and friends are encouraged to mark Oct. 24-25 on their calendars and join the Giving Day movement by supporting their favorite Peru State cause. It is more than just a day. It is a movement designed to inspire and unite the Bobcat family to give to the institution they love.

Find. Some. Way. To. Give. On. October. 24-25. 2023!

10 The Stater

Olivia McAsey has been appointed to serve as the Peru State College student trustee for the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges, the board governing Peru, Chadron, and Wayne State Colleges.

She will serve a one-year term for 2023-24. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen appointed her.

"The Trustees value the insight and student perspective these young leaders bring to the Board, and it is my honor as Chair of the Board of Trustees to welcome the new Student Trustees," said John Chaney, Chair of the Board of Trustees.

M cAsey is a sophomore from Holton, Kan. majoring in business- management and leadership. Olivia is the president of the Residence Hall Association, a college Ambassador, and works in the admissions office. She is a member of the women's golf team.

''.As an involved student, the role of student trustee will allow me to be the voice of students, positively impact their lives, and promote the betterment of the Peru State and all of the State Colleges."

Most recently, McAsey was selected as a Second Team Academic All-America® Women's At-Large selection for the NAIA by the College Sports Communicators.

She is the first Bobcat female to earn the honors during the 2022-23 year.

ISO Lost from Class of 2013 Alumni from the most recent classes are by nature the most mobile early in their careers. Below is a list of alumni from the Class of 2013 with whom we've lost contact over the past decade. Please help us update our records by providing contact information to pscfoundation@peru.edu, or calling (402) 872-2304, or writing The Peru Stater, PO Box 10, Peru, NE. 68421-0010.

Deanne Amato Tobin Bakari Timothy Bartley Heather Black Eagle Bobbi Brown Tara Butrick Myneeka Childs Jennifer Crum Caleb Dutton Kristy Evans Jill Evenson Emil Gabel Nikki Graves Jodie Greenberg Kady Griffith Amber Gustafson Angela Harms Jonathan Holeman Kori Horgan Anna Johnson Shannon Karpisek Shawna Knutson Kendra Kortus Cassandra Lueth Kailey Mangum

Jason Massengill Mark McDonald Margie McFarland Cheryl Miles-Riha Darrin Moses Mark Murray Angela Peavy-Butcher Dexter Purnell Cheryl Ramirez Rachael Rapp Lee Rasmussen Michael Roddey Michelle Rombeck Denise Roth Dustin Rothe Katie Schmidt William Scott John Skelton Nicole Sorensen Nichole Swaink Leon Thomas Joseph Venditte Scott Versch Kimberly Warner Michael White

WAKEUP THE ECHOES ...

Delzell Hall in earlier days

By Dr. Sharon Ocker '53 The most famous sport spirit song is undoubtedly the Notre Dame March - "Cheer, cheer for old Notre Dame, Wake up the Echos cheering her name" That's the way it goes.

We could use the same line to remember Delzell Hall at Peru. So many events have happened in that venerable place built in 1939, which has been - and still is - the home for 150 men on campus. What stories that old building could tell!

Here are a few snippets from the early 50s: -Television was just coming in. In the basement was a large room for student gatherings (it still is, I believe).

Most of the student body would gather on Sunday evenings to watch new programs such as Ed Sullivan and Milton Berle on a large console set. Another treat was listening to a piano production - two guys on one keyboard - one playing chords and the other using one left-handed finger tapping out the old standard, Heart and Soul. The guy with the tune was so serious that it made the audience break up.

-There was a small cafe in the lower regions. It was called the Bobcat Inn and was operated by a very nice lady (does anyone remember her name?). In the mornings, students would rush in to get breakfast in time for the 7:50 classes; you could get coffee, eggs, pancakes and the like. In the evenings, short orders like burgers and cokes were the staple, along with the ever-popular malts and shakes. The chief cook was a master at making huge pieces of chocolate cake, with a principal ingredient of coffee grounds.

-One of most popular activities was for a bunch of guys to gather in someone's room to sing along with the late Omer Meeker ('51), the All-American basketball player. He played the guitar well. He was known for his famous "hot lick" strumming, and we sang all kinds of songs, some of them kind of bawdy. Like the Pied Piper of Hamlin, when he began to pick, the sounds got around fast, and the students would gather quickly.

-No one had very much money, and guys were always finding ways to make a buck. A fine football player who later became a famous college coach, the late Darrel Mudra ('51), decided to make fresh sandwiches to sell in the dorm. He had a partner, too, and they sold a lot of minced ham and cheese and other varieties.

-One Christmas vacation, the late basketball coach Newt Kyle asked team members to come back several days early from our break to practice. That was okay with us, but we didn't have a place to stay since Delzell was locked up tight for maintenance, etc. One of the players opened a lower window and managed to get in so that we could all slip in and go to our rooms. Drat

Dr. Sharon Ocker

Darrell Mudra

- the authorities (Dean R.A. Quelle) found out that we were in the building. One of our sharper teammates had said that if we get caught, to just tell them that we came in the front door. That's what we said, only to find out the front door had a padlock and chain that made coming in impossible!

-A student discovered you could somehow hook up a radio so that we could broadcast a signal across campus.

Anyone with a radio could pick up the signal. We had fun with that, doing humorous news broadcasts and advertising things like toilet paper, condoms, and beer.

The girl's dorm was alerted, so the gals were listening in and enjoying the fun . Someone said that a state trooper heard the broadcast and was coming to apprehend us as a violation of law, so we hurriedly ditched the setup.

-Some enlightened students came up with the idea that you could spray lighter fluid on a room door and light it up for a quick fire. Several did that as others marveled.

-The last memory was about the blackest day in Peru history. It was April 25, 1950. Longtime psychology professor Barney Baker was disgruntled because a man in his department had been given a promotion that he felt should have been his. He walked across campus with a gun, strode into the President's office and killed him - then went downstairs to do away with a professor who had been named his department chair. Baker then went to his home just across the street from Delzell.

When the news soared around campus, everyone was afraid. The rumor (true) was that he had an arsenal of weapons in his residence, and we feared he might open up on the students in Delzell. We were on the floor, peaking across the ledges of our windows. Trooper and sheriff cars rolled up. No one wanted to try the front door, but the Peru town marshal, a man named Tick (Hayes), was brave enough to rap on the from door; when he received no response, he opened it to find that Baker had taken his own life. Probably our dorms' most exciting day of all.

Did we wake up some echoes? If only the old building could talk . . . (If anyone remembers the name of our Bobcat Inn cook, please send it to pscfoundation@ peru.edu ...).

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for his church worship band.

He was in a couple of different bands while in college. Along with Nick Richardson '06 and Cale Lang '07, they formed NightSky with harmonica player Johnny Miller. Stroud noted that the resident assistants in the halls collaborated with them to rehearse.

He also met Logan Merz '11 and Michael Parde '10, who later joined the band. The group played many times on campus and for events catered by the college food service. Later he and Merz played with former security guard, Don Ballue, in a group called 3 After Midnight.

Making Music, Making Memories Music has always been an important part of any students' Peru State College experience. Whether performing within the music department, jamming with others during free time, listening to visiting guest artists, or rocking out with friends in the residence halls, it is always a welcome break.

In this feature by Ted Harshbarger '77, we take a look at experiences of several alumni whose principal shared connections are simply, music and Peru State College.

he found some classmates who would "bang around" for our own pleasure.

College Years and Beyond

Ken Fike (top row second from left) with Sum Guise

In comparison to other musicians featureed here, the Ken Fike story encompasses a musical journey in the making for more years than the other three combined.

It began in the 1960s for Fike ('77) of rural Peru.

A love for music began when Fike was a youngster and his dad was stationed at Fort Omaha with the Navy. His dad was a Navy recruiter and did promotions during a televised country music show.

Fike often accompanied his dadretired Peru State staffer Bob Fike of Auburn - to the studio and saw some of the big country stars of the time - LIVE! The stars would talk to the audience, which was cool for a kid. Fike remembers seeing top acts like Porter Waggoner, Tex Ritter, and Little Jimmy Dickens. This became his inspiration to play guitar, and influenced his love of old-time country and bluegrass.

Fast forward several years and a couple of guitars, and a move to Peru, and Fike had a chance to buy a Gretsch electric guitar and amp. Now, he had something easy to play. He tried to get a group going at Auburn High School, but it wasn't until he started attending Peru State that

12 The Stater

In the late 70's, Peru State hired Myron Apilado and Dick Muth as deans.

They discovered a musical connection with former Nemaha County attorney Charlie Hahn and Fike's best friend from high school, Mike Whitlow.

They wanted to start a group; Whitlow brought in Fike. They next added Bob Svoboda ('80) to play bass, and the group "Nemaha County" was formed.

Fike said, "It was a blast. We even had a write up in the Omaha World Herald."

In the early 90s, Ken Anderson was teaching art at Peru State, and Fike and Anderson had a mutual, and musical, friendship with Hahn. Hahn later passed away from cancer which left just Fike and Anderson.

Sum Guise

Starting in 2015, they found other people to join in, including Art Homer, Brian Perkins and Jim Pope. Later Jeff ('74) and Mary (Weber '75, master's '07) Barker joined the group and "Sum Guise" was formed.

They have been playing ever since, with members coming and going as life evolved.

Fike said his college days gave him a chance to meet a more diverse group of people. His only real tie to the music program in college was taking music appreciation class from the late Dr. Gil Wilson. Fike said, "He was fantastic and just encouraged the love of music."

Fike noted he is still developing as a musician. In the early stages of "Sum Guise," he played guitar. Later he started playing a 1918 Gibson mandolin, saying they didn't need three guitars banging away. He hasn't played guitar since!

Raised in northwest Missouri, Curtis Wayne Stroud '10 was influenced early on by country music. He listened to his uncles either perform or do recordings.

One uncle, Jim Stroud, played with a group called the Union Mill Opry.

Another uncle, Ernie Hardy, had recordings which made Stroud think it would be cool to record your own music.

Stroud started playing trumpet in fifth grade, and got his first guitar when he was 15. He learned how to play but was too shy to sing in public. At 17, musical collaborator John Skidmore heard him playing and singing. Skidmore started taking him to meet different groups he was playing with and as Stroud says, "I was pretty much forced to start singing with these groups. Either that or walk away and be embarrassed."

As a teenager, Stroud was into Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Billy Joe Shaver - the outlaw movement of music.

Stroud said, "It influenced me to do what I like to do and not let everyone else tell me what I had to do." Local musicians were big influences, too; they welcomed him into their circle with open arms.

Peru State Influences

Stroud was a music education major at Peru State. He appreciates the knowledge he gained from music professors, especially the late Drs. David Edris and Tom Ediger.

"They helped me grow as a musician and as an educator. Even after I graduated, they were both still willing to help me further my education, as were some of the new music faculty members who followed them," Stroud said.

Dr. Edris had a major influence, as Stroud initially was going to play trumpet in Edris's Jazz Band. Edris learned of his ability to play guitar and asked Stroud to play the bass - even though he had never played it before. Stroud worked hard to prove he could do it, and still plays bass

Pivotal Moments and Challenges

"The support from fellow students and the faculty helped influence my decision to pursue music professionally," Stroud said. "The time spent at Peru State College helped show me that music can bridge a gap between many different people and bring people together."

One of Stroud's challenges occurred two weeks before he came to Peru State when he was diagnosed with epilepsy. For the first six months he was away from home without a driver's license. He felt isolated.

Music helped. He noted, "The friendships, knowledge, and experiences I gained during my time at Peru State helped me to focus more on the things I could control, and in time helped me to accept my life with epilepsy and to not let that hold me back."

It has been helpful in his teaching career as he has been able to work with students who are dealing with their own challenges.

Stroud's Advice

As a musician, Stroud's first piece of advice is to stay away from credit cards.

"You don't always need the best equipment to do the job," he said.

He also said you need to practice and hone your craft to be prepared for any opportunities that may arise. Take advantage of the smallest opportunities, as you never know who may be in the audience.

Finally, he said, stay humble. No one is below you.

He enjoys teaching the younger generation and helping them develop musically. He is currently K-12 General Music, Choir, and Band teacher at Doniphan West High School in Troy, Kansas. He lives in Mound City where he grew up.

Learn more at

curtiswaynestroud.com

definitely more than enough material to write a good country song."

Patience is key and Traynor notes that he didn't have a lot of it when he was teaching himself to play and write songs.

Fortunately, he had the support of his wife, Chelsie, who he met at Peru State.

Traynor knows that being on the road, he has missed some things, but it comes with the territory. He added, "When I am home, I am fully engaged with family and our daughter."

Practice, Play, and Network Traynor said being in a band has parallels to being on a football team: "You go on stage in front of thousands of people with your best friends to play, and there's nothing else like it. Like working out for football, you must work out your While music had always been a major voice as well - it's literally a muscle and if part of his life, Anthony "Tony" Traynor you don't take care of that muscle, you're came to Peru State to study criminal going to end up not being able to play." justice and play football. And that's Getting started, Traynor did as much just what he did, as he was a threenetworking as he could, noting there are year starter on the defensive line and many great musicians in Nebraska. One picked up a diploma in criminal justice connection he mentioned was his fellow administration.

Peru State alum - Jason Mayer ('18), who Traynor listened to a wide variety of he considers a fantastic singer-songwriter. music. If he was with his dad, it would Many of his aspirations started at be Lynyrd Skynyrd, 3 Doors Down, and the Washington (Neb.) County Fair; as Ozzy Osbourne. It was '90s country, a youth he dreamed of playing on that Alanis Morrisette, and Led Zeppelin if he stage. This summer, the "Traynr Band" was in his mom's Jeep with the windows will be doing just that so it's one thing to down. His mother was also a piano player, check off his bucket list. which influenced him.

Several of his band's songs have been Later, at Peru State, he and his friends played on local radio stations. Traynor would listen to Eric Church, Logan Mize, and his band were in the studio recently and Jason Aldean. to record some new songs. This summer Traynor remembers going to parties they will play at several significant and a rap song would come on that he country music events, such as the would like, too. He noted, "That's the Country Drive Musical Festival and the beautiful thing about music, you don't MRL Music Festival. have to like just one band, one song, The Traynr Band did receive one genre. Everyone likes a little bit of recognition from iHeartMedia and Jack everything."

Daniels in 2022 as one of the 27 best bar Music always there bands for their song, "Damn Good Place There really wasn't a transition from to Drink." The Traynr Band brings the studies and football to playing music after party and cranks it all the way up, every he left college; music had always been show! there for him. When Traynor had free "We are just getting started and we time after work, he picked his guitar back couldn't be more excited about it. Every up and relearned how to play. He wanted week more and more opportunities to write his own music and that's how his come in and we are trying to take full musical journey began. advantage of it," he said.

Traynor began writing songs relating to his time at Peru State. "The people, Learn more at the music at the time, the stories, it's all traynrbandmusic.com in the songs that I write," he stated. "You grow up in a small town and then you go to college in a small town, there's

From Humboldt, Neb. to Peru State to Nashville, and many stops in between, when Jason Mayer began playing guitar he never thought he would be making music for a career.

But he has always had a love of music.

And he is making a career of it.

Growing up listening to rock 'n roll like Zeppelin, the Stones, and Jimi Hendrix, Mayer wanted to do what they were doing. He started playing guitar when he was 16 and in high school and started writing songs soon after.

While Mayer loves many types of music, a couple of artists influenced him.

His dad's favorite was Neil Young, and Mayer listened to all of Young's music and wore out several albums. A friend later introduced him to Cross Canadian Ragweed - a Texas/Red Dirt country band that played like a rock band and similar to Neil Young.

College Impact Mayer was not involved with the music department at Peru State, but it is where he had his start playing live. He entered and won a couple of the College's talent shows, playing original music. That gave him confidence, and he started playing at the former Shooter's Bar in downtown Peru, where he earned his first paycheck as a musician.

There were several pivotal moments in college that influenced Mayer's career - some of which he looks back on

with regret. When his first band started gigging regularly and had some success, he went in 100 percent, but let other commitments slip - including his studies.

Not surprisingly, he flunked out. But at the urging of his wife and mother, he returned to finish his degree in psychology in 2018, for which he is immensely proud. Plus, he finished his last four semesters with a 4.0.

Mayer always felt supported by Peru State and gives thanks to the music program and those running it. He was new to playing live music and staff members answered his questions .

Now living in Omaha, Mayer began mainly playing solo acoustic; living in the dorm and then in apartments and houses, as he was never able to play loud. Thus, the acoustic guitar over the electric. Because of that, his musical tastes changed a bit. But it did make him realize that he had gifts as a singer and song writer.

Advice and Future "Don't be in too big of a hurry. The music industry is a grind, not a sprint," is advice Mayer imparted for aspiring musicians. He suggested going to shows, meeting people, doing open mies, and just playing.

If he would do something differently, Mayer said, "I would have started everything earlier and took more risks. I was stubborn as well, I thought I knew more than everyone else. My ego held me back."

Mayer added, "Mostly I have to wake up every day knowing that I have to outwork everyone else."

Mayer has released four original albums and has 24 songs that he wrote or co-wrote receive radio airplay. Along with his band, Wasted Highway, Mayer has been nominated for Outstanding Country Artist of the Year by the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards two years in a row.

He is currently on a nationwide tour to support the release of his latest music.

Learn more at

jasonmayermusic.com

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Can1pus News Dr. Paul Hinrichs: Peru State's Renaissance Man Whether it's in the classroom, serving as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, stepping into his brand-new role as interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, or building a music box entirely out of repurposed materials, Dr. Hinrichs is a man of many interests and abilities.

Hinrichs has been at Peru State since 1990 and has seen his duties evolve dramatically over the years. But the personable, affable educator and administrator never seems to let it get the best of him. In fact, he thrives on new challenges.

"In education, you are constantly striving to acquire new knowledge and skills. And then, a project presents itself where you can apply some of the various skills you've learned," Hinrichs explained.

The creative side of Hinrichs was put on display during the Spring '23 semester when he entered a contraption he built into the college's annual student, faculty, and staff art exhibition. He designed and

built a hand-cranked music box entirely of repurposed materials, which plays the melody of the Peru State College Color Song.

Dr. Hinrichs said he was challenged to build the music box when a colleague in the music department gave him an old xylophone set. "I wanted to do something different," he said.

Just after Christmas break began last December he got to work. Dr. Hinrichs toyed with many ideas before landing on the decision to make his music box a sort of Rube Goldberg machine "Which means making a simple task as challenging as possible," he joked.

Using a hodgepodge of items - a wheel from his daughter's bicycle, binder clips, two fidget spinners, an exercise band, an old tuba rack, index cards, cardboard, toothpicks, the xylophone keys, and an antique drill - Dr. Hinrichs spent a total of 25 hours building his music box. He finished the project on Jan. 30, the day

before the art exhibit opened.

Hinrich's main goal in the materials he was using was to use them in such a way that they would not be permanently changed. Except for the tuba rack, which makes up the wooden body of the music box, each part can be returned to its original use.

When asked what the most interesting part of the project was for him, he joked, "It actually worked!" He then added that the antique drill - which he used as the crank for the music box - was really the most interesting part.

Hinrichs' favorite part of his whole project is watching someone play the music box. "It's very exciting to see someone smile when the music starts," he said.

NOTE: Content for this article was provided by Peru State College Foundation work-study student Reagan Connelly.

Hicks Receives 2023 Teaching Excellence Award

Seay Still Dean, But In New Role Dr. Greg Seay joined Peru State College 15 years ago as its first-ever Dean of Graduate Programs. Though he remains Dean Seay, he'll now serve the college leading its oldest academic program.

Seay was appointed Interim Dean of the College of Education this past summer, and will remain in the role for as long as he's needed there, according to President Michael Evans.

14 The Stater

Given that Peru State was founded as a teacher-training college 156 years ago, it's a task Seay doesn't take lightly.

Nor does the interim tag mean he plans to serve in a caretaker role. Teacher preparation is changing, and Peru State's program is evolving as well.

"The School of Education is expanding and offering new opportunities for those interested in a career in teaching," Seay said. "We offer a unique combination of a rich tradition combined with new opportunities for a successful pathway to teaching.

"My role as the Dean will be to facilitate growth, support faculty and, most importantly, build connections with students as they prepare for a career in education," he added.

Given that teacher education is a significant piece of Peru State's graduate school programming, and his prior experience as division chair for the School of Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, the transition should be a smooth one.

His wife Dr. Darolyn Seay is an Associate Professor in the School of Education.

Dr. Charles Hicks was awarded the 2023 Teaching Excellence Award for Peru State College. He was presented the award at the Commencement ceremony in May. Hicks joined the Peru State College faculty in 2018 and is currently an Associate Professor of English in the School of Arts & Sciences. He began his teaching career in 2010 at the University of Texas - Arlington, where he worked as lecturer, undergraduate advisor, and Assistant Director of First Year English until 2017.

He then became Lecturer of English at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Hicks holds a Ph.D. from the University of Texas-Arlington, a master's from the University of Texas-Permian Basin, and his bachelor's from Texas Tech University.

At Peru State, Hicks teaches courses such as English Composition, American Literature, Non-Western Literature, Creative Non-Fiction, Literary Theory, and Short Story. He contributes institutional service at Peru State through his work on Academics & Curriculum and Inclusive Curriculum Committees, and chairing a Faculty Search Committee.

One former student wrote: "I still view the world through the lens of the teachings in his classes. Professor Hick's innovative style of teaching and attentiveness to the material had such a profound impact on me that I continue to talk about his teachings even after graduation."

A current student wrote of Hicks' teaching: "I have been pushed out of my comfort zone and challenged greatly, but there is no doubt I have grown immensely as a reader and a writer."

The Peru State College Foundation provides funding for the stipend given each year to the recipient.

Ryan Presents Internationally Dr. Kyle Ryan, Professor of Kinesiology, traveled to the Gold Coast of Australia last November to present at the Sports Medicine Australia conference.

Ryan's trip gave him an opportunity to present research about foot reaction time in an elderly population. In August of 2022 , Dr. Ryan also similar research at the European College of Sports Medicine conference in Seville, Spain.

The conferences gave Ryan, a faculty member since 2009, the chance to collaborate, learn, and present to other

professionals. He brought some of his knowledge back to Peru State, leading to the development of a shared minor for Tactical Strength and Conditioning in the Criminal Justice department.

"Two of the reasons I came to Peru State were the class size and autonomy," said Dr. Ryan. "Some of the classes at the other schools had three hundred students in a lecture hall. I wanted to be somewhere I could build relationships with students, have a greater impact, and be trusted to do what I wanted to do professionally."

Ryan also serves on three committees with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Professor Kingsley Releases New Children's Book Dr. Kelly Kingsley, Associate Professor of Education, has released her latest children's book, A True Friend, published by Handersen Publishing.

Kingsley authored and illustrated A True Friend. The book is dedicated to Kingsley's second grandson and tells the story of a boy and his toy monkey, Monk Monk. Monk Monk wants a friend and gets his wish when a little boy buys him from a store and teaches him about true friendship.

"It's fun to tell a story," said Kingsley, "and a challenge to take an idea and make it come alive. As for illustrating, I have drawn since I was old enough to hold a pencil. Putting what is in my head onto paper is relaxing and fun."

A True Friend is the second book Kingsley has authored and illustrated.

Her first book, an alphabet book titled ABC Football: Our Day at the Game, was published in 2020 and tells the story

of a bunny and bear attending a football game.

Kingsley also illustrated a children's book, How Rudy the Rooster Got His Voice. That book was written by colleague Dr. Gina Bittner, Associate Professor of Education at Peru State, and published in 2019. Bittner and Kingsley have used that book several times as a social-emotional tool to teach about perseverance.

"Dr. Bittner and I go to elementary school classrooms and read books to the kids," said Kingsley, who has been with Peru State since 2014.

"I still get excited whenever I step on campus," said Kingsley. "To see teachers' excitement for their profession- it's a thrill."

Business Chapter Honored As FBLA#6 Chapter in Nation A busy year for the Peru State College Collegiate FBLA (formerly Phi Beta Lambda or PBL) Chapter resulted in numerous top awards at their National Leadership Conference held in Atlanta in June.

Four individuals claimed six Top Ten finishes, while another was a finalist. In addition, Peru State was ranked sixth for FBLA Collegiate Outstanding Chapter of the Year.

Led by former PBL member and longtime advisor, Dr. Sheri Grorrian '02, FBLA Collegiate members competed against some of the nation's best and brightest business students in the annual competition. FBLA is the largest business career and technical student organization in the world.

The Outstanding Chapter competition is a series of engagement-focused challenges that chapters compete in for recognition. A chapter must complete at least 10 of 20 different tasks to be considered for national honors.

Some of the tasks Peru State completed included a variety of recruitment techniques, attendance at regional conferences, community service activities (Adopt-A-Highway, tree decorating, Peru City-Wide Cleanup), and participating in career services activities.

Students earning Top Ten honors in individual competition were Azlyn Fendrick (senior, Lincoln), seventh in Business Communication; Jeremy Matuszewski (sophomore, Bellevue, Neb.), seventh in Cyber Security and tenth in Networking Concepts; Noah Kreifels (senior, Auburn, Neb.), eighth in both Foundations of Finance, and Macroeconomics; and Will Mueller (senior, Springdale, Ark.), ninth in Sport Management and Marketing.

Also, Ashley Glazebrook (sophomore, Ogallala, Neb.) made the finals in Help Desk "It was another outstanding year to highlight student success for Peru State FBLA," Grotrian said. "All nine of our competitors showcased their commitment to the organization and academic excellence through their various competitions, conference interactions, and attendance at networking and workshop events.

"What made this extra special is that many of these students have had very little to no experience in FBLA Collegiate, so they truly capitalized and excelled with this new opportunity," she said.

Dr. Sheri Grotrian Presents at Conference On First-Year Experience In early February, Peru State College Professor of Business Dr. Sheri Grotrian ('02) attended and presented at the 42nd Annual Conference on the FirstYear Experience (FYE) in Los Angeles, California. The conference provides a forum for higher education professionals' insights related to supporting student learning, development, and success in the

first year of college.

Grotrian's presentation was collaboratively developed with Brad Griffin, Instructor of Business. It reviewed a team-teaching technique used the previous semester for students who declared Business Administration their major.

''In Business Administration specifically, there tends to be a higher number of students enrolled in introductory courses; thus, the need to focus on many ways of meeting students in a personalized manner. We tout ourselves as being a close-knit, familylike community. I work to ensure that philosophy is truly carried out."

The Annual Conference on the FirstYear Experience offers educators from every segment of higher education an environment to share innovative ideas and programming efforts, theory and research related to the learning, development, and success of first-year students.

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GRAND ISLAND

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Castillo Building a Happy Life NUTRITION

Randee (Witt ' 23) Castillo didn't wait to get her degree this past May to launch her business career. She, her husband, and her family own Happy Life Nutrition locations in Auburn and Plattsmouth, Neb. Castillo is a 2019 Falls City Sacred Heart High School graduate who came to Peru State on a volleyball scholarship.

During the Covid pandemic in early 2020, she went home to Salem, N eb. to continue online.

Castillo began working at Brillows Nutrition in Falls C ity and enjoyed it.

She loves helping others live their best life. In July 2020, she opened Happy Life Nutrition in Auburn with financial support from her family. The name was appropriate.

"At the time, everyone and everything was down," said Castillo, "I wanted the name 'Happy Life' to represent a place where anyone could walk in, see a friendly face , do something that would improve their life, and leave with a smile."

Changed focus C astillo stopped playing volleyball after her sophomore year to focus on school and the business. In January 2022, she and her family bought a building at 1900 0 Street in Auburn and moved Happy Life Nutrition to its new location .

C astillo and her then-fiancee Daniel,

a former Bobcat baseball player, t hen opened Plattsmouth N utrition in March 2022. T he addition of the new store m ade life even more hectic.

"I have learned a lot about time management, that's for sure," said Castillo, "but I love what I do. I also loved college at Peru State, and I have learned a lot from all the different classes within my major and m inors.

Fortunately, I have also been able to apply real-life experience to my in-class education."

Randee and Daniel were married in August 2022.

"I say that Covid is what led to my business and Daniel," said Castillo, laughing. "He and I k new each other from athletics, but after he was granted an extra year of Covid eligibility he invited me to a ba eball game.

"We began dating and ended up getting married," she said.

Family made it possible Castillo stressed that she was able to complete her studies thanks to Daniel and her brother Wade Witt, a former Peru State student and teammate of Daniel's, who is a full-time employee.

"I wouldn't be where I am without Daniel and Wade taking care of the stores while I finished my degree," said Castillo. "Their support, as well as my family's , our other employees, the community, and our customers make this possible. As for our customers, we view every single one of them as family, too."

C a tillo graduated with a Psychology major and minors in Marketing and Drug and Alcohol Counseling. She and Daniel, a 2021 graduate with a degree in Management, will continue managing their stores, coaching other nutrition store owners, and exploring additional ways to support the communities and college that have supported her.

~uburn, Peru State, and the surrounding community have been great to us," said Castillo, "and our customers are amazing. I ask myselfeveryday how we can continue to help the community in return. "

16 The Stater

Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, Paul Turman congratulates Paw Wah, as then-Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and others looks on, at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Pre-Service Academy graduation.

Correctional Leadership Program Producing Results; Wah First Grad The first student to complete the Correctional Leadership Scholarship Program graduated from Peru State College in December 2022. Paw Wah earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Legal Studies.

O riginally from Myanmar, Wah enrolled in the program in January 2020, and was among the first three Peru State students to be accepted into the program and to complete the Staff Training Academy (STA) through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) in July 2021.

"During that six-week program, participating Peru State College students experience the same level of training that all other team members go through," explained C raig Gable, warden at the Tecumseh State C orrectional Institution (TSCI). "They also complete on-the-job training at TSCI and upon graduation they deploy to the facility, just like any other staff member would."

Wah worked more than 1,250 hours on shift at T SCI while also attending classes at Peru State College. In addition, he took advantage of leadership workshops offered through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDC S) to enhance his experience.

Wah said participation in the Correctional Leadership Scholarship Program better prepared him to enter the workforce.

"I received hands-on training, learned effective communication skills, and gained knowledge of prison rules and regulations," he said. "I [have] become more mature in managing my emotions, thoughts, and actions."

Shawn Sherman '10, Workforce Liaison at Peru State, watched Wah gain experi~nce and knowledge over the course of his enrollment. "I am incredibly proud of what he has accomplished, and I have been constantly impressed with his work ethic," he noted.

Sherman said Wah's transition from student to full-time Corrections staff member is exactly the type of outcome he wants to see from Peru State students.

"We hope is that his is the first of many success stories. It is great to see a student graduate and go on to work for NDCS immediately upon graduation.

"Peru State College will continue to make every effort to train students, prepare them fo r a future as criminal justice professionals, and help them meet the overall mission ofNDCS," Sherman said.

In addition to paid facility experience and classroom instruction, the Correctional Leadership Scholarship Program provides an an nual scholarship of $15,000, which covers tuition, fees, books, and other associated expenses.

Students who are interested can learn more about the program and how to enroll by going to: peru.edu/corrections.

Story contributed by Laura Strimp le, Chief of Staff, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services and Shawn Sherman, Workforce Liaison at Peru State College.

Danny Hayes Gains Lewellen Award

School of Education "He has a way of connecting with just Launches Teaching a short conversation with a student," said student Chaney Weiss at the banquet.

Experience "Most every student knows Mr. Hayes and always has some sort of story to tell Learning Lab about him - usually it involves his bees.

Danny Hayes ('02), an instructor of criminal justice, received the 2022-23 Barb Lewellen Award at the Student Senate Banquet in April. The award is presented to a faculty, staff member, or administrator who has distinguished themself through the betterment of students and student life at Peru State.

It is named in honor of Barbara Lewellen of Omaha, a longtime student services professional at the college.

"There are a lot of amazing faculty and staff at Peru State College, and to be thought of as one of them is incredibly special," Hayes said. "I feel lucky I get to work with our wonderful students."

He goes to almost every Peru event that is on campus and loves to support students he knows or has had classes with."

"Mr. Hayes is a huge inspiration as he's so easy to talk to and will give you perhaps some of the best advice of your life," Weiss said.

Hayes graduated from Peru State with a double major in criminal justice and psychology. He worked ten years for the Nebraska Department of Corrections and began teaching training courses there.

He discovered a passion for teaching and became an adjunct criminal justice professor at Peru State in 2007. Five years later, with his master's degree in hand, he became a full-time faculty member at his alma mater.

Hayes has taken students to many regional and national conferences, and led Study Abroad trips to Europe in 2016, 2018, and 2022.

Hayes commended Peru State as a place where student needs are kept at the forefront, and they can receive an exceptional education from talented, highly accomplished faculty members.

Clopton Awarded Clark P. Read Mentor Award Dr. Richard Clopton, a Professor of Biology at Peru State College, was the 2022 recipient of the Clark P. Read Mentor Award from the American Society of Parasitologists.

Dr. Joanna (Hays '06) Cielocha, Associate Professor of Biology at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo., presented the award. Dr. Cielocha is a former Peru State faculty member and mentee of Dr. Clopton.

Dr. Clopton is the 19th recipient of the Clark P. Read Mentor Award and the first to be recognized for mentoring primarily in an undergraduate institution.

Dr. Cielocha credited Dr. Clopton for the impact he had on her career.

The School of Education at Peru State College has launched an innovative Teaching Experience Learning Lab (TELL), a creative classroom space designed to enhance teacher candidates' skills and abilities using research-based instructional practices.

TELL is a unique classroom space modeled after 21st Century classrooms current in the teaching field. The lab's flexible seating and furniture, SMART Board, and various one-to-one technologies provide teacher candidates with the tools needed to create an optimal learning experience for their future students.

Additionally, the lab is equipped with recording devices to allow for in-depth personal reflection and collaborative feedback on teaching lessons.

The flexible furniture design allows it to be transformed in minutes to take on the appearance of various high-impact teaching and learning environments.

With TELL, teacher candidates can implement and explore course concepts and various methods first-hand, providing

them with valuable experience and preparing them to be quality educators for tomorrow's learners.

"Using the TELL room has afforded teacher candidates the opportunity to see cutting edge technology and flexible seating opportunities that they may seek out in their future classrooms," said Dr. Gina Bittner, Associate Professor of Education.

Gabrielle Krienert, a Peru State teacher candidate said, "Learning in the TELL lab classroom has allowed me to see how my classroom set up can foster communication, teamwork, and creativity between my peers and future students with a hands-on approach."

The Peru State College School of Education is accredited under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Standards through the CAEP Accreditation System.

This article was provided by Dr. Timothy Borchers, former Vice President for Academic Affairs, and current President of West Liberty University in West Virginia.

Ryan Arnold Presented With Student Scroll of Service Award

"Rich is one of the most selfless people I have ever met," said Dr. Cielocha. "He acts as a mentor, even if you don't know you need mentored. He has an innate ability to see people's strengths, even when they may not see them as strengths themselves."

Dr. Clopton received the Peru State College Teaching Excellence Award in both 2004 and 2017. He was named the Madan Downey Family Honors Chair in Science in 2002.

Ryan Arnold was awarded the Scroll of Service Award at the Student Senate Banquet in April. The Award recognizes a full-time Peru State student who has shown dedication and service to the student body and the College. It is the most distinguished non-academic accolade for students.

Arnold, a 2019 graduate of DillerOdell (Neb.) high school, graduated from Peru State in May with a major in Biochemical Science and a minor in Kinesiology. He began college with an interest in physical therapy, but a professor encouraged him to investigate biomedical research.

It took time for Arnold to learn the importance and benefit of balancing academics and activities in college.

"I prioritized academics heavily, especially early on," said Arnold, "but learned how to still be productive while

being part of other things on campus.

Those other things allowed me to meet so many interesting people and were where relationships were built and deepened."

Arnold was a Resident Assistant in Delzell Hall, a Christian Student Fellowship leader, a chemistry research assistant in the science department, president of club golf, and a member of Rotaract, science club, and Student Senate. During his last semester, he looked for new opportunities to challenge himself, becoming a tutor and participating in the spring play with the Peru Theatre Company.

Arnold has been accepted by the University of Tennessee for Ph.D. studies in chemistry. He hopes to become a professor at a college like Peru State and conduct research that provides undergraduates with opportunities to assist him.

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Look At These Bobcats Go! 19S0s Raymond "Ray" Huggett '57 of Central City, Neb. retired from the Merrick Medical Center Board ofTrustees in May. Ray had a 39-year career in education as a teacher, roach, and principal. Post-retirement, he served on many local and state organizational boards. Ray served on two hospital boards for a rombination of24 years. He intends to rontinue civic volunteering to give back to the rommunity that gave him so much.

Nadine (Adcock '59) Fahrlander of Minden, Neb. enjoyed Dr. Sharon Ocker's ('59) story in the spring Stater about his memories of Peru days gone by. She recalled her own experiences as a student in the "campus school" (Peru Prep) and the "hundreds of student teachers under the supervision of Zelma Wondedy, Mrs. Ulbrick, Clara McClatchy, B.A. Eddy, and Harold Johnson." Other remllections were science classes with Pro£ L.B. Mathews, physical education and swimming with Mrs. Fran Wheeler, and class plays directed by R.D. Moore. Of rourse, her favorite memory was meeting her future husband, the late Phil Fahdander ('59), as a rollege freshman.

1960s Jan Passmore attd. '59- '61 ofRichµiond, Ind. is the author of the bookA Heart Beat Away, a history of U.S. Vlce Presidents. The book was a subject of a PBS special. Jan had a long business career that included senior management positions with three Forrune 500 rompanies. Jan played basketball for the Bobcats and was a Hall of Fame team inductee in 2022.

Peru State has learned that the late Dr. Rudy Eichenberger '64 had a building named afrer him on the campus ofSouthem Arkansas University. Eichenberger was a beloved physics professor at SAU from 1981 until his retirement in 2007. He passed away in April 2022.

Dr. Wm. Bruce McCoy '65 of Omaha presented a program at the Johnson (Neb.) County Museum in April. He recently published a historical novel entitled Bellevue: Nebraska's Oldest Town. Bruce worked in education for 45 years as a teacher, athletic director, assistant principal, and superintendent.

Lonnie Bohling '67 was remgnized by the Fremont (Neb.) Cosmopolitan 100 Club with its Lifetime Community Service Award in March. He serves on multiple boards and participates in several organizations.

Lon retired as a math teacher afrer a 41-year career. He and his wife Carol reside in North Bend, Neb. Russell Sears '69 received the Golden Wheel Award from the Crete (Neb.) Rotary Club for outstanding rommunity service by a non-Rotarian. He has volunteered to grow a pumpkin patch for Crete's Great Pumpkin Festival since 2015, resulring in thousands of pumpkins for the event. He and his wife

Jan (Wheeldon '69) have lived in Crete for manyyears.

1970s Randy Baucke '72 ofTecumseh, Neb. was awarded the 2023 Milestone Award from the Nebraska Bankers Association for his 50 years of service to his rommunity. Randy works at Countryside Bank in Syracuse, Neb. Lora (Lunzmann '77) Black ofLinmln had what she described as "the biggest honor of her life" this past spring. She was invited to read the words of acclaimed Nebraska author Willa Cather during the unveiling of Cather's starue in Staruary Hall in Washingron, D.C.

19S0s Mark Johnson '80 ofSedalia, Mo. has retired as a teacher and coach afrer a 41-year career in Iowa and Missouri. Johnson played baseball and football for the Bobcats.

Sharon (Bartels '81) Bebout of Omaha was the 2022 recipient of the Alice Raikes Distineuished Teaching Award for AshlandGreen:ood (Neb.) Public Schools. In May of2023, she received the Hometown Heroes Award, which remgnizes and honors citizens for their ronrributions to the rommunities ofAshland, Greenwood, and Memphis.

Sharon retired in 2023 after 30 years of teaching music.

Rita Bristol '81 of Fremont, Neb. was named Nebraska Collegiate Advisor of the Year. Rita is an associate professor ofbusiness and FBLA advisor at Midland University (Neb.).

Troy Golemon '81 ofYukon, Okla. has rerired from his 43-year teaching and roaching career.

Dean Filipi '82 of Milligan, Neb. was inducted into the Nebraska Eight Man Football Hall of Fame in 2023. He played football for the Milligan Roosters and then coached at his alma mater for neatly 40 years.

He led 19 of those teams to the state playoffs, winning the class D-1 state championship in 2013 and '14. Dean's remrd roaching 8-man was an impressive 165 wins and 80 losses.

While attending Peru State, he was a Bobcat football player and later served as an assistant coach.

Verdell Bohling '82 ofLinroln, Neb. has retired from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. He was awarded an honorary admiralty in the Nebraska Navy. Verdell was appointed to the state advisory romrnittee for DHHS last December.

Mark Hrabik '82, Masters '08 is the new head coach for boys basketball for Weeping Water (Neb.) Public School. Hrabik played basketball for Peru State and later served as a roaching assistant.

Kip Allison '83 was an assistant roach for the Cross County (Neb.) Cou,,oars girls' basketball team in the Nebraska High

School Class C2 State Tournament. Allison was a member of the Peru State men's basketball team.

Suzanne (North '83, Masters '91) Whisler ofAuburn, Neb. retired from Auburn (Neb.) Public Schools in May after a 40-year career in education.

Gary Bender '85 was an assistant roach for the Humphrey Sr. Francis (Neb.) Flyers !!iris' basketball team which participated in ilie Nebraska High School Class D2 Stace Tournament. Bender played basketball for the Bobcats.

Sally (Martineau '86) DuBois ofNebraska City, Neb. was selected as the 2023 Arbor Day Honoree. Sally is the executive director ofKeep Nebraska City Beautiful and a self.. proclaimed lifelong volunteer.

Doug Goltz '86 led the Falls City Sacred Heart (Neb.) Irish boys' basketball team to another Nebraska High School Class D2 State Tournament. Goltz, a Peru State College Hall ofFame inductee, has roached theirish to 11 state titles.

Nick Harling '87 ofSabetha, Kan. has been promoted to market president of the Sabetha and Hiawatha, Kan. markets at Bank of Blue Valley. With more than 30 years of experience in the banking industry, Ni~ will ronrinue to develop customer relanonships while providing strategic direcrion for the bank.

Scott Persigehl '88 was a member of the coaching staff for the Millard South (Neb.) Parriot ruts' basketball team that captured the 2023 Nebraska High School Class A title. Persigehl played basketball for the Bobcats in the '80s.

Kathie (Bohling '89, Masters '96) Grotrian ofJohnson, Neb. has retired after 34 years of teaching. Kathie plans co spend more time with fumily and do more traveling.

Andrew "Andy" Hall '89 ofSchuyler, Neb. retired in May. Andy taught sixth grade for 31 years. He also roached football and boys' basketball. Andy played basketball while at Peru State, and son Easton currently plays for the Bobcats.

Delores (Spang '89) Marmon ofBearrice, Neb. was awarded the Service to Mankind Award by the Bearrice Senoma Club.

This award is the highest honor given to a volunteer who is not a Serroma Club member.

Kim (Mehlin '89, Masters '09) Standerford ofHumboldt, Neb. has accepted the position of assistant principal_ for Humboldt Table Rock Steinauer Public Schools.

1990s Tony Martin '90 ofNebraska City, Neb. has been promoted to the position ofAss~3;nt Trust Officer for Pinnacle Trust Services Linroln office.

Thomas "Tom" Doran '91, Masters '07 ofTecumseh, Neb. has retired. Tom was an educator for 32 years, all in the same school system. As a music teacher, Tom's philosophy was that all srudents are capable ofsinging, his job was to help them find their voice.

Tom stated that Peru State professor, the late Dr. Thomas Ediger had a huge influence on his teaching career.

Dr. Erin (O'Grady '91) Sayer ofDunbar, Neb. has been promoted to full professor.

Erin works for the University ofNebraskaLinroln in the Biochemistry department. She earned her master's in education and Ph.D. at UNL. Erin was a remrd-serring pitcher for the Bobcat sofrball team and is a Hall of Fame inductee.

Tracy (Shannon '93) VanDyke was named to the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2023 list for Kansas. Tracy is a private wealth advisor for NorthSrar Wealth Navigation.

VanDyke was a member of the Bobcat volleyball team.

Michelle (Larsen '95) Heath received the Nebraska NSlAAA Emerging Athletics Director Award. Michelle is assistant principal and activities director at Weeping Water (Neb.) Public School.

Bernard Geschke '96 of Papillion, Neb. was inducted into the National Safety Council's Hall of Fame in May. Daniel King '96 ofLincoln, Neb. has accepted a position with the Omaha Public Schools as assistant principal for Lothrop Elementary School in Omaha, Neb. King played basketball for the Bobcats.

Brett Davis '97 ofJohnson, Neb. has retired after 26 years in education. Brett has accepted a position with the Nebraska Public Power Disrrict as organizational development lead at Cooper Nuclear Power Station in Brownville, Neb. Tom Riley '97 was an assistant roach for the Platteview (Neb.) boys' basketball team which participated in the Nebraska High School Class B State Tournament. The Trojans finished as the runners-up. Riley is the father ofcurrent Bobcat basketball player Tyler Riley. The elder Riley was a Bobcat men's basketball player.

Ben Essam '98, Masters '07 was a member of the Beatrice (Neb.) Lady Orange girls' basketball roaching staffwhich participated in the Nebraska High School Class B State Tournament.

Lisa G. (Vierow '98) Othmer ofSeneca,

Kan. retired from Humboldt Table Rock Steinauer (Neb.) Public Schools in May.

2000s Jase Blunt '02 of Gretna, Neb. was promoted to battalion chief for the Omaha Fire Department in May. Danielle Philmon '02 of Council Bluffs, Iowa was presented the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Nelson Family

Foundation. Danielle is a preschool teacher at College Vlew Elementary School (Iowa).

Danielle was described as a dedicated, =rive, and extremely efiective educator. She received a $5,000 check during the awards ceremony in May. Luke Santo '02, head girls basketball roach at Falls City (Neb.) Sacred Heart, remrded his 400th career win in January. In addition, Santo led the Irish to their semnd-straight Nebraska High School Class D2 State Championship in March. Sacred Heart has won numerous state titles and has had several runner-up finishes under Santo's leadership.

Rev. Alan Gager '03 of Osmond, Neb. has been appointed the associate pastor for the United Methodist churches of the North Elkhorn Valley Parish.

Scott Nelsen '03 ofNorth Mankato, Minn. was promoted to senior associate athletic director/marketing and communications for Minnesota State University-Mankato in May. Samantha (Robinson '03) Wehenkel is the new director of school improvement and curriculum for Auburn (Neb.) Public Schools. Wehenkel was a member of the Bobcar softball team while at Peru State.

Michelle (Wedge '04) Eutsler is the new head volleyball roach at Gibbon (Neb.) Public Schools. Michelle played softball for the Bobcats.

Brian Maher '04 was a member of the Auburn (Neb.) boys' basketball roaching staff in the Nebraska High School Class Cl State Tournament. The Bulldogs finished as the runners-up. Maher played football at Peru Stace and most previously served as a roaching assistant.

Brian Lemerond '05, Masters '15 served as an assistant roach for the Falls City Sacred Heart (Neb.) Irish boys' basketball team which participated in the Nebraska High School Class D2 State Tournament. As a student Lernerond was a member of the Bobcat basketball team.

Darren Tobey '05, superintendent of Broken Bow (Neb.) Public Schools, has been elected to the District 4 Nebraska School Activities Association board of directors. His four-year term begins in Au,,oUSt. Dr. Evi (Steffens '06, Masters '08) Wusk of Sterling, Neb. has accepted a position at Peru State College in the education department as an assistant professor. She will be teaching educational technology. Wusk was a member of the Bobcat volleyball team while in college.

Crystal (Ellis '07) Dunekacke ofAuburn, Neb. has been selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska Class XV by the Nebraska State Chamber Foundation.

Crystal is the city adrninisrrator/emnornic developer for the City ofAuburn.

Rusty Fuller '07 has accepted the position of activities director and head football roach (continued on page 19)

18 The Stater

--- - - - - -- - - - -- - - - - - - -====================a.1=--=-===-===================--------------'"C"i

Look At These Bobcats Go! at Hanington-Newcastle (Neb.) Public Schools. Fuller played football for Peru Seate.

kindecgaccen teacher at Avery Elementary in the Bellevue Public Schools.

Bristol (Kelsey '07, Masters '11) Wenzl has a=pced the position of elementary school principal for Auburn (Neb.) Public Schools.

Lindsey Meints '11 ofTecumseh, Neb. will be the media specialist at Johnson County (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Mark Ankerson '08 of Roca, Neb. was named 2022 Realcorof the Year by Home Real Estate. Ankerson was a member of the Bobcat football team.

Wade Coulter '08 has been named the first girls' basketball coach for Gretna (Neb.) Public Schools' new high school, Gretna East. Coulter was a Bobcat football player while in college. cara (Marker '08) Morgan ofSidney; Iowa was promoted co executive director of the Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development.

Austin Reisig '09 of Cambridge, Neb. has accepted a position with Perkins County (Neb.) Schools as the principal of the elementary school. Reisig was a member of the Peru Scace baseball team.

20105 Emily Fricke '10 of Cook, Neb. will be the vocal music instructor at Johnson County (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Shawn Shennan '10 of Peru, Neb. will be joining the faculty ac Peru State as an instructor of criminal justice chis fall. Shawn was previously at Peru Scace as the workforce liaison with the Nebraska Depactment of Corrections.

Tyson Wessels '10 has accepted the position ofAssistant Vice President, Early Childhood Programs for Nebraska Children and Families Foundation.

Quentin Coatney '11 earned a Master ofScience in Education &om Peru State College in May. A former Bobcat football player, Coatney resides in Falls City, Neb. and teaches physical education and coaches' football, wrestling, and track in the Falls City Public Schools.

Dustin Comstock '11 earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru Seate College. Comstock, a former Bobcat football player, is from Shenandoah, Iowa. He teaches fifth grade and coaches in the Shenandoah school district.

fy

Toni (Ratliff '11) Comstock of Shenandoah, Iowa, earned a Master of Science in Education from Peru State College. A former Bobcat volleyball and basketball player, Comstock currently teaches first grade in the Shenandoah schools and is a mentor teacher.

Ben ldeus '11 was an assistant coach for the Nebraska High School Class Dl Seate Tournament Champions- the JohnsonBrock (Neb.) Eagles.

Betsy Jensen '11 of Gretna, Neb. earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru State College chis spring. Jensen is a

Julie Perry '11 ofAuburn, Neb. has accepted a position with Catholic Social Services as the new assistant manager and program support.

Tyson "Ty" Ratliff '11, Masters '19 of Farf¾oUC, Iowa was named IATC At-large Coach of the Year by the Iowa Association ofTrack and Cross Country Coaches.

Ty teaches physical education for the Shenandoah (Iowa) Community School District.

Cody Wallinger '11 ofLincoln, Neb. is the

new 7-12 principal for Freeman (Neb.) Public Schools. Wallin,,oer played football for the Bobcats.

Kesha (Beethe '12, Masters '17) Klontz ofBonney Lake, Wash. opened the Assemble Suen,,oth & Conditioning Gym in downtown Tecumseh, Neb. in February. She also operates an Assemble gym in Buckley; Wash. While in school at Peru Scace, Kloncz was a member of the cross country and sofihall teams.

Matthew Drommond '13 served as an assistant coach for the Lincoln Southeast (Neb.) Knights boys' basketball team which participated in the Nebraska High School Class A Seate Tournament. Drommond played on the Bobcat men's basketball team.

Wade Halvorsen '13 was selected to participate as a coach for the south team in the 65th annual Nebraska Shrine Bowl held in Kearney, Neb. Wade is following in his father's footsteps, Todd '85, who coached in the 1996 Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Scar football game. Boch Wade and Todd played football for the Bobcats. Mose recently, Wade accepted the position ofdefensive coordinator for Peru Scace. Both Halvorsens were members of the Bobcat football team.

Mitch Boshart '14 was the head coach for the girls' basketball team &om Cross County (Neb.) High School. The Cougars participated in the Nebraska High School Class C2 State Tournament. Mitch was a member of the Bobcat football team.

Sarah Burr, Masters '15 ofDunbar, Neb. was recognized for her dedication in the

classroom. Sarah received the Golden Apple award &om Doane University College of Education in March.

Brandi Hull '15 of Peru, Neb. a=pted a position with The Cloudburst Group in May. She had been working for Peru State College and was a key contributor to the Peru Stater.

Monica Kiekel '15 earned a Master of Science in Education from Peru Scace College. Monica is &om Auburn, Neb., and teaches fourth grade at Hayward Elementary in the Nebraska City Public Schools.

Chelsea (Brandl '15) Larkins ofLincoln, Neb., earned a Mascerof Science in Organizational Management from Peru State College. She is a preschool teacher in the Raymond Central (Neb.) Public Schools.

Trent Ostransky '15 was an assistant coach for the Elgin PublidPope John (Neb.) Wolfpack girls' basketball team which participated in the Nebraska High School Class Dl State Tournament.

Alex Roth '15 of Omaha has accepted a position with the Nebraska Department of Probation as a specialized probation officer in District 6.

member of the Bobcat volleyball team while at Peru Seate.

Maggie Robertson '17 ofBellevue, Neb. earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru State College in May. She presently is an elementary art reacher for the Bellevue Public Schools.

Mary "Meg" Grose '18 is the new head volleyball coach for Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. Meg was a four-year starring settee for the Bobcats and a two-time NAIA Dakuonics Scholar Athlete.

Jazmin (Hernandez '16) Borst ofSt. Michael, Minn. was promoted to executive program director ofvirtual progcamrning with Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.

Maddie Kohrs '18 earned a Master of Science in Education from Peru Seate College in May. The Nebraska City resident is a special education teacher at Hayward Elementary in the Nebraska City school system.

Robert Chab '16 of Omaha earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the UniversityofFindlay(Ohio) in May.

Curtis Karel '18 has been named the IT Lead for Systems at Peru State. Curtis was formetly the IT Analyst for Cyber Security.

Allison (Glathar '16) Haines earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru Seate College in May. Haines is the head volleyball coach and middle school rrack coach and teaches technology; MTSS, and fitness courses in the Falls City Public School System. While at Peru Scace, Haines was a member of the Bobcat volleyball team. She resides in Falls Ciry.

Zachary Lutz '18 of Cedar Creek, Neb., earned a Master ofScience in Education &om Peru Seate College. He is a health and physical education teacher at Walnut Creek Elementary in the Papillion-La Vista (Neb.) Public Schools.

Brandon McGruder '16 has been selected as head men's basketball coach ac Mayville Seate University (ND.). While in an interim capacity in '22-'23 his team was the North Scar Athletic Association confuence champions with a record of 12-2 and an overall win-loss r=rd of26-6, earning an automatic bid into national tournament play.

He was named confuence Coach of the Year in '22-'23. Brandon played basketball for the Bobcats and was an assistant coach for two years.

Kelly Morris '16 earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru Seate College chis spring. She is &om Fairfax, Mo. Felicia Schlicker '16 is the new head cheer coach for Nebraska City (Neb.) High School.

Robert "Robbie" Gilbert '17 graduated from the University ofNebraska at Omaha with a master's degree in May. Robbie has accepted a position as a behavioral skills program teacher and assistant football coach at Omaha Westview High School.

Jared Haag '17, Masters '19 has accepted the position of principal at Central Elementary School in the Fairbury (Neb.) Public School system.

Eric Morrison-Smith '17 ofSpring Valley, Calif received his master's degree from the University of California-Berkeley. Eric also had the honor of being Commencement speaker.

Jennifer Ostrowski '17 ofKankakee, ill. is the new head volleyball coach for Clifi-on (Ill.) Central High School. She is also a kindecgacten teacher. Ostrowski was a

Jean Steen, Masters '18 has been named principal for South O'Brien Elementary in Primghar, Iowa.

Madison "Madi" Panko '20 of Cook, Neb. will be teaching second grade at Johnson County (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Tristan Stroup and. '20-'21 was accepted into the Destination 225 pathway for Southwest Airlines.

Jared Koelzer '21 earned his master's degree &om the University ofNebraska at Omaha in May. He was a member of the Student Senate while at Peru State.

Sara Vance '21 of Omaha, who teaches for Millard Public Schools, was selected as rookie of the year for the school district.

Alyssa Brink '22 will be teaching second

grade at Fairfax (Mo.) R-III School District this fall. Alyssa ran cross country for the Bobcats.

Matthew Crouch '22 has a=pted a position with Omaha Pµblic Schools at Northwest High School.

Lauren Dennis '22 will be teaching for Millard (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Char1es Dunn '22 has accepted a teaching position with Lincoln (Neb.) Public Schools.

Addison Gyhra '22 has accepted a firstgrade teaching position at Louisville (Neb.) Elementary School. Gyhra was a member of the Bobcat women's basketball and dance teams while at Peru Seate.

Weston Witt '18 has a=pted a position with Frontier Bank as an ag/commetcial loan officer. Weston and his wife Lauren '21, along with daughter Baylor, live in Falls Cicy, Neb.

Tiffany Hall '22 will be teaching for Lincoln (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

John Cockerill, Masters '19, was the head coach for the Waverly (Neb.) Vikings girls' basketball team which participated in the Nebraska High School Class B State Tournament.

Jacob "Jake" Hughes '22 is the new middle school social studies teacher for Crete (Neb.) Public Schools.

Maygan Ramsey '19 ofShubecc, Neb. was awarded the Falls City Area Jaycees 2022 Outstanding Educator Award. This award is given for dedication co and growth and development ofyouth.

20205 Alejandra Aguilar '20 of Miami, Fla. received a Master of Criminal Justice &om St. Thomas University in May. Alejandra is now working coward her Ph.D. in criminology.

Tyson Buettgenback '20 of Glenrock, Wyo. earned his certification as a Suengch and Conditioning Specialist. Unecback was a member of the Peru State football team.

Mallory (Matthies '20) Dillion of Omaha, Neb. has been named the head volleyball coach for Weeping Water (Neb.) Public Schools. Mallory is also an elementary reading and student services teacher. Dillion was a membec of the Bobcat volleyball team.

Kayla Myers '20 earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru State College. Myers presently is teaching in the Lexington (Neb.) Public Middle School. She was a former member of the Bobcat women's golfteam.

Braden Hawley '22 will be the instrumental music instructor at Johnson County (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Panashe Jacha '22 has accepted a position with the Douglas County Community Mental Health Center Foundation as a psychiatric technician.

Alana Krieser '22 ofSpirit Lake, Iowa has a=pced a position with Graetting-er-Tecril (Iowa) Community School District as a frrscgrade teacher. Krieser was a member of the Bobcat softball team.

Michael "Mike" Lombardi '22 of Fremont, Neb. graduated from the Omaha Fire DepactmentAcademy and now serves as a firefighter for the City of Omaha. Lombardi was a Peru Scace football player.

Gavin Maas '22 has a=pced a position with Lincoln (Neb.) Public Schools.

Allison Main '22 will be teaching for Lincoln (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

Jacy Pollard '22 ofSyracuse, Neb. will be the Tecumseh site preschool teacher for Johnson County (Neb.) Public Schools chis fall.

John Riedmiller, Masters '22 is the new head baseball coach for Columbus (Neb.) High School.

(continued on page 20)

The Stater

19

ILook At These Bobcats Go! Bobcats in Love! Bobcat Babies! (continuedfrmn page 19) Cheyan Rokey '22 bas accepted a position with Auburn (Neb.) Public Schools.

Emma Shubert '22 accepted a 6th grade special education teaching position at Nebraska City (Neb.) Public Schools.

Jackson Tingwald '22 has accepted a physical education teaching position with Omaha Public Schools at Buena VJSta High School. Tingwald played baseball for the Bobcats.

Madison Wltulski '22 will be teaching at Beatrice (Neb.) Public Schools this fall.

Cyndi Wolbert '22 bas accepted a position with Bellevue (Neb.) Public Schools.

Sebastian Boelhower '23 ofHastings, Neb. has accepted a position at Falls City (Neb.) Sacred Heart Catholic school to teach K-12 music for 2023-24.

Brooklyn Brenneis '23 bas accepted a position as a personal banker at Washington County Bank in Blair, Neb. McKenzie Brockhoff '23 will be teaching first grade at East Buchanan Elementary in Gower, Mo. this fall.

Brooke Bruland '23, formerly ofNorfolk, Neb., bas accepted a position with Midwest Laboratories in the chromatography department.

Chloe Craig '23 bas accepted a position with Gretna (Neb.) Public Schools.

Austin Guhcle-Egger '23, who bas been working as an IT Specialist for NeSIS Applications, bas accepted the position of IT Analyst for Business Intelligence at Peru State.

Jeffrey Hart '23 will be teaching for the Millard (Neb.) School Distria at Montclair Elementary School this fall.

Austin Martin '23 ofSalem, Neb. bas accepted the position ofhigh school resource room teacher at Pawnee City (Neb.) High School.

Emily Pruitt '23 bas accepted a position at Wilber (Neb.) High School Brandel Riekenberg '23 will be teaching math this fall at Beatrice (Neb.) High School.

Alan Simpson '23 is the new kinderganen teacher for Hiawatha (Kan.) Elementary School Sarah Stanosheck '23 of Odell, Neb. will begin her teaching career as a second grade teacher this fall at Beatrice (Neb.) Public Schools.

Katelyn Stoller '23 will be teaching seventh and eighth grade at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ School in Lincoln, Neb. this

fall.

Nicasia Thelen '23 bas accepted a position with Lincoln (Neb.) Public Schools at Goodrich Middle School Savannah Wakefield '23 will be a resource teacher at Buena Vista High School this fall in Omaha.

20 The Stater

Jessica Weyer '23 bas accepted a position with Beatrice (Neb.) Public Schools to teach fifth grade at Paddock Elementary.

Garrison Dodge '24 served as an assistant coach for the Johnson-Brock (Neb.) boys' basketball team which won the Nebraska High School Class Dl State Tournament.

Friends Jill Flores Bennett, former Bobcat graduate assistant for women's basketball, was named the women's basketball head coach at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. Coach Flo, as she was affectionately known, will be the seventh head coach in Auguscana's program history.

Brandon Gossett, former men's basketball graduate assistant fur Peru State, has been seleaed to be the head men's basketball coach at Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa,

Okla.

Chuck Leierer, former assistant football coach and residence hall direaor, was named Region 2 Distria 8-6AAssistant Wrestling Coach of the year.

Faculty &Staff Dr. Sara Crook, professor emerita ofpolitical science and history, received the 2023 Excellence in Teaching award from History Nebraska in April. This award recognizes a teacher who excels in teaching Nebraska history in creative and imaginative ways.

Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State, was eleaed to the board of the Nebraska Humanities Council.

Roman Gentry, men's head basketball coach, provided the program for the Nebraska City Rotary Club in April.

Criminal justice instruaors, Danny Hayes '02, Stephanie Huddle, Joseph Schreiner, and workforce liaison Shawn Sherman '10, along with PSC students attended and competed at the American CriminalJusciceA=ciation-1.ambdaAlpha Epsilon National Conference at Louisville, Ky. in March.

Emeritus Professor ofEnglish Dr. Dan Holtz provided a musical performance outlining Nebraska's history at the Neligh (Neb.) 150th anniversary celebration in June.

Barbra Jones earned a Master ofScience in Education from Peru State College. Jones is the current a=mpanist for the College's music department. She lives in Omaha.

Dr. Frank Lynott, associate professor of health, physical education, and recreation, and four students attended the 2023 Shape America conference in Seattle, Wash. in March. The students were recognized as Physical and Health Education majors of the year and presented research at the conference.

Susan Moore, assistant professor of art, was seleaed to display her arrwork at a gallery show in Kansas City, and at the Noyes Art Gallery in Lincoln, Neb.

Dr. Kathi Nehls, associate professor of history and Dr. Jason Phillips, assistant professor of history, a=mpanied seven students to the Phi Alpha Theta National Biennial Conference in Albuquerque, N.M. in January. The students presented papers from upper-division courses and capstone papers.

Dr. Randall Snyder, adjuna Faculty in music at Peru State, served as an adjudicator for the Lincoln (Neb.) Music Teachers Association 10th Composition contest in April.

Bobcats In Love James Cole '07 and Jay Freeman were married in March. James is the men's and women's cross-country coach at Peru State.

Lincoln Mansch '12 married Nicole Jackson in Hyattsville, Md. in May. Dr. Joseph "Seph" Fauver '13 and Taylor Lltz were married in May. Lea Boras '17 and Sime Karamatic were married in June.

Brandon Gibson '19, Masters '21 and Morgan Bletscher were married in May. The couple make their home in Falls City, Neb. Bailey Bindle '20 and Brady Cromer were married in April.

Anjanea Simms '20 and Deome McReynolds '20 were married in May. Deonte is an a=untant at Peru State.

Jacey Sutton '20 and Dylan Andersen '21 were married in Wahoo, Neb. in March.

Jacey and Dylan met while attending Peru State.

VIVian Brown '21 and Gage Hanson '21 were married in June. Vivian played golf for the Bobcats and was an ambassador. Gage was a resident assistant while at Peru State.

The couple will make their home in Omaha.

Dawn Castle '21 and Cheldon Coughlen were married in April.

Emily Oestmann '22 and Cameron Ebbers were married in May. Emily is the daughter of Darren '89 and Amy Oestmann, projea coordinator for Residence Life at Peru State.

Peru State's Carrie Mae Bradrick and Drew Burnham were married in June.

Carrie is the direaor ofstudent activities and programs and Drew is a coaching assistant for the Bobcat football team.

Jamie Wolbert '09 and wife Tina Beth of Hays, Kan. are proud parents to twins. A daughter, Piper Rae and a son, Leo James, were born in May. Kaitlin Morrow '10 and Derek Derr '10 of Olathe, Kan. welcomed a son, Baylor Steven, in April. Baylor was welcomed home by proud big brother Briggs.

Lisa (White '11) and Mike Driggs of Omaha are proud parents of a daughter, Madeline Rae. Madeline was welcomed home by big brother Calvin.

Adam '11, Masters '16 and Promise (Nelson '11) DeBilzan ofNebraska City, Neb. are proud parents of their second daughter, Nora Grace, born in December.

Nora was welcomed home by big sister Addilea.

Brittany (Hoock '12) Lopez and husband Ed of Omaha welcomed baby Amalia in January.

Trista (Hutchings '13) McClure anfi husband Sean welcomed a son, Mickey Luke, in May. Jamie '13, Masters '17 and husband Chris Schluter are proud parents of a daughter, Arley James, born in May. Arley was welcomed home by big brother Ty. Jordan '14 and Ashley '14 Bergman of Lincoln, Neb. welcomed a son, Johnathan Cade, in May. Cody attd. '11- 15 and Kristen (attd.

'13- '16 Delaware) Sullivan are parents of a baby boy born in January. Baker Scott was welcomed home by big brother Casen.

Darren Hasch attd. '16-'19 and wife Dakota welcomed a son, Leo James, in December.

Kacey (Brown '16, Masters '18) and Angus '18 Miller ofPapillion, Neb. welcomed a son, AxtenAndrew, in June.

AJcten was welcomed home by a big brother.

Marissa (Florian '17) Gaston and husband Kyle ofMcCool Junction, Neb. are parents to daughter, Zoey Rose, born in January. Zoey was welcomed home by big brother Troy.

Doug Kelsey '17 and wife Katy of Council Bluffs, Iowa welcomed a baby girl, Huxley Ann in March.

Scott Riley '17 and wife Cecy ofNebraska City, Neb. are the proud parents ofa baby boy. Matthew Philip was born in March.

Bobcat Babies

Angie Bowers '20 and Brent Brown '15 welcomed a daughter, Taylor Layne in April.

Jeremy "JJ" Barnhill '05 and Melanie Brewer ofLincoln, Neb. are proud parents to twins. Kenden Jay and Gracelynn Ann arrived in June.

Elizabeth (Nelson '20) and Uriah aced.

'15-'20 Carroll are parents ofa boy born in February. Uriah Joseph was welcomed home by big brother Leonidas James.

Brett Roberts '05 and wife Emma of Shenandoah, Iowa welcomed a son, Sullivan John Hugh. Sully arrived in May.

Claire (Cudney '20) Renyer and husband Eric ofSabetha, Kan. are proud parents to Ezekiel James, born in January. Zeke was welcomed home by big brother Nico.

Lauren (Huber '21) and Weston '18 Witt of Falls Ciry, Neb. welcomed a baby girl, Baylor Nicole, in May.

Bobcats We Will Miss...

19405

Phyllis (Snyder attd. '43) Hoflinan of Burchard, Neb. passed away in February.

Phyllis was a homemaker, active in her church and a 4-H leader.

Jeane (Rears '43) Kuhlmann of Humboldt, Neb. passed away in June. She taught for several years in rural schools in southeast Nebraska.

Glenis (Holtgrewe '46) Hopp ofTalmage, Neb. passed away in March. Glenis was a homemaker and parricipated in the fumily funning operation. She was the church organist and taught piano lessons.

Betty Jean (Usher attd. mid '40s) Blecha of Humboldt, Neb. passed away in March.

She was well known fur her singing ability.

Betty's specialty was hosting fumily meals and was known fur whistling or singing the entire time she was cooking and preparing for the festivities.

Eileen (Bailey '45) Price ofCortland, Neb. passed away in April at the age of 102. Eileen was a schoolteacher and farmer's wife. She was aaive in her community and church.

Donald "Don" Venema attd. '46-'48 ofLincoln, Neb. passed away in March.

Don served in the Army during WWlI. He worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service for 36years.

Dr. Thomas Hallstrom '49 of Omaha

passed away in February. The former Bobcat basketball player was a long-rime and highly decorated educator and administrator in the Omaha Public School system. Tom is a member ofseveral Halls ofFame, including Peru State.

David Lang '49, formerly offable Rock, Neb. passed away in May. He was a proud veteran ofthe Korean and Vietnam wars, serving in the Signal Corps and later in the Army Security Agency. Dave loved to hunt and fish and to serve others.

1950s Joann "Joan" (Adams '50) Jones of Papillion, Neb. passed away in February.

Joann loved teaching and had along and happy career. She always talked fondly of her time at Peru State.

Margaret (Winkle attd. '50-'51) Schmidt formerly of Crete, Neb., passed away in February. Margaret and her husband Dale ran a funning operation for 65 years.

Word bas been received that Katherine "Kay" (Lutton '51) Eagle ofBozeman, Mont. passed away in Oaober 2022.

Mary Lee (Eichenberger '51) Pietzyk of Syracuse, Neb. passed away in January. Mary

(continued on page 21)

Bobcats and Friends We Will Miss ...

Lee was an avid quilter, loved to dance and travel and had a contagious smile.

riding, training horses and judging horse shows in his retirement years.

Carolyn (McFadden '51) Sipes ofOsceola, Neb. passed away in February. Carolyn enjoyed gardening, knitting, reading, and volunteering.

Gary Annan '57 of Coin Iowa passed away in December. Gary loved fuming, football and having coffee with his friends at the Coin Community Hall.

Word has been received that Janice (Redfern '52) Schulte passed away in July 2022. Janice had a passion for reading and crossword puzzles but most ofher time was devoted to family and friends. Janice is survived by her husband Bill '53.

Dr. Bill Beck '57 of Cleveland, Tenn. passed away in January. Bill had many interests, a strong work ethic and always had a side hustle. He spoke fondly about being an "aspiring cowboy" working his way through college on a farm.

Carol (McKee '53) Duerfeldt of Manhattan, Kan. passed away in April.

Carol taught school and worked for the athletic department at Kansas Seate University. She gave private piano lessons to many people over the years.

Thelma (Conyac '57) Liewer, a longtime resident of Peru, Neb. passed away in May. Thelma worked in finance, banking and at Peru Seate in the business office fur 15 years.

Afi:er retiring to Lincoln, Neb. Thelma landed her dream position in ladies' apparel with the Von Maur Co. where she received numerous "Pace Setters" sales awards.

Thelma is survived by her husband Kelly '57, who she met while attending Peru Scare, son Mike '81 and his wife Cindy '06, daughter Ronda '83 and Masters '94, and granddaughter Shannon, '16.

Ben Duerfeldt '54 ofManhaccan, Kan. passed away in January. Ben was a pastor and served at the First Christian Church for 25 years. He filled his free time with puzzles, 1,000 pieces and beyond. Ben was gifted as a musician and singer. While at Peru he was a member of the chorus and Peruvian Singers.

Ella Mary (Nielsen '54) Kerns of Plansmouth, Neb. passed away in December.

Ella Mary caught school, was a secretary, a bookkeeper and retired from First Data Resources.

Elizabeth "Liz" (Naffziger '55) Gustafson ofEagle, Neb. passed away in April. Liz was always up for an adventure and was known for her one-liners.

Maxine (Meyer '55) Knabe ofNehawka, Neb. passed away in March. Maxine was an active member ofthe family furn and hog operation and was a 4-H leader for 60 years.

ff

Margaret (Masur '57) McConnaughey of Peru passed away in March. Margaret was a charter member ofthe Peru Rescue Squad and an acrive member ofher community and her parish. Margaret made friends easily and considered all friends as family.

Donald Gibson '58 ofAudubon, Iowa passed away in April. Don caught instrumental music and was a football referee. Don loved to travel and visited all 50 States.

Yvonne (Funkhouser '55) Thomson of Williamsport, Md. passed away in March.

Yvonne had a successful career in real estate and lived a life ofpublic service. She loved to entertain friends.,

Glen Heywood '58, a longtime resident of the Reno, Nev. area, passed away in June with his trusty dog, Harry, by his side. Glen met his late wife, Marilyn "Marlo" (Tucker ) at Peru State. They were married for 59 years. Glen had a fun-loving sense ofhumor and spent many of his retirement years volunteering at his church.

Robert Bacon '56 ofHebron, Neb. passed away in April. Bob was a veteran, long-time educator, avid golfer, huge dog lover and enthusiastic spores fan.

Mary "Margie" (Long '58) Kelly formerly of Palmyra, Neb. passed away in December.

Margie was an elementary school teacher and active volunteer.

Dale Bradley '56 ofAuburn, Neb. passed away in February. Dale had a long and successful career, fuse as an industrial arcs reacher and coach and then in his own construction business. Dale was an expert carpenter, and his skills were highly sought after. He was also a prolific blood donor giving double digit gallons ofhis rare blood type over the years.

Maurine (Meyerkorth '56) Vice of Nemaha, Neb. passed away in April.

Maurine caught in country schools and enjoyed being a farm wife. She was known for her card ministry.

Robert "Bob" Norton '56 ofLincoln, Neb. passed away in April. Bob taught school, was a principal and a superintendent. He enjoyed

Nickolas Stolzer '58 ofElkhom, Neb.

passed away in January. Afi:er college he enlisted in the National Guard and served for six years. Nick woixed for Omaha Public Schools and completed his 35-year career as assistant superintendent of business services.

Verdes Baucke '59 of Omaha passed away in January. Verdes caught math and computer science and woixed as a computer analyst for Union Pacific. He always had a smile, story, or joke. Verdes played basketball for the Bobcats.

Norma (Armstrong '59) Thomas of Osage City, Kan. passed away in February. Norma was an elementary school teacher for over 25 years. She delivered Meals on Wheels for over 30 years. Norma was married to Gil '58 for

George Nincehelser attd. ear1y '60s of Peru passed away in December. George served in the U.S. army and was a lifelong fumer.

Hills, Fla. passed away in February. Garth was a U.S. Marine and served with "E" Company in Vietnam. He was an avid golfer and fisherman and loved the great outdoors.

Garth was a member of Peru State's 1867 Society. He is survived by his wife, Gloria (Bean'70).

Dennis Sims attd. '63 ofAnita, Iowa

19705

over 60 years.

1960s

passed away in February. Denny served in the Marines which included two tours of duty in Vietnam. Dennywoixed for General Dynamics and in the insurance industry.

Carol (Mclain '63) Sudi of Creston, Iowa passed away in January. Carol, along with her husband, Gaylon '62, owned and operated Moore Music, a school music business. Carol was an avid reader and woixed for and later volunteered at the local library.

Verna (Baum '63) Tietmeyer, formetly ofBurchard, Neb., passed away in January at the age of 100. Verna and her husband fumed and raised registered Polled Hereford cattle. She was the postmaster in Lewiston (Neb.).

James "Jimmy" Hall '64 ofAtlanta, Ga. passed away in January. Jimmy played basketball for the Bobcats and was a member of the '61- '62 team inducted into the PSC Hall ofFame.

William "Bill" Hunsaker '64, formerly of Lincoln, Neb., passed away in January. Bill was a dedicated teacher, coach, and mentor for Lincoln Public Schools. He was on the '63 basketball team that was inducted into the PSC Hall ofFame.

Foley Thomas '64 ofSabetha, Kan. passed away in December. Foley taught school for 32 years.

Marsha (Schaaf '65) Cobb ofWood River, ill. passed away in January. Marsha was the co-owner ofDon's No Man's Land Tavern.

She had many friends and loved to travel, especially to Fla. Marsha met her husband, Don '65, in February 1965 when he was shooting baskets in the PSC gym. Don knew immediately she was the one. They were married for over 57 years.

Charles Heidbrink '66 of Odell, Neb. passed away in April Charlie had a 40year teaching=· He was active in his community serving on many boards, as well as mayor.

Frederick "Fred" Trumble '66 ofRed Oak, Iowa passed away in June. Fred had a long teaching career at Red Oak Community Schools. He was an outdoorsman and an avid Nebraska Comhusker fan.

Mary (Straight '69) Everhart of Williamsburg, Iowa passed away in April.

Mary started the public library in Amana, Iowa where she was the librarian for 28 years.

She enjoyed reading, flowers, birds, and baseball. Mary was married to her husband William '69 for 56 years.

Garth Adams '67 of Peru, Neb. and Beverly

Mary Lee (Stock '70) Weinert, formerly of Falls City, Neb., passed away in December.

Mary Lee was devoted to her students and to her profession and caught for 30 years.

Carole "Ann" (Rogers '71) Boice of Omaha passed away in March. Ann taught English for 26 years. Her lifelong love of reading inspired the students she taughr. Ann read for Radio Talking Books ofNebraska, a service for those who have disabilities and completed over 30 books.

Sharon (Dieckhoff '71) Gnade, a longtime resident ofAuburn, Neb. passed away in June. Sharon is survived by her husband Jim'71.

Barbara (Royal '71) Kingery ofHor Springs, Ark. passed away in May. She taught art for over 20 years. Barb was a master storyteller who never let the facts interfere with a good story, brilliantly living her best

life.

Brian Trottier '71 ofWtlder, Vt. passed away in January. Brian taught and coached for 34 years. He was a certified basketball official for over 40 years and enjoyed building furniture.

One of his greatest joys was being "Papa'' to his four grandsons. Brian is survived by his wife Patricia (Neumeister '71).

Mary Jane (Hinrichs '72) Kellogg of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in March.

Mary was the librarian for Nebraska City Middle School for 25 years. She was active in multiple organizations in town.

Deborah (Sears '74) Holtz ofBloomfield, Neb. passed away in January. Deb's fumily was her entire life. She had an infectious laugh and a heart of gold.

Victor "Bill" Bartlett attd. '76 ofMorro Bay, Cali£ passed away in April.

John Gilmore '76 ofBellevue, Neb. passed away in March. John played football for the Bobcats. He was drafted in 1968 by the Buffulo Bills. He played semi-pro ball for the Omaha Mustangs. John will be inducted into the Peru State Hall of Fame this fall.

William "Bill" Bohling '77 of Cook, Neb. passed away in May. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed woodworking and continuing the family tradition of taffy pulling during the holidays.

Bill is survived by his wife, Alea '73.

Patricia "Pat" Kleine '77, formerly of Auburn, Neb., passed away in January. Pat taught school for 29 years. She loved to read, cook, and collect buttons as a hobby.

Yvonne Parde '77 ofBeatrice, Neb.

passed away in December. Yvonne was an occupational therapist. She enjoyed traveling and was an avid reader.

William "Bill" Fitzgerald '78 ofFremont, Neb. passed away in May. Bill enjoyed a 39-year = in education dedicated to bettering the lives of students and athletes.

He taught, coached, and served as activities director and assistant principal. Bill was an acrive member in the NSIAAA and the NIAAA, serving as executive director for the latter. Bill is survived by his wife Anne (Oestmann '78).

19805 Richard "Rick" Leibert '80 ofSargent, Neb. passed away in January. Rick was passionate about fuming. He enjoyed woixing with fumily, car races, fishing and playing cards. Rick was grateful to receive a bilateral lung transplant in 2022.

19905 Gayle (Herold '92) Watton ofAuburn, Neb. passed away in June.

David Malone '96 ofTecumseh, Neb.

passed away in May. Dave loved golfing and watching wrestling and football.

Brian Zentner '98, formerly ofFalls City, Neb. passed away in December. Brian was an on-road truck driver for most of his=· Debra (Moore '99) Young ofPapillion, Neb. passed away in December. Debra caught in the Papillion-LaVista School District for 27 years.

20005 Barb Anderson '03 ofEricson, Neb. passed away in January. Barb taught elementary grades and music. She was a talented musician and caught private piano and guitar lessons.

Jarad Easterwood '06 formerly of Dawson, Neb. passed away in April. Jarad served in the U.S. Navy and was a resident of Jacksonville, Fla.

20105 Logan Ascheman attd. '19-'20 of Tecumseh, Neb. passed away in March.

Logan was an avid reader and loved history.

He especially enjoyed spending time with friends and family and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Logan is the son of April Ascheman '20.

Jordyn Hanes attd. '19 ofNebraska City, Neb. passed away in April. Jordyn was a thoughtful person who enjoyed music and reading.

Friends We WIii Miss Jack Allen ofAuburn, Neb. passed away in January. Jack was a 20-year employee ofPeru Scace College. He was an outdoorsman that loved to fish and hunt. Jack loved spending time with fumily and was a friend to many. {continued on page 22)

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Friends We Will Miss (continuedfrom page 21) Everett Browning, a faculty member from 1969-86, passed away in January in Texas. He was a man of many interests and ralenrs, including journalist, Navy veteran, blacksmith, beekeeper, Model T mechanic, traaor colleaor, and Boy Scout leader, ro name a rew.

Joan Cox of Flagstaff, Ariz. passed away in January.

In the late '60s Joan's husband, Jerry taught at Peru State and Joan worked in the ~tudent center.

Roberta Jane (Applegate) Henning, long time resident of Peru, passed away in April. Jane and her husband, Charles '47, raised ten children and resided on the family farm in rural Peru for 73 years. Charles and Jane were aaive volunteers at the VA hospitals in Omaha and Llncoln. They established the Charles and Jane Henning Scholarship at Peru State due co their srrong belief in education.

Robert Hines offarra,,oUt, Iowa passed away in December. Robert worked in fu.cility services department at Peru State.

Dr. Johann Murray ofTarkio, Mo. passed away in May. Johann was an as.5istant professor of physical education, health and recreation and was also the cross-country coach while at Peru Stare. At one time Johann was a competitive professional dancer. He owned a dance studio, Have Dance Will Travel, and published the book, Dancing Llke a Star. He is urvived by his wife Sarah '14.

Frances Regier ofBellevue, Neb. passed away in January. Frances taught French courses in the mid'60s at Peru Stare.

Barbara "Annie" Thomas ofAuburn, Neb. passed away in February. Annie owned and operated the Thomas Distributing Company with her husband Neal and cook over the day-to-day operations afi:er his death. She was active in many local clubs, community organizations, and her church. Annie participated in city government serving on the Auburn City council for eight years and as Mayor fur another eight years.

SAVETHEDATE HOMECOMING 2023 September 29th - 30th

Have a Blast from the Past at Homecoming 2023 Do you remember going to a sock hop, or are you from the disco era? Did you do aerobics with Jane Fonda in the '80s?

Maybe you did the Macarena in the '90s or were Hip-Hopping in the 2000s.

Whatever you recall, you might flash back to it as part of the 2023 Peru State College Homecoming festivities .

Peru State College invites alumni, family, and friends to campus Friday and Saturday, Sept. 29 and 30 for the 2023 Homecoming. "'Cats from the Past" is the theme for this year's festivities as selected by the Campus Activity Board and the Student Senate. Events will have a decade's theme for students and alumni alike.

The Peru State College Foundation will host its All-College Reunion Friday evening, Sept. 29, in the Student Center.

Any graduate or friend of the College is invited to attend. The Foundation will honor the class of 1973 and its affinity classes ('72 and '74) and those from the other honored classes, including 1963, '83, '98, '03, and '13.

Dr. Dan Holtz will be providing a special music performance during the

banquet. Holtz taught English at Peru State from 1987 to 2016.

On Saturday, Sept. 30, the Homecoming Parade begins at 10 a.m.

Following the parade, everyone is invited to a tailgate and mini carnival held on the campus quad, compliments of the College and the Foundation.

The Peru State Jazz Band will be on hand to entertain the lunch crowd. In addition, there will be inflatables and other activities available for the young and young-at-heart. And better yet, it is free and open to all in attendance!

The Bobcat volleyball team will host Culver-Stockton at 11 a.m . Saturday in the Al Wheeler Activity Center. That afternoon the Bobcat football team will be hosting the Missouri Valley Vikings at 2 p.m. At halftime, Homecoming royalty will be crowned.

Mark your calendars, round up your favorite decade's attire, and head to Peru State College on Sept. 29 and 30 for Homecoming fun. More information will be available on the website www.peru.edu as the event nears.

In Search of Class of'83 Missing

Commencement 2023 President Michael Evans congratulates Barbra Jones for obtaining her Master of Science in Education degree during Commencement 2013 in May. Jones was one of approximately 400 degree recipients honored that day. A resident of Omaha, Jones serves as an accompanist with the college Music Department.

22 The Stater

Keeping track of Peru State alumni is a challenge, with tens of thousands of names in our data base. Below is a list of alumni from the Class of 1983 with whom we've lost contact. Please help us update our records by providing contact information to pscfoundation@peru.edu, or calling (402) 872-2304, or writing The Peru Stater, PO Box 10, Peru, NE. 68421-0010.

Susan Richardson Bassinger Katherine Brewer Denice Dominic Brown Janet Waddle Carlson Kraig Casey Michael Drotzmann Michelene Koenig Edwards Kaye Berner Finn Pamela Fox Russ Freitag John Harris

Jerald Hill Sandy Kohel Larry Lieneman Keith Mellage Jaqueline Nixon Linda Cooksey Thomas Norwood Tillery Margo Tucker Barbara Whitney Richard Wood

....

I Hall of Fame Adds Five

Members, Team The Peru State College Athletic Hall of Fame selection committee has announced its 2023 Hall of Fame class. which includes five individuals and one team. This will be the 31st class to be inducted into the College's select group since its inception in 1986.

Jim Callender, the late John Gibbs, the late John S. Gilmore, Kurt Hasley, and Fred Marisett will be inducted as individuals. In addition, the 1992-93 women's basketball team will be honored as a team selection.

Hall of Fame will be held Oct. 13-14, with a banquet Friday evening and formal induction at halftime of Saturday's football game against Graceland University in the historic Oak Bowl.

"We are thrilled to honor Peru State College's outstanding former student-athletes and coaches in this way," President Michael Evans said. "Each of these individuals has made a significant contribution and lasting impact on our athletic programs and in their communities that will not be forgotten. Their talent and determination have greatly contributed to the College's long and proud tradition of athletic excellence."

The following is a brief biography of each honoree.

Jim Callender

tournament. The 27 wins by the '92-'93 squad is still the top mark today and the '96-'97 team's 25 wins is tied for second.

Several of Coach Gibbs' players earned national, regional, and all-conference honors. Gibbs himself was twice named as the District or Regional Coach of the Year.

John S. Gilmore Student-Athlete A Farragut, Iowa, native, the late John S. Gilmore is being inducted in part due to his "60-minute-player" prowess on the football field.

Gilmore was the first Peru State football player to have been drafted into the National Football League, as he was selected by the Buffalo Bills in 1968 as a defensive tackle.

While in a Bobcat uniform, Gilmore played on both sides of the ball as either an offensive tackle or defensive guard/ tackle.

He was a three-time All-Nebraska Conference selection and in 1967 was an NAIA All-District 11 pick. In addition, he earned recognition by both of the state's major papers for his play on the field.

Coach

Kurt Hasley Jim Callender led Peru State volleyball to its first-ever NAIA national tournament experience in the fall of 1993.

While leading the Bobcats for five seasons, Callender finished with a 162-92 record, the most wins ever by a Peru State volleyball coach. Under Callender's tutelage, the Bobcats went to two national tournaments - 1993 and 1995.

After leaving Peru State, Callender continued to have a remarkably successful coaching career as he led Western New Mexico University to two national tournament experiences.

John Gibbs Coach The late John Gibbs was the men's basketball coach for 22 years, resulting in Gibbs being the winningest coach in Bobcat history as he amassed 287 wins. He was known to be a relationship builder as he pushed for success in academics, athletics, and careers.

Gibbs led the'92-'93 men's basketball team to the NAIA Division II National Tournament, the first time in 27 years that the Bobcats had competed at the national level. His '96-'97 team also made it to the national

Student-Athlete A member of the one and only national championship team for Peru State, Kurt Hasley of Plymouth, Neb., was a football stalwart on the defensive side of the ball.

Hasley was an NAIA Division II All-America First Team honoree in 1990 following the national championship title win. The next year, he received honorable mention as the Bobcats made it to the national semifinals.

He helped lead Peru State to the nation's second-best rushing defense as the Bobcats only allowed 54.7 yards per game in '91.

He is still tied for third for the most sacks in a single season with 12.

Fred Marisett Student-Athlete and Meritorious Service A decorated two-sport student-athlete in football and wrestling for the Bobcats, Fred Marisett, originally hailing from Hammond, Indiana, followed up his athletic career with a highly successful teaching, coaching, and leadership career.

Marisett was a three-time national wrestling tournament qualifier and earned a sixth-place finish in the NAIA tournament in 1976, earning an invitation to the 1976 Olympic trials. He was a three-year letterwinner in football as a guard/tackle on offense and a linebacker/ nose guard on defense; gaining all-conference and allstate honors in 1977.

Later, Marisett taught and coached football, wrestling, and track and field in the Omaha Public Schools for 24 years.

1992-93 Women's Basketball Team The 1992-93 Peru State Women's Basketball team was the first-ever women's hoops team to earn a berth to the national tourney. The Bobcats claimed the NAIA Division II District XI Championship title over Dana to earn the trip.

The 16th-seeded Peru State team won their first game in the NAIA Division II Tournament with a victory over the 24-5 St. Joseph's College of Maine. The Bobcats fell in the second round to the defending and eventual national champions Northern State (S.D.).

Peru State finished the season 21-9. Many single season and career marks set by individuals on that team still rank among the best in the record books.

Athletic Hall of Fame 31st Year When the Al Wheeler Activity Center was dedicated in 1986, the Peru State College Athletic Hall of Fame was established. The purpose of the Hall of fame is to recognize, honor, and preserve the memory of those individuals and teams whose contributions have enhanced Nebraska's first college.

Candidates can be nominated in one of four categories: coach, player, team, or meritorious service. A selection committee, made up primarily of Peru State alumni, make the selections annually each spring.

Nominations can be submitted to PSC Athletic Hall of Fame, c/o Foundation Office, Peru State College, PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421-0010. The nomination form is available on the Hall of Fame website at https:// pscbobcats.com/honors/hall-of-fame. For additional information, call 402-872-2304.

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23

Bobcat Athletics Pond Named Athletic Director

Kyle Pond has been promoted to Athletic Director at Peru Scace. He had been Associate Athletic Director.

Pond is a former college athlete and soccer coach . H e was Head Men's Soccer Coach at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas from 2015-20, and became the college's Associate Athletic Director in December of 2020.

His focus on recruiting, retention, team development, and improved academic performance helped the college achieve record recruiting classes and greater success in several sports. Pond joined Peru State in January of 2022.

"It has been a goal of mine to be the Athletic Director at Peru Scace," said Pond. "The timeline happened quicker than I expected, but Wayne (Albury, former A.D .) helped prepare me for this transition by involving me in the day-to-day activities of the Athletic Department since day one."

Administration not part of the plan "My original plan was to be a head coach until I was 70," said Pond. "When the Associate AD position (at Southwestern College) was presented to me by my mentor Dean Clark, I thought I would miss coaching, but I have found this new career path to be extremely rewarding."

Coaching stints prior to Southwestern included assistant positions at Sterling College and Bethany College, both in Kansas.

24 The Stater

He is also thankful for his great relationship with President Michael Evans and support from the entire Peru State administrative team.

"I have a video of President Evans jumping in the hudd le after a basketball win," said Pond.

"Where else do you see chat? The support from the administration at Peru State is incredible and creates building blocks co enhance and modernize our program."

"Winning is an outcome," said Pond, "and a result of strong leadership, coaches who care about the student athletes, and attention co the process of becoming better coaches, players, and people.

"We hope to create something sustainable and genuine that creates growth, makes alumni want to return to campus, and is a place where coaches want to stay and players want to play," Pond added.

Passion, opportunity core elements "The staff here shares a lot of passion," said Pond, "and Peru State offers student-athletes a great coaching staff, an institution chat cares about chem, and excellent facilities at a price point chat exists at very few schools. This is the perfect place for students to have a highquality experience without needing to mortgage their future in the process."

Pond also understands his new role will involve many tough decisions.

"I want co make decisions for the future co provide consistency and enhance development," said Pond. "Being good cakes bold moves, risk, commitment, and creating an environment where it is okay to not be perfect but to continue growing."

Pond holds a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Sterling College. He and his wife, Jordan, have three daughters and live in Peru.

Ashley Baldassare New Associate AD The Peru State athletic department has hired Ashley Baldassarre to take over Associate Athletic Director duties.

Baldassarre was most recently Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Student Experience and Senior Woman Administrator at Iowa Wesleyan University, as well as the Head Women's Volleyball coach.

Baldassarre was the graduate assistant for women's volleyball while completing her master's degree at fellow Heart of America Conference member William Penn University. After graduation she made her way to Iowa Wesleyan University.

As an administrator with the Tigers, Baldassarre organized the development of the Association of Student-Athletes (ASA), held a position on the senior leadership committee, and managed the design and relocation of the new weight room.

Baldassarre held a variety of duties for game day operations.

Baldassarre has served as an Adjunct Professor at both Iowa Wesleyan and William Penn. She also has experience in athletic performance as she was a Strength and Conditioning coach for WPU, assisting in training programs for Men's Soccer, Baseball and Women's Volleyball.

Baldassarre was also a strength and conditioning intern at the University of Iowa. She assisted Hawkeye programs in

Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, Women's Gymnastics, Women's Rowing and Men's Tennis.

"There is an atmosphere within the (Peru State) department where I can tell big things are right around the corner for a lot of the programs," said Baldassarre.

"Kyle (Pond) has an excellent vision for the department that I am excited to assist with and make happen."

"We are enhancing our gameday atmosphere, adding a strength and conditioning program and have added a sports management minor that will have internships through our department," Pond noted. "Ashley has great experience with all these additions. Her energy and vision align well, she will have a large impact at Peru State."

Cheer Making Noise, Highest League Finish Having battled injuries and adversity throughout the season, the Bobcat cheer team fought to their highest finish ever in the Heart of America Athletic Conference Cheer Championship.

Peru State finished fifth in the nineteam competition, which was won by Missouri Valley - a NAIA powerhouse.

Co-coaches Cara Cepuran and Carlene Cudney guided the team.

At the conclusion of the season, three Bobcats were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes - Laini Fullerton (junior, Lincoln), Elizabeth Jenkins (junior, St. Joseph, Mo.), and Grace Greenwood (soph::imore, Chappell, Neb.).

- - - - --------===============----

Blake Beaber New Baseball Coach

William Reynolds swinging at the plate v. Park

Baseball struggles on the Road The Peru State baseball team finished 16-23 record during the 2023 season including 13-17 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference, missing the postseason.

The Bobcats posted an impressive 11-5 mark at the Centennial Complex Field but struggled away as they went 5-18. A solid .283 batting average and sparkling .944 fielding percentage for the season was offset by a 9.10 earned run average from the pitching staff.

Yodelvy Garcia (Santiago, D.R.) led the way offensively this past season for the Bobcats as he hit eight doubles, one triple, five home runs and drove in 25 runs with a batting average of .352. Garcia was the lone Bobcat to earn Heart All-Conference Honorable Mention.

Pitcher Kevin Diaz (Dominican Republic) started 11 games for the

Bobcats, going 5-3 with three complete games. He struck out 58 batters with an ERA of7.84. Diego Oquendo (Merida, Venezuela) appeared in ten games on the mound with a 4-4 record and an ERA of 7.58.

Luis Pacheco (Miami, Fla.) was named to the 2023 Academic CSC All-District Teams'". He was the lone Bobcat baseball player to be selected for the honor. The Bobcats also had six players who received Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes honors: Blake Denson (Broken Bow, Neb.), Brenton Pitt (Fremont, Neb.), Bryan Vega (Cayey, P.R.), Diego Rivera (Carolina, P.R.), Johnathan Santiago (San Lorenzo, P.R.), and Pacheco.

Wayne Albury recorded his 300th career win at Peru State in his final season at the helm.

Athletic Director Kyle Pond recently announced the hiring of Blake Beaber to take over the Bobcat baseball program.

Beaber had been head coach at Iowa Wesleyan University for the past six seasons.

In 2022 Beaber was named Continental Athletic Conference Coach of the Year. Additionally, In the fall of 2021, the Tigers transitioned from the NCAA Division III to NAIA. This past season the Tigers played in 40 games with a record of 18-22 and a conference record of 4-5. They were 5-1 in their home park and 6-1 in neutral site games.

Beaber's IWU roster included 70 players with a retention rate of 85 percent.

Beaber also had duties in fundraising, gameday management for other sports, and teaching Economics 101. Before becoming the IWU head coach, he was the assistant for the Tigers.

Blake Beaber

Beaber was the graduate assistant for the William Penn Statesmen from 201416. He has also spent time at the junior college (NJCAA) level as an assistant at Carl Sandburg College.

'Tm excited for Peru State because of the energy on campus," he said.

"Throughout the process, it has felt like home. The people were great. Kyle Pond's vision for the athletic department, and • Project ROAR, gives me confidence that we can do great things here."

Rebuilding Year for Softball

[

The Peru State softball team finished a rebuilding season at 7-37 overall record this past spring, 4-22 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play under the direction of first-year head coach Renita "Toni" (Blackwell '15) Closner.

Sophomore Lanie Dreyer (Anniston, Ala.) and freshman Kaelyn Hamblen (Papillion, Neb.) led the way offensively for the Bobcats. Dreyer had nine extra base hits and a batting average of .281.

Hamblen had a batting average of .337.

Dreyer also led the way on the mound as she pitched in 20 games, starting 14, finishing with a record of 4-11. She pitched six complete games, pitching 91 innings and striking out 60 batters with an ERA of 4.69.

Senior Cheyenne Leach (Wymore, Neb.) appeared in 23 games in the circle starting in 15, with a record of 2-14. Leach had nine complete games pitching 109 innings while striking out 51 batters with an ERA of 4.69.

Shortstop Ellie Ohlde (sophomore, Fairbury Neb.) and senior catcher Carlye Rothschild (Eros, La.) were selected Heart All-Conference Honorable Mention.

Ohlde played in 44 games, with a batting average of .263 and five double plays in the year. Rothschild hit .235 and a had an outstanding fielding percentage of .983, 11 runners were caught stealing and only two errors.

One key area where the Bobcats got it done was in the classroom. Five Bobcats were selected to the 2023 CSC Academic All-District'" Teams NAIA. Ohlde, Leach, sophomore Maddie Howard (Council Bluffs, Iowa), senior Morgan Wilke (Bakersfield, Calif.), and senior Bailey Bitz (Ravenna, Neb.) were the five Bobcats selected for the honor.

Six Bobcat players were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes as well. The six players are Autumn Dixon (sophomore, Stillwell, Kan.), Howard, Ohlde, Leach, Wilke and Bitz.

Road Woes Plague Women's Basketball The women's basketball team chis past winter went 10-18 overall and 6-16 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play. The Bobcats finished 7-6 in the friendly confines of the Al Wheeler Activity Center but struggled on the road as they went 3-12.

Peru Scace also played two exhibition road games, one against NCAA Division I University of Nebraska Omaha and one against NCAA DII Northwest Missouri Scace University.

Sam Stewart (sophomore, Mount Ayr, Iowa) led the team in scoring with 11. 4 points per game. Another Iowa sophomore, Maddy Duncan (Hamburg) was second as she scored 10.9 points per game.

Jescenia Mosley (senior, Shenandoah, Iowa) led the team in rebounds with 5.5 boards per game.

Duncan and Stewart were named

Heart All-Conference Honorable Mention at the conclusion of the season.

The Bobcats had success in the classroom as three players were named to the CSC Academic All-District Teams• Duncan, Stewart, and senior Julie Miller (Easton, Kan.) were the three players earning the recognition.

Seven players were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes as well: Alexis Wittwer (sophomore, Falls City, Neb.), Josiee Sobotka (sophomore, Tobias, Neb.), Miller, Lexie Jones (sophomore, St. Joseph, Mo.), Duncan, Natasha Deal (sophomore, Winnebago Neb.) and Stewart.

The Peru State women's basketball team will open the 2023-24 next November with a new coaching staff. The searches were underway at press time.

The Stater 25

Gentry Leads Men's Hoops to Stellar Year, Rewarded With Appointment

Lorenzo Anderson nails a three pointer during the Bobcats' 25-win season

Men's Basketball Defies Odds, Posts Historic 2022-23 Season The Peru State men's basketball team's historic season ended in the second round of the NAIA National Tournament to Jamestown (N.D.). The Bobcats reached new heights under new head Coach Roman Gentry.

The Bobcats finished with a 25 -8 overall record this past season. The 25 wins is tied for second most all time, along with Newt Kyle's 1950-1951 team and John Gibbs 1996-1997 team. Peru State also finished with a 17-5 Heart of America Athletic Conference record, tied for most all time.

Gentry, who joined the program last fall, was appointed interim head Coach just days prior to the start of the season.

Thrown into the fire, he led his team to not just one of the best seasons, but one of its most memorable. He was named permanent head coach in the spring.

The Bobcats had had a 14-4 home mark with a 10-3 road record as the team was "road warriors" all season long. Peru State also finished 1-1 in neutral site games.

Peru State's record earned them the No. 2 seed in the Heart Conference Tournament as they made a run to the conference championship game. The Bobcats defeated No. 7 seed Graceland in the Heart Quarterfinals, and No. 3 seed Evangel in OT in the semifinals before falling in the Heart Championship game to No. 1 seed William Penn.

The Bobcats earned an automatic berth

26 The Stater

in the NAIA National Tournament due to finishing second in the conference regular season and conference tournament, both behind William Penn.

Peru State went over the century mark on four separate occasions, averaging 85.4 points per game, and was one of the best offensive teams in the country as they shot 51. 7 percent from the field.

Senior Lorenzo Anderson (Lithonia, Ga.) made the top-30 all-time single season points list with 518 points. Man Man Baker (senior, Aurora, Colo.) is now second all-time in single season assists with 201, and Sayvon Traylor (junior, Atlanta, Ga.) is now the single season 3-point percentage leader at 47.9 percent (minimum one attempt per game).

Jibril Harris (senior, Chicago) and Baker were named First Team AllConference. Anderson and senior Troy Houghton (Omaha) were named Second Team All-Conference while Traylor was named All-Conference Honorable Mention.

Harris was also named an NAIA AllAmerican Honorable Mention.

Academically, three Bobcats were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar Athletes.

Earning the honors were Skyler Wilson (junior, Omaha), Easton Hall (sophomore, Schuyler, Neb.), and Josh Wickstrom (sophomore, Omaha). In addition, Wilson was College Sports Communicators Academic All-District®NAIA selection.

The Peru State athletic department announced after the season that they were taking the interim tag off and named Roman Gentry full-time head men's basketball.

Gentry led the Bobcats to an elevated level of play as they finished the season 25-8 overall and 17-5 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play. The 17 conference wins tied the 2015 -16 team for most in Peru Seate history.

Peru State gained a national tournament bid. The 25 wins tied for second most all time in school history along with the 1950-51 and 1996-97 teams.

Gentry is from Sioux City, Iowa and graduated from the University of South Dakota, where he played his collegiate ball. He had eight years of college coaching experience.

Previously, Gentry was at the University of South Dakota as an assistant coach in 2021-22 season, when the Coyotes went 19-12.

"I am very excited about the opportunity to lead the men's basketball program here. I would like to thank (former) athletic director Wayne Albury and President Evans for believing in me and having the confidence in me as their next men's basketball coach," Gentry said.

"My staff and I will work extremely hard to keep Peru State on its current path of competing every night in the

highly competitive Heart of America Conference," he continued. "I look forward to the challenges of building a championship caliber program on and off the court."

Before his most recent stint at USD, he was an assistant coach at Concordia-St. Paul (Minn.) from 2014-2021. He helped lead the Golden Bears to a conference tournament berth every year except one.

Injuries Knocked Dancers Out of Rhythm

in 2022-2023 Under the tutelage offirst-year coach Crystal Baker, the Bobcat dance team faced injury challenges throughout their 2022-23 competition season.

With a limited squad in several competitions, Peru State finished their season in eighth place in the Heart of America Athletic Conference. Baker (Kan.) and Grand View (Iowa) both finished in the top 8 in the NAIA Championship.

At the end of the year, dance team members Haven (Appel) Wilson (junior, Omaha), Katie Rabstejnek (sophomore, Wymore), Isabella Watkins (junior, Omaha), and Madison Wittwer (sophomore, Columbus) were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

Bobcat Men's Bowling Shows Improvement

Football Aims to Continue Winning Ways in '23, Home Opener Aug. 26 Peru State football enters its second season under the Phil Ockinga regime.

In Coach O's first season the Bobcats finished 6-5 overall and 4-1 record in the Heart North division, falling only to No. 2 Grand View for a second-place finish .

The Bobcats defended the Oak Bowl a season ago as they had a 4-2 home mark.

Peru State averaged 15.6 points and 251.9 yards per game last season and will look to improve those numbers this fall.

The 'Cats made their name on defense, allowing 18.7 points and 297.3 yards per game.

Heart North Defensive Player of the Year and AP NAIA All-American Devin Adams returns. Adams had 52 tackles and 7.5 sacks on the year, with 21 tackles for loss.

Peru State kicks off the 2023 season against Hastings College on Saturday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m. in the Oak Bowl. Peru State hosts Missouri Valley College on Sept. 30 at 2 p.m. for Homecoming. The Bobcats host Graceland for its Hall of Fame Game on Oct. 14, and CulverStockton College on Veteran's/Senior Day on Nov. 11.

Under new head coach Dwayne Da Moude, the Peru State men's bowling team became a team to reckon with during 2022-23.

The Bobcats won two tournaments - the Eagle Invitational and the Wildcat Challenge and were runners-up in three including the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship.

In the Heart Championship, Peru State trailed only William Penn, a perennial powerhouse. The Bobcats had to fight their way back through the loser's bracket, then forced the Statesmen into a final seventh game.

Following the Heart championship,

Isaac Skalak (sophomore, Lincoln) was named to the 2023 Heart Men's Bowling Second Team All-Conference. This was his second year earning all-conference recognition. Jett Tolentino (sophomore, Mililani, Hawaii) earned a Heart Men's Bowler of the Week after his performance in the Wildcat Challenge.

Creyton Nisly (junior, Hutchison, Kan.) earned Daktronics NAIA ScholarAthlete recognition at the end of the season.

With a young team and a program only a couple of years old, expectations are even higher for Da Moude and the Bobcats next season.

Volleyball Building Momentum

Allie Schneider

Head Coach Madison Kindle enters her second season at the helm of the Bobcat volleyball program. The Bobcats finished 7-22 overall and 4-15 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play last season.

Both win totals exceeded those from the 2021 campaign, but Kindle won't.be satisfied with small improvements this fall.

Several key returners are part of the reason for optimism. Setter Allie Schneider (Humphrey, Neb.), outside hitter Michelle Beer (Salem, Neb.), middle blocker Kennedy Miller (Plattsmouth, Neb.), defensive specialist Chantal Paniagua (Santo Domingo, D.R.), and outside hitter Keiley Hein (Omaha) played significant roles last year.

Several impressive recruits will compete for playing time, too.

The team opens its 2023 schedule at home on Aug. 18. They'll play a pair of exhibition road games against NCAA Div. II opponents University of NebraskaKearney (Sept. 5) and Wayne State College (Sept. 26).

They will host a Homecoming Day matchup against conference for CulverStockton on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m.

Encouraging Season for Women's Bowling As was anticipated after a good recruiting effort, the Bobcat women's bowling team proved they were no fluke with a more competitive team during the 2022-23 season.

Dwayne Da Moude, the first-year Bobcat head coach, led his charges to a third-place finish in the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship.

After finishing in fifth after 24 BakerStyle games, the Bobcats eventually fell

to four-time champions the Baker (Kan.) Wildcats.

Makenzie Millard (freshman, Topeka, Kan.) was named the 2023 Heart Women's Bowling Newcomer of the Year.

She was Peru State's top bowler in nearly every tourney.

The prospects look bright for the Bobcats for the 2023-24 season as much of the team will be returning.

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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 c/o PSC Foundation PO Box10 Peru, NE 68421-0010 For more information about Peru State College, Nebraska's first college, visit www.peru.edu or find us on Facebook.

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