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04 THIS IS SIMPSON 05 F1RST GENERATION CELEBRATION C ARVER BRIDGE TO STEM 06 07 THROWBACK 08 ATHLETICS 10 CONTINUING & GRADUATE 11 CHAPLAIN'S MESSAGE 12 FEATURE STORIES The Walk on the Pier that Launched a Career From Refugee Camp to College Classroom
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NEWS TOURING THE YEARS ADVANCEMENT
The Simpson Magazine is published by the Office of Marketing & Strategic Communication. Send correspondence to alumni.office@simpson.edu.
THE MAGAZINE Bob Lane '81 Interim Simpson College President Produced by the Office of Marketing & Strategic Communication Christie Denniston Bryan Geelan '07 Ellie Walter Chelsea Grenier Devin Perry
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Contributing Writers Bryan Geelan '07 Zach Newcomer Photography Luke Behaunek Devin Perry
Office of Alumni Relations Andy English ’05 Director 515-961-1547 Office of College Advancement Ken Converse Acting Vice President 515-961-1548
PRE SIDE NT 'S ME SSAGE
A Note From The Interim President Greetings on behalf of my colleagues and our students at Simpson College. During these unprecedented times, it is a great honor and privilege to serve my alma mater as the Interim President. As a proud 1981 graduate of Simpson and a first-generation student, I have seen firsthand the profound impact Simpson has on the lives of its students. Now, as we are confronted with another pivotal moment in the college’s history, I want you to know we’ve got a great team here doing all we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, our faculty and staff as well as the rest of our Simpson family. Dating back to our founding, Simpson has always been a place for students with BIG dreams and INSPIRING aspirations. It is a place where those with long family histories or those forging their own paths can make their mark. The opportunity that allowed George Washington Carver to flourish and go on to make immeasurable contributions to society still exists today. Last September, I was asked to speak to a group of current first-generation students about what it was like during my undergraduate years at Simpson and what impact that education has had on my life. Simpson enabled me, a smalltown boy from eastern Iowa, to achieve my goal of a college education in pursuit of becoming a teacher and a coach. While I never ended up in the classroom or in a gymnasium, the guidance and support I received from my advisor, Dick Starr along with other faculty and coaches, allowed me to get an exceptional liberal arts education that has provided a wonderful life for my family and me. For that I will always be grateful! In this edition of the Simpson Magazine, you will find many other stories like mine. You will see inspiring stories about students and alumni who are also first-generation students and have gone on to have rich and fulfilling lives due to the opportunities made possible through their Simpson education. The common thread of these stories is that it was never a question of "if" they would go to college but "where," just as it was for me. As we look ahead to a world shaped by the new realities of COVID-19, higher education — rooted in the liberal arts — prepares us for the "unexpected" and thus continues to be of paramount importance. Whether you were a first generation student, or not, what remains important is the foundation Simpson College provides to all. I wish you good health and happiness. Please take a few minutes to enjoy reading about just a few of these stories that continue to strengthen and add to the Simpson Experience.
BOB LANE '81, INTERIM PRESIDENT
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THIS IS SIMPSON
In the Spring of 2018, Simpson College began a campus-wide process to review and update the college’s mission, vision and values statements. To facilitate this important work, feedback from students, staff, faculty and alumni was sought. This process resulted in the development of themes from the community about who Simpson College is and why the vital work we do matters to our community, state, region and world. The following statements went through multiple rounds of community feedback and were approved by the Board of Trustees at its February 2020 meeting.
Mission
Vision
Through innovative learning opportunities, individual student attention and an unwavering commitment to inclusive educational access, Simpson College cultivates a diverse community of learners to lead lives of meaning and purpose.
To be nationally recognized as the quintessential liberal arts college of the Greater Des Moines area, transforming students through welcoming communities, exceptional programs and distinctive opportunities.
Values
Grounded in the liberal arts tradition and drawing from our Methodist heritage, Simpson College affirms these values as guiding principles that create our cultural foundation.
We design learning opportunities in which curiosity and creativity flourish, where students venture outside their comfort zone to explore their identity and place in the world.
We prepare students for global and local leadership through broad liberal arts education, experiential and service learning, and civic engagement.
Citizenship
We defend the dignity and worth inherent in all human beings, creating an atmosphere where equity and inclusion are hallmarks of our community.
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Discovery
Justice
Access
CORE VALUES
We extend higher education opportunities to all types of learners, empowering students to pursue intellectual, personal, and professional growth.
Belonging
Integrity
We engender communities of radical hospitality where all are welcome and unique identities are embraced.
We recognize a moral responsibility to respond to ethical challenges through our religious, secular, and spiritual identities.
F1RST GENERATION CELEBRATION
Simpson College Celebrates FirstGeneration Day The Simpson College community came together to celebrate the success of its first-generation college students, faculty and staff at National FirstGeneration Day on Nov. 8, 2019. To make the event possible, the college secured a select, national grant to fund the festivities. Simpson was the only college or university in the state of Iowa and one of just 24 nationally to receive the grant, which came from the Council for Opportunity in Education, the Center for First-Generation Student Success and the Suder Foundation. “As an institution, we felt that this was an important event to celebrate because of the high percentage of first-generation students we have at Simpson,” said Marzia Corni-Benson, former director of the TRIO-Student Support Services program at Simpson and current director of foundation and government support programs. Forty percent of Simpson students are first-generation. The event took place in Kent Campus Center and featured presentations from first-generation faculty and staff, a student-produced video highlighting the experiences of first-generation individuals, a banner signing and various giveaway items. Leading up to the celebration, the TRIO-Student Support Services program received unexpected gifts from two anonymous donors who wanted to provide assistance to first-generation students. Seven juniors and seniors were honored with the surprise scholarships: Ajay Gurung, Morgan King, Angelina Patiño, Kimberly Roberts, Katrina Sieck, Adriana Soto and Stephanie Twohey.
Kimberly Roberts was one of seven who received a scholarship on Nov. 8, 2019.
What is TRIOStudent Support Services? Student Support Services (SSS) is one of the eight, federally-funded outreach and student services programs that comprise TRIO. The name TRIO is not an acronym. It was created after the first three programs — Upward Bound, Talent Search and Student Support Services — were combined. At Simpson College, TRIO-SSS serves those who are first-generation, lowincome or disabled. The program is designed to motivate and support participants to overcome class, social and cultural barriers to higher education. Some of the many services TRIOSSS provides include: • I ndividualized academic coaching and advising • 24/7 online tutoring • Peer-mentoring • TRIO Grant Aid scholarships • Social and cultural activities •W orkshops on topics designed to help with the transition to college S I M P S O N . E D U/ M AG A Z I N E | 5
CARVER BRIDGE TO STEM
Scholarship Recipient
STEM Scholarship Program Poised for Expansion Simpson College secured a STEM Success grant nearly four years ago that provided a unique opportunity to a cohort of 15 students. As these students approach graduation, Simpson College has plans to build on the program’s success and reach even more students in the next two years. In 2016, Simpson College received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). With these funds, Simpson began a scholarship program designed to offer students who met requirements the opportunity for an education in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields. In addition to scholarships, the students received mentorship from businesses around the country, internship opportunities and a chance to conduct research. Of the original 15 students, 12 either graduated in December 2019 or will graduate in May 2020. Six of these students are first-generation. “As faculty members, we’re looking at access to education from a place of privilege without even realizing it,” said Heidi Berger, associate professor of mathematics and the principal investigator for the program. “We know this grant made a college education a reality for students when it otherwise may not have been possible.” Berger and her colleagues are in the process of re-applying for the NSF grant, which has the potential to double in 2020. The financial increase will allow Simpson to enroll more students in the program. “We would like to engage our alumni on a larger scale,” Berger said. “An alumni advisory committee has the potential to provide invaluable mentorship during a student’s first two years. This would better prepare them to interact with their business mentors as juniors and seniors.”
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George Saucedo ’20
Major: Computer Science Hometown: Chicago, Illinois Future Plans: Work in Cybersecurity
The grant application process is grueling. It requires insight from multiple departments and offices, ranging from academics to financial aid. It’s also competitive. Because the Carver Bridge to STEM Success Program has demonstrated success, Simpson College will be able to make a case for additional funds. “We wouldn’t do it if we didn’t think it could change the lives of these students,” said Berger.
Interested in joining the alumni advisory committee for the Carver Bridge to STEM Success Program? Contact Andy English, alumni director, at andy.english@simpson.edu to sign up.
THROWBACK
Then & Now
Share your throwback photos of the Simpson College campus on social media. Use #SimpsonThrowback
Hillman Hall
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AT H L E T I C S
Ahmed Musa’s American Dream From Egypt to Des Moines, Ahmed Musa’s journey to Simpson College spans more than 6,500 miles. Musa, a first generation student spent the first two years of his life in Egypt, before his family moved to the east coast of the United States. Musa’s family has now put down roots in Iowa. “My parents wanted me to have a better life in America,” said Musa. “They wanted me to achieve the American dream to go to college and be successful.” The oldest of six kids, Musa is following his parents’ wishes while enrolled at Simpson College. The transition to another continent was easy due to Musa’s young age, but moving to college just 20 miles south of his parents proved to be a challenge. “I wasn’t prepared for college and had no idea what the lifestyle was like since my parents hadn't experienced the academic life here in the U.S.,” said Musa. “I was homesick at first and not used to campus, so I would always go home when I could during the season.” Now a junior on the men’s basketball team, Musa has relied on athletics and TRIO-Student Support Services to help him build a strong foundation. “I meet with Marzia CorniBenson (former director of TRIO-Student Support Services and current director of foundation and government support programs) every other week to keep her updated and we constructed a plan on what needed to be done,” he said. TRIO has given tools to Musa so he can succeed on campus; now, he gives back to fellow first-generation students. Since Musa is the first in his family to go through the college application process, he is tasked with helping his siblings fill out scholarship forms, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and even set up tours at schools. He is familiar with helping people through obstacles as he supported his parents during the process of becoming U.S citizens after he was awarded citizenship in 2018. Musa’s helping hand stretches further than his family as he’s already developed a company, the Laced Up Foundation, that’s changing lives in Des Moines. The project is designed to donate shoes to at-risk youth and the homeless, while trying to create awareness of poverty in the
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“Helping those around you can lead to things you’ve never imagined.” – Ahmed Musa '21 Interactive Media Major Des Moines Area. “I’m doing this because I want to create a spark for those around me and show that change really starts with you,” he said. “Helping those around you can lead to things you’ve never imagined.” Musa’s desire to help others started right before he came to Simpson. There was a place near his home where he could donate items. “Shoes can be materialistic, but they are a key stepping stone to being successful,” he said. “Without shoes, you can’t go to school, get a job or do other things to become successful in life.” The basketball community that Musa has been part of has shown interest in his foundation. In fact, a former coach has donated more than 200 pairs of shoes to help Musa nurture his business, which has grown due to posters being shared around campus and in the community. “I’m trying to be a role model for my siblings and for my community.”
AT H L E T I C S
Play Hard! Have Fun! Earning 600 wins as a college basketball coach is a rare feat. In fact, only 10 active coaches in Division III women’s basketball have reached the milestone. Brian Niemuth, head coach of the Simpson women’s basketball team, is now one of the 10. The longtime head coach of the Storm earned his 600th career win when Simpson beat Millikin 76-69 on Dec. 21, 2019. Each one of Niemuth’s wins — totaling 611 by season’s end — has come during his 33 years at Simpson, making him the eighth-winningest active head coach in Division III. To put the accomplishment in perspective, Niemuth’s teams have averaged 18.5 wins per year in seasons that typically span 25 games. Before Niemuth or his players take the court, he always writes “Play Hard! Have Fun!” on the board as a reminder for his team while on the hardwood. Niemuth’s message has been instilled in his players — some of whom are now coaches themselves — who use the slogan in their pregame routines. “Simpson gave me a great opportunity and has been supportive in allowing me to be successful on the court,” said Niemuth. “At Simpson, it's not just about basketball. It's about getting a good education so individuals graduate and become
Reinert Credits Teamwork For "Coach Of The Year" Honor In only his second season as head coach, Jeremy Reinert ’13 earned the title of 2019 American Rivers Conference Women’s Soccer Coach of the Year.
productive, well-rounded people.” In athletics, it’s tough to find a person that has stayed at the same institution for as long as Niemuth, but when you only have three losing seasons in 33 years, it’s hard to leave. “I was going to be at Simpson for three to four years to get some head coaching experience,” he said. “But I fell in love with Iowa, Simpson College and met my wife here, and now we won’t be going anywhere else.” Climbing the career victory list seems like a goal for many coaches, but it wasn’t for Niemuth. “None of the numbers were ever goals, they just sort of happened,” he said. “I think that’s part of why I obtained the wins: I didn't worry about it.” Niemuth's teams have won 11 conference championships, made 10 NCAA Tournament berths and three Sweet 16 appearances. What he values the most, though, is seeing his players succeed in life. I get my main enjoyment from seeing them years after they’ve graduated from Simpson College,” said Niemuth.
Jeremy Reinert led the Storm to a 10-4-5 record in 2019, the program’s most wins since the 2011 campaign. He became just the third coach in program history to receive conference coach of the year honors. “I was incredibly humbled to earn the award,” said Reinert. “I didn't connect a pass, take a shot, or make a save, so while I understand what the award means, it still seems misdirected. The defense our team played as a collective group is what set us up to succeed.” Reinert grew up in Indianola, graduated from Indianola High School and was an all-conference men’s soccer player at Simpson. His wife, Amy, is also from Indianola. As Reinert prepares for his third season in 2020, he brings back a trio of players who landed on the all-conference team in 2019. The team hopes to use that experience to reach new heights in 2020. To re-live the success of the 2019 season, visit the women’s soccer page on SimpsonAthletics.com.
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C O N T I N U I N G & G R A D U AT E
Is Your Business "Future Ready"? Join Simpson College in taking the Pledge As a Simpson College alum, we know you value higher education. As a business and community leader, you also recognize the importance of workforce planning. The State of Iowa and Greater Des Moines Partnership see the pivotal role that higher education plays in workforce readiness.
What is Future Ready? Future Ready DSM is an initiative to ensure that 75 percent of Greater Des Moines (DSM) working-age adults have degrees, certificates and other credentials by 2025. By pledging to join Future Ready DSM, your organization is promising to: • I dentify your employees who have yet to gain postsecondary experience and help them get on track to meet future demands. • E ducate your employees and provide tuition support for them to complete their degrees and receive advanced training to meet your company’s changing needs.
75% ENSURE THAT
of Des Moines working-age adults have degrees by 2025
Simpson.edu/FutureReadyDSM
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Simpson’s Continuing and Graduate Program is uniquely positioned to be your higher education partner in getting your workforce Future Ready. We are: • Ranked nationally among the top colleges and universities for return on investment and quality online instruction • Offer convenient evening courses in West Des Moines • Award college credit for what employees already know through the Life Experience Program Take the Future Ready DSM Pledge and partner with Simpson to ensure your team members gain the knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills needed to meet your future workforce needs.
CH A PL A IN'S ME SSAGE
Chaplain's Message John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, preached to a world that was experiencing great division between economic classes during the heart of the industrial revolution. He was speaking to revitalize the church, but wanted the church to be a place where any and all could hear words of grace. He believed in the transformative power of education, and how access to education could provide someone the means to move forward in society. Education removed barriers that many were experiencing to live healthy and whole lives.
Methodism Spreads Westward As Methodism spread throughout the West, and especially in North America, Wesley encouraged churches to build up schools and colleges while they were forming communities of faith. Charles Wesley, who authored many Methodist hymns, penned these words:
“Unite the pair so long disjoined, Knowledge and vital piety: Learning and holiness combined, And truth and love, let all men see In those whom up to thee we give, Thine, wholly thine, to die and live.”
It was out of the belief that faith and knowledge complement each other and that once was seen as separate should be rejoined, that Simpson College was born. The faithful Methodist congregation in Indianola sought to answer the call to provide a space for higher education for men and women in their community. And so, in 1860, Simpson College opened its doors.
At their recent meeting, the Board of Trustees passed new Mission, Vision, and Values statements. There are six values named as our core guiding principles: Discovery, Access, Citizenship, Belonging, Justice, and Integrity. The statement on access reads: "We extend higher education opportunities to all types of learners, empowering students to pursue intellectual, personal, and professional growth.” Just as the early Methodists sought to make education accessible, we continue in this work today. The ethos of access is inherent in much of our campus work, and it has been part of our approach since our founding. Access has been at the heart of Methodist higher education since churches worked to begin schools across the country. Engaging the mind is vital to a living faith. Our society is made stronger when EVERYONE has access to high quality education. This is what we do — when we create innovative pathways for first-generation college students to access education; when we remove barriers for students so that they can meet their learning goals; when we provide supports for a student’s academic, social, emotional and spiritual needs — we are making what has been a proud heritage a lived reality. I love our campus for our commitment to making education accessible. Access for all has been at our core for over 150 years, and it is a value that will serve our society well into the future.
MARA LEHEW BAILEY ’06, SIMPSON COLLEGE CHAPLAIN S I M P S O N . E D U/ M AG A Z I N E | 1 1
F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
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F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
What is "First Gen?" Good question.
A first-generation college student is defined as an undergraduate whose parents do not have bachelor's degrees. At Simpson College, 40 percent of undergraduate students are first-generation. | CENTER FOR FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT SUCCESS |
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F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
The Walk on Navy Pier that Launched a Career Alumnus Junior Rodriguez helps at-risk students achieve their goal of graduating from college The odds of Jose (Junior) Rodriguez ’13 graduating from college were unlikely. Neither of his parents went to college and most of his friends didn’t consider pursuing higher education. In fact, statistics show that only 20 percent of Latino males earn an associate’s degree or higher. But Rodriguez was determined to leave his home in Chicago, chase his dream of playing baseball and earn a four-year degree. Thanks to a walk on the Navy Pier, the famous Chicago landmark, his dream became a reality. Rodriguez attended a college fair there, walking from booth to booth to collect as many fliers and brochures as possible. He went home to sort through the stacks of literature, stopping when he uncovered Simpson College’s brochure. “I loved reading about life at Simpson, the small campus, the tradition...when I saw the pictures of campus, I saw myself there,” he shared. “I immediately reached out for more information and knew I had to come for a visit.” Rodriguez visited, applied and enrolled. He packed his bags and set out for Indianola in the fall of 2009. But the transition wasn’t without challenges. As a first-generation college student — those who are the first in their family to obtain a degree from a four-year institution — the path to 14 |
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college and the journey itself can be filled with unfamiliar situations. As the first member of a family to attend college, first-generation students often don’t have a relative to help with issues like choosing a major, paying for college or even figuring out what to pack for life in a dorm room.
Finding His Way Those who know Rodriguez — an outgoing individual with a seemingly permanent smile on his face — might find it hard to believe, but he needed time to adjust to life on campus. He experienced culture shock, moving from an all-Hispanic neighborhood in Chicago to Indianola. He even had doubts that he’d made the right choice. “I stayed in my room for two or three months,” he says. “I went to practice, but didn’t make friends with the other players right away.” Rodriguez’s situation changed when he met Elijah Knox ’13 during homecoming week of his freshman year. Like Rodriguez, Knox — a men’s basketball player from Arizona — was a fellow student-athlete from outside the state of Iowa. Rodriguez befriended Knox, expanded his network of friends and got involved on campus. He went on to become active in the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, Multicultural Student Alliance, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and the Math Club.
F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
The TRIO Impact At Simpson College, TRIO provides academic support, cultural activities and personal development programming to underserved populations that often face barriers in higher education–including first-generation college students. Rodriguez took advantage of the TRIO program to help navigate the difficult and unfamiliar situations he encountered. The program had such an impact on him that he has made it his life’s work to provide mentorship to students in similar situations. Rodriguez doesn’t hide the impact TRIO had on his college career.
“I was very lucky to have TRIOStudent Support Services. Without that program, I would not have graduated and would not be where I am today.” – Junior Rodriguez '13 Mathematics major
“I was very lucky to have TRIO-Student Support Services,” he says, looking back on the resources the program provided to ease his transition. “Without that program, I would not have graduated and would not be where I am today.” TRIO helped Rodriguez acclimate to college by allowing him to move in early and tour campus to learn where his classes would be held. The program purchased his books for the first semester and provided him with an on-campus job beginning his sophomore year. While Rodriguez appreciated help with the logistics of college, the most beneficial assets TRIO provided were people who cared about him as a person. That’s why his advice to students in similar situations is to find someone who will provide support. “Find the person on campus who will be a resource for you,” he said. “You need a person who will support you in any way possible. You don’t have to go through this alone. There are people willing to help, you just need to find that person.”
Giving Back Rodriguez graduated with a degree in mathematics but knew from his experience with TRIO that he wanted to help other first-generation students rather than pursue a career within his major. His first experience mentoring others came during his time as a student at Simpson and provided dual benefits for Rodriguez: he had the opportunity to help students in a similar situation and he gained the satisfaction of giving back to the program that helped him. “I would tell the undergraduates ‘Hey, this is going to be tough, but if I can get through it, literally anyone can.’” Rodriguez began his professional career at College Possible, a nonprofit AmeriCorps organization that promotes college admission for lowincome students. His responsibilities included helping students prepare for the ACT, apply for scholarships and write admission essays.
TRIO – by the Numbers 160 students served per year 90% persistence rate (returning from one term to another) in 2018-19
73% graduation rate in 2018-19 77% of TRIO students in 2019-20 are first-generation Source: Stephanie Neve, interim director of TRIO-Student Support Services, March 2020
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F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
Rodriguez has embraced his move to Philadelphia. Above, he is shown pursuing his love of music. As a high school student, Rodriguez sent just one college application, applied for zero outside scholarships and didn’t properly prepare for the ACT. As a mentor, he encouraged his students to do the opposite. “I taught them everything I should have done myself,” he says. “I used my first-hand experience as an example of what not to do.” Rodriguez enjoyed his time at College Possible, but he wanted to make a change. Rather than helping students get to college, he wanted to help students once they enrolled. In July 2019, he embarked on his current venture as a first-year advisor for at-risk students at La Salle University. His role is similar to the one he benefited from as a student at Simpson. “I wanted to focus more on retention,” he says. “I wanted to make an impact on a specific campus and this job allows me to do that. It allows me to be more involved in the lives of students.”
The Biggest Success Story Throughout his career, Rodriguez has helped dozens of students either attend or stay in college. But of all the students who’ve benefited from his mentorship, one — whom he never even advised in a professional role — stands out among the rest.
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Her name is Kiara Rodriguez. She graduated from Dominican University and she is Rodriguez’s little sister. “My biggest success story is that my baby sister graduated from college. My parents learned from my experience and got it right with my little sister.” Rodriguez’s journey as a first-generation college student wasn’t easy. It came with challenges. But he endured adversity, earned his diploma and opened doors for himself and his family in the process.
“My biggest success story is that my baby sister graduated from college. My parents learned from my experience and got it right with my little sister.” – Junior Rodriguez '13 Mathematics major
F E AT U R E S T O R I E S
From Refugee Camp to College Classroom Former Bhutanese refugee Ajay Gurung realizes potential at Simpson College Simpson College junior Ajay Gurung knows about overcoming adversity. Before he was born, Gurung’s family was among the more than 100,000 people exiled from the South Asian country of Bhutan during ethnic cleansing in the early 1990s. They were placed in a refugee camp in Nepal, where Gurung spent the first 10 years of his life. His family relocated again in 2011 – part of a resettlement process that sent a majority of those living in the Nepalese refugee camps to the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. Gurung and his family moved to Des Moines, joining a community of more than 1,000 Bhutanese to settle in the state. Despite the lack of educational opportunities at the refugee camp — most classes were taught by volunteers who didn’t have a formal education — Gurung graduated from Des Moines Lincoln High School. When it came time to decide on a college, his experience in Simpson College’s Upward Bound program made the choice an easy one. “Staying on campus for two summers through Upward Bound allowed me to experience what life is like on a college campus. It helped me feel comfortable and had a tremendous influence on my decision to attend Simpson,” Gurung said. Like many first-generation college students, Gurung assumes a leadership role in his family. He acts as a role model for his two younger siblings and provides assistance to his parents, both of whom are deaf and mute. He also carries the responsibility of being a leader in the Bhutanese Community in Iowa (BCI). “Ours is a tight-knit community,” he said. “During the past several years, only a few students from our community have gone to college. Others have tried, but it hasn’t always worked out.”
Ajay Gurung '21, Human Services major It is working out for Gurung, who is set to graduate in 2021. A human services major, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work. A big reason for his academic success has been the mentorship provided by the TRIO-Student Support Services program at Simpson College. “Since childhood, his life has been about moving forward and living up to his potential,” said Marzia Corni-Benson, former director of TRIO and current director of foundation and government support programs. “For Ajay, there is no obstacle that is insurmountable and no problem that cannot be solved. Adversity is a part of life that he knows how to accept with a positive mindset. Every challenge offers an opportunity for growth.” While his goal of graduation is in the near future, Gurung knows he has more to accomplish. “I feel great to be where I am today, but I don’t feel like this is the end. This is just the beginning.” BHUTAN
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A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N
SAVE THE DATE Homecoming & Family Weekend October 16-18, 2020 Plan to join fellow members of the Simpson Community for a weekend filled with laughter, entertainment and recollections of your time spent beneath the whispering maples. We look forward to coming together as one Simpson.
Class Reunions: 1970 | 1995 | 2010
Special Celebrations & Reunions:
150th Anniversary of The Simpsonian & 1970s Theatre Alumni Reunion
Other Events: • • • •
Alumni and Athletic Awards Tailgate & Children’s Activities Football vs. Nebraska Wesleyan Simpson Productions presents The Enchanted Pig • Campus and Community Worship Updates at Simpson.edu/homecoming 18 |
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The Honor Roll of the Names that Live at Simpson College Every five years, Simpson College inducts alumni and former faculty to “the Honor Roll of the Names That Live at Simpson.” Established in 1986 by the Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Board of Directors, the Honor Roll recognizes the most distinguished alumni and former faculty who have made a significant impact on Simpson College. The names of those inducted will appear on the recognition walls at the south entrance to the Pedestrian Plaza.
This is your opportunity to nominate an alum and/or former faculty member for this honor! For more information and to submit your nomination, visit simpson.edu/HonorRoll. Deadline: July 17, 2020
NEWS
Australians Visit Campus to Experience Iowa Caucuses A group of 39 college students and professors from the University of Adelaide and Macquarie University in Australia visited the Simpson College campus from Jan. 20 - Feb. 4 for a first-hand look at American politics. The students traveled to the U.S. to experience the first vote of 2020 at the Iowa caucuses. The program featured events that included participation in Simpson’s Mock Caucus and a tour of numerous media outlets in the Des Moines area. The group had a frontrow seat to multiple democratic presidential candidates who visited campus including: Vice President Joe Biden, Senator Bernie Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Former Mayor Pete Buttigieg. “People outside the United States are entirely focused on American politics,” said Tom Buchanan, a senior lecturer
Sport Administration Students Network in the Twin Cities A group of 14 sport administration students took a networking trip to the Twin Cities in late January, getting
in history at Adelaide and one of the faculty members on the trip. “It’s in the news quite regularly and many have strong feelings — as Americans do — but we have only a very superficial clue. We hear soundbites but not the details we need to understand its complexity.” Simpson’s study abroad program, the department of political science and the Culver Public Policy Center coordinated the visit.
an inside look at the operations of four professional sports organizations and the athletic department at the University of Minnesota. The students met with front office personnel for the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, including Charles ‘Chuck’ Petersen ’06, director of team operations, the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves, the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx and MLB’s Minnesota Twins. They also toured the athletic facilities at the University of Minnesota with Brady Buresh ’08, director of operations at TCF Bank Stadium, and the group attended a reception and Gopher hockey game with the Twin Cities Alumni Chapter. “The students gained a better understanding of what it takes to be successful in the industry and what kind of jobs are out there,” said Clint Huntrods, assistant professor of sport science and advisor for the Sports Administration Club that organized the trip. “Sport administration can be a very broad field. A trip like this gives students a clearer perspective of what to expect on their career path.”
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NEWS
"Owen provided exemplary service and set a standard of excellence that all of our board of trustee members aspire toward in their service to the institution." — Bob Lane '81
Former Simpson College President and LongTime Board Member Recognized for Service The Simpson College Board of Trustees recognized the contributions of former president Jay K. Simmons and longtime board member Owen Newlin in a ceremony held Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020.
of service. Newlin who, turned 92 the same day, received a commemorative chair and became an honorary lifetime trustee member. The retired senior vice president of Pioneer Hi-Bred International served as board chair from 1985-93.
The board recognized Simmons and his wife, Jennè, for their six-plus years of service. The ceremony included the unveiling of Simmons’ portrait, which is displayed in the Matthew Simpson Room inside College Hall.
“It was an honor to recognize Jay Simmons and Owen Newlin for their contributions to Simpson College,” interim college president Bob Lane ’81 said. “Owen provided exemplary service and set a standard of excellence that all of our board of trustee members aspire toward in their service to the institution.”
The board also honored Newlin, who resigned his position on the board of trustees in October 2019 after nearly 40 years
Data Analytics Certificate Now Offered Simpson College added a post-baccalaureate certificate in data analytics, providing students who already have a bachelor's degree with the opportunity for advanced training in the in-demand world of big data. A certificate in data analytics allows individuals to gain the fundamental tools of data exploration, visualization and modeling that can enhance a wide range of careers. Think you might be interested? Learn more at simpson.edu/post-baccalaureate-certificates. 20 |
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TOURING THE YEARS
In an effort to be better stewards of our resources, we have transitioned to an online platform for our Class Notes portion of Touring the Years. We invite you to visit simpson.edu/classnotes to view the accomplishments of our alumni. If you wish to receive a printed copy of Class Notes, please contact andy.english@simpson.edu. To submit accomplishments and updates to be included in future editions, visit simpson.edu/alumni/update.
Marriages Jessica Trost ’05 and John Kim, Sept. 8, 2019, Hastings, MN.
Kristina Roth ’14 and Ryan Klinck, Jan. 18, 2020, Dallas, TX.
Stacie Kjellsen ’15 and Matt Dahlin, Aug. 24, 2019, Newton.
Chris McKinnon ’17 and Hannah Mason ’18, Aug. 17, 2019, Des Moines.
Madison Hermon ’18 and Ayden Twaddell, Aug. 3, 2018, Carlisle.
Births/Adoptions Caleb Peterson, May 19, 2019, to Ron Peterson ’07 and Katie Struck Peterson ’07, Key West, FL. Joins brother, Ryan. Samuel Lindberg, Oct. 28, 2018, to Sarah Burton Lindberg ’08 and Nick Lindberg, Minneapolis, MN. Joins brother, Jonathan. Eloise Swoyer, Nov. 24, 2019, to Meridith Sayler Swoyer ’09 and Zachary Swoyer, Urbandale. Joins siblings Hadley and Dean. Scarlett Bakula, Aug. 14, 2019, to Sarah Hammel Bakula ’10 and Jason Bakula, Fort Atkinson.
Ellie Trimble, June 2019, to Robert Trimble ’12 and Alyssa Thompson Trimble ‘12, Ankeny.
Evelyn DesCamps, Nov. 30, 2019, to Leslie Downing DesCamps ’13 and T.J. DesCamps, Carlisle. Harlow Stockdale, July 30, 2018, to Taylor Stockdale ’13 and Nicole Gearhart Stockdale ’14, Lincoln, NE. Theodore Gibney, Oct. 14, 2019, to Jacob Gibney ’18 and Madelynn Wipperman Gibney ’18, Ames.
Bowen Yarkosky, Mar. 4, 2019, to Drew Yarkosky ’11 and Meg Parks Yarkowsky ’13, Kearney, MO. Joins sister, Clara.
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TOURING THE YEARS
Deaths Dora Eugenia ‘Geni’ Howard ’46, Dec. 26, 2019, Sioux City.
Lee Remy ’52, May 6, 2009, Colonial Heights, VA.
Marian Grieve Bankus ’46, Aug. 20, 2019, Houston, TX.
Edith Criswell Hirsch ’53, Oct. 13, 2019, Indianola.
Helen Cramer Simpkins ’46, Feb. 19, 2020, Ames.
Leonard Crawford ’55, Oct. 5, 2014, Humboldt.
Mary Jane Van Vliet Whinery ’47, Oct. 18, 2019, Amarillo, TX.
Jacqueline Beaman Klein ’56, Feb. 29, 2020, Virginia Beach, VA.
George Buchanan ’47, Nov. 30, 2019, Gaithersburg, MD.
Helen Lamm Lorenzen ’56, Oct. 4, 2017, Truro.
Marilyn Davitt Washburn ’48, Dec. 5, 2019, Guthrie Center.
Anne Kinsey Williams ’56, Feb. 6, 2019, Atlantic.
Robert Day ’49, Sept. 17, 2019, Albuquerque, NM.
Mary Embree Hidlebaugh ’57, Jan. 5, 2019, Waterloo.
Marilee Bane Wyatt ’49, Oct. 6, 2019, Saint James, MN.
John Clark ’58, Nov. 22, 2019, McHenry, IL.
Dr. Julia Genelle Grant Morain ’49, Feb. 17, 2020, Indianola. June Peterson Powers ’50, Dec. 27, 2019, Gresham, OR. Marjorie Weber Moore ’50, Dec. 25, 2019, Indianola. Norma Mills Hooper ’50, Feb. 24, 2020, Urbandale. Maxine Lightfoot O’Dell ’50, Feb. 25, 2020, Des Moines. Gene Rosendahl ’51, Jan. 30, 2020, Des Moines. Marilyn Shultice Booth ’52, Oct. 7, 2019, Inverness, FL. F. Keith Davis ’52, April 3, 2019, Huntsville, AL.
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Jacqueline ‘Jackie’ Pyfer Vanderlinden ’58, Oct. 12, 2019, Indianola. C. Max Irelan ’58, Feb. 16, 2019, Nashville, TN. Robert Gress ’59, Oct. 24, 2019, Westside. Marvin Steffen ’59, Nov. 20, 2019, Corning. Robert Ford ’60, Dec. 10, 2018, Lenexa, KS. Omer Barnes ’60, May 23, 2019, Ankeny. Lorean Jackson Hall ’60, July 17, 2018, Belleville, IL. Gordon Morris ’61, Jan. 16, 2020, Studio City, CA. Mariel Williams Reed ’61, Nov. 27, 2019, Pendleton, IN. Sherry Goodwin Tish ’61, Mar. 24, 2018, Winterset.
Larry Maynes ’64, June 10, 2018, Carson. Mary Cochran Keeney ’65, Dec. 12, 2019, Carlisle. Judith Reed Sieck ’65, Feb. 4, 2020, Cleveland Heights, OH. Karen Klouda De Vore ’65, Jan. 25, 2020, Indianola. H. Jeff Peterson ’67, Aug. 24, 2019, Pekin, IL. Carol McKenzie Blackman ’70, Sept. 29, 2014, Grand Island, FL. Denis Hildreth ’74, Oct. 10, 2019, Des Moines. John Hurley ’76, Oct. 20, 2019, Des Moines. Michael Tracy ’76, Mar. 8, 2018, Wadena, MN. David Crow ’76, Nov. 22, 2019, Newton. Allan Gibson ’81, June 17, 2019, Sioux City. Sandra Kay Simmons ‘82, May 11, 2007, Douglasville, GA. Bryan Joens ’84, Oct. 6, 2018, Waterloo. Heath Huberg ’05, Oct. 13, 2019, Wessington Springs, SD.
Faculty and Staff Martin ‘Marty’ Feeney, Jan. 3, 2020, Clive. Ken Fuson, Jan. 3, 2020, Granger.
A D VA N C E M E N T
Calendar of Events There are so many opportunities to be involved at Simpson College. View an upcoming calendar of events at events.simpson.edu. We look forward to seeing you!
Summer Camps at Simpson Each summer, Simpson hosts a wide variety of summer camps. From music and athletics to humanities and Road Scholars, there is something for almost everyone! For a complete list of camps happening this summer, visit simpson.edu/news-events/summer-camps.
Pairing Passion with Profession… How did you discover your passion? Perhaps it was a first-year class, a conversation with a friend in your residence hall, participation in a club or organization, or even an obstacle that you overcame with the support of the Simpson community. Many of our alumni have drawn on their Simpson Experience to find fulfilling careers that pair their passion with their profession. In an upcoming issue of The Simpson Magazine, we want to feature these stories. Send us your story at alumni.office@simpson.edu and you may be featured in a future edition of The Simpson Magazine.
THE SIMPSON FUND & Imagine The Impact Campaign
This year, your gift to The Simpson Fund will also support Simpson’s Imagine The Impact Campaign! Because of YOU, students will CHANGE THE WORLD. Join us as we move forward with renewed purpose, enhancing our teaching and learning experiences for a bold and confident future.
EVERY donation makes a difference for EVERY student. Scan with your phone’s camera to learn more
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Connect With Us: #SimpsonCollege
