Warrior Connection: Fall 2017 by Waldorf University

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Fall 2017

Welcome Warrior Class of 2022!

This summer, 55 students and their families came to campus for orientation. The sun was shining bright that day, showing the natural beauty of the Waldorf campus to our visitors. We are thrilled to welcome everyone and share this Waldorf tradition.

What It Really Means To Be A Warrior By Dr. Robert Alsop, Waldorf University President

Welcome to Warrior Connection, a newsletter created specifically for Warrior parents to stay connected on what’s happening at Waldorf University. While your student is at Waldorf, one phrase that you’ll hear often is “We are Warriors.” When your son or daughter joins the Waldorf family, they soon become very familiar with what it means. We are Warriors in the classroom, in the limelight, on the field and in the bleachers. We are Warriors in our churches, in our local food banks and in nursing homes. We are Warriors in every sense of the word. We are dedicated to our communities and each other. Every day at Waldorf is another adventure to learn, grow and build lifelong friendships. Our dedicated faculty and staff are here for our students every day guiding them to reach their full potential. We believe that our students not only deserve a world-class education, but they deserve everything that comes with it.

Whether it’s welcoming incoming freshmen at Warrior Wind-Up, traveling abroad with the Waldorf Honors College, taking an advanced English class to button up your writing skills, or sharing stories with former classes of Warriors at Homecoming, every activity at Waldorf is intended to help your student transition into a successful adult. Thank you for trusting your student to Waldorf University. Rest assured, we will take good care of them here, because they are not only Warriors, they’re family.

Robert Alsop, Ph. D. Waldorf University President

Breaking Ground:

Building Starts on the New Hanson Family Fine Arts Center By Kelli Harms, A ssociate Director of Residential Marketing

This past spring, we broke ground on the new Hanson Family Fine Arts Center. The Hanson Family Fine Arts Center is a $10 million, two-story, 29,743 square foot state-of-the-art fine arts facility. When completed in the fall of 2018, the facility will be used for university and local theater group performances, as well as regional and national touring groups. “We had many prospective students and their families on campus for Fine Arts Weekend, so the groundbreaking was the perfect way to show them the importance we place on the fine arts at Waldorf,” said Waldorf University President Dr. Bob Alsop.

Arial view of the progress on the Hanson Family Fine Arts Center, located across the street from the Hanson Fieldhouse

The state-of-the-art facility includes amenities and technology including a proscenium stage, full-fly rigging system, orchestra pit and an auditorium that seats more than 600 people. The lobby provides a natural backdrop for visual art displays and houses the box office.

As excited as everyone is about the new fine arts facility, Smith Theatre will still house many campus performances. “Smith Theatre will also be our home, but the new Fine Arts Center gives us an opportunity to do larger shows in a more crowd-friendly space,” said Dr. AuFrance.

“As I go across the country recruiting fine arts students for Waldorf University and I see cuts in programs and funding for the arts, I am encouraged by the commitment of the community to support this new facility,” said Dr. Bob AuFrance, director of fine arts and professor of theater at Waldorf University. “It is so rare to have such a rural community actively express how important the arts are in our everyday life. This facility will help provide continued growth for our fine arts students in the public schools as well as our students at the university.”

“I think it’s going to be great for students,” said Abbie Wells ’17, special assistant to the Theatre Department. “It will give students more opportunities to work with advanced technologies and space. From the modified thrust arena in the Smith Theatre to the proscenium stage at the new Fine Arts Center, students will have a full range of theater experiences.” When you are on campus, stop by and see how the building is progressing. Or follow its progress on the Waldorf Facebook page.

The Future is Bright in the Education Department By Becky Hill, Waldorf University A ssociate Professor of Education

“The future’s so bright, you gotta wear shades.” This song lyric is not only true of summer, but it is also true of Waldorf University’s education program. Last year, we held great events on campus—including a special program from Scott Slechta, 2016 Iowa Teacher of the Year—and a visit from Dr. Ann Lebo, executive director of the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. But our biggest accomplishment was having nearly all of our 2017 graduates land teaching positions! For the 2017-18 year, one of the bright spots will be when the 2017 Iowa Teacher of the Year and Waldorf Alum Shelly (Wentzel) Vroegh ’94 returns to campus to talk to our students during Education Week. Shelly is a fifth grade teacher in Norwalk and we look forward to having her speak with our education students. In addition to changes at Waldorf, one major change that education students will see this year is to the Praxis core tests. These tests are used throughout the country as a requirement for education students to gain entrance into a teacher preparation program. Recently, national re-norming of these tests has resulted in test scores being lowered and now, Waldorf students have the option of using a composite score. This will help make the Praxis less intimidating and will allow your student to rest a little easier. Your student can find more information on the Praxis tests by talking with their advisor. Here’s to an exciting and bright 2017-18 year! 2

Career Services Isn’t Just for Seniors at Waldorf University By Mary Reisetter, Director of Career Planning

Career Services at Waldorf University helps our students from their first day on campus to their first day on the job—and every day in between. In the Career Services Center, we help students with career exploration and choosing a major, resume and cover letter writing, professional networking, internship and job searches, and interview preparation.

dents participate in these events, they have an opportunity to practice job search skills, learn about employers’ needs and expectations, and apply for internships and jobs with company recruiters. The events planned for the 2017-18 academic year include: Fall and Spring Mock Interview & Formal Dining Events

This past summer, with help from our faculty, more than 60 Waldorf students completed internships that provided them with valuable experience in their field of study. We had internships in Forest City, in metropolitan areas and even in some students’ hometowns.

In preparation for these events, students learn to write resumes and cover letters. They are also instructed on interviewing, professional networking and business meal etiquette. During the events, students will have the opportunity to practice their newly acquired skills with local business professionals and Waldorf alumni.

Here are just a few of the companies our students worked for this summer:

Camp Fair

// Artesia General Hospital // Francis Lauer Youth Services

Camps from around the Midwest region will be on campus to recruit students for summer camp positions and yearround positions.

// GIT Insurance

Spring Career and Internship Fair

// Carnival Cruise Lines

// Hy-Vee Inc.

Students and the general public will have an opportunity to visit with recruiters and apply for internships, part-time jobs, summer jobs and full-time professional positions.

// Permanent Mission of Indonesia to the United Nations // Riproar Events // Robert Half Accountemps // Security State Bank // Surf Ballroom // United Way

The start of the new semester is always exciting and the Career Center is ready to help your students achieve success!

The Career Center hosts several events each year to help prepare our students for the next chapter, whether their next chapter is work or continuing their education. When stu-

Students participating in last year’s Career and Internship Fair.

You Can Be a Warrior, Too! By Dr. Neal McGregor, Director of Graduate Studies

“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” – Albert Einstein As I engage with the online criminal justice courses at Waldorf, I hope that I exhibit the traits of a lifelong learner. Although a time for career in law enforcement has long past for me, my studies in organizational leadership with a concentration in criminal justice will help me to become a better citizen and a better teacher. Waldorf’s master’s in organizational leadership has been available since the beginning of the master’s studies program. It offers eight concentrations or a general non-concentration to choose from, with the goal to develop students’ leadership skills and equip them to use that leadership as an instrument for organizational change. Waldorf University is continually developing new courses and programs of study. Most recently, we launched our new Master of Arts in education, effective teacher program. This program is designed to help working educators bolster their teaching efficiency, refine their leadership skills and grow their potential in their field. This is going to be an exceptional program for those educators looking to master the skills, techniques and strategies that have the greatest impact on all learners in their care. These courses can also help many who are not in traditional education roles, including those who lead training in businesses, hospitals and other similar institutions. Waldorf offers a wealth of online classes that are open to all lifelong learners. Whether you are interested in pursuing a certificate, associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree, you too can be a Warrior! 3

Learn Through Exploration With the Honors College By Dr. Suzanne Falck-Yi, Director of the Honors College

Walking the cobbled streets of Rome and London. Going back in time to re-create the debates about democracy in ancient Greece. Walking through a restored prairie. Debating topics ranging from fairytales to justice, super-heroes to women's rights. Reading classic pieces of literature and philosophy or learning how to take great photographs. These are some of the experiences of Waldorf's Honors students. Honors College courses build upon each student’s learning experiences by instilling curiosity and reason into their curriculum. Honors classes and travel abroad add an extra dimension to college transcripts and the Honors thesis research project offers students career-related experiences for future job applications.

Honors students with Dr. Falck-Yi on the Honor’s Trip that is held every other year.

To join the Honors College, students should have at least a 24 ACT and/or at least a 3.5 GPA at their high school (or previous college). More importantly, they should have a passion for asking questions, exploring new ideas and actively engaging in the learning process. For more information, email Dr. Falck-Yi at falckyis@waldorf.edu.

Stay Up-To-Date With the Warriors Online By Matt Oliver, Sports Information Director

Stay up-to-date with the Warriors by visiting the athletics website at WaldorfWarriors.com. Get the latest on each sport at the touch of a button. Whether you’re looking for the latest scores, statistics, team schedules, rosters or news releases, everything can be found on the Warrior website. You can even sign up for email and mobile updates. Thank you for supporting Waldorf athletics and go Warriors!

Warriors Give Back

Service Opportunities Abound on Campus By Jason R amaker, Dean of Students

Service has always been part of Waldorf University. In fact, it’s rooted in our mission: Students participating in our annual Rake-A-Thon.

Waldorf University seeks to be an engaging community of learning and faith where relationships are formed and opportunities for learning and service abound. Our mission is to educate the whole person emphasizing integrity and equipping students to succeed and to serve the communities where they live and work.

Support the Local Food Bank One of our First Year Orientation classes volunteers at the local food bank and helps stock shelves, break down boxes and prepare for the winter months. Volunteer in Nearby Communities Campus Ministry and Like Fire give back by organizing care center visits in Manly, helping at the soup kitchen and volunteering at the Humane Society in Mason City.

As we kick off the new academic year, there is no shortage of service opportunities for students to engage in. This fall, student clubs and organizations will again be busy helping others on and off campus.

Scare Away Hunger Theatre students will close the fall season with their annual popular haunted house program that collects canned goods for the food bank.

Clean Up the Highways Each September, the Residence Life Department walks four miles of Highway 9 for their annual Highway Clean-Up project through the Iowa Department of Transportation.

This is a just a sample of service activities that happen on campus. Many of our 30 student organizations and 20 athletic teams also do service projects as part of their season. Service opportunities abound at Waldorf!

Rake-A-Thon This fall, Student Senate will host their 13th Annual Rake-AThon cleaning up the yards of local elderly. 4

The AACE is Dedicated to Your Academic Success By Kristin Wempen, Director of AACE

One of the many highlights at Waldorf University is the Academic Achievement Center for Excellence, or AACE as it’s called on campus. At the AACE, we help students stay on track with their academic programs, providing parents like yourself with peace of mind and students with the tools they need to succeed. Our focus is student success and we work hard to help them achieve that. We work closely with faculty and staff to provide academic services to all students, ensuring they stay engaged in and out of the classroom. We provide a number of services, including: Academic Advising We work with your student’s advisor to help your student stay on the right path within their major. Academic Support Program This program has proven time and again to be beneficial. In fact, many students earn a higher GPA in college than what was obtained in high school after fully utilizing this program. Services within this program include academic counseling, monitored study time, Strategies for Success coursework and academic progress monitoring that sends results sent to parents with the student’s permission. Learning Disabilities Program Students participating in this program have proven to be exceptionally successful academically. This program includes academic progress monitoring, limited course load during the first semester, one-on-one tutoring services, monitored study time, professor notification of accommodations required by the student, study rooms and tutorial services. Student Athletes The AACE works with student athletes that may be injured and have fallen behind in classwork. Tutorial Services We also offer tutorial services for all classes, so if your student is struggling in just one class, we can help. All students are welcome to use the AACE space for studying, whether they are enrolled in the program or not. No matter what the need, we’ll help get them back on track! If you have any questions on the services provided by the AACE, please email Kristin.Wempen@Waldorf.edu.

2017-18 Calendar of Events AUGUST 23 Fall Term begins SEPTEMBER 2-4 Labor Day Break 22-23 Fine Arts Weekend OCTOBER 5 Assoc. of Congregations Annual Meeting 13 Open House 16-22 Homecoming Week NOVEMBER 22-26 Thanksgiving Break 30 Christmas Open House DECEMBER 2 Scholarship Day 2-3 Christmas with Waldorf 4-7 Finals JANUARY 10 Spring Term begins MARCH 3-11 Spring Break 17 Scholarship Day 30-31 Easter Break APRIL 1-2 Easter Break 11 Honors Day 13-14 Fine Arts Weekend 30 Finals MAY 1-3 Finals 5 Commencement *To stay up-to-date on the Warrior Athletic schedule, please visit waldorfwarriors.com

Theatre Schedule The

Odd

Couple September 20-23, 2017

(Male version – Sept. 20 & 23, Female version Sept. 21 & 22)

M U S I C A L T H E AT R E

SHOWCASE

October 22-23, 2017

Othello

Waldorf Counseling Services are here to help!

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT // // // // // //

Just want to talk? Relationship problems? Anxiety problems? Feeling down and discouraged? Procrastination issues? In a rut and can’t get out?

November 15-18, 2017

IOWA

February 14-17, 2017

Appointment: 641.585.8160 • moklestam@waldorf.edu Main Floor Campus Center #105 • FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL 5

April 11-14, 2017

Fall Intramurals and Rec Trips By Brett Geelan, Intramural /Recreation Director

Student Life has an exciting lineup this fall. Join us for a season of fun with intramural and recreation trips, including: FALL INTRAMURALS Ping Pong and Pool Tournament Sunday, Sept. 3, 2017 from 7-9 p.m. at the Campus Information Center No prior sign up is required

Knockerball Soccer Monday, Sept. 11 Thursday, Sept. 14 Monday, Sept. 18 Thursday, Sept. 21 Monday, Sept. 25 8:30-10 p.m. at Bolstroff Field

Bowling Monday, Oct. 2 Thursday, Oct. 5 Monday, Oct. 9 Thursday, Oct. 12 Monday, Oct. 16 Thursday, Oct. 19 9-10:30 pm at the SuperBowl

4-on-4 Basketball Monday, Nov. 13 Thursday, Nov. 16 Monday, Nov. 20 Monday, Nov. 27 Thursday, Nov. 30 Monday, Dec. 4 8:45-10:30 pm at the YMCA

Need a Lift?

Waldorf University Transportation Gives Rides By Brett Geelan, Student Transportation Coordinator

Waldorf is proud to offer transportation to its students to local airports, bus stops, hospitals and more. Below is the schedule of the 2017-18 transportation schedule and pricing. Forest City Transportation Students who need transportation to a medical appointment within Forest City may get a ride free of charge. Short Distance Transportation Short distance rides are $30. Mason City and Clear Lake Transportation Rides to Mason City and Clear Lake for travel needs (airplane or bus) are $20. 2017-18 Transportation Schedule Waldorf University Transportation will be providing rides to Mason City/Clear Lake during the below dates for a rate of $20. Students interested in reserving a spot on these dates should contact the student transportation coordinator. Visit waldorf.edu/transportation-schedule to find a full list of arrival and departure dates and times. If you have any questions, contact Brett Geelan at Brett.Geelan@waldorf.edu. You may also follow Waldorf University Transportation on Facebook or visit waldorf.edu/transportation for more information. *Waldorf University Transportation requests at least 72 hours in advance to make the necessary arrangements. **Students can book flights through Air Choice One, which flies out of Mason City, or purchase a bus ticket with Greyhound or Jefferson Lines from Mason City or Clear Lake. ***Transportation services will not be available December 24 through January 2.

FALL RECREATION TRIPS Kayaking the Bent River Mankato, Minnesota Sept. 4, 2017 // $15 Leave from the Campus Information Center at 7:30 a.m. Toronto Blue Jays vs. Minnesota Twins Sept. 17, 2017 // $10 Leave from the Campus Information Center at 9:15 a.m. Minnesota Vikings vs. Baltimore Ravens Oct. 22, 2017 // $20 Leave from the Campus Information Center at 8 a.m.

Warrior Wind-Up Welcomes Students With Tons of Activities

WA R R I O R WIND-UP

By Jason R amaker, Dean of Students

Students will compete in several contests and events, as well as participate in the candidate review for king and queen, bonfire parade and fine arts concert and musical showcase. Besides the excitement of the football came, there’s also volleyball and soccer going on for students to attend and cheer on the Warriors!

Occasionally, a student will murmur “there is nothing to do” when referring to our friendly campus and town. However, there’s a lot to do on campus and in Forest City—and we make every effort to get students engaged. “Some universities host a welcome week, but we do Warrior Wind-Up to welcome students from August to October,” said Hallie Erdahl, student activities director. “The welcome process for both returners and new students is part of the entire semester as we aim to get students engaged, out of their rooms, meeting and connecting with each other. “

“There is something for everyone to get out and enjoy, whether you are a first-year student or senior, fine arts major or athlete,” said Anna Moklestad, student life administrative coordinator. “As much fun as the students have, we as staff really enjoy Warrior Wind-Up as well!”

The semester kicks off with our annual movie on the lawn, Campus Ministry block party and intramural knocker ball under the lights at Bolstorff Field. Throughout September, we have several events like the Taste of Forest City Community and Student Club Fair, the dorm room decorating poster fair and the three-night Comedy Series. We also take students off campus on trips to Valley Scare (Fair) in Minnesota and the Haunted Hike in Clear Lake. In October, the entire campus gets geared up for Homecoming.

Last year’s Taste of Waldorf Community and Student Club Fair.

“Homecoming and the Warrior Cup Competition for students is a really big deal and a lot of fun!” said Sharese Hall, area coordinator for Johnson and London and first-year student coordinator.

Check out what’s happening in Campus Ministry By Antoine Cummins, Campus Ministry Coordinator

Campus Ministry events occur on the Waldorf campus every Sunday-Thursday. All students, alumni, parents and community members are invited to join. SUNDAY There are several Sunday worship options available in town. For more information, visit the Forest City website.

WEDNESDAY 10 a.m. – Chapel in the Recital Hall (First, Third and Fifth) 10:30 a.m. – Chapel in the Ballroom (Second and Fourth) 8 p.m. – The Bridge in the Library (Time/location subject to change)

MONDAY 8 p.m. – Like Fire in Gatsby’s. This student-led contemporary praise and worship band leads more than 40 students every week in worship with students, faculty and staff sharing their experiences and leading discussion. Plus, there’s free pizza!

The Bridge is an extension of the ministries of First Baptist Church in Forest City. The Bridge meets every Wednesday for bible study, as well as provides transportation services for students to attend First Baptist on Sunday. Throughout the year, this group also hosts several events for students including retreats, game nights, trips and more!

Like Fire LCM (Lutheran Campus Ministries) works with Immanuel Lutheran Church to offer a variety of on-campus activities each week. All students are welcome to engage in faith formation and community service.

THURSDAY 8:30 p.m. – Rosary in the Recital Hall 9 p.m. – Catholic Mass in the Recital Hall

TUESDAY 7:30 p.m. – Small Fires in Gatsby’s. This is a small-group opportunity, led by our diverse group of student peer ministers. Students, faculty and staff discuss current events and campus issues through theologically-centered interfaith perspectives.

The Campus Ministry team also hosts activities such as Nights of Prayer, Nights of Worship and fun, off-campus trips and spiritual retreats. Follow Waldorf University Campus Ministry on Facebook! 7

Nikita Mndoyants

018 2 7 201

Pianist

Oct. 22, 2017 7 p.m.

Odvin Hagen Recital Hall

David Small

Lincoln Trio

Baritone Feb. 8, 2018 7 p.m.

Piano Trio

Nov. 12, 2017 7 p.m. Odvin Hagen Recital Hall

Odvin Hagen Recital Hall

Assad Duo

The Queen’s Six

Brazilian Jazz

British Vocal Ensemble

March 15, 2018 7 p.m.

April 12, 2018 7 p.m.

Odvin Hagen Recital Hall

This year’s Homecoming theme, World Wide Warrior Pride, celebrates the diversity among our faculty, staff and students. Waldorf has hosted students from all over the globe, more than 30 countries to be exact. So let’s celebrate the best of Waldorf, no matter where in the world we are! Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 9 p.m. 9:45 p.m.

Candidate Review (Atrium) Warrior Bonfire/Pep Fest & Coronation (Fieldhouse Lot)

Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m. 11 a.m. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 11:15 a.m.

Waldorf Bookstore Open (Voss Hall) Luise V. Hanson Library and Archives Open (Second Floor) Homecoming Parade All-Class Alumni Luncheon (Atrium) 50th Class Reunion Lunch: Class of 1967 (Ballroom) Tailgate Party (Bolstorff Field) Communications Department BBQ (Atrium Entrance)

WA RRI O R

Friday, Oct. 20 – Sunday Oct. 22, 2017 This year’s Homecoming is going to be a highlight for the year and promises an exciting weekend of celebration, fun and reminiscence.

Celebrating Warriors All Over the Globe

Wide rld

World Wide Warrior Pride:

Odvin Hagen Recital Hall

H o m ec o min

1 p.m. Homecoming Football Game: Waldorf vs. Mayville State (Bolstorff Field) 1-4 p.m. Art and Craft Fair (Salveson Lobby) 3-4 p.m. Warrior Update 4-5 p.m. Alumni Choir Sing-a-Long (Recital Hall) 5 p.m. Women's Soccer: Waldorf vs. University of Jamestown (Bolstorff Field) 5 p.m. Alumni Distinguished Service Award Recognition (Ballroom) 5:30 p.m. Worldwide Taste of Waldorf Event (Atrium) 7 p.m. Waldorf Homecoming Music Concert (Immanuel Lutheran Church) 7 p.m. Men's Soccer: Waldorf vs. University of Jamestown (Bolstorff Field)

Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017 9:15 a.m. 2 p.m.

Homecoming Worship Service (Immanuel Lutheran Church) Musical Theatre Showcase (Smith Theatre)

Events and times may be subject to change. Please check the Waldorf website for a complete list and details of Homecoming weekend activities. For more information, please call the alumni office at 641.585.8148 or email alumni@waldorf.edu.

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