Westwind, Spring 2010 by Walla Walla University

Westwind wallawalla.edu/westwind

The Journal of Walla Walla University Spring 2010

Paths To Leadership

Over There, Over Here: Student Veterans on Campus Facebook: Being in the Know

Save the Date

April

22-25

Homecoming Weekend

Student Missions 50th Anniversary Reunion, 7:30 p.m

30-May 2

Weekend of Worship

WWU Financial Aid Application Priority Deadline, wallawalla.edu/apply

May

National Robotics Challenge

3-8

InTents Evangelistic Meetings

7-9

AGA Weekend

June

Masters of Social Work Hooding and Graduation Ceremony, Missoula Campus

11-13

Graduation Weekend

Commencement, 8:30 a.m.

18-19

Upper Columbia Conference Camp Meeting, College Place

ashington Camp Meeting, Auburn, Wash. W Alumni Strawberry Shortcake Reception, 5:30 p.m.

Summer Session Begins

22-July 18

Business Study Tour: Beijing and Hong Kong

23-July 2

General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Atlanta, Ga.

24-Aug 10

Bible Lands Study Tour: Steps of Paul with Carl Cosaert

29-July 10

History and English Departments Study Tour: United Kingdom

August

25-Sep 14

September

asters of Social Work Hooding Ceremony, M Billings Campus, 1 p.m. Thailand Mission Trip 2010 umpStart Orientation Week for New J Students, wallawalla.edu/jumpstart

For information about Walla Walla University events, see the online calendar at wallawalla.edu/calendar

Contents

4 Campus Current 11 Bits and Pieces 12 Paths to Leadership 18 Over There, Over Here 20 Facebook: Being in the Know 22 Nursing, Entrepreneurship, and the Future of Health Care

29 In Memory 31 From My Point of View 32 College Avenue Crossings

Chris Drake

Learning Leadership

24 Alumnotes

Westwind Spring 2010, Volume 29, Number 1 Editor Rosa Jimenez Copy Editor Lisa Krueger Writers Sarah Radelfinger, Becky St. Clair, Martin Surridge, Chelsea Vymeister Production Manager Sarah Radelfinger Design Robert Car Graphics About the cover Ian Field, executive vice president of the Associated Students of Walla Walla University, takes the lead at CommUnity, a weekly service at the University Church.

Walla Walla University is a community of faith and discovery committed to – Excellence in thought – Generosity in service – Beauty in expression – Faith in God Westwind is published three times a year for alumni and friends of Walla Walla University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution. It is produced by Marketing and Enrollment Services/University Relations. This issue was printed in April 2010. Third-class postage is paid at College Place, Wash. © 2010 by Walla Walla University. Westwind/University Relations 204 S. College Ave. College Place, WA 99324 Telephone: (509) 527-2397 Toll-free: (800) 541-8900 E-mail: westwind@wallawalla.edu Online: westwind.wallawalla.edu

Spring 2010 Westwind

Campus Current

Prayer Ministries Gadfly Student Veterans

n May 2007 Ken Wiggins, chair of the Mathematics Department, biked 130 miles in two days on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. Three weeks later, en route to a teaching assignment in China, an adverse reaction to a vaccine paralyzed Westwind Spring 2010

Wiggins from the arms down. Today, Wiggins is back in the classroom, teaching with the aid of modern technology and driving himself to work with a specially equipped car. And soon, Wiggins plans to ride the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

again, eager to enjoy what had been one of his favorite pastimes. Wiggins will be riding a new handcycle, presented to him by the Mathematics Club. The group, led by the club’s president, Abby Higgins, organized a “Wheels for Wiggins” bike riding fundraiser, raising

money from students and others who wanted to see Wiggins back on a bike. The $4,000, 30-pound handcycle is a bright metallic green, the color Wiggins chose in honor of Walla Walla University’s school colors, green and orange. His neighbors gave him a bright orange windbreaker to wear when riding the bike. Wiggins asked Mathematics Club officers to sign the bike’s frame with a gold paint pen, much to the chagrin of the handcycle dealer. “The dealer was horrified that I was even thinking of such a thing, given the gorgeous paint job,” laughs Wiggins. “He suggested several alternatives, but my mind was made up. The gold signatures enhance the beauty of the bike. I never want to forget—even for a moment—who provided this for me.” “Having this bike reminds me of the caring community that surrounds me. This community has made my rehabilitation so much easier; it has given me courage to keep working toward more strength and mobility and to continue my work at the university. In short, this impressive level of support has helped me regroup and move forward with as normal a life as possible. It has made me want to do the best with what I have, and I guess that is what we all do.” n

Chris Drake

Wheels for Wiggins

Campus Current

Historical Perspectives Professor Teams With Historians for Ellen G. White Research Project

Chris Drake and Courtesy of Ellen White Estate

llen G. White has been identified with Anne Hutchinson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Mary Baker Eddy, and Aimee Semple McPherson as one of the most prominent women in American religious history, yet she is one of the least studied and understood. There is not a single scholarly biography of her. That is about to change. Terrie Aamodt, professor of history at Walla Walla University, is working with a team of fellow scholars to create the first-ever scholarly introduction to Ellen G. White aimed at a general academic audience. In October 2009 the team gathered for a conference in Portland, Maine, to refine chapter drafts addressing White’s influence as a leader, author, temperance speaker, and theologian, as well as her relationship to society. The conference, which for the first time brought together specialists in Ellen G. White studies and specialists in her wider contexts, grew out of discussions at the triennial meetings of the Association of Seventh-day Adventist Historians, Aamodt explains. “Very few scholarly works on Ellen G. White and Seventh-day Adventism are available to the general public, compared with a wealth of material on Mormonism and its founders,” she says. Conference participation was limited to 65 chapter authors and respondents, and was led by a steering committee of three people in addition to Aamodt: Gary

Land of Andrews University, lead editor; Julius Nam of Loma Linda University; and Ronald Numbers of the University of Wisconsin. “The conference was a remarkable collection of both Adventist and non-Adventist researchers who dove into their work with enthusiasm,” Aamodt says. “We believe that level of energy will carry over into the production of the book as well.” Though the book’s 21 chapter authors were given their assignments in 2007, the book’s content will reflect months, years, or even decades of research. According to the project’s website (ellenwhiteproject.com), the book will examine the impact White has made on the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and on the his-

tory of American religion. “The project was designed to promote collaborative research,” says Land. “Each chapter draft will be reviewed in detail by two scholars, one a scholar familiar with Adventist studies and the other a specialist in part of the chapter’s historical context. The chapters were also read and evaluated by all of the participants.” The editors have guided the chapter authors through the revision suggestions and are awaiting the revised drafts later this spring. They will then check the collected chapters for cohesion and stylistic consistency. The Seventh-day Adventist Church is one of the four most innovative denominations founded in the United States in the 19th

century, along with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS); the Church of Christ, Scientist; and the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Currently, the Adventist church has the largest worldwide membership of the four. “The LDS denomination and its leaders have undergone thorough historical treatment, and Christian Science has been extensively examined as well,” said Gary Land. “Much less attention has been accorded the Witnesses and the Adventists. Wider scholarly discussions on Ellen G. White are long overdue.” The book manuscript is due to be submitted to a major university press, which has expressed high interest in publishing the volume, in August 2010. n

Along with the research of other professional historians, Terrie Aamodt’s work will examine the impact Ellen G. White had on the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and on the history of American religion. Spring 2010 Westwind

Campus Current

Prioritizing Prayer Student Leader Creates Connections

magine a 24/7 on-campus prayer station where prayer happened around the clock,” says Paddy McCoy, Walla Walla University chaplain. “Imagine a prayer room with prayer requests written on the walls—letters and poems to God from one heart to another. Imagine paintings, sculptures, and other expressions of people’s conversations with God. How inspiring that would be!” McCoy’s passion is evident. As a Christian campus, McCoy is one of several key people whose mission is to foster a daily spiritual environment on campus. Another person active in that endeavor is Caprice Scott, WWU’s prayer ministries coordinator. In September, just before classes began, Scott organized a Prayer Walk, inviting all church

members in the valley to attend. Participants were separated into groups, walked to assigned campus buildings, and prayed for the students, faculty, and staff who would occupy them throughout the school year. “It is my No. 1 goal to create a culture of prayer and praise on campus,” says Scott. “Several faculty members told me they felt praying over the campus before the year was a terrific idea, and that the time they spent doing so was one of the most meaningful prayer times they had ever experienced.” With the Thanksgiving holiday came the idea for Prayer Praise Towers. First, giant poster boards were placed in key spots around campus, along with piles of selfadhesive notepads. Students wrote on the notes and attached

them to the poster boards. The notes were then transferred to two 8-foot wood structures that were displayed in the University Church foyer. Students could also write their prayers of praise with multi-color chalk on the towers. Other events this year have included an all-night prayer vigil, weekday morning worships in Heubach Chapel, and a Prayer Path, which led students through a “labyrinth of heart-searching and connecting with God through visible and tactile experiences.”

“I want everyone to be involved,” says Scott. “Prayer is like breathing. People who don’t breathe are dead. The same could be said about Christians who don’t pray. It is my greatest desire that prayer will be a living, breathing, constant reality on the campus.” McCoy echoes Scott’s thoughts. “We want to be a campus that

A chalkboard prayer wall in the foyer of the University Church, organized by prayer ministries coordinator Caprice Scott, right, captured the thoughts of students during the Thanksgiving season.

Paddy McCoy

“

prays and prays hard,” he says. “It’s that connection that helps bring Jesus to life in our hearts, for our campus and to the world, and that’s our mission here.” Scott has a long list of goals she still wishes to accomplish. “Really, my job is simple to describe, but incredibly intricate in its implementation,” says Scott. “I spend my days envisioning and putting together creative and innovative ways to connect people with God. What could be more rewarding?” n

Westwind Spring 2010

Campus Current

Art and Expression Literary Journal Features Creative Works by Students, Alumni

ince the 1920s, Walla Walla University has produced a literary journal. Known since the 1930s as the Gadfly, this annual compilation of visual and written art is a collaboration between the departments of English, humanities, art, and graphic design. Paintings, poetry, memoirs, music, drawings, drama, and other original woks are considered for inclusion in the student-edited publication. “Editing the Gadfly is a long, difficult, and rewarding process,” says Dan Lamberton, faculty sponsor of the book and director of the humanities program. “We select approximately one out of every 10 submissions we receive.” “The content of the Gadfly is intense,” says Lamberton. “Poetry

is hard to read; people rarely pick it up for the fun of it. But our students do really, really good work. They don’t write things meant to be beautiful; their first goal is to be honest, and to put the best words in the best places.” Items are submitted by students, faculty, staff, and even WWU alumni, including those who attended but did not graduate from WWU. Though Lamberton, along with Kellie Bond, chair of the English Department, and several students make the selections together, the student editor gets the final word on what is published. The 2009 Gadfly editor, senior writing and Spanish major Kendra Coffeen, was successful in including a rare interview with poet Richard Kenney, as well as

another from Washington State’s Poet Laureate, Samuel Green. “Being the student editor entails finding, choosing, and organizing all the content,” explains 2010 editor Jacqueline Erwin, junior writing major. “I will see the book all the way through publication, from price estimates to the actual printing, and I work with faculty advisers, an art editor, and a graphic designer to get all of this accomplished.” Student editors are selected by English Department faculty. “It’s hard to say how many hours go into the Gadfly each quarter,” says Erwin, “but it’s definitely in the hundreds.” The Gadfly is supported by a variety of donors, and thanks to a significant contribution, the 2010

Gadfly will have more content. Walla Walla University alumni are encouraged to continue contributing to the Gadfly. “We include all kinds of pieces —poetry, prose, photos, music, artwork—you name it,” says Lamberton. “The Gadfly is really just anything elegant.” n

Copies of the 2009 Gadfly are available for purchase online at wallawalla.edu/gadfly. Submissions to the 2010 Gadfly may be sent to gadfly@ wallawalla.edu or mailed to Gadfly/English Department, 204 S. College Ave., College Place, WA 99324

“Handwritten Flora” is an acrylic on canvas painted by 2007 art graduate Kimberly Bockman. Spring 2010 Westwind

Campus Current

Opening Eyes and Hearts

mong the many studentled groups at Walla Walla University, the school’s Amnesty International Club has been especially prominent. The Amnesty International organization advocates for human rights around the globe through letterwriting campaigns—among other activities—and has played a role in recent events that have drawn major student and community participation. The February events were organized by WWU students and faculty, and numerous local and educational organizations. The events supported a cause at the core of Amnesty International’s work. The events were designed to raise awareness of the issue of international human trafficking.

In the spirit of thinking globally and acting locally, the fundraising events benefited a local women’s shelter. “Shelter for Freedom,” which drew people from across the Inland Northwest to the Walla Walla Valley, included an art auction and poetry reading. A history seminar, presented by history professors Gregory Dodds and Terrie Aamodt, described the very real problems of human trafficking, including sex slavery and tourism, Internet criminal pedophilia, organ trafficking and labor slavery. Capping the “Shelter for Freedom” series, the documentary, “Cargo: Innocence Lost,” was introduced by the film’s writer, director, and producer, Michael Cory Davis and Academy Award-

nominated actress Anne Archer. By many measures, “Shelter for Freedom” was a great success. The events raised more than $20,000 for the HelpLine women’s shelter in Walla Walla, providing a more permanent facility for the dozens of homeless women it helps each night. Karen Scott, a key organizer during “Shelter for Freedom” who is also an attorney and advisory board member for Artists for Human Rights, spoke highly of the contributions made by the students of the Amnesty International Club. “The students were instrumental,” she explained. “They helped to promote ‘Shelter for Freedom’ among the students at WWU, got different businesses to donate food, and played a big part in collecting art for the auction.” Dodds, campus sponsor of the Amnesty International Club, also praised the students who were influential during the series of awarenessbuilding fundraisers, from the beginning of As part of the Shelter for Freedom event, Gregory Dodds, professor of history and sponsor of WWU’s Amnesty International club, presented the realities of human trafficking.

Westwind Spring 2010

the planning process to the cleanup, long after the final guest left the building. “Student leaders in the Amnesty Club played a huge role in the success of the ‘Shelter for Freedom’ events,” Dodds says, “I am very proud of the work they did. They were instrumental in raising awareness about the problem of human trafficking and in raising funds for the Helpline Women’s Shelter. It is a real honor to teach at a university where students like these care about others and want to make a difference.” Dodds, who Scott called “absolutely indispensable to the success of the weekend,” added that there were dozens of other students who made the weekend possible, including the Associated Students of Walla Walla University who worked closely with officers in the Amnesty International Club, such as sophomore humanities major, Lauren Peterson, who shared her experience working in the group. “As a woman it was nice to do something that’s helping women specifically here in Walla Walla,” she said. “It gave me an experience I wouldn’t have had in the scholastic setting—being able to reach out to my community.” n

Chris Drake

Amnesty International Draws Student Involvement Project Prompts Outpouring of Support

Campus Current

Welcoming Veterans Students Launch Veterans Group

Chris Drake

world away from international conflicts and foreign posts where they were stationed, students who have served in the military now have a collective voice on campus. The Veterans Association of Walla Walla University (VAWWU) is bringing student veterans together as well as providing the university community with the unique perspectives that student veterans have from serving in the military. “We are enjoying coming together to help each other transition into civilian student life,” says Esteban Rodriguez, VAWWU president. “We are sharing information vital to veterans’ success.”

Officers of the new veteran’s association include, from left, Jacob Radke, treasurer; Joseph Cawood, vice president; and Esteban Rodriguez, president.

Yellow Ribbon Program Provides for Veterans Education Walla Walla University is partnering with the federal government to help military veterans and dependents obtain a college education through the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. The new programs make available some of the best benefits ever offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans who want to attend college. Joseph Cawood, a WWU engineering major and former Air Force staff sergeant, is one of 12 veterans benefiting from the program. “The program really helps us,” Cawood says. “We’re talking thousands of dollars.” Charley Moore, a Marine Corps veteran and mechanical engineer-

ing student, says the program allows him to study when he might have otherwise been working to pay for school. “The Yellow Ribbon Program helps me not to have to worry about finances so much because it covers the costs that the Post-9/11 GI Bill does not,” he says. “It allows me to focus on school more.” Walla Walla University joined the Yellow Ribbon Program when it started Aug. 1, 2009, and began certifying students for the new program fall quarter of that year. Initiated through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the program permits private colleges and universities to enter an agreement with the VA to help fund tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state tuition rate.

To qualify, a veteran must have served on active duty for at least 90 days total after Sept. 10, 2001. The Yellow Ribbon Program is also available to individuals who were released for a service-connected disability under specific criteria. Eligible veterans receive varying degrees of the benefits based upon their service record. Students may also qualify for stipends for housing, books, and supplies. Some veterans are even eligible to receive benefits for their dependents. For more information about the Yellow Ribbon Program at WWU, contact Marketing and Enrollment Services at (509) 527-2327 or go to wallawalla.edu/veterans.

Rodriguez, who is studying psychology, served in the U.S. Air Force as a senior airman. He was stationed in Jordan, Kuwait, and Iraq. He also served as a specialist in the Army National Guard and was based in Nicaragua. “We have a ‘make it happen’ work ethic,” says Rodriguez, who also cites “dedication, real-world experience, honor, duty, and selflessness” as characteristics many veterans share. “Veterans exemplify the greatest Christian love principle: ‘Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friend’ (John 15:13).” The idea to organize the group came from Rodriguez and Dawn Ingram, also a veteran and social work student. Ingram served in the Air Force as surgical services journeyman, stationed at WrightPatterson Air Force Base. Joseph Cawood, an engineering student, serves as vice president for the group. Cawood served as an Air Force staff sergeant stationed at Moody Air Force Base. He was also deployed to Afghanistan and Africa. Goals for the group include working toward greater acceptance of military training and experience for academic credit and improved campus Veterans Day observance. n Spring 2010 Westwind

Campus Current

Chris Drake

New Leadership in Business Wiggins Named New Dean Project Prompts Outpouring of Support

For students at Walla Walla University, Sabbath mornings are filled with a number of worship opportunities, from the larger community services to the more intimate Sabbath School classes and Bible studies. In addition, students also have the option to attend Berean Fellowship, which is held every Sabbath morning and is organized by the Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF), one of the most active student groups on campus. Held in the Canaday Technology Center’s Black Box Theater, the student-led service, which features gospel praise music and inspirational speaking, places an emphasis on cultural diversity in worship. The announcements and invitations for the service usually end with the phrase, “Bring a friend,” as BSCF wants students and those in the commu10 Westwind Spring 2010

of Business well.” Wiggins, who graduated from WWU in 1982 and received her doctoral degree in management from the University of Idaho, has had a busy start to her tenure as dean, including overseeing the planning of the business tour to China and Hong Kong this year. Wiggins was also responsible for relocating the School of Business from Winter Educational Complex to Bowers Hall last summer. She might not be teaching any classes this quarter, but Wiggins

is still very involved in the lives of business students, many of whom she advises and works with on a regular basis. “There’s always something interesting going on,” Wiggins says, “whether it’s working with alumni, senior business majors, incoming freshmen, or organizing an event where students can interact with members of the community.” According to Wiggins, working closely with those students has been a central part of the mission of the school’s for many years, and a key reason for the success

Black Student Christian Forum Hosts Praise-Filled Berean Fellowship nity to know that the gathering is open to all students, regardless of their ethnicity or background. Berean Fellowship is just one of several worship and social activities that BSCF hosts, including a Sabbath afternoon program in Conard Chapel and a biweekly Friday night service called Impact. However, BSCF President,

Nonee Ngazimbi, a sophomore nursing major, explained that the Berean Fellowship is probably their most wellattended service and also described it as the club’s “most amazing venture.” Ngazimbi went on to describe some of the reasons students enjoy gathering together each Sabbath morning to praise God in a diverse way.

of both the School of Business and the students themselves. “Our students look for the personalized attention, and they chose us because of the good student-teacher interaction. They are coming in, and they’re adding value. They’re the cream of the crop, and we’re very proud of that. The business world is always in need of good people.” n “Berean is a breath of fresh air for students who aren’t accustomed to the worship style at other services,” she said. “There is a lot of freedom there, freedom to express yourself and praise God whatever way you feel comfortable. Something we always make sure we do is to have a meet and greet time where we walk around the room and give hugs and thank each person for being there and have a lot of audience participation.” With the numerous opportunities for worship that students have to choose from each weekend, Ngazimbi pointed to one particular reason why the Berean Fellowship continues to be popular among those who attend. “Berean is a family,” she says. “You feel the love. It is culturally diverse and never the same. You never know what to expect, except an amazing blessing.”

Dustin Iseminger

or the hundreds of business majors in the School of Business, JoAnn Wiggins is best known as the awardwinning management and human resources professor who has taught business classes at Walla Walla University for the last two decades. However, Wiggins is teaching a little less these days after replacing Clarence Anderson as dean of the School of Business, becoming the first woman to do so in the school’s 118-year history. “It’s an honor to be the first woman to be dean,” Wiggins exclaimed. “I’ll do everything in my power to represent the School

Bits & Pieces Racing into the Record Books

Ever considered building your own bicycle? How about an aerodynamic one, able to race at freeway speeds? Freshman mechanical engineering student Jaymann Henry has done just that. After designing what is actually classified as a “Human Powered Vehicle,” or HPV, Henry built it from the ground up, using carbon fiber and Kevlar. To ride, Henry reclines, pumping pedals in front of him. Three years ago, at age 16, Henry became the youngest person to both build and ride his own HPV at over 50 mph. In September 2009, Henry raced into the record books again by clocking a run at 60.33 mph, making him the youngest builder/rider to go over 60 mph, and giving him the second fastest junior rider time (18 and under) as well as the second fastest college single rider time. Henry ranks 49th on the All-time World’s Fastest HPV list.

Student Wins City Council

Alex Scott, sophomore history and mass communication pre-law student, was recently awarded a seat on the College Place City Council. “I’ve been wanting to do this for a while,” says Scott of his campaign. “Probably since my freshman year of high school. I want to go into politics, and I want to start early, so this was a logical step.” Scott’s three main goals? To help the city put more emphasis on thinking toward the future, to bring in good businesses, and to learn as much as possible about local government. “I love this town,” says Scott of College Place. “I’ve lived here nearly all my life, and I want to preserve the town I love, but I also want to see it grow.”

Bendiciones En Español

Communications Graduate Leads Alumni Relations Nicole Batten, a 1999 communications graduate, is Walla Walla University’s new director of alumni relations. As the new director, Batten will organize Alumni Homecoming Weekend and a host of other alumni programs and services that connect more than 25,000 university alumni. Batten most recently led her own public relations consulting company. She has also worked for Pacific Press Publishing and for a Christian radio network. “I never imagined I would get the opportunity to return to Walla Walla University and be a part of its vision,” Batten says. “You just never know where God will lead you.” Nicole and her husband, Stephen, a current WWU student, have two sons.

Blessings from University Church sermons go the extra mile every Sabbath. Churchgoers can listen in real time to a Spanish translation of the two Sabbath morning worship services. Alba Grajales, a College Place resident, and Sandra Gonzalez, a 1984 nursing graduate, share translating duties. Hispanics attend the University Church for some of the same reasons other people choose to attend a large church, Gonzalez says. “Our church appeals to diverse groups through an array of choices for Bible study, worship, and fellowship.”

Spring 2010 Westwind 11

Paths to Leadership

12 Westwind Spring 2010

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

hen Lori Ciccarelli’s son was born in 1989, she had no idea of the journey about to unfold. Doctors diagnosed her son, Jeremy, with autism at age three and after several years of “living in denial of his diagnosis,” she says, Ciccarelli’s son began years of therapies and medications. “Back then, there wasn’t much information about autism, but the biggest challenge for us was experiencing the intolerance of others,” she says. The challenges worsened during Jeremy’s teenage years, and Ciccarelli saw her son struggle more socially and emotionally. Her search for alternative therapies, and her experience raising a son with autism, has transformed the 1981 Walla Walla University graduate into a noted advocate for families of autism. Undeterred by her lack of film production skills, Ciccarelli’s quest to help families inspired her to create a documentary. In 2008, “JJ’s Journey— A Journey About Autism” was shown in Britain at the International Christian Film Festival. The 110-minute documentary will be shown in June at the African Enterprise International Film Festival. Jeremy, now a 20-yearold college sophomore, frequently joins his mom for public presentations and media interviews, including a segment on NBC News. In September, Ciccarelli was featured as an Ambassador of Hope on Oprah’s Angel Network. “I’m a mom with a mission to provide resources and hope for families,” she says. “I truly believe the Lord has led me in this journey,” she says.

Leaders: Born or Made? Is it possible that anyone can be a leader like Ciccarelli? What are the essential characteristics of a leader? And how are those characteristics developed? Answers abound in thousands of books and articles that have been written about leadership—books that, for the most part provoke images of Fortune 500 executives, powerful politicians and military generals. But careful study reveals that true leadership extends well beyond boardrooms and battlefields—flourishing in schools and cycle shops, living rooms and laboratories, churches and cafes. In the scriptures, Jesus Himself provides a model for servant leaders, reminding those he mentored in leadership that they would do ‘greater works’ than He (John 14:12). Empowering others is the essence of the call to service envisioned by Walla Walla University founders in 1892 and it continues today in the university’s mission to foster traits of service, stewardship, and responsible citizenship. These traits, and ultimately, leadership, are about working with others to make the world a better place.

‘You With Your Hand Up’ While you won’t find “Listening 101” or “Problem-solving Formulas,” in our catalog of academic courses, time in classrooms across Walla Walla University’s campus fosters personal and mental qualities that contribute to leadership abilities. Listening “Leadership is accessible to anyone because at the heart of leadership is the ability to influence people,” says Dan Lamberton, English professor and chair of the humanities program. And he believes a key leadership quality is the ability to listen. Lamberton models listening quite literally. In his writing classes, he writes students’ class comments in a notebook to be able to recall their comments in future class discussions. He also asks students to repeat their fellow students’ names and comments—as in “As Julian

said …”—to encourage more active listening during dialogue. Empathy A person might listen, but can they really hear what’s being said? Understanding the other perspective is something Nancy Semotiuk, associate professor of communications, emphasizes daily with her communications students. “The quest is to be factual and caring at the same time,” she says. “I always cover the basics—be accurate, be honest, be professional, be consistent and diligent with reporting and writing. But empathy requires more than that. So I teach that there are no black stories, or white stories, or Hispanic or Asian stories. No urban, rural or suburban stories in journalism. “It might take some extra effort, some extra time to be sensitive, to see through the eyes of another,” she adds, “but that’s where the good stories are. The link between inspiration and integrity is strengthened by empathy. It’s practical, humane and it works for us.” Problem-solving Making the world a better place begins with a problem. Learning to solve problems, says Pam Cress, professor of social work, takes both rational skills and relationship skills. In the social work arena, relationship classes emphasize the need to understand personal perspectives to problems. “The emotional often comes first in most conflicts,” Cress says. “Resolving conflicts is a matter of listening carefully to all the perspectives of issues and sorting through the alternatives.” “We design activities and assignments that require students to think,” Cress adds. “I want students to wrestle a bit to find answers for themselves. And I teach this through many methods, including problem-solving in groups, researching and writing a topic paper, completing reflection journals or role playing.” Cress also asks students to “teach back” the concepts they study and do “puzzling,” a technique that deconstructs concepts and then puts them back together in a new way to solve the problem at hand. Thinking for yourself Leaders are cultivated when they can apply their listening and problem-solving skills, agrees Tom Ekkens, associate professor of phys-

ics. Ekkens points out that the physics department at WWU has deliberately expanded on traditional learning models. “In many classrooms, material is presented in the book or in a lecture. Then, the student is given an exam to see if they can regurgitate the material. However, the students in our Principles of Physics and Experimental Physics Laboratory II classes are asked to use the knowledge given in class to work on projects that they select,” he says. “The process of selecting a project, designing, building, testing and presenting is up to the students,” he adds. “Large, flashy experiments have included a trebuchet capable of launching a 20-pound rock hundreds of feet, an electrostatic lifter and a steam launcher. Smaller experiments have included a wind generator and a laser sound transmitter.” Students make their own decisions and come to their own conclusions with minimal help from professors, Ekkens says. And the success of recent graduates indicates this independent-thinking approach is working well.

Cherished Assignment, Daily Challenge For 117 years, Walla Walla University’s leadership tradition has been carefully cultivated, and is now emulated by other institutions wanting to empower their students toward life-changing service and responsible citizenship. “Walla Walla University has hundreds of alumni-leaders who, like Lori Ciccarelli, are making a powerful and positive difference,” says John McVay, president of Walla Walla University. “The pressing needs of church and world call this university to do its very best in evoking the leadership gifts and skills of our students today. “We’re seeking to answer that call for a new generation of leaders, shaped and mentored in a ‘generosity in service’ inspired by Jesus. With the help of dedicated faculty and staff, this generation of students is building the potential to ignite positive and powerful transformation.” n Spring 2010 Westwind 13

By Martin Surridge

Learning Leadership A

fter taking photos for the yearbook, a student takes her last sip of a fruit drink from the student-run smoothie bar, throws the container into a recycling bin, hops onto one of the school’s orange bicycles and rides off to student senate, where a new bill will be introduced that will improve equipment in her dormitory. After her evening class finishes, she walks to the Winter Educational Facility where she cheers on her roommate who is playing on the volleyball team and leaves a few minutes early so she can participate in the student-led swimathon fundraiser. Across campus, student groups are the driving force behind the active campus community Walla Walla University is

14 Westwind Spring 2010

known for. Beyond giving students a wealth of activities to choose from, more than 50 student clubs and organizations also provide many students with a place to learn how to lead. Serving as a president, treasurer, public relations representative or any number of roles gives students valuable experience for leadership roles in their profession, community, or church. Most of the university’s student clubs—which include academic groups, recreational clubs, advocacy and political groups, and student organizations that gather for religious reasons—elect officers and other leadership positions. The majority of the jobs are unpaid positions, often requiring students to spend several hours every week planning events and communicating with club members. University clubs also contribute to the diversity of the school, allowing many ethnic minorities to connect with clubs where they can share and celebrate their cultures. It is rare to find a student or faculty member who does not feel comfortable in at least one of the many organizations. From the beginning of the school year, when clubs recruit new members all the way through winter quarter and to the end of the year, groups like the Biology Club and Black Christian Student Forum are organizing vespers services and outreach projects, all while providing their members valuable opportunities to develop leadership skills. In his role as adviser to many student groups, Ken Rogers, vice president for student administration, is impressed by the initiative students take in creating events and programs. “Our student leaders want to make the campus a great place,” says Rogers. “They have a huge investment in what the university is all about.”

Leading Fellow Students When one thinks about student leaders at WWU, it is difficult to ignore the role played by the officers of the Associated Students of Walla Walla University (ASWWU), the largest student organization on campus. Led by ASWWU president Eric Wilkinson, a senior business major, the organization’s membership includes every undergraduate student and faculty member. Wilkinson and seven executive vice presidents oversee a budget of $330,000, and are responsible for an array of student services and programs. The organization, commonly pronounced “Az-Woo,” heads student senate, the campus bicycle program, the campus recycling program, the university’s newspaper and yearbook, and dozens of social events each quarter. Wilkinson described some of the challenges involved in the job and explained the value of having such a large student-led organization like ASWWU on campus. “ASWWU employs 90 students, seven vice presidents, and seven other officers or managers, and it develops leadership skills by giving those students the opportunity to lead in the organization,” said Wilkinson, whose day-to-day tasks as president include working on projects, meeting with students, and even handling disciplinary issues. “It was stressful to start out. People are looking at you for answers, and you have no clue what the correct answer is. But [it became] more fun and less stressful. You get used to it.” Wilkinson said that he ran for the position of president because he wanted to make a difference with the organization. “I prayed about it a lot and felt like it was a good thing. I wanted to stretch myself and grow. And this job has definitely pushed me.” “I’ve learned a lot about leadership this year,” Wilkinson continued. “I didn’t know much coming in and [there is] a lot I still don’t know, but I’ve

Student leadership gave me some of my first lessons in identifying meaningful and essential priorities. I learned that when setting and implementing goals it was necessary to look from a broad perspective. That it was the organization—the student body—that gave value and power to my observations and opinions as a leader. This experience helped me recognize that to lead you must serve. Perhaps one of the most valuable lessons I received I didn’t fully grasp until several years later. Believe in the people around you. A team possesses far greater wisdom and strength than a single individual. Randy Thornton ’87 ASWWC President, 1985–86 Principal, Laurelwood Academy Jasper, Ore.

Spring 2010 Westwind 15

grown so much. ASWWU has taught me that leadership is not about you; it’s about you helping those around you accomplish their goals. It takes a lot of patience and not focusing on details, but seeing the big picture.”

Leading the Literary Set

As editors of the student newspaper, our potential for influence went far beyond the usual boundaries of a student office and at times we managed to stir up controversy. We agonized over publishing decisions that usually favored our belief in free speech over administration’s impulse to control the message. I look back on this experience as the training ground for my career as a public spokesperson. Clearly, my role is reversed now (my loyalty lies with promoting and preserving the best interests of my institution), but I am ever cognizant of the power my words have to persuade. Staying true to the professional and ethical standards I worked out for myself as a Collegian editor remains a constant in my life. Lisa Jervey Lennox ’88 Collegian Associate Editor, 1986–1988 Assistant Director for External Relations, Cornell University Institute for Public Affairs Ithaca, N.Y.

16 Westwind Spring 2010

The tradition of students socializing, learning, and worshipping together in these types of groups is hardly a new trend or a recent addition to the campus. Some of the student groups at WWU have been around almost as long as the school itself. The oldest student-led club on campus is named after a mythical beast that is even older than WWU. While it was given its current name in 1937, the Pegasus Club began as the Collegiate Literary Society in the 1914–15 school year. According to Carolyn Stevens Shultz, the name of the group took several other interesting twists and turns: Before 1937, it was also called the Literary Club, the Zetetic Club, and even the Philomathian Literary Society. However, instead of the group’s mini identity crisis leading to a meltdown, the Pegasus Club is one of the more popular and recognized groups on campus and has been for several decades. The Pegasus Club provides thoroughly enjoyable social opportunities for students, many of whom frequently bump shoulders in the humanities, history, and English departments. However, even though the Pegasus Club is the official English department club, like all clubs at WWU it is open to any student, regardless of their backgrounds, literary skills, academic standings, or choice of majors. The Pegasus Club, which works closely with the faculty of the English and humanities

department and as such has a strong focus on literature and the arts, also encourages group members and event attendees in their non-academic literary pursuits, offering support and writing assistance. The group also has a tradition of raising awareness about social issues, fundraising for large projects, and helping other clubs and studentled organizations on campus, regularly teaming up with the History Club and the school’s dramatic arts programs. And somehow, in the midst of all this event planning and social interaction, groups such as the Pegasus Club are offering students something a little less tangible, but perhaps even more valuable than tasty treats on a Friday night. Pegasus Club President Amy Shine is an English major and a graduating senior, passionate about her work with the university theater group, and just one of the many students at WWU who feels that her role leading a student group has been a great learning experience and a source of valuable leadership training. Shine decided that she wanted to be president of the Pegasus Club so that she could use what she felt were her unique strengths to help her fellow English majors at the school. Shine, who has served as president of the club for two years, also explained that her role helped not only other students in the English department, but also taught her some valuable lessons about leadership. “I’ve learned that asking for help and delegating does not make you a weak leader,” she said, “but that they allow you to use your strengths more efficiently and effectively.” Shine continued to explain how her time with the group has been an educational experience, different from her time in the classroom and offered some advice for future leaders of the Pegasus Club, as well as other groups on campus too. “Surround yourself with people gifted with talents different than your own,” she began. “Try to [find people] with talents that can counteract your weak points.” “I’ve learned so much about this school and how it’s run, as well as the campus

and the people on it,” Shine said. “I’ve come to know many faculty and staff, and, in my two years as Pegasus president, I’ve been repeatedly impressed by the club officers and their ability to imagine, organize, and mobilize.”

Leading on the Field and on the Court Another group of student-led organizations on campus, which operate differently from a club like the Pegasus Club but still contribute significantly to the development of student leadership skills, are the university’s varsity sports teams. WWU competes in intercollegiate softball, soccer, volleyball, and basketball, with other colleges and universities in the Pacific Northwest and has sent several teams to playoffs and regional tournaments, including this year’s women’s volleyball team, which was co-captained by Torrey Haddad, Quijuana Oucharek, and Natalie Wilkening. As the volleyball team’s only setter, Haddad, a junior health science major, is responsible for a large number of passes and orchestrates the team offense in a similar way to a quarterback on the football field. She has played volleyball since sixth grade, and during the last decade of competing on various school and club teams, and in particular during her time at WWU, Haddad has gained the ability to offer not only accurate passes to her teammates, but also on-the-court leadership in tough games. Haddad shared some of her experiences on the volleyball court and how some of the challenges in university sports can develop a variety of professional leadership qualities. “Being on the volleyball team has strengthened my leadership abilities by teaching me to fill the role that is needed by those around me,” she said. “Sometimes it is by being a vocal leader and encouraging those around me. At other times it is to follow and complement the energy of others. Sometimes it

is to be funny to keep the morale of the team high and then there are times that call for seriousness and silent leadership by example.” Haddad also related her role as team setter on the volleyball team to professional leadership in other areas. “I have to take the blame for the team when a play isn’t executed correctly,” she said. “I understand that a leader has to take the fall for their team, even if it isn’t necessarily their fault.” Haddad and Wilkening will captain the team again next year—a leadership experience on the court that Haddad explains can be its own challenge from game to game, even down to the smallest detail. “We lead warm-ups before the games and talk to the referees if there is a play discrepancy. If a decision needs to be made, such as where to eat or what drill to run, my co-captain and I will make the decision. Being captain has shown me being a leader isn’t always glorious. We are responsible for the team’s actions whether they are good or bad.”

Leading into the Future Students will undoubtedly tell you that a major part of joining one of these groups is the fun and fellowship that comes with it. What many of them might not realize is that they are learning skills that will help prepare them for professional leadership after college. Very soon these students will become leaders themselves, showing others what it means to be a responsible and dedicated leader. In fact, they might already be there right now. n

The truth is, now separated from my Walla Walla collegiate experience by more than 20 years, I now understand that the best leaders are students, regardless of their academic status. Although unable to articulate it fully at the time, the thing that I learned from leadership while a student is this: Leadership is a verb. For many, leadership is viewed as the position that one holds. The truth is, holding the position did not make me a leader. The thing that made me a leader was moving in a direction and having others join in the journey. Randy Haffner ’89 OPS President, 1987–88 CEO and President, Porter Adventist Hospital Denver, Colo.

Spring 2010 Westwind 17

Over There, Today’s students who have served in the military are joining hundreds of distinguished veterans who call Walla Walla University their alma mater. The former servicemen and women bring a unique perspective to the campus. Jacob Radke and Esteban Rodriguez, two of the 20 veterans currently enrolled, share their own lessons from military service.

Jacob Radke

acob Radke served as a combat medic in the Washington Army National Guard from 1999 to 2009. In the course of his military service, he attained the rank of sergeant and title of squad leader, supervising a squad of medics. From 2003 to 2005 he was deployed to Bagdad, Iraq. Radke, who is currently a health science major, was also stationed in Kuwait and Pasco, Wash. “My experiences in the military have taught me much, probably more than can be listed here. I know, for a fact, that the military has made me a better person. Respect is one of the many core values of the Army that I was taught. I think that it is a big deal, and I always try to show respect where it is due. Sadly, we don’t see much of it in today’s society.” “Spending time overseas, in a combat

zone, really brought to light the things that we, as Americans, take for granted every day. Being placed in a hostile environment makes you re-evaluate what is important in life. As I reflect upon my time in Iraq, there were many times where I know God had a hand in our protection; there really is no other explanation as to our survival and the success of our missions. Prayer is a powerful thing.” “There are a lot of misconceptions about how the military is all about violence and killing. As a medic for 10 years, I received excellent training and gained the respect of countless fellow soldiers, as well as civilians. It is a great feeling to know that I served in a capacity that was more about saving lives and helping people. I am very proud to be a veteran and to have served this great country.”

A Tribute to Those Who Have Served

Darold Bigger ’66 Rear Admiral, Chaplain Corps, U. S. Navy (Retired) United States, 17 other countries, 1974 to 2004

18 Westwind Spring 2010

John Christiansen, attended U.S. Navy 1944 to 1946

Jim Eiseman ’70 Specialist U.S. Army Vietnam, 1970 to 1972

Larry Goodhew, attended Private First Class U.S. Army Korea, 1955 to 1957

Paul Hellie, attended Petty Officer Third Class U.S. Navy Korea, 1950 to 1954

Gerald Hixson, attended Corporal U.S. Air Force England, 1943 to 1945 Eric Ashley

Walla Walla University honored our Walla Walla-area alumni at a Veterans Day dinner.

Over Here E

steban Rodriguez served as a senior airman in the U.S. Air Force from 2001 to 2009 in Jordan, Kuwait, and Iraq. From 1992 to 2001 he also served as a specialist in the Army National Guard based in Nicaragua. Esteban is a forensic psychology major. Rodriguez says he learned many lessons from his service. “I learned to face my fears. to Persistence pays. Sacrifice for others. The impossible is possible. Many hands make light work. A unit is only as good as its leadership. Intelligence means information. There are two realities—what is and what is supposed to be. It’s better to give than to receive. God’s will is the ultimate reality. Combat stress shows you your strengths and weaknesses. Every day is an undeserved gift from God. Needs and wants are crystallized and prioritized. The value of people when they are gone. Where Christianity meets the road. Patience is more than a virtue. Having higher expectations for self and others. The more experienced the counselor, the better. Perfect practice makes perfect. Keep it simple. Admit

Bill Hunter ’68 Private First Class U.S. Army Korea, 1953 to 1955

Bob Mead, current staff member Sergeant, U.S. Air Force Vietnam, United States 1968 to 1971

when you are wrong. Be bold. Friendly fire isn’t. Lead, follow, or get out of the way. Lead by example. It is better to have one motivated and dedicated individual than one hundred unmotivated and undedicated individuals. Shut lips, open eyes and ears. Pay attention to details, your life depends on it. Theory is useful but nothing beats hands-on training. Respect greatly minimizes human viscosity. Avoid group think. Exceed standards. Joyfully stand for what is right no matter the cost. Cowards lack healthy perspective. Don’t try and shirk your duty and responsibilities. If you cannot live with the consequences don’t do it. A true friend will tell you the truth you don’t want to hear. Cherish extraordinary individuals while you can. It’s better to die for something than to live for nothing. Say ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ and ‘God bless you’ as much as possible—it might be the last kind thing someone hears. Tell everyone you love ‘I love you, God has blessed me with you’ as much as possible because you don’t know if today is your last day.” n

Herbert Messinger, former staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Saipan, United States 1945 to 1947

William Rouse ’72 Private First Class U.S. Army Germany, 1972 to 1976

Doyle Saxby ’49 Technical Corporal U.S. Army England, 1943 to 1946

Esteban Rodriguez

Wade Wolfe ’54, ’55 Staff Sergeant U.S. Air Corps United States, 1942 to 1946

Paul L. Worden ’55 Petty Officer Third Class U.S. Navy United States, 1945 to 1946

Spring 2010 Westwind 19

Being in the Know

ente Aune Stronegger has never walked the halls of the new administration building. She’s never sat in front of an equation-filled whiteboard in Chan Shun Pavilion or had her class photo taken during Homecoming Weekend. In fact, Stronegger hasn’t stepped foot on the Walla Walla University campus since the 1980s. One can hardly blame her, though, for not visiting. After graduating in 1984 with a double major in elementary education and speech pathology, Stronegger moved back to her native Norway, where she lives today. Yet, despite her physical distance, Stronegger is arguably more connected with the goings-on at WWU than many alumni who live a mere car ride away—all because of Facebook. Stronegger has been a member of the popular social networking site since its early days but admits she initially had trouble tracking down fellow WWU classmates. “When I searched for old school friends from Walla Walla I found two,” Stronegger writes (via Facebook message, naturally). So she took matters into her own hands, setting up a WWU alumni page in the hopes of reconnecting with her friends living an ocean away. Thanks to Stronegger’s undertaking, the WWU alumni page now boasts more than 900 members who swap pictures and reminisce about their days at WWU. With so many communication technologies whizzing into our 21st century lives—e-mail, instant messaging, Skype—it’d be easy to write off Facebook as a frivolity. And maybe it is. But any avid user will tell you that nothing satisfies both their voyeuristic curiosities and need for information quite like the social networking behemoth, which claims 350 million users worldwide (a figure slightly larger than the entire population of the United States).

20 Westwind Spring 2010

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Facebook was the brainchild of Harvard student Mark Zuckerberg, who launched the site back in 2004. In its early days, the fledgling endeavor was much like WWU’s own online version of the Mask—an easy vehicle for students to swap phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Exclusive to the Cambridge Ivy, the site soon spread to Stanford and Yale before opening to hundreds of schools, universities, organizations, and companies. By 2006, the site began welcoming anyone with a valid e-mail address, lending to its massive user numbers today. Though it’s difficult to accurately calculate the number of WWU alumni using Facebook, since not everyone self-identifies as an alumnus, a quick survey of the last decade of graduates listed on the site shows more than 3,000 users. One could modestly extrapolate that at least 4,000 to 5,000 WWU alumni are active users. Though tech-savvy millenials represent the bulk of members, Facebook is certainly not a passing “young people” fad. No one is probably more aware of that fact than 1984 religion and physical education graduate Bobby McGhee, who says, if he can do it, anyone can. A pastor in Dublin, Ohio, McGhee’s a self-described “super user,” who boasts more than 4,000 friends, whom he says he actively communicates with. If you were to befriend McGhee, you’d discover a recurring feature on his wall is a weekly poll where he poses a theological question on topics from creation to grace. On a recent Friday, one such inquiry garnered nearly 150 responses, a substantial turnout to be sure, but one made even more impressive by the fact that it ignited a thoughtful, lengthy discussion among diverse peers. Friends continued to return to the thread hours later to read what others had posted and to continue the conversation. “My goal is connecting people and sharing what I believe,” McGhee says. “I have to be able to discuss, debate, argue, love, forgive, accept,

o Keep me logged in by Amy Wilkinson

create—all these different areas. With what other forum could I do that? I found a place where I can have all those people that I’ve loved all my life in one space.” For professors and staff like WWU’s director of admissions Dallas Weis, it’s a way to reconnect with former students, as well as an outlet for those students to express their appreciation years after leaving the classroom. Before coming to WWU, Weis connected to hundreds of students in his roles as an administrator or teacher at Auburn Adventist Academy and Hawaiian Mission Elementary and Intermediate School, and Canada’s Parkview Adventist Academy, Mount Arrowsmith Adventist Academy, and Chinook Winds Adventist Academy. “The joy of seeing these high school students now as adults and with families and careers is just phenomenal to me,” Weis says. It’s the icing on the cake and represents all those years of blood, sweat, and tears. And to hear from these students now is so rewarding.”

IN GOOD TIMES AND IN BAD TIMES The novelty of Facebook—tracking down college crushes, sneaking a peek at your old roommate’s wedding photos, or bragging about your grandkids’ achievements—is largely its appeal. Yet Facebook can, and often does, serve a grander, perhaps far greater purpose as a messenger of vital information. Somehow, imperceptibly, Facebook has become our generation’s version of the town crier. News of weddings, births, and even deaths, travels more quickly and more widely online than a newspaper announcement or alumni magazine obituary ever could. Many alums have had the troubling and surreal experience of logging on to Facebook only to discover via a status update that a beloved friend has died. The sharing of such a significant announcement on a site like this can seem in poor

Forgot your password? •• ••• ••• ••

taste, and it can be shocking. But the reality is, Facebook is just another one of the communication channels at our disposal today, and in these moments, it unites us in grief and recovery. But as Ecclesiastes 3 says, to everything there is a season. And as some find a new purpose for Facebook in their time of suffering, others enthusiastically share their song of praise. Recent updates scrolling through my own newsfeed are a testament to these many facets. “Just scored [my] dream job! And now I feel like jumping in a frozen pond …” one job-hunting grad school classmate wrote. “In honor of our third-month anniversary, I’ve posted a few wedding photos!” said a high school friend who recently got married. “[My daughter] has arrived. She is absolutely perfect!!!” wrote another high school classmate, welcoming her first child into the world. As more alumni take to the social networking site, WWU intends to foster more of these meaningful connections. New alumni director Nicole Batten (who chronicled her own cross-country move via status updates on Facebook) recognizes the importance of the site and intends to make virtual communication one of her key focuses. “Social media is how people are communicating now,” she says. “I plan to use Facebook to engage and communicate more effectively with alumni. I want to work with the existing [alumni] group as well as encourage class years to start their own group for their graduating class.” Though it’s likely Facebook will one day be eclipsed by some new technology an online entrepreneur—or more likely, an inquisitive teenager— has yet to dream up, for now, it is one of our best tools for bridging the gap in geography and communication. Indeed, each message, picture, and status update is a constant reminder that, no matter how far-flung and diverse we can be, we are part of the great human race, sharing each others’ lives one mouse click at a time. n

Spring 2010 Westwind 21

Interview

Nursing, Entrepreneurship and The Future of Health Care By Jeremy Dietz

You can do a lot with a nursing degree. Judith Storfjell, a 1966 nursing graduate, is proof. She’s enjoyed success as an educator, entrepreneur, consultant, and researcher. Currently, she holds the titles of professor, associate dean for academic practice, and executive director of the Institute for Healthcare Innovation at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC).

What are some of the health care innovations your institute is currently involved with?

One of our interesting clinic programs at UIC is giving nursemanaged primary care to severely mentally ill people, a group of people who are traditionally hard to reach. The results of our research aren’t in, but one area that seems the most promising for this group is telemonitoring. We have units—like computer kiosks—in individual homes and group homes. With these units, we can monitor things like blood sugar, pulse, blood pressure and weight. If the person has diabetes, the unit automatically asks them things when they log in, such as ‘did you take your medicine today?’ It also checks their weight and vital signs. A nurse monitors the results via the Web. If there are problems, we can follow up immediately and catch problems early. We’re just in the infancy on this, but we found that medica22 Westwind Spring 2010

tion adherence and diet compliance improved dramatically within the first week.

The very interesting findings are that between one-third and onehalf of all time on a nursing unit is what we call non-value-added time. This means that every inpatient nursing unit has about a million dollars in non-value-added time each year.

doing things that don’t add value, like entering data in the computer multiple times or not having supplies handy. All of these things are taking them away from their primary responsibilities. Overall, these are due to system-related issues such as multiple handoffs or not having a large blood pressure cuff accessible, for example. You spend so much more time having nurses hunt for them than it would cost to have one in every room. Another example would be computer systems that don’t communicate with each other so the nurse becomes the link between systems. This is what frustrates nurses. They didn’t take nursing to do all these things; they took nursing to take care of patients. And it’s probably one of the biggest causes of nursing turnover.

What are the most common contributors to non-value-added time for nurses?

Are these the types of problems you typically help resolve in your consulting work?

It’s not that nurses aren’t busy— they’re extremely busy. But they’re

I tend to either work with clients who are interested in innovation

And you’re also involved in research into the costs of health care?

Yes, my personal research is on costs of health care and nursing specifically. I’m trying to identify ways we can be more efficient and cost effective. What are some of the most intriguing findings emerging from this research?

and new programs, or clients who are looking to fix current problems and find ways they can do things better. As a consultant, what are some of the challenges you face in helping clients make changes?

When I present my findings and recommendations to a health care client there is generally agreement about the problem and the resolution, but actually implementing the changes that are needed can be more difficult. Problems that are specific to a nursing unit are generally fairly easy to fix within that unit. It’s the system-wide problems that tend to be more difficult to address. Again, there’s typically not a disagreement that the problem is there, but it’s harder to agree on how to fix it. Still, while implementing change is always difficult, it does happen. Putting a dollar sign on the problem—as we’ve done with non-value-added time—really helps promote needed change. Speaking of change, health care reform is a popular topic right now. What changes would you like to see made to the health care system?

I can tell you in a nutshell that we have to change reimbursement incentives for health care to help it to become more cost effective. However health care reform ends up, my priorities are to make health care a right rather than a privilege, and to have systems that give incentives for continuity of care and efficiency and effectiveness.

Interview I was at Columbia Academy somebody told me that you could go to school in Europe, and it wouldn’t cost any more than going to college in the states and I thought, ‘well, that sounds like fun.’ So I took my first year of college in Norway. And I have lifelong Norwegian friends as a result. And my former husband taught at Middle East College [now Middle East University] in Beirut. We were there for three years.

nurse or a trauma nurse. Or you could go into public health and influence changes that affect a whole population. I started at Walla Walla with a business major and switched to nursing. Blending nursing with my business background led me into administration, entrepreneurship, research and academia.

How do you think your experiences living abroad helped shape your career?

A really important thing about nursing is that it’s a blend of physical and social sciences. It’s really the only health care profession that looks at an individual as a whole— both the physical and the social. So if you come to nursing from biology or a physical science area, that’s going to help you a lot. But if you come from a social science area, that’s also going to help you.

Well, I’ve done some international consulting. The most impressive example I suppose was in Korea. They’ve called me the ‘mother of home health care’ in Korea because I helped develop a demonstration program and did a workshop for government people in home health. That was 20 years ago and now they have a really strong program. I love the international part of health care. We have a global economy and we need to learn from each other. And having this international experience really broadens your way of thinking.

Photo courtesy of Judith Storfjell

“People tell me one of my strengths is having vision so I can see potential where maybe others might not,” says Judith Storfjell. “But I think the fact that I can blend the financial and the clinical together has been a huge help to me.”

Nursing shortages seem to be a continuing issue. What are some steps that could be taken to resolve this problem?

That’s a good question because there are more applicants to schools of nursing than there are places for them. Being able to accommodate the number of people wanting to take nursing has to do with having the resources and faculty to do that. So we need more nursing faculty, and that means we need more nurses prepared educationally to become faculty. You’ve spent time living in both Norway and Lebanon. What circumstances took you there?

I took my first year of college at the Adventist school in Norway. When

What advice would you give to a person considering going into nursing?

I would tell anybody that nursing is a fantastic basic profession and gives you skills that can launch you in many directions. You can become a primary care provider, an advanced practice

Our Nursing Program The four-year baccalaureate degree program provides a strong foundation in nursing knowledge and skills, as well as education in leadership, management and research. Students complete the first two years at the University’s main campus in College Place. Students complete their final two years of education at the School of Nursing

What other types of other educational backgrounds blend well with nursing?

What skill has been most important to you in your career?

People tell me one of my strengths is having vision so I can see potential where maybe others might not. But I think the fact that I can blend the financial and the clinical together has been a huge help to me. I’m pretty passionate about the fact that nurses, and especially nurse managers, need to understand the business side of health care. And having that business background has been extremely important to me. n

campus in Portland, Ore. As part of a bridge program, transfer students may complete sophomore year classes at the summer program on the Portland campus. The curriculum includes having nursing students work at community hospitals, service agencies, home-care and extended care facilities, and schools. For more information, go to nursing.wallawalla.edu. Spring 2010 Westwind 23

Alumnotes

1960s

three children, Karlyn ’89, Kori ’92, and Kellie ’93.

John William Ash III ’65 and his wife, Connie (Hartzell) ’65, have lived in Hong

Sam Carvajal ’60 and his wife, Grace, live in Glendale, Calif. Sam worked at

Kong for 20 years. Although they retired in 2007, he says there’s plenty of work for him to do using his Chinese language skills. John currently works as the chairman of the Chinese Hope Channel, which is sponsored by the Chinese Union Mission for Seventh-day Adventists. In his spare time, John enjoys race-walking. In 2004, he participated in an international race-walkers’ competition in New Zealand. His favorite college memories include working as a night watchman while taking a full load of classes and grading papers for Dr. Litke. John and Connie have two children, John IV ’92 and James ’97. Dorothea (Renschler) Amey ’65 and her husband, Eugene ’66, live in

Moorpark, Calif. For the last seven years, Dorothea has been fighting pancreatic cancer. She has fond college memories of the women’s deans. Robert Bond ’60 and his wife, Georgene (Thompson) att., live in Salt Lake City, Utah. In his spare time, Robert enjoys birding, photography, and antique automobiles. Robert and Georgene have 24 Westwind Spring 2010

Glendale Adventist Medical Center for 42 years as director of laboratory, radiology, and cardiology. He retired in 2003. In his spare time, he enjoys golf and traveling. While at WWU, Sam remembers several difficult years learning English and working hard to maintain good grades. He adds, “They were the foundation for a bright future. Those four years were the best investment I have ever made.” Sam and Grace have two children, Lisa and Sam. Jeannene (Lefever) Cramer ’65 lives in Portland, Ore. Jeannene has served as secretary to the headmaster of The Community School in Tehran, Iran. While there, she learned that the Department of State employs nurses to practice in embassies around the world. She applied and was assigned to Kabul, Afghanistan. She was posted there during three coups and the murder of the ambassador. She has been assigned to Cairo, Paris, Jakarta, London, and Washington D.C. She says, “In some ways, the adjustment to life in the U.S. was more challenging than adapting to other countries, especially the numerous choices in stores and our throw-away culture.” Harold Eslinger ’60 and his wife, Melva (Nelson) ’58, live in Pleasant Hill, Calif. In his spare time, Harold enjoys astronomy, playing the guitar, and singing baritone with “His Envoys,” a male quartet. From his time at WWU, Harold remembers traveling to the Whitman Monument on

listening to Melvin West on the organ. She and Ronald have three children, Brian ’94, Michael, and Jerrold ’99. Sabbath afternoons, Saturday night social activities in Columbia Auditorium, and sharing the friendliness of fellow students walking along the “Hello Walk.” Harold and Melva have four children, Mark ’85, Lorinda, Eric, and Heidi. Lila (Stewart) Fry ’65 and her husband, Elbert, live in Enumclaw, Wash. Lila and Elbert have two children, Glenna att., and Gwendolyn ’64. C. Keith Gibbons ’60 and his wife, Elizabeth (Barlow) att., live in College Place. Keith volunteers at Walla Walla General Hospital. His hobbies include gardening and woodworking. While at WWU, Keith remembers Dr. Wintermeyer’s history classes. Keith and Elizabeth have three children, Yvonne att., Linda att., and Edwin ’68. Raleigh Hardin ’60 and his wife, Dorothy (Hooker) att., live in Brewster,

Rodney Heisler ’65 and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Port Angeles, Wash. In 2007, he retired and built a house on Freshwater Bay where he enjoys fishing and hiking. While at WWU, Rodney raised money and led the design process for Chan Shun Pavilion. He also enjoyed 37 years of memorable teaching at WWU. The couple has three children, Donald att., Jon ’94, and Tamara ’03. Wanda (Knowles) Ingold ’65 and her husband, Allan, live in Noblesville, Ind. Wanda works as a kindergarten teacher for Cicero Adventist Elementary School. She enjoys wildflowers and has planted many native varieties in her yard. Wanda and Allan have three children, Alanna, Brent and Matt ’03. Anita Isene ’60 lives in Lodi, Calif. While at WWU, she remembers the friendships that started and continue to this day.

Wash. They are both involved in the church, and Raleigh enjoys playing guitar for a small band. From his time at WWU, Raleigh remembers his friends. The couple have two children, Michael and Don. Glee (Canaday) Hartman ’65 and her husband, Ronald, live in Jellico, Ind. Glee enjoys gardening, singing, and studying the Bible. While at WWU, Glee remembers

Donald Jeffries ’60 and his wife, Virginia, live in Bakersfield, Calif. In his spare time, Donald enjoys photography and 4-wheel driving in the “outback.” He and his wife have two children, Todd and Angela.

Alumnotes Kenneth Kelln ’60 and his wife, Marilynn, live in Layton, Utah. From his

time at WWU, Kenneth remembers Dr. Claude Barnett’s excitement in physics and the fun and hard work that came with producing the Collegian every week. Kenneth and Marilynn have three children, David, Rebecca, and Deborah att. Lillis Kingman ’60 and her husband, Robert, live in Berrien Springs, Mich. Lillis continues to teach private piano lessons and has about 20 students. She is an organist for her church and plays on Sunday for another church. From her time at WWU, Lillis remembers Dean Helen Evans’s worship talks. Lillis and Robert have four children, Roy, Lorene, Sharla, and Larry. James “Pat” Larson ’65 and his wife, Dorothy (Radke) att., live in Gresham, Ore.

During the winter season, they enjoy the weather in Desert Hot Springs, Calif. Golf and traveling are among his hobbies. James and Dorothy have one son, Steve att. Ben Lonto ’65 and his wife, Margaret, live in Silver Spring, Md. Ben works for

Sam McMunn ’60 and his wife, Margaret, live in College Place. Sam retired after

more than 23 years of teaching in the Adventist school system and more than 11 years driving the moving van for the Upper Columbia Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Sam and Margaret have three children, Linda att., Ken, and Sandy.

Carter Noland ’60 and his wife, Joan (Easton) att., live in Damascus, Ore. Carter is still practicing in ophthalmology. In his spare time, he enjoys music and yard work. He and his wife have three children, Liesl ’89, Janesta, and Jonathan. Ruth (Deming) Roberts ’60 and her husband, Raymond, live in Berrien Springs, Mich. In her spare time, she enjoys cross stitch and helping in children’s ministries. From her time at WWU, Ruth remembers the three summers she spent cooking at Rosario Beach. Ruth has one son, Philip. Jean (Ordelheide) Rouse ’65 and her husband, Ed ’66, live in Meadow Vista,

Calif. Jean works as a professional assistant for Adventist Health. Jean and Ed have three children, Julie, Brian, and Jennifer. Kay Wadsworth ’60 lives in Houston, Texas. She works as a medical technician for the VA Hospital and has three children, Ray, Jim, and Kenneth. Marolyn (Eiseman) Wagner ’65 and her husband, Don ’66, live in Walla Walla. Marolyn works as a registered nurse at Wheatland Village, an assisted-living facility. The couple have two children, Mindy and Donald II. Robert Wasmer ’65 and his wife, Glennis (Massey) att., live in Nampa, Idaho. In his spare time, Robert enjoys carving, painting, and selling carved wooden birds. Robert and Glennis enjoy traveling and gardening. From his college years, Robert remembers summer sessions at Rosario Beach Field Station and the 1962 “Moonlight Hike” to Whitman Monument. The couple has three children, Tamara, Julie, and Todd. Jerald Whitehouse ’65 and his wife, Judith (Dietrich) att., live in Loma Linda, Calif. Jerald works as a special consultant for Muslim relations for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The couple has lived and worked internationally for 16 years in Libya, Lebanon, Sudan, and Bangladesh. Jerald and Judith have five children, Jeralyn, Lavelle ’94, Yvette ’94, Rebecca, and Rakilly.

1970s Sylvia (Monson) Ajimine ’75 and her husband, Vernon, live in Corona, Calif. Sylvia works as a special education teacher. In her spare time, she enjoys wakeboarding, singing, and reading. Sylvia and Vernon have one son, Jonathan.

the U.S. Department of Justice. Ben and Margaret have four children, Robert, D. James, Randall, and Richard.

Leslie (Helfer) Bumgardner ’75 lives in College Place. She works as a pastor at the Walla Walla University Church. She has two children, Michael and Sara.

Spring 2010 Westwind 25

Alumnotes Audrey (Reimche) Bigelow ’75 and her husband, Lester, live in Yakima, Wash. Audrey works as a medical technologist for North Star Lodge Oncology Lab. She and Lester have three children, Jennifer, Andrew, and Becki. Rita (Schaffner) Corbett ’70 and her husband, Grant, live in Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada. Rita works as a health educator. She enjoys life with her six children, four of whom are adopted. Rita is busy with health and spiritual activities at home and in India. Her favorite memories of WWU include Saturday nights in Columbia Auditorium and Evensong. Patrick Feehan ’75 and his wife, Mariana, live in Carmel, Calif. Patrick works as a radiation oncologist. In his spare time, Patrick enjoys bike riding and coaching soccer. Tami (Siewert) Franklin ’75 and her husband, Chuck, live in Newcastle, Wyo. Tami works as a registered nurse for Cedar Hills Clinic. They have three children, Brandon att., Jared, and Ginger. Garey Gantz ’75 and his wife, Marilyn (Monroe) ’69, live in Nampa, Idaho. Garey and Marilyn have two children, Jennifer att., and Jonathan ’01. Dale Johnson ’75 and his wife, Debbie, live in Walla Walla. Dale works as a service technician for Key Technology. They have three children, Deanna, Darci, and Devin. Daniel Knapp Sr. ’70 and his wife, Sharon, live in Cusick, Wash. Daniel works

as a pastor for the Upper Columbia Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. In his spare time, Daniel enjoys photography and international travel. Daniel and Sharon have six children, David ’78, Arnold, Daniel ’89, Lori, Jason att., and Justin curr. att.

26 Westwind Spring 2010

Robert Kyte ’75 and his wife, Nancy (Lyon) att., live in Meridian, Idaho. Robert works at Healthwise Inc. Mickey Meyer ’75 and his wife, Verdene (Libby) att., live in Indian Valley, Idaho. The couple live on and operate a remote cattle and hay ranch in west central Idaho. From his college years, Mickey remembers the godly teachers, secretaries, and administrators. Jimmy Schwab ’75 and his wife, Lynne (Colburn) att., live in Lajunta, Colo. Currently, Jimmy is teaching a certified nursing assistant course at the local junior college. Jimmy and Lynne are active in their local Seventh-day Adventist church. Clinton Schultz ’75 and his wife, Linda (Haugen) att., live in Spokane Valley, Wash. Clinton works as a pastor and counselor. In his spare time, he enjoys camping, music and gardening. Maria (Carrera) Solaita ’75 and her husband, Ioane, live in Oregon City, Ore. Maria works as a registered nurse and owns a small interpreting agency in Portland. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and helping people. Ralph Staley ’70 lives in Mt. Hood, Ore. Ralph has had many traveling opportunities to places such as Honduras, Sudan, India, Russia, and Mexico for mission work. From his college years, he fondly remembers Dean Lowen, Lewis Canaday, and hiking in the mountains. Carol (Albersen) St. Clair ’75 and her husband, Jack ’73, live in La Grande, Ore. Carol has worked as a 911 dispatcher for the past 18 years. She enjoys playing the organ for her church and the local Episcopal church. Carol and Jack have three children, Katrina Koch ’04, Jason ’06, and Whitney. Kerry (White) Trethewey ’75 and her husband, Mark, live in Tacoma, Wash.

Kerry works at Centralia College as an associate professor for adult basic education. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her granddaughter. They have two children, Crystal and Matthew att. Gregory White ’70 and his wife, Judith (Thorp) ’69, live in Albany, Ore. Gregory works as a physics instructor at Linn Benton Community College. The couple have two children, Junia and Rebecca.

James Foster ’80 and his wife, Beverly (Rippey) ’78, live in Beaverton, Ore. He works as a software engineer at GemStone Systems, Inc. The couple has two children, John ’07 and Laura ’08. Karen Garcia ’85 and her husband, Emil, live in Marysville, Wash. Karen

Brian Will ’75 and his wife, Carlene (Van Pelt) ’77, live in Battle Ground,

Wash. Brian works as an ophthalmologist. He has published multiple chapters in Ophthalmic Surgery textbooks and has been awarded three Best Paper Session Awards from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, gardening, and sea kayaking. Brian and Carlene have four children, Matthew, Christopher ’08, Jamison curr. att., and Nicholas att. Gisela (Schulenburg) Zinner ’70 and her husband, Harald, live in Adrossan, Alberta, Canada. Gisela has spent six years overseas in Kenya, Uganda, and Lebanon. In her spare time, Gisela enjoys babysitting her two youngest grandsons. The couple have three children, Christine, Marilyn att., and Rosalie.

1980s Dan Bray ’80 and his wife, Patti (Mack) att., live in Harker Heights, Texas. Dan works for the U.S. Army. He recently completed a yearlong assignment to the Middle East as the Army’s first deployed marriage/family life chaplain. His favorite college memory was making lifelong friends. Dan and Patti have two sons, Tyler and Jordan.

works as a substitute teacher for the Washington Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. While at WWU, Karen remembers spending Sabbath afternoons at professors’ homes, ordering a toasted bagel with cream cheese at the SAC, and listening to the choir at the College Church. Karen and Emil have two children, Karalee and Andrew. Lana (Hansen) Hauge ’85 and her husband, Jon, live in Tacoma, Wash. Lana works at Olympic Medical. Jon and Lana have two children, Jacob and Jordan. Ronald Hollenbeck ’80 and his wife, Joyce (Furr) att. live in Pasco, Wash. Ronald works as a senior engineer at Fluor Federal Services. In his spare time, he enjoys woodworking and model airplanes. Ronald and Joyce have two children, Katrina McCauley and Lori ’09. Jean Inaba ’80 lives in Silver Spring, Md. She works as a certified licensed

technician with a D.C. interiorscape company. She previously worked for 16

Alumnotes years as associate music producer of “Performance Today” at National Public Radio. In her spare time, she enjoys health and fitness, non-fiction movies, and horticulture.

children, Brooke and Travis.

Jeff Kinne ’80 and his wife, Wafia (Farag) ’81, live in Spokane, Wash. Jeff works as a pastor for the Upper Columbia Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Jeff and Wafia have three children, Evan ’09, Nolan att., and Elise.

Sheri (Silcox) Proctor ’85 and her husband, James, live in Port Hadlock, Wash. Sheri works as an assistant bookkeeper for Hope, Inc.. Her favorite college memory includes staying up all night and playing games with friends the day before graduation. The couple have three children, Elizabeth, Rebekah, and Kaylie.

Aaron Koelsch ’85 and his wife, Judy, live in Olympia, Wash. Aaron works as

Brian Morris ’80 and his wife, Davina, live in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. They have one child, Brianne.

Charles Reel ’89 and his wife, Karla (Peck) ’90, live in Agana Heights, Guam, serving as missionaries. Charles works as a treasurer for the Guam Micronesia Mission, and Karla works part-time in the education department. They have two children, Kasondra and Cameron. the president and CEO of Koelsch Senior Communities. The couple have four children, Clark, Olivia, Jack and Sophia. Roger Lutz ’80 and his wife, Penny, live in Clovis, Calif. Roger owns a commercial laundry equipment and install business. He enjoys spending his spare time with his family. Roger and Penny have two

have three children, McKayla, Johannes and Angelik.

Kelli (Wilson) Rigsby ’85 and her husband, Bob, live in Burien, Wash. Kelli is a homemaker. She enjoys having time to herself, planning activities for the church youth group, and hopes to teach the family parrot to call her, “Mama.” While at WWU, she remembers the smell of spring in College Place. Kelli and Bob have two

children, Royce and Rachel. Sharon Roberts ’80 and her husband, Rick, live in Lynnwood, Wash. Sharon works as a commercial underwriter for Cascade Bank. Rick teaches grades 6-8 at Cypress Adventist School. In Sharon’s spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and playing with her Labrador retriever, Kelly. From her time at WWU, Sharon remembers roller skating in Columbia Auditorium, and playing cards with friends instead of studying during dead week. Kay (Stackhouse) Stahl ’83 and her husband, Frank, live in Hamburg, Penn. Kay works as a financial and housing specialist. Frank works as a principal and teacher at Blue Mountain Academy Elementary School. While at WWU, Kay remembers being a boy’s dorm “mother” to some of the guys since her husband was a student dean. Kay and Frank

Patsy (Hare) Vazquez ’85 and her husband, Jackie, live in Pasco, Wash. Patsy works as a registered nurse at Lourdes Medical Center. In her spare time, Patsy enjoys reading, painting, and traveling. This summer, the couple will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. From her college years, Patsy remembers working at the snack bar. Patsy and Jackie have two children, Brandon curr. att., and Robert curr. att. Rena (Clark) Wear ’85 and her husband, Edward, live in Alexandria, Va. Rena works as a finance manager for a small advertising company that promotes logo branding. Her favorite WWU memory was leg wrestling in the cafeteria and hiking up to the fourth floor in the administration building for classes in high heels because “we had to dress professional.” Rena and Edward have two girls. David Young ’85 and his wife, Esther, live in Vancouver, Wash. They have two children, Ethan and Ericka.

Message On A Bottle Quench your thirst with a Walla Walla University water bottle—and show your school pride. Visit the “U-Shop” for a great selection of mugs, water bottles, and more. Clocks u T-Frames u Notecards u Sweatshirts and other clothing u

Walla Walla University Shop Visit our website wallawalla.edu/store Save 20% by keying in “Westwind” in the Customer Notes box Spring 2010 Westwind 27

Alumnotes

1990s Curtis Broderick ’90 and his wife, Joan, live in Clamart, France. Curtis worked for a year at the United Nations War Crimes Tribunal in the Hague. In his spare time, he enjoys touring different parts of France and going over into Germany or the United Kingdom every now and then. His favorite college memories include the OPS open house when the entire hall dressed up as savage natives. Shawn Casey-White ’90 and her husband, Brad, live in Orinda, Calif. Shawn works as the senior vice president and executive director for the American Heart Association. In their spare time, they enjoy playing golf, participating in church activities, and cooking with friends in a supper club. From her college memories, Shawn remembers the communications London Tour and Dr. Dickinson’s mentorship and guidance. Lynelle (Childs) Ellis ’90 and her husband, Daniel att., live in Chattanooga,

Instead, she has combined it with freelancing. Leena has two children, Mikael and Markus. Jody (Bailey) Kinard ’90 and her husband, Alan, live in Loma Linda, Calif. Jody owns JK creations where she makes wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and other special occasion dresses. Owning a business and working from home has allowed her to stay home with her two children, Carolyn and Laralyn. From her time at WWU, Jody remembers Afterglow. Lena Santillana ’90 and her husband, Stefan Schmitt, live in Madrid, Spain.

Glenda (Fleener) Hawley ’90 lives in Moscow, Idaho. Her hobbies include gardening and reading. Her fondest college memories include the support and guidance she received from Wilma Hepker. Leena (Laitinen) Haveri ’80 and ’97 lives in Nummela, Finland. After graduation, she returned to Scandinavia to work. In 1980, Leena lived her dream and traveled the world in 80 days. Her passion for travel has not died down. 28 Westwind Spring 2010

Sheila Zangar ’90 and her husband, Denis, live in Dayton, Wash. Sheila enjoys the great outdoors, animals and just having fun. Her favorite college memories include Wilma Hepker.

2000s

Lena works as the assistant to the director of Middlebury College in Spain. From her college years, Lena remembers the friends, Friday sunsets, and the campus at springtime. Shaen Tarter ’90 and his wife, Laura, live in Kailua, Hawaii. Shaen works at Bradley

Tenn. Lynelle works as an assistant professor at Southern Adventist University. From her time at WWU, Lynelle remembers rafting trips, planning AGA events, and working on audio and video projects late into the night. The couple has three children, Garrett, Lauren, and Ashton.

Craig. They served with Adventist Frontier Missions for five years, Dakota Adventist Academy for seven years and currently are at Gem State Academy where Craig teaches science. From her years at WWU, Cheryl remembers singing in the tunnel under the church with a great group of friends on a Sabbath afternoon. The couple has four children, Brianna, Justin, Kierra, and Joshua.

Pacific Aviation, Inc. as the vice president and general manager. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, flying and spending time with his family. His favorite college memory includes quiet Friday nights after a long week, mountain biking in the Blues and golfing with friends in the spring. Shaen and Laura have two children, Emeline and Garrett. Cheryl (Kronner) Wiley ’90 and her husband, Craig, live in Caldwell, Idaho. Cheryl works as a domestic engineer. After graduation, Cheryl taught briefly at Andrews University where she met

Sara (Guth) Beck ’00 and her husband, Mark ’99, live in Hillsboro, Ore. Sara spent eight years teaching math courses from pre-algebra to AP statistics at a public high school in Beaverton, Ore. Now she works as a full-time mom to her 1-yearold daughter, Holly. From her years at WWU, Sara remembers afterglow services in the men’s dorm. Troy Bishop ’00 and his wife, Nichole, live in Twin Falls, Idaho. Troy works as a counselor. They have one child, Terrin.

Carol have two children, Alexander and Joshua. Sherry Jacobia ’00 lives in Burley, Idaho. In her spare time she enjoys camping, snowmobiling, flying and snow skiing. She has five children, Jamie, Jason, Jennifer, Brian, and Brandon. Jolene (Seibold) Johnson ’00 and her husband, Ruan, live in Pasco, Wash. They have one child, Makena. Lisa (Ewen) Jordan ’00 and her husband, Chris, live in Worland, Wyo. Lisa works as a clinical social worker. They have two children, Brittany and Graisen. Mary “Maggi” (Sherwood) McElfresh ’00 and her significant other, Ron, live in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Maggi works as an oncology social worker for Kootenai Health. In her spare time she enjoys writing, running, and reading. She has two children, Ed and Korri. Jeremy Morris ’00 and his wife, Angela, live in LaGrande, Ore. He works as a project manager for Anderson-Perry & Associates. In his spare time, Jeremy enjoys hiking, biking, and mountaineering. In 2009, he climbed Mt. Rainier. He and Angela have two children, Jerin and Jillian.

Jonadab Franco ’00 lives in Rockingham, N.C. His favorite memories of WWU were the friendly faculty and staff and the unforgettable scenery of the Walla Walla Valley.

Laura Paise ’00 lives in Sedro-Woolley, Wash. She is a math teacher at Skagit Adventist Academy. While at WWU, Laura remembers weekly chapels, working on the Collegian, and participating in various small groups with friends and mentors.

James Hartley ’00 and his wife, Leila, live in Biloxi, Miss. James works as an ophthalmologist for the U.S. Air Force. While at WWU, he remembers driving on the dirt roads in the Blues when the leaves were changing colors in the fall. He and Leila have two children, Aiden and Audrey.

Chinelle Carrington-Rodriguez ’09 and her husband, Ismael, live in College Place. Chinelle loves children, helping others in need, cooking and playing games. Her favorite memory of WWU was listening to the stories of her professors’ career experiences.

Douglas Hartzell ’00 and his wife, Carol, live in De Queen, Ariz. Douglas works as the principal at Beacon Adventist Junior Academy. From his time at WWU, Douglas remembers the biology trips to Rosario and the late night Greek study parties with Brant Berglin. Douglas and

In Memory

Anholm—Louise (Boyce) ’47 was born Feb. 2, 1925, in Salem, Ore., and died Dec. 18, 2008, in Loma Linda, Calif. Surviving: husband John Sr. of Loma Linda; and sons John Jr. ’73, of Snohomish, Wash., and James of Redlands, Calif. Bechtel—James ’58 was born Sept. 24, 1931, in Spring Lake, Mich., and died July 10, 2009, in Walla Walla. Surviving: wife Lavonne (Bovee) att., of College Place; sons Lynden att., of Rockland, Wash., Marlin att., of Walla Walla, Stanley ’84 of College Place; daughter Kerri Finkbiner ’79 of College Place, and sister Alice of Brush Prairie, Wash.

Alaskan Adventurer

lying over the Alaska landscape in his Piper Super Club, Shaun Anthony Lunt’s greatest reward was the close connection he felt to God. “Best time spent in Alaska? Time spent with God,” Shaun wrote in his blog, “He is good. And the best things in life pale in comparison.” Shaun, a 1997 health science graduate, died while piloting his

Budd—Gertrude “Trudy” (Holloway) ’40 was born Oct. 7, 1919, in Flora, Ore., and died Nov. 14, 2009, in Longview, Wash. Surviving: son Dan of Olympia, Wash.; and daughter Derreta Winsor ’68 of Kelso, Wash. Buell—Jonna (Dybdahl) ’89 was born March 22, 1967, in St. Joseph, Mich., and died Nov. 11, 2009, in College Place. Surviving: husband Montgomery Buell ’90 of College Place; daughters Alexandra att., Victoria, and Kristianna of College Place; father Jon of College Place, mother Kathryn of College Place; brother Paul Dybdahl of Walla Walla, and sister Krista Croft att., of Centennial, Colo.

and Kathy Comfort ’86 of University Place, Wash.; brother Don of Boring, Ore.; and sister Darlene of Gresham, Ore.

Bullock—Joan (Watts) ’75 was born Nov. 27, 1952, in Scotia, Calif., and died May 28, 2009, in Reno, Nev. Surviving: husband Dwayne of Reno; daughters Lynell of Greenwood, Calif., and Lonna of Roseville, Calif.; father D. Robert of Paradise, Calif.; mother Audrey of Paradise, and brother Gary of Paradise.

Copeland—David ’47 was born Oct. 29, 1927, in Coos Bay, Ore., and died Dec. 31, 2009, in Keizer, Ore. Surviving: wife Mary Lou of Keizer; son Stephen att., of Portland, Ore.; daughter Karen Riddell att. of Salem, Ore.; sisters Mary Carter of College Place, Jean Wadlin of Cleveland, Okla., and Roberta Herd att., of College Place.

Carman—Dennis ’60 was born July 30, 1938, in Omak, Wash., and died Dec. 5, 2009, in Mount Vernon, Wash. Surviving: wife Connie of Mount Vernon; son Brad Carman curr. att., of Mount Vernon; daughters Sheryl Kidrick att., of Mount Vernon,

Cramer—Nolan ’56, was born in Chewelah, Wash., and died Feb. 21, 2010, in Long Beach, Calif. Surviving: wife Anne of Long Beach, Calif.; daughters Sylvia Cramer-Rolla att., of Redlands, Calif., Linda Sloop, att., of Yakima, Wash.; stepdaugh-

airplane during a scenic flight near Jack Smith Bay on the western coast of Alaska. As a tribute to Shaun, his family wrote about the tragic accident that ended Shaun’s life on his blog, shaunlunt.typepad.com. Shaun had a passion for adventure and his Alaska trips also gave him the opportunity for photography, another hobby he loved. Shaun will be remembered by his family and friends for his exuberant spirit and love for God’s creation. At the time of his death, Shaun was an anesthesiologist at the Jerry Pettis Memorial Veterans Hospital in Loma Linda, Calif. Shaun was born on Dec. 21, 1973, in Atlanta, Ga., and died June 6, 2008, in Alaska. He is survived by his father, Norman Lunt, his mother, Margie (Freeman) Lunt, and his sister, Shelly Lunt Bolivar. ters Pamela and Deborah; stepson Ronald, brother William att., of Lawai, Hawaii; and sister Ruth Hall att., of Chewelah. Crawford—Ethele “Faye” (Cobb) ’49 was born Dec. 22, 1925, in Denver, Colo., and died March 10, 2009, in Denver. Surviving: sister Joan of Denver. Davis—Charles ’59 was born Jan. 26, 1930, in Corvallis, Ore., and died July 13, 2009, in Vancouver, Wash. Surviving: wife Verda (Edgar) att., of Vancouver; son Alan of Walla Walla; daughter Patricia att., of Gladstone, Ore.; sisters Roberta of Eugene, Ore., and Eddie of Crooked River Ranch, Ore. Day—Roy Willard III ’65 was born Nov. 15, 1941, in Coolidge, Ariz., and died June

9, 2009, in Eugene, Ore. Surviving: sons Roy IV of Vancouver, Wash., and Todd of Vancouver; daughter Melissa Larson ’93 of Priest River, Idaho; and sister Elizabeth of Blackfoot, Idaho. Drake—Loretta (Bauer) ’28 was born Oct. 11, 1910, in Wheat Belt, Alberta, Canada, and died Aug. 21, 2009, in Woodland, Calif. Ferren—Rosella (Davis) att., was born April 2, 1924, in Merlin, Ore., and died July 31, 2009, in Sutherlin, Ore. Surviving: husband Delbert of Roseburg, Ore.; sons Ron of Bladenboro, N.C., and Dan of New York, N.Y.; daughters Elizabeth Thomas att., of Miami, Fla., and Deberah of Eugene, Ore.; brother Art of Adrian, Ore.; and sister Betty of Red Bluff, Calif. Hannum—Judith (Henderson) was born Feb. 17, 1938, in Lansing, Mich., and died July 12, 2009, in College Place. Surviving: husband James of College Place; daughters Carrie of Dixie, Wash., and Luann Sines ’92 of Memphis, Tenn.; brother Glenn of Fountain Hills, Ariz.; and sister Dorothy of Gold Canyon, Ariz. Hoover—Kenneth att., was born Jan. 30, 1927, in Armstrong, British Columbia, Canada, and died Oct. 1, 2008, in Portland, Ore. Surviving: wife Arlene (Bietz) ’50 of Portland, Ore.; sons James att., of Eagle, Idaho, and Ed att., of Gresham, Ore.; and brother Leonard of Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Honicker—Franklin ’50 was born Sept. 13, 1920, in Collingswoods, N.D., and died June 4, 2009, in Bethesda, Md. Surviving: wife Jeanne of Bethesda; sons Stuart and Kenneth of Bethesda; and sister Dorothy of Lititz, Pa. Jensen—Frieda (Jahn) att., was born April 26, 1925, in Grand Ronde, Ore., and died June 11, 2009, in Portland, Ore. Surviving: husband William “Bill” att., of Spring 2010 Westwind 29

In Memory North Plains, Ore.; sons Edward “Ed” ’75 of Corbett, Ore., and Gary of Hillsboro, Ore.; and daughter Nancy Davis ’77, of College Place. Jones—Elsie (Perry) att., was born Sept. 9, 1914, in Sumas, Wash., and died Feb. 2, 2010, in Hermiston, Ore. Surviving: sons Perry of Walla Walla, Gary att. of Hermiston, Barton ’76 of Walla Walla; daughter Terri of Hermiston, Ore.; and brother Everett ’49 of La Quinta, Calif. Knapp—Tamara ’75 was born Dec. 21, 1953, in Astoria, Ore., and died Jan. 2, 2009, in Gresham, Ore. Surviving: father Norman of Gresham; mother Darlene of Gresham; brothers Duane att., of Gresham, Dwight att., of Gresham; and Keith and David of Boring, Ore.; and sister Darla ’82 of Hillsboro, Ore. Krueger—Chloetta (Lamberton) att., was born May 5, 1923, in Elk, Wash., and died May 2, 2009, in College Place. Surviving: sons Lyle of Wapato, Wash., and Gayle of Toppenish, Wash.; daughter Thelia Mayle ’77 of College Place; brothers Clark of Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Lyn of McMinnville, Ore.; and sister Kay of Brewster, Wash.

Remembering a Nursing Pioneer

uriel E. Chapman was an accomplished nurse and educator whose commitment to Adventist nursing extended beyond the classroom and hospital. Muriel established the Nursing Archives at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Washington, D.C., where she catalogued thousands of letters, reports, and files related to Adventist nursing. She also wrote the book, published in 2000, Mission of Love: A Century of Seventh-day Adventist Nursing. Before attending Walla Walla University, Muriel had already worked as an obstetrics nurse for several years. At WWU, she received a biology degree in 1937. Muriel continued her education and completed post-graduate courses in obstetrical nursing at Emory University and in 1969 earned her doctoral degree in edu-

Layman—Verlyn “Lee” ’60 was born Jan. 30, 1932, in Alda, Neb., and died Sept. 12, 2008, in Keizer, Ore. Surviving: wife Marie of Keizer; son Steve of Hermiston, Ore.; and daughter Susan Plakitt of Hermiston. Libby—Vernon ’51 was born June 25, 1918, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and died Oct. 9, 2009, in Walla Walla. Surviving: wife Lorene (Qualley) att., of Walla Walla; sons Ralph att., of Burlington, Wash., and Wayne ’80 of Desert Hot Springs, Calif.; daughter Verdene att., of Indian Valley, Idaho; and brother Ralph att., of Hanford, Calif. Madche—Melvin att., was born May 27, 1933, in Dodge, N.D., and died Oct. 4, 2006, in Sulton, Wash. Surviving: wife Margaret of Healdsburg, Calif.; daughters Jennifer Schmidt ’85 of Healdsburg, and Kelly Starr ’84 of Scottsdale, Ariz.; brother Elmer of Seattle, Wash.; and sisters Elaine of Colville, Wash., Jeanette of Bellevue, Wash., and Mary of Stanwood, Wash. 30 Westwind Spring 2010

cation from Columbia University. Her education studies were interspersed with jobs at hospitals in New Mexico, California, and Georgia. Her teaching career began at the Florida Sanitarium. She also taught at Medical College of Georgia and Berea College in Kentucky. In 1976 she became a professor of nursing at Andrews University. In 1982, after her retirement, Chapman spent more than two years in Thailand near the Burmese border teaching young people the essentials of diagnosis and treatment of common diseases. Muriel’s friend, Zerita J. Hagerman, said Muriel spoke very highly of the education she received at Walla Walla University. “It was the Christian gentleness without negating the academic standards which impressed her,” Hagerman said, “Her life of service was an inspiration to many and might not have been, had it not have been for the Christian faculty at Walla Walla.” Chapman supported WWU faithfully for many years and established a nursing scholarship endowment with her estate funds and two annuities. Chapman was born on Nov. 24, 1915, in Oakland, Calif., and died June 6, 2009, in Bridgeman, Mich.

Purdy—Mervyn ’39 was born March 21, 1916, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, and died July 3, 2008, in La Canada, Calif. Surviving: wife Phila (Nichols) att., of La Canada; daughter Corinne Tomlinson of Sierra Madre, Calif.; and brother Everett of Chula Vista, Calif.

Eddie ’85 of Spokane, Wash., Elwood ’69 of Eagle River, Wis., Bodie of Tucson, Ariz., and Roque of Long Beach, Calif.; daughters Claudia Long-Harrington ’70 of Portland, Ore., and Nancy of Glendale; brothers Irwin Rogers of Boise, Idaho, and Leroy Rogers of California; and sister Alice of Oklahoma.

Robins—Myrtle (Rogers) ’45 was born Nov. 4, 1920, in Boise, Idaho, and died May 26, 2009, in Glendale, Ariz. Surviving: husband Eldon ’51 of Peoria, Ariz.; sons

Schuler—Iris (Hickman) ’51 was born Aug. 22, 1923, in Walla Walla, and died May 23, 2009, in Kent, Wash. Surviving: husband Dale ’52

of Portland, Ore.; daughters Judy Smart att., of Bessemer City, N.C., and MaryAnn of Auburn, Wash.; and brother Albert att., of Pasco, Wash. Smith—Winifred (Wheatley) att., was born Aug. 13, 1915, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and died Oct. 9, 2009, in Big Timber, Mont. Surviving: husband Clyde ’40 of Big Timber; son Roger ’73 of Eau Claire, Mich.; daughters Kay of Auburn, Wash., Gloria of Granger, Wash., and Valerie Emmerson att. of Springdale, Mont. Sproed—David att., was born Nov. 16, 1941, in Hubbard, Ore., and died April 15, 2009, in Vancouver, Wash. Surviving: wife Georgiann (Grogan) att., of Vancouver; son David att., of St. Maries, Idaho; daughters Nicolie Thorn att., of College Place, and Noelle Boney ’93 of Longview, Wash.; mother Anne of Salem, Ore.; and brothers Robert ’57 of Dayton, Ore., and John att., of Roseburg, Ore. Thiesen—Roger att., was born April 11, 1936, in Bakersfield, Calif., and died Jan. 24, 2010, in Walla Walla. Wallace—Felix ’49 was born Feb. 9, 1917, in Alpharetta, Ga., and died July 26, 2009, in Kent, Wash. Surviving: son Eddie of Las Vegas, Nev.; daughters Elaine Phelps ’76 of Port Orchard, Wash., Beth Robison ’76 of Lyle, Wash., and Rebecca of Lakewood, Wash.; and brother William att., of Belen, N.M. Wallace—Donna (Seibold) ’49 was born Sept. 1, 1926, in Sykeston, N.D., and died Aug. 27, 2009, in Walla Walla. Surviving: brothers Elmer of Madras, Ore., and Arnold of Milton-Freewater, Ore.; and sisters Irene Engelhart att., of MiltonFreewater, and LaVerne Lefore att., of Milton-Freewater.

From My Point of View

Lead by Example Autism Ambassadors

Photo courtesy of Lori Ciccarelli

iving with autism has been the biggest blessing in my life. I didn’t think that several years ago while experiencing many struggles and challenges, but God was at work, looking at the bigger picture. My son, Jeremy, was born with an autism spectrum disorder in 1989. Little did we know that God would use us as pioneers not just in our small community, but by sharing our journey worldwide. Intolerance has been the hardest part. Junior high years brought episodes of students taunting Jeremy that only got worse in high school. From a distance I would watch the treatment my son endured, treated like he was invisible. He would run up to a group of teens excited to share stories, only to have them turn their noses up as they looked in other directions. It wasn’t cool talking to someone who displayed differences. Every morning we had our family devotional time, reading scripture and saying our morning prayer. As I dropped Jeremy off at school, I would remind him, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” encouraging him to hold his head high and to be proud of his gifts and talents that God blessed him with. Teenage years are difficult, but add challenges of a disability to the formula. It starts to break the spirit down. Jeremy had been on medications for 10 years. As he got older,

he could sense his differences. Teenage years brought depression and anger. Jeremy hated being autistic; he didn’t like the way his brain worked. He didn’t like how his social and emotional development was behind his peers; he could see the gap getting bigger and bigger. He was smart enough to figure this out on his own. Jeremy was challenged by the other students regularly because they understood his low impulse control. After one suspension from high school, I decided to get on my knees to ask God for a miracle. “Is this as good as it gets, Lord? I can’t stand watching my child suffer, and I don’t know what to do. There has got to be something better. His medications seem to be working less and less. There’s got to be another option, Lord. Speak through his doctor and lead him to your answers.” I then got dressed to see Jeremy’s pediatrician to discuss alternative treatments. Jeremy’s pediatrician was a godly man at our small community hospital. I sat in Dr. J’s office trying to control my crying. “I don’t know what Jeremy looks like anymore since he has been chemically dependent for the past 10 years, and I want him off meds.” Dr. J shared with me that he had heard positive things about an alternative treatment, neurofeedback therapy. At this point, I was ready to try anything as long as it was safe. It’s hard to put into words the

miracle that unfolded right before our eyes. Neurofeedback therapy is a treatment in which electrodes are administered to the brain in a very safe way to retrain the brain in making new pathways. The lobes in autistic people typically don’t communicate; neurofeedback woke Jeremy’s brain up, causing the lobes to communicate. Is this possible? I thought. We all couldn’t believe the changes that took place over the next eight months as Jeremy’s brain responded quickly. All of his educational team and therapists could not believe the changes. Jeremy started to initiate conversations with eye contact. His face looked different as if to be relaxed. He started to stand up straight with confidence and walked around town with a smile. Tools were kicking in that he had been taught over several years—conflict resolution, impulse control, perspective taking, on-topic conversations and all without medication. Individuals with autism usually don’t do well with abstracts. After neurofeedback, God became more concrete to Jeremy. At 17, Jeremy accepted Christ as his Savior and decided to be baptized. The Lord put on my heart to share our story. I had no film experience, but decided to document our journey. I bought a camcorder and film editing software program. Each time I sat at the computer to edit, I prayed for the Lord’s guidance to show me how He wanted this all to look. It took

Lori Ciccarelli ’81, sees her son, Jeremy, off for his sophomore year at Point Loma Nazarene University.

me three years to complete my project and release “JJ’s Journey— A Journey about Autism” in 2008. The film is reaching people all over the world through several international film festivals, Oprah.com, and NBC news. Jeremy has been medication-free since 2006. He is a sophomore in college living independently away from home. He recently received an invitation to be a student representative for his university’s student congress and an invitation to join an international honor society due to academic achievement. Jeremy said to me, “Mom, I’m glad I’m autistic.” I asked him why. He responded, “because it makes me special.” I look back on my life and all the pieces fit together perfectly. I asked God how He wanted me to serve Him, and He has made it crystal clear. I don’t need to travel to Third World countries to be a missionary. I am a missionary for autism. I know I have made a difference in at least one person’s life, my son. The best way to teach is to lead by example; my son is making a difference by speaking out, raising autism awareness. n Spring 2010 Westwind 31

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College Avenue Crossings

Chris Drake

t’s “production night.” Collegian writers and editors scramble to finish last-minute tasks, make final corrections, and design the weekly student newspaper. Layout editor Patricia Roe and opinion editor Christian Bell are just two of the 25 staff members who produce the 20-page newspaper. Most of the staff will gather from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on production night, with editors, designers, and proofreaders working until the early morning. “I absolutely love my job,” says Dustin Kelley, editor-in-chief. “Student newspapers are essential to a university campus and a logical platform for student voice. It is our job to report fascinating and accurate news stories, entertaining features, and articulate opinions. Our budget comes from the students. We owe them a quality publication in return each week, with something each student can connect with.” n