125 BEYOND
A Treasured Past
A Visionary Future Mark Smesrud ’10
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Beyond 125
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Bartholomew Gift
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Touchton Clubhouse
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Alumni Awards
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Night Lights
Looking over the contents of this Heritage, I am reminded of all the blessings God has provided us and all the successes He has allowed us to have. York has always been, and will always be, committed to spiritual growth and development. At the same time, winning traditions in a broad range of programs, including speech and communication, music and athletics, continue to build on a reputation of success for York College.
The mission of York College is to transform lives through Christ-centered education and to equip students for lifelong service to God, family and society.
Recently we hosted the presidents from our sister colleges and universities on the York College campus. Many had never been here before or had not been here in some time. They remarked about how beautiful the campus was and how well it was maintained, comments I am hearing more and more. One president commented on how respectful and well-behaved our students were in chapel as opposed to what he sometimes experiences on his campus. I was proud of our students and our campus culture. What stands out most to visitors is how engaged our campus is. Faculty are engaged with students. Students are engaged with each other. Performing groups are supported by the entire campus community. Athletic events are always well attended. Even junior varsity games, which are poorly attended at other schools, have strong support here. York College was honored recently by Let’s Start Talking, a ministry to teach English in other countries using the Gospel of Luke as a text, for providing a greater percentage of students to the program than any other Christian college or university. This level of engagement encourages our graduates to get involved beyond their time here. You will see examples of that throughout this issue of Heritage. Mark Smesrud, Gary Bartholomew, Jason and Sarah Grounds--and so many others--represent the thousands of alumni of York College who have gone out from this place to engage in good works throughout the world. Winning traditions and engaged students and alumni who are dedicated to serving God. That pretty much sums up who we are, and who we have been for 125 years. Some things have changed over the decades, but I am very pleased to say that the spirit of York College is much as it ever was. We remain a place committed to transformation through Christ-centered education.
York College kicks off Beyond 125 campaign with exciting news. pg. 6
On The Cover: Students raise their voices in song during chapel. photo by Chad Greene
You will also read in this issue about our recently launched Beyond 125 campaign. We are building on a strong foundation and moving boldly into the future with this effort. I am overwhelmed by the level of commitment we have already seen from our faculty and staff, alumni, and other friends of the college for this campaign. God is at work in this place and in the hearts of those that York College touches. It is an exciting time to be a Yorkie. Steve Eckman President (above) Dr. Erin DeHart, associate professor of education, collaborates with students using the new classroom technology in Middlebrook Hall.
Profile Excellence in
“In my Bible classes, I learned that theology must be rooted in love for others.” ...continued next page (left) Mark Smesrud believes he is changing lives, one coffee at a time. Mark and business partner Madison Chandler celebrate with employee Jenna upon her GED graduation.
In this issue: 3 Mark Smesrud - Profile in Excellence 6 Beyond 125 Campaign 8 Bartholomew Performing Arts Center 10 Touchton Clubhouse 12 125th Anniversary Celebration 14 Night Light Tulsa 16 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction 18 Alumni Awards 20 Alumni News and Notes 22 Milestones 24 Panther Athletics 27 Student Spotlight 28 Faculty News 30 York College Ranked 15th in Nation 31 Around the Corner
photo by Maegan (Simpson ‘13) Detlefs
photo by Josh Barrett, Ignite Images
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t 6’8” tall, Mike was known on the streets simply as “Tower.” When he started working at Purple Door Coffee at the age of 25, he had spent seven years—his entire adult life—in prison. Though he’d had short stints out of prison during those years, Mike had no home to go to when he was released. Homelessness and incarceration go hand in hand, especially for young men. Being homeless increases the likelihood of criminal activity; a criminal record makes it harder to find a place to live or work. Mike became trapped in this cycle of perpetual homelessness and incarceration. It was at Purple Door Coffee that Mike’s life began to change. More than just a coffee shop, this Denver café has a unique mission: to employ teens and young adults who are transitioning out of homelessness and to heal brokenness through the dignity that work provides. Purple Door co-directors Mark Smesrud ’10 and Madison Chandler focus on teaching job skills applicable in any occupation—customer service, punctuality, cleanliness, professionalism—so that after one year of working at the coffee shop, their employees can graduate to a job in the “real world.” “We provide the tools of community, accountability, love and grace that will help our employees on their journeys to a new life,” says Mark. “Purple
Jake Hasenauer, senior physical education major from North Platte, Neb., and Brianna Bailey, senior vocal music education major from Wolverine Lake, Mich., were crowned this year’s Homecoming King and Queen.
The YC Theatre Department presented an hilarious melodrama during Homecoming weekend. Heritage is a semi-annual publication for alumni and friends of York College. The magazine is available online at www.york.edu/alumni. Heritage Editor Vol. 18, No. 1 Chrystal Houston ’03 Director of Alumni and Communication 402-363-5607 chrystal.houston@york.edu Assistant Editor/Design Steddon Sikes ’84 Director of Publications Heritage Contributors Bob DeHart ‘95 Erin (Beske ‘94) DeHart Stephen Colwell ’05 Tyler Cox ‘15
Maegan (Simpson ‘13) Detlefs Trent Hinton ‘02 Eryn Jacobson ’16 Emily Lutz ’14
photo by Josh Barrett, Ignite Images
In Excellence
Door Coffee is committed to creating a loving, Jesus-centered community where every single individual is valued.” Not long after he began working
at Purple Door Coffee, Mike had an interaction with a difficult customer. Mike responded with anger and some colorful language. At any other job, he would likely have been dismissed on the spot.
“We provide the tools of community, accountability, love and grace that will help our employees on their journeys to a new life.” At Purple Door, this was a learning opportunity. Mark sat down with Mike and told him something Mike had never heard before: you are valued. We care enough about you to correct this behavior. We will show you the same grace and love that Jesus shows us. Over the course of the next year, the transformation in Mike was remarkable. At his graduation party, the majority of the nearly 50 guests present were his customers. The most common thing his customers said about Mike was how great
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he was at meeting their needs. Mike is the embodiment of all that Purple Door Coffee is striving to accomplish: Changing lives, one coffee at a time. Purple Door is a part of the Dry Bones Denver ministry, which serves the approximately 2,000 homeless teens and young adults in the area. Mark and Madison interned together at Dry Bones in 2009. It was then that they first started dreaming about a coffee shop to train homeless youth. Madison began working to make this dream a reality in 2010 and Mark joined her in the effort in 2012. After many months of fundraising, preparation and planning, the shop opened in April 2013. The kinks of starting a business are getting worked out and the shop is gaining momentum. Purple Door is developing a loyal and enthusiastic customer base. The café has now
employed six previously homeless young people; so far, two of those employees have graduated and moved on to other employment. “It is very fulfilling,” Mark says. “I know what I’m doing is worthwhile and that it has immeasurable value. “It’s so important to care for those on the fringes of society. Because they’re the ones who are frequently told that their soul does not have worth. So many of my friends on the street have never been told that they matter. That they are deserving of a good, healthy, beautiful life because of Jesus.” This message of value is reinforced by the physical components of the café. Located in the historic Five Points neighborhood, Purple Door Coffee is part of a movement toward urban renewal in an area that has seen better days. Mark and Madison took great pains in designing the shop. The space is classy and beautiful. Customers often comment on the natural light, bright paint, and unique fixtures, such as tables made from repurposed treadle
“I know what I’m doing is worthwhile and that it has immeasurable value.”
sewing machines. And there’s the purple front door that gives the shop its name. Purple is the color of kings. Mark and Madison say that they want everyone who comes through the door—whether it’s a homeless ex-convict or a millionaire—to be treated like royalty. In many ways, Mark’s preparation for this work began at York College. A biblical studies major with a youth ministry
(above) A welcoming smile and great attitude are hallmarks of the Purple Door Coffee employees.
(left) Madison and Mark partnered in the Purple Door after serving as interns in Dry Bones Denver ministry and seeing the needs of the homeless firsthand.
emphasis, Mark was engaged in many areas of campus: residence hall staff, campus ministry, athletics, student government, and choir. Through interactions with friends, faculty members and mentors, he says the biggest lesson he took away from his York experience was the knowledge that his value as a person had nothing to do with his successes, his failures, or the choices that he made. Mark shared about his ministry and his York experience in chapel recently. He told students that his favorite Christmas carol is “O, Holy Night,” because of the simple and awesome way it tells the story of the gospel of Jesus. The line “‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth,” resonates with him.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining, It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth. Long lay the world in sin and error pining, ‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth. “People at York College helped me feel the worth that is native to who I am because of how God has made me. And it shaped the trajectory of my life,” he says. “All those times when my soul felt its worth have made it possible for me to have conversations with my employees to communicate to them that their souls have worth.”
photo by Josh Barrett, Ignite Images WINTER 2013 WINTER 2014| |
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photo by Eryn Jacobson
2 15 BEYOND GOAL: $10.7 million
GIVEN AND PLEDGED: $8.5 million PUBLIC CAMPAIGN KICK-OFF: October 2, 2014
TARGET COMPLETION DATE: December 31, 2016 6 | Heritage | WINTER 2014
Established in 1890, York College is approaching its 125th anniversary. Since its foundation, sacred matters have been at the heart of York College. A commitment to give our best to the Lord in every avenue of life fosters a culture of achievement in the classroom, on the playing field and in the performance hall. The Beyond 125 campaign represents a recommitment to our heritage of faith and learning. Designed to take advantage of specific opportunities, the narrow focus of these initiatives is designed to enhance York College’s promise to equip every student for lifelong service to God, family and society.
A feasibility study in preparation for this campaign revealed that 26.5 percent of YC alumni are donors. The consultants who conducted the study said that they had never seen such a passionate alumni group before. The campaign launched with 100 percent participation by college trustees and has since added 100 percent participation by college faculty and staff. Reflecting on the goals of Beyond 125, campaign chair, H. Jarrell Gibbs said, “I and my fellow trustees endorse this campaign, but more importantly we endorse York College and are committed to its success. Our investments here can affect thousands of lives for years to come. That’s a legacy worthy of our investment.”
Beyond 125 Highlights and Goals
Beyond 125 Campaign Cabinet
• Scholarship assistance for more students – $4.3 million
H. Jarrell Gibbs – campaign chair Mike Armour – trustee advancement committee chair
• Program enhancements for stronger student preparation: York Campus Ministries, online learning communities, the Levitt School of Business, and more – $2.2 million
Trustee Campaign Co-Chairs Ed McLoud David Lynn, 1974
• Campus improvements providing a better home for students – $4.2 million * Bartholomew Performing Arts Center, a new 11,000 square-foot home for theater and music * Renovations and improvements for Holthus Field House, McGehee Hall, Freeman Center, and the Touchton Clubhouse in Hulitt Hall * Special Project: Clayton Museum of Ancient History featuring the Stanback collection, a learning tool for students and a resource for the public Get the big picture or the details at www.york.edu/125
Faculty-Staff Campaign Co-Chairs Tim McNeese, 1973 Eric Tremaine, 1991 Community Campaign Chair C.G. Kelly Holthus Alumni Campaign Co-Chairs Don Ellison, 1955 Ramona (Burgett) Ellison, 1955 Paul Touchton, 1961 Mike Westerfield, 1972 Janet (Reno) Rush, 1983 Richard James, 1997 Aaron Fletcher, 2002 Parent Campaign Co-Chairs Greg and Candi Woods
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photo by Wes Harrison ‘67
photo by Raymond Bartholomew
Bartholomews provide naming gift for performing arts center
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he walls are up, flooring and a roof will be in place soon and furnishings have been selected for the performing arts center. Now the facility can boast one more important fixture: a name. Former York College President Gary Bartholomew ’67 and his wife Gwen (Sims ’67) Bartholomew have long supported the life-changing work at York College. Thanks to a recent gift from the couple, the new performing arts center on campus will bear their name. “Gwen and I have always loved York College and are dedicated to its mission and purpose,” said Gary Bartholomew. “We continually reminisce about our years at York College as students and the years we served the college in the administration. Our lives have been
blessed beyond measure by being a part of the York College family. “We know the new performing arts center will be a great benefit to the campus. It is our privilege to be able to pay our blessings forward to future generations of York College students. York College always has been and will continue to be a gift from God.” The Bartholomew Performing Arts Center will elevate the potential and professionalism for two of the premier programs at York College, music and communication. The center will be a teaching facility, focusing on the day-today needs of students in these programs as well as providing a quality venue for productions and concerts. “York College has long needed a facility to highlight two of our most
successful programs, which have both regional and national recognition,” President Steve Eckman stated. “We are humbled not only by the size of the Bartholomews’ gift, but also by the heartfelt sincerity and support displayed by the donors.” A multi-form (black box) theater seating up to 350 patrons will be the centerpiece of the Bartholomew Performing Arts Center. This 5,000 square-foot feature will allow for various stage arrangements, extensive sets and improved seating and accessibility for patrons. It will also create opportunities for workshops and camps for YC students and area youth interested in the performing arts. Other features of the building include an atrium, a dedicated rehearsal
For the story behind the letterman jacket pics go to www.york.edu/67jacket SUMMER2014 2014 8 || H Heritage eritage | |WINTER
1967 YC Sophomore Class: (l-r) Elton Albright and Barbara Arnell - class representatives, Gary Bartholomew - president, Laurie Prior - secretary, and Duane Egle - vice president.
“It is our privilege to be able to pay our blessings forward to future generations of York College students.” hall for the concert choir, a green room, costume room, and practice rooms for music majors. Construction for this facility began in July 2014 and is expected to be completed by January 2016. Of the $3.5 million needed for this facility, $3.2 million has been secured. Dr. Clark Roush, professor of music and endowed chair for performing arts at York College, was enthusiastic about the gift. “This is completely fullcircle for me!” Roush said. “Gary was president when I was hired, and to have him supporting the building I’ve been waiting on for 29 years is both significant and special. “All the faculty and students in the York College performing arts will be enriched by this wonderful addition to
our campus. I am humbled and honored by the support shown by Gary and Gwen. Hopefully many will be blessed through their blessing.” Gary Bartholomew says that blessing
flows both directions. “This gift has helped us learn the joy of giving, for which we are grateful. It is our privilege and blessing to help the college we have always loved so much.”
Bartholomew Performing Arts Center
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The Magic Touch Baseball Clubhouse is to be named in honor of former coach and mentor Paul Touchton ‘61.
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Challenge Gift Made
ork College announced during the homecoming weekend that its nationally recognized baseball program will soon have a designated home on campus. A challenge gift from alumnus and former President Gary Bartholomew ’67 and his wife Gwen (Sims ’67) Bartholomew has been earmarked for the project and is meant to encourage others to create a clubhouse in historic Hulitt Hall. The lower level of Hulitt is to be repurposed for use by the baseball team. The project will feature locker rooms and office space for the program. The clubhouse will honor board member Paul Touchton ’61, who re-started the baseball program at York College. Touchton played basketball as a student. He returned to coach baseball, basketball and soccer while at York College from 1964 to 1973. Touchton is a lifetime member of the Lettermen’s Association at York College and a longtime supporter of Panther athletics. “Coach Touchton has blessed the lives of a legion of young men and women in his role as coach, faculty member and mentor,” says Gary
Richard and Rachel reside in Wichita, Kan., with their two children Abigail and Jackson.
(above) Coach Touchton and baseball hall of famer Tom Miller ‘71 teamed up together in this year’s Homecoming golf scramble.
Bartholomew. “He is a significant figure in the lives of those of us who were privileged to play baseball, basketball, participate in his gym classes and/or live in Middlebrook Hall. “Our lives have been blessed by his example and leadership. It is our great pleasure to honor Coach Touchton for all he has and continues to mean to us and our lives. We love you, Coach.” The challenge offers a one-to-one match for all contributions to the Touchton Clubhouse up to $40,000. Bartholomew challenges all other baseball lettermen, especially those from the Touchton era, to make this dream a reality. The announcement of this gift was made at the Athletic Hall of Fame induction luncheon held
(left) Hulitt Hall, built in 1903 as a music conservatory, currently houses faculty offices and classrooms.
Conceptual rendering: The Touchton Clubhouse will feature baseball locker rooms and office space for the nationally recognized program.
October 10. It was a surprise to Touchton, who was very pleased with the naming of the facility in his honor. “A space for our baseball team to call their own is something we’ve needed on this campus for years,” says Jared Stark, athletic director. “This project will benefit our students immeasurably and help us to continue a winning tradition in the baseball program.”
The baseball team will continue to utilize the Holthus Field House for practice. Hulitt Hall’s proximity to Levitt Stadium, where the team plays home games, will make it a convenient location for the clubhouse. You can make a gift for the clubhouse to honor Coach Touchton online at www.york.edu/give or contact the York College advancement office if you have questions.
In only its second year as an intercollegiate sport, the 1966 baseball team took second place in the Prairie Valley Christian College Conference. (1st row) Roger Lowry, James Curtis, Bob Stevens, Carl Haedge, Ron Hazelwood, John Patterson; (2nd row) Jim Christensen, Gary Bartholomew, Jim Nixon, Terry Tonniges, Kenny Kaaiohelo, Ron Pegg, Wes Harrison; (3rd row) Tim Parker, Dale Neal, Rick Turner, Mike Babcock, Paul Lasiter, Doug Goecke, Coach Paul Touchton
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photo by Eryn Jacobson
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Steve and LaRee Eckman lead the York College students during September’s Yorkfest Parade. In October, the Colis and Dolores Campbell Student Activity Center was decked out in style for a celebration dinner. To mark the 125th year, 250 guests attended to hear speeches from community and campus leaders, as well as a presentation on the history of the college. At the conclusion of the dinner, the Concert Choir performed “All in the April Evening,” which was the signature song of the choir for many years prior to 1954. This song will be part of their touring repertoire throughout the year. PJ Bunyard, owner of Red Beard’s Coffee in downtown York, gave a moving testimony about his York Experience. President Steve Eckman was pleased to announce the start of the Beyond 125 campaign at the dinner. As of the public launch, $8.5 million of the $10.7 million goal had already been secured.
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At Homecoming, the recently published book of York College history was released. Authored by YC faculty Tim and Bev McNeese and Christ Lones, this book of photos captures the essence of the college. In recognition of our rich heritage, a number of alumni and friends of the college have been invited to present in chapel and devotionals as a Year of Celebration speaker series. Darrel Sears ’01, a minister at the Church of Christ at Oakdale (Okla.), was the first speaker to visit campus. The photos in the book of York College history range from humorous to sentimental. The book is a must-have for all alumni. You can order it on Amazon, or receive it as a gift with a gift of $125 or more to the Beyond 125 campaign (www.york.edu/give). Commemorative cookbook, coming in fall 2015! Flavors of the Past: Memories and Recipes of York College will be a collection of recipes and stories of food that is connected to the college. Your submissions are needed! Go to www.york.edu/cookbook to add a recipe and story today. All recipes must be submitted by April 2015.
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Under a bridge, come to the feast
Night Light Tulsa shows love for the homeless by preparing meals, washing feet and praying. Jason and Sarah (Lee) Grounds met at York College their freshman year in 1997. Today Sarah is an ICU nurse and Jason is a software engineer. The busy couple has three kids: Benjamin (9), Elizabeth (7), and Isaac (4). In September of 2013, the family started feeding a group of homeless people in a rough part of Tulsa. The ministry has grown exponentially, to an outreach that touches hundreds of lives each week. “We wanted it to be more than giving people food,” says Jason. “It’s about building relationships and building community.”
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photo by Bobby Ross Jr.
treet people lying on the grass and perched inside concrete nooks watch as a long, yellow moving truck backs under a downtown bridge.
Interstate 244 rumbles with traffic overhead as men, women and children from all around the city of Tulsa slide open the truck’s back door and pull down a metal ramp. In less than 30 minutes, the visitors from a more affluent part of town unload and organize a hefty bundle of equipment and supplies: Frozen hamburger patties and fresh buns. Chairs and round tables for dining. Hygiene products such as lip balm, razors and deodorant. Donated seasonal clothing items. Even a popcorn maker. The scene repeats itself each Thursday night as Christians from 15 minutes — and a world — away fire up an industrial-sized grill, arrange foot-washing and prayer stations and endeavor to connect with neighbors. “We are down here in hopes of showing God’s love in action,” Anisa Jackson, one of the ministry founders, says in an orientation meeting with regular and first-time volunteers. Night Light Tulsa, as the ministry is called, is about loving individuals, giving hope and touching souls, Jackson explains before the volunteers gather in a circle and pray.
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(above) Mike Nicholas and Sarah Grounds wash the feet of Dak Young and Crystal Haney under an interstate bridge in Tulsa, Okla. (right) Jason Grounds and his son Benjamin are all smiles as they volunteer on a cold January night.
(left) Anisa Jackson and Sarah feel blessed to partner in the Night Light ministry.
Tulsa animal control officials found out about the ministry and began dispatching an officer to the bridge — not to round up the guests’ dogs and cats but to distribute bags of pet food. “If there were more things like this, it’d be a better world,” animal control officer Pete Theriot says of Night Light Tulsa.
She encourages volunteers to consider spending time washing guests’ feet — a way to follow Jesus’ example and help protect against disease. As the sun sets in the shadow of Tulsa’s skyline, a line of about 200 people — many of whom sleep outside or at nearby shelters — forms on this dead-end stretch of pavement behind the county jail. “They never want nothing in return except for your good company,” says Jonathan DuPont, 27, devouring a burger and chips as he describes how financial problems left him homeless for about six months.
“When people thank me, I tell them it’s not me. This is God moving people.” ~Sarah Grounds
photo by Bobby Ross Jr.
Night Light Tulsa grew out of a small group of Park Plaza Church of Christ members who get together regularly for
Bible study and fellowship. Benjamin, son of Jason and Sarah Grounds, accelerated the Tulsa endeavor when he asked to celebrate his eighth birthday by feeding the homeless. “I just felt bad for them,” Benjamin says above the buzz of a generator under the bridge. “I kept thinking, ‘How am I going to do a birthday party by feeding the homeless?’” recalls Sarah Grounds, taking a break from washing feet. “A very wise woman said to me, ‘Don’t smother his fire. Let it burn, and encourage it.’ So we did.” The next week, the Groundses’ small group made sack lunches and distributed them downtown. After that, a core group formed to develop Night Light Tulsa. “Of course, we figured we would be serving peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and maybe washing a couple of feet down here,” Sarah says. “The doors just opened. It’s just been an outpouring of love and support ever since.”
“Without someone to encourage them, they give up.” ~Jason Grounds Down on his luck, Vietnam veteran Steve Lovelace says he made a makeshift home out of tree limbs and sod last year. When Night Light Tulsa began feeding people under the bridge, the former POW says he showed up to eat and felt genuinely welcomed. “Usually, it’s hurry up and feed them, and it’s a degrading thing,” Lovelace, 61, says of how homeless people are treated. “It’s almost like bringing people — or cattle — to market.” But with this ministry, it’s different, he says. So different, in fact, that after he straightened out his veteran’s payments and got into an apartment, he started attending the Park Plaza Church of Christ, studied the Bible and was baptized. Now, he volunteers with the church’s furniture ministry and recently joined a Park Plaza mission trip to help the innercity Hollygrove Church of Christ in New Orleans. On this night, he’s manning the Night Light Tulsa clothing station — helping pick out and distribute garments to street people struggling in a way he understands. “It’s so many miracles,” he says of how his life has changed. “The Lord has blessed me.” by Bobby Ross Jr. Chief Correspondent
The Christian Chronicle
May 2014 article reprinted by permission WINTER 2014 |
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Two inducted into Athletic Hall of Fame
The fourth annual Lettermen’s Association Athletic Hall of Fame induction event at Homecoming was a time to celebrate the successes of athletes past and present. Tom Miller ‘71 and Diane (Fogarty) Ries ‘78 were this year’s inductees, recognized for their significant achievements in sports in their years at YC and beyond. The event was also a fundraiser for athletic scholarships and was attended by alumni as well as current student athletes.
Diane Ries ’78 For Diane Ries, the best part about playing volleyball isn’t winning games. It’s the bond of fellowship she shares with teammates. That was especially true for her at York College, where her teammates shared a common love for the sport as well as for the Lord. Ries started playing volleyball in 1972, the first year that her high school offered a girls volleyball team. She was named the Bettendorf High School Most Valuable Player in 1973, 1974, and 1975. Ries was among the first women to receive an athletic scholarship at YC. She says it was an amazing thing for her to have her love of volleyball help pay her way through school. The program at YC was just getting started when
Diane and fellow YC classmates Cheryl (Alcorn ‘77) Gallegos and Karen (Kauffman ‘77) Conder were able to practice with the volleyball team during their visit.
Ries was recruited. She played on the team in its second year of existence. In 1976, she was named to two all-conference teams. She repeated that feat in 1977. Mike Lewis was the coach that recruited Ries to York College and she played for him her first year at YC. “Diane had real talent and made an immediate impact on the entire team. She helped us to be competitive right away,” he says. “Diane was instrumental in helping establish and promote volleyball as a legitimate women’s sport for York College.” Ries went on to play volleyball for Lubbock Christian College. After graduation, she continued to play with different teams affiliated with the U.S. Volleyball Association. Today, she travels to play games with an over-55 team out of St. Louis. She will be playing in the senior Olympics held in Minneapolis in 2015. In 2013, her team placed second in the nation. Ries says she hates “recreational” volleyball. It’s not because she’s terribly competitive, she says. It’s just that she doesn’t like to see people not take the game seriously. “Volleyball has been very good to me,” she says. Ries lives in Nicoma Park, Okla., with her husband, Jerry. They have two grown sons.
Nominations for the 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame induction are now open. Look for information about the Lettermen’s Association and the Hall of Fame at www.ycpanthers.com.
(right) Dr. Dickie Hill ‘64, president of the Lettermen’s Association, and Paul Touchton ‘61, YC coach 1964-73, congratulate Tom Miller on his induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. (lower right) Tom was a guest lecturer in a business class during the homecoming weekend and also spoke to the baseball team about realizing their dreams.
Tom Miller ’71 Tom Miller was a talented multi-sport athlete. He came to York College in 1969 on a basketball scholarship and is remembered by his coach as the playmaker, who ran the fast break and had a good jump shot. He averaged 12 points per game and made second team all-conference his sophomore year. However, baseball was his real passion and while it was his participation in basketball that helped pay for college, it was his two years on the baseball team that made his York Experience. In his freshman year, he had a batting average of .410. He was named first team all-conference as an infielder. At one point during Miller’s sophomore year, he led the nation in hitting with a .561 average. He finished the year with a batting average of .529, which placed him first in the National Junior College Athletic Association. He also won the Prairie Junior College Conference batting title. He served as a starting and relief pitcher and was 6-1 his sophomore year with a 2.21 ERA. He was voted the Outstanding Player Award in the conference that year.
Though there was no official York College golf team at that time, Miller and several friends formed a team and played at intercollegiate tournaments. He was also competitive in intramural sports, including table tennis and horseshoes. When Miller’s two years at YC were up, he attended Lipscomb College and played baseball. His team finished second in the nation his junior year. He also received a scholarship to play on their intercollegiate badminton squad. Miller finished a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in education and spent the next 30 years as a physical education and history teacher. He also coached girls softball and girls and boys basketball for many years. He retired from education to pursue a business opportunity selling fine art, an occupation that he says gave some of the same competitive feeling as athletics. After 25 successful years as an art dealer, he is retired and living in Columbia, Tennessee, where he helps his son operate a seasonal attraction on the family’s acreage. He and his wife Brenda have three grown children. WINTER 2014 |
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Alumni Awards The 2014 York College alumni awards presented at Homecoming recognized distinguished former students who have done more than build a successful career—these alumni have built a successful life. From education to medicine to nuclear engineering, the honorees have done well professionally. But much more than that, they’ve led lives of service. Through volunteer efforts, foster care, service roles in their churches, leadership at York College, and more, they embody the traits that York College hopes to instill in all its students.
Alumna of the Year: Dr. Jackie Humphrey ’59
Young Alumnus of the Year: Dr. Scott Abraham ’99 When Jackie Hance was a senior in high school, she made a final campus visit to a Christian school in Texas where she was planning to attend after graduation. Oddly enough, it was there that she met Truett Brown, a York College recruiter, who told her all about a little school in Nebraska that was worth her
consideration. Jackie recalled telling her father she had changed her college plans. “Daddy laughed and did some investigating and said, ‘I think that sounds like a good idea, but why do you want to go there?’ I said, because of the mission of the school.” Jackie remains committed to the mission of York College more than 50 years later. Today she teaches for York College Online (a program she created) and also serves on the York College Board of Trustees. Dr. Humphrey has been an educator for more than 27 years. Her doctoral studies were in special education, but she has taught many types of learners at all levels of education. She has also worked in healthcare administration. From 2009-2012, Jackie and her husband, Dr. Joe Humphrey ’59 “retired” and moved back to York to teach as volunteers. Today the Humphreys live in Austin, Texas, and visit York as often as possible.
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Dr. Scott Abraham says he found lifelong friends and valuable mentors during his four years at York College. It was his experiences at YC in the science department and on the basketball team that acted as a springboard to a fulfilling career as an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. He played basketball at York College from 1995 to 1999 and has used his firsthand knowledge of the needs of athletes in his career, especially those in need of joint replacement. Dr. Abraham enjoys working with athletes of all ages to get them healthy and back in the game after an injury. Scott is married to Dr. Beth Abraham, a pediatrician. The couple has two sons, Wesley (6) and William (4), with whom Scott enjoys an active lifestyle with lots of sports. The couple also recently became foster parents and are blessed to have the care of a little girl named Phoenix who brightens their days immeasurably. Scott is a member of the York College President’s Council as well as a lifetime member of the Lettermen’s Association.
Scenes from Homecoming 2014 York College welcomed several hundred guests to campus over its annual Homecoming and High School Days weekend, October 10-12. Alumni returned to campus to relive their great college memories, while prospective students and their families visited to see all that York College has to offer.
Legacy Award: Roger and Betty (Williams) Lessly family While their own time as students at York College was brief, the legacy of the Roger ’58 and Betty (Williams ’58) Lessly family has continued for more than 50 years. Betty and Roger met in 1956 during their freshman year at YC. They were among the first class of students to attend the college after its reopening. The couple married the summer after their year at YC and left to pursue studies at several other colleges, eventually landing at Iowa State University, where Roger completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering. He also earned a master’s degree in utility management from the University of Michigan and spent his career working in the utility industry, primarily with nuclear power. This year, they celebrated 57 years of matrimony. Their five children each attended York College; four of those children met their spouses on campus. Additionally, four of the couple’s grandchildren have attended York College, and two have met their spouses here. Roger and Betty also recruited three nephews to the college. The couple’s daughter Joan Kramer ‘82 and her husband Brian are currently serving on the York College President’s Council. Something unique about this family is the impact that they’ve had on the arts at York College. Most all of the 17 members of the Lessly family to attend YC have participated in Concert Choir or other musical ensembles, including pep band, East Hill Minstrels, Friends, and Psallo. Additionally, nine of the 17 have been Songfest hosts or hostesses. Roger and Betty now live in Kimberling City, Missouri. Roger has been a part of the York College Advisory Board and served five years on the Board of Trustees as well. The Lesslys visit campus frequently to see their granddaughters, one of whom is a recent alumna and the other is a current student. (above) Roger Lessly speaks on behalf of the family after receiving the Legacy Award.
Seniors Jake Hasenauer and Brianna Bailey share the spotlight after being crowned Homecoming King and Queen.
Brennon Abraham, Miles Baum, Scott Abraham, and Brad Reischl formed the ‘90s Homecoming golf team.
The class of ‘74, along with other classmates, gathered at the home of David and Judy Lynn. WINTER 2014 |
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1984 Gene Sallee and his wife Cari have updated their contact info: genesallee@keatingtractor.com.
1958 Richard and Diana (Fiscus) Danielson have updated their contact info: 1410 Pamela Ave, Holdrege, NE 68949. richarddanielson@hotmail.com 1963 Eileen (Jenkins) Boesch and her husband Lenard have moved: 1660 Gaton Dr AC 23, San Jose, CA 95125. eileenboesch7@gmail.
com
1965 James Klein is an architect who has specialized in church design for 40+ years. His wife DeAnn is a dosimetrist. The couple has two grown sons, James and Matthew. They would love to hear from classmates, especially those in the Phoenix area. 14817 N 47th Place, Phoenix, AZ 85032 jeklein1@cox. net 1966 John and Ellen (Whitman) Lucas completed their seventh season with the Sojourners. They enjoy getting to encourage other Christians in their missions, while also working in time to see their three children and seven grandchildren who are scattered across the north central states. They are having the time of their lives being full time RV’rs and serving others. jal11744@juno. com Earl and Pam (Worley) Martin have a challenge for classmates: As participants in the YC performing arts programs, the Martin’s would like to challenge the graduating class of 1966 to donate to the new performing arts center (see pages 8-9). Earl is the director of the Professional Development School at Emporia State University. Pam is retired from the Olathe (KS) school district and now works with a church sign language interpreting ministry. marfam3@yahoo.com
1971 Ken Alley retired from a long career in chiropractic and now owns a used book store. He has three grown children: Dana, Joe, and Brien. Ken also has seven grandchildren. 420 N Grant Ave, York, NE 68467 alleykat51@ hotmail.com 1972 Dave and Beth (Mingle ‘73) Phillips have moved: 305 Heather Run, Woodway, TX 76712.
1973 Effendi and Sherry (Ashley ‘72) Daoedsjah have moved: 6846 Atlanta Circle, Stockton, CA 95219
Edaoedsjah@aol.com Kenneth and Terry Gibson updated their information: Unit
9600, Box 714, DPO, AP 96209
kg1917@gmail.com
1974 Ginger (Swangel) Ham and her husband Stephen are retired and have recently moved: 670
Bluff View Dr, Bluff Dale, TX 76433 ginger_ham@rocketmail.
com Teri (Rigdon) McConkey is a medical biller, coder, and auditor. Her husband, Bob, is in tech support at AT&T. They have three grown children. Teri would love to hear from old friends! 29
Uintah Vale Dr, Florissant, CO 80816 terim3006@centurylink.net
1975 Beth (Forney) Ward is an RN at a surgery center. She and her husband Lee have updated their contact information: 20 Walnut Ct, Eaton, CO 80615. schevylee@msn. com 1979 Virginia “Gini” (Clements) is a homemaker and an office assistant at Pratt Community College. Her husband Jim ’77 is an administrator at Duncan Aviation. They have four grown children and nine precious grands. 5400 NW 122nd Ct, Lincoln, NE 68214
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gingin1125@hotmail.com
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1989 Natalie (Sutter) Clark is a homemaker and homeschooler. Her husband Wade is a local marketing manager for Sprint. They recently relocated from Texas to Oklahoma. They have two daughters, Allison (21) and Emily (16). 1309 Mid
Iron Ln, Edmond, OK 73025
oscarthemouse@yahoo.com 1990 Jon Holmes was recently named the county administrator for Franklin County, Kansas. 1931 The Class of 1984 recently issued a challenge for helping Mike and Janet (Reno ‘83) Rush. In 2002, Mike suffered a brain hemorrhage while serving as YC Campus Minister, and has been constrained to a wheelchair for the past 12 years. He is prone to pneumonia in the winter and Janet needs to be able to get Mike in and out of the car in a protected environment. The challenge is to secure an attached garage into a one level house. Checks can be made out to East Hill Church of Christ and in the memo ear mark it “Garage Project.” Mail to: Garage Project c/o East Hill Church of Christ 1225 E 10th St, York, NE 68467 1985 Vance Weirick updated his contact info: 5250 Cherry Creek S Dr Apt K21, Denver, CO 80246
vancer_2000@yahoo.com 1986 Amy (Sandquist) Pennington and her husband Paul have updated their contact information: 7600 Red Pine Dr, Fort Smith, AR 72916. a_mouse@ sbcglobal.net 1988 John and Crystal Reeves celebrated the birth of their son Canaan, May 30, 2014. He joins siblings Caitlin (13), Connor (12), Christian (5), and Caity (3). After six years of working for a children’s home, John is now working as a minister and Crystal is a homemaker. You can see more about John’s ministry on his blog: www.thelordshumbled.com. PO Box 261, Flagler, CO 80815
reevesclan@hotmail.com
Montana Rd, Ottawa, KS 66067 wyholmes@yahoo.com
1991 Aaron Redling has a new position as a network support analyst for Oklahoma Christian University. His wife, Leah, is a consultant/coach for Team Beachbody. They have three children: Riley (14), Renee (11), and Rianna (7). 1420 Bella Vista Dr, Edmond, OK 73013 alredling@ mac.com 1994 Erin (Beske) DeHart completed her PhD. see pg. 28 Tammie Stout has updated her contact information: 719 E 31st St, Kansas City, MO 64109. cstout80@yahoo.com
1998 Robert McKinzie is the assistant men’s basketball coach at Oklahoma Christian University and his wife is an anesthesiologist. 13801 Plantation Way, Edmond, OK 73013 rob. mckinzie@oc.edu Aaron and Cindy (Dietz ’00) Baker are now working with the Foristell church of Christ, where Aaron is the preacher. Cindy is a part time chiropractic assistant. They have two daughters, Kaela (10) and Melia (7). The family makes yearly trips to Vanuatu in the South Pacific, where they used to work as missionaries. Aaron continues to teach in connection with the Pacific Islands Bible College in Vanuatu. 608 Goose Creek Dr, Wentzville, MO 63385
aaronandcindy@yahoo.com
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1999 Georgia (Wiebusch) Parment is a Major in the United States Marine Corps. 1105 Harney St #303, Omaha, NE 68102
gparment@msn.com 2000 Tanis Blount recently began a new job as a junior and senior level English teacher at Tahoka High School. 2305 70th St #344, Lubbock, TX 79412 tanis.blount@ yahoo.com
Joel Osborne is to be congratulated on his engagement to Kristin Hanaoka. The couple plans an August 2015 wedding in Japan. In addition to doing discipleship, spiritual formation and evangelism, Joel does campus ministry at Ibaraki Christian University and makes quarterly follow up visits with those in the disaster areas. He also serves as President of Banyan Community School, a nonprofit mission school providing English for free to youth in poorer families in villages surrounding Siem Reap, Cambodia. joelsensei5@gmail.com 2001 Ben and Erica (Towell ‘06) Berry welcomed their first child, Beckett Max, in June 2014. The young family resides in York where they own and operate Berry Yoga Studio. 668 E 10th St, York, NE 68467 bencberry@gmail.com Mike and Becky (French ’06) Roemer recently celebrated their second wedding anniversary. They love their work as special education paraprofessionals. They would enjoy hearing from classmates. 1037 East Lincoln Ave, Riverton, WY 82501
mroemer1973@hotmail.com rebecrene@yahoo.com
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Sue Roush has a new job. She is the director of marketing and communications for the College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Her husband, Dr. Clark Roush, is Professor of Music and Endowed Chair for the Performing Arts at York College. 525 N Ohio Ave, York, NE 68467 suemroush@ gmail.com 2002 Becky (Funderburk) Steele and her husband Nathan welcomed another son into the family. Bryson Martin was born on October 8, 2014. He joins big brothers Jackson (10) and Dawson (6). 2003 Adam and Ashleigh Moore welcomed their daughter Jane Audrey into the world, July 17, 2014. Adam is an AR Supervisor with ICU Medical and a varsity basketball official, and Ashleigh is a stay-at-home mom. adam. moore.555@gmail.com Tracey (Matthies) Scharfbillig and her husband Joseph are celebrating the arrival of their son, Dylan Joseph, born May 12, 2014. Tracey is an occupational therapist. matt0566@umn.edu 2004 Michelle (Morris) married Dwight Butcher in July 2012. 208 Thomas Dr, Marshalltown, Iowa 50158
2005 Spencer and Kimmie (Beitler ’03) Vogt were blessed with the birth of their daughter Marie Lynette, Sept. 20, 2014. 1138 N
Hastings Ave, Hastings, NE 68901
Vogtteacher226@gmail.com 2006 Jessica Agler is beginning a new job as a research assistant for Good News Productions International. 2413 Rolla St, Joplin MO 64801 jessicarobin83@gmail. com
Stay Connected with YC
Latest news and updates on facebook.com/YorkCollegeNeb YC Connect e-newsletter
@YorkCollegeNeb Subscribe at newsletter@york.edu
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Kristy (Moseley) Brown and husband Justin welcomed a baby girl, Emerson, in February 2014. She joins big sister Raegan (2). Both Kristy and Justin are educators. 614 Orchard Run, Grand Junction, CO 81504
moselysunflowers@juno.com Zachary and Amber (Koroshetz ‘07) Smith celebrated the birth of their daughter Lyla Michelle in August 2014. Amber is an independent consultant for Thirty-One and Zachary is a pharmacist. 218 S Fairview St, Woodland Park, CO 80863 zasmith731@gmail.com
2007
Curtis and Jessica (Wilson ‘11) Eubanks have recently relocated. Jessica is a physical education teacher at Sequoah Elementary School and Curtis works as the assistant baseball coach at St. Gregory’s University. The couple, along with their children Summer (3) and Bryson (2) reside at 660 N Market, Shawnee, OK 74801. jwilson@york.edu 2013 Reggie Johnson is a PE teacher, head freshman basketball coach and assistant JV/Varsity coach, and assistant track coach at Dallas Faith Family Academy. He and colleagues recently won a Coaching Staff of the Year award. They had a record of 27-3. 1576 N Galloway Ave APT #1032, Mesquite, TX 75149 rjohnson@
faithfamilyacademy.org Raymond Johnson is a Nebraska State Trooper. He has a new address: 634 N
Cherry St Apt A Valentine, NE 69201. rrjohnson@york.edu
Ambri (Merril) Vogel and husband Ted are celebrating the arrival of their firstborn, son Jackson Stewart, born May 30, 2014. Ambri is a pharmacist and Ted is a high school English teacher. 13910 N 192nd St, Bennington, NE 68007 amerrill52@gmail.com
2009 Keri Bornschlegel moved to Rolla, Missouri with fiance Jeff Stripling, DC and opened a new chiropractic clinic, Missouri Spine and Sport. Keri is completing her Master’s degree in Strategic Leadership in Healthcare Organizations at the University of Denver. 10648 Limestone Ln, Rolla, MO 65401 kerib3@gmail. com Jessica (Eckman) Spilker is a middle school teacher and her husband Collin is a probation officer. 117 27th St, Columbus, NE 68601 jess.spilker@gmail.com 2012 Selena Emery has accepted a new job at Whittier Middle School as an education assistant. 2020 S Sycamore Ave #12, Sioux Falls, SD 57110 semery@york.edu
Devyn Pearl has updated her contact info: 825 Elmer St, York NE 68467 dpearl@york.edu 2014 Aaron Beadle is substitute teaching for Cedar Rapids and surrounding school districts. 712
South Garnavillo St, Anamosa, IA 52205 anamosa07@gmail.com
Chasta Bonifas got a job! She is a special education instructor at Perkins County High School. 614 Student Dr, Ogallala, NE 69135
Chastabonifas09@gmail.com Brenna Johnson has a new address: 208 S 35th St, Billings, MT 59101.
Tiffany Shimp has a new address: 558 Cedar Hills Dr, Denison, TX 75021. Devon Teeple, Founder and Executive Director of the GM’s Perspective, recently signed a partnership agreement with the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s Myles Jury, the #8 ranked Lightweight Fighter in the world. 339 Leslie Ave, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada P7A 1X3
devon@thegmsperspective.com WINTER 2014 |
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PANTHER MILESTONES Hawley ‘04 wins Nebraska Book Award Luke Hawley ’04 was sitting in a literature class in Hulitt Hall his freshman year at YC when he had the first glimpse of his future. Faculty member Tom Golden ’94 had been reading an excerpt of Ramond Carver’s short story Cathedral when Hawley had a flash of insight: This is what I want to do with my life. Hawley had been toying with writing, mostly songs and poetry, for years, but it wasn’t until that moment that he realized his career was going to be about telling stories. Hawley, now an English professor at Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, got a call from his publicist in September: his first book, a collection of short stories, had won a Nebraska Book Award. “The recognition is incredibly rewarding. I feel so undeserving and blessed—and validated,” he says. His book, The Northwoods Hymnal, is a collection of ten stories about love, loss, and life in Minnesota. Accompanying each story is a song; the book comes with a download code for the album. Hawley says the creative process between the stories and the music was intrinsically linked. Sometimes the song came first, other times the story began and he needed to write the song to
figure out where the story was going. The music was a useful way to condense the narrative into main idea he says, “Because every song needs a chorus.” Hawley wrote The Northwoods Hymnal while completing a master’s of fine arts program at the University of Nebraska Omaha. The book was published by River Otter Press in 2013 and is available on Hawley’s website, lhawley.com. Hawley is in the final edit stage of his next book, a novel about the myth of rock and roll, the music industry, and the difference between selling the music and selling the musician. He hopes it will be published, but he says even if the book flops, he’ll continue telling stories. It’s what he loves. As he tells his students, “If you don’t love the writing, publishing and awards are not going to ever satisfy you.”
Crystal Rush ‘13 recently received a national scholarship from the National Athletic Trainer’s Association for her graduate studies. This award comes close on the heels of a similar scholarship from the Nebraska State Athletic Training Association. These scholarships will support her studies in the University of Nebraska – Omaha Athletic Training Graduate Program, where she is in her second year. Rush is a 2013 York College graduate. She served as an athletic trainer during her undergrad years at York College when she wasn’t representing her alma mater on the volleyball court. “I was extremely excited to be selected and really owe a lot of it to my education both at York and the University of NebraskaOmaha,” says Rush. Rush is highly involved with the UNO graduate program where
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photo by Bob DeHart ‘95
Rush ’13 earns national recognition in athletic training
she has gained experience with a local high school football team along with doing extensive work with the UNO hockey team. Most recently, she spent this past summer interning with a professional baseball team. (above) Crystal Rush tends to an inured ball player during her senior year in YC’s Athletic Training program.
“As a leader, you are defined by your character,” says Tucker Presley, a high school junior from Mobile, Ala. This pearl of wisdom was the main take-away from Presley’s week at the inaugural Presidential Leadership Institute, hosted by York College, July 13-19. Twenty-seven high school students grades 10-12 from four states visited campus for the weeklong course in character-driven leadership. Faculty members from York College collaborated with experts Nathan Mellor and Beau Bailey of Strata Leadership to teach these high potential juniors and seniors about positive Christian leadership. The program was offered to schools in the National Christian School Association. Each school participating sent a delegation of students who would address a specific challenge facing their school. The students learned about leadership through lectures and activities, then put the information to work as they spent the week creating plans to address their school’s needs. “The Presidential Leadership Institute was a ton of fun,” says Cape Monn, a junior from Eustis, Fla., “but that wasn’t the goal. We focused in-depth on leadership skills and the betterment of ourselves and others through our actions.” The curriculum’s focus on servant leadership was thought provoking for Monn. “It caused me to think a lot about the way I come across to others. How do I make people feel? Am I helping them or hurting them? … Without helping others, I couldn’t be a leader.” Monn attends Mount Dora Bible School with fellow PLI attendee Christina Delahoz. The pair has created a plan for improvement for the school’s Buddy Program, which pairs sixth and twelfth graders for a mentoring relationship. Monn and Delahoz will focus on increasing engagement and intentionality between the two groups and expanding it from a one-year to a two-year program. PLI participants came from Texas, Missouri, Alabama, and Florida. Part of the week’s curriculum included two political field trips, with an emphasis on Midwestern values. The students visited the Nebraska state capitol building, where they met with the Speaker of the Unicameral, Senator Greg Adams. They ended their
photos by Stephen Colwell ’05
York College builds leaders through innovative program
PLI students tour the Eisenhower Presidential Library with Mary Eisenhower.
visit to Lincoln with lunch at the Governor’s mansion and a visit with Governor Dave Heineman. Later in the week, the group traveled to Abilene, Kans., to visit the Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library. York College faculty members Christi Lones and Tim McNeese taught students about the life and times of President Eisenhower before receiving a VIP tour of the museum from Mary Eisenhower, granddaughter of the president. Ms. Eisenhower spent six hours with the students, bringing history to life as she recounted memories of the president and first lady. The week’s instruction was valuable to the students from Prattville Christian Academy in Prattville, Ala., says President Ron Mitchell. “The institute gave my very best students an opportunity that I haven’t seen anywhere else in my 11 years in Christian education. The activities and the speakers were absolutely firstclass…My students came back with really good ideas about leadership and how they can serve.” “Strata Leadership was an outstanding partner in the institute. They were instrumental in the quality of the week,” adds Mitchell. Strata Leadership, LLC, is the world’s largest character-based leadership company. Based in Edmond, Okla., CEO Nathan Mellor worked closely with York College President Steve Eckman on the creation of the Presidential Leadership Institute. Kevin Claypool ‘06, vice president for development at Brentwood Christian School in Austin, Texas, agreed that the week was of great benefit to the Brentwood students that attended. “The value for our students was that they got the experience of taking a real life scenario and applying an academic process to the problem, then planning implementation,” he says. The problem addressed by both the Brentwood and Prattville students involved breaking down barriers to community and increasing school spirit and unity throughout all class year divisions and activities. Claypool says the Brentwood students used John Kotter’s “Eight Steps for Leading Change” model to create a comprehensive plan for addressing the challenge. “The students learned how to build bridges and develop positive solutions,” says Claypool. “More importantly, they expanded their scope of comfort. They traveled to a place they’d never been and worked with people they’d never met. Throughout the week they were able to create a real sense of community.”
Senator Greg Adams speaks to the PLI students about the Nebraska Unicameral. WINTER 2014 |
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Athletics
photo courtesy Justin Carver
York College
The men’s cross country team made good on its #1 seed in the conference championship, qualifying for the national tournament.
Cross Country Runners Head to Nationals
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he York College men’s and women’s cross country teams competed at the MCAC Conference Championships on Saturday, November 8, and turned heads, as usual. The team traveled to Haskell University’s campus in Lawrence, Kan., ready to show what they had been working for all season. The women’s team entered the competition seeded 5th. With five athletes running their season bests, the team was able to clinch a 3rd place finish. YC’s lead runner, senior Morgan DeBoer of Council Bluffs, Iowa, placed fourth in the race overall with a personal best of 19:59, DeBoer earning her All-MCAC honors and qualifying her as an individual for the NAIA National Cross Country Championships November 22, also in Lawrence. Last season the men finished runners-up in the conference, but this year their sights were set on the championship despite heavy competition from College of the Ozarks. Behind the outstanding running of junior Matt Gastineau of Hershey, Neb., and four other top 15 place finishes, the men hoisted the MCAC Championship plaque and are heading as a team to Nationals. Gastineau
by Tyler Cox ‘15
Gastineau’s first place time of 26:58 was 46 seconds faster than his closest competitor, earning him MCAC Runner of the Year. Brennan Jarvis, a sophomore from Colorado Springs, Colo., and Caleb Magner, a freshman from York, had outstanding races as well finishing 5th and 6th respectively and earning All-MCAC honors along with Gastineau. Magner was also named MCAC Freshman Runner of the Year. Jeff Austin and Kyle Bottom completed the top five Jarvis Magner slots with 11th and 12th place finishes and Honorable Mention All-MCAC honors. Gastineau, Austin, Bottom, Tyler Cox, Jake Hasenauer, and Emily Meranda were also named MCAC Scholar Athletes for their hard work in the classroom and on the course. Head Coach Justin Carver was again named MCAC Men’s Coach of the Year. This was the 8th time that Coach Carver has been honored with this award for his success in both men’s and women’s cross country, and track and field. “This cross country season has been an honor to coach,” says Carver. “You will not find a better group of men and women, who display character, faith, and hard work, both on and off the field. This is a very special team and holds a very special place in my heart. God is good and living in our student athletes.”
When Head Coach Jon Ireland took over the York College men’s soccer program, he urged his players to dream big. Coach Ireland challenged them to change the stereotype of how a Panther soccer player looked, acted, practiced and performed. In year three of his program, it appears Ireland has found the formula necessary to grow the program into a respectful, competitive group. The team had a breakout season this fall, including six shut-outs and winning four games on the road, all huge feats for a program that is coming off two consecutive 2-win seasons. They finished the year at 8-9-2, and made the postseason for the first time in seven years. York was
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photo by Trent Hinton ‘02
A Bright Future for Men’s Soccer
eliminated by nationally ranked Bellevue University in the MCAC tournament by a score of 0-2, but Ireland’s team fought to the end against a loaded Bruin squad. “There is a lot of excitement for the soccer program going forward with so many players returning and new expectations,” said Coach Ireland. “The future is bright.” For the full story go to www.ycpanthers.com/article/175.php
Pictured above are some of the YC athletes awarded an ELEVATE medal this semester.
ELEVATE your character
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Character: Honesty, courage, diligence, hard work…the things that make a person great Competence: The technical skills you need to succeed in your sport Consistency: In practice and in games, giving 100 percent effort, 100 percent of the time
haracter. Competence. Consistency. These three things are the bedrocks of the ELEVATE program implemented by Panther Athletics this year. The character development program focuses on key aspects of being a successful athlete that translate to life beyond athletics. ELEVATE consists of a curriculum with ten lessons coaches work through during their season that focus on concepts such as alertness, flexibility, honesty and self-control. When a coach sees a player demonstrating character, competence, and consistency, in those areas, the player is presented with an ornamental gold coin. Each coach has ten coins to distribute to their players throughout the year. The recognition provides something tangible for athletes to strive for. “The core principle is you get more of what you reward,” says Athletic Director Jared Stark. “Instead of catching students doing it wrong, the program focuses on students who are doing it right.” Stark says there has been a great response from students and coaches alike, who have appreciated the intentionality about character. The one area where Stark saw immediate improvement was in the men’s soccer program—there was a significant decrease in discipline issues on the field. “We feel like this is something that will pay off over the long run,” says Stark. “We aren’t doing this to win more games or set more records. We want to create a stronger program based on athletes who have integrity.” The curriculum has brought unity to the entire athletic program, as athletes from all 14 teams are focusing on the same concepts. “It brings into sharp focus the things we have been emphasizing all along,” he says. Coaches are framing their comments and activities in terms of the three Cs. “It becomes a powerful teaching tool,” says Stark. “It’s helped us to have a consistent messaging to all athletes about our goals and expectations. It’s one of the best things we’ve
done in a long time. All of the coaches and athletes have really embraced it.” One of the coaches who has embraced the ELEVATE program most readily is Justin Carver, head coach for men’s and women’s track and cross country teams. Carver appreciates how his athletes are excited about the award and eager to recognize each other. “At the end of the week when I announce who the C3 winner is, the rest of the team nods, because they know, they can see how that person demonstrates that trait, whatever it is. When they say, ‘yeah, I see that,’ it encourages them to be more like that, too.” When it came time to recognize a cross-country athlete for the character trait of perseverance, Carver says the decision was simple. Freshman Ariel Warrior is aptly named. “She’s a fighter. She never gives up,” says Carver. At an early race in the season, unusually high temperatures caused many competitors to overheat and drop out. Warrior pushed through. She didn’t Warrior win, but she didn’t quit. After the race, she had to be cooled off in an emergency ice bath. “I probably should have pulled her out of the race, but I didn’t realize how bad it was. She never gave me any sign that she wanted to be taken out,” says Carver. Her ability to persevere in the face of adversity set her apart from the competition. Senior Morgan DeBoer, another of Carver’s cross-country runners, says that the ELEVATE program has changed the dynamic of the team: athletes who aren’t usually in the spotlight, who may not be the swiftest or the strongest, are now getting much deserved recognition. “This puts the focus not just on talent, but on heart,” she says. “There’s an obvious emphasis on being more than just good athletes. We are encouraged, much more importantly, to be good people.” WINTER 2014 |
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Four Panthers Find Professional Play Overseas by Emily Lutz
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Darren Best was voted league MVP with the Australian Chelsea Seagulls and currently averages over 8 points a game with the Manchester Giants.
photo courtesy BigV
laying professionally is the dream of many college athletes. For recent graduates Darren Best, Thadd Varmall, Desmond Strickland, and Mike Buffalo, that dream is a reality. Darren Best was recently named to the United Kingdom’s premier British Basketball League’s team of the week. This award comes in Best’s fifth season of professional play and is fresh off his league MVP with the Australian Chelsea Seagulls. During his current season, with the Manchester Giants, Best is averaging over 8 points a game and contributes his success to not only his hard work, but the relentless support of his family and friends. While at YC, Best served as captain of the Panther squad and was named Honorable Mention All-MCAC. Best has stayed in touch with YC Head Men’s Basketball Coach Delton Deal throughout his entire career, in which the 6’7” Australian has posted some impressive numbers. During the 2013-2014 season with the Killamarsh Arrows, Darren averaged 31 points per game and 9.2 rebounds, while shooting an impressive 50% from the field. Looking back, Best says, “I have become a better person because of my time at York and I truly believe this served as the springboard for me to become the basketball player I am today.” Thadd Varmall, a 2013 NAIA All American and member of the 2013 NAIA Sweet Sixteen Panther basketball team, recently finished his first season in Australia with the Bullen Boomers. Varmall, who helped lead the Boomers to the Big V state championship game, finished the season shooting 46.2% from the field and 31.4% from beyond the arc. The former Panther also hit an impressive 77.8% of all free throws during the 2014 season. With an average of 24 points per game, Varmall’s season high came in the second to last game of the season when he dropped a total of 42 points. Varmall, who has since returned to Texas, cites his time at York College and his relationship with Coach Deal as contributing factors to his success. “My time at York has impacted me significantly both on and off the court,” he says. Varmall continues, “I was not only able to build a relationship with Coach Deal, who still supports and checks in on me to this day, but also to develop my relationship with God. YC gave me the opportunity to grow in Him, and I’m blessed by that daily.” Thadd hopes to return to Australia for the 2015 season. Desmond Strickland is currently playing overseas for the VFL Kirchheim in Kirchheim, Germany. While the season has only just begun, Strickland is averaging 22 points per game with 3 assists and 4 rebounds. Traditionally a 3-point shooter, Strickland was named Honorable Mentionable All-MCAC twice during his career with the Panthers and was part of the 2013 NAIA Sweet Sixteen team. When not playing or practicing, Desmond and his teammates spend a majority of their time coaching and working with youth basketball in schools. Much like Varmall, Strickland recognizes the importance of his time at York College and his relationship with Coach Deal. “I’ve been blessed to play for Coach Deal since my AAU basketball days and he has truly believed in me 100% since the beginning. I know that I can rely on him for anything,” he says. Strickland encourages both current and prospective Panthers to take advantage of their time at YC. “My appreciation for York has grown and I’ve come to realize what a blessing it is to go to a great college.” Mike Buffalo, a 2014 graduate and member of the 2013 NAIA Sweet Sixteen men’s basketball team, was recently signed by the Mansfield Giants of the English Basketball League. Buffalo, a native of Yonkers, NY, traveled to England in early November and will begin regular season games soon. Buffalo, who thanks York High School student Morgan Connor for helping reignite his passion for the game, considers himself blessed to leave York College after two years with a degree in hand. “Dr. Mark Moore helped me do what I thought was impossible as a junior college transfer. He pushed me and advised me throughout the entire process,” Buffalo says. Mike plans to return to York this upcoming summer to host a youth basketball clinic.
Thadd Varmall averaged 24 points per game in his first season with the Bullen Boomers.
In his junior year, Desmond Strickland led the Panthers with 99/214 from behind the arc, an impressive 46%.
Mike Buffalo during the signing of his first professional basketball contract with the Mansfield Giants.
Student Spotlight: Kailey Firm
photo by Eryn Jacobson
(above) Kailey celebrates with members of the volleyball team as they defeat MCAC opponent Central Baptist in three straight sets.
For math education major Kailey Firm, planning her daily schedule can be a difficult equation. While the number of hours in a day is finite, it appears that Firm’s energy level is an infinite set. Up early for workouts with the volleyball team, then classes, chapel (where she’s probably making an announcement in front of the student body), choir over the lunch hour, more classes followed by rehearsal for Celebration Singers, then after dinner, volleyball practice or games, and meetings for the student activity board (she’s the president) and social club Delta Chi Alpha. The honor roll student manages to add homework in there somewhere as well. “I’m pretty crazy busy, but I love everything that I do,” says Firm. “It’s part of the reason I wanted to come to York. I knew that I would have a lot of opportunities to be involved. Sometimes in high school I had to choose between things that I loved, like arts and sports. One of the perks of going to this school is that I get to do a little bit of everything.” Firm will complete coursework this spring and student teach in the fall. As a recipient of a federal TEACH grant, Firm has committed to teaching for four years in a low-income area after she graduates in December 2015. Illinois is home, but Firm says she’ll go wherever God sends her for work. She’s not picky about the location Why math education? “I love the challenge of math,” says Firm. “I’ve had a few experiences with bad math teachers. I want to make math fun for students. I want to find ways to connect with them. To make sure they know that it’s not just about the numbers, it’s
about them--who they are and how they are doing.” Another draw to the profession is the scarcity of women in the field. “That motivates me,” says Firm, who wants to be a role model to other young women who enjoy math. Firm is a talented vocalist, but she refuses to limit her passion to the arts. “I’ve been an athlete since the age of five,” she says. “My competitive nature, my drive to be successful, my commitment to teamwork, these are valuable things that I’ve gotten from sports.” In addition to her math education degree, Firm is earning an endorsement in coaching. “I can’t imagine my life without sports,” she says. Firm plans to coach volleyball and basketball, using athletics to connect with students outside the classroom and help them develop the same life skills she’s found in sports.
(above) Kailey was a homecoming candidate this fall along with her escort Tyler Cox.
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Library director honored for service Ruth Carlock, director of Levitt Library, was recently recognized with the Distinguished Service Award from the Nebraska Library Association college and
university section. This award recognizes Carlock for her active participation in the NLA College and University section and service to the Nebraska Library Association. Carlock is an information literacy specialist and test site administrator, in addition to her duties as library director. She holds degrees from University of MissouriColumbia and Northwest Missouri State University. She has worked at Levitt Library in a variety of capacities for more than 25 years and has held the position of director for two years. Before this position, she was the assistant director of Levitt Library for 11 years. Carlock recently teamed with several other Nebraska librarians to write The RDA Workbook: Learning the Basics of Resource Description and Access, which was published in February 2014 by Libraries Unlimited.
Faculty member examines social media and social change through media Messages in television and radio programs have the power to do more than entertain: they can also enlighten,
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DeHart completes Ed.D., tours Holocaust sites with alumni and students Associate professor of education Erin DeHart recently completed doctoral studies at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln. Her course of study focused on teaching, learning and curriculum development. For her dissertation, DeHart looked at teaching multiculturalism, an issue that is close to her heart. This research area is tied directly to DeHart’s faith. “When I think about who Jesus came for, who he spent time with, they were not people of power or influence. They were outcasts. It’s important to me to consider everyone in a community, because Jesus came for everyone. That’s why I teach that it is vital to be kind and compassionate to all people.” Soon after she defended her dissertation, DeHart hopped on a plane for a multicultural experience of another kind: she led a group of alumni and current students on an eight-day trip through photo by Erin DeHart
Faculty News
inform, and quite possibly create cultural change. Shannon Leinen, assistant professor of communication, spent part of the summer of 2014 conducting research on improving prosocial messaging in media in the Middle East. She traveled to Jordan with Regent University (Virginia), where she is a PhD candidate. The research she and colleagues conducted involved a workshop for media professionals throughout the Middle East, focusing on improving technical production skills as well as messaging strategies to encourage social change. At the conclusion of the workshop, Leinen conducted interviews with the workshop attendees to measure the effectiveness and relevance of the workshop. She also asked questions about participants’ personal and professional history, goals in media and barriers to those goals. Leinen is coauthoring a paper on the project with Regent University faculty members. Additionally, Leinen presented a paper on social media and religious conversion at the annual national convention of the Religious Communication Association. She was one of five panelists to present on topics relating to social media. Her research examined how social media behavior changes after religious conversion. Leinen interviewed selfproclaimed new Christians and then analyzed their Facebook profiles to determine if and how the online persona reflected new beliefs and convictions. Leinen says this research is relevant in an era of digital communication. “We project our identity through social media. It is a useful tool because we can track our personal histories, as well as others’. We have the ability to represent our faith to others on social media. We need to be aware of what we are projecting in those channels.”
(above) The group discusses their reflections on the last day of the trip under a tree in Krakow, Poland,
Europe. Making stops in Germany, Poland, and Prague, the group of nine visited sites of significance to the Holocaust, including the concentration camp of Auschwitz, the death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, and the labor camp Plaszow, which was made
famous by the film “Schindler’s List.” DeHart said that through studying the Holocaust, students begin to realize the impact hate can have on the world, and the even greater power love and humanity can have over that hate. The trip to Berlin and Krakow was an extension of a New York/Washington D.C. Holocaust Studies trip that Dehart has spearheaded in the past. “Sometimes people don’t see travel as part of education, when it’s really the most powerful education,” DeHart said. “It can really help you grow as a person.”
Ritter Joins Education Department Dr. Kelley Ritter joined the York College education department as an associate professor this fall. She holds a Ph.D. in career and technical education from the University of Missouri—Columbia. She also holds degrees in administrative elementary and secondary leadership and curriculum and instruction. Ritter also holds an associate degree in home economics education, completed at York College in 1984. She has taught at the junior high, high school and collegiate levels in a variety of locations in Missouri and Wisconsin. Her teaching interests include teacher education and retention, professional development for teachers and adult learners, effective instructional practices, educator evaluation, and curriculum. Ritter is the winner of the Naomi R. and Freeman A. Koehler National Fellowship, the H.H. London Graduate Research Assistantship, and the Wian-Tian Teaching Excellence Award for Rolla Public Schools.
That’s Admiral Miller to you. Gail Miller, associate professor of biology, recently completed two consecutive five-year terms
as a member of the State of Nebraska Board of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. In recognition of her decade of service to the state, Governor Dave Heineman awarded Miller the state’s highest honor, the rank of Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska. Nebraska Admiral is an honorary title bestowed upon individuals by approval of the Governor. As the state is landlocked and has no navy, Miller’s new position has no duties, and carries with it no pay or other compensation. While the honorary title is somewhat tongue-in-cheek, Miller’s work with the veterinary board has been serious. In addition to the oversight of the state’s licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians, the board is also working to advance the profession in the state through legislation. Thanks to the work of Miller and others on the board, Nebraska has become one of the first states in the U.S. to officially license animal therapists. This opens the door for chiropractic, massage and physical therapy, and other alternative medicine such as acupuncture, to be legally applied to animals by trained and licensed care providers. Work on this piece of legislation began in Miller’s first year as part of the board and was finally passed into law in September of this year. She says it is very rewarding to be a part of the process from start to finish and to see the fruit of her labors. (below) Gail Miller was recently recognized for ten years of service on the State of Nebraska Veterinary Board.
York College Remembers: Wilkison and Blackburn James “Jim” Wilkison (89) of Anacortes, Wash., went to his heavenly home on June 24, 2014. Wilkison served on the York College Board of Trustees from May 1990 to December 2005. In 1994, the college recognized him for the special service he gave during the transition to a four year program by awarding him an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. Wilkison had a long career with Shell Oil prior to his service at York College. In his retirement years, he was an active leader with the churches of Christ and was a vocal advocate of Christian education. Jim’s loving wife, Ruth Lake, died August 8, 2013 at age 92. Jim is survived by his 6 children, 16 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Margaret Lee Blackburn (92) of Tahlequah, Okla., passed away July 10, 2014. She is remembered by York College alumni from the 1960s as the secretary to the dean—Dr. Mabrey Miller. She was also the “chapel checker” for many years. She and her husband Royce wore many hats at York College during their years here. Royce was a field representative and managed the college farm, which provided much of the food consumed by the student body. He was affectionately referred to as “The Cattle Rustler” as he often returned to campus with a few cows in his trailer, acquired from generous donors. Prior to their years at York College, Royce was a minister at the church of Christ in Bellevue, Neb. They continued working in ministry for many years after leaving YC. Two of the couple’s children attended York College: Bonnie (Blackburn) Ellis ’69 and Alan Blackburn ’74.
York College ranked 15th in nation among Christian Colleges for Lowest Student Debt Burden Leading Christian higher education resource, Christian Universities Online (www.christianuniversitiesonline. org), has published a ranking of the Christian colleges with the lowest debt burden. York College ranks 15th in the nation among Christian colleges, with an average student indebtedness of $23,750. The ranking looks at two factors, average student debt and percent of student body who borrowed. When combining these factors, York College ranks 26th among Christian Colleges. The metric also reveals the high level of need of many YC students, as 81 percent report borrowing for college. Brien Alley, director of financial aid, reports that 98 percent of students at YC receive financial aid (including
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scholarships and grants), as well. A report from the U.S. Department of Education in 2013 revealed that York College students have the lowest median debt burden among all colleges in Nebraska. YC grads also have less debt than the national average of $27,000 reported in 2013. There’s a belief that private,
Christian education is too expensive for most students. “That’s just not true,” says President Steve Eckman. “The truth is we are very cost competitive, not only among private schools, but among all colleges. We have worked very hard to keep our tuition affordable. We want as many students as possible to have a lifechanging experience at York College.”
(top) Mercedes Bayless and DJ Drews enjoy an autumn stroll on campus. (above) Dr. Kirk Mallette, chair of the Department of Education, lectures in one of the new classrooms in Middlebrook.
...just around the
Concert Choir Winter Tour, January 3-9
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he York College Concert Choir will be touring six states during the winter break, January 3-9. Dr. Clark Roush and the choir invite you to attend this enjoyable and uplifting experience. January 3 Garden City CofC—Garden City, KS / January 4 at 6:00 p.m. Northside CofC—Wichita, KS / January 5 O’Fallon CofC—O’Fallon , MO / January 6 North Park CofC—Machesney Park, IL / January 7 Walled Lake CofC—Walled Lake, MI / January 8 Southside CofC—Milwaukee, WI / January 9 Central CofC—Cedar Rapids, IA. Concerts will be each evening at 7:00 p.m. except where noted.
Spring High School Days/Songfest, April 2-4
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his is a great time to see many aspects of YC: stay in a residence hall, eat in the caf, visit classes and attend the academic fair. Parents of current and prospective students are invited to a free brunch on Saturday. The weekend will include performances by the Concert Choir, Traveling Children’s Theatre, and of course the 38th Annual Songfest! Tickets for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Songfest performances are $10—but all the other activities this weekend are FREE!
RoundUp, May 17-23
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oundUp is a little bit Bible camp, a little bit college, and a whole lot of fun! It’s a week-long retreat for “Golden Agers” hosted on the York College campus. The theme of RoundUp 2015 will be centered around the Roman military and will feature lectures by Tim McNeese. For registration information, contact Gayle Good at gagood@york.edu or (402) 363-5621.
Soul Quest, June 7-13
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ork College will be hosting the 35th annual Soul Quest, June 7-13. Our summer camp is for 6th-12th grade campers and features incredible worship times, exciting classes and activities, and awesome friendships with teens from across the country. As we near spring, visit our camp website at www.york. edu/events to get more details.
Presidential Leadership Institute, July 12-18
Y
ork College and Strata Leadership will once again partner to offer an innovative program for high potential students, grades 10-12. The Presidential Leadership Institute will provide students from across the United States the opportunity to interact with nationally recognized leaders while participating in an in-depth team building experience with their classmates.
Alumni and Friends Work Days, July 16-18
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ooking for a fun way to help out YC? Join us for York College Alumni and Friends Workdays, July 16-18, where volunteers pitch in to improve the campus prior to the start of a new school year. Contact Scott and Lisa Eckman (YC ‘79) at s.eckman@juno.com for more details or to register.
Homecoming and High School Days, October 23-25
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omecoming and Fall High School Days will be two weeks later than the traditional weekend. Mark your calendars now for October 23-25 for a campus visit. The weekend promises to bring together some of the best experiences that YC has to offer. Don’t forget to check the calendar on the back cover for other important dates.
1125 E 8th Street York, NE 68467
Looking for a new direction? YC now offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn more at online.york.edu.
COMING EVENTS December 11-14 Cocoa and Carols 15-17 Final Examinations January 2-10 12
Concert Choir Winter Tour Classes Begin
February 13-14 Shine Retreat 26 Spring Play Opening Night March 7-15
Spring Break
April 3-5 14 27
Spring High School Days (Songfest : April 2 - 4, 7:00 p.m.) All College Banquet Concert Choir Spring Works
May 2 17-23
Student photographer Eryn Jacobson captures the fall colors against the Mackey Center.
Commencement RoundUp
June 7-13
Soul Quest
July 12-18 16-18
Presidential Leadership Institute York College Work Days
August 22-25 26
New Student Orientation Classes Begin
October 23-25
Homecoming & Fall High School Days