York College Heritage Magazine No. 36

YC FORECAST Another Day of Sun Dr. Aimee (Burney '04) Piller

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Spanning the Globe

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Least of These

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All-Americans

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Gift of Song

This morning I read a report on the struggles of small, faith-based colleges. It predicted that hundreds of schools like ours will close over the next several years.

Rising costs, the aversion students have to accumulating any debt and the emphasis in our culture of immediate gratification are just a few of the factors affecting how people choose colleges.

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.

As I talk to parents and students considering colleges, there are fewer and fewer asking important questions like “how will my character be strengthened?’” or “how will I grow spiritually?” Most questions revolve around “what kind of job will I get?” or “how much money will I make?” or “how much scholarship money will I receive?” These are important factors in the life-shaping decision of where to get your higher education, but seem to miss the point of growing into an adult with character and deep spirituality.

Our graduates have great placement rates and the skills to be successful in the workplace. When prospective students and parents stop by my office on their campus visits, I tell them about students whose lives have been changed by their York Experience. I tell them about alumni, like the ones mentioned in this issue of Heritage, who are making a difference in this world. It is my prayer that more students would make their decision about college based on who they want to be rather than on what they want to do. How much they want to serve rather than how much money they want to make.

As you read this issue, it will be evident to you that lives are constantly being impacted by God at work at York College; in the lives of our students, but also in the lives of alumni and the people that they touch all around the world. It is an amazing thing to see God planting seeds in students on our campus that bloom into ministries months and years after they leave.

York College exists because God continues to bless us. It is only by His grace that we continue to thrive. York College has now finished its ninth consecutive year of operations without a deficit--quite an accomplishment for a school this size. We remain committed to developing character and providing opportunities for spiritual growth for our students, that they would be equipped for lives of service to God, family, and society.

York College alumni are practicing the “pure religion” of James 1:27 by living their lives in service for ‘the least of these.’ pg 16

As we conclude our Beyond 125 fundraising campaign, the most successful campaign in all of York College’s history, I want to thank the many alumni and friends who have responded in such a big way. Thanks to you, we have far exceed our goals. Our students are blessed by your involvement in this ministry.

Steve Eckman

On The Cover: Songfest hosts and hostesses Levi Swenson, Colby Smith, Tyler Goodwin, Cameron Merrill, Olivia Nabb, Dani Palensky, Thomas Eckhart, and Lilianna Herrera sing the opening number Another Day of Sun with club representatives. pg 29

President (above) This summer YC students are spanning the globe including these students on a mission effort in Tabacundo, Ecuador. pg 6

Profile Excellence in

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gym filled with bright colors, cushiony surfaces, a climbing wall, ceiling swings, rings, ladders, yoga balls, and a closet full of toys and games is where Dr. Aimee (Burney ’04) Piller fulfills her calling, serving special needs children as a pediatric occupational therapist.

“It’s very rewarding work,” said Piller. “I get to come to work and make a difference in someone’s life every day.

It’s an amazing opportunity I’ve been given.”

After several years of working in the field, Piller opened her own OT practice seven years ago with four clients. Today, she owns three clinics in the Phoenix area and employs 35 therapists who serve about 700 children each week. Her team serves children with all kinds of disabilities, from Downs Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, to general motor delays or sensory processing concerns.

“A lot of different types of clients come through our doors,” she said, noting that many of their clients are on the autism spectrum. Her work with these clients influenced Piller’s recently completed doctoral studies, as her dissertation research focused on how the sensory environment impacts the classroom participation of preschool students with autism and sensory processing disorders. Some of the children in the study had aversions to light or sounds. Others had increased sensory needs, such as needing to move more than classmates or seek out other physical stimuli.

The result of this research is an assessment tool for educators and parents to use to identify how much modification to the environment and support for the student is necessary for participation. This tool is available

...continued next page

Cameron Coleman, a business communication major from Allen, Texas, and Courtney Lovelace, a psychology and criminal justice major from Lake Elsinore, Calif., were named Mr. and Ms. York College for 2017.

In this issue: 3 6 9 10 12 14 16 19 20 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31

Aimee Piller - Profile in Excellence Global Adventures Clayton Museum of Ancient History Campus News Campus Voices New Masters Program Let the Little Children Come to Me A Golden Year Alumni News and Notes Gift of Song Towers of York Panther Athletics The Next Step Coming Full Circle Memorials Campaign News Around the Corner

(above) Graduates pose with their new hoodies after Senior Banquet.

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. 20, No. 2 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 Stephen Colwell ’05 Bob DeHart ’95 Maegan (Simpson ’10) Detlefs

Trent Hinton ’02 Titus Robison ’04 Amber Soderholm ’10

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Occupational Therapy is a science-driven, evidence-based profession that enables people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health and prevent—or live better with—illness, injury or disability.“ ~ American Occupational Therapy Association

Dr. Aimee Piller is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Piller Child Development LLC. Piller specializes in sensory integration therapy and administration of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test; only 3,000 professionals have this certification globally. Piller is also a certified Therapeutic Listening provider and Interactive Metronome Provider. She is trained in neurodevelopmental treatment techniques for infants and has taken continuing education in treating preschool children with autism.

Piller is passionate about working with children and the relationship between sensory integration and learning. She believes that all children should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and become independent in their environments. She is committed to helping children reach their true potential.

online and is free for all to use at http:// participationandsensoryenvironment. weebly.com.

“Participation doesn’t have to mean ‘I completed the task fully by myself.’ There are a lot of levels of participation that people with autism may have,” said Piller.

“Doing some part of the activity can still be participation.”

Broadening the view of participation was a part of Piller’s research. The other part was looking at the activities and the classroom environment from a teacher perspective to see how much modification is needed for children

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with autism. “We found many teachers respond to these needs innately. They are already doing a lot of modifications, but they want to know, ‘How can I modify so that these kids can be more successful and so that my classroom can be more inclusive for all children?’”

Piller’s interest in occupational therapy began at York College. She had known for years that she wanted to work with children and had a passion for those with special needs. As an education major, she was completing her practicum hours at York Elementary School when she first saw an occupational therapist at work and everything clicked. “I thought, ‘oooh, I

(right) Aimee and her husband Glenn own and operate Piller Child Development together.

think that’s what I’d like to do,’” said Piller, noting that it combined the educational component with one-on-one interaction with children of differing abilities. She completed her degree in education at YC and went directly into a graduate program in occupational therapy.

“It’s very rewarding work. I get to come to work and make a difference in someone’s life every day.

It’s an amazing opportunity I’ve been given.”

“Occupational therapy really has a lot to offer,” she said. “We focus on developing an internal motivation and drive within a child to be independent. The therapist facilitates that child’s desire to engage in their environment and become an independent person, whatever that may look like for that child…We help kids to find their spark and see it in themselves.

THEN we expand their repertoire of skills and their engagement and participation.”

Piller sees few clients herself now, as much of her work involves teaching and mentoring the therapists on her staff, as well as managing the business. However, she does maintain a small caseload and has been working with one client with autism since he was eight. “When I first started working with him he couldn’t imitate me, he only had about 20 words.

He had a hard time doing everything in his life. Now he’s a teenager and you wouldn’t believe that he wasn’t really talking at eight years old. He’s going to high school now and he’s getting around to his classes by himself. He still needs support, but he’s got desires and things he wants to do when he graduates. He’s made a big impact on me, and he’s made a lot of progress, too.”

Piller’s husband, Glenn, also works with their business, Piller Child Development, as the director of operations. One of their three clinics has just expanded into an adjacent suite to nearly double in size. Six additional therapists were added and there is a plan to add an additional four in the next few years. Finding work-life balance is a struggle for Piller, as she is constantly striving to better serve her staff and her clients. “The other challenge is that the leadership role is not something that comes naturally for me,” she said. “I never saw myself as a business person or a manager, but I’ve grown into that role.”

(above) As a pediatric occupational therapist, Dr. Aimee Piller focuses on developing an internal motivation and drive within a child to be independent.

While there are challenges, Piller is happy to be pursuing her passion of helping children improve their lives.

She has some advice for the general public when it comes to children with disabilities. “Be mindful that every person has unique contributions,” she said. “We don’t all look the same and that’s really an amazing thing.

God made us all different and unique.

Recognize that differences don’t have to mean that a person can’t do something or that they are less of a person, but that we all have our own abilities and desires and that if we are aware of those differences then we can support one another.” n

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Global Adventures

It has been a busy summer of travel for YC students, faculty and staff. From New York City to Athens, Greece, Panthers have spread out across the globe to learn, to grow, and to share the love of Christ.

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VIENNA

group of 21 students, faculty and staff members traveled to Vienna, Austria, for a five-week study abroad trip.

The six credit-hour course combined faith and learning and focused on World War II, the Holocaust, the Sermon on the Mount, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s The Cost of Discipleship.

Like a course on campus, there were papers, tests, and daily chapel. Every afternoon, however, the program was something different: museums, memorials, walking-tours of major cities, castles, cathedrals and more. The group visited many sites of historical interest, such as Schindler’s Factory, Dachau, and Auschwitz.

Students reflected on their experiences in a class blog. At the end of the trip, the group dispersed for 10 days of additional travel to other locations in Europe.

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(above) The Vienna group takes a country road group selfie. Sponsors were Dr. Erin DeHart, Dr. Sam and Rachel Garner, and Dr. Shane and Vivian Mountjoy.

"Today we went to Bratislava to tour the city a bit and go through the castle. It was an U-Bahn, train, and bus ride away, and it’s the furthest we’ve traveled from home thus far. On our way back to Vienna, we got a little bit lost and could not find our way back to the train station. We attempted to ask a woman for directions, but she could not speak English. So, she called her friend who could speak English, and we told her where we need to be going, and the woman went out of her way to take us all the way to the train station. We tried to give her a few Euros, but she would not accept and gave us smiles and blew us a kiss. She was adorable. It just reminded me how kindness is a universal language, and that you can bond or communicate with people even when you can’t speak words to each other."

- Katey Cox '17 Vienna, Austria

ECUADOR

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team of six students led by Dr. Michael Case, professor of Bible, spent four weeks sharing the gospel in Korca, Albania. The team used English lessons at the local church as an outreach tool and taught youth and adult Bible classes on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday.

In addition, they helped with some community outreach programs such as an outing with a blind community and school children. The team worked with the same church where Kevin ’02 and Allison (Schnoor ’02) Morrill served as missionaries for many years.

ALBANIA

"It was such a blessing to work with the Church in Korça. To see God working through our team as we studied English and Bible with our students on a daily basis was a powerful example that the Spirit of God has no earthly barriers.

As much as we made an effort to encourage our fellow Christians in Albania, they strengthened us with their warm hospitality and determination to serve the Lord in the place they call home.

Language was both a bridge and a wall for us on this trip, but it helped us understand that love and service, the languages of the Kingdom, are universal and bind us all together."

- Grady Johnson '18 Korca, Albania

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ine YC students traveled to Ecuador for missions and service in Tabacundo and Quito. Most of the students were in Tabacundo for three weeks with Dr. Terry Seufferlein, professor of Bible, and Catherine Seufferlein, dean of student development, to work with children at the public school and in an afterschool program provided by the church. One student, Aubrey Tate, traveled to nearby Quito to work with the Hacienda of Hope Academy for the summer. Two other staff members also travelled to Ecuador with a mission team from East Hill Church of Christ. From sampling the local delicacy (Guinea pig) to hiking in the Andes and getting up close and personal with alpacas, YC students were challenged to leave their comfort zone far behind as they served the local population.

"What an eventful weekend! On Friday, we had a sleepover with the kids from the after school program.

We played games, had a campfire, made s’mores, and watched a movie! Yesterday, we had the chance to go hiking up Mojanda, though it was definitely more of a climb up and a slide down. We are all tired, achy, and sore but our hearts are full. God is breaking us down and showing us where He is working. He has been tender and patient with us, but has not hesitated to bring us through difficult experiences. He has continued to stretch us to make us grow, which can sometimes be painful. However, we are thankful that this process is taking place. The people we work with are filled with the Spirit and are determined to serve in any way they can. We are constantly being shown how to spread God’s love by the people here."

- Delaney Woods '17 Tabacundo, Ecuador

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"Just another Sunday night service in Glyfada.

85 people, a few Ukrainians, a couple Greeks, a handful of Iranians and sprinkle in some Americans. Add in the usual smiles and handshakes, hugs and laughs amongst the children running around the adults, and it’s just another Sunday night in Glyfada.

Twelve baptisms. All refugees. A family of four, a pregnant woman and her husband, a taxi driver that was “driven to the Lord,” and a photographer all putting on Christ. The preacher’s wife mopping the floor from the baptistery to the back because the water is puddling up in the aisle, and it’s just another Sunday night in Glyfada.

GREECE

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ead Women’s Basketball Coach Matthew Madole and recent graduate Alyssa Didier traveled to Athens, Greece, with Let’s Start Talking Ministries. Using a curriculum based on the book of Luke, the pair met with readers who were interested in learning English. Many of the readers were refugees from the Middle East who were trying to rebuild their lives after escaping from oppression and violence. Madole and Didier taught English, but really taught Jesus, as many of their readers were Muslim and had little knowledge of Christ.

A celebration song sung by everyone, first in Farsi, then English, then Greek and eventually Russian and Turkish.

And it’s just another Sunday night in Glyfada.

The Good News is brought by a Greek preacher from the island of Santorini, speaking English, translated to Farsi by an Iranian. And it’s just another Sunday night in Glyfada.

Another Sunday night in Glyfada is anything but 'just.'

It is full of hope and excitement. The Good News Jesus brought is a joy to a people that need something good to come their way. Many here are looking for a fresh start in a new place. Most are young and have visions of a new, wonderful life. Others are here for their children, to provide an opportunity they otherwise would not have.

Regardless of the reason why, they are discovering Jesus.

We all need purpose in our life, which we find Christ.

We all need rest and refuge in our life, which we find in Christ. We all need acceptance in our life, which we find in Christ. In a world in which we are strangers, we all have a home in Christ.

Different people, different languages, different homes, different cultures. The same family of God. Just another Sunday night in Glyfada."

- Matt Madole '02 Athens, Greece

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NY CITY

They know they need help where they are, that they can’t do it alone. They have found that hope here. They have found a Savior that can give them rest, for many are labored and heavy burdened. They have found a purpose rooted in loving each other as they have loved themselves. They have found acceptance in a church that knows all people are made in the image of God. They have experienced, and felt, the love of Jesus.

group of 15 students traveled to New York City for a fine arts study trip with John Baker, associate professor of communication. The days consisted of visits to the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial. Evenings were filled with Broadway productions, including The Lion King, The Glass Menagerie, and several Tony-Award winning shows such as the musical Come From Away. Students kept a journal about the impact of the arts on their lives, and met each morning to discuss the previous day’s events. They returned inspired to continue making and experiencing great art. (above) After the musical, students met with cast member Q Smith, who hails from Omaha.

Amber Soderholm '10 is the curator for the Clayton Museum of Ancient History.

Nebraska Passport Stop

Ides of March A power-hungry politician, a treasonous plot, and a turning point in the history of Western civilization. The events of March 15, 44 B.C. held new poignancy as Tim McNeese, associate professor of History, discussed the fall of the Roman Republic at an Ides of March event, hosted on March 14 by the Clayton Museum.

The two-part evening affair included tours of the museum collection as well as a dinner and program on the assassination of Julius Caesar and the rise of the Roman Empire. The museum collection tours were led by the Junior Docent Legion, a group of volunteers age 8-15. The event continued with a thematic three-course meal consisting of neo-Roman inspired foods and a riveting historical lecture by McNeese. More than 120 guests took part in the evening’s events. The museum plans to make this an annual event with a different focus each time.

The Clayton Museum is one of 80 Nebraska attractions on the 2017 Nebraska Passport Program. Visitors to these spots accumulate stamps on a passport provided by the Nebraska Tourism Commission.

Travelers have from May 1 to September 30 to visit destinations and collect stamps.

If they collect enough stamps, they can win prizes. Clayton Museum curator Amber Soderholm says that the program has boosted visitor traffic and been a great way to get the word out about the museum and York College.

500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation It’s been 500 years since Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, starting a debate with Catholic Church leadership that led to the Protestant Reformation movement. This pivotal moment in world history has ripples to today and impacts religious thought far beyond Lutheran congregations. The Clayton Museum will open a new temporary exhibit in July on the Reformation that will be in place through the end of the year. Luther scholar Dr. C. Matt Phillips, associate professor of History at Concordia University, will be a guest of the museum for an evening of free lectures on Luther and the Reformation on September 21, starting at 7 p.m. No registration is required to attend this free event.

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CAMPUS NEWS Strong Performance

Presidential Scholars Recognizing academic achievement, leadership and service, York College has selected seven outstanding incoming freshmen to receive the highest level of academic scholarship, the Presidential and Dean's Scholar awards.

For York College junior Melissa Strong, crafting a business plan presentation for competition wasn’t about winning. It was about getting one step closer to a dream she’s been building for the past eight years: a Christian camp and retreat center that serves low-income, urban youth.

Strong presented her detailed business plan at the Nebraska Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference on March 31 and April 1, competing against business students from colleges and universities from across the state. Strong placed second in the category of small business management plan, earning a spot at the national competition in California this summer.

The top award goes to Kellie Fredendall of Jefferson City, Missouri. Fredendall is a 4.0 student with a busy schedule of activities including basketball, volleyball, student council, and membership or leadership roles with Future Business Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, American Sign Language Club, youth group, and National Honor Society.

Fredendall Fredendall has participated in multiple service projects including Operation Bugle Boy and Operation Leaf Relief (Veteran appreciation events). She has volunteered at a children’s home and the Missouri Special Olympics, as well as at basketball camps as an instructor and at Little Prairie Bible Camp as a counselor. At York College, she will major in elementary education and play basketball.

Strong’s passion is evident as she discusses her awardwinning business plan and her passion for camp ministry.

“I want to help kids who might not have any access to camp find a safe space and find their purpose in life,” she said. Strong has been a camper or a counselor at several Christian camps over the past 13 years. In the summer of 2016, she served as the director of summer programs at Covenant Cedars camp in Hordville, Nebraska, and is repeating that role this summer.

Strong is a business administration major with a minor in biblical studies and hails from Giltner, Nebraska. She is involved in theatre, campus ministries, residence hall staff, and Omega Phi social club, in addition to being the event committee co-chair in the York College chapter of PBL. While the PBL competition success is a great experience for Strong personally, she is more excited about bringing recognition to York College and the E.A. Levitt School of Business. “Our business teachers are very supportive,” she said. “Mr. Lewis has been very involved in growing PBL. We are a small program compared to some of the other schools that are competing, but we are performing at a high level in this nationally recognized program.”

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photo by Maegan Detlefs '10

York College sophomore Robert Ozuna also competed in this category and placed fourth.

The students chosen for the Dean’s Scholarship include (l-r) Elizabeth Ryan (Mountain Home, Idaho), Jacob Kuhne (Mukwonago, Wis.), Joseph Wanninger (Berthoud, Colo.), David Tupper (Ewa Beach, Hawaii), Brianna Eckerberg (Gering, Neb.), Kennedy Gray (Great Falls, Mont.), and Eva Maria Jones (Salem, Ore.).

To be considered for the Presidential Scholarship, students must meet high academic standards as well as submit written essays and other application materials before coming to campus for a rigorous interview with the selection committee.

“We are excited to welcome these students to campus this fall,” said President Eckman. “They will be leaders in the classroom and throughout campus in clubs and activities.

We expect great things from them.”

FA C U LT Y / S TA F F T R A N S I T I O N S Baileys honored for service Drs. Ed and Louise Bailey have retired for a second time. In 2012, they retired to York and began volunteering their time teaching— criminal justice courses for Ed and education courses for Louise.

They took on mentoring students through social service clubs and academic organizations as well. In May, they retired again and began a new adventure: they moved into a motorhome and set off for the Pacific Northwest. The couple plans to travel the country and see family. Ed will continue to serve on the board of York College, as he has done for several years.

“We appreciate the years of service Ed and Louise Bailey have given to the students of York College and we wish them well in their travels,” said President Steve Eckman.

coach; similarly, former wrestler Jeff Albers '17 has joined the wrestling program as assistant coach in addition to his duties as a residence hall supervisor; Josh Nething '04 will serve as assistant coach of the track and field program, focusing on throwing events.

The Great American Eclipse A celestial spectacle is coming to York, Nebraska. On the afternoon of Monday, August 21, York will be plunged into darkness for more than 2 minutes as the moon passes between the earth and the sun and the sun’s light is blocked in a total eclipse. The shadow of the moon will fall in a thin, 70 mile-strip moving South East across the U.S., from Oregon to South Carolina. The closer you are to the centerline of that shadow, the longer the totality of the eclipse will last, up to 2 minutes and 40 seconds. York is a scant 14 miles from the center line, so the totality will last 2 minutes and 19 seconds on campus. The partial eclipse will begin at 11:35 a.m. and will reach totality at 1 p.m.

Eckman Elected to Join Accreditation Board York College President Steve Eckman has been elected to serve as a commissioner on the board of the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. He has served this body as a member of the appeals board for the past six years.

Eckman has also served for the past eight years in various capacities for the Higher Learning Commission (regional collegiate accreditation body).

Eckman

Return of the A L U M N I York College has a number of new hires with familiar faces, as alumni return to campus to serve in a variety of roles. The admissions team recently added Brianna Perez '16 as an administrative assistant and Kaylen (Fike '17) Rodrigues as an admissions counselor.

Crystal (Sitton '06) Nething will take on the role of assistant to the registrar in July. Leanna (Hood '83) Hawley will join the education faculty this fall. There are several additions to the athletics department: Matt Fike '90, will serve as the head men’s and women’s golf coach this fall; baseball alum Erik Gray '06 is moving from a volunteer coaching position with the baseball team to associate head

The last total solar eclipse to be viewed from York, Nebraska, was in 1194. York will not see another such event until 2744. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event.

York College is not hosting an eclipse viewing event for the general public; however, if alumni and friends would like to join us on the field on the center of campus, they are welcome to do so. Bring some sunscreen, lawn chair, and special eclipse viewing glasses and enjoy the show. Due to the fact that students will be returning for the fall semester at that time, there will not be any space available for guests who wish to spend the night on campus. Book your hotel rooms as soon as possible if you are planning to stay overnight. Our region is expecting a high volume of eclipse watchers, so it may be difficult to find accommodations closer to the event. For more information, see www.york.edu/eclipse.

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1125 EAST 8TH STREET CAMPUS VOICES

Leadership expert delivers commencement address “You are a privileged group.

You are among a small number of people who have been given an opportunity to pursue a degree.

This degree is not yours, not yours alone. No one got in this room by themselves…When you get this diploma, I hope that it makes you feel inadequate. Have you ever heard this expression before: ‘That guy was born on third and thought he’d hit a triple’? You have been given an opportunity to do something. And we have high expectations. We need people who are not using their privilege to avoid the fight.

We need people to use their opportunities and their privileges to engage. You are needed. And we are proud of you. So where do we start the war? From here.”

Dr. Nathan Mellor, CEO of C3 Brands and President of Strata Leadership, gave the commencement address at graduation in May. Mellor’s moving speech centered on stories of three men he admires: his father, YC President Steve Eckman, and Theodore “Ted” Roosevelt III. Mellor talked about servant leadership and encouraged students to look for ways to impact the world around them by taking the lowly position and being willing to serve. For a dose of inspiration, view his full address on the York College YouTube channel.

Dr. Mellor has consulted, trained, and lectured throughout America and abroad on topics related to character and leadership. His clients include corporations and non-profits from across the business spectrum. In pursuit of education, humanitarian, and religious interests he has studied or taught in Australia, Belize, China, England, Guyana, Israel, Jordan, Mexico, Russia, and Rwanda. Dr. Mellor has over 15 years of experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses at a number of colleges and universities. He is an adjunct professor at York College in the Master of Arts in Organizational and Global Leadership program (see pg 14).

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Annual Workshop Features Renowned Nebraska Author

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n a world noisy with prejudice, violence, illness, and calamities of all kinds, literature allows us to find our common humanity and make sense of our experiences in the larger context of the world. This was the theme of the fifth annual Writer’s Workshop, hosted by the York College English Department on Sunday, April 2. The workshop featured Nebraska author Dr. Karen Gettert Shoemaker.

Shoemaker’s critically acclaimed novel The Meaning of Names is historical fiction based in part on stories from her own family, brought into the larger story of Nebraska during World War I and the influenza pandemic of 1918. Her book was chosen as the One Book One Nebraska selection in 2016. It follows an immigrant family in a small town in Nebraska wrestling with anti-German sentiment during wartime.

Though it is set it the past, many of the events and emotions explored in the book are very current.

“We are uneasy with our status as a melting pot,” said Shoemaker, who suggests that reading and discussing books like The Meaning of Names is a great way to start a conversation about racial tensions in our country and in the world. “Literature shows us ourselves. It’s how we grow as a culture.”

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Equipping Leaders

SHAPING THE WORLD T Paul Biles is part of the first cohort for York College Online's Master of Arts in Organizational and Global Leadership program. Biles is executive director of Tejas Camp and Retreat Center in Giddings, Texas.

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MASTER'S OF ORGANIZATIONAL AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

he noise of children laughing, splashing, singing, playing and praying is music to the ears of Paul Biles, executive director of Tejas Camp and Retreat Center. Biles oversees operations for the Christian facility, which serves approximately 6,000 children each summer and a total of 31,000 people throughout the year.

“My role is coaching directors in our ministry, from facilities to discipleship to volunteers, to get them the tools they need to help their staff be successful,” said Biles, who manages 25 full-time and 15 part-time employees, plus 70 seasonal employees and a bevy of volunteers.

It’s a challenging vocation, one that calls for

spiritual wisdom as well as business management acumen. When Biles took on the role four years ago, he started reading books and taking courses on leadership. That eventually led him to the new Master's of Organizational and Global Leadership program at York College Online. He was part of the first cohort to begin the program in March 2017.

“I was interested in York College's leadership degree because I was looking for a more structured program to guide me. The more prepared I am, the better I can serve our staff and our guests at Tejas,” he said. One thing he appreciates about the YC program is its flexible scheduling. Asynchronous classes over eight-week periods means that students have readings and interactions with faculty and assignments, but that they can accomplish things on their own time and not be bound to a set class time. “I don’t have a traditional work schedule, especially in the summer, and I have four kids. Sometimes it’s hard to find the time for assignments. Not having a set class time and being able to work my classes around my schedule is key.”

The 36-hour program can be completed in one year if multiple classes are taken at once.

However, most students will complete in two years, taking the eight-week courses individually.

The non-thesis program includes a capstone project that provides real world experience and application to the student’s workplace.

Biles found out about York College’s program

through his experience with the Californiabased Christian Leadership Alliance, which offers a certification course for Christian nonprofit organization leaders. York College and CLA have recently formed a partnership so that those who hold this certification can enter the York College leadership program with six credit hours already on their transcript.

York College Online's Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction was recently ranked #14 in the nation for its affordability and quality by AffordableColleges.com.

“We see this as a very beneficial partnership,” said Kirk Mallette, dean of York College Online. “We are offering their students an extension of their learning and the opportunity to earn a master’s degree and the Christian Leadership Alliance is expanding the reach of York College to a global audience.”

YC Online is also developing a partnership with Willow Creek Association, which hosts the annual Global Leadership Summit for Christian leaders.

The mission of the summit is to create world-class leadership development tools and services to energize Christians and mobilize churches globally.

“The Christian Leadership Alliance and the Willow Creek Association are committed to the mission of York College, to transform lives through Christ-centered education. We are excited that they will be sending their membership to us to continue their leadership studies,” said Mallette.

Students in the program come from all areas, from wildlife and land management to a crisis pregnancy center, to retail. One current student is a doctor in Malaysia who wants to improve his leadership skills to better serve the staff and clients

at a counseling center. “We are building leadership capacity in any organization, helping students learn how to equip teams to get the best out of people,” said Mallette. He describes the program as “rigorous and practical.”

The faculty in the Master's of Organizational and Global Leadership program have extensive leadership experience and come from many areas of business, including technology, law enforcement, and healthcare. Dr. Nathan Mellor (featured on page 12), CEO of C3 Brands and President of Strata Leadership, is a member of the faculty.

Mellor has consulted, trained, and lectured throughout America and abroad on topics related to character and leadership. His clients include corporations and nonprofits from across the business spectrum.

“Students in this program are gaining experience that helps them and their organization immediately,” said Mallette.

That has been the case for Biles. “I’m enjoying it so far,” he said. “I’m gaining insights into best practices. Sometimes you don’t even know what you don’t know. This program has helped me figure out what questions to ask and where to begin…It has definitely been worth the investment.” n SUMMER 2017 |

Heritage | 15

Let the little children come to me Students perform a scene of the Pulitzer Prize winning Our Town From on opening night. Directed by group homes across the U.S., to a care center for Christian children’s John I. Baker III, this was the first theater production children withArts disabilities in Haiti, York College alumni are practicing the “pure in the Bartholomew Performing Center.

religion” of James 1:27 by looking after the fatherless in their distress. These are a few of the many alumni who are living their lives in service for ‘the least of these.’

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Tausha Pearson '05

ausha Pearson’s life-saving work in Haiti began as a six-month research mission. She was finishing a master’s degree in social work and for her capstone project wanted to investigate a sustainable, community-centered model to address the problem of poverty orphans— children who live on the streets or in orphanages because their parents cannot afford to care for them.

That project quickly morphed into a non-profit organization called Haiti Mama, which reunites children with their families and finds solutions to problems such as lack of food, employment, housing, education, and healthcare. Haiti Mama recently expanded to include a care center for children with profound disabilities.

“Disability care is a very needed thing on the island. We are literally saving these babies

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car crash was the start of a major life change for Jacob and Michelle Bentley. Jacob was badly injured in an accident in 2011. During his months-long recovery, he had ample time for prayer and reflection.

He emerged with the desire to do something more significant with his life for the Kingdom. Soon after, God opened the doors for the Bentleys to move to Wichita and become house parents at Carpenter Place, a Christian home environment for girls who are struggling with family issues, substance use, broken adoptions, sexual exploitation, abandonment, homelessness, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, and a host of other issues. For some parents, Carpenter Place is the last resort before giving up their daughters to the foster care system.

The Bentleys have spent six years in this role, helping girls overcome trauma, learn skills, and rebuild relationships. “It’s hard to break down walls and get them to trust you, to get them to open up and communicate,” said Michelle. “Sometimes because of what they’ve been through, they have no hope. Trying to give them hope is the hardest part.” However, this work is Haiti photos by Stephen Colwell '05

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It’s emotionally demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.” That is how Tabitha Witt described the work that she and her husband, Ben, have undertaken for the last 10 years at The Children’s Home of Lubbock. The organization provides care and support for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. Ben estimates that the facility cares for around 350 children per year, ages 0-18.

“These children have experienced abuse of all kinds,” said Tabitha, including some that have been trafficked.

“They come through horrendous nightmares and they overcome so much.”

The Witts began on the front lines as direct care shift workers for 18 children and have served in various capacities over the last decade. “We do everything we can for these kids…late night talks, driving

Ben & Tabitha (Elzey) Witt '07

from death,” said Tausha.

In June, Haiti Mama was awarded a $10,000 grant from the KIND Foundation to purchase equipment for the disability care center. “We were in constant crisis mode,” said Tausha. “These children were in and out of the hospital all the time. It all comes down to having the right equipment for preventative care. This will change their lives.” Tausha says she was stunned by how God used a snack food company to impact this ministry. “I don’t even stress out about money anymore. God always provides what we need,” she said.

Another way God is providing is through fellow YC alumna, Audrey Moon. A jewelry designer, Moon donated her expertise to Haiti Mama to create a jewelry line using upcycled vintage tin. Haiti Mama supporters in the states provide the tin, mamas in Haiti make the beautiful, light weight and durable crafts, and finished items are shipped back to the states to be sold. This provides a living wage for Haiti Mama parents who are then able to care for their children. It also provides them the dignity of work, says Tausha.

“What they need is not charity. It’s not more orphanages. What they need is more jobs.

If someone wanted to make a difference in Haiti, I would say start a business here.

Everyone needs a job.”

In the three years since the organization began, Haiti Mama has reunited 20 families and provided ongoing support to ensure that families can stay together. Tausha says 67 percent of the funding support comes from the York College alumni network, including two of the organization’s current board members, Nicole (Maine '03) Stafford and Tiffany (Case '03) Province. n

full of lessons in trusting God. Michelle says she frequently sees the Spirit at work in the lives and circumstances of the girls she serves.

Jacob and Michelle are also parents to their own three children, ages one, two, and four.

Sometimes it is hard for them to parent their little ones as well as the seven older girls in their home. Still, the extra eyes help them rise up and be better parents, Michelle says. It is also a teachable opportunity, as many of the girls haven’t had positive parenting modeled for them.

“The only thing I ever wanted to be was a wife and a mom,” said Michelle. “I didn’t know when I prayed about that, this would be my life.

It is pretty amazing how God has answered my prayers.” n

them to appointments…we become a second set of parents,” Tabitha said.

Today, Ben is the director of the assessment center. He is responsible for assessing the emotional state and behavior of children entering the children’s home to determine what level of care they need: foster care, therapeutic care, or residential treatment for substance addiction.

The length of stay varies by child and by family. Some children live at the children’s home until they age out at 18, while others are able to be reunited with their families after a few months. “Our ultimate goal is for them to be in a stable home, either with their families or with a foster family,” said Tabitha.

For the Witts, the most rewarding thing is seeing how God works through all of it.

“These kids come from such brokenness. All of the employees here open up their hearts to these kids and do everything they can for them. It is beautiful to see.” n Story #4 next page...

Jacob & Michelle (Byrd) Bentley '07 Above The cast of Our Town utilizes the spacious dressing rooms of the BPAC on opening night.

Far Left Dr. Clark Roush directs the Concert Choir at their Spring Works concert.

Middle Celebration Singers brought the house down with their rendition of "Somebody to Love."

Right Traveling Children's Theatre entertained an enthusiastic and slightly younger crowd with The Fabulous Fable Factory.

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Heritage | 17

Jesse & Melanie (Taylor) Couch '05

profit Matthew’s Child, which provides a variety of services to children and families involved in the foster care system in the Roanoke Valley area of Virginia. Melanie is the executive director and Jesse is the creative director.

“Fostering and adopting can be very isolating. Nobody invites the family of 14 over for dinner,” said Melanie.

They started small, providing date night gift cards to foster parents in the area.

“We just wanted to love on people. We were overwhelmed by the response.”

Today Matthew’s Child offers a clothing closet, training resources, advocacy, support groups, a supervised visitation playroom, and duffle bags with hygiene items for kids entering the foster care system.

“Fifty percent of foster families quit in the first year because they don’t have the right resources,” said Melanie.

“It takes a village. It’s imperative that you get connected and that you have support.”

Melanie stressed that having the right motivation for pursuing foster care and adoption is also crucial to the success of the family. “God doesn’t call you to foster or adopt because it will fill a void in your life.

God calls you to it to fill a void in a child’s life. We don’t do it for us. We do it for them.”

What’s the best part of this calling?

“Seeing my children find God is huge,” said Melanie. “And I get a lot of stuff on Mother’s Day.” n

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esse and Melanie Couch began exploring adoption soon after they were married, with the goal of adopting one child.

They attended a class on foster care just for information’s sake. “God really changed our minds as to what foster care is,” said Melanie.

“The goal of foster care is to reunite a family.”

So, that’s what they set out to do. They began fostering 11-year-old Nakeyah, with the goal of reuniting her with her family. When it was not possible for her to return home, the Couches adopted her—and her three siblings, who had been spread out in different foster homes.

Then they fostered two brothers from another family and later adopted them as well. With six kids, the Couches felt their family was complete. Nakeyah had other

ideas. “She asked us if we would adopt more kids. When we said probably not, she got angry and said, ‘When I needed a family, you didn’t say no to me.’ At that point, it became a family calling, it wasn’t just Jesse and I,” said Melanie. “As long as there was a need and we had room, we said yes, but we always made it a family decision.”

Today, Jesse and Melanie have 12 children through adoption, ranging in age from 21 down to 3. The family also has eight goats, two pigs, four dogs, three cats, a llama, and a whole lot of chickens. “We have a minipetting zoo,” Melanie joked. “Animals are extremely therapeutic. Getting the kids involved in caring for the animals can really help them.”

In 2013, the couple founded the non-

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

~ Matthew 19:14

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A Golden Year

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ne of the cornerstones of York College is the Tandy family. From Tandy Pizza to camp ministry, Harold and Deena and their family have served the college, the church, and their community with humility and dedication for decades.

The 2016-17 school year marked the 50th year of service for Harold at York College. It is also the couple’s golden wedding anniversary on August 21.

Over the years, Harold and Deena have worn many hats. Harold taught science at YC, including chemistry, biology, physical science, and computer science, as well as qualitative and quantitative analysis. Deena’s primary role was homemaker, but she has also been an integral part of Helping Hands for York College women’s auxiliary for as long as she’s been a ‘faculty wife.’ In that capacity, she has made and sold crafts and baked goods, run a café, co-managed a retail shop on campus, and provided catering and decorating services at receptions too numerous to count.

Now in semi-retirement, Harold is an educational technology consultant, helping faculty members design online course management components of their classes. Deena remains active with Helping Hands. The couple is also highly involved at Nebraska Youth Camp and East Hill Church of Christ.

When asked about favorite memories

of their time at YC, Harold said, “All the friends, the closeness of the faculty and the togetherness.” Deena recalled all the good Known for their hospitality, Harold and Deena stand in the times at basketball kitchen where they've prepared approximately 20,000 pizzas (recipe is below) and countless other meals for guests. and soccer games and raising their common ingredient is love. That’s why it children alongside the other faculty kids. always tastes so good,” said Deena.

“We joked there was something For the last several years, Harold has in the water in York, so many of us also prepared weekly fellowship meals were pregnant at the same time,” she reminisced.

Their years at YC have not been without turmoil. Harold joined the faculty in 1963 and left in 1987 during a period of transition and difficulty at the college.

He commuted to teach in Columbus, Nebraska for four years, before rejoining the YC faculty in 1991. Through that time, they said they remained in York because it was their home. “Family and friends kept us here. This is where we’ve lived all our lives,” said Harold. The couple’s four children and nine grandchildren live in the York area.

A defining characteristic of the Tandys is their ministry of hospitality. The couple estimates they have made close to 20,000 pizzas over the years, feeding the youth group, high schoolers, and anyone who showed up at their house around lunchtime on Thursdays and Saturdays. Their tasty pizza is made from scratch, with crust and sauce based on the Valentino’s restaurant recipes. “The

at East Hill that routinely feed 50-100 people. Harold says they learned a lot about quantity cooking through their years of volunteering at Nebraska Youth Camp, where they have served in just about every capacity. “Everything is fun out there,” said Harold.

Today, much of the couple’s time is spent with their grandchildren and garden.

Through all their years in York, “God has been good to us,” said Harold. n

A Campus Romance Harold and Deena's first date was to see The Mouse that Roared in Childress Hall.

Deena finished her degree in Texas while Harold remained in York. When Deena was offered a job that would keep her in the south after graduation, Harold sprang into action.

He drove to see her over spring break and said, "Let's go to the jewelry store. I need you to help me pick out a ring for my wife." Deena quipped, "What do I know about your wife's taste in jewelry?" They were married a few months later in Gurganus Hall.

If you would like to send a card to the Tandys to celebrate their anniversaries, please mail it care of Tom and Kim Tandy, 807 E 6th, York, NE 68467.

Please write “card shower” on the back of the envelope.

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1950 Donna (Parker) Speece passed away. Her obituary is available at www.yorknewstimes.com.

1952 James “Jim” Potter passed away peacefully on January 16. His wife DLee and their two daughters were by his side.

1958 Leroy James “Jim” Flick passed away May 9.

1967 Bruce and Sheila (Howell '70) Tandy will celebrate 50 years of marriage this year! Send them a note of congratulations: 825 Florida Ave., York, NE 68467.

James “Jim” Vincent passed away on May 23, 2017. His obituary is available at www.yorknewstimes. com.

1969 Bonnie (Blackburn) Ellis passed away Dec. 31, 2016. Bonnie was a lover of people! Over the course of her 46-year marriage to Max Ellis she was a very diligent helper, worker, and servant for the Lord. She is survived by her husband, her brother Alan Blackburn '74, her children: Marc, Stacey, and Alissa, their spouses, and seven grandchildren.

1971 Bill Hooten retired from Arkansas Insulation in December of 2015. He had been preaching part time for the Prairie Grove church of Christ for about 15 years. Post retirement, he began preaching full time in January of 2016. He is married to Malia, a loan officer for Arvest. 701 Forest View Dr, Prairie Grove, AR 72753 bill_hooten@yahoo.com 1976 Joseph West is a “retired science guy.” He has updated his contact info: 25608 121 St Trevor, WI 53179 mrwojest@wi.rr.com

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1977 Judge David K. Arterburn was appointed to the Fourth Judicial District. See Milestones pg 21 Marks and Cathie (Card) Lanham report that they are teaching, coaching, and raising 7 kids. 4910 Lancashire Rd, Midland, TX 79705 goruskeagles@hotmail. com 1978 Ben and Jan Larson have moved: 305 Woodlawn St, Maxwell, IA 50161. Ben is an instructor at Iowa State University.

1979 Jeffrey Lee and Cari Mileger recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. Jeffrey is a manufacturer's representative and Cari is a middle school dyslexia therapist. They have three children: Ashley, Kayley, and Tyler. 1520 Hackett Creek, McKinney, TX 75070 Jmileger@hotmail.com

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2002 Rachel (Russell) and Kristopher Lamm are keeping busy with their three active sons: Lincoln (9), Lunden (6), and Langston (3). Rachel is a 3rd grade teacher with Lubbock ISD and an adjunct math professor at South Plains College. Kristopher is an assistant principal at Roosevelt ISD. 3709 94th St, Lubbock, TX 79423 rachellamm7@gmail.com Born to Ginger (Hodson) and Mark Steggles, a girl, Naomi Carina, on May 6, 2017. Naomi joins big brothers John (5), Samuel (4), and Adam (1). Ginger is a stay-at-home mom and Mark is a self-employed web developer. The family lives on the Isle of Wight off the coast of England. Gingersteggles@gmail.com Born to Lorisa (Norton) and Greg Tidwell, a son, Henry David, on March 16, 2017. The couple married in 2014. Lorisa is a renal social worker for DaVita Dialysis and Greg works for Michelin. 4800 Meridian Rd, Ardmore OK 73401 lorisanorton@yahoo.com

1992 Steven Matthew Tillman works for Delta Airlines and his wife Elise works for Homeland Security. They have three children: Nick, Haley, and Sarah. 4303 Jones Ct, Powder Springs, GA 30127 etill4303@att.net 1993 Kevin and Charlotte (Voorhees ‘95) Goode are serving as missionaries and dorm parents at the American Indian Christian Mission. They have two grown children: Griffin and Hope. 924 Mission Lane, Show Low, AZ 85901 2001 DeVoderick Ridley has been named Discipline Coordinator for L.P. Vaughn Elementary where he is also a P.E. teacher and sits on the Natchitoches Parish School Board.

He has two children, son DeLonte (12) and daughter Blakely (8). 139 Cypress Ave, Natchitoches, LA 71457

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2008 Born to James and Janette (Sigle) Foreman, twin sons, Mason James and Oliver Lee, on March 1, 2017. 1933 Reserve St Apt 5, Spearfish, SD 57783 festuce@ hotmail.com

2009 Brent Steven Dickerson, Wichita, KS, died Dec. 31, 2016. He was a third generation YC alumnus.

He was the son of the late Steve Dickerson '82 and grandson of the late Sgt. Ron Dickerson '76.

He is survived by his wife, Laralyn Dickerson, son Liam (20 months), mother Carol Schmidt '83, sister Breann Dickerson, and grandmothers Bartine Dickerson and Eva M. Morgan.

2010 Born to Mitchel and Nathana (Faddis '11) Clay, twin sons, Daniel Alan and Joseph Morris, on May 2, 2017. The boys join big sister Rebekah (2). 2209 Laclede Dr, Columbia, MO, 65202 nathana.e.clay@gmail.com, mitchelclay@gmail.com

1982 Gary Dahlem updated his contact info: 1402 NE Tara Circle, Blue Springs, MO 64014 1983 Pam (Straker) Gates has started a business with her daughter. See entry in 2014.

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2003 Adam Moore became a licensed CPA in California on April 14. He is an accounting manager, mergers and acquisitions, at Advantage Sales and Marketing. adam.moore.555@gmail. com Tom and Kortney (Mount) Phifer welcomed a son, Khelan, on November 3, 2016. He joins big siblings Jonas (10) and Tinzley (7). Tom is a payroll specialist with Bryan L Parker CPA LLC. Kortney is a stay-at-home mom and teacher. 1232 Deer Trail Rd, Hoover, AL 35226 tomphifer@hotmail. com, kpphifer@gmail.com 2004 Aimee (Burney) Piller graduated from Texas Woman's University in December 2016 with a PhD in Occupational Therapy. Her husband Glenn manages IT for the business.

See Profile in Excellence pg 2-5.

PO Box 50218, Phoenix, AZ 85076 arpiller@gmail.com

Born to Elicia (Hebrink) and Levi Davenport, a son, Dean Brian, on Feb. 2, 2017. Elicia will complete her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from York College this summer and become an adjunct teacher in the fall. 42 Edison Ave, York, NE 68467 ehebrink@york.edu

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PANTHER MILESTONES 1977 Judge David K. Arterburn was recently appointed to the Fourth Judicial District vacancy for the Nebraska Court of Appeals by Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts. The Fourth Judicial District for the Court of Appeals consists of portions of Douglas and Sarpy Counties.

Arterburn has served as a district court judge for the Second Judicial District of Nebraska since 2005. Previously he worked as an assistant attorney general at the Nebraska Department of Justice and as a special assistant United States attorney at the United States Attorney’s Office. Arterburn holds an Associate of Arts in Communication from York College and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Additionally, he earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication from UNL and a Juris Doctor from UNL Law School.

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E To get a Panther tee for your little one, submit an alumni update birth announcement. The shirts are 6 mon. size, so don't delay. Submit your alumni update at www.york.edu/alumni as soon as junior arrives. Send us pics of your family and we may use them in the magazine or YC Connect.

2011 Julie Garcia welcomed a new baby, Blakely Gray, on December 2.

Blakely joins big brother Tucker (1).

Jgarcia@york.edu 2012 Jotham Andrews is a 7th grade geography teacher at Ponca City Public Schools. He is married to Kelley (Splattstoesser '12). 1905 N Osage St, Ponca City, OK 74601 jandrews@york. edu, ksplattstoesser@york.edu Born to Marty and Meghan (Boyle '08) Salsbury, a son, Ciaran Nathaniel, May 15, 2017.

Marty is a manager at Buffalo Wild Wings and Meghan is an online learning librarian at University of Nebraska-Omaha. 3703 S 74th St Apt 305, Omaha, NE 68124

2014 Chasta Ann-Marie (Bonifas) and Jason Borland were married July 23, 2016. Chasta is a special education teacher at Perkins County Junior/Senior High and Jason is the manager of Rudy's Tires. 315 Malden Ave, Amherst, CO 80721 chastabonifas09@gmail.com Peter and Crystal (Prawl '13) Hansen have moved: 6822 South 108th Ct Apt 1111, Omaha, NE 68137. Peter works for Omaha Public Schools and Crystal works at Senior Market Sales.

Josh Knoll has been promoted to head baseball coach at Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where he has been an assistant coach for the past two years. knollj@westerntc.edu Breanna (Gates) Stewart and her mother, Pam (Straker '83) Gates have launched a new business venture together.

CONNECT Education serves Denver-area children with learning disabilities and other academic challenges. More info is available at www.connecteducationco.com

2012 Nick McGrew was named Coach of the Year by the Ark ValleyChisholm Trail League Division III. McGrew is the head wrestling coach at Winfield High School (Winfield, Kansas). His team, the Vikings, won the league title for the first time in school history in 2017.

The Vikings captured the D-III title with a 5-0 league dual record.

2014 Justine (Kodesh) Wichman was recently named interim head coach of the Wright State Raiders softball team. She had previously served the team as the assistant coach.

Her other career highlights include two years as an assistant coach at the University of Charleston, during which time her team achieved a school record winning 50-win season and an appearance and the NCAA Div II College World Series. She also worked for several years with the softball program at New York State University. Wichman began her coaching career as a fifth-year student at York College where she was the assistant softball coach.

2013 Kris “KO” and Mia'Milagros (Thomas) Olson have a new address: 1240 Whittenburg Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76134. Kris is a subcontracts administrator with Northrop Grumman. kristofer. olson18@gmail.com

2015 Courtney Swope updated her contact info: 6620 W 91st St Apt 252, Overland Park, KS 66212 2017 Hallie Ewing is starting a new job at Hudl as a coach support specialist.1549 Dover Ct, Liberty, MO 64068 halie.ewing@gmail.com

Stay Connected with YC

Latest news and updates on facebook.com/YorkCollegeNeb YC Connect e-newsletter

@YorkCollegeNeb Subscribe at newsletter@york.edu

SUMMER 2017 |

Heritage | 21

THE GIFT OF

ONG

CHOIR PERFORMS HYMN BY YOUNG ALUMNUS Those familiar with the York College Concert Choir know the emotional highlight of their performances is typically when alumni join the choir for the traditional closing songs Lord, Make Me Thine Instrument and The Lord Bless You and Keep You. Another emotional high point took precedence at a January concert--the final stop of the choir’s seven-state 2017 Winter Tour. The choir performed the Nebraska debut of How Beautiful on the Mountains, composed by recent graduate Saia Lotulelei.

Lotulelei composed the piece in 2016 as a gift for his mentor, Dr. Clark Roush, Professor of Music and Endowed Chair for the Performing Arts, on the anniversary of his thirtieth year as conductor of the York College Concert Choir. The text of the rousing piece is taken from Isaiah 52.

Lotulelei was present for the January performance. At the conclusion of Lotulelei’s song, Roush invited him to the stage, where he received a standing ovation from the audience and choir, as well as a heartfelt embrace from Roush.

The young composer completed a degree in vocal music performance from York College in December 2016. As a student, he conducted and performed several original works, including hymn arrangements and songs in his native Tongan language. Lotulelei is building a career in music in conducting and composition and is looking into pursuing a master’s degree in theory and composition.

Roush recounted the story of the gift of this song during the concert. He told the audience that he found the piece on his desk last April, during one of the busiest months of the academic year. His immediate response to the honor was, “What an incredibly sweet thing for a student to do,” and after wiping away tears, he added the piece to his “later” file for further review.

Roush came back to the piece a month later after the swirl of the semester was over and realized, “Whoa, this piece is not just good for a student, it’s just like…

GOOD,” he said. He immediately called Lotulelei and asked permission to perform the piece with the choir. n

22 | Heritage | SUMMER 2017

(above) Under the direction of Dr. Clark Roush, the Concert Choir performed Lotulelei's piece during their Winter Tour including a special concert in the Bartholomew Performing Arts Center. Video of the entire concert is available on the York College Youtube channel, www.youtube.com/yorkcollegeneb. (below) After being congratulated by President Eckman on his degree, Saia's composition was sung once more at commencement.

ROUSH TO CONDUCT AT CARNEGIE HALL Dr. Clark Roush has been selected as a guest conductor for the MidAmerica Productions 2018-2019 season repertoire presented at Carnegie Hall in New York City. He will lead a choir of 125 voices, as well as professional soloists and an orchestra in Missa in Angustiis (also known as Lord Nelson Mass or Mass for Troubled Times) by Roush Franz Joseph Hyden. “I am honored to have been selected for this tremendous professional opportunity,” he said. “This will enhance the reputation of our program and of York College.”

Roush has conducted this work before at York College. “I love this piece. I think it’s the greatest concert mass ever written,” he said. For those that would like to hear the piece but can’t make it to the concert in New York City, Roush and the concert choir will also present it for the Spring Works concert on campus in the Bartholomew Performing Arts Center in May of 2019. The final date of the Carnegie Hall concert has not yet been set, but it will take place in the summer of 2019.

Roush’s opportunity is also an opportunity for York College Concert Choir members past or present, as they are invited to participate in the concert at Carnegie Hall. Alumni who are interested in joining this ensemble should contact Roush directly. Roush will also collaborate with high school choral programs for this concert. n

TOWERS OF YORK WHERE ART AND BUSINESS EDUCATION CONVERGE

The hot air balloon water tower has been the most recognizable symbol of York, Nebraska, for years. Thanks to the York Chamber of Commerce and the cooperation of many local businesses and artists, 25 new mini water towers have been placed throughout the town representing different parts of our fair community. From sunsets, to mazes, to fire trucks, the Towers of York public art installation project celebrates the variety within our community, while enhancing its appeal through art.

York College sponsored one of the towers, which now sits near the corner of campus at 8th and Delaware Avenue.

The tower, called “Be More at York College,” was painted by Meghan Shruck '11, assistant dean of students. Shruck’s creation captures iconic elements of York College’s beautiful campus, including the Prayer Chapel, Hulitt Hall, the arch and a campus swing. The tower also features the college mission statement “to transform lives through Christ-centered education and to equip students for lifelong service to God, family, and society.”

York College students were an essential part of bringing this project to life, as the spring 2016 Organizational Behavior class did much of the early research on costs, materials, and supply chain. They presented their findings and recommendations to the board of directors of the York Area Chamber of Commerce last spring. "The students are very excited to see the finished product that they helped make happen," said Nick DiToro, associate professor of business, who taught the class.

(above) “It’s a-MAZE-ing: Eric Eckert '03 decorated one of the Towers of York with a hand-drawn maze. Mazes are Eckert’s specialty—and his cottage industry. His maze designs have been featured by major brands including Lifeblood Skateboard Co.

The Towers of York will be on display across the community from March until Labor Day, when they will be moved to the courthouse lawn in time for Yorkfest.

They will then be auctioned and proceeds will support community initiatives. n

Shruck

YC Alumni offer a rich resource for real world wisdom. The business department invited several York graduates during the spring semester to share their career experiences with current students. Pictured is Caleb Elrod '04, speaking to a business class about some of the issues they might face when owning their own business. Caleb and his wife Genevieve (Grosshuesch '04) own and operate Gameday Connexion, a thriving sports memorabilia and collectibles retail and online business. Other alumni that gave their two cents (and much more) were Rod Goben '82, vice president and financial advisor with NVC Wealth Management, and Angela Jiang '04, director of risk assurance at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

photo by Titus Robison '04

Alumni Words of Wisdom

During the senior banquet, Ben Smail '12, a successful realtor in the Omaha area, spoke to graduates about how his life had been transformed at YC and the importance of his ongoing connection with his alma mater. Smail said, "I don't know if there is a better gift than giving somebody the York College experience."

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York College

Broken Records 21 NCCAA All-Americans in track and field

photo courtesy OBU Athletics

Athletics Joseph Ventry (SR/Omaha, Neb) cleared 2.05m (6’9”) to set a new YC record and win the NCCAA Outdoor Championships high jump title. Ventry was the only athlete to achieve All-American in both the indoor and outdoor seasons.

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Ventry

photo courtesy Justin Carver

he hardware seemed to be endless for the York College track and field teams as their speed, strength, and agility were rewarded time and time again. In all, the indoor and outdoor seasons produced 2 NAIA All-Americans, 21 NCCAA AllAmericans, and 34 All-KCAC athletes.

Mason Held’s 5th place showing in the 600m (1:19.70) and Dean Simon’s 6th in the 60m (6.84) at the NAIA Indoor Championships had them joining the growing list of York College NAIA All-Americans. A total of eight national titles were amassed by the men at the NCCAA Indoor and Outdoor Championships. Joseph Ventry led that group with three as he won the indoor triple jump (14m) and both the indoor and outdoor high jump titles (1.98m/2.05m). Other national champions were Simon in the 60m Carver (6.87), and the 4x200m relay team of Evans Francis, Carter Price, Simon, and Held as they shattered the old school record with a time of 1:28.98. Ashley Dugan led the ladies with her third place performances in both the long jump (5.40m) and Pentathlon at the NCCAA Indoor Championships.

The men finished both seasons third in the KCAC. Justin Carver was named KCAC Men’s Indoor Track and Field Coach of the Year, and the NCCAA Men’s Indoor Coaching Staff of the Year award also went to YC. More than 30 track and field records were broken during the season.

NCCAA Indoor Championships produced 19 All-Americans, Men’s Coaching Staff of the Year, and 4th place out of 13 teams for the men.

NAIA All-American Mason Held 600m 5th 1:19.70 Dean Simon 60m 6th 6.84* NCCAA All-American – outdoor underlined Ashley Dugan Long Jump 3rd 5.40m*; Pentathlon 3rd 2785 pts* Dean Simon 60m 1st 6.87 Mason Held 200m 2nd 22.11*; 400m 2nd 48.80 (NCCAA Athlete of the Meet) Joseph Ventry HJ 1st 1.98m; TJ 1st 14.0m; HJ 1st 2.05m*; TJ 3rd 13.96m 4x200m 1st 1:28.98* Evans Francis, Carter Price, Simon, Held 4x400m 2nd 3:22.83 Francis, Price, Sheyi Ajiboye, Held 4x800m 2nd 7:52.71 Levi Swenson, Caleb Magner, Cameron Sorter, Held

Mason Held (SO/West Fork, AR) was named the NAIA National Men’s Indoor Track Athlete of The Week for his four 1st place performances at the KCAC Indoor Championships: 200m (22.01), 600m (1:19.59), 4x400m (3:21.93), and 4x800m (7:51.16).

24 | Heritage | SUMMER 2017

photo by Trent Hinton '02

All-KCAC Indoor and Outdoor Championships Simon 60m 1st 6.97; 200m 3rd 22.36 Held 200m 1st 22.01; 600m 1st 1:19.59; 400m 1st 48.43; 200m 3rd 22.02 Price 400m 1st 49.65; 400m 2nd 49.04 Sorter 800m 1st 1:57.30; 1500m 3rd 4:05.27* Ventry HJ 2nd 1.96m; TJ 2nd 13.73m; HJ 1st 1.94m; TJ 3rd 13.64m 4x400m 1st 3:21.93 Francis, Price, Ajiboye, Held 4x800m 1st 7:51.16 Swenson, Kyle Wynn, Sorter, Held 4x400m 1st 3.19.17* Price, Ajiboye, Peyton Horton, Held 4x100m 2nd 42.75 Price, Held, Brandin Fry, Kermit Thomas 4x800m 2nd 7:56.96 Swenson, Magner, Wynn, Sorter * YC Record

Nicholas Meck. The junior from Topeka, Kans., won the KCAC Championship as well as the NAIA South National Qualifier and was ranked fifth in the nation at 174 pounds, Meck beat the No. 2 wrestler at the qualifying event to earn the championship and was named outstanding wrestler of the meet.

Meck took his perfect 17-0 season to the NAIA Meck National Championships on March 3 with the full expectancy of returning to York as an All-American. He went 4-1 in the national tournament, including a 4-1 victory over the #2 ranked wrestler. His only loss of the season was an 8-18 decision to #1 ranked Lawton Benna of Grand View who went on to win the title. Meck's 3rd place finish made him the seventh YC wrestler to be named NAIA All-American. Head coach Ramon Diaz commented, “We are so proud. God is good and He has done a great work this year in Nick's life on and off the mat, with great measurable results all the way around.”

photo courtesy YC Athletics

Wrestling definitely had its champion in

Nick Meck's 3-2 victory in the quarter finals over former #2 Jose Alvarez of Wayland Baptist, advanced him to the semifinals, guaranteeing him a spot on the All-American stage.

opponents, 25-10 on the season, under seventh year head coach Delton Deal. An overtime win in the KCAC championship game earned YC an automatic berth into the NAIA Div. II Championships. York played the upset role for the second year in a row as they beat 2-seed Rochester College 85-75 in the first round of the tournament before falling to Bellevue University. The Coleman Panthers finished at No. 19 in the final NAIA Coaches’ Poll.

Cameron Coleman (SR/Allen, Texas) was once again named to the AllAmerican Team, this year as Honorable Mention. All-KCAC First Team honors sent to Coleman, Second Team to Keith Mack, and Honorable Mention to Johnny Cooksey. Kameron Malbrough was named to the All-KCAC Freshmen Team. The team had eight rankings in the top 10 including 2nd in the nation in total steals (332), 4th in scoring (3138), 4th in assists (627), 5th in rebounds (1446), and 5th in turnover margin (4.23).

photo by Bob DeHart '95

Basketball went 17-5 against conference

Cameron Coleman draws a crowd of defenders from Friends University during a home matchup. Coleman led the team in scoring (15.6/gm), rebounds (8.36/gm), and steals (55).

qualified again for the KCAC Championships. Under 4th-year head coach Brian Walth, the Panthers finished their season with a 29-25 record, 16-10 in conference play. The team was ranked No. 7 in the NAIA in both home runs per game (1.389) and total stolen bases (134) as well as a number of other rankings in the top 20. The offensive arsenal put 75 home runs on the record books, Johnson breaking the 2016 season mark of 70.

Billy Johnson (OF) and Billy Damon (C) were named All-KCAC First Team. Johnson led the team in hits (73) and batting average (.384) while Damon was First Team as a catcher but also led the team with a 4.90 ERA and in home runs (16). Second Team All-KCAC went to Timmion Hughes (OF), who broke the YC record for stolen bases (43). Honorable Mention went to RBI leader Nick Carney (1B) and Connor Towle (DH). York’s outfield of Hughes, Damon Johnson, and Lamar Smith swept the KCAC Gold Glove Team honors. The senior trio committed only three errors on the season.

photo by Steddon Sikes '84

Baseball had another solid year as the team

Billy Damon (JR/Reno, NV) was named NAIA Player of the Week for his dominating performance over No. 7 Tabor College.

He went 9-of-13 at the plate, including six home runs.

SUMMER 2017 |

Heritage | 25

THE NEXT STEP

(above) Lindsey Eckert listens in on a group discussion as her students compare observations on a psychology assignment.

PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT TO HOST STATEWIDE CONFERENCE What are the effects of exercise on memory? How does napping impact motor learning? Can video games improve visual search accuracy?

These are the kinds of questions YC psychology students and their peers from across the state will explore and present at the Nebraska Eckert Psychological Society annual conference, hosted at York College on November 4. This conference will bring psychology students and educators from Nebraska colleges together to share research methods and findings. It will be an opportunity for students to practice their presentation skills and receive feedback from their peers as well as professionals.

“Our students will hear other student presentations and will also present what they have been working on in their senior level, capstone social science research class,” said event organizer Lindsey Eckert, assistant professor of psychology at York College.

Senior psychology students can pick any research question they want to explore for their capstone project. They then work closely with Dr. Jaclyn Spivey, chair of the department of psychology, to hone the question, reduce variables, design an experiment, and measure results.

“Our students develop their own research, generate data, and present on their findings. It is a valuable process for them professionally,” said Eckert.

Psychology is a popular major at York College. Eckert reports that the department is a good mix of students that are looking to go into research and clinical positions, and those who plan to pursue ministry and counseling.

“Most of our students are planning to go into graduate programs immediately after they finish here, so this project and the conference is an important part of their preparation for their next step,” said Eckert. n

(left) Nick McClure-Carney, Osei Afriyie, and Devaunta Cuba work on their senior project in Eckert's class.

26 | Heritage | SUMMER 2017

“My family really sacrificed. My husband had to take over some responsibilities and my older kids did, too. Everyone had to pitch in more.”

Eventually, the family adjusted. Jessica enjoyed sharing what she was learning over the dinner table. “Schoolwork became more important to me the longer I went on. I enjoyed it because it was ‘my time.’ My time of doing something just for me each day. I loved stepping away from my busy family life to work on my brain.”

Coming Full Circle

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t’s been a long road to a college degree for Jessica (Bentch ’17) Keys. She started at York College in 1999 as an education major. Part way through her junior year, she had some financial and health difficulties and left college.

“I told myself I was just taking a break,” said Jessica. She planned to return to school after working for a year, but then “life happened.” She got married, started a family, and moved a number of times (her husband was in the Air Force).

Though she loved her life as a wife and mom of six, she was disappointed that she had never graduated.

“Finishing my degree got more and more important to me as I parented,” Jessica said. “It was this unfinished thing hanging over my head.”

Her husband completed his military service and began working in the civilian world. When he was laid off in 2015, the family struggled financially. “I wanted to find work, to help take care of my family, but I kept hitting walls due to my lack of education,” said Jessica. She reached out to York College Online to see what it would take to complete her degree. “I wanted to finish what I had started. I wanted to have that on my résumé. It was an opportunity to come full circle, back to where I’d started, for me to earn my degree from York College all these years later.” She settled on psychology as a new course of study and dug in.

Her kids, ranging in age from 3-12, were excited for her to graduate this May. They were proud of her accomplishment, but they were mostly just happy that mom wouldn’t be distracted with homework anymore. “This will mean more to them when they are older,” Jessica predicted.

York College Online faculty and staff did all they could to help her be successful, said Jessica. “I knew I could count on the staff to help me get the classes I needed. I felt important.

I don’t think I could have found that level of personal assistance elsewhere.”

"I loved stepping away from my busy family life to work on my brain."

Now that she has her degree, what does she want to do?

That’s simple: Change the world. “I want to work in my community to do something meaningful and creative to impact people around me and make the world a better place,” she said. She is looking for a job in education, healthcare, or human services, and has her eyes on beginning a master’s program in 2018 or 2019. “I would definitely continue taking courses at York College Online if they added a master’s in psychology,” she said. n

Being a full-time student for 18 months with the responsibilities of home was a challenge. “I won’t lie, it was hard,” she said.

(left) Jessica loved being on the stage, performing roles such as Ouiser Boudreaux in YC's 2000 Homecoming production of Steel Magnolias.

(above) The Keys family captures a proud moment with their newest graduate.

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Heritage | 27

In Memoriam

In Memory of ...

December 2016 - May 2017 Elmer & Wylene Baker Bartine Dickerson Hobart & Evelyn Brown Mr. & Mrs. Michael Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Berges Dr. Ronald Berges Mr. & Mrs. Rory Berges Ryan Berges Mr. & Mrs. Greg Brown Mr. & Mrs. James Brown Robert Brown Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Brown Mr. & Mrs. Zachary Brown Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Hohl Brett Kuskie Dr. & Mrs. Michael Kuskie Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Otte John F. Bryant Mr. & Mrs. Jason Pates Brent Dickerson Bartine Dickerson Sgt. Ron Dickerson Bartine Dickerson Steve Dickerson Bartine Dickerson Bonnie Ellis Mr. & Mrs. Daryl Buck Mr. & Mrs. Calvin Cole Jimmy Dickerson Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Ellis Lucas Ellis Mr. & Mrs. Sidney Ellis Mr. & Mrs. Barton Florea Laura Overstreet Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Robertson Mr. & Mrs. Steven Younger Leroy James Flick Marilyn Steele Don & Audrey Gardner Mr. & Mrs. Harry Patterson Monroe Hawley Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Studebaker Steve Hickel Mr. & Mrs. James Leupold Ruth Humphrey Susanne Keller Dr. Jason Kite Mr. & Mrs. Dick Marcear Jo Ella Kite Anonymous Marilyn Brown Mr. & Mrs. Rick Eldred Susanne Keller Mr. & Mrs. Sydney Kite Mr. & Mrs. Bill Lambert Mr. & Mrs. Brent Magner Dr. & Mrs. Ray Miller Mr. & Mrs. William Phillips Mr. & Mrs. Erwin Reicheneker Mr. & Mrs. Roger Roseke Mr. & Mrs. Steve Thompson Stacie Turnbull Union Bank & Trust Co. Dr. & Mrs. Alex Williams Smith Kite Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Roseke

28 | Heritage | SUMMER 2017

Walter & Lillie Kronberg Mr. & Mrs. Mark Simmons Ruth Lawrence Mr. & Mrs. Wesley Hanson Mrs. Susanne Keller Mr. & Mrs. Quinton Martin Richardson Lynn Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Endsley Mrs. Susanne Keller Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Kinder Kimball & Debbie Matkins Mr. & Mrs. Jason Matkins Kirk Miller Mr. & Mrs. Roger Lowry Mr. & Mrs. John Ratliff Dr. & Mrs. Scott Simpson Gayle E. Oler Bartine Dickerson Gayle & Mary Oler Bartine Dickerson Cathy Pearson Dr. & Mrs. Ray Miller Euginia Renfro Press Cynthia Scharr Newcomb Mike Reeves Sally Archer Thomas Reppart Gordon Fillman Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Folk Susanne Keller Helen Reppart Carol Seufferlein Dr. & Mrs. Arthur Williams Ray Rice Mr. & Mrs. Jason Rice Hollis Robison Mr. & Mrs. Titus Robison Lorna Mae Sanner Mr. & Mrs. Robert I. Sanner Dr. Tom Schulz Dr. & Mrs. Ray Miller Mr. & Mrs. Gayland Roberts Dr. Dorris Schulz Ray Swanson Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Swanson Ellis Touchton Mr. Stuart Hoskins Dr. W. P. Watkins Mr. & Mrs. Leon Frankamp

HONORARY GIFTS Friends and family honored the following with donations to York College in their name: Liam Steven Dickerson Bartine Dickerson Jimmy Lacy Kite Mr. & Mrs. Dick Marcear Darrell & Christine Murphy Mr. & Mrs. John Williams Donna Swanson Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Swanson

F

aculty member Jo Kite passed away after a threeyear battle with cancer on April 29, 2017. Jo and her husband Dr. Terry Kite, professor of physics, have served York College for 17 years over four different time periods. Jo served in many roles at York College including teaching home economics, swimming, and nutrition; dean of students; and most recently associate dean for graduate programs.

Jo and Terry were high school sweethearts. At the time of her passing, they had been together 55 years. The couple had two sons, Derek and Jason, both of whom worked for York College at different times—Derek as a track coach and Jason as a professor. (Jason passed away in May 2014). Jo and Terry also had five grandchildren.

The Kites spent 25 years working at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, where Jo was the director of intramurals and recreational sports and later a site director for the school of business and management. In 2012 the Kites returned to York to continue their work of serving young people through Christian education.

Jo will long be remembered at York College for her wisdom and guidance in her administrative capacities, as well as her ministry of loving kindness toward students and others in the York College family. She will be greatly missed on our campus.

L

ongtime friend of York College Monroe Hawley passed away on February 7, 2017 at the age of 93. Hawley was a member of the York College Board of Trustees for 18 years. His four children and six of his grandchildren attended York College from 1970 to 2011.

Hawley was a minister, author, and publisher, whose life’s work for the Lord will long be remembered, especially in his home state of Wisconsin. Hawley was the author of Redigging the Wells—Seeking Undenominational Christianity and Searching for a Better Way, which were used as textbooks in Bible classes at York College and sister schools. He also authored Is Christ Divided? A Study of Sectarianism and The Focus of our Faith. After preaching for congregations in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, he served as an elder and a minister for the Southside congregation in Milwaukee, where he worshiped from 1958 on.

In addition to his teaching work, Hawley was the publisher of The Wisconsin Challenge, produced three times a year to share plans and news of Wisconsin churches. He also helped plan the annual Fallhall Glen Preacher's Retreat at Wisconsin Christian Youth Camp since 1964.

Hawley and his wife Julia were married more than 70 years. One of their enduring legacies is the Bible correspondence courses they created and distributed via their family business Hawley Publications (Hawleypublications.com). This ministry is carried on today by their grandson Luke Hawley ’04 and is popular with prison outreach.

Hawley is remembered as a gentle spirit who worked tirelessly for the Lord.

YC FORECAST Another Day of Sun Beyond 125

The Beyond 125 Campaign wrapped up at the end of June.

Even as we work on final figures, we are blown away by the number of alumni, parents, and friends who stepped forward to ensure many more sunny days ahead for YC students.

What did all of those dollars accomplish? Much! Look for in-depth campaign coverage coming soon!

IRA Charitable Rollover is Permanent If you are 70 ½ or older, you can make a gift from your IRA account to York College and other causes you love. Gifts from your IRA (up to $100,000 per year) are not counted as taxable income. They also qualify toward your required minimum distribution (RMD), which can lower your income and taxes.

York College’s Advancement Staff Tim Bruner (870) 612-2644 Brent Magner (402) 363-5636 Titus Robison (402) 363-5657

To learn more about the benefits of making an IRA charitable rollover gift, visit our website (www.york.edu/ira), call a YC advancement professional, or speak with your financial planner.

Bruner

Magner

Robison

Join us for Panther Days and Homecoming!

There is no more beautiful or active season at York College than late fall, making it a great time to visit campus! Invite your classmates, bring your family, and reconnect at Panther Days and Homecoming. The weekend will be full of fun, as we enjoy fellowship and special activities designed just for alumni and prospective students. From receptions to athletic competitions to fine arts performances, it will be a weekend you won't want to miss.

Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon Friday, October 20

If your class year ends in a “7” or a “2”, it’s a reunion year for you!

Go to york.edu/homecoming to see if a reunion gathering has been planned for your group or to help organize a gathering.

Arterburn

Hoyt

Celebrate with us on Saturday during alumni chapel as we recognize David Arterburn '77 and Kimberly (Dreher '02) Hoyt with Alumni of the Year Awards and the Sendai mission team of Jonathan Straker '00, Joel Osborne '00, Ben Berry '01, and Crimson (Ruhnke '00) Hanson, with the Servant Leader Award.

Reserve tickets now for the Athletic Hall of Fame induction luncheon, honoring the 1992 York College Men's Soccer team. The team won the NSCAA National Championship for the second time in three years. Tickets are $25 and proceeds support the athletic department. Seating is limited.

Reserve your tickets at york.edu/homecoming/AHOF.

...just around the

Alumni and Friends Work Days, August 3-5

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ooking for a fun way to help out? Join us for York College Alumni and Friends Workdays, August 3-5, where we will all pitch in to improve the campus prior to the start of a new school year. We will be painting, landscaping, and generally giving a little TLC to every part of campus.

Volunteers can stay in the dorms and eat in the caf. For alumni, this is your chance to feel like a student again! So grab some classmates and head to campus. Contact Scott ’79 and Lisa (Hinrichs ’81) Eckman at s.eckman@juno.com for more details or to register.

KCAC Sport Management Conf., August 7-8

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he annual sport management conference of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference will be held this summer on the York campus. There will be a mix of informational sessions and social interaction for the expected 250 attendees from 13 KCAC member schools. The event will begin with a golf scramble fundraiser for athletic scholarships at Highlands Golf Course in Lincoln, followed by a day of award presentations, receptions, training sessions and group meetings. Those that are interested in participating in the golf tournament or attending the sport management conference can find more information and register on the conference website, www.kcacsports.com.

Legacy Alumni Reunion, August 8-10

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oin us for the 2017 Legacy Alumni Reunion. RSVP by emailing develop@york.edu or calling (402) 363-5607. This reunion is for all who attended YC prior to 1955. We will be visiting interesting area sites as well as reminiscing.

Homecoming & Fall Panther Days, October 20-22

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weekend getaway is planned for you on campus that brings together some of the best experiences that YC has to offer. Homecoming and Panther Days take advantage of beautiful fall days to invite alumni, prospective students, and friends of the college to a weekend of celebration. Saturday morning chapel, crowning of the Homecoming royalty, basketball and volleyball games, the fall theatre production, a performance by the Concert Choir… all are part of the busy schedule. Make plans to be here, especially if it’s your reunion year.

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 offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn more at online.york.edu.

COMING EVENTS August 3-5 7-8 8-10 19-22 21 23

Alumni and Friends Work Days KCAC Sport Management Conference Legacy Alumni Reunion New Student Orientation Total Solar Eclipse Classes Begin

October 20-22 20

Homecoming & Fall Panther Days Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

November 18-26 Thanksgiving Break December 11-13 Final Examinations January 6-13 16

Concert Choir Winter Tour Classes Begin

March 1-4 10-18

Spring Theater Production Spring Break

April 5-7

Spring Panther Days (Songfest: April 4 - 6)

May 5 20-26

Commencement RoundUp