Alumni News RSS Feed en-us https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/ Alumni News RSS Feed <![CDATA[Natural Science Hall of Fame to Induct New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2465 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2465 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 5, in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College. The new members are Michael Porter ’81, James Morgan ’77, and Ken Lockwood ’80 (posthumously). 

The celebration will begin at 5 p.m., with a reception and dinner (cost is $25 per person, seating is limited, and RSVPs are necessary) in Deets Library. The induction ceremony will begin following dinner at approximately 6 p.m., all are invited to attend (no reservations are required). To make dinner reservations, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, (620) 229-6155.

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

James MorganJames Morgan ’77, James Morgan, graduated with a bachelor of science in biology and a minor in chemistry. While at Southwestern he participated in track for four years, A Capella Choir for three years as well as a year each on the cross country, football, and soccer club squads. After Southwestern, he received a master of science degree in biology with an emphasis in comparative endocrinology from the University of Oregon and a PhD in zoology from Oregon State University doing research in Neurophysiology. After graduating from Oregon State, research continued with gastric ion transport and stress physiology at the University of Arkansas. While teaching physiology and anatomy to nursing students at the University of Arkansas, Morgan became interested in sustainable agriculture. Sustainable agriculture combined ecology and environmentalism with experience gained as a youth on a family farm in Kansas.  In the early 2000s, he and his wife, Teresa, were hired to manage the Katahdin Sheep National Breed Association. He used the position to continue teaching, by educating and encouraging shepherds to use “appropriate” science to improve environmentally sound lamb production.  This teaching encompassed several fields of biology including physiology, genetics, ethology, ecology, developmental biology, reproduction, and botany. In addition, Morgan worked with genetic researchers at Universities and USDA to develop new programs to improve sustainable and profitable sheep production in the USA. He was very effective at helping design data collection and recruited flocks to participate in the research. Resulting data were used by academic researchers to develop the first Estimated Breeding Values for parasite resistance and for total pounds weaned per ewe in the USA. This eventually led to incorporating genomics and modern DNA technology to more accurately identify superior sheep genetics. Along the way, he has been invited to speak on sheep genetics at the World Sheep and Wool Congress, as well as conferences in Mexico, Brazil, Canada, and around the USA. He served as President of the National Sheep Improvement Program for all breeds for 10 years, and Chairperson of USDA’s Southern Sustainable Agricultural Research and Education Council (the main granting agency for sustainable agriculture in the Southern USA). He is a member of the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control and participates in committees for the American Sheep Industry Association. Jim and Teresa still have a sheep farm, market lamb meat at the Fayetteville Farmers Market, develop lamb recipes and sell sheep breeding stock.

Ken LockwoodKen Lockwood ’80, grew up in Brockway, Penn., where he graduated from high school and was offered a football scholarship at Southwestern College which led him to spend the rest of his life in Kansas. Lockwood was one of the original starting players of the Wichita Flyers a semi-pro football team. His employment career included working for a meat packing plant, KGE, and the United States Post Office, where he met his wife of thirty-one years, Susan Ewertz Lockwood. He left the post office in 1999 which led him to a new adventure and passion. He was hired to be an animal and groundskeeper for what is now known as Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Ken and Susan lived on the park grounds for five years while caring for the animals and developing educational tours for the public. Ken owned a Siberian tiger named Maya. In 2003, Ken and Susan built their home in rural Cheney and established the Eagle Valley Raptor Center. Ken acted as the program director and head rehabilitator for eagles, owls, and hawks. Ken also developed educational tours at the site as well as providing educational presentations with animals at schools, churches, and other public events. Ken was an avid lover of all wildlife and nature. He possessed a vast knowledge about many animal species and was passionate about sharing this knowledge. He also volunteered at the Safari Zoological Park. Ken passed away on June 20, 2023.

Michael PorterMichael Porter ’81, MD, FACS, FASCRS, is an Associate Professor of Surgery and is the Program Director of the General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Kansas - Wichita. Born and raised in Kansas, he received his bachelor of science degree from Southwestern College in 1981 with majors in biology and chemistry. He then pursued his medical degree at The University of Kansas School of Medicine. He completed his general surgery residency in Wichita, followed by a colon and rectal fellowship at the prestigious Ferguson Clinic in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He returned to Wichita to begin his practice with Wichita Surgical Specialists and joined the faculty of the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1991. Over the years, Porter has established himself as a highly respected surgeon and educator, eventually taking on the role of Program Director for the General Surgery Residency Program in 2016. His leadership in training the next generation of surgeons has been recognized for fostering excellence and innovation in surgical education. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Porter is deeply committed to his family. He and his wife, Lori, have three children and are proud grandparents. Outside of medicine, he is an accomplished trombonist, performing in jazz bands, orchestras, and concert bands. His passion for music is matched by his enthusiasm for running marathons. 

To see Southwestern College's halls of fame and a full list of inductees visit sckans.edu/hof.        

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Fri, 01 Nov 2024 11:54:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[New Inductees to Enter SC Athletic Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2460 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2460 The Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame will induct six new members and a team on Friday, Oct. 4, inside historic Stewart Field House.  The evening festivities will begin with a social time at 5 p.m., followed by dinner and the induction ceremony at 5:30 p.m.  Tickets for dinner are $50 per person or $500 for a table of eight. For reservations, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, at (620) 229-6155.  RSVP is required by Tuesday, Oct. 1.  

The new members are Zak Tazkargy ’12, Tracy (Juden) Adams ’86, Brett Annis ’06, Andrae Harper ’07, T. J. Harris, ’04, Jeff Boone ’73, and the undefeated 1967 SC football team. Inductees will also be introduced at halftime of the Southwestern-University of Saint Mary Homecoming football game on Saturday, Oct. 5.  Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m.

Zak Tazkargy

Zak Tazkargy excelled in the classroom and on the football field while at Southwestern College.  He earned First Team All-KCAC Defense three times, was listed as a NAIA First Team player in the preseason leading into the 2012 season, was selected to the KCAC Academic All-Conference team, and NAIA All-American Honorable Mention. He is second all-time in the KCAC for tackles in a single game with 29.   Tazkargy graduated as a Presidential Scholar and was selected to the KCAC Academic All-Conference team. 

Following graduation, he earned a pharmaceutical doctorate from KU School of Pharmacy in 2016. Tazkargy then went on to earn a medical doctorate from KU School of Medicine in 2021. He just finished his residency training in Colorado and is currently working as a primary care doctor in Salina. Zak, and his wife, Sara, have been married for a little over a year now.

Tracy (Juden) Adams

Tracy (Juden) Adams participated and lettered in volleyball and track and field for four years and played and lettered in basketball for one year while at Southwestern.  On the track, Adams was named All-KCAC her junior season and competed at the Outdoor National Championships.  As a senior, she was named Most Valuable Track Athlete and Academic All-KCAC.  Adams held the school record in the 100 and 200 meters for several years.  In volleyball, Adams was an Academic All-KCAC selection three times, First Team All-KCAC as a junior and a unanimous First Team All-KCAC selection as a senior.  As a junior, she ranked 12th in the nation in kill percentage and was named Most Valuable Offensive Player.  As a senior, she was ranked 6th in the nation for kill percentage, had an 87% serve reception efficiency and a 93.6% serve percentage. In her volleyball career, she played in 345 out of 383 games.

She is currently in her 37th year of teaching; she taught junior high girls physical education in Wellington for eight years and has taught elementary physical education for 29 years in Oxford.  She and her husband, Dale, have two step-children, Curstin (Jason) Jinkens and Zach Adams; and three grandchildren, Cydnee, Brooklyn, and Zander.

Brett Annis

Brett Annis played basketball at Southwestern from 2001-2005.  The year prior to joining the Moundbuilder team, SC won just three games.  In his freshman year, SC was 8-21 but by his senior season, the Builders went 21-8.  Annis was a big part of the turnaround which went full circle with a 28-3 record and a NAIA Tournament berth the following season.  Annis was a defensive menace as he accumulated 124 steals in his career and was named to the All-Defensive KCAC team three times.  He played in 106 games as a Builder, became the 12th member of the 1,000-point club, and finished his career with 1,146 points, 10th all-time when he graduated. He was respected by his teammates and he was named team captain as a junior and senior.  He was just as tenacious in the classroom as he earned KCAC All-Academic status three times, and twice was named a NAIA Scholar Athlete. 

Annis and his wife, Katie, have two daughters, Avery and Jayci, and live in Oklahoma City.  Brett is the vice president of Wholesale Natural Gas Trading at Clearwater Enterprises.

Andrae Harper

Andrae Harper ran cross country and track at Southwestern College from 2003 to 2007.   He was a three-time national qualifier in cross country and a four-time All-American in track and field. During his time competing at SC, he set the indoor record for the 800-meter run, and he was also part of the indoor 4x800 team and distance medley relay team that made the record books at SC. Harper graduated from Southwestern with an elementary education degree, was named a Masterbuilder, and was the recipient of the Fran Jabara Leadership Award.

Harper resides in Arkansas City with his wife, Nicole, a 2009 Southwestern graduate. They have two daughters, Riley and Kinsley.  He teaches computer science at Ark City Middle School and is the middle school track and high school cross-country coach for the Bulldogs. 

T. J. Harris

T. J. Harris participated in track and field while at Southwestern and graduated in 2004.  He is the current record holder at SC in the triple jump and the long jump.  During his time at Southwestern, he was never beaten in any KCAC meet in those two events.  Harris was a three-time All-American, twice in the long jump and once in the triple jump.  He was a five-time KCAC Champion, twice in the long jump and triple jump, and once with his 4x100 relay team.  He was also a part of two KCAC team titles. Following graduation, Harris began lending his knowledge as a coach.  He is currently coaching at San Jose St. University. Prior to that, he coached eight years at Southwestern producing 31 KCAC champions and three All-Americans; two years at Johnson County Community College producing four national champions and 16 All-Americans; and seven years at Campbell University where 30 athletes became Big South Conference champions and two NCAA All-Americans.  At SJSU he coached their first-ever women’s All-American, seven other All-Americans, and nine Mountain West champions. 

Harris has been married to his wife, Mandy, for 20 years and they have three children; Sydni, Leyla, and Maxwell.

Jeff Boone

Jeff Boone came to Southwestern after two years of playing basketball and tennis at Garden City Community College.  He continued playing those sports at Southwestern.  He was a guard on the SC men’s basketball team from 1971-1973.  The 1973 team finished runner-up in the KCAC with a 12-4 record.  In tennis, he played #1 singles and #1 doubles with his playing partner, Larry Ewart. In 1973, the duo finished as semi-finalist in the KCAC.  After graduation, he ran the marathon at the 1979 Drake Relays and finished in 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Boone, M.D., M.S., is the President, CEO, and Medical Director of the Boone Heart Institute, a Denver-based healthcare organization dedicated to the eradication of heart disease and stroke.  In addition, Dr. Boone is an expert Consultant in Cardiometabolic Health, Preventive Cardiology, and Stress Medicine.  In 2007, he was selected as one of the 160 Top Doctors in America by Men’s Health Magazine, and listed as one of the 17 Top Cardiovascular Doctors in America for Men. Boone served as a member of the NFL Cardiovascular Committee from 2010 to 2013.  He also served as the National Co-Director of the NFL Player Care Foundation Cardiovascular Program sponsored by the NFL, NFL Player’s Association and the NFL Alumni Association, from 2006 to 2013. Boone’s work with professional sports organizations has expanded in subsequent years to include consultation and cardiovascular testing of the Pittsburgh Pirates (2016-2020) and the San Francisco 49ers (2017 through present).

The 1967 SC Football Team

The 1967 SC football team is the first team to be inducted into the hall of fame.  SC finished the season by beating Emporia 25-10 giving SC their undefeated season.  Only the 1918 team had ever accomplished that feat.  They had a smothering defense that recorded three shutouts on the season.  In 10 games, the most points scored against them in a single game was 14, while the offense scored 30 or more points five times.  They finished with a record of 9-0-1 and claimed the KCAC title.  The Moundbuilders placed nine team members on the all-conference team, Dennis Cavalier was a unanimous choice for All-KCAC and was named as an NAIA All-American, and head coach Bud Elliot was voted KCAC Coach of the Year. 

Individually, 12 members of the 1967 team have entered the SC Athletic Hall of Fame along with head coach Bud Elliot.

“What an incredible class of inductees; to be able to celebrate these individuals and a team that have strengthened Southwestern through their talent and grit, is truly a privilege,” says athletic director Matt O’Brien.  “We’re excited to host so many who care deeply for Southwestern athletics in historic Stewart Field House for a memorable evening.”

O’Brien adds that nominations for the 2025 Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame will be accepted until Dec. 31.  To submit a nomination, email Matt.O’Brien@sckans.edu.

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Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:13:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Ezeala Helps Make History at Olympics]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2456 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2456 SC Graduate Prince Ezeala Helps Nigeria Make History at the Paris Olympics

The 2024 Paris Olympics offered a number of memorable moments, notably a Southwestern College graduate had a hand in making history.

Prince Ezeala with Olympic RingsPrince Ezeala, a 2007 Southwestern College graduate, was an assistant coach for the Nigerian women’s Olympic basketball team. With wins over heavily favored Australia and Canada, the Nigerian squad advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament.  It marked the first time ever that an African Nation basketball team, men or women, advanced that far in Olympic play.

“We won our first game against Australia and our confidence shot through the roof,” Ezeala says.  “Maybe too much because then we lost to France.  But then we beat Canada and advanced.  All the teams we played had at least three or four WNBA players and we didn’t have any. It was amazing.”

Ezeala is no stranger to winning.  At Southwestern, he was a member of the 2006 KCAC regular season and KCAC tournament championship team that finished with a record of 28-3, under then head coach Doug Hall, and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament. In his time playing at SC, the Builders went 51-11.

“Prince Ezeala is a winner,” says Hall.  “I knew when we were recruiting Prince that he loved basketball and it was evident in his approach every day. He was always in the gym working on his game. He was an unbelievable teammate as well. It was never about Prince, he was all about the team. He knew his role and thrived in it. I would say Prince was the best positional rebounder I ever coached. He had a knack for the ball and played way bigger than his size.”

Now an assistant coach for the El Reno (Okla.) High School girls basketball team, Ezeala helped guide that squad to a 28-0 record and a 5A State Championship this past season.

He credits Hall and his staff for teaching him about transition basketball. 

Prince Ezeala coaching basketball player at Olympics“Coach Hall, along with coach (Greg) Hackerott and coach (Mike) Collins taught me how to run transition, and how the post players’ first three steps have to be long and fast,” Ezeala says.  “I use this today, our transition offense is fun. We like to run and play hard.”

Ezeala shares that his time at Southwestern led to the successes he’s found since graduation. He earned a bachelor's degree in sports management at SC and later earned a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling from Langston University.  He still stays in contact with many of the people he met and went to school with at SC. Many of those friends became fast fans of the Nigerian women’s basketball team in the past month, watching all of the games and sharing their support for Ezeala and his team.

“The best time of my life was my time at Southwestern College,” Ezeala says. “I made a brotherhood with my friends from SC. We sometimes go months without seeing each other but then we get together and our friendships are the same. It’s like we are family for life.”

Ezeala’s immediate family is just as important to him.  He was born in the United States but his parents were from Nigeria.  He says he is grateful for his parents taking him to Nigeria on three or four occasions to meet aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. With a smile, and a tear in his eye, he says he knows his mom is looking down on him from heaven with a smile on her face. 

Hall says he is not surprised with the success Ezeala is having.

“Knowing he had the opportunity to coach on the world's biggest stage in the Olympics should bring all of us who were privileged to coach and play with Prince great pride,” Hall says. “Those young ladies that have had Prince as their coach, whether at the Olympics or the high school level, are fortunate to be around someone like him - just as I was fortunate to get to coach him at SC. I am so proud of him.”

Ezeala plans to continue coaching with the Nigerian women’s team as well as his team at El Reno. his team at El Reno.

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Thu, 22 Aug 2024 10:28:44 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Homecoming 2024 Events at Southwestern College]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2455 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2455 2024 Homecoming Logo - SquareSouthwestern College will celebrate 2024 Homecoming Friday, Oct. 4, through Sunday, Oct. 6.  Numerous activities have been announced.

For more information on any of the Homecoming festivities, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, at (620) 229-6155. For schedule updates or to register for events, refer to the homecoming website— www.sckans.edu/homecoming.

Homecoming Registration


2024 Homecoming Schedule

Friday, October 4

  • 3 to 5 p.m.— Registration and welcome in the lobby of Stewart Field House
  • 5 to 5:30 p.m.—Athletic Hall of Fame Social, Stewart Field House
  • 5:30 p.m. — Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and dinner, Stewart Field House (Reservation required, limited seating, $50 per person or $500 for a table of eight). Inductees include Zak Tazkargy, ’12, Tracey (Juden) Adams, ’86, Brett Annis, ’06, Andrae Harper, ’07, T. J. Harris, ’04, Jeff Boone, ’73, and the undefeated 1967 Southwestern College football team.

Saturday, October 5

  • 9 a.m. — Homecoming parade on Warren Ave.
  • 10 a.m. — Builder block party and registration, Wallingford lawn. Fun activities for kids and so much more
  • 10 a.m.—All-Class brunch, Roy L. Smith Dining Hall (reservations required, $8 per person)
  • 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Homecoming tailgate, Stewart Field House ($12 adults, $6 child under 6)
  • Noon – President’s Luncheon for 51+ years alumni, Winfield Country Club (Reservation required, alumni/free, non-alumni spouse/guest $17)
  • 1:30 p.m. — Homecoming football game vs. University of Saint Mary, Richard L. Jantz Stadium
  • 5 p.m.—Class of 1974 50-year photo, Winfield Country Club.
  • 5:30 p.m. — Class of 1974 50-year reunion dinner, Winfield County Club, ($30 per person RSVP required)
  • 5 to 8 p.m.—Childcare available at First United Methodist Church, ($5 hour)
  • 7 to 10 p.m.—All-Class alumni gathering at Ladybird Brewery, 523 Main St. Dine with a local food truck. 

Sunday, October 6

  • 10:50 a.m. — Homecoming worship service, Grace UMC, Rev. Connie Wooldridge ’79 guest speaker.
  • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Sunday brunch buffet, Roy L. Smith dining hall ($9 per person)
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Wed, 21 Aug 2024 16:36:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Six New Members and the ’67 SC Football Team to Enter Athletic Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2447 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2447 The Southwestern College Athletics Hall of Fame committee has selected the 2024 class to enter the hall on October 4.

The new members are:

  • Zak Tazkargy – Football (class of 2012)
  • Tracy (Juden) Adams – Track and Volleyball (class of 1986)
  • Brett Annis – Men’s Basketball (class of 2006)
  • Andre Harper—Men’s Track and Field and Cross Country (class of 2007)
  • T. J. Harris – Men’s Track and Field (class of 2004)
  • Jeff Boone – Meritorious Service (class of 1973)
  • The undefeated 1967 Southwestern College Football Team

The Hall of Fame Induction will take place in conjunction with Homecoming weekend at Southwestern.  The induction ceremony will be Friday, Oct. 4.  The new hall of fame members will also be recognized at halftime of the football game between Southwestern and the University of Saint Mary on Saturday, Oct. 5.

More information about Homecoming activities and the hall of fame inductees will be released at a later date.

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Wed, 05 Jun 2024 10:27:54 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[‘Bidding for Builders’ Southwestern to Hold Online Auction]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2432 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2432 Southwestern College is holding an online auction, “Bidding for Builders” to raise money for the Builder Fund.  The auction will close on Wednesday, April 24, at 8 p.m. and may be found at www.sckans.edu/bid.

Bidding for BuildersAccording to Kaydee Riggs-Johnson, vice president for advancement, communications, and marketing at Southwestern College, there are over 40 unique items and packages that have been donated by trustees, alumni, staff, community members, and businesses.

“This is our first time holding ‘Bidding for Builders’ an online auction event that will generate additional support for the Builder Fund,” Riggs-Johnson says.  “The packages, donated by trustees, alumni, friends, and businesses, offer a diverse range of experiences and items. The winning bidders will feel particularly good knowing that their purchases will support current and future students at Southwestern College.”

Auction item categories include: excursions, exclusive experiences at Southwestern and beyond, art, antiques, and jewelry.

View Bidding for Builders Auction

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Wed, 17 Apr 2024 10:44:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Groundbreaking Ceremony for New DeHaven Football Complex Scheduled for April 19]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2431 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2431 On Friday, April 19, the public is invited to attend a groundbreaking ceremony at 8 p.m., at the north end of Beta Rho Mu field in Richard L. Jantz Stadium as Southwestern will begin the construction of the Bruce DeHaven Football Complex in the coming weeks. The groundbreaking event will occur after the Southwestern College spring football game.

Bruce DeHaven Football Complex - Construction SummarySouthwestern College athletic director and head men’s basketball coach Matt O’Brien is looking forward to the addition of the DeHaven Football Complex. The facility will include training space, team meeting and film rooms, study hall, locker room, conference room, coaching offices, a laundry room, and equipment storage space.

“We are thrilled to be dedicating a new facility in honor of Coach DeHaven, a member of the Southwestern Class of 1970 and highly accomplished special teams coach in the NFL,” O’Brien says.  “The DeHaven Football Complex will not only create much-needed training space, but also provide our student-athletes and staff with a top-notch environment to learn and work in together. Friday will be a proud day for Builder Nation.

Head football coach and assistant athletic director Brad Griffin says he is glad that SC is honoring DeHaven.

“I had the opportunity to meet Coach DeHaven and know he would be very honored and proud,” Griffin says.  “We are very excited and look forward to completion of the new facility which will help develop our current and future Builders as scholar-athletes. Coach DeHaven’s legacy will forever live on at Southwestern College.”

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Mon, 15 Apr 2024 10:47:45 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Founders Day Weekend April 18-20]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2425 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2425 Southwestern College graduates and retired faculty will be inducted into four halls of fame during the annual Founders Day weekend at Southwestern College Thursday-Saturday, April 18-20.  

The celebration will include recognition of inductees entering the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences, as well as the Fine Arts, Business, and Educators Halls of Fame. 

All of the induction ceremonies are open to the public at no cost, but there is a cost for associated meals and seating is limited for those meals. To make meal reservations or for other information, contact Ashlee Mayo at (620) 229-6155. Reservations are needed by April 8.

Festivities will begin at 4 p.m., on Thursday, April 18, with the annual Honors Convocation in Richardson Performing Arts Center. The featured speaker will be Kalaba Chali, district superintendent for the Wichita East and West districts in the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church.

On Friday, April 19, plaques will be unveiled for the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences.  Dinner will begin at 5:30 p.m. in Deets Library with the induction ceremony to follow. Meal cost is $25.

On Saturday, April 20, the induction ceremony for the Business Hall of Fame in the Christy lobby at 8:30 a.m., in Richardson Performing Arts Center.

The induction ceremony for the Fine Arts Hall of Fame will begin at 10:30 a.m., in Richardson Performing Arts Center. 

At 12 p.m. in Deets Library, there will be a luncheon for the Educators Hall of Fame inductees. Lunch cost is $25. At 12:45 p.m., the induction ceremony for the Educators Hall of Fame will begin, also in Deets Library.  

Individuals entering the various halls of fame include:

Leaders in Service:

  • Claudia Geer, retired faculty
  • Paul Bean ’85
  • Willie Williams ’68

Fine Arts:

  • Roxy (Clark) Callison ’69/’91
  • Roberta (Gilger) Banks ’72

Business:

  • Dick Barnes, retired faculty
  • Alex Gottlob ’09
  • Business Builder Award: Timber Creek Floral and Gifts

Educators:

  • Stephen Peebles ’89
  • Anita (Jantz) Ewart ’74

Southwestern College Hall of Fame displays are located in Mossman Hall, Darbeth Fine Arts Center, Beech Science Center, Deets Library, and Stewart Field House.

See Founders Weekend Schedule

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Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern Sets $250,000 Goal for March 21 ‘Step Up’ Day of Giving]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2422 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2422 Step Up for Southwestern, Southwestern College’s annual day of giving, will be on Thursday, March 21.  All funds raised as part of the day of giving campaign benefit the college's Builder Fund. The college has set a goal of raising $250,000 from more than 350 donors on the day for the annual fund. A group of generous donors has already begun issuing challenges and offering gifts to match all donations given to the Step Up campaign for the Builder Fund.

“Every gift to the Builder Fund creates impact at Southwestern College – in the lives of our students, faculty, and staff – to the future of our college,” says Southwestern College President Liz Frombgen.  “The Builder Fund helps us meet current needs across campus, but it also helps us invest in important initiatives that will make our college stronger and more attractive. Stepping up for Southwestern means investing in a bold vision of what Southwestern College will become.”

Gifts may be made online at www.sckans.edu/stepup, by stopping in at the Dole Alumni office at 201 N. College in Winfield, or by calling (620) 229-6397. The college is also encouraging supporters to share their pride for Southwestern on Thursday, March 21, by connecting with fellow alumni, wearing SC apparel, or by sharing support of the college on social media pages.

“Step Up is a day when we acknowledge the ways in which Southwestern has impacted our lives and community and together show our care for the college, offering support in all the ways we’re able,” said Kaydee Riggs-Johnson, vice president for advancement, communications, and marketing. “March 21 promises to be an exciting day at Southwestern as we will connect with Builders and friends from down the street and from all over the world who will offer their support and play an important part in helping us surpass our goal to advance Southwestern.”

Step Up for SC

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Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:47:06 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Institutional Advancement Office Launches ‘Coffee Chats’ for Alumni and Friends]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2408 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2408 Coffee Chats at Southwestern CollegeThe Southwestern College Institutional Advancement office has launched a monthly online Coffee Chat aimed to help alumni and friends engage and connect with the college. The fourth Coffee Chat in the series is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 9, at 10:30 a.m.  The chat will provide an update from the performing arts program directors at Southwestern College. 

Guests for the Coffee Chat include Simon Hill, director of choral activities and voice; Jeremy Kirk, director of bands and percussion, and students Jordan Burford and David Koller. Burford who is cast in the upcoming production “The Spitfire Grill” (Feb. 16-18), will be sharing an update on behalf of the theatre director, Terry McGonigle, who will be recruiting prospective students at the Arkansas Thespian Conference. Koller, who performs in the South Kansas Symphony, will be sharing an update and information about upcoming performances. 

“The virtual Coffee Chat will provide an opportunity for alumni and community members to join-in from wherever they are to learn about and support the arts at Southwestern College,” says Kaydee Riggs-Johnson, vice president for advancement, marketing, and communications. “While the program directors and their students are carrying on many important traditions, in many ways they are also building something new together at Southwestern College.  I'm excited for them to share an update and to celebrate the work being done to provide all students on campus space to explore creative expression and to engage in the arts."  

Previous Coffee Chats have included President Elizabeth Frombgen, Pat Ross, and John Griffin.  All of those chats are archived on the Southwestern College alumni page.

To participate in the Feb. 9 Coffee Chat, email alumni@sckans.edu or call (620) 229-6155 to request the link. To view the calendar of campus events, including upcoming performances and productions, visit www.sckans.edu/calendar

Reserve your Coffee Chat Seat

View Previous Coffee Chats

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Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:20:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Natural Science Hall of Fame to Induct New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2393 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2393 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 11, in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College. The new members are Dustin Wilgers, Stephanie Kesler, and Bryan Dennett. Dennett is a member of the 2022 induction class but will be formally recognized at the 2023 induction ceremony.

The celebration will begin at 5 p.m., with a reception and dinner (cost is $25 per person, seating is limited, and RSVPs are necessary) in Deets Library. The induction ceremony will begin following dinner at approximately 6 p.m., all are invited to attend (no reservations are required). To make reservations, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, (620) 229-6155 or email alumni@sckans.edu.

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

2023 Inductees

Stephanie KeslerStephanie Kesler ’80, graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in biology and a bachelor of arts degree in mathematics. She also earned a master of science degree in science management from the University of Alaska Anchorage in 1990. Her strong passion for community and justice was nurtured at Southwestern where she was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including Campus Players and Tri-Beta. Kesler’s professional career as a telecommunications technologist and architect spanned the dawn and evolution of the internet era from 1991 to present day. Over the decades, she was a key member of the teams that built out Alaska’s modern telecommunications infrastructure and services. She also participated in several national standards setting initiatives. Community involvement at all levels is extremely important to Kesler. Her service runs the gamut from her neighborhood council to President of the Board of Providence Alaska Medical System Region. Above all, Southwestern holds a special place in her heart. Her Southwestern education and experience prepared her for a lifetime of learning, curiosity, and a commitment to community.

Dustin WilgersDustin Wilgers ’01, received his bachelor of science degree in biology with honors from Southwestern College. While at Southwestern, Wilgers participated in golf and was an athletic trainer for one year. He was active in Beta Beta Beta Biological Honors Society. He went on to earn a master of science degree from Kansas State University in 2005 and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2011. Wilgers has been a professor at McPherson College since 2011. He has taught a variety of courses in biology and environmental science and earned multiple teaching awards during that time. His passion centers on teaching students of all ages about science, and training the next generation of scientists. He has contributed to the field with his ecological research that focused on diversity found in the prairie and understanding the communication and behavioral systems of spiders. Wilgers has published 22 scientific papers and one book chapter. He co-authored many of his papers with undergraduate students. He has presented his research at numerous international, national, and regional scientific meetings; winning awards for his research at several of them. He served as President of the Kansas Academy of Science and the Kansas Entomological Society. Since being a faculty member, Wilgers has worked extensively with Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks through their Chickadee Checkoff program, doing both research on the state’s arachnids and educational outreach programs. His drive to educate society about nature has taken him all across the state and to many elementary schools. Recently, to extend his outreach, he has published multiple children’s books that aim to both entertain and educate younger children about science and his favorite animal group. Dustin is married to Autumn (Strauss), who he met at Southwestern College. They have two kids, Noah and Hannah. Much of their family time centers on spending time in nature or playing and watching sports.

2022 Inductee (Recognized in 2023)

Dr. Bryan DennettBryan Dennett ’92, is a Family Physician in Winfield. He received his undergraduate degree from Southwestern College and his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. After completing his family practice residency through Via Christi in Wichita, he started practicing medicine in Winfield. He has been in private practice since 2002. He is also board-certified in Hospice and Palliative Care and works as the medical director for a non-profit hospice. Dennett is passionate about primary care and focuses on preventative and quality measures. He serves on the Board of Elders at Trinity Lutheran Church and the Southwestern College Board of Trustees. When not working, he enjoys staying active, going to the lake, and spending time with his wife, Debbie, and four adult children.

To see Southwestern College's halls of fame and a full list of inductees visit sckans.edu/hof.

RSVP for 2023 Natural Science Hall of Fame

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Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:11:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[New Inductees to Enter SC Athletic Hall of Fame October 21]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2386 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2386 The Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame will induct six new members on Saturday, Oct. 21, in the Roy L. Smith Student Center at 10 a.m.  Inductees will also be introduced at halftime of the Southwestern-Bethel Homecoming football game.  The new members are Jim Corwin ’69, Burt Helmer ’70, Charles Osen ’94, William “Trey” Jones ’03, Roderick “Ricky” Kendrick, ’06, and Amy Topham (Pierson) ’11. 

Jim Corwin played two years of basketball and three years of football for Southwestern College. He was a three-year letterman in football and was a member of the 1967 undefeated football team. He was the team’s punter and played defensive end. He was selected to the KCAC Football First-Team in both 1967 and 1968, and was selected to the District 10 NAIA All Star team as Honorable Mention All-American in 1968. Corwin is listed in the 1969 edition of Outstanding College Athletes of America.  Corwin earned numerous awards while at Southwestern including, Who’s Who Among Students, Masterbuilder, and the McNeish Award (athlete with highest GPA).  Jim was a charter member of Theta Phi Delta Fraternity and president in 1968-69. He received his masters’ degree from Fort Hays University. He worked nearly 43 years for the Farm Credit System until he retired in 2013. Jim and his wife, Carolyn, reside in Buhler.

Burt Helmer played football at SC.  His teams had a combined record of 22-4-1 from 1968-70.  He led the team in rushing in 1968 and 69 and was a tri-captain for the 1970 squad.  At the end of the 1969 season, he was the career leader in total rushing yards.  His single season rushing record stood up for over a decade. Helmer received the A. D. Kahler ‘Builder of the Year’ award, voted on by his teammates and coaching staff. Helmer also served the college as a sportswriter and editor for the “Collegian” and was the sports information director.  After SC, Helmer spent 40 years teaching and coaching.  His coaching career included numerous league championships, state championship appearances, and ‘Coach of the Year’ awards.  He also took great pride in mentoring younger coaches which allowed them to navigate their own success from the sidelines.

Charles Osen, a.k.a Curt Caden, has been, and continues to be, the radio and web streaming voice for Southwestern College football, and men’s and women’s basketball since 2000. In 2002, he began broadcasting Winfield High School football and boy’s and girl’s basketball, and continues that work today. He has broadcasted more than 2,500 games in his career including numerous KCAC basketball championship games, NAIA men’s and women’s basketball championship tournament games, NAIA football championship tournament games, and Kansas State High School basketball tournament games. Osen played one year of golf and basketball while at Southwestern.  He graduated with a bachelors degree in mass communications and film studies and was named a Masterbuilder.  He was the Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Sportscaster of the Year in 2017 and the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association Media Award winner in 2019. Osen lives in Winfield with his wife of 28 years, Kelli, and has four children; Chastity (Will), Daelor (Katie), Avery, and Riley, and two grandchildren; William and Clara.

William A. (Trey) Jones III was a four-year track and field athlete at Southwestern College, specializing in high jump and javelin. Trey was a three-time conference champion in the high jump and named Field Athlete of the Year in 1999, 2000, and 2002, taking the 2001 season off to work full-time and welcome the birth of his son, Hunter. Trey earned All-American status in 2000 and 2002 when he placed 3rd in high jump both years at indoor nationals. Trey still holds the SC indoor high jump record of 6’11”. Not only did Trey excel on the track and field, he also made lifelong friends, as well as meeting his wife, Amy, a fellow SC high jumper. Trey went on to coach middle school track in Arkansas City before taking the head coach position at his alma mater, Nickerson High School, where he coached three high jumpers to state championships in four years, including his son and daughter, Hunter and Ava. Though Trey was tragically taken from us last year, his athletic legacy lives on through his children. Hunter is currently a three-time All-American track and field athlete while Ava plays collegiate basketball and Creek, a 6th grader, is following his dad's footsteps too.

Roderick "Ricky" Kendrick played men’s basketball at Southwestern College for two seasons.  He was a two-time All-American (2004-05 and 2005-06).  He was awarded KCAC Player of the Year, and KCAC Newcomer of the Year in 2004-05 season.  He made the All-KCAC First Team in both seasons.  In 2005-06 season, his team won the KCAC Championship, and went to the National Tournament. They finished the season with a 28-4 record, which is the most wins in a season to current date.  Ricky is third on the all-time list at Southwestern for: Three-point field goals made in a season (105); and in all-time three-point field goal percentage (45.5%) in the 2004-2005 season.  He is also in the 1,000 point club for points scored in his career.  He now resides in Oklahoma for short periods of time, while being a traveling registered nurse throughout various states.   

Amy (Pierson) Topham had a decorated career in track and field. She was a three-time NAIA All-American and held school records in the indoor 800 and 1,000 meters. In cross country she competed three times at the NAIA National meet and was also KCAC champion one year. She earned Academic All-American all four years, was awarded Masterbuilder, and graduated with a bachelors of science degree in nursing. Topham lives near Wichita with her family.

“These inductees are truly exceptional. Their collegiate athletic careers resulted in numerous accolades and accomplishments, but what sets them apart is their character. It is an absolute honor to celebrate these outstanding individuals,” said Matt O’Brien, athletic director at Southwestern College.

O’Brien adds that nominations for the 2024 Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame will be accepted until Dec. 31.  To submit a nomination, email Matt.O’Brien@sckans.edu.

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and there is no admission charge.  For more information about the SC Athletic Hall of Fame or the induction ceremony, call (620) 229-6218.

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Thu, 28 Sep 2023 11:54:43 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Homecoming 2023 Events at Southwestern College]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2383 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2383 Southwestern College will celebrate 2023 Homecoming Friday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 22.  Numerous activities have been announced.

For more information on any of the Homecoming festivities, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, at (620) 218-5076. For schedule updates or to register for events, refer to the homecoming website— www.sckans.edu/homecoming.

Friday’s schedule includes:

  • 3 to 6 p.m.— Registration for class reunions and Moundbuilder Gear Pop-Up Shop in the Java Jinx, located in the Roy L. Smith Student Center.
  • 4 p.m.—Ribbon cutting for Winfield Hall at Winfield Hall.
  • 6 to 7:30 p.m. — All-Class Homecoming Dinner, Roy L. Smith dining hall (reservation required, $25 per person).
  • 7:30 p.m. — “The Masque of Beauty and the Beast,” Richardson Performing Arts Center (admission is free).

Saturday’s schedule includes:

  • 9:30 a.m. — Homecoming parade, beginning at Viking Blvd. and will go west on Warren Ave.
  • 10 a.m. — Builder block party and registration, Wallingford lawn. Rock painting, face painting, and so much more.
  • 10 a.m.—Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Roy L. Smith Student Center dining hall. Inductees include Jim Corwin '68, Burt Helmer '70, Charles Osen (Curt Caden) '94, William “Trey” Jones '03, Roderick “Ricky” Kendrick '06, and Amy (Pierson) Topham '11.
  • 10:15 a.m.—Southwestern College Mid-States Classic cross country meet at the Winfield Veterans Home Course.  Women race at 10:15 a.m.; the men at 11 a.m.
  • 10:30 a.m.—Moundbuilder Gear Pop-Up Shop, Farney Family Plaza located south of Jantz Stadium.
  • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Homecoming tailgate, Wallingford lawn ($12 adults, $6 child under 6).
  • Noon – President’s Luncheon for 51+ years alumni, Winfield Country Club (Reservation required, alumni/free, non-alumni spouse/guest $17).
  • 1:30 p.m. — Homecoming football game vs. Bethel College.
  • 5:30 p.m. — Class of 1973 50-year reunion dinner and photo, Winfield County Club, ($30 per person RSVP required).
  • 5:30 p.m. — Women’s soccer versus York University, Richard L. Jantz Stadium
  • 5 to 8 p.m.—Childcare available at First United Methodist Church, $5 per hour.
  • 7 to 10 p.m.—All-Class Alumni Gathering at Ladybird Brewery, 523 Main St. Live music and the Artichoke food truck will be available. 
  • 7:30 p.m. — “The Masque of Beauty and the Beast,” Richardson Performing Arts Center (admission is free).
  • 8 p.m.—Men’s soccer versus York University, Richard L. Jantz Stadium

Sunday’s schedule includes:

  • 10:50 a.m. — Homecoming worship service, Grace UMC, Rev. Charles Claycomb ’73 guest speaker.
  • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Sunday brunch buffet, Roy L. Smith dining hall ($9 per person).
  • 2 p.m.— “The Masque of Beauty and the Beast,” Richardson Performing Arts Center (admission is free).

 

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Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:23:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[SC Grad Doug Delaney Publishes New Book ‘Stranded’]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2358 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2358 Douglas Scott Delaney, a 1982 graduate of Southwestern College, has recently published a non-fiction memoir, “Stranded.”  The book is available wherever books are sold.

The book tells the spring break adventures of Delaney, who as a freshman at Southwestern in 1978, had nowhere to go.  His journey took him all around south central Kansas and northern Oklahoma.

“My journey was easier to tell than to live,” Delaney says.  “It’s a coming of age story.  I was only in Kansas for less than six months, and had never been off campus.  I got stuck in a bad spot and had no other choice.  I went hitchhiking and all the insanity that ensued happened in five or six days.  It’s little stories from Winfield, Arkansas City, and Burden.”

Douglas Scott DelaneyDelaney, who has published a number of books, says this isn’t the way he usually goes about writing a book.

“Three years ago, I started writing about this experience,” Delaney says.  “I thought I’d write one little ditty for social media and be done with it.  Twelve chapters and a half a million readers later, I decided to tell the whole story in this book.”

The book not only tells of his wild adventure, but it also mentions several people and Cowley County businesses that he encountered along the way. 

Delaney came to Southwestern College from Levittown N.Y., on a football and track scholarship. SC was not an anomaly in recruiting young exceptional athletes from New York, specifically Long Island, according to Delaney.  “Colleges and universities across the nation did so during the late 1970s and the reasons why have prompted Delaney to helm the grass-roots documentary project, “The Devils You Knew,” (Release expected later this year).

Originally a biology major, he switched to English and drama under the tutelage of Troy Boucher, Dan Daniel and Darnell Lautt.  

Stranded - Book Cover“These guys were incredible,” Delaney says.  “At SC at the time there was an atmosphere of exploration where the instructors would allow you pretty much do what you wanted. You could workshop short stories and actually get them ready for professional submission. If you had written a play there was a good chance you would get to see it performed. It was brave at the time and there were few, if any, undergrad programs in the country that would allow that kind of access and development.”

After graduating with a bachelor of arts degree and as a Masterbuilder in 1982, Delaney received his first publication in 1983 and has been published and produced writer ever since. He returned to SC as the drama department’s technical director in 1984.  Throughout his SC experiences Doug learned, and was encouraged, not to confine himself to any one genre. His success in short fiction, non-fiction, fiction, drama, and film is a reflection of that tutelage.

“It took me many years to realize how special those programs were,” Delaney says.  “I’ve lectured at some pretty big schools and was amazed to talk to kids, especially playwrights, who could barely get a classroom reading of their work done, let alone a full production.  And the real bonus was aside from the writing, you really learned the nuts and bolts of all it takes to put on a show. Knowing those technical requirements and restrictions helped you write a better, and more accessible piece of work. In a way, without knowing it, I was very spoiled.” 

Four of Delaney’s published plays that have gone onto productions all over the country, and have won numerous contests and awards, were first performed on the stages of Southwestern College.  Among his many awards are New York’s Broadway Tomorrow Award and Los Angeles’ Critics Drama-Logue for his plays “LaFitte!” and “My Last Confession.”  His screenplay for the film “All Roads Lead Home” was the recipient of the Los Angeles Family Film Festival’s Best Picture award. His non-fiction expose` “Tower Dogs: Life Inside the Deadliest Job in America” has been critically acclaimed and is required reading at The University of Alabama. And showing no signs of slowing down, his latest play, “Where’s Bucky?” will receive its World Premiere in Smithville, Texas, in April and May of 2023.   

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Tue, 18 Apr 2023 11:12:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[THANK YOU for Stepping Up for SC]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2356 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2356 Builders and Friends, THANK YOU for Stepping Up for SC!

All the gifts for Step Up have been entered and we are excited to report that 392 donors contributed a total of $263,252 to the Builder Fund as part of the 2023 Step Up Day of Giving effort. 

Thank You for Stepping UpTogether, we far surpassed our initial goal of $177,000. This, in itself, is an incredible accomplishment, but perhaps more heartening is the number of donors participating, 392 represents a new record for our Day of Giving. Additionally, faculty and staff gathered last week at the Dole Alumni House to celebrate their collective participation, also a record for the day. 

Many thanks to those of you who work as ambassadors and advocates of our college. We heard there were many of you calling and emailing fellow Builders on March 23. You were offering matching dollars and challenges. You shared our social media posts and encouraged your personal networks to Step Up. That effort contributed greatly to our success. Thank you for gifting your time and energy to support SC. 

In a year when we at the college are working hard to confront challenges head-on and are making a bold plan to move forward, it is encouraging to know that so many are simultaneously investing in the experience of our students and in the future of Southwestern.

Please know that all of us on campus are encouraged and incredibly grateful for your support. Your investment in our college is meaningful and it makes all the difference! 

As Founders Weekend and Commencement approach, so does the end of our fiscal year, we still have dollars to raise in support of the Builder Fund. We also have exciting work to do together on campus as we finalize a strategic plan that will guide Southwestern into a new era. All gifts to the Builder Fund go a long way to help sustain and propel the missional work of Southwestern College. I ask that you continue to invest in Southwestern in ways that you're able.

Again, thank you for your help in making our day of giving a great success, and thank you for continuing to Step Up for Southwestern. 


Sending gratitude your way from the top of the 77 steps –

Kaydee Riggs-Johnson '11
Vice President for Advancement, Communications, and Marketing

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Mon, 10 Apr 2023 10:32:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[SC Halls of Fame to Open Doors to Past and Present Community Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2353 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2353 The upcoming Founders Day weekend, April 20-22 at Southwestern College, will celebrate several community members that will be enshrined into various halls of fame.

Meals and refreshments will be served for the Hall of Fame entrants and their friends and families.  Reservations are required by April 10.  For more information, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, at (620) 229-6155.

Hall of Fame festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 21, with a dinner in Deets Library for those entering the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences.  The induction ceremony will begin at 6:15 p.m. The cost is $25, limited seating is available, and RSVP is necessary.

On Saturday, April 22, the Business Hall of Fame reception will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Christy lobby, followed immediately by the induction ceremony at 8:45 a.m., in Richardson Performing Arts Center; RSVP is appreciated. 

At 10:15 a.m., a reception will be held for the inductees of the Fine Arts Hall of Fame in the Christy lobby followed by the induction ceremony at 10:30 a.m., in Richardson Performing Arts Center; RSVP is appreciated.   

A luncheon will be held for the Educators Hall of Fame in Deets Library at noon, with the induction ceremony to begin at approximately 12:45 p.m.  Lunch cost is $25, seating is limited, and RSVP is needed.

Area inductees include:

Barbara (Chapman) White ’80.  White, a 2020 inductee into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame, will enter the Southwestern College Educators Hall of Fame.  She is a 1980 graduate of Southwestern College, earning her bachelor of arts degree in elementary education. She also earned a master of arts degree in educational psychology with an emphasis in gifted education from Wichita State University.  She has earned numerous awards including being a Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) Congressional Region IV Awardee and state Finalist and member of the state KTOY team in 1995.  She was a Presidential Award of Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching state finalist in 1996.  She received the Richard LeMaster Teacher of Excellence Award USD 353 in 1996 and the Friends of Special Education USD 353 Golden Apple Award in 2015.

Brent Wolf ’03/’15, will enter the Educators Hall of Fame. Wolf is the Principal at Derby Hills Elementary School in Derby, as well as a member of the board of education for USD 465 Winfield.  Prior to becoming principal, Wolf taught elementary and middle school for 16 years. For approximately 10 years, he has taught as an adjunct professor at Baker University, Southwestern College, Wichita State University, and Cowley College. Wolf has been recognized with several honors including making the first-ever website for Winfield Public Schools with his students through the GenY program. In 2015, he was named the KAKE News Golden Apple Award Recipient. In 2017, Wolf was Derby Public School’s Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Tabatha (McMullen) Rosproy ’09, will enter the Educators Hall of Fame.  She is a 13-year early childhood educator, and the first preschool teacher to ever be named National Teacher of the Year. She was awarded this honor in 2020 and has spent the last several years speaking for organizations around the country, elevating the work of early childhood educators and the students and families they serve. Rosproy has transitioned into a new role with Kansas Parent Information Resource Center where she travels the state training schools on best practices in Early Childhood Education and Family Engagement.

Roger Moon ’70 (posthumous) and Allyson (Stark) Moon ’76 will enter the Fine Arts Hall of Fame. In the summer of 1987, the Horsefeathers and Applesauce Summer Dinner Theatre was brought back into production, and the Moon’s assisted in the process. As a follow-up to that return, Southwestern offered them positions in theatre starting in the summer of 1988. Roger became the director of theatre and Allyson became a member of the theatre faculty and the managing director of the summer theatre program. For the next 30 years, the Moon’s collaborated on class and degree offerings, student advising, recruitment, theatrical productions, and summer theatre programming. In the summers, they acted, designed lights, built sets, served dinners, and did whatever was needed to get the show up.  In 1999 and 2006, productions directed by Roger were selected to perform at the Region V Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF). Roger and Allyson’s work as directors and educators resulted in numerous commendations from KCACTF for their students and for them. In 2007, Roger and Allyson were honored with the KCACTF’s highest honor, the Gold Medallion. Throughout the 2010 school year, Roger advised the process of the Richardson Auditorium renovation which re-opened in 2011 as the Richardson Performing Arts Center. He continued his work as an advisor guiding the renovation of the TOMARI Technical Center which opened in 2014. In 2012, Allyson was honored with the Charles H. and Vera R. Kopke Award for Distinguished Teaching. Her work with creativity theory and improvisational acting contributed to this honor. In the spring of 2016, Southwestern sent Roger to China as a visiting professor where he taught English to college students and strengthened relationships with a cooperating university in Huangshan. After returning, Roger taught for two more years and retired in the spring of 2018. Allyson continued as director of theatre until the fall of 2021 and as a member of the theatre faculty through the spring of 2023. In the fall of 2020, both Roger and Allyson were recognized for their teaching on both the high school and college levels with the receipt of the Mary Jane Teal Award for Outstanding Theatre Educators. 

Tim Shook will enter the Fine Arts Hall of Fame.  Shook has been a Southwestern College faculty member since 1988 and served as chair of the performing arts division for 13 years. He collaborated with faculty members and administration on Southwestern College projects such as forming the Cole Family Summer Music Festival, creating the Community Music School, producing the Fine Arts Hall of Fame, and renovating the Richardson Performing Arts Center. Tim’s heart is in exceptional teaching, confirmed by receiving the Charles H. and Verda R. Kopke Award for Distinguished Teaching at Southwestern College and the United Methodist Exemplary Teaching Award.

David Nichols ’60 (posthumous) will enter the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame. At SC, Nichols taught economics, became chair of the business division, and then moved on to the development office, where he oversaw a major capital campaign. From there, he became the academic dean of Southwestern College and served in this role for 11 years. As academic dean, Nichols had many accomplishments including adding tenure for faculty, reworking the college’s accreditation evaluation, and starting the program for giving undergraduate students access to laptop computers. During his retirement, he established himself as one of the leading scholars on Dwight D. Eisenhower’s presidency. He published three books during this time, all of which are considered groundbreaking within scholarship on Eisenhower’s presidency: “A Matter of Justice: Eisenhower and the Beginning of the Civil Rights Revolution” (Simon & Schuster, 2007); “Eisenhower 1956: The President’s Year of Crisis—Suez and the Brink of War” (Simon & Schuster, 2011); and “Ike and McCarthy: Dwight Eisenhower’s Secret Campaign Against Joseph McCarthy” (Simon & Schuster, 2017). These three books continue to be debated amongst U.S. presidential historians and taught in both graduate and undergraduate classes throughout the United States, including the criminal justice and political science departments at Southwestern.

The weekend celebration will conclude with the inauguration of President Liz Frombgen at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, in Richardson Performing Arts Center.

See Full Founders Weekend Schedule

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Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:24:02 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Step Up for Southwestern is Thursday]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2349 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2349 Step Up for Southwestern, Southwestern College’s annual day of giving, will be on Thursday, March 23.  All funds raised as part of the day of giving campaign benefit the college's Builder Fund. The college has set a goal of raising $177,000 on the day for the annual fund. A group of generous donors has already begun issuing challenges and offering gifts to match donations given to the Step Up campaign on Thursday.

“Our current and future students, faculty, and staff need the support of alumni and friends of the college now more than ever,” says Southwestern College President Liz Frombgen.  “A gift to the Builder Fund helps us meet current needs across campus and in doing so helps to secure the future of our college – we are grateful to those who will step up for Southwestern in this moment.”

Gifts may be made online at www.sckans.edu/stepup, by stopping in at the Dole Alumni office at 201 N. College in Winfield, or by calling (620) 229-6397. The college is also encouraging supporters to share their pride for Southwestern on Thursday, by connecting with fellow alumni, wearing SC apparel, or by sharing support of the college on social media pages.

“Much of our identity as Moundbuilders is rooted in the ideals of care and service,” said Kaydee Riggs-Johnson, vice president for advancement, communications, and marketing. “Step Up creates a moment for us to collectively care for the future of our college, sharing our love for Southwestern through ambassadorship and philanthropic investment. It will be an exciting day at Southwestern as we connect with Builders and supporters from all over the world and work to surpass our goal, to strengthen our college.”

Step Up for Southwestern

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Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:20:07 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[It’s Official, SC Graduate Makes History in Kansas]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2340 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2340 Southwestern College graduate Carmen Doramus-Kinley is living proof that good things come to those who work hard.

Carmen Doramus-Kinley - HeadshotIn October, Doramus-Kinley became the first female in Kansas to wear the white hat and officiate a high school football game in the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League.  She followed that up by being on the first KCAC playoff crew selected and the first female to officiate the NAIA National Football Championship in December held in Durham, N.C. She was also recognized as the first female to officiate a National Football Championship at any level.

Doramus-Kinley graduated from Southwestern College in 1998 with a bachelor of science degree.  While at SC, she excelled in the classroom as well as on the volleyball and basketball court.  She then earned her postgraduate degree at West Virginia University.  She knew she couldn’t play sports forever but still wanted to be a part of the game.  So she took up officiating.

Volleyball officiating came first followed by basketball.  Four years ago, she decided to take up officiating football.  She attended many camps and clinics to perfect her craft.  She started as a back judge, then moved to line judge before getting the opportunity to be the referee, otherwise known as the “white hat" this past high school season. 

“There were some nerves for sure, especially with the TV cameras for that game as well as working a National Championship game on ESPN3" she says.  “I hope little girls see me out there and know that they can do it too.  I tell my son that he can do, and be, anything he wants to be if he puts in the work and keeps striving to achieve his dreams.”

Doramus-Kinley points out that the support and love that she received from her parents has led her to her successes.

“My parents have been so dedicated and supportive,” she says.  “When I was playing at Southwestern, they never missed a game; they were always in the stands.”

She also credits the faculty at SC.

“Claudia Geer and Phil Schmidt stick out to me,” Doramus-Kinley says.  "They were my advisors and placed me in spots to succeed.”

Carmen Doramus-Kinley officiating a gameDoramus-Kinley and her husband, Keith, also a Southwestern graduate, live in Wichita.  Her schedule is hectic with her job as a CARE consultant for UMR, currently officiating high school and college basketball games, and is an adjunct professor at Southwestern this semester teaching game rules and officiating. In that class, she is focused on teaching more than just rules of the game.  She is educating students about the importance of goal setting, mental training and conflict management. She says that with all of that, family comes first for her.

“Sleep is probably the one thing that gets the least attention right now,” she says.  “But my family always comes first.  I make sure that I'm the first person my son sees in the morning. Especially with officiating, my days can be challenging, but the athletes deserve the best, and that is what I am trying to do every time I step on the court or the field.”

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Tue, 14 Feb 2023 11:32:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Natural Science Hall of Fame to Induct New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2315 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2315 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 12, in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College. The new members are Lisa Braun, Mike Cargill, and Bryan Dennett. Dennett is a member of the 2022 induction class but will be formally recognized at the 2023 induction ceremony.

The celebration will begin at 5 p.m., with a reception and dinner (cost is $28 per person, seating is limited, and RSVPs are necessary) in Deets Library. The induction ceremony will begin following dinner at approximately 6 p.m., and all are invited to attend (no reservations are required). To make reservations, contact Ashlee Mayo, director of alumni engagement, (620) 229-6155, or Tamara McEwen, chair of the Natural Science division at (620) 229-6191.

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

2022 Inductees

Lisa BraunLisa (Ashenfelter) Braun ’98, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in health, physical education, and recreation. During her time at Southwestern, she played volleyball and basketball.  Braun became an assistant coach for the women’s basketball team from 1998-2000. In 2001 Braun was hired as the first female athletic trainer at Southwestern and provided coverage for all the teams while starting an accredited athletic training program so Southwestern could begin to offer a major in athletic training. She has been a board-certified athletic trainer since 2000. In 2002 she earned a Master of Education degree in exercise science from Wichita State University. During this time, she completed an internship with the WNBA’s Portland Fire. In 2003 Braun was named director of the athletic training program and was promoted to assistant professor.  Southwestern successfully gained accreditation in 2004 and maintained the accredited program until it phased out after the graduating class of 2021 due to changes in the profession moving to a masters-level degree. Over those years, she was promoted to associate professor and awarded tenure. Braun is now in charge of the physical performance and sports studies major (PPSS) and advises students majoring in PPSS as well as those students who hope to become athletic trainers. Lisa and her husband, Jason, live north of Cambridge and have two sons, James and Logan.

Michael CargillMichael Cargill ’77, left Kansas following graduation and traveled to Illinois and became the Site Superintendent at Fulton County Camping and Recreation, a large camping and fishing area. Cargill and his crew modernized the camping area by adding electrical hookups, restroom and shower facilities, and improved fishing with the application of fishery management techniques. There is where he perfected his fishery management skills. Ten years later Cargill transitioned from Site Superintendent to Zookeeper at Glen Oak Zoo in Peoria, Ill. There he was promoted to Curator of Education and later to the Curator of Operations. Cargill developed an educational program “Eli the elephant” which was nominated in 1987 as the outstanding educational program by the American Zoological Association. Ten years later he moved back to Kansas as the Director of Public Lands and Director of Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend. As Director of Public Lands, Cargill was identified as “One of the Most 10 Influential Individuals” by the “Great Bend Tribune.” Later the zoo received a million-dollar grant and raised additional monies to construct “Central Kansas Raptor Rehabilitation Center.” After 19 years at the zoo, Cargill decided to dedicate the remaining time left in his career to teaching science and returned to school where he received a teaching license. Today, Cargill teaches in Stafford, where he has enjoyed teaching science for the past 12 years. While developing a professional resume he also developed Project Save, an organization dedicated to environmental education, using free-flighted birds and various reptiles. Project Save has traveled across the county, encouraging young people to protect the environment, stay in school, and excel in math and science. 

Dr. Bryan Dennett '92Dennett is a member of the 2022 induction class but will be formally recognized at the 2023 induction ceremony.

To see Southwestern College's halls of fame and a full list of inductees visit sckans.edu/hof.        


2022 Natural Science Hall of Fame | November 12

Saturday, November 12
Deets Library

5:00 pm Natural Science Hall of Fame Dinner RSVP Required
6:00 pm Natural Science Hall of Fame Ceremony

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Mon, 07 Nov 2022 16:30:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Homecoming Parade to March Down Main Street Saturday Morning]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2306 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2306 The Southwestern College Homecoming Parade will be Saturday, Oct. 15, beginning at 9 a.m., on Winfield’s Main Street. The parade route will begin at 15th and Main and travel north to 10th Street.

A total of 15 entries are entered in the parade, including Homecoming king and queen candidates. They are: Cierra Harrison, Jasmin Hauska, KenTayshija Pruitt, Jen Garcia, Daegiona Wilson, Hunter Clift, Caleb Worsham, Eric Farbes, Dalton Ward, and Slavoski Wright. 

The full schedule of Southwestern College Homecoming activities can be found at https://www.sckans.edu/homecoming

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Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:22:21 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[New Inductees to Enter SC Athletic Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2305 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2305 The Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame will induct five new members Saturday, Oct. 15, in the Roy L. Smith Student Center at 10 a.m. Inductees will also be introduced at halftime of the Southwestern-Tabor Homecoming football game. The new members are Grover Jones ’72, Mike McCoy ’74, Matt Welch ’90, Kara (Beal) Westrup ’08 and ’09, and Dave Denly.

Kara (Beal) Westrup

Kara (Beal) WestrupKara (Beal) Westrup had a decorated career in women’s basketball. She was a three-time All-KCAC First Team selection, twice unanimously, a 2008-2009 Honorable Mention All-American, and led the nation in free throw percentage in 2009. She currently ranks second in all-time free-throw-made percentage (87%), fifth in most career points (1,327), sixth in most three-point shots made (162), and 10th in most points in a season (461, 2007-08).  She was an academic All-American and a member of the Deans Honor Roll in 2007, 2008, and 2009 and was also inducted into the Order of the Mound in 2009. She graduated summa cum laude with a degree in sports management and earned a masters of business administration degree.  Westrup lives in Denver with her husband, Ryan, and their 16-month-old son, Hudson.  She is a registered dietician at Kara Westrup Nutrition.

Matt Welch

Matt WelchMatt Welch participated in football from 1981-84 at Southwestern College. Welch played guard and was a three-time All-Conference selection, twice unanimously, and an All-District selection in 1984.  He was a part of two KCAC Championship teams, played in two bowl games, and one national playoff appearance.  He was an assistant coach at Southwestern from 1985-2001 and was a part of five more KCAC Championships, three playoff appearances, and one more bowl game.  Welch and his wife, Kim, have three children and four grandchildren.  They live in Forney, Texas, on Lake Ray Hubbard, 15 miles east of Dallas.

Mike McCoy

Mike McCoyMike McCoy is being inducted into the Southwestern Hall of Fame in the meritorious category, due to his lifetime of support for Moundbuilder Athletics. McCoy, who played football during his years at Southwestern, earned a bachelor of science degree in education at Southwestern and a master of science degree in sports management from the University of Kansas. McCoy has enjoyed success as a general manager and administrator for arena football.  He was the GM for the Wichita Stealth, Wichita Aviators, and Nebraska Danger; was a consulting GM for the Wichita Falls (Texas) team, and the director for business development and expansion for the Indoor Football League.  McCoy has earned several awards including the 2002 General Manager of the Year by Arena Football 2, 2003 Professional Sports Administrator of the Year by Wichita State Univ., Franchise of the Year while with the Wichita Wild, and Executive of the Year and Franchise of the Year with the Nebraska Danger. McCoy was the director of athletics at Southwestern College for four years. McCoy is an instructor in the sports management department at Wichita State University.  He and his wife, Anne, have five children and 11 grandchildren, and reside in Wichita.

Dave Denly

Dave DenlyDave Denly began coaching Southwestern College women’s basketball in 1998 and after 18 seasons at the helm, he became the all-time winningest coach in Lady Builder history.  He finished his SC career with an overall record of 348-171.  He has continued his coaching at Bellevue (Neb.) with a 111-73 record.  While at SC, Denly’s teams enjoyed a tremendous amount of team and individual success.  He led SC to seven straight 20-win seasons, and seven NAIA National Tournament appearances including five straight appearances, sweet 16 in 2004, and a final eight appearance in 2014.  His teams were nationally ranked in eight straight seasons, including a #6 final poll ranking in 2014.  Denly was named KCAC Coach of the Year in 2004, 2012, and 2014.  He coached 10 NAIA All-Americans, three KCAC Player of the Year recipients, 24 KCAC First Team All-Conference players, 48 NAIA Academic All-Americans, and 84 KCAC Academic All-Conference athletes.  Denly is currently ranked as the 12th-winningest active coach in the NAIA.  Denly also served as Southwestern’s athletic director from 2009-15.  He and his wife, Sara, have two children, Ben (18) and Abbey (16).  

Grover Jones

Grover JonesGrover Jones played wide receiver for the Moundbuilder football team from 1968-71. In a game versus Ottawa in 1971, Jones caught 13 passes, a record that still stands today.  He held the record for most pass receptions in a season (64) until it was broken in 2021.  He was a team captain for the team in 1971 and 72. Jones was a co-founder of the Black Student Union and taught Black Culture for a January Term class in 1972.  He has been married to his wife, Wintze “Bunnie” Jones for 42 years.  He is a small business development consultant in St. Paul, Minn.  He and his wife have five sons, 12 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. 

“The 2022 Athletic Hall of Fame Class is a resounding example of Moundbuilder excellence," said Jamie Adams, director of athletics. “We are thrilled to induct Kara, Matt, Mike, Dave, and Grover to the Southwestern Athletic Hall of Fame. Each of them demonstrates what it means to be a Builder, not only through their athletic careers, but also in the ways they connect and engage in the communities where they live. Their athletic prowess and well-earned accolades are incredibly impressive, but it is the caliber of their character that makes the Builder family proud. We are grateful for the opportunity to honor each of them.”

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and there is no admission charge. For more information about the SC Athletic Hall of Fame or the induction ceremony, call (620) 229-6218.

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Wed, 12 Oct 2022 10:21:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern College Alumni and Ambassadors to be Recognized]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2302 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2302 The 2022 Ambassador Award, the Young Alumni Award, and the Alumni Recognition Award, will be presented Friday, Oct. 14, at the Southwestern College Homecoming dinner in the Roy L. Smith dining hall.  The honorees are Steve and Sally Cauble, Tabatha Rosproy, and Sandee McDade. Robbie Banks from the Southwestern College Class of 1972 will serve as the master of ceremonies for the dinner with brief remarks from President Liz Frombgen. 

Sandee McDade

The SC Ambassador Award will be presented to Winfield resident Sandee McDade. This award recognizes non-graduates of the college who have captured the Builder spirit and have served as ambassadors of goodwill for the college and the community.  

McDade, a 1973 graduate of Winfield High School, attended SC from 1973-75 before going to work at the Winfield State Hospital where she, along with four others, were in charge of the Serendipity School.  Since it was brand new at the time, they wrote the program for the school.  She then worked at William Newton Hospital as a physical therapy assistant, a job she held for 13 years, before moving on to Via Christi.  She was working at Presbyterian Manor in Arkansas City before a cancer diagnosis halted her working. McDade overcame the disease and is still getting checkups but is currently cancer free.

She has found a new passion; meeting Southwestern College students and their families, in-particular, SC baseball players.  As she describes it, a couple of players actually adopted her and so she supports them with her presence and supportive messages.  She says at 67 years old, being around campus and supporting SC students keeps her young and active.

Tabatha Rosproy

Tabatha Rosproy will receive the Young Alumni Award.  This honor is presented to a recent graduate (or graduates) who have made an outstanding commitment to the college through ambassadorship and support, including attendance at college functions and recruitment of new students.

Rosproy is a 2009 SC graduate.  She majored in early childhood education at Southwestern and participated in numerous groups including the 9 Lives Improv Comedy Troupe, theatre, Discipleship Team, and Ed Builders.  She was in the Freshman Class Council, Student Government president, orientation leader for Builder Camp, summer Builder Bound camps, and was named a Masterbuilder.

Rosproy was the 2020 National Teacher of the Year and the first preschool teacher to ever be awarded the national honor, in the history of the United States. She is well-known for helping to create a unique preschool program that is housed at Cumbernauld Village in Winfield where she came to know many community residents, who are SC alumni and serve as volunteer “grandmas” and “grandpas” in the classroom.  Rosproy taught at Cumbernauld for three years before departing for a new opportunity in Kansas City, Kansas.  

Now a 13-year veteran teacher, Rosproy has transitioned into a new role as the early childhood project coordinator for Kansas Parent Information Resource Center where she provides training around the state to school districts and organizations on best practices in early childhood education and family engagement. Rosproy is also a certified instructor for Conscious Discipline and spends her extra time speaking, training, and collaborating with educators all over the country.

She has been married to her husband, Tim, also a Southwestern graduate, for eight years. They now reside in Olathe with their four cats, Mr. Darcy, Beak, Beezus, and Frankenstein.

Steve and Sally Cauble

Steve and Sally Cauble, 1972 graduates, will receive the Outstanding Alumni Award in honor of their contributions to the college and community.

Steve attended Southwestern after graduating high school at Wichita East.  While at SC, he played tennis and was undefeated at #6 singles and claimed a KCAC league championship. He served as a student representative on the Southwestern College Board of Trustees, the first-ever student to do so.

Two weeks following his graduation from SC he was drafted and joined the Air National Guard for six years as a medic.  He served in Wichita and Memphis, Tenn. He then attended optometry school at Southern School of Optometry.  He graduated, joined, and bought a practice in Liberal in 1974.

Now retired, Steve is still busy as a Southwestern College Board of Trustees member, East Heights Methodist Church trustee, Downtown Lions Club Past President, Lion Sight Foundation board member, and a Professional Men’s Club Past President.  He has served on mission trips to Bolivia, Africa, Costa Rica, and nine times to Panama with Volunteer Optometric Service to Humanity.

Sally Cauble graduated from SC in 1972 with a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education.  While at SC, she was a member of the first dance team at the college, was voted in as secretary of the senior class, and worked on campus in the library. 

Sally taught in Fredonia, Memphis, Tenn., and in Liberal.  While in Liberal, she was the education coordinator at Liberal United Methodist Church.  She was on the school board for USD 480 and was chairman of the board.  She also served on the library board, Southwestern College Board of Trustees, the United Way Board, was elected to represent District 5 on the State Board of Education, and the Kansas Optometric Auxiliary.   She has earned many awards for her work including awards from the American Optometric Auxiliary, Kansas Optometric Association, and is a member of the Southwestern College Education Hall of Fame.

Steve and Sally were married in 1973 and have two children, Stephanie, and her husband Kevin Makalous, and Stewart and his wife, Nichele.  They also are the proud grandparents of the three granddaughters; Ashley, Allyson, and Amanda Makalous. 

Steve and Sally have been co-chairs of a capital campaign to raise money for Southwestern College and have been named the Southwest Daily Times Citizens of the Year and the Liberal Chamber of Commerce Citizens of the Year.       

 “We look forward to celebrating and connecting with the many wonderful alumni who come back to campus for Homecoming, but we are particularly excited to lift up these four individuals, who represent the Builder Spirit and our college in all that they do for their communities and Southwestern,” said Frombgen.

The full 2022 Alumni Homecoming schedule may be found at www.sckans.edu/homecoming.

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Fri, 07 Oct 2022 10:52:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern Names New Director of Alumni Engagement]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2301 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2301 Liz Frombgen, president of Southwestern College, has announced Ashlee Mayo as the new director of alumni engagement. Mayo, who started work at Southwestern in 2017 as the coordinator of new media/assistant designer, officially transitioned into her new role on Oct. 3. As part of the reorganized position, Mayo will retain responsibility for the institution’s social media pages.
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Ashlee Mayo“The college has an opportunity and obligation to strengthen and build relationships with alumni and friends of the college – Ashlee is excellently suited to engage alumni through meaningful events and proactive communication,” said Frombgen. “While Ashlee is a graduate of K-State, she is proudly a Winfield native and she has come to have a deep love for Southwestern College during her time working for the college; she bleeds purple and belongs to the Builder Family.” 

Mayo will support the 2022 Homecoming which will take place at Southwestern Oct. 14-16. Details for all of the festivities including the parade, tailgate, football game, 20th Anniversary 9-Lives performance, and alumni meet-ups may be found at www.sckans.edu/homecoming

“In a couple of weeks we will celebrate the connection that we share in this college, our home on the hill,” said Mayo. “There will be a lot of fun moments packed into the weekend that are focused on creating space for alumni to remember and re-connect – sharing in their love for Southwestern and for the Builder Family.” 

Beyond a successful Homecoming and alumni events, Mayo plans to create an advisory group of alumni, focused on uniting a global network of Builders and advancing the mission of Southwestern College.

“The alumni of Southwestern are a passionate and talented group,” said Mayo. “My goal is to help alumni find new ways to plug into Southwestern. I know doing so will enrich their lives and strengthen the college.”

The college hosts annual events on campus for alumni of the college including Homecoming (Oct. 14-16), Athletic Hall of Fame (Oct. 15), Natural Science Hall of Fame (Nov. 12), WinterFest (Dec. 4), and Founders Weekend (April 21-22). Mayo is also looking forward to planning both local and regional alumni meet-up events as well as online gatherings throughout the year.

“I’m looking forward to getting creative to reenergize our alumni base. Southwestern truly is a magical place that is made more magical by the love and support of engaged alumni, donors, and community,” said Mayo. “I am excited to support that connection, creating mutual benefit for alumni, and our beautiful little college on the hill.” 

The office of institutional advancement and alumni services is also working to update the alumni database, alumni and individuals who are affiliated with Southwestern, are invited to take a moment to update alumni information at www.sckans.edu/whatsnew. For questions or to connect, email Ashlee.Mayo@sckans.edu or call (620) 229-6155. 

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Thu, 06 Oct 2022 12:55:01 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern College Founders Day Weekend April 22-23]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2255 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2255 Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into four halls of fame during the annual Founders Day weekend at Southwestern College Friday and Saturday, April 22 and 23.  

The celebration will include recognition of inductees entering the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences, as well as the Fine Arts, Business, and Educators Halls of Fame. 

All of the induction ceremonies are open to the public at no cost, but there is a cost for associated meals and seating is limited for those meals. To make meal reservations, contact Ashleigh Hollis at (620) 229-6155.

Hall of fame festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 22, in Deets Library with dinner honoring the Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences.  The induction ceremony will begin at 6:15 p.m. Meal cost is $20.

On Saturday, April 23, the Business of Fame breakfast will begin at 8 a.m. in Deets Library, followed immediately by the induction ceremony at 9 a.m.  The ceremony will take place in Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Meal cost is $15.

A brunch will be held for the Fine Arts Hall of Fame in Deets Library at 10 a.m., with the induction ceremony to begin at 11 a.m. in Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Meal cost is $15.

At 12:45 p.m. in Deets Library, there will be a luncheon for the Educators and Scholars Hall of Fame inductees. Lunch cost is $15. At 1:30 p.m., the induction ceremony for the Educators Hall of Fame will begin. Immediately following the Educators ceremony (at approximately 2:30 p.m.) the Scholars Hall of Fame induction ceremony will begin. 

Other events include:

Hall of Fame lecture presented by Stephen Woodburn, professor of history at Southwestern College, Friday, April 22, at 2 p.m., in Richardson Performing Arts Center. The title of his lecture is “Well, What’s Putin Gonna Do?” Woodburn has been the recipient of the Kopke, Fassnacht, United Methodist, and Student Government teaching awards during his 19 years at SC. His doctorate is in Russian history, he has completed the first English translation of three Russian books and other articles, and he has traveled to Russia in 1996, 1998, and 2005. He has practiced “armchair Kremlinology” for local audiences including Sunflower Parish, Winfield Rotary Club, and the readers of the CourierTraveler newspaper. “Despite all this,” Woodburn says with a wink, “fair warning, I don’t actually know what he will do.” 

South Kansas Symphony concert at 3 p.m., on Sunday, April 24, in Richardson Performing Arts Center.

Individuals entering the various halls of fame include:

Leaders in Service: Dr. Wallace Gray (posthumous); Rev. Jim Reed ’64; and Mona Petrocco Klein ’74.

Fine Arts: Misty Maynard ’75, Frieda Lindburg ’70, and Tom (posthumous) and Mari (Waite) Wallrabenstein ’59 and ’60.

Business: Thornton House ’94, and John Nichols ’87.  Business Builder award will be presented to RCB Bank.

Educators: Ruth Franklin McKeefery ’45 and Lynn (Bales) Hunter ’75.  Marilyn McNeish Award for Special Education – Ralph Hanna Jr. (posthumous)’60.

Southwestern College hall of fame displays are located in Mossman Hall, Darbeth Fine Arts Center, Beech Science Center, Deets Library, and Stewart Field House.

2022 Founders Weekend Schedule

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Thu, 10 Mar 2022 11:13:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern College Day of Giving is March 24]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2254 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2254 The annual Step Up for Southwestern Day of Giving will be held on Thursday, March 24.

“The last two years have proven that the Builder Family will Step Up for SC,” says Pat Wagner, vice president for institutional advancement.  “We are excited to announce that, again this year, every gift to the Builder Fund on March 24 will be matched.  An anonymous group of donors have stepped up to make each gift count twice as much.” 

Last year the college had a goal of raising $75,000 and was pleasantly surprised to have raised $100,000 which turned into $200,000 thanks to a matching grant.  This year the college hopes to eclipse that mark.

The funds raised through Step Up for SC support each and every student on campus by helping to provide the quality education Builders have come to expect.

Give Now

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Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:34:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Natural Science Hall of Fame Inducts Three New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2238 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2238 Three Southwestern College graduates were inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 13, in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College. 

The new members are David Brooks, Ann Arbor, Mich., Scott Carter, Detroit, Mich., and Steven Short, Manhattan.

2021 Natural Science Hall of Fame InducteesPictured: 2021 Hall of Fame inductees Scott Carter, class of 1980 (left), Steven Short, class of 1978 (right) pose with Tammy McEwen, Associate Professor of Biology; Chair, Division of Natural Sciences following Hall of Fame induction ceremony held in Deets Library on Nov. 13. David Brooks, class of 1960, was also inducted to the hall but was unable to attend the gathering.

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

“These inductees represent the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s well,” says Pat Wagner, vice president for institutional advancement.  “Southwestern has a strong history in the natural sciences and these three new members continue that level of excellence.”

2021 Inductees

Dr. David BrooksDr. David Brooks '60 is board-certified in family practice and osteopathic manipulative medicine. He graduated from Southwestern College in 1960 with a bachelors of science in chemistry and mathematics. After a semester at the University of Kansas doing graduate studies, David was accepted into A.T. Still University of Health Sciences in Kirkville, Mo., where he completed medical school—ranking 15 out of 110 students. After completing his medical internship in 1966, Dr. Brooks entered into private practice with Dr. Charles Lyon in Ypsilanti, Mich., where they remained in partnership for 55 years. He was also on faculty at Michigan State University and on staff at Beyer Hospital in Ypsilanti for many years. Dr. Brooks and his wife, Peggy, live in Ann Arbor, Michigan where they are enjoying their retirement. They have four children, 11 grandchildren, and one great-grandson.

Scott CarterScott Carter '80 is the Chief Life Sciences Officer for the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS). He is the executive leader of the mission of the DZS, including animal care, health, welfare, and conservation as well as education programs serving students of all ages in Southeast Michigan and beyond. In addition to the bachelor’s degree in biology he earned at Southwestern College, he holds a master’s degree in liberal studies from Wichita State University. He began his career as a zookeeper at the Sedgwick County Zoo and was formerly the mammal curator and director of conservation and animal welfare for the Detroit Zoo. He helped found the DZS’s Center for Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare and Ethics and helps to lead the programs of science, advocacy and training that it encompasses. A career working with and for animals has many highlights, including forming relationships with amazing animals, working in the field conducting primate surveys in the Amazon, immersion and learning in wild places all over the world, being part of what became a landmark decision to no longer house elephants for ethical reasons, and advocacy for animals and wildlife at local, state, and federal levels. He is a Professional Fellow, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and a Fellow of the Noyce Leadership Institute.

Dr. Steven ShortDr. Steven Short '78 who graduated cum laude with majors in both biology and chemistry while also earning a minor in sociology. He also remained busy as a student participating in several extracurricular activities. After graduating, he attend A. T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Mo. He spent his internship in Flint, Mich., and completed his residency in 1987 in Wichita at the KU Medical Center. He then completed mission work in Bolivia. He served the Indian Health Services in Tahlequah, Okla., until 1991. He also served a pulmonary research fellowship with the Center for Disease Control from 1991 to 1995. Since then, he has served as board-certified pulmonologist with expertise in critical care and internal medicine. Dr. Short continues his private practice in Manhattan as a pulmonologist with a special emphasis in critical care and sleep medicine. Additionally, his office serves multiple other clinics in North Central and Western Kansas. He has also served a confirmation teacher his church for the last 20 years.

View the Natural Science Hall of Fame

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Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:29:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Wagner Named Vice President for Institutional Advancement at SC]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2067 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2067 Southwestern College President Brad Andrews has named Pat Wagner as vice president for institutional advancement.

Pat WagnerAfter completing a national search, with a large and strong pool of candidates, Pat stood out as an engaging, experienced, and talented fundraising leader,” said Andrews.
Wagner will lead a team in the office of institutional advancement responsible for alumni relations, annual fund, major gifts, and other development functions.

“His track record of success includes growing annual giving and leading capital campaigns. This, along with his experience serving at the vice-presidential level, perfectly suits him for the opportunities at Southwestern,” said Andrews.

Wagner earned his bachelor’s degree in economics at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. He has worked in the field of advancement and fundraising for nearly 20 years, following a successful career in corporate management. Wagner served at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis., and Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C., prior to his current position as vice president for development and alumni relations at Illinois College in Jacksonville, Ill.

“I am taken by Southwestern’s many meaningful traditions; the college has a rich history, and, as evidenced by impressive growth in recent years, strong momentum,” said Wagner. “When my wife and I visited Southwestern and Winfield we felt very welcome. We are looking forward to being a part of such a warm and vibrant community.” 

Wagner will begin work in the office for institutional advancement on January 14.

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Wed, 19 Dec 2018 11:30:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern College Natural Science Hall of Fame to Induct Three New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2055 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2055 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 5 p.m., in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College.  

The new members are Angela Mayorga May, Shawnee; Kenneth Renner, Beresford, S.D.; and C. Clifford Conaway (deceased).

The celebration will begin with dinner at 5 p.m. (cost is $25 per person, seating is limited, and RSVPs are necessary) followed immediately by the induction ceremony.  To make reservations, contact Charles McKinzie, director of alumni engagement at Southwestern College, at (620) 222-1135 or email Charles.mckinzie@sckans.edu. 

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

“We are always excited to welcome new members into our halls of fame,” says McKinzie.  “It reminds us of how much we have to be proud of and how important it is for us to continue our tradition of excellence for current students. We are privileged to welcome these Moundbuilders into this prestigious hall.”

Inductees include:

  • C. Clifford Conaway ’60 was a toxicologist, research scientist, and college professor whose distinguished career continued until a year before his death at age 78 in 2017. Conaway spent seven years as a project toxicologist for Texaco before moving to the American Health Foundation (Institute for Cancer Prevention) in 1986. For 17 years he did cancer research focusing on basic research on mechanisms of carcinogenesis and dietary approaches to cancer chemoprevention. He was author of 41 publications at the institute before it closed in 2004. Conaway was a consultant in environmental toxicology, carcinogenesis, and risk assessment, and was project leader for health risk evaluations on emissions from hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities for the EPA. He concluded his career teaching topics related to toxicology at Pace University and at New York Medical College. 

  • Angela Mayorga May ’97 received her M.D. degree from Creighton University and completed residency training in the combined internal medicine/psychiatry program at the University of Kansas. She was recipient of the Shawn Storm Memorial Award, presented to a graduating psychiatry resident who consistently demonstrates excellence in all aspects of patient-centered care. She was selected one of four chief residents in internal medicine, holding a joint appointment in the department of psychiatry. She joined the psychiatry faculty at the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2007 and holds a joint appointment as assistant professor of psychiatry and internal medicine at KU Medical Center. She also functions as residency director of the psychiatry residency program. Her principal duties are educating residents, staffing the outpatient clinic, and working as a psychiatric consultant to the solid organ transplant service.

  • Kenneth J. Renner ’76 has spent his career in education and research, mostly focusing on investigating how steroid hormones affect monoaminergic transmission (dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine pathways) to alter the expression of behaviors, in particular female sexual behavior and stress responses. A faculty member at the University of South Dakota from 1994 to the present, his recent studies have examined the potential roles of organic cation transporters in mediating rapid changes in monoamine neurotransmitters in response to the stress hormone corticosterone. This raises the possibility that the corticosterone blockade of organic cation-mediated transport may contribute to rapid actions of stress hormones in the brain and affect behavioral outcomes. Dr. Renner has spent consider time optimizing and applying techniques for analysis of monoamines in his own lab and has generously shared this knowledge with other investigators. Nominated multiple times for excellence in teaching awards, Dr. Renner continues to be active in science education as a volunteer instructor for the South Dakota Governor’s camp (middle school students) and Ambassadors Camp (high school students).

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Thu, 01 Nov 2018 13:25:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Homecoming 2018 Events at Southwestern College]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2048 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/2048 Southwestern College will celebrate 2018 Homecoming Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 21.  Numerous activities have been announced.
 
For more information on any of the Homecoming festivities, contact Charles McKinzie, director of alumni programs, at (620) 222-1135. For schedule updates, refer to the homecoming website— www.sckans.edu/homecoming.

Friday’s schedule includes:

  • 2 to 5 p.m.— Registration for class reunions in the Christy Administration Building lobby.
  • 5:30 p.m.—Junior varsity volleyball versus Kansas Wesleyan in Stewart Field House.
  • 6 to 7:30 p.m. — All class Homecoming dinner, Roy L. Smith dining hall.  Recognition of 50-year class, 51 and above classes, and all class hosts.
  • 7 p.m.—Varsity volleyball versus Kansas Wesleyan, Stewart Field House
  • 7:30 p.m. — Kaleidoscope concert, Richardson Performing Arts Center.  SC music ensembles with the South Kansas Symphony, ($10 suggested donation, tickets available at the door).
  • 9:30 p.m.  — Bonfire and pep rally, north end of the grass soccer field.

Saturday’s schedule includes:

  • 9 a.m. — Homecoming parade, Main Street between 15th and 10th Street.
  • 10 a.m. — Alumni registration, Stewart Field House foyer.
  • 10 a.m.—Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Roy L. Smith student center dining hall.
  • 10:30 a.m.—Performing arts reception, Darbeth lobby.
  • 10:30 a.m.— Family Fun ’Round the Mound – Cole Mound Plaza. Concert by Worship Outreach, Royal Game Theater mobile gaming truck and more.
  • 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Professional class photos, King Plaza, photo times (class photos will be done separately by class):  11:45 – classes of 1973, 1978; noon –classes of 1983 and 1988; 12:15 p.m. – classes of 1993 and 1998; 12:30 p.m. – classes of 2003, 2008, and 2013.
  • 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Homecoming picnic, Stewart Field House, $9 per person, $4.50 for children.
  • Noon – President’s Luncheon for 51+ years alumni, Country Club.
  • 1:30 p.m. — Homecoming football game vs. Bethel College.
  • 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. — Class reunion dinner gatherings. (For full details on class reunion activities, check the Homecoming website for specific class—www.sckans.edu/homecoming).
  • 5:30 p.m. — Class of 1968 reunion dinner, Winfield County Club, $30 per person RSVP required.
  • 5:30 to 7 p.m. — Class reunion dinner gatherings. (For full details on class reunion activities, check the Homecoming website for specific class—www.sckans.edu/homecoming).
  • 5:30 p.m.—Women’s soccer versus Tabor College, Jantz Stadium.
  • 8 p.m.—Men’s soccer versus Tabor College, Jantz Stadium.
  • 8 p.m. — “Eternal Quest Game Show” Campus Players game show of the century, Richardson Performing Arts Center. RSVP to perform or to be a contestant. Campus Players of all ages - alumni and current students - will compete to name actors, characters, designers, song titles, play titles, and other miscellaneous tidbits of information from the 100th anniversary SC theatre season and the theatre seasons from the Homecoming 2018 reunion years.  Questions will feature super short scenes, songs, or other memorable moments from productions performed by current students and alumni volunteers.

Sunday’s schedule includes:

  • 9:30 a.m. — Alumni breakfast buffet, Roy L. Smith dining hall, $7 per person.
  • 10 a.m.—Class of 2010 farewell breakfast at Hunters Café, 1020 Manning.
  • 10:50 a.m. — Homecoming worship service, Grace UMC, Rev. Ashley Alley Crawford ’98 guest speaker.
  • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Sunday brunch buffet, Roy L. Smith dining hall, $8 per person.
  • 6 p.m. – SC Youth Symphony Concert – RPAC. $8 adults/$5 children (5-18)/Free children under 5
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Wed, 10 Oct 2018 17:54:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Natural Science Hall of Fame to Induct Three New Members]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1942 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1942 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 6:15 p.m., in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College.  There is no admission charge to attend the ceremony and the public is invited to attend.

The new members are Brad Weigle, Koloa, Hawaii, and Terra Ceia, Fla.; James Anderson, Duncan, S.C.; and Ernest Reid (deceased).

This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

“We are always excited to welcome new members into our halls of fame,” says Charles McKinzie, director of alumni engagement at Southwestern College.  “It reminds us of how much we have to be proud of and how important it is for us to continue our tradition of excellence for current students. We are privileged to welcome these Moundbuilders into this prestigious hall.”

Inductees include:

James AndersonJames A. Anderson ’62 is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at the University of South Carolina Upstate.  From 1989 to 2007 he was professor of mathematics at the school, where he chaired the Division of Mathematics and Computer Science. He was awarded the first University Annual Award for Scholarly and/or Creative Pursuits. He also had been director of academic computing and coordinator of computer sciences at Emporia State University, and for six years was a software engineer and research scientist at Jet Propulsion Laboratory. His duties there included technical responsibility for the eight ground software systems of NASA’s Galileo Space Project, which contained more than two million lines of code and involved more than two hundred personnel. His 40 publications in number theory, abstract algebra, and computer science include four books.

Ernest ReidErnest W. Reid 1916 was a chemical engineer who became a pioneer in using agricultural products to produce chemicals. He was associated with the Mellon Institute of Industrial Research in Pittsburgh when he received his doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. During World War II, Dr. Reid helped establish the chemicals branch of the Office of Production Management (which became the War Production Board) and served as its deputy director general and head of its chemicals division. Reid left that board in 1943 to become vice president of Corn Products Refining. After organizing the chemical division and directing research and development he was named a director in 1947 and president in 1951. He was board chairman from 1956 to his retirement in 1958. Dr. Reid was awarded the medal of the Society of Chemical Industry in 1951. He died in 1966.

Brad WeigleBrad Weigle ’72 was hired as a research scientist at the Florida Marine Research Institute in St. Petersburg even before he finished his graduate degree at the University of South Florida.  His thesis, a study on the abundance and movement of bottlenose dolphins through Tampa Bay, preceded 13 years leadership of statewide manatee, dolphin, and whale studies. A pioneer in the work of Geographic Information systems, he initiated the vector mapping system for the laboratory; this became a valuable tool for storage and analysis of environmental data. Weigle transitioned into private industry and managed a national GIS contract with the USDA Forest Service. During 17 years he completed more than 30 projects. He retired in 2016 and is now mapping remote areas of Kauai as a volunteer at the National Tropical Botanical Gardens.

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Thu, 02 Nov 2017 15:35:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Aidan Goodrich: Getting out of it what he put into it]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1912 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1912 (As featured in the Summer 2017 issue of The Southwesterner.)

Aidan Goodrich at CommencementIt’s a rare Southwestern student who doesn’t hear the same advice Aidan Goodrich heard as a new freshman: “You’re going to get out of it what you put into it,” someone told him.

It’s a rare student, though, who takes this advice as seriously as Goodrich. He graduated from SC in May with a biology degree. But in addition to the activities expected of a biology major (Beta Beta Beta, Pi Gamma Mu) he completed internships with Legacy Regional Community Foundation, SeaWorld Orlando, and the Georgia Aquarium. He was a member of the Leadership Team and was also elected a MasterBuilder.

“I was excited – I wanted to do things, challenge myself, learn about myself,” he says. “If there’s anything you’re passionate about, you’re going to put a lot of energy into it, and one thing led to another.”

When meeting with prospective students as an ambassador he shared that they were in for a special experience.

Aidan Goodrich at SeaWorld“I told them they were going to learn a lot about themselves, and other people, and the world, but they were also going to learn the spirit of service,” he says. “Our college is built on four pillars – knowledge, hope, courage, and freedom—but the fifth invisible pillar is service.”

Now Goodrich is working as a husbandry assistant in the animal training department of SeaWorld San Antonio, and spends his days observing killer whale calves, feeding sea otters, and caring for sea lions.

“It’s exactly what I was hoping it would be, and more,” he says – just like his Southwestern experience.

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Fri, 30 Jun 2017 15:11:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Kayla Demel: Leaving SC better than she found it]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1911 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1911 (As featured in the Summer 2017 issue of The Southwesterner.)

Kayla DemelKayla Demel admits that she came to Southwestern to play basketball, but that decision opened the door to more than she ever expected.

“I saw upperclassmen getting involved, and I thought ‘I want to do that – I want to be an RA, and be involved in Builder Camp, and in student government, and in things I’m passionate about.’”

During her freshman year, Kayla admits, she was mostly focused on basketball and hanging out with friends.

“School wasn’t the first thing on my mind all the time, but then I realized I was only in college for four years,” she says. “I had to be ready to make decisions, and decisions you make in college are going to affect you for the rest of your life.”

Seeing older students model the possibilities Southwestern offered turned into a whirlwind of activities for Demel, who graduated in May as SGA president, student ambassador, treasurer of the Athletic Training Society, and member of the Pre-Health Professionals organization. And she continued to play basketball – she was an NAIA Div. II scholar-athlete and participated in all 31 games during her senior season.

“I told (dean of students) Dan Falk in February that my main goal was to leave Southwestern better than I found it, and I think I did that,” she says.

Next up for Kayla is a position with Advanced Orthopedic Associates in Wichita, where she will be working with a surgeon as a physician extender and athletic trainer.

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Fri, 30 Jun 2017 15:05:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Nichols’ second career leads to national acclaim]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1910 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1910 (As featured in the Summer 2017 issue of The Southwesterner.)

David Nichols Signing BookFor a quarter of a century the college needed David Nichols to serve in a progression of roles. Though he considered opportunities elsewhere he was compelled to stay at SC. He taught economics, headed the business department, led institutional advancement, and finally was vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college before he retired in 2003. And still, he says, he didn’t find out what he was really good at until he left SC.

(Pictured: David Nichols signs copies of his latest book about Dwight Eisenhower during an event on the Southwestern campus April 27. The book has been favorably reviewed by major national media.)

Today Nichols is a nationally-recognized author who is being called the foremost scholar on the presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower. His latest book, Ike and McCarthy, was released in March 2017 and has been favorably reviewed by such media as the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Atlantic Monthly, and the Dallas Morning News. It was called “a thrilling new history” by The Daily Beast.

“I wasn’t going to play golf, and I needed something to do,” Nichols explains his late-life career as an author. Trained as a historian (his doctorate from College of William and Mary was in history), he told colleagues when he retired that he planned to write a book. Few predicted how successful he would be, though.

Abilene, he explains, was close and cheap so he decided to concentrate his research on the 34th president. Overlooked by East Coast scholars because of its out-of-the-way location, Eisenhower’s presidential library turned out to be a researcher’s treasure trove and Nichols reveled in the information he found.

Nichols Book Ike and McCarthyAn editor at Simon and Schuster took an interest in Nichols’ work, and in 2007 the respected publisher released A Matter of Justice: Eisenhower and the Beginning of the Civil Rights Revolution. This was followed in 2011 by Eisenhower 1956: The President’s Year of Crisis – Suez and the Brink of War.

Critics took note of the books, with the Christian Science Monitor calling Year of Crisis one of “seven history books worth checking out in 2011.”

With the publication of Ike and McCarthy, Nichols has taken his place as the nation’s foremost expert on the Eisenhower presidency. National book tours, media interviews, and a second printing have followed its March 21 release.

“It’s the best written of the three books by far,” Nichols admits. “It’s not a who-done-it, it’s a how-done-it. It’s like a Sherlock Holmes mystery.”

At the center of the book is the fascinating general who became a president.

“Eisenhower was deceptive, almost to a fault,” Nichols says. “He appeared to be a bumbling grandfather in public but behind the scenes he was profane, ruthless, tough. When he finally went to war he could be lethal. He was both ethical and ruthless, which is a strange mixture.”

Now that Nichols has taken his place as a leading presidential scholar, he looks back on the careers that came before, and the Southwestern influence that occurred during his student days even before these careers began.

“During that transformative (for me) 1956-60 period, I learned that I – this untutored farm kid – could be a lifelong learner. Since then, I have lived by the maxim: ‘A liberal arts education equips you to learn whatever you have to learn to do whatever you have to do,’” Nichols says. “That principle has informed my life right up to and including the new book.”

“I’m a teacher at heart,” he says, “but if I had only been a classroom teacher I wouldn’t have understood Eisenhower.”

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Fri, 30 Jun 2017 14:51:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Builders: They're Everywhere]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1909 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1909 (As featured in the Summer 2017 issue of The Southwesterner.)

Builders Everywhere 1Moundbuilders meet in the most unexpected places, as Kent Lundy ’90 and Kevin Galo ’14 discovered during the past year. Chaplain (Maj.) Lundy, a member of the 122nd Fighter Wing of the Indiana Air National Guard, and Staff Sgt. Galo, an active duty U.S. Air Force Security Forces member from F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, were deployed to Eskan Village in Saudi Arabia from July 2016 to January 2017 as members of the 879th Expeditionary Security Forces squadron. Eskan Village is a United States Secretary of State Training Mission compound where approximately 1,000 military members and contractors live and work. The 879th provided the force protection for the entire compound.

“We did not know each other before we arrived,” Lundy says. “We realized the connection one day when Kevin was talking with me about the incredible military-friendly college he was attending!”

Builders Everywhere 2Lundy earned his SC bachelor of arts in 1990, and Galo finished his criminal science degree from Professional Studies in 2014. In addition to his military duties Lundy is a full-time elder in the Indiana conference of the United Methodist Church, and as of July 1 will be senior pastor of Churubusco United Methodist Church.

“And yes,” Lundy adds, “we both deployed with our SC T-shirts.”

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Fri, 30 Jun 2017 14:10:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Three New Members Enter SC Business HOF; Kline Motors Receives Business Builder Award]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1897 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1897 The Southwestern College Business Hall of Fame added three new names Saturday, April 22.  Eric Kurtz, Brian Pettey, and Dennis Hodges have joined the ranks of other distinguished business leaders in Southwestern College history and were inducted as part of Founders Weekend activities. The Business Builder Award was presented to Kline Motors.

2017 Business HOFThis year’s inductees included:
•         Eric Kurtz ’92 is CEO and president of Union State Bank, the culmination of a career that began immediately after graduation. Kurtz progressed from night processor to senior vice president of Pioneer Bank and Trust in Ponca City before the bank was acquired in 2006. During his tenure the group became one of only three Oklahoma banks with Preferred Lender Program status with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Following acquisition by RCB Bank, Kurtz became senior vice president of commercial lending. In 2009, he joined Union State Bank. He became president of the bank in 2011, rising to CEO and president in 2014. During his tenure, the bank has expanded into Bartlesville, Okla., and Wichita, acquired RelianzBank, and has been recognized as one of the healthiest banks in the nation. 
 •      Brian Pettey ’96 is CEO of Robotzone, LLC, a business he founded in a Reid residence hall room during his senior year at Southwestern. Located in Winfield, the initial focus of Robotzone was designing and manufacturing robots and robotic components for educational purposes. In 2002, Robotzone began developing more advanced products that were suited for more diverse markets. Robotzone has assisted companies with NASA missions, had robots displayed at the Kennedy Space Center, and constructed robots to help kids learn in thousands of classrooms worldwide. Pettey has also assisted in the development of robots used to protect solders in war zones as well as in television programs and movies. Currently, Robotzone is designing a modular robotic construction system. Pettey has invented numerous products and holds more than 30 patents.
•       Dennis Hodges ’81 is the founder/CEO of Creatalyst, a global strategy boutique that teaches executives, educators, students, and entrepreneurs how to unlock creativity and drive innovation.  Hodges started with a self-designed degree in aesthetics and humanities that taught him to see relationships and connections among seemingly dissimilar items. This set the course for his life’s work, which combines photography, creativity, and strategy. Living for 14 years in Hungary taught him to look at issues from multiple perspectives and appreciate the local nuances that shape world views. He has worked on five continents, including speaking at TEDx Danubia. His work has been shown globally and is in the permanent collection of museums and private collectors.  Dennis also launched the lifestyle brand Dream. Believe. Do. and hosts its podcast.
•    Kline Motors was established in 1963 by Don and Virginia Kline as a family-owned business and has served Winfield and the Cowley County area for more than half a century. Its mission stresses the company’s commitment to the community. Pat Biddle started his career in 1975 in the service and parts departments and continued the tradition of supporting the community that included Southwestern College as he assumed leadership of the company. Kline Motors is now a third-generation business with Pat’s son, Jeremy, set to take ownership of the business. Following in the family footsteps, Jeremy’s son, Wyatt, 14, works summers in the dealership. 
 

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Thu, 11 May 2017 14:20:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[2012 Graduate and Political Refugee Excels in Medical School]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1862 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1862 2012 SC salutatorian and political refugee Tendai Kwaramba is featured in an article on UNC School of Medicine website:

Tendai Kwaramba

From Zimbabwe to Chapel Hill

by Zach Read - zachary.read@unchealth.unc.edu

Nearly a decade ago, fearing for her life, UNC medical student Tendai Kwaramba fled Zimbabwe and the ruthless regime of Robert Mugabe. Today, she's a political refugee living in the United States, on her way to becoming a physician.

In December 2008, as Tendai Kwaramba crossed the southern border of Zimbabwe into South Africa, she wondered if she would see her native country again. She was 18 years old, had just graduated from high school, and was fleeing to the United States, where her mother, Christinah, and brother, Farai, awaited her...

Read Full Article

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Thu, 02 Feb 2017 17:00:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Southwestern College Prepares for Giving Tuesday]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1835 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1835 Southwestern College is preparing to take part in its third annual day of giving on Nov. 29. Giving Tuesday, a global giving movement, has been driven by individuals, families, organizations, businesses and communities in all 50 states and in countries around the world.

Giving TuesdayThe goal of the Giving Tuesday movement is to pause and focus on serving others. After two days for getting deals – Black Friday and Cyber Monday – Giving Tuesday is a day for giving back, says Jessica Dibble, director of annual fund for Southwestern College.  The day is an opportunity to raise money for local nonprofits, schools and arts organizations; run food and clothing drives; teach children about philanthropy; encourage acts of kindness; collaborate with neighbors; and celebrate generosity.

Since Southwestern began promoting Giving Tuesday to in 2014, significant funds have been raised for the college’s Builder Fund. In the past two years more than $20,000 have been raised from Giving Tuesday gifts.

“We have been very excited by the response to Giving Tuesday,” Dibble says.  “We are hopeful that Builder Nation will once again help us participate in this extraordinary day of generosity.”

Annual fund gifts collected for the Builder Fund are unrestricted, which allows Southwestern to be responsive to emerging opportunities and fund quality enhancements across the campus. 

Giving Tuesday donors are encouraged to support Southwestern  by mailing Intuitional Advancement at 100 College Street Winfield, KS 67156, calling 620-229-6279, or making a secure gift online at www.sckans.edu/makeagift.

Southwestern College is a private institution granting undergraduate and graduate degrees and is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.  About 1,700 students attend classes at the main Winfield campus, at six professional studies sites in Kansas and Oklahoma, or online around the world.

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Wed, 23 Nov 2016 12:56:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Three Former Moundbuilders to Enter SC Natural Science Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1827 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1827 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 12, at 5 p.m., in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College.  

The new members are Charles Hunter, Winfield; Gerald “Eddie” Weigle, Burden; and Arthur Hertzler (deceased). The hall of fame plaques will be on display prior to the 5 p.m. dinner in the Deets Library.  The induction ceremony will begin at the conclusion of the meal.  
This hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

“The legacy of Southwestern College’s natural science program has been in place for over 100 years, as is evidenced by the induction of this year’s notable alumni,” says Susan Lowe, director of alumni programs at Southwestern. “Dr. Arthur Hertzler, class of 1896, was a man ahead of his time in the field of medicine, and the education background he received at Southwestern undoubtedly was a part of that success.  The other two 2016 inductees bear witness to the fact that this legacy remains as strong as ever.  It is truly an honor to recognize these outstanding individuals for their work.”

Inductees include:
•    K. Charles “Charlie” Hunter ’67 turned his fascination with invertebrate animals and his love for teaching into a 42-year career on the Southwestern College faculty. He returned to the college as a sabbatical replacement in 1974 after earning his graduate degrees from the University of Oregon, but plans for a short stay changed when he fell in love with undergraduate teaching and the quality and character of SC students. During this time, he fostered undergraduate research and designed a number of courses that continued to be taught at SC, including his favorite, Animal Physiology. He was the driving force behind SC’s marine biology program and for 16 summers taught students (including Moundbuilders) at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology. Hunter’s awards included several SGA Faculty Citations, the Kopke Distinguished Teaching Award, and the United Methodist Exemplary Teacher Award.

•    Gerald E. Weigle II ’93 received undergraduate degrees in both biology/chemistry and physics from Southwestern and a master’s in electrical engineering from Kansas State University before going to work for Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. While at SwRI he worked on software for numerous NASA spacecraft missions, including Deep Impact, Cassini (Saturn), New Horizons (Pluto), and the Curiosity Rover (Mars). Weigle took on leadership of several of the project: On the Pluto project he was lead engineer for operations, and he was software project manager for the Curiosity Rover. He left SwRI in 2013 to move home to Burden, Kan., where he formed Big Head Endian LLC. The professional engineering and software firm continues to work on the projects Weigle had at SwRI, in addition to new mission work. 

•    Arthur E. Hertzler, class of 1896, was known as the “Horse and Buggy Doctor” and brought health care to Kansas which rivaled that found anywhere at the time.  Having received his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School, Dr. Hertzler continued with three years of intensive medical study in Berlin before returning to Kansas.  His reputation for diagnosis and treatment was well known and physicians from a wide area consulted with him.  Hertzler had been offered a position as Professor of Anatomy at Northwestern, but chose instead to establish the Halstead (Kan.) Hospital in 1902.  During that same year, he accepted a position to teach pathology, histology, surgery, and gynecology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, although he still held office hours two days a week in Halstead.  In 1946, after more than 50 years of 18-hour days, Hertzler retired.  The legacy of this outstanding Kansas country doctor lives on through the Hertzler Research Foundation, Agnes Hertzler Memorial Clinic, Kansas Health Museum, and Halstead Hospital. 

Pat Ross, chair of the division of natural sciences and mathematics at Southwestern, will serve as the master of ceremonies for the induction.  Prior to the hall of fame inductions, there will be introductions of the science advisory council members, biology activity grant scholars, internship participants, and the Tri-Beta officers.

View the online Natural Science Hall of Fame gallery here.

For more information about the Natural Science Hall of Fame, contact Lowe at (620) 229-6334.

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Mon, 31 Oct 2016 14:45:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Homecoming 2016 Promises Lots of Fun!]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1766 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1766 Mark your calendar for October 7, 8, 9, 2016, the dates of this year's Homecoming celebration.  The weekend promises to be more exciting than ever with lots of reunion gatherings scheduled, including football, soccer, Iota Pi Omega, and classes of 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011!  In addition, Campus Players will have a party, and alumni who were a part of the 1966 seminar to the Pacific area with Dr. Wallace and Ina Gray, will be meeting with them to reminisce over dinner.  Contact your Class Hosts or Susan Lowe if you have questions or ideas for more things to add to the schedule... and we look forward to seeing you then!

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Tue, 26 Apr 2016 11:10:19 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Inauguration of President Bradley J Andrews]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1744 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1744 Formal Inauguration Ceremonies for President Bradley J Andrews will take place at 4 p.m. on April 14, in Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Overflow viewing is available at Messenger Hall, Java Jinx, and the Campus Life office.

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Wed, 09 Mar 2016 09:02:46 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Educators Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1743 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1743 The 2016 Educators Hall of Fame will begin with a reception at 3:30 p.m. in Deets Library, followed by the induction ceremony.  The honorees are Kathryne (Cooper) Delcarpio '74, Florence (Cutter) Metcalf '63, and Robert "Bob" Nispel '57.  Recipient of the Marilyn McNeish Special Education Award is Danielle N. Shioyama '10/'14.  No reservation is necessary. ]]> Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:59:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College) <![CDATA[Business Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1742 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1742 This year's Business Hall of Fame will honor Todd E. Conklin '84, Benjamin S. Harrison '12, and Bruce DeHaven '70.  Recipient of the 2016 Business Builder Award will be Galaxy Technologies of Winfield.  The event will begin with a reception at 12 noon in Deets Library, followed by lunch and the induction ceremony.  Cost of the meal is $15, seating is limited and reservations are necessary.  Call 620-229-6279 to RSVP. ]]> Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:58:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College) <![CDATA[Fine Arts Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1741 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1741 The Fine Arts Hall of Fame brunch will take place on the stage in Richardson Performing Arts Center at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 16.  Cost of the brunch is $15, seating is very limited and reservations are required.  At 10 a.m., the Fine Arts Hall of Fame inducation ceremony will begin.  2016 honorees are Scott I. Hartley '97, Timothy A. Myers '00, and Brandon Q. Smith '98.  No reservations are needed for the induction ceremony. ]]> Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:57:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College) <![CDATA[Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1740 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1740 The 2016 Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences will be held on Friday, April 15 in Deets Library.  The reception will begin at 5:30, followed by dinner and the induction ceremony.  This year's honorees are Randy E. Eshelman, class of 2009; Barbara (Johnson) Isely, class of 1964; and Mabel Madeline Southard, class of 1899.  Cost of dinner is $20, seating is limited and reservations are necessary.  Call 620-229-6279 for tickets. ]]> Wed, 09 Mar 2016 08:56:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College) <![CDATA[Three Former Moundbuilders to Enter Southwestern College Natural Science Hall of Fame]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1704 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1704 Three Southwestern College graduates will be inducted into the Southwestern College Natural Science Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 5:30 p.m., in Deets Library on the campus of Southwestern College.  

The new members are Nathan Eckert, Stoddard, Wis.; Harold Miller, Medicine Lake, Minn..; and Esther Winkleman Overstreet (deceased). The plaques will be on display prior to the 5:30 p.m. dinner in the Deets Library.  The induction ceremony will begin at the conclusion of the meal, at approximately 6:15 p.m.  

The hall of fame honors Southwestern College alumni who have made significant contributions in the natural sciences.

“Southwestern College is known for having an impressive science program,” says Susan Lowe, director of alumni programs at Southwestern.  “The 2015 Natural Science Hall of Fame inductees bear witness to that fact, as evidenced by their impressive accomplishments. We are proud to recognize these outstanding individuals and their work.”  

Inductees include:

  • Nathan L. Eckert '01 is one of the nation’s foremost authorities in the propagation and culture of freshwater mussels. After earning his master’s degree from Missouri State University, he was hired by the Virginia Department of Game and Freshwater Fisheries to run their Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Center for the purpose of freshwater mussel restoration. In 2010 he took a position raising freshwater mussels for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the Genoa (Wis.) National Fish Hatchery.  Over the first decade of his career he was responsible for the production of over 20 million juvenile mussels of 38 species, 14 of which are federally endangered.  In 2014 he received the Rachel Carson Award for Scientific Excellence in recognition of his creativity and tenacity in developing new techniques for culturing freshwater mussels.
  • Harold E. “Gene” Miller ’62 was a senior principle scientist for General Mills Research Center from 1968 to 2002. During his research and development there, he was heavily involved in development of one of the company’s most popular products, Cheerios. His research resolved details of the chemical activity during processing that provides stability to oxidative rancidity in cereals.  He led research that gained important cost reduction regarding vitamin and mineral use and won FDA approval to label high purity limestone as calcium. The team documented phytochemicals and micronutrients in whole grain products, providing new information to help explain positive health benefits of whole grains besides their fiber content, and he was principal researcher on a paper that compared the antioxidant activity of whole grain, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals to that of fruits and vegetables.
  • Esther Winkelman Overstreet ’28 was one of the earliest women physicians in America and was a family physician in Kansas City for 51 years until retiring in 1987.  She was on staff at Research Medical Center and Baptist Medical Center, and in 1965 she was the first woman awarded Family Physician of the Year by the Kansas City Academy of General Practice.  In 1992 Winkelman was recognized as one of 12 outstanding persons in the 25th anniversary edition of “MD Magazine,” and she received the Award of Merit from the Metropolitan Medical Society of Kansas City.  Following her retirement she was considered to be the 10th most traveled person in the United States.  She died in 1993 after a car accident on her way to the airport.

Pat Ross, chair of the division of natural sciences and mathematics at Southwestern, will serve as the master of ceremonies.  Prior to the hall of fame inductions, there will be introductions of the science advisory council scholars, biology activity grant scholars, internship participants, and the Tri-Beta officers.

For more information about the Natural Science Hall of Fame, contact Susan Lowe, director of alumni programs at Southwestern College, at (620) 229-6334.

 

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Fri, 06 Nov 2015 11:16:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Order Your 2015 Alumni Directory by Nov. 8]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1687 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1687 The phone lines for updating your alumni directory information are closed, but there is still time to order your copy of the 2015 Alumni Directory.

Call 1-800-877-6554 before November 8, 2015 to secure your copy!

Congratulations to Peggy Ginn '63 for winning the custom SC blanket from Crochet from the Heartland.

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Mon, 14 Sep 2015 13:32:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Moundbuilder Market at Homecoming]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1683 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1683 The Moundbuilder Market is under new management and you will love all the great changes!  In addition, if you pre-register for Homecoming (either by mail or online) by Oct. 5, you will receive a 10% off coupon to be used in the Moundbuilder Market over Homecoming weekend!  Make your reservation now and pick up your coupon when you arrive for Homecoming registration on Oct. 16 or 17.  (See Homecoming schedule for registration times and locations.) ]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2015 13:36:42 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College) <![CDATA[Meet the President Tailgate Party Scheduled for Sept. 19]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1682 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1682 The Southwestern College alumni department is hosting a tailgate party on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 5 p.m. in the Farney Family Plaza located on the south end of Jantz Stadium. 

The tailgate party will give fans and supporters of Southwestern College an opportunity to meet and greet new president Brad Andrews.  The Southwestern College football team will then take on McPherson College at 6 p.m.

For $5, tailgate attenders will have their choice of a hot dog or hamburger, along with chips and a drink.  Reservations are appreciated and should be made by Friday, Sept. 11.  For more information or to make a reservation, contact Susan Lowe, director of alumni programs, at (620) 229-6279 or by emailing susan.lowe@sckans.edu.   

 

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Tue, 01 Sep 2015 10:04:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[2015 Alumni Directory]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1665 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1665 Alumni Directory PostcardBy now you've probably received a postcard like this in the mail. We are currently in the final stages of preparing Southwestern College Alumni Today, a publication that will feature listings along with photos and essays submitted by alumni. We need your help! A brief telephone call will ensure your listing is completely accurate and up-to-date. Call 1-877-821-0456 Monday-Friday between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM (CDT).  


Alumni Directory Blanket GiveawayCustom SC Blanket Giveaway

Everyone who responds by August 31, 2015, will be entered into a drawing for a custom SC blanket provided by Crochet from the Heartland.

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Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:52:00 -0500 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)
<![CDATA[Founders Weekend 2015 Schedule]]> https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1628 https://www.sckans.edu/connecting-to-sc/alumni-news/news/view/1628 Founders Weekend, April 16-19, 2015, is a great opportunity to celebrate the many things that make Southwestern unique and outstanding. We hope you will be able to attend one or more of the events.


Thursday, April 16

3 p.m.  Readings and book signing by Strohl family members of their parents' book, "Fifty Years to Shape a Dream, 1933-1983", by Helen & Orville Strohl, held in Deets Library.  Books are available for purchase, $24.99 each.


Friday, April 17

2 p.m. Book presentation, Irenaeus on the Trinity, by Jackson Lashier, associate Professor of Religion, held in Deets Library.  Dr. Lashier analyzes Irenaeus' Trinitarian conception of God and how it contributes to the development of Tinitarian thought in early Christianity.  A book signing will follow the presentation.

5:30 p.m.  Leaders in Service Hall of Fame for the Social Sciences dinner & induction ceremony, Deets Library.  Cost $20, limited seating, RSVP necessary to susan.lowe@sckans.edu.

Inductees:
F. David Froman '68
Sandra Gasca-Gonzalez '94
John William "Bill" Todd '51


Saturday, April 18

8:30 a.m.  Open House, Darbeth Lobby to view Fine Arts Hall of Fame and display in the President's Gallery
9 a.m.  Fine Arts Hall of Fame brunch & induction ceremony, stage in Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Limited seating, RSVP necessary to susan.lowe@sckans.edu.

Inductees:
Michael R. Brummett '79
Terry L. McGonigle '73
Madeline (Magnusson) Norland '83

12 noon  Business Hall of Fame lunch & induction ceremony, Deets Library.  Cost $15, limited seating, RSVP necessary to susan.lowe@sckans.edu.

Inductees:
Shawn L. Fanshier '83
Gregg A. Howell '73
Leo T. "Pete" Whalen '51

Recipient of the Business Builder Award for 2015:  Winfield Economic Development Committee (board members are Craig Duncan, Jill Long, Warren Porter and Rodger Steffen)

3:30 p.m.  Educators & Scholars Halls of Fame reception, Deets Library, followed by hall of fame ceremonies.  No charge, but to insure adequate seating, your RSVP to susan.lowe@sckans.edu is appreciated.

Educators Hall of Fame Inductees:
Gyla (Brock) Conklin '58
Cheryl (Bernard) Schasteen '71
Kenneth E. Valentine '70

Scholars Hall of Fame Inductees:
Dale B. Sims '80
Philip R. Schmidt

6 p.m.  Founders Day Dinner, Roy L. Smith dining hall, by invitation only.

8 p.m.  RPAC Presents, Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Show details will be announced at a later date.


Sunday, April 19

3 p.m.  Spring Choral Concert, Richardson Performing Arts Center.

For more information on Founders Weekend events, call 620-229-6279.

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Fri, 13 Feb 2015 17:07:00 -0600 info@sckans.edu (Southwestern College)