Dear Editor,

As a group, we represent the most local trustees serving as volunteers on the Southwestern College Board of Trustees. As the college has completed another academic year and is preparing for the return of students and the arrival of a new class of Moundbuilders in August, we simply write to express our support for Southwestern and to highlight its indispensable role in our community – a fixture since 1885.

While larger universities often dominate discussions about higher education, it is crucial to recognize the unique and profound contributions of institutions like Southwestern College, particularly in the context of Winfield and Cowley County. The college, under the leadership of President Liz Frombgen, has been urgently confronting challenges and making bold, strategic, and often difficult decisions to put the college on a path to sustainable growth. This work has included a data-driven approach to inform work around retention, program realignment, and operational discipline. Certainly, some decisions have stirred attention and anxiety, but continuing the status quo would have had far greater consequences for the college and our community. With all of this in mind, we write to remind you of the importance of Southwestern College.

Southwestern College provides a personalized and holistic education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, service, and intellectual curiosity. Students benefit from faculty and staff who support and challenge them. This educational environment prepares students for professional success but also cultivates responsible, thoughtful citizens – who we hope will choose Winfield again as they begin their careers – becoming teachers, doctors, pastors, nurses, lawyers, and business leaders who will serve our community into the future. These young people are our future neighbors, they are our best succession plan. In fact, three of Winfield’s doctors are Southwestern graduates.  

Moreover, Southwestern College serves as a cultural and intellectual hub for our community. The college frequently hosts public lectures, performances, athletic competitions, camps, and conferences that enrich the cultural fabric of our town. These events offer residents opportunities for lifelong learning and cultural engagement.

The economic impact of Southwestern College cannot be overstated. The college is a significant local employer, providing jobs for faculty and staff – it also maintains contracts for maintenance and food service personnel. Additionally, students, faculty, and visitors contribute to the local economy through housing, dining, and shopping. The presence of the college attracts businesses and fosters an environment of growth and vitality. And, here we would add that there is a renewed commitment on the part of the college to be a more significant participant and partner in the strength of our region. We have witnessed first-hand the commitment President Liz has to create economic synergy and growth in Cowley County through program development and strategic partnerships.

Furthermore, the college's community service initiatives and partnerships with local organizations enhance the quality of life in our town. Students and faculty actively engage in volunteer work and educational outreach, addressing local needs and contributing to the common good. These efforts not only benefit those directly involved but also strengthen the bonds between the college and the community.

Southwestern College exemplifies the ideals of higher learning, civic engagement, and community spirit. Its continued success is vital not just for its students but for the well-being and prosperity of our entire community.

We urge our friends and neighbors to support Southwestern College in recognition of its enduring importance as a cornerstone of our community. Please consider making a gift in support of the Builder Fund which directly benefits the experience of students and helps strengthen the college in countless ways. There is an active matching gift challenge open until June 30… Visit www.sckans.edu/buildermatch to learn more or call 620-229-6397.

Equally important though, as students return, please be a Southwestern supporter. Attend games and performances, cheer these young people on, welcome them to our community, and show them kindness. Put a Builder Pride sign in your yard and wear SC apparel – be a fan of the Moundbuilders. Their success is OUR success. Your support of Southwestern College truly does make all the difference – the students, faculty, and staff all feel your care.

As we look forward to the 140th academic year at Southwestern College we invite you to be a part of the effort to preserve and grow an institution that means so much to our community. Let’s not take SC for granted.

Signed by the Trustees of Southwestern College from Winfield –

Susan Andrews
John Baker
Laura Buterbaugh Bradbury
Dr. Bryan Dennett
Cory Helmer
Dr. Daniel Miller

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.

The festival features students in 7th to 12th grade with three areas of emphasis: voice, band, and strings.

The upcoming concerts include:

Monday, June 3, 7 p.m.—Injoy Fountain, guest artist-in-residence, will present a solo recital in the Richardson Performing Arts Center. Fountain is a Wichita local and an in-demand performer on the regional, national, and international stage. Favorite regional credits include Celie in “The Color Purple” (Roxy’s Downtown), and Justice in “Rock of Ages” (Music Theater Wichita). While living in New York City, Fountain performed regularly with four-time Tony nominee Condola Rashad in addition to making her off-Broadway debut. She looks forward to returning to NYC this July to headline her second off-Broadway show at the Green Room 42. Other national credits include touring with Post Modern Jukebox and being a contestant on The Voice (season 17, team Kelly). Fountain has also enjoyed performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, notably in a production of “Rent” under the direction of Anthony Rapp. She is the proud director of Injoy Fountain Academy, a youth performance academy based in Wichita. Fountain is represented by Evolve Talent Management NYC.

Tuesday, June 4, 7 p.m.—Simon Hill and Jeremy Kirk will present a joint faculty recital in the Richardson Performing Arts Center.  Hill will perform a lecture-recital on Broadway and Musical Theatre. Kirk’s set will include a program of contemporary solo percussion works for instruments including marimba, multiple percussion, and snare drum.

Wednesday, June 5, 7 p.m.—Sarah Jane Naillon, joined by Wichita Symphony violinist Rebecca Schloneger, will give a guided tour showcasing the versatility of the violin from the Baroque through the 20th century. This performance will be in Messenger Recital Hall in the Darbeth Fine Arts Center. 

Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m.—The Summer Music Festival campers will present the music they have been working on over the course of the week as a grand finale to conclude the festival. This performance will be held in the Richardson Performing Arts Center.

Area students on the list include:

Harrison graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in mathematics, a minor in Leadership, and a secondary licensure in mathematics. Carter graduated with a bachelor of science degree in biology.

The Fran Jabara Award is presented to encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship and excellence in its recipients.  Jabara, an Oklahoma State University and Wichita State University graduate, was an advocate of the American free enterprise system and founded the Center for Entrepreneurship at WSU in 1977.

Harrison has participated on the Leadership Team and the Student Government Association – where she most recently served as the vice president for student organizations. Harrison has played volleyball and golf while at Southwestern, and was a member of the Hope Squad, president of the Newman club, a math tutor, and a student ambassador.

Harrison has accepted a position to teach math at Burlington High School.

Carter was a member of the A Cappella Choir and Builder Bandits while at Southwestern.  He was also a section leader in the Grace United Methodist Church Choir.  According to Southwestern College President Elizabeth Frombgen, he was a leader on campus, and in the areas of residence life and student life, he served the college and his peers well. 

Harrison and Carter each received a plaque and a cash award.

Pettey earned her bachelor of arts degree in physics and masters degree in business administration from Southwestern College and her Ph. D in business administration from Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Ariz.

“Dr. Pettey is a fierce advocate for Southwestern College in all ways—but particularly for our students,” says Southwestern College President Elizabeth Frombgen.

Prior to working at Southwestern College, Pettey was employed at Cessna Aircraft Company as a Systems Safety Engineer for three years. She then worked for General Electric Aircraft Engines at Strother Field as a Process Engineer on the CF34 engine line.

In late 2007, she was hired at Southwestern as an adjunct professor to teach Quantitative Methods for the business department and she joined the college as a full-time professor in January of 2008.

“Dr. Pettey continues to be an active faculty member at the college, serving the college on various committees – this year she is the faculty chair and is serving as the assistant faculty athletics representative,” Frombgen says.  “Additionally, she is often called upon to sing the national anthem at sporting events. She also sings and plays piano for the Faculty/Staff Chapel Band. She is an active person who enjoys playing tennis and pickleball.”

Pettey lives in Winfield with her husband, Brian, and son, Hayes.

Presented were the Fassnacht Outstanding Administrator/Staff Award to Tad Humphrey, telecommunications specialist, and the Fassnacht Outstanding Faculty Award to Kurt Keiser, professor of business and the business division chair.

Awards for years of service were also presented for:

• 30 years: Dawn Pleas, Terry Quiett, and Rodney Worsham
• 20 years: Misty Terrell
• 15 years: Lonnie Boyd, Matt O’Brien, Stephannie DeLong, Jimmy Tagg, and Tad Humphrey
• 10 years: Michael Beardslee, Anthony Gropper, Jason Haunschild, and Mark Whitener
• 5 years: Allyson Allen, Shannon Grose, Reggie Jarrell, James McSorley, and Trevor Strong.

The Student Government Association initiates the process for naming Masterbuilders by calling for each SGA member to nominate students.  The list of students who receive votes is then submitted to a faculty vote.  Finally, the entire student body votes, choosing recipients from the names remaining on the list. 

Masterbuilders for 2023-2024 include: Cevin Clark, Arkansas City; Olivia Worsham, Medicine Lodge; Paiden Bell, Lawrence; Cierra Harrison, Cheney; Mallorie Lund, Wichita; and Jarvis Jennings, Columbia, Mo.

Dre’Shaun Flowers, McAlester, Okla., was named the recipient of the Dr. Dawn Pleas Student Affairs Leadership Award.

The Dawn Pleas Student Affairs Leadership Award celebrates a student who has been a role model on campus, regardless of whether or not they held a formal leadership position.  This award is designed to promote the Southwestern College values of personal growth, responsible citizenship, and leadership through service. 

The Student Government Association (SGA) at Southwestern College, presented the SGA faculty and staff citations.  The staff citation was awarded to Claire Nichols, director of campus life.  The faculty citation went to Tammy McEwen, professor of biology.

“Morea is a Builder, and she brings expertise and leadership to this critically important role,” said President Liz Frombgen. “The search committee was committed to finding someone who exhibited integrity and a high level of technical ability, but who also deeply loves our college and Winfield – as a graduate and long-time member of our affiliate faculty, Morea, is the perfect fit and we are excited for all that she brings to our team.”

A native of Winfield, Morea received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwestern College. She has over 27 years of experience in accounting, finance, and operations. Having previously worked for the Kansas City Star and Cargill, for the past 10 years Simmons has worked for the Kansas Department of Corrections as the business administrator and chief fiscal officer for the Winfield Correctional Facility and Wichita Work Release programs. There, Simmons offered leadership and financial oversight to a facility with over 250 employees and nearly 1,000 residents. She has demonstrated success in the areas of budget management, multi-location site planning, strategic planning, leadership development, policy development, and asset management.

Simmons has served the college as an adjunct professor since 2018 teaching online courses, primarily to employed professionals and military learners looking to complete their degrees. She has taught courses in managerial accounting, cost accounting, financial accounting, intermediate accounting, corporate accounting, and strategic management and finance for non-financial managers.

“I am thrilled to serve Southwestern College in this new capacity, and I understand the importance of the work,” said Simmons. “Under the leadership of President Liz, our college is on the move and the team has plotted a necessarily bold course forward. I come into the position with a great love for Southwestern and I recognize the important role the college plays in our community. We must be diligent and strategic in decision making, always considering the experience of our students today and planning for students who will come to campus in the decades to come.”

Simmons has already begun work at the college having shared a period of overlap with Bob Schmoll who served the college as interim chief financial officer for the past year. Schmoll will continue to consult for the college and will work closely with President Frombgen on the launch of several undergraduate and graduate-level programs. 

“Morea has truly hit the ground running and is doing a fantastic job as we look toward our fiscal year-end on June 30, and plan for the academic year ahead,” said Frombgen. “Most immediately, Morea is taking up the oversight of several important facilities projects on campus this summer and she’s done a good job getting up to speed. We continue to be grateful for the experience and skill that Bob offers our college as we strengthen our financial position and leverage strategic opportunities. The transition of this role is so critical to our success, and we are blessed by the leadership that Morea and Bob offer.”

Jordan Burford, a psychology major from Andover, is the recipient from Southwestern College. She is the daughter of Theresa Maples and Kevin Burford and a 2021 graduate of Andover Central High School.

KICF awards up to 19 individual scholarships, one for a student at each Foundation member institution. The recipients are all full-time, degree-seeking students on the cusp of graduation, and have each demonstrated excellence in academics, character and integrity, and a commitment to the value of a private college education in Kansas. These students maintain GPAs of 3.5 or above while also contributing to their respective communities.

“The students at Kansas’ independent colleges are going to change the world for the better. It’s a privilege to support them in their endeavors and we’re grateful to Maud Wyatt for making it possible for us to do so,” says Matthew Lindsey, president of KICF.

The scholarship was established in 1995 through the generosity of Maud Wyatt, whose bequest has supported the work of KICF and its institutions since 1961. The Kansas Independent College Foundation seeks to develop, promote, and direct unified approaches to selected corporations, foundations, and individuals for financial support of Kansas’ independent colleges and universities.

The new public-private agreement brings together Cowley College, Butler Community College, Friends University, Newman University, and Southwestern College. By working together, the institutions have created a seamless and more affordable transfer option for Secondary Education majors. 

CAPTION--The presidents of five area college’s announced a partnership called Educate the State.  Signing the agreement were (from L-R) Michelle Schoon, president of Cowley College; Kim Krull, president of Butler Community College; Elizabeth Frombgen, president of Southwestern College; Amy Bragg Carey, president of Friends University; and Kathleen Jagger, president of Newman University.

In 2022, the Kansas Independent Colleges Association (KICA) announced a global transfer for any Kansas community college graduate earning an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree to transfer as a junior status directly to any Kansas private university.

Educate the State takes it a step further as these institutions also guarantee a lower tuition rate at the private university level for those wanting to become K-12 teachers.

Tuition per credit hour is discounted to $300 per credit hour at the university level for Educate the State students.

How to Access Educate the State:

1. Earn a Secondary Education associate degree from Butler or Cowley with a 2.75 minimum GPA.
2. Transfer to Friends, Newman or Southwestern based on subject matter emphasis as a full-time Secondary Education major.
3. Receive the discounted $300 tuition rate for final two years regardless of the four-year institution selected.

Cowley Secondary Education Pathways for Educate the State:

Earned Associates of Arts (A.A.) or Associates of Science (A.S.) degree pathway in:

• Secondary Education – Math (AS)
• Secondary Education – Science (AS)
• Secondary Education – Language Arts (AA)

Butler Secondary Education Pathways for Educate the State:

Earned Associates of Arts (A.A.) or Associates of Science (A.S.) degree pathway in:

• Secondary Education (AA)
• Secondary Education Science (AS)

“Educate the State gives Cowley College students an affordable option to pursue a degree in secondary education at one of three high-quality private institutions,” Cowley College president Michelle Schoon said. “This partnership provides opportunities for our students to stay local and fill the shortage of educators in our region.”

Cowley College and Butler Community College students can go on to enroll in the following Secondary Education Pathways at Southwestern College:

Earned Associates of Arts (A.A.) or Associates of Science (A.S.) degree pathway in:

• Secondary Education – Math (AS)
• Secondary Education – Science (AS)
• Secondary Education – Language Arts (AA) 

Southwestern College president Elizabeth Frombgen says this is a great way to serve the state of Kansas.

“Since our founding in 1885, Southwestern College has proudly prepared and educated teachers who have gone on to serve students and communities all across Kansas,” said Frombgen. “Through cooperative initiatives such as Educate the State we will leverage incentives and partnerships to attract more young people to the vocation of teaching and in doing so we will better serve our communities, and more broadly, Kansas.”

Learn more about Educate the State

Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college, founded in 1885 by Methodists in south-central Kansas. Today its Winfield campus is the residential hub that guides students to lives of meaning and service, with well-rounded academic and extra-curricular offerings attracting traditional-aged students from throughout the nation and world. Southwestern College Professional Studies provides options for online students in any location and has been named a top provider for persons serving in the military. The college continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Visit sckans.edu for more.

Cowley College was founded in 1922 and has a rich history of providing quality education for over a century with multiple campuses located in Arkansas City, Mulvane, Wellington, Wichita, and Winfield Kansas. Cowley College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, technical certificates, and workforce development courses, catering to various career paths and interests. Visit cowley.edu for more information.

The festival is for students from 7th to 12th grade.  Campers will choose from tracks in voice, band (brass, woodwind, and percussion), or strings (violin, viola, cello, and bass).  Campers can also choose from elective classes which include fiddling, guitar, songwriting, bagpipe, ukulele, music therapy, and organ. The daily schedule will include ensemble rehearsals, technique class, practice time, recreation time, and much more.  

Scholarships covering full-tuition, half-tuition and $100 discounts are available from the V.J. Wilkins Foundation. Participants may choose to be overnight or commuter campers. Overnight campers will be housed in Wallingford Hall with 24-supervision. 

The guest artist-in-residence will be Injoy Fountain. Fountain is a Wichita local and an in-demand performer on the regional, national, and international stage. Favorite regional credits include Celie in “The Color Purple” (Roxy’s Downtown), and Justice in “Rock of Ages” (Music Theater Wichita). While living in New York City, Fountain performed regularly with four-time Tony nominee Condola Rashad in addition to making her off-Broadway debut. She looks forward to returning to NYC this July to headline her second off-Broadway show at the Green Room 42. Other national credits include touring with Post Modern Jukebox and being a contestant on The Voice (season 17, team Kelly). Fountain has also enjoyed performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, notably in a production of “Rent” under the direction of Anthony Rapp. She is the director of Injoy Fountain Academy, a youth performance academy based in Wichita. Fountain is represented by Evolve Talent Management NYC.

For more information or to register for the Summer Music Festival, call Brittany Donals, director of camps, conferences, and events, at (620) 229-6141, email brittany.donals@sckans.edu, or visit the website at www.sckans.edu/musicfestival.  

Learn More about Summer Music Festival

The camp will have two sessions for different age groups starting with first through fifth graders from 9 to 10:15 a.m., and sixth through ninth graders from 10:30 a.m., to noon each day.

According to Southwestern College head men’s basketball coach Matt O’Brien, the campers will learn fundamentals such as shooting and ball-handling, but above that, will have a chance to have fun with kids their own age playing basketball.

The camp staff will include current and former SC players as well as the SC coaching staff. Registration is currently open and can be found on the Winfield Recreation website at www.winfieldrec.com.  Cost of the camp is $55.

This event began in 2017 and has been held annually since as a music education outreach program for elementary schools throughout Cowley County.  The Honor Choir will include over 70 students and be joined by various guest musicians throughout the day. 

“The SCC and I look forward to sharing our enthusiasm for singing with the 2024 Elementary Honor Choir once again on Tuesday,” says Nikki Kirk, director of the Southwestern Children's Choir. 

Class of 2024 Commencement activities include:

Friday, May 3

• 12-1 p.m.—Business division reception, Mossman Hall room 134

Saturday, May 4

• 2:30-4 p.m.—Natural science and mathematics division reception, Welcome Center patio
• 3-4 p.m.—Creative technologies and communications division reception, lower level of the Christy Administration Building.

Sunday, May 5

• 9:45 a.m.—Order of the Mound ceremony and reception at the Cole Mound Plaza (recognition of students graduating in the top 10% of the class and meeting guidelines stated in the college catalog).
• 10:50 a.m.— Class of 2024 Baccalaureate service, Grace United Methodist Church, 320 College St.
• 2:30 p.m.—Commencement ceremony and graduate hooding for main campus and professional studies students, Richard L. Jantz Stadium.

The 2024 Commencement activities will be live-streamed on closed-circuit television on the Southwestern campus as well as online on the Southwestern College Facebook page and the Southwestern College YouTube channel.  The viewing location on campus will be in Richardson Performing Arts Center.   

Parking for graduation day will be available for persons with handicap permits in the parking lot between the Christy Administration Building and Roy L. Smith Student Center.  Security personnel will assist in finding parking and by providing rides on golf carts. 

In case of inclement weather, the decision to move the commencement exercises indoors will be posted on www.sckans.edu/campus and social media sites.

The concert program offers a time to pause and consider what it means to hold a space sacred.

“The music speaks to sacred spaces that are constructed, the sacred space of the natural world around us, and the sacred space that exists between persons,” says Simon Hill, director of choral activities and voice at Southwestern College.  “The program concludes with the question of what is required of us to maintain these spaces and what our role in restoring sacred space, land, and relations might look like. This program does not offer answers but, like prayer, hopes to inspire reflection that leads to action. These perspectives are shared through repertoire representative of various faith and cultural traditions while featuring eight languages and a broad span of musical styles.”

According 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

Southwestern 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.”

Wichita’s Littlest Heroes’ is passionate about changing the landscape of what pediatric resources look like for generations to come in Kansas by providing programming for medically fragile children and their families. SCPB members felt that, as a group, these children didn’t choose this life and that it is very expensive to afford school supplies on top of all the medical bills that the family has to pay first.

The SCPB awards annual grants through a competitive application and review process.

“This struck a passion within our hearts that some families couldn’t even afford school supplies for their children because they are drowning in medical bills to pay,” says Trevor Peterson, a student in the Nonprofit class. “We feel that this grant would greatly benefit and extend beyond the child to help the families of these medically fragile children.”

The SCPB was developed from the Students4Giving Campus Compact grant awarded in August of 2008. With this funding, Southwestern created the SCPB as well as the Nonprofit Leadership class offered on the main campus to explore all aspects of the philanthropic process. The SCPB is committed to developing an opportunity for students to explore philanthropy, non-profit organizations, community partnerships and available grant resources. The SCPB and the class work together annually to distribute grant funding to community-based non-profit organizations.

The theme of the hour-long show is “Nine Lives Takes a Shower.”  According to director Allyson Moon, all the games will be centered on April showers and each game will incorporate water.

“We hope individuals of all ages who would like to have a fun time in the theatre will attend,” Moon says.  “We will finish with a game called Drowned Rat, which will include a large bucket of water and players act out a scene while trading places with some members with heads in buckets of water.”  

In order to prepare for a community show, the troupes reached out to Whittier Elementary School to see if members of each troupe could work with fourth and fifth graders on improvisational acting.  According to Moon, it has helped the troupes tailor their material to the community members of a variety of ages instead of just college aged audiences.

Performing members include: Nine Lives Troupe—Jordan Burford, Liam Cunningham, Michael Wooster, Cameron Carter, and R.J. Mader. They will be supported by apprentices John Moberly, Grace Whisenhant, and Conner Barbour. The Snark Troupe—Meg Calvin, Joel Wilke, Charles McKinzie, Samantha Voss, and Chris Rogers.  

The community group has practiced for about a year.  They have had two prior performances and will have another performance in July.  They practice in the evenings during the week.

Prior to the show, the Southwestern Children’s Choir will present their Spring Pops Concert at 7 p.m., in the Richardson Performing Arts Center.  The choir is under the direction of Nikki Kirk.  There is no admission charge to attend.

“You don't want to miss this fun concert that includes toe tapping old and new musical favorites performed by some of the most talented kiddos around,” Kirk says.

Moon hopes that everyone will attend both performances.

“Every individual playing just loves improv and they have been looking for an opportunity to work together, so this seemed like a perfect event, to provide some hilarious entertainment for the community,” Moon says. “We encourage everyone to attend the children’s choir concert, and then finish off their evening with some great laughs.” 

Moon adds that the show is designed with families and members of the greater Southwestern College, Winfield, and Cowley community in mind. The content is rated G.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the earth and the sun and the shadow of the moon falls on the earth’s surface.  For this eclipse, the moon’s shadow will race across the earth’s surface starting in the eastern Pacific Ocean and traveling through Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and on through a number of Midwestern and eastern states before entering the Atlantic Ocean at the Canadian Maritime Provinces.  When viewed from Cowley County, the eclipse will start at 12:31 p.m. The maximum eclipse will occur at 1:48 p.m. when 90% of the sun will be covered, and the eclipse will end at 3:06 p.m. 

The 90% coverage seen in Cowley County for this eclipse will be similar to the maximum coverage experienced in Cowley County during the August 2017 solar eclipse.  A telescope will be used to project an image of the eclipse, and a limited supply of eclipse glasses will be available for use by participants.  These eclipse glasses will be distributed near maximum eclipse at 1:45 p.m. 

“At no time will the eclipse be safe to view in Cowley County without adequate eye protection, and normal sunglasses are not sufficient,” says Bob Gallup, professor of physics and mathematics at Southwestern College. “Even at maximum eclipse, the 10% of the sun still visible will be able to cause serious and permanent eye damage.”

Questions and requests for more information can be directed to bob.gallup@sckans.edu.

“This would be a great opportunity for students, faculty, and members of the public to see what they do and how Court of Appeals cases are handled,” says J.K. Campbell, associate vice president for faculty affairs and dean of faculty at Southwestern College.

Judges Amy Fellows Cline, G. Gordon Atcheson, and Rachel Pickering will hear oral arguments starting at 10 a.m. The case being heard is a wrongful termination case brought by Stephen Mattice against the city of Stafford.  Mattice brought a claim under the Kansas whistleblower statute after the city of Stafford terminated his employment as police chief. The district court originally dismissed the claim. The Court of Appeals reversed and remanded the case for further proceedings. After discovery, the city moved for summary judgment, contending that Mattice could not meet the elements of the statutory claim. The district court granted summary judgment, and Mattice again appeals, contending that the district court improperly resolved material fact disputes.

The 14-judge Court of Appeals hears all appeals from orders of the Kansas Corporation Commission and all appeals from district courts in both civil and criminal cases, except those that may be appealed directly to the Supreme Court. In fiscal year 2022, the Court of Appeals resolved appeals in more than 1,000 cases, including 781 cases in which the court issued formal written decisions.

The court may hear appeals en banc, which means by all 14 of its judges. Most frequently, though, the court sits in panels of three judges.

Court of Appeals judges decide appealed cases by reading the trial record and written briefs filed by the parties, and sometimes hearing oral arguments from lawyers. They research and review relevant laws and write decisions, some of which are published in bound volumes.

Entry fee is $125 per person and covers green fees, golf cart, door prizes, and lunch.  Businesses may sponsor a hole for $250, or they may assemble their own four-person team and sponsor a hole for $650.  There will be many prizes available on the course and all proceeds go to purchasing new uniforms for the Southwestern College football team. 

“The last couple years have been a lot of fun seeing our hard work payoff from the previous years,” says head football coach Brad Griffin.  “To bring a conference championship back to Southwestern College has ultimately been the goal this whole time. Our plan is to continue to work hard, do great things on and off the field, and make another championship run. It takes a lot of dedication and support to have success and we are very thankful to all those that have helped our program get to where it is.”

Reservations are required by Monday, April 15.  For more information or to register, contact Griffin at (620) 481-0382.

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

The financial aid team will help people complete their FAFSA and will be able to answer general financial aid questions. 

“We are asking community members to bring their tablet or laptop to complete the FAFSA or create their studentaid.gov ID,” says Randi Whalen, financial aid counselor at Southwestern College.  “We are targeting learners from all populations, including high school juniors and seniors and their families, adult learners who are in school or thinking about going back, learners who are considering online or main campus classes, and military.”

Whalen says that the goal of this event is to reach out to not only families in Winfield, but to surrounding communities that may not have access to local college resources like Winfield and Arkansas City do.

For more information, contact Whalen by email at Randi.Whalen@sckans.edu.  

Acceptable items

GON Recycling accepts the following electronic items: computers, laptops, servers, network equipment, LCD Monitors, printers, scanners, fax machines, copiers, POS scanners and equipment, stereo equipment, small household appliances such as toasters, irons, and coffee pots, telephones, telecommunications equipment, phone systems, security equipment, industrial equipment, UPS systems, cell phones, VCRs, radios, keyboards and computer mice, lead acid batteries, rechargeable batteries, industrial control panels, ink and toner.

Medical Equipment

Medical equipment that has been inspected and decontaminated of blood-borne pathogens, fluids, solvents, pressure gases, or radioactive sources is also accepted. Proof of decontamination is required. This can be a decontaminated sticker or paperwork attached to the unit.

CRT TVs & Monitors

GON Recycling will recycle CRT TVs and monitors for a $5 fee. Everything else is at no cost. If you need to recycle these items, please bring the funds to pay the recycling fee.

Unacceptable Items

GON Recycling cannot accept these items: refrigerators, air conditioners that are not properly drained, light bulbs, smoke alarms, alkaline batteries and items that contain blood-borne pathogens, fluids, solvents, Freon, pressure gases, radioactive or gasoline sources.

For questions about recycling, please contact Tad Humphrey at Tad.Humphrey@sckans.edu.

“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

“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

The public is invited to attend, there will be no admission charge. 

Julieta Villarreal García, Ph.D.

March 25, 2024 (Monday)
11:00 a.m.
Richardson Performing Arts Center
Admission:  FREE

“Dr. Garcia’s career is a shining example of the vision and persistence required of servant leaders, and I am delighted that she has accepted our invitation to share her story with our students and the broader community,” Frombgen says.  “Along with the Docking Family and our friends at Union State Bank, all of us here on campus are excited at the opportunity to host and learn from Dr. García – we invite our community to join us.”

In 1986, Dr. García spearheaded the creation of The University of Texas at Brownsville and then served as its president for 22 years graduating over 40,000 students and leading the design and establishment of the Brownsville campus.

In 2011, she helped lead an effort to envision a new 21st Century University model that eventually consolidated two UT universities, established a medical school, and created The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Her life’s work has been focused on expanding higher education opportunities for the people of the Rio Grande Valley. 

In Washington D.C., she has served on the Clinton and Obama presidential transition teams, chaired the Advisory Committee to Congress on Financial Aid and in 2021, and served on the panel to select White House Fellows.

After the election of President Nelson Mandela and the end of apartheid, she was selected to work in South Africa to help integrate higher education. She has served on the boards of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Ford Foundation. 

In 2009, “Time” magazine named her one of the Top 10 College Presidents in the US, and in 2014 she was recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the World’s 50 Greatest Leaders. She has received honorary doctorates from Notre Dame, Brown, Smith, and Princeton. In July of 2022, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden.

She currently serves on the board for LLILAS, the Lozano Long Institute for Latin American Studies at UT Austin, Audubon Texas, and Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley. Annually, she lectures at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education IEM program for professionals seeking to become university presidents and with HACU – Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Leadership Academy. She is currently working with Texas 2036, a group of Texans studying how best to shape the future in Texas across seven core state policy areas.

On campus, she teaches public speaking to students in the Math & Science Academy and courses in organizational communication and Latinas in Leadership focusing on the key communication skills needed for next-generation leaders.

Sponsors

The Docking Lecture is underwritten by Union State Bank and by the Docking family.

The Docking family has played a prominent role in public service, Kansas government, and politics for over half a century.  In 1956 George Docking was elected governor of Kansas.  He served two terms, leaving office in 1961.  His son, Robert Docking, was elected governor in 1966 and served four two-year terms, more than any other Kansas governor, leaving office in 1975.  Robert Docking’s sons have continued the family’s commitment to public service.  William Docking was appointed to the Kansas Higher Education Board of Regents in 1995 and served as its chair.  Thomas Docking, who passed away in 2017, was lieutenant governor of Kansas from 1983 to 1987, during the governorship of John Carlin. 

Union State Bank has been locally owned and operated in Cowley County since 1908. With approximately $300 million in total assets and ten locations, Union State Bank serves South Central Kansas and North Central Oklahoma with comprehensive banking solutions and expertise. Union State provides a wide range of financial products and services for individuals and businesses including checking, savings, loans and lines of credit, mortgages, credit cards, online services, and investments.

Livestream on YouTube

According to Abasolo and Jackson, the seminar is an opportunity for aspiring young coaches to hear from championship coaches from Southwestern.  The individual speakers are head football coach Brad Griffin and head baseball coach Mark Carvalho. Griffin has led the SC football team to two KCAC championships while Carvalho has led two different KCAC schools to a combined five conference titles.

Panel speakers are head women’s basketball coach Chardonnae Parker, head men’s and women’s golf coach Marcus Willey, and football running backs coach Keyshawn Wyatt. After the panel discussion, there will be time to mix and mingle with coaches and other audience members.

“The panel members are all relatively young coaches, still transitioning from players to coaches,” Abasolo says.  “This is an opportunity for many students to hear from coaches who have been in their shoes. Also, coaches from around the area can come and gain different perspectives from coaches of different sports. The seminar will also be a place for students at SC to learn about current and new classes at SC that can be applied in the coaching profession.”

Brad Griffin will speak at 4:30 p.m., Mark Carvalho at 5 p.m., and then the panel discussion with Chardonnae Parker, Marcus Willey, and Keyshawn Wyatt at 5:30 p.m.  Audience members may come and go as they please.

For more information, email trey.abasolo@sckans.edu or jordan.jackson@sckans.edu.

Register for Builder Coaching Seminar

The Moundbuilder Spirit Scholarship recognizes two student leaders who are well-rounded, hardworking, and community-minded. The Moundbuilder Spirit Scholarship will provide full-tuition support to Hernandez and Pippitt. Both scholarships are renewable for four years and are valued at approximately $150,000.

Pio Hernandez is the son of Pio Cesar Hernandez and Martha Sanchez and attends Goddard High School.  He plans to major in digital media and is interested in joining the Band-Its pep band at Southwestern. 

Alejandra Pippitt is the daughter of Tammy and Stacy Pippitt and attends Winfield High School.  She plans to major in education and participate in the spirit squad dance team.

According to Stephannie DeLong, vice president for enrollment management, the college received a large number of applications for the Moundbuilder scholarship.

“With over 200 applications for the Moundbuilder Spirit full tuition scholarship competition and over 50 attendees, we are proud to welcome two outstanding new Builders to campus this fall,” DeLong says.   “Allie and Pio’s essays demonstrated their unique vision of leadership and how they will continue to grow as members of the Builder family.” 

Southwestern's competitive full-tuition scholarship program began in 2016. As the number of students applying for admission to Southwestern has grown, the number applying to compete for the full-tuition competition has also increased. Since the beginning, the full-tuition program has attracted a talented and diverse group of students to apply. Each year a large proportion of the students who compete for the full-tuition awards, but are not selected as the recipients, choose to come to Southwestern.

DECA Inc., formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a not-for-profit career and technical student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

After a full day of preparation, presentation, networking, and campus exploration, one of SC’s four double teams, Capranzine Hunguana and Malvin Mupondi, earned a second-place International Marketing Award. Other SC students on the team include Hannah Brown, Rylee Fraser, Cameron Jewell, Jomri Paule, Eduardo Gonzalez, and Isaac Swanson. 

“This trip was filled with educational and communicative exposure as we familiarize ourselves with the ever-expanding world of business and entrepreneurship,” Allen says.

CAPTION—The Southwestern College DECA team participated in a DECA event at Tabor College.  Team members include: (bottom row, from L-R) Hannah Brown, Rylee Fraser, Cameron Jewell, and Malvin Mupondi.  Second row-- Jomri Paule, Eduardo Gonzalez. Third Row-- Capranzine Hunguana and Isaac Swanson.  

Hargrove, a Southwestern College graduate, coached women’s basketball for many years at Cowley College, Wichita State University, and also in the professional setting as head coach and general manager in the ABL and WNBA.  She has also served as an assistant coach for an Olympic team and is a member of the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.

 “The Spitfire Grill,” is based on the 1996 film by Lee David Zlotoff.

“The show is a heartwarming and inspirational musical tale of redemption, perseverance, and family,” says director Terry McGonigle.  “From characters that make you laugh-out-loud to others that tug at your heartstrings, ‘The Spitfire Grill’ offers something for the whole family.  Be sure to join us and find out just what’s cookin’ at the Spitfire Grill.”

The cast includes: Lauren Henderson, Cameron Carter, Maeson Bryant, Ethan Green, Saherena Williams, Jordan Burford, Emmett Murphy, and Sarah Bagnati.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and free to SC students, faculty, and staff.  For more information or to make reservations, contact the SC Performing Arts office at (620) 229-6328 or email boxoffice@sckans.edu. 

The event is a student and community response to the 2023-24 Parkhurst Lecture presented on Jan. 24 by David Cunningham, executive director of the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), Council of Independent Colleges.  The title of his lecture was “On Not Throwing Away Your Shot: God’s Call as Gift and Liberation.”

The student panel will include Olivia Worsham, Samuel Shook, Joseph Kosongo, Cameron Carter, and Jordan Burford.  The community panel will include Tabitha Hogan, Mother Kathy Swain, Bruce Blake, Michael Beardslee, and Brock Brown.

The financial aid team will help people complete their FAFSA and will be able to answer general financial aid questions. 

“We are asking community members to bring their tablet or laptop to complete the FAFSA or create their studentaid.gov ID,” says Randi Whalen, financial aid counselor at Southwestern College.  “We are targeting learners from all populations, including high school juniors and seniors and their families, adult learners who are in school or thinking about going back, learners who are considering online or main campus classes, and military.”

Whalen says that the goal of these events is to reach out to not only families in Winfield but to surrounding communities that may not have access to local college resources like Winfield and Arkansas City do.

For more information, contact Whalen by email at Randi.Whalen@sckans.edu.  

Dean's Honor Roll - Fall 2023

Craig’s lecture is titled, “When is a Child? William James and the Varieties of Education.

Craig teaches courses in aesthetics, phenomenology, and 20th-century continental philosophy at Stony Brook University. Her research interests include autism, color, embodiment, psychoanalysis, and synesthesia. She is the author of “Levinas and James: Towards a Pragmatic Phenomenology” (Indiana University Press 2009) and is currently at work on a book on Levinas, Derrida, and palliative care in America.

“Reading Megan Craig's book ‘Levinas and James: Towards a Pragmatic Phenomenology’ was a life-changing experience for me, both as a person and as a scholar,” says Jacob Goodson, associate professor of philosophy at Southwestern College.  “In the manuscript I am currently writing, I engage with Craig's interpretation of French philosopher Emmanuel Levinas and quote heavily from her book. Additionally, her reflections on failure, love, and living with trauma have offered me great wisdom. I believe her talk at SC will prove beneficial in similar ways for community members, faculty, and students.”

The Smith-Willson lectureship was established by Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Willson to call attention to the important moral and religious aspects of education. National leaders on various related topics are asked to speak at the annual lecture.

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

The topic of his lecture is “On Not Throwing Away Your Shot: God’s Call as Gift and Liberation.” 

“Dr. David Cunningham is the leading scholar in the U.S. on questions concerning religion and vocational discernment,” says Jacob Goodson, associate professor of philosophy and the chair of the social science division.  “He is an excellent teacher and a prolific author. The title of his lecture at SC plays off of the musical ‘Hamilton,’ and we are honored to be hosting him as part of both the Parkhurst Lecture series and the NetVUE grant we received this academic year.”

Cunningham earned his Ph.D. from Duke University.  He also holds a faculty appointment as professor of theology at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Mich. He is the author of five books and editor of five collections on various topics in religion, ethics, and higher education.

The Parkhurst Lecture is one of three annual endowed lectures hosted by the philosophy and religion department of the social sciences division at Southwestern College. This lecture focuses on Biblical studies.

For more information, contact Goodson by email at Jacob.Goodson@sckans.edu.

The event is focused on empowering students to dream beyond societal expectations and encouraging self-discovery through education. As part of the event, speakers Jim Robinson, Jr., JD, and special guest, Brian A. Black, DM, will share with the audience.  “Building Builders” will be hosted on the Southwestern College campus at Wroten Hall, beginning at 9 a.m., but it is a come-and-go event. The event is sponsored by NetVue and Southwestern College.

The morning session features Robinson from 9 a.m., until 12 noon.  Robinson is the son of Forest James Robinson Sr., who was a SC alum, fundraiser, and interim president. He will be speaking about his father’s legacy and the purpose of his vocation.   In addition, sharing their reflections are employees Kristen Petty (professor of business) and Alissa Sheppard (student success advisor). 

The afternoon features Black from 1 to 3:30 p.m.  Black will be speaking on the legacy of Dr. King.  In addition, current SC students and recent alums will reflect on how they are building their own legacy.  

Forrest James “Jim” Robinson, Jr. is a business litigation partner in the law firm of Hite, Fanning & Honeyman, L.L.P., in Wichita. He received degrees from Southwestern College (1980) and the University of Kansas School of Law (1983).  He was inducted into the Southwestern College Social Sciences Hall of Fame in 2009.

He has held numerous leadership positions throughout his career and is listed in “Best Lawyers in America” in the areas of “bet-the-company litigation,” “commercial litigation” and litigation—banking and finance” and is recognized as the 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in “Bet-the-Company Litigation in Wichita,” and as the 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” in “Litigation - Banking and Finance in Wichita.” In 2018, he was appointed by the Kansas Supreme Court to serve as a member of the Kansas Judicial Council. He currently chairs the Council’s Civil Code Advisory Committee.

In 2020, he was appointed by Governor Laura Kelly to the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce, which is charged with leading Kansas forward from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He represents Kansas as a member of the Lawyer’s Committee of the National Center for State Courts in Washington D.C. and chairs its Committee to Increase Firm and Donor Support. In November 2018, he was inducted into the National Center’s Warren E. Burger Society, which honors individuals who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to improving the administration of justice.

Brian Black is the Global Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Hexion Inc.

He is a senior leader and executive with extensive human resources, public relations, community, and government relations expertise, complemented by excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. He has a proven record of helping organizations and people perform optimally through positive role modeling, executive-level guidance, and informed leadership. Black is known for a strong legacy in community service, education, public policy, and cultural transformations.

Black has earned several honors and awards including the Kansas Health Foundation Fellowship, Charles F. Kettering Fellowship, National TRIO Achiever, Wichita Business Journal Leader in Diversity, and the A. Price Woodard Humanitarian Award.

Black earned his bachelor of science degree in management and masters degree from the University of South Carolina, and a doctorate of management from the University of Phoenix. 

VIDEO ARCHIVE

“We are excited to welcome these incredible young people to our Builder Family – they along with the rest of the incoming Class of 2028 will bring much joy and possibility with them to campus and to Winfield next August,” said Liz Frombgen, Southwestern College President. “It is difficult to capture just how talented and unique the students who came to compete for the full-tuition scholarships are; we are so fortunate that the majority of the finalists have chosen to make Southwestern their home for the next four years.”

The Pillars Scholarship is a merit-based award that recognizes two students who demonstrate outstanding academic abilities. Each of the scholarships is renewable for four years and valued at approximately $150,000.

Eva Navrat is the daughter of Tony and Jamie Navrat and attends Oxford High School.  She plans to major in graphic design and participate in softball.

Esmeralda Maldonado Posada is the daughter of Gladys and Fredy Maldonado and attends Newton High School.  She plans to major in business administration and management and participate in choir.

According to Stephannie DeLong Vice President for Enrollment Management, the college received a number of applications for the scholarship competition.

“With over 100 applications for the Pillars competition, we were excited to host such accomplished students,” DeLong says.  “The finalists invited to campus demonstrated their leadership and academic excellence in essays and interviews and exemplify the heart of true Builders.  We are honored to welcome such talented students to our campus this fall.”

Southwestern's competitive full-tuition scholarship program began in 2016. As the number of students applying for admission to Southwestern has grown, the number applying to compete for the full-tuition competition has also increased. Since the beginning, the full-tuition program has attracted a talented and diverse group of students to apply. Each year a large proportion of the students who compete for the full-tuition awards, but are not selected as the recipients choose to come to Southwestern.

Applications for the Moundbuilder Spirit full tuition scholarship competition are due by Monday, Jan. 15.  Students who are invited to campus to compete on February 3 will participate in an essay and interview and all competitors will receive a $1,000 renewable scholarship in addition to their academic and activity/athletic scholarship.  Two students will be selected to receive full-tuition scholarships.  Applications for the transfer full-tuition scholarship will open in April with competition held on campus this summer.

The Moundbuilder Spirit Scholarship recognizes two student leaders who are well-rounded, considerate, hardworking, and community-minded. This scholarship is awarded to extraordinary people who exhibit great potential.

“To tell a member of the Southwestern College community that they exhibit the 'Builder Spirit' is a meaningful compliment,” says Stephannie DeLong, vice president for enrollment management.  “It is a point of pride to uphold and live out the tenets that are valued by our campus community.”

It is recommended that students who make application for this award exhibit a clear dedication to the community and a relentless work ethic.

“Southwestern College is proud to honor students who do the right thing, who are kind, who are resourceful and eager, and who will exemplify the values of Southwestern College by awarding them full undergraduate tuition, renewable for four years, if certain criteria are met,” DeLong says. 

Finalists will receive invitations to participate in the competition.  The competition consists of a timed essay and an interview with faculty/staff members.  Each finalist who competes will receive a renewable $1,000 scholarship.  Two finalists will be selected, based on the outcome of the essay and interview, to receive a renewable full-tuition scholarship for four years. The two scholarships are valued at approximately $150,000 each over four years. 

To be considered for the Moundbuilder Spirit Scholarship students must have submitted both their application for admission and scholarship applications by January 15. For more information visit BeABuilder.com/scholarships or contact the office of admission at Southwestern College by calling 1-800-846-1543 extension 6236.

Apply for the Moundbuilder Spirit Scholarship

Turner comes to the college with broad experience in the healthcare industry, from direct patient care to administration to training and consulting. “Shona’s experience and passion stood out among an incredible group of finalists for the position,” shared President Liz Frombgen. “She is uniquely positioned to build a program that attracts and trains young people who are empowered to offer outstanding care and leadership to the vocation of nursing and to the communities that they will serve.” 

Turner’s hire is the next step in Southwestern College’s effort to relaunch a nursing program that was previously discontinued in 2011. Then, the college cited several factors leading to the decision to discontinue the clinical nursing program — notably, stiff competition for students from public institutions in Kansas. 

"While I certainly am understanding of the challenges that existed in 2011 and the need at that time to make a difficult decision – the reality now is that our community, region, and country has a critical need of highly-trained and caring nurses," Frombgen said. “Southwestern stands out for our ability to attract service-minded, high-character young people who are driven to make a difference in the communities where they live – and to that end, Shona will build a program that offers outstanding clinical preparation with a clear focus on service and leadership.” 

Turner earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwestern College. Additionally, she holds a Master of Science in Nursing and a Master of Business Administration, with an emphasis in health/healthcare/administration and management from the University of Phoenix. 

“We are fortunate to add Shona to our academic team at Southwestern; as we confront the very real need for nurses in our community and beyond, Shona is driven to build a program that offers responsive and comprehensive preparation and sets our graduates up for success in all ways,” said J.K. Campbell, vice president for academic affairs and academic dean of the college. Most recently, Turner has served as Chief Operating Officer for SCK Health in Arkansas City, Kan. She is experienced in managing hospital corporate compliance and quality improvement initiatives. Before that, as a consultant with Studer Group, she traveled to hospitals of varying sizes and designations across the country to develop and operationalize multi-faceted quality improvement initiatives, focused on the delivery of excellent care. Before consulting, she worked in several capacities at William Newton Hospital including Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Compliance Officer, Quality Improvement Manager, and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. Turner was also pivotal in developing and leading the William Newton Healthcare Foundation as the Foundation’s first director, a position she served the hospital and community in for four years before focusing on hospital administration. 

“I am excited to get to work building a program that highlights nursing as not just a critically important profession, but as the admirable and highly-valued vocation that it is – we will prepare nurses who will stand out for the excellent care and leadership they offer,” said Turner.

The concert is sponsored by Gail Burden, OD.

This year’s Winterfest is a collaboration between the Southwestern Children’s Choir, Builder Band-Its, A Cappella Choir, and the South Kansas Symphony (SKS).  Conducting the program will be Simon Hill, director of choral activities and voice; Nikki Kirk, director of the Southwestern Children’s Choir; Jeremy Kirk, director of bands, and Michael Christensen, SKS conductor.

The program will feature Dr. James Leland providing organ accompaniment of Christmas Carol Hymn Singing in addition to Deanne Wehmeier accompanying the A Cappella Choir.  The concert will include the SKS, A Cappella Choir, and alumni performing F. Melius Christiansen’s “Beautiful Savior.” Other selections will range from traditional to contemporary. The concert will conclude with Dan Goeller’s “Christmas Carol Sing-Along.”

According to Brae Wood, director of service learning at Southwestern College, about 400 students gathered around Island Park and put up various light displays and checked all the light bulbs to make sure they worked.

“It was an amazing day, and at the end of such a day, I sit in a lot of gratitude,” Wood says.  “As a service learning director who is committed to helping structure such experiences for our students; I love that there are various opportunities for students to make connections outside themselves through meaningful service whether those connections are to fellow teammates, to a deeper understanding of the community, to new community members who are great examples, or to the understanding of issues like why the Isle of Lights being free to everyone is important. Sunday was a great day.”

Joe Wood, Isle of Lights board member, says they are grateful for the assistance from Southwestern College.

“Isle of Lights has partnered with SC for set up for several years,” Wood says.  “As a board, we cannot thank them enough.  The students from various teams and organizations do a great job in supporting this community tradition.”

Leadership students Cameron Unruh and Mateus Varotti helped in all the planning details for this huge service project. They worked with student team leaders representing each group or team; and helped get everything in place so that groups could show up and know what they were supposed to be doing. 

One student likened the service project to a huge game of Tetris as they jig-sawed the pieces together to make the various light displays fit; especially the teams that found themselves with “missing directions” in their pile of supplies.

“I am a proud SC alum and Winfield citizen who loves our community and sees the work of committed community members highlighted in a great reciprocal relationship between SC and Winfield,” Brae Wood says.

The Isle of Lights is open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., from Nov. 19 to Dec. 30.  There is no admission charge but donations are appreciated.