AlumniTimes - Reigniting our spirit - Clarkson College
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Fall 2021
AlumniTimes
Clarkson College Alumni Magazine
Reigniting
our spirit
President's Message
Each conversation and interaction
I have with alumni strengthens my
understanding and appreciation of the
institution’s tradition of excellence—a
Gary Pack, Ed.D., became the tradition we’ve held for more than 130
Interim President of Clarkson years.
College in June 2021. He brings
My goal is to continue this commitment
more than four decades of
to exceptional education and preparing
experience in education and
the best, most compassionate health care
administration to the community
professionals and help the institution find
to help the institution continue
ways to continue to grow. Please know
its dedication to students and
that each and every one of you is vital
preparing the best in health care.
to achieving this goal, and I am looking
Dr. Pack holds a Bachelor’s forward to working with you.
degree in History, Psychology and
Sociology and a Master’s degree
Sincerely,
in Educational Administration and
Supervision, both from Morehead
State University in Kentucky. He
also holds a Doctor of Education
in K-12 Administration and
Supervision from the University of
Louisville. Dr. Gary Pack
Throughout his career, Dr. Pack
has been a dedicated educator
and served as the superintendent
for school systems throughout
the country. From 2014 until 2018,
he served as the President of The
Christ College of Nursing and Dear community members, Each conversation and interaction
Health Sciences in Cincinnati, I have with alumni strengthens my
It has been my distinct honor to be part
Ohio. He currently serves as the understanding and appreciation of the
of the Clarkson College community
Chief Executive Officer of Pack institution’s tradition of excellence—a
these past several months. As a lifelong
and Associates, a financial funding tradition we’ve held for more than 130
educator, I feel privileged to join a Mission
consultation agency. years.
and Values-driven organization that puts
Dr. Pack is from Tennessee and students first and sets itself apart as a My goal is to continue this commitment
his wife Jackie is a recently retired leader in education. to exceptional education and preparing
educator who taught first grade the best, most compassionate health care
During my time here, I have already
and elementary music. professionals and help the institution find
seen firsthand the tremendous growth
and excellence the institution pursues ways to continue to grow. Please know
every day. This past summer and fall, I’ve that each and every one of you is vital
witnessed the dedication of faculty, staff to achieving this goal, and I am looking
members and students as the College forward to working with you.
launched new academic offerings, gained
national recognition for our programs, Sincerely,
and welcomed new graduates into the
academy of scholars.
It was an honor to be on campus during
Alumni Weekend and Spirit Week where
I had the opportunity to connect with
graduates of Clarkson College and Bishop
Clarkson Memorial School of Nursing. Dr. Gary Pack
2 Fall 2021
Contents
volume 11 / issue 5
10 12 23
Alumni News Campus News
4 Interprofessional Education 16 CVIT Scholarship 24 NFLP Funding for
Course Nurse Educators
17 Graduate Nursing Awards
25 Pre-Health
5 Tuition Reimbursement 18 Ed.D. Earns Top Ranking Professional Option
26 Post-Graduate Certificate
19 Dedicated Service
6 2021 Recap in Leadership
Award Winners
26 Teammates Partnership
8 Thanking our Donors 20 Faculty Earn Apple Awards
27 Black Student Union
21 ASIST Scholarship Recipients
10 Community Health at Mosaic 28 Spring and Summer
Graduates
22 Online Phlebotomy Course
Features 31 Dissertations
23 RN to BSN Workforce
12 Spirit Week Recap Sponsorship Program
Community members gather
to celebrate our heritage.
Fall 2021
AlumniTimes
PUBLICATION EDITORS Trish Weber,
On the Cover
Chris Shives, Rebecca Van Gundy
Bill Koile thanks attendees upon
DESIGNER Will Fleig
acceptance of the Distinguished
SENIOR WRITER Marie Dahlberg
Alumni Award. 12
The Alumni Times is a quarterly publication distributed by
the Alumni Association of Clarkson College, 101 South PHOTOGRAPH BY Clarkson College
42nd Street, Omaha, NE 68131. Direct all story and photo Reigniting
our spirit
submissions, changes of address or publication inquiries
to alumni@clarksoncollege.edu.
Alumni Times 3
Alumni News
Interprofessional Education Course
Opens to the Public
Professionals can earn contact hours and learn how to
better collaborate with health care team members
Health care and community professionals Learners will optimize their roles within
Submit Your now have the opportunity to enhance an interdisciplinary team by completing
Nominations their interprofessional skills and improve
their ability to communicate and
modules that are designed to provide an
overview of health care and community
for the 2022 collaborate with others by completing
the Interprofessional Education (IPE)
professionals’ roles and responsibilities.
Additional training touches upon
Alumni course, offered through Clarkson College cultural competence, health disparities,
Association Professional Development. health literacy, biomedical ethics and
compassion. Diverse learning methods
Board Developed by a team of faculty and
student services members, the IPE course including short lectures, videos, handouts,
activities and self-evaluation quizzes are
offers participants insight into how health
The Alumni Association is seeking incorporated into the curriculum.
care and community professionals can
nominations for their new Board collaborate by developing more effective Professionals in areas including nursing,
of Directors that will begin their communication and leadership skills mental health, social work, education,
tenure in January 2022. resulting in positive outcomes. physical therapist, physical therapist
Members of the Alumni assistant and health information
The online, self-paced format consists
Association may submit their management who complete the course
of five modules that can be completed
nominations for president, vice according to participants’ own schedules. have the opportunity to earn contact
president, secretary and treasurer, Following course completion, participants hours.
as well as five director positions will receive a certificate of completion in For more information regarding cost and
online during the month of IPE collaboration. how to register, visit ClarksonCollege.
October. Once all nominees have edu/Professional-Development.
been received, members will have
the opportunity to vote online
beginning November 1, and new
board members will be announced
December 1.
You may nominate yourself
or others for any of the Board
positions. As you consider
candidates, please remember
that board members are required
to attend 75% of meetings Connect with Us
throughout the year. Before
submitting your suggestions, The Clarkson College Alumni one another. They also receive access
please discuss it with your Association is dedicated to providing to our Alumni Times publications and
nominees and obtain their you with up-to-date information information regarding opportunities to
approval. about the College as well as events serve on the Alumni Association Board
happening in your area and online. of Directors.
To submit your nominees, visit Throughout the year, our members
ClarksonCollege.edu/Alumni- To make sure you stay informed, please
participate in get-togethers, continuing
Nomination. If you have any visit ClarksonCollege.edu/Alumni/
education events and our annual
questions, please contact alumni@ Alumni-Contact-Information to update
Alumni Weekend to connect with
clarksoncollege.edu. your contact information.
4 Fall 2021
Tuition Reimbursement Makes
Advanced Education Possible
Alumna utilizes assistance from her organization
to pursue an education in medical 3D printing
Cheryl Throener, BSRT, (R)(CT) ARRT, (’07, “Due to financial restraints, I would not
’08) has been taking classes at Clarkson have been able to pursue additional
College for more than 15 years. A educational advancements,” she says.
graduate of the Radiography and Medical “Plus, due to uncertainties with the
Imaging programs, she returned to the pandemic, I was unsure if my full-time
College in 2013 to complete continuing employment would be impacted.
education courses in Computed Tuition reimbursement benefits helped
Tomography (CT) and again in 2020 to ease my financial concerns to expand
begin coursework in the Medical 3D my education into a new dimension of
Printing Specialist Certificate option. Her medical imaging.”
employer’s tuition reimbursement benefit Throener will have the opportunity to
made her return to school possible and give back to her institution thanks to her
allowed her to explore new realms within education in the Medical 3D Printing
her field. Specialist option. This new and emerging
Throener is a CT Technologist at field allows health care professionals to
Children’s Hospital and Medical Center generate full anatomical models from CT,
in Omaha, Neb. and has been with the MRI, angiography and ultrasound images.
organization for 13 years. As she has These models can be used to help
progressed throughout her career, she’s reduce surgical time, improve surgical
come to understand how vital continuing preparation, decrease fluoroscopy time,
education is to her success and that there lower cost to patients, and increase
is no better place to pursue her education education and interprofessional
than Clarkson College. collaboration.
As an alumna, “As an alumna, choosing Clarkson
College again was an easy decision for
Not only will she be on the forefront of an
expanding field, but Throener will have
choosing Clarkson me,” she says. “The convenience of online
education was very appealing. Having
the opportunity to utilize her education
to make a difference in patients’ and
College again was been a non-traditional student in 2007, their families’ lives. “The 3D lab is a vital
I was familiar with the assistance and part in education for providers and their
an easy decision teaching style that the College offers, patients,” she says. “As this field grows, I
which made the institution the best fit will be able to utilize my education to help
for me. for me.” advance my career."
The tuition benefit offered by her In addition to employer tuition
organization largely impacted Throener’s reimbursement, professionals have
decision to obtain certification as a numerous opportunities to receive
Medical 3D Printing Specialist. Like many assistance to pursue their education at
other health care professionals, she was Clarkson College. The institution offers
unsure if she would be able to balance partnership benefits including reduced
working full time and returning to school. tuition rates for organizations including
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic Nebraska Medicine, OrthoNebraska,
also played a role as she considered Community Hospital Association and
enrolling in the certificate program more. Learn more at ClarksonCollege.
option. In the end, the opportunity to edu/Nebraska-Medicine.
join the medical 3D printing field was too Learn more about the Medical 3D
good to pass up. Printing Specialist Certificate option
at ClarksonCollege.edu/3D-Certificate.
Alumni Times 5
2021 RECAP January
Clarkson Commons and Education
Center opens on the corner of Douglas
and 42nd Streets near campus.
January
PTA program launches Associate’s
degree in PTA online transfer option.
January
Graduate Nursing program earns national
ranking from U.S. News & World Report
February
for the tenth year in a row.
Healthcare Business and Health
Information Management programs
March
recognized as top choices for online
education by Intelligent.com.
Clarkson College employees and
students participate in volunteer
April
activities throughout Omaha during
Maltese Mission Week.
In partnership with Nebraska
Medicine, College launches RN to
April
BSN Nursing Workforce Sponsorship
Program to meet the demand for
qualified nursing professionals.
The Joseph and Patricia Brennan
Academic Travel Legacy Scholarship is
May
launched to support students in their
international travels.
College collaborates with the
University of Nebraska Medical Center
May
College of Public Health to host a
Long COVID information session for
community members and health care
professionals.
Education and Leadership program
launches a Post-Graduate Certificate
in Leadership.
6 Fall 2021
June
Teammates announces scholarship
opportunity with College to launch in 2022.
June
RegisteredNursing.com ranks the Master
of Science in Nursing Administration and
Nursing Education program options as
June
some of the best in the nation.
Clarkson College receives $1 million
through the Nurse Faculty Loan
Program to support nursing educators.
June
Professional Development team earns
an Approved with Distinction rating
July
from the Midwest Multistate Division
of the Nebraska Nurses Association.
College finalizes academic articulation
agreements with Western Nebraska
July
Community College (WNCC) and
Southeast Community College (SCC).
College launches Bachelor of Science in
Community Health, Pre-Health
August
Professional program option.
College finalizes radiography .partnership
with Brown’s Medical Imaging
August
College launches Bachelor of Science
in Psychology option.
September
College hosts the annual Spirit Week
celebration and welcomes alumni
back to campus for Alumni Weekend
following the cancellation of the 2020
events.
Alumni Times 7
With Gratitude Hope Dogbevia
Mike and Judi Dunn
Janine Johnson (‘21)
Lindsey Johnson
Kelly Eaton (06) Candie Jones (‘20)
Sharon Eden Pam Jones
Ed-Ventures Inc. Gretchen Jopp
We would like to extend our appreciation
Michael Ehrecke Bailey Jorgensen
to each of our donors who made a
Natalie Eilers Janice Jorgensen
contribution to the College in the past
Laura Enenbach Laurel Keebler
year. Your generosity allows our institution
Carole Engquist (‘83) Katherine Kirkpatrick
to continue to prepare the best health
Sophie Feng Jenny Kissinger
care professionals and build a healthier
Dawn Fichter (‘96) Andrea Kwiatkowski (‘12)
community and world.
Sarah Flanagan Chris Landon
Will Fleig Megan Lane
Karen Abboud (‘05, ‘12) Jodi Flynn Jane Langemeier
JoAnn Acierno (‘07) Cate Folsom Mary Kay Leatherman
Gary and Naomi Ahlers Valerine Frederick Leslie Leget
Daniel Aksamit Katherine Fuller ('05, '11) Susan Leutzinger (‘89, ‘09)
Steve Allen Katie Fulton (‘04) Tim L'Heureux (‘20)
Becky Allen Mark Galaska (‘76) Jade Liles
Darlene Anderson (‘64) Leanne Galvan Jerilyn List
Siti Arshad-Snyder Charles Gaumond Margaret Lorimor
Laurel Bachle James and Carol Gemborys Carol Lowe
Diana Baker (‘98) Matthew Gleason Neil Lulla
David and Cynthia (‘87, ‘88) Baldwin Ann Glow Chuck MacDonell
Joey Battles (‘21) Bruce Gordon Sharon Mantz
Shaylene Baumgartner Erin Grace Amy Masek
Joan Blum (‘81, ‘86, ;98) Terry Hack Christine Mason
Patrick Brennan Ann Hagenau (‘95, ‘97) Shelli Mayer
Patricia Brennan Susan Hall Jennifer Mayotte
Doug and Diane Brown Jamie Halverson Carol J. McCall (‘68)
Illah Brown Steve Hardiman Melanie McCluskey
James Browning Adam Hardy Julia McCord
Brown's Medical Imaging Kathy Harrison (‘07, ‘17) Con and Janis McGill
Louis and Susan (70) Burgher Roger and Julie Hasz Scott and Kathleen McGill
James T. Canedy James Hauschildt Kassie McKenny (‘07)
Kitty Cappellano Samantha Headley Nancy McMahon
Candice Carter Caitlin Hebrew Jennifer Memolo
Nicole Caskey Anne Heimann Emily Miller
Kimberly Ciurej Robyn Heiser Neka Miller
Louann Coatsworth (‘77, ‘88) Jeanne Henry Kiara Monteith
Ellen Collins Layna Himmelberg (’03, ‘05) William Montgomery
Council of Independent Nebraska Kelly and Susan (‘94) Hinrichs Brent and Michelle Myers
Colleges Foundation Pam Holtz Paul Nathenson
Marsha Cravens Stephanie Hopp Kristin Ndoda
Jayne Cromer Laurna Hoss Andreia and Mike Nebel
Catherine Cruz-Montes Beckie Humanik Jessica Niemann (‘99, ‘16)
Stuart Cummings IMT Insurance Katherine Noden
Marie Dahlberg Mary Jo Jelinek (‘09) Emily O'Neill
Roger Davidson Linda Jensen Aubray Orduna (‘05)
Lisa DeLair Lori Jerina Denny Owens
Carla Dirkschneider (‘07) Amy Jespersen Gary Pack
Mary Dishman (‘87, ‘89, ‘09) Ashley (‘15) and Tyler Johnson Carolyn Pandis
William & Mary Jo Dixon Victoria Johnson Terri Park
Janine Johnson (‘21) Jacqueline Parmenter (‘93, ‘09)
8 Fall 2021
Jina Paul Patricia Weber (‘95, ‘08, ‘11)
Kyle Peacock
Rachel Pfeifer
Shelli Weddum (‘05, ‘11)
Megan Wickless-Mulder Making your
contribution
Sherri Porter (‘93, ‘09, ‘21) Jennifer Wilson
Matt Pospisil ('06) Jessica Wissink
Brenna Primrose (‘07) Michael Witte
Katherine Pursell (‘19) Daniel Wojtalewicz
Devika Ramachandran Ken Zeiger If you are interested in making a
Bosie Rand Shawna Ziegler (‘95) contribution to Clarkson College,
Brenda Randall-Jensen visit ClarksonCollege.edu/Donate or
Shirley Retzlaff mail directly to Alumni Coordinator,
Kevin and Kay Rinn Clarkson College, 101 S 42nd Street,
Jane and Bill Roccaforte Omaha, NE 68131.
Adrienne Rochleau
Reid Roemmich All attempts have been made to
Liz Rogan correctly acknowledge contributed
Rick Ruggles donations. If any errors have
Renee Ruhkamp (‘09) occurred, please contact:
Marilyn Russell
Suzanne Salminen (‘63) alumni@clarksoncollege.edu
Clarence and Mary Schaffner
Greta Schoneman
William Schroeder
Elizabeth Schumacher
Ryan Schurman
Victoria Shaw
Larry Sheets
Teresa Shepherd
Chris and Nicole Shives
Explore
Luke Sieburg International
Erin Sillman (‘16)
Colette Soto
Health Care
Joanne Stewart Systems with ATA
Danna Swartz
Julie Taylor-Costello Join ATA for a special alumni
Laura Thayer-Mencke trip to Denmark and Sweden
Terry and Kelly Thielen
Julie Thompson
Victoria Thompson Clarkson College Academic Travel Visitors will also participate in three or
Gina Toman Abroad (ATA) is hosting a special trip for four university hospital visits and have
Rebecca Van Gundy College and Bishop Clarkson Memorial two free days to explore sights. Four-star
Ann Van Hoff School of Nursing alumni to travel with hotels, daily breakfast, several traditional
Jim and Cathi Van Natta health professionals from North America meals and dinner on a historic steamboat
Rita VanFleet (‘67, ‘94, ‘06) to meet health professionals in Denmark will be provided for all travelers.
Ricardo Varguez and Sweden on August 19–30, 2022.
David Vasquez Spots are limited for this trip. If you
Kristen Villarreal Participants will travel from Copenhagen would like more information, contact
James Voge to Stockholm and enjoy highlights ATA Coordinator Dr. Patricia Brennan at
Natalie Vrbka including Tivoli Gardens, Viking Ship brennan@clarksoncollege.edu.
Cheryl Walburn (‘00) Museum, Vasa Ship Museum, a historical
Andrea Walker Danish pub walk, Drottningholm Royal
Christine Walton Palace, Hans Christian Andersen House
Jerry and Naomi Warner and the Falsterbo Bird Observatory.
Fallon Watts
Alumni Times 9
Despite Pandemic,
Community Health
Student Prevails
Student partners with Mosaic to
overcome challenges during fieldwork
Having a family and being a student is challenging imagine,” says Hidrissou. “I learned more about
encough as it is; add a global pandemic, and it gets myself and personal capabilities that reinforced
even more complicated. This situation is exactly the fact that I made the right choice to enroll
where Adzo Hidrissou (’21) found herself last year. in the Community Health program at Clarkson
College.”
A part-time student and mother of two, Hidrissou
was faced with the additional challenge of During her fieldwork experience, Hidrissou had
completing her fieldwork requirements during the opportunity to work with Executive Director
the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the flexibility Nic Batterton. “Working with Adzo was an
and customization options of the Community excellent experience,” says Batterton. “Because of
Health program, Hidrissou was able to complete the pandemic, we had to get to know each other
her fieldwork requirements in fall 2020 at Mosaic, virtually and without actually giving her chances to
an organization located in Omaha, Neb., despite work with the people we support. We both grew
the challenges that COVID-19 presented. a lot as leaders during our time together. Adzo
brought a smile to my leadership team each day
The experience not only led to a full-time career
when we were fighting through the pandemic. She
at the organization, which she began following
led meetings and participated in problem solving
completion of her Bachelor’s degree in May 2021,
that led to positive outcomes for many individuals
but also a wealth of knowledge she can use to serve
with diverse needs.”
others. Mosaic provides whole-person health care
services to people with intellectual and development During her fieldwork, Hidrissou worked as an
disabilities. The staff helps develop customized independent contractor to bring in clients to
plans that connect individuals with services and expand the services Mosaic offers. She also
programs to help them reach their personal goals. supported the human resources department
and staff as a French-English interpreter. While
“My experience there was beyond productive
COVID-19 presented challenges to these duties,
because it helped me to cope during the pandemic
she felt prepared to deal with them, thanks to her
and exposed me to real-life scenarios that
coursework in community and public health.
community health professionals can often times only
10 Fall 2021“At first it was hard to adapt to the new working
conditions, especially social distancing given
that community health is all about helping the
community, which means regular and close
interactions with people," says Hidrissou.
"Most of my class work resonated with real-life
events though, so I was psychologically equipped
to handle the drastic life changes that came
with coronavirus.”
Fieldwork not only allows students the opportunity
to apply their coursework to the field, but also for
organizations to gain insight and understanding
into new concepts in community health. “There is
so much to learn from each other,” says Batterton.
“I find working with students keeps my mind thinking
more critically, and creatively. Times change, and
students help bring out the best in my team and keep
us thinking and acting strategically with the future
in mind.”
Mosaic is just one of hundreds of organizations
where Community Health students can bring their
talents during fieldwork and after completing their
degrees. “My Community Health education has
given me the platform to live my dream and actualize
my passion for helping people and making an impact
on society,” says Hidrissou. “A fulfilling life comes
from helping people, and I believe that I am already
an asset in this field thanks to my decision to study at
Clarkson College.”
Hidrissou (seated) with her husband.
Times change, and
students help bring out
the best in my team and
keep us thinking and
acting strategically with
the future in mind.
NIC BATTERTON
Alumni Times 11Featured Stories
Reigniting
Our Spirit
After a year of the pandemic forcing the cancellation
and limitation of many events, community members
had the opportunity to gather on campus and
celebrate Clarkson College in 2021. The annual Spirit
Week and Alumni Weekend events took place Sept.
20–24, and they drew individuals from near and far as
they reinvigorated their dedication to the institution
and its mission.
Monday – Integrity
Spirit Week kicked off Monday, Sept. 20 with lunch
and the revealing of Clarkson College-inspired
banners. During the month of September, faculty,
staff members, students and alumni were invited to
create Clarkson College banners using art supplies
provided by the institution. Artists were required
to create banners that celebrated the history and
Values of the College and included the Maltese
Cross. Community members voted on their favorite
submissions, and the winning artists earned gift
card prizes.
The College also hosted its first session of the Legacy
Series on Monday, a townhall event featuring keynote
speakers Mr. Bruce Lauritzen, great-great-great
grandson of Bishop Robert H. and Meliora Clarkson,
and Bishop J. Scott Barker, Bishop of the Episcopal
Diocese of Nebraska and member of the Clarkson
College Board of Directors. Both guests spoke about
the history of the College and what the institution has
meant to the Omaha community.
Photos
The College community also participated in a
Top: Clarkson College-themed banners hang in Howard Hall.
campus-wide donation drive beginning Monday.
Bottom: Mr. Bruce Lauritzen (left) listens as Bishop J. Scott Barker (right)
Faculty, staff members and students donated items speaks during the Legacy Series event.
to Magdalene Omaha, an organization dedicated
to helping survivors of sex trafficking, prostitution,
trauma and addiction. The College gathered
essential items to be donated to survivors as they
begin their healing journeys.
12 Fall 2021Tuesday – Caring
On Tuesday, the community celebrated the Value
of Caring by hosting a clean-up event where
participants walked through campus and the
surrounding Blackstone District to pick up trash to
create a cleaner, more inviting environment.
College students, employees, and their family and
friends came to campus Tuesday for a movie and ice
cream night. Attendees watched a screening of the
movie Coco and enjoyed free samples of Clarkson
College Crunch ice cream—a custom flavor created
by Ted and Wally’s ice cream shop in Omaha.
Wednesday – Excellence
The community celebrated the Value of
Excellence during a health and wellness fair held
in the Courtyard Sept. 22. The event was put on
by Clarkson College faculty and staff with support
from the Nebraska Medicine Guild, a non-profit
organization that supports the education and
outreach efforts of Nebraska Medicine and
the College.
Attendees had the opportunity to visit several booths
during the Wellness Fair, each focused on a particular
aspect of wellness including mental, physical,
spiritual and financial. Participants could enjoy
mindfulness exercises and chair yoga sessions and
get their blood pressure checked by Undergraduate
Nursing students. Other booths featured information
about budgeting, campus ministry, community
resources including the police and fire departments,
and free books for students to enjoy. Photos
Students who visited each booth had the Top Left: Clarkson College Crunch ice cream available during movie night.
opportunity to enter to win free prizes including a Top Right: Students take a break from classes to throw (inflatable) axes.
FitBit and gift cards. Bottom Right: Physical Therapist Assistant students guide attendees
through wellness and flexibility exercises.
Alumni Times 13Thursday – Commitment
On Thursday, Sept. 23, the College kicked off Alumni
Weekend and celebrated the Value of Commitment
with a brunch for all alumni in Howard Hall. Because
community members were unable to gather on
campus in 2020, this year’s event honored graduates
from 1995/96, 1980/81 and 1970/71. Attendees
reminisced with one another and had the opportunity
to hear from College community members about
updates happening at the institution.
The College also hosted the Heritage Garden Walk
on Thursday. During the event, attendees learned
about the history of the College and gathered to
celebrate bricks and plaques that were dedicated in
the garden in honor of College community members.
This year, bricks were dedicated in honor of Darlene
(Hawkins) Sheets (’65) and Dr. Patricia Brennan,
Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Academic
Travel Abroad program at Clarkson College. Plaques
were dedicated in honor of Ellen Collins, former
Director of Radiography and Medical Imaging, and
Dr. Aubray Orduna, former Dean of Nursing and
Interim President of Clarkson College.
For the second year in a row, the College crowned
Mr. and Ms. Clarkson during the Heritage Garden
Walk. This year’s candidates for Mr. and Ms. Clarkson
included Haydn Jones, Matt Gleason, Tanner Kuehn,
Katherine Olson, Jabria Beninato and Marissa
Mindrup.
Photos
Top: Alumna Florence Mortensen Cline (’44) shares her
memories of Bishop Clarkson Memorial School of Nursing
during the alumni brunch.
Bottom: Alumnae from the graduating class of 1971
gathered to celebrate.
Jabria Beninato (left) and Matt Gleason (right) were
crowned Mr. and Ms. Clarkson during the Heritage
Garden Ceremony on Sept. 23. Beninato is enrolled
in the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Bachelor
of Science in Nursing (BSN) program option, and
Gleason is enrolled in the Associate's degree in
Physical Therapist Assistant option.
14 Fall 2021Friday – Learning
The College celebrated the Value of Learning by The event featured guest speakers Joy Doll, OTD,
hosting the continuing education event “Ethics OTR/L, FNAP, Vice President, Community and
Beyond Clinical that Impact Health Care” on Friday, Academic Programs at CynHealth; Josie Rodriguez,
Sept. 24. Guest speakers addressed the importance MHCA from the Office of Health Disparities and
of understanding health care ethical disparities Health Equity; Michael Romano, MD, MHA, Chief
among the population. The event aimed to help Medical Officer at Nebraska Health Network; Laura
health care professionals realize, understand and Heinemann, PhD, MSW, MA, Associate Professor
become aware of barriers and social detriments and of Medical Anthropology at Creighton University;
how they affect patient are. LaShaune Johnson, PhD, Associate Professor of
Interdisciplinary Studies at Creighton University;
and Emily Sierra, Master of Public Health Student at
University of Pittsburgh.
On Friday evening, alumni gathered at the
Cottonwood Hotel in Blackstone for dinner
and cocktails. During the event, the community
celebrated 25 years of graduating students from
the Physical Therapist Assistant program as well
as the 25-year anniversary of the Student
Government Association.
During the event, the Alumni Association presented
the Minerva Ryley Alumni Legacy Award to Rita
VanFleet (’67, ’94, ’06) for her years of dedicated
service to the College and the Alumni Association.
A graduate of Bishop Memorial School of Nursing
and Clarkson College, VanFleet served as the Alumni
Coordinator at Clarkson College from 2008 until her
retirement in 2020.
The Alumni Association also presented the
Distinguished Alumni Award to three deserving
recipients on Friday night. The award honors a
graduate of Clarkson College or Bishop Clarkson
Memorial School of Nursing who has demonstrated a
strong commitment to the College and its students.
This year’s recipients were Katherine Pursell, PTA
(‘19), graduate of the Physical Therapist Assistant
program and current provider at Think Whole Person
Healthcare; Dr. Angela Felton-Coleman, DNP,
MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-BC (’06, ’15), graduate of the
Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Post-Master’s
Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner program
options and current provider at Children’s Hospital
and Medical Center; and William Koile, M.S., MBA
(’08), graduate of the Healthcare Administration
program option who serves as the Emergency
Services and Acute Care Support Director at
Nebraska Medicine and adjunct instructor at
Clarkson College.
Photos
Top: Alumni, family and friends gather at the Cottonwood
Hotel in Blackstone for a night of camaraderie.
Bottom: Members of the Alumni Association congratulate
Rita VanFleet (left) upon receiving the Minerva Ryley Alumni
Legacy Award.
Alumni Times 15Awards and Honors
Radiography Student Earns CVIT
Sponsorship from Nebraska Medicine
Heidi Lierz will pursue a career in cardiovascular imaging technology
Heidi Lierz (’21), recent graduate of field. “Earning this sponsorship means
the Radiography and Medical Imaging a lot to me,” she says. “It is a great
program at Clarkson College, earned opportunity for me to learn more about
the Nebraska Medicine Cardiovascular the cardiovascular imaging field and get
Imaging Technology (CVIT) Sponsorship hands-on experience while in school.”
in 2021, becoming the first Clarkson Now that graduation is over, Lierz is
College student to earn the distinction. eager to begin work in the lab. “I chose
Available through the Nebraska to go into cardiovascular interventional
Medicine Cardiac Catheterization Lab, imaging because I have always found the
the sponsorship encourages students to cardiovascular system to be intriguing and
explore roles within the cardiovascular loved learning about it,” she says.
imaging field and awards recipients with “I have also had the opportunity to job
tuition assistance during their course shadow in a cath lab and got to see a
of study. Following completion of their pacemaker implanted. It made me want
academic program, students also earn to learn more about all the different
employment at Nebraska Medicine. procedures they can perform.”
For Lierz, who graduated with her To learn more about the Radiography and
Associate’s degree in Radiography Medical Imaging program at Clarkson
in August 2021 and plans to earn her College and the multitude of clinical site
Bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging in opportunities, visit ClarksonCollege.edu/
December 2021, the scholarship allows Radiography-Medical-Imaging.
her to explore an exciting and challenging
I have always found the
cardiovascular system to
be intriguing and loved
learning about it.
16 Fall 2021Graduate Nursing and
Healthcare Administration
Options Receive Recognition
RegisteredNursing.org, a nursing Another aspect that sets Clarkson College to evaluate and solve real-world health
advocacy organization, recently ranked apart is the recently launched dual care issues.”
multiple Clarkson College programs degree option in Master of Science in
The Registered Nursing organization
among the best in the nation for 2021. Nursing (MSN) and Master of Healthcare
ranks programs by utilizing data from
The following program options received Administration that allows students
multiple sources including the Integrated
recognition: to earn multiple Master’s degrees
Postsecondary Education Data System
consecutively. The curriculum focuses on
#2 Best MSN in Nursing Administration and U.S. Department of Education Office
communication, leadership, ethics and
#4 Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner diversity and prepares nurses to lead of Postsecondary Education. Individual
programs are awarded points based
#5 Best Nurse Educator Program within a variety of health care business
on certain factors including whether or
settings.
“We are honored to be recognized for not the institution is accredited and if
our Graduate Nursing and Healthcare “The dual degree option allows students they offer online education options. The
Administration programs,” says Director to take their education one step further methodology also considers acceptance
of Graduate Nursing Layna Himmelberg, by earning Master’s degrees in both rate, graduation rate, diversity of options
Ed.D., MSN, CNE. “Our outstanding Nursing and Healthcare Administration,” and other factors.
faculty and driven students set us apart says Director of Healthcare Business
Learn more about the Graduate
from other institutions as we strive to and Health Information Management
Nursing program including the Dual
prepare the best in health care.” Carla Dirkschneider, MS, RHIA. “The
Master’s degree in Nursing and
flexible online curriculum is designed for
Healthcare Administration option at
#2
working professionals who want to learn
ClarksonCollege.edu/Nursing.
Best Master of Science in Nursing Administration
nationwide
#4
nationwide
Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner
#5
nationwide
Best Nurse Educator Program
Alumni Times 17Education and
Leadership Program
Earns Top Ranking
The Clarkson College Doctor of Healthcare of part- and full-time post-secondary educators
Education and Leadership (Ed.D.) program has will rise 15% by 2026, and employment of
been awarded top ranking by Intelligent.com. administration jobs will rise by 10%.
The degree is ranked as one of the best online The 2021 rankings are calculated through a unique
Doctorate in Education programs with a special scoring system that includes student engagement,
designation as offering the most flexible potential return on investment and leading
completion time. third-party evaluations. Intelligent.com analyzed
The College program was evaluated based on thousands of schools with comparable programs
curriculum quality, graduation rate, reputation, on a scale of 0 to 100. The methodology uses
and post-graduate employment. Along with an algorithm that collects and analyzes multiple
ranking relevant programs, the organization offers rankings into one score to easily compare each
insight into the need for individuals with doctoral university’s degree program.
degrees in education. According to the site, the
Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment
About Intelligent
Intelligent.com provides unbiased
research to help students make
informed decisions about higher
education programs. The website
offers curated guides which include
the best degree programs as well
as information about financial aid,
internships and even study strategies.
With comprehensive, user-friendly
guides and hundreds of program
rankings, Intelligent.com is a
trusted source among students and
prospective students. To learn more,
visit www.intelligent.com.
18 Fall 2021Faculty and Staff Member
Honored for Dedicated Service
Each May during the College-wide College is being able to help students,
Sharon Mantz, community meeting, Clarkson College staff and faculty in the clinical process,”
Dr. Otto Bauer Distinguished honors outstanding community members she says. “It is also the opportunity to
Service Award Recipient who demonstrate a commitment to continue learning by keeping up to date
the institution and its students. Clinical with technology and everything from
Compliance Advisor Sharon Mantz email to our online portal systems.”
and Undergraduate Nursing Associate Stephanie Hopp, MSN-RN, CPN
Professor Stephanie Hopp, MSN-RN,
CPN, received the prestigious awards The Dr. Patricia Book Perry Faculty of the
this year. Year Award recognizes individuals who
have made substantial contributions to
Sharon Mantz education at the College. Nominees must
The Dr. Otto Bauer Distinguished hold a faculty rank in an academic or
Service Award recognizes a support professional program and have at
or administrative/professional staff least three years teaching experience
member who exhibits leadership and at the institution.
demonstrates outstanding service to Ms. Hopp began her career at
Clarkson College. All part- and full-time, Clarkson College as an instructor in the
non-faculty staff are eligible to receive Undergraduate Nursing program in 2010.
the award. Since then, she has earned the rank of
Ms. Mantz has been part of the Clarkson Assistant and Associate Professor. She
College community since 2003. currently teaches clinicals and serves as
Throughout her time at the institution, she a course coordinator while enrolled in
has served as an Administrative Assistant the Doctor in Healthcare Education and
and Health and Safety Specialist. She Leadership program at the College.
currently serves as a Clinical Compliance “Earning this award is such an honor,”
Advisor as part of the Enrollment and she says. “I truly feel like I am just one
Advising department where she assists small piece of a big operation working
students with maintaining health and
Stephanie Hopp, to educate future health care providers.
safety compliance for classes and clinicals.
MSN-RN, CPN, Dr. Patricia After the year we have all had, I'd like to
Book Perry Faculty of the Year Ms. Mantz is a two-time award winner share this award with all of us working
Award Recipient and was just as shocked the second toward this same goal.”
time around. “I was looking for just one Ms. Hopp enjoys working with colleagues
word to describe the feeling of earning in her department and throughout
this award, but there are so many— the College through her involvement
astonished, amazed, heart-stopping!” in Faculty Senate, Nursing Assembly
she says. “I am so proud and honored and multiple Critical Success Factor
to be recognized.” committees. Her dedication to furthering
Not only was Ms. Mantz recognized for the Mission of the institution reflects
her years of dedication to the College, a caring spirit that she sees across the
but also for her willingness to step in College.
and volunteer to help others during “My favorite part of working at Clarkson
events such as graduation, new student College is the people,” she says. “We
orientation, Spirit Week and Maltese are an amazing team of faculty, staff and
Mission Week. Her love of helping and administrators, and our students are
caring for others drives her each and hard-working, professional and caring.
every day. Clarkson College feels like a big family
“For me, the best part of working at the filled with those who genuinely care about
each other.”
Alumni Times 19Sue Leutzinger, MSN, RN
Assistant Professor of
Undergraduate Nursing
Faculty Earn Their Apples
The Clarkson College Faculty Senate would not be where I am without our
presents the Excellence in Teaching great students in our Nurse Anesthesia
Faculty Award, also known as the Apple program, our wonderful faculty and
award, each fall and spring semester program administration, and the support
to faculty members who demonstrate of Clarkson College. I am humbled to
a commitment to the institution and its have received this award.”
students. At the Faculty Senate Meeting Nicole Shives, Associate Professor of
held in May, three faculty members General Education
earned the award.
Nicole Shives, M.S., has been a faculty
Sue Leutzinger, Assistant Professor of member in the General Education
Undergraduate Nursing department at Clarkson College since
Sue Leutzinger, MSN, RN became 2016. She currently teaches lecture and
a member of the Clarkson College lab courses in anatomy and physiology
community in 2004 when she became and is also pursuing her Doctor of Adrienne Rochleau, DNP, CRNA
an instructor in the Undergraduate Healthcare Education and Leadership Program Administrator of
Nursing program. She teaches courses degree at the College. Ms. Shives has Nurse Anesthesia
in foundational skills and managing been a recipient of the Employee Scholar
nursing care of the adult, and along with Award and the Faculty Senate Excellence
her teaching duties, works with students in Teaching Award during her time at the
as part of the Sigma Theta Tau national College.
nursing honor society. “I am honored to be selected for the
“I am very excited and happy to receive Excellence in Teaching Award out of the
this award,” she says. “I have been a nurse many talented and committed Clarkson
for many, many years and truly enjoy College faculty,” she says. “It is so
educating student nurses. It is rewarding rewarding to help our students pursue
to be recognized and appreciated by my their academic and professional goals.”
students. They may be taking care of me Students and faculty members may
one day, and I want to ensure they are nominate individuals who exemplify
safe and knowledgeable.” the Clarkson College Values of Caring,
Dr. Adrienne Rochleau, Program Excellence, Integrity, Commitment and
Administrator of Nurse Anesthesia Learning and demonstrate a desire to
continue the Mission of the College for
Adrienne Rochleau, DNP, CRNA, came
the award each semester. Recipients must
to Clarkson College in 2014 as the Nurse
exhibit the ability to:
Anesthesia Program Coordinator and was
appointed the Program Administrator • Encourage contact between students Nicole Shives, M.S.
in 2021. Along with teaching courses and faculty Associate Professor of
and working to coordinate the Nurse General Education
• Develop collaboration and cooperation
Anesthesia program option, she maintains among students
active clinical practice hours as a Certified
• Encourage active learning
Nurse Anesthetist at Heartland Center for
Reproductive Medicine and Montgomery • Provide prompt feedback
City Memorial Hospital. • Communicate high expectations and
“Receiving the Teaching in Excellence serve as a role model
Apple Award is an incredible honor,” • Emphasize timeliness for academic and
she says. “Thank you to all of you who professional success
nominated me, and to the Faculty Senate • Respect diverse talents and
for providing this great opportunity. I learning styles
20 Fall 2021Scholarship Recipients Prove It’s
Never Too Late to Go Back to School
Two undergraduate students earn scholarships from local organization
In spring 2021, two Clarkson College offers medical imaging services such as Early in her undergraduate education,
students received Adult Students in ultrasound and mammography to low- Bryan planned to attend school to
Scholastic Training (ASIST) scholarships income communities in Omaha or Africa. become a doctor or physician assistant
from the Omaha chapter of the Executive but now, she finds herself drawn to the
“I firmly believe that besides having
Women International organization to nursing field.
a noble career in health care, our
pursue their courses of study at mission should be to help people in our “I love the philosophy of practice within
the College. community and inspire others to join nursing – it is a more wholistic approach
Yabah Djinadji us," she says. “My mission will be to help to health care,” she says. “Nurses look at
women worldwide with quality care during the whole person when providing care.
Yabah Djinadji (’21) earned the ASIST
pregnancy and their fight against cancer,” When I think about my most impactful
scholarship to help as she earns her
she says. “Many women worldwide do health experiences as a patient, it’s been
Bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging
not have access to medical imaging care the nurses who have made the greatest
from Clarkson College. Originally from
during their pregnancy. This need is more impact on the overall journey back to
Togo in West Africa, Djinadji is a mother
crucial in Africa than anywhere else.” good health. It excites me to be able to
of five children who previously attended
Metropolitan Community College and Sarah Bryan do the same for others, whether it’s here
earned an associates degree in Liberal at home or on the medical mission trips I
Sarah Bryan, who is enrolled in the plan to participate in someday.
Art Science. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
“I am honored to be a recipient option at Clarkson College, has had As a returning student, the ASIST
of Executive Women International a long road to health care. As an scholarship will go a long way in allowing
scholarship,” she says. “Many people like undergraduate student, she served as a Bryan to focus on school and preparing to
me are out there thinking about going volunteer English teacher and translator be the best in health care.
back to school, but they are afraid. I feel in St. Petersburg, Russia as well as a “Receiving the ASIST Scholarship means
like any scholarship that I get is a reminder mission worker in New York, New York the world to me,” she says. “It allows me
that they can do it too. It means a lot to before earning her Bachelor’s degree in to focus on those things that matter most:
me, and I hope that my story inspires International Studies from the University my education (and the patients I will be
others to return to school.” of Nebraska-Omaha. able to serve as a result), and my most
Growing up in West Africa meant Djinadji She currently lives in Omaha with her important job as a mother. Without it, I
saw firsthand the need for proper medical four children and works as a Clerk Tech might have needed to be more employed
care for underserved populations. and Nurse Assistant in the emergency than I am now, in order to provide for
Following graduation in fall 2021, she department at Memorial Community them and pay for school – sacrificing both
hopes to join or start an organization that Hospital and Health System in Blair, Neb. my time with my children and my studies.”
Photos
Yabah Djinadji (far left) and Sarah Bryan (second from right) accepted their ASIST scholarships at an event in June 2021. Alumni Times 21Professional Development Launches
Online Phlebotomy Course
In summer 2021, Clarkson College Professional Throughout the course, participants will gain an
Development launched a Phlebotomy Technician understanding of basic anatomy with an emphasis
course that allows individuals to complete on the cardiovascular system, pathophysiology
required courses online and become certified and hematology testing. They’ll also learn the
phlebotomy technicians. techniques and safety measures involved in
drawing blood to prepare them for work in a
The course aims to help meet the demand for
variety of settings.
qualified technicians in the phlebotomy field,
particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Professional Development Phlebotomy
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Technician course can be completed in as few
the phlebotomy field is projected to grow 17% by as 12 months. For more information and to
2029, much faster than the average for most fields. enroll in the course, visit ClarksonCollege.edu/
Professional-Development.
Following completion of the course, participants
will have numerous job opportunities as a health
care professional trained to draw blood for use
in diagnostic testing, transfusions, research and
blood donations.
The course involves online theory courses as well
as an externship that allows participants to gain
hands-on experience. Students will complete 325
hours of coursework as well as 40 clinical hours.
22 Fall 2021College Launches RN to BSN Nursing
Workforce Sponsorship Program
Nurses can earn a four-year job placement with tuition and fees covered
In spring 2021, Clarkson College Through the program, RNs have the of my learning, plus all my instructors
launched the RN to BSN Nursing opportunity to enroll in the award- were amazing. Everything I learned
Workforce Sponsorship Program to allow winning RN to BSN program option at through the Clarkson College RN to BSN
registered nurses (RN) the opportunity Clarkson College. The curriculum focuses program option is going to make me a
to earn their Bachelor of Science in on evidence-based practice, leadership better nurse, and for that, I can’t thank the
Nursing (BSN) degree, with tuition and and population health, and builds upon College enough for the opportunity to
fees covered, and obtain four-year job nurses’ skills while preparing them for the complete their program.”
placement at Nebraska Medicine during growing demands of the nursing field. To be eligible for the RN to BSN
and following completion of the program. Throughout and following completion of Workforce Sponsorship Program,
the program, graduates earn a four-year
The institution, in collaboration with applicants must currently hold an
job placement with Nebraska Medicine,
their educational partner Nebraska Associate in Nursing Degree and have
including two years as a full-time ASN/
Medicine, enacted the program to help an active Registered Nurse license
RN staff nurse while completing courses
meet the growing need for nurses in in the state of Nebraska. They must
at Clarkson College and two years as a
the community and provide nursing successfully enroll and be accepted
full-time BSN/RN staff nurse following
professionals the opportunity to advance into the Clarkson College RN to BSN
graduation.
their education and careers. The program program option and need to have
aims to build a workforce with more highly The flexibility of the program option is minimum one (1) year experience in a
educated nurses who can continue to ideal for working professionals. Students hospital or health care setting.
offer patients exceptional health care. can complete coursework online while Recipients must also maintain good
working at Nebraska Medicine and
"There is a growing trend in the standing while enrolled in the RN to
can enroll in part- or full-time options.
health care field to require all nursing BSN program option and complete an
Completing the program option can
professionals to earn their Bachelor's interview with Nebraska Medicine and
also open the door for nurses to earn
degree," says Valerie Anderson, DNP, adhere to all hiring practices. A letter
advanced degrees as a nurse practitioner,
MSN-Ed, APRM, FNP-C, Director of of commitment to work for Nebraska
nurse educator or nurse administration
Undergraduate Nursing Program at Medicine for four years will be signed
professional.
Clarkson College. “The RN to BSN upon enrollment.
Nursing Workforce Sponsorship Program “I was able to have a course schedule The application and further information
allows us the opportunity to offer nurses that fit my needs and timeframe,” says can be found at ClarksonCollege.edu/
a pathway to advance their careers and Stephanie Weverka, RN, BSN (’21). “I was bsnsponsorship.
ensure that patients continue to receive never pressured to take more courses
exceptional and compassionate care.” than I could handle and was fully in charge
Alumni Times 23College
Awarded $1
Million Grant
for Nurse
Educators
Clarkson College has been awarded more Nursing. “This grant will help increase the work harder and dream bigger. This
than $1 million through the Nurse Faculty number of trained nurses entering opportunity provided by Clarkson
Loan Program (NFLP) from the Health the workforce as nursing faculty College has been greatly appreciated.”
Resources and Services Administration and allow us to continue our Mission of
The NFLP loan covers the cost of
(HRSA) within the U.S. Department educating the best nursing professionals.”
tuition, fees and books while a student
of Health and Human Services to Thanks to NFLP, students like Stacey is enrolled part or full time at Clarkson
assist nursing educators as they Poldervaart, MSN, RN (’18, ’20) have the College. Loans may not exceed $35,500
pursue advanced education to impact the opportunity to explore their passion as for an academic year and no more than 5
next generation of nurses. nurse educators. After earning her years of support. Funding is limited to one
The NFLP will be available to nurses Associate’s degree in Nursing in 2007, advanced degree.
enrolled in the Clarkson College she made the decision to return
Clarkson College has approval from
Doctor of Healthcare Education & to school in 2018 when she earned
the Higher Learning Commission to
Leadership (Ed.D.) program or the her BSN followed by her Master’s degree
offer the Ed.D. and MSN programs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education from Clarkson
The MSN program is also accredited
Nursing Education program option. College. Now in the second semester
by the Accreditation Commission for
The program aims to assist registered of her doctoral degree program at
Education in Nursing. Nurses enrolled
nurses with a Bachelor of Science in the institution, Stacey is using NFLP to
in either the Ed.D. program or the MSN
Nursing (BSN) as they complete their pursue her education while working as a
Nursing Education program option gain
graduate nursing education to become Simulation Assistant Coordinator at Iowa
the knowledge and skills to implement
qualified nursing faculty. Recipients Central Community College.
and teach health care curricula. Course
are required to teach for at least four “Making the decision to return to school work focuses on applying clinical practice
consecutive years following graduation to after almost 10 years, and over the age knowledge and experience to classroom
be eligible for loan forgiveness through of 45, was not easy,” she says. “The time instruction as well as designing and
the NFLP. Following each year of teaching, and financial commitment to further implementing health care courses and/or
a percentage of a student’s loan will be my education and career goals was programs across a variety of settings.
forgiven with a total of 85% forgiveness something to consider, as I have a family
upon completion of their fourth Visit ClarksonCollege.edu/Education-
to care for as well. NFLP offered through
teaching year. Leadership for more information
Clarkson College made this decision
on our doctorate in Healthcare Education
“We are excited to have the opportunity a bit easier. Being able to continue my
and Leadership and ClarksonCollege.
to support our students who are pursuing education to reach my goals, knowing
edu/Nursing to learn about our Master’s
roles in nursing education,” says Dr. Layna the financial burden of higher education
degree in Nursing Education option.
Himmelberg, Director of Graduate would be lessened, motivated me to
24 Fall 2021You can also read
