SPRING 2020 12 COVID-19: The Silent Spring - THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
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THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
SPRING 2020
12 COVID-19: The Silent Spring
Consider joining the
Clock Tower Society!
The Clock Tower Society is an honorary society of donors who have made the
Missouri Western State University Foundation a beneficiary of their estate and financial
planning. Membership in the Society is extended to all who have made an estate or deferred
gift commitment, regardless of the amount, to the Foundation.
We appreciate our Clock Tower Society members! For more information, contact
Kim Weddle ’00, Executive Director
† Denotes deceased. of Alumni Relations and
Annual Giving
Algalee Adams ’39† David C. Horn ’66 (816) 271-5648
Dr. Jimmy and Janice Albright Herb ’35† and Peggy† Iffert weddle@missouriwestern.edu
Tom† and Mary Alice† Kenneth Jameson† Thank you!
Bingaman Carole Kleeman Tuttle ’52
Charlene Riemen Bunten ’52 Mike and Peggy Lane
Harold “Pete” and Betty I.† Michael and Millie ’78 Maloney
Burchett Bill ’70 and Judy McMurray
Tom A. Carmichael, Jr.† Nell T. Morris†
20
Wayne ’90 and Nanette Chatham Tom Payn
Jean Conner ’38† Greg and Susan Pettigrew
Cheryl Ann Cornett ’76 Alice K. Phelan ’45†
Lorraine Crews ’42 Charles and Carol ’56 Reynolds SPRING 2020
Jacob Cunning ’16 George S. Richmond†
LeRoy† and Jeanne† Eaton Louis R.’28† and Roberta S.† SECTIONS FEATURES
Earl E.† and Elmyra J.† Euler Riemer
Bob and Susan Fay V. Joyce Rochambeau ’47† 3 Campus News 10 Celebrating 50 years –
Dale and Valerie Finney Robert Donald Sharp ’74† Bushman Planetarium
Dr. Frances M. Flanagan ’35† Dr. Melody A. Smith and 16 Griffon Sports
When the present-day campus opened
Rod ’48† and Anne† Fletcher Larry Smith 18 Alumni News in 1969, one of the few planetariums in
Lyman L. and M. Jane Frick Larry R. Stobbs ’74
Dr. Joe Friedman ’39† Roy L. and Lana Tewell 24 Alumnotes the state opened, too.
Helen Gettys ’51† Drs. Bob and Laurel Vartabedian
12 COVID-19: A Silent Spring
Andrew ’34† and Betty† Glaze
David A. Grahl ’74
Greg ’89 and Joleen VerMulm
Edward Vincent ’39† Everyone was somehow affected by 16
10
the COVID-19 crisis this year, and
Barry Greenwald LTC (Ret) Kevin West
Missouri Western was no exception.
Edward ’62† and Janet Haffey Steven Whitlock and Synthia Read how University officials dealt with
Stan and Doris ’51† Hall Black-Whitlock the unprecedented situation and how it
Jim Hausman Bob and Susie Willenbrink affected our students and employees.
George Hayward ’75 William G. Wright†
Rose W. Herman†
ON THE COVER 20 Forging Ahead
The Global Center, a one-stop shop
It's just not Missouri Western without for all things international, opened
our students. We sure missed them on campus this past spring, academic
when they didn't return to campus departments are preparing for Gold
after spring break due to COVID-19. Fridays that begins in Fall 2020 and
Photo by Patrick Evenson the esports arena is in the works.
SPRING 2018 3
campus NEWS
president’s PERSPECTIVE The MWSU Magazine is a publication
of the Marketing and Communications Office
for alumni and friends of Missouri Western State
Dear Friends, and bring our University and its predecessor institutions.
Our heart goes out to Griffon
Nation and everyone impacted by
program offerings
and staffing into SPRING 2020 Center for Teaching and Learning opens
the COVID-19 situation. The rapid balance with our VOLUME 18/NUMBER 2 A new Center for Teaching hopes the lunch sessions will give
spread of this virus combined with enrollment numbers. and Learning opened in the spring attendees a forum for interacting
our commitment to be a responsible Commenced in Editor 2020 semester with Dr. Shauna and networking with colleagues
global citizen led us to shift our February, this process Diane Holtz Hiley, professor of chemistry, across campus.
spring semester away from on-campus involved a 14-person Design Editor serving as its director. The center She said the center did hold
instruction to alternate modes of Finance Advisory Kendy Scudder ’94 offers professional development a couple of presentations by
delivery so we can continue our Council evaluating Chief Communications Officer opportunities for all employees, and employees in the spring, including
important mission of education. our financial
Jomel Nichols it kicked off with several options for Generation Guide: Today’s College
As we have operated in unexpected situation and then Executive Director of Alumni Relations them. Students.
and extraordinary circumstances, a nine-person
and Annual Giving Dr. Hiley said the center planned Dr. Hiley said she also plans
Kim Weddle ’00
we are most appreciative of the Academic Review to host a lunch topics series two to take advantage of Missouri
Photographers
understanding of our campus Board considering Area businesses donated a "presidential limo" to President Wilson so he can John Ellis
or three times a month, informal Western’s Gold Fridays, which
community as well as the efforts of necessary program offer students rides across campus and have the opportunity to visit with Patrick Evenson events where attendees could bring begin in the fall of 2020. With
our faculty, staff and administrators adjustments. Faculty, them. He is pictured with representatives of the donor companies: Sunshine Reid Williams their own lunch and hear a guest Gold Fridays, very few classes
in continuing our critical operations. staff, administrators Electronic Display Corporation, E.L. Crawford Construction, Inc., ProServ speaker. Those were put on hold will be scheduled on Fridays, so
As you might imagine, the and students Business Systems, Inc. and Gray Manufacturing. when campus closed in March due she plans to use the days to offer
Board of Governors
COVID-19 crisis has added participated in this Deborah Smith ’79, Chair to COVID-19 and will be held in workshop-style presentations.
massive disruptions to students, important process. our society. To survive and thrive, Lee Tieman, Vice Chair the fall. Instead, the center’s website “The center helps employees
institutional operations and At the end of April, the Board we must be forward thinking and Rick Ebersold, Al Landes, David Liechti,
featured resources for faculty explore new ideas, improve
finances for all universities around of Governors considered final strategic. Greg Mason ’89 and Kayla Schoonover ’77 members regarding remote teaching. pedagogy and improve service to
the country. This comes at a time recommendations. To help Missouri Going forward, we will continue to “The plan was for the guest students,” she said. “We all want
Alumni Board
when higher education was already Western survive and strategically put have exceptional programs that serve Tona Williams ’00, President speaker to start the conversation and to improve our performance on
facing unprecedented forces. For it in a position to thrive, the Board our students and the community. Mary Workman ’76, Vice President let it go wherever those attending the job.”
Jim Jeffers ’73, Immediate Past President
quite some time, institutions have approved a phase-out of certain We will invest in programs that are
wanted it to go,” she said. Dr. Hiley It is located in Spratt Hall.
been struggling with the impact degrees and minors. Over the years, too in demand while continuing to offer Emily Baumann ’10, Marilyn Beck ’77,
of downward student enrollment
trends, strained state funding, rising
many under-enrolled programs have
persisted. Nearly 35 majors currently
courses in liberal arts subjects, just on
a different scale.
Linda Crabtree ’60, Jodi Deering ’01,
Brian Gray ’90, Jaime Habersat ’99, Diane Hook ’90, Class works with human rights commission
Lai-Monté Hunter ’99, Claudia James ’89,
costs, facilities maintenance needs, enroll fewer than 10 students total and We are aware that the changes are David Karleskint ’90, Linda Kerner ’73, The Human Rights Commission strategies, for the HRC. Then, in
tuition limits, long-term debt and another 10 majors enroll only between very difficult. Please know that our
Paige Klocke ’16, Stacey Lawrence ’10, (HRC) in St. Joseph, Missouri was Dr. Jackson’s spring 2020 Strategic
Leayn Losh ’88, Dennis Merritt ’01,
online competition. Such forces have 11-15 students. This approach is goal is to strengthen the University Kendell Misemer ’82, Phyllis Myers ’56,
formed in the fall of 2018, but as Communication Practices course,
led universities (including Mizzou, unsustainable in the current economic and put us on a pathway to financial Molly Pierce ’77, James Sanders ’84, time passed, members realized that students implemented those plans.
UMKC, KU, NWMSU, MSU environment. stability.
Ralph Schank ’82, Angie Springs ’02, a lot of people in the community “I was very excited they wanted to
Janice Wallace ’98, and Alexis Williams ’18
and others) to make significant As difficult as it is to make Now more than ever, we need the were not aware of their existence or work with the class, and the students
reductions in personnel and programs these changes, we simply cannot be understanding and support of our Foundation Board their mission. A class at Missouri are glad, too,” she said of the HRC.
Dennis Rosonke, Chair
in recent years. everything to everyone, but must focus alums and supporters. We need you Diane Hook ’90, Vice Chair
Western is hoping to change that. “I can get behind the fight to treat
Without question, Missouri on our core strengths. The plan to focus to help us as we gain momentum Bill Grimwood, Treasurer In the spring of 2019, each person fairly and equally.”
Western is not immune to these on our strengths impacts the majors of and attract new students while
Susan Pettigrew ’83, Secretary Dr. Jennifer Jackson, assistant Dr. Jackson likes that her students
forces. Our financial challenges are fewer than 15% of our current student adapting to the realities facing higher Ashley Albers, Mike Basch, Kit Bradley Bowlin, professor of communication have the opportunity for hands-
real and immediate. Our net position population, and these students will education. Together, we can continue Eric Bruder ’93, Susan Campbell ’01, Ali Carolus, and journalism, was looking on experience with a real client,
Wayne Chatham ’90, Jason Grayson ’98, Darrell
has decreased by over 70% within the have three years to finish out their to build our network of Griffons Jones ’88, Rodger Karn ’98, Grace Link ’92,
for a nonprofit organization in and they gain the added benefit of
last five years. Cash and investment program or opt into a related one. supporting and celebrating each Pat Modlin ’88, Brent Porlier ’82, Tom Richmond, the community that students in learning how to work with different
levels have decreased to critical levels Sadly, this involves the elimination of other. We appreciate your support and
David Shinneman, Tom Tewell, Matt Thrasher ’95, her Strategic Communication people. When the students presented
Lee Tieman, Greg VerMulm ’89, John Wilson,
while costs and deferred maintenance quality programs and a heart-breaking understanding as we move forward, to Matt Wilson, Missouri Western president; Bob Campaigns course could help with their plans to HRC members last
increased considerably. To preserve reduction in personnel. emerge stronger than ever to continue Wollenman ’72; and Zack Workman ’74. marketing and communications. fall, members told Dr. Jackson that
the institution and our accreditation, As an open-access institution the legacy of Griffon Pride. The HRC quickly came on board, they were so impressed that they
immediate and corrective actions with a statewide applied learning and a partnership was born. believed the students weren’t earning
are needed. mission, Missouri Western serves as
Missouri Western Magazine In the fall, students worked with enough credit hours for their work.
4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall 105
Even before the pandemic, an invaluable resource for students, St. Joseph, MO 64507
HRC members to create goals and HRC members were also
Missouri Western had devised a families and local communities. We Matthew J. Wilson (816) 271-5651 objectives, they designed a logo, impressed with Dr. Jackson, because
strategic plan to extricate itself from are critical to attracting and retaining President
magazine@missouriwestern.edu surveyed the community and created they asked her to join the group as
missouriwestern.edu/magazine
this delicate financial position. We talent in our area. We are vital to Missouri Western State University several plans, such as social media a member.
Missouri Western State University
implemented a process to evaluate the success of local industry and is an equal opportunity institution.
SPRING 2020 3
campus NEWS campus NEWS
Professor and students create “Old St. Jo” Two construction New to the U National leadership
society thrives on
Toby Lawrence, broadcasts to Facebook, which projects approved Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy was Dr. Hannah Piechowski was
assistant professor will then be archived on
The Missouri Western Board
named vice provost last fall. named associate vice president campus
of cinema, and his YouTube. Students are She had been the dean of the for Student Affairs and dean of
of Governors approved two bids Senior Jakob Durham
cinema students filming stories from College of Applied Science and students in the fall of 2019. She
for facility improvements this believes that everyone has the
are creating an the community and Technology and interim dean of had been director of Student
past spring. potential to be a good leader, and
ongoing episodic broadcasting from a studio the College of Health Professions Transitions and Parent and
The board approved a bid he wants to create as many as
documentary series downtown. at the University of Akron. Family Programs at Transylvania
of $233,500 from Lawhon possible before he graduates this
about the history of “We are so excited In her role at Missouri University in Lexington,
Construction Company of St. month. Durham, a history major,
St. Joseph called “Old to have the opportunity to Western, Dr. Kennedy will focus Kentucky.
Joseph to renovate space on the joined the National Society of
St. Jo.” They aired the first engage the students with the on a number of elements of Dr. Piechowski earned a
first floor of the Hearnes Center Leadership and Success in the
episode last fall: “The Fur Years - community, and to share these Missouri Western’s strategic plan, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology,
to house Missouri Western’s spring semester of his freshman
1799-1843.” It can be viewed on stories,” Lawrence said. Pathways to Excellence, including Piano Performance, and Music
Barnes & Noble Bookstore. year, and has been helping
You Tube. The website is oldstjo.com and strengthening student success, Technology at Bellarmine
The work includes new light develop leaders through that
Phase II of the project consists contains links to its Instagram, creating new partnerships and University in Louisville,
fixtures, flooring and ceiling tile group ever since.
of live-streaming multi-camera Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube expanding applied learning. Kentucky; a Master of Education
replacement, electrical additions, He now serves as president of
pages. Dr. Kennedy earned a Bachelor and College Student Personnel
mechanical revisions, removing the group, which holds leadership
of Arts in Psychology, Master from the University of Louisville training workshops to learn
Graduate programs offer accelerated degree walls and painting.
The current bookstore space in
of Arts in Psychology, Graduate in Kentucky; and a PhD in different communication and
Certificate in Gerontology and Education and Social Change: leadership styles and how to
Missouri Western offers approval from the director of Blum Union is being converted PhD in Psychology, Applied Higher Education from adjust to each person’s style. They
an accelerated option for all of their graduate program and the into a student-use space for Cognitive Aging, all from the Bellarmine. Dr. Piechowski also hold networking events and
its master’s programs, where Graduate School dean. interactive gaming and viewing University of Akron. Dr. Kennedy replaces Dr. Judy Grimes, who engage in community service
seniors may apply to earn up to Dr. Susan Bashinski, Graduate as part of Missouri Western’s new replaces Dr. Doug Davenport, retired last summer. for Habitat for Humanity and
12 graduate credit hours as an School dean, noted that this is a esports program. A portion of the who was named provost and vice the Noyes Home each semester.
undergraduate and the hours will great advantage for students. If an renovation costs is being paid by president of academic affairs. In November 2019, 25 students
count toward both their graduate undergraduate senior was accepted a private source.
and undergraduate degrees. into the accelerated program and The board also approved a were inducted into the group
to recognize their leadership
Students may apply if they
have earned 90 undergraduate
earned 12 hours (six per semester),
they would graduate with their
bid of $372,899 from Seaman Girl Scouts training during the fall semester.
& Schuske Metal Works of St.
credits, are degree-seeking, have a bachelor’s degree and have 12 Joseph to replace the roof on
Pam Klaus '03, center, director of the Franchise Development Center, helped Girl Scouts earn “I like seeing people of
their entrepreneurship badge when they gathered on campus recently. Annette Weeks '87 and different backgrounds working
minimum GPA of 3.0 and receive hours toward a Missouri Western Wilson Hall. The current aging Miu Sutton '17 of the Center for Entrepreneurship also worked with the young girls. together for something bigger
master’s degree. roof is leaking and unable to be
adequately repaired. Replacing than themselves,” Durham said.
Chiefs will return to campus this summer the roof will prevent damage to “There’s always a need for a
group like this.”
the interior of the building and
The Kansas City Chiefs inked (Depending on the COVID-19 The group’s advisor is Derek
save Missouri Western additional
a three-year deal to make Missouri guidelines, there is the possibility Evans.
costs later.
Western the home of Chiefs that public practices may not be
The project includes the
summer training camp through held.)
removal of existing roof systems
the 2022 season. The agreement The Chiefs have held training
and replacement that includes
includes an option to extend the camp on campus every year since
insulation, cover board and new
partnership an additional two 2010, when the Chiefs returned
TPO membrane and flashings.
years after 2022. its training camp to the state of
The new roof will include a 20-
As part of the new agreement, Missouri for the first time in 20
year warranty.
Missouri Western is developing years. Dates and additional details
a new seating area on the north for 2020 Chiefs training camp will
end of the existing practice fields be announced on chiefs.com in
to better accommodate Chiefs mid-June.
fans who are viewing practices.
4 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 5
campus NEWS campus NEWS
Campus Kudos Missouri Western bowlers have a great season
Five years ago, students asked Monty Smith, Certified Bronze Level Coach and developmental math
Missouri Western’s Master of Applied Science in Student Cameron Edmonson received the NACA® associate professor of criminal justice, why Missouri instructor, also coaches.
Assessment programs were named No. 5 in the top 10 Central Markley Scholarship, named for original Western didn’t have a bowling team. Smith, a United This past year, its fourth season, two of the bowlers
online master’s in assessment and measurement programs NACA® Central Region founder Larry Markley. States Bowling Congress Certified Silver Level Coach, on the team, Carson Field and Jacob Dec, had great
by intelligent.com. The ranking was based on cost, course Edmonson is a transition mentor for Admissions and decided to help get one started, and the University is seasons. At the Midstates Championship hosted by
offerings, outcomes, flexibility, faculty and reputation. career advisor for the Career Development Center. now home to a sanctioned intercollegiate bowling team, Wichita State and Newman University in October
According to its website, intelligent.com provides the Griffon Bowling Club. Rhonda Brown, a USBC 2019, Field placed 56th out of more than 300 in the
unbiased research to help students make informed Claudia Baer, student employment coordinator, singles event, averaging 188 for six games. In November,
decisions about higher education programs. was honored by the National Student Employment at the Jayhawk Collegiate Challenge in Lawrence,
Association as the recipient of the 2019 Margene Orzalli Kansas, Dec finished 13th out of 184 bowlers. He
Dr. Kaye Adkins, professor of English, received Memorial Award, presented annually to a member of averaged 202 for the six games. Carson finished 37th,
the 2019 Distinguished Service Award from the NSEA who demonstrates extraordinary effort, energy averaging 192.
Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific and commitment to both student employees and the
At the Bronco Open hosted by Hastings College in
Communication, the major national organization in profession. The recipient must provide leadership and
Hastings, Nebraska, Field finished eighth out of 132
technical communication for program administrators vision through various activities, including committee
bowlers. His average of 198 was just eight pins shy of
and directors. Dr. Adkins is the long-time treasurer for work, conferences and programs, and leadership positions
making the top five finishers All Tournament Team.
the organization and received recommendations from as an officer of the organization.
Dec finished 37th, averaging 175.
distinguished faculty across the country. Baer has provided over three years of service to
“They both worked incredibly hard to become
NSEA through her work as a Student Employment
The design work of student Lindsey Davis was selected Essentials trainer and board appointee. She is also vice competitive at the collegiate level,” Smith said.
for the cover of The Goose, an international journal of president of professional development for NSEA. Both Field and Dec said the bowling club was
art, environment and culture. Davis submitted two posters definitely a factor in their decision to come to Missouri
for the international competition and both were selected Dr. Hannah Piechowski, recently named associate Western. Dec has been bowling since he was three years
for publication, with one being selected for the cover. vice president and dean of students, was selected by the old. Field said he bowled on his high school team at
Her posters are titled, “Save the Trees, Save Humanity,” College Personnel Association of Kentucky for the Dr. Savannah, Missouri. “I didn’t want high school bowling
and convey the results of deforestation. Her work can be Fred Rhodes Outstanding Service Award. The award Carson Field and Jacob Dec had a great season with the to end,” he said. “It was too much fun.”
MWSU Bowling Club.
viewed at scholars.wlu.ca/thegoose. acknowledges an outstanding professional who has made
significant professional contributions or achievements
Dr. James Carviou, assistant professor of journalism,
was named a Distinguished 4-year Yearbook Advisor
on a campus, or at the state or regional level. In order to
win the award, Dr. Piechowski demonstrated professional Three receive Drum Major
for Justice Awards
by the College Media Association, the nation’s largest ethics, dedication, and commitment to the principles of
organization dedicated to serving collegiate media the college personnel profession.
advisers. He was recognized at its national convention
in November. Additionally, Dr. Ann Thorne, long-time Jean Foster, administrative assistant in the Career At the 2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. reception on
yearbook advisor and professor emerita of English, was Development Center, earned her Certified Professional campus in January, three people – one community
inducted into the CMA Advisor Hall of Fame. Resume Writer Credential from the Professional member, one Missouri Western employee and one
Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. student – were honored with the Drum Major for
Dr. Karen Koy, associate professor of biology, co- Justice Awards.
authored a paper, “The Anthropocene Fossil Record Peter Britton, assistant professor of art, was selected for The community member recipient was Rich Nolf,
of Terrestrial Mammals” in the peer-reviewed journal the 2019 Irene Rosenzweig Biennial Juried Exhibition who served as director of the St. Joseph Museums for
Anthropocene. The authors were subsequently at The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas in over 30 years; the employee recipient was Dr. Jennifer
interviewed by Science Magazine, the official publication Pine Bluff. His digital metal print “Takate” is part of the Jackson, who is a faculty member in the Department
of the American Association for the Advancement juried exhibition showcasing mid-South artists. of Communication and Journalism, and the student
of Science, for an article titled, “What Fossils Will recipient was Leo Grantham, who is an advocate for
Modern-day Civilization Leave Behind?” Science Pi Sigma Alpha, the Political Science Honor Society, many social justice issues. Spoken word artist Kyla
Magazine is the most important science journal in the received the National Best Chapter Award for the Lacey was the special guest speaker. Drum Major for Justice Award recipients Rich Nolf and Dr. Jennifer Jackson.
United States. There was also an article about their 2018-19 academic year. Only six chapters in the nation Student Leo Grantham was unavailable for a photo.
work in Discover Magazine. receive this award.
6 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 7
campus NEWS campus NEWS
Training to train
If you are learning how to be a personal trainer,
Math Pathways to a degree
In 2014, Dr. Jennifer Hegeman, professor of public colleges and universities easier by requiring the
it might work better if you have a personal trainee, mathematics and chair of the Department of Computer same general studies course offerings across the state.
right? And if you’re an employee, wouldn’t you like free Science, Math and Physics; was selected for a state task With the four options, faculty in Missouri Western’s
guidance from a student learning personal training? force to create college-level mathematics courses that academic departments evaluated all their majors and
That’s exactly what happened last fall when Dr. could serve as alternatives to College Algebra and be identified the preferred general studies math course
Stephanie Gerlach, assistant professor of health, physical more aligned with student majors. and the accepted courses. That makes it easier for
education and recreation (HPER), matched seven The result of the task force was a statewide Math students who are transferring in to Missouri Western.
students with seven employees for her Principles of Pathways program that gives students more options as If they didn’t take the preferred course, they don’t have
Strength Training and Conditioning class. they navigate general studies math requirements for to retake a class if the one they took is in the accepted
The students met in the Baker Family Fitness their degrees. Students now have four options instead category.
Center two days a week and spent the time one-on- of just College Algebra, including Mathematical Dr. Hegeman said an added and valuable benefit of
one with their trainees. And one day a week, they all Reasoning & Modeling (contemporary problem her work on the statewide task force for three years was
e met in HPER’s Personal and Commercial Fitness Lab solving), Statistical Reasoning, Precalculus Algebra and the relationships that she created with personnel from
in the Looney Complex for group workouts. Students Precalculus. other Missouri higher education institutions.
were responsible for planning the group workouts, “College Algebra became a barrier to success because To continue the work of the Math Pathways task
Dr. Gerlach said, and activities included step aerobics, Above, employee Aubry Carpenter ’14 works out with Taylor Houx in the it kept a lot of students from getting their degree,” Dr. force, Missouri Bridges for Equity and Alignment
working with resistance bands, stretching and more. Baker Family Fitness Center. Below, employee Shaina Spooner ’17/’19 works Hegeman said. “Math Pathways now opens a lot of in Mathematics (MoBEAM) was formed, and Dr.
She said the goals of the class included helping the with student Tarell Strader. doors for students.” Hegeman is part of that leadership group, as well.
students understand what a long-term exercise program
intimidating. But Tarell (Strader) encouraged me to try Math Pathways is also part of the state’s Core 42
was, how to set appropriate goals for a client and how
new machines and exercises. I feel more confident when program, which makes transferring between Missouri’s
to have a successful exercise session. Dr. Gerlach said all
seven employees stayed through the semester. I walk into the gym now.”
Aubry Carpenter ’14, marketing coordinator in the
Marketing and Communications Office, was one of the
The class, new in fall 2019, is a required course in the
personal and commercial fitness concentration in the Griffon Production House
employee trainees. physical education major that began in fall 2017. In the spring of 2019, Thomas Brecheisen, assistant Sophomore Jozua Bennie joined the group soon
“I loved being a part of the class,” Carpenter said. Senior Giana Butler enjoyed the hands-on experience professor of cinema, created the Griffon Production after it was founded. He said for the first production,
“It definitely got me out of my comfort zone, and was and was especially glad to learn how to create workout House, a group of budding cinematographers who just Brecheisen was the producer, but students have filled
a great learning opportunity for the student. I was prescriptions for clients. want to make films. that role ever since. Bennie started as a camera operator
also happy to learn how to use many pieces of gym “It was super fun to get to know the clients,” she said. Brecheisen started the group when he realized that and is now a producer.
equipment that I had never touched before. I had a lot “It was cool to see the differences in backgrounds and the theatre productions in the Department of Theatre, “We are learning how to deliver a finalized product,”
of fun.” skill levels.” Cinema and Dance were not being recorded, and he Bennie said. “We are there from start to finish. I learn
Shaina Spooner ’17/’19, also a marketing coordinator Senior Justin Rhodes has a goal of opening a cross thought that would be great experience for his cinema something new every day.”
in the Marketing and Communications Office, said she fit gym and is already a cross fit coach, but he believes students. Students had to interview for their positions Along with filming the theatre productions, they are
had used most of the equipment in the fitness center but the class gave him a more rounded experience. He liked in the group, and students are in charge of selecting, also filming the Department of Music’s concerts. This
had never gone into the free weight area because “it was working with a client one-on-one and helping them staffing, setting up, recording, tearing down and past fall, they also filmed the St. Joseph Youth Chorale’s
figure out their goals and needs. completing (editing, motion graphics and rendering) the semester concert and created a video of it, and they
Dr. Gerlach noted that personal trainers have to entire production. planned to continue with that project, as well.
work to obtain clients, so the class helped the students “I’m training students to be producers in charge Brecheisen said the majority of the group is
gain a lot of self-confidence. She said by the end of the of other student camera operators, editors, and comprised of younger students who want to gain a lot
semester, she could just step back and observe rather motion graphic artists doing their own professional of experience early in their college careers, he noted.
than giving her input and guidance.
productions,” Brecheisen said. “I’m okay with them not “This is definitely something I will be putting on my
Carpenter and Spooner said they definitely want to
only achieving a highly produced professional package resume,” Bennie said.
participate next time the class is offered.
but also failing and learning from their mistakes. I want
“My end results were fairly unexpected,” Carpenter
them to make those mistakes here.”
said. “We did a pre-test and a post-test, and I was
amazed to see the weight I lost and strength I gained.”
“My favorite part was working with the students,”
Spooner said. “You could tell they wanted to succeed."
8 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 9
Global Griffon: Dr. Adrienne Johnson
For the second time in as many because the Taiwanese government Not knowing the English-
years, Dr. Adrienne Johnson was has new national education speaking proficiency levels of her
selected for an assignment through initiatives focused on promoting workshop participants before she
the U.S. Department of State’s the teaching of STEM content arrived in Taiwan, she said she
English Language Specialist areas in English. prepared a lot of hands-on activities
program. “The teachers for the teachers who
“I feel very fortunate were not strong English
Celebrating 50 years – Bushman Planetarium
Dr. Johnson, chair of the were very eager
Department of Education and to learn new that I get to help other speakers.
coordinator of the graduate-level strategies,” she Dr. Johnson, who earned
Editor’s note: In the fall of 2019, would not only be a good addition Before the total eclipse in TESOL program, travelled to said. “It challenged
teachers and live my a doctorate and master’s
Missouri Western’s present-day to the building, but a great resource August 2017, Wilkerson offered Egypt in 2018 and to Taiwan in me to be the best dream job.” in linguistics, noted that
campus and the four-year college for the community. the show “Totality” several times in fall 2019. In Taiwan, she spent 15 teacher I can be.” - Dr. Adrienne Johnson
a person may be fluent in
celebrated its 50th anniversary. As Dr. Looney told Wilkerson he the weeks leading up to the eclipse, days conducting 17 workshops with Dr. Johnson a language, but not know
part of the celebration, we look back would think about it, and told him and every show but one was sold six different topics in three cities, said preparing a lot of academic terms
at the Bushman Planetarium that later that he planned to include it in out. training 221 teachers to teach their the workshops and teaching them in that language, so that was the
was part of the campus right from the the new building on the southeast In 1996, the Joseph R. STEM content areas in English. made her rethink how she teaches challenge of the workshops she
start. corner of the first floor. Wilkerson Bushman estate donated more Her workshop participants included here and strengthened her skills. taught.
When Missouri Western was researched and purchased the than 400 acres of farmland, which current teachers, pre-service Also, she said she loved learning “I feel very fortunate that I get
planning its new campus west of equipment for the planetarium, and included three houses, to Missouri teachers and university faculty. about the Taiwanese school system to help other teachers and live my
I-29 in 1967, Jerry Wilkerson, he has been involved in its operation Western. When the property was The State Department’s partners and talking about the American dream job,” she said. “I love to come
professor emeritus of mathematics, ever since. Wilkerson began running sold, $250,000 from the proceeds in Taiwan requested the workshops school system. back and share what I have learned
still recalls the day he walked into shows as soon as it opened, and even of the sale was used to renovate with my students.”
President M.O. Looney’s office though he retired from teaching in and update the planetarium,
and suggested Dr. Looney consider 2002, he continues to schedule and and it was named the Bushman
GRIFFON
building a planetarium in the run the shows. He says he loves it
when a parent comes in with their
children and tells him they attended
Planetarium at that time.
That renovation included new
equipment and technology, and
COUNTRY
Presidential High School Visits
shows when they were in elementary new seats and lighting. It reopened Since joining Missouri
school. in September 1997. Western, President Matt
Wilkerson said the first show, At the time of the renovation, Wilson has been on the road
one that “did a beautiful job” it was estimated more than 50,000 visiting high schools in the
of showing the night sky and people, including many elementary KING CITY region and in St. Louis. If
constellations, was held in October school groups and Missouri you know of a high school
SAVANNAH King City HS •
1969. At the time, there were only a Western astronomy students, Savannah HS • you would like him to visit
MAYSVILLE
handful of planetariums in the state. had visited the 28-year-old this fall, email president@
“It was a shining star for planetarium. ST. JOSEPH • Lafayette HS Maysville HS • CAMERON
• Central HS
Benton HS • • St Joseph Christian HS • Stewartsville HS HAMILTON missouriwestern.edu.
Missouri Western,” said Wilkerson. When Agenstein Hall STEWARTSVILLE • Cameron HS • Penney HS
FAUCETT GOWER
(Yes, pun intended). “People were underwent a complete renovation Mid Buchanan HS • • East Buchanan HS
MISSOURI
SMITHVILLE
just amazed.” in 2010, Wilkerson said there was • Plattsburg HS
• Smithville HS PLATTSBURG
PLATTE CITY • Platte City HS
Over the years, more and more never any talk about removing • Staley HS • Liberty North HS
Top, Jerry Wilkerson in the planetarium. He has been Park Hill South HS •
• North Kansas City HS • Liberty HS
shows have been added to the the planetarium; everyone wanted RIVERSIDE
involved with the planetarium since it opened in 1969. • Oak Park HS
planetarium lineup. “Stars of the to renovate it, as well. The new
Above, the planetarium in its early days.
Pharaohs,” “Extreme Planets,” planetarium, now an immersive KANSAS CITY
science and math building, one “Mystery of the Christmas Star,” theatre, opened in February 2011 Ritenour HS •
of the first buildings planned for and “Nine Planets and Counting,” and continues to be a popular draw • St. Mary’s HS
the new campus. Wilkerson, who are four of the 16 current shows. on campus and in the community. ST. LOUIS
started teaching at the St. Joseph (Wilkerson’s favorite? “Sea And Wilkerson is proud to Rockwood Summit HS •
Junior College in 1964, thought it Monsters.”) have been a part of it for the entire
50 years.
10 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 11
research paper, a PowerPoint presentation, a business
plan or another option. If they had a passing grade at
midterm, students had the option of earning the credit
hours for their courses with no grade. Or, they could
take the grade they had earned or complete the work to
improve their grade. Exceptions included those degrees
with certifications or licenses that required grades for
all courses.
Sarah Weber, assistant professor of art, developed two
capstone projects for her students in their fibers course.
Since they had learned hand-sewing techniques in class
earlier in the semester, they sewed protective face masks
for hospitals. For the second project, Stitching Stories,
students called a resident at Living Community of St.
Joseph and asked them a series of questions about their
past. They then created a visual interpretation of the
conversation. Library Director Sally Gibson and Beauford wanted students to know that,
“Due to COVID-19, senior citizens in nursing even though campus was closed, the library was ready to help students.
homes and assisted living centers are isolated and cannot
see their families,” Weber said at the time. “And this and restaurants were only allowed take-out or delivery,
project promotes healthy morale and genuine interaction and gatherings of more than 10 were prohibited by the
A silent spring
between students and the elderly.” City of St. Joseph.
Nathan Scott was elected president of the Student On March 20, President Wilson announced a
Government Association right before spring break, remote work policy for employees, emphasizing that
so he conducted SGA business virtually and students could still receive services virtually. A few days
worked with those student organizations later, campus access was restricted to the public in
that did not have a chance to elect new response to St. Joseph’s emergency declaration that
Because of COVID-19, it was a spring semester like no other. officers before spring break. “We did strongly encouraged people to remain in their
This is the story of how it unfolded at Missouri Western. whatever we could to pick up the homes and avoid public places. A few days later,
pieces so we can start strong in the the city extended the shelter-in-place to April
Although a case was first reported in China in basketball championships in all divisions, and a fall,” he said. 24 and the University’s work-from-home policy
December 2019, it wasn’t until early January when the cancellation of the rest of the spring sports seasons In a phone interview in late was extended to that date, as well.
first cases were being confirmed in the United States subsequently followed. On Wednesday, March 18, March, Scott said he was still As the silent spring semester continued,
and most people started hearing about the “coronavirus.” the University announced its plan for the 2020 spring considering his options on how to many got creative and started offering virtual
Even before students left for spring break on March semester. finish his courses for the balance of the events to students and the community. International
7, University officials had been closely monitoring the “There is nothing we wanted more than to welcome spring semester. He noted that he was really Student Services held its Tea and Talk series via Zoom,
COVID-19 situation. They were already working with our students back to campus and have everything back glad students had some options rather than the and four music students gave their senior recitals on
a local task force, and by March 10, Missouri Western to normal,” President Wilson said. “Unfortunately, that University just going 100% online. “This was a situation Facebook Live. Graduate student Elizabeth Alkier
had formed its own COVID-19 response team. All was not the situation we faced. But I was confident that that called for flexibility, and I was very glad Missouri defended her capstone portfolio for her Master’s degree
international travel was suspended, including the study we would rise to the occasion and emerge stronger as a Western was flexible.” via Zoom, and Admissions created a virtual campus tour
abroad trip to Japan for students that President Matt Griffon family.” The residence halls stayed open throughout the for prospective students.
Wilson was planning for May. Missouri Western also Instead of students completing the semester totally semester for those students who had no other place to Admissions staff also created a website and held a
initiated enhanced cleaning and sanitizing procedures online, faculty were asked to offer two methods of stay and the cafeteria provided to-go meals. Students virtual spring Griffon Showcase for prospective students
on campus. alternative course delivery for who didn’t return to campus will receive prorated room and their parents on April 4. The website even gave
On the Thursday of spring break, March 12, it was most courses: supplemental and board credit on their account that can be used for them an opportunity to chat live with Missouri Western
announced that spring break would be extended for materials to cover course summer tuition, fall tuition or fall housing. Graduating personnel.
one week, and University officials took the extra time content for the remainder seniors will be issued a refund for the prorated amount.
to figure out the balance of the spring semester. By this of the semester, and a By the time Missouri Western had announced its
time, several universities in the United States had gone spring semester culminating alternative semester on March 18, St. Joseph’s K-12 Continued on pg 15
to all-online classes for the rest of their spring semesters. experience. Those experiences schools were closed, along with East Hills Mall. Bars
At the same time, the NCAA suspended all could include an exam, a
12 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 13
A silent spring Continued from pg 13
“It was definitely a different experience, but the
folks who attended asked great questions and seemed
Abby Wolff:
are valid, even when we think we’re my co-workers about rigging and
being silly. The biggest lesson that carpentry (he thinks I’m very cool). to enjoy interacting with the current students, faculty,
and staff,” said Marissa Steimel, director of new
A last
this whole thing has It’s a steady job and I
taught is that it’s okay feel like I’m helping student initiatives. “They appreciated our efforts to still
“I’m grateful for get them information about Missouri Western, even
semester to to be sad!
the connections
people, though my
heart wants to be though we couldn’t hold the on-campus event. We had
Q.
remember How have your students from all across the state participating, which
I have from college back in the theater. was cool to see!”
classes and professors I’m also working
been since there were and am looking to try and use Zoom Steimel said they are looking into offering more
Editor’s note: It’s online events in the future.
no more campus forward to when to have weekly
probably safe to classes? art workshops for “Griffon Showcase provides a unique opportunity
say that every I can come back for prospective students to get a feel for campus, our
A.
students who are
senior will long I don’t know to campus to finally stuck at home. Since University, and the Griffon family, and we didn’t want
remember the about the other I was 15, I’ve been our future Griffons to miss out on that experience
spring semester of departments on step on that darn teaching music and due to the unforeseen circumstances of COVID-19,”
2020. At the end campus, but the TCD seal.” art lessons to kiddos she said. “So we completely recreated the event into
of March, I spoke department has been from my church and a virtual showcase. Our campus community quickly
with Abby Wolff, absolutely incredible. Abby Wolff, Senior community theater. came together to still provide a successful ‘visit day’ Student Affairs personnel meet via Zoom, the new normal for employees when
a theatre/cinema We’re a little family, Theatre/Cinema Major I believe that despite the unexpected change in plans.” campus closed due to COVID-19.
major with an and the professors have Animation Minor art heals and that Dr. Teddi Deka, professor of psychology, and
animation minor been checking in with it is the perfect the Missouri Western chapter of Alpha Chi Honor
from Kansas City, students consistently. distraction for times Society decided to hold an MWSU No Conference Her choir class met virtually during what would have
Missouri, who had been looking They were transparent with us in like this. Plus, it’s a nice little side Conference for students who were preparing to been their weekly rehearsals, and she worked very hard
forward to graduating this May. asking for our patience as they figure hustle and gives me time to practice travel and present at conferences to maintain the culture that they had developed
out how to do this crazy form of
Q.
my communication skills. Teaching this spring. She asked students throughout the academic year. Dr. Hepworth
How did you feel when you schooling, but overall, I am so proud over video is a whole different beast to upload their presentations or lined up guest speakers for each of those
found out you couldn’t finish your to have faculty leaders like them. If than being face-to-face. It’s a good powerpoints on Google Drive, and classes, including internationally renowned
last semester on campus? I’m struggling, I know I can reach challenge and keeps me on my toes. she shared them with the campus composers and professional musicians. One of
A.
out to any of them. community.
Q.
To be quite honest, I was the classes featured Yoga for Musicians.
I decided to take the credit for Any other comments?
devastated. There was so much Since the spring The hard part for the seniors, she said, is
two of my classes. My two acting
coming in March and April. I classes are doing some revised theatre A. This came at the worst and
commencement ceremony could
not be held, it was rescheduled for
that they did not get any closure because they
did not get to experience “the last” of each
wasn’t ready to say goodbye to a projects that I’m very excited for in best possible times. It’s the worst
place I love so much. Cleaning out the Sunday of Family Weekend, event. She’s planning a “family reunion” for her
the coming weeks. I am working because my senior year was cut
my dorm room was surreal and Sept. 20. students when the pandemic is over.
on the final draft for my short short and there was so much I
heartbreaking. “Commencement means so much In her role as Faculty Senate president, Dr.
play that I’ve been working on for wanted to do before saying goodbye
I was working on two shows to the graduates who have worked so Hepworth spent a lot of time in virtual meetings
Playwrighting and have weekly to Missouri Western. But also, it’s
at the time when things were coaching with Dr. Paul Hindemith the best because having this time to hard to earn their degree,” President with President Wilson and faculty members
starting to shut down. When our for voice. While I really miss the reset and refocus before entering the Wilson said. “We wanted to make working together to find the best solutions during an
season closer “She Kills Monster” classroom, it’s nice to still have a way professional world is very helpful. sure they had the opportunity to celebrate their unprecedented time. She said faculty were impressed
was finally canceled, I sat with my to connect with peers via Zoom. I’m balancing finishing school, accomplishments, even though we couldn’t hold the with the administration, and they were pleased with the
fiancé, Ben, and we cried over the planning my wedding and working ceremony in May.” decision of how to finish off the semester.
loss of a project that was so loved Q. Did you lose your job because to start my life outside of my Graduates also have the option of walking in the
December 2020 ceremony.
by many people. of the pandemic? parents’ home. While I’d rather be
I think letting myself grieve In April, it was announced that all summer courses
A. in St. Joseph, there are blessings in
was hard because my future in- Yes, I was one of five this insane time. I’m grateful for the would be online only.
laws were stuck in Italy and they technicians in the Potter theater (on connections I have from college and Dr. Elise Hepworth, professor of music and
have it so much worse. However, campus). Since coming home, I got a am looking forward to when I can president of the Faculty Senate, said the importance of
when I finally let myself process job at Walmart doing online grocery come back to campus to finally step her research in community and relationship building
all the emotions I was feeling, I orders for folks in my community. I on that darn seal. increased exponentially after on-campus classes were
was reminded how our feelings had a long conversation with one of cancelled for the semester.
14 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 15
griffon SPORTS griffon SPORTS
Sports wrap Sophomore Tyrell Carroll
Winter championships and
spring season sports curtailed
Lacrosse
coach named
Men’s Basketball
The men’s basketball team had earned first-team All-MIAA Rachel Benzing was named
As national and global concerns Both the men’s and women’s
their most successful campaign honors and second team NABC the first-ever head women’s
over the spread of COVID-19 golf teams had just competed in
in a decade or more. The team All-District honors, firsts for a lacrosse coach in Missouri
grew, the NCAA announced the one event each when the season
went 18-14 overall, 13-6 against Griffon in 14 years. Will Eames Western history. She joined
cancellation of all winter and was cut short while the track
MIAA competition and had an became the first student athlete Missouri Western after helping
spring sports championships. & field teams had yet to begin
impressive 12-1 record in the in program history to be named usher in women’s lacrosse
Consequently, the MIAA outdoor competition.
fieldhouse. MIAA Freshman of the Year programs at Lynn University
Conference canceled all spring
The Griffons finished in addition to receiving All- in Boca Raton, Florida and
competition with about one third
fourth in the MIAA standings MIAA honorable mention. Tyus Maryville University in St. Louis.
Above, Head Coach Candi Whitaker; left, Tyus Millhollin made of the softball and baseball seasons
and advanced to the MIAA Millhollin broke the program After two seasons as a lacrosse
the Missouri Western record books this season. completed.
Championship semifinals (first record for 3-point field goals in a student athlete at University of
The final spring competition
semifinal in a decade) before season (99) and in a game (10). the quarterfinals of the MIAA’s Maryland Baltimore County,
by any Griffon team came on
falling to MIAA regular season postseason tournament to No. 3 March 11 as softball completed Benzing finished her playing
and postseason champion Women’s Basketball seed Nebraska-Kearney. a come-from-behind victory over career at Lindenwood University
Northwest Missouri State. First-year head coach Candi Newcomer Corbyn Illinois Springfield in eight innings. in St. Charles, Missouri, where
After a rocky start to the Whitaker wasted no time restoring Cunningham was named first- Softball finished the shortened she was a two-time All-American.
season, the Griffons rebounded the women’s basketball program team All-MIAA as the only season with a 13-9 record with just Benzing holds the
to its traditional winning ways. student athlete in the conference two MIAA games completed, both Lindenwood career record for
Whitaker became just the second ranked in the top-five in scoring, wins for the Griffons. assists per game after helping the
first-year head coach in program rebounding and field goal Baseball was 8-15 after a three- Lions to two NCAA Division II
history to win 20 games by leading percentage. game sweep of MIAA newcomer national semi-final appearances.
Missouri Western to a 21-8 Rogers State to finish 3-3 in In 2017, Benzing was named the
overall record. The team went 13-6 Indoor Track & Field Conference play. Tennis was 6-5 in RMAC Offensive Player of the
in MIAA play and 14-2 in the Hanna Williams continued Olaya Garrido-Rivas’ first season Year, first-team All-Region and
fieldhouse. her promising young career, as head coach before any MIAA first-team All-American. Benzing
Reaching more than 20 wins becoming the program’s highest- matches had been played. was a two-time first-team All-
for the third time in the past five ever finisher in the MIAA Indoor RMAC selection and also earned
seasons, the Griffons improved
by seven wins over the previous
Track & Field Championships
when she took third in the 600- A change at the helm of men’s basketball second-team All-Region and
third-team All-American honors
season. The team averaged a yard. The women’s squad turned In late March, men’s basketball was hired by Wicks and has been in 2016.
19.3-point margin in wins and in three NCAA DII provisional head coach for two seasons, at the University for two seasons. She served as head coach
never lost a game by more than marks, including Bailey Gilbert’s Sundance Wicks, announced his Before coming to Missouri of the St. Louis Samurai and
with a seven-game win streak, the nine points. The Griffons went 4-2 5.75-meter long jump at the Mel resignation when he Western, Martin served as St. Louis Lacrosse Club from
program’s longest in 18 years, to against teams that qualified for Tjeerdsma Classic; Lynzi Miller’s was offered a position assistant men’s basketball coach 2017-19. She received a Bachelor
elevate the team toward the top of the NCAA DII Championships, 3,279-point pentathlon at the Mel as assistant coach and director of athletic admissions of Arts in English Literature
the MIAA standings. The season’s including two wins over top-25 Tjeerdsma Classic; and the 4x400 at the University of at Martin Methodist College and a minor in nutrition from
accomplishments included the competition in three attempts. relay team of Aniyah Mance- Wyoming. Wicks said in Pulaski, Tennessee. Prior to Lindenwood in 2017.
program’s most wins in 10 years; Despite finishing in a Edwards, Williams, Aniya Kollore he was not looking that, Martin was the director
most conference wins in 18 years; three-way tie for fourth place and Symonne Holland’s 3:50.89 at to leave Missouri of basketball operations at the
highest MIAA finish in 10 years; in the MIAA standings, the the Nebraska Tune-Up. Western, but took the University of San Francisco under
longest home win streak (11) in Griffons entered the MIAA The men’s and women’s teams opportunity to return head coach Rex Walters.
17 years; most home wins in 14 Championships as the No. 6 seed combined to break 10 program Will Martin to his home state. Martin received his bachelor’s
years; highest postseason seed in by way of three-way tiebreaker records with more than 50 Days later, it was announced from the University of Kentucky
10 years and a program-record rules. Missouri Western fell in personal records in Cody Ingold’s that Missouri Western’s current in 2012 and obtained his master’s
305 made 3-point field goals first season as head coach. assistant coach Will Martin will in education from the University
in a season. serve as the new head coach. He of Tulsa in 2015.
16 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY SPRING 2020 17You can also read
