TOGETHER AGAIN - Maryville Magazine
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FALL 2021 TOGETHER AGAIN
IN THIS ISSUE L ETTER F RO M THE P RESID ENT
14
D E PA R T M E N T S
SHIFT FORWARD
M POWERED
2
14
A Musical Mission Dear Friends,
TEACHING 1 16 Music therapy student Alayna Epps dreams
Q+A 36 of creating the Arts Gym, a space for individuals This fall, Maryville University came together strong community. Thank you to our health
SAINTS NATION 38 to work through trauma using writing, theater, and ushered in the 2021–22 academic care heroes on the front line, our teachers
ALUMNI SCENE 42 dance and music. year. With a strong COVID-19 plan in place, and first responders who answered a
crafted by dozens of faculty and staff, a high difficult call, our service workers who kept
ON THE COVER
Campus activities are starting to look and vaccination rate among our community the faith and our faculty who pivoted their
members and masks at the ready, we began pedagogy in creative and insightful ways
16
feel like the ones we had before the pandemic.
The Maryville community is overjoyed to
a full collegiate experience once again. to deliver excellent education to all of our
be back together again in person as
#OneTeamOneFamily.
Teaching With Minecraft I can say that thus far, students, faculty and nearly 11,000 students.
Maryville faculty are using the video game staff have embraced being together, peer Ultimately, Maryville is leading a revolution
Minecraft to illustrate a problem-solving approach to peer, colleagues and friends, to provide in higher education, and we want you to join
for software development students. another chapter of outstanding education that effort as we provide greater access and
within a robust Active Learning Ecosystem. opportunity for students both young and
I could not be more proud of this entire old. Moving forward, we celebrate 150 years
community than I am at this moment. of excellence as we look ever forward to
In this issue, you will read about some decades of future achievement.
18
EDITORIAL
Editor: Constance Gibbs
Design and Layout: Cisneros Design
The Man of Many Hats amazing accomplishments by students, Your support and engagement are
faculty, staff and alumni here on campus and essential in our march toward revolutionary
Contributing Writers: Nancy Fowler, Tim Fox,
After learning he had prostate cancer, radio
within the broader community. These are achievement. Thank you for all that you do
John Gibbs, Judy Goodman, Emily Karcher, personality Jeff Burton from 105.7 The Point
Dale Singer and Chuck Yahng achievements that set Maryville University to support our students and their learning
found a creative way to raise funds for children
Contributing Photographers: Max Bouvatte, apart as the innovative leader in higher journeys. Be safe and healthy as we emerge
and teens whose lives are affected by cancer.
Dan Donovan, Jerry Naunheim and
education with a profound commitment from this pandemic.
Chris Reimer
to community service, social justice and
Warmest regards,
A D M I N I S T R AT I O N
academic and athletic excellence. You will
President: Mark Lombardi, PhD dive deep into the work of individuals who
22
Vice President for Integrated Marketing personify the collective mission and vision
and Communications: Marcia Sullivan
Executive Director of Development Breaking the Cycle of this great University.
of Homelessness
As we come out of the final phase of this
and Alumni Relations: Fay Fetick Mark Lombardi, PhD
Director of Alumni Services: Pamela Kramer global pandemic, we remain grateful for our
In partnership with the St. Louis nonprofit
Humanitri, Maryville occupational therapy
Maryville Magazine is a publication of Maryville students are helping stabilize homeless families
University. Unless otherwise noted, articles may be
reprinted without permission with appropriate credits amid the pandemic.
given to Maryville Magazine and the authors. Those
submitting class notes for publication in Alumni
Scene may contact the Office of Alumni Services
at 314.529.9338 or alumni@maryville.edu.
Other correspondence may be sent to
Maryville Magazine Editor, 650 Maryville University Drive M O R E F E AT U R E S
St. Louis, MO 63141 or by email: editor@maryville.edu.
Maryville University is a private, independent
institution offering 90+ degrees at the undergraduate,
26 Rural Children in Crisis 30 Skateboarding + Olympics
master’s and doctoral levels. Maryville has forged its A team of Maryville professors-turned-filmmakers Katie Moses Swope, ’97, served as the communications
outstanding reputation based on academic excellence,
are shining a light on dental care for underserved lead for USA Skateboarding as the sport made its Olympic
individualized student attention and alumni success.
children in rural Missouri. debut in Tokyo.
FALL 2021 circulation: 31,390
FALL 2 0 2 1 | 1
S HIF TF ORWARD
Enhanced Focus
on Mental Health
L
earning how to spot challenges that students
may be facing in the post-pandemic era is the
focus of a new initiative for Maryville faculty
and staff.
Maryville Receives Third Apple
Fifty individuals participated in a recent Mental
Health First Aid training. Ashlyn Cunningham,
Distinguished School Recognition
OTD, OTR/L, associate professor of occupational therapy,
is a certified instructor for Mental Health First Aid. She
obtained a small grant from the Missouri Institute of Mental
Health to offer the training. The goal was to equip faculty
M
and staff to become better observers and responders to
aryville University has more than 200 free learning apps and digital students in order to be able to spot problems before they
been named an Apple access to all course materials. Digital World become a serious mental health challenge.
Distinguished School for is a new model for higher education — a To help spread the word and the training, Kate Kline, PhD,
2021–2024. This marks model focused on learning technology and LPC, CRC, associate professor of rehabilitation counseling,
an unprecedented third data analytics to create a student-centered, is leading a group of volunteer faculty members in ongoing
recognition as a center accessible, affordable, academically rigorous training in what is known as The Pedagogy of Compassion.
of innovative leadership and educational and innovative learning environment. There is a great deal of preliminary evidence demonstrating
excellence. The University previously In addition to the Digital World initiative student mental health suffered during the pandemic. The
received the recognition in 2016 and 2018. transforming student learning in existing group exists to acknowledge and accept this information
“Maryville remains the revolutionary academic programs, Maryville has expanded and develop active ways to support students.
leader in how technology can expand access the curricular offerings to include an iOS These new initiatives complement existing campus-
and opportunity across higher education,” App Development minor, designed to be a wide mental health services offered through Maryville’s
said Maryville University President Mark complement to Digital World and requiring Counseling Center, including the 24/7 Support Line and
Lombardi, PhD. “This generation of no prior coding experience. digital resources like the Virtual Relaxation Room.
students comes to Maryville with a very Maryville continues to build on the Digital
different skill set, attitude and background World foundation leveraging the latest
than ever before. Our revolutionary model technology to modernize student learning,
for the future of higher education provides service and engagement. Maryville’s digital Maryville remains the
the learning environment, flexibility and identification system, Saints ID, allows
career outcomes our students expect.” students, faculty and staff to leave physical revolutionary leader in how
Apple Distinguished Schools are ID cards behind and access campus
recognized for personalized learning,
fueling creativity, deepening collaboration
with just their mobile device. Maryville’s
implementation of Wi-Fi 6 uses artificial
technology can expand access
and a culture of continuous innovation that
connects students to the world.
intelligence and machine learning to
transmit data to more devices, faster and
and opportunity across
Through Maryville’s Digital World
initiative, all on-campus undergraduate
with less battery drain. Maryville also
provides continuous support for learning
higher education.
students and select on-campus graduate space renovations including implementation
students receive a free iPad loaded with of enhanced technology solutions.
2 | M ARYVILLE MAG AZ I NE FALL 2 0 2 1 3
S H IF T F O R WA R D Go Get ’Em, Saints! New and returning Saints were excited to be back on campus for the start of the 2021–2022 academic year! Maryville has a lot planned to make this year the best experience for all students. We kicked it off with favorite start-of-school-year events like move-in, orientation, Convening of the Class and taking of the #BigRedM photo on Commencement Lawn. We also celebrated the first-ever joint freshman-sophomore President’s Picnic to honor the Classes of 2024 and 2025. We’re so excited to be back together in person to celebrate these Maryville traditions. Thanks to our staff and students for all the hard work, and welcome to our newest Maryville Saints! 4 | M ARYVILLE MAG AZ I NE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 5
S H IF T F O R WA R D
To honor our rich history,
Maryville announces the
Save the date!
publication of a special
coffee-table book, “Maryville
Athletics Alumni Weekend
University: 150+ Years.”
February 24–27, 2022
From cricket, field hockey
and badminton to wrestling,
lacrosse and esports — Maryville’s
Department of Athletics and
Recreation has come a long
way! Help us celebrate athletic
achievements past and present.
Celebrations Begin Maryville Day
April 22, 2022
for Maryville’s 150th Think of Maryville Day like a giant
birthday party! Gander Quad will
Homecoming 2021 was extra special — it was the official kickoff of our be filled with food trucks, games,
yearlong celebration of Maryville’s 150th anniversary. live music and fun giveaways.
H
The Maryville Alumni team will
celebrate with the second annual
undreds of Maryville students, principles is still the same. We use different
Maryville Giving Day, full of social
faculty, staff, alumni and friends tools, we have different strategies, but it’s the
media challenges, virtual activities
attended Homecoming 2021 same mission. It’s our responsibility to look
and alumni stories.
festivities, which kicked off the ahead and continue to lead a renaissance in
University’s yearlong 150th higher education.”
anniversary celebration. Other highlights of Homecoming 2021 150th Anniversary Bash
The celebration began with the official included a toast to the Classes of 2020 and Fall 2022
book release of “Maryville University: 150+ 2021. This special event honored those alumni We hope you’ll join us for our
Years,” which is available for purchase through whose entrances into the Maryville alumni 150th Anniversary Bash as we close
The M Store. The presentation and panel community were affected by the pandemic. out our yearlong celebration. The
discussion with Editor Marty Parkes; President The next day, Golden Circle classmates, those party is so big, we need the entire
Mark Lombardi, PhD; and Vice President who graduated 50 years ago or prior, gathered campus for it! Explore different
for Community and Government Relations for a luncheon and honored the Classes of
eras of Maryville history across
Laraine Davis, ’17 inspired and entertained. 1970 and 1971, the newest members of the
campus. Check out our interactive
They shared behind-the-scenes insights Golden Circle.
stations, enjoy live music and look
and celebrated the personal stories behind Community members also enjoyed a
to the skies for our drone show.
Maryville’s significant 150-year milestone. drive-in movie night at the Chesterfield Mall
“We have to understand where we came parking lot to watch “Field of Dreams.” The Show Your Spirit
from to understand where we’re going,” said festivities concluded with the second annual Share your Maryville spirit with exclusive
For more information,
President Lombardi. “Innovation is about a Go the Distance 5k race, which was completed 150th anniversary merchandise. All apparel, visit maryville.edu/150.
vision that we can do better and that we can virtually and in person through Maryville’s gifts and accessories are available for purchase
do more. The Society of the Sacred Heart campus, with racers crossing the finish line through The M Store on campus or online.
committed themselves to educating women into the Homecoming Tailgate featuring
and the underserved in St. Louis more than drinks, games and food trucks leading up to
200 years ago, and our commitment to those the men’s and women’s soccer games.
6 | M ARYVILLE MAG AZ I NE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 7
S H IF T F O R WA R D
MARYVILLEWORKS
PARTNERS WITH
KEELEY COMPANIES
Maryville is developing the workforce
of the future through a new partner
ship with Keeley Companies.
The partnership expands and
creates opportunities for Keeley
Companies team members —
called Keeley’ns — to further their
education and learn new skills.
Keeley Companies has experienced
tremendous growth in recent years
and needed a fast solution to help
Empowering East St. Louis Students
team members obtain the necessary A new collaboration introduces STEM career fields and encourages
training to rise to today’s challenges TECH-CENTERED
elementary students to explore them. CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
and tomorrow’s opportunities.
T
Together with Maryville, modules
There are seven certificates
Emerging Careers of the Future
were developed to upskill Keeley’ns in he Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, “This is a great opportunity for youth at
available for students seeking
areas such as leadership and business Maryville University and the the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center to learn
college credit. These certificates
acumen. The program includes a new, Regions Foundation announced about the importance of STEM education
require fewer credits and take
best-in-class learning management a new partnership that will provide at an early age,” said Joyner-Kersee. “Our With huge growth projected across most computer science fields, Maryville’s
system that will allow Keeley’ns to less time to complete than
STEM educational programming mission is to instill youth with the dream, new tech-focused certificates are a quick and convenient way for students to
access hundreds of courses at any for elementary school students drive and determination necessary to succeed degree programs.
build the skills and knowledge these future-forward industries require.
time, regardless of location. in the Greater East St. Louis area. in academics, athletics and leadership. This
M
Bachelor’s Level (college credit)
Additionally, a new Executives Supported by a $100,000 contribution initiative will greatly assist us in the fulfillment
Artificial Intelligence
in Residence Program will provide from the Regions Foundation, the JJK Center of guiding youth toward academic success, aryville University aim to get students career-ready so they can
Cybersecurity
Maryville students with the opportunity Elementary Learning Program will launch this and I am grateful to be a part of such an introduced new technology- take advantage of the many opportunities in
to hear from Keeley Companies leaders centered online certificate the growing field. Data Science
fall. The program will build on a collaboration empowering endeavor.”
as they speak on a wide range of programs to help students According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Software Development
between the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center Reaching and serving students who may
business and leadership topics. These and Maryville University’s Center for not otherwise receive the opportunity to prepare for some of the Statistics, employment in fields related to User Experience/User Interface
guest speakers will allow for networking Access and Achievement. experience STEM education and the lasting most in-demand and computer science is projected to grow 11% (UX/UI)
opportunities for Maryville students Already, the collaboration supports high- impacts it provides were key factors in the lucrative career opportunities on the market. between 2019 and 2029 — nearly three
Post-Baccalaureate Level
seeking internships or entering need high school districts and nonprofits Regions Foundation pledging its support. These standalone credentials represent a times the average growth projected across
(college credit)
the workforce. by equipping students with skills to succeed “This program is especially important parallel path for students who aren’t seeking all industries.
Big Data
in STEM fields in college and their future because it introduces the world of STEM to a full college degree but want to advance in “We have always understood that education
Machine Learning
careers. The new partnership will expand children at such an early age,” said Marta Self, their careers. isn’t one-size-fits-all,” said Katherine Louthan,
the program’s reach to serve elementary-aged executive director of the Regions Foundation. “We’ve spoken with employers and dean for the School of Adult and Online
students as well. “We’re opening the door for younger children employees across industries, and it’s clear Education. “Different students have different
The Regions Foundation contribution will to begin exploring possibilities they may have that the workforce is changing,” said circumstances and considerations, and
fund teacher training and STEM materials never considered and encouraging them to Jennifer Yukna, PhD, dean for the College Maryville is committed to being as inclusive
for the program. In addition, the funding dream now about what their future can be of Arts and Sciences. “People hoping to and accommodating as possible. Our
MARYVILLEWORKS will support family engagement workshops and prepare for it.” grow professionally, or shift careers entirely, certificate programs underscore that mission,
to facilitate remote learning, as well as need more options to help them build skills serving as alternative paths to meet learners
after-school and summer classes. to keep up and become job-ready, quickly.” where they are — and help them reach their
Designed with input from employers career goals.”
in the field and taught by experienced
practitioners, the new certificate programs
8 | M ARYVILLE MAG AZ I NE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 9
S H IF T F O R WA R D
Calling All Girls to STEM
A
s part of Maryville’s Tech Bar resources for decades,” said Cyber Fusion
initiative, students working Center Manager Sean Kilfoy. “Bringing this
in the state-of-the-art Cyber technology into their homes is something
Fusion Center delivered that can really change their lives. I believe DISRUPTIVE REVOLUTION
NEWS OF NOTE
30 refurbished computers it’s my calling to introduce young people to Maryville announces the publication
Kids Rock Cancer, Maryville’s to Girls Inc. of St. Louis. technology and support and empower them of a new book, “Disrupter,” which
innovative music therapy program, The computers were given to middle in the field of cybersecurity.” profiles the University’s rise to
is making a name for itself in a school girls who needed the devices to In addition, Maryville cybersecurity national prominence. This uniquely
new avenue: research. Recently, complete learning at home. Many of these faculty participated in the Girls Inc. Eureka! comprehensive and compelling
Kids Rock Cancer presented at a girls do not have access to computers and summer program. They shared cybersecurity account describes the trailblazing path
national conference focused on sickle use mobile phones or tablets to complete demonstrations and helped the girls complete that Maryville took to emerge as one
cell disease, and the findings were schoolwork and extracurricular activities. basic hacking exercises. Maryville also hosted of the top universities in the country,
published in the Journal of Sickle Cell This is especially true during the summer a panel of cybersecurity students and alumni under the visionary leadership of
Disease and Hemoglobinopathies, the time when computers previously provided and a second panel of industry experts President Mark Lombardi, PhD, and
only sickle cell journal in the world. by school districts must be returned. to introduce the girls to emerging careers a dynamic team of faculty and staff.
“Not enough research has been “These students come from underserved in technology. The book reveals the challenges
done with pediatric cancer and blood communities that have lacked access to of higher education and serves as
disorders in regards to therapeutic an inspiration to other institutions
songwriting, especially among patients looking to find success.
living with sickle cell disease,” said
Tracie Sandheinrich, MA, PLPC,
MT-BC, senior music therapist for
Kids Rock Cancer. “We’re really on the
forefront of sharing new knowledge
and insight that helps music therapists
and other members of the care team MARYVILLE
so they truly understand the clinical
benefit of music therapy in treating MAGAZINE
children facing the challenges of
IS NOW
ONLINE.
cancer and blood disorders.”
Next up, Kids Rock Cancer is
TAKE ME BACK TO THE BALLGAME:
authoring a chapter in the book
“Trauma-Informed Practice in Music
The Maryville community cheered on the St. Louis Cardinals When you see this icon, there’s more to
from a special section in Busch Stadium on September 28.
Therapy: A Clinician’s Guide,” which the story. Follow Maryville Magazine
Tickets were reserved for students, faculty and staff who
is being edited by Laura Beer, PhD,
submitted proof of their COVID-19 vaccinations. Those fully
online: maryville.edu/magazine
MT-BC, director of Maryville’s Music
Therapy Program. Thank you to the vaccinated individuals also received limited edition tie-dye
Kids Rock Cancer team and supporters T-shirts featuring #TheBigRedM. With a 6-2 win over the
who made these projects possible. Milwaukee Brewers, the Cardinals set a franchise record
with their 17th straight win. The historic streak helped the
Cardinals punch their postseason ticket.
10 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 11
S H IF T F O R WA R D FA C U LT Y / S TA F F N E W S
Assistant Professor of Mathematics Adjunct Professor of Communication
SHARMILA SIVALINGAM, EDD, POSY LOU DURR served as a balance
authored the article “Designing and beam timing judge at the U.S.
Developing an Online Math Course,” Olympic Gymnastics team trials at
which was published in the Journal of the Dome at the America’s Center
Mathematics and Statistical Science. in St. Louis.
Director of the rehabilitation Assistant Professor of Nursing
CHAMPION FOR DIVERSITY
counseling program and professor CAROL BERGER, DNP, APRN, FNP-C,
AND INCLUSION
of rehabilitation counseling was featured by St. Louis Public
Senior Advisor for Access and MICHAEL KIENER, PHD, was featured Radio about a new documentary
Opportunity Turan Mullins, ’17, in the “Ask an Expert” series by highlighting disparities in dental
is truly championing the cause of Masters in Social Work Online. care for children in rural Missouri.
making St. Louis a more inclusive
place to live and work.
In honor of his leadership, Mullins
was named an honoree for the
2021 St. Louis Business Journal Director of the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic
Director of Esports DAN CLERKE, ’18,
Champions of Diversity and JACOB GUTSHALL, MHS, CCC-SLP, has
was featured by KSDK for his role
Inclusion awards program. provided a national thought leadership
assisting with the inaugural Gateway
“To be recognized among other role for how to best use emerging
significant community leaders is a Legends Collegiate Invitational,
technology in speech-language
great feeling,” Mullins said. “This the first esports tournament of
therapy practice.
award recognizes all the work I’ve its kind in St. Louis.
done over the past 12 years to build LET’S GET LOUD: The Dawg
a diverse and inclusive learning
Pound is a spirit club dedicated to
environment at Maryville. I appreciate
cheering on the Maryville Saints
the opportunity to look back and
at every home game. For its first Women’s soccer head coach
celebrate the great work we’ve done Associate Professor of Communication
event of the year, students donned LORI CHALUPNY LAWSON, World
and the lives we have changed.” LEILANI CARVER-MADALON, PHD, was
Mullins has dedicated his entire beach wear and Hawaiian shirts for Cup champion and Olympic gold
named one of the Missouri Athletic
career to access and opportunity in a tailgate at Saints Pavilion before a medalist, was featured by KSDK
Club’s Women of Distinction for 2021.
education, serving in various roles men’s soccer game. Another tailgate about her mission to further
The award honors female professionals
in higher education and through was held for the first puck drop of grow the sport of soccer in her
in the St. Louis community.
his private consulting services. the year at the Maryville University hometown, St. Louis.
At Maryville, Mullins provides Hockey Center as the Saints battled
thought leadership to promote a the Alabama Crimson Tide, with a
culture of inclusion. He develops, theme encouraging students to wear
implements and assesses initiatives
all black. Go Saints!
that create a more inclusive and Chief Technology Officer
Institutional Equity Officer PORTIA BRITT
socially just campus. DOUG GLAZE was featured by
received the 2021 Missouri Lawyers
Government Technology for his
Media Up & Coming Award for making
expertise regarding Maryville’s multi-
a positive impact on the Maryville
phased project to collect and analyze
campus and in the community.
data to improve student outcomes.
12 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 13
M POW ERED
MUSIC F
or nearly 50 years, Maryville been door after door opening to help me St. Louis. IN UNISON Scholars receive
University’s Music Therapy really discover what I wanted to do and how mentoring from SLSO staff and musicians
Program has trained students I was going to do it.” and have the opportunity to participate in
to help people through music. During Creative Music Making rehearsals other events and partnerships.
And for music therapy graduate and the final performance, Epps had the Though Epps’ primary instrument is her
FROM THE student Alayna Epps, serving others
through music is the melody of her life.
opportunity to work closely with her now-
advisor Laura Beer, PhD, MT-BC, director of
voice, she also plays piano and is learning
to play “Josephine,” her guitar. Meanwhile,
HEART
“I call my dream an ‘Arts Gym,’ a Maryville’s Music Therapy Program. Epps in addition to getting closer to her dream of
place where you can work through your was surprised to find Beer reaching out to building the Arts Gym, she has eagerly dived
problems using whatever medium speaks her even before she had been accepted into into her coursework at Maryville.
to you, whether writing, theater, dance, Maryville’s Music Therapy Program. “I haven’t been this inspired by my
music — whatever!” Epps said. “I’ve always “Dr. Beer would ask me about my curricula in a minute!” said Epps, who earned
loved helping people, I have a very service- upcoming performances and my ideas,” a Bachelor of Arts in Music from UMSL, with
oriented heart and music has always been an Epps said. “Like everyone at Maryville, she’s a Degree of Distinction in Creativity in the
From singing as a child to important part of my life. So, creating a career been very welcoming, and the campus feels Arts. “I felt like, ‘Oh gosh, I could take this,
pursuing graduate studies that is service-oriented and involves music is very close-knit. And the Maryville students I and this and this.’ It’s very exciting!”
the perfect thing.” worked with through Creative Music Making However, as exciting as Epps finds her
in music therapy at Maryville, Epps grew up performing. Her childhood were so genuine and confident in their Maryville music therapy classes, achieving
Alayna Epps’ story of how was filled with singing in church choirs, musicianship that it made everyone feel her dream is what drives her the most. She’s
taking dance lessons and participating comfortable. It was inspiring to see that.” grateful for the support she’s received from
she wants to heal others in school glee clubs. While earning her Beer remembers meeting Epps for the the Maryville community, including her
through music is inspiring. bachelor’s degree at the University of first time and recognizing her talent straight mentor, Stephanie Holly, ’18. Holly founded
Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), she was a away. “I was struck by her musicality, her Little Beats LLC after graduating from
BY TIM FOX member of the UMSL Gospel Choir and the enthusiasm and her willingness to help Maryville to help new and expectant parents
University Singers concert choir. wherever help was needed,” Beer said. “Her and is committed to making music therapy
For two years, she served as an intern for passion for being a force of positive change available to all. Holly’s expertise will guide
Creative Music Making, a collaborative project in the world is remarkable. Alayna’s kind Epps on her journey forward.
between Maryville University, the St. Louis presence and commitment to social justice “Everyone needs a space safe place, and
Symphony Orchestra and the St. Louis Arc resonate with me as well our program I believe music is the way to get to most
that empowers adults with disabilities to philosophy. I can’t wait to see what she will people’s safe places,” Epps said. “Music just
conceive, rehearse and perform their very contribute to Maryville and the St. Louis transcends everything. It has no boundary.
own concert. community as a music therapist!” It can break through and unify people. So,
“Creative Music Making exposes people Epps recently began her second year why not use music to create a safe place for
with disabilities to classical music and gets as a St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) everyone — a place where music just lives
them involved with playing instruments IN UNISON Scholar. The program provides and thrives and unifies?”
themselves,” Epps said. “It was amazing to scholarships for African Americans who are
see music therapy in action. After that, it’s studying in a music-related field in greater
STAY CONNECTED. maryville.edu/magazine
14 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 15
TE A CH I N G1
BUILDING BLOCKS
FOR SUCCESS
M
ike Lavella, adjunct In keeping with the agile process, Lavella’s
professor of management class begins with a discussion of “user stories.”
information systems, These stories include a specific goal such as
has been teaching Agile “I want to exempt certain folders from backup others encounter it for the first time in his
Methodology online so my backup drive isn’t filled with things I class. His students also vary greatly in their
The popular video game Minecraft is helping Maryville software development familiarity with Minecraft. This diversity
for two years. A key don’t need saved.” The class divides into four-
of experience dovetails nicely with a core
students to approximate in-person learning in a virtual world. | BY NANCY FOWLER component of the agile approach is face-to- or five-person teams to shepherd different
face collaboration. “Obviously, in an online user stories through four processes: design, tenet of agile methodology in which more
classroom, that’s a challenge,” Lavella said. development, testing and evaluation. experienced developers help others become
To foster the feeling of an up-close Minecraft comes into play during the last better acquainted with a concept. “So that’s
experience, students meet up in Minecraft, few weeks of class when students participate really cool,” Lavella said.
a video game in which players use building in a final, more practical project such as When Lavella began teaching the Agile
blocks to create structures. “It just makes designing an office building or swimming Methodology class, the previous instructor
sense; it’s a good fit,” Lavella said. pool. Teams define the tasks required for had already incorporated Minecraft into the
Agile methodology is an iterative process, their projects and then come together in curriculum. At the time, Lavella barely knew
or one that repeats a sequence of operations. Minecraft to construct them in a three- what it was.
Using agile methodology, software developers dimensional space. “My only other exposure to the game was
divide bigger jobs into smaller tasks. “This is intended to be a fun team-building that my son used to play it when he was a
“I can compare it to the Ford production exercise where students can apply agile-based little younger,” Lavella said.
line, which was used to help increase methodologies while collaborating within a But Lavella was quickly sold on the idea
the efficiency of making automobiles,” virtual world,” Lavella said. of using Minecraft and believes the concept
Lavella said. Lavella is a full-time software developer is unusual in teaching the agile process.
Tech giants Microsoft and Google use with PSI, a testing technology firm. He uses “It’s really a fun and interactive way
agile methodology, which Lavella says has agile methodologies in his work and brings for students to engage with each other,”
many advantages over the older “waterfall” that knowledge into his classroom. In 2013, Lavella said.
model. Through the waterfall model, software he learned agile on the job when his former
developers build applications with no client employer, PNC Bank, switched from waterfall.
feedback for many months. Because Maryville University prides itself on hiring
stakeholders weigh in so late in the process, instructors with real-world, professional
making adjustments can be difficult. But experience, according to Lavella.
with the agile approach, developers work “Students enjoy learning how companies
in two-week cycles, also known as sprints, manage their software development processes
soliciting input between each one. utilizing the agile methodology,” Lavella
“If there are any changes needed, they can said. “This hands-on learning helps them be
be adapted very easily,” Lavella said. “This can prepared to enter the field after graduation.”
greatly reduce the amount of time it takes Some of Lavella’s students already work in
to complete a successful product.” this professional arena using agile whereas
16 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 17THE
SHOW
MUST A
n avid outdoorsman, radio
personality Jeff Burton was
responsible about getting
regular medical checkups.
GO ON
In March 2021, he felt fine. He did not
know his world was about to change.
“I was hiking in the woods when I received
the call about my alarming PSA test,” Burton
said. “We all thought this was a false negative,
but after a couple of repeated blood draws,
it became apparent that something was
very wrong.”
Doctors found a cancerous tumor in his
prostate. Chemotherapy treatment began
Following his cancer diagnosis, immediately and, by day 14, Burton started
noticing hair on the shower floor.
the St. Louis community rallied “I realized that hair loss was real, even
around radio personality for a bearded, hairy guy like me,” he said.
“I never had a single symptom and almost
Jeff Burton, raising thousands didn’t believe the diagnosis. It’s still strange
to say out loud that I have cancer.”
of dollars in his honor for Burton is a key member of The Rizzuto
Kids Rock Cancer, Maryville’s Show on 105.7 The Point, the top-rated
morning show in St. Louis. Since being
innovative music therapy introduced in 2014, The Rizzuto Show has
gained a huge following, won numerous
program. | BY JUDY R. GOODMAN
awards and dominated ratings in the region.
Because Burton is such a visible person, he
needed to figure out how to best address his
diagnosis with the public. Being the upbeat
and community-oriented person he is, Burton
worked with The Point’s promotional team
on creative ways to transform his diagnosis
into something good. What resulted was a
campaign that raised thousands of dollars
18 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 19“I just don’t want any little kid’s soul to
be broken, and that’s why I think Kids Rock
Cancer is amazing,” Burton said. “Everyone
is committed to doing something positive for The Rizzuto Show on 105.7 The
Point is a longstanding supporter of
these kids, and I’m all-in to help. To see the
Kids Rock Cancer. When Team Rizz
rock stars’ faces when they get up and sing in
member Jeff Burton was diagnosed
front of their family, and folks who they don’t
with cancer, he found a creative way
even know but are cheering for them, is to turn his diagnosis into something
incredibly rewarding.” good. The radio show launched “The
The Rizzuto Show and Kids Rock Cancer Man of Many Hats” campaign to raise
initially developed a partnership in 2017 funds for Kids Rock Cancer, with The
when the radio show held its inaugural “Eat Shack Breakfast & Lunch donating
and Treat” at the Chesterfield Amphitheater, $1 for every pancake flipped until
with proceeds benefiting Kids Rock Cancer. Burton completed chemotherapy —
The family-friendly event featured food trucks with help from St. Louis Blues
superfan Laila Anderson.
and activities like a dunk tank and trick-or-
treating. Kids Rock Cancer rock stars were
invited to perform their original songs.
In 2020, when the “Eat and Treat” event
was canceled because of the pandemic, The
Rizzuto Show instead raised funds for Kids
Rock Cancer through a monthlong virtual
campaign that included hosting a livestream
for Kids Rock Cancer, Maryville’s innovative Anderson, who enjoyed a stack of pancakes overnight lock-in at Bass Pro Shops.
music therapy program, which brings the while “flipping off cancer.” During the pandemic, Kids Rock Cancer
healing power of music therapy to children Burton is described by his team as humble was nimble in pivoting to connect with
and teens whose lives are affected by cancer and in great spirits all the time, even patients and their families for services.
or blood-related illness. throughout this ordeal. He knows he has a Since music therapists were no longer able
When Burton began chemotherapy in platform and an audience, and he aims to to meet in person in hospital rooms, Kids
April 2021, he started wearing his own hats use it to help others. He emphasizes that Rock Cancer introduced the virtual “Couch Kids Rock Cancer also took on a national of development at Maryville University. “We
as he began to lose hair. It occurred to him he recognizes the entire team at 105.7 The Series” on Facebook. The series featured new leadership role during the pandemic feel indebted to Jeff and the entire radio
that if someone wanted to pay him to wear Point and all the local businesses who worked and pre-recorded songs and special guests, in reporting its ongoing research that team for their kindness and support of Kids
their business or organization hat during The together to create this movement. including members of The Rizzuto Show. underscores the value and benefits of music Rock Cancer. We would not be serving so
Rizzuto Show, money could be raised for Kids “I felt people were behind me in doing Another partner, The LIGHT Foundation, therapy for Kids Rock Cancer participants many hurting children and families without
Rock Cancer. Burton soon became known this, and it means so much to me that we’re stepped up to provide Kids Rock Cancer with living with cancer and/or sickle cell disease. their generosity.
as “The Man of Many Hats.” The campaign making a difference for Kids Rock Cancer,” a safe, brand-new state-of-the-art recording The research was presented at a national “Now, more than ever, families in our
was a huge success, with Burton wearing a Burton said. “I know how kids can be cruel. studio. Not only was the “Couch Series” conference, featured in a medical journal community face increasingly difficult health
different hat sponsored by an area business I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the recorded in the studio, but Kids Rock Cancer and will soon be published in a book about decisions and challenges. Children who are
each week. age of 11, had to take lots of pills, wear a music therapists also used the space to help trauma-informed practice in music therapy. managing the life-changing effects of a
Another popular St. Louis brand also colostomy bag and was often hospitalized. patients outside the hospital express their As of Fall 2021, the campaigns supporting cancer or blood-related illness diagnosis
joined the fun. The Shack Breakfast & Lunch It was a brutal time for me.” feelings and produce original songs. Kids Rock Cancer in honor of Burton’s cancer need a safe space to express themselves.
launched its “Flip Off Cancer” campaign with Burton recognizes that it’s much harder These young people could also join battle had raised more than $70,000. And, We are proud to help children find their
the restaurant donating $1 for every pancake for children today because of social media. the music therapists to “jam with the the fundraising continues. The Rizzuto Show inner strength and joy through the
flipped to Kids Rock Cancer until Burton If they are stuck in a hospital bed, searching band” for recording sessions through yet boasts an ever-growing group of hardcore power of music.”
completed his chemotherapy. The campaign Instagram and Snapchat, it appears that another partnership, this time with the STL fans who want to give back.
featured St. Louis Blues superfan Laila everyone else is having fun and they feel Rock School. These jam sessions created “We are truly fortunate to partner with The
left out. memorable and joyous experiences for Rizzuto Show,” said Ebonee Shaw, director
patients and families.
20 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 21Maryville University is
helping transform the
lives of homeless families
in St. Louis by providing
crucial occupational
therapy services.
BY CONSTANCE GIBBS
H
omeless families are often
invisible. They live in cars,
hotels or doubled up with
family or friends. More than
1,000 St. Louis families enter
emergency shelters each year
due to a growing shortage of
affordable rental housing and simultaneous
increase in poverty. The pandemic has only
made the homelessness crisis worse.
Maryville University occupational therapy
students are helping stabilize homeless
families in crisis through their work with
Humanitri. The St. Louis organization
provides families with temporary housing, a
support network and the resources and skills
needed to establish sustainable life change.
Maryville students first began working
with Humanitri in the spring of 2020,
before the onset of the pandemic. A small
group was tasked with creating a program
for middle-school-aged children that
mirrored Humanitri’s parent program.
Named Together Achieving Goals (TAG),
the Maryville students created lessons
and activities in the areas of household
management, financial management and
personal responsibility.
22 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 23“
This page and opposite
page: Maryville occupational
One TAG activity taught children about became clear that families needed immediate
WATCHING THESE STUDENTS
therapy students helped
financial management by having them build help with distance learning and the tech create a children’s program
three coin banks out of cardstock and tape, nology it required. for homeless families in
and then labeling them save, share or spend. This included setting up internet access St. Louis. The children learn
BRING HELP AND HOPE TO The activity helped children understand that through Hotspots and navigating logging into critical life skills, like smart
they can make choices with their money and virtual classrooms. She helped families create money habits, while having
the importance of saving for the future. dedicated schoolwork spaces and organize fun. Early intervention
efforts like these are proven
“We’ve long recognized the need for calendars so they could remember what
OUR FAMILIES IN THE MIDST a structured program geared toward the
children in our families, and it’s exciting
times virtual classes took place and when
assignments were due.
to mitigate the effects of
homelessness on children
and youth.
to see it become a reality,” said Humanitri “Some of the children were missing days
OF A GLOBAL PANDEMIC Interim Executive Director Lorri Holtgrieve.
“The program is important because it shows
and days of school because they didn’t know
how to do virtual learning,” Dalton said. “And
”
these children that the cycle of poverty can a lot of these children were already delayed.
WAS INSPIRING
be broken and there is more to life than I knew I had to help them so they wouldn’t
mere survival.” continue to fall further behind.”
As the Maryville students concluded their This meant providing services normally
work on the TAG program, the COVID-19 provided by school-based occupational
pandemic hit St. Louis full force. Health therapists, like teaching children how to
care facilities and other area agencies started behave appropriately in class. Dalton spent
limiting the number of volunteers and guests many hours sitting with students during
allowed. Stay-at-home orders were issued. virtual classes, helping with homework and
Opportunities for occupational therapy participating in Zoom meetings with teachers
fieldwork, a degree requirement for the and educational specialists.
Maryville students, quickly vanished. Other times, Dalton was able to facilitate
After learning her initial fieldwork more traditional occupational therapy practices
placement was canceled, Lori Dalton, ’17, ’20, with the parents and children. Her favorite
worried she wouldn’t be able to graduate on activity was bringing posterboard, magazines,
time. So she took matters into her own hands glue sticks and scissors to create vision boards.
to secure a new fieldwork placement. “One little boy cut out a car and I asked him
“We were literally finishing our TAG why. He said he wanted to buy his own car one bodies and get in the right mindset to kick independent learning via Google Classroom
presentation on Zoom when I threw out, day,” Dalton said. “I love that the vision boards off virtual school or to burn off energy during across expanded age groups.
‘Don’t you think Humanitri could use help them think about the future and make homework breaks.” “Humanitri benefited immensely from
me right now?’” Dalton said. Associate goals for what they want in life.” Stewart also brought expertise regarding the Maryville partnership during a critical
Professor of Occupational Therapy Ashlyn In the fall of 2020, Myranda Stewart, ’21, feeding, safe sleep and developmental time in our history,” Holtgrieve said.
Cunningham, OTD, OTR/L, ran with the became the second Maryville student to milestones from her experience in the “Watching these students bring help and
idea and made it happen.” Cunningham complete her occupational therapy fieldwork neonatal intensive care unit. “I tried to instill hope to our families in the midst of a global
was keenly aware of the pandemic’s impact with Humanitri. Stewart continued in-person confidence in the parents that they know pandemic was inspiring. The inclusion of
on homeless families through her role as home visits and spent her time focusing on what’s best for their children, while also occupational therapy into our program is
president of the Humanitri board of directors. holistic interventions to help parents and sharing how they could keep their children one of the best things we could do for those
“Our families were missing a lot of families achieve their goals. safe,” Stewart said. “It was really cool to see we serve; it’s providing critical skills to
connection and fellowship because the “I like working with people to help them those things click for the families, and for underserved children and helping to level
Humanitri staff was not medically trained learn how to cope with their feelings and me to learn new ways to communicate the playing field so they can look forward
and was unable to conduct home visits find effective ways to communicate,” she and share ideas.” to a more equitable future.”
at the time,” Cunningham said. “But our said. “A lot of parents in Humanitri have Earlier this year, Stewart was hired
Maryville occupational therapy students had been diagnosed with depression or other by Humanitri to serve as their first-ever
that training and could start meeting with mental health conditions. I taught them how child and youth specialist-occupational
families face-to-face right away. It was a to use strategies like journaling, meditation therapist. Her new role brings the Maryville
really proud moment.” and deep breathing to help ground them. relationship full circle; among other duties,
In the months following, Dalton traveled I spent time teaching children basic yoga she is tasked with implementing the TAG
around St. Louis to meet with families. It poses to help them learn how to calm their program through in-person visits and
24 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 25A new documentary created by three Maryville professors
is highlighting dental health disparities for children in rural
Missouri — and what can be done to provide access to care
A
for this vulnerable population. | BY NANCY FOWLER
campus collaboration The pair teamed up with Maryville digital
is helping a Maryville art instructor Lilli Kayes, MFA, ’12, and the
nursing professor Missouri Office of Dental Health to create
promote a decade- “Rural Children in Crisis: Access to Missouri
long passion: helping Oral Care.” Berger explained that the film
underserved children “puts a face on all the statistics; it humanizes
in rural Missouri keep their teeth. the problem and brings it to life.”
In her doctoral research, Carol Berger, Berger found that many children who have
DNP, APRN, FNP-C, assistant professor of Medicaid still face pressing dental issues. One
EM
AC
nursing, found that a simple, inexpensive problem is access. Only four dental providers
T process can prevent tooth decay. But in the state’s rural areas accept Medicaid.
IV
T
Y S the red tape of public health insurance And while the water in many areas contains
E S
and a bifurcated medical system make fluoride, a mineral that protects teeth, it may
LE implementation difficult. not make it into children’s mouths.
AR NIN G ECO While conducting her research, Berger
attended Maryville’s 2019 REAL Week, a
“In some places, the water is brown — who
wants to drink that?” Berger said. “So the kids
weeklong teaching and learning convention drink bottled water, which has no fluoride.”
for faculty. It was there that Berger met Scott When parents can’t take kids to a dentist,
Angus, MFA, director of the photography and decay goes undetected, often until the child
digital art programs and associate professor of is in pain. By the time they’re in a dentist’s
art and digital photography. As Berger talked chair, the only remedy may be extracting
about her findings, Angus reflected on his multiple teeth.
20 years documenting dental mission work in “Rural Children in Crisis” opens with
the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. a closeup of the mouth of a two-year-old
“Here I had traveled all over the world, Lincoln County boy in foster care. The viewer
Professors Collaborate to Create New Documentary and I was shocked to find out similar hears project editor and videographer Kayes
problems existed in my own backyard,” ask him to make a “grrr” sound.
Angus said. “And I told Carol, ‘We should
make a documentary.’”
26 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 27“I can’t, because I don’t have teeth up When the three filmmakers began working “You don’t normally get that in docu Children in Crisis: Access to Missouri Oral
here,” the boy tells her, pointing to bare on the documentary two years ago, an early mentaries,” Kayes said. “They tell you facts Care” provides. The documentary boasts
gums where four front baby teeth should be. priority was finding interview subjects. Berger and they scare you a little bit but then you’re more than 1,000 views on social media.
“For me, that was the whole message: took to Facebook to locate a parent. left with this sort of chasm, like ‘It’s my Berger now hopes to share it with decision-
‘I can’t,’” Kayes said. “These children just “And a former patient wrote, ‘I know just responsibility,’ and there’s nothing you can makers at Barnes-Jewish, Mercy and Saint
can’t do anything about this.” the person,’” Berger said. “She said, ‘It’s been do about it.” Louis University hospitals to put in motion
Berger said speech problems, eating such a nightmare for her to get dental care for Even solutions pose problems. The the idea of doctors checking and varnishing
issues and social ostracization are common her kids who’ve been in the foster system.’” United States’ health care system considers children’s teeth.
in children with missing teeth. Many suffer By March 2020, they’d completed several medical and dental care separate entities, Additionally, the documentary is now part
impairment for five years or more until their interviews and other video portions. Then the and medical doctors are reluctant to begin of the Maryville nursing curriculum. But its
adult teeth grow in. But in her research, COVID-19 pandemic hit. examining children’s teeth, Berger said. Many educational value goes far beyond the field of
Berger found an easy way to prevent this “We had to shut down filming for almost a doctors aren’t aware that fluoride varnish is health care. Angus uses it in his filmmaking
debilitating decay: fluoride varnish. Applied year,” Angus said. “So we spent time putting inexpensive, and they’re not set up to bill for classes “to show students how a film is put
at least twice a year, the varnish goes a long together what we had already done.” Medicaid reimbursement. together,” Angus said. “We have all the raw
way toward saving baby teeth. But it’s only Because of the pandemic, they had to Another concern is what medical doctors pieces so we can demonstrate things like how
available at dental offices. shelve a shoot that would have let viewers should do if their young patients need dental you develop a thesis or figure out a storyline.”
Berger wondered: Why not have medical watch a doctor apply fluoride varnish to a work beyond fluoride varnish. If doctors The documentary also assists Angus
doctors apply fluoride varnish to children’s child’s teeth. Instead, Berger conducted partnered with dental offices, they could send in teaching students about legal issues
teeth during checkups, or bring dental the on-camera interview behind a Plexiglas that office images of children’s teeth, and in filmmaking. There’s a reason the
professionals into their offices for that shield. Still, the trio, who did all the work bill it under Telehealth, Berger said. But it’s documentary’s opening scene shows only
purpose? “Many people who don’t take kids themselves, is happy with the end result. not an easy fix. “You need a whole team of the boy’s mouth and not his full face: foster
to the dentist will take them to the doctor Angus and Kayes found satisfaction in people to come in and put all of that in place,” care authorities and the foster parent weren’t
for their well visits, for their shots,” Berger the fact that Berger’s work, and therefore the Berger said. authorized to grant permission.
said. “And fluoride varnish is cheap — about film, presents a solution as well as a problem. Building that team requires education and “When you’re a photographer or filmmaker,
$1.50 for each application — and Medicaid exposure, something the 18-minute “Rural you have to make sure you’re not breaking the
reimburses ten times that.” law,” Angus said. “It’s not like something for
TikTok; you can’t just go on private property
and start filming or photographing people.”
Kayes called the documentary project
In their roles as
“one of the best experiences I’ve had in
documentary filmmakers,
my professional career.” The successful
three Maryville professors
interdisciplinary collaboration is emblematic
traveled around Missouri
to interview children,
of the overall Maryville experience, according
parents and health to the filmmakers.
care professionals. Angus has previously worked with Overall, the filmmakers believe Maryville After interviews and other
faculty and students from other disciplines video portions were complete,
does a good job supporting and encouraging
including biology and music therapy. He and interdisciplinary collaboration
cooperation among the various disciplines,
continued throughout the film
his photography and videography students all with student outcomes in mind. “Maryville
editing process.
accompanied music therapy students to promotes an active learning ecosystem where
Costa Rica to document their work with students actively participate in the learning
older people with disabilities. Berger’s past process by doing, making and interacting
collaborations include a project with app with each other and the environment around
development students, which ultimately them,” Berger said. “We’re better when we’re
resulted in a dozen medical apps to explain all learning from each other.”
conditions including asthma, atrial fibrillation
and back pain.
28 | MARYVILLE MAGAZINE FALL 2 0 2 1 | 29You can also read
