Monmouth College 2016 Winter Magazine

VOL 31 | NO 3 | WINTER 2016

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

FREE THE POSSIBLE

EDITOR’S NOTE

Freeing the Possible

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everal months ago, Monmouth College conducted a comprehensive review of its marketing strategy to help sharpen how it communicates about the special nature of the institution. One of the ideas that emerged, and that was embraced as an inspirational slogan in our new admission publications, was “Free the Possible.”

The introduction to our new viewbook sets forth the powerful message behind the phrase: “Possible can’t be dictated to you, and it doesn’t live on some list. Possible lives inside of you­­—pounding in your chest, whispering in your ear, daring you…You’ll know it when you feel it. You’ll know you’re at Monmouth when you see it, because here, where now and next meet, we’re setting the possible free.”

As a witness to the history of Monmouth College over the past quarter century, I can personally attest to the accuracy of the slogan in describing the College’s work and mission. The inspirational stories published in past issues of this magazine about students and alumni who have met and conquered adversity as a result of the educational and leadership opportunities they experienced at Monmouth are too numerous to count.

The current issue is no exception. Our story about how alumni gifts inspired a professor and students to use technology to recreate a lost campus landmark illustrates the strength of our heritage, helping to free the possible across generations. The feature about how the vision of alumnus Fred Wackerle 20 years ago created an exceptional center to prepare students for rewarding careers is another example of this. We also celebrate in a photo spread the acquisition of a magnificent chapter house for a pioneering women’s fraternity that helped free the possible for young women across the nation seeking to be strong and independent.

But perhaps no article can match the power behind our story of Charles and Daisy Brooks, a groundskeeper and cook at Monmouth College, who labored tirelessly to send all eight of their children to the College over the course of four decades. The education that those young men and women received at Monmouth helped lift them above the racial prejudice that many African Americans endured to remarkable lives of purpose that serve as an inspiration to us all.

When the Brookses were recognized at Homecoming as Family of the Year, it was an honor well deserved and the ultimate testimonial for how Monmouth College helps free the possible.

—jeff rankin

The Brooks Family at Homecoming Seated, from left: Chris Brooks ’72, Glenn Brooks ’61, Ada Brooks Groff ’59 and Ray Brooks ’53. Standing, from left: Yancy Brooks (son of Paul ’51), Cindy Brooks (wife of Chris), the Rev. Dr. Regina Groff (daughterin-law of Ada), Tony Jones (son-in-law of Ada), Failyn Brooks (wife of Ray), Peter Groff (son of Ada), Traci Jones (daughter of Ada), Buddy Williams (cousin) and Suzanne Walsh (daughter of Ira Brooks Walsh ’57). Kneeling between rows, from left: Brooklyn Jones, Malachi Groff and Mariah Groff (grandchildren of Ada).

ON THE COVER A photo of Wallace Hall taken by a drone camera provides a dramatic neverbefore-seen view of the Monmouth campus.

CORRECTIONS An article in the Summer issue about Monmouth College in the mid-1960s incorrectly stated (page 33) that an effort to pledge a student of color to a Greek organization was ultimately successful. (see letter, page 2).

An article on the inside back cover of the Summer issue identified Ramses Armendariz as a biology professor. He is actually a professor of political economy and commerce.

Three of the birth announcements in the Summer issue contained inaccurate information. They have been republished in this issue.

Monmouth College Magazine regrets these errors.

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12 RESURRECTING A LOST LANDMARK Students use digital technology to create an exhibit honoring Monmouth’s heritage.

15 INSIDE THE HOUSE OF BROOKS How a family dynasty was built through courage, perseverence and education.

22 TWO DECADES OF CAREER PREPARATION The Wackerle Career & Leadership Center marks its 20th year of serving students.

32 NEW KEYS FOR KAPPA Historic home is new headquarters for Kappa Kappa Gamma’s historic chapter.

PRESIDENT Clarence R. Wyatt BOARD OF TRUSTEES William Goldsborough ’65, Chairman Mark Kopinski ’79, Vice Chair Gerald Marxman ’55 (Emeritus), Treasurer Anna R Beasley Douglas R. Carlson Mary Corrigan Daniel Cotter Robert Dahl Craig Dahlquist Rod Davies Dr. Nancy Speer Engquist Christine Farr Larry Gerdes Augustin Hart Mahendran Jawaharlal F. Austin Jones The Rev. Robert C. McConnell Michael B. McCulley, Esq. Gary Melvin Brad Nahrstadt Gail Owen J. Hunter Peacock J. Stanley Pepper Anthony J. Perzigian Dennis M. Plummer Anita Ridge Susan Romaine John M. Schultz The Hon. John J. Scotillo Dr. William M. Simpson Dr. Carlos F. Smith Sherman Smith Nancy L. Snowden Mark Taylor George Trotter III Beth Bowdoin Tyre Dr. Ralph Velazquez Jr. Jean Peters Witty Sandra E. Wolf Richard E. Yahnke Jackie Bell Zachmeyer ALUMNI BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mary Corrigan ’82, President Danette Bagley-Thierry ’86, Vice President Jerri Picha ’75, Secretary Matt Clair ’05, Member at Large EDITORIAL BOARD Stephen M. Bloomer ’83 Vice President for Development and College Relations Trent Gilbert Vice President for Enrollment and Communications

EDITOR AND DESIGNER Jeffrey D. Rankin ASSOCIATE EDITOR Barry J. McNamara PHOTOGRAPHY George Hartmann Kent Kriegshauser CONTACT US Magazine Editor 309-457-2314 jrankin@monmouthcollege.edu

Monmouth College Magazine is printed on Cascades Rolland Enviro 100 paper, made with 100 percent post-consumer fiber.

campus news 4 newsmakers 9 academics 10 books 19 sports 26 alumni news 39 last word 48

Duane Bonifer Executive Director of Communications and Marketing

Monmouth College Magazine is published three times per year for alumni, parents and friends of Monmouth College. All opinions expressed in signed articles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial staff or the College.

Monmouth College admits students of any race, religion, color, sex, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to Monmouth students.

We welcome letters about the College or the magazine. Letters will be printed on a space-available basis and may be edited for length, style and clarity. Send letters, queries or submissions to: Monmouth College Magazine, 700 East Broadway, Monmouth IL 61462-1998, or email jrankin@monmouthcollege.edu.

Any inquiries regarding Title IX or the College’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation (www.monmouthcollege.edu/ nondiscrimination-policy) should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator identified below. The Coordinator will be available to meet with or talk to students, staff, and faculty regarding issues relating to Title IX and this policy.

Stephanie Kinkaid Title IX Coordinator Room 21, Poling Hall (lower level) (309) 457-2274 skinkaid@monmouthcollege.edu

Change of Address? Write: College Relations, Monmouth College, 700 East Broadway, Monmouth, IL 61462-1998. Or call 888-8278268. Web: monmouthcollege.edu/update

Jeffrey D. Rankin College Editor and Historian Barry J. McNamara Associate Director of College Communications Hannah Maher Director of Alumni Engagement NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION Monmouth College does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, military service, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy or other factors as prohibited by law.

Monmouth College, an Equal Opportunity Employer, is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and minority candidates.

LETTERS A PROUD HERITAGE CONTINUES Your review of A Civil War Captain and His Lady (Books, page 36, Summer 2016) about Josiah Moore, a Monmouth College student who served as an officer in the Union Army, immediately caught my attention. Not only did it call to mind Monmouth’s long and distinguished military tradition, but I did a double take, since my son—another Captain Moore—is also part of that tradition.

From an early age, the dream of my son John Moore ’06 was to become a Cavalry officer like his uncle, Gen. Larry Jordan, the first African American Commandant at Fort Knox. After witnessing Change of Command as a young man, John decided he would become a “tanker.”

When college time approached, our first priority was to find a school that would provide John with an excellent education, but having an Army ROTC program was Capt. John Moore ’06 and Jae Moore ’11 also important. After visiting ROTC schools across the state, our last stop was Western Illinois University. My wife, Joyce, was not completely satisfied with the visit and asked me how far away Monmouth College was. When I explained it wasn’t far, she said, “Let’s go there.” Even though I had been told Monmouth had no Army ROTC, we decided to pay a visit.

We went directly to the admissions office, where we met a counselor who agreed to allow John to participate in the residual ACT the next day. After a campus tour, my wife was smiling, John was smiling, and I knew this was good. After all the college visits we had made, I knew this was a happy day.

One night, I happened to be talking with two Monmouth alumni (Craig Dahlquist ’78 and Jay Edmonds ’71) about how much my son and wife liked the College, despite its lack of an ROTC pro-

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gram. They informed me that Monmouth did in fact have a ROTC arrangement with Western—the best news I had in weeks! The acceptance letter came and that sealed the deal.

John was the only cadet in uniform at Monmouth for four years. He wore his BDUs on Thursdays and drove to Macomb two or three times a week, yet he still found time to participate in Freshman Men’s Chorus, Brass Ensemble, Chorale, Zeta Beta Tau, WMCR and other campus organizations.

Cadet John Moore graduated from Monmouth in 2006, a week after his commissioning. He was the only student wearing Army dress greens at Commencement and we were proud to see him dressed as an Army officer. John has since been deployed to Iraq (twice), Afghanistan and Kuwait. After serving as an officer in the 6-9 Cavalry out of Fort Hood, he rebranched to infantry 82nd Airborne.

When my daughter, Jae Elizabeth Moore ’11, began looking at colleges, I offered to take her on the multi-college tour as we did with John. She replied that Monmouth had been great for John, so she had already applied there and been accepted.

At Monmouth, Jae was part of eight championship indoor and outdoor track and field teams. She was conference champion three times in the 100 meter, won the indoor 55 meter and was named Performer of the Year. She participated in student government, women’s chorus and WMCR. Her friends for life are still in contact and she has just returned from visiting a classmate in Ireland. Coach Haynes and staff were instrumental in allowing Jae to do and excel at something she loved— running. I am proud to say we traveled to every track meet in or out of state.

Jae wanted a career in public relations and marketing, and found opportunities at Monmouth to develop communication skills through writing and speaking. She is currently employed by Visa in Austin, Texas.

Monmouth College is a place I recom-

mend to every parent exploring colleges, thanks to helpful alumni and the wonderful faculty and staff who help make college life experiences successful.

Jimmie Moore Peoria, Ill.

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT At the class of 1966’s Golden Scots reunion in June, several of us were interviewed about our years at MC, specifically regarding the mood of those times. One of the topics I spoke about was Kappa Kappa Gamma’s desire to pledge, along with other classmates, Barbara Lane ’66­—an African American—and how we fought to make this happen in 1963-1964.

At that time, Kappa’s national organization required a written recommendation from a Kappa alumna, from or near the rushee’s hometown. This was just a formality—in fact, sometimes we would receive one from an alumna stating she didn’t personally know the girl but was sure she’d be a good addition to our chapter. Unfortunately, after a lot of back and forth, we were never able to secure this form; and to make matters even worse, our local alumnae group would not intercede on our behalf.

Consequently—and sadly—our chapter could not pledge Barb. In fact, one of our members even deactivated over this event, expressing her outrage in a very tangible way. Thankfully, that recommendation requirement has long since gone away!

During my sharing this story with the interviewer, discussing how life had certainly changed for the better since those restrictive days, I inadvertently left him with the impression that Kappa did indeed pledge Barb and it was printed in that article included in the College’s previous publication (page 33, Summer 2016) I am very sorry I wasn’t clear in the conclusion of this event, and I apologize to Barb and to the interviewer for my accidental misrepresentation of that episode.

Frankie White Wolma ’66 Marietta, Ga.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

WELCOME TO OUR TABLE New York Times columnist David Brooks recently as a faculty member wrote a piece titled “The Power of a Dinner Table.” and administrator In it, he described a Washington, D.C., couple whose in higher education, teenage son learned that one of his school friends now as president of sometimes went to school hungry.

Monmouth.

The couple invited their son’s friend to eat, and Lobie has had occasionally sleep, at their home. As Brooks writes: successful careers “That friend had a friend and that friend had a friend, in the oil business, and now when you go to dinner at Kathy and David’s in finance, and as the owner of a design studio. Howhouse on Thursday night there might be 15 to 20 ever, both Lobie and I benefitted from the liberating teenagers crammed around the table, and later there power of a liberal arts education far beyond rewardwill be groups of them crashing in the basement or in ing careers. We gained a greater appreciation for the the few small bedrooms upstairs.” richness of the human experience, for the beauty Brooks relates that these young people have endured embodied in the arts, and for the wonder of our all kinds of hardships in their young lives, but around fragile planet. this dinner table, in this home, they find people who We grew in our continued curiosity about the believe in them. world around us, in our “Thank you for seesense of responsibility JOIN THE ‘DINNER CONVERSATION’ ing the light in me,” one for ourselves and others, young woman says. Kathy and in our desire to effect Share your stories about how Monmouth College freed the and David help these positive change in our possible in you or someone you know. Send your story to young people to shine that communities. table@monmouthcollege.edu. We will publish some of the light, to see the possibiliWhether you are readstories on a blog on the College’s website, monmouthcollege.edu. ties that live beyond these ing this magazine as an challenges. alumnus of the College, Monmouth College is like that dinner table, that the parent of an alum, or a friend of Monmouth, home. each of you can tell stories of “freeing the possible.”

“Freeing the Possible” has long been the mission of We invite you to share these stories with us. the College, one that we seek to make even more cenThank you for demonstrating the power of the tral in the lives of our students and to celebrate more Monmouth College education, of the power of possiwidely. Our students come from many backgrounds, bility, in your own lives. Thank you for all that you do and our faculty and staff are committed to helping to help our students, those with us now and those to each of them see and free the possibilities inherent in come, see and free the possibilities within them. their lives.

Lobie and I know the power of possibility in our own lives.

Neither of my parents went past the eighth grade, but they knew that education could free possibilities Dr. Clarence R. Wyatt in the lives of their children. I’ve been blessed to work President

Hosting new students for dinner at Quinby House during Orientation is a gratifying experience for Lobie and me. This symbolic welcoming of young people to the Monmouth College “table” serves as a joyful prelude to the transformative Monmouth experience.

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Scholarships receive $1 million boost Monmouth College has received a $1 million gift to endow scholarships.

The gift is from a graduate who wishes to remain anonymous and is also a longtime supporter of the College. She said she made the gift because of the positive experiences she had while a student at Monmouth.

“I went from a very large high school, where I was uncomfortable, to a small college, where I was welcomed by students as well as the faculty,” she said. “Coming to Monmouth was a happy change from high school.”

The donor said that she was particularly impressed by the Monmouth faculty.

“I feel like the professors were invested in the students,” she said. “I truly felt accepted at Monmouth, and I wanted to make that opportunity available to more students.”

“This incredible act of generosity will change the lives of hundreds of future Monmouth students,” said President

Clarence R. Wyatt, who noted that the gift also addresses

two of the College’s biggest needs—endowment growth and scholarship aid.

“Monmouth has a proud tradition of being a college of high opportunity that welcomes a diverse student body,” Wyatt said. “A big reason we continue to be a place that attracts highly motivated students from all backgrounds is because we have a base of alumni and friends who are committed to providing scholarship support by building our endowment.”

The donor, who spent a career working in a helping profession, said she is pleased her gift will help future generations of Monmouth students.

“I think there is a need for colleges like Monmouth. Some people don’t want to be in one of those huge places when they go to college,” she said. “So I think it’s important to provide scholarship help for students.”

An ag lecture for the liberal arts Jeanne Gittings Robeson ’60 endowed the WiswellRobeson Lecture.

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A new Monmouth College endowed lecture series focusing on the state of agriculture in the Midwest premiered in November.

The Wiswell-Robeson Lecture will annually feature a speaker from the agriculture community who will explore issues, challenges and innovations in the industry. The inaugural speaker was Craig Willis, president of the ethanol business in Archer Daniels Midland Co.’s Corn Processing business unit.

The series was made possible by a gift from Jeanne Gittings Robeson ’60 of Monmouth. She and her late husband, Don Robeson ’54 , operated their farm in Warren County.

“I’ve always lived in a farming community,” said Robeson, who grew up on a family farm in nearby Cameron established by her great-great-grandfather Royal Wiswell in 1853, the same year Monmouth College was founded.

“To be successful in farming, you need a well-rounded liberal arts education,” Robeson said. “Today’s farmers must be knowledgeable in so many areas, including business, marketing, biology, chemistry and communication. I want people to understand and appreciate the resourcefulness of farmers.”

CAMPUS NEWS

GOING UP! Monmouth continues its climb in national rankings

In August, Monmouth College moved 89 spots to No. 77 in Washington Monthly’s “National Universities–Liberal Arts” category. The magazine ranked 239 liberal arts colleges and universities in its latest issue.

The following month, Monmouth rose eight spots in U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 Best Colleges, ranking No. 159 nationally among the guide’s National Liberal Arts Colleges.

Monmouth was credited for maintaining its low student-to-teacher ratio, affordability and a rising alumni-giving rate.

Washington Monthly ranks colleges based on how they educate students and how they benefit society, measuring success in three key areas—students’ social mobility (admitting and graduating low-income students); community service; and students who engage in research and go on to earn a doctorate.

More than one-third of Monmouth’s students are the first in their families to attend college, and about half of the College’s students qualify to receive a federal Pell grant, which is awarded to students from families with greater financial need.

Monmouth also did very well in rankings recently released by the website CollegeFactual.com. Eight of the College’s academic programs were ranked in the top five percent in the nation, and Monmouth’s “Value Ranking” placed the College in the top 6 percent in the nation.

“As Americans, we love to rank things, and that’s certainly true for colleges and universities,” said President Clarence R. Wyatt. “While no set of rankings are perfect or can provide a complete picture of a college, taken collectively these rankings demonstrate that Monmouth College continues to head in the right direction. Exciting things are happening at Monmouth because we have taken a long-term view of this institution’s future.”

BUILDING ROME IN AN AFTERNOON The world of ancient Greece and Rome came back to life on Monmouth College’s Quad in October, during the third annual Classics Day festival.

Thanks to a state Latin conference held that day at Monmouth-Roseville High School, and to bus transportation from the Chicago area, provided by the admissions department, more than 180 high school students and teachers joined the College community for an afternoon of competition and education.

Monmouth students portrayed soldiers from the ancient world and demonstrated techniques of engaging with opponents. Visitors had the opportunity to take part in gladiatorial combat, wear clothing that was appropriate to the ancient world, and view a wide variety of educational exhibits. Aspects of ancient Japanese and Native American culture were also celebrated.

The inaugural Classics Day received the 2015 Award for Outstanding Promotional Activity in Classics from the Classical Association of the Middle West and South.

A small group of volunteers helped make the first Classics Day a success in the spring of 2015, but classics faculty decided that creating a class dedicated to staging the event provided an even stronger teaching and learning opportunity.

Dressed as a centurion, Daniel Hintzke ’18 explains common practices of the Roman army during demonstrations of Greek, Macedonian and Roman warfare.

Grant supports peer mentoring Monmouth College has received an $11,900 grant to expand its peer mentoring programs.

The Associated Colleges of Illinois grant supports transitional programming and also provides emergency funds to students.

Monmouth offers entering students peer mentors through programs such as Bridge and New Beginnings. Last year, the Fighting Scots athletic teams assigned mentors to new members of its 22 varsity teams.

This fall, student orientation leaders served as mentors for each of the College’s 19 sections of “Introduction to Liberal Arts,” a required course for first-time freshmen.

The ACI Peer Mentoring Program supports students who arrive at member institutions with risk factors that could prevent them from graduating. The program matches those students with junior and senior peer mentors who faced similar challenges when they entered college.

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National political journalist Sasha Issenberg, author of The Victory Lab: The Secret Science of Winning Campaigns, visited Monmouth College in October as part of a series of special programming associated with the presidential campaign.

Lofty goal When it came time to select their class gift to the College, members of the Class of 2016 set their sights high. Their non-traditional idea was to raise funds to have a Monmouth watertower painted with College branding that could be seen from the Route 34 bypass.

Invited to campus by Monmouth political science lecturer Robin Johnson , Issenberg spoke about the rapidly emerging science of political analytics, and how they are used by campaigns to direct strategy.

New showcase for artistic Scots unveiled Art has a new home at Monmouth College—the main foyer of Wallace Hall.

More than two dozen pieces of artwork from Monmouth’s permanent collection, as well as works by alumni and students, are currently on display in the new gallery.

Turning the Wallace Hall lobby into a space to showcase art was the idea of First Lady Lobie Stone. Stone came up with the idea shortly after she and President Clarence R. Wyatt arrived at Monmouth in 2014.

“From the first day I walked into Wallace Hall I had a vision of transforming the first-floor lobby area, one of the true front doors of our beautiful campus, into a space that showcases our talented art students and faculty, past and present,” Stone said. “I felt this would also make the space brighter, happier and even more welcoming.”

Stone approached art professor Stacy Lotz about the concept. Lotz said she liked the idea because it was a way to

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brighten an area that is “the gateway” to the College. The area is a frequent stop on campus tours taken by prospective students, alumni and other campus guests, not to mention being a high-traffic area for Monmouth students, faculty and staff.

Art professor Brian Baugh also played a part in the selection process, and Monmouth art alumna Susan Twomey ’76 helped Stone and Lotz curate and

install the exhibit.

The one permanent new piece in the Wallace Hall lobby is a four-foot reproduction of the College seal, which hangs on the center of the main wall.

To accommodate the art, the portraits of the College’s first 13 presidents, which hung in Wallace Hall during recent years, were moved next door to the Morgan Room of Poling Hall, where they now make up the Hall of Presidents.

CAMPUS NEWS

Vanderpool named Lincoln Laureate To say that Monmouth College student Emma Vanderpool ’17 is an overachiever would be an understatement.

The senior is majoring in Latin, classics and history and minoring in philosophy. A member of the College’s honors program, she has earned numerous awards and honors for her scholarship.

And now add Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois to her resume. Vanderpool was recently named Monmouth’s 2016-17 Lincoln Laureate based on her academic accomplishments and leadership on campus.

Vanderpool was the first student in the 38-year history of the National Latin Exam to receive seven consecutive gold medals, and one of her research projects was published as an article in the Midwest Journal of Undergraduate Research.

“It really means a lot to me to be a Lincoln Laureate because when I came to Monmouth College, I came specifically to study the classics under Dr. Thomas J. Sienkewicz,” she said. “And

T

in doing so, I was very much aware of the strong tradition of excellence I was entering into. So to be able to carry on that legacy in such a way is very meaningful to me.”

Vanderpool plans to attend graduate school after Monmouth and then become a Latin teacher.

“The real strength in the Monmouth College Classics Department is the interest it takes in its students,” she said.

“Not all students come to Monmouth with the intention of studying the classics, but the Classics Department here makes every effort to allow students to incorporate it into their studies. … It’s a great example of what the liberal arts is.”

In addition to earning outstanding grades and helping lead several student organizations, Vanderpool was drum major for the Fighting Scots Marching Band this school year.

“Serving as drum major has allowed me to have a greater impact on students and share my experiences in a way that I would have not necessarily gotten as

Classics major Emma Vanderpool ’17 is congratulated by President Wyatt for her selection as Student Laureate to the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

a senior or as an upperclassman,” she said. “The opportunities that I’ve been provided here by all the faculty and staff are things that I never could have imagined before coming here.”

A Worthy Honor?

he times, they are a-changin’.

So wrote Bob Dylan, and so says Monmouth College English professor Mark Willhardt about Dylan being awarded this year’s Nobel Prize for Literature.

“It perhaps says more about our age than either the award or the literature,” said Willhardt. “Although the committee highlighted his ‘new poetic expressions’ within a particular American tradition, the same could be said for many writers, such as Charles Bukowski or Charles Bernstein.

“They, too, were outsiders to start and then, in their own ways, became legends as Dylan did, one in the avant garde, one in academia. Instead, it seems to me that the committee was looking for a way to laud tradition without having

to laud even mildly traditional—that is, canonical—writers.”

The 75-year-old Dylan is the only singer-songwriter to win the award. Swedish Academy member Per Wastberg called Dylan “probably the greatest living poet.”

Although there were many other choices, Willhardt believes the artist who has been called “the voice of a generation” is worthy of the honor.

“His ability to make short stories out of his songs, his ability to write from many perspectives, his ability to remain iconic for 50 years of hard touring—though, admittedly, sometimes spotty output—has given us an oeuvre as varied and important as many other Nobel Prize winners,” Willhardt said.

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Wells Foundation grant assists Global Public Health Triad Monmouth College’s nascent Global Public Health Triad received a valuable endorsement earlier this fall when it received a $50,000 grant from the Franklin H. and Ruth L. Wells Foundation of Camp Hill, Pa. The grant will be used to support study-abroad opportunities, develop internships in the region, invite speakers to campus, and send faculty and students to conferences about global health issues.

“There are a lot of people internationally who are interested in global public health,” said psychology professor Joan Wertz, who helped develop the Global Public Health Triad. “So for the Wells Foundation to support this, they are recognizing that this is a very important international issue.”

The second of Monmouth’s innovative Triads, the Global Public Health Triad will be a minor that combines psychol-

ogy, kinesiology and modern languages, literatures and cultures. Wertz said that combination will allow students to plans for careers that address a myriad of public health issues.

“Those will be the three core departments that will be involved, but a lot of other disciplines have already expressed interest in being involved,” she said. “The idea was to have an interdisciplinary approach to studying public health.”

Students in the Triad will be required to have a study-abroad experience or an internship in the profession.

“You can learn about all of these things in your classes, but until you actually have to put them into practice or study them in the real world, you might not understand how it all fits together,” Wertz said.

Wertz said the Global Public Health Triad will be excellent preparation

for students’ interest in careers in the health professions, such as medicine, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy.

But she said the Triad will also appeal to students who major in business, sociology or communication.

“Our hope is that students from any discipline of campus who have an interest in a health-related career can add this program to their major so that they can have the option of pursuing a career in public health,” Wertz said.

Wertz said that Monmouth is an ideal setting for students to focus on a topic as broad as global public health.

“The liberal arts are all about interdisciplinary experiences,” she said. “At a liberal arts institution, you have an opportunity to explore an idea from different perspectives, much more so than you would get at some other institutions.”

ARMY ROTC MAKING COMEBACK AT MONMOUTH

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rmy Reserve Officers’ Training Corps is back at Monmouth College.

A total of five students are enrolled in the program, which is conducted in partnership with Western Illinois University in Macomb, Ill. Monmouth last had a cadet on campus in 2011. The latest influx stems from the interest of freshman Jacob Poore of Macomb. Poore wanted to play Division III football, so he inquired if Monmouth would be able to renew its partnership with WIU. “The program here had been dormant for a few years,” said Vice President for Development and College Relations Steve Bloomer ’83, who is also a retired Army colonel. Bloomer is one of two Monmouth staff members available to sign off on the cadet’s physical fitness training. The other is retired first sergeant Andy Davis, director of campus security.

“Big army started drawing down,” said Bloomer, explaining the lull. “It wasn’t anything that WIU did, and it wasn’t anything that we did. It just had to do with a slowdown in the training pipeline.”

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Poore’s interest attracted three other freshmen on the football team—Logan Duvall, Brent McNutt and Naulon Simms. A fifth freshman, Angelica Sartelle, also signed up for ROTC. Some of the five students’ coursework is administered at Monmouth and the rest is administered at WIU. Sartelle said ROTC offers students numerous benefits, including character development.

“It’s a great program,” she said. “I like the more hands-on things we do, like learning to rappel from a building. But what’s also important to mention is that there is no commitment beyond college. I keep introducing that concept to people, because I think a lot of people assume that you’re required to go into the military.”

Bloomer said that even if cadets choose not to make the military a career, they will still gain valuable leadership skills.

“ROTC is an incubator for developing skills—not just for the Army, or for your time at Monmouth College, but for whatever you find yourself doing in life,” he said.

NEWSMAKERS BOND EXAMINES ATTITUDES ABOUT STATS

MONMOUTH FUND TAPS MARKLEY

Mathematics and computer science professor Marjorie Bond hosted a national workshop on statistics at Monmouth College in July.

Titled “Research on Statistics Attitudes,” the workshop brought 10 statistical scholars to Monmouth. They were joined by Bond, associate professor BOND of political economy and commerce Wendi Bolon, post-baccalaureate fellow Madison Brakel ’16 and Jad Freyha ’17, a computer science major from Syria. Following the workshop, six of the attendees and Bond headed to Chicago for the Joint Statistical Meetings, the largest gathering of statisticians held in North America.

“Attitudes toward statistics research has been circling me for a while before I actually started working on it,” said Bond, who received her doctorate from Kansas State University. Bond said the bottom line is: “We want our students to be statistically educated citizens. The bad rap that statistics gets affects attitudes. People with bad attitudes towards statistics won’t use statistics.”

For Abbie Markley, the opportunity to serve at Monmouth College presented both a chance to make a difference and to return to her western Illinois roots.

Markley has been named the College’s new associate director of the Monmouth Fund.

“I’m excited for a professional opportunity close to home and close to family,” said Markley, who began her position on Oct. 17.

A native of nearby Avon, she comes to Monmouth from Washington University in St. Louis, where she quickly moved up from conference coordinator to assistant manager of summer programs and conference services. She previously worked at the Peoria Civic Center, where she ran theater and conference events. She gained fundraising experience while working for Sunland RV Resorts, and she also helped raise money for the Wounded Warriors Project.

“Something that was lacking in my last position was the fundraising aspect and philanthropies—being able to give back,” Markley said. “I’m excited to use my event background in that way.”

BUEL ENERGIZING SCOT FORENSICS Rebecca Buel has reached a summit in

the forensics competition world, and she hopes it will pave the way for the Monmouth forensics team she directs to follow suit.

An instructor in the College’s communication studies department, Buel has been appointed to serve as tournament director BUEL for the National Forensics Association’s national tournament, which will be held next April in Eau Claire, Wis. She had served the previous two years as the event’s official tabulator.

“I am incredibly honored and excited about this opportunity and hope that it will yield increased visibility for Monmouth College and our team on the national forensics circuit,” said Buel, who joined Monmouth’s faculty two years ago and has directed local tournaments since 2010. “It’s a very large event, with 80 to 100 schools competing, and it will be a brand new challenge for me.”

Buel competed in tournaments as an undergraduate student at Moorpark (Calif.) College. She finished her degree at UCLA, then returned to forensics while completing her master’s degree at the University of Northern Iowa. The team there had “fallen apart,” but Buel and other graduate assistants built it back up to 15-20 members, and UNI went on to place in the top 10 at nationals three years in a row.

MARKLEY

HAWKINSON NAMED ASSOCIATE CHAPLAIN Jessica Hawkinson has been named Monmouth College associate chaplain.

A 2008 graduate of Macalester (Minn.) College, Hawkinson earned a master of divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary.

“I was looking to get into college ministry, and the pastor of my church actually recommended Monmouth,” she said. “I love the small liberal arts college, and Monmouth seemed like a good fit, and the Presbyterian element is a natural fit, as well.”

Hawkinson most recently served as an assistant for worship and mission at First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest, Ill. From 2008 to 2010, she worked for the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, and she has also worked for the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program.

One of Hawkinson’s chief responsibilities will be to help oversee the Lux Summer Theological Institute for Youth, a new program that will start in summer 2017. The institute will provide high school students an ecumenical experience in which they will engage in theological inquiry, learn new modes of worship and spiritual practice, participate in service, experience interfaith activities, and explore their vocation.

“This is groundbreaking work,” Hawkinson said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these high school students come back to Monmouth when it’s time for them to choose a college.”

HAWKINSON

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ACADEMICS

FUTURE SCIENTISTS CONDUCT HIGH-LEVEL SUMMER RESEARCH In addition to an endowed on-campus program for summer research, opportunities for Monmouth students to conduct serious research with faculty continue to expand. During the past summer, four of Monmouth’s top science students were awarded prestigious research positions at labs across the country.

By Barry McNamara

D

oc Kieft would be proud of Morgan Gulley ’17. Gulley will head to graduate school

Morgan Gulley conducted summer research at Texas A&M.

next year to study analytical chemistry. She is one of many to benefit from Kieft, the late Monmouth chemistry professor, whose endowment bequest to the College opens up a world of opportunities for Monmouth students.

“Morgan started doing research with me in the second semester of her freshman year and continued throughout that summer as a Doc Kieft Summer Research student,” said associate professor of chemistry Audra Sostarecz.

A Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) that Morgan earned over the summer was “a result of her hard work and her initial participation in summer research through the Kieft endowment,” Sostarecz said.

Gulley’s summer was spent at Texas A&M University, and she said it stoked her ambition to study chemistry beyond Monmouth.

P

ersons in need of a doctor about a decade from now would be wise to keep the name Saxon Day in mind.

Halfway through his Monmouth College career, Day ’18 has already made a name for himself. A varsity tennis player, he received the Midwest Conference’s prestigious Elite 20 Award for having the top GPA among all student-athletes competing at last spring’s league meet.

Day then headed to the world-renowned Mayo Saxon Day worked Clinic for a summer research program, which included prewith a Nobel Prize senting his research one-on-one with Nobel Prize-winning winner at Mayo physician Peter Agre.

Clinic.

“That was definitely a highlight of my time at Mayo,” said Day, whose research at the clinic’s department of urology and nephrology focused on kidney stone recurrence. He also received radiology training, which helps define the region of the kidney in which the stone is located.

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“I do really want to go to grad school now and pursue forensic chemistry,” Gulley said. “My REU was very informational.

I learned a lot about organic chemistry, and I did work with nuclear magnetic resonancing, which is something we don’t have here on campus.”

Sostarecz said that chemistry students grow in numerous ways when they pursue work outside of the classroom.

“It is so important for science majors to see what is beyond the paper and textbooks and regular teaching labs,” she said.

“Being involved in research has enabled Morgan to investigate a topic of her personal interest—the biocompatibility of titanium rods—in my lab. I have been very fortunate to have many great students in my research lab.”

Gulley is currently researching the Langmuir monolayer with Sostarecz, using a relatively new piece of equipment.

“With the atomic force microscope, I am trying to transfer a lipid and collagen onto an atomically flat surface of titanium to measure the liquid expanded/liquid condensed phases present,” Gulley said.

“The research is trying to discover predictors for kidney stone recurrence in the general population,” he said. “We were looking for different characteristics of kidney stones and how they can predict kidney stones in the future.”

Once fully collected, clinicians will be able to use the information to better treat patients, Day said.

“This type of research had been done in small samples with more narrow demographics, but Mayo Clinic provided access to thousands of patient records,” he said.

Day said he benefited not only from his project, but also by being able to work with Mayo Clinic nurses and doctors, as well as research students, who attended Day’s program from such schools as Harvard, Yale and Vanderbilt.

“This research was very applicable to my goal of becoming an M.D./Ph.D.,” he said. “That involves being a practicing clinician while also doing research, bridging the gap between research and implementing that research into a clinical setting.”

W

orking in a chemistry lab is a passion of Jasmine Davila ’17, and not only when classes are in session.

Every summer since the eve of her matriculation at Monmouth, she has sought out additional scientific research experiences. Davila’s most recent summer session was spent at the University of Illinois, where she worked in electron chemistry.

Davila said the experience helped make her decision to go to medical school “more concrete.” A biochemistry major, she plans to use medical school as a way to merge her interests in polymer research and material science.

“I would like to combine them, working with materials that can be used in the medical field,” she said.

In summer 2013, Davila was among the first students to use the College’s new Center for Science and Business; she spent part of the summer working on a Summer Opportunity for Intellectual Activity (SOFIA) project with Professor Laura Moore. She stayed on campus the next summer to participate in the College’s prestigious Kieft Summer Research Program.

Last year, Davila studied at Southern Mississippi University, where her research earned first place in competition with a dozen other Research Experience for Undergraduates students. That earned her a trip to San Diego, where her poster again took top honors, this time at the 251st American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition.

Davila has had STEM aspirations for much of her Jasmine Davila conducted electron chemistry research at the University academic career. She spent her of Illinois. final three years of high school at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. She visited Monmouth on a scholarship day and was impressed by the science faculty.

“I came into college knowing I wanted to do research and possibly become a doctor,” Davila said, “but Dr. Moore really helped me get there. She has always been there to provide guidance and support my research and academic endeavors and is always looking out for the best for me.”

During her final year at Monmouth, Davila is continuing the research she started with Moore, isolating a protein for E. coli, using the atomic force microscope—a tool not available on campus when she began the research. She is also applying to medical schools.

A

n important decision emerged while Carley Folluo ’17 was participating in a prestigious summer research program at the Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, N.Y. The experience convinced her to pursue graduate studies that combine her chemistry major and physics minor.

Folluo attended classes for credit at Brookhaven, offered by nearby Stony Brook University. She took four exams Carley Folluo performed research at and conducted eight labs during the six- Brookhaven National Laboratory. week program.

“Nuclear chemistry was my favorite part of inorganic chemistry,” she said. “After doing this program, I decided I wanted to change from getting my doctorate in inorganic chemistry to pursuing nuclear chemistry.”

A possible outcome for Folluo is the field of nuclear forensics.

“I think that would be really fascinating,” she said. “For example, the origin of a sample of uranium can be determined based off the fingerprint trace of elements from the geological region in which it was mined.”

During her senior year, Folluo is continuing her cataract research with Associate Professor of Chemistry Brad Sturgeon, while initiating a nuclear physics project with Professor Chris Fasano.

Sturgeon was not surprised that Folluo was selected for what he called a “very competitive off-campus summer research experience.”

“Carley is academically strong and well-prepared for an opportunity like Brookhaven,” Sturgeon said.

Folluo’s cataract research has involved the use of gel electrophoresis, which determines the protein content of the eye lens.

It also involves working with free radicals, which has applications in medical research.

“Free radicals have a lone electron, and a lot of the chemistry will take place on the part of the molecule where it is found,” she said. “The free radical reacts with the eye lens protein, and that’s the cause of cataracts proposed in our project.”

At Brookhaven, Folluo worked with radio isotopes, isolating the daughter isotope from the parent, which can also be used for medical research. Among the new research tools she learned were positron emission tomography scanning, an imaging test that allows physicians to check for diseases, and new uses of column chromatography, a method used to purify individual chemical compounds from mixtures of compounds.

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3D Printing Technology Resurrects Lost Monmouth College Icon

LD MAIN RISING I n the fall of 1861, during the darkest days of the Civil War, David

Wallace couldn’t sleep. Five years earlier, the 30-year-old minister

By Jeff Rankin

Editor and Historian

from Boston had accepted a call from the Presbyterian Church to

become the first president of Monmouth College, an institution which had no endowment, only a handful of faculty and no proper campus.

In 1860, there had been a spark of hope, when two brothers donated 35 acres of land on the eastern edge of Monmouth. Twenty-five acres would be sold to raise funds to construct a new college building on the 10 remaining acres. The only contingency was that the building had to be completed by 1864.

Now, with the student body joining the military to serve in the Civil War in increasing waves, the College was operating on financial thin ice. To add to the troubles, the building contractors suddenly announced they were severing relations with the College.

Wallace, who had recently won the hearts of College supporters by declaring “We must educate whether there be peace or war,” did With a digital painting of Old Main in the background, Harmony Miller ’20, left, and Autumn Gay ’20 assemble the 3D-printed gypsum model of the historic building, which will become part of a permanent exhibit in Hewes Library.

not flinch. He personally assumed the job of general contractor. With an eye for efficiency and economy, he recognized the high quality of locally mined clay and constructed a kiln

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The Project Takes Shape Students and faculty watch helplessly as Old Main is consumed by fire in 1907.

on the campus to manufacture bricks for the new building. One year later, the structure was completed, $1,000 under budget.

For nearly a half century, the three-story, ivy-covered building, which had a north wing added in 1877, was the beloved “Old Main” to generations of Monmouth graduates. Prominent among them was Thomas Hanna McMichael, the son of the second Monmouth president, who himself assumed the presidency in 1903.

On the morning of November 14, 1907, McMichael was summoned from his office with reports of smoke filling the biology lab in the northwest corner of the addition.

Although the building had recently been outfitted with steam heat, a fire had ignited in a defective chimney, and soon the roof was ablaze. The fire department was called, and students calmly began moving desks, books and scientific equipment out onto the lawn. No one suspected at the time that Old Main would become a total loss.

Almost miraculously, a new college building, named after President Wallace, would be erected on the site just 15 months after the blaze.

T

oday, there is no living person who saw Old Main, and most current students are not even aware that a predecessor to Wallace Hall even existed.

But in the design lab on the top floor of Wells Theater, three students and one professor are nearly as familiar with Old Main as any of the now-deceased students and faculty who once walked its halls. For the past six months, they have researched the building, studying old photographs from every available angle, and meticulously measuring the dimensions of windows, doors and even individual bricks.

Each of those dimensions was recorded into a computer-assisted drafting program, and a virtual 3D model of the lost building gradually took shape. Previously, the program had been useful in designing theatre sets, but its capabilities took a large leap forward last winter when a crowdfunding campaign raised funds from Monmouth College donors to purchase 3D printers and a 3D scanner for the department. The acquisition of that technology allowed designs on the computer screen to be converted to solid, tangible models.

A fascination with Monmouth College history, a love for Victorian architecture and an appreciation of the power of three-dimensional printing caused something to click in the mind of theatre professor Doug Rankin ’79. He envisioned that for the first time it would be possible to create a realistic 1:48 (quarter inch to the foot) scale model of Old Main in all its Italianate glory—despite the fact that architectural plans for the building were largely lost in the fire.

Rankin knew it would take a team of dedicated workers and many hours of concentrated effort to pull the feat off, but fortunately a viable resource was at hand— Summer Opportunity for Intellectual Activity.

The innovative SOFIA program allows students to come to campus three weeks before the start of classes in August to conduct in-depth research and inquiry with Monmouth faculty.

Like many SOFIA projects, “Old Main Resurrected” was an unconventional idea that might not appeal to the average student. Fortunately for Rankin, two adventurous freshmen—Autumn Gay, a psychology major, and Harmony Miller, a Spanish major—accepted the challenge.

But the project would not have gotten off the ground without the dedication of senior math major Morgan Holle, who spent countless hours last spring making calculations and measurements from vintage photographs

Above: Matt Mabee ’03 of the rapid prototyping lab at the University of Milwaukee School of Architecture explains to the SOFIA students how an actual Louis Sullivan frieze was 3D scanned, printed and converted to a plastic mold from which a copy could be cast in concrete.

Left: Details as minute as the original pump are being 3D printed for the diorama.

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Holle and Rankin examine the “observatory,” which will provide the crowning touch for the finished model.

This photograph of Old Main in winter provided the inspiration for the setting of the diorama.

The theatre department’s 3D printer lays down layers of plastic to create Old Main’s windows.

14

in preparation for the drafting process.

“When starting the project I had barely heard of Old Main, so there was a lot to learn, and sifting through the old newspaper articles and yearbooks gave huge insight into the period,” Holle said. “The details of the building, such as the ornate brackets along the roof, are amazing for the period in which they were built.”

While the students were invaluable in the tedious drafting process, Rankin turned to a former student, Matt Mabee ’03, the rapid prototyping manager at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Architecture & Urban Planning (SARUP), for professional assistance. A major component of the project was a road trip to the remarkable lab, where the SOFIA students observed high-end digital prototyping equipment in action.

Thanks to Mabee’s generosity, the walls and roof of Old Main were printed in high-definition full color using powdered gypsum on SARUP’s professional printer. Close-up digital images of actual bricks and sandstone, taken of a church near campus, were incorporated into the product, providing photo-realistic textures.

Because of the hours required to render each component at SARUP, the Monmouth team had to go home empty-handed and wait for Mabee to deliver the gypsum walls during a visit to campus at Homecoming.

In the meantime, the team got busy crafting dozens of plastic windows and doors for the project using the theatre’s 3D printer. Part of Rankin’s vision was to create not just a model, but a full-fledged diorama of the Monmouth College campus circa 1890 for permanent exhibit in Hewes Library.

The students hand-painted miniature human figures made of lead and fashioned trees out of wire. Using a 3D scanner,

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

they reproduced the boulder monuments on campus, which were already standing during the days of Old Main.

Because of the difficulty making leaves and grass, the team opted for a winter scene.

A seasoned woodworker, Rankin also dictated that the diorama be set within a proper cabinet, and supervised the construction of an 8-by-4-foot custom oak table, set atop antique oak legs.

When Mabee arrived at Homecoming with Old Main’s gypsum walls and roof, the job was far from completed. In its raw state, the gypsum is fragile and prone to crumbling. To finish the “greenware” requires the application of a layer of super glue over the entire surface, which then must be allowed to cure. Before that process was completed, Rankin estimated he had already gone through more than $600 worth of glue.

Today, the model of Old Main is gradually rising in the theatre’s design lab. Rankin, who must feel some of the frustration of David Wallace, is working on it when time allows, between set construction for theatre productions.

Rankin and all three students look forward to the day when the model can be displayed and enjoyed by the public.

“I hope that the students, faculty and staff appreciate it and come to love it as much as we do,” said Gay. “The amount of time and effort will pay off when it is finally finished. I hope that in the future years, we can teach the incoming freshman about Monmouth’s rich history, and the Old Main project will be a focal point.”

Rankin supervises construction in the theatre shop of an oak cabinet to house the Old Main exhibit.

MONMOUTHIANA

Inside the House of Brooks The little-known story behind Monmouth College’s Family of the Year

E

ver since establishing its roots in

Monmouth more than a century ago, the Brooks family has been sustained by four anchors. One is the family home, still occupied, at the corner of 11th Street and 11th Avenue. Another is their late parents— Charles and Daisy—whose work ethic, values and love shaped the lives of each of their eight children. A third is St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, which gave Daisy, Charles and their brood spiritual sustenance and provided an outlet for the family’s musical talents.

The fourth anchor is Monmouth College, which all the Brooks children attended, and from which six graduated.

Given the potential hurdles before them, their story is remarkable. An African American family just two generations removed from slavery, they stood tall in the face of racial prejudice, weathered

By Jeff Rankin the Great Depression, acquired Editor and Historian advanced educations and attained rewarding careers.

At Homecoming 2016, the Brooks Family was recognized as Monmouth College Family of the Year—an honor that might more properly be titled a “lifetime achievement award.”

It recognized not only the eight Brooks children who attended Monmouth (four of them still living), but also their parents. Charles worked for the College as a groundskeeper and Daisy was a cook for both Sigma Phi Epsilon and Alpha Tau Omega fraternities.

Glenn Brooks ’61, the current occupant of the Monmouth family homestead, has witnessed much of the family’s history and is the caretaker for many of the family scrapbooks and mementos. Seventy-seven years ago, Glenn was born in a bedroom of the house.

A veteran jazz musician, who has worked with major performing and recording artists, Glenn recently assembled former band members from Chicago, New York and Los Angeles for two special performances at Monmouth College. Since retiring as a community service administrator in California in 2002, he has split his time between

Monmouth and the West Coast, but is currently based in Monmouth to administer a VISTA program he developed to provide musical instruction and instruments to underprivileged Monmouth youth.

Sitting in the living room of the Brooks homestead, the walls of which are covered with family photographs and paintings, Glenn detailed his family’s journey, which had its origins in southern Georgia and southern Illinois.

“My father’s family came to Monmouth from Lebanon, Ill., when he was 9,” Brooks recalled.

“His father was a teamster and did general hauling. He worked hard all his life and so did my dad, who only completed the sixth grade. But he was a great man and a wonderful role model.”

In the early 1920s, Glenn’s grandparents purchased the current family home, moving in with their seven children, including Glenn’s father, Charles, who was 15.

At about the same time, the Rev. Charles Williams and his wife, Ada, moved their family from Chicago to Monmouth, where he assumed the pulpit of St. James A.M.E. Church.

Their daughter, Daisy, was the same age as Charles, and they soon fell in love, marrying in 1924. While Daisy didn’t herself attend college, she brought to the marriage an educational legacy that would influence all the Brooks children.

Born near Valdosta, Ga., in 1905, Daisy was the daughter of William and Ira Gaines Clark, both itinerant minsters of the A.M.E. Church. William was a public

Above: Glenn Brooks ’61 is the current caretaker of the Brooks family home in Monmouth, where he was born, and where he and his siblings lived while attending Monmouth College.

Left: Family patriarch William Clark (a.k.a.

Charles Williams) was an inspirational force in the eight Brooks children’s determination to attend college.

Continued on page 16 WINTER 2016

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Clockwise from top left: Ira, Marjorie, Ray, Glenn and Ada in front of the family home, 1943.

Ray at Monmouth College graduation, 1953.

From left: Ada, Marjorie and Ira, 1953.

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MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

school teacher who graduated with a J.D. degree “There was no other athlete in all the sports from Morris Brown College, a black college in At- better than Donnie,” Glenn recalled. “He played lanta founded by the church. Because many blacks quarterback, was all-conference in basketball, in the area were illiterate and unable to defend lettered in baseball and was also a high jumper. themselves in court, William volunteered his ser- He was a role model to everyone and on top of vice to assist them with their cases. that, he was a gifted artist.” After graduating in This did not please some white authorities, and 1951, Don joined the Air Force and was stationed Clark learned from a friend who ran a general in Germany. He then worked as a community store that “Night Riders” were planning to pay center director and a probation officer. His death him a visit. The store owner agreed to warn him at the age of 40 was a shock to the entire family. when the visit was going to occur, and also to sell Next to enter Monmouth was Ray Brooks ’53, him some ammunition. who like his two older brothers excelled in ath“My grandfather went home and cut ports in each letics. His memories of growing up in Monmouth side of his house,” Glenn said. “On the day he learned revolved around sports. “Always there was comthe Night Riders were coming, my grandfather sent petitiveness, especially from the younger ones,” his wife and young son to stay with neighbors. He he recalled. “My older brother Paul could play had my mother, who was 5, keep the gun loaded football with the best of them, and later played while he fired out the holes in the house. We are not semi-pro football in Rock Island.” He also recertain whether any of members brother Don the attackers were shot playing on the varsiAccording to family lore, Clark was or killed, but he succeedty team as a freshman dressed as a woman and put into a coffin, in high school and his ed in driving them off.”

With retribution a younger brother Glenn which was shipped to Chicago. virtual certainty, Clark constantly practicing turned to fellow memtrack in the family garbers of his black Masonic lodge to help him flee den out back. to safety. According to family lore, Clark was Although smaller in stature than his brothdressed as a woman and put into a coffin, which ers, Ray became a legendary Fighting Scot. An was shipped to Chicago. There he changed his All-American in football, a standout in basketname to C.Z. Williams and took a job painting ball, and a competitor in baseball and track, he wagons in a factory, before calling for his family was recognized in the very first M Club Hall of to join him. Eventually, he was able to return full- Fame induction class in 1984. time to the ministry, which led the Williams and Aware that he was physically too small to make their two children to Monmouth. a living at sports, Ray decided to study not just The A.M.E. Church would play a central role physical education but also physics. “The special throughout Daisy’s life in Monmouth. She served thing about Monmouth was the amount of teachas superintendent of Sunday School, steward, ing that you got,” he said. “The student population missionary area chairperson, Sunday School was only about 500, and the personal instruction teacher, choir member and a financial secretary— I received really prepared me for a career in sciall while raising a family of eight. entific research.”

The first members of that family to enroll at After graduating, Ray served with the Army Monmouth College were Paul and Don Brooks, Security Agency, then began a career as an engiwho were both freshmen in the fall of 1947. Paul neer with Honeywell, Inc. On the occasion of his was two years older, having already attended 15th college reunion in 1968, he was honored as Monmouth briefly before serving two years in Homecoming parade marshal. Now retired, he the Marine Corps. Both were gifted athletes and lives in Las Vegas. played together on the freshman football team.

Ira Mae Brooks Walsh was the first female sibPaul would eventually leave school to enter the ling to enter Monmouth College—in the fall of job market, while Don thrived at Monmouth as a 1953. “Ira was a complete Einstein,” said Glenn. student and an athlete.

“She also played string bass in the orchestra and

MONMOUTHIANA

was a big musical influence on me.” After graduating in 1957, Ira taught school in Rockford, Ill., then earned her doctorate in psychology with a focus on higher education personnel at the University of Toronto. She served as dean of students at Oswego (N.Y.) University, following which she taught high school math in Troy, N.Y., for 20 years. She died in 2004.

Marjorie Brooks ’58 transferred to Monmouth College her sophomore year. A gifted artist, whose paintings still adorn the walls of Glenn’s living room, she was also talented cellist and pianist. Like her brothers, she excelled as an athlete. “Marge was the best female athlete I’ve seen—ever,” said Glenn. “They didn’t have women’s sports back then, but she would have dominated in basketball and softball.” Finances caused Marjorie to leave Monmouth before graduating. She died in 2011, having spent most of her career working for Allstate Insurance in the Chicago area.

Baby sister Ada Brooks Groff ’59 entered Monmouth when Ira was a junior. She shared Ira’s love for music, having played piano for church services since sixth grade. She started playing cello in the College orchestra while a sophomore in high school, and was inducted along with Ira into the musical fraternity Pi Alpha Nu. A born athlete, Ada was active in intramurals and was presented with a blanket in recognition of being named Outstanding Female Athlete her senior year.

“I tried out for cheerleading, and did quite well in the audition,” she recalled, “but later was told ‘we don’t have black cheerleaders.’”

Ada also excelled in science, graduating with a major in biology and minors in chemistry and math. At the suggestion of her biology professor, she entered a two-year physical therapy program at the Mayo Clinic and worked as a therapist in hospitals across the nation. Now a resident of Denver, Colo., her son, Peter Groff, was the first African American to serve as president of the Colorado State Senate. Her daughter, Traci L. Jones, is an award-winning author of books for young adults.

Glenn Brooks enrolled at Monmouth in 1957.

Admittedly, he said, his focus at that time was more on music and athletics than on books. Inspired at an early age by a musician uncle who had performed on Broadway, Glenn took up the trombone as a child, then the string bass and drums,

“Always there was competitiveness, especially from the younger ones.” ray brooks ’53 which he played professionally at Monmouth’s Colonial Hotel beginning at age 15. At Monmouth College, he added the bagpipes to his arsenal of instruments, performed in chorus and orchestra, and started a band called the Fairlane 500s.

Glenn still found time to excel in sports, joining Ray in the M Club Hall of Fame for setting school records in three track and field events, and a conference record in the 220-yard dash which stood for 30 years. He also starred in football, basketball and cross country.

Following Don’s example, Glenn decided to join the Air Force in 1961. Based in Tucson, Ariz., he started playing in bands that shared the stage with groups such as the O’Jays and Gene Chandler. They had the same manager as Tucson native Linda Ronstadt, and eventually began singing backup for her. With older brothers Ray and Don having moved to California, Glenn also took every opportunity to visit there and participate in the music scene.

After leaving the service, Glenn returned to L.A. and joined a group called the People’s Band, which became the house band at Whisky a Go Go. He was working as a recreational director, but when the group had an offer to go on the road with Etta James, he pulled up stakes and toured the Northwest. After that gig ended they began working with Billy Preston, then joined up with a Boston soul group called the Lords to form The Lords & The People, which toured widely. Later in his music career, Glenn joined a group called Body and Soul, which released a successful LP in 1971.

Although the first seven Brooks children were each born two years apart, the eighth would not be born until nine years after Glenn. Chris Brooks ’72 had big shoes to fill, but he was up to the task—as a scholar, an athlete and a musician. He began his musical career at age 9, playing drums alongside Glenn at the Colonial Hotel, then for the award-winning band at the high school, where he also sang and played cello.

Chris was active in music at Monmouth, playContinued on page 18

Charles and Daisy’s wedding anniversary, 1960.

Don Brooks at home, 1950.

Chris tries out Glenn’s trombone, 1953.

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BROOKS FAMILY Continued from page 17

ing with the Sound of Five, the Swinging Scots and Concert Band, and also was a fullback in football. But academics occupied much of the time for the sociology and psychology major, who minored in both music and education. Now retired in Monmouth where he still plays in the Brooks Brothers band, Chris had a diverse career around the country, much of it spent teaching, including five years in the music department at Monmouth College.

“My family, all of them—aunts, uncles, cousins—pushed us to be successful, and it all had to Knox and Augustana colleges, helped Chris and his friends do with that house,” Chris recalled of the fam- to adjust to the cultural changes, but prejudice still occaily home. “I was born in the same room as one sionally reared its head. “Some of my fraternity brothers of my uncles and Glenn was born in the same decided to move off campus and moved to the south side of room as another uncle. You have that tradition town,” he recalled. “Somebody burglarized their house and and I had a sense of home. I still do. There’s because I had come from that part of town I think they susnot many people my age that can go back to pected I might have had some inside knowledge. Of course, their birthplace and be in the house—and I was as upset about it as they were.” not just visiting.

Like Glenn, Chris credits his I can go there mother’s brother, Ira “Bud” Wil“I was born in the same room as one of and stay there if liams, for sparking his interest in I want. There’s my uncles and Glenn was born in the music from an early age. A member something about of a vocal quintet at Wilberforce that that gives same room as another uncle. You have (Ohio) University, an A.M.E. school, you a feeling of he and his band later traveled to New tranquility and a feel- that tradition and I had a sense of home.”

York where they formed a highly Above: Bagpiper ing of purpose. That area was by the chris brooks ’72 successful group called The Chariformer city dump and was considGlenn Brooks oteers, which played on Broadway, (center) poses ered undesirable by most people. My in films and on CBS radio.

Bud purchased a brownstone in a with the Highgrandfather and my father transformed the place. He pretty neighborhood of Brooklyn that was also home to such musilanders pipe much redid that house.” cians as Eubie Blake, Duke Ellington and Count Basie. band in 1957.

Despite his love for home, Chris decided to become the The brownstone is today owned by Bud’s son, former Satfirst in his family to live on campus. Tuition remission, beAbove right: urday Night Live drummer Buddy Williams, who was one of Brooks family cause his father worked on the grounds crew, helped make it more than a score of Brooks relatives who journeyed to Monmembers relax financially possible, and the progressive times also helped. A mouth to celebrate their Family of the Year Award on Friday at Glenn’s Los talented percussionist, he gained the ear of President DunAngeles home can Wimpress, who was also an avid drummer. He joined night of Homecoming. in the 1980s.

Fittingly, after the ceremony, they convened at Market AlSigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and got good support from Charles and Dailey in downtown Monmouth, where Glenn, Chris and Buddy most of the students. sy are in front, “When my brothers and sisters went to Monmouth, there thrilled the crowd with an outdoor blues concert. They were second and third were only a handful of black students on campus, so they joined by former Earth, Wind & Fire trumpeter Rahmlee Dafrom the left. had to rely on one another for support,” Chris said. “When vis and renowned keyboard artist Steve Robbins. Making a I went there, things were starting to change. By my junior special appearance as vocalists were Glenn’s daughters Maya, year, we had more than 100 black students. For me, it was Tamara and Ayeshee, and his granddaughter Xia. Monmouth College is proud to have been a part of helping good and bad. Growing up here in Monmouth, there weren’t Charles, Daisy and the eight Brooks children to realize their a lot of blacks in Monmouth, so I was much more used to that environment than the blacks who grew up in segregat- dreams. They continue to serve as a model of what a liberal arts education can make possible and an inspiration for fued areas of Chicago or the East Coast.”

A joint student union, formed with black students from ture generations of Scots.

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BOOKS MARRY IN HASTE

AN ENDURANCE MYSTERY

By Susan Van Kirk Hardcover, 280 pages, $25.95 Five Star Publishing

Susan Van Kirk taught communication studies at Monmouth College from 20012011. Her second Endurance mystery, Marry in Haste, is the story of two lives over a hundred years apart, both illustrating the resilience of women in the small town of Endurance.

Grace Kimball, retired teacher, is writ-

BUILDING FANS, FAME AND WEALTH: THE 18 REVENUE STREAMS OF MUSIC

By Ed Wimp ’12 Softcover, 170 pages, $14.95 Greta Pope Entertainment, Inc.

After getting his feet wet in the music industry as an apprentice road manager for Earth, Wind & Fire, musician Ed Wimp joined the tour management staff of hip-hop icon A$AP Rocky, handling merchandise and travel logistics. With a master’s degree in entertainment business under his belt, he founded Wimp Entertainment, specializing in artist and tour

THE DRUID GENE

By Jennifer Foehner Wells ’95 Softcover, 434 pages, $17.99 Blue Bedlam Science Fiction

A science fiction devotee who only recently decided to try her own hand at writing in the genre, Jennifer Foehner Wells has quickly developed an army of devoted followers—many of them readers of her e-book editions.

Inspired by a frightening dream the author experienced, The Druid Gene is her third full-length novel, which she began writing prior to finishing her first book, Fluency. The viral success of that novel led her to follow it with a sequel titled Rema-

ing for the Endurance Register and dating its editor, Jeff Maitlin. When he buys a large Victorian house and borrows money from the bank, he sets off a chain of events that puts Grace in danger. When the bank president is murdered, his wife—Grace's former student Emily—becomes the prime suspect.

An 1893 diary found in Maitlin’s new house offers parallels to the life of the murder suspect, whom Grace is trying to exonorate. Can lessons from the past help Grace clear Emily’s name? And can she do it in time before a killer strikes again?

management. He is currently pursuing a law degree.

Based on his extensive experience and unique insight, Wimp shares practical, usable information about ways to make money in the music business, while garnering fans and building a brand.

Designed as a practical tool for any musician, artist manager or industry professional looking to increase their income in the music business, the book provides real-life examples of viable revenue streams and demonstrates ways to implement them.

nence. Finally, she returned to her work in progress and Druid was born.

Set in the same Confluence Universe as Fluency and Remanence, the new novel introduces Darcy, a second-year medical student who has a 10,000-year-old secret buried in her genetic code. Trekking through the desert, she encounters mysterious stacked stones which, upon touching them, cause a network of glowing blue lines to radiate under her skin.

Darcy struggles to accept her heritage and master her newfound powers as she navigates deception, betrayal and danger in order to prevail in the galaxy’s most dangerous game.

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By Barry McNamara

TWO DECADES OF CAREER & LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE The Wackerle Center turns 20 Jenny Erickson Sanberg ’10 was part of the first 20 years of history of the Wackerle Career & Leadership Center.

With her days as a Monmouth student almost completed, she reached out to the Wackerle Center and was not disappointed.

“I was that student, waiting until April of my senior year,” Sanberg said. “But they helped me prepare a résumé and for a job interview. They really help prepare students for life after college, and for life during college, too.”

Today, Sanberg is on the ground floor of the Wackerle Center’s next 20 years. She started a position as assistant director of career development/internship coordinator following Homecoming weekend.

It was at the 1996 Homecoming where the College announced that alumnus Fred Wackerle ’61 had provided a gift to establish a center that would help Monmouth students do such things as prepare for interviews, write résumés, complete applications, and find internships and leadership opportunities.

Viewed as innovative since its inception, the Wackerle Center, currently headed by Marnie Steach Dugan ’95, has worked hard to keep students ahead of the game when it comes to personal and professional opportunities.

“Over the last two decades, the Center has evolved into a robust campus resource, preparing students to discover meaningful

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careers and purpose in life,” said Dugan. “We help undecided students determine a direction, and we assist students in applying their interests, talents and education toward a rewarding future.”

Former and current Monmouth students are grateful for the center’s services, and several of them expressed those sentiments in a “Thanks, Fred” video message for Wackerle that was shown at the 20th anniversary celebration.

“They helped me with interviews, mock interviews for grad school, grad school applications, résumé stuff, internships—really figuring out and determining my life,” said Raven Robinson ’14.

Added another alumna, Kate Fitzsimmons Cross ’08, who serves as assistant public defender in Boone (Ill.) County: “They reviewed all my documents to get me into law school. They also keep me up to date with current students through the mentorship program.”

Like Sanberg, Jake McLean ’15 has gone from satisfied client of the Wackerle Center to a member of its staff. Recently named the College’s assistant director of leadership development, one of McLean’s primary responsibilities is overseeing the Stockdale Fellows Program, a new leadership initiative named in honor of the late Vice Adm. James Stockdale ’46 and his wife, Sybil (see page 25).

From left: Wackerle Center staff members Jenny Sanberg, Marnie Dugan, Rhonda Spence and Jake McLean.

“Monmouth College re a l ly ju mp - s t a r t e d my leadership journey and my commitment to community service,” McLean said. “Really, everything I’ve been doing as a professional at Monmouth is an extension of what I did as a student.

What better way for me to pay back that experience than to help our current generation of students on their own leadership journey?”

Among the current students featured in the “Thanks, Fred” video were two who have used the Wackerle Center’s help to find on-campus employment, as well as other opportunities.

“I actually had my very first résumé drafted and completed at the Wackerle Center,” said Alec Dutko ’17. “It’s been reviewed too many times to count. It’s been updated over and over again with the help of the Wackerle Center. Also, when I was applying to be a resident assistant on campus, they helped me compose my application, including cover letters and my résumé, and reviewed the paragraphs of my essays. It’s all been a tremendous experience.”

“Through the Wackerle Center, I’ve been able to perfect my résumé and eventually get an internship this past summer,” said Mary Kate Luzzo ’18. “Now, since I work at the Wackerle Center, I’m able to help other students do the same, which is very rewarding.”

In her remarks at the ceremony, Dugan cited a recent article in the Journal of the National Association of Colleges and Employers, which described a 21st century career services framework.

“It states that in order to add value, career services must be a ‘conduit of connectivity’ and that ‘career centers cannot survive in isolation. To thrive, they must adopt proactive outreach efforts,’” she noted, adding, “I am very proud to say that this has been our philosophy for 20 years.”

THE MAN BEHIND THE IDEA Fred Wackerle, the “father” of the Wackerle Center, speaks at his induction into the Monmouth College Hall of Achievement in 2013.

Through the vision and generosity of Fred Wackerle ’61, a leading pioneer in the field of executive search consulting, Monmouth College unveiled its innovative Wackerle Career & Leadership Center in 1996.

The retired CEO of Fred Wackerle, Inc., a Chicago-based executive search consulting firm specializing in CEO succession, Wackerle entered the field of executive search in 1964. He went on to be named one of the nation’s top five general management search consultants and was a frequent speaker and writer on CEO succession.

His influential book, titled The Right CEO: Straight Talk About Making Tough CEO Selection Decisions was published in 2001.

Wackerle collaborated closely with the College to create the Wackerle Center, which was one of the first career centers in the United States to include an active leadership component. Efforts were focused on a commitment to helping students explore their career and leadership potential through service learning, involvement and development programs.

For more than 25 years, Wackerle served on Monmouth’s board of trustees, and he has made many generous contributions to the institution, including the endowment of a scholarship in honor of his parents.

“Monmouth College made a commitment to educate me and, in doing so, gave me a nurturing environment in which to grow, learn and mature,” said Wackerle.

“The College has blessed me with a lifetime of memories. The Wackerle Center (is a way) that I’m able to give something back.”

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Kappas celebrate Alumnae gifts help provide ‘key’ to Alpha Chapter’s historic home

T

he women of Kappa Kappa Gamma had hoped to get a new home for several years. As it turns out, their solution was right next door.

Earlier this year, Monmouth College purchased a new home for

the chapter, at 915 E. Broadway, one door down from where seven Kappa members have been housed since 2010. The purchase was underwritten by gifts, largely from Kappa alumnae.

With 3,516 square feet—including eight rooms and four bedrooms on the finished first and second floors—the home offers a much larger space for meetings of the women’s fraternity, which was founded in 1870 at Monmouth. In fact, in recent years, some Kappa meetings were held in the Center for Science and Business because the chapter’s former house was too small.

“We love how much space it has,” said chapter presiBy BARRY McNAMARA dent Jessica Irons ’17. “We can be in our own space, and also have things all together as a group.”

Although the new house is 120 years old, it has been extensively renovated. It sits on a large 33,062-squarefoot lot that includes a tennis court and detached two-car garage.

“We can utilize it for ritual events, and for other activities,” said past president Maggie Brundige ’17, who added that even the tennis court has become a useful space, serving as the site for “sisterhood” events. “It’s amazing what we can use that space for.”

Brundige said that she and her sisters had originally envisioned moving into a newly built house, but that mindset changed after they saw their new residence.

“We’re feeling awesome about it,” she said. “With not having to construct a new home, we now have the budget to really personalize the home to Kappa. And it still has the feeling of an actual home—cozy and quaint.”

Thanks in part to the efforts of Kappa members over the summer, the house was ready for fall meetings. Some additional work is required for women to live there, such as bringing the house up to code with the Americans with Disabilities Act. “There are some things to do to make it ADA-compliant, and there are also some safety projects that need to be completed, such as escape exits and sprinklers,” Irons said.

Kappa alumnae are equally excited about the chapter’s new house.

“It’s important that the girls have a place to congregate and to carry on the self-growth and intellectual excellence that is such an important part of being a Kappa,” said Nancy Speer Engquist ’74 of St. Charles, Ill., a member of the College’s Continued on page 24

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their new address Prior to a Sunday evening chapter meeting, the members of Kappa Kappa Gamma pose for a family photo in front of their new house.

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The formal dining room adjoins a comfortable sun porch.

Set atop a hill on the south side of Broadway, the stately Kappa house provides a commanding view campus.

KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA Continued from page 22

LEFT: Ornate plaster frames the fireplace in the front parlor.

BELOW: The broad veranda offers a comfortable spot to study or relax during warm weather.

The recently renovated kitchen overlooks a sunken family room.

The shaded garden and tennis court provide an elegant setting for outdoor functions.

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board of trustees, who donated to the project. “It’s a huge improvement, and the girls have real ownership and real pride in making it a better place. They’ve cleaned it, they’ve decorated it, they’ve brought in furniture—they put in a huge amount of work before school started.”

Engquist’s funds named rooms in honor of two Kappas: Brundige, who Engquist said exemplifies “the future” of Kappa; and Gena Corbin Alcorn ’88, who was honored as the College’s Greek adviser of the year last spring.

Karen Barrett Chism ’65, who also supported the project, said the new house is “a very elegant home.”

“I think it is very well-suited to the historical surroundings,” she said.

Chism is also proud of Kappa Kappa Gamma’s contribution to the history of the College.

“It has a rich history that cannot be ignored,” she said of Monmouth’s status as the birthplace of two national women’s fraternities, the other being Pi Beta Phi in 1867. “It ties into a long history of advocacy for women’s education. Since the 19th century, Kappa has promoted women to serve in leadership roles, both in their organization and for prominent roles in their communities.”

The current leader of Monmouth’s Kappa chapter appreciates the new home and what it will mean for the organization.

“We love it,” Irons said. “Every time you walk by it, it gets a little more special. It’s really boosted the morale of our chapter. We want to give huge thanks to the school administration for being able to work with us. They’ve helped us tremendously. And we especially thank our Kappa sisters, whose generous gifts made the purchase possible.”

And Brundige said the timing couldn’t have been better.

“This was definitely needed, with our membership growing above 60,” she said. “This house came along at the perfect time.”

‘LEADERS OF THE LEADERS’ Stockdale Fellows program welcomes high achievers Front row (from left): Lily Lindner, Alexis Brauer, Mackenzie Fletcher and Alyssa Hale.

Back row (from left): Lucas Sondgeroth, Chase Cranford, Brian Steimel, Jacob Poore, Quinton Kaihara, Hadley Smithhisler, Jack Ressler, Caleb Santana, AJ Angellotti and Brennan Towery.

W

W hen Monmouth College student Alexis Brauer ’20 was in grade school, she was picked on a lot by a school bully.

But rather than retreating into a private world, Brauer used the experience to became a student leader so that she could reach out to others who felt marginalized.

“When I got older, I found a lot of joy in being able to take kind of a leading role in being able to get other people who might not be as confident and see them grow and turn into an outgoing and confident person,” Brauer said.

Brauer is one of 14 new student leaders at Monmouth who have been named a James and Sybil Stockdale Fellow. Named in honor of late Monmouth alumnus Vice Adm. James Stockdale ’46 and his late wife, Sybil, the program aims to develop student leaders through a mix of special leadership courses, community service and scholarship.

The Stockdale Fellows is the College’s most prestigious scholarship, leadership and enrichment program.

“These are the cream of the crop—the leaders of the leaders,” said assistant director of leadership development Jacob McLean ’15, who is the group’s adviser. “These are students who were high-achieving in high school—their list of accolades goes on to a second page. These are people who are ready to have an impact on the campus and in the community from Day One.” The highest-ranking Navy officer held as a prisoner in North Vietnam, Stockdale was a prisoner of war for more than seven years, for which he received the Medal of Honor. Eleven years after he was freed from a Hanoi prison, the Stockdales published the extraordi-

nary memoir In Love and War: The Story of a Family’s Ordeal and Sacrifice During the Vietnam Years.

The Stockdale Fellows program also includes several educational enrichment opportunities, including study-abroad opportunities, independent research, internships and specially funded entrepreneurial projects.

Brauer said those educational enrichment opportunities helped attract her to the program because she wants to study abroad while preparing for veterinary school after she graduates from Monmouth.

“I hope I learn even more to help me lead other people and make something out of this life, because you only get one,” she said. “I really enjoy interacting with the other fellows, who also want to make a difference in the world. It’s just an awesome opportunity to do that and surround yourself with others who want to do the same.”

That’s also what attracted Brian Steimel ’20 to be a Stockdale Fellow.

“I wanted to be among a group of people who were excited to lead on campus,” he said. “A big problem nowadays is not having people who take initiative—people being afraid to stand up for various causes and pursue them to better the campus as a whole. I wanted to be part of a group of people who weren’t afraid of that.”

McLean said the program encourages students to be civically minded.

“The hope is they’ll have one huge legacy project that either shapes the campus or the community in some significant way,” he said. “We want them to build their leadership skills so they can attack some of the big problems that face our country and our world, and then think critically about how to solve those problems.”

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STUDENT OF The Monmouth College athlete recognized as the top scholar among football players in the Midwest Conference says his intellect is just as important on the gridiron as it is in the classroom.

SCOTSPORTS

By Barry McNamara

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THE GAME

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A

s a junior, Matt Barnes ’17 of Colfax, Ill., received the Midwest Conference Elite 20 Award. Modeled after the NCAA Elite 90 Award, it recognizes the studentathlete with the highest GPA in each of the conference’s 20 varsity sports.

The linebacker has decent size for a Division III football player—6-foot-1, 225 pounds. But it’s not Barnes’ physical tools that figure to make him the second all-time leading tackler in the storied history of the Fighting Scots.

Rather, it’s his football IQ, which is in the same stratosphere as his academic IQ. Barnes has received an A in every class he’s taken at Monmouth except for two during his first semester—an A-minus in “Introduction to Liberal Arts” and a B in an Honors Program course.

“I don’t consider myself to be a superior athlete,” said Barnes, who is a Spanish and international business major. “I have to outsmart the opponent. I spend 10 hours a week watching video of the other team.”

Such detailed study usually gives Barnes the information he needs.

Maybe he’ll notice an offensive lineman has his back foot positioned slightly farther back than normal, indicating he’s about to pull off the line. Or maybe an opponent tends to run certain plays out of certain formations.

“Whenever (one of our recent opponents) was in a certain formation, I Continued on page 28 WINTER 2016

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Administration, and Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society.

Continued from page 27 Barnes said that one of his toughest courses has been “Religion in Spain,” which was taught completely in Spanknew they ran the counter,” he said. “I was calling it out ish and required Barnes to convey his opinions about religion in essays and discussions in Spanish. before it even happened.”

This fall, he took an independent study course on Don Quixote, meeting regularly with his professor, Zach Erwin, A TEAM LEADER to analyze each chapter. Barnes has written several eightMonmouth football coach Chad Braun, who also has to 10-page essays for the class, which he says is one of his a high football IQ, certainly knows which player should favorites. He hopes to submit at least one to a literary magserve as his defensive field general. azine.

“Matt is first and foremost an outstanding “Matt is a truly exceptional student—extremely bright, student-athlete,” Braun said of the two-time hard-working, curious and All-MWC linebacker. “He has been very proopen-minded,” Erwin said. ductive on the field and is a great leader that “He’s also a great speaker and plays the game with great passion.” writer in Spanish, and I’m Monmouth defenders have about 50 play always impressed with his calls to sort through. Barnes is especially fond thoughtful and interesting of a relatively new one—a blitz that has been interpretations of Spanish litadded to a recently installed formation. erary texts. The independent “They shouldn’t see me coming,” said the sestudy he’s doing with me has nior captain, who was interviewed following been a real highlight of my teaching career at Monmouth a 63-0 victory over Grinnell College, which so far.” raised Monmouth’s season record to 6-0.

The combination of Barnes’ Through nine games, Barnes had 282 tackmajors is no accident, as he les in his career, third on the program’s all-time plans to use his mastery of list and just seven stops behind the No. 2 player Spanish in the business world. on the list.

“I’d really enjoy travelBarnes has at least 71 tackles in each of the past ing abroad for business, but three seasons, but he recorded only three in his I don’t think I’d like to live rookie season.

Even when he is on the sidelines, Barnes is abroad,” Barnes said.

“The speed of the game was a lot different,” constantly analyzing the opponent and looking Barnes aims to enter the he said. “I was only 200 pounds my senior year for potential weaknesses to exploit. workforce immediately folof high school. I knew I needed to put on some lowing his graduation in May. weight, but I did it the wrong way and put on some bad But graduate school is also a possibility. Barnes said he weight.” would like to study risk analysis, which is “a growing need Just like his first-semester academic classes, Barnes also for a lot of companies.” needed to brush up on his football homework.

But with the various postseason all-star games that are “I knew I needed to learn the playbook and get up to speed,” likely to call on Barnes, playing a little football beyond his he said. “By my sophomore year, I knew the playbook, and I senior year is also a possibility. knew the speed of the game. I had a couple big games as a “It might be an option,” he said. “Maybe there will even sophomore, and that helped me get more confident.” be an international opportunity.”

No matter how that plays out, Barnes plans to stay ‘A TRULY EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT’ around the game he grew up on.

Barnes has shown he’s a good learner on and off the field.

“My dad and uncles coached in Colfax,” he said. “I was He serves as an accounting tutor and is a member of three the tee boy for the team when I was 5 years old. I’ve been honor societies—Mortar Board, Sigma Beta Delta Inter- around football all my life, and I want to be able to pass it national Honor Society for Business, Management and along to other people.”

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SCOTSPORTS

DRAMATIC COMEBACK POWERS WOMEN’S GOLF TO SECOND-PLACE FINISH IN CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT The teams from Lake Forest and Illinois College never saw it coming, but Fighting Scots golf coach Ashley Sims ’05 did. She knew that if her players could put together their best golf on the same day, they could do something they’d never done before—post a championship-caliber round at the challenging Aldeen Golf Course in Rockford, Ill. To understand what Monmouth accomplished on its way to a runner-up finish at this fall’s Midwest Conference Championships, a brief history lesson is needed. The MWC had held the 54hole women’s meet at Aldeen five times since 2009, and during those previous 15 rounds, the Scots’ average team score was 393.

The Scots improved slightly during the first two rounds of the 2016 league meet, carding rounds of 378 and 379, but found themselves in fourth place, 27 strokes behind second-place Lake Forest and 25 strokes back of Illinois College. The final-round drama appeared to be whether or not Monmouth could hold onto its seven-stroke lead over fifth-place St. Norbert.

But then something clicked for Sims’ six-player crew. Near-perfect conditions deserve part of the credit, but Sims said it was more a matter of her players collectively realizing their potential.

During what proved to be a glorious final round, the Scots shot 41.5 strokes better than their average from the previous two days, with their round of 337 besting their previous MWC Championships low at Aldeen by 26 strokes.

Monmouth nearly broke its mark for the best-ever round on any course, set earlier in the season with a 332 at Ironwood Golf Course in Bloomington, Ill.

“What the women did on the final day is nothing short of amazing,” said Sims.

“They had the right mental approach to have a better day than we had over the first 36 holes and focused on their game and nothing else. That’s really a testament to their tenacity and resiliency.”

The Scots used the round to charge past both Lake Forest and Illinois College, besting the schools by two and four strokes, respectively, to place second to champion Grinnell.

After not having a player break 90 during the first two rounds, all four scoring Scots shot sub-90 rounds the final day, led by a 78 by Kate Ryan ’19. Haley Hoekstra ’20 carded an 85 to earn all-conference honors, and Tanner Garey ’17 and Annie Sandrock ’17

rounded out the scorers with an 86 and 88, respectively.

“Kate made a nice adjustment to her swing on the final round,” praised Sims. “Her scores over the first two days weren’t indicative of the type of golfer she is. The final round was a better gauge of her ability. She came through with a clutch performance on the final day that was just one stroke off the school record.”

Monmouth’s runner-up finish is the team’s second in three years and the sixth consecutive year the Scots have finished in the top four at the MWC Championships.

“We needed everybody, every day,” said Sims. “Everyone put up a scoring round at some point that weekend.”

Kate Ryan flashes a victory sign during the Fighting Scots Invitational in September. The freshman helped propel the team to a second-place finish in the MWC Championships by carding a 78 on the final day of the tournament.

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GLASGOW HEADS 2016 HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CLASS Legendary basketball and baseball coach Dr. Terry Glasgow, who recorded over 800 combined victories, led the

Legendary coach Terry Glasgow was joined by Amy Horneck Jewett ’06, left, and Shelly Orwig Mabee ’03 in this year’s Hall of Fame induction class.

field of inductees at the 33rd annual M Club Hall of Fame ceremony during Homecoming.

Joining him in the induction class were softball strikeout ace Shelly Orwig Mabee ’03 and two-sport star Amy Horneck Jewett ’06.

For parts of four decades, Glasgow was the driving force of Fighting Scots athletics, leading Monmouth to Midwest Conference championships in basketball and baseball.

In all, Glasgow coached 812 Monmouth victories—a record 469 in basketball and 343 in baseball—and led teams to 13 MWC titles, including nine in baseball. He went on an especially strong run starting in the late 1980s, taking teams to three consecutive NCAA basketball tournaments (1988-90) and sporting an 89-15 baseball record from 1989-92.

He retired as one of Division III’s top 25 winningest coaches. His 21 years in the dugout ended before the Scots played at Peacock Park, but his impact was felt there, too: the ballpark is named Glasgow Field. As Monmouth’s longest-serving athletic director (1978-2008), “TG” was instrumental in developing all of the College’s modern athletic facilities.

Orwig helped lead the Monmouth College softball team to a resurgence at the turn of this century, as the Scots reached the Midwest Conference playoffs all four years of her career.

A three-time All-MWC pick, her career totals included 39 wins, 13 shutouts, 358 strikeouts and 86 games, all Monmouth records at the time of her induction. Her 69 starts, 52 complete games and 444 innings pitched were all No. 2 on the list.

The first woman soccer player to be inducted into the hall of fame, Horneck earned first team All-MWC honors each of her four seasons by scoring 18, 13, 15 and 20 goals, respectively. That totaled a school-record 66, more than doubling the previous mark, and she also set the career assists record (31).

A speedster on the soccer pitch with a booming shot with either foot, Horneck’s athleticism was also on display in track, where she was a two-time MWC triple jump champion.

COACH BRINGS PGA CREDENTIALS TO MEN’S GOLF PROGRAM Monmouth College in August named PGA professional Cory Bizarri to guide the men’s golf program.

A PGA certified member since 1998, Bizarri began his career with a six-year stint as a teaching professional in West Palm Beach, Fla. The Warren County native returned to the area in 2000 as the Lake Bracken PGA BIZARRI professional, a position he held until 2006. The next year, Bizarri became owner and teaching professional at Hend-Co-Hills Golf Course “Coach Bizarri’s outstanding professional credentials set him above the rest of the field,” said Monmouth Director of Athletics Roger Haynes ’82. “Not many schools

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in Division III have coaches who carry PGA certification. The certification is testament to his knowledge of the game and his coaching ability. His many golfing connections throughout the Midwest will provide him with strong in roads when it comes to recruiting the next generation of Fighting Scots.”

Bizarri takes over a Fighting Scots’ program that has won 13 Midwest Conference titles and made eight NCAA tournament appearances. Monmouth tied for second at last season’s league championships, just two years after winning their third league crown since 2009.

“I’m extremely excited for the chance to coach the Fighting Scots,” said Bizarri. “It was a perfect opportunity for me and I'm happy to be back in the teaching ranks.

We have a good core of talented returners and expect to be strong again this season and for many years to come.”

LAX

SCOTSPORTS

READY TO ROCK

Head women’s coach ELIZABETH DEMARA (right) and some of the members of

Head men’s coach ANDREW ROUTT (below) offers some

Monmouth College’s first varsity women’s

tactical advice to a pair of Fighting Scots during one of

lacrosse squad take a break from fall

the men’s lacrosse team’s official fall practices under

practice at April Zorn Memorial Stadium.

the Zorn Stadium lights.

P

rovided Mother Nature cooperates, the first varsity lacrosse game in Monmouth College history will take place Feb. 18 when the men’s team hosts Carroll University as part of a threegame homestand. The Fighting Scots also have home contests scheduled for Feb. 20 and Feb. 25 as part of their 14-game schedule. The women’s team will also debut on Feb. 18, playing in Minnesota against the University of Northwestern-St. Paul. The women, who have 16 games scheduled, will play their home opener on March 4 against the Illinois Institute of Technology.

The addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse brings the total of varsity athletic teams at Monmouth to 24.

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HOMECOMING ’16

Above: Led by Glenn Brooks ’61 and Chris Brooks ’72, the Very Live Band performs to a large, appreciative audience in a Friday night outdoor concert in downtown Monmouth.

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WEATHER FAILS TO DAMPEN SPIRITS OF RETURNING SCOTS Mother Nature rained on Monmouth College’s parade, canceling the annual Saturday morning Homecoming tradition, but otherwise Homecoming 2016 was a memorable celebration, with a strong turnout of alumni and friends on campus.

As Monmouth President Dr. Clarence R. Wyatt said at the Alumni Impact Awards, the weekend was a celebration of “the thread that runs through Monmouth College.”

The induction of scientist Karin Loya ’63 and MTV co-founder Dwight Tierney ’69 into the Hall of Achievement —the highest honor Monmouth College bestows upon its graduates—highlighted the Alumni Impact Awards ceremony on Friday night.

Other alumni award winners honored that evening included: retired college president William Simpson ’65, Distinguished Alumnus; emeritus professor Harlow Blum, Distinguished Service; University of Iowa professor Scott Shaw ’03, Young Alumnus; and the Brooks family, Family of the Year. Communication studies professor Lee McGaan ’69 was presented with the College’s Hatch Academic Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching.

At Friday night’s ceremony, Wyatt noted the College’s recent rise in national rankings by Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report, but he said those are not the true indication of what makes Monmouth such an exciting place to learn and teach.

“Certainly when third parties say nice things about the institution, you want to embrace that, celebrate that,” he said.

“But the real measure of the strength of this institution is represented by the people in this room, the people who have created such an extraordinary experience that is Monmouth College.”

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

McGaan, who has taught at Monmouth since 1986, credited his communication studies colleagues with helping him excel in the classroom.

“I work with fabulous colleagues. … If you want to hang out with them, then you better be good,” he said. “They made me be better, and they taught me to be a better teacher. … These are excellent, excellent people.”

Fellow 1969 alumnus Tierney said that for him, “it all started here” at Monmouth.

Tierney noted that “four years is such a small period of time,” but he said that time “changes everything, it creates who you are.”

“It helped me find my ways to success,” he said.

Also on Friday, an alumni gathering in downtown Monmouth proved to be a huge success, with The Brooks Brothers-Very Live Band entertaining a large and festive crowd. As the band’s R&B music played, fireworks could be heard in the distance from the annual Spirit Shout, where Alec Dutko ’17 was crowned king and Abby Hubbard ’17 was crowned queen.

Saturday’s events included two more award ceremonies.

Inducted into the M Club Hall of Fame were former coach and athletic director Terry Glasgow, soccer standout Amy Horneck Jewett ’06 and softball ace Shelly Orwig Mabee ’03.

“Athletics continue to be a big part of the experience for many students at Monmouth’s campus,” said Athletics Director Roger Haynes ’82, noting that more than 35 percent of Monmouth students participate on at least one of the College’s 24 varsity teams.

The College also hosted its second annual Fraternity and Sorority Alumni Hall of Fame induction ceremony, with in-

HOMECOMING2016

ductees including Melinda Fry ’03, Benjamin Hickerson ’05, the late Mary MacDill Knapheide ’35 and the late Isabel Bickett Marshall ’36. The hall of fame is sponsored by the Delta Lambda Chapter of Order of Omega.

As President Wyatt reminded the more than 100 guests who attended the ceremony, Monmouth is the birthplace of the women’s fraternity movement. The College is known for the Monmouth Duo because both Pi Beta Phi, the first U.S. women’s fraternity, and Kappa Kappa Gamma were founded at Monmouth.

“That legacy of empowering women continues today, and you see it in the women who are being inducted today—the long trail of excellence and commitment to service,” President Wyatt said. “And the same is true for our men’s fraternities.”

President Wyatt said that the values expressed in the Order of Omega—recognize, encourage, inspire, unite, bring together and create—also permeate the rest of the Monmouth campus.

“These are words that apply not just to Greek life on this campus, they involve every aspect of our lives on this campus,” he said.

One of the new hall of fame members said that Monmouth’s Greek life helped her discover what has become a lifelong passion.

“I guess you that could say that a fire for service was ignited within me,” said Fry, who is a Pi Beta Phi alumna. “I was inspired by the rich history of my sorority, and I deeply respected the culture of service and philanthropy that it instilled.”

Monmouth and Pi Beta Phi “both cultivated leadership potential within me that has helped me enrich the lives of my students, my special-needs horseback riders as well as several others through my community service,” said Fry, who is a local school teacher and is active with Rainbow Riders, a therapeutic horseback-riding center for children and adults with special needs.

Gifts from the Homecoming reunion classes were announced at halftime of Saturday’s Fighting Scots convincing 57-14 football win over Cornell College.

The eight milestone reunion classes—1976, ’81, ’86, ’91, ’96, 2001, ’06 and ’11—combined to give more than $330,000 to their alma mater. The leader was the Class of 1981, which donated $100,010.

“This is just part of the way our alumni give back to help make the experience for our current students and those students to come even more special,” Wyatt said.

Out of all of the reunion classes, the Class of 1986 had the highest participation percentage at more than 20 percent, and ’86 also had the highest attendance at 24 percent.

The skies over April Zorn Memorial Stadium are illuminated by pyrotechnics following the Spirit Shout.

Football fans revel in a lopsided victory over Cornell (Iowa) College.

The Class of 1976 enjoys an outdoor gathering at the Mellinger Center in celebration of its 25th reunion.

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HOMECOMING2016

HOMECOMING AWARDS KARIN LOYA ’63 Hall of Achievement

DWIGHT TIERNEY ’69 Hall of Achievement

A retired program manager and scientist for companies supporting projects for NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Loya provided telemetry processing and graphics support for experiments with the Dynamics Explorer satellites. She was also involved in contracts leading to the development of the Space Telescope, which helped verify the Big Bang Theory, and the Earth Observing System of satellites, which has enabled advances in climate change and research. She is currently a well-known folk cellist in the Baltimore-Washington D.C. area.

Best known for his role in helping to launch the music cable network MTV in 1981, Dwight Tierney is an internationally recognized expert in human resources, currently working as a consultant and executive coach through his own New York-based company. He served 11 years as senior executive vice presidentfor MTV’s parent company, Viacom, overseeing operations in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and has held executive positions with McGraw-Hill Education, Madison Square Garden, eMusic and Ipreo.

WILLIAM M. SIMPSON ’65 Distinguished Alumnus Award

HARLOW BLUM Distinguished Service Award

SCOTT SHAW ’03 Young Alumnus Award

The retired president of John Wood Community College in Quincy, Ill., Simpson served most of his 40-year career in higher education. Under his leadership, the college’s enrollment grew more than 20 percent and the campus expanded from one building to six. He held previous senior positions at Olympic College, Marshalltown Community College and the Iowa Valley Community College District. He is a member of the Monmouth College Board of Trustees and a former board member of the National Junior College Athletic Association.

Seventeen years after retiring from a 40year teaching career, during which he influenced and inspired hundreds of art students, Blum remains a vital presence on campus and in the art world. His success as a professor stemmed in part from his dedication and creativity as a serious artist. At the age of 82, he maintains a rigorous schedule of exhibiting new work once a year. One of the founders of the Buchanan Center for the Arts, he is committed to ensuring that a high level of culture is available to the greater Monmouth community.

After earning his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Illinois, Shaw completed two prestigious postdoctoral appointments—one as a Marie Curie Fellow and one with the National Science Foundation. Now an assistant professor at the University of Iowa, he recently received the Cottrell Scholar Award, which promotes outstanding teacher-scholars in science. He has been recognized for creating a science program for senior citizens, promoting the sciences in local high schools, and providing continuing education to rural high school teachers.

LEE MCGAAN ’69 Hatch Award for Distinguished Teaching McGaan has been part of the fabric of Monmouth College since 1965, first as a student and now as a faculty member who is retiring after 30 years of service. After completing his master’s degree, he entered the U.S. Army, serving first as a psychology specialist and counselor and later as an adviser and coordinator for enlisted men’s affairs. Following his military service

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MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

he returned to graduate school completing a Ph.D. in organizational communication with related study in higher education administration. These experiences provided him with a unique perspective for teaching liberal arts communication studies. Rather than “easing” into retirement, he continues to work diligently to develop community engagement opportunities for students while also promoting institutional support, resources and infrastructure for civic engagement.

HOMECOMING2016

From left: President Clarence R. Wyatt, Chris Brooks ’72, Ada Brooks Groff ’59, Glenn Brooks ’61, Ray Brooks ’53 and First Lady Lobie Stone.

For more about the Brooks family, see story, page 15.

THE BROOKS FAMILY Monmouth College Family of the Year Although they did not themselves attend college, Charles Brooks and his wife, Daisy Brooks, were two extremely influential members of the MonmouthCollege family, encouraging all eight of their children to attend Monmouth, from which six received their degrees. A member of the College maintenance staff who possessed only a sixth-grade education, Charles in-

MARY MACDILL KNAPHEIDE ’35 Order of Omega An elementary education major, Knapheide was initiated into Pi Beta Phi, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, who had served as Grand Vice President for the fraternity in its early days at Monmouth. Her ties to Monmouth College ran deep—her greatgrandfather, grandfather and son were also trustees. Although she left Monmouth in 1934, her loyalties to her fraternity and the College remained strong throughout her adult life. Believing that all young people should have access to the life-changing opportunities afforded by higher education, she and her family established the Mary MacDill Knapheide Scholarship at Monmouth College.

BENJAMIN HICKERSON ’05 Order of Omega Since graduating from Monmouth, where he was honored as Greek Man of the Year, Hickerson has taken advantage of the values, work ethic and leadership skills that were fostered as a brother in Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.

Beginning as an elementary teacher and later through coaching positions and broadcasting, he honed his craft of engaging students both inside and outside the classroom. After earning a master’s degree in education, he advanced into an administrative role as assistant principal of Oregon (Ill.) Elementary School. In 2010, he founded a corn detasseling company that provides work opportunities for local youth.

stilled in his children a strong work ethic—a trait that helped them succeed academically in the face of racial prejudices that continued to confront African American students as late as the 1970s. From Daisy, who worked as a cook for Monmouth fraternities, they received a love for learning and the arts. Honored posthumously, in addition to their parents, were Don Brooks ’51, Paul Brooks ’51, Ira Mae Brooks Walsh ’57 and Marjorie Brooks ’58.

ISABEL BICKETT MARSHALL ’36 Order of Omega Initiated into Beta Epsilon chapter of Alpha Xi Delta in 1932 (the year it joined the national organization), Marshall maintained strong ties with the chapter until her death at age 99 in 2014. She served as president of the alumnae organization and chapter adviser for many years, hosting the chapter frequently in her home, and was instrumental in its 1997 reinstatement at Monmouth College, after a 20-year absence on campus. A community activist, she also held leadership positions with the YMCA, the Maple Leaf Community Concert Series, Jamieson Community Center, PEO, the Heart Association, several Monmouth College organizations and her church.

MELINDA FRY ’03 Order of Omega A teacher in the Monmouth-Roseville school district for 12 years, Pi Beta Phi alumna Melinda Fry has demonstrated strong devotion to community service, which recently earned her recognition as one of the Top 25 Women in Leadership of Central Illinois and the Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Citizen of the Year. She recently established a classroom philanthropic group, through which her students donated to the Monmouth Animal Shelter, Peoria Children’s Hospital and the Roseville food pantry. She is also an executive for Rainbow Riders, a therapeutic horseback riding center for children and adults with special needs.

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HOMECOMING2016

REUNION CLASS PHOTOS

Class of 2011 Row 1 (from left): Andrew Farraher and Joanna Besser; Row 2 (from left): Anthony St. Clair, Nicole Olin Hroziencik and Hope Grebner; Row 3 (from left): Ashley Blust Bushong, Airyell DeFord Gladfelter and Fannetta Jones.

Class of 2006 Front Row (front to back): Sean Fitzgerald and Matthew Hammer; Column 1 on Stairs (bottom to top): Lisa Curry, Shannon Healy and Valerie Curtis Deal; Column 2 on Stairs (bottom to top): Erin Pinney Bennett, Malory Payne, Megan Moose Decker and Beth Lindberg Joyce; Column 3 on Stairs (bottom to top): Shane Gordon, Sarah Zanger Venvertloh, Jessica Wolfard Ellis, Marisa Kratochvil Flanigan and Megan Murray Schumm.

36 

Class of 1996

Class of 1991

Row 1 (from left): Tara Budde Peters, Tish Kessler Doering and Philip Tweedy; Row 2 (from left): Michael Blaesing and Joshua Hornaday; Row 3 (from left): Lynn Foster McGhee and Korine Steinke Wawrzynski.

From left: Rob Herzog, Salena Dreger Scardina, Elise Cummings Main, Joe Courtney, Mike Danner and Renee Soderstrom Loeffler.

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

HOMECOMING2016

Class of 1986 Front Row (from left): Eric Soderholm, Eric Ealy, John Garrett, Mike Polo and Sara Brotzman Polo; Column 1 on Stairs (bottom to top): Hiroko Saito, Helena Echols, Dee Bagley-Thierry, Tricia Dean and Nancy Gilson Inness; Column 2 on Stairs (bottom to top): Deanna Walters Brown, Kellie Kohler Esters, Bonnie Beam Stratz, Elizabeth Silas, Laura Cavanaugh and Kristy Smith; Column 3 on Stairs (bottom to top): Sandra Frey Landrey, Renay Johansen Slifka, Brian Ross, Joan Chatfield Ealy and Ed Brown.

Class of 1981 Front Row (from left): Dan Pulliam, Scott Burgess, Jim Fabianski, Conny Davinroy Beatty, Marty Cozzi, Bryan Siverly and George Gaulrapp; Column 1 on Stairs (bottom to top): Jill Blomberg Talbott, Peggy Goff Holesinger and Chris Birkhead Swanson; Column 2 on Stairs (bottom to top): Roy Vance, Ivy Clark, Kimberly Whowell Bland and Roxanne Stanley Green; Column 3 on Stairs (bottom to top): Timothy McCabe, Michael Clark and Harvey Echols.

Class of 1976 Row 1 (from left): Melvin Siverly, Pamela Slaughter Van Kirk, Jodi Videtich Harris, Geri Pope Weber, Michael Deam and Jeff Earley; Row 2 (from left: Robert Stinauer, Joan Kehr Adami, Jennie Koblish Van Norman, Paul Rickey, Gary Geiger and Joe Pavone; Row 3 (from left): Carol Werdin Alfrey, Barbara Cermak Blake, Randy Vickroy and Emily Johnson Minor; Row 4 (from left): Randall Slaboch, Gail Nelson Petersen, Ray Gillen and Dee Dee Minor Davies. Row 5 (from left): Franklin Johnson and Steve Petersen.

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IN THE SCOTLIGHT

BY BARRY MCNAMARA

TOM HILL ’04 Performance artist uses theatrics to awe audiences

Breathing fire is one of many skills that Hill has developed to create an atmosphere of fantasy in his company’s performances.

38

As a Monmouth College student, Tom Hill ’04 straddled the line between theatre and art.

Although Hill had opportunities to go down only one academic path, he is grateful that he took the broader approach at a liberal arts college. Both of his majors have become part of his highly successful performance art business, The Carnival of Curiosity and Chaos.

“I wanted to be able to do it all,” said Hill of his choice to attend Monmouth and double-major in art and theatre.

Hill was accepted into DePaul University’s prestigious theatre program, but he was worried that he would not realize his goals if he chose that route.

“I knew if I stayed in Chicago, I wouldn’t finish my degree,” he said. “I was already performing, and the more I performed, the less likely I would’ve been to complete my studies.”

Hill brought The Carnival of Curiosity and Chaos to Monmouth in October for a pair of shows—including a “completely improvised” fire show. He also shared his business experience with students in Terry Gabel’s “Principles of Marketing” class.

“My company creates a fantasy world for people to live in, just for that moment in time,” Hill said. “I get you out of your normal routine and allow you to experience something you may not see or experience again. ... What I really see myself as is a conceptual artist. I’m creating a fantasy for the audience.”

Hill and his troupe are known for their surprises during performances. He surprised Gabel’s class when he remarked that social media and his website have “zero” effect on his marketing.

“Social media stunts my creativity,” he said. “When I’m on the road, it’s hard to stay in contact with all those people. Staying off it gives me the opportunity to be fully engaged with what I’m doing.”

Rather, word-of-mouth advertising, along with three booking agents, are the carnival’s top marketing allies.

“My reputation is outstanding with all the night-

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

clubs that are out there,” said Hill, who also works at festivals, corporate conferences and conventions, and for any clients looking for something “odd and unusual.”

He has frequently appeared on television and in commercials—including one that shut down a portion of Chicago’s financial district to be filmed. He has also worked with artists such as Lady Gaga, Pink and, currently, Jane’s Addiction.

“I’m playing,” he said of his performance art craft.

“I’m living my 10-year-old dream. I’m a risk-taker. I’ll take that risk to push limits, to find limits. When I’m performing in academia, I need to know what my parameters are. I have to make sure I bump those lines, but not cross them.”

While Hill is a master with fire, his entrepreneurial spirit was stoked by getting “burned.”

“I was working for a company, and I got screwed out of $9,000 of pay, as well as costumes and equipment, and so did some of my friends,” he said. “It left a sour note with everyone. I said, ‘You know what? I’ll start my own company.’ It treats the performers the best way it possibly can. We do little things to keep them happy, and if we keep them happy, we keep them working.”

Hill spends much of October performing Halloween events in Chicago.

“That’s my busiest time of the year,” he said. “Consumers spend $1 million a year for Halloween in Chicago. What I love about Halloween is it’s the one time a year you can live a fantasy, and it’s OK. I do this type of thing all year, but Halloween is made for me.”

Chicagoans know his work. A recent Chicago Tribune article called Hill’s “Full Moon Fire Jam”—held on full moon nights from April through October—one of the top 25 things to do in the city during the summer. But Hill’s business is not limited to the Windy City.

“I love that I’m able to travel,” said Hill, who has performed in 44 states. “And I love that I’m able to be with my friends and collaborate and create with them.”

ALUMNI NEWS | CLASS NOTES

™

ALUMNI NEWS

WE WELCOME NEWS AND PHOTOS related to your career, awards, reunions or travel with your Monmouth College friends, and any other information of interest to your classmates or alumni. We also welcome announcements and photos of alumni weddings and births, as well as alumni obituaries.

Please see page 38 for submission guidelines.

1938

Clairus Dew of Fort Wayne, Ind., celebrated his 100th birthday on Aug. 10. Born in Monmouth in 1916, the World War II veteran threw out the first pitch at a Fort Wayne TinCaps minor league baseball game in June. He and his wife, Betty Johnson Dew ’41, have been married 73 years.

Top Toastmaster

1956

well and Woodford counties. She was first elected to the position in 2010.

Sally Smith Larson of Dunwoody, Ga., received the 2016 Alumni Achievement Award at the national Mortar Board Conference held in Indianapolis in July. Associate professor emerita of English at Georgia Perimeter College, she was a member of Tau Pi, the local predecessor to Mortar Board at Monmouth, while a student. She was initiated as a postgraduate member of Mortar Board in 1972.

1957 1960

60th

REUNION

JUNE 8-11, 2017

Robert Gamer of Kansas City, Mo., spoke in September to a Monmouth College “Comparative Politics” class. An emeritus professor of political science at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, he focused his remarks on the current state of affairs in China.

He is currently revising the fifth edition of his textbook, Understanding Contemporary China.

1962 1967 1972 1973

55th

REUNION

JUNE 8-11, 2017

50th

REUNION

JUNE 8–11, 2017

45th

REUNION

JUNE 8–11, 2017

Andy Kerr of Tucson, Ariz., who retired from Lake Forest Academy earlier this year, has founded Tipping Point Analytics, a consulting firm assisting non-profits in achieving operational excellence.

1974

Gail Simpson Owen of Morton, Ill., has retired as regional superintendent of schools for Mason, Taze-

Dennis Deegan ’66 was recently honored with Toastmasters International’s highest award. Recognizing a superior level of achievement in both communication and leadership the award is given only to those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and communication skills and who have used these skills to help others in their self-development efforts.

1977 1981

40th

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Dr. Brian Crawford of Pocatello, Idaho, chair of the Idaho State University Department of Dental Sciences, was elected president of the Idaho State Dental Association in June.

Ray Vance of Clinton, Wis., was named the District 6 Wisconsin Athletic Director of the Year. He works for Clinton Community Schools.

1982 1987 1988

35th

30th

REUNION

REUNION

CRAWFORD

NOV. 3-5, 2017

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Bill Ault of Toledo, Ill., is a teacher at Cumberland Schools and has coached football there for more than 25 years.

Adam Morrow of Galesburg, Ill., is senior sales representative for Steinjager, Inc.

1989

Ross Richardson of Ashland, Mo., is an assistant track and field coach at the University of Missouri.

1992

25th

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Laura Liesman of Manasquan, N.J., is assistant vice president of athletics and recreation at Georgian Court University.

1996

Matthew Fisher of Las Vegas, Nev., is a VIP hospitality host at Caesars Entertainment.

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ALUMNI NEWS | CLASS NOTES

1997 KAPOOR

20th

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Kunal Kapoor has been named chief executive officer of Morningstar Inc., a leading provider of independent investment research. His move from president of the company to CEO will become effective Jan. 1. Kapoor has held a number of leadership roles since joining Morningstar in 1997, including director of mutual fund analysis, director of business strategy for international operations, president and chief investment officer of Morningstar Investment Services, and head of Morningstar.com and the firm’s data business.

Kapoor will deliver the 2017 Wendell Whiteman Memorial Lecture at Monmouth College in April.

2000 2002 VANA

Erica Vierthaler Elliott of Elgin, Ill., is a family nurse practitioner for Advocate Health Care. 15th

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Jason Vana of Monmouth is marketing director of Fusion Tech, an equipment design and fabrication company. He has also launched Reach36, a growing marketing and creative design agency.

2003

Mike Salanitro of Troy, Ill., is a high school business teacher in Alton, Ill.

2004

Tyler Glaser in August co-produced the third annual Back Road Music Festival in the small Illinois town of Galva, where he grew up and still makes his home. An assistant bank vice president who is a fan of live music, he and a friend dreamed up the unlikely concept of attracting thousands of country music fans to the town of 2,500 to enjoy live performances by top artists.

2005

Dan Wingler of Urbana, Ill., is an electrician for Bodine Electric.

Sarah Pratt Wilson of Moline, Ill., is an IT seccurity analyst for Deere & Company.

CURTIS

2006

Valerie Deal Curtis of Bloomington, Ill., is assistant to the executive director for the department of campus recreation at Illinois State University.

Kevin Meinhart of Victoria, Texas, is an operations manager with Caterpillar Inc.

2007 2008

10th

Public Schools.

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Erin Loebach Williams is a math and English language development teacher for Denver (Colo.)

Vanessa Schumacher Witherell of Galesburg, Ill., is a technology/library teacher for the United school district.

NOVAK

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Daniel Walker of Lafayette, Ind., is a community planning extension specialist at Purdue University.

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

2010

Daniel Krueger of Alexandria, Va., is a managing consultant for Global Business Services.

Ed Novak of Williamsburg, Va., completed his Ph.D. in computer science from the College of William and Mary earlier this year. He accepted a full-time, tenure-track position teaching computer science at Franklin and Marshall College.

2011 2012

Ashley Blust Bushong of Monmouth is an elementary music teacher in the United school district. 5th

REUNION

NOV. 3-5, 2017

Zack Myers of Peotone, Ill., is a teacher in the Herscher school district.

2013

Allison Fantetti of Milwaukee, Wis., is the adult reference librarian at New Berlin (Wis.) Library. Last year, she received her master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Kyle McEwen of Aledo, Ill., has been named to a new post as project cooordinator for a community- and economic-development effort called “Mercer County: Better Together,” administered through the Mercer County YMCA. Jessica Huff of Newark, N.J., is a flight attendant for United Airlines.

2014

Sara Frakes Reinhardt recently completed her master’s degree in higher education and student affairs at the University of South Carolina, where she serves as an assessment coordinator for the department of housing.

Matt Dutton of Quincy, Ill., recently joined the news department of the Quincy Herald-Whig as a staff writer. He was previously editor of the Monmouth Daily Review Atlas.

2015

Kyle Dickson of Galesburg, Ill., will receive a master’s degree in historical administration from Eastern Illinois University. He is assistant director of the German American Heritage Center.

Alyssa Janssen of Knoxville, Tenn., is a communications specialist at the University of Tennessee.

Erin Willhite is director of marketing and communications at First Congregational Church in Moline, Ill.

Submission Guidelines Submit your news online at monmouthcollege.edu/alumni/ updates, by email to alumni@monmouthcollege.edu, or by mail to Monmouth College Magazine, Attn: Alumni Programs, 700 East Broadway, Monmouth IL 61462-1998. Digital photos should have a minimum resolution of 300 pixels per inch. Please include a photo caption with full names that clearly match faces, class years, date and location. We reserve the right to reject images for any reason, especially those with low resolution and those that require purchase from a photo gallery website. Submissions will be published at the discretion of the editors on a spaceavailable basis.

WEDDINGS

2003 Molly McNamara and Jacob Klinger

Sarah Doyle and Mike Salanitro

June 4, 2016 July 9, 2016

2005 Shelby Karr and Dan Wingler

December 13, 2014

September 17, 2016

Sarah Pratt and William Wilson

2006 Valerie Curtis and Joshua Deal 2008 Erin Loebach and Jacare Williams 2010 Laura Greenwood and Miles Miller

Jenna Thompson and Willie Urish

2012 Megan Downey and Zack Myers 2013 Lindsay Franey and David Johnson ’14 2014 Sara Frakes and Joe Reinhardt

July 16, 2016 June 30, 2016 May 21, 2016 July 17, 2015 September 3, 2016 July 23, 2016 August 7, 2016

2015 Erin Schuch and Justin Frye ’14

May 21, 2016

Sarah Pratt and William Wilson

September 17, 2016

LINDSAY FRANEY ’13 AND DAVID JOHNSON ’14

LAURA GREENWOOD ’10 AND MILES MILLER ’10

ERIN LOEBACH ’08 AND JACARE WILLIAMS

WINTER 2016

41

IN THE SCOTLIGHT

BRAD NAHRSTADT ’89 Who’s got the button? He does, and hundreds more from campaign history

BY BARRY McNAMARA

Nahrstadt stands by a portion of his button collection during its recent exhibit in Hewes Library.

42

Brad Nahrstadt’s unique collection of presidential campaign buttons has come full circle to the place where it began—his alma mater.

In the weeks leading up to the presidential election, the frames containing 1,600 buttons were on display in Monmouth College’s Hewes Library, for the first time venturing away from the walls of his basement den.

Featuring buttons from the last 31 presidential elections (including 2016), the collection dates to the first presidential election to make widespread use of campaign buttons in the late 19th century.

“This has been a long labor of love,” he said. “There is literally no space left on my basement walls.”

Nahrstadt, who is also a Monmouth trustee, acquired his first presidential campaign buttons because of a political science class with Professor Ira Smolensky. Students were required to complete 15 hours of volunteer campaign work for a candidate, and Nahrstadt chose 1988 Democratic presidential candidate Michael Dukakis. After logging far more than the required hours while assisting with Dukakis events in the Quad Cities and Des Moines, Iowa, Nahrstadt and fellow volunteers were each given a handful of campaign buttons and other memorabilia.

Four years later, while rummaging through a desk drawer, Nahrstadt came across the buttons and pinned them to a T-shirt, along with some buttons from the current 1992 campaign. His mother chipped in a 1960 John F. Kennedy button, and the rest is presidential campaign button history.

“That’s how it took off,” said Nahrstadt, a partner in the Chicago law firm of Lipe Lyons Murphy Nahrstadt & Pontikis. “From there, any time I was at an antiques store or a flea market, I was looking for buttons. There was no rhyme

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

or reason to what I collected. If it had to do with a presidential campaign, I grabbed it.”

Nahrstadt soon realized the need for “rhyme and reason,” so he focused his collection on presidential candidates who had received electoral votes. That narrowed his focus to the Republican and Democratic nominees, as well as five others: Theodore Roosevelt in 1912, Robert La Follette in 1924, Strom Thurmond in 1948, Robert Byrd in 1960 and George Wallace in 1968.

As one might expect, finding buttons from third-party candidates can be a challenge, but Nahrstadt has succeeded. For each candidate since the advent of campaign buttons in the William McKinley-William Jennings Bryan race of 1896, Nahrstadt has acquired enough buttons to fill a 12-by15 inch shadow box.

He doesn’t have the hardest button to collect—one from the 1920 campaign featuring photos of Democratic nominee James Cox and his running mate, future president Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Known as a “jugate” because of the two photos, that Cox/FDR jugate “would set you back about $65,000,” Nahrstadt said.

He does, however, have one button that cost him a pretty penny—a John W. Davis button from his 1924 campaign against incumbent Republican President Calvin Coolidge.

Finding the button was the easy part. Convincing “Mrs. N.” that it was essential to acquire said button was the hard part.

The couple reached a compromise. If Nahrstadt acquired the button—no matter the price—he would wait 365 days before buying his next one. On Dec. 31, 2005, Nahrstadt’s bid of $3,602.50 got him the Davis button.

True to his word, his next purchase—a matched set of Woodrow Wilson/Charles Evans Hughes buttons from 1916 —came on Dec. 31, 2006.

“I had the sickness bad,” said Nahrstadt, laughing as he recalled the experience.

He says that his collection allows viewers to quickly discern the major issues from each campaign. For example, the buttons from 1896 are typically trimmed in either gold or silver, representing the debate over whether U.S. currency should remain based on the gold standard or be switched to silver.

Although his shadow boxes are complete for all the major candidates since 1896, Nahrstadt said he would still add items from past elections “if something really speaks to me.”

BIRTHS

1998 Misia and Reese Berry

a son, Dorrance Pike

November 30, 2015

2010 Rachael and Michael Diamond

a son, Ethan David

July 28, 2016

2000

Emily Owen Franzen and Aaron a son, Ezra Lee September 8, 2016

June Machacek Janssen and Chris a son, Miles Ronald October 2, 2015

Erica Vierthaler Elliott and Christopher a daughter, Autumn Lynn June 17, 2015

2002 Matt Coultrip and Robert

a son, William Robert

December 25, 2015 2003

Molly Larcombe McCarthy and Justin a son, Justin Benjamin August 5, 2016

Carolyn Mongelluzzo Salvenas and Marcus a daughter, Artemis Jane April 1, 2016

2004 Channon and Jonathan Rider

a daughter, Josephine Cate

April 16, 2016

Jenny Scudero Dykeman and Dale a son, Erik Matthew July 11, 2016

2005 Lisa and Alan Betourne

a daughter, Ava Grace

August 5, 2016

HUDSON GLADFELTER

2006 Amy and Brian Desatnick

a daughter, Abigail Nichole

October 29, 2015

Sara and Kevin Meinhart a son, Preston L. February 7, 2016

Kathy and David Danaher a daughter, Josephine Marie September 27, 2016

2007

Chelsea Brandt Ekstedt and Adam a son, Roscoe Thomas August 20, 2016

Carissa Young Elliott and Greg a daughter, Ansley Jane March 5, 2016

2008 Allison and Jake Bice a daughter, Navy Lynn Anna Beasley Dibble and Jim ’06

September 8, 2015 a son, Crosby Taylor August 20, 2016

Lindsay Blohm Foster and Michael a son, Everett October 1, 2015

Shelby and Dan Wingler a daughter, Leighton Aria December 23, 2015

Adriana Garcia and Clemente Duarte a daughter, Mila Joselyn January 8, 2016

Karah and Erik Hoffer a daughter, Madison Kay June 27, 2015

Ashley Lawrence Waterman and Mark a daughter, Violet Ruth July 11, 2016

Jennifer Scott Hazer and William a son, Jacob Michael August 23, 2016

2009 Marisa and Kyle Weyeneth

a son, Eli

December 19, 2015 WILLIAM COULTRIP

Leanne Sell MacWilliams and Sean

a son, Hunter Daniel

March 28, 2016

Rachel Earp Westfall and Mike a son, Oliver Michael May 22, 2016

Amber and Matt Morman a son, Dylan September 3, 2015

2011

Ashley Blust Bushong and Daniel a son, Eli Daniel August 22, 2015

Kaitlyn Kross Rose and Michael a son, Patrick Michael March 21, 2016

Airyell DeFord Gladfelter and Greg a son, Hudson Thomas May 6, 2016

Whitney Didier Shippert and Patrick a daughter, Lynnlee Marie May 20, 2016

JOSEPHINE RIDER

2012 Emily Shoemaker Aumonier and Stuart

a son, Callum

April 6, 2016

Lindsey Maascho Conevera and Matthew a daughter, Skyler Elizabeth September 1, 2016

Nicole Allen Lyles and Brian a son, Dominic Randall May 23, 2016

SKYLER CONEVERA

2015 Emma Ring and Zach Shaw

a daughter, Harper Marie

July 2, 2016 WINTER 2016 

43

OBITUARIES

1930

Mary Smith Johnson, 108, Monmouth College’s oldest graduate, died Sept. 12, 2016. Born May 31, 1908, she majored in religious studies at Monmouth before earning a master’s degree in education at Western Illinois University. Initially, she taught in one-room country schools.

She later served 17 years as principal of Yorkwood Grade School and was in the College’s education department for two years. A consultant on two editions of the Hay-Wingo Phonics Textbook, she taught phonics in several locations, including Norway.

1936

Alice B. Gustafson, 101, of Orion, Ill., died June 19, 2016. A talented musician, she attended Monmouth for two years, during which time she was an accompanist for gym classes. She attended several other colleges, eventually earning her bachelor’s degree in music. She taught in country schools for eight years, and later worked as a purchasing clerk and librarian.

1940

Roberta Carrier Palmer Steck, 98, of Galesburg, Ill., died Sept. 23, 2015. She worked as a nurse at Galesburg’s Cottage Hospital for 18 years.

1946

Lossee Morford, 91, of Taylor Ridge, Ill., died July 8, 2016. He was a member of the football team and Tau Kappa Epsilon before joining the Navy during World War II. A Seabee, he was stationed on Midway Island.

Morford enjoyed several successful careers, including owning Morford’s Market and the Hiway Royal Blue in Andalusia, Ill., being a realtor and working for the Rock Island (Ill.) County Board of Review. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Esther Clark Morford ’46.

1947

M a r t h a Shinofield Colip-Lay, 90, of Reno, Nev., died July 14, 2016. She graduated with a degree in speech/communication/ theater and was a member of Pi Beta Phi. After raising

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MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

her children, she earned a master’s degree in secondary education at the University of Nevada-Reno and began a career as a high school guidance counselor.

Helen Hofstetter Raphael, 89, of New Iberia, La., died July 5, 2016. She followed her parents and two sets of aunts and uncles to Monmouth, majored in chemistry and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta. Survivors include a sister, Marilynn Hof­ stetter ’49. She was preceded in death by a sister, Patricia Hofstetter ’48, and her husband of more than 50 years, whom she met while working in Brazil.

1948

Doris Hipple Milligan, of Pittsburgh, Pa., died Sept.

18, 2016. She graduated with a degree in speech/communication/theater and was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and Crimson Masque. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Milligan ’48.

1949

Richard Mings, 91, , of Roseville, Ill., died Sept. 6, 2016.

After graduating from Roseville High School in 1942, Mings served in the military police in England during World War II. After his service, he studied physical education at Monmouth and was on the basketball, baseball and track teams. Mings taught and coached at several area schools, including Media Junior High, where he was principal. He was a petroleum salesman for 13 years and was well-known in the area for officiating volleyball matches with his wife, Bernadine Porter Mings ’48, who preceded him in death.

Lowell Johnson, 90, of Oneida, Ill., died Feb. 20, 2016. He served in the infantry during World War II and was wounded at the Battle of the Bulge, receiving the Purple Heart among other citations. Johnson ran an automobile dealership in Oneida for 40 years. Survivors include his wife of nearly 63 years.

1950

Gordon Dahl, 88, of Walnut, Ill., died July 20, 2016. A member of Alpha Tau Omega, he had more than 50 years of service to Greenville Township as trustee and road commissioner.

Jane Nash Gavin, 87, of Monmouth, died July 26, 2016. She studied art, then worked for years as a teller at Monmouth Trust and Savings Bank. She was also a grain and livestock farmer near Monmouth.

Colleen Sprout Shrode, 87, of Monmouth died Aug. 22, 2016. She worked at several Monmouth businesses, including Mitchell’s Soda Fountain, where she met her late husband, Max Shrode ’49. They were married 67 years.

1951

James Kewley, 94, of Marion, Iowa, died Aug. 30, 2016. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years.

1953

Roy Neuberg, 85, of San Diego, Calif., died August 21, 2016. He studied psychology at Monmouth and served in the U.S. Navy before moving to San Diego in 1959, where he owned several businesses.

1954

Joan McKelvie Deuger, 84, of Monmouth, died Sept.

18, 2016. She graduated with a degree in mathematics. Survivors include a son, Mark Deuger ’77.

Robert Ferguson of Blairs­v ille, Pa., died Aug. 6, 2016. He studied chemistry at Monmouth and was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon before completing his degree at Penn State University.

Also a graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, Ferguson was the retired owner of Ferguson Funeral Home in Blairsville.

An Army veteran who served during the Korean War, he is surived by his wife of 64 years.

Ronald Jess, 84, of Libertyville, Ill., died Aug. 23, 2016.

A member of Tau Kappa Epsilon, he completed his degree at the University of Illinois. Jess was a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a pilot and flight instructor. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Davidson Jess ’55.

ALUMNI NEWS | OBITUARIES

Carl “Bud” Sudbrink, 84, of Glenwood, Minn., died Jan. 9, 2016. He attended Monmouth for two years before enlisting in the Army.

1955

Richard Bowman, 82, of Monmouth, died June 27, 2016. He graduated with a degree in history and was a member of the football team and Tau Kappa Epsilon. He spent many years in various capacities with Monmouth-based Bowman Shoe Co. Survivors include his daughter, Pamela Bowman Ide ’89.

Jean Norton Landers, 82, of Willow Springs, Ill., died July 1, 2016. She graduated with a degree in music, taking just three years to complete her degree. She played the piano for 74 years and was a music teacher in Schaumburg, Ill. In 1985, she completed her doctorate in music education from the University of Illinois.

IN MEMORIA M

Robert V. Cramer ’54 Robert V. Cramer, a former college president who was the son of two former Monmouth College faculty members, died July 5, 2016, at his home in Louisville, Ky. He was 83.

After graduating from Monmouth High School, Cramer enrolled at Monmouth College, where his father, Paul, and mother, Fern, were members of the mathematics faculty. A history major and a member of Theta Chi, upon graduation he worked briefly as a junior high school teacher before becoming an elementary school principal in Vandalia, Ill. He then began his career in higher education, starting with public relations positions at Monmouth College and Millikin University.

In 1961, Cramer began a three-year tenure as vice president of the Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Mass., during which time he earned his master’s degree in the administration of higher education and a doctorate in higher education, both from the University of Connecticut. During 1964-1965, he served as assistant to the dean and instructor in education at the University of Connecticut.

In 1965, Cramer became vice president for development at Hanover College in Hanover, Ind. In 1968, at the age of 35, he accepted the presidency of Northland College in Ashland, Wis. While at Northland he also served as vice president of the Wisconsin Foundation of Independent Colleges. In 1971, he was named the 12th president of Carroll College (now Carroll University) in Waukesha, Wis. Among his accomplishments at Carroll were the creation of a four-year nursing program with Columbia College, starting a night school for returning and part-time scholars, and the doubling of enrollment.

Cramer was the former chair of the Council of Independent Colleges and the Association of Presbyterian Colleges. He was honored by Monmouth College with both the Young Alumnus and Distinguished Alumnus awards.

In 1988, Cramer retired to Chapel Hill, N.C., later moving to Louisville. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan, and three children.

Eugene Sanders, 84, of Canton, Ill., died Aug. 29, 2016. He majored in business administration, played baseball and basketball and was a member of Octopus Club and Tau Kappa Epsilon. He was the owner of SandersHasty Insurance Agency in Canton, retiring in 1995. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Castle Sanders ’55, and a brother, Harold Sanders ’58. Survivors include a brother, Warren Sanders ’60, and a daughter, Carla Sanders ’91.

Delta. After graduating from the University of Illinois and doing extension work, she and her husband owned a heating, plumbing and hardware store in Galva for 47 years.

1957

1959

Robert Murphy, 80, of Summerville, Fla., died April 1, 2015. He was a building contractor and was active in horse breeding and horse racing.

1958

Kay Anderson Brooks, 79, of Monmouth, died Sept. 8, 2016. A member of Pi Beta Phi, she worked as a secretary for several Monmouth businesses and owned and operated Mode O’ Day Dress Shop.

Mary Robson Hathaway, 80, of Galva, Ill, died July 30, 2016. She studied home economics and was a member of Alpha Xi

Joan Dillow Koski, of Rochester Hills, Mich., died July 28, 2016. She graduated with a degree in history and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta. Koski attended graduate school at Wayne State University and was a social worker in the Michigan Children’s Protective Services program for more than 25 years.

1962

Karen Nelson McDavitt of Escondido, Calif., died Sept. 15, 2016. An English major at Monmouth, she graduated cum laude in three years, with minors in physics and French.

She was a member of Alpha Xi Delta and Crimson Masque, and also served as editor of The Oracle. She belonged to Sigma Tau Delta, Tau Pi, Alpha Lambda Delta, Sigma Omicron Mu and Mortar Board.

McDavitt completed her master’s degree in English at the University of Illinois in 1964. As a Navy wife, who moved every two to three years, her work career was varied and included such positions as a junior engineer, member of the editorial staff of Playboy magazine, a social worker, a teacher in both Virginia and Japan, and executive assistant to the vice president of a major corporation. Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Fred McDavitt ’61.

WINTER 2016

45

ALUMNI NEWS | OBITUARIES

1962

Gloria Swanson Wiseman, 71, of Farmington, Ill., died

Jan. 9, 2012.

1964

Judith Gillies Zielinski, 73, of Bolingbrook, Ill., died March 8, 2016. She graduated with a degree in English and was a member of Kappa Delta. She taught drama and English for 35 years in Oak Forest, Ill.

1966

Mary Rast Davies of Mary­ ville, Ill., died Aug. 5, 2016.

She graduated with a degree in art and went on to serve as the biology lab manager at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville for 45 years.

1972

Nancy Shaub Bohn, 65, of Monmouth died Sept. 3, 2016. She studied elementary education and was a bookkeeper at three Monmouth businesses.

Dana Wandell, 65, of Hoffman Estates, Ill., died March 9, 2015. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois, studying ornamental horticulture.

Wandell started, built and sold two successful nursery businesses.

1978

Robert Kelley, 59, of Wasilla, Alaska, died July 1, 2016. He graduated with a degree in physical education and was a member of Alpha Tau Omega and the wrestling, football and baseball teams. He served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard and worked for Flying Tigers and Federal Express.

1993

Toni Fry-Hilgert, 46, of Alton, Ill., died March 17, 2016.

She graduated with a degree in elementary education and was a member of Crimson Masque. A first grade teacher in Alton, she was also involved with area high school drama departments.

1998

Eric Wolfe of Houston, Texas, died Aug. 20, 2016.

At Monmouth, he participated in track, football and Alpha Tau Omega before completing his degree at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He worked for National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. and Maersk Line Limited.

2016

Aaron Fry, 23, of Monmouth died Aug. 17, 2016, after battling cancer. An avid songwriter and musician, he graduated last December with a degree in English.

Word has also been received of the following deaths: Abigail Bohstedt, 25, an admission representative at Monmouth from 2013-15, was killed in a multi-vehicle accident that also claimed the life of her fiance on Aug. 1, 2016.

Winifred Weeks, 93, of Champaign, Ill., died Oct. 5, 2016. The widow of former dean of the College, chaplain and professor of religious studies Stafford Weeks, she and her husband were both honored in 2008 with the naming of Weeks House, home to the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies and the Office of the Chaplain.

Special reunions for the classes of 1957 1962 1967 1972

Silver Award for Excellence in Special Events: 2016 Golden Scots Celebration

GOLDEN SCOTS CELEBRATION SAVE THE DATE JUNE 8-11, 2017 46 

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

SHANIAH ANDERSON

BRANDON ALLEN

Stepdaughter of Dan Schisle

Brother of Caitlyn Allen ’19

Brother of Lynsey Barnard

r ’94

Sister of Bradley Dulee ’17

Brother of Connor Gillen ’17

Brother of Perla Sanchez ’17

n ’90 Son of Cheryl Conaway-Nelso

MICHAEL BERSELL

Brother of Matthew Bersell

LAUREN HORNER ’16

ALEXIS CRUZ

Sister of Thelma Cruz ’18

ALEEK A GENTZLER

Sister of Vaughn Gentzler ’19

TANNER HEIPLE

Brother of Tate Heiple ’19

& Helena Echols Carlson ’86

QUINTON KAIHARA

Brother of Chelsea Gross ’13

MARIO SANCHEZ

BEN NELSON

’10

MARJORIE CARLSON ’88 Daughter of Leonard Carlson

JOSHUA GROSS

SAM GILLEN

LAURA DULEE

LEGACIES NOT PICTURED:

NOAH BARNARD

LUCAS SONDGEROTH

Son of Byron Sondgeroth ’88 ’17 Brother of Blake Sondgeroth

MEGAN McCRERY

Daughter of Daniel Horner ’89

Daughter of Troy McCrery ’87 Sister of Zachar y McCrery ’16

KIERRA KING

SAM McGEHEE

Sister of Devin King ’17

SHARON KUHLEMIER Sister of Alan Kuhlemier ’17

RIVER LAING

Brother of Rachael Laing ’15 Brother of Dakota Laing ’18

Brother of Kylie Kaihara ’17

WADE THIELE

Brother of Logan Thiele ’18

JORDAN TIMPE

Son of Teresa Christiansen Tim

HUNTER TODD

Brother of Allison Todd ’18

e ’55 Grandson of J. Allen McGehe Son of J. Alex McGehee ’81 e ’18 Brother of Courtney McGehe

VIVIAN PHAM

Granddaughter of the late Wayne Rader ’57 WINTER 2016

47

pe ’92

THE LAST WORD

PAYING BACK… OR IS IT FORWARD?

F

rom birth to adolescence, young people rely primarily on parents to provide the nurturing and guidance necessary for success in life. For many of us fortunate enough to have attended Monmouth College, the seeds planted by our parents came to full flower under the tireless and brilliant teaching of Monmouth faculty, setting us on the road to successful careers.

As a proud Monmouth College graduate, I feel a responsibility to pay back the institution for the preparation it provided me, and I feel privileged that I have been able to do so. But paying back is only half of the equation. A gift to Monmouth College—sharing resources from our success— is also paying it forward, providing a In my case, and likely helping hand to those who come after.

Tuition pays only a portion of the in the case of most, cost of all that goes on to make a private giving back was the last liberal arts college. The rest comes from gifts to the Monmouth Fund, to the thing on my mind on endowment for scholarships, professorcommencement day. ships and general operating expenses and for capital needs for buildings and equipment.

In my case, and likely in the case of most, giving back was the last thing on my mind on Commencement Day. My focus at that time was on getting military service “out of the way” and lining up that first career job. For some, the focus was on getting an advanced degree. In those first few years out of college, I was busy doing other things and didn’t even visit the campus. I did, however, remember my time at Monmouth with a gift to the annual fund every year.

One day, out of the blue, I received a call asking if I would be willing to serve on the Alumni Board and saw it as a way

48

MONMOUTH COLLEGE MAGAZINE

DAVID BOWERS ’60

to stay/get involved in the College. I couldn’t have guessed what the definition of involved would become over the next 50 years! My Alumni Board service turned into service on the Board of Trustees, and while I’m sure my professors from so long ago wouldn’t have imagined it possible, I was honored to serve as chairman of the trustees for 13 years.

Fifteen years ago, Bowers Hall was dedicated on the Monmouth campus. It was an opportunity for me to say thanks for the personalized attention I received from so many professors and was a way to serve others by helping provide a comfortable and secure home for future generations of students. On the dedication plaque, the first residents and those who followed were admonished to “Learn, Establish Values and Serve Others.” In other words, to prepare for the future intellectually and ethically (you need both) and from the success that follows…to serve.

The Class of 2016 demonstrated their willingness to serve even before they graduated. They raised the funding to have “Monmouth College Fighting Scots” painted on the city water tower. That project not only thanks the College for the personalized education they received, but will also help recruit students in the years to come. It is never too soon or too late to express gratitude.

The success of a Monmouth College graduate comes in many forms. Some are entrepreneurs, some are professionals, some make things, some teach. Whatever the path, the Monmouth experience frees the possibilities in each of us.

It helps graduates have a rewarding life, maybe even ensures it. That should be something worth remembering.

Trustee Emeritus David Bowers served as Monmouth College Board Chair from 1995 to 2008. He is currently vice chairman and CEO of CompX International Inc., a security products manufacturing company based in Greenville, S.C.

It’s never too early to plan your legacy.

My time spent at Monmouth College shaped my life in ways I will never be able to repay. The network of faculty and friends challenged me to take risks and opened doors for me professionally.

My decision to make a planned gift to Monmouth is a way for me to express my gratitude and appreciation for the education I received and the opportunities I was fortunate enough to have experienced over the last 25 years.

My retirement is still years away and I enjoy working in my field every day. Planned giving is a simple and effective way to make sure future generations of students have access to the resources they need to further their education and experience the opportunities Monmouth College has to offer.

Kristyne Gilbert ’90 Executive Director Buchanan Center for the Arts Monmouth, Ill.

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