Alumni Association News Archive
Dec. 2007 - Oct. 2008
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- ESU announces new alumni director
- University Service Citation recipients speak out
- Hornet Heritage Award Announced
- Defending our title in the university blood drive
- Distinguished Alumni for 2008 named
- 2008 Outstanding Recent Graduates announced
- 2008 University Service Citation winners announced
- Open forums for 4 Alumni Director candidates
- ESU Ambassador named Outstanding Student Leader
- 2009 alumni directory project under way; trusted company contacting alumni
- Student ambassadors for 2008-09 announced
- Alumni director search extended, interim named
- Newberg senior awards named
- Emporia Connection coming this weekend
- ESU Day at the Capitol hits its mark
- Long-time alumni director accepts new position
- Founders' Day celebration features a family with ties to the past
- ESU publications bring home CASE awards
- Alumni chapters in Wichita and Salina areas support ESU
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ESU names Brodie the new Alumni Relations Director
Oct. 6, 2008
Peter L. Brodie, an experienced alumni relations professional from Troy, N.H., will lead the Emporia State University Alumni Association as the new Alumni Relations Director.
Brodie was selected from among four strong candidates who interviewed on campus
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| Brodie |
Sept. 22-25. He will be on campus during Homecoming Week, Oct. 22-26, with an official starting date of Nov. 24.
Brodie is available for media interviews upon his arrival on campus in December. To schedule an interview, contact Jesse Tuel at (620) 341-5440 or jtuel@emporia.edu.
“Peter is exactly what we were looking for, with his depth of experience and his many years working in higher education,” said Rod Turner, chair of the search committee and president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. “He has shown his expertise working with the development of alumni chapters and creating revenue streams. His high level of experience was obvious to us, and we’re very pleased to have him on board.”
Brodie has been the alumni relations director at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, N.H., since 2004. Previously, he was the alumni relations director at Daemen College in Amherst, N.Y., from 2001 to 2004. He holds a bachelor of science degree in health systems management from Daemen College, and is currently pursuing a master of business administration degree from Franklin Pierce University.
“I was attracted to Emporia State because of the energy present on the website and the highly functioning and dedicated alumni program already in place,” Brodie said. “The leadership team is dedicated and determined to continue advancing the mission of Emporia State.”
“Once arriving on campus and exploring the Emporia community, I was excited by the amazing support the university has within the community, how passionate and dedicated the staff are, and how dedicated President Lane and Judy Heasley [executive director of University Advancement] are toward maintaining high quality educational opportunities for current and future students,” Brodie said.
Heasley noted that during his interview, Brodie demonstrated strong memory skills and a focus on the individuals he met, and displayed knowledge of how to utilize existing resources and move the association forward.
“He has good ideas regarding work with young alumni, fundraising, marketing and special events,” Heasley said. “His detail orientation and strategic thinking will be a strong asset for University Advancement – and as a change agent he brings knowledge of the best practices in the alumni relations industry, strong goal-setting experiences, and he knows the importance of building relationships now and for the future.”
At Franklin Pierce University, Brodie developed a career mentoring program for alumni and a volunteer recruitment campaign, strengthened the alumni chapter outreach program, maintained volunteer support in the Annual Fund at 100 percent, and more. At Daemen College, Brodie established the Final Year Transition program, working with campus departments to smooth the student-to-alumni transition; developed an affinity program to provide benefits to alumni, engaged in fundraising efforts with individuals across campus, and much more.
He has been highly active in the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), the professional organization for advancement professionals, and in local volunteering with organizations like the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation. From 1998 to 2001, he was a critical care technician with Mohawk Ambulance Service in Schenectady, N.Y., and from 1993 to 1999, he was a customer service representative for Empire BlueCross BlueShield in Albany, N.Y.
As he embarks on a new venture at ESU, Brodie is excited to begin engaging ESU alumni.
“I encourage each ESU alum to look into their heart, explore their soul and recollect the opportunities provided through an individual and communal relationship with ESU,” he said. “Remember the satisfaction that your education has brought you and then think about how each alum can help ensure that current and future ESU students realize and exceed their own potential by volunteering with the Association and supporting the Foundation. I look forward to meeting as many ESU alumni as possible during Homecoming weekend, and then when I arrive on campus later this year.”
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Emporia State’s 2008 University Service Citation recipients speak out
Roger Heineken, Gilbert Rodriguez, and Dr. Harry Stephens, Emporia community members and long-time colleagues and friends who laughingly refer to themselves as the “Three Amigos,” were selected as the 2008 recipients of the University Service Citation from among a strong field of nominations. They will be recognized at the 2008 Alumni Awards Banquet on Friday, Oct. 24, during Homecoming festivities. (To reserve a seat at the reception and dinner, call (620) 341-5440 or e-mail alumni@emporia.edu.)
As they prepare for the Homecoming recognition, all three were delighted to reflect on their service to ESU.
Roger Heineken, BFA 1978, Art
Roger Heineken currently serves as an administrative officer in the Memorial Union. He has sponsored the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, along with the Hispanic American Leadership Organization, Union Activities Council, and more. His artistic talents have been widely displayed on campus - including murals, displays, and décor, and the ESU Athletic Hall of Honor medal. Mr. Heineken conceived the Phi Delta Theta Pole Sit in 1986, which has raised more than $55,000 for SOS. He has served on the Emporia City Commission and the Emporia Recreation Commission, and as president of the Lyon County Historical Society and the Learning Connection of the Flint Hills.
About the award, Heineken says that he does feel honored by it, but that the award is more useful as a tool for him to encourage others to get engaged. “It reminds everyone that you can make a difference,” said Heineken. This is just one way that ESU, to Heineken, “encourages support and service, both in faculty and students and, by extension, staff.” “It’s important to model civic engagement for students,” he said. His most rewarding personal accomplishments have come from this very sort of modeling in his work with Phi Delta Theta. “A quality fraternity experience can intensify a workshop in community,” said Heineken. “It gives people a lot of skills to apply their degree in their career.”
Heineken currently works with the William Allen White Community Partnership, Inc., supporting the W. A. White House State Historic Site, and with the Emporia Eastside Community Group and its Eastside Memorial Park project. He is extremely engaged with this new project with the WAW Community Partnership. “More people, Kansans in particular, need to learn more about [White’s] life and contribution” – a contribution often considered the greatest in Kansas history, he said. “He was writing about domestic violence in 1906, long before the suffrage movement . . . writing about race relations in 1920,” said Heineken. “I’ve never been disappointed in his leadership and boosterism. I would like to see him become a household name again.”
Gilbert Rodriguez
Gilbert Rodriguez has given 34 years to ESU as a maintenance worker, groundskeeper, and painter, and was formerly acknowledged with the 2005 Presidential Award for Distinguished Service to Diversity. Rodriguez loves speaking to potential students about ESU and makes a point of wearing ESU spirit apparel. Rodriguez has a knack for raising money for ESU scholarships and is a strong representative of the university. “I just like to get involved, help students and the community,” said Rodriguez. That service can be quite direct and time-consuming; Rodriguez has even served as a liaison to Emporia State’s international students in adapting to the Emporia environment and in transportation. A third-degree black belt, he has taught karate classes for 30 years on campus.
Rodriguez is a founding member of the Emporia Brown Express Athletic Club, a nationally ranked fast-pitch softball team that sponsors the annual Super Custom Car Show, now in its 11th year. “We revolve mostly on scholarships,” said Rodriguez, explaining that the organization has wide ties and involvement, from the Salvation Army to Miss Kansas, but always centers on promoting ESU. “Even though we stopped playing ball, we can still contribute.” The car show’s proceeds support local charities, and with Mr. Rodriguez’s help it has raised $4,500 since 2004. Presently he is working with organizing the Festival of Trees for December. Efforts like this exhibit a commitment to “draw interest” and “put Emporia on the map,” he said.
About the award, Rodriguez said that he is “happy, pleased, and honored.” “It’s a big honor for me,” said Rodriguez, who has family coming in from out of state to see the award ceremony. . Rodriguez emphasized that “Emporia State will always be a part of my life” and stressed the value of the ESU community. “There’s a lot of good people here,” said Rodriguez. “The people here inspire me.”
Dr. Harry Stephens, BA 1965, Biology, and MS 1972, Counselor Education
Dr. Harry Stephens has served ESU for almost four decades, most notably as the vice-president for student affairs for 11 years. As vice president, he coordinated the development of the new Student Recreation Center and the Center for Early Childhood Education (formerly the Child Development Center). He is a strong advocate for ESU, remaining active in campus Greek affairs and the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity, demonstrating enthusiasm and reaching out to young people while financially supporting student scholarships. After serving as a Kansas state senator, Dr. Stephens taught graduate classes and served as the Greek alumni liaison. As an active member of the community, he serves on the Humane Society and Emporia Granada Theatre boards, is an officer of Emporia Sunrise Rotary, and more.
Stephens came to ESU “thinking that I would be here a couple of years,” but ESU opportunities and experiences changed his mind. “It’s been a great experience to work with students and faculty through the years. And I’ve grown to appreciate the wonderful opportunities,” said Stephens, referring to opportunities both for him as a faculty member and for the students he guided and advised. “A university adds a great deal to student lives – I believe in the university experience.” Stephens found being a part of that process exciting work. “You get to know the leaders, and the ones who are struggling,” said Stephens. “Working with individual students and groups, watching groups grow in strength, watching individuals mature in careers and in family, was a real positive experience.”
Stephens’ proudest achievements are in his work with the Student Recreation Center and the Child Development Center, projects that met real needs in the ESU community. On the recreation center, Stephens recalled that a group of students were concerned, so he took them on a tour of campus recreation centers, identifying needs and standards. The insight they learned from others, Stephen emphasized, allowed tough decisions – like omitting expensive showers and locker rooms, requested by faculty but not used by most students. “They just go home to shower,” Stephens explained. “And it’s the student recreation center.” The Child Development Center, similarly, followed the model of the industry at the time, providing a service that was not unusual but was sorely missed at ESU.
Stephens is proud to receive the award. “It’s an outstanding award, and I’ve known many people who have received it in the past,” said Stephens. “I’m humbled. I’m very proud to be on that list.”
About the award
Created in 1980 by the ESU Alumni Association, the intent of the University Service Citation is to recognize unique and significant service to Emporia State University. Individuals chosen for this award are moved to service by a deep concern for and loyalty to ESU. Their efforts extend beyond their official duties, often performed without expectation of compensation, and previous recipients have included staff, faculty, alumni, and friends of ESU. Nominations for the award are made annually by a selection committee made up of four representatives from the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors, three faculty members, and one ESU Foundation Trustee, with oversight on the final decision by the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors.
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ESU recognizes family tradition with Hornet Heritage award
The Hoetlings and ESU are truly a family tradition together.
The Hoelting family, headed by Norbert and Mary Hoelting of Olpe, Kan., has produced 15 ESU graduates and eight other ESU attendees over a course of 43 years. They have been selected for the eighth annual Hornet Heritage Award, presented to families with ESU pedigree by the ESU Alumni Association. The Hoelting family will be recognized during halftime of the ESU vs. Fort Hays State football game, at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Welch Stadium.
At the same time, while ESU shows its recognition to the Hoeltings, the Hoeltings are recognizing ESU’s mission by establishing the Norbert and Mary Hoelting Scholarship Fund at the Olpe State Bank, serving as a holding fund until the $10,000 goal is reached.
Floyd Hoelting, the family’s first KSTC (later ESU) graduate, sees this as an appropriate investment: “Higher education improves and enriches our lives. In collaboration with Emporia State University, Hoelting family members keep learning and striving to improve themselves and their communities for future generations.”
Hoelting said that when he was able to attend college through the GI Bill, it hadn’t been a part of his life plan. “College was only a dream for us,” said Floyd. “We did not have the money for college, and we were always too busy to consider college as an option.” Nonetheless, his enthusiasm for the university life spread to his younger siblings, who attended college events and befriended faculty. Six of Norbert and Mary’s 11 children became students of KSTC. (See the ESU-Hoelting family tree.)
Floyd Hoelting married JoEllen Greathouse, who was also a KSTC student. He earned his BA at KTSC and graduated with an MA in 1968. JoEllen graduated with a BSE in the following year and completed her master’s degree in 1972. Their son, Jason, graduated with a BS in 2000, and is married to Holli Redeker, a current undergraduate student at ESU.
Of Floyd’s siblings, Donna Herron, Daryl Hoelting, and Mary Beth Bonitatibus are former students, and Viola Hoelting (BSE 1971, MS 1973), Joyce Ratcliff (BSE 1971), and brother-in-law Gary Herron (BSB 1972) are ESU graduates.
Of the next generation of Hoeltings, Lynn Redeker (BSB 1998) and her husband Justin (BSE 1994), Stacy Heins (BSE 2000), Karis Ratcliff (BS 2004), Sara Tomlinson (BSE 2004, MS 2008), and Mark (BSB 1997), Brent (BSE 2003), and Trisha Hoelting (BSN 2000) are graduates, and Travis Heins, Chris Herron, Kelli Herron, and Lisa Mautz are former students of ESU.
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Defending our title - the ESU Blood Drive, Oct. 16-17
Last fall, the ESU Alumni Association beat out other Kansas universities with the highest percentage of blood donors across Kansas, and now we’re out to defend our title! The trophy is here, and you can help us keep it.
Between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31, the six regent universities in Kansas are coming together to help the American Red Cross save lives. The American Red Cross Central Plains Region needs nearly 20,000 pints of blood during September and October to meet the needs of hospital patients. You can become part of this lifesaving endeavor by giving blood and voting for your university. The university alumni association with the highest percentage of blood donors across Kansas will receive a trophy and bragging rights for the entire year.
The ESU Blood Drive is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, in Memorial Union's Webb Lecture Hall. Vote for ESU when you donate blood by downloading a ballot. To schedule an appointment at another time, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE.
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2008 Distinguished Alumni at Emporia State University named
Emporia State University and the ESU Alumni Association are pleased to announce the 2008 class of Distinguished Alumni. The four individuals will be recognized with the Alumni Association’s highest honor at the 2008 Alumni Awards banquet on Friday, Oct. 24, during Homecoming festivities.
Louis Burns of Fallbrook, Calif.; Lonnie Clark of Birmingham, Ala.; Tom Fincken of Arvada, Colo.; and Ben R. Leedle, Jr., of Brentwood, Tenn., are this year’s Distinguished Alumni, recognized as such for their outstanding professional accomplishments. Read their full bios at the Distinguished Alumni web page.
The awards banquet on Oct. 24 begins with a 6:15 p.m. reception in the Memorial Union’s Kanza Room, followed by the 7:00 dinner, in the Memorial Union Ballroom. The Distinguished Alumni will be honored alongside the 2008 recipients of the Outstanding Recent Graduate award and the University Service Citation award. The public and members of the media are invited to attend. The cost per person is $25. To RSVP, contact the alumni office at (620) 341-5440 or alumni@emporia.edu.
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Emporia State University names 2008 Outstanding Recent Graduates
The Alumni Association at Emporia State University and the ESU community are pleased to announce the 2008 Outstanding Recent Graduate recipients.
The three winners – Jared Larson, Annville, Penn.; Jeremy Luby, Overland Park; and Todd Wheat, Olathe – will be honored at the 2008 Alumni Awards banquet on Friday, Oct. 24, during Homecoming festivities.
Read more about the recipients
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Emporia State announces 2008 recipients of University Service Citation award
The concept of service has become a lifelong habit for the three 2008 recipients of the University Service Citation award, and Emporia State University’s Alumni Association and the ESU community are truly honored to announce the winners.
Roger Heineken, Gilbert Rodriguez, and Dr. Harry Stephens, all of Emporia, were selected as the 2008 recipients from among a strong field of nominations. The three will be recognized at the 2008 Alumni Awards Banquet on Friday, Oct. 24, during Homecoming festivities.
Recipient bios and award information
Emporia State University to hold open forums for 4 alumni director candidates
Four finalists for the director of alumni relations position at Emporia State University have been selected by the search committee, and the committee is pleased to invite campus and community members to open forums from Sept. 22-25.
Each open forum will be in the Memorial Union’s Flint Hills Room. The open forums and candidates are:
Peter L. Brodie - 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Monday, Sept. 22
Cathy L. Dernoncourt - 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 23
Lizabeth R. Richey - 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 24
Larie Schoap - 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 25
Candidate biographies
Peter L. Brodie
Mr. Brodie, of Troy, N.H., has been the alumni relations director at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, N.H., since 2004. Previously, he was the alumni relations director at Daemen College in Amherst, N.Y., from 2001 to 2004. He holds a bachelor of science degree in health systems management from Daemen College, and is currently pursuing a master of business administration degree from Franklin Pierce University.
Cathy L. Dernoncourt
Ms. Dernoncourt, of Wynnewood, Pa., is a consultant for non-profit volunteer management and fundraising projects. From 2002 to 2006, she was the associate vice president of alumni relations at Drexel University. From 1987 to 2002, she worked at the Boston College Law School as the associate director of major gifts and the director of alumni relations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Mississippi.
Lizabeth R. Richey
Ms. Richey, of Alva, Okla., has served as the alumni director for the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation and Alumni Association since 2004; from 1991 to 2004, she served as an administrative assistant there. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in education with a business emphasis, both from Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
Larie Schoap
Ms. Schoap, of Emporia, Kan., is currently the senior vice president for residential lending at Lyon County State Bank, where she has worked since 1995. From 1979 to 1995, she was the assistant vice president for consumer and residential lending at Bank IV. She has served in a variety of leadership and fundraising roles in community and state organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in consumer affairs from Kansas State University.
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ESU Ambassador named Outstanding Student Leader
The ESU Ambassadors have earned yet another national award. Former ESU Ambassador Jessica Velazquez was named the 2008 Outstanding Student Leader by the Association of Student Advancement Programs (ASAP) at the organization’s national conference, July 31 – Aug. 2.
Velazquez, now an ESU alumna with a bachelor’s degree in communication, is not the first ESU Ambassador to be granted this honor. The ASAP-member organization has a history of fostering leadership qualities in its participants at ESU, with ESU Ambassadors earning the same award in 2005 and 2006
ASAP, the Association of Student Advancement Programs, is a program of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, the national organization for university advancement professionals. District VI contains eight states in the Midwest, and Velazquez was also recognized with the district outstanding leader award earlier this year. Winners are chosen on the basis of their history with the organization, as well as signs of commitment, initiative, and loyalty in interaction with the university. ESU’s Ambassadors embody such qualities.
“We maintain pretty high standards,” said Michael Hooton, chair of the ESU Ambassadors, not just in comparison to other ESU programs but “regionally and nationally as well.” Hooton explained that the Ambassadors organization provides opportunities for leadership roles through committee processes and outside relations. “We encompass a lot,” Hooton said. “Other universities have three organizations for what our organization does,” with activities ranging from alumni relations to prospective student tours to spirit activities.
Previous ESU Ambassador honors from ASAP include two Outstanding Student Leader awards – John Harms in 2005 and Laura Myers in 2006. The organization itself was named Outstanding Ambassador Organization in 2007. This track record “shows great leadership ability in our students,” said Nicholette Metz, the program’s advisor. “We’re a presence on campus, and leaders are drawn to Ambassadors because it’s a leadership organization on campus.”
Of Velazquez, Hooton said that “she was always one of the most positive people to be around,” despite her heavy workload with the voluntary organization. With Velazquez as Ambassadors Spirit Co-Chair with Becky Lundblom, the E-Zone athletics spirit program “quadrupled” in scope and results: “She definitely had a lot of spirit for ESU, for Ambassadors, and she did a lot to share that.”
Velazquez , a native of Shawnee, Kan. who is now working to become a certified personal trainer, said of Ambassadors that “being involved was a huge part of my college career” that “contributed greatly to who I am today.” About earning the award, Velasquez said she was honored – but added that the real reward came during her work with Ambassadors: “Being involved betters your life, and being a leader is a way to help others better theirs . . . just seeing that positive change and growth is a huge payoff.”
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Fall roster for Emporia State’s student Ambassadors organization announced
June 3, 2008
Thirty-two Emporia State University students have been chosen to represent their university in the prestigious Ambassadors organization for the 2008-09 academic year. The award-winning group brings together some of ESU’s most capable student leaders in the cause of serving the university.
The organization next fall will have 14 new members, 11 second-year members, six third-year members and one fourth-year member. By the end of the year, thousands of volunteer hours will be recorded by the students as they act as ESU’s official hosts. They conduct daily campus tours for prospective students and parents, represent ESU at the Kansas State Fair, sponsor Senior Week, appear at alumni, Foundation and Homecoming events, and more.
“ESU Ambassadors is a remarkable group to work with, and interviews this year proved that selection would be challenging. The 14 new and 18 returning Ambassadors will have a successful year working campus events, alumni activities and giving campus tours,” says Nikki Metz, the group’s advisor. “The students selected are among the best ESU has to offer and represent a cross section of the university. I am excited to begin a new academic year working with them and look forward to all that they have to offer.”
New and returning members applied and interviewed for a spot on the 2008-09 roster. The 2008-09 Ambassadors are:
Name and position |
Classification |
Hometown |
Major |
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* 2nd yr Ambassadors ** 3rd yr Ambassadors *** 4th yr Ambassadors |
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Lauren Adams |
Senior |
Independence, Mo. |
Elementary Education |
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**Jason Baker |
Senior |
Marienthal |
Accounting/ Management |
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*Brian Ball |
Senior |
Mulvane |
Social science |
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Lorene Booth |
Senior |
Emporia |
Business Administration |
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**Ashley Brooks |
Senior |
Emporia |
Elementary Education/ ESL endorsement |
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Molli Chitwood-Roberts |
Senior |
Osawatomie |
Music Education |
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***Drew Donahoo – Senior Week Chair |
Senior |
Overland Park |
Speech/ Theatre/ Communications |
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Elyse Ezpinoza |
Junior |
Merriam |
Secondary Health and PE Education |
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*Jill Ferrell – Secretary |
Junior |
Hutchinson |
Secondary Education |
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Todd Fitzsimmons
|
Senior |
Dodge City |
Accounting |
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Drake Foster |
Sophomore |
Mulvane |
Secondary Education/ Social Science |
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*Nicole Gannon – Traditions Chair |
Senior |
Manhattan |
Accounting |
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** Elissa Hadley |
Senior |
Burns |
Secondary Education |
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Alianna Hamer – CASE/ASAP Liaison |
Senior |
Overland Park |
Marketing |
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Lacee Hanson |
Sophomore |
Emporia |
Undeclared |
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Lainie Harber |
Sophomore |
Whitewater |
Biology |
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**Michelle Hernandez |
Senior |
Kingman |
Business |
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**Michael Hooton - President |
Grad. Student |
Ulysses |
MBA |
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*Jessica Isakson |
Senior |
Liberal |
Accounting |
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Whitney Lanier |
Sophomore |
Walton |
Secondary Education/ Mathematics |
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Kelly Launchbaugh |
Senior |
Lacrosse |
Sociology & Business Management |
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*Carrie Leach – Treasurer |
Junior |
Olathe |
Elementary Education |
|
Erin Lynam |
Sophomore |
Lindsborg |
Business Administration |
|
Ashley McCollough |
Sophomore |
Council Grove |
Secondary Education/ Social Science |
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*Hilary Moe – Advancement Liaison |
Senior |
Grantville |
Elementary Education |
|
Hannah Prophet |
Junior |
Topeka |
Physical Education & Business Education |
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*Misti Richmond – Vice-President |
Junior |
Marion |
Communication |
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**Kelly Rippel – Alumni Relations Chair |
Senior |
Topeka |
Communication |
|
*Amy Stonebraker – Spirit Co-Chair |
Junior |
Norwich |
Communication |
|
*Kyra Strobel – Spirit Co-Chair |
Senior |
Garnett |
Communication |
|
Erynn Watt |
Junior |
Clearwater |
Elementary Education |
|
*Kim Zahner – Admissions Liaison |
Senior |
Gardner |
Business Administration |
|
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Alumni director search extended, interim director named
May 23, 2008
The nationwide search for a new director of alumni relations at Emporia State University has been extended and an interim director has been named, said Judith Heasley, executive director of University Advancement and president of the ESU Foundation.
Jesse Tuel, currently the director of Advancement communications, will serve in the interim capacity while a new search is conducted.
“We have the utmost confidence in our current alumni office staff, and in Jesse’s leadership abilities, and we know the alumni office won’t skip a beat as we continue looking for the right person to fill this critical position,” Heasley said.
As the search continues, applicants are encouraged to view the position description by clicking here. A resume, letter of interest, and a list of 3 references can be sent to the Alumni Association offices at 1500 Highland Street, Emporia KS 66801, attention: Joan Lauber.
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ESU’s Newberg seniors named Monday
April 8, 2008
Andrea Luthi, an Emporia State University senior from Madison, Kan., majoring in chemistry, biology and Spanish, was named the Dwight & Ida Curry Newberg Outstanding Senior at the annual Newberg banquet on April 7, while Lindsay Davis, a senior from Olpe, Kan., was named the Newberg Distinguished Senior.
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Luthi and Davis |
Twenty-one seniors, each with an amazing list of accomplishments and accolades, were nominated for the Newberg recognition, but it was Luthi and Davis who rose to the top. Luthi, described in a nomination letter as “one of the most brilliant” students at ESU, a “model student who has abundant natural ability and works hard as a student,” will begin the Ph.D. program in chemistry at Northwestern University in the fall.
“Wow!” Luthi said at the podium. “This is really amazing. It’s an honor to be up here to receive this award!” Luthi thanked her parents, teachers, friends and classmates, and God, for the “ability to learn and the enjoyment in doing it.”
Davis, a biology major, was equally honored. “Looking at the program, there were a lot of quality individuals, so I feel honored,” she said later. Davis will begin a Wichita State University master’s program at the end of May to become a physician’s assistant.
Full biographies for Luthi, Davis and the other 19 nominees
All nominees are listed below. are below, followed by a list of the 19 other nominees. Reading off the accolades of the 21 nominees left Dr. Jim Williams, vice president of strategic partnerships and student life, a bit breathless. “I certainly feel that our future is secure,” he said, “seeing all the knowledge in this room.”
Newberg Outstanding Senior nominees, hometowns and majors:
- Jason Baker – Marienthal, Kan. – accounting/management
- Petra Darling – Hutchinson, Kan. – English/creative writing
- Lindsay Davis – Olpe, Kan. – biology
- Kasha Graham – Harper, Kan. – health promotion, minor in physical education
- Megan Grisell - Olathe, Kan. – secondary education/Spanish with a minor in coaching
- Kara Kai Kirton – Emporia, Kan. – crime and delinquency studies/Spanish
- Andrea Luthi – Madison, Kan. – chemistry/biology & Spanish
- Becky Lundblom – Mulvane, Kan. – communication
- Maiko Okamura – Kawasaki City, Japan – pre-art therapy
- Sarah Price – Lyndon, Kan. – American history
- Rachel Reeves – Olathe, Kan. – political science/public affairs
- Julian Rios – Bogota, Colombia – business administration
- Adam Rust - Wichita, Kan. – history/political science
- Jaclyn Sill - Wichita, Kan. – education-social sciences, minor in coaching
- Jennifer Spears – Paola, Kan. – pre-art therapy
- Faye Stevenson – Harveyville, Kan. – engraving arts/jewelry and metals
- Kelly Thompson – Alma, Kan. – secondary education-speech, theater and communication
- Jessica Velazquez – Shawnee, Kan. – communication, minors in business and Spanish
- Natalie Villaflor – Oklahoma City, Okla. – chemistry, minor in Spanish
- Stephanie Wade – Columbia, Mo. – biology (pre-med) and psychology
- Heather Wilson – Ottawa, Kan. – nursing
The Newbergs
Dwight Newberg (BSE 1933) and Ida Curry Newberg (LC 1932) established seven endowed funds that provide scholarships to ESU students. Among these are the Newberg Outstanding and Distinguished Senior awards, with $500 and $250, respectively, set aside for the annual recipients.
The fund is of particular interest to Dwight because he received the award in 1933. The award was discontinued, but the Newbergs reestablished it in 1988, and it’s been an ESU tradition ever since. Dwight Newberg passed away in 1996, and Ida Curry Newberg passed away in 2001.
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Emporia Connection reunion coming this weekend
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
One of Emporia State University’s most active alumni chapters, the Emporia Connection, expects more than 100 alumni to attend a reunion this weekend in Emporia.
The Emporia Connection, an African-American alumni chapter, has distinguished itself through well-attended reunion events and a scholarship for ESU students. In 2006, about 50 alumni gathered in Atlanta, Ga., and in 2005, the group established the Emporia Connection Legacy Scholarship to assist African-American students at Emporia State University.
The weekend kicks off with a meet-and-greet from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, April 4, at the Sauder Alumni Center. The group will attend the ESU Track and Field Relays at 11 a.m. Saturday at Welch Stadium, and then gather for the Emporia Connection Scholarship Banquet at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union’s Webb Lecture Hall. A short program will follow the 7:00 dinner. On Sunday morning, a bon voyage breakfast with live entertainment from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the Memorial Union’s Skyline Room will conclude the weekend’s events.
Members of the media interested in the events may contact Jesse Tuel at (620) 341-5440 or jtuel@emporia.edu.
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ESU representatives blanket the Capitol Building at 'ESU Day at the Capitol'
March 25, 2008
The annual “ESU Day at the Capitol” event in Topeka this morning became a day of advocacy and fellowship as Emporia State University representatives flooded the Capitol Building to demonstrate how the university impacts the state of Kansas.
Read more and see a photo gallery of the event!
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Long-time alumni director accepts new position
Roy Mann, the long-time director of alumni relations at Emporia State University, has accepted a new position as senior development officer with the Provision Ministry Group, an international organization dedicated to church planting. 
Mann’s last day at Emporia State will be April 18. A campus and community reception will be held from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the Sauder Alumni Center.
“This is the hardest decision I’ve ever made,” Mann said. “I definitely feel led toward this tremendous opportunity with Provision, but I’ve agonized so much about stepping away from my ESU family.”
Mann, who will serve Provision Ministry Group from an Emporia office location, has served as the alumni director since 1995 and first came to ESU as an assistant director of endowment in 1988. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in educational administration from ESU.
“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for him,” said Judith Heasley, executive director of University Advancement and president of the ESU Foundation. “I did everything in my power to get him to stay. It’s going to leave a void that will be very challenging to fill. He is ‘Mr. ESU’ in my mind.”
Mann, 51, said the decision was all the harder because of his longevity at ESU, but there was also the strong allure of taking on a new challenge at this stage of his life.
“As committed as I’ve been to ESU alumni, I’ve also maintained a passion for the church, and this opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make a difference on a grand scale,” Mann said. “I will truly miss the alumni and volunteers I’ve known over the years, on the alumni board and among chapter leaders, and my colleagues in the office. It’s a difficult time to leave, because we’re on the right track under the leadership of Judy [Heasley], and I’ve really enjoyed working with her. I’m almost embarrassed at all the efforts she made to keep me at ESU.”
Mann will begin on May 1 with Provision, developing new programs and expanding current programs in relationship-based fundraising. The group, based in Irvine, Calif., is a combination of three ministries dedicated to church planting – a church development fund; Stadia, an organization that works on church planting; and Visioneering Studios, comprised of 30 architects who design church facilities. At ESU, meanwhile, Heasley said the nationwide search for an alumni director will begin immediately.
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ESU Founders’ Day celebration features a family with ties to the past
Feb. 11, 2008
The 145th year of Emporia State University will be celebrated at the annual Founders’ Day luncheon on Friday, Feb. 15, featuring three generations of a former professor’s family.
The luncheon activities begin at 11:30 a.m. and the program begins at 12:05 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 15, in the Memorial Union Ballroom. The special buffet is $7 per person. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
The program includes family of the late John Breukelman, a biology professor at ESU from 1929 to 1968 – his daughter, Neysa (Koehler) Eberhard (BSE 1944, MLS 1962); granddaughter Carol (Yoder) Warkentine (BSE 1971); and great-granddaughter Shana (Warkentine) Meyer (BS 1995, MS 1997) – will speak. The family won the 2003 Hornet Heritage award for its multiple generations of ESU alumni, and the life sciences building carries the Breukelman name in honor of the professor’s contributions.
Members of the Lyman B. Kellogg Society, who have included ESU in their estate plans, will also be recognized at the luncheon. The society is named after the school’s first president, who taught the first class on Feb. 15, 1865. The Kansas State Normal School was created by the Kansas Legislature two years earlier, in February 1863.
The ceremonial cutting of ESU’s birthday cake will be performed by two long-time ESU employees: Dr. Tom Eddy, representing unclassified staff, with 45 years of service; and Jeanne Just, representing classified staff, with 38 years of service.
For more information, contact the alumni office at (620) 341-5440 or sacpc@emporia.edu.
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ESU publications bring home CASE awards
Jan. 25, 2008
Some of the people who help tell Emporia State University’s story to a worldwide audience have earned recognition for their efforts from a national organization. ESU won three awards at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District VI convention, held Jan. 12-15 in Denver.
ESU’s awards came in a competition against universities of all sizes. More than 1,200 entries were submitted for the CASE District VI awards.
“I’m very proud of everybody,” said Judith Heasley, executive director of university advancement and president of the ESU Foundation. “It’s an even playing field when you’re up for CASE awards, because it’s about the quality of things you’re producing rather than the size of the institution,” she added.
ESU brought home bronze awards for excellence in three projects: Research/Science/Technology Feature Article; Fundraising Materials; and Special Publications.
The winning feature article, “Wow—Faculty Research at ESU,” appeared in the summer 2007 edition of Spotlight, the magazine for Emporia State University alumni and friends. Authored by Jesse Tuel, director of advancement communications, the story highlights the creative energy at work among a cross-section of Emporia State faculty.
The second CASE bronze winner is a brochure outlining scholarship giving opportunities at Emporia State. “Scholarbucks Café” was designed by Kathleen Dorcas, printer specialist at ESU’s Printing Services. The Scholarbucks Café concept was developed by the University Advancement team for the annual campus scholarship campaign. The package of materials – including brochures, a banner, aprons and more – won CASE’s bronze award for excellence in fundraising materials.
A third bronze award, in the special publications category, went to ESU graphic designer John Decker for his work on a comprehensive package of invitation materials produced for the inauguration of Dr. Michael R. Lane as ESU’s 15th president in March, 2007.
Brad Goebel, ESU’s director of marketing, echoed Heasley’s praise. “Kat, Jesse and John are part of a great team of professionals who help tell the Emporia State University story. I'm very pleased that their hard work gets the recognition it deserves,” said Goebel.
Examples of the award winning work can be found online:
Scholarbucks Café brochure
Wow-Faculty Research at ESU
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Alumni chapters in Wichita and Salina areas support Emporia State University
Dec. 6, 2007
Members of two Emporia State University alumni chapters in Kansas are banking on the future of their alma mater. The South Central Kansas chapter in the Wichita area, and the Smoky Valley chapter in the Salina area, gathered recently to raise money to support ESU students from their areas.
The South Central chapter held its 10th annual scholarship golf scramble on Sept. 23 in Hesston. On Dec. 6, the chapter presented a $12,000 check to ESU representatives, adding to an endowed fund for scholarships for ESU students from the counties of Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey, Reno, Kingman and Sumner. The long-active group, led by current chapter president Sharon Bezdek of Wichita, hosted 100 players for the golf tourney.
Meanwhile, the Smoky Valley Alumni Chapter held a reception on Nov. 15, adding more than $10,000 to its endowed fund for scholarships for students from the counties of Saline, McPherson, Dickinson, Ottawa and Ellsworth. Chapter members worked to raise the funds before the event, and presented the check in November. The current chapter president is Cindy Ramsey of Salina.
“The initiative these groups have shown is great to see. They have a huge influence on their home areas when they invest in local students,” said Roy Mann, ESU’s director of alumni relations. “The alumni have a lot of fun getting together at these events, of course, but they also have a chance to promote their alma mater and recruit potential students through the promise of scholarship support. Our alumni in the Wichita and Salina areas have certainly seized that opportunity.”
For more information on the South Central Kansas and Smoky Valley chapters, contact Jesse Tuel or Roy Mann at (620) 341-5440.
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Last Updated April 14, 2009