Urbana Update, Sping/Summer 2011

URBANAupdate

A magazine for Urbana University alumni and friends | Spring/Summer 2011

&PassionPURPOSE

Urbana University alumni share how their passion for teaching grew from their experiences at Urbana.

ALSO: Dual Enrollment Opens Doors | Glass Managerie in a Black Box

ii | Urbana Update | Spring 2011

Hello from the Office of Alumni Relations

Note from the Alumni Director

Kat Steiner, Director of Alumni Relations, pictured in the Black Box Theatre (formerly known as The Hub). Read about The Glass Menagerie on page 20.

Dear Alumni and Friends:

Please allow me to introduce myself as the Director of Alumni Relations at Urbana University. I am proud to serve as the University’s liaison to 7,000 plus alumni. Whether you graduated 50 years or 50 minutes ago, Urbana University’s Alumni Relations is committed to reaffirming the ties that connect members of the Urbana family to each other and the University.

Many positive changes have also occurred in Alumni Relations in the last several months giving us even more reasons to show pride. The 2011 Senior Class Gift, the Alumni Association’s partnership with Liberty Mutual, and the implementation of an active Alumni Advisory Board are reasons to shine like a Blue Knight.

The alumni of any institution are the integral core of the institution’s success in accomplishing its stated mission. Urbana University is no different. You are important to the University and all that has been achieved.

I would like to thank each of you for your continued support of your alma mater. If you have not had recent involvement, we encourage you to join the Alumni Association which has tremendous potential in the life of this school.

As alumni events and programs are planned, we will look to each of you for your participation. Only collectively can we be successful. Please feel free to contact the University Alumni Relations Office at (937) 484-1282 or [email protected] with any comments, suggestions, or questions. I look forward to hearing from you and to meeting you personally.

Sincerely,

Kat A. SteinerDirector of Alumni RelationsUrbana University

“Being involved with your Alumni

Association is an investment in your

degree. The value of your degree is

directly related to the success of the

institution at any given time.”

}

Urbana Update | Spring 2011 | 1

Contents

Passion & PurposeEDITOR Christina [email protected]

DESIGNER & UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHERMelissa [email protected]

UNIVERSITY ALUMNI RELATIONS OFFICEWilliams HallPhone: (937) 484-1282Fax: (937) 484-1322Email: [email protected]

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONSKat [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT & COMMUNICATIONSJames [email protected]

WEB SITEwww.urbana.edu

URBANA UNIVERSITY MISSION:Urbana University shall offer a liberal arts education in a small college environment emphasizing student learning through individual attention, excellence in instruction, career-oriented programs, and critical reflection on moral and ethical values.

URBANA UPDATE is published three times a year by Urbana University, Urbana, Ohio. Opinions expressed are those of contributors and do not necessarily represent those of the University. Send address and email address changes to Urbana Update, Urbana University, 579 College Way, Urbana, Ohio 43078 or [email protected].

On the coverUrbana University alumni who teach at Urbana Junior High School in Urbana, Ohio. They include (front row) April Jackson ‘90; Julie Metzger Sasala ‘06, ‘07; Julie Webb ‘92; Jennifer Neff ‘01; Cyndi Eickhoff ‘94, (back row) Todd Charles ‘93, and Stephanie Forson ‘04.

Photograph by Melissa Closser

FEATURE: Passion for Learning Leads to Teaching with a Purpose

Campus News including Commencement

Alumni Happenings

Athletics

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28

36

Urbana University admits students of any race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the University. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other university-administered programs.

2 | Urbana Update | Spring 2011

Feature Story

PassionFOR LEARNING LEADS TO

Above: April Jackson ‘90 pictured in front of one of Urbana Junior High School’s classrooms.

* This statistic is based off the staff roster and could not be verified by Urbana City Schools.

Walking into the Urbana Junior High School (UJHS) in Urbana, OH is like walking onto the campus of Urbana University. Smiles are

warm, the atmosphere is unpretentious, and new faces are greeted with a willingness to help.

The teachers at UJHS are one of the reasons that make the junior high a special place and with approximately 43%* of the staff being Urbana University alumni, they share knowledge and exhibit the character of a Blue Knight in the classroom. Some like Kevin Bowdle ’96, Todd Charles ’93, April Jackson ’90, Julie Metzger Sasala, ’06 and ’07, Julie Webb ’92, Stephanie Forson ’04, Jennifer Neff ’01, Cyndi Eickhoff ’94 and ’01, and Amy McGuffy ’00 feel their Urbana University education prepared them not only for a teaching career, but for their ability to build relationships.

Julie Webb teaches special education and said “Urbana Junior High is a community. We are confident in saying, ‘This is who we are and this is what we do.’ We know what we do really well and we’re not nervous or shy about differences. In the classroom we promote real world problems with diversity in thinking. We teach respect.”

As a coach and a health teacher, Kevin Bowdle’s student growth is the most rewarding thing about his job. “I encourage students to make good, healthy choices. Urbana University did a wonderful job at building my character. I appreciated the close sense of family. If I can help students


Feature Story

TEACHING WITH A PURPOSE


self assess and focus on what is attainable, they are going to get support, character, and succeed.” Kevin’s students appreciate his concern for their developement.

The junior high school students are diverse, global learners and staff work hard to meet the needs of the school district. In 2010, Stephanie Forson worked with a team of five other teachers to obtain a quarter of a million dollar 21st Century teaching grant to make classrooms paperless. “Technology in the past seven years has exploded and we are really excited to roll out initiatives and training in the classroom,” said Forson. Even though the school is going paperless, it’s clear that the emphasis is still on relationships.

“I had a sense of home at Urbana University. The teachers were like family. Teaching is a love and I always take a student’s personality and focus into account in the classroom because that is what UU did for me,” recalled Jennifer Neff.

Proud of their work and united together, they discussed the impact that the campus size and interactions with beloved University faculty have on their teaching. Julie Sasala says she attends junior high school events to support her students and acknowledges their personal successes. “The professors at Urbana University were important because they taught us how to build rapport. When they told us stories about the classroom, it made me connect.”

Some may wonder why so many alumni choose to stay in Urbana to teach, but as far as the alumni at Urbana Middle

School are concerned, they are living the dream. Regarding the number of UU alumni at the junior high school, April Jackson stated, “We all have a commonality. The bond we have on staff lets us be our professional best and this, in turn, helps students learn.” ■

Above: Cyndi Eickhoff ‘94, ‘01; Julie Metzger Sasala ‘06, ‘07; Julie Webb ‘92; Stephanie Forson ‘04; and April Jackson ‘90 pictured in one of Urbana Junior High School’s classrooms.

Click on http://youtu.be/14f7mcqID9g to watch an interview of Julie Metzger Sasala.


Dual EnrollmentOPENS DOORS

Students in today’s high schools have expanded options when it comes time to schedule their courses. Some students will utilize flex credit opportunities

in order to allow time to work on course content and earn credits outside of the traditional classroom. Other students will utilize opportunities to accelerate their learning through PSEO and Dual Enrollment programs. Post-Secondary Education Opportunity (PSEO) programs offer high school students the opportunity to leave their high schools and enroll in college courses on a college campus while at the same time fulfilling their high school graduation requirements. Concurrent or Dual Enrollment, similar to PSEO, is a program that high school students can utilize in order to complete college coursework prior to graduating from high school; however, these college courses are being delivered at the students’ high schools.

While programs like the flex credit program are relatively new, PSEO and Dual Enrollment programs have been around since the late 90’s. Urbana University isn’t new to either of these programs. Urbana University began

offering Dual Enrollment coursework in the fall semester of the 2008-2009 school year. Urbana University began the Dual Enrollment program by partnering with Riverside and Jackson Center High Schools and offering ten courses throughout the year to a total of 18 students. From that point on the program began to expand. By the fall semester of the 2009-2010 school year, Urbana University had developed Dual Enrollment partnerships with 11 local school districts, and provided college coursework for 237 students. This coming fall semester, Urbana University has partnered Dual Enrollment with 18 local high schools and is working with over 400 students. The rise in partnerships will continue into the next year as Urbana has already signed agreements with Marysville, Oakwood, Clinton-Massie, and St. Mary’s High Schools. In addition, several schools already under contract with Urbana University to deliver Dual Enrollment courses have indicated a desire to expand their course offerings.

For the first time ever, the UU Dual Enrollment program will expect to offer a summer semester program. Students enrolled in the Summer Dual Enrollment program will have the opportunity to travel to the Urbana University main campus and take college courses in the same setting as our traditional undergraduate population. These students can choose to take courses as a commuter or as a residential student. Summer housing will allow for students enrolled in the Dual Enrollment program to experience the traditional college lifestyle while choosing to enrich their academic experiences.

Campus News

by Chad Wells, MEd, ‘05, ‘07Dual Enrollment Program Coordinator


Unlike Dual Enrollment, which operates on a reduced tuition paid primarily by the enrolled student, PSEO programs were established by the State of Ohio under Senate Bill 140 and House Bill 215. This program offers students options for financing their college classes. PSEO Option A, allows a student to take college courses on a college campus. The financial responsibility of tuition, fees, and textbooks is placed on the student under option A. PSEO Option B, allows for a student to take college courses on a college campus; however, the financial responsibility of tuition, fees, and textbooks is indirectly covered by the students school district. Students enrolled in option B are not able to take college courses over the summer semester. Similar to the increase in the number of students working through the Dual Enrollment program, Urbana University’s PSEO program has also seen its enrollment continue to grow. The 2010-2011 academic year had 67 PSEO students enrolled at Urbana University; this number is up from the 35 students who participated in PSEO at Urbana University in 2009-2010. ■

For more information on how to get your local school district involved, please contact Rob Cowles, MEd ‘04, ‘07, admissions counselor at [email protected] for PSEO opportunities and Chad Wells, MEd, ‘05, 07, Dual Enrollment program coordinator at [email protected] for dual enrollment opportunities.

Campus News

High Schools Participating in PSEO or Dual Enrollment Through Urbana University:• Benjamin Logan

• Botkins

• Bradford

• Bellefontaine

• Fort Loramie

• Graham

• Jackson Center

• Jonathan Alder

• Madison Plains

• Mechanicsburg

• Miami East

• North Union

• Riverside (DeGraff)

• Triad

• Troy Christian

• Urbana

• Wapakoneta

• West Jefferson

• West Liberty-Salem

The Shelton Leadership ChallengeJune 12-17, 2011

Know a high school student interested in leadership? The Shelton Leadership Challenge is a one-week residential summer adventure. For more information or how you can join the adventure this summer, contact Nick Christian, director of Career Services

& webmaster at [email protected].


Campus News

“I stand before you and say, ‘Thank you, Urbana University.’ I was once in your seat, with a freshly minted degree. Maintain a vision. If it is in your head and it is in your heart, there is no possible way you can be stopped. It is my hope and dream that you can come back to Urbana University and reflect on the positive impact that you have made. The world will be different and the world will be better because you choose the Urbana experience.”

- Kevin Cook ‘83


LeadersOF TOMORROW


Urbana University held its 117th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the Warren G. Grimes Center gymnasium. One hundred and twenty-seven degrees were conferred: nine masters, eighty-one bachelors, and thirty-seven associate

degrees.

The Class of 2011 Valedictorian is G. P. Scott Haver. Haver graduated with a dual major in business management and criminal justice leadership. He is a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda, the national honor society for nontraditional students, Alpha Chi, national college honor scholarship society, and Urbana University Academic Honor Society. Presently, he serves as a Juvenile Probation Officer with the Montgomery County Juvenile Court. He, his wife Karmin, and their three children reside in Sidney.

Kevin Cook ’83, coach of the Gallaudet University women’s basketball team, served as the commencement speaker. The Fremont, Ohio, native is a proud graduate of Urbana University with a bachelor’s degree in social science. He was inducted into the Urbana University Athletic Hall of Fame this past October.

UU Alumni Advisory Board member Steve Moore ‘72, led the Turning of the Tassel ceremony, symbolizing the transition from candidate to graduate, and welcomed graduates into the alumni ranks.

Left: Urbana University Class of 2011.

Above: Guest speaker and UU alumnus Kevin Cook ‘83, spoke to the 2011 graduates about hard work, dedication, and striving forward.

Campus News

“I stand before you and say, ‘Thank you, Urbana University.’ I was once in your seat, with a freshly minted degree. Maintain a vision. If it is in your head and it is in your heart, there is no possible way you can be stopped. It is my hope and dream that you can come back to Urbana University and reflect on the positive impact that you have made. The world will be different and the world will be better because you choose the Urbana experience.”

- Kevin Cook ‘83}


Campus News }“Don’t be afraid to pursue a different path if the door opens. You may be surprised where it takes you.”

- Tom Reinshell, MBA ‘09 on his advice to new graduates.

Middle Photo: Class of 2011 Dave Jenkins receives his bachelor’s degree in education from Dr. Kirk Peterson. Jenkins began his pursuit for higher education in 2000.

Bottom Photo: BSN Class of 2011 received their pins during a private ceremony in the Grimes Center the day before commencement.

Congratulations Class of 2011!

Click http://youtu.be/CVMIBfeQtBE to see what other graduates have to say about Urbana University!

Click http://youtu.be/iCrQ8T0TrXU to watch an interview with graduate Andrew Vactor.


Campus News

Top Photo: Urbana University Choir proudly sings Song for Urbana University, UU’s Alma Mater.

Above: A family shows support for their son, T.R. Ellis, in the stands at graduation.

Top Photo: President Jones shares a moment with Tianqing “Tabby” Li on the stage during commencement.

Above: Graduates socialize with family and friends in the Grimes Center before graduation.


10 QuestionsWITH KIRK PETERSON

1Dr. Kirk Peterson was named Urbana University’s

Vice President of Academic Affairs in 2010. Prior to his position with UU, Dr. Peterson

taught at Gardner–Webb University, followed by serving as the chair of the Health and Physical Education Department, and the special assistant to the Dean at Chowan University. He received a BS in psychology with a coaching emphasis from University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. He holds two MS degrees, sports psychology and health counseling, from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Dr. Peterson also acquired his PhD in sports psychology from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Through his studies, Dr. Peterson

is a National Certified Counselor. With Peterson’s long days and tight schedule, we were lucky to get an interview!

You were born in the state of Illinois, grew up in Illinois, and attended college first at the University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse, then at University of Tennessee. What do you recall about the reception you encountered at Urbana University?

I was well received. I knew this was a very caring community. Not just that the University was caring, but the community at large was invested. I also recognized our

“As long as we continue to do the right thing for the students, this University will continue to thrive and grow. How do you do that? You get people who are devoted and loyal to this University.”

- Dr. Kirk Peterson, Vice President of Academic Affairs

}Campus News


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}passionate faculty and they quickly made me realize that this would be a wonderful place to work.

What things about the University have struck you over the past few months?

The one thing I really liked about Urbana University was the “one student at a time” motto. I know that this University lives by its motto.

Can you give us an example?

I had an international student in my office and we were working on an internship site. You know, it’s amazing that not only do we affect lives here, but we’re affecting lives where he comes from, which happens to be China. Urbana University is affecting one life at a time, at the international, regional, state, and local level.

Let’s turn to your top goals as the vice president for Academic Affairs. - What are you focusing on?

First, sustaining academic quality. It’s the most important aspect in reaccreditation. We have the Higher Learning Commission, which is the North Central Accreditation, coming in to review our work on AQIP, an action improvement program. That is our number one goal; to retain accreditation. But to also make sure that we maintain our accreditation throughout all of our departments and colleges. Second, support faculty development and growth. Retaining faculty and students through quality programs and opportunities. Third, getting our brand and our awareness out into the community, both locally and regionally and even to the state level. UU is a wonderful place to obtain an education because we care about the individual, we’re

Campus News

passionate about teaching, and we are endeared to our students.

You’ve described yourself as a “people oriented, transformational administrator.” What drives you in this role?

I think the golden rule is to “do unto others”. While sometimes you have to make unpopular choices, it’s best for the University and the students. As long as we continue to do the right thing for the students, this University will continue to thrive and grow. How do you do that? You get people who are devoted and loyal to this University. And you do that by showing how much you care and what you’re trying to do with the University, as well. We look for our students to show that great passion in the classroom, that they’re excited about being there. I mean, we have to demonstrate that to our faculty and the staff and the students. I think you would agree that if I’m not happy to be here, it would make this a less enjoyable experience. I think that it really matters that we do unto others as we would have done onto ourselves and nowhere does it say self before others. We should think about others before self and I think that this type of institution does this well. Transformational? This University has to go through transformational change in order to keep up. Every institution does that. Developing an online program, developing outreach, that’s just what good universities do. So, we have to continue to grow and evolve as an institution. It’s people oriented and transformational understanding that is good for the University itself.

How far along is Urbana in exploring academic applications of the rapidly evolving new kinds of information technologies in the classroom and elsewhere in the educational enterprise?



7You know, we continue to progress technologically. Look at us; we’re getting ready to start our online programs. We’ve gone from traditional class settings, to blended class settings, and now we’re going to venture online. We have hired a firm that allows us to enter that arena. We are not going into it haphazardly or uninformed. We are going into it with vigor, energy, and enthusiasm. These folks are very dedicated to the cause and see our enthusiasm, as well. From that standpoint, we continue to grow as an institution. Does that mean we don’t have room to grow? Oh, absolutely we do. We are doing well, but every institution in the country could be doing better and we are in that boat, as well. We

continue to grow. What’s your take on the rankings race among universities?

Every institution is different, so the rankings are going to be different. We specialize in one student at a time and it is a tagline we take very serious. We also show our quality programs through our accreditations; not only with North Central, but the other accreditations we have with business training to education and so one. I see this University as one that is academically very good. We are not Harvard, nor do we try to be. So, to say that Harvard is number one or two

Campus News

Above: Dr. Kirk Peterson standing outside of Wentian College of Bohai University, Maanshan, Ji zu province. Peterson was visiting with the hopes to explore a partnership agreement with the university.


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and we are way down here, what does that mean? That we don’t have quality programs or in effect quality students? Absolutely not. We have great success stories. We should be judged by the people we produce or help produce rather than a magazine editor. We need to rank ourselves with regards to our accreditations and that is something that no one can discount because they are regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized.

Among the elements making Urbana more complex is its global scope, with international studies, international students, and rising interest in global research. Where is Urbana headed internationally?

In November, I came back from China; an amazing experience. We have very, very impressive partnerships in China. UU has international recognition there; we have name reconition. We need to continue to build on that and to broaden our study abroad programs. The world is much smaller than we think it is. It’s a thirteen hour flight from China. It’s not impossible to go there; with our online education, we are going to shrink the world even more. I am really excited about the potential we have to bring the values and mission of Urbana University to our partners across the seas. We are looking at a very strong and devoted international study abroad program.

Even as the University expands around the world, it obviously is also thinking about what it needs to do locally. What challenges face Urbana in creating needed facilities on its central campus?

We continue to explore ways to bring more funding to our faculty and programs. That is a challenge. Money is not everything, but it can certainly help us. Support for faculty is tremendous. In my office, it is vital that faculty have opportunities to grow professionally and personally. As the


VP for Academic Affairs, I obviously work with the senior team. It’s incredibly important that we continue to advance our programs; those are challenges we have, but they are ones that we are willing to meet face on. We’re not running from anything. We are here to stay; 160 years and counting!

Some folks say Urbana is too shy about touting its strengths and blowing its own horn. What do you think?

We have to continue to self-promote. Here’s the thing, although we have students mostly from Ohio, we also have students from Wisconsin down to North Carolina, and in other countries like China, Central America, and Europe. They are going to be our best spokespersons. If you walk away with a positive experience, how often will you promote this place? Students and alumni are the most important key to promoting the University. ■

Attend our Open House to learn about our Graduate Programs.

Click here to register for either June 7th or June 8th!


RenovatingA CAMPUS CLASSIC

Campus News

Bailey and Barclay Halls are iconic at Urbana University. The space housed laboratories, served as the backdrop for outdoor commencements, and in

recent years, housed the largest known collection of printed materials on Johnny Appleseed and a cider press, which was owned and used by the James family, now has its home in the Johnny Appleseed Museum.. Regardless of the time frame at Urbana, alumni remember the space.

When Bailey and Barclay Halls, the oldest two buildings on campus, were closed due to deterioration, the Appleseed program was the cornerstone of the campaign to raise the funds for the renovation of both buildings. The Appleseed Education Center & Museum opened in 1996 in historic Bailey Hall.

We proudly announce that the Appleseed Education Center & Museum celebrated a “grand reopening” in March, after receiving new funding from the Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission, the Johnny Appleseed Foundation Trustees, and the Johnny Appleseed Society members. The Museum and Center also received a cherished gift; the Holy Bible John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed) carried with him during his later years will be on display in the Appleseed Education Center & Museum for the first time.

The Appleseed Education Center & Museum hosts many visitors of all ages. It serves as a clearinghouse of information on John Chapman and provides consulting services. Visit the museum on your next trip or connect with Joe Besecker, director of the Appleseed Education Center & Museum, at (937) 484-1303 or [email protected].

Above: Special guest Job Conger from Springfield, Illinois, recites a poem about Johnny Appleseed written in 1921 by noted poet, Vachel Lindsay. Conger is a freelance journalist, poet, folk singer,and author.

Center: Finished Museum.

Like Johnny Appleseed on Facebook!


Campus News

Above: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (L-R) Tina Knotts, ChampaignCounty Chamber executive director; Dr. Stephen Jones, Urbana University president; Joe Besecker, Johnny Appleseed Society director; Betsy Coffman, ‘71, JA Foundation trustee; Dr. Frances Hazard, JA Foundation chairman; Carolyn Carr, Pat Thackery, Chamber board members; Ruth Zerkle, Mayor of Urbana; Jim Wilson, Chamber board member, and Max Coates, Champaign County commissioner.

Left: Barclay & Bailey Hall, home of the Johnny Appleseed Education Center & Museum.

Left: Author Howard Means speaks about his book Johnny Appleseed: The Man, The Myth, The American Story.

Below: Johnny Appleseed Museum director, Joe Besecker, and a volunteer Macy Ward pack items before renovation.



Campus News

UU UpdatesNEWS ABOUT URBANA

Photos Clockwise: 1 Urbana University is listed as a College of Distinction for 2010-1011. 2 Video of the Chinese memorial service. 3 President Stephen Jones completed his 163 mile bike ride and raised approximately$3,000 for the Champaign Co. Cancer Society. 4 Freshman Bethany Kramer plants pinwheels with her dad, a cancer survivor, while her mom looks on. Pinwheels were sold to honor loved ones who either won their battle with cancer or lost their fight. 5 An open forum with Congressman Jim Jordan in April provided discourse for the campus community and the public.

Right: Knitro, Urbana University’s official mascot, gets a group hug from children during the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day event.

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Click http://youtu.be/p5NZidDnX to watch part of the memorial service.


Campus News


Top Photo: With the rain bringing everyone inside the student center, UU students teach kids how to dance to the Macaraina during the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day.

Above: Urbana University Foundation hosted “A Taste of the Red, White, A Bluu” art auction and wine tasting event at the Miller Center for Visual Arts. Todd Woodruff was the auctioneer while UU students assisted in showing the art pieces.

Left: Reverend Dr. Ray Silverman served as the Swedenborg scholar-in-residence at Urbana University during April.


Glass MenagerieIN A BLACK BOX

For many alumni, “The Hub” has special meaning. It served as the Student Center; it was a place to meet friends, pick up mail, grab a bite to eat, and play

a round of foose ball. When the University completed the current Student Center in July 2006, The Hub didn’t stay vacant for very long - the first production in the Hub was The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde in the fall of 2006. That same academic year, it began to transform into The Black Box Theatre.

With the kitchen removed and an interior wall built for more space, students began painting the walls and floor black. “Black box theatres became so popular in the second half of the twentieth century that many colleges, universities and theater companies began building them as alternative spaces well suited for smaller and more intimate productions,” said Margaret Piatt, University Theatre Director. The first official production to inaugurate of The Black Box Theatre in the spring of 2008, was a trilogy of one act plays that featured boxes.

The seventh, full-length play, The Glass Menagerie, was performed because “it is appropriate for a college or university and because it is a coming of age story which focuses on intergenerational conflict,” reflected Piatt. Depending on the role, cast members estimated between 30-50 hours spent mastering their lines. Students helped plan and create the stage arrangement, lighting approach, scenery, and sound. The latter included composing, recording, and

Above: Student Cast of The Glass Menagerie - Josh Cain, Benjamin Miller, Noel Amend, and Kara Elias.

Campus News }

selecting pre-recorded music and sound effects. Students also worked on publicity, house management, make-up, costuming, and the development of an exhibit for the lobby on past productions.

Piatt envisions the Theatre expanding by continuing to involve students in producing plays representing different eras, styles, and genres. Piatt shared, “The study of theatre taught me how to work hard, how to see opportunities, how to get along well with others, and how to manage resources including time. I know it can do the same for our students at UU.” ■


Top Photo: Set of The Glass Menagerie in the Black Box Theatre. Inset: Black Box Theatre box office located in the lobby of The Hub.

Above: Laura Wingfield (played by student Noel Amend) reluctantly tells her mother that she is no longer attending school because of an insecure feeling.Above: Amanda Wingfield (played by student Kara

Elias) argues with her son Tom (played by student Benjamin Miller) about his evening activities.

“My first impression was that the Hub was a tiny, run-down box. Inside, I felt like I was truly in a theatre . . . The set for The Glass Menagerie was spectacular.”

- UU College of Education Student

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STUDENTspotlightCampus News

As an Urbana University student, James Teaters

III has a busy academic and social schedule. He

is a part of the A-team for bowling; second year

member of the Student Activities Committee; sports fan on

campus; and is working towards his degree in recreation.

What most people don’t see is the kind, sweet, giving, fun-

loving, family-oriented individual that makes up James.

James is a military brat, born in Germany, who lived in

different places until ending up in Centerville, Ohio. As

a young boy, James played several outdoor sports but was

allergic to pollen. After a near death reaction to pollen, his

parents decided that he should do something indoors. At

the age of 7, James started bowling; his parents have been a

constant support ever since. They invest around $21,000 a

year on James’ bowling.

And all the time and investment paid off. He has had six

perfect games, earning him the nickname “Mr. 300” and a

position on UU’s “stacked A team”, as he likes to refer to it. He

considers his bowling team a family away from home. “We

support, joke with, and challenge each other,” said James.

“Everyone is really nice and it was good to go somewhere

and be able to meet nice friendly people.”

James also loves working on his own self improvement.

He tries to always be positive in every situation. “I like

meditating. It keeps me calm. I don’t want to spend time

being upset about something when it is better just to be

relaxed.” He is also working on being less shy and coming

out of his shell. James uses bowling as his chance to let

people get to know him.

James dreams of becoming a professional bowler, but if that

doesn’t happen, he would love to work with kids. He wants

to teach them how to bowl and give them the opportunity to

learn something new in life. His other career choices range

from military to massage therapy. He wants a career that is

hands-on and will benefit other people, as well as himself.

“As long as I can touch lives and be challenged, I will be

happy,” said James with a smile. ■

by Jessie Flohre, ‘10


ALUMNIspotlightCampus News

After spending time in the corporate world, Michelle Lane said goodbye to the company car and business credit card to get back to her love

of learning. Lane, a 2002 graduate of Urbana University’s College of Education said, “My desire was to go back to school to become a teacher. I always enjoyed learning. The opportunity to learn continuously and obtain knowledge beame the primary motivation to enter the education program at Urbana University.”

Michelle’s expectations of the program were strongly met. “My husband and I bought a house in Zanesville. That meant that I had to stay local and I knew that Urbana catered to the non-traditional student. After exploring options, the

University class schedule fit my schedule. Once my daughter was born, the schedule was still accommodating and I was able to take summer courses,” she says. Michelle found significant value in the opportunity to build relationships. “What I loved about Urbana University right away was the class size. It became a support group and we worked through the troubles of life and class together. Lots of us were parents and non-traditional.” She tells her students at Ben Logan to look for a good fit.

For the past five years, Michelle has been “Mrs. Lane” teaching eighth grade language arts at Benjamin Logan Middle School. “The UU classroom wasn’t just lecture-based. It focused on useful skills. People skills. Because developing trust and rapport is what matters. Students have to believe what you say. I feel that UU allowed me to start with the student. What goes on in the student’s life impacts student learning. I learned that you have to start at the developmental level and then to hook them with the lesson. The rest is about content and the motivation to learn.”

Michelle works with Urbana University’s dual enrollment students from Ben Logan. She credits this program with helping her stay united with Urbana personally and professionally. “I feel very fortunate to have this renewed connection with Urbana. It’s introduced me back into the Urbana family and it’s fun to see how it’s changing and growing.” ■


Bill EdwardsA UNIVERSITY HONOR

Campus News

Gratitude and appreciation was abundant at the Recognition Program for Board of Trustee member Bill Edwards. Edwards served on the

Urbana University Board of Trustees since 1988 and as chairman of the Board for more than a decade. In June, he will pass the chairman’s gavel to Dr. J. Steven Polsley.

Polsley stated, “Mr. Edwards is a calming stabilizing visionary on the board. He’s been a visionary over the years on the Board having brought us over twenty-one million dollars in capital improvements to the University. This has generated buildings and a standard of student life that is far superior to anything prior to his term in presidency.”

Urbana University is grateful for Bill Edwards’ contributions, commitment, and talent. Thank you, Bill.

Top Photo: Dr. Stephen Jones (far right) and Board of Trustees member Allen Maurice (center) present Bill Edwards (left) with an Urbana University chair in his honor.

Above: President Jones (left) receives a check for $100,000 for the William G. Edwards Honors Program from Charles D. Lindberg representing the Austin E. Knowlton Foundation.

Above: Josh Deans, UU student and grandson of Bill Edwards, plays In My Life, by The Beatles to honor his grandfother and his accomplishments at Urbana University.


Global CONNECTIONS

Urbana University began recruiting students from China in 2002 by working

with Dr. Lee Lu, an emissary and friend of then President Robert Head. The initial years were dedicated to recruiting graduate students for the MBA program, which consisted of almost one-half Chinese students. As the program grew to over 60, so did the support for the program (with ESL classes becoming required), as

well as faculty and staff support, many of whom entertained students in their homes. In 2008, the decision was made to recruit undergraduate students from China and recruitment expanded to include students who, in addition to those seeking a business degree, are seeking degrees in education and criminal justice. The University continues to support this program sending representatives to China several times per year. UU works with over 15 universities throughout northern and southern China with plans to expand. The University’s goal is to have 100 Chinese students on campus. ■

Above: Liang Yaoneng, executive vice presidentat of the Auto College of South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province and Dr. Kirk Peterson, vice president of Academic Affairs of Urbana University each sign a letter of understanding regarding the exploration of a partnership agreement.

Campus News

by William Blizzard, PhDAssociate ProfessorCollege of Business Administration


Lancer NewsSTUDENT NEWSPAPER

Campus News

The long days of frigid temperatures and bland grey landscapes will soon give way to the energizing warmth and color of summer. These welcome

signs of growth and new life correspond with the release of UU student Theresa Elder-Rhine’s book Opal: Through the Eye of the Storm. Her biographical fiction book started out as a college paper, written nearly 15 years ago. She describes writing the book “as being a form of therapy for me.” Elder-Rhine sent it off to an online publisher and said, “I was absolutely amazed, to be honest” when an editor contacted her within hours of sending it out. The book is her personal story of overcoming a rough start in a home filled with chaos and devoid of love and guidance. After a long series of painful choices and disappointments, she realized that “no matter what you have been through, everyone is completely responsible to make it through life in a responsible, positive manner.”

Elder-Rhine, a sophomore, started at Urbana University as an education major in 2009. Her schooling has been done “in bits and pieces” at different schools and during many years of distractions and difficulties. But during those years Elder-Rhine learned that, “education is a gateway to whatever you want to accomplish in your life. It is truly the

one thing that no one can ever take away from you.” Now she is on-track, carrying a full load of classes, majoring in psychology and criminal justice. In fact, she may add history as another minor to help her with a historical fiction series she has recently begun to write. Opal: Through the Eye of the Storm was released in Ohio on April 11 and is available at the UU library. ■

Above: Opal: Through the Eye of the Storm author Theresa Elder-Rhine tells a recent campus library gathering about writing her biographical fiction book. Photo by The Lancer.

Urbana is through the Eye of the Stormby Ann Tantlinger, Lancer Correspondent


Campus News

Baseball is not something that can be taken lightly when it comes to the history of sports and the greatest athletes ever to walk this earth. It is a

passion that enters a man’s heart, filling a spot that can only be filled with a slide into second, hitting a home run or pitching a third strike. Only for a few does this enticing love for playing on a “Field of Dreams” remain with a man as long as he lives. But, this man is well on his way. Urbana University student and baseball player, Wes Bright, will display his adoration for the sport by putting his baseball collection on exhibit in the library on campus.

“I have been collecting autographed cards ever since I was little,” said Bright. “I collected mostly baseball cards. My first signed card was Ruben Sierra. I really liked him and decided to send him a letter with his card, asking him to sign it. After that, I started writing other players (as I was) growing up.” Bright is a junior majoring in recreation. In February, he offered to share the African-American part of his collection for Black History month. With Bright having such a large collection, he and Julie McDaniel, UU’s head librarian, decided to display a greater variety of it at the end of March when the MLB season begins. “For the display cases, we try to pick subjects of interests to students,” said McDaniel. “We know a lot of student-athletes come in to visit the library, and hopefully our baseball players will see the display.”

In his collection, Bright has obtained signed and autographed cards, baseballs, pictures and newspaper clippings, gloves, bats, a couple of batting helmets, and jerseys. He said that it’s “massive.” The display in the library will feature a bat signed by Jackie Robinson as the centerpiece and all other items arranged around it. Bright said, “I want to put up a display that will make a good representation of baseball,

Take Urbana out to the Ballgameby Amanda Rockhold, Lancer Staff Writer

period. Sometimes students need to promote their sports and a lot of students may have never seen some of the things in my collection because it was all before their time.”

Within his collection, Bright also has items from foreign players from games in the Korean and Japanese programs. He said, “It’s neat to watch different leagues. I have always wanted to see a Cuban game because they take the game of baseball super serious.” Bright has been on UU’s baseball team for three years now, but has not played due to injuries. During his college career in baseball, he broke his left hand, tore a tendon in his right palm, and had surgery on his nose. Though his injuries have hindered him from playing on the field, Bright does plenty to keep himself busy. Aside from

Above: Former Blue Knight baseball player Wes Bright places a picture of all-star pitcher Jim “Mudcat” Grant in his exhibit at the campus library, displayed just in time for today’s MLB opener. Photo by Amanda Rockhold, Lancer Staff Writer.

. . . continued


Campus News

going to school full-time and being a father, he is a volunteer. He tutors at Graham High School and Elementary School, mentors two Cub Scout packs, is a 4-H adviser, and coaches youth soccer and baseball.

Bright said that he never would have imagined playing on the UU baseball team. But, by being on the team, he hopes to teach his son that “if you want something, just do it. You can make it happen.”

An Urbana native, he grew up running around Grimes ballpark as a kid; he has passed this onto his oldest son, Gavin. Gavin saw his first live baseball game at UU when he was two years old. This college athlete did not play baseball in high school but in his back yard or down the street with the neighborhood kids. Right after he graduated high school, Bright went straight into basic training at the age of 17 and served the military for 11 ½ years. But, throughout those years he never stopped loving baseball and never stopped collecting. “I absolutely love it!” he said. ■

Take Urbana out to the Ballgame, continued . . .

Cheers and Farewell to Art Barnes!

The Lancer is a legend at Urbana University and we wish

The Lancer faculty advisor and member Art Barnes well in his retirement!

Britany Nicole Bodkins ’06: “I absolutely owe so much to Professor Barnes! He was the best part of the journalism program-such an amazing advisor for The Lancer. It was a pleasure being an editor under him! He is truly irreplaceable!”

Braxton Williams ’12: “The communications major is a great area to grow and hone your skills in writing and journalism. Not only do you learn skills to get you through classes, but with great teaching from Mr. Barnes and Dr. Bryant, you learn and attain attributes you can carry with you into the real world.”

Christina Bruun-Horrigan, Director of University Relations: “Art’s thoughtfulness, insight, and passion for the University will be greatly missed.”


Campus News


Alumni Happenings

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Alumni Happenings

February 16

Alumni Basketball GameUU alumni, family, and friends gathered in the Warren G. Grimes gymnasium to root on the Lady Blue Knights and Blue Knights basketball teams during the double-header games against Name.

April 9Dayton Dragons Baseball GameMore than 45 alumni, ACE students at the Dayton-Kettering site, and friends gathered in the Dragons Lair to watch the Dayton Dragons take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods.

April 16

Alumni Soccer GameAn annual spring event, UU men’s and women’s soccer alumni played a match against our current Blue Knights in a fun-filled day of soccer. The event benefited the Andia Shisler Memorial Fund, which was established in 2009 to honor the memory of Urbana University student Andia Shisler. A social followed the event.

Calendar of events

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Friday, July 29 - Urbana, OHGolf ScrambleSupport our Athletic Department and student-athletes by participating in the Athletics Department Golf Scramble. Registration covers greens fees for 18 holes with a cart, after golf appetizers, and lunch at Woodland Golf Club. The 2011 Blue Knight Golf Scramble has sponsorship opportunities available. Doug Young coordinates the event and can be reached at (937) 484-1308 or [email protected].

Saturday, October 15 - On Campus‘A Knight with the Stars’ - HomecomingStart your fall off right and show that you’re a Blue Knight! Last year’s homecoming brought more than 3,000 persons to campus, many for the game and others who came to renew acquaintances and reconnect with the University. Join us in this celebration of homecoming! More details to follow.

Need a place to stay? Think ahead and reserve a room. See a list of local accommodations or call the Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau toll free at (877) 873-5767.

Monday, August 8 - Urbana, OH Champaign Co. FairVisit the Urbana University booth in the Merchant’s Building for your free alumni gift!

Saturday, August 13 - Versailles, OHA Knight with the Stars - HomecomingCelebrate summer and reconnect with alumni at Sideliners Sports Bar and Grille from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sideliners is located at 17 East Main Street and the event is being hosted by Ron (’72) and Karen Mescher. Appetizers will be provided. Contact Alumni Relations with questions at (937) 484-1282.

**If you are interested in hosting an event in your city, contact the Alumni Relations Office at (937) 484-1282 or e-mail [email protected].

1 Dragon BB: Sondra Guenther, ‘05 enjoyed time with family at the Dayton Dragons game. 2 Alumni Soccer: Seniors supporting the Andia Shisler Memorial Fund. 3 Dragon BB: The Fondriest and Oglesbee family spell fun . . . and Blue Knights! 4 Alumni BB: A few of our favorite “Blast from the Past” alumni. 5 Alumni Soccer: These alumni soccer players are Blue Knights in Shining armor. 6 Wine Tasting: Lin Giampetro ‘97 with husband Tom Riley at the Red, White, and BlUU Wine Tasting. 7 Alumni Soccer: Say Cheese! Once a Blue Knight, always a Blue Knight.


Alumni Happenings

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ALUMNI Advisory Board Members

Alumni Happenings

Urbana University dates back 160 years and is a long standing institution. Alumni are a critical component of the evolution from Urbana Schools, to Urbana Junior College, to Urbana College, and Urbana University. We are grateful for the numerous alumni who have provided valuable leadership to Alumni Relations throughout the years.

Currently, alumni representatives from a wide-range of graaduation years and academic interests comprise the Alumni Advisory Board. Board members are leaders

“I want to develop a new connection with the University for other alumni, the current students, as well as myself. I want to continue to be connected to Urbana University and build on my experiences. ”

- Kiya Starr Hunt ‘00Chair, Alumni Advisory Board

}and are each appreciated for their contributions. Representatives work with the Office of Alumni Relations to support institutional values, strengthen connections, define programming, and provide leadership to Alumni Relations. Board meetings are quarterly and e-mails for members can be found online. Alumni are encouraged to contact Board members with ideas, questions and concerns.

**If you would like to contact the Alumni Board, please contact

the Alumni Relations Office at (937) 484-1282 or [email protected].

Robert (Bill) Bean ‘71Elizabeth (Betsy) Coffman ’71Owen Donelon ‘10Herbert (Herb) Greer ‘71Robert (Bob) Harrison ‘78Theodore (Trip) Hopkins III ’97Amy Kemp ‘00Kent Miller ‘82Steven Moore ‘72Eric Music ‘98

John Parker ‘08Kiya Starr Hunt ‘00Cynamyn Williams ‘07Kyle Wunderlich ‘05 Staff Representative TBD Student Government Rep TBD

ALUMNI ADVISORY BOARD


Alumni Happenings

CLASSNOTES1949Paul Price lives in Urbana with his wife Barbara and was the alumni spotlight in the winter 2011 edition of the Urbana Update, the alumni and friends magazine.

1961Hayla Parker is currently serving as adjunct faculty for Urbana University.

1968Jack Draper goes by “Panama Jack” Draper at a local oldies station that is out of the Dayton area.

John Stegner taught 30 years in the Kentucky Public Schools, retired, then taught a couple of years at the University of Kentucky. He currently teaches at the University of the Cumberlands, and at Bluegrass Community and Technical College, in Lexington.

1972Steve Moore retired as Special Education Director from Delaware/Union Educational Services Center. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

1974Frank Drain was named Ohio Hi-Point Career Center’s 2010 Outstanding New Career and Technical Education Teacher. Drain teaches at Hi-Point’s Aviation Occupations Satellite School in Bellefontaine, Ohio.

1979Sharon Williams has used her English degree from UU to edit and publish a monthly magazine for her church in Western Canada.

1982Kent Miller is a retired business owner and works as a commercial pilot. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

1996Theodore Hopkins works as an Admissions Counselor at Ohio Dominican University. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

1998Eric Music is the Athletic Director at Beechcroft High School. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

Verna Byers moved back to the Ohio area and is writing her first novel. You can contact her at [email protected].

2000Yvette Grice is a cancer survivor after two years of treatments. With a grim prediction of only one year to survive stomach cancer, her oncologist announced that she was cancer-free.

Kiya Starr-Hunt is the Assistant Principal at Pickerington High School Central. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.


Alumni Happenings

Amy Kemp works as the Director of Manufacturing Operations. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

2001Brian Baum was selected the Ohio High school Division V co-coach of the year.

2002Authur Caudill was named head baseball coach at Bellefontaine High School.

2005Kyle Wunderlich works as the General Manager for the Cintas Corporation. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

2006Cynamyn Williams works as the Human Resources and Safety Manager for Enkon LLC. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

2008Kristen Auel plays for the Columbus Comets, a full contact women’s football team with the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA). She ranks third on the team with 316 rushing yards and averages more than 10 yards per carry.

Melanie McKenzie works as the Advancement Services Manager at Urbana University. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

John Parker works as the Senior Athletic Program Coordinator for the City of Dayton. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

2009Kandalyn Stevenson released a musical album with her sister. Group name is Nyla and album is “Now or Never” and was released in December 2010.

2010Owen Donelon works as a recruiter at Maximum Healthcare. Accepted Alumni Advisory Board position at Urbana University.

Kristen Shoppe works in Flordia with the Barnum and Bailey Circus as an elephant trainer.

Marriages2003Kristie (Zeller) Stathopoulos married Andy Stathopoulos on June 12, 2010.

2005Bryan Conlon married Shannon Holt on June 19, 2010, at Starkdale Presbyterian Church in Wintersville, Ohio.

Kelly Robison, ‘05, ‘07 married Allan Robison on July 17th, 2011.

2007Tristen Wolfe, ‘07 and Emily (Campbell) Wolfe, ‘08, ‘10 were married on January 6, 2011 in Ocho Rios Jamaica and now reside in New Mexico.


Alumni Happenings

2008Laura (Gillaugh) Cross, ‘08 and Craig Cross, ‘09 were married on October 2, 2010. Laura an enriched curriculum teacher at Bright Beginnings in Greene County.

Deaths1947Harry Umbenhauer passed away on November 13, 2010 in Springfield Regional Medical Center.

1950William Hanna passed away on December 12, 2010.

1963Betty Murray passed away on November 12, 2010.

1972Catherine Knife passed away after a five-year struggle with cancer.

1973Russell Algren passed away July 12, 2010 after a short illness.

Marcella Brandeberry lost her battle with cancer in December 2009.

Rebekah Nettles passed away February 17, 2010.

1975Stephen Harris passed away June 22, 2010.

Martin Watkins passed away September 2009.

1989Neil Moore passed away in a single plane crash in Delaware County on July 29, 2010.

2005Melanie Casey passed away on January 2, 2011 in Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus OH.

2008Bart Hunton passed away on February 25, 2011.

SympathyCharles Weiland ‘70, his two daughters, Christy Dockweiler and Stephanie Weiland, and one grandchild, Erin Rose Dockweiler, on the passing of his wife on December 21, 2009.

Gillaugh-Cross Wedding

Stay Connected!

We want to hear from you! Submit your class notes to

[email protected]


Alumni Happenings

REMEMBERWHEN. . .

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!Please send your news to [email protected] information may be edited to fit Special conStraintS.

pleaSe include your claSS year aS well aS a daytime phone number at which you may be reached.


Athletics

Blue KnightsIN SHINING JERSEYS

What makes a team? Teamwork. This spring, the Blue Knight football team had clear instructions. Score in the local community

through community service. Urbana University’s head football coach and alumnus Dave Taynor, ’99 explained the thinking behind the team’s goal of making a difference. Taynor stated, “The idea of putting the players in charge of their own community service has many benefits. It allows them to organize a project, become part of the community, and it helps build team unity.”

If you’re in town, you might see our Blue Knights at the Urbana City elementary schools, the Sterling House, Second Harvest Food Bank, or assisting with the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day.

Carolyn Kindell, Life Enrichment Coordinator for Sterling House of Urbana, expressed gratitude after their partnership began and wrote, “In your one single visit, the men of Sterling House expressed renewed pride in who they are as men. You all made them feel a part of a team and part of a group of capable men. As for our women, you made them feel special, loved, and treasured.”

Urbana University is about building pride, character, and relationships. “I don’t know who enjoys these projects more, our players or the people they are working with,” assistant coach Tobias Tuomi, MEd, ’11 observed during the team’s community service. The Blue Knight football team goes the extra mile and with football season quickly approaching, we are confident it will pay off for our students on and off the field.

Top Photo: Students and coach David Barr served pizza to kids and families before movie night on campus in the Moore Center.

Above: Ethan Bakley reads Game Day by Tiki and Ronde Barber to childern at South Elementry School in Urbana.


Athletics

Top Photo: The Blue Knight football team visits residents at the Sterling House, an assisted living residence in Urbana.

Above: Football players volunteer at the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, an annual event held at Urbana University’s Student Center.

Above: A student unloads boxes of food to give to the Second Harvest Food Bank in Urbana.


Urbana UniversityOffice of Alumni Relations579 College WayUrbana, Ohio 43078

Some individuals find that they can make a larger gift to Urbana University upon their death than they could have during their lifetime. If you have ever considered a bequest to UU through your Will, need more information, or would like to discuss this possibility, please contact Jim Thornton, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Communications, at (937) 484-1287 or [email protected].

Leave a Legacy

1976 Commencement ceremony outside of Barclay and Bailey Halls.

Documents

Urbana Update, Sping/Summer 2011