MVC's Alumni Magazine
VIKING VIEWS MVC ALUMNI MAGAZINE
A HALF-CENTURY OF TOGETHERNESS Valley Becomes Integral Part of Cortis' Life - Again
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2025
A PUBLICATION OF MISSOURI VALLEY COLLEGE
ON THE COVER
MISSOURI VALLEY C O L L E G E
David and Jill Corti, married for 50 years, returned to Missouri Valley College, becoming active alumni after successful careers and they have honored the school with a legacy gift. page 4
MISSION: Guiding students to succeed through personal instruction and intellectual inquiry.
EDITORIAL STAFF Scott Queen Executive Director of Marketing & VIKING VIEWS 2025
BIOLOGY ALUMS CONNECT WITH STUDENTS 14 | TABLE OF CONTENTS
17 | LIBRARY OF THE FUTURE 18 | A CHAMPION WORK ETHIC David Lowe Puts the Brakes on Fast-Paced Life 20 | HOMECOMING Rockin' Since 1889
Communications Kameron Godsey Graphic Designer Andy Pulverenti Sports Information Director
PRESIDENT'S CABINET Dr. Joe Alsobrook Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Online Operations Dr. Cynthia Bice Vice President of Academic Affairs Derek Bohnsack Director of Admissions & Financial Aid Dan Grigg Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations Gary Heisserer Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning Alicia Jones Senior IT App Development Director Marsha Lashley Registrar Scott Queen Executive Director of Marketing Dr. Terry Russell Vice President of Student Affairs Jada Sherry Acting Vice President of Finance Tim Schulte Vice President of Operations Viking Views is published for alumni, faculty, staff, trustees and friends of Missouri Valley College. Our goal is to produce a lively, informative publication that stimulates pride and interest in Missouri Valley College.
24 | MCCALLUM AWARD A Focus On Experiential Learning, Continuous Improvement
ED LESLIE Passes Away at Age 84 26 |
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A note from the President...
OUR ALUMNI CONTINUE TO DO GREAT THINGS!
Welcome to this edition of the Viking Views! Can you tell that we have alumni who are doing great things? David ’74 and Jill Corti ’74 are on the cover, and they are golden individuals who have stepped up and shown their love for Valley in a big way. And I can’t help but be proud of Amy Moore ’98. She is one of the most impressive teachers I’ve met in my life. Her successes are documented on page 13. Then there’s David Lowe ’72. If there is a definition of successful entrepreneur, he is it! I have seen that impressive car collection of his. But what is even more impressive is his story of grit, determination, and success chronicled on pages 18-19. Our Outstanding Alumni for 2024 are recognized on pages 22-23, and you can find our newest Hall of Famers on page 35. This magazine is full of alumni heroes out there doing great things. A couple of the greatest in Valley history, Ron ’64 and Mary Lou Porter ’64, were honored in December as recipients of the President’s Medallion at the annual President’s Society Gala. Those are just a few of the alums featured in our magazine. But there are so many more of you out there who are worthy of recognition. And I cannot say enough about the philanthropic work done by Sue Heckart ’61, who has done so very much for the Sedalia community. Because of her generosity, they recently named an amazing community center after her. And Sue played a big role in bringing the performing arts center at Smith-Cotton High School to fruition. Finally, a new bowling alley called Memory Lanes will be open in 2026 thanks to Heckart. Congratulations, Sue! Last, I want to brag about our students. We have three upcoming Honors College graduates going on to do great things academically at the next level. First is Allexis Lark, who is heading to Southwest Baptist for her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. We’re sending Leonardo Borzaga to New York University to get his master’s in quantitative finance. And Paula Romero appears headed to Clemson University for her PhD in applied mathematics. Valley is doing great things!!!
Sincerely,
Dr. Joe Parisi, President
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A HALF-CENTURY OF TOGETHERNESS Valley Becomes Integral Part of Cortis' Life - Again
By SCOTT QUEEN
David and Jill Corti sat in their living room one morning in the fall telling 50 years of stories. They took turns, steadily explaining a fast-paced journey of love and respect, with a little humor sprinkled in. After a while, they went outside to enjoy one of the last days of warm sunshine, and took a ride on the side- by-side across their vast Missouri Century Farm near Lexington. The stories continued. Both instinctively knew what the other would say. After all, these accounts are treasured memories. More than fifty years ago, they met in the cafeteria on their first day at Missouri Valley College. They became great friends, and had a few things in common, including their major: American Humanics. David was very clear about the “friends” label on their relationship. He was laser-focused on his career plan– working for the Boy Scouts. “Mr. Corti said he wouldn’t have time for a wife and family,” Jill said with a grin. “So we hung out together and became good friends.” They remained friends, and the relationship grew. Summers came, and they missed each other. And the “friends” thing went by the wayside. Their time on campus passed quickly. They were on the three-and-a-half-year plan. When 1974 arrived, it was graduation time. Wedding time. Career time.
David’s long career as a scout executive started in Sikeston, MO. Then Des Moines for eight years. Dallas. Cleveland. Cincinnati too. He loved being in the field, but his management and fundraising skills took him in a different direction. One of his proudest achievements is developing the national Scouting For Food program. During those early days in Sikeston, Jill was volunteering for the Sikeston Cerebral Palsy Center when she had a chance to meet Kenny Rogers during the local Jaycees Rodeo. It’s one of their favorite stories. When the very generous Rogers quietly asked if there were any good charities in the area, Jill, along with the Jaycees, was quick to present the CP Therapy Center to him. They were so convincing that he donated a prized Arabian Stallion. Then he did a benefit concert at her request. Then another. And another. Eventually, the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center in Sikeston came to fruition. “When you are married to a scouter and moving around, it’s kind of hard to get into your field,” Jill said. So she worked for the local newspaper as a researcher. Then she earned a spot as the wire editor. Then women’s page editor, and assistant managing editor. A new twist happened in Des Moines. Jill took a job in a group dental practice, managing the business operations. She was really good at it. And as David’s jobs sent them from town to town, she too was able to find quality work in this field.
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Her success in this role continued, into the 1990s. But life took a turn with the passing of Jill’s father in 1993, and she became the primary owner of the family’s farm corporation. The farm had been the subject of many a family discussion over the years—her grandfather had been very concerned about the family farm’s future back in the 1970s and how to ensure that it would be passed to future generations and not broken apart in probate court. Jill had taken a business law class with Professor Scott Campbell, and wondered if a family farm could be incorporated. She talked to Scotty and shared the idea with the family, and the farm was incorporated in 1975. With little knowledge about the business of farming, Jill once again called on Scotty Campbell in 1993 and asked for help. During a visit to campus, Scotty provided the help and resources she needed. Managing the day-to-day decisions for a farm from hundreds of miles away was difficult. And nearly 15 years after the passing of Jill’s father, they moved back to continue managing the farm’s operation. That meant retirement for David after an exemplary career with the scouts, but it also meant the Cortis were about to reconnected with their alma mater. “The football team was really good, and we thought it would be fun to come to a game,” David said. “And that was it. Valley drew us back in.” Jill said “We were home.” David became president of the alumni board at MVC, and his first term on the board of trustees started in 2014. He now chairs the institutional advancement committee. “The more we got involved the more we realized what Valley did for us and how Valley shaped us,” David said. “It really made us who we are.” The Cortis have developed a fondness for women’s basketball, campus beautification, and other projects. But it is clear women’s basketball is No. 1, evidenced by Jill’s winning bid of $2,750 at the Missouri Valley College Athletic Auction to be Coach for a Day. At Homecoming this fall, the Cortis celebrated their 50-year reunion with classmates. Jill donated her 1974 Humanics class ring to the Alumni Museum. And the Cortis honored the alma mater in the best way they knew how, by updating a legacy gift in their estate. During the weekend, they got to spent time with Scotty Campbell. And they make have talked a little about family farms, business law, and being home. Once a Viking, always a Viking.
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RIBBON CUTTING WELCOMES NEW CAMPUS BUILDING
More than 200 community leaders, alumni, faculty, staff and students gathered in August to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Missouri Valley College’s Julie Ann Deems Julien School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Special tribute was paid to Don Julien and Tawnya Neal, who provided the lead gift in memory of wife and mother, Julie. Tawnya Neal spoke on behalf of her father, and said the building was a fitting legacy. She expressed gratitude that the building will be a benefit to the entire community. Missouri Valley College President Joe Parisi said the 17,000 square foot building was more than a beautiful structure, but a hub for “learning and dreaming …that adds so much to our campus culture.” Parisi also recognized Angela Littrell, President and CEO of Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, for providing a home to the nursing school for many years. He said Fitzgibbon is a wonderful community partner and a key asset to the MVC nursing program. He also recognized many other foundations, donors, and partners. Other speakers included MVC Board of Trustees Chairman Matt Huston, Assistant Professor Deanna Donnell, and nursing graduate Christina Bersano. The building was open for business hosted its first official classes on August 26.
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MISSOURI VALLEY REPORTS RECORD ENROLLMENT There is an academic renaissance happening in Marshall, Missouri. Recent campus reinvestment projects at Missouri Valley College exploded into record student enrollments in fall '24– with the college seeing a 14 percent increase in the student population. MVC's preliminary numbers showed an on-campus population of 1,564. President Joe Parisi said this is a “never seen before” record on the campus. The increase was generated through 709 new students, up from last year’s 542, and far outpaces MVC’s most aggressive projections. “When you put these impressive enrollment numbers together with our retention increase, it really is unprecedented,” said Parisi. “Needless to say, our residence halls are full, and we are aggressively exploring options for additional housing for next year.” These numbers are the direct result of the numerous new facilities, programs, and improvements at Missouri Valley. In just the past 12 months, the College has constructed two new buildings – the Julie Ann Deems Julien School of Nursing and Health Sciences, and Marshall Village, a new 31-bed residence hall. New degrees in cybersecurity and RN to BSN nursing have been introduced along with a new master’s degree in education, and plans are already drawn up for new residence halls to accommodate additional growth next year. The College has also worked hard to improve the student's overall campus experience, including more in-demand food options through a Viking Express grab and go outlet and a new Micro Market C-store for after-hours purchases, in addition to increased layers of security with 90-plus cameras at various locations. Parisi noted students are also pleased and excited by the College’s reinvestment with new renovations at MacDonald Hall, upgraded air conditioning at the Morrison Gym, and an innovative new partnership with Burrell Behavioral Health focusing on improved mental health options for students. Something the College is particularly proud of is the grade point average of incoming freshmen this past year – 3.11, another campus record. To add to the College's recent academic achievements are the 130 Heart of America Athletic Conference scholar-athletes announced in the summer, more than any other school in the 14-team HAAC! MVC is growing in just about every area, including the online population, and in graduate studies. This year’s across-the-board increases have outpaced every historical growth spurt including those seen in 2010 and 2018. This is the second consecutive year Missouri Valley has seen enrollment growth. There are a multitude of reasons for the increases, Parisi said, but one of the biggest is a 36 percent increase in domestic students, with much of that increase coming from our back yard right here in mid-Missouri. Finally, Missouri Valley had a 14 percent increase in retention over just two short years.
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President's G A L A
Vice President Dan Grigg, left, served as the emcee for this year's President's Society Gala. And Caleb Bergman '23 delivered an incredible speech on the benefits of supporting scholarships. President Joe Parisi delivered great news on planned gifts (next page).
PORTERS HONORED AT PRESIDENT’S GALA
Ron ’64 and Mary Lou ’64 Porter were introduced in December as the 2024 recipients of the prestigious President’s Medallion for their legendary servant leadership at Missouri Valley College. The couple were recognized during the President’s Society Gala in December. Many of their family members and Missouri Valley’s most generous donors were in the crowd for the special moment. “Ron and Mary Lou exceed the qualifications and standards for this honor,” said President Joe Parisi. “Their sacrifices to this college are countless and extraordinary. Their passion for Valley fuels their effort to make the campus a better place.
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$12.3 Million
IN PLANNED GIFTS FOR MVC
Missouri Valley College has successfully documented and secured over $12.3 million in planned gifts and estate commitments over the past year. This historic milestone is a testament to the generosity and commitment of the college’s supporters and alumni, who recognize the impact that MVC continues to have on students, faculty, and the community. “This will be transformational support for the college,” he said. “Missouri Valley impacts so many lives and hearts. This generosity will help ensure that MVC remains a place where students receive an exceptional education and are prepared to thrive in their careers and communities.” The planned gifts and estate commitments will provide significant support to the college’s endowment, scholarships, academic programs, facilities, and various student-focused initiatives. The funding will have a lasting effect on the college’s ability to serve future generations of students, offering opportunities for growth and development both inside and outside the classroom. “We are incredibly grateful to our donors who have made this investment in the future of Missouri Valley College,” Parisi added. “Their commitment reflects their belief in our mission and the impact our institution has had on countless lives. We look forward to continuing to provide impactful educational experiences for our students.”
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Missouri Valley College President Joe Parisi has welcomed two veteran fund raisers— Senior Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations Dan Grigg and Vice President of Institutional Advancement Brent Davison—to the campus. The two built an experienced support team, including Director of Institutional Advancement Dallas Hopping, Director of Advancement Services Meagan Leap, and Campaign Coordinator Danielle Gutsman. Grigg has 25 years in fundraising and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Denver. He worked most recently at Indiana Tech where he had great success managing the “Building for a Century of Excellence” campaign, which raised over $30 million. He spent six years at Texas Christian University, finishing a $250 million campaign early with $434 million. He also worked as vice president for advancement at Lindenwood University, and executive director for advancement at Liberty Christian School in Texas. “Dan is a such a friend-raiser and has never met a stranger,” said President Parisi. “He is a great fit at Missouri Valley.” Davison has more than 28 years of experience in fundraising and advancement leadership. He comes to Valley from King University in Tennessee, where he created a new strategic fundraising plan that grew gifts by 353 percent in his first year. He had led two successful comprehensive fundraising campaigns, one at the University of North Texas that raised $203 million and another at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor that raised $85 million. Davison has also led advancement efforts at the World Golf Foundation, American Quarter Horse Foundation, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, and began his career in fundraising at Kansas State University. He is skilled in charitable gift planning and has booked more than $200 million in planned gifts. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Southwest Baptist University. “Brent will run our planned giving efforts and manage the growth of our annual fund,” Parisi said. “He is motivational and inspirational and will do a wonderful job overseeing the team’s day-to-day efforts.” Hopping is well-known in the Marshall area as well. He has served as a key member of the leadership team at the Salt Fork YMCA as program director since 2021. He successfully juggled volunteer coordination, budgeting management, sponsorship solicitation, and program growth. Prior to the YMCA, Hopping worked as a new account representative at Wood & Huston Bank. Leap , from Higgisville, spent six years as a paralegal before her arrival at MVC. Prior to that, she was a teacher for three years and she spent seven years as a nutritionist. She has a bachelor’s and a master’s from the University of Central Missouri. Gutsman is Valley’s new campaign coordinator, a key role on the fundraising team. She is a positive and upbeat administrative professional, who excels in just about anything she does. “Building the right team is important in leadership, and it is absolutely crucial this summer as we look forward to the next year and accomplishing our lofty fundraising goals,” said Parisi. “I’m proud of this team and I can’t wait to see where they take us.” NEW ADVANCEMENT TEAM HAS NO SHORTAGE OF EXPERIENCE
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Why Your Support Matters
MISSOURI VALLEY C O L L E G E
Caleb Bergman Alma, Missouri Pursuing Master’s in Education Administration
An exceptional athlete in high school and a star on the baseball team, Caleb received numerous scholarship offers, but it was Missouri Valley that stole his heart. Caleb explained that it was not only the opportunity to play collegiate sports or the financial package he was looking for, but it was how the funds were offered. “They offered me just enough money so I could get my education, but not too much that money would be wasted when it could go to another student that needs it.” As a compassionate person by nature, it is no wonder Caleb was inspired by the idea of going into the education field and helping to improve the way kids are taught and how they learn. “I feel very lucky. My family has always supported me along the way, and I am grateful for the generous financial support I received from the college,” Caleb says. It is the kindness of the friends and alumni who give back to the school that helps to recruit passionate, bright minds like Caleb who don’t just talk about changing the world but take active steps to do so.
“I want to get my PhD, and then I want to work for the Department of Education where I can make a difference.”
Support MissouriValley College by purchasing a personalized brick for the LegacyWalkway between Baity Hall and the Ferguson Center. Help us reach our goal of 250 bricks this year, honoring alumni and loved ones.Your $1,000 contribution supports the Excellence Fund, enhancing academics, technology, and campus improvements. Secure your brick today and leave a lasting legacy. Thank you for your support!
To purchase your brick today contact Megan Leap, Director of Advancement Services By Phone: 660-831-4308 | Email: leapm@moval.edu
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PROFESSOR SHARES ‘WHAT HE LOVES’ AND STUDENTS WIN
Missouri Valley College students have no idea of the incredible and unique experience they will encounter when they sign up for a course crossing the disciplines of theatre, history, communications, business, English, and non-profit management. The class is called Voices of Arrow Rock Production, and it is taught by Dr. Michael Kateman. It is built around a readers’ theatre series called The Voices of Arrow Rock. Two students last year, Tru Naumovitz and Finn Geiger, would become associate producers of “The Consummate Showman,” a historical fiction production on a man named Doc Brown, an entertainer and local celebrity in Kansas City known for “cakewalking,” a kind of dance. The production was on May 4, 2024 at Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock, Mo. “He wanted to share what he loves – Arrow Rock,” Naumovitz said. “He wanted to share it with us and help enrich us.” Naumovitz, now a sophomore at Missouri Valley who just won a national championship in speech and debate, said he handled much of the communications on the production, doing research on marriages, deaths, births, etc. and coordinating press coverage. He also successfully wrote a grant.
“There are always a lot of theoretical classes,” Naumovitz said, “but this was so practical and hands- on and real-world,” he said. “Michael was looking over our shoulders a bit, but he placed a lot of trust in us.’ Kateman is an adjunct professor at Missouri Valley College, and spent 35 years in higher education advancement and communications, having worked at both the University of Missouri and Columbia College. “It’s so meaningful to know that you’ve had a positive influence on students’ lives,” Kateman said. This spring’s class is no different. Noel Nunn-Faron, a sophomore from O’Fallon, Mo., was the stage manager for The Great Protector. Nunn-Faron and her classmates, wrote a successful grant through the Buckner Foundation to put on the production in early April. She worked alongside classmates Steven Teteh, Ethan Quarchioni, and Patrick Hauschildt. “It was an incredible experience,” said Nunn-Faron, who plans on taking the class again. “I’ll be the director next time”
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SHE’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR -- FIVE TIMES OVER
By SCOTT QUEEN
Amy Trautmann-Moore ’98 could very well be one of the most decorated teachers in the country. She was selected as Teacher of the Year this past year at her school – Westdale Heights Academic Magnet School – in Baton-Rouge, La., the same year she was recognized as an Outstanding Educator by Exxon Mobile. She was also teacher of the year in Natchitoches, La., Bossier, La., Tyler, Texas, and even in Sedalia, when she started her teaching career in education. Every stop along the way, she digs deep, learns what’s new, and figures out what’s best for students. “I grow every time we move,” she said, referring to the coaching career of her husband, Jeff Moore, also an MVC alum. “It’s important not to get stuck and to adapt and immerse yourself in the next wonderful environment with new and knowledgeable people.” Moore said one of her guiding philosophies in her career has been to have a growth mindset, and the other is simply open communication. “It’s about having a plan when you hit the wall and your mind is telling you ‘no,’” she said. “And as far as communication goes, all of my kids’ parents have my cell number. Home and school are intertwined…they can stop in, call me, or text me. When everyone is working together, it all works so much better.” Moore double majored in education and special education while at Missouri Valley. She also met her future husband, Jeff, in Marshall.
“Missouri Valley prepared me so well,” she said. “I was totally ready to become a teacher. And I’m so grateful for the faculty and the great adjuncts. I specifically remember Earl Wellborn and Dennis Ehlert channeling me toward that additional degree in special education. It was definitely the right thing to do.” Amy and her Missouri Valley roommate, Stephanie Meisenheimer-Jackson both studied education. “We played basketball together our freshman year,” she said. “After that I went on to play just volleyball and Stephanie played just softball. Stephanie went on to become an amazing principal in the Sedalia School District.” She said she and Jeff had mutual friends and met at the gym, and eventually, went on a date. They ended up being around each other quite a bit because of their friends, and eventually became good friends themselves. “When he got a job in Quincy, we stayed in touch,” she said. “Then, my senior year we started dating.” In 2000, they were married. And their carousel of adventures around the country got started. Jeff is now a basketball coach at LSU. Amy and Jeff have two children, Gracie, a senior in high school, and Caige, a 7th grader. Gracie will follow in her mom’s footsteps and will play college volleyball next fall at Blinn College in Texas. Caige is an avid football and baseball player.
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BIOLOGY ALUMS CONNECT WITH STUDENTS Finding ways for current students to engage with
The first panel was made up of professionals in the medical field, including Inpatient Therapy Supervisor for Boone Health Joe Sadewhite ‘91, Katie (Masoner) Triplett ‘19 of the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory, pharmacist Dr. Alex Mills ‘18, and Courtlin Sanders ‘23. Several students used the opportunity to network with these panelists during the break. “I really enjoyed coming back to share my healthcare experiences and to learn about the wide array of different careers that Valley Biology grads have specialized in,” said Sadewhite. “Throughout the morning and afternoon presentations, the students were engaged and interactive. The future of the Valley Biology Program is strong!” The second panel included Biology graduates using their degrees in education and other fields. Current School Superintendent Derek Lark ‘95, and Biology educator and coach Parker Towery ‘95, joined Business Development Manager David Schwirtz ‘96 and Museum Curator Ashley Charboneau ‘06 to discuss the options Biology Majors have with their degree. “Coming back for this was truly an honor,” said Towery. The science department has these student leaders preparing for a successful future. The faculty have brought back Valley traditions and incorporated new techniques to set students up for success today, tomorrow and beyond.”
Missouri Valley College alumni is an invaluable way to highlight opportunities that exist in their chosen fields, while providing our alumni with an opportunity to share stories and contribute to the success of the next generation. These were the reasons behind a biology reunion event in 2024. The event was co-hosted by the MVC Alumni Association and the School of Science and Agriculture. It didn’t take much convincing for several Biology graduates to return to campus to share their time, experiences and advice. “The Biology Reunion was such a success,” said Dr. Joe Alsobrook, vice president of strategic initiatives and online operations. “The shared stories of academic journeys and career paths provided students with great wisdom and inspiration. Their insights were also a powerful reminder that there is no finish line to learning, and the relationships formed at MVC can help pave the way forward after graduation.” The format of the event consisted of four panel discussions, with each alum discussing their unique MVC journeys from student to professional life. A few Reed Kepner stories and tales of Valley lore may have been tossed in as well. Current students then had time to ask questions about career preparation, challenges, and opportunities, as well as how the alums used their Valley experience to achieve their goals.
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The afternoon session began with a panel of veterinarians, including Dr. Dario Marquez ‘17, residents Dr. Alex Aubrect ‘19 and Dr. Haley Rauch ‘19 and current vet students, Sydney Downs ‘19, and Summer Budaj ‘19. Not only did the panelists share their experiences as vets, but they also discussed the process of applying to graduate school, what to do during interviews, as well as tips for handling the stresses of graduate school. The final panel discussion included a group of graduates working in Conservation: Ecological Health Specialist Keith Cordell ‘03, Western Ecosystems Technologies Consulting Biologist Jesse Hiler ‘04, MDC Conservation Agent Zach Durbin ‘21, United States Army Corps of Engineers (NEPA) Planner Meg Pemberton ‘19, and Missouri Department of Conservation Fisheries Biologists Caleb Pemberton ‘19 and Evan Baker ‘22. The Conservation Biology concentration is growing on the MVC campus, with many graduates going on to attend graduate school and working in a variety of fields. Recent Conservation graduate and MDC Science Assistant Evyn Perkins ‘24 believes the interaction with alumni was very beneficial: “It was great to see folks with a love of MVC expressing the time they spent at Valley, and how it helped them in their professions and continued education 2, 10, and 20 years down the road,” said Perkins. “This instilled confidence in my own time spent at Valley, knowing that those professionals came through the same program that I was about to complete.” According to Associate Biology Professor Michele Reinke, “It was amazing to see the level of engagement between the alumni and the faculty. There were students lined up to ask additional questions between sessions. These alumni were more than willing to share their time, expertise and connections with our current students as a way of giving back to an institution they love.” “Personally, I enjoyed reminiscing with the alumni about fun times we had on our field trips and the realization that our influence as faculty extends well beyond a student's professional life,” said associate professor of biology Waylon Hiler. If there are any other biology alumni that would like to share their experiences with our current students, contact Reinke at reinkem@moval.edu for more information.
Starting top left to right: Sydney Downs '19, Haley Rauch '19, Alex Mills '18, Summer Budaj '19
Parker Towery '95 and David Shwirtz '96
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BICE LEADING ACADEMICS AT MVC
largest college in Florida’s public college system. She has a track record of developing faculty, and stood out in that area,
according to President Joe Parisi. Her work ethic, and her wealth of experience in accreditation and launching new programs were also very strong, Parisi said. “Dr. Bice brings a level of professionalism and experience that will serve Missouri Valley in so many ways,” Parisi said. “She is genuine, kind, and caring. She impressed me and she impressed every group she talked to when she visited campus earlier this month.” Prior to her six years at Miami Dade, Bice spent 11 years at Lindenwood University, where she served as Dean of the School of Education, Assistant Dean, and Professor of Education. She started her career at Drury University, where she was an Assistant Professor of Education from 2001-2006. Bice has a post-doctoral certificate from Yale University. She has an EdD from Saint Louis University, a master’s in counselor education and psychology from Central Missouri State University, and she earned her bachelor’s degree at Lindenwood University. Through this new program, students will gain the knowledge and practical experience required to excel in cybersecurity careers. Alongside nearly zero percent unemployment, seven times the national average in job growth rate, and increased investments from the government, this field provides stable and lucrative opportunities for graduates. “We are thrilled to partner with Rize Education to offer this cutting-edge degree program,” Parisi said. “By combining Rize’s online courses developed with industry leaders with our best-in-class on-campus academic and experiential learning experiences, we can provide students with a top-notch education that prepares them for success in the cybersecurity industry. The program will cover a wide range of topics, including network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and risk management. Students will work with industry- standard tools, allowing them to develop hands-on skills that are highly sought after by employers. The program will also offer career counseling and job placement assistance to ensure graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce. For more information about the Cybersecurity degree program at Missouri Valley College, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@moval.edu or visit www.moval.edu.
After a national search, Missouri Valley College selected a highly accomplished, experienced leader to serve as its next Vice President of Academic Affairs–Dr. Cynthia Bice. The announcement was made in late April by President Joe Parisi, and Dr. Bice started her job in July. She served as dean of faculty and chief academic officer at Miami Dade College. Bice moved to mid-Missouri this summer, along with her husband, Doug. “The chance to grow opportunities for students at Missouri Valley really stood out for me,” Bice said. Bice, who already has helped immensely in many areas at MVC, led and inspired the faculty at Miami Dade, the
MISSOURI VALLEY COLLEGE LAUNCHES CYBERSECURITY DEGREE PROGRAM
Missouri Valley College was proud to announce the launch of a new degree program in Cybersecurity in collaboration with Rize Education. This innovative partnership aims to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. Classes began in the fall. “Cybersecurity threats are very real and Missouri Valley is prepared to equip students will the tools to be successful on the front line of this nationwide battle,” said Dr. Joe Parisi, MVC president. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and the critical need for skilled professionals to combat them, Missouri Valley will provide students with a comprehensive education in this high-demand field. This no-code cybersecurity program will prepare students for business focused roles that require less programming knowledge, and a greater understanding of systems, structures, threats and opportunities.
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LIBRARY OF THE FUTURE MVC CELEBRATES CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AND LEARNING
The changes taking place at Missouri Valley College’s Murrell Library have been transformational. And Assistant Dean of Library and Academic Support Services Samantha Perkins has orchestrated every bit of it. The first phase of changes, Perkins said, occurred with the opening of the Reading & Writing Center, the Math Center, study tables, and collaboration with the Learning Center. And then came the incorporation of the Learning Center into the library. “Our overall mission is to create a one-stop shop for our students’ academic service needs,” Perkins said. President Joe Parisi said the ultimate vision was to create the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. He said Perkins has assembled “all of the components under one roof. Perkins, who this spring celebrated an open house for the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, said that data shows the Reading & Writing Center, Math Center, and Study Tables were well-received and are accomplishing their goals with well over 1,000 student sessions. She said that study sessions by sports teams, while important for bonding, sometimes turn to social and that this change provides more organization and offers on-site student assistance via our academic coaching program. We are able to track all of the data and communicate that to each of the athletic coaches. The Learning Center move was to “get us all on the same page and under the same umbrella,” Perkins said. We are combining all academic services into one building–our various academic coaching services, testing services including ADA proctoring, and library services will all be housed under one roof.” Perkins said the second phase include minor construction on the second floor to create office, testing, and conference spaces, as well as a private study room for students.
To support the success of all faculty and staff contributing to the academic mission of Missouri Valley College, the final phase “was our biggest step into the future with the creation of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. We will advance institutional leadership through holistic, experiential learning and educational development by providing: 1. support for student learning needs; 2. opportunities for collaboration and exchange of ideas among faculty, staff and students;
3. events designed to explore and disseminate best pedagogical and andragogical practices;
4. programs that foster productive feedback about all aspects of teaching and learning; 5. professional development for staff and faculty in support of their work at MVC; 6. initiatives that dovetail with efforts of other on-campus programs to support faculty, staff and student development. Perkins said there is new furniture and new technology, including a new mirrored, glass wall and an observation deck to establish a gallery/viewing area. “This is perfect for flipping roles,” Perkins said. “It is really next level teaching and learning.” There will also be a new Makerspace created in the old computer lab, featuring a GlowForge, 3-D printers, Cricut machines, and PCs and iMacs with Adobe software. “We surveyed students about their wants and needs and this was high on their list,” Perkins said. “I’m excited about the Makerspace – it elevates our campus and our community. All of our efforts are moving us rapidly toward the library of the future.”
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A CHAMPION WORK ETHIC DAVID LOWE PUTS THE BRAKES ON FAST-PACED LIFE
By SCOTT QUEEN
Oh, how life has changed for David Lowe. This driven and laser-focused Missouri Valley College alumnus is enjoying retirement now, and even relaxing a bit in Florida with his wife of 53 years, Shirley. The couple likes to escape Missouri’s winter for a time, but they always end up back home in Clinton. This level of relaxation though, took some getting used to for Lowe. He’s used to a frenetic pace. He remembers that lifestyle well, starting with buying and selling high performance tires and wheels in high school in his dad’s business and moving on through the years to becoming managing partner of the company. “Nobody told me what to do,” Lowe said. “I just went to work.” With older brothers in the business as well, he found his place. He helped Lowe Oil Company, started by his father, Ralph, in 1956, to grow and modernize. The company’s name later changed to Champion Brands, LLC, recognized globally as an industry leader in specialty lubricants, brake fluid and engine additives. As Lowe was getting his degree from Missouri Valley College, he felt such a strong sense of responsibility that he didn’t have what one might call a normal college life. He headed home to Clinton every weekend to work. And to contribute to the Lowe family success. “We weren’t automated back then,” he recalled. “I remember stamping quart cans of oil one at a time and packing the cases. Brake fluid was kind of the same way, one 12-ounce bottle at a time. Through the years, Champion became totally automated with packaging lines running as much as 360 containers per minute." But in between his long hours, Lowe did manage to find some time to do some cruising. He loved cars, and he persuaded a girl named Shirley to jump in and take a ride one weekend. “I didn’t have much time for cars back then,” he said. “Or girls for that matter. But somehow I persuaded Shirley and her parents.” The couple were married in August of 1971 and David graduated from MO Valley in May of 1972. They soon had a family, and built a wonderful life together. “I was working a lot back then,” David said. “Shirley pretty much raised the kids.”
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With his father at the helm, the business grew steadily. More buildings were added to the company headquarters in Clinton. After his father passed, however, David and his brothers grew the business to new heights. Champion continued a meteoric rise. Eventually, David and a partner bought his brothers out. And Lowe took one of Champion’s biggest risks – and investments – to keep the corporate headquarters in Clinton, and expand basically tenfold. “We bought a 450,000 square foot facility in town,” David said. “A major industry in Clinton left town to go overseas, and we bought it. The facility took a while to modernize and grow into, but it worked out well.” At its peak, Champion had 10 production lines operating
in Clinton, die-cutting labels, blowing new bottles, labeling and filling bottles, sealing cases– for numerous products. The facility also had more than 1.7 million gallons of bulk storage. That meant very little time for family activity, but David and his wife cut a deal. They bought an RV and did day trips on Sunday, heading to Branson or doing a variety of other short trips. They weren’t sure their three kids would like the RV, but he said it became one of their best memories. A major milestone in the Lowe family arrive in 2021 when PLZ Aeroscience Corporation, acquired Champion. It meant a big change for David and his wife, but offered even more time for those ever-increasing Florida getaways. It also gave him a little more time to spend on one of the passions from his teen years– muscle cars. Lowe is often found holding court in a pristine remodeled former car dealership he owns in Clinton, showing off his collection of impressively-manicured 60’s muscle cars. “They’re a lot of the cars that I wanted when I was younger but didn’t have the time or money to go after,” he said. “I’ve got a little bit of time now.” Yes, he does. Life has changed for the Lowes.
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Missouri Valley College Homecoming October 25-27, 2024
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Missouri Valley College opened Homecoming Weekend by announcing a partnership with Burrell Behavioral Health and the two institutions displayed their commitment to student mental health with a “Be Well Bell” dedication. The new partnership provides the resource power of Burrell on the college’s campus. Burrell mental health counselors started delivering full time services at Missouri Valley this fall. Services are available in person and via telehealth. “When I became president, the student government didn’t ask for better food or residence hall improvements, they asked for better mental health services,” said Missouri Valley College President Joe Parisi. “We’re very fortunate to partner with Burrell to deliver what our students asked for.” About 70 percent of college students have recently struggled with some sort of mental health event according to a March 2024 survey by U.S. News/Generation Lab. Parisi says the college students of 2024 are taking on more stressors, which include bigger course loads and more off campus work. He says if those students are also athletes, the anxiety and stressors multiply. Mathew Gass, Regional President for Brightli, Burrell’s parent company, said the partnership with Missouri Valley College is a good fit for Burrell Behavioral Health. “The best thing about this is there is no additional cost for students,” Gass said. “They’ll have access to our resources whenever needed. We will also remain focused on decreasing the stigma of and increasing advocacy for mental health services.” Burrell employees and their families will have access to Missouri Valley’s undergraduate and graduate degree programs, said Gass, a Missouri Valley alumnus. Burrell will be able to draw on Missouri Valley students for internships and will look to counseling graduates as future employees. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says employment for mental health counselors is projected to grow 23percent over the next decade, exceeding the growth rate for all occupations. To commemorate the partnership, Missouri Valley students collaborated to create a “Be Well Bell” to be displayed in the Malcolm Center. Burrell’s Be Well Initiatives works with community partners to bring visibility to the mental wellness movement. The Be Well Bell program offers blank bells to be painted with a meaningful design by an artist(s) or as a community arts project. “The Missouri Valley bell is so fitting because it is a reflection of the high priority students are placing on their mental health,” Bailey Pyle, Director of Be Well Initiatives said. BURRELL PARTNERS WITH MVC ON ‘BE WELL’ INITIATIVE
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2024 OUTSTANDING ALUMNI It was a packed house in the Malcolm Center during Homecoming 2024 for the Missouri Valley College Outstanding Alumni Awards dinner and ceremony. Valley came together to recognize John D. Gault ’58, Eric Sappington ’95, Jana Caudle Champion ’96 and Outstanding Young Alumnus Alex Aubrecht ’18. “I was blown away with this event,” said new President Joe Parisi ’94. “The emotional storytelling, the fond memories, the tears, the joy. I’ll never forget it.”
John D. Gault '58
John D. Gault has a B.S. in chemistry and mathematics from Missouri Valley College, and an M.S. and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Missouri. He taught in the Belton Public schools, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (Brazil) (1971-1987) and had two stints on the faculty at MVC. Dr. Gault is an active member of the Lutheran Church and lectured and wrote about the interaction of science and religion. Gault in also a member of American Physical Society, American Chemical Society, and the American Association of Physics Teachers. His awards include: National Research Council Postdoctoral Fellowship to the Army Materials and Mechanics Research Reactor and MIT Research Reactor, 1970–71 (15-month appointment); and CNPq (Brazilian National Research Council) Senior Research Fellowship to Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent, Ohio.
Eric Sappington '95
Eric Sappington graduated from Missouri Valley College in 1995 with a degree in business administration with a concentration in Marketing. After graduation, Eric worked for Chrysler Financial Corporation in Leawood, KS until returning to work for his college alma mater in 2005. Eric and his wife, Heather, a 1996 Valley graduate and an accomplished elementary teacher, raised their three children in Marshall until their graduations from MHS in 2021 and 2023. After 19 years as an administrator at Missouri Valley, Eric joined the Community Foundation of Central Missouri based in Columbia as its Executive Director in April of 2024. Eric leads a team at the foundation that brings donors and non-profit organizations together to positively impact all of Central Missouri. Eric and Heather are avid sports fans and enjoy spending time with Ethan, Evan and Faith as well as friends and family.
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Jana Caudle Champion '96
Jana Caudle Champion graduated with a BS in Elementary Education in 1996, and was a recipient of the Charles L. Bacon Distinguished Service Award. She was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, served as president of the student senate, and went on to earn two master’s degrees. Her successful teaching career has spanned 27 years. She was honored as Blue Ridge Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2012 and 2022, and she earned the prestigious Raytown School District Teacher of the Year honor in 2022. Jana was a basketball star at Valley, playing on a team that went undefeated at home, won the conference in 1994-95. She is also in the Elite 1,000-point club. At Missouri Valley, she serves on the Greek Life Advisory Board and continues to support women’s basketball. She supports her community by collecting items for the REAP Kindness Challenge, participated in Earth Day trash pickups, American Cancer Society, Girls on the Run, and the Blue Ridge Elementary Read-a-Thon.
Alex Aubrecht ‘18
Alex Aubrecht has a B.S. in biology from Missouri Valley College, and he earned his Doctorate in veterinary medicine at the University of Minnesota in 2022. He did an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Wisconsin, and is doing his small animal surgery residency at the UC-Davis School of Medicine. Alex was an NAIA scholar-athlete from 2015-18 and an all-American in Lacrosse. He spent eight semesters on the dean’s list, and five semesters on the President’s list. Alex remains an active participant when it comes to teaching and mentoring students at Missouri Valley. He played a key role in Valley’s recent biology alumni reunion.
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‘WE COMPETE AND WIN EVERY YEAR’ McCallum Award Winner Focuses On Experiential Learning, Continuous Improvement
One of the defining moments of Chaz Maddi’s life was related to career choices. He was working a part-time sports reporting job that he enjoyed, but it wasn’t paying the bills. He looked at his checkbook, and knew he had to make a change. The balance was 39 cents. “That’s when I decided to take an additional part-time job as a camera operator, and it morphed into a full-time job,” he said. “I had to pay the bills.” And suffice it to say, Maddi has been paying the bills ever since. The accomplished communications instructor at Missouri Valley College, who serves as director of MVC- TV, is very successful teaching his students how to run a TV broadcast, and eventually pay their own bills. He focuses on continuous improvement…and jobs. “I’m an effort kind of guy,” he said. “You have to get better assignment by assignment. Week by week. Semester by semester. Look at what you did last time around, and make it better.” Maddi is most proud when his former students become employed. “What we do here ‘works’” Maddi said. “The evidence is when they get jobs.” Maddi’s continued success in the classroom is no secret. He was just recognized by the college as the 2024 recipient of the John McCallum Award for Excellence in Teaching. Maddi says he is humbled by the award, particularly when he considers some of the Missouri Valley legends who have received it.
“Larry Stockman (2007), Ed Leslie (1993), Loren Gruber (2005)...They were stars.,” he said. “They were institutional icons and very instrumental when I first arrived here (2005). I’m just a guy who tells stories.” Maddi’s excellence shows up in the students’ finished product. Each year, Valley competes in the Missouri Broadcaster Educators Association awards competition. MVC takes on bigger school and larger staffs, and always seems to secure a large share of awards hardware. “We compete and win every year,” he said. “We’ve had as high as 12 awards in one year, and we always seem to win just about every sports streaming award there is.” Maddi says he has a simple philosophy in the classroom. “My goal is simple,” he said. “I want to give the students information so they can get jobs. It’s really experiential learning. We give them hands-on experience in broadcast media.” Maddi’s career started in mid-Missouri with a bachelor’s degree, and it has taken him to numerous cities, and he’s done just about every job in television production you could imagine. He’s done camera work. He’s done graphics. He’s excellent at switching, and directing. And he’s managed his share of live broadcast trucks. “Each job I’ve had along the way has been uniquely different,” Maddi said. His current job at Missouri Valley College, which he’s held since 2012, is also uniquely different. But it’s also the most satisfying, because the students that he trains so well tend to become broadcast professionals, allowing him to continue telling their stories to the latest generation of Vikings.
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