N e w s f r o m U n i o n C o l l e g e s u m m e r /f a l l 2 0 0 8

N e w s f r o m U n i o n C o l l e g e s u m m e r /f a l l 2 0 0 8

PresidentialRef lections

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF LEADERSHIP AND VISIONAlso . . .

� Lessons from political connections� A political staffer’s view from the campaign trail� Pastor Ron Halvorsen returns to his alma mater

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF LEADERSHIP AND VISIONAlso . . .

� Lessons from political connections� A political staffer’s view from the campaign trail� Pastor Ron Halvorsen returns to his alma mater

PresidentialRef lections

{

can take time...Growth

ForeSightForeSight...but a little

The trees on the Union College campus havestood for generations, providing shelter, shade andbeauty in every season. Our forefathers planted thosetrees believing they would someday take root andbenefit all who walked on this campus.You can plant your own legacy by establishing an

endowment to provide for scholarships, operating orspecial projects. Endowments grow, produce andendure. Since only a portion of the income is spenteach year, the rest remains intact.To learn how to plant your own endowment,

contact Todd Mekelburg, director of leadershipgiving, at 402.486.2503 or visit www.ucollege.edu/advancement/plannedgiving.

Todd MekelburgDirector of Leadership Giving402.486.2503tomekelb@ucollege.edu

Union College3800 South 48th StreetLincoln, NE 68506 ForeSight

It takes

goes alongway.

The trees

CORDCORDmagazine staff:Jacque L. SmithDirector of Public Relations/Editor

Steve NazarioDirector of Visual Communications/Designer

Scott Cushman ’03Assistant Director of Public Relations/Assistant Editor

Brianna Norton ’10Graphic Design Assistant

Katie Lechler ’04Jimmy Phillips ’08Todd Richardson ’08Michael Steingas ’09NewsWriters

Articles and photos as credited.

p Indicates more information is available onUnion’sWeb site or read CORDmagazine online:www.ucollege.edu/cordmagazine.

Union CollegeAlumniAssociationOfficers and Board Members:

Darrel Huenergardt ’65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President

David Nowack ’76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President-elect

Loren Dickinson ’57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Past President

Gale ’72 and SherylRivinius ’73 Page . . . . . . . . . . . Board members at large

James Carlson ’59 . . . . . . . . . . .Golden Club President

Greg ’00 and KimChilders ’01 Steiner. . . . . . . . . . . . . .GOLD Rep ’98-’08

Dan Klein ’90 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class Rep ’78-’96

Joann Herrington ’74 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Class Rep ’57-’77

Jim ’56 and Patricia Gordon ’57Spaulding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class Rep up to ’57

Janya NordgrenMekelburg ’86. . . . . . . . . . . . .AlumniActivities Director

LuAnnWolfeDavis ’82 . . . . . . . . . . .Vice President forAdvancement

About the cover:Dr.David Smith, Union’s longest-servingpresident, has been leading the college for 10years.While celebrating his decade of leadership,this issue of CORDmagazine also explores per-spectives on presidencies beyond the campus.Photo: Erik Stenbakken

© 2008 Union College all rights reserved.No material may be reproduced withoutpermission. CORDmagazine is published as aservice to Union College alumni and friends.We encourage readers to submit lettersand article ideas. Please send inquiries,submissions and address changes to:

CORDmagazine Union College3800 South 48th StreetLincoln, NE 68506or alumni@ucollege.edu.

Editorial/4 Campus News/5

CORDmagazine 3

CORDVol. 73, No. 2 Summer/fall 2008

A Conversation with thePresident/16An overview of a decade

Meet Union’s ASB President/24

Bigger and Better Connections/25

Class-ifieds/32 In Memory/34

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Changing Lives throughInnovation/26Surgeon reflects on

medicine and politics

Cecil Christensen ’57

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IRR Adventures/13Learning and service

in Honduras and Texas

www.ucol lege.edu

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magazinemagazine

Leading by Listening/28Alumnus gets out the vote

Nathan Blake ’01phot

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4 SUMMER/FALL 2008

n fifth grade, the first identity I assigned to David Smithwas “Jacie’s dad.” While still a classmate’s father, in my acad-emy years he shifted to “the vespers/chapel speaker worthsitting in the front for.” Mr. Smith called himself “Dave” inthe entertaining and embarrassing stories that wrapped God’slove into messages that snuck up on me between gigglesand lasted past the dismissal bell.In college, while I was still Jacque Branson, Dr. Smith,

“the English advisor worth getting in line early for,” helpedme try on some new titles for myself: expository writer, liter-ature interpreter, future teacher, professional communicatorand analytical thinker. The hand-written notes about my classoptions, prepared before I walked in the door for advisingsessions, helped replace my uncertainty with possibility.When he asked, “How’s Jacque?” mid-stride between appointments, I knewmy answer didn’t have to be a surface“fine,” and that real life mattered tohim more than anthology assignments.Four years after college graduation,

I sent Union College President DavidSmith my résumé; I was listing him asa reference for my job search aftergraduate school. I never expected himto pass it along to LuAnn Davis whoinvited me to campus for an inter-view.* When I landed in Lincoln, mycollege mentor and advisor was nowmy boss’s boss. I moved from turningin assignments to collaborating onprojects.I call him “David” now as we serve

on committees and discuss plans forUnion College. And while I’m confi-dent and comfortable with my role in

this phase of friendship and service, referring to him as hispreferred “Dave” still eludes me—maybe in another 10 years.As you will read below, I’m not the only Union College

employee who has benefitted from Dr. Smith’s wit and wis-dom in more than one phase of life. Tanya Cochran, assis-tant professor of English and soon to be “Dr. Cochran,” alsoknew the pre-president David Smith and shares how hisinvestment in her continues to influence her teaching.As the campus celebrates Dr. Smith’s 10 years of leader-

ship, the longest tenure of any Union College president, wealso look at the influence of other presidencies on campusand beyond—past, present and possibly future. From alumniwho have volunteered to paid political staffers, our goal is toshare a variety of perspectives without promoting any party

or politician. While I do feel proud topromote the presidents of UnionCollege, (David Smith, AssociatedStudent Body and Mid-America Union),please understand that Union Collegeis not taking sides in the biggest presi-dential discussion our nation faces thisyear.

No matter what happens inNovember as our country makes bigdecisions, I know when it comes tothe presidency at Union College, I’mthankful for the leadership of a man ofmany talents. Each stage of life hasadded to my respect for Dr. Smith, andwhen I hear he’s speaking for chapel, Istill want to sit in the front row.

*I also never expected to share his last name bymarrying Mark Smith ’90 who is not related toDavid Smith.

EDITORIAL NOT JUST ANOTHER SMITH

by Jacque L. Smith, Editor

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m often accused of taking the little things of life too seriously. I’mthankful for my attention to detail, though; details form the strong, inti-mate relationships I have with family and friends. My obsessions withchronicling ideas and lifelong learning, for example, are the reasons I stillhave my three-ringed binder from Dr. David Smith’s Expository Writingclass, a course I took when I was a junior English major at SouthernCollege in the fall of 1994. From the comments left in the margins of mymajor papers, I am reminded of how much I have grown as a student, ateacher, and a writer and how much that growth has depended on DavidSmith.On the final draft of my essay “Pride and Prejudice: Clips of the 19th

Century,” Dr. Smith wrote, “You pulled things together much better in this

I’I’ph

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by Tanya R. Cochran,assistant professor of English

Give and Give and Give:The Teaching Legacy of David Smith

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Southern College (now SouthernAdventist University) graduation,May 1995

Tanya Cochran speaks for Academic Convocation inAugust 2006 with her former teacher, Dr. DavidSmith, proudly looking on.

draft than was the case in earlier drafts. Content is a littleskimpy, but you at least create the illusion of substance.”Today when I read those words, I remember how right hewas; I hadn’t worked as diligently as I could have on thepaper. His honesty made me see that creating “the illusion ofsubstance” was unacceptable. Rather than feeling hurt or indig-nant, I took the advice to heart and applied it to my pen. Amonth later, I turned in my last assignment for ExpositoryWriting. “A successful endeavor,” begins Dr. Smith’s comments.“Very enjoyable reading while I grade tests ... you managedgood writing, truth, and control, and even a smile from me.”The smile was just as important to me as the A I earned on theessay and in the class.

I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised that a few years ago itwas David Smith himself who rang me on my cell phonewhile I was sitting in downtown Atlanta traffic commutingfrom Georgia State University to my nearby apartment. He hadcalled to extend an invitation. Would I come for an interviewin the Division of Humanities at Union College? The conversa-tion is a blur now. Other than being extremely flattered, Iremember little from the conversation but one sentence Dr.Smith spoke, the important detail: “I’m so proud of you,” hesaid upon hearing that, indeed, I was pursuing my Ph.D. inRhetoric and Composition.

Since coming to Union three years ago, I have become astronger student—of my academic discipline, of my colleagues,and of my own students. I have become a stronger teacherand writer, having published my first pieces in journals andbook collections. I’m not saying that David Smith taught meeverything there is to know about learning, teaching and writ-ing; he didn’t. Nevertheless, with his colleagues at Southern hereadied me to do exactly what his syllabus for ExpositoryWriting states the course was designed to do: help students“achieve writing goals which they set for themselves and ... aidthem in preparing to write in their profession.” Even more so,he prepared me for life.

Recently, a seasoned teacher from another institutionshared this advice with me: “When you go into the classroom,give your students all you’ve got. Give and give and give—until there’s no more to give. Don’t hold back. And at night,grow more.” Over a decade ago David Smith was that kind ofteacher and mentor to me. When he and his wife, Cherie,moved to Lincoln, he brought to Union College more than theability to be a loving and wise leader. He brought the ability toteach, a gift that touches every student who enters my class-room. Now I am the one who must give and give and give,just as I have been taught.

CORDmagazine 5

EDITORIAL

nion College has onceagain been chosen as atop pick for new collegestudents by U.S.Newsand World Report. Inthe magazine’s annual“America’s BestColleges” rankings,Union placed 46 in itscategory, BaccalaureateColleges—Midwest. This isthe third year in a rowUnion has been in the top tier.

The ratings rank schools basedon 11 indicators of success, and Union’sstrong graduation rates, student retentionand student-faculty ratio were key to itshigh ranking. The college really standsout in alumni giving, a number U.S.News uses as an indirect measure of stu-dent satisfaction. Union ranked third inits category and seventh out of baccalau-reate colleges nationwide for the per-

centage of alumni who giveback to the school.

“Union’s top-tierplacement by U.S. Newsaffirms the quality andoutcomes of a UnionCollege education,” saidDavid Smith, collegepresident. “Very little of acollege experience can bemeasured in a spreadsheet,

but it’s heartwarming to berecognized for the work so

many people have put into making aUnion College education accessible,challenging and life-changing.”

The U.S. News rankings are createdannually as a service to parents andprospective students in selecting col-leges. This year, 343 baccalaureate col-leges, divided into four regions, areincluded in the report. The baccalaureatecollege category includes colleges that

offer a range of degree programs in pro-fessional fields such as business, nursingand education with liberal arts degreesaccounting for fewer than half of thebachelor’s degrees conferred. ~SC

Union College rankedtop tier in“Best Colleges”list

UU

Campus Calendar 08/09

Mid-America Union College Days Nov. 2-3

AcroFest hosted by Nov. 12-15Union College

Christmas Vespers Concert Dec. 12

Christmas Band Concert Dec. 13

Christmas Vacation Dec. 18-Jan. 1

Second semester classes begin Jan. 6

Spring Preview Days Mar. 26-27

Homecoming Weekend April 2-5(learn more on p. 31)

Home School Sneak Peek April 16-17

www.ucollege.edu • 800.228.4600

CAMPUS NEWS_____________________________

Alumni honored for philanthropy

6 SUMMER/FALL 2008

CAMPUS NEWS_____________________________

n June, Union College celebratedalumni recipients of two AdventistPhilanthropy Leadership Awards during abanquet at Philanthropic Service forInstitution’s biennial conference inTucson, Ariz.

Higher EducationUnion College President David Smith

presented Drs. Ron and Alexa Jensen withthe Adventist Philanthropy LeadershipAward in Support of Higher Education fortheir leadership in philanthropy and com-mitment to Union College.Dr. Ron Jensen graduated from Union

College in 1962 with a major inChemistry. Ron and Alexa, both generalpractice physicians, received their profes-

sional training at Loma Linda University.As a board certified ophthalmology sur-geon, Ron performed more than 14,000keratotomy surgeries since 1979, one ofthe first surgeons to perform this proce-dure in the United States. He is thefounder of the California Intraocular LensCompany (CILCO), one of the first artifi-cial lens manufacturing companies in theUnited States. He holds eight patents forophthalmic surgical instruments.After a recommitment to Christ a num-

ber of years ago, Ron and Alexa discov-

ered some practical ways to apply God’sprinciples to their lives. As their own spir-itual growth began to open doors, theybegan sharing what they had learnedwith others. Now retired from profession-al practice, Ron and Alexa are devoted tosmall group spiritual growth ministry.In 1994, the Jensens proposed an idea

to Union that became reality a fewmonths later. The Spiritual Journey pro-gram focuses on relationships: with God,with others and with ourselves. This smallgroup ministry teaches biblical principlesthat bring about individual growth andhealing. Today more than 1,300 students,faculty and staff at Union have discoveredthe transforming power of personal hon-esty and a renewed relationship withGod.“Ron and Alexa Jensen give willingly

of their time, resources and energy toassist not only Union College but otherchurches and colleges who seek toinclude Christ as their guide,” said Smithduring the awards presentation. “Theiridea has become a spiritual foundation atUnion College that was made into a reali-ty through their personal generosity.”Ron Jensen has stood behind other

dreams for Union. In the late 1980s hehonored a deceased chemistry professorwho was a favorite teacher and mentorand established the Rene Evard MemorialScholarship, an endowment fund thatbenefits students who demonstrate strongscholastic ability in science and mathe-matics. Each year, thanks to Ron and thephysician classmates he encouraged toparticipate, more than 10 Union studentsare awarded scholarships.

Lifetime Achievement“Vision and passion radiate through

all they do,” said President Smith whileco-presenting the Adventist PhilanthropyLifetime Achievement Award to Mardianand Joan Blair. Tom Werner ’67, retiredpresident of Adventist Health Systemshared in presenting to the Blairs. “Theirpersonal philanthropy is complementedby their efforts to inspire others,” Smithsaid.Since graduating from Union College

in 1954, the Blairs have given more than

40 years of service to the health care min-istry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.They have also given back to UnionCollege consecutively for over 25 years—as long as the development office hasmaintained a database of donor records.Their gifts have touched all facets of

philanthropy. Their vision for the UnionCollege Fund led to a new philanthropicprogram, Friends of the Fund, whichencourages others to share leadershipgifts to support Union’s core priorities.With the Blair’s influence, giving to theUnion College Fund has increasedapproximately 60 percent in five years.Mardian served as chair of the OurEnduring Union: The Campaign forUnion College, which surpassed its goals

of building scholarship endowment andcampus facilities including the OrtnerCenter. They have also identified them-selves as members of ForeSight, the col-lege’s recognition club for individualswho have included Union College in theirestate plans.*Mardian’s career in health care admin-

istration included executive posts atHinsdale Hospital, the Northwest MedicalFoundation, Portland Adventist MedicalCenter, and Florida Hospital. He retired inJanuary of 2000, after serving as president

compiled by Jacque L. Smith

Drs. Ron and Alexa Jensen

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CORDmagazine 7

Ashley Albers receives hood from MalcolmRussell, vice president for AcademicAdministration.

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CORDforKKKKiiiiddddssss

CORDfor

What do you want to bewhen you grow up?Dr. David Smith didn’t always want to be

a college president. When he was a kid, hewanted to be a medical doctor. Though heis a doctor now, his specialty is literature. This year, Dr. Smith became Union’s

longest serving president. The studentswho start college at Union this fall were inthe third grade when Dr. Smith becamepresident. Do you think this year’s fresh-men have chosen majors for the jobs theywanted to do in the third grade? Help Union celebrate Dr. Smith’s presi-

dency by sending in a drawing, painting orother original work of art showing whatyou want to be when you grow up. Everykid who participates will receive a gift fromUnion College and the top two entries willwin a special prize. Send entries including your name, age,

phone number and the name of the adultwho helped you read CORDmagazine to:

CORD for KidsUnion College3800 South 48th St.Lincoln, NE 68506

You can also e-mail attachments toucinfo@ucollege.edu.

PA Class of 2008 achieves perfect pass ratevery student from Union’s second

master’s level graduating class of physi-cian assistants passed the national certi-fication exam on the first try. “This 100percent first-time pass rate will serve uswell as we seek to remain competitivefor high-quality physician assistant stu-dents,” said Michael Huckabee, programdirector. In addition, the 22 physician assis-

tant graduates had the highest employ-ment rate to date with 68 percent hav-ing confirmed positions in May. Theclass is serving across the country in avariety of specialties, both in rural andsuburban areas. States represented todate include Nebraska (5), Oklahoma(3), Alaska (2), Iowa, Kansas, Michigan,Minnesota, South Carolina, SouthDakota and Texas.

EE

ince Union’s nursing program beganadmitting two classes last year (cohortsbegin in January and August), arrangingclassroom space has been a challenge.To accommodate the growing health sci-ences majors, over the summer Union’s

Plant Services team rebuilt a former stor-age area into the Health Sciences Annex.Located on the ground floor of the DonLove Building, the annex provides twonew classrooms and a lounge area. The newly reconfigured space

accommodates primarily the growingnursing program but also serves as anoverflow area for the international res-cue and relief, physician assistant andhealth and human performance programs.

Space created for expanded nursing program

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of Adventist Health System for 16 years.Mardian created the President’s CouncilFund for which senior executives pooltheir own personal donations to con-tribute to a worthy cause. The Blairswere also instrumental in organizing thefirst Florida Hospital Gala, which is todayone of the largest fundraising events inCentral Florida, netting more than $1 mil-lion annually to benefit vital programs atFlorida Hospital. Upon retirement, Mardian inspired

Adventist Health System to createendowed scholarships at Union College,Andrews University, Oakwood University,Southern Adventist University andSouthwestern Adventist University. Eachyear awards are granted to exemplarystudents pursuing careers in some aspect

of healthcare management.Along with personal financial contri-

butions, Mardian and Joan have gener-ously donated their time and leadershipin support of hospitals across theworld—in the United States, Africa and inAsia.“Mardian and Joan have consistently

shown their dedication to Adventist edu-cation and the healing ministry of Christ,”Werner said. “They have blessed count-less individuals through their rich legacyof philanthropy and their inspirationalexamples of servant leadership.”

* To learn more about the Blairs’ inspiration forparticipating in ForeSight and the President’s Awardthey received during Union College graduation, pleasesee page 39.

8 SUMMER/FALL 2008

CAMPUS NEWS_____________________________

s graduating seniors marched acrossthe platform of the College View churchon Sunday, May 11, Janya Mekelburg,director of Alumni Activities, and herassistants carefully noted the marchingorder and assigned each a number.Mekelburg’s countdown ended whenRaven Downs, a business administrationmajor, became the 10,000th graduate toenter the Alumni Association.The granddaughter of Lincoln (’50)

and Betty Miller Underwood (’51) anddaughter of Kirk Underwood ’78, Downsgraduated alongside her husband, Zane,an international rescue and relief major.“I was excited to see it was Raven,” saidMekelburg. “Raven and her family arepart of both the history and the future ofUnion and the Alumni Association.”Altogether, Union College awarded

212 associate, baccalaureate and master’sdegrees to 197 new alumni during theannual commencement. Among thisgroup, 14 students received two degrees.Eleven of the graduating seniors wereUnion Scholars, which required advancedcoursework and a research project.Reaching an alumni milestone was

not the only first at this year’s graduation.Sixteen graduates comprised the first fullclass of international rescue and reliefmajors to graduate from Union. Themajor, first offered in 2004, is the onlybaccalaureate program of its kind in theUnited States.

The graduation festivities began onThursday, May 9 with another first forUnion, a graduate hooding ceremony.This was the second year the college hasawarded master’s degrees since thephysician assistant program transitionedfrom undergraduate to graduate studies.Hooding ceremonies are a common

tradition in health science graduate pro-grams, representing the graduate’s jour-ney from student to colleague. Duringthe ceremony, the 22 students receivedhoods to be worn as part of their regalia.The event also included a reception andan address from Congressman JeffFortenberry during which he referred toUnion College as “one of Lincoln’s andNebraska’s best kept secrets,” and said itshould not remain a secret.“We are glad Congressman

Fortenberry agreed to deliver thekeynote,” said Jeff Joiner, chair of theDivision of Health Sciences. “Health careand politics are increasingly intertwined,and professionals and policy makersshould take every opportunity to under-stand each other.”During the commencement address

on Sunday, another representative, TonyFulton, the senator for District 29 in theNebraska legislature, presentedLegislative Resolution #248 honoringUnion College. The resolution specificallycites Union’s growing enrollment andcontributions to Nebraska’s intellectualand economic development as well as

recognition earned from U.S. News andthe Corporation for National andCommunity Service (see page 5).“We were very honored this year to

have the achievements of the college rec-ognized by the leaders of our communitywhile we celebrated the achievements ofour students,” said President David Smith.“The announcement of the 10,000th grad-uate to join our alumni was an appropri-ate highlight of the weekend becauseUnion’s strength and our students’ educa-tions are made possible through theachievements, gifts and prayers of ouralumni.”

The class of 2008 marks alumni milestone

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� 100 percent of the graduates whoapplied to medical school have beenaccepted.

� 28 nursing majors and 28 businessadministration majors graduated,tying those programs for the mostgraduating students.

� 18 graduates took off a year duringcollege to volunteer through pro-grams affiliated with Union. Ofthose, 12 served in foreign countries.

� 13 graduates have spent a semesteror more abroad studying at anaffiliated college or university.

Class of 2008 in numbers

David Smith congratulates RavenDowns.

Congressman Jeff Fortenberry says the city and state appreciate Union College’scontribution to health care.

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CAMPUS NEWS_____________________________

CORDmagazine 9

t’s been a long time since UnionCollege cost $15 per month—117 yearsto be precise. The cost of earning abachelor’s degree continues to rise, as dothe benefits—a college graduate canexpect $800,000 more earned incomeover a lifetime than someone with a highschool diploma.1

Though Union is 32 percent lessexpensive than the national average forprivate colleges, students and familiesoften need help financing a Christianeducation. After a year of research andconsultation with experts and compara-ble colleges, Union has launched a new,streamlined financial aid policy forincoming freshmen this year.

“Our goal has always been to providean affordable Christian education,” saidRob Weaver, vice president forEnrollment and Student FinancialServices. “We’ve kept tuition down large-ly through the help of our alumni andmission-oriented faculty and staff, butwe’ve been asking ourselves for a whilenow if we are using our financial aidbudget to maximize the benefit it givesstudents. With the new policy, I think wecan answer ‘yes.’”

The previous financial aid systemloaded almost all of the benefits onto thefirst two years, and while still front-loaded, the new policy includes a renew-able component that guarantees moremoney than before for up to three addi-

tional years. “Families will be better ableto plan for all four years, and the greaterrenewable funds will make it easier forjuniors and seniors to continue atUnion,” Weaver said. “We hope this willimprove Union’s already high retentionrate.”

While grades and test scores havepreviously played an important role,much of a student’s award was based onwhat they’d done in high school, such asholding leadership positions, beinginvolved in their church and many othervariables.

“A system that encourages leadershipand involvement sounds like a good ideauntil you try to implement it,” said ElinaCamarena, director of Student FinancialServices. “We couldn’t verify anythingand it favored the outgoing over theshy.”

According to Taryn Rouse, studentfinancial advisor, the worst-case scenariounder the old system was a student whocame unprepared. “If someone couldn’tremember or just couldn’t articulate whatthey’d achieved, they’d leave with zerofinancial aid unless their parents steppedin and did the speaking for them,” Rousesaid. “Under the new system, the ques-tions are really simple: What was yourcumulative GPA? What was your ACT orSAT score? Have you filled out aFAFSA?”2

“We really have to thank our donors

for providing so much help to our stu-dents through gifts to the Union CollegeFund and named scholarships,” saidStephanie Meyer, Scholarships and Eventsdirector. “Without their commitment, wecould never approach this level of finan-cial assistance.”

While taking the guesswork out offinancial aid may make the new systemseem less magical to students, God’shand is still evident in funding UnionCollege educations. “It sounds corny, butwe do see miracles happen all the time,”Rouse said.

“It makes our jobs rewarding,”Camarena added. “We’ve seen peoplecome in who think they can’t afford any-thing and leave with a plan that meetstheir needs. I want everyone to knowthat if attending Union has ever crossedtheir minds, but they didn’t think theycould afford it, they should call us, writeus, e-mail us or just come visit. Younever know what’s possible.” ~SC

For more information on financial aidfor new students, contact StudentFinancial Services at 402.486.2505 orucenroll@ucollege.edu.

1. Statistics gathered by the College Board.

2. Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Financial aid changes make planning for college easier

Alan Orrison, student financial advisor, helps student Dan Martinez navigate theterms of the Gates Millennium Scholarship that brought him to Union.

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Medical schoolswelcome Union grads

nion’s Division of Science andMathematics celebrated a 100 percentmedical school acceptance rate forthe 2008 graduating class. Nine stu-dents were accepted into Loma LindaUniversity including two from theinternational rescue and relief pro-gram and two from the psychologyprogram. In addition, four sciencestudents were accepted into othercompetitive health professions pro-grams (dentistry, podiatry and two inphysical therapy).

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CAMPUS NEWS_____________________________

10 SUMMER/FALL 2008

he Mid-America Union begins a newera of leadership as it welcomes RoscoeJ. Howard III back to the area, now inthe roles of union president and chair ofthe Union College Board of Trustees.Howard succeeds Dennis Carlson who,after six years of leadership in the union,announced his acceptance of a call toWalla Walla University to serve as thevice president for Advancement.

“Union College has been blessed by aseries of highly supportive leaders fromthe Mid-America Union,” said DavidSmith, college president. “While we willmiss Dennis, we are grateful Roscoeshares a similar passion for Adventisteducation that has been such a benefit tothe college.”

Born and raised in Casper, Wyo.,Howard met his wife, Osceola, atOakwood College, where they bothattended. He earned his undergraduatedegree from Pacific Union College andlater a Master of Divinity from AndrewsUniversity. He is currently a candidate fora Doctor of Ministry degree from FullerTheological Seminary.

Howard started pastoring in 1978 in

the Washington conference in severalchurches and later held various positionsin the North Pacific Union, includingyouth director. Howard served theSeventh-day Adventist church inMid-America as vice president forAdministration before his most recentposition as secretary of the NorthAmerican Division. He was responsiblefor administrative operations and policyimplementation. Known for his dynamicspeaking style, Howard has preached thegospel in African nations, Canada,England, Jamaica, Korea, the Philippinesand throughout the United States.

Osceola and Roscoe return to Lincolnwith their children: Heather received asocial work degree from OakwoodUniversity and Seth has followed in hismother’s footsteps and is a massage ther-apist.

“As I began my journey back toLincoln, I kept running into people whowere enthusiastic about having graduatedfrom Union College where they hadreceived an academic and spiritual foun-dation for professional success,” RoscoeHoward said. “When you consider Dr.

Smith’s stellar leadership at UnionCollege and his gifted, committed facultyand staff, it’s not hard to ask people tosupport the campus and continue theheritage of preparing young adults forselfless service in the marketplace.”

“Roscoe’s passion for service will be amark of his leadership and is a greatmatch for Union College,” Smith said. “Iappreciate his commitment to the collegeand am delighted he is back and con-nected to our campus.” ~MS

Howard returns to Mid-America

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ollege View Church ended the searchfor a senior pastor as Ron Halvorsen, Jr.and his wife, Buffy, accepted positions inearly November. “It took a lot of time andprayer, but the ties we had here were astrong attraction,” Ron said. Buffy wasborn in Lincoln, and both she and Ronwere students at Union College.

“I liked the friendliness of campus andthe teachers I had,” Ron said. “Union hasalways had such a good spirit, both thenand now. The campus feels connected,something you don’t find often.”

And that’s one thing that excites thecouple about moving to College View.“The relationship between the church andcollege is unique among the Adventistcolleges in North America,” Ron said.“The church and student body are able tomeet together and worship with a largepercentage of the students attending.”

Ron graduated from Union in 1983

with a double major in theology andyouth ministry. During his college years,he was heavily involved in the studentbody—a senator as a freshman andAssociated Student Body vice presidentsophomore and junior years. As senioryear came, he shifted his focus to helpingstart Athletes for Christ, a group of bas-ketball players who traveled to leadweekend spiritual programs and an athlet-ic clinic.

The couple was married in the sum-mer of 1981, and after Ron’s graduation,the Halvorsens served at churches inWashington, Texas and Montana. Mostrecently, Ron was the senior pastor atSligo Seventh-day Adventist Church inTakoma Park, Md.

Buffy completed her Bachelor of Artsin religion while in Texas and laterearned her master’s in marriage and fami-ly therapy from Montana State University.

As family life pastor at College View, shewill be involved with counseling andplanning seminars directed at strengthen-ing couples and families and their rela-

They wanted to come back to Union again

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Ron and Buffy Halvorsen

Roscoe Howard

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CORDmagazine 11

eeing packed stands cheering atUnion’s annual dodgeball championshipand a sea of volunteers in matching shirtsfor Project Impact, the college’s annualcommunity service event, it might behard for an observer to believe UnionCollege has fewer students than last fall’s24-year high. With a total of 914 studentsand a full-time equivalence of 847.5,Union’s enrollment for fall 2008 is similarto the fall of 2003 and far ahead of themid-1990s when Union averaged 500-600students. Students from 46 states and 26countries chose Union this year, including166 first-time freshmen. While enrollmentis down, dormitory occupancy is slightlyhigher than last year.

“If you have been listening to the sto-ries of the students who come here, then

you know God is leading and blessingboth the students and Union College,”said David Smith, college president. “Thespirit of the students is amazing andevery program and event I’ve been to sofar this year has been exceptional

because of their spirit.”According to Rob Weaver, vice presi-

dent for Enrollment and Student FinancialServices, many factors led college admin-istrators to expect lower enrollment thisyear. One main reason is a new approachto financial aid (See full story p. 9). “Wereviewed our financial aid system lastyear and changed it to concentrate lesson a front-loaded freshman package andmore on helping students be successfulin the long run,” Weaver said. “Weexpected a dip for this year, but thechanges made will improve retention,making it easier for students to finance allfour years and complete their degrees.”

Other factors include a weak econo-my and the rising cost of transportation,which may have influenced students tochoose a community college or state uni-versity closer to home.

“In the Great Plains, we are nearly adecade into what could be called ademographic recession,” Weaver said.“There are fewer high school graduates inour core markets now than 10 years agoor will likely be for another 10 years.We’ve already seen the effects of this infalling enrollments in the Seventh-dayAdventist school system at the elementaryand high school levels and the result hasbeen school closings and consolidations.This means we’re working harder thanever to bring kids to Nebraska and UnionCollege.” ~SC

Enrollment dips,spirit climbs

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tionship with God and each other.“You don’t necessarily have to have a

serious problem to seek counseling,”Buffy said. “Maybe you just want to be abetter you—a better Christian.”

Currently, Ron is pursuing a doctoratein Christian spirituality and formation fromFuller Theological Seminary. “I have a

thirst for a deeper relationship with Christand a passion for working to help othersdo the same,” he said. Already halfwayfinished, he will start his dissertation nextsummer.

Beyond the church connection, theHalvorsens are involved at Union. Ronteaches Christian Beliefs, and their son,

Ron III, is a student. Their daughter,Stephanie, also lives in Lincoln and plansto attend Union in the spring.

“I’m impressed with Union’s studentleaders and their dreams, visions and pas-sions,” Ron said. “It’s good to be back andinvolved again.” ~MS

According to Rich Carlson, vice presi-dent for Spiritual Life, participation wasbetter then ever for the 2008 ProjectImpact service day on Sept. 4.

Dr. MichaelHuckabee, physi-cian assistant stud-ies program direc-tor, earned a Ph.D.in Human Scienceswith a leadershipspecialization fromthe University ofNebraska-Lincoln’sCollege of Human

Sciences. His dissertation was titled, “TheWell-Being of Servant Leaders: A MixedMethods Study of Career Success Amongthe Under-served.” In his research, heexplored servant leadership characteris-tics in physician assistants who work inunderserved communities compared tothose who work in well-served commu-nities.

Dr. EdwardAllen, associateprofessor of reli-gion, earned aPh.D. from FullerTheologicalSeminary in thearea of ChurchHistory. In his dis-sertation,“Nicholas Bownde

and the Rise of Sunday Sabbatarianism,”he explored the writings and theology ofa 16th century minister in the Church ofEngland who wrote what Allen argueswas the first book on the practice of theSabbath. Allen’s research is the first full-length treatment of Bownde and his writ-ings. Allen previously earned a Doctor ofMinister (D. Min.) degree from Fuller in1991. ~JS

Faculty completed doctoral degrees

NewWellness Major

n response to student interest and jobmarket trends, the health and humanperformance program is offering a newmajor—a Bachelor of Science in Fitnessand Wellness. This major is designedfor students who plan to work in thefitness marketplace, work-site wellnessor community health promotionpositions.

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nion College Division of Business andComputer Science welcomed Raichelle “Rai”H. Glover as a Woodrow Wilson VisitingFellow Sept. 8-12. Glover, an accomplishedexecutive, motivational speaker, leadershipcoach and civic volunteer, navigated corpo-rate America as a Christian business womanin her fast-climbing career with Bank ofAmerica. While on campus, Glover was aguest speaker in six classes and presentedthree sessions for general campus audi-ences.

According to Barry Forbes, chair ofUnion College Division of Business andComputer Science, when funding becameavailable through the division’s Advisory

Board to host a visiting fellow, the grouphad many intriguing leaders to choose from.The division chose Glover because of thewealth of her experiences and connectionsbetween her areas of expertise and Union’slearning environment.

“Topics such as “liberal arts paths to cor-porate leadership” and “what corporatediversity means today” are extremely rele-vant to Union College students,” Forbessaid. “Rai Glover’s experience withwork/family balance and strong civicengagement as shown by her many awardsexemplify qualities that are important to thisgeneration. We were honored that sheaccepted our invitation to spend the week

with our students. Her personable approachand solid faith added a valuable perspectiveto her discussions with students.” ~JS

Union hostsWoodrowWilson Fellow

UU

rom July 16 to Aug. 2, three Union stu-dents learned about lay ministry in a life-changing way, sharing Christ with theDusun people in Sabah, Malaysia.

“The trip deepened our faith andallowed us to see God work in uniqueways,” said Dr. Edward Allen, associate pro-fessor of religion and leader of Union’sevangelism team.

For five years, The Quiet Hour has pro-vided a subsidy that allows Adventist col-lege groups to travel and do mission workin countries such as Rwanda, Guatemalaand Uganda. This year the group fromUnion included Allen, his wife, Madalyn,and three students—Chad Chaffee, SarahGould and Lawrence Francis—who joinedfour other volunteers from the United States.

None of the students were religionmajors. Gould, a senior elementary educa-

tion major, became interested in the tripafter hearing about it in a class she had withAllen, though she wasn’t comfortable withpublic speaking. “I got to thinking, ‘Ishouldn’t be nervous. I’ll be fine becauseGod’s calling me to do this,’” Gould said.

The Dusun people have only settled inSabah, northeast of Borneo, in the last 60years. They depend on the land for theirlivelihood, exporting rubber, cacao and veg-etables. Adventism is relatively prominent,thanks to the groundwork of J.W. Rowland,father of Dr. Neil Rowland, Union Collegealumnus and former professor of chemistry.

Upon arriving in Sabah, each member ofthe group was assigned a church site. Withhelp from local elders and an interpreter,they preached with PowerPoint visual aidsprovided by ShareHIM, an organizationfunded by the Carolina Conference. Eachnight the meetings attracted 150-200 peopleper site—if the weather was good.

Each member of the group preachedapproximately 20 times at their respective

sites. Halfway through the series, as Gouldwas covering the baptism section, a slidetitled “Why wait?” got her attention. Neverhaving been baptized, Gould said, “Theriver next to my site reminded me of Jesusbeing baptized by John the Baptist, and itjust seemed like the right time.” The triphad opened her eyes to seeing God at workin her life and in the lives of the locals. Atthe end of the series, Gould marked hercommitment to God through baptism alongwith almost 500 other people. ~MS

Evangelism team sharesthe gospel in Malaysia

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Chad Chaffee makes new friends.

Rai Glover leads a discussion in a busi-ness class.

Ed Allen baptizes Union student Sarah Gould in Malaysia.

Visit College Viewchurch from your home

hanks to a partnership between theCollege View church and Union’sCampus Ministries, videos of recentchurch services are available atwww.collegeviewchurch.org. Currentand older services are also available inaudio-only format.

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CORDmagazine 13

re we drifting?”“I don’t think so … but I, I can’t tell.”

The concerned murmurs were replaced by a few concentrat-ed seconds of silence. The only audible sounds were the collec-tive breath of 20 and the sloshing of the water they’re hopingwill clue them in as to the state of their plight. Suddenly, avoice cuts through the darkness.

“Okay people, we’re definitely drifting.”And so the group of international rescue and relief students

who are training to rescue others had to find a way to rescuethemselves in the midst of shark-infested waters. And that wasjust one night.

Preparing for the worstIn January 2008, 18 IRR juniors and seniors, along with Mike

Duehrssen, program director, and his family left for Hondurasfor a semester of learning in the areas of tropical medicine,emergency care, public health, dive rescue, and coastal, oceanand jungle survival.

“The main goal is education for the students,” Duehrssensaid. “But we also try to incorporate a humanitarian element sowe can help people as part ofthe educational process.”

They began on the island ofUtila, home to about 3,000people and the smallest ofHonduras’ three major islands,known as the Bay Islands. Aftera few days in Utila, Duehrssenbecame aware that the islanddidn’t have a hurricane disasterplan in place.

“We met with the mayor ofUtila and he gave us the go-ahead to begin designing a dis-aster plan for the island,”Duehrssen said.

One of the main advantagesof having a disaster plan,according to Duehrssen, is thatit gives the mayor power to askthe Honduran government for

certain equipment that otherwise would be impossible to obtain.After training in Utila, the group moved on to Roatán. With a

population of 30,000, it is the largest of the Bay Islands. Havingheard of the disaster plan in Utila, the governor of Roatán hasasked the IRR program to create a plan for the island of Roatanas well, something Duehrssen hopes will begin as early as nextyear.

“This is what our program is all about,” Duehrssen said.“Lives will be saved because of what our students have done.Creating a disaster plan also prepares our students for anything.”

During this trip, their preparation was put to the test.

The open seaAmong the requirements for students on the trip is learning

how to open a coconut on their head, find food in a jungle andendure a 24-hour stint aboard a survival raft.

Unfortunately, the boat that was supposed to be stationednext to their raft as a backup never arrived. A little after oneo’clock in the morning, the anchor failed, allowing the raft tofloat out into the sea.

Once the team realized they were drifting, they had to navi-gate the raft away from areas ofrazor-sharp coral reef located justbeneath the water’s surface.

As they struggled to gettheir bearings, it soon becameobvious that they were headedbetween two islands and straightfor a canal that would lead themaimlessly into the open ocean.The necessary course of actionwas apparent: they’d have toswim for shore.

“It crossed my mind thatthere may be sharks here,” saidEddie Perry, who graduated inMay and is now a medical stu-dent at Loma Linda University.“But in moments like these, youcan’t let fear keep you from get-ting the job done. You just haveto rely on your training.”

“A“Aby Jimmy Phillips ’08

IRR senior Chris Kinney (far right) instructs staff onBarbareta Island how to stabilize a patient with a broken legand eye injury. Kinney graduated in May and is continuinghis study at Union in the physician assistant program.

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14 SUMMER/FALL 2008

Duehrssen was proud of the studentsfor taking charge of the situation. “Wehad all the emergency alert equipmentwe needed,” Duehrssen said. “But wenever needed to use it because our stu-dents relied on their training and handledthe situation perfectly.”

Once on the mysterious island, thestudents made a fire and slept on thebeach until morning. The next day,workers developing the island found thegroup and gave them breakfast and sup-plies. Before long, the IRR group discov-ered they had landed on a private islandowned by a Texas business tycoon.

“The estate manager was veryimpressed with our group and what wewere doing. He invited us back to do afull-scale ropes-rescue training session forthe staff on their island,” Duehrssen said.“It’s amazing that our wayward journeyled us to a location where we were ableto develop a relationship that could ben-efit the IRR program for many years.”

Real-life applicationThe 18 students who ventured to

Honduras experienced plenty of academ-ic coursework along with adventure.From serving medical needs of villagersin rural clinics and rudimentary hospitalsto helping rescue a Canadian couplewhose sailboat capsized and caring for acruise line tourist with a fractured leg,the emphasis on being a student was notforgotten.

“The students still have exams,quizzes and normal coursework,”Duehrssen said. “The only difference isthat they study in hammocks, huts andwherever else they can find a quietspot.”

As Duehrssen explains, that’s all bydesign.

“The students are graded on howwell they interact and get along withtheir peers in cramped and, at times,inadequate facilities,” Duehrssen said.“It’s all part of a package that preparesthem for world travel.”

Students like Perry are grateful for theexperience and opportunity to learn out-side of the classroom.

“The IRR program prepares you foralmost every kind of disaster you mayencounter, whether it involves gettingyourself out of a jam or helping others,”Perry said. “During this trip to Honduras, Isaw years of textbook learning come tolife.” C

IRR students ready for their next adventure:employment

n 2008 the IRR program reached thefour-year mark. This trek away from tra-ditional college experiences has led toquestions about the type of jobs avail-able. But in looking at the plans of 17graduates through December 2008,opportunities are plentiful. Below is a listof intended next steps:

Medical school at Loma Linda University(two accepted)

Physician assistant program(three accepted)

Graduate school in public health,psychology, outdoor education

Internships (The Quiet Hour andMaranatha Volunteers International)

The Peace Corps

Traveling nurse(Doctors without Borders)

Air Force (combat rescue)

At-risk teen intervention counseling

Graduate assistantships (for Union’s IRRprogram and Southern AdventistUniversity)

Paramedic schools in Alaska, Colorado,Idaho, Iowa, Oregon, Nebraska andTennessee*

*Pre-paramedic emphasis students graduate withbachelor’s degree from Union when paramedictraining is completed. These students are notincluded in the graduation numbers for 2008.

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Jordan Personius, junior from Oregon,assists a doctor at the Roatán emergencyroom in casting a young patient’s arm.

Brock Mayer and Ryan Brizendine helpperform an ear examination with Dr.Mike Duerhrssen in a village clinic.

IRR students practice advanced open-water diving rescue techniques during theirthree months of training in Honduras.

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CORDmagazine 15

n Saturday evening, Sept. 13, students from UnionCollege’s international rescue and relief program gathered for

a vote. Dr. Michael Duehrssen, associate director of the program,presented the students with two choices: drive through the nightto south Texas without specific rescue or relief assignments orwait until morning to hear more from contacts already in the area.

The vote was unanimous. Eager to put their training intopractice, the students wanted to help victims of Hurricane Ike assoon as possible and chose the all-night van ride.

The team of 10 junior and senior IRR majors, along withDuehrssen and Aaron Kent, program alumnus and IRR graduateassistant, arrived in Orange County, Texas, on Sunday. Whilethey didn’t need their rescue gear, their skills in relief andassessment were quickly put to use and the strength of theirstomachs was tested.

“The whole bayou had been lifted and carried into the townon the storm surge,” said IRR student Michael Gardner. “Therewere dead animals and rotting fish all over the place. The smellpermeated the entire city and clung to you wherever you went.”

Hurricane Ike hit Orange County (close to Port Arthur, La.)harder than forecastersexpected. Based nearBridge City, the teamconnected with thecounty’s emergencyoperation center (EOC)and FEMA, along withdisaster response organ-izations, Eagles Wingsand AdventistCommunity TeamServices (ACTS).

For the group’s firstservice assignment, theytraveled through neigh-borhoods assessingneeds. By Tuesday,Union’s IRR studentsled 10-person teamsincorporating 60 high school students who came to the area toserve. The group knocked on doors and reported the needs ofeach home through the GPS-enabled cell phones provided byEagles Wings. The information gathered at the county’s EOCwas then passed on to FEMA, allowing them to allocate fundsand other resources.

In addition to damage assessments, in one day they found24 urgent needs in flooded neighborhoods, including medicaland humanitarian concerns that they were able to report orassist with on the spot. The group carried coolers with food andwater in the vehicles so they could help with immediate needssuch as ice for insulin.

“Many of the people who were caught in the storm were

unable to get a pharmacy,” Duehrssen said. “By the time wereached them, many residents were desperate for emergencyprescriptions such as blood-pressure medication.”

Corrie Sample, a senior IRR student, was assigned to assistthe leader of Eagle’s Wings who was organizing the assessmentprocess. “I saw first-hand the tension between wanting to coveras much territory as possible to qualify for more FEMA fundingand moving slow enough through the neighborhoods to meetindividual needs along the way,” Sample said.

While the magnitude of the devastation allowed students tosee policies and systems in action, it was the one-on-onemoments that Daniel Rogers says he will remember most. Hisgroup encountered a lady in a parking lot while picking up apair of glasses for another elderly lady who was legally blind.With tears in her eyes and quivering chin she asked, “Can youhelp me? I don’t know where to turn.” They talked with her fora few minutes and gave her a case of MREs (meals ready to eat)and a case of bottled water. “Before she turned to go we askedif we could pray with her,” Rogers said. “With our arms aroundeach other, we were three strangers, but we shared a few min-

utes in a time of crisis,turning to God and sup-porting each other. Whenthe woman turned to go,her tears were fromthanks and gratitude withrenewed hope in herface. It was an amazingtransformation and anexample of God’s spiritat work.”

Later in the week, theIRR group helped set upthree ACTS kitchens withfood provided by theFDA. One kitchen unit, asemi truck, was stationedat the high school wherethey were based. Two

smaller mobile units moved through the community. With resi-dents returning to flood-damaged homes, many without power,they served up to 10,000 meals a day.

Arriving back on campus early Sunday morning, studentshad gained an expanded perspective on the challenges andopportunities of their major in international rescue and relief. “Idiscovered that I really enjoy aspects of disaster management,”Sample said. “Seeing the big picture in the aftermath of Ikeopened my eyes to new possibilities and options for service.”C

pView a television news story provided by Lincoln’s Channel10/11 and read more about Corrie Sample’s service adventure inCORDmagazine online: www.ucollege.edu/cordmagazine.

by Jacque L. Smith

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Interview and timeline byAngela A. Peach and Jacque L. Smith

Angie/Jacque: What does it mean to you to have completed adecade at Union College and be celebrated as the longest-servingpresident?

David: I recognize there are many presidents at other institu-tions who have served longer than I’ve served here. But thismilestone does bring joy as I realize that there probably hasbeen more of a benefit to the college for my having been here awhole decade. Union has never really had a chance as an insti-tution to experience its full potential under long-term leadership.

Every year brings its own challenges. You can’t look very fardown the road and do the kinds of jobs Cherie and I are doing.Every year we ask God, “What do you want us to do this year?Do you want us to stay? Do you want us to do something elsefor you?” And so far it’s been clear that he’s keeping us here.

A/J: What were some of the factors you and Cherie consideredbefore taking the call to come here?

D: It was the most difficult decision we had ever made. We hadbeen at Union College for two years from 1979 to 1981 andliked it very much. But at the point we received the call to cometo Union we had lived in Collegedale for 17 years and enjoyed areal sense of belonging and security there. Cherie was in hersecond year as a pastor at the Collegedale Seventh-day AdventistChurch, and it was the most fulfilling work of her life—experi-encing what we believed God had called her to do. I was veryhappy in my role in the English department at Southern. I havea passion for teaching and enjoy the classroom experience. Toconsider accepting a more stressful position, one that would takeme further away from daily contact with young people, was achallenge. Also with most of our family either in, or near,Tennessee, the thought of moving away was excruciating.

A/J: Both you and Cherie describe the decision to move as apivotal point in your spiritual journey. How did this impact yourdecision?

D: The most important thing for us was to try to understandwhat God wanted us to do. Seeking God’s will was very hard—a spiritual wrestling for us both. We prayed earnestly, andalthough I don’t think I could explain to someone why, I justfelt convicted to take the call. The decision was even more diffi-cult for Cherie, but ultimately she decided we should go. Shesummarized the reason to say “yes” so well: “You’re blessed themost when you’re doing what God wants you to do.”

CORDmagazine 17

1998Dr. David Smith begins his term aspresident.

The Division of Health Sciences isthe first area of campus to have awireless computer connection.

1999In February, Union officiallyinaugurates Dr. David Smith aspresident.

2000Union College earns North CentralAssociation (NCA) accreditation.

The first physician assistant classgraduates.

The First Lady’s OutstandingCommunity Service Award ispresented to the Division ofHealth Sciences.

The Board of Trustees becomesmore engaged in the leadershipof Union College through thecreation of board committees:

Executive

Academic

Campus Life

Finance and Development

Masterplanning and Facilities

Recruitment, Retention and Marketing

Trusteeship

2001Union College receives a $1.3million commitment toward thecompletion of a new welcome andconference center from the AlvinOrtner Trust. While this gift helpedcreate the vision for the project,other donors provided crucialleadership, including: Union Bank,Shawnee Mission Medical Center,Adventist Health Rocky MountainRegion, Mid-America UnionConference, Jerome and RamonaLang, Jessica Saxton andSaxton’s Inc.

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ast year when Dr.David Smith realized he was positioned

to be the longest-serving president of Union College, he

was surprised.The business of leading and serving

the college had been keeping him too occupied to take time

to tally the tenure of his predecessors. This leadership mile-

stone for the campus coincides with the 10-year anniversary

of David and Cherie’s move to Lincoln. In the interview

below, President Smith shows that his leadership and vision

are a testament to his belief in the power of prayer and the

strength of Union College and its people.

An Overview of a Decade

A/J: How is Cherie’s participation in your leadership a benefit toUnion College? What does it mean to you personally?

D: Cherie has a place in her heart for our alumni. EveryHomecoming Weekend she takes them into her heart and goesthrough withdrawal when it’s over. She often travels with meand has meaningful visits with people who I might not havethe opportunity or even feel equipped to meet with. When Itravel alone, one of the first questions I’m often asked is“Where’s Cherie?” People are willing to settle for me, but I cansense their disappointment at her absence.

When we are in Lincoln, Cherie is the most wonderful andgracious host. It is a special delight to her heart to serve peo-ple in our home. We’ve enjoyed hosting groups of parents andstudents, alumni, board members, faculty and staff, andCherie’s willingness to open our home has always been a trueexample of hospitality.

Cherie is also a tremendous prayer warrior. She prays notonly for me but also for the school. I believe her prayers arepartly responsible for many of the blessings that Union hasenjoyed. Several years ago, Cherie encouraged me to begin thetradition of a prayer walk on the Friday evening of faculty collo-quium. We pray for our campus—the buildings and the peoplewho will pass through them. I can’t think of a better way to starta school year than to pray about what’s to come and surrendereverything to God.

A/J: What were your first impressions of Union College?

D: My first impressions were very positive. The biggest sur-prise, especially given that I had taught here for two years 17years prior, was to be reminded of how incredible the studentswere. I’ve always loved the students everywhere I’ve been, butI’ve never been so struck by the willingness to serve demon-strated by Union students. My first Project Impact [communityservice day] I put on my event T-shirt and walked outside notknowing what to expect. I was amazed at how many peoplewere there. I’d never seen anything like it. I was pleased, how-ever, to see that the attitude of service extended beyond thatone day.

One Sunday morning, a few weeks later, I joined a groupof students who were fixing up a trailer for a lady in the com-munity. As I helped a young man fix a door, I asked himabout his year. He said that as a pre-med major he was havinga very difficult time, taking more than 20 credit hours—almostall science lab classes. I asked him why he was here volunteer-ing when he could be sleeping or studying to help with hisown stress. He said, “My parents raised me to believe that any-time you have a chance to help somebody, that’s what you do.So I’m here because I have a chance to help somebody.” He’sfinished his training at Loma Linda, and a few months ago Ihad the chance to visit with him. He’s still asking, “How can Icome back to Union and help?” Experiencing that attitude ofservice probably had the greatest impact on me.

The other thing I joyfully adjusted to was the student-cen-tered, student-directed dynamic here. Watching young peoplelead out with enthusiasm in the spiritual programming and toparticipate with them as they grow—it’s an exciting atmos-phere. And contributing to that atmosphere is the unparalleledpositive peer pressure I witnessed here. Students were servingJesus with outright enthusiasm and sharing their spiritual walkwith their peers.

Union celebrates exceeding the $5million goal for Our EnduringUnion: The Campaign for UnionCollege, with $6.3 million raised.The campaign continues with afocus on raising funds for theOrtner Center.

$8.9 million in debt is fullyeradicated.

The physician assistant programgains accreditation.

Union College hosts an alternatewalk date for Lincoln’s AmericanHeart Association, beginning anannual partnership that meets acommunity need.

2002Enrollment continues to grow asUnion enjoys its highest enroll-ment in 19 years. Successfulstudent retention is the majorcontributing factor in this upwardtrend.

The 10th annual Parents Weekendwelcomes 600 parents and studentsto campus, up from 80 parents andstudents attending the first year.

2003The international rescue and relief(IRR) program is proposed toUnion, with direction providedby Dr. Michael Duerhssen. Theprogram officially launches inAugust 2004.

2004With oversight from the board oftrustees, Civitas completes theUnion College campus facility mas-ter plan—an outline of the overall50-year vision for campus facilities,including new student housing toeventually replace Kern andBancroft Courts and new facilitiesfor science and mathematics.

New visual identity and Web site iscreated for Union College.

18 SUMMER/FALL 2008

During my first convocation, the Associated Student Body(ASB) president said, “There’s one thing you need to know.Everything we have planned for this school year will havesomething to do with Jesus Christ. Whether we’re in a banquet,whether we’re playing on the ball fields, whether we’re eatingin the cafeteria, whether we’re going to class—whatever hap-pens on this campus, our prayer is that it has something to dowith Christ.” Then he said boldly, “I hope that’s why you’rehere at Union, because if it is, you’ll enjoy it. If that’s not whyyou’re here, we’re still glad you’re here, and we hope you canadjust.” Wow! I had never heard young people take spiritualownership to that degree. How amazing it is to be involved ona campus like this!

A/J: Union is known for its see-it-to-believe-it campus atmos-phere. How do you try to perpetuate or emphasize the campusenvironment?

D: I discovered during my first year at Union that the facultyand staff are inordinately dedicated to serving both Jesus andthe students. Our students respond to that attitude. I believeone of my greater contributions has been to support and pro-mote the spiritual environment and to accurately represent thisvery important aspect of Union College when I am elsewhere.

Reminders of this spiritual atmosphere are everywhere,even in the speeches of the students running for ASB offices. Itwould be the most normal thing in the world to run for finan-cial vice president by simply saying, “I have good experience inthis; I can take care of your money, and we can do a lot ofthings next year. Please vote for me.” But these kids go beyondthat, without any prompting. They say, “I want to be a goodfinancial VP for God because I want to be a good steward ofyour money, and I believe God will bless me with that motive.”I hope that my leadership affirms that attitude.

A/J: What specific interactions do you get to have with students?

D: I go to as many programs as I can. I sit with the students atvolleyball and basketball games, in Union Market, at chapeland in vespers. This doesn’t always mean we have deep con-versations, but I enjoy being with them. When I do get achance to seriously talk with them, it’s important to me to domy best to listen, understand and get a sense of what they’relike. Because when I’m out representing the college, they’re theones that I’m describing.

A: Did you have a specific teacher or class that inspired you ina way that you hope Union students will be inspired?

D: When I was an undergraduate student at Andrews, a profes-sor called me into his office and invited me to share my plansfor the future. He did two things that were very meaningful tome. First, he expressed tremendous confidence in me, confi-dence I didn’t have in myself at the time. Second, he prayed formy future. That experience blessed me with a little more securi-ty as I moved forward.

Another experience that sticks out in my mind happenedduring my freshman year. I was in World Civ I—a class thatbegan with 27 students, of which only seven finished. I enjoyedthe teacher, got an A and decided to be a history major. Thenext year, I took another class from the same teacher. I stayed

The Master of Physician AssistantStudies degree is approved.

Our Enduring Union: The Campaignfor Union College concludes with$9.3 million raised for campus facili-ties, academic equipment and schol-arship endowment.

The Ortner Center opens. Facilitiesare in use in January 2004, with agrand opening celebration in April.The ceremony is attended by manykey civic officials, including themayor of Lincoln. Features of thenew facility include Union MarketDining Services, Lang Conferenceand Guest Center, a 24-hour cam-pus Welcome Center, and theMcClelland Art Gallery.

The Best in Class Advisory Board isformed to help connect the Divisionof Business and its students to thereal business world.

Union College: Light Upon the Hill,celebrating the history of UnionCollege is published, commemorat-ing the centennial of the AlumniAssociation.

2005The student center is renovated.Leadership gifts are provided byformer Associated Student Body(ASB) officers, the Mid-AmericaUnion Conference and alumni andfriends of the college.

Education, physician assistant, socialwork and nursing programs allachieve accreditation by theirrespective accrediting bodies.

2006Union celebrates the opening ofCooper Place, new on-campusstudent housing made possible byRick Krueger and Kent Thompson.

Union celebrates 100 years of thetradition of the Golden Cords recog-nizing students and alumni overseasmission service.

CORDmagazine 19

up all night to do a book review, out of diligence, not procras-tination. When I got that paper back, it was bleeding red marksso profusely—it looked like a hospital emergency room. Theteacher had written “you have too many verbs of being” andhad drawn blocks around each one and connected them all. Ididn’t even know what a verb of being was at the time, butwhen I figured it out, I got mad. I was young and not verymature, but I had worked hard. I didn’t find much in theteacher’s comments that seemed redemptive. So I took a text-book page, circled and connected all the verbs of being on it,and gave it to him. I told him if I was one to swear, I’d beswearing at him, but since I wasn’t, I just wanted him to knowhow angry I was. It was a ridiculous conversation on my part,but he took everything in a Christian manner and said he’d tryto do better. And he did! After that he partly changed his grad-ing and wrote more affirming comments. Looking back, I haveto laugh because he was voted teacher of the year, and I wasdefinitely not the student of the year.

Years later, when I graduated with my master’s degree inEnglish, this same teacher, now president of another institution,was invited to speak at my graduation. Although I hadn’t seenhim in years, the moment we shook hands he said good-naturedly, “Now I understand you’re a traitor and have gonewith English instead of history.” We had a wonderful, affirmingconversation. The next day during graduation, he got out of hisseat to shake my hand. I was the only person he did that for—a magnanimous gesture, in my mind, because he had no rea-son to do it except that it was important to him. I learned fromhim how to deal with people who are angry, how to expressfaith in them and how to be a part of their maturing process byletting them know that you value them.

A/J: Or even how to let them help change you—to keep yourselfopen.

D: Yes. And to learn from people who express criticism or sug-gestions for improvement. It was profound for me.

A/J: What do you see as a sustaining factor for Union’s successover your decade here?

D: A highlight for the campus in my early years was the grow-ing enrollment, but the sense of spiritual renewal I felt waseven more exciting. When I talk to alumni from previousdecades, they don’t all recount that kind of spiritual journey orschool spirit. The first time I heard the school song sung, I wasamazed to feel the enthusiasm for that silly little song. It cap-tured the spirit here that you would hope for when young peo-ple are together. And that spirit has only grown over time.

A/J: Do you notice any differences in Union’s alumni and con-stituents compared to other institutions?

D: Yes. From the first time I interacted with Union’s alumni, Iwas overcome by their enthusiasm for their school. I had neverseen anything like it anywhere. I was prepared to motivate thealumni and get them as excited about the school as I was, but Ifound that one of my major tasks was just to keep up withthem. They were clapping, and nodding and singing the schoolsong before I even got up to speak.

One of the insights I’ve gained is that the level of alumni

U.S. News and World Reportawards Union “Top College”designation, an honor againbestowed in 2007 and 2008.

Project Impact, the collegecommunity service day,celebrates 25 years.

2007The nursing program begins atwo- semester acceptance cycle.Two classes of 24 students each areable to begin the program everyschool year, instead of one class of30 students.

The Union College Fund raises$591,120 in unrestricted giving,up significantly from the $321,648raised in 1998.

Union’s enrollment exceeds 1,000students for the first timesince 1983.

2008Union College leadership visitsCapitol Hill to address representa-tives and senators.

The Corporation for National andCommunity Service names UnionCollege to the President’s HigherEducation Community ServiceHonor Roll with Distinction forexemplary service efforts and serv-ice to disadvantaged youth.

Nebraska State Senator Tony Fultonintroduces Legislative Resolution248, commending Union Collegefor its growth and continued excel-lence in education and service.

Union takes strategic steps tofurther realize the priorities of thecampus facility master plan.

20 SUMMER/FALL 2008

and constituent interest in Union College is as great, if notgreater, than for any other Adventist college or university. I wasboth surprised and pleased by that my first year, but it’s beenreinforced every year I’ve been here. That interest is exciting,because it allows the college to play a very important role innurturing the church in this part of the United States.”

A/J: What role has the Board of Trustees played in your leader-ship at Union?

D: From the beginning, the board was completely supportiveand entirely helpful, but quiet. In 2000, we reorganized theboard into committees, which has allowed the group to be farmore engaged. In addition, we have been more intentional inselecting board members who fit specific needs and bring var-ied expertise and balance to the group. Union benefits immea-surably from their knowledge, experience and talents. I feelconfident in the exceptional leadership our board provides.

A/J: You have described the opening of the Ortner Center as apivotal point for the campus. What did the completion of thatproject add to Union College?

D: The Ortner Center absolutely transformed the campus. Acore mission of my presidency has been to invite the Lincolncommunity onto our campus and find ways to not only partnerwith them, but also to help them feel comfortable here. All ofthe Project Impact days, as significant as they have beenthrough the years, probably haven’t helped the Lincoln commu-nity feel as comfortable on our campus as what we’ve donethrough the Ortner Center. And I’ve been so pleased with that.

During our community open house for the new facility, onevisitor who had a long-standing relationship with the collegetold me that he finally felt welcome on campus—he felt like hebelonged. Nothing he could have shared with me was moreimportant than that reaction. God’s blessing of the OrtnerCenter project allowed us to open that door.

There has been a progression of success at Union College.The next big projects that we are looking at are beyond thescope of anything the college has attempted in the past. Yetthey are so worthy and necessary—and actually, more doablebecause we have momentum from past successes like theOrtner Center. People are responding with enthusiasm to thepossibilities for the future as they celebrate with us over pastblessings.”

A/J: What will be crucial to future success and development forUnion College?

D: Union has taken a few key steps to define itself as uniqueamong Adventist higher education institutions. Expanding ournursing program, converting the physician assistant program to amaster’s degree, focusing on strong business, education andhealth sciences areas and the new international rescue and reliefprogram coupled with generally strengthening and defining aca-demics has gained us some recognition. But when we look to thefuture of Union College, we’ve got more ground to cover.

Small schools like our own, church affiliated or not, are veryvulnerable in today’s environment. Many forces are pressing onhigher education institutions. With this in mind, we’re trying tolisten to people, to learn and anticipate the next steps Union

CORDmagazine 21

In February, the Board of Trusteesjoined with college employees for areception honoring David and CherieSmith and their 10 years of leadership.The program in the lobby of the OrtnerCenter included toasts and tributes tothe Smiths and a rousing celebrationsong by the vice presidents set to thetune of “The Battle Hymn of theRepublic.”

22 SUMMER/FALL 2008

needs to take in order to be as excited about the future as weare about the present. One of these steps is providing facilitiesand resources that will give our students the best possible educa-tional experience here and practical options once they leave.

The best way higher education can help expand opportuni-ties for the future is through science. We hear the plea for morescientists, more mathematicians, more graduates with criticalthinking skills and medical training for the kind of jobs that can’tbe easily be exported overseas in a global market. There’s noquestion that the demand for skilled problem-solvers will contin-ue to grow. Every school needs to be thinking in this direction,and it’s a step Union needs to take for the future. But I don’t seea bright future for Union College without a facility that helpsanswer this call.

Being located in Nebraska keeps our focus on attracting andsustaining young talent. Science and health care jobs will help usdo just that. If we don’t have the resources to add to this jobpool, there’s going to be a lot more “brain loss.” As Union looksto the future, we want to keep moving instead toward “braingain.” Percentagewise, we are leading all other institutions inbrain gain for the state, and we want to build on that. We alsowant to have resources that will attract young people fromaround the country and the world who will feel good aboutinvesting their college years at Union. In our master plan, wehave a commitment to keep improving campus. We are excitedabout what that tells us for our future.

We also need to increase our cash reserves and endowment.Union needs to find ways to explore revenue options outside ofthe operating fund. With time and God’s blessing, we have tolook at expanding our financial options carefully.

Our biggest challenge in looking to the future will most likelybe sustaining enrollment. With boarding academies around thecountry struggling to remain open, we must figure out how toattract different kinds of students in larger numbers than we havehistorically. We are especially interested in Adventists attendinghigh school and local Christian youth who are looking for a quali-ty Christian education. We believe that there are plenty of youngpeople to give Union College a bright future, but we’re also goingto be more challenged than ever before to attract and serve them.

President Smith adds hissupport, strength and sweatto Project Impact each year.

The Smiths are joined by their daughters, Jacie Buxton and KimHutchinson, at an event last April to celebrate the college’s lead-ership and vision for the future and to honor David and CherieSmith for their decade of service at Union.

David Smith says time with alumni isan important part of his work. Herehe tosses out the first pitch at theLincoln alumni annual Saltdogsbaseball game gathering.

CORDmagazine 23

A/J: What are you excited about as you look tothe future of Union College?

D: I’m excited to see such a match between thepath Union College is on right now and thepath higher education will need to movetoward in the future. Our small size is a realadvantage because we have such a dedicated,unified group of employees who are commit-ted to Union’s mission. The word “future” hasincreasingly become synonymous with theword “change.” We must continue to adapt tostay relevant. Union is perfectly positioned forthis challenge because of the cohesiveness andflexibility of our faculty and staff who enthusi-astically try new things. I am excited abouthaving a campus culture that supports newideas and reaches for new goals.

I also get very excited about the amazingways God has blessed this school over the past10 years. It’s a school going somewhere andwith God’s blessing, Union has a bright future.I look forward to seeing how God will guide me and otherleaders, through partnering with him, to help that very brightfuture happen.

A/J: At the beginning of the day when you see what’s ahead,what details of your work do you look forward to the most?

D: I love the students. After I speak around the country, peoplealways say to me, “Boy, you really love those kids, don’t you?” Ihaven’t realized that’s what I’ve spoken about, but it comesthrough because they are in my heart. These students are a pow-erful witness to me, and I’m excited on days when I get to talkabout the Union College they represent.

Another thing that energizes me is when I come to the endof the day and realize I’ve made a difference. So much of what Ido is open-ended; I may deal with an issue for years. On dayswhen I realize that life is suddenly better for a teacher, staffmember or student—that sense of accomplishment is satisfying.Many days, facing the impossible is very challenging and drain-ing. I’ve learned to say to God at the end of the day, “I can’tsolve this right now. I’m giving it to you.”

What I have enjoyed the most about my role is being a per-sonal representative of what I understand Union College to be.

When I travel, write, speakor visit alumni and friends,I am Union College. It’sbeen such a privilege to bethat representative. I lovethis place. I believe in it. Isee how it changes heartsand lives, and I’m excitedto be a part of that. C

“Union’s administrative team is theenvy of other colleges,” President Smithsaid. “It is a professional and personalblessing to work this impressive groupof dedicated leaders.” From left:Malcolm Russell, Rob Weaver, DavidSmith, LuAnn Davis, Gary Bollinger,Lou Ann Fredregill, Linda Becker andRich Carlson.

“I can’t wait to go to Unionwhen I grow up. For those whoare going to Union soon, pre-pare for an awesome president(my grandpa). I hope Unionwill be as great and friendlywhen I get there.”

~Katie Buxton, age 10

David’s wife Cheri is thenurture and prayer pastorat the College View church.

t Union, a highlight of the week is the Saturday nightevent planned by the Associated Student Body—cardboard boatnight, splash for cash, dodgeball tournament—but it’s only partof what the ASB team does on campus. And although ASB pres-ident, Alicia Archer, is excited about this year’s events, she hasbig plans for other areas.In her spare time, this Colorado native can be found dirt

biking, rock climbing, photographing nature or playing the gui-tar. Majoring in both nursing and international rescue and relief,she plans to eventually work as a nurse overseas, possibly onmercy ships or in developing countries. But for now, Archerfocuses on her vision and excitement for this year.

Michael Steingas: What brought you to Union?

Alicia Archer: The international rescue and relief program ini-tially. And then after that, the people kept me here.

MS: What were your first impressions of Union and were theyaccurate?

AA: The first thing I noticed was a very beautiful campus, butwhat impressed me the most was the people and how welcom-ing they were. Making friends was easy and everyone was help-ful showing me where to go. Once I was on campus andbecame friends with a few people, spreading out and meetingmore wasn’t hard. It’s great being surrounded by people youknow on a daily basis and being able to greet anyone you meeton the sidewalk.

MS: What excites you the most about Union?

AA: Union encourages the student body to try new things andget involved specifically through small groups scattered aroundcampus—department clubs, praise teams, intramurals—most ofwhich are student led. Spiritually, you can find whatever you’relooking for; different people worship differently and Unionaccommodates those styles. I go to a to a small Sabbath schoolclass that meets in the IRR department. Coming from a verysmall town, and therefore a very small church, I like the close-ness you get with a small group.

MS: Have the faculty had an impact on your experience atUnion?

AA: All along the faculty has been amazing. The teachers arevery supportive and willing to work with you. They understandlife issues that students face and do their best to offer support.Dr. [Virginia] Simmons, for example, is one who amazes me. I

took her Developmental Psychology class and she spoils us ascollege students. You can tell she loves teaching and that it isn’ta burden for her. She’s inspiring.

MS: What has been your experience with Dr. David Smith?

AA: He’s very personable. At other college campuses, therewould be few people who could actually tell you where thepresident’s office is or even what he or she looks like. Dr. Smithis a very impressive person. I respect him and look up to himas a leader who doesn’t get caught up with being the “top dog.”He’s very involved and really cares about the students andUnion. That’s what I see coming through his actions and words.

MS: How did you become involved with leadership?

AA: I think it began by being involved in praise groups andhaving a good reputation, but the ASB position was definitelyGod’s leading. I hadn’t been looking for the job; He brought itto me.

MS: How hard was it to become involved in leadership at Union?

AA: It’s was simple because of the many clubs and areas ofCampus Ministries that can always use help. Most of the ASBofficers for next year are underclassmen, so it’s definitely possi-ble for new and current students to get involved. Lack of expe-rience is not necessarily something that counts against youbecause part of having a leadership position is getting experi-ence for later in life.

MS: What goals do you have for the ASB this year?

AA: First, something all the colleges and universities in NorthAmerica decided to sponsor is the Malawi Project(www.malawiproject.org), which trains locals how to administermedical care so they can instruct and work in the hospital aswell. Second, I want to continue making Union more eco-friendly by promoting recycling, increasing awareness abouthow much paper is used at a college and providing ideas thatwill use paper and other material more efficiently.

MS: How has ASB planned differently for this school year?

AA: We evaluated a lot of our events and adjusted them accord-ing to feedback the student body gave us. ASB is always differ-ent due to changes in leadership, but it needs to be adaptive toaccommodate the student body, and I feel like we are doingthat. I’m excited about the dynamic energy the new ASB teamhas brought and am enjoying working with them this year.C

24 SUMMER/FALL 2008

Associated Student Body president, Alicia Archer,reflects on her Union experience and discusseswhat ASB has in store this year

by: Michael D. Steingas

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CORDmagazine 25

n the fall of 2000, I decided to take part in a Saturday nightASB event, the annual Bigger and Better contest. Three friendsand I started out with a marble and set out to win the biggestprize we could. After trading a melon for a drum, we fell uponthe misfortune of receiving a baby’s training toilet. Fifteen min-utes later, I was standing on the front steps of the governor’smansion talking to Justin Johanns, son of then Governor MikeJohanns. He took my toilet and gave our entire group crystalinaugural ornaments.

I hardly remember winning the ASB contest that night, but Iremember that conversation with Justin and the state troopers.It would be the first of many. That conversation helped meland an internship in then Governor Johanns’s constituentaffairs department which, in turn, helped me earn an internshipwith Senator Chuck Hagel in his Washington D.C. office.

One misperception I held before working with SenatorHagel was that public service is inherently political. During myvetting process, however, while my résumé, background, andinterests were thoroughly examined, no one asked about mypolitical party affiliation.

I began to worry about this one Friday in March 2002 after Iinformed my colleagues that I was a registered Democrat whenI accepted the position in Senator Hagel’s office. Fearing that Iwould be exiled prematurely from a job that I loved, the sur-prise verdict was that nobody seemed to care.

Senator Hagel strongly believed in face-to-face discussions

with key players in current events. Because of this, in carryingout my day-to-day responsibilities, I was able to meet some ofthe most influential people in our government. One suchencounter showed just how green I was to the political process.

One day I was working answering phones in the officewhen a man who had an appointment with the Senator camein. After he took his seat, I introduced myself and asked if Icould get him any refreshments. In a rough voice he told mehe was fine. We carried on a conversation for about 10 minutesand I kept noticing his rough voice. Two or three times I askedhim if I could get him some tea or coffee, at one point goingas far as to say that it might help “clear that up.” A few min-utes later the man left. My boss got a good laugh out of thestory as he informed me that the guest was none other thanHenry Kissinger.

It is true that our system is filled with people who are insti-tutions in their own right, men and women who fight to holdon to power at all costs. But our system is also built upon apremise that anyone has the potential to rise to a position ofgreat influence. Even though I was just an intern, I marveled atthe system that brought me, the son of a once single motherwho made less than $15,000 a year, to Washington, D.C. Afterall, I started out as a college student trading the governor’s sonan old toilet.

Roger, who graduated from Union College in 2003 with aBachelor of Science in Business, says he is now a registeredRepublican. He and his wife, Julie, moved recently to Atlanta,Ga., from Orlando, Fla. Roger works for the General ConferenceAuditing Service and Julie is a senior safekeeping operationsrepresentative for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. C

II

Roger Keaton served as an intern in 2002 for Senator Chuck Hagel’s Washington, D.C., office. On the margin below Roger’s copy of thisphoto is a personal note signed, “Your valet, Chuck Hagel.”

by Roger Keaton ’03

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When talking about his career, Cecil Christensen, class of ’57, says

he was just in the right place at the right time. In 1967, Christensen,

a resident surgeon at the University of Texas-Houston, attended a

conference on hip surgery. There were experts and presenters from

Boston and San Francisco, but one speaker by the name of Sir John

Charnley caught his attention. Charnley, a British surgeon, present-

ed his research and experience on hip replacement which was, at

the time, a new and largely unheard-of procedure. Many of the

conference attendees were skeptical, but Christensen approached

Charnley and his fellow researcher at a dinner party after the meet-

ings. “I told them I was interested in what they were showing, and

before the evening was out, I had a job,” Christensen said.

by Katie Lechler ’04photos courtesy of Dr. Cecil Christensen

Hip resurfacing

26 SUMMER/FALL 2008

CORDmagazine 27

Christensen spent six months in Britaindoing joint replacements before comingback to Texas and opening his own prac-tice with his new specialty in joint replace-ment surgery. Today this type of surgery iscommon, but at the time, Christensen wasthe only person who performed jointreplacement and it took four or five yearsfor others to catch up.He has also engineered a specific kind

of joint prosthetic which bears his name:the Christensen stem. It is based on theoriginal designs of Charnley but incorpo-rates some specialized aspects to helpolder patients. Later in life, joints can wearout, and the fit between the bone and theprosthetic joint has to be revised. “Revisionis something that not all surgeons do,” Christensen said. “Itrequires complex surgery because as the prosthetic devicewears out, it can bore through bone. About 25 years ago, Idesigned custom made implants for that difficulty.”Using Christensen’s method, the surgeon takes a CAT scan

of the area and then a computer generates a model to fit theexact dimensions of the defective area in the bone socket.Finally, a prosthetic titanium component is made that fills in thebone defect. “I get called on to do this particular type of sur-gery about once a month,” he said.Christensen lives in Houston with his wife Meghan, an avid

golfer. His practice is at the Texas Medical Center, the largestmedical center in the world, where he assists the teaching staffof two medical schools. He estimates that he has performedabout 37,000 joint replacements during his 40-year career.“That’s a lot of time in an operating room, but it changes lives,”Christensen said. “You take someone who is disabled with painand give them a new joint, and in three days they are walkingaround again.”It was this same desire to help people and change lives that

spurred Christensen to get involved with politics—and again, itwas a case of being in the right place at the right time. Duringthe Reagan presidency, Houston’s political scene had whatChristensen describes as “a culture of corruption.” Many of thelocal politicians were forced to leave officeand some were put in jail. “I thought thatthere had to be something I could do tohelp.” He and some of his fellow physi-cians came up with an innovative idea tohelp change the face of politics in theirarea. First, they put out the word that theywere interested in fundraising forRepublican candidates. Then, Christenseninterviewed young politicians who werejust starting out in their careers to deter-mine what kind of people they were. “Wewanted to get to know them and figureout whether or not they would do theright thing in office,” he said.After meeting many politicians,

Christensen began to host fundraisers athis home for the candidates that he feltwould really make a difference.“People would come by for an hour or

so, hear a political talk, meet big-namepoliticians from all over,” he said. “Weended up doing that for 90 occasions.”During this time, he supported state sena-tors, city representatives, and U.S.Congressmen. He also hosted HenryKissinger and George Bush Sr. on threeoccasions during his presidency. “GeorgeW. Bush, during his campaign for gover-nor, had his first fundraiser in Houston atmy house. We probably had a thousandpeople at my house that night and after hegave his speech, he could hardly talk,”Christensen chuckled.One of the lessons Christensen has

learned during his involvement with poli-tics is the value of term limits. After many

of the scandals in Houston politics died down, he learned manyof the elected officials were staying in office for “an incrediblelength of time,” he said. “When there were no term limits, allthey cared about was getting re-elected, and they were willingto do anything to accomplish that.” Christensen lobbied forterm limits; now both city council members and the mayor canonly retain office for a maximum of six years. “This has reallyhelped with some of the corruption in the city.”When it comes to politics on the national level, Christensen

sees running a country as similar to running a business. Forhim, a good president would be a successful business person: ahard worker, a sound economist, and a good leader who isskilled at making difficult choices. “A business person has to besuccessful or they face bankruptcy,” Christensen said. “If some-one can succeed on that level, now they can look to a leader-ship position in the world.” However, he doesn’t see anyonelike that running for the U.S. Presidency any time soon. “Thegood candidates, the sound business people, won’t subjectthemselves to the type of scrutiny that being a politicianinvolves.”Lately Christensen has distanced himself from his involve-

ment in politics. During his fundraising days, it became appar-ent to him that no matter how carefully he interviewed the can-didates he chose to support, once they took office, they paid

more attention to re-election than servingtheir constituency. “I still get invited topolitical events, and I go sometimes, but Idon’t think supporting any candidate rightnow is going to help anyone,” he said.However, Christensen appreciates the

time he spent and the knowledge hegained while fundraising. “I did learn howto access politics and how the systemworks. It is important to have a clearunderstanding of politics because most ofus are totally unaware of the reality of thesystem.”For right now, he’s focusing on his first

calling—helping people through orthope-dic surgery. “Tomorrow I’m going toreplace two hips and a knee,” Christensensaid cheerfully. “It’s been a great career,and I’m going to keep doing it until I can’tdo it anymore.”C

Dr. Cecil Christensen visits with the firstPresident Bush.

Cecil and Meghan Christensen

by Katie Lechler ’04photos courtesy of Nathan Blake

Editor’s note: Union College does not promote any political party or candidate. In producing thispresidential-themed issue of CORDmagainze, the editorial staff and the Advancement officesearched for someone closely involved with the McCain campaign and did not find anyone withconnections to Union. If we overlooked an alumnus involved in a presidential or other high-levelpolitical campaign, we would love to tell their story. Submit feedback to news@ucollege.edu.

hen Nathan Blake, class of 2001,was Associated Student Body

President at Union College, he had aclear understanding of leadership. ToBlake, the presidency meant being amember of a team of “co-leaders,”where each person had an impact byassuming leadership in different situa-tions. Being a leader also meant actingas a representative—the student voice tothe faculty, administration, and Board ofTrustees.

Although it’s been several yearssince Blake served as ASB president, the lessons he learnedabout presidency have stayed with him. The leadership quali-ties he prizes now are similar to the qualities he valued backthen: “an openness to teamwork, and a willingness to listenand respond.” The difference now is he’s playing on a muchbigger field.

Blake, a lawyer with degrees in law and divinity from YaleUniversity, has recently worked as a field organizer for SenatorBarack Obama’s campaign for the U.S. Presidency. His job, ashe describes it, is “an entry-level politi-cal job.” Blake’s days involve e-mailing,calling, and visiting potential supporters,as well as managing a team of volun-teers. His “turf” consists of a few sub-urbs in Des Moines, Iowa, where heand his wife Andrea (Ruhn, ’01), a nursepractitioner specializing in geriatrics,reside with Rigby, their dog.

How a campaign worksIn most states, each political party

purchases a list of registered voters whohave participated in past primaries.Once a candidate’s campaign has thislist, volunteers and field organizers likeBlake make calls or visits to peoplewho participated in a previous partycaucus.

Blake says he’s knocked on hun-dreds of doors and made thousands ofphone calls, partly to identify supportersand partly to persuade people to sup-port his candidate. “Usually the mosteffective contact is at the door,” Blakesaid. “People might get annoyed withyou, but they also might be impressedthat you’re committed to a candidate.And you share your story about whyyou’re supporting that candidate.”

After talking with each contact, thevolunteer rates the voter on a five-point scale: “one being a die-hard supporter of your candidate, three being undecided, andfive being a die-hard supporter of someone else.” Blakelaughed, “Or just a die-hard opponent of your candidate.”

Once a list is made of the ones or twos, the volunteersdevelop “universes,” which are demographic categories that thecampaign then targets. The volunteers continue calling andmeeting with their universe throughout the campaign, listening

to issues and concerns.“I remember one person I met with

was very concerned about our policytoward Cuba,” Blake said. “It was hardfor her husband, who has family downthere, to send money and to visit. Sowhen Senator Obama announced a pol-icy outlining relationships with Cuba,permitting more family travel, I sent thatto her.”

Blake’s job also involves planningand setting up for media events, as wellas working away from his Iowa turf on

other state’s primaries. For example, in California, he helped setup an event showcasing Obama’s support of labor. After mak-ing a media appearance with the labor unions who endorse thesenator, the participants had a rally and went out to canvass.Events like this are effective, as well as exciting for local resi-dents and participants. “Depending on where you are, specifi-cally if you go later in the primary season, people are not usedto having this kind of attention from presidential candidates,”Blake said. “Local media is often pretty excited to see how

much time and energy we’ve spent oncourting their votes.”

In the last couple of weeks beforethe primary, the campaign’s emphasisswitches to a Get Out The Vote (GOTV)effort. This involves calling all the iden-tified supporters and encouraging themto vote in their state’s primary. Blakedescribes this as “backbreakingly hardwork.” Even during the summer of2007, months before the caucus, he rou-tinely worked 12-hour days. The work-days only got longer, especially whenhe went to other states to assist in theirGOTV efforts.

“I was in Mississippi for four days,and I only slept 17 hours the wholetime,” Blake said. Aside from Iowa,Mississippi and California, he was alsoable to work in Ohio, North Carolinaand Texas.

Having worked on the 2004 presi-dential primary in New Hampshire,Blake had a fairly accurate idea of whathe was getting himself into with thiscampaign. His experience led him tobelieve that fieldwork is what wins elec-tions—and it can be fun at times.

“I worked with a lot of people Ireally liked,” Blake said. “It’s a goodwork environment; hang out with peo-

ple during the day, take a break and surf the Web, but for themost part, keep your head down.”

Finding the rewardWhile in law school, Blake also worked as a Senate intern

and was involved in policy-making. He finds working on acampaign equally rewarding, but in a different way. In policy-making, the changes being made can go into effect almost

CORDmagazine 29

Nathan Blake says campaign work involvescramped quarters.

WW

Nathan and Andrea Blake pause to capturethe moment at an Obama rally in Iowa.

30 SUMMER/FALL 2008

immediately. In a campaign, Blake says, it’s a feeling of poten-tial change; if a candidate is elected, they promise new policies,which will affect the way the country is run. This feeling ofhope gives him the impetus to work 18-hour days. But morethan changes in policy, Blake enjoys the feeling of civicreward: “erasing some of the cynicism about the politicalprocess for people who have become jaded about the waythings were run in the past.”

He agrees that the feeling of cynicism has been, in somemeasure, justified, saying that Americans have lost faith in theirabilities to actually shift politicians’ views about issues. “If youare involved in politics or activism, you run up against a lot offailure, a feeling that, regardless of how hard you work, theelected officials are not going to be responsive,” Blake said.However, he adds that there have always been opportunities inpolitics, especially at a local or state level. He also believesgood public officials are responsive to the needs of the public.

As far as presidential qualities go, Blake thinks responsive-ness is key. He says that the way a campaign is run tells a lotabout a candidate. He appreciates the open-door policy in thecampaign he’s currently working on, saying that it has a “rela-tively non-hierarchical structure” where many different voicescan be heard. For example, during the Iowa caucuses, Blakeand his fellow field organizers were asked to answer a fewquestions each week about what they were hearing about thecandidate, and what they perceived the strengths and weak-

nesses to be. “You could see pretty immediate changes, espe-cially when it was widespread and all your friends were sayingsimilar things.”

He has also appreciated his opportunities to interact withSenator Obama in person. A couple times, Blake had the privi-lege of being the field lead on an event; his job entailed brief-ing the senator beforehand. On one occasion, Obama partici-pated in a forum of churches in central Iowa that were organ-ized around issues they found important; Blake and Andreaboth got to speak with him after that meeting. Another time,only a month and a half before the caucuses, Obama invited allthe family members of the Iowa staff out after a big rally andtook the time to meet and take a picture with each person.

The futureWhen asked about his own political goals, Blake says he

hasn’t decided yet. On one hand, he’d like to be someone whocan have an impact on federal policy, maybe counsel to a com-mittee or advisor to party administration. But on the otherhand, he still has an interest in state and local government,where it is “easier to make bigger and better changes.” In thatcase, he might consider an elected office. He says his own phi-losophy of leadership hasn’t changed very much from workingon this campaign but he has been impressed by the number ofvoices that Obama listens to before making his decisions.

“There have been ups and downs, but we don’t get overlyexcited when we’re doing well or kick ourselves too hardwhen we’re down,” Blake said. “Getting the nomination wasincredible. Even though we had been anticipating it, actuallyclinching it was a bit overwhelming.”

For now, Blake continues working with Senator Obama’scampaign but in a new capacity. His new position is researchdirector for the Iowa campaign. “I’ll be working with the com-munications team to keep track of what people are saying,”Blake said. “We want to make sure that the public has the com-plete picture of the choices so they can make an informeddecision when they vote.”CBlake’s duties have involved supporting volunteers and assist-

ing Senator Obama during meet and greet events.

Nathan and Andrea Blake have met both Michelle andBarack Obama.

CORDmagazine 31

return . renew . reunion

A preliminary schedule of the weekend is available atwww.ucollege.edu/homecoming, click on Schedule of Events.

Honor Years: 1939, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1969, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1999

Union College Homecoming • April 2-5, 2009

Special Reunions

Unionaires from 1972 to 1986A reunion with Dr Lynn Wickham

Contact Chris and Melia Williamschris@cdwinternet.com

Concert Winds from 1968 to 1979A reunion with Dr Dan Shultz

Contact Cindy Owen Stokeswiliemom1@yahoo.com

New Event

Classic Car Revue, Sunday, April 5Bring your classic car to include in the revue

Contact Steve Herrerasteveherrera777@yahoo.com

Hit the Links

Fleming Golf Classic, Friday, April 3Contact Rob Beckrobert.beck@shawneemission.org

Questions

Union College Alumni OfficeJanya Mekelburg402-486-2503alumni@ucollege.edu

32 SUMMER/FALL 2008

CLASS-IFIEDS_____________________________

1940sVernon Heglund ’46 hasmoved from the cold climate ofBrainerd, Minn., to Phoenix,Ariz. He is also closer tofamily.

Laurie MacPherson Warner’47 lives in Riverside, Calif., andhad a great time visiting withfriends at their 60th reunionduring Homecoming 2007. Shehas many fond memories of hertime at Union College. Shereminds her classmates that thearea code for Riverside haschanged to 951. She looks for-ward to hearing from friends.

Ralph Wiseman ’49 and hiswife, Anne, live in Lowden,Wash., and celebrated their 60thwedding anniversary in 2007.The highlight of their year wasthe trip they took to Ralph’sbirthplace in Holland. They arethankful their health is excel-lent, and they can continuetheir active lifestyle in the com-munity and church.

1950sPaul Kravig ’50 lives in SunCity, Ariz. In July 2007, hereturned from teaching at the

New Horizon Training Institutein Hunan Province, CentralChina. This trip marked thefifth time Paul has traveledinternationally to teach. Paulretired in 1984 to Hawaii andhas done volunteer teachingin five states.

Gladys Seibold Hulse ’55lives in Loma Linda, Calif.,where she and her husband,Leon, have retired. They areenjoying the fellowship ofother Unionites in the area.They also have two daughtersliving nearby and a daughterin Yakima, Wash. Gladys andLeon are proud grandparentsto seven grandchildren—mostrecently twins.

Maxine Reed Duncan ’59lives in Apple Valley, Calif.She retired at the end of the2005-2006 school year. Sheenjoys reading and otherquiet hobbies. She volunteersas a tutor in the adult readingprogram at the local college.

Phyllis Evens McMillen ’59lives in Mesa, Ariz., andmarried William Pea in 2006.She continues to teach nursingat Arizona State University.

1960sCarolyn SherwoodHammond (’62) andBurdette Millard ’66 weremarried on Dec. 1, 2007.Carolyn is a dietician atLittleton Adventist Hospitaland Burdettte is retired after

36 years of teaching. Theylive in Franktown, Colo.

Ronald Hixson ’69 recentlyreceived the DistinguishedBoard Service Award from theAmerican PsychotherapyAssociation for his work aschairman of the AmericanBoard of Certified Counselors.Ronald has been a familytherapist for over 30 yearsserving in Europe and now inTexas. His first book,Battered and Bruised But NotOut, was published in June2006. He teaches psychologyat Southwest Texas Jr. Collegein Eagle Pass. He is a colum-nist for Annals, a quarterlyjournal for the AmericanPsychotherapy Association.For the past three years, hehas been included in theHeritage Registry of Who’sWho in America. Currently heserves in a small mentalhealth clinic in Eagle Pass,Texas, where he practicespsychotherapy, play therapywith children and hypnothera-py for depression, panicattacks and chronic pain.

1970sRuthita Jensen Fike ’71 hasbeen named to AdventistHealth’s Board of Directors.Ruthita is the CEO of LomaLinda University MedicalCenter and BehavioralMedicine Center and executivevice president of Hospital

Affairs for the Loma LindaUniversity Adventist HealthSciences Center. In addition,she is a doctoral candidate atClaremont Graduate School ofEducation.

Michael and Karen SchwartzPorter (’75) have returned tosouthern California after nearly15 years of mission service inSri Lanka, Russia and Cyprus.Mike is CEO of The QuietHour and Karen works in theGeneral Conference represen-tative’s office in Loma Linda.

Valerie Miller Lehman ’76recently received the annualMarch of Dimes award asNurse of the Year 2007 –Wyoming, Behavioral Health.She was nominated by heremployer, West Park Hospitalof Cody, Wyoming, for herwork over the past six yearsthat helped turn the nursingstaff of the Cedar MountainChemical Dependency Unitinto a model for the hospital.Valerie accomplished thisachievement while workingpart-time so she could homeschool her two sons, Bryan,17, and Jonathan, 14. Valerie’shusband, Kevin ’79, is con-struction estimator and homedesigner for T.L. QuickConstruction & Trophy LogHomes of Cody.

1980sJulie Cowin ’81 lives in WestCarrollton, Ohio, and hasworked at Kettering Medical

CORDmagazine wants tohear from you. You havetold us this is your favoritesection. Now tell us whereyou are, what you’re doingor just send greetings.

Direct your letters to:Class-ifiedsAlumni OfficeUnion College3800 South 48th StreetLincoln, NE 68506

e-mail: alumni@ucollege.edumake changes online atp www.ucollege.edu/cordmagazine

’67 denotes graduation year(’67) denotes last year attendedor preferred class year

Keep in Touch

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Burdette and Carolyn Millard Ruthita Fike

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Kevin and Valerie Lehman

Center for 27 years. She is cur-rently working as chargenurse in pre-admission testing.

1990sKen ’91 and Tami Cox ’90Bieber are proud new parentsof Brooklyn Rae Bieber bornDec. 14, 2007, at 2:08 p.m.She weighed 7 lbs., 5 oz., andwas 20 ¾ inches long. Tami isa sales manager for HanesBrands Inc., selling to TargetStores. Ken is a client financeanalyst for SIRVA Relocation.

Carolyn Bradley Rooker ’91lives in Omaha, Neb., and wasrecently elected by the CJFoundation for Sudden InfantDeath Syndrome as their com-munity relations/grant coordi-nator, to its National ProgramServices Grant ReviewCommittee. She was elected toserve on this committee due toher experience and expertisein the nonprofit sector, as wellas her knowledge of SIDS,infant mortality and othermaternal child health issues.

Denison ’93 and JenniferHallock ’94 Sager are proudparents of Denali AlyeskaSager. Denali was born Feb.14, 2008, at 11:05 p.m. Sheweighed 7 lbs., 6 oz., and was19 ½ inches long.

Rebecca Rowand Turner ’93and her husband, Dave, cele-brated the birth of their firstchild, David Matthew Jr., bornJan. 12, 2008. He is picturedwith his 100 year-old greatgranny, Blanche RyderRowand.

Tammy Martin Adcock ’98and her husband welcomedJoe Wayne on June 24. Theirdaughter, Jaeda, is a year anda half old.

Elliot ’95 and JaquelineMorlen ’99 Smith live inCenterville, Ohio. Theywelcomed Cole Alexander onJuly 8. Cole joined big sisterChloe, 4.

2000sPhilip (’00) and ChristyPierce ’04 Walter welcomedEthan Matthew into their fami-ly on Oct. 21, 2007. Philip is aroute manager for Culligan.

Josh Huenergardt ’01 andBecca Johnson were marriedMay 31, 2008, in the First-Plymouth CongregationalChurch in Lincoln, Neb. Joshis an investment advisor forEdward Jones and Becca is acosmetologist for the DouglasBaehr Salon. Becca graduatedfrom the University of Arizonaand the Lincoln School ofCosmetology.

David ’02 and Melissa Larson’03 Evans celebrated the birthof their first child, TaytonMichael born Nov. 27, 2007.

Brandon and KellyCasselman Helm ’02

welcomed Maxwell StevenCharles into their family onFeb. 21, 2008, at 8:30 a.m. Heweighed 6 lbs., 7 oz., and was18 ½ inches long. Max joinsbig sister, Macy, at home.

Jaime ’02 and Janet Lopez’05 Serrano are proud newparents of Isaias Enrique bornJuly 24, 2007. Janet is a stay-at-home mom and Jaime is ateacher in the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.

Rande and Heather PalmerColburn ’04 celebrated thebirth of Drew Ryan born Sept.17, 2007. Prior to Drew’s birth,Heather taught for the South-ern California Conference.Rande is an internet marketingspecialist for ColumbiaHospitality Inc.

Dalena Robinson Spencer’04 and her husband, Bennett,welcomed Annah Joy, bornJan. 8, 2008. They live inHernando, Miss.

CORDmagazine 33

CLASS-IFIEDS_____________________________

Rae Bieber

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Carolyn Bradley Rooker

Denali Alyeska Sager withMom and Dad

David Matthew Jr. Turner

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Josh and Becca Huenergardt

Macy and Maxwell Helm

Isaias Enrique Serrano

Cole Alexander Smith

34 SUMMER/FALL 2008

CLASS-IFIEDS_____________________________

Seth and Kristina BeenkenJohnson ’05 are now livingon the Oregon coast. Seth isproduction manager at QualityWoodworking, a customwoodworking business.Kristina works long-distancefor Summa Higher Educationdesign. They live in a town ofabout 2,050 and enjoy wor-shipping in a church thatMaranatha helped build. Theyare enjoying their new homeand Jaidi, their puppy, lovesthe beach and their grassybackyard.

Hansen Paskell (’06) andAmy Purvis (’07) were mar-ried on July 1, 2007, inCaldwell, Idaho. Hansen is asoldier/student and Amy is aCNA/student.

Adam Dobbins ’07 and hiswife, Melissa, welcomedBoden Dale into their familyDec. 10, 2007. Boden joinsMaddie, the family Border col-lie and Boden’s protector, athome. Melissa is a medical stu-dent at Kansas City Universityof Medicine and Biosciencesand Adam is an area coach forthe Sears Holdings Corporation.

PeoplePlacementsMarsha Bartulec ’04 transi-tioned from her role as officemanager in the Division ofBusiness and ComputerScience to project manager. Inher new position, Bartulec willlead a two-year recruiting andalumni relations initiative forthe division.

Trina Cress ’08 joinedEnrollment Services as themarketing assistant in January,shortly after finishing herdegree in English with anemphasis in writing andspeaking. Cress and her hus-band Daniel ’09, have adaughter, Brylee.

Bruce Forbes ’86 has beennamed chair of the Division ofFine Arts. He has been an asso-ciate professor of art and graph-ic design at Union since 2000and also teaches photographyfor the Division of Humanities.He earned his Master of Fine

Arts degree in photographyfrom the Savannah College ofArt and Design in 1996, andthen photographed for a pub-lishing company in Atlanta untilcoming to Union. From 1986-1990, he worked at UnionCollege in the media productiondepartment.

Melanie Gabbert ’92 joinedthe Division of HumanDevelopment as an assistantprofessor of psychology. Aftergraduating with a bachelor’s inpsychology at Union, she com-pleted her master’s in commu-nity counseling at AndrewsUniversity in 1995. She previ-ously worked as a therapistand administrator of child- andyouth-oriented social services.Gabbert is a foster mother inthe process of adopting a two-year-old son.

Aaron Kent ’08 joined theinternational rescue and reliefprogram as a graduate intern.Kent is a member of the firstfull class of IRR majors tograduate and will assist theprogram in training exerciseswhile concurrently enrolled inSouthern Adventist University’soutdoor education graduateprogram.

Stacie Laursen joined thenursing program as officemanager. A graduate ofAndrews University with aBachelor’s of Science in horti-culture, Laursen previouslyworked as a department man-ager at Home Depot. Laursenand her husband, Ryan, a con-struction worker, have lived inLincoln for six years.

Alan Orrison transitioned tothe role of student financeadvisor. He has been at Unionsince 2006 when he was hiredas office manager for StudentFinancial Services.

Esther Shields ’08 joinedStudent Financial Services asthe administrative assistant tothe director. Shields graduatedfrom Union with majors incommunication and institution-

al development. She isengaged to Tyson Shaw, a2007 graduate of ColumbiaUnion College.

Teresa Stimson ’94 joined thenursing program as an assis-tant professor of nursing.Stimson and her husband,Michael ’94, previously lived inFarmington, N.M., where shetaught at San Juan College andhe worked as a perioperativenurse. The Stimsons have twochildren, Kaitlin and Eric.

John Thomas joined theinternational rescue and reliefprogram as an associate direc-tor. Thomas comes to Unionafter serving as principal atMaxwell Academy in Kenyafor four years. He holds abachelor’s in religious educa-tion from Atlantic UnionCollege and a master’s inAdministration from theUniversity of Georgia. He andhis wife, Nancy, have adultsons.

Jeannette Wetmore ’03joined the library staff as thepublic services assistant. Anative of North Carolina,Wetmore graduated fromUnion College with majors inEnglish and communicationand completed her master’s inlibrary and information scienceat the University of NorthCarolina at Greensboro in 2007.

Nancy Peterson Hanson(’26), Yuma, Colo., died July 5,2008, at age 106. She was bornJune 27, 1902, in Lincoln, Neb.,to Ben and Clara NördloffPeterson. Her family moved toAmherst, Neb., and then toYuma, Colo., where they home-steaded. Nancy attended herjunior year of high school atUnion College Academy and

P e o p l e

P l a c e m e n t s

Hansen and Amy Paskell

Boden Dale Dobbins

Annah Joy Spencer

IN MEMORYDeath dates and/or obitu-aries have been received forthe following individuals.

CORDmagazine 35

IN MEMORY__________________________________________

graduated from CampionAcademy in 1922. She attendedUnion College for three yearsand earned a teaching certifi-cate. She returned to Yuma toteach school. She marriedWilliam Hanson on June 12,1931. After his death in 1950,she owned and managed thefamily farm. She was active inthe Yuma County Extension,Yuma Women’s Club and theWomen’s Christian TemperanceUnion. She enjoyed traveling,gardening, entertaining andpainting. She was a life-longSeventh-day Adventist andattended faithfully until justbefore she passed away. Nancywas preceded in death by herhusband, William, her fiveyounger siblings and onenephew. She is survived by herdaughter, GenevieveMekelburg (’54), son, William’61, seven grandchildren, 12great-grandchildren and twogreat-great-grandchildren.

Raymond Knoll ’29, PollockPines, Calif., died Nov. 20,2007. Raymond was born May11, 1907, in Newkirk, Okla. Heserved as a medical doctor inAlaska and California. Heworked in experimentalendocrinology for many yearsand wrote a book titled, Howto Live to 101. Raymond is sur-vived by his son, Vance, eightgrandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Carlos “Jack” Turner ’40,Napa, Calif., died Jan. 5, 2008.He was born March 12, 1909,in Goldsberry, Mont. Jack issurvived by his wife, Betty;son, Randy; daughters,Patricia, Monica, Lisa andGina; 15 grandchildren and 12great-grandchildren.

Gordon Wallace ’40, Colton,Calif., died Sept. 1, 2007, at age90. His life work was as a den-tist. Gordon is survived by hiswife, Leta; son, Greg ’77; daugh-ter, Debra; six grandchildrenand two great-grandchildren.

Lawrence Clifford (’42),Paradise, Calif., died March 14,2008, at age 88. He is survivedby his wife, Donna Johnson(’41) Clifford; sons, Ken, Sid,and Monte; daughter, Carol

McHenry; nine grandchildrenand five great-grandchildren.

Mavis Ching Beckner ’44Ukiah, Calif., died Dec. 25,2007. Mavis is survived by herhusband, Joe ’40; daughters,Judy Hindman ’73, JanisWoesner (’73), and fourgrandchildren.

Opal Miller Payne (’44),Lodi, Calif., died March 4,2008. She was born Aug. 11,1911, in Alleene, Ark. Opaltaught music at Union Collegefor 25 years. She is survivedby sons, Daryl and Dave;daughter, LeAnn Church;seven grandchildren and sevengreat-grandchildren.

Esther Smith Moore ’46,Corvallis, Ore., died Sept. 20,2007, of complications associ-

ated with Alzheimer’s. Estherwas born Oct. 27, 1920 andhad a long and distinguishedcareer as an educator andmentor in the Federal WaySchool District south of Seattle,Wash. She taught all levelsfrom elementary through jun-ior college and was headlibrarian for many years.Esther earned a Master ofLibrary Science degree fromthe University of Washington.After she retired, she was asubstitute teacher and earnedher broker’s license as a resi-dential real estate specialist.Her primary hobby was raisingchampionship purebreddogs—Toy Poodles andCavalier King Charles Spaniels.Esther is survived by daugh-ters, Marsha and Sylvia; fivegrandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Nancy Peterson Hanson

Former Union College President Dies

Adapted from a tribute givenby Linda Skinner at Dr.Bieber’s memorial service April20 at the Loma LindaUniversity church.

David Bieber was the sixthof seven children born on afarm near Tolstoy, S.D., onNov. 14, 1910. He graduatedfrom Union College in 1936with a Bachelor of Arts inCommerce, and later returnedto campus as the 19th presi-dent serving from 1957-1964.One of the first things henoticed upon his arrival in fall1957 was there was not onefoot of paved road on campus.The street that is now PrescottAvenue and leading to 49thStreet near the print shop wasthe same old cinder or brokenstone surfaced road that hehad first viewed when hecame to the college as a stu-dent during the depressionwhen boys cracked brick andstone with a hand hammer toput on that road.

President Bieber challengedthe students to raise $5,000 ina campaign to make the cam-pus accessible through paved

roads. The challenge wasaccepted, the goal was met,and the road was built in latefall 1957.

In 1962 the yearbook wasdedicated to President Bieberfor “your fidelity to duty, yourpatient perseverance, yourwarm smile, your friendlyhandshake, and your exampleof noble action and Christianservice.”

Dr. Bieber served for 18years (1988-2006) as a classrepresentative for Union’sAdvancement Office signingletters and volunteering histime. He attended Union’schapter meetings at LomaLinda, always in impeccablestyle. In 1991 he returned tocampus for the celebration ofUnion’s centennial and,though he lived many years inCalifornia, his friends inLincoln believe part of hisheart belonged to UnionCollege.

In 1963 he is quoted in thecollege yearbook: “It is mywish that Union College maycontinue to carry on, not onlyin its past traditions, but in aprogram characterized by

change toward that which isnew and aggressive and whichwill more effectively changepeople on this campus in thedirection of perfection in per-sonal development.” TodayUnion College continues toadapt and hone Christian edu-cation much in the same wayPresident Bieber championed.

Dr. Bieber was preceded indeath by his first wife, EvaLaFave (’36) Bieber. He issurvived by his wife, Lucille;brothers, George and Bill ’40;son, Don ’64; nephew KenPierson who was informallyadopted by the Biebers; fivegrandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Dr. David Bieber

IN MEMORY_____________________________

Marlys Plinke Owen ’46,Encino, Calif., died Jan. 19,2008. She is survived by herbrother, Wesley (’31), daugh-ter, Carol Jean Owen, and twograndchildren.

Marcus Payne ’46, Cleburne,Texas, died Feb. 3, 2008, atage 84. Marcus was a memberof the Joshua church inBurleson, Texas. He is sur-vived by his wife, Lenora; twosons, Philip and Mark; daugh-ter, Ruth Malding; six grand-children and seven great-grandchildren.

Romaine “Sandy” Saunders(’46), Riverside, Calif., diedNov. 17, 2007, at age 87. He issurvived by his wife, RobertaPogue Saunders ’46 anddaughters, Doris Sterling andRebecca.

George Griese ’50, LadyLake, Fla., died Sept. 1, 2007,at age 88, in Sparks, Nev.,after a brief illness. Georgewas born in New York Cityand served in the U.S. Armyduring WWII. He met Betty inCincinnati, Ohio, and theywere married on Sept. 25,1945. After military service,they moved to Lincoln, Neb.,where George earned a B.A.from Union College and amaster’s in education from theUniversity of Nebraska. Hetaught math, biology andphysics at Union CollegeAcademy and Walla WallaCollege Academy before mov-ing to southern Californiawhere he was the head of themath department at Washing-ton High School in LosAngeles until he retired. Hewas very active in theRedondo Beach church servingfor many years as the headelder. George is survived byhis wife of 62 years, Betty; twochildren, three grandchildrenand four great-grandchildren.

L. Frances Pride ’50 ofMcDonald, Tenn., died March9, 2008, at age 87. Francesearned an RN from theBoulder Colorado Sanitarium

and Hospital and a baccalau-reate degree from UnionCollege. She also earned amaster’s degree in nursingfrom the University ofColorado; a Ph.D. in psychi-atric nursing from theUniversity of Maryland and aPh.D. in family counselingfrom Georgetown University.She helped six denominationalschools establish psychiatricnursing programs. Francesspent five years in nursingadministration and 32 years asan educator. She retired asassociate dean of nursing atLoma Linda University. She issurvived by five nephews,Steven, Vernon, DavidBaughman, Farrell and Faron;two nieces, Debbie Berringerand Shelley Parker; elevengreat-nieces and great-nephews and six great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

Louis Turner ’51, Dayton,Ohio, died June 22, 2007, afterbattling prostate cancer forfour years. Louis was an anes-thesiologist at KetteringMemorial Hospital from 1964until he retired in 1982. Heenjoyed retirement and partici-pated in two mission trips. Healso completed fly fishing andhouse-building courses. Heworked for Habitat forHumanity for 10 years. Hewas a docent for the Air Forcemuseum in Dayton and facili-tator for a prostate cancer sup-port group. He was an activemember of the KetteringSeventh-day Adventist Church,serving as an elder. He is sur-

vived by his wife, Margaret,and many other family andfriends.

Rex Walters ’51, Denver,Colo., died Jan. 24, 2008. Hewas born March 13, 1923, ona farm near Bowie, Texas. Rexand his wife, Eileen, werecharter members of theDenver South Seventh-dayAdventist Church. Rex is sur-vived by his wife of nearly 60years, Eileen EngebergWalters ’48.

Robert “Bob” Raitz ’51,Dalton, Ga., died Feb. 22,2008, at age 78, from openheart surgery complications.Bob graduated from theCollege of Medical Evangelists(now Loma Linda) School ofMedicine in 1955. He spentfour years in the military, sta-tioned around the world.While in Germany, Bob andhis wife, Vivian, adopted twoGerman babies who joinedtheir young son, Ron. In 1961,they moved to Dalton, Ga.,where he practiced medicinefor 34 years. He was knownto be a kind, caring physicianwho would make countryhouse calls. An accomplishedartist with wood, he designedcoffee tables, lamps, bowlsand many other items. Bob issurvived by his wife, Vivian;sons, Ron and Ken; daughter,Karen ’84, and four grand-children. He was preceded indeath by his daughter, Sandra.

Richard Stanley ’52,Collegedale, Tenn., died Feb.8, 2008, at age 83. He was a

member of the CollegedaleSeventh-day Adventist churchfor 44 years. He chaired theoffice administration depart-ment at Southern AdventistUniversity for 17 years, taughtat Grand Ledge Academy, wasan auditor with Singer and acost accountant for TrailMobile. Richard earned a mas-ter’s in marketing fromMichigan State University in1962. He was a WWII veteranand together with MitchellThiel ’50 created theROMEOs (retired old men eat-ing out). He is survived by hiswife, Cora Rhode Stanley’46; sons, Richard andRaymon; daughter, Kathy;eight grandchildren and onegreat grandchild.

Naoma HopkinsHenkelmann ’54, Roca, Neb.,died April 21, 2008, at age 75,after a courageous battle withcancer. She devoted her life toservice for family, church andcommunity. She was a long-time member of PiedmontPark Seventh-day AdventistChurch. An accomplished ven-triloquist, she provided manyprograms in church andschools using her little friend,Charlie. She volunteered on28 national and internationalbuilding projects with her hus-band, Charles, for MaranathaVolunteers International. Shealso taught English languagelearners as a volunteer forLincoln Literacy Council.Naoma is survived by her hus-band, Charles ’56; twodaughters, Rebecca Wells ’75and Priscilla Henkelmann

36 SUMMER/FALL 2008

Frances Pride

Robert Raitz

Naoma Hopkins Henkelmann

IN MEMORY_____________________________

(’78); two sons, Greg (’78)and Tom; nine grandchildrenand one great-grandchild.

Mary Lou Kutschara ’54,Hay Springs, Neb., died Nov.14, 2007, from complicationsbrought on by progressivesupranuclear palsy. Mary Louearned a bachelor’s degreefrom Union College and amaster’s from the University ofNebraska. She taught homeeconomics at Union Collegefrom 1964 until 1985. MaryLou returned to Hay Springsto help care for her mother.She also earned a seconddegree in library studies fromChadron State College. In thefall of 1987, Mary Lou movedto Broadview Academy whereshe taught English and wasthe librarian until she retiredin 1995. After retiring, shemoved back to the familyfarm near Hay Springs. MaryLou is survived by her brother,Hyle (’54), and his wife,Marilyn, and many nieces andnephews.

Amy Messenger (’54), St.Joseph, Mo., died May 10,2007. She was born in Fonda,Iowa, June 22, 1917, andspent most of her youngeryears in Iowa with her family.In the fall of 1936, she attend-ed Iowa State Teacher’sCollege, which she finished inone year. After her first yearof teaching, she attendedUnion College for summerschool, then Southwest Union

College in Keene, Texas. Amytaught for 30 years in churchschools and 10 years as anoverseas missionary. Shetaught English as a secondlanguage in places such asGuam, Palau, Indonesia andThailand. In 1983, she movedto Waterloo, Iowa, to be withher sister. When her sisterpassed away, Amy moved toBerrien Springs, Mich. Shelived there until her healthmade assisted care necessary.

Arlan Caviness (’57),Mabelvale, Ark., died Aug. 7,2007, at age 77. He servedthree years in the U.S. MarineCorps. He is survived by hiswife, Barbara; daughters,Linda Couch and JenniferIngram; and son, Sharlan.

Paul Peterson ’60, Oakdale,Calif., died Oct. 31, 2007, atage 69. He was principal atPomona Jr. Academy, SouthBay Jr. Academy, Mile HighElementary School and boys’dean at Gem State Academy.He is survived by his wife,Lorna Young ’60 Peterson;son, Erik; and two grandchil-dren.

Jimmy Rasco (’62), Albion,Wash., died March 19, 2008, atage 70. He taught for 39 yearsin the Texas, Washington andUpper Columbia conferences.Jimmy is survived by his wife,Joanne Carcich ’63 Rasco;twin sons, Don and Ron; threegrandchildren; and brother,Eddie.

Joyce Morse ’65, Desert HotSprings, Calif., died Jan. 16,2008. She was born Aug. 2,1933, in Iowa City, Iowa.Joyce worked for the Seventh-day Adventist Church educa-tion system for 43 years. Shespent 20 years as a teacher,and 23 years as an education-al superintendent.

Clayton Bliss ’66, Chewelah,Wash., died Sept., 24, 2007, atage 66. He was the med techlead at Fred Hutchinson’sCancer Institute in Seattle until

2006. He also worked atNorthridge Hospital for 17years. Clayton is survived bydaughters, Jacqueline Vaughn,Charis Armstrong, AudreyZamora and Monika Bliss;son, Clinton; 12 grandchildren;parents; Bern and DorothyBliss; sisters, Beverly Elloway,Barbara Lodahl and ElizabethGottschall; and brother,Charles.

Daniel Bodner ’69, Vale,N.C., died July 7, 2007, at age60. He was a teacher in theAdventist school system for 37years. He is survived by hiswife, Judith Larson (’69)Bodner.

Elmer Glovatsky ’70, GrassyButte, N.D., died June 21,2008. Elmer was born July 4,1947, in Killdeer, N.D. He wasraised near Grassy Buttewhere he attended schoolthrough the eighth grade. Hegraduated from SheyenneRiver Academy and UnionCollege. Elmer taught for sixyears prior to moving back tothe family place to beginfarming and ranching. Elmermarried Dianne Barrett ’74on June 17, 1973. He waspresident of the Little KnifeRoyalty Owners Associationand the Organic CropImprovement Association. Heis survived by his wife,Dianne; their five children,Heather ’00, Priscilla (’01),Bryce, Marlan and Brandon;one granddaughter, Adriana;brother, Tim; and nephew,Gabe.

Preston Chin (’75), Panama,Neb., died Dec. 6, 2007, atage 61 after battling cancer.He is survived by his wife,Darlene.

Bob Schlisner (’85), Lincoln,Neb., died May 6, 2008, at age59, after a courageous battlewith cancer. Bob grew up inSouth Dakota. He was boys’dean at Sunnydale andShenandoah Valley Academiesand coach at Mount Ellis andShenandoah. Bob’s professionwas floor covering installation,and he took great pride in hiscraft. He was an avid Yankeesfan and loved spending timewith his grandchildren. Bobwas an active member,teacher and deacon at AllonChapel Seventh-day AdventistChurch. He is survived by hiswife, Sheila; daughter,Carolyn; two sons, Chad (’94)and Cory; eleven grandchil-dren; three brothers, Everett’63, Dennis and Calvin; twosisters, Marcelene andMarietta; and many other fam-ily members. He was preced-ed in death by his parents,Harold and Fern Schlisner.

Meriel Decker Brawner ’86,Lincoln, Neb., died April 19,2008, at age 47. Meriel lovedchildren and it was whileworking at Kiddie Kollege thatshe met her husband, Russell(’88). Meriel and Russelladopted Bryant and for a timeMeriel operated a daycare inher home. Kendon was bornin 1993 and Andrew was bornin 1998. Tragically, Russell lost

CORDmagazine 37

Mary Lou Kutschara

Elmer Glovatsky

Bob Schlisner

38 SUMMER/FALL 2008

his life in a canoeing accidentshortly after Andrew was born.Meriel was diagnosed withcancer in 2006 and fought abrave battle. She is survivedby sons, Bryant, Kendon andAndrew; brother, William; sis-ters, Vicky Scott, CynthiaMcNally and JoEllen McCord;and nieces and nephews.

Murray Deming, formerpastor of College ViewSeventh-day AdventistChurch, died Nov. 27, 2007,in Tucson, Ariz., from compli-cations following a fall result-ing in fractured ribs. He wasborn Nov. 11, 1909, in BrokenBow, Neb. Elder Demingserved as senior pastor of theCollege View Church, as wellas in Indiana, Oklahoma andCalifornia. He was buried inthe College View Cemeterynext to his wife on Dec. 9,2007, attended by some 60family members and a host offriends. He is survived by hisdaughters, Charlene Scott’57, Corinne King ’56, BillieJewett ’58, Natalie Dodd ’62and Regina Nestell; sons, John’65 and Michael ’66; 25

grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren.

Minon Hamm, formerfaculty, died April 4, 2008.She was born Nov. 9, 1926, inBerrien County, Mich. Minonserved as a missionary for theSeventh-day Adventist churchin Aruba, Columbia and SouthAmerica from 1953-1964. Sheearned a Ph.D. in English fromVanderbilt University. Shetaught English at SouthernMissionary College inCollegedale, Tenn., and was aprofessor of humanities atUnion College. After retire-ment, Minon lived with herdaughter and son-in-law inMaryville, Tenn. Minon waspredeceased by a son, Wayne,and is survived by a daughter,Carol Sommerville; four grand-children; one great-grandchildand brother, Wayne Hiebert.

Nathan Wagner, former stu-dent fall of 2007, of Hobbs,N.M., died March 6, 2008, inLubbock, Texas. He was bornMay 16, 1989, to Lenard ’76and Jeannene Wagner. Natespent just a short time at

Union College as a freshman,before he had to leave due toa chronic illness. Nate lovedlife, family, church, teachersand friends. He will alwaysremain in the hearts of thosewho knew him well and aninspiration to those who knewhim only a little. He is sur-vived by his parents, brothers,Jonathan ’03, Matthew ’05and Jacob; and sisters,Madeline and Mia.

Notice of the following deathshas been received:

Eddie Barr ’29,Loma Linda, Calif., diedJune 10, 2007.

Evelyn Anderson Ammon (’36),Yountville, Calif., diedNov. 22, 2005.

Helen Foreman Little ’37,Loma Linda, Calif., diedDec. 15, 2006.

Eunice Nelson Sonnenberg (’37),San Gabriel, Calif., diedDec. 5, 2007.

Clara Wilson Anderson (’39),Yountville, Calif., diedAug. 25, 2007.

Kenneth Berry (’40),Redlands, Calif., diedJan. 26, 2008.

Charles Merickel (’40),Portland, Ore., diedMarch 17, 2008. He is survivedby his wife, Stacia Alexenko’46 Merickel.

Gordon Otter ’45,College Place, Wash., died

Feb. 20, 2008.

Harold Burr ’46,New Market, Va., diedDec. 3, 2007.

Avis Erickson McLean (’50),Spokane, Wash., diedNov. 29, 2007.

Ed Holton (’53),Bakersfield, Calif.,January 2008.

Richard Swena ’53,Springfield, Mo., diedJan. 1, 2007.

Margaret Rice Small (’56),Livingston, Texas, diedOct. 18, 2007.

LaMerne Mosier Drace ’57,Franklin, N.J., diedNov. 27, 2006.

Alma Helt Long ’58,Thornton, Colo., diedSept. 5, 2007.

Jimmy Rasco (’62),Albion, Wash., diedMarch 19, 2008.

Pauline Davidson Haynes ’69,Blairsville, Ga., diedNov. 30, 2007.

Nadine Jones Smerud ’71,Tomball, Texas, diedFeb. 21, 2008.

Robert Clemons (’86),Collegedale, Tenn., diedNov. 24, 2007 of follicular lym-phoma.

Debra Orndorff ’88,Henderson, Nev., diedSept., 30, 2006.

Eric Galvez ’93,Drexel Hill, Pa., diedMay 7, 2007.

CORRECTIONIn the Winter 2007/2008 issueof CORDmagazine KarenSogard (’78) was mistakenlylisted as deceased. We arehappy to report she is aliveand well and living in Iowa.

IN MEMORY_____________________________

Meriel Decker Brawner

Nathan Wagner

return . renew . reunionUnion College Homecoming • April 2-5, 2009402.486.2503 • www.ucollege.edu • alumni@ucollege.edu

Honor Years: 1939, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1969, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1999

Special Reunions:Lynn Wickham era Unionaires • Dan Shultz era Concert Winds(more info on page 31)

oan and Mardian Blair, both 1954 graduates, are deeplygrateful for their Union College experience. Not only did

they meet at Union, but Mardian credits former head of thebusiness program, Robert E. Firth, with encouraging him toapply for a teaching assistantship at the University ofNebraska. “He was sure I could do it,” Mardian recalls. “Andfrom that experience I discovered a totally different sphere ofthinking that positively impacted my career path.”

The Blairs have continued their connection with UnionCollege over the years. Mardian, who has served for 10 yearsas a Union College board member and has been involvedwith two capital campaigns, says the couple wants to usetheir gifts for the success of future generations. The Blairs arealso members of ForeSight, the college’s recognition club forindividuals who have included Union College in their estateplans. “We want to use our assets appropriately,” Blair said.“We feel a very close connection to the school where we metand prepared for our life work.”

Their personal philanthropy is enhanced by their effortsto inspire others. For example, during Homecoming 2008,Mardian and Joan sponsored a financial planning seminar

presented by a noted wealth management attorney to allowtheir peers to see the wisdom and value behind estate plan-ning.

“If Union College benefited you, the right thing to do isconsider Union in your estate planning,” Blair said. “Eventhose with modest assets can remember the college. Thosewith more can give more liberally.”

The Blairs exemplify the many people throughout thecollege’s history who have given sacrificially. “It is an impor-tant work, and ought to go forward through the years, evenafter we’ve left the scene,” Blair said. “The alumni of todayneed to help the students of tomorrow.”

CORDmagazine 39

For information about helping Union College studentsthrough your estate plan, please contact Todd Mekelburg at

Union College Advancement,3800 South 48th Street,Lincoln, NE 68506,

402.486.2503, tomekelb@ucollege.edu.

ForeSightIt takes

by Brenda Dickerson ’86

During Union College’s 2008 Commencement in May, David Smith presentedMardian and Joan Blair with the President’s Award. “Mardian and Joan areexemplary alumni of Union College,” Smith said during the ceremony. “Todaywe recognize their commitment and undaunted optimism for the continuingprosperity and progress of Union College as demonstrated by their inspirationfor philanthropic initiatives, exceptional financial support, and sustained spiritof service and servant leadership.”

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDLincoln, NE

Permit No. 62

News from Union CollegeVol. 73, No.2 Summer/fall 2008

Published by theUnion College Advancement Office3800 South 48th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506

Address service requested

In September, a team from Union’s international rescue and relief programtraveled to Texas to help victims of Hurricane Ike

while putting their training into practice.

Kyle Kuemichel, senior IRR student, assists a woman during the door-to-doorneeds assessments Union’s group conducted in the storm-damaged region.

Learn more about Union’s service in Texas on page 15.

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