spring 2011

SPRING 2011

The MaGazINe

2 WWW.SIMPSONMaGazINe.COM

cademic leaders understandably are concerned about the findings of two sociologists in the new book “Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses.” The authors conclude many students do not learn much in their first two years of college, that nearly half show no

significant growth in critical thinking, complex reasoning and writing.

You might ask, “How is that different at Simpson?”

In a recent issue of the Simpson magazine, we described our college’s new curriculum, an all-new course of study to develop critical thinking, quantitative reasoning and writing skills into every course. Simpson College graduates will not only be prepared to compete in a global economy, but will learn to lead and be engaged citizens of the world.

As the spring 2011 semester concludes, we report on several sterling accomplishments by our students. A team of four Simpson College undergraduates was one of only 74 selected nationally to present their research at the U.S. Capitol later this month. Out of more than 700 applications, our students’ sophisticated work will be among the best in the country when presented to members of Congress at the annual Posters on the Hill Conference in Washington, D.C.

The upcoming undergraduate research symposium on campus will also showcase projects from a wide range of disciplines across campus. The projects involve everything you would expect from a premier liberal arts education: inquiry, investigation, analysis, discovery, application and writing. There are more than 40 entries in the research symposium this year; I encourage you to visit campus on April 14 and see first-hand the impressive findings by our students.

Finally, just last month, Simpson students competed with peers across the world in an international mathematics symposium. We are awaiting the results of this competition, but last year Simpson ranked in the top ten percent of teams across the globe. I have no reason to expect anything less this year.

Students not learning? Not at Simpson.

Part of the Simpson Experience is to bring the world’s great minds to campus. I hope you can join us on campus April 7 for the inaugural Culver Lecture. Our guest lecturer will be George McGovern, a distinguished former senator, statesman, diplomat and his party’s nominee for U.S. president. He will be joined by Iowa’s own John Culver, one of Mr. McGovern’s colleagues in the Senate, one of our state’s most accomplished leaders and a scholar in his own right.

In closing, I hope you enjoy reading about the unusual, even quirky pastimes of some of Simpson’s faculty. The best teachers are interesting people with interesting lives. I am proud to be associated with each of them.

President

Great minds on campus

| pres ident ’s message

The MaGazINe | SPRING 2011 3

contents

11

6

The Magazine

Simpson College PresidentJohn Byrd

PublisherCary Jordan

Executive Director of Marketing

editorBonnie harris

art DirectorLeslie Byars Diehl ’03

Sports editorBryan Geelan ’07

Web architectMissy DeYoung

Digital Content SpecialistGreg Votava

PhotographerDavid Peterson

graphic Designeramanda Leichty ’10

assistant editorMary Fortune

Copy Center ManagerJenifer Mertes

Touring the Years editorSara Thompson

Contributing WritersLeslie Midget held ’86

Kelsey Knutson ’11allie Walker ’11

Fritz Wehrenberg

Office of Alumni RelationsLeslie Midget held ’86

Director515-961-1544

Office of College AdvancementBob Lane ’81Vice President515-961-1549

24 aThLeTICS

28 eXTRa!- Slovenia- Culver Center - accidental everything- Student Support Services- Research Symposium- George Washington Carver

Lecture

33 UPCOMING eVeNTS

34 TOURING The YeaRS

4 INVeSTING IN SIMPSON The generous support of alumni

and friends defines the Simpson experience

6 a SIMPSON SPaCe Unforgettable campus places

7 ChaPLaIN’S CORNeR

8 FaCULTY PURSUITS- Ryan Rehmeier- Where are They Now?- Faculty accomplishments

11 COVeR STORY eclectic educators

28

ON THE COVER: Professor Nick Proctor brings history to life in the classroom. Photo by David Peterson.

The Simpson magazine is published quarterly by the Office of Marketing and Public Relations. Letters to the Editor and story ideas are welcomed. Send correspondence to Bonnie Harris at [email protected].

Your magazine is a winner!The Office of Marketing and Public Relations is proud to announce the Simpson magazine’s two awards for excellence by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). A Gold award was achieved for excellence in photography and a Bronze award was given for last summer’s Sesquicentennial Special Section.

| invest ing in s impson


ConneCTeD or Mary Rose Main ’53, giving back to Simpson has always made perfect sense.

“I’ve always thought Simpson was doing the right thing and going in the right direction. It was consistent with the things that I was trying to do with the Girl Scout organization, to make opportunities for young people to develop leadership. I could see that happening at Simpson and I wanted to contribute to help ensure it continued in that direction.”

In 1997, the Simpson magazine featured Main when she retired as the national executive director of the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. In that story, Main spoke of her experiences at Simpson and how they helped shape her career and her agenda for the Girl Scouts. Fourteen years later she is still grateful to her alma mater.

“Simpson was very much directly involved in my career. I was about ready to graduate from Simpson and my advisor, Don Koontz, called me in and he had a letter from the Girl Scouts and thought I should apply,” Main said. “I applied, got the job and I was a part of the Girl Scout organization for 44 years, my entire career.”

Main also feels that her experiences as a student helped shape her as the leader she eventually became.

“I was a Tri Delt and the sorority gave me a lot of opportunities that I may not have had otherwise. They were very important when I was there. My opportunities on Student Council were important too.”

Today, 58 years after her graduation, Rose feels more connected with Simpson than ever.

“I think it’s important to stay connected to things that you really believe in and I wanted to provide even more of the opportunities that I had while I was at Simpson to the younger generation.”

Main was awarded the Simpson College Alumni Achievement Award in 1991 and joined the Simpson Board of Trustees in 1992.

“When I was invited to become a trustee, I decided that I wanted to do it and do it right, so I have always participated and given financially at the top level that I could give.”

As a trustee, Main has invested time and money to ensure the education students receive at Simpson continues to evolve and improve.

“I think it’s important for students to think creatively and analyze situations and solve problems. I think that’s possible especially today with the new curriculum that Simpson is implementing,” Main said. “You really are a broadened individual when you graduate from Simpson.”

Main also established the Mary Rose Main Endowed Scholarship fund in 1997, which continues to help a Simpson student finance her education each year. ■

Mary Rose Main lives in Manhattan.

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ike many kids, Jason Gutzmer ’97 dreamed about what he would be when he grew up. For him, it was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He earned good grades

and did well on his ACT. He took enough college level classes in high school and the summer after graduation through Iowa Western to have several credit hours under his belt while planning to attend Iowa State University and apply for a ROTC scholarship.

But another path presented itself to Jason. As a camp counselor, he discovered a calling to the ministry and decided to attend Simpson College. Jason’s parents deeply appreciated the financial aid package he received, which brought a Simpson education within reach for their son. Jason completed his B.A. in religion in three years and is now a pastor with the United Methodist Church appointed to churches in Lacey, Beacon and Eddyville. Married to Jennifer Smith Gutzmer ’99, they are raising four children of their own.

Recently Jason’s parents, Elaine and Marlin Gutzmer of

Clarinda, made the decision to pay back the financial assistance each of their three children received. The Gutzmers made gifts to all three colleges with an enclosed letter requesting that the money help current students. Simpson College, Iowa Western Community College and Northwestern College received the gifts.

“We now have the financial resources that enable us to replace the scholarship money Jason received to be used by future students,” said Elaine Gutzmer. “We would encourage others to replace scholarship funds when possible.”

At Simpson, 98 percent of the students receive some form of scholarship, grant or financial aid. This means that gifts like the Gutzmers are immeasurably important. If you would like to help a Simpson student like the Gutzmers did, we invite you to visit our website and provide your gift online at http://www.simpson.edu/alumni/give/online.html. You are welcome to direct your gift toward The Simpson Fund and designate your gift for scholarship support. With your

help, students like Jason will be able to live their Simpson Experience today and into the future. ■

PaYing iT baCk

We could not have sent our kids to the colleges they attended without scholarships and grants. We hope our gift will allow other students to attend who may

not be able to without financial assistance.

- Elaine Gutzmer

Jason Gutzmer with his family in 1997.


| a s impson space

t’s got a face that only a mother could love.

But even with its shortcomings — internal and external, aesthetic and architectural — there’s no denying that the

Brenton Student Center has earned its place in the hearts of Simpson students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have gathered there, walked its halls, and climbed its many steps for nearly five decades.

Within a matter of months, Brenton will be torn down to make way for the new Kent Campus Center — a $14 million facility that will offer state-of-the-art technology, amenities and resources.

Thanks to a $4 million lead gift from longtime Simpson supporter and Trustee Gage Kent on behalf of his family, the fundraising campaign has now brought in $11.3 million and is well on its way to achieving the end goal. Although initially the plan called for an addition and renovation of the existing building, the Board of Trustees voted in favor of moving ahead with the construction of an entirely new building at its February meeting.

“This has been a dream for a lot of people here for a long time,” said Bob Lane, vice president for college advancement. “We’re now making that dream a reality. We’re reaching out to all alumni asking them to support this hugely impactful project. It’s going to be an amazing facility for the entire campus community.”

With plans to open in the fall of 2012, the Kent Campus Center will be 100 percent handicapped accessible and will house a blackbox performance theatre, a coffee shop, alternative dining options and dedicated rooms for student organizations. It also will offer space for banquets, meetings and administrative departments, such as for the Center for Vocation and Integrative Learning.

Saying goodbye to an old friend is never easy. But for a college with 150 years of rich history, the Kent Campus Center presents a new beginning and will offer significant benefits to our students today, as well as those to come. We thank the Brentons, who will be honored in the new facility, for their generosity. ■

neW beginningSSaying Goodbye to Brenton, hello to Kent


brenton Student CenterYear built: 1968

Square Feet: 25,000

Cost: $720,000

namesake: Longtime Simpson friend Mr. W. harold Brenton, and family

kent Campus CenterYear built: 2012

Square Feet: 55,000

Cost: $14,000,000

namesake: The Kent family of Muscatine, Iowa, which has supported Simpson for nearly 80 years

| a s impson space

Outrageous teachers… outrageous expectations

know that I am yet a newbie here at Simpson. However, in just over three semesters, I know there is something about

the professors in this school. I have heard it from students and I have experienced it in the two classes that I have taken (Nick Proctor’s May Term class which wrote and published a complete Zombie novel; and in John Pauley’s

300-level course on philosophy of value). The professors here at Simpson College have shocking expectations of the students who enter their classrooms.

Our professors actually expect students to think differently at the end of the semester! This is scandalous, extreme. They expect their students will think more expansively, approach the subject matter with a greater capacity to question and probe. They expect their students to think more deeply and to actually come out of the classroom (and wherever else the learning experience is designed to take place) with greater comprehension. They actually expect that the in-and out-of-class work will alter how a student approaches life’s decisions.

In an age and amidst culture where everything is supposed to be at our fingertips (just watch an advertisement for the iPad), these nutty professors actually create and teach courses that have students working with new paradigms, altered world views and expansive understanding. It is truly outrageous!

Then, again, maybe the Simpson professors are in good company.

As I recall, Jesus was known as a teacher. Many addressed him as rabbi, the title used to identify a respected teacher. Yet, if we look at his pedagogy and how he invited his students to learn and grow, he makes our professors look mostly tame by comparison. Jesus actually expected his students to use their eyes to see differently: he used the blind to teach those with sight. How could the blind teach anyone with sight how to see? Jesus drew upon the offensively unclean foreigner, a Samaritan of all people, to instruct those who thought themselves clean and in step with God’s rule. When asked about taxes, especially the offensive taxes Rome demanded, Jesus asked for the coin of the realm and observed, after noting Caesar’s face on the money: “Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s and to God that which is God’s.

The list continues: walking into the temple courtyard, Jesus threw over the tables and declared this to be his Father’s house and that it was to be kept clean. Jesus invited one of his students to go walking on the water with him — absurd. Jesus associated with prostitutes and known outcasts. When it came to taking your turn, Jesus declared the last to be first. Jesus washed the feet of his students and told them this is how they shall approach living. Jesus told a story about leaving 99 sheep to find one lost one. He told a story about a foolish father giving half the inheritance to a son who squandered it and then welcomed that son back with no penalties or repayment. Clearly Jesus would not be successful in our world!

Jesus sent his students out in teams of two with nothing but the expectation that they will survive on the hospitality and generosity of those they meet. The students were to heal and teach that the realm of God had come. He expected his students to actually have new perspectives, to think and live differently. Throughout all of his teaching, Jesus expected his students to turn their lives around, to repent. Why? Because the very realm of God has come near, a realm in which the last shall be first. ■

ExtREmE thinkingBY FR ITz WehReNBeRG | ChaPLaIN

chapla in ’s corner |


hether it’s continuing research projects or exploring the biology and natural history of various locations, Simpson Biology Professor

Ryan Rehmeier has a passion for what he teaches, but biology is only one of them.

Rehmeier has completed more than 28 triathlons, including two Ironman Triathlons. The Ironman competition is the ultimate test of endurance, taking more than 12 hours to complete and consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a full marathon run (26.2 miles).

“It’s one of those things where I sought out some sort of athletic outlet because I spent so much time in graduate school at a desk or at a computer,” Rehmeier said. “I realized I was looking for something to bring more balance to my life to keep a sound mind and sound body.”

Rehmeier completed Ironman Coeur D’Alene (Idaho) in June of last year, where he finished with his personal best: 12:08:59. He completed his first Ironman in Wisconsin in 2008; his 5-year-old son, Caden, joined him in the final 200 yards so that they could run across the finish line together.

As a husband, father of two and full-time professor, Rehmeier said maintaining balance while training six days a week can be a daunting challenge.

“It’s part of the reason that my wife only allows me to do these every other year,” he said. “I love being married and having a growing family and even though it’s extremely challenging to balance that with training, you just have to get your priorities straight.”

Rehmeier said one of the benefits of competing in triathlons is the perspective it gives him to connect with students on another level.

“Training and competing for these races has helped me relate to students because I know that they have just as many things going on as I do,” he said. “So when they say ‘I can’t learn that concept,’ or ‘It’s too complex,’ or ‘I don’t have enough time to do that,’ I tell them if they are patient and if they put in the time, it will pay off, just like my training.”

Rehmeier is currently training for shorter distance races this summer including the Hy-Vee Triathlon in Des Moines. He hopes his next Ironman Triathlon will be in Arizona in 2012.

“You have to do what you love to do, and luckily I have found teaching and triathlons, two things that I truly enjoy doing.”

balanCe

Six QuEStiOnS fOR RyAn

the strangest thing in my office is: The taxidermied flying squirrel jumping from my wall to greet visitors.

A book i think everyone should read is: Why People Believe Weird Things: Pseudoscience, Superstition, and Other Confusions of Our Time by Michael Shermer.

One thing people wouldn’t know about me (other than being a triathlete) is: I have a man crush on Justin Timberlake.

My inspiration is: Setting a good example for my two boys and future generations.

if i wasn’t a professor, i would be: a sad panda.

if i won the lottery, i would: have a garage full of extremely expensive bicycles, a personal trainer to make me go out and ride those bikes, and a personal chef to make my wife happy. ■

RyAn REhmEiERAssistant Professor of Biologyarrived at Simpson in august 2006education:

• B.S., Trinity University, 1997• M.S., Kansas State University, 2000• Ph.D., Kansas State University, 2005

| facu l ty pursuits



hen alumni share recollections of Simpson, woven throughout the stories are memories of faculty who became mentors, advisors

and friends. For many alumni, Frank Colella, emeritus professor of economics, became all three. With an infectious laugh, a sharp mind and a true love of teaching, it is no wonder that he holds a special place in the hearts of so many.

how did a new york City native find his way to Simpson College? I grew up in NYC and earned my B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. at Fordham University. At 24, I moved to southwest New York State and taught at St. Bonaventure University for ten years where I met my wife, Jane Ellen. She was from California, one of nine children while I was an only child, so when it came time to move on we looked to the west coast. But I happened to meet Simpson’s academic dean, Dr. Mel Henderson, at a conference and he invited me to dinner then to visit campus. At Simpson, I found qualified faculty from all over the country, students who were eager to learn and an ideal setting close to a big city.

you’ve taught hundreds of classes and thousands of students during your tenure stretching from 1977-2009. What story still makes you chuckle?For years, one of my lectures encouraged students to discuss the possible impact the rising cost of crushing coke berries might have on the price of Coca-Cola. After about fifteen

years, a student informed me that Coke was made from a kola nut, not a coke berry. Once, I had overheard my young son ask my wife how Coca-Cola was made. Apparently, she made up a fictional tale to entertain him on the car ride but forgot to tell me. I also was known for a lecture explaining supply and demand using the concepts of beer and pizza.

and what keeps you smiling these days?Jane Ellen and I do a fair amount of traveling to see our four children and seven grandchildren who live coast to coast. When we are home, I do a bit of golfing. Since the 1960’s, I’ve played guitar and sung. I have a pretty good ear, so over the years I’ve written down lyrics and chords on scraps of paper for about 1000 songs. My latest project is to catalog these on my computer (and in large print). I have about 300 finished. Some might remember me playing at Simpson Spirit shows at Homecoming or a Guild event.

But what really makes me smile are the great memories I have and am still making. At the college, we talk about the Simpson Experience, referring to the students. But I had my own Simpson Experience in an atmosphere of camaraderie that started with the president and reached everyone from our catering staff to our faculty. Simpson is a miniature melting pot of people from different places and cultures who work together in a community of great respect and purpose. ■

whERE ARE thEy nOw? BY LeSL Ie MIDGeT heLD ’86

frAnk COlellA


FaCulTY aCCOMPliShMenTSSteve Rose presented at the 2010 “Dispositions: A Decade of Progress?” Symposium sponsored by The Center for the Study of Educator Dispositions. The topic was “How do Teacher Preparation Programs Explicitly Teach and Promote Dispositions in Pre-service Teachers?” The event took place on Nov. 18 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Associate Professor of Management Tom Schmidt has been elected to the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation Board. This honor came after the work he did with the Leadership Iowa University program during his sabbatical.

Adjunct art faculty member bob kling has just completed this year’s balloon painting, “Hot Summer Ballooning” that was auctioned off at the National Balloon Classic’s annual fundraiser Feb. 12. The painting is a 40” x 30” acrylic painting from his experiences in crewing last summer for balloon pilot Tim McConnell.

Dave Camwell directed the Simpson College Jazz Ensemble in the biennial Nostalgia Dance, Jan. 22, performed a recital and master class at Augustana College, Ill., on Jan. 23 as well as at Simpson on Jan. 24. He also directed the CJC Jazz Honor Band on Jan. 25 at Indianola High School. Camwell directed the 6th Annual Simpson College Jazz Festival on Jan. 27-28, which brought 36 high school jazz ensembles to campus to compete for an entrance to the Iowa Jazz Championship that is held this month.

On Jan. 12, John benoit played piano and led the Ballyhoo Foxtrot Combo in a performance on the Midweek Music Recital Series sponsored by St. John’s Lutheran Church in Des Moines. Also participating in the program was Mike Short, affiliate instructor of tuba/euphonium.

Adjunct Professor nate boulton has had a law review article accepted for publication by the Drake Law Review. His article, entitled “Establishing Causation in Iowa Workers’ Compensation Law: An Analysis of Common Disputes over the Compensability of Certain

Injuries,” will be included in Volume 59, Issue 2 of the publication and will be printed this spring. Nate delivered a presentation on his article at the 2011 Iowa Association for Justice Workers’ Compensation Seminar in February.

Steve Rose was the featured author at the annual Winterset Arts Celebration on Feb. 8. Rose read from his poetry collection at the Cellar Coffee Shop in Winterset. Holiss Monroe, known for his work at Iowa Public Radio, joined him.

Dave Camwell had another article published in Saxophone Journal, and his Quartet — Oasis Quartet — was also featured in the magazine. Camwell performed the Michael Colgrass Concerto Urban Requiem with the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music on March 8, as well as several solo and chamber recitals. ■

2011 Nostalgia Dance

held in Great hall.

kuDOSMore than 50 members of the Simpson Community, including 45 faculty members, were honored recently at the Celebration of Professional Scholarship reception on campus. Hosted by President John and Nancy Byrd in the Matthew Simpson Room, the reception recognized those who have published or presented in the last year. To see a complete list of the honorees and their work, go to www.simpsonmagazine.com.

They’re scholars. They’re teachers. They’re mentors. They’re leaders.

But when it comes to members of the Simpson faculty, like anyone

else, they have their quirks. In some cases, very interesting quirks.

So often, the badge of “professor” brings with it stuffy images of elbow

patches, inapproachable lecturers and lots of corduroy. Not at Simpson.

as any student or alumnus will attest, ours is a collection of distinct and

distinguished individuals who are as engaging inside the classroom as they

are interesting outside of the classroom.

Here’s a look at just a handful of these eclectic educators who truly help

make Simpson what it is today.

cover stor y |


ou might not think ostriches and higher education have much in common. But if that’s the case, you probably haven’t gotten

to know Dr. Rick Spellerberg.

Having grown up on a farm, Spellerberg, a professor of mathematics at Simpson, always had a passion for raising animals and being outdoors. But it wasn’t until a conversation with a Simpson colleague that he became introduced to the idea of farming ostriches.

“I think I responded the way most people would respond,” he recalled. “Ostriches? Really?”

Still, his interest was piqued. Being a mathematician and scholar, Spellerberg made sure to do the necessary research before making a move. Even though he knew farming ostriches would be a risk, it would be expensive and would seriously limit opportunities for vacations since it would be hard to find someone close by to properly care for the birds, he decided it was too intriguing an opportunity to pass up.

“I saw this as something that would get me back into my farming roots, in an interesting and unusual way,” he said. “Having a bunch of ostriches running around is a pretty good conversation piece.”

And it was.

Although he never incorporated his distinctive hobby into his curriculum at Simpson, that’s not to say his students didn’t get plenty of “learning” opportunities with the ostriches. Such as one student’s impromptu lesson in crisis management.

“She drove by my place and apparently saw an ostrich that had gotten out, and was lying on the ground with its head missing,” he explained. “So

when she got to campus she was pretty frantic and was telling everyone about it. So I went out with a couple students to check on it, and as we got close I saw a sheriff ’s car sitting in the middle of the road. I thought something definitely wasn’t right. But then as we got there, we found that the sheriff ’s car was there because someone was moving a house. One of the birds did get out, but its head wasn’t missing. The students and I got it back in.”

After time, and his family’s growing desire to go on a vacation without worrying about how the ostriches were doing, Spellerberg made the decision to bring that particular adventure in farming to an end. He still has friends who farm the birds, and remains very active with the Ostrich Co-op of Iowa.

Ostriches and higher education may not have much in common. But as for what the experience taught Spellerberg, and what he thinks others could learn from it, it’s simple.

“If there’s something you have a passion for, don’t be afraid to take a risk,” he said. “When I bought those birds, that was a big risk. But it was worth it. You’ll never know what you’re missing out on if you don’t follow your heart sometimes.”

Even if it means giving up a few vacations.

Conversation piece

SpellerbergM aT h e M aT I C S

RICK


FeeneyMARTY

arty Feeney has been throwing Mason jars around his classrooms for 30 years, and he has yet to hear the sound of shattering glass. Part of that can be attributed to the accuracy and skill he’s gained over the course of three

decades. But more often than not, it’s the soft hands of the students willing to go to any length to make a tough catch since the jar, after all, is their personal prize.

“I’ve only had one jar break in the 30 years I’ve been tossing them to students,” Feeney explained. “Students always mention the jars. I tell them they can fill them up with root beer.”

Regardless of what the students do with them, the flying Mason jars represent Feeney’s belief in keeping his classroom engaged and energized. For the adjunct professor of communication and media studies, it’s also a unique way of grabbing students’ attention, while at the same time recognizing them for their work.

Every two weeks in Feeney’s public speaking course, students present in front of the entire class. Those deemed to have done the best job in a few separate categories win a trophy. Which, in this case, is a Mason jar — which Feeney buys in bulk from his local Ben Franklin store.

Feeney began his awards ceremonies many years ago by giving away college mugs. However, that all changed when he was at a thrift store and noticed these “unique and durable” Mason jars. According to Feeney, the jars seemed to be the perfect prize. An unusual trophy? Perhaps. But at least it’s rooted in tradition.

“I’m trying to shake it up,” Feeney said. “I want to break down the walls of the classroom. Class doesn’t have to be deadly dull. Liven it up! Only one time in 30 years have I had someone say that they didn’t want their Mason jar. The student already had four, and he wanted another student to be able to receive one.”

That generosity and family spirit is common in Feeney’s classes. Through exercises and interactions in class, the students are able to get to know each other in a more in-depth, personal way, which creates a comfortable atmosphere for presentations. And for catching jars.

Sophomore Tara Maurer is the recipient of three Mason jar awards, but the bigger prize was the confidence she gained in public speaking.

“Professor Feeney always has an interesting story to tell,” Maurer said. “I came into this class knowing no one. When I left, it was like we were a family.”

Shake it up

C O M M U N I C aT I O N & M e D I a S T U D I e S


ith long ears, short legs and a stout build, running can be somewhat tricky for basset hounds Winston and Miles.

But when Amy Doling enters the backyard to greet her boys, they move to her with the determination of uncoordinated toddlers. Wet and sloppy toddlers.

Doling, an associate professor of biology at Simpson, didn’t grow up having a dog as a pet. But you’d never guess that after seeing her rolling around with Winston and Miles, each of whom weighs in at over 50 lbs.

“These dogs are resilient,” Doling explained. “They’re loving pets. They don’t hold grudges. Their personalities are interesting, they’re very beautiful and pretty independent.”

Odds are, if the dogs could talk, they’d attest that the feelings are mutual. It was Doling who, three years ago, proved to be a lifesaver for then-puppy Winston. After having a conversation with a friend who worked for Hounds Haven Basset Rescue of Iowa, a foster and adoption organization for bassets, Doling agreed to foster Winston until another owner was willing to adopt him. She already had Miles since 2005, and his independence and stubbornness is what attracted her to Winston.

After fostering Winston for a short few weeks, the knock at the door came — someone who was interested in adopting the wide-eyed pup. However by this time, Doling had fallen in love with Winston herself, and wasn’t ready to part ways.

“Of course I couldn’t give him up,” Doling confessed.

Since then, Doling has volunteered with Hounds Haven, located in Vale, Iowa. Doling and the other volunteers work with basset hounds in and outside of the state. The volunteers pay for many things out-of-pocket, but donations and fundraising efforts foot the bill for the veterinary visits for the dogs.

Doling says she is usually a somewhat private person, but when it comes to her “boys” she’s willing to talk for hours on end.

“Although they are extremely naughty, drool, shed and generally make a mess, they show unconditional love in a way that is hard to describe,” she said. “And who could resist laughing when Winston breaks into the bathroom and drinks out of the toilet with the seat and lid resting on his head?”

And there’s no doubt that the pair love her just as much as she loves them. Evidenced by the wet and sloppy greeting she gets from them every day.

DolingAMY

basset madness

B I O L O G Y


ProctorNICK

h I S T O RY

t’s Greenwich Village, New York City. The year is 1913. Gathered together is a collection of suffragists, labor activists and Greenwich

Village bohemians. The issue at hand is how best to sort out the conflicts and competing interests of these three distinct groups and convince others from the different groups to fight for their cause.

The debates are lively. The speakers are convincing. The verbal attacks are both personal and philosophical. A winning solution seems light years away. There’s just one wrinkle. All of this is taking place in present day, in Mary Berry Hall, at Simpson College.

Welcome to the world of Dr. Nick Proctor. A professor of history at Simpson, Proctor isn’t shy about his belief that history is best learned when it’s brought to life — literally.

“It puts contingency back into history,” Proctor said. “It helps students realize that history is made by people making choices. By doing this we’re focusing on the decisions, as opposed to just the outcomes of decisions. It makes history come alive more.”

For many of his classes, Proctor has adopted Reacting to the Past, a series of learning “games” based on real historical events that was launched by a faculty member at Barnard College. Students take on roles and blend what they’ve learned from readings and class discussions with the philosophical and intellectual beliefs of the historical figure they’ve been assigned to play.

“What you see in a setting like this is the discourse

getting deeper and sharper,” Proctor said. “You learn it emotionally as well as intellectually. When you’re screaming for the King’s blood at the onset of the French Revolution, you get a whiff of what the revolutionary spirit is in a way that even a very fine book can’t convey.”

And Proctor has set the bar pretty high in this regard. It was his May Term class last year — in which students spent just three weeks plotting, outlining, writing and marketing the book “A History of the Great Zombie War” — that earned a healthy dose of press and rave reviews from students. That book project was inspired by the Humans vs. Zombies game that overtook the Simpson campus earlier in the year, which Proctor helped coordinate.

As a kid, Proctor always was drawn to these kinds of games, often war games that involved epic historical struggles. But he admits, he never knew how effective a tool it could be in the classroom. He never knew that his classroom could become an amphitheater in ancient Greece, the setting for America’s Constitutional Convention or a dive restaurant in Greenwich Village.

“It’s always interesting to see how students respond,” Proctor said. “They come to realize that a situation is never as simple as they thought it was. Plus, it’s fun. It gives you permission to be ridiculous. I completely reject the notion that learning, at this level, can’t or shouldn’t be fun.”

It can. Unless you’re a zombie.

Revolutionary spirit


Proctorh I S T O RY


WaggonerMURPHY

t’s doubtful even Pythagoras himself could’ve imagined this. Sure, the iconic Greek mathematician proved the theorem that’s been

referred to as the most powerful equation used in construction. But it’s doubtful he ever realized that it would, one day, be art that you could sleep under.

Enter Dr. Murphy Waggoner.

Waggoner, a professor of mathematics at Simpson, never realized this either until one day, when she was watching a show about quilting.

“I was watching Fons & Porter,” she explained, referring to the show on IPTV. “They were creating a quilt block and when I saw it I thought, ‘I know the mathematical concept that represents.’ It’s funny, they have no clue what that one show spawned.”

What it spawned was an approach to teaching and learning at Simpson that truly is one of a kind.

Waggoner created a course — Symmetry, Sewing and Service — which focuses on using quilting as a way to teach mathematics. In it, students use calculation skills to figure out the symmetry involved with repeating designs, and they incorporate mathematical concepts into those designs. From there they design and sew their quilts and write a paper on the mathematics involved. The quilts ultimately are donated to local and area charitable organizations.

“To truly understand a mathematical concept, you need to understand it symbolically and visually,” Waggoner said. “If I have an education

major who’s going to someday teach fractions, this is a way of letting them incorporate a visual representation of fractions in a creative way. In the end I think that just enhances their ability to understand that concept symbolically.”

Waggoner has always been fascinated by the connection between art and math. Student quilts have included patches that visually represent fractions, triangular numbers, regions of the plane, Pascal’s Triangle, prime numbers and, of course, the Pythagorean Theorem. And the interplay between art and math is indeed very real.

“If an artist were to look at one of these quilts, they’re going to see something very artistic,” she said. “If a mathematician looks at it, they’re going to see something completely different. They’re going to see the mathematical concepts going on in there.”

Waggoner has taught the class as a May Term offering as well as a semester-long course. Next up is a Simpson Colloquium course she is planning for this fall — a course that will examine the history, economics and art of quilting, while forsaking the mathematical components involved.

An interesting twist, given that it will be taught by a mathematician who, by her own admission, is not a quilter.

“I’m not a quilter,” she said. “I’m a recycler. I’ll take old pieces of clothing and make quilts out of them. But in reality, my quilts are just blankets. They’re not art.”

Actually, it depends on who you ask.

The perfect calculation

M aT h e M aT I C S


Magalhaes

t was during an interview with a prospective faculty member when Eduardo Magalhaes III discovered what students at Simpson were

calling him behind his back. The candidate had met with students earlier in the day, leading up to the awkward few moments with Magalhaes.

“Well,” the candidate explained. “They call you Eddie Magic.”

“What?” was all Magalhaes could muster, confused and entertained by the odd bit of news.

And, it would seem, an iconic nickname was born. But after a short time, Magalhaes realized why students had tagged him with the unusual moniker. It was 10 years earlier, when the professor of political science was leading a May Term class, that he mentioned the nickname — and where it came from — to his students.

When Magalhaes was running for student body president in high school, he and his friends created posters to encourage classmates to vote for him. The problem? His name was way too large to fit.

“We didn’t have hallways long enough for that,” he joked. So instead, they came up with the name, and ‘Vote for Eddie Magic’ signs were posted all over the school.

For years, students throughout many different areas of study were calling him Eddie Magic — not just the students he had in class. “A number of students I had never even encountered were calling me that,” he said. “I’ve come to discover that the students thought they had created it. I shudder to think if the nickname had been something else.”

He claims there is really nothing magical about him, unless you count his ability to walk and read at the same time, which he says is the only successful multi-tasking he’s ever been able to do. Some, however, would disagree. With everything else he has on his plate, Magalhaes still finds the time to serve as advisor to Simpson’s Model United Nations, offering students further insight into his quirkiness.

“If you ride in the van with Professor Magalhaes to St. Louis for a Model UN trip, then be ready to listen to fiction political suspense books on tape or a lot of Brazilian music,” said political science major Aaron Sewell. “Six hours. There and back.”

And as for the name, Magalhaes believes it will probably be around for the long haul.

“It stuck.”

abracadabra!

P O L I T I C a L S C I e N C e

EDUARDO


MagalhaesThe MaGazINe | SPRING 2011 23


In my early years working in the suburbs of Boston, you had to think outside the box and you had to have a sense of humor or you’d go nuts.

| ath let ics


o smoking in the huddle. No gas at meetings.

Anyone who has played for Paul Davis knows these are two of his most important rules.

For Davis, the defensive line coach for the Storm for eight years, unusual rules are just one of the ways he gets athletes to tune in.

“I’m willing to employ new tactics and drills that might be unorthodox or crazy to get players’ attention,” Davis said. “I love to experiment with different things.”

For Davis, there’s a story behind everything. Growing up in Boston and spending more than 30 years as a police officer in both the suburbs of Boston and Polk County, there’s plenty to tell.

His ‘no smoking’ rule goes back to his high school coach who played semi-pro football in the ’60s, when players would actually smoke on the field. The no gas rule? That’s just common courtesy.

One of Davis’ go-to drill that looks a little ‘nuts’ is called “Pig Drill,” where four defensive linemen get down on all fours, put their helmets together then root after a loose football rolled between them. The drill ends up resembling its namesake: pigs rolling around in the mud. Its purpose is to simulate the pile-up following a fumble.

“For the guys here at Simpson, it has to be fun,” Davis said. “They aren’t getting scholarships; they aren’t going to the NFL. If you keep it light and still teach the game, you’ll be successful.”

Success is something Davis is accustomed to, coaching four All-American defensive linemen in his stint at Simpson.

Davis is an entertainer. He could easily pass for a stand-up comedian at postseason football banquets, he does a great Santa Clause during the holidays and of course, there’s the tutu.

“Everyone always remembers the tutu,” Davis said.

The story of the tutu goes back to 2008, Davis’ second year involved with Indianola’s Polar Plunge, an event to raise money for Special Olympics Iowa. Davis is a member of the committee which organizes the event. He has been integral in the steady growth of the Plunge, which raised over $22,000 this year.

“After I retired I knew I wanted to do service work in addition to [coaching] football,” Davis said. “I relate to this cause the best because it helps athletes. Being coaches and athletes, we can appreciate that. It’s a very worthwhile charity and the Polar Plunge is fun.”

Each year, Davis leads a team of outgoing football seniors and alumni called the Buxton Boys, and each year he dons a different outfit. In 2008 he introduced the pink tutu with an old-school football helmet and red clown nose. It was such a hit, he brought it back again in 2010. The fishnet stockings showed off his not-so-bronzed legs to the Polar Plunge crowd for the first time this year.

Being able to share his passion for service to current and former players is an added bonus for Davis.

“I know what I’m doing is worthwhile,” he said. “If I were the only guy jumping in the lake, I’d still do it. But knowing that there are other people out there learning how to give and having fun while they are giving is pretty cool. Hopefully this continues to grow until we drain the lake.” ■

new TaCTiCsBY BRYaN GeeLaN ’07


StORm in thE COmmunityhroughout the winter months, Simpson athletes took part in a number of events raising funds and awareness for causes such as cancer and the Special

Olympics.

The men’s basketball team participated in the national Coaches vs. Cancer initiative on Feb. 5. A nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), Simpson coaches commemorated the event by wearing white sneakers to remind audiences about the ways people can reduce their risk of cancer through exercise, healthy diet, making healthy lifestyle choices and following cancer screening guides.

Fans bid on an autographed Simpson basketball and made free-will donations with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society.

Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams assisted with Simpson’s annual Hot Shot event, a cooperative effort between the college and Heartland Area Education Agency for secondary students with special needs. The 21st year for the event, more than 250 participants from nine school

districts completed 13 stations within a 75-minute time frame. Stations included activities such as shooting, ball handling, passing, jumping rope, push-ups and sit-ups.

The women’s basketball team hosted its annual Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Pink Zone game Feb. 19. The Pink Zone initiative is a global, unified effort for the WBCA’s nation of coaches to assist in raising breast cancer awareness on the court, across campuses, in communities and beyond.

Fans on hand took part in a “Pink Outfit Contest” and a silent auction. Free-will donations were also accepted and representatives from Mercy of Des Moines set up information booths in Cowles Fieldhouse, where fans could collect more information on breast cancer prevention and awareness.

On March 5, Simpson football players participated in Indianola’s Polar Plunge, an event to help raise money for the Special Olympics. Two teams of Simpson football players — alumni and current — took the dive into the 30-degree water at Indianola’s Lake Ahquabi. In all, 13 teams participated in the event, which raised $22,000 for the cause. ■

helping students with special needs at the hot Shot event, from left: Anne O’Neil, Stacey Schutjer, assistant Coach elizabeth Curry and assistant Coach Katie Kitzman.


HolDing CourThe 2010-11 season was another memorable year for the Simpson women’s basketball team.

The Storm went 22-7, won a share of their fourth-straight Iowa Conference championship, went to the NCAA Tournament for the seventh year in a row, watched two players enter the Simpson record books and saw their coach reach an impressive milestone.

Along the way, Simpson went 14-2 in Iowa Conference play, winning the 10th title in program history. Head coach Brian Niemuth captured career-win No. 450, closing the year with a record of 457-186 in 24 years at the helm.

As a team, Simpson boasted the nation’s second-best scoring average during the regular season, putting up 82.2 points per game. Despite the high average, only one player — junior center, Stacey Schutjer — averaged in double figures. In all, 10 players saw more than 12 minutes of action per game, nine scored at least five points per game and 11 different players led the team in scoring.

Along with the team accolades, Schutjer and senior guard Amy Hamilton etched their names in the Simpson record books. Both surpassed the 1,000 point plateau, becoming the 13th and 14th players in program history to do so. Schutjer — a first team all-conference selection — also went over 500 rebounds, becoming only the fifth Simpson player to surpass 1,000 points and 500 rebounds in a career. Hamilton — a second team all-conference pick — became Simpson’s all-time leader in 3-pointers made, finishing her four years with 241.

Simpson began the season losing three of its first four games before rattling off 16-straight wins. The Storm advanced to the NCAA Tournament as an at-large bid, where they defeated Concordia-Moorhead 59-56 in the first round. Simpson’s season came to a close against host Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the second round, 82-75. ■

Bak, ellingson earn all-ameriCa DisTinCTions

Kinsey Bak placed fourth in the high jump and Catie Ellingson took fifth in the mile, giving each All-America honors at the 2011 NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships in Columbus, Ohio on March 12.

Bak, a junior from Hinton, cleared 5-5 1/4 on her second attempt to finish in a three-way tie for fourth to earn All-America honors for the third time.

Ellingson, a senior from Indianola, ran a 4:59.79 mile to earn All-America honors for the fourth time in track and field. She was also an All-American in cross country in 2010. ■

isaaCson nameD men’s soCCer CoaCH

On Feb. 18, Simpson announced the hiring of

Rick Isaacson as the new head coach of the men’s soccer team.

Isaacson comes to Simpson from Ankeny High School, where he served as head boys’ soccer coach for the past six years. He led the Hawks to a 110-25 record during his tenure, winning the Iowa High School Class 2A State Championship in 2007 and finishing the season with a No. 7 national ranking by the NSCAA.

During Isaacson’s tenure, he earned CIML Central Conference Coach of the Year honors three times while guiding Ankeny to the state tournament on four occasions. He also earned the State of Iowa Coach’s Achievement Award in 2007. ■

Bak

Ellingson

PHOTO BY MaGGiE HaMilTON.


or the first time, a summer study abroad course will be offered for Simpson students. This course will allow students who have been unable to take advantage of Simpson’s wide range of study

abroad opportunities in the past to participate in Simpson’s nationally- recognized program.

The new summer travel course, SOC 209 Global Citizenship: Rights and Responsibilities as Portrayed Through Human Services in Slovenia, will give students an understanding of the meaning of citizenship as demonstrated through global policy instruments such as human rights conventions created through the United Nations.

Dr. Rosemary Link, Simpson College’s associate vice president for academic affairs, will lead a group of students, along with peers from Augsburg College in Minnesota, to the city of Ljubljana in Slovenia for two weeks as guests of the University of Ljubljana. The group will also have a two-day stopover in London on the return for debriefing and a visit with the European Child Poverty Action Group.

“Slovenia’s human services are considered exemplary and my guess is that they have been more intentional about their legislation and social policies because they have only been independent since 1991,” Link said. “They were able to start with a fresh slate while they were emerging from communism and now they are taking pride in combining their capitalist mixed economy and maintaining their attention to human well being.”

The two-week program marks the first time non-traditional students and some student athletes are able to take a study abroad course through Simpson due to previous scheduling conflicts.

“We’ve had interest from some life-long learners, and it’s a unique opportunity for them to really enhance their education while traveling to a beautiful and culturally rich place,” Link said.

Slovenia has one of the first offices of the Ombudsman for Children and due to its strategic position in Eastern Europe, has leading services in working with homeless youth, refugees and vulnerable populations as well as innovative community centers.

“The combination of strategic location, changing citizenship, intentional environmental and human rights policies and becoming a recent member of the European Union (EU) makes Slovenia a very interesting place to study,” Link said.

Link led a similar trip to Ljubljana in the past while working at Augsburg College and thought it would be a great addition to Simpson’s Study Abroad Program.

“It’s refreshing to see a country that is looking to other countries for ideas and innovation while it’s still developing,” she said. ■

slovenia

evening , weekend & graduate programs |

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sTuDenT supporT serviCes

impson received a grant last fall from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Postsecondary Education for $238,496 each year for five years.

The grant was awarded to Student Support Services, which is set in place to increase the number of disadvantaged low-income college students, first generation college students and college students with disabilities in the U.S. who successfully complete a program of study at the postsecondary level. There will be 160 students served each academic year.

The grant money will go toward resources and programming for the students who will be awarded the assistance. Some money may be available to help those students also purchase textbooks.

The grant process was competitive and was open to higher education institutions across the country. It will serve students through the 2014-15 academic year. ■

aCCiDenTal everYTHing

velyn Birkby ’38 has written ten books, including cookbooks, genealogies and histories. Her voice has been heard on the radio for

decades throughout the Midwest. She has penned a newspaper column for the past 60 years, never missing a single issue.

And yet, the 91-year-old Simpson alumna describes herself as “an accidental everything.”

“I have done a lot of public speaking along the way and made wonderful friends and it’s been an exciting ride,” she said. “And it isn’t over yet!”

Awarded a scholarship for children of Methodist ministers, Birkby began her Simpson career in 1936. At that time, Simpson offered a two-year program to earn a teaching certificate, which she did.

As a Methodist institution in the 1930s, the social rules that governed the campus were strict. Birkby said: “Methodists did not play cards, did not gamble, did not drink, and they had chapel three times a week, and it was required. You had to go.”

After graduating from Simpson, Birkby taught for several years before moving to Chicago to become the religious director for the First Methodist Church there. After she came home to Iowa, married Robert Birkby and moved to Farragut, she began to write a weekly newspaper column for the Shenandoah paper. This led to her weekly radio program on KMA.

Birkby is currently writing her 11th book, which is a compilation of her favorite newspaper columns. She resides in Sidney with her husband.

At a recent Iowa History Center event, Birkby shared a bit of advice for Simpson students today: “Stay positive and drink more milk.” ■

CulvER CEntERou are invited to attend the inaugural John C. Culver Lecture at Simpson on Thursday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m.

in Smith Chapel. The lecture is free and reservations are not required.

Senator George McGovern, an internationally significant figure in history, will present “Reflections on American

Politics Today.” McGovern has served his nation in a number of different capacities over his lifetime: World War II bomber pilot; U.S. Representative; U.S. Senator; and presidential nominee. A celebrated humanitarian, he was also the first director of the Food for Peace Program and the first United Nations Ambassador on World Hunger.

“I am honored that Senator McGovern will deliver the inaugural Culver Lecture,” said John C. Culver, who served the people of Iowa for 16 years in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. “I had the privilege of serving with Senator McGovern, and I greatly admire his distinguished public service career.”

The Culver Public Policy Center at Simpson College was established to encourage and promote the importance of civic engagement and public service. ■

CULVER

CENTERP U B L I C P O L I C Y

Simpson College and the

John C. Culver Public Policy Center

are proud to present

The First Annual Culver Lecture

George S. McGovern

Author, U.S. Senator, Presidential Candidate

and UN Ambassador on World Hunger

atIowa Center

… you could get to the bottom of whether justice truly is blind, would you bother?

We DiD.

n April 14th, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Simpson will host its second annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, honoring

excellence in student research, scholarship and creativity. The symposium serves to showcase outstanding scholarly works produced by Simpson students through the presentation of papers, performances, posters and round table discussions. The projects involve inquiry, design, investigation, research, analysis, scholarship, discovery, application, writing and performance.

Last year’s inaugural symposium was a great success, and this year’s event will build upon that foundation of excellence. Symposium organizers invite you to come and see the impressive work of current students. ■

he George Washington Carver Lecture and Medal Presentation are a part of the George Washington Carver Legacy Series. The program pays tribute to Carver’s legacy at Simpson and the college’s commitment to diversity

throughout its history.

This past February, Simpson bestowed the 2011 Carver Medal upon Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole.

Cole currently serves as the director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art after being appointed in March 2009. The National Museum of African Art is the only museum in the United States dedicated to the collection, conservation, study and exhibition of traditional and contemporary African art.

In 1987, Cole made history by becoming the first African-American woman to serve as President of Spelman College. She also served as president of Bennett College from 2002-2007. ■

gEORgE wAShingtOn CARvER lECtuRE


2011 UndergradUate research symposiUm

Honoring Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Creativity

A p r i l 1 4 , 2 0 1 1

What we hope interns take away

are teamwork skills, professional decorum, having

grace under pressure and time management skills

after they complete our program.

- Sonja Hoover ’98

Lynae Gruber (junior), Jamie Corey ’10, Senator Harkin, Sonja Hoover ’98 andJan Spreitzenbarth (senior) at work in D.C.

abOve anD beYOnDany alumni go out of their way to help students find internships and jobs, but Sonja Hoover ‘98 goes above and beyond to help students find

work in Senator Tom Harkin’s office in Washington, D.C.

“We encourage all Iowans to apply for internships and the best place to start is Iowa’s schools,” Hoover said. “However, it works out well that Simpson is one of a few Iowa schools that have D.C.-oriented programs for students in their curriculum.”

Hoover, the office manager for Senator Harkin, has been working for the senator since 2000. She oversees the business aspect as well as the internship program at the Senator’s office.

“Times have changed since I was a student at Simpson and internships are much more readily available and encouraged now,” she said. “With all of our interns, I give resume, job training and interviewing workshops to help them succeed later on.”

Interns in Senator Harkin’s office work 40 hours a week and have various responsibilities, including general office support, research of legislation, writing memos and attending briefings.

Jamie Corey ’10 worked as an intern in Senator Harkin’s office while she took two classes through the Capitol Hill Internship Program that Simpson offers. The internship, supervised by Hoover, led to a full-time staff assistant

position in Senator Harkin’s office after graduation.

“The experience I gained in Senator Harkin’s office could never match anything in a text book or a classroom,” Corey said. “Through my internship, I had a front row seat to watch Congress in action. I looked at internships as a three-month-long interview and when an opening became available, I was one of the candidates considered for the position because of my previous experience in the office.”

Hoover says the atmosphere in Senator Harkin’s office has the same feel that Simpson has, even though they are more than 1,000 miles apart.

“My experience at Simpson was very much that the campus and community were family. I try to instill that in my daily life and work every day,” she said. “Senator Harkin’s office is much the same; we work and strive to exist as a family. We all have our roles to play in helping Iowans get the most out of their government.” ■


INVEST in the Experience, FUEL the Future

SiMPSOn COllege was named to the U.S. news & World report’s list of top 100 colleges

with the highest percentage of students studying abroad. Simpson was one of only three Iowa schools to make the list.

Your gift every year makes a difference every day.


visit www.simpson.edu/alumni/simpsonfund.html to learn more.

Scholarships l The Retention and Recruitment of Top-Notch Faculty l Technological enhancements l The arts, athletics and Library Campus Life I Community Service and Study abroad Opportunities l Daily Institutional Needs


On OuR CAlEnDARApRil7 Inaugural Culver Lecture at 7:30 p.m. in

Smith Chapel.

10 Iowa History Center presents Patrick Carr and Maria Kefalas, authors of “Hollowing Out the Middle: The Brain Drain and What It Means to Middle America.” Des Moines Public Library at 7 p.m.

11 Chamber Singers and Women’s Chorale performing a Choral Evensong at St. Paul Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Des Moines at 4 p.m.

14 Academic Symposium spotlights top student academic work. Indianola campus at 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 2:15 p.m. and 3 p.m. For details, go to www.simpson.edu/symposium.

15 Junior Visit Day. For more information, go to [email protected] or call (515) 961-1624 or (800) 362-2454.

15-17 Simpson Theatre presents “Festival of Short Plays 2011,” Fifty Years at the John F. Kennedy Center. Barnum Studio Theatre in Blank Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday-Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday. Reservations may be made online at http://simpson.tix.com or call (515) 961-1601.

17 Madrigal Singers in concert featuring Renaissance and contemporary works for vocal ensemble. Under the direction of Robert L. Larsen and Kimberly Roberts. In Smith Chapel at 3 p.m.

20 Simpson College Symphonic Band in its Spring Concert under the direction of Michael Eckerty. In Great Hall at 7 p.m.

The Iowa History Center presents Des Moines Register columnist Rekha Basu during the Insights on Leadership series hosted by Simpson’s Evening, Weekend and Graduate program. On the West Des Moines campus located at 1415 28th Street at 5 p.m.

MaY4-6 Simpson College Habitat for Humanity build,

“Shelter From the Storm.” To volunteer for a shift, go to http://www.simpson.edu/alumni/habitat.html or call the alumni office at (515) 961-1547.

5 Alumni Gathering in Seattle. Join us for dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the Steelhead Diner. To RSVP, call (800) 610-6369.

12 Alumni Gathering in Denver at 7 p.m. at Casa Karibou. Join students for dessert and coffee at their hostel as they reflect on their May Term service learning experience. To RSVP, email leslie.held@simpson or call (515) 961-1547.

21 Spring Commencement, Cowles Athletic Center. at 10 a.m.

June15 Young Alumni After Hours event for the

classes of 2002-2011 at Wellman’s in West Des Moines from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free soft drinks & appetizers. To RSVP, email [email protected] or call (515) 961-1816. Join us on Facebook! Young Alumni of Simpson College.

23-25 Alumni Weekend 2011 with reunions for the Classes of 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961 and a cluster reunion for 1970-72.

24 Simpson Cup Golf Outing. New site! Indianola Golf & Country Club. Tee times available 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Register early at www.simpson.edu/alumni/events/weekend or call (515) 961-1816.

Presidents’ Picnic. New site! We’ll be grooving on the patio outside of Dunn Library for this annual favorite starting at 6:30 p.m. Register online at www.simpson.edu/alumni/events/weekend or call (515) 961-1544.

JulY24-30 Team Simpson on RAGBRAI. For more

information, contact [email protected] or call (515) 961-1548. Watch the Simpson website for event details!

COMMenCeMenT SpEAkER AnnOunCEDChristine Willmsen ’93 will deliver the Commencement address this year on May 21. Willmsen is part of the Seattle Times team that won the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news last year.


| tour ing the years

ClaSS nOTeS

Alan Batchelder ’60 has been performing one-act play roles including Sampson in The Monkey’s Paw at Pier Pressure Productions in Astoria, Ore., and Dr. Mallory in O’Henry’s the Last Leaf, also at Pier Pressure Productions. Alan and his wife, Nancy Lee, reside in Seaview, Wash.

Charles Bohi ’63 was re-elected to a second term as a state representative in Vermont.

Susan Klepp ’65, professor of history at Temple University in Philadelphia, was awarded the Joan Kelly Memorial Award for Women’s History by the American Historical Association at its annual meeting for her recent book, “Revolutionary Conceptions: Women, Fertility and Family Limitation in America, 1760-1820” (University of North Carolina Press/Omohundro Institute for Early American History and Culture).

Steve Hemping ’66 recently completed his third year as chairman of the Collier County Democratic Party. Semi-retired from his human resource consulting business, he lives in Naples, Fla., with his wife, Norine.

Dr. Scott Shackelford ’66 retired in September from a 40-year career in fundamental chemistry research conducted in U.S. government, pharmaceutical industry and academic institutions. During his career, Dr. Shackelford presented over 110 lectures at conferences, seminars and institutions in eight foreign countries and the U.S. He and his wife of 41 years, Marilyn, reside in Lancaster, Calif.

Justina Moorhead Serlin ’68 retired in 2002 from working for the City of New York Human Resources Administration after 34 years. She entered New York Theological Seminary (NYTS) in 2005 and earned her Master

of Divinity in 2009. Justina is currently in the second year of the Doctor of Ministry Program at NYTS and is employed part-time there as assistant to the Doctor of Ministry Program.

Carolyn lindrum Knapp ’69 resides in Wheaton, Ill., and is employed at Navistar.

Grant Dyer ’77 performed his 24th show for Carousel Community Theatre, “Christmas Schooner,” a musical based on the true story of a German-immigrant captain who sailed Christmas trees from northern Michigan to Chicago, until a storm in 1912.

Michael Bruns ’79 has been appointed chief financial officer at Hamilton Thorne, a leading provider of advanced laser systems for the regenerative medicine, developmental biology and stem cell research markets.

Jeff Cook ’80 received the 2009 Centennial Lion Award presented by the Kansas City Alumni Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. The award is presented to an alumnus whose accomplishments are above and beyond that which is expected and whose thoughts and actions bring honor to the fraternity.

Eric Sorenson ’84 recently published his book, A Most Dangerous Profession: Why the Pastoral Ministry is Hazardous to Your Soul, with Wipf & Stock, 2011. Eric is dean of the seminary for Pacific Islands Evangelical Seminary, Pacific Islands University in Mangilao, Guam. His book is available on Amazon.com.

Marsha Eubank ’85 was named 2010 female athletic director of the year by the California Coaches Association. Eubank became athletic director for Taft Union High School in Taft, Calif., in 2004.

lou Ann Daum Stout ’85 recently received the Presidential Award for Community Service at University of Colorado Hospital for work with an annual reunion party for the premature graduates of the neonatal intensive care unit. Lou Ann and her husband, Paul, reside in Westminster, Colo.

Dr. Debra Nolan Franklin ’86 recently completed a Doctorate in Education degree at Loyola University in Chicago in cultural and educational policy studies. Debra is a school counselor in the Chicago Public School system.

Mark Crady ’87, principal/curriculum director, is currently in his 6th year as an administrator in the Norwalk Community School District. He recently completed a specialist degree in school administration (superintendency certification) at Drake University. Mark and his wife, Bonnie, reside in Norwalk with their two daughters, aged 9 and 11.

Bryan Gregston ’87 is senior manager, client experience, at Charles Schwab in Englewood, Colo.

Kevin protzman ’87 retired from the U.S. Navy as a commander last September after 21 years of active duty. He is currently an associate for the management consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton. Kevin and his wife, Grace, reside in Virginia Beach, Va.

Beverly O’regan Thiele ’87 has released a new CD, Live in the Light, available at Digstation.com, I-tunes and Amazon.com. The CD features a mix of styles from classical to Celtic including “Ava Maria” and other favorites.

pEACE CORpS REuniOnCElEbRAting 50 yEARSIn celebration of the 50th anniversary of Peace Corps, Simpson College is planning a fall reunion of our Peace Corps volunteers and an opportunity to share your experience with current students. If you are a Peace Corps volunteer or have served in the past, ensure your name is on our invitation list by emailing [email protected].


James Cavanaugh ’89 works in Washington, D.C., as assistant director, federal government relations, for Principal Financial Group. James and wife, Cara logue Cavanaugh ’89, reside in Vienna, Va.

Mike Kellar ’91 is the marketing director for First Class Credit Union in West Des Moines. Prior to becoming the credit union’s marketing director, he was production manager for the Des Moines Community Playhouse. Mike and his wife, Missy Wicker Kellar ’91, live in West Des Moines with their two sons, Ethan and Colin.

rod liston ’91 was recently promoted to lieutenant for the City of El Paso Police Department. Finishing as the #1 ranked lieutenant applicant, he is assigned to the Westside Regional Command Center as a patrol watch commander for the graveyard shift. Rod co-authored a Pedestrian Collision Reconstruction course for the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), which is part of the Texas A&M University System in College Station. He and his wife, Nora, reside in El Paso, Texas.

Coreen Hjort Witke ’91 is the director of Christian education at Grace United Methodist Church in Des Moines.

Wendy lee ’94 teaches kindergarten in Evansdale.

Chad Alley ’95 is working in business development for Story Construction in Ames.

Julie Bowlin Foughty ’96 was elected to a three-year term on the Lewisville Independent School District (LISD) Board of Trustees last May. LISD, currently the 92nd largest district in the nation and 17th largest district in the state of Texas, employs approximately 5,600 employees and holds an enrollment of 51,000 students. Julie and husband, ryan Foughty ’94, reside in Frisco, Texas.

lisa Cary Hovar ’96 is a social worker in Marshalltown for the State of Iowa. She resides in Nevada with her husband, Matthew.

Chad Simpson ’96 is director of Program Development at Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio in Worthington, Ohio.

April Vorm ’96 is manager, application development, at Highmark, Inc., in Camp Hill, Pa.

Diana Birkenholtz Elrod-Sarnecki ’97 is an adjunct instructor at Des Moines Area Community College in Des Moines. Diana and her husband, Edward, live in Des Moines.

Matthew Oltman ’97, music director of Chanticleer, has been recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership and excellence in the interpretation and arrangement of music. Chanticleer, a Grammy Award-winning a capella chorus group, was founded in 1978 and is entering its 33rd season.

Amy Hanson Stegeman ’97 is working on her specialist degree in education leadership at Drake University. Amy is the program coordinator for the Drake University Head Start.

Dustin lutgen ’98 is a U.S. Probation Officer for the U.S. Courts in Sioux City, where he and his wife, Amy, reside.

Christiana Bradshaw ’00 recently became an Elder and chairs the Board of Elders at the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Osceola. She is also the choir accompanist and serves on the current search committee.

David Fisher ’00 is a derivative reporting manager for AEGON. He earned his CPA in 2003 and his MBA from the University of Iowa in 2006. David and his wife, Heather, reside in Cedar Rapids with their daughter, Elise.

Joanna Schmolke ’00 is development leader for Rebuild Resources, Inc., in St. Paul, Minn. Last August, Joanna completed a dual Master of Arts in nonprofit management and a MBA from Hamline University in St. Paul.

Jesse Ofner ’01 is a business account manager for Qwest in Denver, Colo., where he resides with wife, Christian.

rodrigo Santizo ’01 is a senior police officer for the Des Moines Police Department. He received his master’s in public administration degree from

Drake University in 2009. Rodrigo and his wife, Alaina, reside in Urbandale.

Jocelyn Stull ’01 is a buyer for Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Todd Walkup ’01 is strategic account manager at Total Safety and lives in Oak Park, Ill., with his wife, Christi, and children, Haley and Addison.

Tiffany Berkenes ’02 is the assistant director of residence life and AmeriCorps program director at Upper Iowa University in Fayette.

Justin papian ’02 is retired from the Des Moines Police Department and lives in Clive with his wife, Rebecca.

rev. paula Cripps-Vallejo ’03 is a pastor at the United Methodist Church in Storm Lake, where she resides with her husband, Santos.

Tim reuter ’03 was awarded a Graduate Certificate in Public Management from Indiana University’s School for Public and Environmental Affairs, where he is currently pursuing a Master of Public Affairs with a specialized concentration in organizational change theory.

Sarah lauterbach ’05 is working on her master’s degree in occupational therapy at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine.

Michael Schrodt ’05 is a consumer loan underwriter at Wells Fargo in Des Moines.

TeaM SiMPSOnYou can flaunt the Red and Gold in style in a limited edition 2011 Team Simpson bike jersey!

A fun conversation starter, this apparel promotes Simpson College in a unique way. Supplies are limited, so don’t delay. To purchase, contact Chris Goodale at [email protected] or call (515) 961-1548 or (800) 610-6369.

Cost: $65 + $5 for postage, if necessary.

tRAnSCRiptS ARE nOw fREE fOR AlumniTo request a copy, contact the Registrar’s Office Phone: (515) 961-1642Fax (515) 961-1310email [email protected].

Jacki harrison askelson ’97 and Jason Askelson ’97 will join Team Simpson for their third year this summer.


lindsay Wood Heltne ’06 is project manager at Data Recognition Corporation in Maple Grove, Minn. She and husband, Brett Heltne ’06, live in Minnetonka, Minn.

lisa rasmussen Ott ’06 completed her Master of Music Education at the University of Northern Iowa in 2009.

Michelle Wonderlich ’06 is a residential treatment worker for the State of Iowa in Woodward.

Emmalee Bowlin ’07 lives in Indianola with her two-year old son, Waylon. She is a Warren County mental health social worker.

Michelle Boyd ’07 is a social worker II in Webster City for the State of Iowa Department of Human Services.

In February, Jenna Simpson ’07 became one of the first students to graduate with a Master of Science degree in anatomy from Des Moines University. Simpson teaches at Mercy College Health Sciences.

Melissa Stone Stewart ’07 is an account executive/marketing specialist at Bernie Lowe & Associates in Ankeny. Melissa and Robert Stewart ’06 reside in Bondurant.

Nicole Cleveringa ’08 received her master’s degree in secondary education from the University of Missouri St. Louis last year and is now teaching 7th-8th grade humanities at ASPIRE ERES Academy Charter School in Oakland, Calif. Nicole resides in San Francisco.

Cindy Fisher ‘08, senior supervisor at Citi Cards in Urbandale, is working on her master of science degree in computer information system engineering at Western International University.

Seth lampman ’08 is a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Osceola. Emily Keller lampman ’09 is a realtor with Iowa Realty in Indianola, where she and Seth reside.

leonard lieser ’08 is a district sales manager for Gannett Publishing and lives in Des Moines with his wife, Edythe.

Benay rankine-Hicks ’08 is working on her master’s degree in theology , biblical and historical studies, at Boston University School of Theology. Benay and her husband, Leith, reside in Brighton, Mass.

Meghan Kloubec reutzel ’08 and Adam reutzel ’09 live in Cedar Rapids.

logan Edel ’09 is an associate auditor for KPMG, LLP in Des Moines.

Diana Garcia ’09 is a non-injury claims adjuster for Nationwide Insurance in Des Moines.

Shateau Hartney ’09 was promoted to operations associate at Midwest Heritage Bank in Indianola.

lisa Fiene Tubaugh ’09 is a personal banker at Wells Fargo Bank in Clive. Lisa and husband, Brennen Tubaugh ’08, live in West Des Moines.

Adrian Aitken ’10 is a claims representative associate/trainer for United Health Group in Illinois.

Erika Amfahr ’10 is a sales associate at JCPenney in West Des Moines.

Jessica Christensen Boltinghouse ’10 is a staff accountant at Dairy.com in Plano, Texas. She and her husband, Bennett, live in Dallas.

Taylor Browning ’10 is operations manager at LA Fitness in Queen Creek, Ariz.

Michael Christensen ’10 teaches 5th grade for the Waukee Community School District.

laura Storm DeBoer ’10 is a picker/packer for Staples Promotional Products in Orange City.

Brett Depue ’10 is store manager for RAYGUN, LLC. in Iowa City.

Stephanie Eide ’10 works at Wells Fargo and resides in West Des Moines.

Jessica Eilbert ’10 is a corps member for City Year Rhode Island in Providence, R.I.

Blake Freml ’10 is a research assistant at Pioneer in Dallas Center.

lyndsay Howell ’10 works in customer service at Marsh in Urbandale.

Jenna lamparek ’10 is a sales specialist at Wells Fargo in Des Moines.

Cheryl larson ’10 works at Principal in Des Moines.

Kathryn lisk ’10 is a care giver at Mechanism Digital in New York.

Justin Mark ’10 is a loan servicing specialist at Wells Fargo in Des Moines.

Eric patten ’10 is youth and family ministries director for Bethlehem/Hope Lutheran Churches in Royal and Everly.

Kasey peters ’10 is the county youth coordinator for the Dickinson County Extension Office in Spirit Lake and resides in Milford.

Brianne Sasek ’10 is a project manager in Des Moines.

Amit Singh ’10 lives and works in Kansas City as a business analyst — U.S. consulting for Cerner Corporation.

ryanne Skalberg ’10 is a research coordinator at Mercy Ruan Neurology Clinic and Research Center.

Jessica Smith ’10 is a substitute teacher in Ankeny Community Schools.

Jodie Stewart ’10 is a subrogation supervisor for Nationwide Insurance in Des Moines.

Stephanie Vampola ’10 is attending medical school at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.

MaRRIaGeS

luana Marrier ’95 and William Holecek, February 27, 2010, New Orleans, La.

Amy Hanson ’97 and Eric Stegeman ’06, October 16, 2010, West Des Moines.

Crystal VanDeCasteele ’05 and Justin Mistretta, August 21, 2010, Ankeny.

bRing thE kiDS.hOMeCOMing & FaMilY WeekenD OCtObER 8-9, 2011Celebrating reunions for the classes of 1986 (Silver), 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2006.


robert Stewart ’06 and Melissa Stone ’07, June 12, 2010, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Boone.

Seth lampman ’08 and Emily Keller ’09, May 30, 2010, Honey Creek Resort on Lake Rathbun.

BIRThS & aDOPTIONS

Ean Snyder Scott, February 15, 2010, to Amy Hild Snyder Scott ’89 and David Scott, McKinney, Texas, joins Eli (8) and Ethan (7).

Piper Lynn Marchant, October 8, 2010, to Wade l. Marchant ’96 and Christa Marchant, Indianola, joins Morgan (2½).

Katie Anne Allard, August 20, 2010, to Chad r. Allard ’99 and Amanda Allard, Marion.

Cora Louise Hatfield, September 28, 2009, to Elizabeth Waage Hatfield ’99 and Terry p. Hatfield ‘00, Des Moines, joins Bode (4½).

Sydney Ann Paz, February 17, 2010, to Julie Hatting paz ’99 and Brad Paz, Littleton, Colo., joins Michael (2).

Mason Logan Burkhart, November 8, 2010, to Christina Opatz Burkhart ’00 and Gabe Burkhart, Urbandale.

Elise Christine Fisher, September 24, 2010, to David l. Fisher ’00 and Heather Fisher, Cedar Rapids.

Oliver Wade Hintz, September 1, 2010, to Amanda Weston Hintz ’01 and Scott Hintz, Altoona.

Jaren Jay Parker, October 25, 2010, to Jay r. parker ’01 and Annika Gustafson parker ’03, Urbandale.

Addison Lou Walkup, October 29, 2010, to Todd D. Walkup ’01 and Christi Walkup, Oak Park, Ill., joins Haley.

Elizabeth June Banks, June 18, 2010, to Tara Carlson Banks ’02 and Stephen Banks, Johnston.

Hannah Grace Cook, March 3, 2010, to Joshua C. Cook ’02 and Tonya Hegland Cook ’02, Pleasantville, joins Caleb (5).

Landon Joseph Davis, May 21, 2010, to Brianne Bachman Davis ’02 and William B. Davis ’03, San Jose, Calif., joins Blake (3).

Drake Michael Elliott, July 12, 2010, to Bart J. Elliott ’02 and Amy A. Elliott, Melcher.

Claire Marie Norem, September 16, 2010, to John H. Norem ’02 and Melissa Mannetter Norem ’02, Norwalk, joins Ava (3).

Riley Marie Bunde, October 10, 2010, to Dr. Ellie Kinkel-Schuster Bunde ’04 and Joshua Bunde, Sioux Falls, S.D.

Mason James Cole, April 14, 2010, to lyndsey Doonan Cole ’04 and Matt Cole, Grimes.

Liliana Mae Shepherd, July 15, 2010, to Blake E. Shepherd ’04 and rachel Fogt Shepherd ’04, Urbandale.

Graham Homan King, July 20, 2010, to ryan M. King ’05 and Tiffany Homan King ’06, Des Moines.

Trevor LeRoy Ott, February 1, 2010, to lisa rasmussen Ott ’06 and Justin Ott, Nevada.

yOung Alumni AftER-hOuRSespecially for the Classes of 2002-2011WeLCOMe NeW GRaDS!The fun begins at Wellman’s, 597 Market Street in West Des Moines, on June 15 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Free appetizers & soft drinks! RSVP to [email protected].


DeaThS

Alice Fitzgerald lindburg ’27, December 19, 2010, Algonquin, Ill.

Myrtle Alice peters riley ’30, November 4, 2010, Gustavus, Ohio.

Wendell G. Heaton ’31, June 11, 2010, Santa Cruz, Calif.

Gladys Nuzum Mark ’33, October 15, 2010, Casey.

Beulah Flesher Wolfe Woody ’33, October 18, 2010, Winter Park, Fla.

ruth Corrie Gerhardt ’35, July 4, 2010, Mesa, Ariz.

Elizabeth loraine Henry Hurst ’36, February 22, 2011, Indianola.

Norma Strawn Cornick ’37, January 15, 2011, Winterset.

Charles D. Bell ’38, September 10, 2010, Prescott, Ariz.

John p. piffer, Sr. ’38, January 12, 2011, Indianola.

phyllis roberts ’38, December 30, 2010, Des Moines.

Alan N. Major ’39, January 22, 2011, West Des Moines.

Evelyn Gill O’Neal ’39, February 16, 2011, Marshalltown.

Josephine Hoyt Freeman ’40, October 30, 2010, Des Moines.

Genevieve Aldrich Kluever ’40, February 11, 2011, Papillion, Neb.

Edith pemble Mcinnis ’41, January 9, 2011, Tucson, Ariz.

Virginia Hopp Moore ’45, December 14, 2010, Council Bluffs.

S. robert payne ’45, December 14, 2010, Newton.

Dr. Spencer G. Hull ’46, December 2, 2010, Gibson.

V. Jane Campbell lorimor ’47, September 14, 2008, Council Bluffs.

richard N. Butler ’48, January 20, 2011, Murphys, Calif.

Arthur l. Davis ’49, November 3, 2010, Cedar Falls.

Charlotte parker Elliott ’49, February 21, 2011, Newton.

Vera Doolittle proffitt ’49, October 4, 2010, Des Moines.

H. ronald Huber ’50, May 8, 2010, Laguna Woods, Calif.

James G. Wright ’50, October 5, 2010, Omaha, Neb.

Bob Burkhart ’51, October 17, 2010, Des Moines.

Nancy Voigt Mahoney ’51, December 23, 2010, Bellevue, Wash.

richard r. Barnes ’52, December 6, 2010, Memphis, Tenn.

Jean Blouse Clore ’52, December 3, 2010, Lucas.

Wendell M. Stone ’55, November 8, 2010, Des Moines.

Dr. Charles E. Carson ’56, October 13, 2010, Fergus Falls, Minn.

roger r. Hughes ’56, May 22, 2010, Las Vegas, Nev.

Walter E. Keen ’56, August 19, 2010, Broken Arrow, Okla.

Evadna Wickett Keller ’57, November 5, 2010, New Virginia.

Dr. robert E. Miller ’58, December 20, 2010, Naples, Fla.

Denis l. Schaefer ’60, September 26, 2010, Ames.

Julia Gracey Goodrich ’61, October 18, 2010, Waynesboro, Va.

Gary l. Klaver ’63, September 8, 2010, Ames.

Sgt. russell B. Baumeister ’71, September 12, 2010, Las Vegas, Nev.

Norma Ehler Greubel ’72, June 24, 2010, Indianola.

Jo Ann robuck ’72, October 16, 2010, Des Moines.

David E. Barber ’73, October 20, 2010, Monterey, Calif.

rebecca Shepherd Borchert ’74, November 15, 2010, New Virginia.

Timothy J. reiland ’81, November 17, 2010, Clarion.

Carol Frazier ’07, January 11, 2011, Des Moines.

DEAR fAmily, PleaSe COMe & viSiT.P.S. DOn’T fORgEt thE COOkieS.homecoming & Family Weekend October 8-9, 2011

ShEltER fROm thE StORmalumni & friends are invited to join the Simpson community as we partner with

warren County Habitat for Humanity to build a home for one of our own.

No experience necessary.

To volunteer to work a shift on May 4, 5 or 6 go to www.simpson.edu/alumni/habitat.html or call

the alumni office at (515) 961-1547.

F R O M T H E

STORM

MariaDiPalma | Faculty

Dr. Maria DiPalma, professor of voice and chair of the Simpson College Music Department, passed away on February 27, 2011 while in hospice in Des Moines. She was 60. Maria received her education and musical training in the Philadelphia area, where she studied at Temple University, the Curtis School of Music, and the Philadelphia Musical academy where she met her late husband. Maria first began at Simpson College with the Admissions Department and soon began teaching voice at the college. She attended graduate school at the University of indiana, where she received her D.M.a. in Vocal Performance. DiPalma served as chair of the Simpson College Music Department for the past 14 years and was a board member with the Des Moines Metro Opera. Preceded in death by her husband, Douglas J. Duncan, and her mother, she is survived by her father, Dr. Joseph DiPalma and four sisters.


in REmEmbRAnCE…

harold a. goldman | Honorary Life TrusteeHarold A. Goldman, honorary life trustee, passed away on November 24, 2010 at the Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center. He was 99. A graduate of Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, he earned his baccalaureate from the University of Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa College of Law. He launched his career by partnering with his father at C.C. Taft Company then in Thriftway Stores and Big G Stores. He developed Iowa Paint from a one-store location to a regional paint and wallpaper company. He was a leader in the Jewish community and many civic organizations including the Des Moines Human Rights Commission, The Iowa Republican Party and Iowa Development Commission. He served Simpson as a Trustee for 14 years, earning Honorary Life status in 1976. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kate, and is survived by sons David, Tom and Bart.

John Sullivan | Former CoachJohn Sullivan, Simpson head football coach from 1966-1970, passed away on November 27, 2010 at his home in Ames. He was 72. Sullivan graduated from Spencer High School in 1956 and from Iowa State Teacher’s College (UNI) in 1960, where he also played football for four years. He earned a master’s degree there in 1961. He re-started and coached the football program at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls from 1961-1966, prior to coming to Simpson. His career at Simpson was highlighted by his 1970 season when the Redmen achieved an 8-1 record during the regular season, earning a conference title and an invitation to the prominent Mineral Water Bowl in Excelsior Springs, Mo. He was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at both Ellsworth and Simpson. Leaving coaching in 1970, he then ventured into a career in sales before retiring with his wife, Georgiana, in Arizona in 2000. He is survived by his sons, Michael and Joel.

Weekend2011ALUMNI

D O O R S TO O U R PA S T. . . D O O R S TO O U R F U T U R E

701 North C StreetIndianola, Iowa 50125800.610.6369 l www.simpson.edu

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PaIDDes Moines, IaPermit No. 5740

ChAngE SERviCE REQuEStED

June 23-25Thursday• Dress rehearsal of Des Moines Metro

Opera’s Don Pasquale

Friday• Alumni College Classes • Tours of newly renovated Blank Performing arts Center • Alumni Awards Luncheon • Simpson Cup golf outing at Indianola Country Club• Presidents’ Picnic

Saturday• State of the College Address • Alumni College Classes • Tours of newly renovated Blank Performing arts Center • Lunch & Learn previewing vision for

Simpson athletics Facilities • Sorority Luncheons • All Alumni Reunion Dinner • Post-Party for Classes of 1970-72

all alumni are invited to attend. honoring the classes of 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961 (Golden Reunion) and a cluster reunion for the classes of 1970-71-72.Go to www.simpson.edu/alumni/events for more information. Brochures will be mailed in early May.

spring 2011

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