york college heritage magazine

Summer 2011Vol.13, No.2

Lorna Seilstad ’85 p Hall of Fame p Alumni Awards p Leadership Institute p Higher Purpose p Fighting Chance

photo by Taylor Ladd

The mission of York College is to transform lives through

Christ-centered education and to equip students for

lifelong service to God, family and society.

As I write this, fall comes once again to our beautiful campus. It is hard for LaRee and I to believe that we are now finishing our fifth year at York College since our return in 2009. God has blessed our lives and the college in ways that we could never have imagined when we arrived. He has provided the college with financial blessings as well as improved enrollments and facilities.

Most importantly, however, He has changed lives. Usually when we think of the transformative experience at York, we think of the impact on students. As I look around at the faces of the faculty and staff who now serve at York College, I sense a renewed purpose and dedication.

Transformation is not limited to students. It occurs in the hearts of everyone who is touched by this place.

Recently two couples from the Sojourners returned to campus for a visit. If you don’t know, Sojourners are a dedicated group of retirees who spend their days going from project to project helping churches, children’s homes, and Christian colleges. The Sojourners spend three weeks on our campus each summer doing projects we simply could not complete without their help. The two couples volunteered to return to put some finishing touches on a project they had worked on during the summer.

It was the first time they visited campus when there were students around. They were amazed at what they saw. The Spirit is at work on our campus every day. You can see it in athletic practices, choir rehearsals, and classrooms. Students learning, growing, and becoming more of who God intends for them to be.

The transformation I see taking place here is sometimes dramatic, sometimes subtle. I just came back from chapel where I talked with one of our transfer students who told me, “I felt uncomfortable at first about chapel and all the interaction with people. It is not what I was used to. Now I like it and would miss it if I didn’t have it.”

I love moments like those. I praise God for His work here. To all of you reading this, thank you for your constant prayer and support that allows me to work in an environment that is so spiritual and transformative. The work that happens here is important. Thank you for being part of it!

Steve Eckman President

(above) Katie Kynion and Trevor Ramos enjoy a walk to Sack Hall after chapel.

Bre Goben (left) meets a potential employer at the career and internship fair recently hosted for students. The fair also provided a resume review table for students to receive free tips on how to make that first impression.

On The COver: Saia Lotulelei and Bethany Miller are all smiles at the spring banquet. Saia tells his compelling story of how God led him to York College and the second chance he received to wrestle for His glory. pg 26

Life as a parent is exhausting and it’s stressful. As a

mother of three, Lorna Seilstad ’85 knows this first hand.

The sippy cups discovered under the couch full of thick, reeking sludge; the perpetually overflowing laundry baskets and sinks; the overdue library books you can’t find and the car keys that are stuck in the U-bend of the toilet; rushing from

school to soccer practice to church; and the endless conundrum, the daily riddle loathed by parents everywhere: “What’s for dinner?”

Amid all that chaos, you need a little break. Some lighthearted entertainment that provides a fun escape, but is also wholesome and encouraging.

Seilstad’s children are mostly grown now (two of the three are students at YC), but she remembers those crazy days as a parent of little ones, when a few minutes respite with a good book was almost as refreshing as a walk on the beach.

Today, she’s the one writing the books—her fifth novel will be available in April 2014. While her historical Christian romances are likely to be enjoyed by people in many walks of life, she says her ideal reader—the imaginary person she is writing for—is the young mom described above. The one who just needs a little encouraging fun.

“When a reader picks up my book, I want her to be uplifted, to grow some, and to laugh,” she says.

Profile inExcellence

...continued next page

In this issue:3 Lorna Seilstad - Profile in Excellence

5 Campus Connections

6 Roger Collins - Athletic Hall of Fame

8 Alumni Awards

10 Presidential Leadership Institute

12 Working for a Higher Purpose

14 Seasons of Blessing

18 Call to Service

20 Alumni News and Notes

23 Campus View

24 Panther Athletics

26 A Fighting Chance

28 In the Classroom

30 New and Improved

31 Around the Corner

Heritage is a semi-annual publication for alumni and friends of York College. The magazine is available online at www.york.edu/alumni.

Heritage Editor Vol. 17, No. 1Chrystal Houston ’03Director of Alumni and Communication 402-363-5607 [email protected]

Assistant Editor/DesignSteddon Sikes ’84Director of Publications

Heritage ContributorsJohn I. Baker IIIBobby DeHart ’95Tehia Goben ’16

Hannah Gund ’16Katie Kynion ’13Taylor Ladd ’10

“When a reader picks up my book, I want her to be uplifted, to grow some, and to laugh.”

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(above) Lorna Seilstad autographs one of her books for a friend. (left) Seilstad’s fifth novel While Love Stirs is due out this spring.

Breanna (Gates) Stewart, senior psychology major from Centennial, Colo., and Caleb Connolly, senior biology major from Sacramento, Calif., were crowned this year’s Homecoming Queen and King.

4 | Heritage | WINTER 2013

Seilstad loves the opportunity to minister to people in such a unique and personal way. She sees her books as far more than entertainment—they are a chance to present the Gospel to a world that doesn’t know what to believe or whom to follow.

It’s a fine line, writing to entertain and enlighten. Too preachy and you’ll alienate readers, especially those that are not believers; too fluffy and you miss the point of the whole endeavor.

Seilstad walks that line gracefully. Her protagonists aren’t theological debaters; they are ordinary people facing their problems through a lens of faith. Her stories are rich with history, humor, drama, and truth. As her characters struggle with the demands of the world—loss of loved ones, bills to pay, complications in relationships and work settings—they also struggle with the spiritual dimensions of

those situations. Her readers along with her characters come to understand what it means to walk by faith.

It’s a message taken directly from Seilstad’s own life, as she recognizes the hand of providence in many pivotal moments in her journey—most recently, in her career as a novelist.

She didn’t set out to be a writer. Though she had always loved writing, as a student at York College she was a pre-med major. She planned to become a physician assistant. Some faculty mentors at YC including Dr. Ray Miller and Dr. Tom Schulz, helped her realize that her real passions pointed in another direction. York was a junior college then, so she transferred to Lubbock Christian College to complete her degree in education.

After college, she moved back home to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and became an English teacher. She married, became a mom and then “a professional wiper,” as

she calls it. “I wiped noses, counter tops, tiny tushes, tears, and scraped knees.” She continued to write, honing her craft in spare moments as she raised her family.

When her children were teens, she found she had more time to devote to her first love. She joined Christian writing communities online where she found resources and encouragement to pursue publication. She was blessed to find a mentor in fellow Midwesterner Judith

Miller, a best selling Christian author, who helped her navigate the publishing industry. Meeting her was “a God thing, for sure,” says Seilstad.

All of her preparation paid off when at the first conference she attended, Seilstad met with an editor who was interested in publishing her work. Seilstad says she felt the Lord was at work when she submitted

her manuscript, and was asked shortly afterward for two more book synopses, as the publisher was interested in making it a series. “I was not prepared for such a positive response!” she says.

Seilstad knew the Lord was with her when the editor called her to ask her to pray, as she was heading into a meeting with the editorial board about whether or not they would pursue the series. She was offered a contract soon after.

Seilstad is now in the middle of her second three-book series for the same publisher, Revell. Her latest title While Love Stirs will be released in April.

Along with this opportunity, God has given her a message to share. “My goal is to minister to Christian women. To remind them that we’re all on a journey and we’re always growing. That process doesn’t stop.”

Her readers along with her characters come to understand what it means to walk by faith.


(above) The Seilstad family now has two at York College: Parker ’14 and Caroline ’16.

(left) Lorna’s first three books make up The Lake Manawa Series and her latest release When Love Calls is the first of the Gregory Sisters Series.

In Excellence


WINTER 2013 | Heritage | 5

Department of English

DR. JENNIFER DUTCH, holds a PhD in American Studies from Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg, and an MA in

nonfiction writing from the University of New Hampshire. Her unique blend of writing expertise and love of American heritage and cooking is evident in her multiple publications, which revolve around the culinary arts and their place in American culture. Dr. Dutch is blessing YC students as an assistant professor of English and the chair of the English department. She addressed chapel during the Thanksgiving season with a message that encapsulates her interest areas: faith, family, and food.

Department of Natural Sciences and

Mathematics

DR. MILTON ECKHART comes to York most recently from the faculty

of Colorado Mountain College. While teaching part-time there, he also served as the minister at Rifle Church of Christ in Rifle, Colo. Dr. Eckhart is a graduate of Abilene Christian University and obtained his MD from Baylor College of Medicine. He has spent time on the mission field in both Haiti and Nigeria, where he put his skills to use as a teacher and as a physician. At York College, he serves as an associate professor of science. His practical knowledge and his willingness to help out struggling students have made him a fast favorite among the faculty.

Campus News


New Faculty for Fall ’13 Department of Education

DR. KIRK MALLETTE has served in both teaching and administrative roles

for multiple school districts since 1989. His experience includes the writing and implementation of new policies and curriculum, as well as classroom instruction. He has a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia and an EdD in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Education department head Bob DeHart says that Mallette’s variety of experience, from middle school teacher to college instructor to school district superintendent, makes Mallette invaluable to the department. “He brings a fresh perspective. He understands what’s really going on today in the public education arena,” says DeHart. Mallette serves as an associate professor and is teaching courses mainly on middle school education.

Record setting diversity

This fall, the student body at York College is experiencing record minority enrollment, as 30 percent of students are non-white. According to Academic Dean Dr. Tracey Wyatt, that makes York College one of the most diverse campuses in the state.

In comparison, University of Nebraska - Lincoln is reporting 12 percent minority enrollment for the fall. Metro Community College in Omaha reports 27.1 percent minority enrollment.

Total enrollment has remained relatively flat last year to this year at York College, with the on-campus population resting at 459 students. (Online student numbers are not reflected in these enrollment figures.)

Two main ethnic groups make up the bulk of the minority numbers on campus at YC: 13 percent of the student body is Latino and an additional 13 percent is black.

The diversity of the campus is a boon to students, says YC President Steven Eckman. “As we prepare students for lives of service to God, family, and a global society, it is important that they learn how to work with people of all backgrounds. We hope to continue to increase diversity on our campus of more than just ethnicity. Diversity of thought, of socioeconomic status, and of geographic origin are also important.”

(left) A group of students outside of McGehee Hall get the photographer’s attention. (above) Akilah Akbar of Lincoln, Neb., and Adiana Loya of Auror, Colo., work on a community service project together at the beginning of the year.

Roger Collins was a utility player on the York College team. In his 29 years at YC on the faculty

and staff, he was often asked to give a little more—coach a team, lead a student business group, teach another class, fill a vacancy on the staff. No matter what the position, he was willing and capable, always ready to serve with humility.

For all his contributions to York College, Dr. Collins was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at a luncheon event during Homecoming. While the late Dr. Collins could not be there to accept the award, his friends and family turned out to honor him at this special event.

Collins came to YC first as a student in 1971. He played soccer, studied business, and fell in love with classmate Debbie Cosby, whom he wed in 1975. What made Roger stand out from the crowd was his dedication to doing what was right, even when circumstances were challenging, and his willingness to work hard to achieve his goals, says college roommate Ken Gibson ’73.

He graduated from York College and finished his bachelor’s degree in business at Harding University. He was working in agriculture commodities in Omaha when Dr. Mabrey Miller recruited him to come back to York College.

“He felt like that’s where Jesus wanted him to serve,” says his sister Birgie (Collins ’71) Niemann. His mission was to impact students.

That’s just what he did for nearly three decades.

In his long tenure at YC he was a

YC Legacy

Roger Collins Inducted Into the York College Athletic Hall of Fame

Running the RaceRunning the Race


Roger’s love for running was something he passed on to his children. To celebrate his 50th birthday, all four grown children along with two of his sons-in-law joined him in running Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minn. (l-r) Kristy, Laura, Roger, and Stacy, — not pictured Jeremy Collins, Scott McCall, and Craig Williamson

“Dad’s message to his athletes and students was always, ‘Do your best.’” Jeremy Collins

soccer coach, a business manager, a business professor, department chair of the college’s Elijah A. Levitt School of Business, and a track and cross country coach.

While teaching and coaching full

time, he made his education a priority, earning an MBA, CPA certification, and

PhD over the years. He also served as an elder at East Hill Church of Christ.

His students and athletes remember him as a gracious and wise teacher, a constant encourager, and one who always sought their best academically, athletically, and spiritually.

Dr. Collins passed away suddenly in October 2010, leaving a deep void in the YC community. In 2011, an anonymous donor endowed a chair in Collins’ name in the Levitt School of Business.

(above) For fun, Roger goes against the grain with his fellow Koinonia members.

The Collins family returned to campus to celebrate Roger’s induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame.

“He always chose the high road. He allowed God to mold him.”

Birgie (Collins ’71) Niemann

Coach Collins“He often spoke of how rewarding his work

was and the joy of seeing his students and athletes continue to love and serve God after they left YC.”

~Birgie (Collins ’71) Niemann “He dedicated himself not just to teaching

but also cross country and track. He taught his kids the lessons that running could have: dedication, determination, having a positive attitude, not giving up.”

~Jeremy Collins

“The track, field, and cross country programs would be lost without the significance he had on this place. His significant impact on our lives will last forever.”

~Justin Carver ’07, Track and Field/Cross Country Head Coach

“Roger’s perpetual smile and sense of humor made him a friend to everyone. He had a depth of character that manifested itself in the way he related to people, even in adverse circumstances. Among the qualities I most appreciated - he listened, persisted against odds, and never held grudges. Roger supported me in every endeavor, but always spoke the truth.”

~Ken Gibson ’73 (college roommate)

“I ran for Coach C for two years and coached beside him for three more. My respect for his character grew every season, as did my knowledge of running, coaching, finance, and fathering.”

~Justin Stoll ’03

“I run half marathons and full marathons every year now. I also just completed my first half Ironman event. I do what I do now partly because of the influence that Coach Collins had on me. For that, I am forever grateful. I have been able to push myself beyond even my own comprehension because Coach Collins showed me if I worked hard enough, results would come.”

~Amberlyn Keller ’03photo by Tehia Goben ’16

(above) Dale Hukle and Roger hang out in this 1973 Crusader picture.


The CoachYoung Alumnus of the YearNick Harlan ’01

In the nine years that Nick Harlan was at the helm of the Panther baseball program, the team was immensely successful. They won many games and championships. They achieved five regional berths and four straight Top 25 rankings. In 2013, York advanced to the NAIA World Series for the first time and finished with a 42-12 overall record.

By the world’s standards, Harlan was an outstanding coach.

But if you ask his players what made Harlan great, they don’t tell you about their win record or their moments of glory.

“Coach Harlan impressed upon us the importance of being men of character on and off the field,” says John Richards ’09, a 2008 NAIA All-American. “He taught me to be a man of integrity more

8 | Heritage | SUMMER 2013

than he taught me how to steal a base. He showed me how to push myself to my mental and physical limits. He taught me more about commitment than any other person. Coach Harlan was not just a baseball coach, but a life coach.”

Alec Abend ’13 agrees, mentioning the core values Harlan built his team on. “Coach Harlan is more than just a coach. He’s a mentor and a friend…Whenever I think back to Coach Harlan or York baseball in the future, I’ll always think of those values: love, integrity, respect, attitude, and work-ethic.”

Harlan’s 2013 York College team was awarded the Hank Burbridge Champions of Character award, given to the one team in the nation that best exemplifies the five core values of the NAIA. Harlan is passionate about using athletics as a platform for teaching lessons about life and faith. He has built his career around helping young athletes find their passion, make good choices, and live with a higher purpose.

Harlan is in his first year as the associate head coach for the University of Central Arkansas’s Division I baseball program.

The TeacherAlumna of the YearDr. Pat Simpson ’72

“Everything about her made you want to be a teacher. She had a passion that was contagious.” That’s how Chris Luther ’91 describes his mentor, Dr. Pat Simpson.

Simpson was the head of the education department at York College when Luther was a student. During her years in that role, she was instrumental in writing and securing the first accreditation for the teacher preparation program at the college. Through her hard work and dedication, the foundation was laid for a world-class teacher education program at York College.

After her years at York College, Simpson continued to bless students as she assumed leadership positions at Abilene Christian University and Black Hills State University.

Luther’s classmates and now colleagues on the education faculty at YC Erin (Beske) and Bob DeHart echo the praise of their former professor. “She embodied the qualities that we as future educators strove for….She made all of her students feel important. She empowered us to be change-

t Homecoming, York College recognized three alumni—a coach, a teacher, and a missionary—with our highest awards.

We honored them for their commitment to excellence and their impact on the lives of thousands. We honored them for the way they

have served the Lord throughout their careers and around the world. We honored them for being a living example of the mission of York College.A


Alumni Awards


makers in our students’ lives,” says Erin DeHart.

“Look at the people I graduated with. Most of them are still teaching. Many of them are principals and assistant principals. It’s due to the strong foundation they had at York College with Dr. Simpson.” Not all of her classmates were terrific students, but Simpson had a way of drawing out the best in them, says Erin DeHart. “She saw who we were to become and encouraged us to keep striving for more.”

Bob DeHart is currently the interim head of the department of education at York College. He says it’s a humbling experience to be in the position that Simpson once held. “They are some big shoes to fill, but I’m very proud to say that I’m doing the job that she did,” he says. “She was the best teacher I ever had.”

Simpson is currently the dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota.

The MissionaryServant Leader AwardDennis Cady ’66

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:35)

This verse has been the bedrock of Dennis Cady’s ministry. As an entrepreneur and missionary, Cady has spent decades working to improve the lives of people in developing countries through partnering with or creating orphanages and schools. His non-profit organization, The Starfish Foundation, is dedicated to spreading the Gospel message through humanitarian work.

Cady has done mission work in Malaysia, Indonesia, Haiti, and the Philippines. His current work is in South Sudan, where he is constructing a vocational school.

South Sudan has been ravaged by civil war. On his initial visit to South Sudan, “We saw every kind of need,” he says. The greatest needs were for clean water, healthcare, and

education. Cady knew these people needed one other thing: the Gospel message.

The proposed boarding school he is constructing will teach skills, such as tailoring and welding, as well as the Bible. Cady has big plans for the school, which will house 70 students and eventually grow to 140. Students will be charged a small amount for tuition so that they will be invested in their studies, however much of the cost of their education will be underwritten by donors.

Students will return home with practical skills so that they can provide for themselves and their families. Cady hopes they will also carry the Gospel with them back to their homes, opening the door for church planting in villages throughout the country.

In addition to his mission work, Cady has been a successful businessman. He sets an amazing example for others in business, as he lives sacrificially and honors God with his business dealings and finances.

He is the author of the memoir Go Ye Meant Go Me: The Missionary Adventures of Dennis Cady. He and his wife Susan base their global efforts out of Wichita Falls, Texas.


(above) President Steve Eckman presents Dr. Pat Simpson with the 2013 Alumna of the Year Award and Dennis Cady with the Servant Leader Award at Homecoming Chapel.


n the summer of 2014, York College, Strata Leadership, and the Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library will partner

to offer an innovative program for high potential students, grades 10-12. The Presidential Leadership Institute will provide students from across the United States the opportunity to interact with nationally recognized leaders while participating in an in-depth team building experience with their classmates.

The goal of the program is to help students become leaders and agents of positive change in their schools. All of the week’s content will have a spiritual component as students explore the relationship between Christian principles, service, character, and effective leadership.

“High school can be a very challenging environment for young Christians. We want to give these students the tools to develop leadership skills that will serve them throughout

their lives as well as in their school environment,” says Dr. Nathan Mellor, CEO of Strata Leadership, LLC, the world’s largest character-based leadership company.

“Our goal is to equip young people to lead in the same way that we equip York College students,” says Steve Eckman, YC president.

A unique facet of the Presidential

Leadership Institute is the emphasis on drawing four to six students from a single school. After completing the program, students will return to their school as a leadership team, able to lean on each other in order to achieve goals for their student body.

Some of the program will take place on the York College campus, but the week will also include a luncheon in

York College Presidential Leadership InstituteCollege partners with Strata Leadership to present program for high school leaders

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PRESIDENTIALLEADERSHIPINSTITUTEJULY 13-19, 2014


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to interact with Mary Eisenhower (granddaughter of President Eisenhower) and Tim McNeese, York College history professor.

Classes on the YC campus will be taught by Dr. Mellor and Dr. Brian Bush, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs and former executive director of the Academy of Leadership and Liberty.

the Nebraska Governor’s Mansion with Governor Dave Heineman, as well as interaction with the Nebraska Speaker of the Unicameral and former York Mayor Greg Adams.

The Leadership Institute will also include a VIP Tour of the Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library in Abilene, Kansas. Students will be addressed by and given opportunity

PRESIDENTIALLEADERSHIPINSTITUTEJULY 13-19, 2014

Participants will receive a VIP Tour of the Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library in Abilene, Kansas.

Students will interact with Greg Adams, District 24 Senator and Nebraska Speaker of the Unicameral.

Governor Dave Heineman will host a luncheon for participants in the Nebraska Governor’s Mansion.

The program runs July 13-19, 2014, and is limited to 50 students. At this time, priority is given to schools in the National Christian School Association. The cost for the program is $100 per student.

For more information or to register, visit www.york.edu/PLI.

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”

John Quincy Adams



Working for a higher purpose

A 2013 work crew touches up the paint in the parking lots across campus.

cott ’79 and Lisa (Hinrichs ’81) Eckman loved visiting their daughter at York College when she was a student. It was a chance to walk down memory lane and check up on Jessica

’09 at the same time. They appreciated the beauty of

the old campus buildings, however, each time they visited, they noted small projects that needed to be done. Painting, weeding, general beautification. They understood that the facilities crew at YC, though dedicated and hardworking, were thinly staffed and perpetually on a shoestring budget. On an older campus, there would always be additional maintenance required.

Then during one visit, they

had an epiphany: why not make their annual contribution to York College be in sweat equity instead of dollars?

Out of that realization was born the YC Alumni and Friends Work Days. Now in its sixth year, the volunteer effort coordinated by Scott and Lisa has contributed nearly 2,000 hours of labor to the college, the equivalent of a full-time employee’s work for a year.

Each summer, they organize a group of about 30 alumni and YC supporters, as well as faculty, staff and a few students. With this crew of

volunteers, they tackle dozens of small projects on campus that

affect the overall appearance of the campus. Since first

impressions are vital, the work that they do is very important to the continued

success of YC. The Work Days budget

comes solely from donations. During the event, volunteers

arrive from all over the U.S. and stay on campus in the residence

halls and dine in the cafeteria.

Work Days volunteers work hard raking, shoveling, painting, doing whatever is needed, but they also have a lot of fun. A dedicated core group comes back year after year, and for those individuals, Work Days is like a Homecoming reunion. It’s a chance for them to enjoy fellowship with their former classmates and give back to the college at the same time.

They paint. They pull weeds and plant flowers. They trim bushes and pick up leaves.

Mulching is one of the most laborious and essential tasks accomplished during Work Days. The mulching crew spends two and a half days making sure that every landscaped area on campus has a fresh bed of mulch on it.

Have you noticed new bushes and flowers on campus? The fresh paint on Larsen House or the guest house? How about the new stain and varnish on the Prayer Chapel doors? Did you notice the removal of the split rail fencing on campus or the worn-out bleachers in front of McCloud Hall?

S


Recognizing gifts through May 31, 2013

If you are interested in serving on the President’s Council, contact the Advancement Office at 402-363-5636.

Maybe you’ve admired the new trash cans, repainted light poles, or the pergola on the lawn in front of McGehee? The list goes on and on. All are a result of Work Days.

The TLC these volunteers provide goes a long way. The work is done in mid July, just a few weeks before students flood campus for the fall semester. Work Days provides the finishing touches that make students and their families feel welcome when they first arrive.

“I spent many years spending

a lot of money and time to go on mission trips until I came to the understanding that York College is also a mission field,” said Eckman. “And although those other efforts were good ones, I felt that I wasn’t really helping that many people. At YC, I feel like the work that our volunteers do impacts hundreds of lives in a direct way through Work Days. Our impact is limited only by the number of volunteers we have and the amount of donations we receive.”

Weeding and spreading mulch is a yearly task for volunteers as they help beautify campus during Work Days.

(right) Classmates of the Eckmans, Elaine (Darrah) Malcrom of Manchester, Tenn.,and Susan (Killen) McKeever of Drexel, Mo., have been reuniting at Work Days every year since 2010.

(above) On Thursday evening, workers gathered at the home of Nick and Deb (Bertsch) DiToro ’78 for a time of fellowship and a delicious home cooked meal.

(left) Randy Ervin ’76 always brings his own trimming equipment and goes straight to his task of shaping the landscape. He and his wife Donna (Ashby ’75) have attended Work Days for the last three years.


Work Days 2014 will be July 17-19. Contact Scott at [email protected] if you would like to participate or have questions about Work Days. If you would like to contribute financially to Work Days, please note “Work Days Fund” on your donations to York College.


SEASONS OF BLESSING

Campus was blessed with vibrant picturesque views this fall as the seasonal

colors of autumn lingered longer than usual. The beautification of campus and ongoing renovation projects are thanks in large part to the Sojourners who volunteer


between 400 and 600 hours each year and the efforts of alumni and friends who participate in YC Work Days in the summer. Other recent campus improvements included tuck pointing McGehee and new roofs on Hulitt Hall and the Mackey Center.

The Hub of Campus

York College recently announced the addition of psychology and criminal justice degrees to their online program offerings.

These additions will allow York College to better serve students in growing fields for online learning.

A bachelor’s degree in psychology gives students the ability to pursue a wide variety of career choices, says Dr. Jaclyn Spivey, chair of the Department of Behavioral Sciences at YC. “Combining the Christian worldview with the content of a psychology degree is something I feel strongly about, and I am excited about the opportunity to share this with our students, both online and traditional.”

Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Division Chair of Professional Programs Dr. Billy Lones is excited about the addition of the degrees, as well. “This will allow us to help more students, especially those working full-time, with their educational needs and goals. Additionally, the faculty for these courses possess a wealth of practical professional experience in addition to their academic expertise.”

Also available online from York College are a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master of education degree in curriculum and instruction.

Associate Dean for Online Instruction Lisa Menke says that attending classes online at York College is a great option for students who need more flexibility in their schedules than traditional classrooms offer.

“Most of our full-time online students are working adults, some with small children at home,” says Menke. “Having the flexibility to attend class between shifts at work or while kids are asleep makes all the difference in our students achieving their academic goals.”

“What sets York College apart from other colleges that offer online degrees is our dedication to our students,” continues Menke. “We believe providing outstanding customer service to our students is paramount. We make it a priority to give personal attention to each student. Students who attend York College via our online programs develop relationships with faculty and administrators because they know we are genuinely invested in their success. You won’t find that at many other colleges with online programs.”

Menke also stressed that the mission of York College “to transform lives through Christ-centered education and equip students for lives of service to God, family and society” is vital to every class and program being offered.

“We are intentional about our classes being taught from a Christian world view, no matter what the class topic.”

New Online DegreesNew Online Degrees

(above) Dr. Billy and Christi Lones enjoy their walk after chapel.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS


ANTICIPATION New graduation digs provide home court advantage

For students in need of a little extra help with assignments, or just a quiet and comfortable place to study, the York College SUCCESS

Center is available. Located in the newly renovated parlor of Middlebrook Hall, the SUCCESS Center is a resource and a refuge for students who are serious about their studies.

The SUCCESS Center hosted an open house this fall to showcase all of its amenities. New director Marti Soderholm, associate professor, says that so far this semester, 241 students have made use of the SUCCESS Center tutoring and facilities, clocking a total of more than 1,274 hours. That number will likely grow as the semester continues and term papers and final projects loom.

Soderholm says that students on


academic probation or conditional acceptance are required to spend a certain amount of time working in the SUCCESS Center, but many other students choose to work there simply because it can be more conducive to study than the library or residence halls.

Outfitted with comfortable furniture and tasty treats, there is a positive energy to the space, with lots of color, natural light, and welcoming smiles from the director. Soderholm manages a team of eight student tutors. Those in need of help can schedule time with the tutors or drop in throughout the day.

The location is a boon, too, as Middlebrook Hall now houses the majority of faculty offices, as well as the registrar and academic dean. Help is close at hand for students with questions regarding assignments.

Funds for the SUCCESS Center were made available thanks to a $2 million Federal Title III grant and other generous gifts from the York Community Foundation as well as private gifts.

CALL TO SERVICE

Social club collects items for charity

The women’s social club Omega Phi is participating in Operation Christmas Child, a holiday service project through the international relief organization

Samaritan’s Purse.Members of the social club invited the campus

community to donate items, which will be packed into boxes and shipped to children in need around the world.

Donated items include hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste, school supplies, and small toys.

The project was organized by Danielle Berry, Omega Phi service project coordinator. “I chose this project for the club partially because it is a tradition,” says Berry, noting that this is the seventh year the club has collected items for this cause. “Not only does the organization give these boxes to children, but they also share the gospel with them. That, to me, is a huge reason to choose Operation Christmas Child over other similar programs.”

“This is something that is really close to my heart. It’s nice, especially when it comes to Christmas, to be able to give in a big way. I think this project helps people to focus less on receiving and more on giving.”

Berry predicts they will have enough donated items to pack 20 or more boxes.

At the 2013 World Mission Workshop hosted by Oklahoma Christian, Cole Craddock along with Tyler Odom, Caris Clark, and Chloe Pittman work behind the scenes to box up food for the Feed the Children organization. photo by Hannah Gund


(left) In the recessional march Coach Nick Harlan escorts one of his baseball seniors, Alec Abend, through a congratulatory reception by trustees, faculty, and administration.

Off on the Right FootKayli Rodriguez of Castle Rock, Colo., and Abram Veasey of Ft. Worth, Texas, work on a community service project together at the beginning of the year. (above) Courtney Lovelace, from Lake Elsinore, Calif., and Molly Reyes, from Corona, Calif., paint a porch in a residential area of York during freshman orientation.


T H E L O N G B L U E L I N E

1965 James Klein attended The Frank

Lloyd Wright School of Architecture in Scottsdale, Arizona after his days at York College and has been designing churches for the last 40 years. He is the president of Klein & Associates, Inc., and his wife DeAnn is a dosimetrist with Southwest Oncology. 14817 N 47th Place, Phoenix, AZ 85032 [email protected]

1966Bill and Susie Keesling recently

celebrated 45 years of marriage. After his time in the Navy and 28 years as minister or hospice chaplain, Bill is currently a residential therapist for an adolescent inpatient program at Pinnacle Pointe Hospital. He also serves as an elder for the Central CofC in Little Rock. They have 2 daughters, 6 grandchildren, and currently have a 9-month old foster son. 3500 South Ridge Dr, Jacksonville, AR 72076 [email protected]

Walter McFadden is a member of the sales department of Marcum’s Nursery, a family owned business about a mile from his home. His wife Carolyn is a horticulture assistant at the nursery. After 28 years with General Motors in Oklahoma City, it’s a great part time job. 12605 South Villa Ave, OKC, OK 73170 [email protected]

1970 Cheryl (Surber) Corbitt is

the owner of Above and Beyond Embroidery. She and husband John live at 551 Brookside Drive, Winter Springs, FL 32708 [email protected]

1972Kathy (Poyner) Lough is a

medical biller with Paramount Professionals Services, and her husband Greg is an office manager for Summers Architectural Mouldings. They have three grown daughters: Nichole, Jamie, and Danielle. 1098 Valley View, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 [email protected]

1973Spike and Karen (Alley) O’Dell

moved to Tennessee to live on Old Hickory Lake after Spike retired from his career as the morning show host at WGN Radio Chicago. They are spending time with their kids and 4 grandkids. [email protected]

1975Carladean Thompson is very

proud of Johnny Kimani whom she homeschooled as part of a street boys’ ministry in Nairobi, Kenya. He was able to graduate in 2006 from Rosslyn Academy, an American school in Nairobi, and then come to the U.S. on an athletic scholarship. In July he moved back to Kenya to teach at his alma mater. Carladean recently moved to Texas to find work as the school she was teaching at in California closed. 590 EN 23rd, Abilene, TX 79601 [email protected]

1977Nwachukwu “Sam” Okonkwo

is an environmental investigator and his wife, Chinwemma, is a staff nurse in Houston. They have four kids and one darling granddaughter, Olivvia Oriabure, who is one year old. [email protected]

Kay (Horsman) Shelton and her husband Mike have moved to Colorado: 7057 County Road 105, Hesperus, CO 81326 [email protected]

1978Kristi (McInturff) Berner is a

kindergarten teacher at Neosho Christian School. She and her husband Clyde live at 15066 Reindeer Dr, Granby, MO 64844 [email protected]

1979Ronald Berges was named

Medical Director at Highlands Behavioral Health System in May 2012, after a 20-year career in private practice in Ottumwa, IA. 8565 South Poplar Way, Littleton, CO 80130 [email protected] 1980

Robert High is a maintenance tech with Goshen Property Management and Eva is a reset specialist with Crossmark. 734 S Elizabeth St, Wichita, KS 67213 [email protected]

1982Michael and Connie Martin

updated their address: 2425 49th Ave Ct, Greeley, CO 80634. [email protected]

1983Carole (Jones) Chalkus is

excited for her youngest daughter Cheyenne’s opportunity to go to Europe next summer with the Illinois Ambassadors of Music. She and her husband Scott live at 3676 Selmaville Rd, Salem, IL 62881 [email protected]

1986Ken and Sharon Webb have

a new address: 1065 Hwy 1050, Jefferson, KY 40337. Ken is a manager for FIT 3 LLC and Sharon is a QA/QC director at Univ. of Kentucky. They have two children: Matalyn (12) and Jacob (9). [email protected]

Geri (Sizemore) Browder has updated her contact info. She and husband Brett live at198 Madison 1435, Huntsville, AR 72740 [email protected]

1987Andrew West is a systems

architect with HP Enterprise Services. He and his wife Nadine have two children: Alec (20) and Emma (17). [email protected]

1989Steve Simpson is beginning his

second year as assistant basketball coach at Red Oak High School, a 4A school in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. His wife Kristen teaches second grade at Shields Elementary. They have two daughters: Madison (13) and Ella (11). 618 Magnolia Ln, Glenn Heights, TX 75154 [email protected]

1995Holly (Keller) Vietor and her

husband Gil live at 2919 Ranchero Dr, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406. Gil is a pharmacy manager/RPh at Albertsons. They have two children: Gabriel and Isaiah. [email protected]

Jenny (Thompson) Jones of Torrington, Wyoming was killed in a car accident on October 16, 2013. She leaves behind a husband, Casey, and three children: Kennedy, Max, and Harper. Jennifer worked at Jackson’s Chiropractic

and excelled as a mother of three. She enjoyed scrapbooking, crafting, fishing, spending time outdoors, spending time with her family, and supporting the EWC Lancers. She was actively involved with the local MOPS organization.

2000Jeffrey and Shauna Hines

were married on Oct 3, 2013. Jeff has published two books that are now available for purchase on Amazon.com: “90 Miles”, a book of inspirational poetry; and “Life in Corporate America: 2041”, a futuristic novel. 3320 N Lincoln Ave, Apt 4, York, NE 68467

Diana (Wilson) Jarvais has had a difficult year. Her husband passed away last October after battling cancer and her father passed away in July. She is a stay-at-home mom and reports that despite the losses, her daughter Chloe (6) is doing well. Diana would appreciate prayers. PO Box 501, Crandon, WI 54520 [email protected]

Lester Miller III was featured on the cover of a recent issue of Choral Director magazine. After directing Ankeny High’s show choir to a stunning performance at its swan song at FAME Nationals in April of this year, he’s headed across town to help build a new program from the ground up with the first class of Ankeny Centennial High School. Read the article at digitaleditiononline.com/publication/?i=171910.

2001Craig and Jeri (Bullock) Ford

moved to Billings, Mont., where Craig preaches for the Billings CofC. Jeri is a stay-at-home/homeschool mom with children: Hannah (8), Caleb (6), and Elizabeth (4). 1046 Burlington Ave, Billings, MT 59102 [email protected]

Adrianne (Keesee) Johnson and her husband Jared moved into a new house in December and William Devin arrived June 7, 2013, to the delight of big sister Lilly (2). 2424 N Bellwood St, Wichita, KS 67205 [email protected]

2002Lynn (Miller) Wunder and her

two children Hayley (5) and Chase (4) have moved: 4016 7th Street SW C119, Puyallup, WA 98373 [email protected]


T H E L O N G B L U E L I N E 2003

Kristina (Loy) Chance has started a new career as an autism line specialist with Independent Case Management in Little Rock, Ark. She is also a group exercise instructor with the Searcy Athletic Club. She and husband Jared have two kids: Lilly-Anne (3) and Kelton (2). 67 Mohawk Dr, Searcy, AR 72143 [email protected]

Joe Jenkins updated his info: 13641 Estero Circle, Tustin, CA 92780

Adam Moore completed his MBA at the University of Redlands and is an accountant at ICU Medical.

Grant and Amanda (DeBerry ’02) Rathe welcomed home their son Miles in Feb., 2012 and finalized his adoption in Oct., 2012. Grant is a courier with FedEx Express and Amanda is a financial systems analyst with LBMC, CPA Firm. 2879 Rome Ln, Clarksville, TN 37040 [email protected]

2005 Heidi Smith received her M.A.

in World History through American Public University in June, 2013, after 7 years hard work. She is a tour guide for the Nebraska State Historical Society, working at Neligh Mills State Historical Site in Neligh, Neb. 316 E 4th St, York, NE 68467 [email protected]

2006Mary (Goodner) Florell and her

husband Brian welcomed Gabriella (Gabby) into the world Nov. 21, 2012. Mary is a stay-at-home mom and substitute teacher. 11817 743 Rd, Funk, NE 68940 [email protected]

2007Michelle (Green) and Dusty Ihde

were married on June 15, 2013. Michelle is a teacher and Dusty is an assistant road master with BNSF. 202 Strickler St, Waco, NE 68460 [email protected]

Mike Malan was named Director of Finance for English Language Institute China. Laura (Sloan) is a personal banker with Farmer’s Bank.

Amanda (Spruill) Szarzynski recently completed her PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Tech University and is now living in Wisconsin with her husband Ben. 436 Augusta St, Racine, WI 53402 [email protected]

2008Robert and Katrina (Reno ’05)

Duncan updated their information. Robert is employed by Conway Freight as a driver sales rep. and is a field artillery officer candidate in the Kansas Army National Guard. Katrina is a home healthcare provider. They have three children: Robby (5), Violet Jane (3), and Bailey (1). 1307 Stonleigh Ct Apt C, Leavenworth, KS 66048 [email protected]

Melody (Carey) Hegberg and her husband Mike were blessed with the birth of their son, Micaiah David, Oct. 4, 2103. Melody is a personal banker at Mutual of Omaha Bank. 2600 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 [email protected]

Danae (Hancock) Mizner and her husband Dale welcomed Rosalie AnaRae into the world Feb. 8, 2013. She joins older brother Alaric (3). 11 Eastridge Dr N, York, NE 68467 [email protected]

Mary Reynolds has updated her contact info: 5360 Edmondson Pike #605, Nashville, TN 37211 [email protected]

Meghan (Boyle) Salsbury began work this fall on a Master of Library Science at Emporia State. She and Marty (’13) live at 1925 W 24th Ave Apt 208, Emporia, KS 66801.

2009Jessica (Eckman) and Colin

Spilker were married June 29, 2013 on Dauphin Island in the Gulf of Mexico. Steve Eckman, Jessica’s uncle, performed the beach wedding ceremony. Jessica is a middle school home economics teacher and cheerleading coach. Colin is a sergeant in the US Army and is a probation officer. Colin and Jessica also bought their first home: 117 27th Street Columbus, NE 68601

2011Landon and Chelsea

Bailey recently moved to Big Sky Country: 3353 N 27th Ave Apt 19, Bozeman, MT 59718 Landon is a tax accountant with Penor and Associates. [email protected]

2012Jamie Mix is a special education

teacher for USD 480. RR 1 Box 38C, Tyrone, OK 73951 [email protected]

Nathan and Kameryn (Brewster ’13) Towell were married July 20, 2013. Nathan teaches music at Cross County Schools. 1211 N Iowa, York, NE 68467 [email protected]

2013Scott Logan Moyer is a

volunteer assistant coach at McCook Community College. He is also working as a caretaker for people with disabilities. 1311 Nelson, Cambridge, NE 69022 [email protected]

Stay Connected with YC Latest news and updates on

facebook.com/YorkCollegeNeb

@YorkCollegeNeb

YC Connect e-newsletter Subscribe at [email protected]

Brian Walth ’03 was named head coach for the Panther baseball program after his long time friend and co-

worker Nick Harlan ’04 accepted an associate head coaching position at Division I University of Central Arkansas.

“We were obviously sorry to see Coach Harlan go,” said Jared Stark, YC Athletic Director. “He has been a fantastic leader for our program; however, we were very pleased that Coach Walth stepped up to the head coaching position. He is very capable and we expect that he will continue the success that Coach Harlan has brought to the program.”

Coach Walth has been a part of the baseball staff for the past 12 years, most recently as associate head coach and head JV coach. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from York College and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in sports management and administration. Walth and his wife Jaclyn (Ferguson ’02) reside in York with their two daughters, Sadie and Stella.

The Panthers finished the 2013 season at #8 in the nation, after winning the Opening Round Joliet Bracket and advancing to the Avista-NAIA Baseball World Series for the first time in the program’s history. They are currently ranked #6 in the NAIA coaches’ preseason poll.

Panther baseball and soccersee changes in leadership

Trent Hinton ’02, head women’s soccer coach, stepped down from his coaching duties at the end of the fall season to take on a new role in the athletic department. Hinton will pair his current part-time role of sports information director with the role of game day operations manager.

“The NAIA list of future initiatives includes a potential requirement for schools to have a full-time SID. We need to be ready for that and this year’s changes made it attainable,” said Stark. Hinton has held the SID role for the past nine years in a part-time capacity, but with the increase in sports offered at YC and number of athletes participating, it was necessary to expand the position.

In the past few years, three new sports and two JV programs have been added, amounting to more than 100 additional athletes and many more home competitions to operate. “We are thankful for what Trent has done for the women’s soccer program over the last seven years. I know the soccer program will miss him, but our department will only get stronger keeping him on board,” says Stark.

During Hinton’s tenure as coach, the women’s soccer team made three postseason appearances and claimed several all-conference awards and academic honors.

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York College Preps for Landmark YearHoning YC’s plan at our 125th Year

We are gearing up for York College’s 125th school year (2014-2015), and we are going to celebrate! In preparation for this singular milestone, we have also been working to refine our plans for YC’s future.

Our strategic plan will serve as an institutional blueprint, focused on ways to transform lives through stronger programs, improved facilities, and better scholarship offerings. This comprehensive planning process started in 2009, and we’re ready for the next, very public step during our 125th year. At the center of the plan is our commitment for York to be a place where God is central to our identity.

God has blessed York College throughout its history, and for the past six years, I’ve had the privilege to watch this story continue to unfold. Today we enjoy a strong and increasingly diverse student body, outstanding programs and a deeply committed faculty and staff. With five straight years in the black and an endowment that has doubled in size since 2008, we’re in a position to pursue some targeted initiatives that will further strengthen the college.

When we finalize our goals in January, the list will represent our highest priorities for propelling York College into the future. It will also represent many hours of planning and prayer. To achieve these goals will mean some challenging steps, but the resulting blessings will be more than worth the effort.

Amy (Swenson ’01) Fraser, assistant professor of music, has been a full-time faculty member at York since 2010. In addition to teaching, she also directs the YC Celebration Singers as well as the college’s annual Songfest production. (above)

In October, members of the Board of Trustees met with YC administrators in break-out sessions to consider the strategic plan. (lower left)

Next year, watch our website, social media channels, and anything YC that you see in the mailbox to get a glimpse of the good things to come. Our anniversary is only months away and you’ll want to be part of the great things God is doing at York College.

As always, we covet your prayers for the future of YC and our students.

Brent Magner ’79Vice President for Advancement

photo by Taylor Ladd ’10


A Campus View — Nolan Henningson

Stories can heal. Stories can teach. Stories can unite, inspire, and effect change.

Stories define us. When we seek to be known, stories are what we share.

President’s Scholar Nolan Henningson has a passion for stories. The sophomore from Oberlin, Kansas says he loves hearing about others’ experiences and perspectives and exploring how those stories created the person. He loves sharing stories—his own and others’—that move, amuse, and enlighten.

That enthusiasm for story has led Nolan to a double major in vocal music performance and theatre. He hopes to tell stories professionally on stage one day. As a student, he is involved in theatre, the speech team, choir, and Celebration Singers. He’s also a Songfest rep for the Sig Tau social club, tasked with the creation of the club’s spring show.

Nolan is drawn to performance art for the special interaction that happens between the artist and the audience, the story that is shared between them. In understanding stories we can better understand others, our Creator, and ourselves, he says.

York College is shaping Nolan’s personal story. A recent YC arts trip to

New York City had a deep impact on this small town boy,

who had only 25 students in his graduating class.

He wasn’t overwhelmed by the Big Apple. Rather, he was inspired. During the week-long trip, he drank deeply from the artistic well, taking in 10 shows and visiting several museums. “I wanted to stay in

Manhattan for the rest of my life!” he says.Processing all of his experiences after the trip, he had a

light bulb moment: the only thing standing between me and the life that I want is a lot of hard work. It’s not about “dreaming big” and hoping for a lucky break. It’s about taking the training he’s receiving at YC seriously and giving all he’s got to make those dreams come true.

“York College is giving me the education I need to do what I want to do someday,” he says—and that’s something he is not taking for granted.

Acting is not just his passion. Nolan feels that it’s his spiritual calling.

“It’s impossible for me to experience art and not feel the presence of God,” he says. “Art is a very spiritual thing…We’re given these talents and passion for a reason. The question is how can our art glorify God? God gives us a purpose in life. It’s our job to live it out.”

(left and below) Last year in the Emerging Directors’ One-Acts, Nolan played the male lead in The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet.

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York College Athletics

Panther runners came up just short of repeating as champions at the MCAC cross country tournament in Lawrence, Kan., on November 9. York was paced behind the 2nd place finish of Tecumseh, Kan., junior Jeff Austin and the 4th place finish of Benkleman, Neb., sophomore

Levi Swenson. Both runners were named MCAC All-Conference while two other YC runners, Warren Lannon and Justice Barnes, were Honorable Mention All-MCAC finishing 12th and 14th respectively.

A twice-named Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference Runner of the Week, Austin was also named by the conference as Newcomer of the Year and will represent York College at the NAIA National Championships in Lawrence on November 23 at Rim Rock Farm.

“This is the best team I’ve ever been on,” says Austin. “There’s a camaraderie here that I never had anywhere else. Usually running is a very individual sport. Here, we’re really a team. The encouragement we give each other is impressive.”

Congratulations to the team and good luck Jeff as you represent YC on the national stage! Read more of Jeff’s story online at www.york.edu/About/News/tabid/496/

The men’s cross country team finished runner-up at the MCAC Championships.

Jeff Austin Heads to Nationals!

With Oklahoma Christian’s invitation to our basketball teams to play at their homecoming, and the large contingency of YC alumni in the metropolitan area, the advancement office thought, “Why not have our own reunion and support the Panthers?” Calling upon Joel and Linda (Houtz) Parker ’87 who live in Edmond, the wheels were put in motion for a York brunch and basketball shindig. A rough count had over 80 at the Parkers’ beautiful and accommodating home and that carried over to packing an entire section behind our teams at the Eagles’ Nest.

Brunch and Basketball

Swenson

Austin

The classes of 1977-79 were the largest group in attendance and had a great time catching up at the brunch. (1st row) Clarice (Brown ’78) Kohlscheen, Cynthia (Swenson ’78) Chaney, Lola (Huber ’78) Maxwell, Sherena (Sikes ’78) Langley, Deb (Bertsch ’78) DiToro, Cheryl (Alcorn ’77) Gallegos, Ron Gallegos ’77; (2nd row) Clyde Langston ’77, Diane (Fogarty ’78) Ries, Ron Maxwell ’78, Denise (Thompson ’79) Howard, Nick DiToro ’78, Brent Magner ’79, and Renee (Zinck ’78) Bean.

(left) With Panther fans looking on from behind the bench, Doreen Lopez, a junior from Compton, Calif., goes up for two against the Oklahoma Christian defense.

With success comes expectations and with those expectations comes pressure to perform at a high level.

Last year the York College men’s basketball team racked up a final mark of 25-11 and made it to the second round of the NAIA National Basketball Tournament. The Panthers defeated Davenport University 78-77 in overtime, but lost to Midland University out of Fremont, Neb., 76-71 in another OT game.

This year the Panthers come in as the No. 20 team in the NAIA polls. With plenty of offensive firepower retuning and a strong recruiting class to compliment the veterans, the Panthers should be right there in the thick of the MCAC (Midland Collegiate Athletic Conference) race.

“The strength of our team this year will be our speed and ability to break people down off the dribble. We will need to improve on our rebounding as the year progresses,” said York head coach Delton Deal.

“Our depth is one of our strengths as we have many veteran players coming off the bench as well as some quality newcomers. I believe we have the pieces it will take to compete for the conference title again this year. We were

picked tied for second in the preseason poll and I believe we will be right there by season’s end,” said Deal.

Deal said the team expects another exciting and challenging campaign.

“This year will be another exciting season. We have great leadership and should be entertaining to watch. We would like to ask for continued support from our fans in the community,” Deal added.

“We have one of the best atmospheres in the nation and a lot of that is because of fan support.”

York has bull’s-eye on their backYC rated No. 20 in NAIA pollKen Kush — York News-Times

Dylan Brewer, a senior from Keller, Texas, completes a fast break in the home opener against Concordia University. Last year, Brewer averaged 10.1 points per game and 3.7 assists.

(left) Remington Mignott goes up for two of his 19 points against NCAA Div. II Oklahoma Christian at their homecoming game. The Panthers led the majority of the first half but lost by 11 to the Eagles.

Men’s Basketball Team: (1st row) Mike Buffalo, Isaiah Willis, Deon Willis, Johnny Cooksey, Tre’ Howe, Andre Vaughn, Remi Mignott, Ramses Larobina, Dylan Brewer, Daymian Marshall; (2nd row) Asst. Coach Tree Burks, Asst. Coach Joe Lundstrom, Student Manager Roberto Romero, Reggie Sonnier, Heyvis Jackson, Amen Osayande, Baye Fall, Alec Monoghan, Michael Johnson, Weston Walsh, Student Asst. Jeremiah Ahart, Asst. Coach Dee Ellison, Head Coach Delton Deal.



As he flew over the Pacific Ocean, Saia Loutulelei was praying.

Lord, give me one more shot at college. Help me find a way to pay for it. I want to be a better man. I want to get an education. I want it to be different this time. I want to do your will. Please guide me, God.

Saia left his home in Maui with a plan: he would meet up with his former wrestling coach, Bob Anderson, who was then coaching in California. Saia had talked to Anderson about getting some matches in the mixed martial arts fighting scene to make some money for college.

He was in great physical shape, having worked for the past five years in construction. A life-long athlete in contact sports and a three time state high school wrestling champion, Saia saw fighting simply as an economic opportunity. He figured he could spend some time training, win a few fights, and then give college one last shot in California.

The plane landed and Saia was greeted by Coach Anderson, who said something that changed his plans and his life: “How would you like to wrestle at York College?”

While Saia was praying on that long

journey across the ocean, God was working. Anderson was formerly the Olympic coach of YC Head Wrestling Coach Ramon Diaz. Anderson called Diaz while Saia was airborne.

Instead of arranging fights, Anderson arranged a flight. Saia immediately flew to Nebraska to try out for a scholarship at YC.

“God provided for me,” says Saia. “I had an open heart. I was ready to embrace whatever God brought to me.” He came to York College prepared to do whatever it took to succeed academically and athletically.

He had attempted college twice already, years before. He had the brains and the athletic talent to be great. However, both times he was far from his island home and when homesickness overtook him, his “friends” pulled him into the party scene, wrecking his chances of


success. He hoped and prayed that York College

would be different—that at York College, he would be different.

Once again, his prayers were answered.

In Coach Diaz, he found more than an athletic coach; he found a life coach, a mentor, and a friend. “He’s really changed my perspective on life,” says Saia. “He has taught me about how to become a man. How to prepare to be a father, a husband, and a leader. He puts all of that into the practice room. He is focused on integrity. He is a very godly man. What he teaches us in practice, we will carry into the rest of our lives.”

In August of this year, Saia had a unique moment when his past, present and future came together: he was baptized in the Pacific Ocean by the two men who had mentored him, Coaches Anderson

A FIGHTING CHANCE

(left) Saia’s deep bass voice is a true asset to the York College Concert Choir’s rich sound. It takes a strong commitment to juggle the demands of being a student-athlete and those required in the fine arts.

(left) Saia Loutulelei and his sweetheart Bethany Miller added a touch of the island life to their wardrobe for the All-College Banquet in the spring.

(above) During the annual spring semester Shine Retreat, Saia led a group of students in a haka war dance for a talent show entry.


and Diaz. His sweetheart, YC student Bethany Miller, watched from the shore.

Now in his third year at YC, Saia is ranked eighth in his weight class in the NAIA. He has his eye on the national competition in March in Topeka and says he expects the best for the season.

In addition to the influence of his coaches, the culture at York College has helped Saia to triumph. He has a support

network at York of people who are dedicated to his success, not just on the mat, but in life.

Saia recently changed his major from accounting to vocal music education—a surprise to many, including himself. He had always loved classical music and enjoyed singing in church choirs, but had never seriously studied music. At YC, he joined the choir and learned that all the passion he had for wrestling was matched by the his passion for music.

He didn’t feel anything like that level of enthusiasm about accounting. It wasn’t until he started dreaming about music that he decided God might be trying to tell him something.

As for the future, Saia says he hopes to graduate in 2015. What happens next will be up to God. Saia is confident that the Lord will continue to work in his life and to lead him, as He has done so obviously in the last few years.

“I’m really happy with where I am right now. I’m looking forward to what God has planned for my life,” he says.

2013-14 Wrestling Team: (1st row) Robert Eklund, Brandon Brown, Yussef Ramirez, Oscar Marin, Marcus Banducci, Sergio Sanchez, Jason Arreola; (2nd row) Assistant Coach Jotham Andrews, Joshua Eklund, Joe Madison, Chrystian Banuelos, Devaunta Cuba, Bryan Magno, Joey Massay, Student Assistant Kyle Wichman; (3rd row) Associate Head Coach Greg Smith, Quentin Becker, Carlos Arana, LP Eickhoff, Eric Guetterman, Saia Lotulelei, Aaron Lopez, Devan Rosser, Head Coach Ramon Diaz

Panthers Ranked No. 20 in NAIA Wrestling Coaches Preseason PollThe York College wrestling team returns a solid core of veterans and a strong recruiting

class that secured their spot in the coaches’ preseason top 20 poll this fall.“If we reach the level of success we are capable of, we hope that

prospective student-athletes will be excited about what is going on within the program and want to be part of what we have to offer them,” commented York College Head Coach Ramon Diaz.

Three of the YC wrestlers come into the season ranked in their respective classes. Oscar Marin, who wrestled at 125 last year (11-10, 2-2 at nationals) is currently ranked No. 10. Jason Arreola who wrestled at 133 last year and closed with a record of 16-5, is a returning All-American, placing fourth at last year’s NAIA Nationals. He will be moving up to the 141 weight class this year and is currently ranked No. 6 at that weight. Saia Lotulelei who was also a National qualifier last year with a record of 11-5, is currently ranked No. 8 at heavyweight.

Diaz said to watch for the following wrestlers to have an impact immediately: Sergio Sanchez – 133; Aaron Lopez – 157 transfer, California JUCO All-American; Carlos Arana – 165 transfer, California JUCO All-American; Eric Guetterman – 165; Joe Madison – 174 California JUCO placer; Quentin Becker – 184 California JUCO placer; Logan Paul Eickhoff – 197 transfer, California JUCO Champion/All-American.

“This year’s recruiting class will have a significant impact on our season, on the campus and in the town. Our top 12 are solid, top to bottom. We have solid leadership emerging within the team this year and the men are buying into what we are trying to accomplish here at YC. They are being focused and disciplined on the mat, in the classroom, and in their personal lives in order to reach the level of success they are capable of. Everyone is excited about the journey and will be working hard to improve every day!”

Ken Kush — York News-Times

Arreola

“I had an open heart. I was ready to embrace whatever God brought to me.”

photos by Katie Kynion


FRONT AND CENTER

The Hub of Campus


York College has recently formed an institutional review board, which will evaluate research by YC students on human subjects.

The purpose of the board is to ensure that the research conducted on campus meets a pre-set ethical standard. The group will review all proposed studies involving human subjects and discuss merits or challenges presented by the study and will make recommendations to the researchers.

The board consists of faculty and staff members, as well as one community person.

This is a common level of governance at any institution that does human research, says Dr. Jaclyn Spivey, assistant professor and chair of the department of psychology at YC. “It ensures that people are being treated properly in a study. They ask questions like are the questions asked of participants appropriate? Is the study safe? Is it ethical?” The board will also consider whether the experiment has enough intellectual value for it to be worthwhile.

Spivey says YC psychology students are currently working on projects that require input from the board, including studies on stress hormones and socioeconomic status, and the relationship between sleep quality and screen time.

There are federal standards for ethical treatment of human subjects that must be followed in order for an institution to receive federal funds for the research. Spivey says that though York College is not required to follow those standards (the students’ research is not federally funded), it is important for the students to work under the standards now so that when they graduate, they will be prepared to work in a professional lab setting.

While the research YC students are conducting may not be ground breaking, the value of the process is invaluable to the students, says Spivey.

“The students are learning how to construct a research project from start to finish. The review process with the institutional review board is part of that,” she says. The research they are conducting helps the YC students become better citizens who are more able to interpret the validity of research and understand the code of ethics necessary for good science.

York College forms Institutional Review Board for Ethical Student Research


WINTER 2013 | Heritage | 29SUMMMER 2013 | Heritage | 29

FRONT AND CENTER


The classroom. It’s where the rubber meets the road for YC students. Whether the topic is

anatomy and physiology or western civilization, YC students are blessed to have faculty members who are not only experts in their field, but who care about their students’ success, both academic and spiritual. Pictured here are four faculty members who

are relatively new to the YC scene: (top left) Dr. Jaclyn Spivey, assistant professor and chair of the department of psychology; (bottom left) Dr. Kirk Mallette, associate professor of education (pg. 5); (bottom right) Steven Thompson, associate professor of business; (background) and Dr. Milton Eckhart, associate professor of science (pg. 5).


Business department seeking international accreditation

A York College business degree will soon be more valuable to graduates.

YC is beginning an accreditation process with the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), the leading outcomes-based professional accrediting organization for business programs in student-centered colleges and universities throughout the world. The IACBE exists to promote, develop, and recognize excellence in business education.

The funding for this enhanced accreditation is being provided by the Levitt Trust Endowment, created for the advancement of the E.A. Levitt School of Business at York College.

“It’s an ideal time for us to pursue accreditation,” says Dr. Mark Moore, associate professor of business and chair of the department. YC is in a reaccreditation period with the Higher Learning Commission, which works closely with IACBE. Much of

the documentation and requirements will be complementary for the two accrediting agencies.

Of the three main accrediting agencies for business colleges in the U.S., Moore says that IACBE is the best choice for York College, as it focuses on classroom outcomes rather than faculty research and is used by many of the top colleges and universities in the region. The organization is also is very familiar with faith-based colleges.

Until the accreditation process is complete, York College will be an

educational member with access to IACBE resources. Moore says this membership status will be helpful as he and colleagues review course objectives for business classes, measure outcomes, and compare YC’s business curriculum to other accredited programs.

It’s an exciting time for the business department, Moore reports. “We’re seeing an increase in the number of majors in the department and general interest in business classes is increasing. The program is really growing.”

(right) Tim Lewis transitioned this fall from full time work as campus minister and part time teaching to full-time faculty status in the business department. He now oversees the sports management program, a degree that is gaining in popularity at YC due to the strength of the faculty.

In July, York College launched the newly redesigned www.york.edu. The new site is leaner,

cleaner, and easier to navigate for prospective students.

The most important change to the site is that it is mobile ready—it automatically adjusts to look great on a computer monitor, tablet, or phone screen.

The athletic department made a considerable investment in overhauling

York College launches new websites, first app

their digital presence as well, as they launched www.YCPanthers.com and its companion app. The new site and app make it easier than ever before to keep up to date with all 12 Panther athletic teams.

The new site and app feature calendars, stats, rosters, headlines, and photo galleries—all the information a Panther fan needs, right at their fingertips.

The app is free to download in the Apple app store. Just search “York College Athletics by SIDHelp.” The app is coming soon to the Android market.

...just around the

Concert Choir Winter Tour, January 4-10

The York College Concert Choir will be touring five states during the winter break, January 4-10. Dr. Clark Roush and the choir invite you to attend this enjoyable and uplifting experience.

January 4 151st Street CofC—Olathe, KS / January 5 Sunset CofC—Springfield, MO / January 6 University CofC—Conway, AR / January 7 Hot Springs Village CofC—Hot Springs Village, AR / January 8 Webb Chapel CofC—Farmer’s Branch, TX / January 9 Brentwood Christian School—Austin, TX / January 10 Maxwell Avenue CofC—Ardmore, OK.

Spring HS Days/Songfest, April 3-8

This is a great time to see many aspects of YC: stay in a residence hall, eat in the caf, visit classes and attend the academic fair. Parents of current and prospective students are invited to

a free brunch on Saturday. The weekend will include performances by the Concert Choir, Traveling Children’s Theatre, and of course the 37th Annual Songfest! Tickets for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Songfest performances are $10—but all the other activities this weekend are FREE!

RoundUp, May 18-24

RoundUp is a little bit Bible camp, a little bit college, and a whole lot of fun! It’s a week-long retreat for “Golden Agers” hosted on the York College campus. The theme of RoundUp 2014

is the 1930’s, featuring lectures by Dr. Robert Scott, former YC faculty member. For registration information, contact Gayle Good at [email protected] or (402) 363-5621.

Soul Quest, June 8-14

York College will be hosting the 34th annual Soul Quest, June 8-14. Our summer camp is for 6th-12th grade campers and features incredible worship times, exciting classes and activities, and

awesome friendships with teens from across the country. As we near spring, visit our camp website at www.york.edu/events to get more details.

Choir Reunion, June 20-22

Attention, former YC choir members! Come back to the risers and relive your glory days next summer. We will enjoy rehearsal time as well as fellowship on the York College campus. The reunion will

culminate with a recording of a new collection of hymns. Register now at www.york.edu/events.

European Holocaust Study Trip, July 7-17

Erin DeHart, associate professor of education, will lead a group of students, alumni, and educators on a European tour with stops in Germany, Poland and Prague. The group will visit sites of historical

significance to the Holocaust, including Berlin, Warsaw, and Auschwitz. Contact DeHart as soon as possible if you wish to participate at [email protected]. More information at www.york.edu/Holocaust.

Bible Teacher’s Workshop, July 25-26

Bible class teachers of cradle roll through youth group, join us for a time of training and encouragement during our Bible Teacher’s Workshop. You’ll hear practical tips from people who are in the trenches.

Learn about new tools, techniques and curriculum options. Speakers will be from the Christian Education Association. Register now at www.york.edu/events.

Looking for a new direction? YC now offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn more at online.york.edu.

Students bow in prayer at the opening chapel of YC’s 124th year.

COMING EVENTSDecember

12-15 Cocoa and Carols

January4-10 Concert Choir Winter Tour

13 Classes Begin

February6-7 Shine Retreat27 Spring Play Opening Night

March8-16 Spring Break

April4-6 Spring High School Days

(Songfest : April 3 - 5, 7:30 p.m.)24 All College Banquet

May 8 Commencement

18-24 RoundUp

June8-14 Soul Quest

20-22 Alumni Choir Reunion

July7-17 European Holocaust Study Trip

13-19 Presidential Leadership Institute17-19 York College Work Days25-26 Bible Teachers Workshop

August20-24 New Student Orientation

25 Classes Begin

york college heritage magazine

Documents

transfer students

beautiful campus

lorna seilstad

sack hall

renewed purpose

saia lotulelei

internship fair

transformative experience