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Alumni Awards

On Friday, the Celebration Luncheon paid homage to OU’s Heritage Roll of Honor and Dome Society donors, as well as the University’s Trustees, Alumni Golden Club, and 50-year class members.

Whereas the BAHOF banquet honored former OU athletes, Friday night’s Alumni Banquet recognized alumni for their significant career and life contributions. This year’s award recipients were:

4X National Champ Heads to Chiefs

Brown to Advance Flag Football in KS, MO

A Chiefs fan since childhood, Abigail (Abby) Brown ‘24/OUKS grew up running routes in her yard that her father drew up especially for her. That eventually led to playing flag football in recreational leagues as she got older. But with no flag football teams in Kansas high schools at the time, Brown took things to the next level by being the first girl to play tackle football in middle and high school in Central Heights, KS, before switching her focus to basketball.

Following high school, basketball led her to Bethany College for the fall semester of her freshman year. But in the spring of 2020, Brown made a decision that would change her life forever – she transferred to OUKS to join the women’s flag football team.

From Rantoul, KS, Brown said, “I initially thought that I did not want to attend Ottawa because it was so close to home, but after transferring to OU, that ended up being one of the aspects I loved most.”

While earning her Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology, Brown excelled as a student, leader and player. She earned a spot on the Dean’s List every semester; served as a resident assistant; was voted captain by her teammates three consecutive years; was inducted into Sigma Alpha Alpha; was a three-time Daktronics NAIA Scholar Athlete; was selected for the All-KCAC First Team each year; was a two-time KCAC Champion of Character; and was a three-time KCAC Defensive Player of the Year.

Her leadership and character were evident not just on the field, but in the classroom, as well. “Abby is indescribably unique,” articulated Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication Dr. Jordie Smith. “She carries a sense of responsibility in every endeavor. When she enters the classroom, she is fully immersed in the moment. I've seen the exact same tenacity out of her on the field. One of my fond memories of Abby was watching her pull aside a fellow classmate to give them a pep talk before a presentation. She's conscious of everything in her arms reach - especially other people in need. It is without hesitation that I say, Abby will change the game. She will leave a lasting impact on our community and the world at large.” 

Perhaps Brown demonstrated her game-changing abilities most impressively when, as captain, she helped lead the OU flag football team to three of its four NAIA Championship titles, with the team capturing every title since the sport was added to the NAIA roster in 2020.

“I don't think many college athletes can say that they've accomplished what my team has managed to accomplish,” noted Brown. “Every year, it has gotten exponentially more difficult to win the National Championship, yet we managed to win the first four NAIA championships in the history of women's collegiate flag football. With winning the National Championships comes added pressure and stress. Throughout every season, we carried, and are still carrying, a large target on our backs, but we always remember that the pressure we face is a privilege.”

Brown also shared that accomplishing what the team did through the COVID-19 pandemic took an extra toll and required extra perseverance. “I lost three grandparents due to COVID within my first couple weeks at OU,” she said. “They were never able to see me play. Losing them so early in my collegiate career was very tough. I still wear my grandma's name, Deb Deb, on my cleats every game.” 

Had they been able to watch Brown on the field, they would have witnessed the same things her coaches did. “Having a player like Abby is like having another coach on the field,” said Assistant Coach Katie Sowers. She brought so much leadership and character to our program. No matter what she does, Abby has a desire to be the best that she can be while also bringing out the best in those around her. I have no doubt that she will carry this over as she transitions to life outside of college.” Even in the short time since graduating, Brown has continued her career in flag football. On Saturday, May 18, she played outside linebacker and wide receiver with the Kansas City Glory, which is the most advanced professional women's American football league in the U.S. The KC Glory is heading to playoffs on June 6th. 

Brown’s achievements and leadership have not gone unnoticed, including by some who have watched her play at Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Chiefs, during multiple KCAC Championship victory and exhibition games and saw her leadership through volunteer work at the High School Flag Football Showcase. Those same KC Chiefs recently offered Brown the position of youth marketing flag football seasonal assistant, where she will be working under her former OU assistant coach, Sheila Sickau, who is the youth marketing manager for the Chiefs flag football program.

Brown starts her new role in June. She will be working closely with Kansas and Missouri high schools to start girls flag football pilot programs and organize events with the goal of making girls flag football a sanctioned high school sport in both states. It is an endeavor the Chiefs franchise has been promoting in recent years through clinics, exhibition games, grants, partnerships with local schools, and its new high school girls flag football spring season pilot program.

“Abby volunteered at so many Chiefs events, showing them the value she can bring to an organization,” said Sowers. “She is a great fit for this position with her passion and love for the game and her ability to lead, teach, and coach. We are extremely excited to see our players start to find who they are once their playing days have finished, and we couldn't be more proud of the person Abby has become.” 

Though this wasn’t Brown’s initial career path, she also knows this is the right fit for where she wants to go in the future. “[By the time] I realized I have a passion for coaching, I was deep into completing my degree and did not want to lose progress by changing majors,” she acknowledged. “But I think that psychology can be extremely beneficial in a coaching role. My ultimate career goals would be to coach for the Chiefs or coach my own collegiate women's flag football team one day.”

Brown also recognizes that this path would not have been possible had it not been for the decision she made to transfer to OUKS. “I will forever be so thankful to ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ for providing me with the tools and connections to be able to create opportunities for girls in football that I didn't have,” she said. “I will also forever cherish the lifelong friendships I have found and made at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ. These last four years have been the most magical experience.” 

Keeping a Promise, Setting the Bar

Gonzalez First in Family to Earn 4-Year Degree

Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Francisco Javier Gonzalez (Harvey) ‘24/OUAZ came to OUAZ on a football scholarship. He loved it, but what ultimately kept him on the course to graduation was a promise he made to his grandmother.

“My father passed away when I was only five years old,” Gonzalez recounted. “Thankfully, our grandparents adopted and raised me alongside my younger brother and sister with an abundance of unconditional love, affection, and support. While we experienced many ups and downs while growing up together as a family unit, our grandparents remained steadfast pillars of strength who weathered each storm that came our way. From the early days of my youth to college, it has always been important for my siblings and me to find ways to give back all that they have done for us over so many selfless years.”

One of those ways became earning his Bachelor of Arts in Communication at OUAZ. As a first-generation college graduate, it took Gonzalez some time to learn the ropes and gain his footing, but once he did, he exceled and also found ways to give back on campus.

Director of Student Life Sarah Barker described his perseverance and impact, especially as a resident assistant (RA). “Harvey has grown so much over his time at OUAZ,” she said. “He applied to be an RA his sophomore year. At the time, he was still growing into himself and developing his leadership identity. He did not get the position the first time he applied. Instead of giving up, he continued to stay connected with the Student Affairs office and would volunteer his time to help the RAs in order to gain more experience before re-applying for the role.”

In addition to using the RAs as resources, Gonzalez practiced his interview skills and did everything possible to make sure he was ready to apply again. “I didn't let it discourage me,” he reflected. “Instead, I let it motivate me and made it my goal to work and obtain the right characteristics and qualifications to be an RA.” And it paid off. Gonzalez earned the RA position for his junior and senior years.

“My position as an RA for the campus was a great experience,” he said. “It taught me a lot about myself as a leader and as a man. I learned how to be versatile and understood that there are different leadership styles, and the more styles you can add to your inventory, the more likely you are to be successful as a leader.” 

Barker witnessed the same thing. “Through his time as an RA, Harvey’s leadership skills flourished,” she said. “He is such a personable, strong, and outgoing leader, and it has helped to create a strong sense of community in our residence halls. His outgoing personality made students feel seen; they truly looked up to him and appreciated his hard work and dedication to his position.”

Gonzalez also worked in the facilities and maintenance department for almost four semesters as part of a work study program while at OUAZ. He was no less impactful there, as Facilities Coordinator Rey Samudio, his supervisor, attested. “Harvey has a good head on his shoulders,” said Samudio. “On a consistent basis he showed up to work on time, ready to work, no questions asked. He was very reliable for me, and I could count on him to handle things when I wasn’t there. Harvey was also a good role model for my two young boys, and he always showed them love and talked to them about the right things - I really appreciated that. Some of his strongest characteristics are his ability to lead, to adapt, and to communicate effectively. I think Harvey will go on and do great things in life and I’m excited for him!”

As a football player, Gonzalez also left it all on the field. He received recognition for his football performance in two out of his four years, with consecutive all-conference awards (earning Second Team in 2022 and First Team in 2023), as well as being named as a NCCAA First Team All American selection.

In keeping with his character, Gonzalez deflected his success onto others. “Throughout my time at OU, I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by the right people who made a lasting impact on me,” he said. “The relationships that I formed both on and off the football field are ones that I will cherish for life. Whether it was with the coaching staff at OUAZ, my professors, or fellow students and friends within the university community, every interaction provided invaluable knowledge and wisdom whilst also helping me never forget where I come from. Coming from a small city, it felt like I was setting an example for my younger siblings on how to persevere and achieve their goals.”

And that’s exactly what he did, setting the bar high for his brother, Joseph, who followed in his brother’s footsteps by enrolling at OUAZ in the fall of 2023.

“Harvey always told me that not only was he getting his degree for him, but for his family too,” shared Barker. “He helped pave the way for his brother coming to OUAZ, and through his experiences, he has been able to help his brother navigate all the things he did not know when going to college.”

While Gonzalez is extremely proud of his accomplishment as the first person in his family to earn a four-year degree, it’s what it means to those closest to him that matters most. “Knowing that I can repay all of the love and encouragement given by my loved ones along this journey is truly fulfilling - becoming someone they can boast about with pride,” he said. “[But] what I've come to realize is you can never truly repay those individuals who consistently offer their unwavering encouragement without any expectation or condition attached. Instead, striving hard every day by focusing on becoming the best version of yourself should be seen as their ultimate reward. It becomes your own personal accomplishment – one which makes them proud even more than acceptance from external sources could ever achieve!

“Overall, this experience has left me grateful beyond measure. If given another opportunity to relive these moments again, there isn't a thing about how things originally played out that I would have changed!”

Career Imitates Life

Art and Autism Lead to Online Counseling Degree

To say Shawna Zitzelsberger ’24/OU-Online meets herself coming and going would not remotely paint an accurate picture of her busy life.

Working full-time; running two businesses; raising five children; planning a daughter’s wedding; navigating doctor and therapy visits for three autistic children; designing and sewing costumes for YouTube shows, dance teams and plays; teaching a Sunday School class of four-year-olds; maintaining a household – oh, and going back to school to earn her Master or Arts in Professional Counseling. Just an average day in the life of Shawna Zitzelsberger.

After graduating from Cal State Fullerton in 2005 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Crafts and Metalsmithing, Zitzelsberger spent the next 15+ years using her artistic talents in two businesses she created and operated. She clearly had a passion for art and expression. However, she had never heard of using art as a form of counseling until her youngest son was diagnosed with autism and bipolar disorder. While in day treatment, his therapists used art therapy as a way to help him, with good results, and Zitzelsberger became extremely interested in the concept.

Advocating for and working with her own autistic children, Zitzelsberger was already a counselor of sorts, and was growing tired of the rigor of running two businesses. That’s when she decided to look into a career change. “I wanted to become an art therapist and counselor,” she said. “I had a lot of life experience pointing me in that direction.” But finding a school that combined her two passions in an online degree program was not an easy task.

“³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ was the only school that offered an online counseling degree with a concentration in expressive arts therapy,” Zitzelsberger shared. And even though the online expressive arts therapy concentration was just getting off the ground at the time she enrolled in 2022, she decided to take a chance.

“Dr. [Paula] Artac promised me that by the time I started my emphasis she would have the program up and running,” said Zitzelsberger, “and she was true to her word! I feel like the whole expressive arts program was made just for me. Having come from an art background and being a working artist for 15 years, art has always been expressive to me. However, Drs. Artac, Nicole Schutzbank, and LeeAnn Wheeler showed me that I could help clients express and work through the problems in their lives with art. That took art to another level of expression for me. I really feel like God had a hand in bringing me to OU. Everyone was so kind and supportive from the beginning.”

Despite all of her family and work responsibilities, Zitzelsberger managed to graduate with a 4.0 GPA. “I feel pretty good about that,” she noted. “I was 45 years old when I started my degree, I have 5 kids, and I was really nervous to go back to school. A couple months before I started field placement, I completed a project a year in the making, from design to finish, for an Aztec dance team. I worked late nights on school and costumes.”

“Some people are distracted or discouraged by life experiences, but Shawna's life experiences served to help her prioritize a very busy schedule,” said Adjunct Professor Dr. Amy Jacober, who taught some of Zitzelsberger’s favorite courses, even though she admits “they were the hardest ones.”

“While others may have chosen to wait, Shawna used this season of life to focus on short and long-term goals in ways that were healthy for her and would serve future clients well,” added Jacober. “She did all of this with a smile and encouraging words for her classmates!”

Professional Counseling Adjunct Professor Dr. Daniel Schulte saw in Zitzelsberger what he sees in so many of OU’s adult learners.  “Shawna was a remarkable student who brought not only her intelligence and enthusiasm for the work she was being trained to do, but also was able to draw on her life experiences, including the challenging and difficult parts, to enhance her engagement with the training and the work,” he said. “In this way she was representative of what I find counseling students at Ottawa so often bring to their academic training as adult learners - the richness and depth that comes from living complex lives. In Shawna's case (as is true for many of our students), this included managing significant family and work responsibilities, as well as other personal and professional challenges in the course of her completing her degree. It's really inspiring to be able to see folks like Shawna succeed in her program and exciting to have them join the profession as colleagues!”

Zitzelsberger is currently working as an addiction and mental health counselor at Alpine Centers for Personal Growth in Taylorsville, Utah, the group practice where she completed her field placement. “I love working as a counselor with normal work hours and lunch breaks!” she said.

“I have found that expressive therapies can be used with all of my counseling, and the clients love it!”

From OU to OU

Lifelong Learner Nazim Advances Career with EMBA

A product engineering manager with Dynamic Manufacturing, Inc. in Chicago, IL, Redwan Nazim ’24/OU-Wisconsin began his higher education journey at The University of Oklahoma (OU), earning both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from the institution. However, as someone dedicated to continual learning, that wasn’t enough. Nazim wanted to add an executive business degree with an emphasis in information technology to his professional acumen, so he went in search of a university that offered the unique degree combination but that was also within driving distance.

Little did he know he would wind up at another OU – ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ-Wisconsin – to earn his Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) with a concentration in Information Technology (IT). “Ottawa's EMBA program, specifically its information technology concentration, piqued my interest,” said Nazim. “There were not very many other schools that provided this exact combination. Given that I live in Chicago and considering all the rigorous traveling of the EMBA program during weekends, the fact that Ottawa has a campus roughly 1.5 hours from Chicago was a critical factor.” 

Despite having a technical background and education, Nazim knew little about business or IT prior to earning his EMBA.  “I was keen to broaden my horizon with this MBA in a concentration that I had little to no knowledge of,” he said. “It was actually for this reason that information technology appealed to me - in addition to the fact that IT has become such a crucial component of any business organization over the last few decades.

A superior 4.0 student, Nazim thrived in his IT courses and enjoyed furthering his technical expertise with a comprehensive understanding of concepts such as networking, data analytics, cloud computing, database architecture, and management information systems. On the business side, he appreciated rounding out his education with knowledge in managerial finance, management accounting, and ethics, among other business principles.

Nazim brought both his professional experience and work ethic to bear in the classroom as he tackled projects individually and with fellow-students. “I pride myself on being a strategic planner with excellent communication skills, he said. “Every project I work on, I am very much results-driven with a strong focus on execution. Problems are not problems. Rather they are an opportunity to make things better and to make an impact. I like to think outside the box and try to be proactive so as to mitigate risks as much as possible. Apart from that, I like networking and meeting with people from different backgrounds, and my colleagues say that I have great empathy and ability to influence people I work with.”

EMBA Adjunct Professor Dr. Cyndi Lambach put an exclamation point on that assessment. “I had Redwan twice at the Brookfield campus,” said the EMBA adjunct professor. “He was fearless and willing to take calculated risks after making a complete assessment of a situation. He often asked several questions to understand a situation, determined multiple courses of action that could be taken, and then offered an educated analysis and solution that would move a company or division forward. He was very professional and thorough in his presentation style, as well as in his written documentation. If I had the opportunity to work alongside Redwan, it would be my honor as he is level-headed and his strategic considerations are to be commended.”

In addition to Lambach, Nazim also thoroughly enjoyed his courses with Drs. Stephen Weiss, and Tom Determann. “I had each of them for multiple courses and thoroughly enjoyed our lively discussions on academic (and life!) topics, both on campus and during virtual hours,” he shared.

When Nazim completed his degree in May, he left OU with more than a degree. Multiple friendships were forged along the way, as well. “I have to mention three individuals,” he said. “Arka Datta, Anna Kvinge, and Andrew Munduate each joined the program at different times, but the majority of my time at Ottawa was spent with them. We learned a lot together, had a great understanding amongst ourselves when it came to group assignments, and most importantly - we laughed a lot together.” 

The 12 Days of Christmas - and Beyond!

OUKS Spreads Holiday Cheer

Jesus taught us that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Students, faculty and staff on the OUKS campus took that to heart this holiday season by giving back to the underserved in the Ottawa community through gifts, food, and acts of service, spreading much cheer along the way.   

Thanksgiving provided the first opportunity of the season to extend goodwill. Hope for the Holidays was a campus initiative that took place on November 19 and 20, with 95 students, three grad assistants, nine staff, and three community members participating. Together they collected Thanksgiving meal supplies that were delivered to homebound nominees throughout Franklin County; completed a food drive for ECKAN (an East Central Kansas economic opportunity agency) and disadvantaged OU students; assembled Soup in a Jar kits for those in need; and sorted clothing from a neighborhood drive. Some participants also provided devotionals and homemade cards to families, caregivers and other individuals. In its 11^th year, the 2023 Hope for the Holidays produced 235 deliverables.

Other Thanksgiving service projects were led by OUKS athletic teams. For example, the football team held a Thanksgiving food drive, while the men’s basketball team volunteered to run the carnival games for Sacred Heart School’s Fall Festival, as they have for several years. On the other end of the age spectrum, residents of the Rock Creek Nursing Home received hand-made Thanksgiving cards made by the softball team under the leadership of Associate Head Coach Maile Deutsch.

It wasn’t clear who was impacted more – the students or the card recipients. Senior Jillian Kygar shared, “The town of Ottawa has given so much to me over the past four years I've been here, so being able to take a step back and do something in return has been a wonderful experience. I have been able to incorporate this community service into the elementary school where I teach by having my students make cards and crafts to share with the folks at Rock Creek.”

Senior Cierra Faubion agreed. “Giving back to our community has shown me just how much you can impact a person's day or even life. It has helped me become a better person, and as I continue to go through life, I intend to keep serving my community anyway I can."

"My favorite thing has to be having individual conversations with [the residents],” said Senior Katie Enneking. “Learning about them and their lives while spreading some joy always makes my heart happy!"

Though the students left before the Christmas season got underway, a number of them got a jump on spreading goodwill before the semester ended. For example, the women’s basketball team held a toy drive for children in the community, and the Elves projects allowed students to  make Christmas stockings and door hangers for seniors and others in the community. Grad assistant Ashan Jordan even held a make-a-wreath project with a youth group in Olathe.

The men’s basketball team assisted the local Elks Lodge in putting on a Christmas dinner for area COF clients. COF Training Services is an organization that has been serving adults with intellectual disabilities for over 50 years. On two separate days, 25 team members helped prep food for the meal and then helped with clean-up following the event. According to Coach Aaron Siebenthall, many of the Elks lodge members are basketball boosters who have season tickets and support the program in a variety of ways, including feeding the team over the holiday break. So, it was a natural fit to help them out.

“Most of our players are not from Ottawa or the immediate area,” relayed Siebenthall. “However, all of them call Ottawa home for a few years. Part of their education at OU is to learn to give back and be servant leaders. If we want people in this community to come to our games and support our teams, we need to support our community.” 

After the students left for Christmas break, OUKS kept right on serving in a variety of ways. The Angel Tree project is an annual helping event carried out in partnership with OU’s local community partner, ECKAN, to provide gifts for families that otherwise would have a hard time affording them. Staff and faculty selected gifts from a list provided, wrapped them and dropped them off in the Enrollment or Campus Ministries office by December 15 to be distributed to kids in need.

The 12 Days of Christmas Advent journey was sponsored by the Fredrikson Center for Faith and Church Vitality and featured opportunities to worship, serve and fellowship during the first 12 days of December. Each day provided a different service project for the 17 students, nine staff and 13 community members that participated. Projects ranged from making Christmas stockings, lap blankets, wreaths, hats, scarves, and ornaments to assembling Soup in a Jar kits, recording Christmas carols, and wrapping Angel Tree donations. The handmade gifts were distributed to various groups, such as those in assisted living at Vintage Park, Rock Creek Manor, and Rock Creek West, as well as those in senior housing units in Pomona (KS) apartments and a number of retired OU staff and alumni.

The event also featured pre-recorded Christmas songs performed by the OU band, Uncontained, which are available to listen to on the YouTube Channel. The band recently recorded a new series of Christmas selections which are also available in conjunction with on the Center’s YouTube channel.

John Holzhuter is the University Chaplain and Director of the Fredrikson Center for Faith and Church Vitality and spearheaded the Hope for the Holidays, 12 Days of Christmas, and Elves and Angels projects. “Every year, students, staff and community partners join in the Ottawa spirit to make and share tangible holiday blessing,” he said. “It is a personal affirmation and mixes community service with Bible practice (Hebrews 10:24-25). I feel proud and privileged to join in the mix of such joyful holiday hubbub!”

Spreading cheer and goodwill goes way beyond Christmas on the OUKS campus, however. Students organizations, athletic teams, staff, and faculty conduct diverse service projects throughout the year to serve the community, as well as various student groups. For example, the volleyball teams collected 800 items for Willow Domestic Violence Center during a domestic violence awareness urgent needs drive, the soccer teams did a school supply drive for local elementary schools, and students from across campus participated in the MLK Day of Service.

Throughout the year, the men’s basketball team also delivers meals to shut-ins on a weekly basis through the area’s Meals on Wheels program. Over the course of the school year, all 55 players take a turn or two delivering meals; over the past nine years, the team has delivered approximately 4,500 meals to people in the Ottawa community.

OUAZ Serve Day

Students Put Feet to Their Faith

This wasn’t the first time OUAZ has hosted a Serve Day near the holidays, but this year’s event was a whole different ballgame, thanks in large part to Campus Ministries intern Abi Deshaies.

In the past, Serve Day consisted primarily of collecting canned goods for the homeless and toys for the Toys for Tots organization – both good causes, for sure, but not ones that the students could personally connect with. And that’s what Deshaies wanted to change.

“It was on my heart to do something that would connect students with stories of real people and leaders of non-profits who help people every day,” shared Deshaies. To do that, she networked to form relationships with organizations who would come to campus on Serve Day, November 15, to share what they do and who they serve, visit personally with students, and give students the opportunity to volunteer with the non-profit in the future.

“I wanted these leaders to communicate their ‘why’ for serving,” said Deshaies. “I wanted students to not just bring food to be given to anonymous families, but to connect with those families – to hear their stories; to learn what kind of child is getting the toy they brought and why he or she needs it. Because then it becomes personal for the students – it’s not just checking off a ‘good deed.’”

Campus Pastor Alan Boelter was thrilled with what Deshaies wanted to do. “All semester we prepped students in Spirit Life for Serve Day by communicating that life isn’t about you,” said Boelter. “We focused on getting students to look outside of themselves and understand that life is about God and others - that we need to have servant hearts and be aware of what’s going on around the world so we can help intentionally however we can.”

Deshaies lined up four organizations for the students to collect assigned items for. Prior to Serve Day, the non-profits shared videos and other information during the weekly Spirit Life service to connect students with their missions and stories of clients they serve. When Serve Day finally arrived, representatives from each organization spoke during Spirit Life and set up booths in the gym where students could drop off their donated items, as well as visit with the non-profit leaders.

• Revive – Located in Surprise, Revive works with a variety of groups, such as the homeless, after-school kids, and families in need. OUAZ students purchased supplies like plastic ware, paper plates, granola bars, Bandaids, socks, wipes, and mac and cheese for the organization’s clients. By the end of Serve Day, 35 students had signed up to volunteer with Revive next semester.  
• Wash the City – This organization provided a unique way for students to get involved in its ministry that supports the homeless and underprivileged youth. With a screen press in tow, students brought t-shirts and watched as Wash the City printed its logo on them, along with information about how to get resources. The shirts are distributed to potential clients as a wearable “flyer.” The young leadership generated a great deal of interest among the students for working with the ministry going forward.
• Grad Solutions – Grad Solutions is a charter alternative school and GED program that helps students facing challenges that inhibit their ability to graduate from high school. OUAZ students brought snacks to provide to the students enrolled in the school.  
• United Prevention – Students also learned about a group in Surprise, United Prevention, that works with students to prevent youth substance abuse and educates them about drug and alcohol use.

In all, close to 500 of the 750 students on campus participated in Serve Day, donating over 2,800 items for those in need. More than that, they got connected with the “why” and the “who.”

“Students show up to Spirit life and hear speaker after speaker talk about who Jesus is,” shared Deshaies. “Serve Day gave them an opportunity to see what it looks like to live out their faith – to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the messiness and brokenness of the community. Because that’s who Jesus was - He washed people’s dirty feet, touched lepers, restored prostitutes. Serve Day helped students get out of their comfort zone to go out and serve those they otherwise may never associate with.”

Deshaies just completed her undergraduate degree at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ in exercise science. She will begin the Master of Arts in Counseling in March. She has started bible studies and worship nights on campus and is regularly involved in Spirit Life. Her biggest focus, however, has been revamping Serve Day into an event that would impact and change the students who participate. Mission accomplished!

Christmas at the Crossroads

OU-Online Helps Shelter KC During the Holidays

When Lead Education Faculty Dr. Kasey Johnson returned to her alma mater, Nazarene Theological Seminary, in 2022 to sit on an alumni panel, she discovered Shelter KC through a fellow panelist who is a board member at the Church of the Nazarene rescue mission. After learning about the organization’s values and mission, Johnson knew it would be the perfect charity for OU-Online’s 2023 Christmas project. Her colleagues agreed.

Established in 1950, Shelter KC helps Kansas City’s homeless, hungry, and hurting men and women experience freedom from the past and hope for the future through tangible resources and the love and transformational power of Jesus Christ. Clients receive good food, safe shelter, and clean facilities, all while being treated with deserved dignity. Shelter KC meets clients where they are and partners with them to meet their specific needs, whether through case management, a recovery program, job and life skills training, career guidance, or participation in a social enterprise program.

Shelter KC is located in the heart of the Kansas City, just blocks from the Crossroads Art District. The intersection of the upscale with the downtrodden makes the rescue mission’s annual holiday celebration, , a perfect theme. Christmas at the Crossroads  serves adults experiencing homelessness by offering fun, food and fellowship with carnival-style booths, a traditional holiday meal, and care package giveaways.

That’s where OU-Online comes in. Shelter KC’s 2023 goal was to collect 750 care packages to give away at the December 22^nd event – care packages that contain hats, gloves, body wash, deodorant, chapstick, toothbrushes/toothpaste, razors/shaving cream, and Christmas cards with encouraging messages. OU-Online faculty and staff at the Overland Park, KS, campus donated these items through December 15 and delivered them to the organization in time for the premier Christmas event. It’s worth noting that last year, 70% of the people who attended Christmas at the Crossroads had not previously used Shelter KC’s services.

“No matter our affiliation or religious preference, we are part of a University that is committed to being a Christ-inspired community of grace,” said Johnson. “As believers, we are called to love our neighbor, and projects like this move us from having good intentions to doing good.”

Johnson, who teaches in OU’s School of Education and works with teachers in the field, would love to see the relationship with Shelter KC continue at an even deeper level. In 2024, women from the OP campus are already scheduled to visit female clients living in Shelter KC’s residential facilities to provide encouragement, share their own stories, offer life coaching, and simply connect with other women on their journeys. In the future, Johnson sees an opportunity for students and professors to potentially provide educational or tutoring services.

“Shelter KC is an organization committed to honoring each person’s journey,” she shared, “and I think we do the same here at Ottawa. We meet our students where they are and partner with them as they journey toward self-awareness and growth. Shelter KC provides a chance to start again through hope and help in a tangible way, and I’m so thankful Ottawa prioritizes acknowledging organizations like Shelter KC as we work to emulate their mission to love, serve, and support others – no matter where they have been or what they are facing. What sets Ottawa and Shelter KC apart from other institutions is that we aren’t just providing help, we’re providing hope through the love and faith Christ freely gives to all who believe.”

OU-Online embraces that Christmas message when providing food, fun and fellowship for others, as well as when generating some fun and festivity of their own. The campus’s annual door decorating contest is a favorite holiday tradition, with Pat Vossler earning bragging rights this year in the Best Overall category for her Polar Express door, and Kasey Johnson & Kristen Moore winning in two categories – Best Homemade and Most Creative – for their Winter Wonderland door.

Homecoming 2023 Highlights

Homecoming 2023 on the OUKS campus, October 19-21, was a weekend jam-packed with recognition and competition, food and fellowship, and overall celebration of the OU spirit that is alive and well in both students and alumni.

Fellowship during Homecoming centered on reunions for the Class of’73 and the Golden Club. Of course, what is fellowship without food? Commemorating their 50^th Homecoming anniversary, the Class of ’73 had a special reception Friday morning, followed by a social Friday night after the Alumni Banquet. Class dinners were also held on campus for the Class of ’73 and the Golden Club on Saturday evening. A large group of 80s grads enjoyed a tailgate during the football game, and a dinner for the Class of ’88 was held at a local restaurant later that evening.

Competition was intense during the weekend, both for alumni and multiple OU athletic teams. Following an alumni tailgate lunch on Saturday, the Braves football team took to the Bill “Bo” Boucek Field with a win over Sterling College 55-17. During halftime, the OU Softball team received their 2022-23 championship rings from their 3^rd straight KCAC championship; the OU Women’s Flag Football team was also recognized for their 3^rd straight NAIA championship.   Later in the day, women’s soccer bested McPherson 6-0; and men’s soccer triumphed over McPherson 4-1. Both teams recognized their seniors prior to their games.

In away competition, the OU men placed 10th in the Bowling Mid-States Championships in Wichita, while at the Cross Country NAIA Mid-States Classic in Winfield, the men and women posted team scores of 509 and 410, respectively. Women’s volleyball fell to McPherson 2-3, and the men’s basketball team traveled to the University of Illinois for an exhibition game.

On the alumni side, the returning baseball and softball players made impressive showings against the current OU men’s and women’s teams, forming new bonds with students and enjoying some friendly competition. 

Of course, recognition of OU’s loyal and accomplished alumni is always a big part of Homecoming weekend, and this year was no exception.

Thursday night saw a packed house for the Braves Athletic Hall of Fame (BAHOF) banquet, during which four new members were inducted and numerous scholarships were awarded. This year’s inductees were Clarence Anderson ’17, Donald Anderson ’13, Matt Cline ’95, and Molli (Morgan) Pierce ’17.

Read inductee bios and scholarship details

On Friday, the Celebration Luncheon paid homage to OU’s Heritage Roll of Honor and Dome Society donors, as well as the University’s Trustees, Alumni Golden Club, and 50-year class members.

Following the luncheon, members of the OU and Ottawa Tribe community gathered at the fire water feature for a memorial paver dedication ceremony in honor of former Ottawa Tribe Chief Ethel Cook, who passed away in September. Following a welcome by Chancellor Dr. Bill Tsutsui, former OU Chancellor Dr. Kevin Eichner and current Tribe Chief Kalisha Dixon spoke about what Ethel meant to OU and the Tribe. In ceremonial attire, Chief Dixon’s daughter, Anastasia Stwyer, then unveiled the memorial paver.

Whereas the BAHOF banquet honored former OU athletes, Friday night’s Alumni Banquet recognized alumni for their significant career and life contributions. This year’s award recipients were:

• Distinguished Service Award - Dr. Stephen Doeren ’72

This award recognizes individuals or couples who have demonstrated exceptional service in the church and/or community over a span of time.

• Outstanding Achievement Award - Robert Evans ’73

Recognizes individuals who have made an impact in their chosen field of endeavor, whether over a span of many years or in a relatively short timeframe.

• Recent Alumni Award - Dr. Shailendra “Raj” Selvaraj ’17

Designed to recognize recent graduates who have attained a significant level of achievement and potential for accomplishment in the early years following graduation.

• Honorary Membership in OUAA - Dr. Rich Menninger

This award is designed to be a prestigious honor granted by the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Alumni Association (OUAA). Once recognized, honorary members hold alumni status throughout their lifetimes and are entitled to all the rights, privileges and benefits of any member of the OUAA.

Read recipient bios

During the banquet, Dr. Murle Mordy was also recognized for his 50 years of faithful service to OU (see article in the upcoming November issue) and Chancellor Tsutsui shared remarks in memory of Chief Ethel Cook and longtime Board of Trustees member Dr. H. Robert Froning ’43, who passed away in July at the age of 101. 

“It is always such a pleasure to celebrate ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ alumni at Homecoming every year,” said Vice President of University Advancement Janet Peters. “We heard from so many attendees how much they enjoyed coming back to campus to reunite with classmates, to cheer at sporting events and to celebrate those being honored by the university at the two banquets.  We invite all alumni to come to campus whenever they can!”

Alumni Awards

On Friday, the Celebration Luncheon paid homage to OU’s Heritage Roll of Honor and Dome Society donors, as well as the University’s Trustees, Alumni Golden Club, and 50-year class members.

Following the luncheon, members of the OU and Ottawa Tribe community gathered at the fire water feature for a memorial paver dedication ceremony in honor of former Ottawa Tribe Chief Ethel Cook, who passed away in September. Following a welcome by Chancellor Dr. Bill Tsutsui, former OU Chancellor Dr. Kevin Eichner and current Tribe Chief Kalisha Dixon spoke about what Ethel meant to OU and the Tribe. In ceremonial attire, Chief Dixon’s daughter, Anastasia Stwyer, then unveiled the memorial paver.

Whereas the BAHOF banquet honored former OU athletes, Friday night’s Alumni Banquet recognized alumni for their significant career and life contributions. This year’s award recipients were:

Rawayo Earns Second Degree at OUKS

“I’m just a guy who flips burgers,” deflected Jonathon Rawayo.

This is Rawayo’s typical, humble response every time he’s asked to share something of significance about himself. “My experience [at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ] has been graced with moments of recognition but humility has served me,” he said.

Rawayo was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, but grew up in Gaborone, Botswana and Mexico City, Mexico, where his family were missionaries. As an international student at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ’s Kansas (OUKS) campus, Rawayo earned his BA in Business Administration and Economics in May of 2022. Upon graduating, he immediately entered the campus’s MBA program, finishing up this spring with a concentration in finance.

Rawayo came to OU on a soccer scholarship, and he thoroughly enjoyed playing his sport over the past several years. “Watching how the team has been different each year, yet the sense of brotherhood that has remained is something special,” said Rawayo.

Though soccer was the most memorable part of his time at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ, the people he met also made a big impact throughout his OU experience. “I’ve been blessed and thoroughly enjoyed my time learning from multiple individuals,” he reflected. “Be it while assisting custodians during school breaks or working in the cafeteria, the staff and professors have made my experience that much richer.”

Like most college students, Rawayo experienced pressures that oftentimes seemed overwhelming. However, he was able to endure these pressures with support he found within his community.

“My family and friends have played a major role in keeping me grounded and grateful,” he said. “Above all else, this has been an opportunity for my family and me, so the pressures have paled in comparison to my gratitude.”

To the students entering college next year, Rawayo had some words of advice: “Learn from those around you and ask questions. I’d also say that you should challenge your ideas because, trust me, you might think you know everything, but it’s often not the case. So yes, ask more questions.”

Rawayo is still considering his options following graduation. But whatever adventure awaits him, he hopes it will be something that will push him toward growth and further development.

OUAZ Graduate Crafts Memorable Degree, Campus Experience

Jordyn Van Metre grew up in Surprise, AZ, home of the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Arizona  campus. After having her senior year of high school softball canceled due to COVID, she had a real desire to play at the collegiate level. A friend and employee of OUAZ encouraged her to look into the University. She was attracted by the fact that Ottawa is a Christian university that holds chapel every Wednesday. She also, “...fell in love with the flex term scheduling and the tight knit community Ottawa held.” After weeks of applying and interviewing, she received a scholarship.

Van Metre, having been interested in the medical field for years, decided to major in biology. “I knew that a degree in biology would set me up for success in whatever medical field I were to choose and would allow me to pursue my goal of being able to minister and show the love of God through medicine,” she said.

Dr. Yana Dashevsky, assistant professor of biology, was a huge influence over Van Metre’s academic career, not only as a professor, but also as a mentor and friend. “She truly prepared me not only for school beyond college, but also for life,” shared Van Metre.

Campus life held many opportunities for Van Metre in addition to her studies. She was one of four students who founded the student government and built it from the ground up. She was also student body president, president of the Biology Club, and leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter. She also played on the varsity softball team for three years.

After enjoying dorm life in her freshman year, Van Metre became a resident assistant and lived with some of her teammates in the “cottages,” an upperclassman housing option within the Christopher Todd Communities. Being on campus allowed her to be more involved in school activities and develop many friendships with teammates, fellow RAs and classmates.

Van Metre shared that there were three memorable moments that stood out during her time at OUAZ: attending an OU board meeting; traveling to the Ottawa, KS, campus to converse with the student government there; and being a part of an OUAZ groundbreaking ceremony. Standing next to Campus President Dr. Dennis Tyner, she revealed Veritus Hall as the name for the campus’s new resident hall.

Whenever she has the opportunity to talk to new or potential students, she tells them, “Coming to ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ gives you a chance to be a part of something so much bigger. And it is no lie, we are building a legacy and writing history, and every student who comes to OUAZ gets to be a part of it.”

After graduation, Jordyn plans to go to EMT school to get her state certification then gain experience working at a local hospital. During that time, she will be studying to take her MCAT in the spring of 2024, with the ultimate goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.

Overland Park Grad Shares OU Spirit with Local Communities

“The OU spirit is real,” recognized Amy Mathews, graduate student at ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ in Overland Park. “From friendships made to the mission of the university, the OU spirit is alive!” 

No one feels that OU spirit like Mathews, double alumnus of ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ and Community Development Executive for ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ in Overland Park, Kansas. This spring she graduated with her Master of Arts in Leadership.

“The pride of accomplishment that I experienced going back to school as a working professional in my late 40s was the best part of my experience,” said Mathews. “I was proud to set that example for my kids.”

Mathews said that working full-time, managing her home life, and extra travel requirements added a bit of pressure while she completed her degree program. However, the format and flexibility of her online courses made these stressors manageable.

“The best part of my OU experience was the support from the OU Student Success Team, the many awesome professors, and the interactions with classmates from many different geographical locations,” says Mathews.

The additional support she felt from her family, friends, and coworkers facilitated her growth and success. Her professors also contributed to her journey with responsiveness, involvement, and inclusion throughout her course load.

“³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ means ‘home’ to me and my OU alumni friends and colleagues,” she said. “Above all, pride is what I will take away from my OU experience.”

To new and returning students, Mathews would say, “Like Nike says, ‘Just Do It!’ You will not regret getting your degree, but you will regret NOT getting your degree! Education is something no one can ever take away from you!”

After graduation, Mathews plans to continue in her current role, promoting ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ and building relationships with the community and business partners, community colleges, and school districts. “With my new knowledge, I am better prepared to serve as a leader in any capacity,” she shared.

OU-WI Transfer Advantage Program Provides Ticket to BALM

Alaina Pease, already working in Human Resources (HR) at Fathom Digital Manufacturing as an HR generalist, made full use of the Transfer Advantage Program when choosing ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ - Wisconsin. ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ partners with many local and technical colleges, offering a special tuition rate towards a bachelor's degree. Alaina chose OU-Wisconsin because she could do her schooling online while having a campus that was still close by to give support when needed.

Alaina earned a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Management (BALM) with an HR focus, graduating in April. Ottawa’s BALM is designed to help make a difference in a student’s work organization immediately following graduation.

When asked about her choice of major, Alaina replied, “Working in HR is all about working with people and being an effective leader. It helps open up the way of thinking and being more innovative and creative while understanding the different components of the business.”

She looks at all of her teachers as favorites who provided great opportunity for growth and pushed her to learn and understand their topics. “I made lasting connections that I will be able to use for years to come.”

After graduation, Alaina plans to continue her learning path to get her Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification.

Anthony Gets Unexpected Inspiration for Completing Online Degree

Jay Anthony started on his degree journey at a community college right out of high school in Cecilia, KY, but got derailed early on when he couldn’t justify the effort with the distant reward. Nearly 10 years later, it was a customer service job interview with his current employer, Humana, that got him back on track.

Anthony recounts, “In my interview with the hiring manager, he had me read a phone script and asked me a few interview questions. Then he asked me for an unexpected commitment - to go back to school and finish my degree - before he would hire me for the position. He said I would need that degree to move up into leadership and that it was important as a Black man, as well. He knew because he was a Black man himself. I decided to take him up on his offer.”

Anthony has been working for Humana ever since that interview in 2011, and this April, he made good on his commitment by completing the long journey of earning his Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Management through ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ’s online division.

Anthony initially enrolled in OU’s Jeffersonville, IN, campus, until it transitioned to an online-only platform. “I was able to leverage Humana’s annual tuition reimbursement program by maintaining the required GPA. I chipped away at it little by little, and now I have finally arrived!”

While the hiring manager served as Anthony’s impetus for restarting his degree, inspiration for sticking with his studies came from another unexpected source – former OU President Dr. Kevin Eichner. Years ago, Anthony heard a graduation speech Eichner gave when his sister-in-law, Tameka Levy, earned her master’s degree from OU. “He talked about a life of significance, legacy, and so much more,” remembers Anthony. “He also stated that the hardest thing an individual could do is find balance in one’s life - that it’s always a juggling act between different priorities and events at the time. I have found that statement to be true, and the speech served as motivation to continue toward my degree.”

Anthony is the first person in his immediate family to earn a bachelor’s degree. “My schooling has made me a better thinker, better writer, better verbal and written communicator, and overall, a better person. All of the professors have been great; they held me to high standards and held me accountable. They have shown me a lot of love and support, are knowledgeable, and are passionate about teaching.”

Perhaps more than anything, Anthony is excited to be the same kind of inspiration for his family that others were for him. “I’m setting an example for my son and brother, showing them the importance of a college degree and finishing what you start. That’s my story so far, and there is still so much more to be written!”

Now that Anthony has his diploma, he isn’t sure what the future holds for him, his wife Mashanda and their son Xavier. He is open to new opportunities that come along, but he is sure of one thing: “I’m at a time where I want to deepen my faith with God and work on myself – perhaps even pursuing ministry.” Shifting the focus from life/work/school balance to life/career/spiritual balance will, no doubt, make Anthony a significant asset wherever his professional journey eventually takes him.

EMBA Unlocks Leadership Opportunities

Ankit Pal loves to learn. He calls it a “proclivity towards education and academics” that he gets from his parents, who are both in academia. His list of educational accomplishments clearly backs up that claim. After earning his bachelor’s degree in computer science in New Delhi, India, he came to the United States in 2016 to earn his master’s degree in management information systems, which he completed in one and a half years at the University of Illinois, Chicago.

From there, Pal began working for CVS Pharmacy in Tempe, AZ, as a senior infomatics analyst. Never wanting to let an opportunity to learn pass him by, Pal became motivated to earn his Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) to augment his new career in health care. And that’s how he came to ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ.

“³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ gave me the opportunity to earn my EMBA with a concentration in health care management,” he said. “That fit perfectly with my career goals in health care. I was also drawn to the program because it was local, so I could complete each term’s on-campus learning weekend more easily.”

Another benefit of OU’s EMBA for Pal was the diversity of students and industries represented within the program. With concentrations offered in business data analytics, health care management, information technology, and operational effectiveness, the EMBA attracts students from around the globe, as well as those with varied career interests. The immersion style classes conducted during the contact weekend each term allowed Pal to network, work alongside and develop friendships with his classmates, which he valued greatly.

“I made some good friends in my EMBA from diverse cultures and industries,” said Pal. “Interacting with and knowing them was an enriching experience. I learned a lot working with them on different academic projects.”

The professors and curriculum also made a big impact. “I wanted to climb the ladder in my career,” said Pal, “and the EMBA gave me the knowledge and experience to do that. I was immediately able to apply the knowledge I was gaining in class within my professional life, particularly from my Managerial Economics, Accounting and Population Health courses. For me, Dr. Russ McCullough provided the best learning experience in the EMBA. His teaching was interactive, and he made a special effort to ensure we understood the concepts and had something to take away that could be implemented in the work setting.”

That approach paid off well for Pal. After just one year in the EMBA program, he was promoted to manager of infomatics within the financial risk adjustment analytics department at CVS. “Initially, it was quite tough for me to adjust to simultaneously maintaining my studies and working,” acknowledged Pal. “However, once I started applying the course knowledge in my professional life and getting the maximum out of each course, it became an enjoyable experience.

“Boosting my bachelor’s in computer science with an EMBA has opened new doors of higher and more challenging opportunities, which I feel will take my professional graph upwards. I am going to cherish this learning experience for the rest of my life.”