2012 greenlee glimpse

GREENLEEGlimpse

GOT WORK?

MISSING BARBARA

MACK

THE BEELLREEL

2012Iowa State UniversityGreenlee School of Journalism & CommunicationAlumni Magazine

3Iowa State University 2012

STATE OF THE SCHOOLRecords continue to be broken as the Greenlee School ups its game in enrollment, promotions, awards and fund raising – money challenges notwithstanding. By Michael Bugeja

YEAR IN REVIEW2012 brought Greenlee learning and loss, inspiration and initiative. Take a look at the year that was. By students of Deb Gibson’s Jl MC 344 (feature writing) class

HOW I SPENT MY 2012Faculty and staff recall another year in the rear-view mirror.

THE CARE AND KEEPING OF GREENLEEBarbara (Riedesel) Iverson graced Greenlee’s doors in fall 2012 as she accepted both a prestigious lectureship and the top School alumni award.By Caitlyn Diimig

CATCHING UPRead what your former faculty and classmates are up to these days.

PASSAGESObituaries

GOT WORK?Economy be damned, new Greenlee grads are landing industry jobs. Here’s why.By Angela Christianson and Caitlyn Diimig

WHAT BECOMES A LEGEND MOST?Glimpse pays tribute to Barbara Mack, who charmed, chastised and challenged Greenlee students for 26 years. By John Lonsdale

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

Cover: Laura Bucklin, ‘12, at Vinyl, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.Photo by Christopher De Vargas

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GREENLEE GLIMPSE 2012

THROUGH THE LENS: THE URBINO PROJECTJl MC 390K Prereq: Passport and passion for Italia. Travel with Greenlee students to picturesque Urbino and the assignment of a lifetime.

PROFESSOR BEELL SIGNS OFFThe reviews are in – and Prof. Tom Beell’s 38-year Greenlee career is deemed a classic. By Kate Gibson

CONTENTS

IOWA STATE UNIVERSITYGreenlee School of Journalism & Communication

The Greenlee PromiseWe, the faculty and staff of The Greenlee School, will prepare you for a professional life in journalism and communications, in such a manner

that...

You will be able to recognize, seize and realize opportunities to grow your career.

You will become part of a life-enriching community of ISU Greenlee students, staff, alumni, friends and practicing professionals.

You will learn how to adapt and thrive as a working professional in the digital networked world.

You will be challenged to shape your Greenlee experience to match your individualized, personal aspirations.

You will be astonished and inspired by the access and openness of your advisors and mentors among the Greenlee faculty, staff, alumni and

visiting professionals.

You will become a hands-on practitioner and protector of one of the most vital pillars of service that upholds and empowers a free, civil and

just society.

You will learn how to shape and lead the future of that society and evolve, with integrity, the future of journalism and communications.

You will be expected to work exceptionally hard, as both an individual and a member of a team.

You will be called by and held to the highest standards of academic rigor and personal ethics.

You will have the opportunity to build cherished relationships that last a lifetime.

You will experience the life-changing qualities and power of loyalty – loyalty to a high civic calling, to a community of ideals that will elevate

your life, expand your worldview and ignite your aspirations.

You will embark on a personal journey at Greenlee unlike any other found in schools of journalism and communications anywhere in the

world.

Above all, you will hit the ground running when you complete your graduation requirements and land your first career job.

4 Greenlee Glimpse 5Iowa State University 2012

Angela Christianson is a senior majoring in journalism with a minor in art history. She is a Meredith editorial apprentice for Kraft Food and Family magazine.

Caitlyn Diimig is a Meredith editorial apprentice for Diabetic Living magazine. She is a senior with a double major in journalism and dietetics.

Kate Gibson is a senior journalism major, minoring in apparel merchandising and design. She is a Meredith editorial apprentice for DIY and Refresh magazines.

John Lonsdale is a Meredith editorial apprentice for Better Homes and Gardens magazine. He is a senior in journalism with a minor in critical studies in design and an emphasis in American studies.

Jennifer Schrimper is a senior majoring in graphic design and minoring in advertising. She is a Meredith graphic design apprentice for Meredith Xcelerated Marketing.

Kelsey Schirm is a senior with a double major in journalism and art and design. She is a Meredith editorial apprentice for Country Gardens and Deck, Patio & Pool magazines.

Ann Prowell is a graphic design Meredith apprentice for Traditional Home magazine. She is a senior majoring in graphic design with a minor in political science.

Yue Wu is a junior majoring in journalism. She is the photo director for Sir Magazine and a staff photographer for the Iowa State Daily and the Greenlee School website.

Matt Wettengelis a senior majoring in journalism. He is the managing editor of the Greenlee School Web Team and the managing editor of Ethos magazine.

Deb Gibson, ’81, is a Greenlee School senior clinician, coordinator of ISU’s Meredith Apprentice Program and editor in chief of the Greenlee Glimpse.

Taylar Jacobson is a senior majoring in graphic design. She is a Meredith graphic design apprentice for Diabetic Living magazine.

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTORS

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

Students in Deb Gibson’s Jl MC 344 (Feature Writing) course wrote this magazine’s “Year in Review” and some “Catching Up” alumni profiles.

Students included (front row, left to right): Maren Goeke, Anne Watkins, Abby Gilman and Mindy Dickerson. Second row: Cory Weaver, Leah De Graaf, Erica Lansman, Merritt Rethlake, Paige Berg and Kait McKinney. Top row: Devon O’Brien, Ethan Subra and Lili Ruff. Not pictured: Stephanie Ferguson, Kelsey Kremer and Samantha Lee.

Students in Erin Wilgenbusch’s Jl MC 321 (Public Relations Writing) course wrote this magazine’s “Catching Up” alumni profiles.

Students included (front row, left to right): Mark Jungman, Allie Anderson, Allie Knapp, Sarah Clark, Caroline Havekost, Kaylee Caquelin and Abe Burzette. Back row: Megan Pulse, Christine DeCoudreaux and Heidi Nyhus.

JL MC 344 CLASS PHOTO

JL MC 321 CLASS PHOTO

CONTRIBUTORS


In 2011-12, during the continuation of a serious recession, the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication had

its best year – a selling point in the Advisory Council’s “Why Greenlee?” campaign shown to the governor, select regents, university administrators and media outlets and organizations. Last academic year, instructors, students and staff continued on that trajectory with faculty and student honors, large undergraduate and graduate enrollments, impressive graduation and placement rates, grant acquisition, online course offerings and near-record fund raising.

Individual honors include Sela Sar’s promotion to associate professor with tenure and Deb Gibson’s promotion to senior clinician. Erin Wilgenbusch won the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Introductory Teaching Award and Sheng Ly, the P&S Award for Excellence in Information Technology. Raluca Cozma earned the Jack Shelley Professional Development Award and the Lou Thompson-Harry Heath Outstanding Adviser Award.

Our students earned state, regional and national honors. Since Fall 2011, Greenlee School majors and student organizations won a Hearst Award, three

Pacemaker Awards, three Columbia Scholastic Press Awards, a National Student Production Award, 13 Society of Professional Journalist Region 7 Awards, five Iowa Broadcast News Association Awards, first-place in the Heineken National Collegiate Effie Awards and an Eppy Award for a collaborative project with James Madison University. And in a recognition turnabout, we hosted the Iowa regional Scripps Spelling Bee, with the facilitation of our PRSSA students.

This fall we are welcoming one of our largest incoming cohorts in recent years, with 102 journalism pre-majors, an increase of 18.6 percent over fall 2011, and 29 advertising pre-majors, an increase of 52.6 percent, for a total of 131, the largest number in the largest college at Iowa State University. Our graduate program also has impressive incoming enrollment, which has increased by 40 percent from 15 new students last year to 21 this year, with as many continuing into their second year of the program.

The School also enhanced its four-year graduation rates to 46 percent and its placement rates to 97 percent within six months after commencement. Those students also received support during their time in Hamilton Hall. The School awarded $162,850 in scholarships to current undergraduate students for the 2012-13 academic year, with an additional $20,000 in scholarships given to incoming freshman and transfer students. Graduate assistants received $140,000 in stipends and tuition scholarships from LAS and Greenlee School funds and an additional $22,000 from grant funding.

This summer our students completed internships at leading media and communication organizations including Cosmopolitan, Rolling Stone, Allure, KCCI, the Scripps Wire Service, John Deere, The San Francisco Chronicle, Gannett and Weber Shandwick. Meredith Corporation and the Scripps Howard Foundation underwrote internships and grants. In fact, Meredith’s ongoing generosity to our programs has netted the corporation the ISU’s Foundation’s 2012 Order of the Knoll Award, one of the institution’s most prestigious honors.

We have been generating revenue from online courses. Next year we will generate some from grants. Co-principal investigator Michael Dahlstrom and others have been awarded $250,000

SUCCESS, TRANSITION, OPPORTUNITYby MICHAEL BUGEJA, DIRECTOR

from the National Science Foundation to prepare students to participate in such policy controversies as stem cells and climate change and to establish best communication practices between scientists and citizens.

Perhaps the biggest testament to faculty and student success is a near fund-raising record that also speaks to the value of our degree programs, because it was earned during a recession. Fund-raising productivity for fiscal year 2012 was $1,005,632.75, and that doesn’t include gifts in kind, such as internships and direct student grants, which would bring that total closer to $1.5 million. About half of that figure also is in the form of pledges and future commitments, meaning the funds have not yet arrived in the Foundation for disbursement to the School. But we have replenished our endowments with an additional $120,000 plus earnings, to ensure that professional development, scholarships and other activities are underwritten for the next two years.

The School’s fortitude in weathering change is nothing new. In the past we have dealt successfully with challenge and transitions, creating opportunity and succeeding beyond expectation. We earned sufficient student credit hours while graduating almost half of our own majors in four years. This fall enrollment has increased; we are staffing all of our classes with the help of temporary teaching funds from the College. We welcome a new dean, provost and president. Internally, we also have new leaders in the graduate and undergraduate programs and in other committees as some of our recently tenured faculty step forward. Of course, nothing could have prepared us for the distressing news that our beloved Barbara Mack had passed away. However, in the midst of our mourning, the alumni, faculty, students and staff came together once again.

Let us dedicate this academic year to Barbara’s enduring legacy like that of Jim Schwartz, Jack Shelley and others who have shared their experiences, knowledge and respect for the role of mass communication in our democratic society.

STATE OF THE SCHOOL 2012-13


TRAINING DAY NOTHING PUTS THE

CLASSROOM INTO PERSPECTIVE FASTER THAN ON-THE-JOB TRAINING. SEE HOW GREENLEE STUDENTS PARLAYED THEIR INTERNSHIPS INTO LIFE LESSONS.

by MERRITT RETHLAKE

“I think my favorite assignment was coming up with 50 different kinds of pancakes.”

If this is where the Greenlee School’s internship program can get students, where’s the sign-up?

That short-stacked anecdote from Caitlyn Diimig, senior in journalism and dietetics, is just a small glimpse into her internship at Runner’s World magazine during summer 2012 and an example of the different experiences Greenlee students have gained through their work at publications, organizations and agencies.

Diimig spent this past summer in Emmaus, Pa., working as an editorial intern for her dream magazine, where just one perk included interviewing celebrity runners. Diimig was ecstatic landing her fantasy gig, especially since she didn’t have previous internship experience. But this is where the Greenlee School came into play.

“I think the editors appreciated my[campus] involvement,” she says. By then, Diimig had worked as an editor for the Flavors section and as a cross-country writer for the Iowa State Daily, and as an editor for SIR magazine. Diimig continues her editorial experience this school year as

a Meredith apprentice writing for Diabetic Living.

Also finding their niches in the magazine industry are seniors Taysha Murtaugh and Devon O’Brien. They landed the acclaimed American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) internships in New York over the summer. Calling themselves a “team from the beginning,” these two women were among 35 students selected from hundreds of applicants. And in case they needed some extra bragging rights, this was only the second time both Iowa State applicants have been chosen for the program in the same year.

Murtaugh was a marketing intern for InStyle magazine and O’Brien an editorial intern for Food Network magazine. O’Brien had long been a fan of her magazine and her experience there confirmed her desire to write for a food publication after graduation. Murtaugh says she grasped InStyle’s mantra of being “lovely” in all situations; her goals include writing for a parents’ magazine.

Both were well-versed in magazine culture before they started their internships, thanks to Greenlee publications, Ethos and SIR, and the Meredith Apprenticeship Program, where Murtaugh wrote for Better Homes & Gardens’ website. O’Brien wrote for Kraft Food and Family and Diabetic Living, and is now writing for Meredith’s Michigan Travel Ideas, a special publication from Midwest Living. O’Brien also serves as editor in chief of Ethos magazine this year.

The two agreed the most beneficial parts of their ASME internships were gaining VIP access into 30 different publications and meeting a multitude of peers and professionals in New York.

“Fight and pursue every opportunity,” says Murtaugh. “And just because it’s not what you expected doesn’t mean it’s not great.”

DETERMINATION PAYS OFF

“I talked my way into my photography internship,” laughs Zhenru Zhang, a senior in journalism and mass communication who received an offer from the Cape Cod Times newspaper.

Zhang credits his sports photography for the Iowa State Daily for helping snag his spot at Cape Cod Times. Now, he’s a photographer and part-time videographer for Ethos magazine. Zhang said that through his work at ISU and in Cape Cod, he prefers shooting feature stories and longer projects because there’s more interaction with people.

“JUST BECAUSE IT’S NOT WHAT YOU EXPECTED DOESN’T MEAN IT’S NOT GREAT.”

— TAYSHA MURTAUGH

Caitlyn Diimig

Meredith Spragg

Briana Haguewood

Taysha Murtaugh and Devon O’Brien

YEAR IN REVIEW


“Sometimes I worked on the fly. Sometimes I applied things from school,” Zhang says.

Meredith Spragg, senior in journalism and mass communication, rubbed shoulders with Donald Driver and other Green Bay Packers through her broadcast internship with FOX 11 in Green Bay, Wis., over the summer.

Spragg’s photos from the Packers’ training camp were uploaded to an online photo gallery, and they also were shown on Green Bay’s No. 1 news station.

An active ISUtv staff member, Spragg incorporated skills learned in the campus studio and put them to good use in Green Bay. She had produced the sports segment for ISUtv, which she says prepared her for FOX 11. “With the wide variety of options that Greenlee has, I could go into my internship and be very versatile,” Spragg says. While in Green Bay, she learned more about multimedia production and started to build a professional network.

Randi Reeder, senior in journalism and mass communication, tackled editorial and photography in her internship with the Daily Times Herald newspaper in Carroll, Iowa. “I did a lot of chicken stories,” she laughs. She also covered baseball and softball, both editorially and visually, and even wrote some longer-length feature stories.

“The best stories you write are when you’re in your subject’s element,” she says.

Working for the Daily acclimated Reeder to news reporting. She still shoots photos for the Daily, and just accepted a communications internship with Iowa State’s athletics department.

At school, Briana Haguewood is known as a positive and easy-going junior in journalism in mass communication. But at the Des Moines Art Festival, she was known as the “face of the festival” to all nonprofit organizations in the Des Moines area.

She found her PR internship after chatting with an older Greenlee student and then went to find more information online. Haguewood says the Adobe design programs experience she gained in her visual principles lab set her apart from other internship candidates.

She served as the Festival’s main point of contact and communicated information between participating organizations and the event’s leadership.

“It was a lot of work but a completely worthwhile feeling that I had a large hand in the Festival,” Haguewood says. (A few months later, Haguewood was selected for a second internship, this one with the prestigious World Food Prize Foundation.)

Out on the West Coast, Cameron Johnson, senior in advertising, interned at Supercool Creative, a medium-sized advertising agency in West Hollywood.

After relentlessly researching ad agencies, Johnson settled on Supercool Creative and went to work in account management and social media. Most of Johnson’s summer was spent managing the account for a Dickie’s Clothing campaign.

Johnson capitalized on his communication skills as he helped hire film crews and production teams, and he took on the communication role among the agency, production and Dickie’s.

“I think the Greenlee School really put me in a place where I knew how to apply for internships, and I knew what the work environment would be like,” Johnson said.

SIR-IOUSLY FOR MEN

John Lonsdale, Greenlee School senior, dreamed of and envisioned creating a magazine devoted to men on campus. After interning at Maxim during summer 2011, Lonsdale returned to Ames ready to launch SIR. “I wanted to create a magazine that was unique and didn’t want it to be GQ, Esquire or Maxim. I just wanted it to be SIR,” Lonsdale said. SIR differs from other ISU student publications by aiming its content at men on campus. Although this is the prominent demographic for the magazine, Lonsdale explained he wants SIR to attract readers

of both sexes. “It’s a men’s magazine, but we want the SIR experience to be something everyone can relate to in some way,” Lonsdale said. According to Lonsdale, the magazine has been a success due to funding from the Government of the Student Body and its staff. Lonsdale said he was thankful for the incredible help from students and hopes to have more involved this semester. SIR’s first issue was released last spring; the second issue was distributed in December. http://issuu.com/isusirmagazine

NATIONALIowa State Daily: • Society of Professional

Journalists finalist, best affiliated website.

• Associated Collegiate Press/College Media Association:

5th place, photo excellence: Nicole Wiegand 6th place, Best in Show, daily broadsheet category Honorable mention Page One design, Brigitte Fleckenstein Honorable mention daily ad, Daily ad staffEthos magazine: • Associated Collegiate Press/

College Media Association:• 4th place, feature story,

Devon O’Brien• 5th place, design of the year,

Danny Maller• 5th place, best of show website• 6th place, best of show feature

magazine

REGIONALSociety of Professional Journalists:• Daily: best all-around student

newspaper• First-place awards: Kelsey

Kremer (photography), Jake Calhoun (sports writing) and Jessica Bruning (general column writing). A total of 15 ISU entries placed in the competition.

STATE Iowa Broadcast News Association:• Four Greenlee students won

2nd and 3rd-place awards in news photography, feature and political coverage categories

GREENLEE STUDENTS GRAB TOP MEDIA AWARDS – AGAIN

compiled by KELSEY KREMER

by PAIGE BERG

“THE ABILITY TO DISCERN AND THINK CRITICALLY IS AT THE HEART OF JOURNALISM…” Barbara Iverson, Chamberlin Lecture - October 2012

Zhenru Zhang Cameron Johnson

Randi Reeder John Lonsdale

YEAR IN REVIEW


IN PRAISE OF PERFORMANCEby DEVON O’BRIEN, KAIT MCKINNEY AND ETHAN SUBRA

Sela Sar, Associate Professor From Cambodia to Europe and on to Iowa State University, Sela Sar now comfortably calls Ames his home. The Greenlee faculty member investigates how mood and emotions influence people’s understanding of advertising messages. Color him elated when he heard in April he had been awarded tenure in addition to a promotion to associate professor. A scholarship brought Sar to the United States for his graduate studies

at the University of Minnesota, where he earned both master’s and doctoral degrees. His work has earned Sar numerous accolades, including the top faculty competition paper award from the advertising division of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, and the best reviewer award of the year for The Journal of Advertising by the American Academy of Advertising. Sar has also earned the Center for Excellence in the Arts and

Humanities research grant fellowship for the 2013 fiscal year. Sar considers himself “a channel of higher learning for students” and finds astonishment in his classes. “I am always amazed at the creativity and potential of most students,” he reflects. “I find teaching highly rewarding.” Sar finds that he now has more responsibilities as an associate professor but says his teaching philosophy remains the same. “I’m always concerned about students learning.” – KM

Erin Wilgenbusch, Senior Lecturer Erin Wilgenbusch, senior lecturer, has a quote pinned on the bulletin board above her desk: “Cultivate enthusiasm. People will like you better; you will escape the dull routine of a mechanical existence and you will make headway wherever you are,” by Jonathan Ogden Armour. These words are the basis of Wilgenbusch’s teaching philosophy and the foundation for the proposal that would land her the 2012 Excellence in Undergraduate Introductory Teaching Award from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. After the application was submitted, there were months of waiting before Wilgenbusch finally received an email saying she had won. “That was

awesome – I had kind of forgotten about it,” she recalls. As “awesome” as the award itself was for Wilgenbusch, who teaches public relations courses as well as Jl MC 101, what was more rewarding was the support she received from all the people who nominated her and wrote her recommendations. She says the best moments out of the whole experience were the heartwarming letters written by her students. “To be recognized by the college on a large scale is really nice and flattering,” she says. “I feel grateful … I just come in and do my job everyday and the fact that I love what I do, I guess comes through and people see that.” – DOB

GREENLEE’S EMBARRASSMENT OF PERSONNEL RICHES CONTINUED IN 2012 AS FACULTY AND STAFFERS TOOK HOME THEIR VERSIONS OF THE GOLD

Jay Newell, Associate Professor What does Jay Newell, associate professor of advertising, love about Iowa State? “We are just small enough to be able to try interesting things but big enough to pull them off,” he says. He takes advantage of this by setting up classroom video conferences for students to speak with professionals all over the world, providing Chinese translations on all of his lecture slides and organizing student advisory groups for each of his classes to garner feedback. And that’s why he was named runner-up for the national Scripps-Howard Outstanding Teacher of the Year award. Newell says he has “a belief in what people can do – even if they don’t know they can do it,” but he never saw this coming for himself. The news of his nomination brought him both happiness and embarrassment. “While I might do some things differently … I know there are better teachers out there … even within this school there are unbelievable instructors that make huge impacts,” Newell says. “I just happened to get the paperwork in on time.” – DOB

“THE FACT THAT I LOVE WHAT I DO, I GUESS COMES THROUGH AND PEOPLE SEE THAT”

YEAR IN REVIEW


Sheng Ly, Analyst and Programmer Any J-school student who has checked out multimedia equipment from Hamilton’s Room 16 has entered the Greenlee School’s data management, web application and IT services realm. The man behind many of those operations is Sheng Ly, who was awarded the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Excellence in Information Technology Award for his job as analyst and programmer for the Greenlee School. Ly started at Greenlee in 2006 after graduating from Iowa State’s College of Engineering with a degree in computer engineering. Hailing from Atlantic, Iowa, Ly said he is pleased about

his recognition as a Greenlee staff member. “To me it’s a representation of the appreciation of the faculty and staff that I do the work for,” Ly says. “Sometimes you’re able to meet all those needs on time; other times it’s more work, but you still do it.” Ly mainly focuses on data management and web application but also does backup IT work for the school. Fortunately for Greenlee, “As long as I’m happy and they’re happy with what I’m doing, I’ll be around for awhile,” Ly said. – KM

Gang Han, Assistant Professor Thanks to the ISU Miller Faculty Fellowship Award Gang Han won in 2012, he can continue his work to improve students’ interaction and learning in his theory-based communications classes. The award covers one year of expenses, and Han already has begun to implement his plan of integrating team-based learning into his mass communication theory class. Han tried some elements of the TBL approach before applying for the grant, and since receiving the award has fully adopted that method. He used the grant to purchase TBL test-taking supplies and to hire students as teaching assistants, allowing Han to be more effective at monitoring what he calls one of the first-ever “experiments” with TBL in a social sciences environment. “Helping students want to read something and learn from class is challenging, particularly to instructors teaching theory classes,” said Han. “I wanted to create a friendly environment in which students could learn.” – ES

Raluca Cozma, Assistant Professor Raluca Cozma, assistant professor of electronic media studies, worked hard submitting a proposal to win the Greenlee School Jack Shelley Professional Development Award, named for the late beloved WHO radio and TV reporter and former Greenlee School faculty member. Upon being selected for the award, Cozma headed for an externship at Des Moines CBS affiliate KCCI-TV, an experience she would use to improve the education of her students in class and on ISUtv. Although Cozma didn’t know it at the time, the Jack Shelley Award wasn’t

the only reason she was recognized at the Greenlee Futures Forum in April. She recalls a coworker telling her to sit right in the front (“He was very persistent about it; that’s when I should have known.”) The big surprise came when Cozma was presented with the School’s Harry Heath Advising Award. Unlike the Shelley Award, this accolade was the result of student nominations – unbeknownst to Cozma. “It really means a lot to me because it was such a big surprise,” Cozma says. “Knowing it comes from students who are so hard to please means the world to me.” – DOB“TO ME IT’S A

REPRESENTATION OF THE APPRECIATION OF THE FACULTY AND STAFF THAT I DO THE WORK FOR”

ISU in 2012

by CORY WEAVER JAN

It took nearly eight years to complete, but State Gym was finally renovated. A new aquatic pool, basketball courts, athletic equipment and a climbing wall highlight the newly remodeled facility.

9MAR

15For the first time since 2005, the ISU men’s basketball team got invited to the dance. It took Fred Hoiberg just two years to bring his alma mater back to the promised land as the Cyclones advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

APRIL

2Beate Schmittmann assumed her new role as dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Schmittman, a physicist, replaced Michael Whiteford, who retired.

Schmittmann leadsLAS college

Men’s basketball returns to NCAA Tournament

Renovated StateGym opens MAY

8Jonathan Wickert received a big promotion in May. The dean of the College of Engineering was selected as ISU’s new senior vice president and provost after Elizabeth Hoffman resigned following five years at the helm.

Dean Jonathan Wickert namedsenior VP and provost

YEAR IN REVIEW


Graduate students got a chance to experience political communication firsthand. JLMC 598K, taught by assistant professor Raluca Cozma during fall 2012, explored how the media cover politics, with a focus on social media. Cozma used the current U.S. elections to talk about how the American electorate works. For example, when President Barack Obama visited campus in September, students were required to attend. Students also were required to use Twitter to communicate news items using the hashtag #598K. These tweets were then used to help lead class discussion.

WHAT’S NEW ON THE 2012 COURSE DOCKETby STEPH FERGUSON

Earlier this year, the Greenlee School was named one of the top 20 journalism schools in the country by College Media Matters. “When you have active students who are winning awards, you get noticed,” said Michael Bugeja, Greenlee School director. According to Bugeja, student media played a large role in this particular ranking, and the ranking tells him Greenlee students are doing a “tremendous job.” Dan Reimold, Ph.D., author of the online post and college journalism scholar, based the list on conversations with students and young alumni, as well as his personal knowledge of journalism schools.

GREENLEE CRACKS THE TOP 20by LEAH DE GRAAF

To help bridge the communication gap between scientists and non-scientists,assistant professor Michael Dahlstrom has received a $250,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. For three years, Dahlstrom will be working with Jean Goodwin, professor of English; Clark Wolf, professor of philosophy and religious studies and Mari Kemis, assistant director of ISU’s Research Institute for Studies in Education, to define the normative expectations of communication between scientists and non-scientists. The study will focus on expectations such as hype,

advocacy and spin. The first round of the study will work with “snowball sampling” of controversies that scientists have experienced. The team then will select eight controversies and talk to the stakeholders involved to help recreate what happened and then develop case studies. These case studies will be used to pilot graduate classes at 14 partner institutions. The end goal is to train future scientists to use these case studies and situations to be able to justify their choices of communication.

GRANT TO BOLSTER SCIENCE SPEAKby STEPH FERGUSON

BARBARA MACK MEMORIAL The Iowa State community gathered Friday, Sept. 7, to celebrate the life of Greenlee professor Barbara Mack, who passed away unexpectedly during the first week of the fall semester. Former students like CNN’s Christine Romans (above) and colleagues of Mack spoke before the crowd of more than 400, sharing memories of the late professor that evoked both laughter and tears from the audience.

SCRIPPS SPELLING BEE The Greenlee School hosted the Scripps-Howard Iowa spelling bee for the first time on Saturday, Feb. 4. The event was planned and coordinated by the ISU chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America.

ISU’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter always has set its goals high – to host successful events, learn about the public relations industry and gain national recognition for the work it accomplishes. In October, the group was awarded PRSA’s The Star Chapter Award, earned by meeting specific chapter and professional development goals. “I was beyond proud of our chapter’s accomplishments last year, and I was very honored that our hard work was recognized. I hope each year Iowa State PRSSA will continue applying because it is great recognition for our school and chapter, and it was a great way to cap off

a fabulous year,” said Laura Bucklin, the 2011-12 ISU PRSSA president. Projects that continued to establish the chapter’s significance in 2012 included the third annual Donate to Look Great Fashion Show, a campus-wide clothing drive that led up to a fashion show of all gently-used clothes. The chapter also participated in a project for The National Organ Donor Awareness Competition, or NODAC, and the Greenlee School of Journalism and PRSSA are again hosting the Iowa spelling competition for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which last year sent a fifth-grader to Washington, D.C., with an all-expense paid trip.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND BIG PLANS FOR PRSSAby ERICA LANSMAN

As spring semester 2012 wound down, signs of the impending summer took root in Hamilton, right down to the flip flops stapled to the bulletin boards.

What?

Chalk up the featured footwear to Cardinal and Gold, a student-run in-house advertising agency advised by associate professor Jay Newell. Under the leadership of president Bailey Griffith, junior in advertising, and Elizabeth Serner, senior in advertising, the agency has created campaigns for the Greenlee School Futures Forum and the School’s summer classes (complete with copy printed on the aforementioned flip flops). According to Griffith, Cardinal and Gold provides students “a real world look at how the advertising industry works.”

The School’s Advertising Club, led by senior Madi Linkenmeyer, completed an agency trip to Minneapolis in 2012. The students visited Best Buy corporate offices as well as several agencies. According to Linkenmeyer, “ The main goal of the club is networking and finding out what types of jobs are out there in advertising.”

HAMILTON’S HOMEGROWNby SAMANTHA LEE

JULY

Mayly Sanchez, ISU assistant professor of physics and astronomy, received the national Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers for her work in neutrino physics. Sanchez splits her time between Iowa State and the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory.23POTUS pick JULY

Four current and former Cyclones competed in the London Games over the summer. Lisa Uhl, Guor Marial and Ian Warner ran in track events while Jake Varner took home a gold medal in wrestling, the first Iowa Stater since Cael Sanderson did so in 2004.27Cyclones in the Olympics AUG

For the second year in a row, Iowa State saw another record-breaking wave of students. More than 31,000 now call ISU home, which left many freshmen living in residence hall dens and other temporary spaces early in the semester.20Record enrollment…again

YEAR IN REVIEW


NEW HIRES JOIN GREENLEE FACULTYby ABBY GILMAN AND MINDY DICKERSON

Tracy Lucht, Assistant Professor

Tracy Lucht’s ISU adventure has been a winding one, but fortunately she joined the like-minded of Hamilton Hall as an assistant professor in the fall, teaching sections of reporting and writing for the mass media and the history of American journalism. She graduated from Greenlee in 1997 with her bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication, and after a two-year stint at the Des Moines Register, she returned to Iowa State to earn her master’s degree and teach her first courses. Upon completing her master’s degree in 2001, Lucht set her sights on Washington, D.C., where she pursued and completed a doctorate at the University of Maryland and worked as a copy editor for the Washington Post and USA Today. She and her family returned to her Midwest roots for her first teaching job at Simpson College in Indianola, and four years later to Iowa State. “I’ve always been envious of people who go in a straight line. I was not one of those people,” Lucht said. “But even if you don’t have it all planned out, you can start paying attention. Be curious about the world around you -- that’s what will help you.”– AG

Jermaine Johnson, Lecturer

No one can replace the late Barbara Mack. But Jermaine Johnson willingly accepted the challenge to take over her Jl MC 460 (Mass Communication Law) course after serving as Mack’s teaching assistant for just one week. Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Clemson University, then worked as a chemist for the Savannah River National Laboratory in Aiken, S.C. Johnson’s science background sparked an interest in patent law, which resulted in his earning a law degree from the University of South Carolina in 2006. Following three years at a law firm in Greenville, S.C., Johnson moved to Iowa after his wife accepted a teaching position at Drake University in 2010. In 2011, Johnson began an ISU Ph.D. program in educational leadership and policy studies with a concentration in social justice. “I hope the students come away from the [law] course with a knowledge of historical law, be able to apply it to anything they do and avoid getting in trouble,” Johnson said. – MD

Michael Wigton, Lecturer Imagine a professor asking students to log in to Facebook during class. New Greenlee lecturer Michael Wigton did more than just ask; he incorporated the social media powerhouse into the syllabuses of his courses. Wigton, a 1990 Greenlee School graduate, kicked off his resumé with 15 years experience at several Minneapolis advertising agencies and a stint at the Arnold Agency in Washington, D.C., where he won an Effie award for a Northwest Airlines campaign. Upon completing his master’s degree at Concordia University in St. Paul, Minn., Wigton returned to Hamilton, where he teaches advertising and public relations courses. “I think the students here are really passionate about their work,” Wigton said. “It’s fun being back in the same halls.” – AG

To learn more about new assistant professor Jane Fritsch, a Pulitzer Prize winner, see page 25.

WU CAPTURES NATIONAL JOURNALISM AWARDby ETHAN SUBRA

Considering she almost didn’t submit her multimedia project to the national Hearst Journalism Awards Program, Greenlee junior Yue Wu fared pretty well. The China native took fifth place in the multimedia III category of the national competition, receiving an award certificate as well as $1,000 for herself and $1,000 for the Greenlee School. Dennis Chamberlin, Greenlee associate professor and Wu’s inspiration for her passion for photojournalism, submitted Wu’s work. “I forgot to even submit it because I had many other times and never won,” said Wu. “A few months later he texted me ‘congratulations’ and I was shocked.” Wu’s winning entry was a multimedia package of video and photos from the first day of the Occupy Des Moines movement in 2011.

MR. WETTENGEL GOES TO WASHINGTONby ETHAN SUBRA

Matt Wettengel, Greenlee senior, is $5,000 richer and the recipient of an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., after he won the Hugh Sidey Scholarship in April. Wettengel submitted his essay on how social media affects presidential reporting and how changes in technology have affected reporting on politics over time. His was a unanimous choice by the panel of judges, including Greenlee School director Michael Bugeja, Ken Sidey and Lou Thompson. Wettengel said he did minimal research before writing his essay because he wanted to keep the piece conversational, using what he was learning and already knew of reporting, social media and the political arena. “I scanned the articles of past winners and tried to make mine more applicable to my life,” said Wettengel, “more about technology and how it has changed.”

CHEERS TO THE EFFIE courtesy of GREENLEE SCHOOL WEB TEAM

Greenlee advertising students are on a roll. Seniors Matthew Irwin, Adam Carver and Ben Friedrich took the National Collegiate Effie Award during summer 2012, the second in two years for Iowa State. For its first-place efforts in the Collegiate Effie Heineken USA PSA Challenge, the team won $3,000 for its “Bottles for Tunes” public service announcement entry, focused on a green theme of recycling beverage containers in exchange for music downloads through social media. The winning PSA evolved from the men’s Greenlee capstone course ADVRT436 (Advertising Portfolio Practicum), taught by lecturer John Thomas. According to Thomas, “It is

important to note that Effie judges represent some of the very best agencies in the advertising world. There were two judges’ comments regarding the Greenlee team that we should be very proud of: ‘Better than a lot of agencies would deliver’ and ‘Could compete in the agency Effies because of the high level of professionalism.’”

To view the winning PSA, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHmaS7DMskI&list=PLCD1F20B2483CBF30&index=2&feature=plpp_video Last year’s ISU team of Justin Lobaito, Lucas A. Droessler and Maria Beresneva won the award. A second ISU team of Tyler Stafford, Natalie Quenzer and Amanda Hendricks won honorable mention.

FIRST AMENDMENT DAYIowa State celebrated the 10th annual FirstAmendment Day April 12, with a day of activitiesplanned by Greenlee students and faculty. Festiv-ties included a freedom march from Ames City Hall to Beardshear Hall, a session on protesting and a debate on religion in schools.

CHINESE NEW YEARMembers of the Greenlee School gathered to celebrate the Chinese New Year at a celebrationorganized by Greenlee graduate students and assistant professor Gang Han. The celebrationincluded traditional Chinese food, dances, artwork, and cultural activities like chopstick use, milk tea making, and wonton wrapping.

AUG

U.S. President Barack Obama spoke tomore than 6,000 attendees on a swelteringcentral campus about the importanceof voting in the 2012 election. Even ISUfootball coach Paul Rhoads got a POTUSshout-out for his rousing pre- and postgame team speeches.29President Obama visits Iowa State SEPT

Iowa State cracked the top50 in U.S. News and WorldReport’s “America’s BestColleges” rankings. Of the173 best national publicuniversities, Iowa State tookhome No. 46 (No. 44 in 2011).12ISU ranked 46 among top colleges SEPT

President Steven Leath expressedhis goals and dreams for IowaState as he was installed as theschool’s 15th president. Leathsucceeded previous presidentGregory Geoffroy, who servedfrom 2001-12.14President Leath’s installation DEC

At press time, the ISU football team was headed to the Liberty Bowl (the third bowl game under Coach Paul Rhoads), and the ISU women’s volleyball team advanced to the NCAA Sweet 16 in Berkeley, Calif.5Post-Season Pride

YEAR IN REVIEW


HOW I SPENT MY 2012ONCE AGAIN, GREENLEE FACULTY AND STAFF TURN IN THEIR YEAR-END REPORTSPHOTOS BY YUE WU

ERIC ABBOTTPROFESSORInternational work once again was important in 2012 for Eric Abbott. During the first half of the year, he completed a year-long project assessing vulnerabilities of farmers in Tajikistan as part of a joint World Bank/USAID/DFID project. Results were presented in a series of five workshops in five days in Dushanbe in May. In March, he also traveled to Uganda to help facilitate a three-day workshop designed to assess training of farmers in the Kamuli district. As part of his visit, Abbott worked with graduate student Tian Cai, who was running an experiment to see whether locally produced video shown with small portable video projectors could improve training for farmers in the area. The third trip for the year was a vacation trip with Tatyana and son Andy to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. They arrived just in time to experience a glancing blow from Hurricane Ernesto. Back in Ames this fall, Abbott has returned to teaching a course in the Tech-nology and Social Change program as well as his usual print editing course. During the summer, he completed his 23rd RAGBRAI bike ride across Iowa along with son Matt.

MICHAEL BUGEJADIRECTOR

Bugeja is happy to be back in the classroom teaching orientation sections and ethics, but unhappy that dear friend and colleague Barbara Mack no longer is with us, although the School is committed to her legacy of putting students first. He was invited to present his research on technology and society at Oxford University, a high point of his 34-year career. The Bugeja family is good, with Mikayle learning Taekwondo and Shane learn-ing agronomy in Germany. Erin and grandchildren are well in West Virginia. Bugeja is writing and reporting for several educational and numismatic trade newspapers and magazines. He especially enjoys his white 140-pound German shepherd dog Ellie, who explores with him the many wooded paths and lush prairies in north Ames.

FACULTY & STAFF

BECKY IRISHSECRETARY

Heading into her final year at the Greenlee School, and then retirement!

JAY NEWELLASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

Newell’s year started with a bucket-list worthy event–giving the graduation speech at the LAS spring commencement. The rest of the year hasn’t been quite so dramatic, but plenty interesting. This year he’s serving as head of the AEJMC ad division. Teaching at Greenlee has been a year for innovation. The Ad Principles course now enrolls many international students, including significant numbers from Chinese-speaking countries. A Greenlee grad student, Nai-Se Li, has translated the course Powerpoints and syllabi into Chinese. Among the outcomes findings is that domestic students also like the internation-al approach to teaching. The U.S. students know that ISU is preparing them for careers likely to take them beyond borders, and the multilingual approach is a symbol of how to handle change. The education at Greenlee goes beyond coursework. Newell says he’s been delighted to see the growth of Cardinal and Gold Advertising, the student-run ad agency. The students are taking on strategy and design projects, and doing an outstand-ing job. It’s impressive what students can do when challenged.

ERIN WILGENBUSCHSENIOR LECTURERWilgenbusch reports the past year was a lot of fun! She once again got to teach the Journalism and Literature course, which she just loves, and Greenlee’s PRSSA chapter played host to the Iowa finals of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Additionally, she helped the Roland-Story High School FFA chapter prepare its communication teams for state competition. At the end of the school year, it presented her with an honorary chapter award. She now serves on the agriculture educational advisory committee at Roland-Story High School. Wilgenbusch also enjoyed some fun this summer by play-ing golf (or trying to) with friends and watching her kids play ball. The fall got off to a great start with nearly 600 students in her classes and PRSSA with a slate full of events. Wilgenbusch said she anticipates plenty more fun to be had.


FACULTY & STAFF

DANIELA DIMITROVAASSOCIATE PROFESSOR & DIRECTOR,

GRADUATE EDUCATION A week before the fall 2012 semester started, Dimitrova says she knew it was going to be different: She had just met a half-dozen Chinese students who showed up in Hamilton, eager and excited to join the Greenlee master’s program. The move to director of gradu-ate education is her most notable professional development for 2012. In the classroom, she continues to engage students in discussion and learning about the legal, ethical and social impacts of communication technologies on society. Just last spring she conducted an online collaboration between her ISU students and students at Sofia University, Bulgaria, illustrating the truly global effects of social media. In the research realm, she continues to explore how the news media cover political issues and develop a predictive model to explain the frame-building process. Her latest academic article in this line of research is titled, “Identifying Antecedents of the Strategic Game Frame: A Longitudi-nal Analysis,” and will soon appear in Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, a premier journal in the field.

RALUCA COZMAASSISTANT PROFESSOR A research grant from ISU’s Center for Excellence in the Arts and Humanities (CEAH) kept Cozma busy this summer with analysis of the political communication taking place on social media during the 2012 primaries. A Jack Shelley Professional Develop-ment Award offered her the opportunity to spend time in the (Des Moines) KCCI-TV newsroom in July, an inspiring experience she’d like to repeat in future summers. Cozma incorporated the lessons learned from these scholarly and professional activities in the classes she taught in the fall – a political communication seminar for graduate students, which explores the media coverage of the ongoing presidential campaigns, and a TV production class, in which undergraduate students put a live news show on air twice a week (see their podcasts at http://podcast.jlmc.iastate.edu/groups/istatenewsfall12/blog/). Cozma also gets to combine her research and teaching interests in her service activities this year as the faculty adviser of ISUtv and as the newly appointed research co-chair of the newspaper and online news division of our foremost academic conven-tion, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC).

DIANE BUGEJASENIOR LECTURER

The Greenlee School faculty and staff continue to work hard for Iowa State University. Class enrollment in Public Relation 305 for non-majors grows as does her assignment line-edits! In nearly 10 years of service to ISU, she feels blessed being part of the Green-lee School where colleagues are collegial despite the numerous higher administration turnovers, economic models, downturns and budget-driven discourse. In Hamilton Hall she witnesses faculty and staff giving students 150 percent in and out of the classroom, yet still finding time to pursue research, outreach and service on countless committees. Magic doesn’t just happen in Hilton… it happens in Greenlee, too!

KIM CURELLGRADUATE SECRETARY

Curell reports she can’t believe another year has passed by so quickly. She will soon be in her 12th year at the Greenlee School. This school year started out with a change: Daniela Dimitrova is now the director of graduate education (DOGE) as Eric Abbott has stepped down from the position. (“Congratulations, Daniela.”) Curell looks forward to working closely with her as the graduate program secretary, and thanks Eric for the years he devoted to the program. (“It was a pleasure working with you.”) The master’s program had a record number of incoming students this semester, with more than 20 new students! The program is growing! On the home front, Curell’s family is doing great. Husband Jim is enjoying retirement and golf. He was the state Senior Player of the Year the last two years...oops, that kind of tells his age. Their son, Andy, is the daddy of a 2-year-old daughter, Josie, who in Grandma Curell’s eyes is the cutest, most precious little girl in the world. The Curells also celebrated younger son Ryan’s marriage Sept. 29. “Life is good, life is precious, live it to the fullest. Live, Love, Laugh,” Curell says.

DEBRA GIBSONSENIOR CLINICIAN & MEREDITH PROFESSIONAL IN RESIDENCEWithout question, Gibson’s professional highlight for 2012 was her promotion to senior clinician/Meredith professional in residence. Now in her ninth year at the Greenlee School, she continues to teach writing courses, advise SIR magazine, serve as academic adviser to 40-plus majors and of course, coordinate the fabulous Meredith Apprentice Program. MAP alumni still land magazine writing, editing and design jobs with the na-tion’s top magazine publishers. Likewise, Greenlee’s magazine students scored some of the country’s most prestigious internships in 2012, with nine working during the summer in Manhattan. A personal highlight was Deb’s trip to Italy in May with her daughter and sister. She and husband Kerry Gibson, ’79, celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in September, and kids Kate and Sam continue the family tradition as ISU students. Life is good.

TRACY LUCHTASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Lucht is thrilled to return to the Greenlee School, where she earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She says she cannot think of another program that cares as much about its students and alumni. She looks forward to continuing that tradition. She also looks forward to continuing her historical research on women and the media. Lucht is finishing a book manuscript about personal finance columnist Sylvia Porter, which is under contract with Syracuse University Press. Her next project will investigate re-gional differences in the experiences of women journalists. The year has brought many happy changes for Lucht’s family. They are settling into a new neighborhood in Des Moines, where her husband, Paul Soucy, publishes the weekly international edition of USA Today from his home office (just one example of how technology has transformed journalism). Their sons, Quentin, 5, and T.J., 2, started their new schools the same week fall classes started at ISU. Lucht reports they are busy but managing to enjoy all that Des Moines and Ames have to offer. Go Cyclones!


Having worked in radio for many years, I still find myself watching the clock, just to make sure I am not running over my allotted time. That behavior is particularly impor-tant now that I’m winding up my career at Iowa State. On May 15, after 38 years at ISU, I will be cleaning out my office in Hamilton Hall and heading for that amorphous state known as retirement. When I joined the faculty in August 1975, Jim Schwartz was still chair, Jack Shelley, Bill Kunerth, Dick Disney, Lorraine Wechsler and Ed Blinn were still teaching reporting and news writing, and ISU still owned a commercial television station. My first assignment was to teach students how to shoot and edit 16mm movie film. The world has turned on its axis since then. Film cameras have gone the way of Linotype machines, manual typewriters and the dodo bird. Now I’m editing video on my laptop and reading email on my smart phone. Thanks to my students and a terrific group of IT guys, I’ve managed to stay one step ahead of obsolescence. I will miss the daily contact with students and my colleagues, but I intend to keep connected to Green-lee somehow. I’ll try to keep my communication skills current by volunteering at our new community radio station in Ames, and helping out with political and social groups in the area. It’s hard not to rely on clichés to express how quickly the years have flown by. But one in particular seems apropo: Time flies, they say, but no; time stays, it’s we who go.

TOM BEELLPROFESSOR

FACULTY & STAFF

SELA SARASSOCIATE PROFESSORThe 2011-2012 school year was a productive year for Sela Sar. He was tenured and promoted to associate professor. During this time, Sar had four of his papers published in top advertising journals, advancing his research on mood and risk communication, and he was awarded a CEAH summer research grant. In addition to his publications, Sar was the recipient of the Top 2 faculty paper award at AEJMC in Chicago. Also, he was appointed to an associate editorship of the Asian Journal of Communication. Sar says he is always amazed at the creativity and potential of most students, and finds teaching highly rewarding. Sar also enjoys research that involves examining how mood and emotions influence people’s understanding of advertising messages. According to Sar, “The experience of attaining the title of associate professor has helped me to grow as a teacher and as a conduit of higher learning for students. I believe that anyone can achieve their goals in life through hard work and perseverance. I am simply here to assist those who desire a career in advertising.”

Doak says it’s hard to believe he’s in his sixth year at the Greenlee School. As the cliche´ goes, it seems like only yesterday he retired from the Des Moines Register and jumped at the opportunity to teach a few courses at his alma mater. This sixth year seems like the first. Perhaps that’s because he says he still feels like a beginner as an instructor, and perhaps because getting a fresh batch of JLMC 201 students every semester gives one the sense of perpetual new beginnings. Doak says he is “the luckiest old guy in Iowa,” having such a sweet way to stave off the golden years and maybe give back a little, too.

RICHARD DOAKLECTURER

JANE FRITSCHASSISTANT PROFESSORJane Fritsch, a journalist with a varied background, joined the faculty fall semester. She has worked for the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Associated Press and the Chicago Tribune. As a reporter for the New York Times, she covered the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and contributed to “A Nation Challenged,” the Times coverage that was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. She and a colleague were finalists for the Pulitzer Prize in investigative reporting while at the Times, where she also worked as a reporter in the Washington bureau, a projects editor and an editor at The Week in Review. At the Los Angeles Times, she was the chief city hall reporter and did investigative projects. Over the years, she has written about a broad range of subjects, including science, the arts, banking, children’s books and crime. At the Chicago Tribune, she was the chief reporter for the trial of the serial killer John Wayne Gacy. Most recently, she was Web news editor and a senior digital editor at the Chicago Tribune. She also spent a year as the assistant bureau chief for the Associated Press in Chicago. As an adjunct instructor at the Co-lumbia University Graduate School of Journalism, she taught classes in local enterprise reporting. Early in her career, she worked as a Ritz Cracker inspector and Oreo packer at a Nabisco plant in Chicago, which helped crystallize her resolve to find something else to do.

MICHAEL DAHLSTROMASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Michael Dahlstrom works with colleagues from social science, humanities and STEM fields to explore the complex communicative interactions between science and the public. His current research focuses on the effects of narrative structure on science perceptions and the biases inherent when attempting to perceive scientific topics beyond the realm of human scale. Dahlstrom sits on the executive board of the communicat-ing science, health, environment and risk division of the AEJMC. He also enjoys hiking, bluegrass music and Jello cake.

KIM MCDONOUGHPROGRAM & INTERNSHIP COORDINATORMcDonough now works closely with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recruit-ment staff on new student recruitment initiatives. The work paid off this fall when Greenlee welcomed one of its largest incoming student classes in several years. McDonough is looking forward to continued success in student recruitment this year. Coordinating the Jl MC 499 internship course continues to be a favorite part of her job. Last year she had the opportunity to work with more than 150 students who completed professional media internships at organizations throughout the country. McDonough also enjoyed helping the School’s Advisory Council work toward its goals of sharing the “Greenlee Story” with various School constituencies and helping to connect them with students through events like Council meetings and the William F. and Linda Z. Tubbs Futures Forum. She just started her third year in ISU’s Ph.D. program in education lead-ership and policy studies; she’ll finish courses later this year and then it’s capstone project and dissertation. In their free time, McDonough and her husband continue to spoil their nieces Taylor and Eva and their new nephew George.


FACULTY & STAFF

BETH HAAGLECTURERHaag says her professional and personal lives changed on Aug. 23, 2012, when she learned Barbara Mack had passed away. All have done their best to move on, but she thinks of Barbara every day she walks into Hamilton. As one of her former Jl MC 460 students who “grew up” to teach with her, Haag knows Mack’s legacy lives on through her. Haag continues to enjoy learning from students while teaching public relations classes and the visual principles lab. During the fall 2012 semester, Jl MC 321 and 424 students worked with Kids Living Brave to help increase awareness of the new nonprofit. She said she loves it when former Jl MC 342L students tell her how InDesign/Photo-shop/Illustrator has helped them in the professional world. Her “teaching assistant” Lilly, a wire-hair fox terrier dog, keeps her entertained and tries to “help” her grade assignments at home. Haag volunteered at her 16th-straight Men’s College World Series in Omaha this summer. The U.S. Olympic swimming trials overlapped with the CWS championship finals, which gave her a chance to work in the same building as Olym-pians Missy Franklin, Ryan Lochte and Michael Phelps for a couple of days. In June she received a Governor’s Volunteer Award for her work with the ChildLife program at Blank Children’s Hospital. Giving back to her community and helping young patients and their families during their hospital stays is rewarding to Haag.

JANE PETERSONPROFESSOR & ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

Time goes faster and I am realizing that there is a younger woman trapped in an older woman’s body. Our children are all married now -- within a span of a little over a year. It’s been exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. Our first grandchild will make his or her appearance in December. We are approaching that occasion with great joy. I think being called Grandma suits me fine. The poet Carl Sandburg once said, and I paraphrase, babies are God’s way of saying yes to the world. My dearest friend and colleague, Barbara Mack, passed suddenly this fall. Her passing brought many former students, faculty and friends together to share stories of the inimitable Barbara Mack. So many times I heard and said during those days of remembrance, “I haven’t told you the effect you have had on my life” and “I haven’t told you how much it means to me that our paths in life have crossed.” Speak these words now and often while you have the opportunity. Please keep in touch. I look forward to hearing from former students and colleagues. Hope this Greenlee Glimpse finds you well and happy.

MICHAEL WIGTONLECTURERIt has been some 20 years since Wigton last walked through the halls of Hamilton as a Jl MC undergraduate. Being back this semester as an instructor has been a dream come true. Wigton’s education at Greenlee served him well out in the real world, with stints at Arnold Worldwide in Washington, D.C. and at Carmichael Lynch in Minneapolis. He says his goal fall semester was to translate that experience to the classroom for his students in ADVRT 334 (creative advertising), ADVRT 336 (account management) and JLMC 220 (public relations principles). On a personal note, he’s a father of three (Char-lie, 7, Sarah, 5, and Nicholas, 3), who keep him busy coaching flag football, shuttling to soccer practice, dance, preschool drop-offs and gymnastics and volunteering as a Cub Scout den leader. Wigton’s wife is a former instructor in ISU’s psychology department and currently works for the state of Iowa. They’ve been married nearly 10 years now; Wigton says he continues to discover the perks and downfalls of having a psychologist as a wife.

KATHY BOXOFFICE MANAGER

Usually, my job at Greenlee doesn’t involve direct contact with students. That has changed tremendously in the last few years. I have been part of the recruiting effort and I work with the Web team. There is nothing more rewarding than putting faces on the lists of names I work with for scholarships and other awards. We have some very talented and interesting students. Working with the Web team is my own reward.

DENNIS CHAMBERLINASSOCIATE PROFESSOR & DIRECTOR, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATIONThis past year, faculty member Dennis Chamberlin is happy to report that several students he worked with received a number of national awards. The Hearst Foundation again ranked the Greenlee School in the Top 10 in the nation in its intercollegiate pho-tojournalism competition. In addition to the school’s ranking, Yue Wu won fifth place in the Hearst multimedia news category. After three summers of teaching and directing the multimedia journalism study abroad program in Italy, Chamberlin should be fluent in Italian but, alas, his Italian only seems to be sufficient for finding the best places to eat in central Italy. The students’ work, however, was much more accomplished than his Italian, and four Greenlee students won awards for the work they produced during the month. The staff of Ethos magazine, which he advises, riled the university administra-tion with the publication of its “Sex & Love” issue in the spring. In the late summer and early fall the staff learned Ethos was a Pacemaker finalist in three categories, including the cover of the controversial issue. In addition to teaching, Chamberlin continues to work on documenting Iowa’s agriculture and is preparing a demo site that will serve as an online archive of documentary work about rural culture around the world. This past year he squeezed in a few assignments for national publications, including the New York Times, Washington Post and the Christian Science Monitor.

KRISTI ANGARANSECRETARYKris Angaran has been with the Greenlee School for about a year. She is the undergrad-uate secretary and also assists the School administration with day-to-day tasks. Angaran is an avid reader and spends her summers watching her husband coach softball. She also has two grandchildren and a very spoiled Sheltie.


JOHN THOMASLECTURER The need for great communicators: Each spring I wonder if the job market can utilize all of our graduates..... Then, in the fall of every national election year, we are bom-barded with an overabundance of unethical, poorly conceived political rhetoric and I realize the world really does have the capacity to absorb our “very talented” Greenlee School advertising and journalism majors.

FACULTY & STAFF

LULU RODRIGUEZPROFESSOR

It felt like a marathon run with 10 master’s students trying to graduate before summer. But with two of them winning the university research excellence awards, and all either landing a full-time job or the doctoral program of their choice, Rodriguez says she considers it more than crossing the finish line. As her new batch of advisees ponders its thesis topics, there are new lines of inquiry to look forward to this year. This semester, Greenlee inaugurated the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program on wind energy science, engi-neering and policy, or WESEP. It leverages the strengths of three colleges (Engineering, Ag & Life Sciences, and Liberal Arts & Sciences) along with multiple centers and labo-ratories that conduct wind energy-related research. Rodriguez is excited to explore the communication dimension of this initiative. Exposure to policy makers and communica-tion practitioners from Asia and Africa here on training over the summer brought new insights about the role of communication in building human capacity and in enhancing national systems to improve the quality of life in agricultural nations. Rodriguez says she looks forward to making Greenlee students integral partners in the School’s science and risk communication research agenda with a more international orientation.

JOEL GESKE ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR Joel Geske is really enjoying his new ventures into the world of online teaching! The course, “Ethnicity, Gender, Class and the Media,” has moved online for the third offer-ing now with mostly positive student feedback. They like the fact they can work at their own pace AND work around employment and internship schedules. Some miss the in-class discussion, but we have been getting lively discussion boards online. Plus, with the discussion boards everyone contributes…not the same dozen or so students. Enrollment this summer went from a normal 20 students or so in a standard class to more than 70 online! This included students from lots of states and overseas who were doing intern-ships. Geske continues to be active in diversity issues on campus (sometimes a challenge) as he serves as chair of the LAS College diversity committee, serves on the University diversity committee, serves as a core member of the Women’s and Gender Studies program and LGBT advisory board. He reports he’s proud of the progress made but there still is room for improvements! Personally, Geske enjoyed a wonderful summer trip to Utah, Yellowstone, Big Horns and Black Hills, as well as trips to Chicago, Memphis, New Orleans and of course Sioux Falls. Life is good. No complaints.

THE GREENLEE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF ALSO INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS:

JEFF AMESLECTURER

SHERRY BERGHEFERLECTURER

GANG HANASSISTANT PROFESSOR

ANGIE HUNTLECTURER

JERMAINE JOHNSONLECTURER

SUMAN LEEASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

SHENG LYMEDIA INFORMATIONSPECIALIST & SYSTEMSANALYST

MARCIA PRIOR-MILLERASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

MARTY TEPLYSYSTEMS SUPPORT SPECIALIST

BRENDA WITHERSPOONLECTURER

AMBER TIARKSACADEMIC ADVISER A wise person told Tiarks she wouldn’t know how to do the job of an academic adviser, or whether she would like it, until she had been in her position for at least a year. Well, she’s happy to say she made it and she loves it! As an adviser, she meets with prospective students to answer questions about why they should choose Greenlee, she help pre-majors navigate through the university requirements to determine whether it’s the right fit for them, and she meets with seniors for that final “grad check” when students are both excited and nervous about advancing to their professional careers. She also meets with students who say they wish they had more time and Greenlee credits available to be able to stay for at least one more semester. She gets to see the best and the brightest from beginning to end, and nothing makes her prouder than being a small part of their academic experience. Coming back to Greenlee has, literally, been like returning to school. Tiarks says she learns something new each day, she has the pleasure of interact-ing with the staff and faculty and she will always look forward to spring break! In her spare time, she and her husband Ken enjoy traveling with their sons, Grant and Garret, which in itself is surprising as they are now teenagers who no longer fit comfortably in the backseat of their car.


Journalism. It’s SO over. Nobody picks up a newspaper any more. Long-form magazine articles

have gone the way of Crocs and Paris Hilton. And if you can’t Tweet it, they won’t read it.

Apparently that lesson is one recent Greenlee School graduates failed to ab-sorb. Because new J-school and advertising alumni are trading tuition tabs for 401Ks as they accept “real jobs” once they pocket their diplomas.

“I think the reason our graduates find such great jobs is because of the student media experience that they have here in the school,” Kim McDonough, Greenlee program and internship coordinator, said. “The students here really want to be in-volved in student media, and some create their own new organizations.”

Laura Bucklin, a 2012 graduate, said her involvement in many campus activities was impressive to her employers.

“I immersed myself in Greenlee activi-ties that had to do with public relations,” Bucklin said. “I was involved with PRSSA, I did PR for the Daily and did my intern-ship in PR. Just doing what you’re inter-ested in and making sure you’re a well-rounded student really helps.”

Bucklin now is an account coordinator for Kirvin Doak Communications in Las

Vegas (which has become a hiring hot-bed – thanks to senior account executive Alison Monaghan, ’05 -- for other recent Greenlee grads, including Kristin Mer-chant, ’10, and Wendy Sloan, ’11). Bucklin assists with public relations for the Las Vegas Blue Man Group, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Golden Rainbow, a nonprofit organization that helps people with HIV/AIDS.

Fortunately for Greenlee students seek-ing student media experience, the school fosters some of the best publications in the country.

“We have award-winning student media. Last year our students won 29 regional and national awards across plat-forms,” said Michael Bugeja, director of the Greenlee School.

Jessie Opoien, former Iowa State Daily editor in chief, tied down a job even before graduating. Opoien started work as a re-porter at the Oshkosh (Wis.) Northwestern newspaper just one week after graduat-ing in December 2011 with a journalism degree. While on campus, she got involved with student media as soon as possible.

“I started working at the [Iowa State] Daily right away my freshman year. I ap-plied before classes even started. I knew right off the bat that I was going to major in journalism,” Opoien said. Networking

with CNN anchor Christine Romans, a ’93 Greenlee graduate, also helped her land a summer internship at CNN after her sophomore year.

“As soon as I heard about opportuni-ties I jumped on them,” said Mallorie

Sheldahl, a 2012 graduate with a degree in journalism and mass communication and apparel merchandising. Sheldahl, who interned with Kip Morrison & Associates this past summer, now works full time for the lifestyle, fashion and beauty PR firm in Los Angeles.

“I was involved with my sorority, the [ISU] fashion show and Trend. I also always kept open communication with instructors and advisers,” Sheldahl said. “I really credit my success to taking advantage of every opportunity that was presented to me.”

COVER

“JUST DOING WHAT YOU’RE INTERESTED IN AND MAKING SURE YOU’RE AWELL-ROUNDED STUDENT REALLY HELPS.”

WORK ITYES, VIRGINIA, THERE REALLY ARE JOURNALISM JOBS OUT THERE–WITH NEW GREENLEE GRADS HEADING THE LIST OF HIRES by ANGELA CHRISTIANSON & CAITLYN DIIMIG

Brian Smith, ‘12 (right)


While a student, she was awarded a $5,000 YMA fashion scholarship, which included mentoring sessions with Condé Nast executives. Likewise, when Sheldahl interned at Seattle’s Nordstrom headquarters in summer 2011, she connected with one of that company’s vice presidents.

“Out of 200 interns I was the only one to reach out to him. We sat down and talked one on one and he ended up being a great resource for me,” Sheldahl said.

Many recent graduates agree that networking has played as much a role in their employment status as resumés and cover letters.

“I was really persistent with emailing and contacting the editor of Chicago Home + Garden. You kind of have to be,” said Leslie Marshall, a 2012 graduate who now works as an editorial assistant at that title.

Brian Smith, also a 2012 graduate, started networking his junior year with Julia Thompson of the Des Moines Register.

“We collaborated on some things for the Register and the Daily,” Smith said. “She knew I was getting ready to graduate and she was hopeful a spot would open

up for me.” That networking helped land him a job as the associate digital editor for social media at the Des Moines Register.

So what makes Greenlee young alumni so employable in such a volatile industry?

“It’s a combination of effective teaching, sufficient scholarship (but also our internship requirement), the work ethic of our students and the awards that they win. When you get a degree from Iowa State and it’s in advertising or journalism, people know that you can hit the ground running,” Bugeja said.

“The Iowa State Daily is one of the best student newspapers in the country,” 2012 graduate Jeremiah Davis said. “With the Daily, Ethos, Sir, ISUtv and even KURE [radio], the opportunities are there for ISU students to excel and get plenty of real-world experience.”

Davis also credited Mark Witherspoon, Iowa State Daily adviser, for his launch into the professional world, where Davis now works as a wire copy editor for Gannett in Phoenix.

“He taught me how to be a journalist – what it took, the ethics and to take opportunities,” Davis said of Witherspoon.

Marshall also credits the faculty at the

Greenlee School for her success.“I had an awesome relationship

with my adviser, Deb Gibson. Having somebody that is supporting you and that is pushing you to be better is something that really helps,” Marshall said. “She was never discouraging. She was always positive and was like, ‘If you want to do something, we’ll make it happen.’ It really helps having someone in your corner like that.”

Davis also pointed out it’s important for graduates to be well-versed. Davis was a reporter and editor for the sports page of the Iowa State Daily, a writer for Sir magazine, an anchor for ISUtv and a sports program co-host for KURE radio.

“Having a wide breadth of knowledge is essential. If I did just one thing I wouldn’t be out here, I wouldn’t be a copy editor. I would be looking for work,” said Davis. “Being well-rounded is essential. You’re handicapping yourself if you only do one thing.”

So as the industry morphs, so, too, does Greenlee guidance.

“I think that journalism and mass communications are certainly viable fields. I think that the industry is changing and that the jobs may have changed a little bit,

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Mallorie Sheldahl, ‘12

but you’re seeing growth in industry right now,” McDonough said. “There all sorts of entrepreneurial type of positions that are available to students through things like blogs and social media. There are definitely jobs out there.”

Smith knows firsthand the importance of social and digital media in the field of journalism.

“All of this new technology has totally changed, not just journalism, but our society. You walk through central campus now and you can’t find anybody without some kind of electronic device attached to him,” he said.

It’s hard for Smith to imagine how much more the field of journalism will change due to new technology.

“I definitely think I’ll still be in journalism in five years, and I’m sure it will be something related to digital, but what my job responsibilities will be – only time will tell,” Smith said. “Be adaptable, be willing to change, know the aspects of your job won’t stay the same, but the heart of what you do will always be there and if you have strength in that you’ll always be able to find work.”

Jeremiah Davis, ‘12

Leslie Marshall, ‘12

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FEATURES

WHAT BECOMES A LEGEND MOST?

by JOHN LONSDALE

This is weird, isn’t it?” says Erin Wilgenbusch, Greenlee senior lecturer, after introducing

herself to a lecture hall filled with 400 Journalism 101 students. It’s the Monday after Barbara Mack died in her sleep, and the second week of the fall 2012 semester. The students sitting in Kildee Hall produce nervous laughs and muster a collective yeah.

“I know it is, and it’s weird for me,” Wilgenbusch says. “I’ve just lost a friend and it’s a weird situation, but we’re all going to honor Barbara’s memory by making the best of it and having a great semester and picking up where she left off, because she isn’t one to let grass grow under her feet.”

A month later, Wilgenbusch says that’s exactly what the class did. “I think we all needed to acknowledge what had happened, and that we were all feeling a little awkward,” she says. “We were going to have to get used to one another and things were going to be a little different than what they thought they were going to be for the class. But I think it’s all turned out.”

When she found out she would take over Mack’s 101 “Mass Media and Society” course a year earlier than planned, Wilgenbusch decided to log on to Blackboard, the new Iowa State standard electronic learning module, to add her syllabus. There she found a note to the Jl MC 101 students posted by Mack just a few days prior.

“There was this announcement from Barbara that she had sent the previous Sunday night saying, ‘Hey, I can’t wait to see you, glad you’re in my class.’ You

know, things like that,” Wilgenbusch says. “And it kind of took my breath away for a minute. It’s still out there. I told the students I’m going to leave it out there … Her syllabus is still out there in the course content area alongside of mine. But I told the students I just can’t … I’m not ready to delete it, to make it go away.”

From 101 to 460

Jake Calhoun, Iowa State Daily sports editor, made a point of sitting in the front row of Mack’s Jl MC 460 (Mass Media Law) course. His favorite takeaway from that grueling class? When Mack asked if anyone in the room weighed more than 235 pounds. Calhoun and one other student raised their hands.

“I wouldn’t have guessed, but I can’t bench press you,” Calhoun remembers Mack saying to him.

“That, in my mind, is going to be one of those lasting images that I’ll always have in my mind of her,” Calhoun says, “that I was one of her few students she couldn’t bench press.”

Mack taught her final media law course on a Wednesday morning, Aug. 22, 2012. Junior Katherine Klingseis remembers the assignment for the

following class period included reading the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. Jermaine Johnson, an Iowa State Ph.D. student now teaching Mack’s media law course after serving as its teaching assistant the first week, was at home with his sick 2-year-old daughter that Wednesday. So he had only one day in the classroom learning from Mack. But so far, he says, teaching the course has been a lot of hard work but a good experience for him.

The Friday after Barbara’s death was “surreal” for Klingseis and others in that media law class. “I kind of half-expected her to come in the room when we were sitting there,” Klingseis says. Instead, the Greenlee School director Michael Bugeja walked in the room, followed by grief counselors.

And the mending began.

Breakfast with Barbara

“Every time I drive in from Route 30 to the campus, if you go left, or south, you go to the Gateway. If you go north you head to campus,” Bugeja says. “And Barbara and I used to have breakfast on a regular basis at the Gateway, so every time I come to that intersection, it’s been very, very difficult for me to make that right hand turn [to campus].”

On the menu, for Bugeja: oatmeal with raisins, cinnamon, and brown sugar; and for Mack: three scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, fruit, juice, and warm ketchup. (“Ketchup had to be warmed.”) And coffee. A lot of coffee.

Bugeja and Mack discussed the news, their animals and how to uphold standards in the classroom. Now, he fondly

TO PAY ADEQUATE TRIBUTE TO A GREENLEE SCHOOL ICON – THAT IS THE CHALLENGE. AS WELL AS WORDS CAN CAPTURE THE ESSENCE OF OUR BELOVED COLLEAGUE, PROFESSOR, MENTOR AND FRIEND, HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT OUR BMACK.

MACK TAUGHT HER FINAL MEDIA LAW COURSE ON A WEDNESDAY MORNING, AUG. 22.

“


remembers how Mack first met him and took him to meet her horse. Or how she would use “newsroom” (some might call it “truck driver”) language in her classes at times. When talking with Bugeja, it’s easy to see he’s lost one of his best friends.

“I have met many people in this world,” Bugeja says. “Very, very few have influenced me or befriended me in the warm and generous and enlightened way of Barbara Mack. I just finished ethics class [which Bugeja took over for Mack in August], where we have an exercise where we do our highs, lows and turning points. One of my lows was the passing of Barbara Mack, and I’m sure that passing will eventually turn into a turning point and a high as I try to apply her many life lessons.”

Still in the grieving process, Bugeja says he mistook Jane Peterson, assistant director of the Greenlee School, for Mack one day recently. For him, Mack’s death didn’t seem real at first.

“That really – that kind of shook me,” he says. “And then one day I walked into the journalism school and she was gone. She was just gone. I didn’t feel her anymore, but I had her lessons at heart and her memories. And I guess that’s how people grieve in their own way. Everybody grieves differently. That’s how I grieved.

“And actually what got me over the grief is something I think is a tribute to Barbara,” he continues. “And that is making sure I take care of her students. And I’m doing that as best I can, given the time constraints I have – three classes and directing a school. I also have to say that all my colleagues have been wonderful. All of them have come together to help plan the memorial, to grieve with me, to forget our smaller concerns and embrace Barbara’s larger principles.”

What Happened on 2nd Floor...

What does colleague Lulu Rodriguez remember best about Mack? “There are so many things that I don’t even know if I should let you know,” says Rodriguez, Greenlee professor, with a laugh.

Like the trips she and Mack took together at least once a semester since 2000 that “had nothing to do with work.” With Mack in the driver’s seat of Rodriguez’s car “exercising” the car’s limit, on their way to a weekend getaway to some “crummy” motel along the

Mississippi or some place in Iowa City, Wisconsin or Peoria, Ill., Rodriguez says she was able to “discover Iowa that way.”

Rodriguez and Mack’s offices shared a wall, and, for Rodriguez, it’s taking a while to adjust to not having the woman around who was “a champion” of and taught Rodriguez so much about the First Amendment, the woman who could probably fill an entire day researching everything on the Web, the woman who was a “master in the classroom” and an “active scholar,” using examples instead of written scholarship. “This is the toughest part for me, because I have been used to this thing that she’s just next door. Yeah, this is the toughest part for me.”

Tom Beell, Greenlee professor, shared another of Mack’s office walls, and the two of them were giddy pending their phased retirements; Mack would finish in December 2012 and Beell in May 2013. Mack hadn’t been around Hamilton Hall during spring 2012 and Beell grew accustomed to not seeing her.

“I think it’s made it easier for me to accept the fact that she’s not going to be here,” Beell says. “Although I will say, I swear to God, from time to time I think I hear her in the office. I almost hear her singing, actually.”

They conducted numerous conversations through that wall – some

without words. Beell recalls once hearing a pounding sound coming from Mack’s direction until a nail suddenly appeared on his side. She had been nailing one of her “magnificently big pictures,” and Beell says it was a memory the two laughed about often.

And sometimes Mack would sing. Beell would play music and sometimes he’d hear threatening thumps on the wall, but she’d also sing. He recalls not only the exaggerated operatic vocals of signature Broadway show tunes, but also the pleasant voice that would carry the sweetest tune, “stanza after stanza.” Beell says Mack had a way with remembering the lyrics of any song. (And in fact, she bolted into the Greenlee School’s main office and belted out a song the day before she died.)

Beell remembers much about his office neighbor: how she advised him to get a second opinion when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer; the times she and her car (which she affectionately called “Blackie, the Wonder Honda”) would fly into her parking space hot off her Des Moines commute and having outguessed the state patrol cars; her years as the Register’s “Grumpy Gourmet” food critic; how she helped found the Iowa Freedom of Information Council, and her work as a lawyer for the Register, fighting

for open records and open meetings “and all kinds of great stuff journalists believe in.

“This was a Renaissance woman – she could do everything,” Beell says.

And, of course, he says, she could teach the English language to people in the most “remarkable way.

“There are so many sides to her that I don’t think I know them all,” Beell says. “But anyway, it was just great to know her ... She was such a force, a powerful force

THE WONDROUS ARRAYby Michael Bugeja

For Barbara Mack, 1952-2012

We summon you today as anecdote,Recalling how you confiscated phonesWhen freshmen read their Facebook during classOr how you taught the narcoleptic tardy

Punctuality and punctuation.You laid down law in law and still they cameTo love the level scales of justiceAs much as you, replacement mother,

for our program – for our school. And yet, we will survive her.”

Down the hall from Mack’s office is Greenlee professor Eric Abbott’s office.

He mentions how the School had to cancel the English Usage Test workshop Mack created. “What she did went well beyond that course,” Abbott says. He considers Mack to have been “the Greenlee School grammarian,” someone who “could disarm you with a good joke” (“When we think of hearing Barbara in the hall, very often it’s because she’s got this joke that she’s sharing”), and says during the School’s darkest times, Mack had the advice to get them through it.

“If she thought you were wrong she’d tell you straight out; there was no doubt about it,” Abbott says. “But people kept going back. Why? Because, it turned out her advice was on the mark. Sometimes it was very personal. Sometimes very strategic, but if there was an advice giver in the Greenlee School, that was her.” Abbott says it’d be “foolish” to try to replace Mack. “I doubt there’s another one … I don’t think there is. I’m sure there’s not,” he says. “We will try to find another faculty member whose energy and strengths will make it better for students and faculty here, but I think we cannot replace this one.”

Her Royal Highness

On Barbara Mack’s Facebook page are photos of her beloved horse Mikki, or “Her Royal Highness,” a 26-year-old Thoroughbred-Percheron cross – a draft

Away from home and harvest. Far too soonThe drought-resistant corn has tasseledTidily in test plots like alumniBowing at commencement, row by row.

You left us at your favored time of year,Another term, proposed to be your last.We planned to celebrate retirementWith colleagues who assemble here instead

And listen to the peals of campanile As you alight among us here, and there,Untouched but felt, unheard but understood,Unseen and yet beheld in wondrous array.

horse measuring at 17-hands high (each hand at four inches). The person posting the images is Heather (Wiese) Starr, ’96, who has known Mikki since Mack, her academic adviser, got Mikki. Starr, who is Mikki’s “godmother,” worked for Mack on weekends during school, some of which included trips to Valley Park Stables to groom Mikki, bathe her or pull her mane.

“[Mack] was an adviser and friend and mentor to me well beyond Iowa State, and, in fact, was my personal assistant at my wedding,” Starr says. “And we stayed friends, and I think what really bonded us over the years was our mutual love of animals and our mutual passion for women’s issues.”

When Mack had brain surgery for an aneurysm seven years ago, she was told not to ride Mikki for awhile, so Mack asked Starr if she would do it. That’s when, Starr says, she and Mikki grew closer. Eventually, Mack asked her to be Mikki’s godmother, but Starr never thought Mikki would outlive Barbara. (“It was devastating.”)

“In some ways it feels selfish to have Mikki because there are so many people who love Barbara and are mourning her just like I am … but everyday I get to do something for Barbara, and taking care and loving her horse – you know, it’s a privilege and an honor,” Starr says.

Starr credits Mack’s husband, Jim Giles, a retired Des Moines attorney, for bringing Mikki to her. “Jim has made it possible for me to take care of Mikki,” Starr says. “This is a collaboration between Jim and I … we’re both keeping

FEATURES


our promises to Barbara. When we first talked, he told me that if he didn’t make sure Mikki got a good home that Barbara would haunt him. And I think that’s absolutely true … When I ride Mikki or groom her I like to think that [Barbara’s] smiling.”

Besides her Mikki, Mack’s favorite children were most any kids she knew. Says Mack’s close friend Diane Graham in an email, “When my husband and I became parents, Barbara instantly stepped in as an aunt. It’s probably no surprise to learn that Barbara was great with kids, and she loved to surprise our daughter with gifts. Once it was an antique child’s rocker that Barbara painted and just left on the front steps. Another time, it was a 5-foot-tall mummy statue that still graces our porch every Halloween.

“But her best surprise had to be when my daughter was no more than 3 or 4. It was Easter, and I stepped out to get the Sunday Register, only to realize our entire front yard had been blitzed with Easter eggs, balloons, coloring books and assorted gifts. My daughter heard me shout, rushed out the door and yelled, ‘The Easter bunny’s been here!!!!!!!’ She was delighted! What kid wouldn’t be? But for me, the big question was, “WHO??!” Barbara was my first suspect. So I called to confront her and was greeted with that trademark Barbara laugh. “Do you realize what you’ve done?” I shrieked. “She’s going to expect this every year!” Barbara calmly replied, “ Don’t worry!” And from then on – my daughter is now 13 – Barbara would arrive before dawn whether it was cold, warm, rainy or snowy and be our secret Easter Bunny. So we not only lost a dear friend when Barbara died, we lost our Easter Bunny!”

The two friends met while Mack was working as a reporter for the Tribune and left for the Register, and Graham filled her spot. Graham says she was looking forward to spending more time with her friend once Mack retired– the walks around Gray’s Lake or the cooking lessons Mack was teaching Graham’s daughter.

“It sounds trite, but I miss her friendship. It hurts,” Graham wrote. “I miss her phone calls. I miss our lunches. I miss laughing while hearing about her latest outrageous adventure. I miss her amazing intelligence and zest for life. She was always there for her friends. Always. Without question. Now, there’s this gaping hole in my life that no one else can fill.”

Graham says Mack seemed “bigger than life.”“That’s probably why it’s hard to accept she’s gone,”

Graham wrote. “There was only one Barbara. I was just lucky to call such an amazing woman my friend. What a gift she was!”

Those gifts were celebrated at a campus memorial service Sept. 7, and then again two days later at Des Moines’ Hoyt Sherman Place. The final speaker at that Des Moines memorial service was her husband. “Who here has been hugged by Barbara Mack?” he asked.

Hands rose. And, later, “I never was much for hugs,” Giles said. “It’s

one of the many ways that I failed Barbara Mack … But I know now that Professor Mack wasn’t trying to teach me or anyone of you how to hug, she was trying to teach each of us to remember to hug. To draw unto ourselves every object

of our passions, and our affections, to remember to express those emotions … I missed an opportunity to hug Barbara that last night. I can never, ever get that back. Don’t, don’t make that mistake. Hug what you love, hug whom you love … [so] if you have ever been hugged by Barbara Mack please pass it along. If you haven’t, then study up, because I think you’ll find it to be worthwhile.”

14 minutes and 23 seconds

About a year ago, I sat down with Mack for an interview when she was selected for the ISU Alumni Association Outstanding Service to Alumni Award. When she told me most people wouldn’t know she was a shy person in front of a crowd, it was hard to believe her. Even harder to believe was that Mack’s last semester of teaching was approaching, and no one was ready to let her go.

One cold night this past October I found my old iPod. I went straight to the ‘Voice Memos’ playlist and guessed which of my next clicks might contain Mack’s voice from our “Glimpse” interview.

“9/23/2011 10:38 AM.” Click. A question, and then: “I came to

Iowa State in 1971, and my life has been involved with the University since that time,” Barbara said. “I have a deep respect for this institution and its history of great education for the common person.

“Being honored for service to alumni is one of the proudest achievements of my life. I keep trying to pretend it’s not going to happen, because I’m kind of scared … I do not like to be in places where I’m the focus.”

Ahh…Barbara Mack’s voice once again.

The voice of a woman who was a bit “younger than a traditional Boomer” – a teacher, academic, lawyer and counselor. The voice of a woman who “never lived more than three miles from the hospital [she] was born in” (“I think that’s one reason I like traveling so much,” she told me.)

The voice of a woman who re-read her complete collection of Jane Austen’s novels at least once a year to revisit “a world in which things were lovely and genteel.” The voice of a woman who wished she had volunteered for the Peace Corps, who wore a navy blue vest and a plaid skirt to Catholic school from the

Most of you here today are way too young to have known Barbara Mack as an undergraduate student at Iowa State.

She was brash, bold, brash, driven and determined – so driven, in fact, that she polished off her bachelor’s in just three years – largely by taking 20 or 21 credits a quarter.

In those days, Barbara was a slim striking brunette weighing about 120 pounds…. With her work load she obviously didn’t have time for eating.

I was on the faculty then, but never had Barbara as a student. However, my office was next to her academic adviser, Ed Blinn.

Ed, who died about a decade ago, was a short, bald-headed Irishman – in fact, very Irish – with a wonderful sense of humor.

I remember once when he walked up to his long-time faculty colleague, Karl Friederich, who was very German…. Ed walked up to Karl, gave him the Nazi salute and said, “In case we lose.”

You can pretty much imagine how Barbara adopted Ed as her pet – even though she very much respected him as her adviser and as the department’s media law expert.

I had a good view of this relationship and was often summoned to Ed’s office to hear his young protégé’s latest pronouncements.

Ed, to put it mildly, was stricken – and smitten – by Barbara –and the feeling was mutual.

Barbara used to flounce into Ed’s office, plant herself right on the corner of his desk and charge ahead with whatever was on her mind.

They were almost like Siamese twins. Only he called her Ms. Mack or Barbara – and she called him “Sweetie.”

I remember one occasion when she announced – while perched on his desk – that her goal in life was to have Ed’s job, teaching law at Iowa State.

Of course, she prefaced this by saying “Sweetie”… and ended her pronouncement by kissing him smack on top of his very bald head.

Ed loved it. And, happily, he was still on the faculty in 1986 when she was hired.

I cannot begin to tell you how thrilled and proud Ed was to have his “Sweetie” on the faculty.

Had Ed been here today, he would be heart-broken – as we all are – but in his own very special way.

By Tom Emmerson, ‘60

A PROF AND HIS PROTÉGÉ

first to eighth grades and finally upgraded to navy blue business suits for freshman and sophomore years and charcoal gray business suits for her junior and senior years (“I looked like a lawyer from the time I was 14.”).

The voice of a woman whose good friend would later tell me Barbara’s family took Sunday drives when she was a child, where Barbara would see the Des Moines south of Grand house she so loved and would someday live in and name “Ralph.”

The voice of a woman who corrected your grammar, always, and made you never forget about saying “like” when your mouth couldn’t catch up with your brain. The voice of a woman who loved history and animals and good food and traveling. The voice of a woman who was ready for a retirement filled with volunteer work at the Animal Rescue League. The voice of a woman whose brilliant words were cut off all too soon, at the 14-minute and 23-second mark on an old iPod.

FEATURES

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FEATURES

Imagine the stories one could uncover given a month to scour the streets of an historical Italian city. Greenlee School and other Iowa State students trained their reporting, writing and photo skills on just that in June. Traveling across the Atlantic to Urbino, Italy, these students were chal-lenged to find gripping stories to contrib-ute to the city’s website and print maga-zine. A team of Pulitzer Prize-winning staff worked closely with the students to heighten their skills in writing and photog-raphy as well as online video.

The trip was not all work and no play, though. Aware of the importance of experiencing the Italian culture, program directors set aside two three-day weekends for the students to travel. Breathtaking locations such as Florence, Rome and Venice were accessible to the students by bus. By the end of the month-long jour-ney, students emerged with a new sense of confidence in their journalistic studies, an impressive collection of media created in Italy and a richer understanding of the Italian culture. –Kelsey Schirm

THROUGH THE LENS:THE URBINO PROJECT

View of Urbino’s Piazza della Repubblica (the main piazza in town). Photo by Dennis Chamberlin

The sun sets over the Piazza della Repubblica, the central gathering point in the quaint town of Urbino. Photo by Kaitlin McKinney

Representatives of several Italian military forces carry an Italian flag during a local celebration outside of Urbino’s Ducal Palace. Photo by Dennis Chamberlin


Tim Reuter, Morgan Kuster and Emily Harmon go grocery shopping with The Urbino Project translator Silvia Verducci. Photo by Kaitlin McKinney

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A student of art restoration professor, Michele Papi, works in the Universiy of Urbino’s art restoration lab in the 15th century Ducal Palace. In the foreground sits “The Massacre of the Innocents,” painted by an unknown artist in the 17th century, which came from the town of Navelli and was restored in Papi’s lab after being damaged in an earthquake that struck the region surrounding Navelli in 2009. Photo by Tim Reuter

Viva la Pasta! Photo by Tim Reuter


Students learn about the winemaking process from Luca Avenanti at Terracruda winery. Photo by Emily Harmon

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Sister Antida stands on a balcony of Suore della Carita Pensionato Universitario S. Felicita, a dormitory in Urbino that houses female university students, conversing with students across the way. Photo by Kaitlin McKinney

Students from the Greenlee school meet students from other schools an an evening reception in Urbino. More than 50 students, from across the country, participated in the month-long course. Photo by Dennis Chamberlin


FEATURES

PROFESSOR

BEELLGREENLEE VETERAN EARNS THUMBS UP ON FIVE-STAR CAREER

by KATE GIBSON

For Professor Tom Beell, the Greenlee School is more than just a workplace – it’s home. Tucked away on the

second floor of Hamilton Hall, his office serves as his oasis (he’s accustomed to the clutter), a colorful collage of the man. Shelves stacked with hundreds of books and movies line the room’s perimeter; scattered among their spines are myriad personal photos, including a revered shot of Beell and Vice President Joseph Biden. Forty years of textbooks and syllabuses and film reels long ago beat out any of Beell’s attempts at tidiness. The broadcast news expert carried his first briefcase into what was then the ISU Press Building the year NBC news anchor Natalie Morales turned 3. Shepherded by radio and television news legend and faculty member Jack Shelley, Beell set out to train the next wave of reporters, anchors, producers and camera operators. Nearly four decades later, Beell will shelve his script tutorials and turn in his last round of grades in May. And retire. Eric Abbott, Greenlee School professor, has worked with Beell since he arrived at the Greenlee School. “Because the students produced the news [when Iowa State owned WOI-TV], Tom would have to get up at 4 a.m. every morning to be in the studio to supervise. That’s pretty rough,” Abbott says. “After that, he would come to Hamilton, teach all day, and be the last to leave. He was a little happy when the [WOI teaching program] ended, so he could finally get some sleep,

but he was also very sad. He thought of this as a tremendous opportunity for his students, and that’s why he did it.” Abbott also had the opportunity to co-teach with Beell. They taught JLMC 201 (introductory reporting and writing), together for a number of years and took turns grading assignments. “I was kind of a hard ass,” jokes Abbott. “I went through a lot of red pens. Tom chose to use green pens when he graded, though. He thought that red seemed too negative. He never wanted to be hard on our students; he wanted to be helpful, supportive and encouraging. He wanted them to have the same passion about journalism that he did.” Growing up in Tacoma, Wash., Beell always knew he wanted to work in journalism. After graduating high school, he worked as a reporter at the Tacoma Star for two years to save up money for his college education. He then enrolled at the University of Washington-Seattle. The Vietnam War and draft were underway, so Beell decided to add the ROTC program to his college plan. “I was part of a Navy youth group growing up,” he says. “Once I joined the ROTC, I was not accepted into the Navy program because I wore glasses, but instead was placed in the Air Force program.” Beell continued the ROTC program throughout school, and graduated from UW-Seattle in 1965. After graduation, his military orders didn’t show up. Instead, the Washington State highways department’s

SIGNS OFF

“HE NEVER WANTED TO BE HARD ON OUR STUDENTS; HE WANTED TO BE HELPFUL, SUPPORTIVE AND ENCOURAGING.” — ERIC ABBOTT


public relations office hired him and he traveled the state, writing news releases and stories for the department’s magazine. Six months into that job, those military orders arrived. Beell was assigned to Keesler Technology Training Center in Biloxi, Miss. Once again, he was hired to work in the PR office, where he led the base newspaper and broadcast program. “I had always been interested in broadcast,” he explains, “but I never

got the chance to explore it. I always thought it was too impossible. I would listen to the radio growing up and listen to how they talked, and then I would read the newspaper out loud like I was broadcasting. This job was exciting for me.” Working in Biloxi, Beell questioned his next move. “The logical step was for me to go back home and work for my hometown newspaper,” he says. “But if I did that, I wouldn’t see any of the world. So I volunteered to go to Vietnam. In retrospect, that might’ve been stupid. But I thought, ‘What the heck!’” he says with a laugh. Beell was stationed in Nha Trang, located on the South China Sea. The town was filled with military personnel and refugees who were trying to escape the fighting, he recalls. He was assigned to the Information Office for the 14th Special Operations Wing to head PR assignments. He was not a combat soldier, but witnessed war. He finished out his tour and returned to the United States in November 1969. Beell was ready for graduate school, but couldn’t enroll at the University of Washington because classes already were underway. Family connections, though, helped him land a spot at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. “I was wearing a thin coat, no hat, no gloves,” the West Coast native recalls about his arrival in Madison. “I learned the hard way. I stocked up on winter clothes in a hurry.” After completing his graduate coursework, Beell headed to Iowa State in August 1975. “At the time, I didn’t know who Jack Shelley was,” Beell explains. “But I knew he was a big deal at Iowa State, so I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. When I started, we got to teach a class together, so that was quite an experience for me.” Eventually, Beell would head up the broadcast emphasis at the Greenlee School, as well as teach film classes, one of his passions. And myriad students tackled Jl MC 201 – Beginning Reporting and Writing – under Beell’s tutelage.

But back to that film passion. His celluloid romance began in Tacoma when the 16 year old managed a neighborhood movie theatre. For 20 years, he worked as the film critic for the Ames Tribune; for 15 years, as a film reviewer on WOI radio. Today he shares his expertise through classes both on and off the ISU campus. His favorite film? “Well, that is a hard question, because it depends on the genre,” Beell explains. “’Gone With the Wind’ is probably my favorite. But, I also like ‘Singing in the Rain.’ No, I think I have to go with ‘Gone With the Wind.’” And at least in Story County, Beell’s name is synonymous with the Democratic Party. Though politics have been his passion for decades, he grew up believing journalists should keep their political opinions to themselves. “As I got older, I realized that if I keep my political beliefs separate from my career, it is OK to share them,” Beell says. “After that, I got very involved in the Story County Democratic Party.” Local numismatists look forward to meeting Beell as well as he shares his passion for rare coins, a hobby that has led him to his current position as president of the Ames Coin Club. “I have always loved ancient history, and coins are a great way of examining that history,” he says. His first purchase came from a show featuring Roman coins; since then, he has accumulated roughly 400 coins. “I’m getting to kind of an awkward situation where I only have the very expensive ones left to buy,” he says with a laugh. “A collecting hobby is an interesting thing. It becomes kind of a compulsive hobby. I’ve found myself doing irrational things to improve my collection.” Beell became involved with the Ames Coin Club at the invitation of his boss, Greenlee School director Michael Bugeja. Bugeja remembers a coin show he and Beell attended together, where Beell bought what he thought was an original rare token. “We got to the parking lot, and I looked at the token,” Bugeja explains. “Tom had paid $100 for this token, and I realized it was a replica. Being the nice

FEATURES

guy he is, he did not want to go back in and return it. I went in with Tom and demanded a refund. We got it. Tom is just really a gentle soul.” Beell’s laid-back personality and kind heart are two characteristics his colleagues will miss most. “He is really part of the journalism culture here at the Greenlee School,” Bugeja says. “He is known to promote professionalism, and to go out of his way to help any student.” For Abbott, it is Beell’s history that will be missed most. “When it comes to educating college students, you certainly want someone young who’s full of enthusiasm, someone that is up on currently technology, etc.,” Abbott said. “But Tom has so much knowledge. He lived so much of what he is teaching. You can’t bring that hiring someone young.”

“Working with the students is so great. I will miss working one-on-one with them,” Beell says. “There is enormous talent to be discovered by taking the time to talk to a student outside class. Everyone hopes to have a lasting impression. You teach your students values and specific skills. You just hope that you accurately convey the importance of being fair and objective.” Beell compares his experiences to that of Mr. Chipping in the film, “Goodbye, Mr. Chips.” The film’s namesake overcomes his initial shyness and teaching obstacles to influence his students momentously, and they grow to adore him. “I’ve never had any children of my own,” Beell explains. “But in a way, I’ve had many children. And if I have positively impacted even one of them, then I’ll call it a success.”

“HE IS REALLY PART OF THE JOURNALISM CULTURE HERE AT THE GREENLEE SCHOOL.”

— MICHAEL BUGEJA

Channeling Beell’s WOI-TV roots circa 1988 (top) and protesting the 1994 sale of the station (above).

.


The James W. Schwartz Award and the Chamberlin Lecturer are two of the most prestigious honors bestowed upon a Greenlee School graduate. It’s not often that an alumna is honored with both, let alone in the same month. But October 2012 found Barbara (Riedesel) Iverson in the heart of those mutual spotlights.

“She deserves to be recognized for the level she’s now working at, as well as the contributions she has made,” said Bill Kunerth, retired Greenlee School professor.

Iverson, a 1976 journalism graduate, said she was thrilled and surprised to learn she had won both honors.

“I’m in public relations, and I think [the honors are] recognition from the Greenlee School that public relations is an important career for journalism students,” Iverson said.

Iverson leads as president for financial services for Weber Shandwick, a top global public relations firm. She oversees work with clients such as MasterCard and Goldman Sachs. Iverson also gets credit for gaining federal government clients for Weber Shandwick such as the Internal Revenue Services, the Federal Reserve

Bank and the 2010 U.S. Census campaign. Kunerth remembers teaching Iverson

in one of his editing classes. “Most of my students were a pleasure to work with, but I really remembered her,” he said. “She was a jewel of a student. She went to college to learn. She was a very serious student, but she had a good sense of humor.”

That attention to business has been crucial to Iverson’s success as the journalism industry has changed dramatically since the mid-1970s.

During her Oct. 2 Chamberlin Lecture, Iverson reminded attendess that social media can be a “game changer” for journalists and public relations and advertising professionals.

Michael Bugeja, director of the Greenlee School, said it wasn’t hard to select Iverson as the Chamberlin Lecturer.

“She’s heavily involved in education and the new methods of communicating that students really need to know, everything from social media to blogs and beyond. She has a lot to share and that makes her an ideal speaker,” Bugeja said.

Iverson encourages Greenlee students not to fret over ongoing industry changes.

“Public relations is such an important career. It’s growing; businesses are seeing value in it more than ever,” she said. “Traditional journalism, advertising and PR are all merging in a lot of

organizations and a lot of it’s because of the social media trend.”

U.S. News and World Report magazine ranks public relations specialist among the best jobs of 2012; according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment in public relations is expected to grow by more than 22 percent between 2010 and 2020. Consequently, the Greenlee School has submitted a university proposal to create a public relations major, for which Iverson provided guidance.

“With all the changes that are going on in journalism, and the growth potential for public relations, I think it’d be a great thing for the Greenlee School,” Iverson said. “Public relations is another path – it’s not to replace journalism. Journalism needs to stand on its own,” she continued. “But I think offering a PR major would strengthen [the Greenlee School] and help with enrollment.”

Iverson even created a journalism 499 internship at Weber Shandwick specifically for Greenlee schools to help increase student knowledge in public relations.

Senior Sally Adams was chosen as the summer 2012 intern for Weber Shandwick.

“I was very fortunate to get to intern at Weber Shandwick as an undergrad. It’s an amazing company and getting to experience the corporate lifestyle as a student was really exciting for me,” Adams said. “I thought of the 10-week job as a dry run for the real world, and it was very nice to get a taste of what working is going to be like come graduation.”

For her professional achievements and commitment to the Greenlee School, Iverson received the James W. Schwartz Award for Distinguished Service to Journalism and Communication Oct. 26.

TWO ESTEEMED ALUMNI JOIN GREENLEE SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL

Lindsey Borg, ’89, offers a diverse background in public affairs and policy, corporate reputation and issues management. He currently is a senior director of operations and corporate communication for Strategic Social, a Washington, D.C., firm that delivers strategic communication and international relations services.

During his 21-year military career, Borg advised the NATO commander during the alliance’s operations in Kosovo and later helped to lead communication efforts from Pristina. He also served as NATO’s spokesperson, aided in preparation and helped to conduct the 2010 Baghdad elections and directed public affairs for the Air Force’s global mobility organization. He rose to the rank of colonel in the U.S. Air Force before retiring in 2011.

Borg worked in the White House Press Office during the Reagan Administration, at CNN’s Washington Bureau and in the Iowa governor’s office before his commission as an officer.

He earned his ISU bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication in 1989 and continued on to receive graduate degrees from the University of Oklahoma and Air University. He is also a former fellow at Harvard University’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs.

Michael Turley, ’86, is the CEO of Osborn Barr, a firm that serves some of U.S. agriculture’s major companies and organizations that make the United States a global leader in the production of food, feed, fiber and fuel. He leads a team of 175 communications professionals with offices in St. Louis and Kansas City. The firm serves clients such as Anheuser-Busch, Michelin, United Soybean Board and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Turley gives back to his community as well. He partnered with Gateway Greening, a St. Louis-based nonprofit that contributes to neighborhood stability through community gardens. He participated in the production of a 2011 documentary titled “Man Made: Disaster at Birds Point Levee” about the federal government’s decision to flood more than 100,00 acres of farmland. He also expanded Osborn Barr’s paid internship program.

Turley graduated from Iowa State in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a minor in journalism. He began his career at Hoard’s Dairyman magazine in Fort Atkinson, Wis. He remains active on his family farm and lives in St. Louis with his wife, Jennifer, and their three children.

NEW FACES ONADVISORY COUNCIL

The Greenlee School will bid a fond farewell this spring to these seniors who have worked as office assistants the past three years (from left): Chantel Lischer, Nick Shell and Erin March.

ON MESSAGE

by CAITLYN DIIMIG

BARBARA IVERSON’S SPOT-ON PR SUCCESS NETS TOP GREENLEE AWARDS

Tom Beell (center)and former faculty member Bob Kern (right), congratulate Iverson on her Schwartz Award.

CARE AND KEEPING OF GREENLEE

52 Greenlee Glimpse 53Iowa State University 201252 Greenlee Glimpse

ALUMNI

LOIS STEWART, ‘46 Just back from a week in Asheville, N.C., with daughter, Ann, now teaching at an acupuncture school there and working in its clinic. North Carolina penchant for heat pumps kept me cold most of the time, but her house is attractive, perched on metal stilts high above the French Broad River. With cousin Angela Caro visiting out from Birmingham, Ala., we made a pilgrimage to a cemetery in York County, S.C., containing the graves of half a dozen 18th-century ancestors and viewed a polluted former mine once occupied (when it was a mountain) by one of our ancestors. Otherwise, no real news. No ISU contacts, except one Chi O alum meeting, where they were impressed by my age (88). Vision still partly improved by last year’s stroke. Lost my backyard maple trees because of a hurricane and other disasters; kitchen is hot now. 508 7th St., Brooklyn, NY 11215

KEITH WALKER, ‘46 Still kicking. Live in Eugene, Ore., now. Still book writing -- five now published, two more in hopper. Will be 90 in June. Losing my eyesight. My wife, Mary Sheehan, ‘48, is still alive, but uses a wheelchair. Our children are all now in their 60s! Hope to hear all the news of all of you! 1836 27th Place, Eugene, OR 97405

DORIS ADAMS, ‘48 I’ve just learned the term that I’m “aging in place” with some good help. My main writing these days consists of minutes for my local senior citizens group. I make an effort to use active verbs and avoid any form of “to be.” 5 Ritchie Ave. Apt. 1, Cincinnati, OH 45215

IRENE (MEYER) BRUNGRABER, ‘48 My husband, Engineer Ed (Mech. Engr. ‘48) and I both graduated in 1948; we will be back in 2013 as 65-year alums. We’ve been in our Pittsburgh, Pa., house for 45 years. Ed finally retired, but it seems “homemakers” never get to retire! We have four children, 14 grandchildren and six great-grands, all of whom help us with our computer. 390 Parkway Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15228

KATHLEEN (BOLAND) SCHWANZ, ‘48 H. Lee Schwanz, ‘47, died in January 2012 after a long bout with cancer. Lee met his wife, Kathy, in the Press Building, he a returning Silver Star war hero and later editor of the Daily; she, the Daily women’s editor. After marriage and a stint at the Country Gentleman before it folded, Lee and Kathy moved to Milwaukee, where he founded a magazine publishing company. Their four children were also journalism graduates. A personal note: Lee’s nephew, Eric Abbott (Greenlee School professor), has been our contact with ISU journalism. Eric’s dad, Lyle Abbott, was well-known as editor of the “Daily Student,” as it was known in the old days. Our wonderful department head was Ken Marvin, and of course there was Rod Fox, who introduced us to Jl MC 101 with three words on the blackboard: Accuracy, accuracy, accuracy. Woe on he or she who ignored or forgot that edict! Our days in the Press Building (now Hamilton Hall) were happy, productive, instructive and FUN. I hope your today’s class of over 100 will have the same memories. W233N3044 Oakmont Court E, Pewaukee, WI 53072

WINNIFRED (CANNON)JARDINE, ‘41My husband, Stuart, and I are still living in our home of 40 years, made possible by our four children who live nearby. We sleep more than we ever have before, read more than we ever have before, keep abreast of the news and follow our favorite sports: college games, Utah Jazz in the NBA, and, of course, we watched the baseball World Series. We often have lunch with my brother, Rowland, ISU Engr. ‘36, now in his 99th year, and his wife. Life is good. My journalism training is still holding. During my 92nd year I wrote my life story, and I still participate in two monthly writers’ groups. 3420 El Serrito Circle, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 [email protected].

J. NEWTON WALLACE, ‘41 Now in my 65th year with the Winters (Calif.) Express, and newspapering is still fun. 427 Main St., Winters, CA 95694

DOROTHY (CONQUEST)CAMPBELL, ‘43 5582 Calle Ocho, Carpinteria, CA 93013

MARY ELIZABETH (LUSH)HAUSRATH, ‘43 Mary Elizabeth (Lush) Hausrath, ‘46, celebrated in Ames the anniversary of Dave Lush’s, ‘45, European tours with husband Alfred H. (Engr. ‘47) and 15 other travel-ers. Most graduated from Ames High 70 years ago! 2741 Palos Verdes Dr. N. Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274


JOHN ANDERSON, ‘49 Jo and I observed our 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 24 after moving from Storm Lake to Edgewater community in West Des Moines in October 2011. I plan to observe my 90th birthday on Jan. 13, 2013. Two daughters in the area now provide this car-less twosome with necessary transportation. Six grandchildren are all now in college: three at ISU, the others scattered at Michigan, Purdue and TCU. After 20 years of volunteering with SCORE, and compiling entries for nine Small Business of the Year winners, it was time to let younger members counsel with prospective entrepreneurs. Winters in Yuma, Ariz., are also a thing of the past after 21 years of winter golf. Happy in a new lifestyle. 9225 Cascade Ave. #2113, West Des Moines, IA 50266; [email protected]

WAYNE SWEGLE, ‘49 One of my special pastimes is playing duplicate bridge at the Little Rock Bridge House. Good for my brain, I’m told. Also, I’m active in the Arkansas-East Bolivia Partners of the Americas -- past president. Further, my recliner occupies my time. And my tree farm north of Osceola, Iowa, furnishes exercise and pleasant hiking. I’m blessed with good health and a positive attitude. 2 Crystal Mountain Lane, Maumelle, AR 72113

ELINOR (CHASE) ALMQUIST, ‘50 208 E. Walnut St., Red Oak, IA 51566

BARBARA (PARSONS) LEACH, ‘50 Greetings from Syracuse, N.Y., where we’ve resided since 1951. Both my husband (Ray) and myself are in reasonably good health and keeping far too busy for folks in our mid-80s. I continue to write a monthly history column (two pages) for our church newsletter, and both us of still coordinate an annual Bowl-A-Thon for Syracuse Habitat for Humanity. Ray continues as secretary for the Rotary Club of Syracuse and finds time to bowl at least three times a week. My hobby is still genealogy, which leads us to many interesting places. 5097 Skyline Dr., Syracuse, NY 13215

OLIVER NELSON, ‘50 Still happily retired in Massachusetts. Always glad to hear that the Greenlee School continues to win honors and produce competent graduates for all manner of media. 600 Canton Ave., Bldg. 4, #414, Milton, MA 02186

TOM OLSEN, ‘50 Still managing to get from point A to point B. Do some writing, some communication consulting and teach freshman English and news writing at Dutchess Community College. Would love to hear from any early ‘50s ISU journalists who still survive. 18 Exeter Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603; fdtolsen&optonline.net.

JANET (SUTHERLAND) ARONSON, ‘51 Ron and I are enjoying our years at Ashby Ponds Retirement Center in Londoun County, Va. Nice to be near two of our children in northern Virginia (another swing state!). We still manage to get to our summer Vermont home about seven weeks. I’m editing stories for our quarterly magazine here, so keep involved. Granddaughters in college: one at George Mason in Fairfax, Va., and the other in Lincoln at U of Nebraska! 21085 Cardinal Pond Ter. Apt. 104, Ashburn, VA 20147

PAUL ANDRE, ‘52 After nearly 60 years, Fran and I are now separated by Alzheimers. After caring for her for several years, I had to admit I could no longer provide the care she required, so she entered a care center Aug. 30. On a happier note, I am enjoying watching great-grandson Tony and great-granddaughter Jennifer do well in cross country and track events for their high school teams. 833 Alysheba Rd., Shakopee, MN 55379

DON ARENDS, ‘52 Enjoying expanded history writing/reporting for Arends, Inc., clients, Palm Springs Air Museum, La Quinta CC and La Grange CC, and family history. Includes video timelines reaching back into 1884; documenting lives of World War II, Korean and Vietnam veterans; and stories about my 84 years of family, professional and volunteer experiences. The Iowa State undergraduate years, service with ISU Foundation and Greenlee advisory board are cornerstones of treasured memories. Still having fun writing, “Grandpa Grouper The Fish with Glasses” and “Norm the Ninja River Mouse” series of children’s books. Working on Grandpa Grouper’s “Underwater Water Christmas Miracle” for fall 2013. It may be a classic! I am very proud of Michael Bugeja’s Greenlee School leadership that has taken ISU into North America’s top tier of journalism and communication schools. We are blessed with his decision to stay with the university. 79 Briarwood Circle, Oak Brook, IL 60523

FRANK FERGUSON, ‘50I turned 86 in September, and I am now chairman of the board of CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES, a publisher of K-12 assessment and instructional materials. I keep office hours at the company daily, and have active involvement in two compelling nonprofits: the Lionheart Foundation, whose missions are prison recidivism and at-risk, inner-city youth. I’d love to hear from Greenlee alums. Phone: (978) 313-1254; 26 Harvest Circle, Lincoln, MA 01773-3212 [email protected].


MARYKAY (PITZER) BIDLACK, ‘52Currently vacationing in California and will return home to Beverly, W. Va., next week. More and more activity in historic Beverly activities. Good times! P.O. Box 202, Beverly, WV 26253 [email protected].

WALTER WHITLACH, ‘52400 McKissick Spring Rd., Centerton, AR 72719

THEODORE (TED) HUTCHCROFT, ‘52At the end of this year I am stepping down from 14 years as editor of our community association newsletter, The Petit Jean Mountain-aire. It has been an interesting time, but there comes a time to “retire.” With this election Arkansas is about to go through a major change; for the first time since Reconstruction the government has not been in the hands of the Democratic Party. P.S. Mine is a new e-mail address. 1237 Winrock Drive Morrilton, AR 72110 [email protected].

FLORAMAE “RUSTY” (GATES) GEISER, ‘52

As octogenerians, Stan and I are still active with tennis, golf, travel, church and volunteering. Also good to hear about Iowa Staters – even better if you would stop to see us in Florida or Indiana. Get in touch via e-mail. 9269 Garden Pointe, Ft. Myers, FL 33908 [email protected].

Mary and I are blessed with nine grandchildren and I am enjoying retirement from USDA-APHIS here in northern Virginia. Check my website (www.ldmark.com) for pictures and current info. 6912 Vancouver Rd., Springfield, VA 22152 [email protected].

Youngest grandchild – Derek, 1 year.

LARRY MARK, ‘53

GEORGE PETERSON, ‘53No news of note. Remain an interested observer of our fascinating world, while waging war with weeds and vines. Have started to glance at obits. Not a good sign. 3619 Royal Fern Circle, Deland, FL 32724

JAMES EVANS, ‘54Greetings and best wishes to all. 1074 County Road 1500 E, Philo, IL 61864

MARILYN (GROOMES) MCDONALD, ‘544022 Markham St., Houston, TX 77027

CLARENCE SALLEE, ‘54Doris & I continue to enjoy retirement –19 years and counting. This year we extended our motor homing in Florida to five months to enjoy the warmer winter weather. Always enjoy hearing from old school mates. P.O. Box 100, Suches, GA 30572-0100 [email protected].

BOB SIMMONS, ‘54Dee and I moved to Bellingham, Wash., six years ago, where our kids had moved to get away from us. Keen little city with a view halfway to Asia. Dee does a lot of grandmothering and volunteers as a reading specialist at a local elementary school. I’m still pounding away at freelance reporting, for Crosscut in Seattle (daily, general interest dot-com) and Cascadia Weekly, the left of center voice of the upper-left hand corner, still quaintly ink on paper. We dunno any other Greenlee people out here but would like to. We’re in the phone book. 934 Highland Dr., Bellingham, WA 98255 [email protected].

ANN (LINDEMEYER) BURCKHARDT, ‘55My national television debut was Jan. 23, 2011, when I appeared in two segments of the Minnesota show of “Bizarre Foods” on the Travel Channel. Host Andrew Zimmern, a local chef, asked me to judge a hot dish contest at a local VFW, then later to assess a hot dish he’d created to be served at an eatery call Haute Dish in downtown Minneapolis. Normally Zimmern travels globally to find bizarre foods, but he wanted to pay homage to Minnesota and saw to it the food verged on bizarre – elk in the VFW winner and organ meats in his creation for Haute Dish. A fun gig. Also demoed a hot dish from my “Hot Dish Heaven” (Minnesota Historical Society Press) collection on channel 2, educational TV station here, when they, too, had a hot dish event. Am writing occasionally for Edible Twin Cities magazine, which is devoted to organic and sustainable foods. It is a free color magazine, bi-monthly. I also contributed to their cookbook coming out later this year, we hope. I write and edit for the monthly newsletter of my co-op home, 7500 York, and for the quarterly magazine, Together, of my church, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Looking forward to the next Glimpse, as always. 7500 York Ave. So., Apt. 423, Edina, MN 55435, (952) 890-8950


JUSTINE (FRITZE) IRWIN, ‘55Although experiencing some physical limitations, I continue my freelance writing and historical research projects. I am currently working on a centennial history of the local church and co-authoring a series of children’s stories with my niece, who is an illustrator/writer. These are true animal/environment stories based on a lifetime of work with the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service in the Rocky Mountains and the Arizona desert parks. P.O. Box 446, Nederland, CO 80466

RICHARD REISEM, ‘55I am writing my 15th book since retiring from Eastman Kodak in 1986. It is a biography of Myron Holley (1779-1841), New York State legislator, Erie Canal commissioner, superintendent and treasurer of Erie Canal construction. He was also an influential abolitionist and founded the national Liberty Party. I also received the 2012 Special Achievement Award from the Landmark Society of Western New York for “outstanding and tireless advocacy for historic preservation in western New York over the past six decades.” 560 Mount Hope Ave., Rochester, NY 14620-2235 [email protected].

KEITH REMY, ‘55, & RUTH (ABBOTT) REMY, ‘57603 Sherwood Rd., Starkville, MS 39759

DONALD WEBB, ‘55The big news is that I’m still on the planet! Don’t see many names I recognize anymore. 3600 28th St. S. Apt. 5, La Crosse, WI 54601

SHARON (STILWELL) HOPEWELL, ‘56Retired. We spend November-March in Arizona (10634 W. Sequoia Dr., Sun City, Ariz. 85373). 198 Haddam Quarter Rd. #R, Durham, CT 06422

R. JANE (HAMMERLY) MEYER, ‘55, & STANLEYMEYER, ‘56 3417 14th Ave. S., Great Falls, MT 59405

A. JAMES MATSON, ‘565200 France Ave. S. Unit 16, Edina, MN 55410

D. KEITH BALLANTYNE, ‘57The years are slipping by. You know it when the obituaries are mostly one’s age or younger! But I hope to live long enough to see the journalism profession return to its former reputable position, rather than its current slobbering love affair with one political party! Just facts, ma’am, just the facts! 844 Hillcrest Dr., Ashland, OH 44805

DONNA (SCHNEIDER) LEE, ‘57The year brought both sadness and joy. My dear husband of 30 years died in January. Classmates will remember my first husband, ISU journalism graduate Steve Funk. He died October 2010 in Deerfield Beach, Fla. On the happy side, son James and Yu Qing (born in far northern China), married in Boston in 2011 and added an ador-able, jolly son to our clan in August 2012. Widowhood is an adjustment, but I volunteer at the food bank, and explored Norway and Iceland with friends in September. 44 Seaview Ave., Cranston, RI 02905

DORIS (DOCKENDORFF)MACFARQUHAR, ‘57Still enjoy grandsons and few winter months in Florida, rest of the year in Wellsville. Golf, gardening and music keep me out of trouble. 195 East Pearl St., Wellsville, NY 14895 [email protected].

BETTY LAROCHE, ‘581291 SW Davenport St., Portland, OR 97201

JACK ROSSMANN, ‘58The transition to retirement is going well for Marty (Mar-tin, H.Ec. Ed. ‘58) and me. Some travel, tennis (Jack), teaching (both of us, through OLLI [Osher Lifelong Learning Institute]), time with grandchildren (ages 11-15), and lots of interesting volunteer activities. 99 Cam-bridge St., St. Paul, MN 55105

DONALD SOMERS, ‘58Still enjoying retirement...tutoring inner-city elementary grade students, playing my banjo and traveling. 5227 Brendon Park Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46226 [email protected]

BARBARA (CULVER)VAN SITTERT, ‘58We’re not slowing down out here. Husband Logan (ISU Arch.‘58), has two new projects on the drawing board. We’re both working on the Romney campaign, along with my sister Jean and her husband in Iowa (she’s the only Culver still living on a farm). Our dad, Dean Culver (ISU Ag. ‘31), died Feb. 9, just short of his 104th birthday. He was sound of mind, although crippled with arthritis. He died suddenly, while conversing with his physical therapist -- he’d eaten breakfast and had had his morning smoke! 1040 East Osborn Road, Unit 1402, Phoenix, AZ 85014 [email protected].


NEALA (LAWRENCE)BENSON, ‘59 We continue to travel often to see children and grandchildren in Hawaii, Wisconsin, Maryland and Germany. All great places to visit! And there are many others still on our bucket list. Congratulations again to Greenlee students! 614 Hodge Ave., Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

TOM BENSON, ‘59We publish a weekly networking newsletter via e-mail to 7000-plus readers...newsletter is free as are the stories we publish for readers. Ask for a copy at [email protected]. An exclusive sponsorship is available each week. 9650 Waterstone Pl., Unit 111 B, Minnetonka, MN 55305 [email protected].

I continue hosting Iowa Public Television’s Iowa Press program, and reporting for Iowa Public Radio and NPR. I was deeply honored to receive the 2012 Mitchell V. Charnley Award from Greenlee Professor Tom Beell – the highest honor given by the Northwest Broadcast News Association, the oldest regional broadcast news organization in the U.S., representing radio and TV journalists in six Midwest states. 722 College Blvd., Mount Vernon, IA 52314-1056 [email protected].

ELDEAN BORG, ‘59

BETSY (HOFFMAN) CHAPMAN, ‘59 10 Speyside Circle, Pittsboro, NC 27312

CHARLES KLOPF, ‘60Sue and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary June 9, 2012. Our two sons are both in their 40s and they’ve given us three wonderful grandsons. I sold my publications to Gannett 10 years ago and retired. We’re fortunate to be able to spend our winters in Arizona. 2805 Sylvania Dr., West Des Moines, IA 50266 [email protected].

SONIA (SHUBERT) PORTER, ‘60No change...just in age. Still working as a meeting planner, but only putting on one conference a year. It keeps the mind sharp--but I may want to rest the brain soon. 6202 Pioneer Road, Madison, WI 53711

EDITH (LILLIE) BARTLEY, ‘61No headlines this past year. My youngest daughter moved home this summer from a nearby apartment – just too expensive. My two older daughters are still in the Bronx (oldest) and LA. Only grandson, Robert, turned 3 in July, lives in the Bronx, getting verbal. I keep busy with local activities and taking care of our old house. I did see ISU lose to Rutgers at the Pinstripe Bowl in December 2011, in the company of my DZ pledge mom and her ISU journalism husband. 253 Hicks St., Brooklyn, NY 11201

VINCE BRADLEY, ‘61Still basking in the joys of retirement in Hawaii. Grateful that ISU provided me with the occupational skills to earn a living that enabled me to retire here in paradise. Aloha Nui Loa. 6370-14 Hawaii Kai Dr., Oahu, HI 96825 [email protected].

MAMIE (ZILLMAN) CARTER, ‘61This year I added “real estate developer” to “journalist” and “investor” on my business card. When Blockbuster vacated one of my buildings, an overwhelming deluge of potential tenants were thoroughly interviewed and researched. A new food business, My Fit Food, opens before year-end. 414 E. Mandalay Dr., San Antonio, TX 78212 [email protected].

CHRISTOPHER BRENNER, ‘62Retired from the daily newspaper business in 2006, but continue to volunteer with the Greyslake Historical Society, the Greyslake Lions Club and Friends of the Volo Bog, which is preserving and protecting a unique tamarack bog in Lake County, Ill. 105 S. Seymour Ave., Grayslake, IL 60030

MARY (MCKENNEN)DRUDING, ‘62After 26 years as a hospital staff nurse, working in four states and numerous specialties, followed by seven years of retirement (sort of), I’m finally back to writing. I put out a six-page newsletter for an organization – which means a monthly war with the computer. But, wow! For someone whose Iowa State stories were set by linotype operators, it’s sure fun to have all those headline fonts and to be able to click pictures into place, wherever I choose. No matter how humble the assignment, the satisfaction in seeing the printed result never ceases. 6500 E. 21st. St. N. Unit 25, Wichita, KS 67206

DENNIS HASENWINKEL, ‘62Still retired and still loving it. Sitting here looking at snow flakes falling across the lake. 15143 215th Ave. # 2, Spirit Lake, IA 51360 [email protected].


MELVA (LAFRENZ) BERKLAND, ‘64, M.S. ‘87, PHD ‘92 (AG ED & STUDIES)Bill, my dear husband of 48 years, passed away in June 2011 from Alzheimers disease. As I adjust, I’ve been volunteering for the Alzheimers Association, Iowa 4-H Foundation, Mary Greeley Medical Center and my church; getting together with friends; learning at ISU and community sessions; quilting; reading; exercising in water and on land plus traveling a little. Our son Ross lives in Des Moines, so we are together frequently. Let me know when you’re in town and we can get together to visit. Thank you for issuing this newsletter. 3927 Toronto St., Ames, IA 50014

ANN (NELSON) WARD, ‘62We attended our 50th class reunion in May, making us realize what all has transpired since our short time at ISU. They were fun times and we enjoyed reliving them with our classmates. We will continue to travel for as long as we can. It has been our favorite pastime. Hello to all. 5079 W. Jointfir Lane, Marana, AZ 85658

GEORGE WHITE, ‘622811 E. Hayes St., Davenport, IA 52803

JOY (REESE) DERR, ‘63Enjoying retirement but still active with the Hood Col-lege History Museum. Husband Jack is also retired so we winter in Maryland and enjoy summers at the lake in Minnesota. Looking forward to a five-week trip to South Africa in December. Our four children have given us 15 grandchildren! Still cheering for ISU!! 4601 Deer Spring Road, Box 759, Braddock Heights, MD 21714 [email protected].

RONALD SALAK, ‘63Retired in 2005 after a 40-year career in public television. 1800 Imperial RDG, Las Cruces, NM 88011

JIM STEPHENS, ‘63Still living 50/50 between Phoenix area and Iowa farm. Am designing/building prototype of a variable focus, dual-function linear parabolic solar collector that should (it says right here) boil liquids in large quantities or serve as a high-temperature direct-heat source for drying grain or the like--a supplement for propane, and powered by sunlight. Yes, this is wretchedly written. Even so, we are enjoying life---especially since Peg and I are now past 70---at Sun City Festival near Phoenix, and/or gardening and prototype designing on the farm near Washington in southeast Iowa. Five grandchildren, all of whom are almost as good-looking and intelligent as yours. Hope you are well and full of energy most of the time. Phone is always (319) 461-9241; call if you are going to be in the area. 27172 Mohawk Lane, Buckeye, AZ 85396 [email protected].

JAMES GRUNIG, ‘64Lauri Grunig and I were honored with a festschrift dur-ing the annual public relations research conference in Bled, Slovenia in July. Lauri and I delivered lectures on our lives in public relations (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCuXoHuUbRM) and were presented with a book with essays related to our research. We also traveled to Bali in October to lecture at an International Public Relations Summit. I’m in my seventh year as a professor emeritus at the University of Maryland. We still have five grandchildren in Maryland, Virginia and Los Angeles. 41 Brinkwood Road, Brookeville, MD 20833 [email protected].

DONALD JOHNSON, ‘64Susan and I retired in 2008 after selling our publications and shutting down our printing and marketing communications consulting businesses. I blogged on health policy, politics and investing until early this year. Now we’re just playing. We bought a Class B motor home late in 2009 and upsized to a small Class A in July. We’ve driven close to 50k miles around the country over the last four summers. Planning Alaska trip for next summer. Got in 46 days of skiing at Keystone last winter. Shooting for 60 this year. Retirement’s a blast so far. P.O. Box 23159, 1228 Palmers Dr., Silverthorne, CO 80498 [email protected].

Borg (left) and Beell.


Three books out in one calendar year, all North Star Press. They say it is as much commotion to find a publisher as it was to research and write – and more effort than both to promote. I got my publisher in two weeks but the story had many drafts, many searches. Jim Schwartz steered the edit of what was to be all three books, at the peak of its path, and I am forever grateful to Jim and Toni. The new book, “The Days of Song and Lilacs,” is a memoir set in 1954, a Mason City, Iowa, story, when Meredith Willson was penning his “The Music Man” for Broadway. We had the same accompanist. I was 12 and the town was a hotbed of live entertainment, served up like dessert, pre-television. The book launched on American Public Media, “Flicks in Five,” when national host Lynne Warfel focused on “The Music Man.” (The first book, “The Biggest Dance”–google YouTube “First Biggest Tap Dance Flash Mob, 1979” to drop in! The companion book, “Big!”–aptly named-- more Guinness world records by the people in the streets, plus–my dance solo tales with celebrities Gregory Hines, Christopher Plummer, Garrison Keillor. AND those outtakes may be the best part!) Next year my newsletter note–guaranteed shorter! Tom and I will take some delayed trips and breathe deeply. The University of Iowa did ask me to write a fourth book, and therein is the joy, the creation. I hope I continue to grow and produce. Thank you, ISU journalism department, I would never have been a good home ec-er. Mary Beth Sartor Obermeyer, 2405 Russell Avenue S., Minneapolis, MN 55405 [email protected].

MARY BETH (SARTOR)OBERMEYER, ‘64

CARL PELZER, ‘64Oldest grandchild, Mason, is a freshman at UNI this fall. Youngest, Cecilia, is in first grade. “The cat’s in the cradle...” Got a 10-point whitetail last December – he’s on the family room wall. Ace (black Lab) and I are on the same old stand. Still watching FNC and HOPING for CHANGE. 2012 Ashmore Dr., Ames, IA 50010

MARILYN (FREEMAN) WESSEL, ‘64My 70th year has been a good one thus far, with travel, visits from family far and near and many beautiful days in Montana. I continue to follow the work at Iowa State with interest and wish the current faculty and students well. In fact, I visited the campus briefly in the spring and was amazed at how much I still recognized. I remain a proud alumna. 714 North 17th Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715 [email protected].

ROGER HANSEN, ‘65220 Trail of the Flowers, Georgetown, TX 78633

DIANE (SHARBO) PAUL, ‘65Visited ISU in September (on a beautiful fall weekend) for my 50th reunion with Tri Delta pledge sisters! Working part time as a bank teller (keeping the brain ‘agile’)and enjoying life!.....Proud of the ISU football team! 200 Abbey Brook Lane, Venetia, PA 15367 [email protected].

SHIRLEY (BAILEY) RUHE, ‘65, M.S. ‘69 (POL.SCI.)Retired a year ago as director of the RAND Corporation office of congressional relations, and after working 24 years on Capitol Hill (nearly 10 years as director of budget priorities for the House of Representatives budget committee). Now traveling a lot with Jon – many trips to birding spots since we’re working on our life list. Two grandchildren nearby and another on the way, so lots of family things. Also feeding Hispanic day laborers in county program, 90-year-old neighbors, Democratic caucus workers, our Cooking Group friends – got a theme there? Working on my annual Christmas cookbook, now with pictures, and sent to family and friends, a journalistic endeavor that has captured our lives and experiences for over 40 years through our relationship with food. 3915 N. Woodstock St., Arlington, VA 22207


JOE ELSTNER, ‘66Retired in 2008 from 25 years of PR practice with Bell companies and 13 years with the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Doing volunteer PR work here and there and active in my church, Manchester United Methodist. Still playing keyboards with my classic rock band, The Decades (thedecades.wordpress.com). Wife Diane (Cord, El. Ed. ’72) and I have two grandkids, who are of course the world’s cutest and smartest. Was reminiscing during this election season about how stalwarts like Hamilton, Schwartz, Kunerth, Fox, Blinn, Shelley, et. al., were undoubtedly liberals but NEVER let it come through in the classroom. Instead, they hammered accuracy, completeness and objectivity into our heads, for which I’ll always be grateful. Since most news reporters and editors today are openly leftward in their writing and content, I strongly hope that the Greenlee School avoids that temptation and focuses on the quality of the communication itself. Go Greenlee and Go Cyclones! 618 Forest Leaf Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011 [email protected].

JUDY (RYAN) HAAVERSEN, ‘66Still married to my first husband, Don; still happy. My health as good as possible since meds are keeping all the nasty things under control. Have been to three Gamma Phi Beta reunions in last six years (graduates of the late ‘50s to mid ‘60s) and all have been terrific. Last one was in Ames and I was amazed at the changes. Every sorority/frat house seems to have expanded into the last inch of its available land. Seeing friends after such a long time is great when you seem to pick up a conversation that started decades ago. I love that. As to journalism, I imagine every one of my former professors also gags every time someone makes up a new word...and then another person starts using it. Arrrggghhh! I do scream every so often. 5841 Aldrich Ave. So., Minneapolis, MN 55419 [email protected].

NANCY (MISKUS) ROTHWELL, MS ‘664700 W. 95th St. #204, Oak Lawn, IL 60453.

KAREN (SAFLEY) TAYLOR, ‘66I’ve been retired since February 2003, my health is only a couple notches below excellent and life is very good. My cats sleep undisturbed in the rocking chair, because I’m too busy to use it! Among other activities: local history research and writing (I’m active in the Springville Area Historical Society); 50-year high school class reunion; rediscovering and visiting my third-grade and seventh-grade teachers; travel to Denmark and New England in 2011; short trips in 2012 to South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota and Indiana; and teaching English as a second language in Cedar Rapids (current students are from Burundi and South Korea). Eric Abbott and his son Matt stopped for a brief visit on a hot July day when RAGBRAI XL came right past my house. 2318 Springville Rd., Springville, IA 52336

BILL VINT, ‘66Two events worthy of note over the past 12 months: Windy City Bowling News, published by my wife Lisa and I for the greater Chicagoland bowling market since 1971, became the first “business” inducted into the Illinois Bowling Association Hall of Fame last fall...and I am now “executive director” of the Mail Pouch Barnstormers, a small organization of collectors/photographers/historians who are trying to preserve the heritage of Mail Pouch Tobacco signs - painted on barns and buildings throughout the coal mining/iron ore smelting/oil fields of America from the late 1800s. N7788 Carver School Rd East Troy, WI 53120 [email protected].

RICK DAVIS, ‘67Relocated back to Texas (for third time) in September 2012. Virtually retired, except still freelance – for San Diego Union-Tribune and Riverside (CA) Press-Enter-prise. 925 Resaca, Cibolo, TX 78108 [email protected].

FRED ANDERSON, ‘67I now consider myself about 7/8 retired. Still writing a bit of freelance for local clients. Pro bono, I serve on two not-for-profit boards, housing- and faith-related, plus our church council. Also busy with Bettendorf Rotary and its charitable work. My ‘personal trainers,’ Bichon brothers Bert and Ernie, make sure I walk several miles per day. 2208 Lincoln Road, Bettendorf, IA 52722 [email protected].


RICHARD HULL, ‘67Retirement continues to be wonderful for Sharon and me. We still get back to Iowa a couple times a year. Our two Kansas FM radio stations continue to do well but small market radio is becoming more difficult due to satellite, online streaming and the current political climate in Washington. Just completed 45 years in the National Association of Farm Broadcasters. 25025 S. Lakeway Dr., Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 [email protected].

CAROL (MARLOW) MCGARVEY, ‘67With all the journalistic layoffs in my area (The Des Moines Register and Meredith Corp.), I am so, so lucky to have regular freelancing. I write home, food and landscape features for each issue of Welcome Home magazine and also contribute to the Creating Together Journal. Tom and I are thrilled that our kids and seven beautiful grandkids are thriving. My best to all. 5717 Kingman Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311 [email protected].

GARRETT O’KEEFE, M.S. ‘67Emeritus professor, Colorado State University, 2912 Garrett Dr., Fort Collins, CO 80526

JUDITH (GARDNER) RUTTER, ‘67642 Stoneridge Dr., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 [email protected].

PHYLLIS (BOWEN) ANDERSON, ‘68We continue to enjoy our retirement. Our winter home in Mesa gives us warm weather and friends there as well as in Lincoln. Our only grandchild, Cannon Walter Anderson, is a joy. 4210 Colfax Ave Lincoln, NE 68504 [email protected].

DENNIS BRIES, ‘68Currently doing freelance work writing a weekly garden column and covering the local school board meetings for the Lake Mills Leader, Daily Union and Watertown Daily Times. Also doing some consulting for a local science supply company. W5602 Church Road, Johnson Creek, WI 53038 [email protected].

BILL VINT, ‘66 Bill Vint remembers when he first considered journalism as a career. He was still in high school and was sitting with his father, who had just finished reading a copy of Field & Stream magazine. “Can you imagine getting paid to do this stuff ?” his father asked him. He hadn’t. Since then Vint has spent the better part of his career doing that stuff. He came to the Greenlee School with the intent of becoming a sports reporter, which he accomplished after graduation with stints at the Orlando Sentinel Star and then the Register Star in Rockford, Ill.. From there, his career branched into all aspects of journalism. He worked for a magazine publishing company, spent two years as CEO of the world’s largest snowmobile racing organization, directed marketing for the Ladies Pro Bowlers Tour and then edited Bowling Magazine, American Bowler and U.S. Bowler. Though he officially retired in 2008, Vint returned to Sleeping Dogs Communications, which he co-founded, and today primarily handles media relations for the Professional Bowlers Association. He and his wife also have continued Windy City Bowling News, which they began in 1990, covering Chicago-area bowling. Last year Vint was elected to the United States Bowling Congress board of directors and was named editor of Mail Pouch Barnstormers quarterly newsletter, a niche publication for fans of the old-school art.

– By Matt Wettengel

JUDY (AVES) CLEMENTS, ‘68Retired and loving it! Traveled to Ireland this spring looking for husband’s ancestors. 107 Inwood Dr., Aiken, S.C. 29803

CAROLYN (RILEY) HOMAN, ‘68Retired two years. Spending a lot of time birding and as a local Audubon board member, plus vegetable gardening and cooking. 610 Sunset Ave. N., Keizer, OR 97303

JEANETTE (JOHNSON) KEOGH, ‘685510 N. Sheridan Rd. Apt. 4B, Chicago, IL 60640


LAWN RICHARD GRIFFITHS, ‘68Highlight was the publishing of my 306-page, 181,000-word book, “Club of Clubs - The 60-Year History of the Kiwanis Club of Tempe,” a rich account of a dynamic Kiwanis Club I’ve belonged to for 26 years. I have been doing freelance writing and editing books and materials for others. I serve on a half-dozen community boards and continue producing a weekly, online multi-award-winning newsletter for Kiwanis. Patty and I are about to mark our 40th wedding anniversary. We are enjoying four grandkids, following politics and fighting for social justice wherever we see abuse and tyranny. 1952 E. El Parque Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282-2902 [email protected].

ANN LOWRY, ‘681022 W. Daniel St., Champaign, IL 61821

JANE (HENRIKSON) MACK, ‘[email protected].

WAYNE CORDES, ‘69Back in rural north-central Iowa. Owner of Milestone Images, Algona, Iowa, a fun combination of photo montage/collage design, photo restoration, custom picture framing and a wide variety of other design/graphic projects. Most fun I ever had working! 109 East State St., Algona, IA 50511 [email protected].

H. KEITH HENRY, ‘69Since retirement as NASA Langley news chief in December 2010, I have been transitioning to my new role of caregiver for my wife. Mary has been diagnosed with FTD, a form of dementia similar to, but different from, Alzheimers. We both still sing in the choir at church and, when the schedule allows, I sing in a regional chorus and enjoy participating in a local British car club. We are the original owners of a 1979 MG Midget. 107 Osprey Pt., Yorktown, VA 23692

PHYLLIS (MCELHENEY) LEPKE, ‘6913746 500th Ave., Story City, IA 50248

WILLIAM MONROE, ‘69I’m keeping busy in retirement. I was elected chair of the Iowa Public Information Board, a new state agency to enforce Iowa’s sunshine laws. I also continue to serve in emeritus status on the Greenlee School Advisory Council. 6917 Northglenn Way, Johnston, IA 50131

GARY SPEICHER, ‘69Hello, journalism friends! Sue and I continue to work in our financial planning firm along with assistant Diana Irvin. We just began our 45th year of business! Our family is well – Chris and Amy both work in Chicago. Matt bought a home in Ames last year and continues to work for Iowa State. Sarah lives in Cedar Rapids and runs a cosmetology and tanning salon business. I’ve enjoyed competing in professional walleye fishing tournaments as a “pro” the past two years. We developed a website, www.walleyewisdom.com, and encourage you to check out the videos, stories and pictures! The “Our Iowa” magazine did a feature story about the fishing adventures in its June/July 2012 issue – a special thanks to Jerry Wiebel and Lynn Betts for the article. Finally, keep me in your prayers. Last year, I was diagnosed with an incurable cancer called “CLL.” My bone marrow is producing cancer cells along with the good ones. Hopefully, I may live a long time with this cancer before any treatments are necessary. We wish each of you the best of good health, happiness and financial security! 3813 Tahoe Lane SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

SANDY (FARRELL) STEDMAN, ‘69In 2010, I retired from 38 years with Jeppesen, an aviation information company. While I miss the interesting work and my aviation colleagues from around the world, I’m thoroughly enjoying my newfound freedom to spend time with our four granddaughters, ski, play golf, work in the yard, serve on the Jeppesen Aviation Foundation board and do a little behind-the-scenes work to help Bob with his company, Independence Aviation. In September, Bob and I enjoyed time exploring campus with some ISU friends and watching the Cyclones beat Western Illinois. Great memories! 12380 N. 6th St., Parker, CO 80134 [email protected].

GARY VINCENT, ‘69Still working hard to find the right mix between retirement and freelance. Go Cyclones! 1270 South 4th St., Carlisle, IA 50047 [email protected].

WIL, ‘68, AND MARJORIE (PFISTER) GROVES, ‘68, M.S. ‘73Wil and I went to Cuba with Global Ministries in August, and to Southwest U.S. to look for aliens in Roswell, N.M., and such. Camped on Madeline Island in Lake Superior. This time Wil is acting, rather than directing; he’s Kanute in “Don’t Hug Me.” 2995 Neely Ave., Jewell, IA 50130 [email protected].


RICHARD VOLKMER, M.S. ‘69Hello, everyone...it’s always great to hear from the journalism department, which stirs so many warm memories. I have no idea where the last 40-odd years have gone, but those distant days in Ames remain clear and valued to us. At age 68, I have become semi-retired, still working half time in our little advertising and association management business. Karen has been retired from teaching for 10 years now, so we’ve been able to enjoy some nice travels and take life easier. We would love to hear from any old friends who remember us. We still have the 1929 Model “A” Ford (“Henrietta”) that I used to drive to school at the Press Building; it is now about two-thirds restored. Unfortunately, the parking sticker has crumbled to dust.... 3S530 Mignin Dr., Warrenville, IL 60555 [email protected].

Karen and Rich Volkmer.

KENT A. BAKER, ‘70This is my 12th year back operating my hometown newspaper in Moville after spending 21 years in Hawaii in television and 10 years before that with the Des Moines Register, and time in Glidden, Moline, Ill. and Waterloo, as well as in Des Moines. Hard to believe my career has covered 42 years! Time to retire, I think, and I am making preparations. This year has been very busy, serving as co-chairman of Moville’s 125th celebration, and then undergoing more back surgery. But on to 2013! How blessed I have been to have had such an interesting career, enjoying every job I ever had and liking every boss I ever had (especially the one for the past 12 years!).

JERRY CARLSON, ‘59, M.S. ‘70Occasionally I wonder if anyone ever read my 1970 master’s thesis, which envisioned that future journalists would write and publish on electronic screens rather than typewriters and paper. All that came true during my career. First, 10 years with Farm Journal, then 30 years with Professional Farmers of America, which Iowa State colleague Merrill Oster and I launched in 1971. Now, our family is launching a new firm, Renewable Farming LLC. One of our goals: Expose and roll back the health threats of genetically modified crops. We’re out to restore soil biology and nutritional content of food in America. Communication technology is on our side of this issue! 1527 S. Union Rd., Cedar Falls, IA 50613 [email protected].

TOM VINT, ‘70I have retired after a 25-year career with The Associated Press and six years as a mortgage loan officer. I am writing again, having self-published my third book, “Walking with Dog.” Two more books have been started. 15409 Westchester Circle, Omaha, NE 68154 [email protected].

ANN COOPER, ‘71This is my seventh year teaching at Columbia Journalism School. Our students are smart, motivated grad students, and I believe they will help journalism as we know it survive, with the standards and quality that we hold dear. My husband and I have also become Global Village team leaders for Habitat for Humanity. We’re leading our third team to Kenya in January during winter break. It’s very satisfying work – I recommend, especially for those who are retired or otherwise have time to explore the world. 305 W. 105th St. #4B, New York, NY 10025; [email protected]

CAROLE (ZIKE) CUSTER, ‘71We said goodbye to President Geoffroy and Kathy and welcomed new president Steven Leath and first lady Janet this past year. They were introduced to Iowa State’s best-in-the-nation public research university student experience that resulted in another year of record enrollment. My husband, Roger, Ag Bus ‘69, and I were chosen to lead the ISU Alumni Association’s organization of past alumni association board presidents, “The Circle,” for a three-year term. I’m celebrating my 25th year as the head of the university’s marketing efforts. It takes a village! (RIP colleague and friend Barbara Mack.) 1115 McDuffie Drive Jefferson, IA 50129 [email protected].

JANIS (TILTON SELLAND) WONG, ‘71Continue to offer writing, editing and public relations services as JW Communications. 73-1457 Laakea St., Kailua Kona, HI 96740 [email protected].

JOHN LYTLE, TCA ‘67, M.S. ‘71Recognized by Drake for 35 years of teaching broadcast reporting, writing and production. Service responsibility involves an old medium – managing 94.1 KDRA-LP, the 80-watt FM station licensed to Drake and operated by SJMC. License renewal occurs Feb. 1, 2013, for Iowa and Missouri radio stations. The FCC’s on-line filing process challenges! I also advise and occasionally post multimedia content on three Web sites tied to classes and student activities. 118 Meredith Hall, Drake University, Des Moines, IA 50311

CHARLES MCGAVREN, ‘71I edit the sales proposals for West Interactive Corporation as its RFP manager. Thanks to all my professors who drilled us on those editing skills. It gets easier with time. I can review a paragraph backwards or forwards, and still catch items that spell check doesn’t touch. The three sons are moving mountains on their own. Jay trains Ruby on Rails programmers, Glen is making the U.S. Postal Service more efficient and John keeps IBM’s service center in Dubuque running smoothly. Thankfully, all of us love what we do. Regards, all. Keeping in touch is a thrill. 14910 Seward Plz., Omaha, NE 68154 [email protected].

WILLIAM F. TUBBS, ‘71Now in year No. 41 as publisher of The Eldridge North Scott Press and year No. 32 of the Wilton-Durant Advocate News. Linda and I are proud to have endowed ISU journalism’s Futures Forums and we’re impressed with their content and student involvement. Community journalism is alive and well! Our papers are financially healthy and journalistically strong, both in the core print product and online. We were thrilled to see the Iowa Public Information Board, which we lobbied hard to create become a reality. In February, I was one of 2.5 million volunteers in the Rotary-led Polio National Immunization Days in India. About 172 million children under age 5 received the oral vaccine in one three-day sweep and in a historic announcement, India was removed from the list of polio-endemic countries. Amazing! But polio is alive in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria and until it is eradicated everywhere, it can return anywhere – so the campaign continues and we will be part of it until no child suffers infantile paralysis, a disease that is so preventable! See www.endpolionow.org. 302 W. 8th St., Eldridge, IA 52748 [email protected].

William Tubbs (Ag Journalism, ‘71) was a member of Rotary International’s polio eradication team where he gave the oral vaccine, the “drops of life,” to children in Sonipat, India (near New Delhi) in February.

SANFORD “SANDY” YODER, ‘71Senior media producer at the John Deere Training Center in Davenport, IA for 33 years after nine years in broadcast news in Denison and Waterloo. Four children, three grandchildren with one more on the way. It is hard to believe that retirement is getting closer. 5692 Butterfield Ct., Bettendorf, IA 52722 [email protected].

DENNIS MILLER, ‘72Still working full time as public library reference librarian. Playing as much golf as I’m able. Saw the Cyclones beat TCU in football. I was Cardinal and Gold in a sea of purple. 205 Pilgrim Rd., Abilene, TX 79602 [email protected].

CATHERINE NEITGE, ‘72Managing editor, Capstone, children’s book publishing company. Two children: Elizabeth, musical theater major at Arizona State University, and John, digital media arts major at Hamline University. 223 Locust St., Mankato, MN 56001; [email protected]

DIANA (DURHAM) POUNDS, ’72, M.S. ‘90Associate director, University Relations, Iowa State University [email protected].

GARY CLARKE, ‘73904 9th St., Ames, IA 50010


WARREN RIEDESEL, ‘72I retired in September, completing 29 years at Pioneer and a 40-year career in agricultural communications. I count myself fortunate to have been able to contribute for so many years to feeding, clothing and fueling the world. I owe so much to the hands-on, practical education and experience received at ISU, in what was then called technical journalism. That help ranged from invaluable on-air experience at WOI radio and television (when still an ISU property), to the wise influence of great professors like Jack Shelley, Bill Kunerth, Ed Blinn, LaRue Pollard, Jim Schwartz and Neil Harl. My wife Mary and I will continue to live in the historic Sherman Hill neighborhood of Des Moines and plan to do some traveling. I’d enjoy renewing contact and friendships with fellow j-school grads. Now I have the time! Give me a call or stop and see us. 701 16th St., Des Moines, IA 50314 [email protected].

LISA (BAIN) GROSSMAN, ‘73904 9th St., Ames, IA 50010

REBECCA CHRISTIAN, ‘74I’m in Des Moines, working as articles editor of Traditional Home magazine, a Meredith publication. I also write a regular column for the Telegraph Herald in Dubuque. [email protected].

CHRIS (PEITZMAN) DUSENBERY, ‘74I continue to work full time as a labor and delivery nurse, now well-seasoned! Our youngest turned 21 a few months ago; unfortunately, he’s on the 5-year college plan. Since my husband retired from the police department a few years ago, I’m planning to work until the “baby” graduates! We also are blessed to have two awesome grandkids (and their parents) who live nearby. Sending greetings to all my old cronies! Des Moines, IA [email protected].

DIANE (WOLFE) JOHNSON, M.S. ‘74Associate professor, emeritus, Ohio State University. I retired in 2009. 6041 Willis Road, Greenville, OH 45331 [email protected].

HARLEN PERSINGER, ‘72This marks the 40th year of my professional journalism career. What a ride and still rolling. I’ll never forget the beginning and my initial meeting with Jim Schwartz during fall 1971. After some conversation¸which included military service¸ and then visiting the department for a few hours¸ he found an opening for me in J-school and I enrolled for the winter quarter. But there was more good fortune. With his hands-on approach and general caring for students¸ this team leader was responsible for the initial position I landed on an agricultural publication in Chicago. To mention that I’m forever thankful for the time he took long ago and how it impacted my life is a true understatement. So many blue-chip clients¸ rewarding trips¸ marvelous stories¸ special photo recognitions¸ worldwide associations and countless friends are prized memories. This past spring I was directly involved in a favorite passion and once-in-a-lifetime experience: sailing on the 100th Anniversary Titanic Memorial Voyage. From that excursion¸ I prepared a website photo gallery plus a printed article for two major farm magazines. Since my mother¸ Celestine Miller Persinger¸ ‘44¸ passed away in April¸ I will now take on sole ownership of the family farm in Grundy County. While this year’s drought severely impacted production in most fields across the Midwest¸ final yield results from the home fields exceeded last year. However¸ the challenges in agriculture for 2013 remain intimidating. 207 N 123rd St., Milwaukee¸ WI 53226; [email protected]


JIM RODENBURG, ‘72Corporate communications manager, AGP, Omaha, Neb. AGP is a farmer-owned cooperative involved in soybean processing, vegetable oil refining, biodiesel production and grain marketing. 2012 has been an exciting year for me professionally. I participated in a trade mission to China and Thailand with the Iowa Soybean Association, serving in a communications capacity for the delegation (if you are interested you can go to: http://www.iasoybeans.com/chinablog2012/). I was also surprised and honored by receiving the Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) H.E. Klinefelter Award at the organization’s annual meeting held this summer in Tucson, Ariz. The award is CCA’s highest honor for a career co-op communicator. 58268 Kidd Road, Glenwood, IA 51534 [email protected].

GARY BARTON, M.S. ‘73

Gary Barton (MS, ‘73) enjoying his visit to Ronne, Denmark, in the summer of 2012.

Ag biotechnology guest relations (part-time), Monsanto. (Also see Mary Ann (Podolski) Barton, MS ‘73.) Since retiring from the Rockwood School District in suburban St. Louis in 2004, Mary Ann has focused on writing and horseback riding, travel and gardening. Her riding companion is Tango, a 12-year-old Paso Fino. Gary, (who retired from full-time public affairs work at Monsanto in 2003), regularly conducts tours of Monsanto’s two biotechnology seed research facilities in St. Louis. Gary and Mary Ann continue to travel extensively. Spring 2012 was spent in Kauai, Hawaii, and summer found the two on a Baltic cruise to Sweden, Russia, Finland, Denmark and Poland. Their oldest son, Eric, a lawyer, and his wife live in Atlanta. They welcomed their first child this past spring. Daughter Krista and youngest son David both live and work in the greater Los Angeles area. 2208 N. Konstanz Dr., Innsbrook, MO 63390 [email protected].

Mary Ann (Podolski) Barton MS ‘73 enjoys a brief break while exploring the streets of Ronne, Denmark, August 2012 while on a Baltic cruise.

MARY ANN (PODOLSKI) BARTON, M.S. ‘73

Retired high school teacher. (See Gary Barton, MS ‘73.) 2208 N. Konstanz Dr., Innsbrook, MO 63390 [email protected].

ROGER GREEN, ‘73It’s hard to imagine being retired, but here it is! Nancy and I have been planning for the possibility of retirement for the last year-plus and that opportunity came along with a recent reorganization at HealthEast. Thirty-eight years of getting up early, putting in long days and worrying about budgets, staff and the future of health care - it’s been a great run! I never dreamed when I started at the old St. John’s Hospital (one of the predecessors to HealthEast) that my career would essentially be entirely consumed with one organization. Good people, challenging work, a cause you can believe in (health care) made the time fly. Now, I’m still busy attending meetings and otherwise helping out nonprofit organizations I volunteer with. My father has had some health care issues that have consumed a lot of days, too. And, my wife and I are re-establishing the rules of our relationship as our lives are overlapping to a much greater degree now. At age 61, there is certainly “another chapter” in my life (the good Lord willing). I’m in no rush to figure out what it is...I’m savoring the relief from the stress of work and the flexibility of “being my own boss.” It means more time to connect with old friends, so if you’re in the neighborhood, look me up! 1254 Donegal Dr., Woodbury, MN 55125 [email protected].


TIM GHIANNI, ‘73After being “bought out” five years ago as korporate amerika began killing newspapers, this “too old” guy who only wanted to work at newspapers began a freelance writing business. So far, so good. Been working for a variety of national and Nashville publications. Also beginning my third year as Reuters correspondent for the state of Tennessee. Continue to teach news reporting and writing and storytelling labs at Lipscomb University here in Nashville. Have a print-on-demand (amazon.com and barnes&noble.com) book, “When Newspapers Mattered: The News Brothers & their Shades of Glory,” which is a juicy and sometimes inebriated memoir from three decades of daily journalism. John Seigenthaler, the great journalist from Nashville, called it “an obituary on newspapers, but it’s funny,” during my half-hour spot on his PBS show, “Word on Words,” which generally features nationally and internationally prominent authors. I tried to get Iowa State interested in at least looking at the book -- I have donated copies to other universities who are considering this “MASH in a newsroom” book for their classes, as it examines how stories are reported, ethics and the journalist’s life. Did not even get a phone call returned or even courtesy email back after I contacted the Greenlee School in the summer. Mostly just get people asking for money, which, of course, those who chose PR or advertising paths have a lot of. Independent journalists are struggling, so I use my money to feed my family. Anyway, despite that lack of tact and manners on the part of my alma mater, I’m still selling the book. I also am continuing to work and write and am planning on taking my kids back to see their Romanian orphanages within the next year. It will be interesting to me to see how much of this note makes it in the Glimpse. 471 Rochelle Dr., Nashville, TN 37220 [email protected].

MARGARET (ASKEW) JOHNSON, ‘74The Missouri floods in 2011 caused us to move to West Des Moines, where my husband works. I continue to travel weekly to my job in Fremont County, staying at a tiny apartment there during the week. 909 Maple St., West Des Moines, IA 50265 [email protected].

TERRY RICH, ‘744113 Greenview Dr., Urbandale, IA 50322 [email protected].

BECKY (MURPHY) STADLMAN, ‘74I am still working in HR for Sauer-Danfoss, supporting global teams in IT, finance and procurement. Evan is still with the McCormick Co. All three children are doing well with their jobs. Life is good. Stop by when you are in Ankeny or in Ames. We get back to campus frequently. 107 NW Rock Creek Circle, Ankeny, IA 50023; [email protected]

JULIE (NIELSEN) WOLF, ‘74Senior project manager in the Office of Marketing Communications at the University of Kansas. 4211 Wimbledon Dr., Lawrence, KS 66047 [email protected].

CLIFFORD BROCKMAN, ‘75Associate professor, Wartburg College. Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, awarded me tenure this past year. Started my seventh year at Wartburg this fall where I continue to teach broadcast, print and online journalism. I also advise our student newspaper, the Trumpet, and our online student medium, The Circuit. (www.wartburgcircuit.org) I received the Ken Nordin Award this past year from the College Media Association for a research project about online student media. Made it down to ISU this past summer and had a nice visit Steve Coon and Tom Beell. 3605 Monaghan Dr., Waverly, IA 50677; [email protected]; (319) 352-8438

DAVID DRENNAN, ‘751954 Sumter Ridge Ct., Chesterfield, MO 63017

MARTHA (MUELLER) GREDER, ‘75362 Lakeview Dr., Mason City, IA 50401 [email protected]

PAMELA (BRUCE) GROVE, ‘754968 Taywater Dell, Sarasota, FL 34235 [email protected].

HARRY (HAL) LIPPER III, ‘75Overseeing print, broadcast and social media communications for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Serbia and Montenegro. Currently working on a closeout book, website and four documentary videos for USAID/Montenegro, which will graduate from development assistance in September 2013. Most efforts, however, are spent on projects in Serbia, where USAID is moving from economic development and increasingly focusing on democracy and governance as Serbia moves toward European Union accession. U.S. Agency for International Development, U.S. Embassy, Belgrade, Serbia [email protected]

ANN (OMVIG) MAINE, ‘75Made it to 10 years as editor in chief of Traditional Home, published by Meredith—and that’s an achievement in the decorating/shelter category. Big news is that Trad Home was just named to Advertising Age’s A-List of Top 10 magazines. On the personal side, Mike and I unexpectedly sold our lovely 1907 home—not on the market!—in the Des Moines Owl’s Head historic district. (So miss our former neighbor, Barbara Mack.) The Maines are temporarily moving to the ‘burbs. And finally, daughter Emily FINALLY completed her studies earlier this year and is now a registered dietician (thank you, ISU), but is working for Wells Fargo. Go figure. 1114 42nd St., West Des Moines, IA 50266 [email protected].

DIANE (RIPPKE) MEIER, ‘75We’ve had a pretty good 2012. Two new granddaughters, two great vacations to California (and beyond) and a 90th birthday celebration for my dad. I continue to do financials for our business and write a monthly column for the local paper. Various civic activities (and babysitting) fill the rest of the plate. 528 South Oak St., Iowa Falls, IA 50126 [email protected].

AL RUECHEL, ‘75Incredible year in Florida. Said goodbye to the shuttle program which I have covered since Day One. Lots of great memories, friends, astronauts over the past 31 years. Anchored 14 hours of live RNC and DNC Convention coverage. Ratings into the stratosphere! Cutting new ground with 24-hour local news channel, the highest-rated local news in the country. Jenny (Gamm, ISU Zool. ‘76) and I were blessed with grandbaby 5. Filed my 789 web review. Interviewed all of the presidential candidates, again! Retire? Never! Life is sooooo good! Come say hi when you visit Tampa!!! 2994 Longbrooke Way, Clearwater, FL 33760 [email protected].

ALMA (NIELAND) GAUL, ‘76Happy to still be employed as a journalist at the Quad-City Times in Davenport, 35 years this fall (2012). Amid the challenges, what keeps me going is knowing that what we’re doing here is important work, that it is shining a light on the community, the good parts and the bad, providing a forum, bolstering our little place on the globe. I’m a general assignment features reporter; I especially like writing stories about area history, the environment and people. I’m responsible for our Sunday home and garden section and write a weekly column. Our children have grown up; daughter Kelly is a nurse at a hospital in Rock Island and son Matt is a May 2012 graduate of the ISU architecture program. Recent highlight: A 10-day family trip to Italy, Germany and France in 2011 that began at the end of Matt’s spring semester in Rome. Interests: House projects, environmental book club, piano. 2918 Hillcrest Ave., Bettendorf, IA 52722 [email protected].

TERRI (MARSHBURN) JONES, ‘76Manager of solar and wind communications for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Great job in a great place! 134 Conifer Rd., Golden, CO 80401 [email protected].

MIKE MORAN, ‘76Enjoying another year at Ford Motor Company in communications -- 28 years. Plenty of family news -- oldest daughter earned doctorate in physical therapy and practicing in NYC. Younger daughter junior in journalism at Michigan State. Jan continues practicing law in DC. Great hearing from ISU JLMC alumni. [email protected].

MELANIE STEENSLAND, ‘763310 Wonder View Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90068

DEBRA (GRUNDMAN) BLUME, ‘779300 Carmel Dr., Johnston, IA 50131 [email protected].

EVELYN BOSWELL, ‘775871 Sypes Canyon Rd., Bozeman, MT 59715

WES EHRECKE, ‘77President and CEO of the Iowa Gaming Association since 2000. Lots of life lessons learned from enjoying recent epic adventures that include reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, skydiving and bicycling over several Rocky Mountain passes in Colorado! 13350 Cedarwood Ave., Clive, IA 50325 [email protected].

PEGGY (OTTERMAN) FRANCOMB, ‘77Corporate communications manager at Jo-Carroll Energy, P.O. Box 165, Elizabeth, IL 61028 [email protected].


WAYNE SVOBODA, ‘77 57 Montague St. Apt. 41, Brooklyn, NY 11201

SCOTT HALE, ‘77Since 2006, serving as marketing director for Varsity Sports Marketing in Urbandale, Iowa. Also, since 1999, managing partner of Midwest Football Camps, which offers instruction for high school and college kickers punters and long snappers. 231 23rd St., West Des Moines, IA 50265

RAEANNE HYTONE, ‘77Considering the fact that I just remarried, all else pales in comparison. Life is grand! 3841 Garfield St. NW, Wash-ington, DC 20007 [email protected].

LORI (HOBERG) ADAMS, ‘78 Division administrator, Workforce Services, Iowa Workforce Development, Des Moines IA. [email protected].

GEORGE BRYANT, ‘78475 Kenion Forest Way, Lilburn, GA 30047

DEBRA (SQUIRE) DIETZMAN, ‘78This year, I was named the assistant director for communications and science delivery at the Northern Research Station. A nice milestone. 587 Shryer Ave. W., Roseville, MN 55113

MARTHA HELGERSON, ‘78I’m still teaching adult ESL, focusing on higher-level reading and writing skills. This is in addition to the smattering of newsletters I produce for some nonprofit community groups. I am still so thankful for the excellent, practical education I had at the Jl MC department. My husband, Don Houston, continues his work as clinician/scientist in hematology, while our two daughters, Anna, 23, and Mary, 21, continue to work their ways through university. 203 Montrose St., Winnipeg, MB R3M 3L9, Canada [email protected].

KLARK JESSEN, ‘78 Communications and social media, Massachusetts De-partment of Transportation. Barbara Mack was a next-door neighbor during our days in Des Moines. It is our great fortune to have known her. Boston, MA [email protected].

MURRAY LEE, ‘78 Living in Asheville, the vortex of Appalachia and Beer City USA, and enjoying being in a democratic city. 97 Woodward Ave., Asheville, NC 28804 [email protected].

HEATHER (SOLADAY) OLSON, ‘78I am thrilled to be the marketing director of Franke+Fiorella, a leading brand identity design agency in the Minneapolis North Loop. My position is similar to the work I did at Larsen Design for nine years; now, however, I am helping market, publicize and recruit talent for a much smaller, tightly focused brand strategy and identity design firm. To top off landing this role, I was named an AIGA Fellow for the Minnesota chapter of the national professional association for design. One cannot receive a higher regional honor! And I am pleased to continue my volunteer service to AIGA in the capacity of director of affinity programming for our chapter, which is one of the top five in the nation. Family-wise, my three young adults are pursuing interesting paths…one is co-operating and marketing an online vintage clothing business, the next is a percussionist and the third is blogging about women’s high fashion combined with singing jazz and selling arts and crafts. As for their dad, he’s entering a new phase, but likely still in the financial field. Finally, a few of us Staters have formed an ISU Alumni Creatives, Journalists and Marketeers LinkedIn Group…please look us up! Franke+Fiorella 401 N. 3rd Street, Suite 380, Minneapolis, MN 55401 [email protected].

KENT PETERSON, ‘77I love teaching at Waukee High School. They allow me to roam through newspaper, yearbook and media classes. My mock trial team made it to state last year. I’ve found that this generation is incredibly gifted and compassionate. As a lifelong learner, I am receiving soooo much from my students and colleagues. Love those Cyclones and remember so fondly those days with Jack Shelley and Tom Beell. As my children age (16 and 21), I find it so hard to believe that I am not aging as well. My wife, Jenee (thank you, ISU Commuters Club!) and I celebrated 30 years of marital bliss. Go Cyclones!!!! 5851 Coachlight Court, West Des Moines, IA 50266 [email protected].

Kent & Jenee Peterson enjoying Table Rock Lake in southern Missouri.

KEN SIDEY, ‘78Executive director, Warren Cultural Center, Greenfield. Opened the doors to Greenfield’s restored 1896 Warren Opera House in April 2012 after decades of abandonment and deterioration. Bringing the place back to life with a variety of performances and events. Look us up on the Web or Facebook and stop by. 208 SW Mills St., Greenfield, IA 50849 [email protected].

DANIEL STROTHER, ‘78I’m senior communications manager for Agilysys, a leading developer and marketer of proprietary enterprise software, services and solutions to the hospitality and retail industries. 1489 Brookvalley Lane NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 [email protected].

DIRK, ‘78, AND LEE (HORN) VAN DER LINDEN, ‘80Publishers, Belmond Independent. Our son is a freshman at ISU this fall. Boy, the food service in Friley isn’t the same as it was 35 years ago! If you haven’t been to campus for a few years, you need to visit. The “new” State Gym is really something. 215 E. Main, Belmond, IA 50421

NANCY (STONER) WELLINGER, ‘78I can’t believe I’ve been in advertising for more than 30 years, and a creative director at Campbell-Ewald in De-troit for almost 15 years! I’ve done so many things, from launching new brand categories to writing Super Bowl spots to presenting work in the White House. I also have a blog about people who butcher the English language called wordbutchers.tumblr.com. Check it out. [email protected].

THOMAS WILSON, ‘78Greetings, Greenlee friends. The good life “up north” continues for Tom and Susan (Stoner, Ind. Admin. ‘78) Wilson. Our oldest son, David, married a wonderful woman (Lexie Enlow) and now live just eight blocks from us. Gotta love that! Our younger son, Kevin, lives in Denver, working for Stryker Medical. I’m pushing for a “family discount” when my other hip and knees need to be replaced. Susan continues to put up with me after 34 years of marriage. I don’t know how she does it. Go Cyclones -- 4-1 is a great way to start the season! My best to everyone. 4519 Casco Ave., Edina, MN 55424

JAMES BLUME, ‘799300 Carmel Dr., Johnston, IA 50131 [email protected].

KENT BUCKTON, ‘79My journalism degree from ISU has definitely helped me through the years and always will. I’m currently managing tech writers at John Deere Des Moines Works for sprayers, cotton pickers, tillage and seeding machines. GO STATE! [email protected].

KARLA (FUNK) COOK, ‘79There isn’t much new to report. I still live in Red Hook, N.Y., and continue to work at The Children’s Home of Kingston as a secretary doing administrative work. I am also continuing to work for two small newspapers as a freelance features writer and for my church doing the newsletter. Our son is now in his second year at a community college majoring in auto body technology. I have many great nephews and nieces -- the newest one was born last month in Florida, a boy. 15 Cambridge Dr., Red Hook, NY 12571 [email protected].

MARTHA (SCHNEIDER) FIFIELD, ‘792004 44th St., Des Moines, IA 50310

COLLEEN REILLY, ‘79Chief administrative officer, Orange County Clerk of Court, Orlando, FL 32801 415 E. Pine St. Unit 814 Orlando, FL 32801 [email protected].

ELAINE (HARVEY) EDWARDS, ‘79, M.S. ‘94Hello, everyone! I’ve been at Kansas State University since 2008, serving as the K-State research and extension news media and marketing leader (in the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education). We tell the stories of how our programs and services make a difference for people, their businesses and communities. It has been an honor to guest lecture and work with the academic faculty here with our agricultural communication majors. I’ve recently finished my term as president of ACE, the Association for Communications Excellence (land-grant university and research communicators). I would love to connect with others on Twitter (@elainecarol) or via email. 20 McCain Auditorium, Kansas State University Manhattan, KS 66506 [email protected].

MARK HALVERSON, ‘79In my 12th year with Triad Broadcasting, and fifth year as vice president/senior market manager of our six-station group in Savannah, Ga., and Hilton Head, S.C. Still challenging journalists everywhere to do it the way Jack and Tom taught me---news is news, and opinions are opinions. Get your facts right or flunk! I keep on loving the professional standards I learned from them, the Jl MC department and ISU. Keep up the great work there! Pooler, GA 31322 [email protected].


REV. JIM DUBERT, ‘79 Rev. Jim Dubert didn’t always know he’d be a

Catholic priest, but he has been working for the causes he believes in since his days at ISU.

Dubert graduated in 1979 with two bachelor of science degrees—not only agricultural journalism but also public service and administration agriculture—although he never really stopped being a student. “I took classes at Iowa State until I went to seminary in 1994,” he said. “I was avoiding taxes because I was not wanting to pay for atomic bombs and atomic war.”

In fact, Dubert has been very active politically. “I have a history of arrest for civil disobedience,” he said. Even before leaving ISU, Dubert lobbied for such issues as the bottle deposit bill and was heavily involved with student government. In 1977, while working on the family farm during the agricultural crisis, Dubert began to seriously consider the priesthood. He left for the priesthood seven years later, attending seminary at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Today he enjoys his job at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ames, where he said he feels most honored to be able to speak God’s word. Although his job can be difficult, particularly when dealing with families falling apart, he said, “It’s also a blessing to be with people through those hard times.”

– By Fallon Darrell

REBECCA (HAUGHTON) HIXON, ‘79Stan and I are at Penn State University now. Amid the scandal, we’re enduring the challenges of coaching college football. Married 33 years, we’re expecting twin grandchildren in December (three total). I am working part time for Weight Watchers. Planning to participate in a closer mission trip to NYC to distribute Thanksgiving dinner to homeless. I’m looking forward to returning to Iowa for the PSU vs. U of IA football game. Still want to defeat those Hawkeyes! 688 Oakwood Ave., Apt. E, State College, PA 16803 [email protected].

MAUREEN (BUCKLEY) JONES, ‘79This year I moved from marketing communications to foundation work (Wrigley Company Foundation), which has been a great move. I am so pleased to still be learning new things. I am also proud my daughter is a sophomore in the College of Design at ISU! 712 S. Vine Ave., Park Ridge, IL 60068

DAVE JOHNSTON, ‘79Just started my ninth year of self-employment in corporate communication, specializing in HR issues. Sue works with me on large projects. Son Brian owns his own PR/marketing com-munication business in Houston, daughter Annie is a recruiter for Brenau University and daugh-ter Hope is a junior (education) at North Georgia College. I’m also teaching communication for World at Work, a professional HR organization. Sue and I remain lonesome lefties in a very red part of the country. 5435 Hedge-wick Way, Cumming, GA 30040 [email protected].

SUSAN (SUTER) MORTENSEN, ‘79Only family news to report! Our daughter, Karen, was married to Rafal Ciechowski on September 2! They are both Northwestern University engineering graduates employed in the Chicago area. They are happily living in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. We love the excuse to visit Chicago! Meanwhile, Ron and I continue with our jobs involving marketing/risk management for farm-ers. We have tried to simplify a few things this year and have given up a few small projects. While the goal was reduced stress, we can’t say we achieved it --the drought of 2012 simply created new stress! Here’s to a more calm 2013! 1937 15th Ave., North Fort Dodge, IA 50501 [email protected].

ELIZABETH WRAY, ‘794243 Scott Ter., Edina, MN 55416

BETH JASPER, ‘79 “Everybody wants to be in the film business because they think it’s all sexy and glamorous but it’s actually the hardest business,” said Beth Jasper of her career as a film producer. She and her husband, Jason Hammond, started working on her most well-known piece, “The Devil’s Box” four years ago. “We love to write and we write well together, which isn’t always the case,” she said. “The Devil’s Box” is a documentary – produced by Jasper and directed by Hammond -- about the world of contest fiddling that premiered at the SXSW Film Festival in 2011. (To learn more about making the documentary, go to http://vimeo.com/35113222.) Since receiving her journalism degree, Jasper has diversified her resumé. She started as a film publicist, and went on to work as the state of Arkansas film commissioner for then-Gov. Bill Clinton. Eventually, Jasper spent a dozen years in Los Angeles in film production. Since 2000 she’s worked in Texas; she and her husband reside in Austin. It’s in that city that Jasper also serves as executive director of Capital City Village, a nonprofit organization that provides services to senior citizens that allow them to remain in their homes. “I wanted to make a difference as well as be in the film business,” she said. Jasper went to school to be a writer, but eventually added a journalism major to her English degree program. “Although I did sort of get in to it by accident, I am so grateful for everything they (Greenlee) taught me,” she said.

– By Megan Pulse

RICK SCHARA, ‘79Greetings from up nort! Still working on my Fargo accent. It’s a fascinating time to be involved in workforce development. Just finished leading a veteran’s job fair, involved in career fairs and other workforce initiatives in my region, which includes both Fergus Falls and Alexandria. Daughter #1 is in college, #2 a junior in high school. Talked to a current ISU student last week who said he just called to catch up. But after 10 minutes of upping, he wanted me to send money to the Foundation! I told him I send $2 to the Greenlee school every year whether they call me or not. 516 South Oak, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 [email protected].

KAROL (DEWULF) NICKELL, ‘79Life continues to be both sweet and rewarding. My husband, Don, and I enjoyed long careers at Meredith Corporation, we have two fantastic children, Lauren and Alec, and we are blessed with wonderful family and friends. After serving as the editor in chief of Better Homes and Gardens and of Traditional Home magazines, I returned to ISU to earn my MBA. Thanks to Greenlee Director Michael Bugeja and to Sue Porter of Scripps Howard, I was also able to be the Scripps Howard Teaching Excellence Fellow during that time. After graduation, I joined the Reader’s Digest Association, leading its home & garden group, which included the legacy titles founded by the great Roy Reiman. This past year I lived another longtime dream of leading a nonprofit organization as executive director of Des Moines Metro Opera, Iowa’s largest performing arts organization, in its successful 40th anniversary year. Serving on the Greenlee School Advisory Council is another passion; if you’d like to join the council, please let me know! 7020 Holcomb Ave., Urbandale, IA 50322 [email protected].

RICHARD BARTECKI, ‘80Wife Sarah, son Jake and I spent most of the year settling into our new home in the lovely town of Evanston, Ill., just blocks from Northwestern University and the Lake Michigan beaches. Still serving as executive vice president of the Institute for the Education of Students Abroad. 900 Colfax St., Evanston, IL 60201 [email protected].

NAOMI (GREINERT) MAAHS, ‘80Enjoying retirement. Active with Living History Farms. 1316 Main St., Adel, IA 50003


ANNETTE (JUERGENS) BUSBEE, ‘80I left The Gazette in August to take a position as communications specialist at Rockwell Collins. Thanks to Facebook, Iowa Staters who went on the 1980 Journalism European Study Program Tour have been reconnecting and sharing tour photos. There was a lot of plastic in those eyeglasses we were wearing back then. Hiawatha, IA 52233 [email protected].

CAMERON DUBES, ‘80

Have been doing nonprofit consulting for the past 30-plus years through my consulting firm www.LikeMinds.net, and a recent client, the James Beard Foundation, has brought me back to my agriculture roots. I am working to launch a new food and table movement called Delicious Evolution, which encourages everyone back to the table to celebrate creation and seeks to raise awareness for healthy, nutrition food for all, as well as funding to support co-creativity and local food sustainability. Having fun and meeting great people dedicated to sustainable agriculture and healthy food for all. Also working a good bit in Brazil and hope to launch a version there in the coming year. If this appeals to anyone, please contact me. Best wishes to everyone! P.O. Box 250, Andes, NY 13731 [email protected].

New brand identity for DeliciousEvolution, encouraging full use of food and sustainableagriculture.

KURT LAWTON, ‘80A big hello to ISU Daily staffers as well as profs from the late ‘70s. Fond memories and awesome training received during the days before Greenlee. Now in my third decade as an agricultural scribe, I love my job as editor in chief of Corn & Soybean Digest - part of the Food & Agriculture group within Penton Media. Check us out as www.csdigest.com. I became an empty nester this fall so slowly adjusting to that. Oldest son Nick loves his job as general assignment reporter at KNOW-TV (CBS affiliate) in Monroe, La. Daughter Monica is a junior studying public relations at Marquette, and son Matt is in pre-nursing at UW-Eau Claire, and he cut his first music CD as a singer-songwriter -- way cool. I’m blessed with three awesome kids who found their passions and are pursuing them. Also became a Cyclone football season-ticket holder this year, so love my trips back to Ames and great tailgates. Cheers, friends! 13996 Wellington Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55347 [email protected].

ALAN MORES, ‘801401 Pine St., P.O. Box 208, Harlan, IA 51537

DALE YOUNG, ‘79 As the Detroit skyline unfolded before Dale Young on his way to a job for the Associated Press, he told himself, “Two years. Two years and I’m out of here.” Thirty years later, the 1979 Greenlee graduate continues to work in Michigan for The Detroit News’ Lansing bureau covering primarily college athletics and state house news. Following his graduation, the young photojournalist – armed with several student photojournalism accolades, including a Hearst award finalist nod – left Ames with three job offers. He took a job as a picture editor for the Associated Press in New York, then stayed with AP in Chicago and finally Detroit. After working in Motor City for a few years, Young received “an offer that sounded like a dream come true. “They [Detroit News] wanted somebody to take over their picture page,” Young said. He would edit, lay out and create story ideas for The News picture page. Eventually the page became too costly for newspapers and Young chose to go back on the street making photos. Today Young spends his time being ‘his own boss’ and creating his schedule around Michigan State’s athletic schedule (including his 17th NCAA college basketball tournament) and Michigan’s legislative sessions.

– By Kelsey Kremer

RONDA WILLSHER, ‘8016777 Jaguar Pl., Lakeville, MN 55044

LIZ ANDERSON, ‘81My husband, Loren Kruse, retired this fall after 36 years at Successful Farming magazine. He is enjoying a more laid-back life, while I continue to work as a copy editor for Meredith’s Special Interest Media. I work from home, so we manage to work in some golf and other activities. We also still own and run our Christmas tree farm in Grundy County. Our kids are both at Iowa State. John is studying business, and Kate is the third generation from our family to major in journalism at Iowa State. My dad, John B. Anderson, graduated in 1949 with a degree in agriculture journalism. He and my mom are now living nearby at Edgewater Retirement Community in West Des Moines. 3103 SW Court Ave., Ankeny, IA 50023 [email protected].

NANCY (CARVER) SINGLETON, ‘817523 E. Plaza Lane, Wichita, KS 67206

STEVEN DROPKIN, ‘81This was a huge year for me! I left IT to start my own photography business, The Right Pixels. The time was right to do something different and the opportunity presented itself. I’m still setting up the business; after 30 years in IT, I wanted to take a little break between careers. My main activities will be fine-art photography and real-estate photography. It will be quite different to not show up in a cubicle at the same time every day after years of doing so. But I’ve had fun learning so many new skills. And I’m sure I’ll have fun with my new clients! 489 Michigan St., St. Paul, MN 55102 [email protected].

SHERILYN (TEMPLETON) HOYER, ‘81I’m so happy to be back “on” the list for submitting news here. Last year I realized far too late that I hadn’t gotten anything – not even a financial request – to be able to offer an update. The longer I’m in the workforce, the more I need to know. After two-plus years as communication specialist for the Iowa Pork Industry Center and the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University, I’m still learning about the beef cattle world while attempting to stay current with the swine world. The drought of 2012 drastically affected the immediate needs of our livestock industry, and our human societal needs by extension. Effects on income, animal health and food prices will be with us for quite some time, and part of my job is helping clients and consumers understand those effects and consequent impacts on nearly everything. This reinforces the importance of presenting accurate and timely information in an unbiased manner. My thanks to the Jl MC department for making sure I got that message as an undergrad in the pre-Greenlee days of the 1980s. 1324 Kentucky Ave Ames, IA 50014 [email protected].

DAN, ‘81 & DEBRA (BELL)GEISER, ‘80 108 Brentwood Dr. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

RANDY SHAVER, ‘81 From reporting on the 1996 Olympics to covering three Super Bowls, Randy Shaver, ’81, summed up his career as a “conglomeration of great moments.” Shaver got his first job a week and a half before graduating from Iowa State – in fact, he didn’t attend his graduation ceremony because he was needed at work. He worked at KAAL-TV in Austin, Minn., as a sports reporter for a year and a half before moving to Minne-apolis to join KARE 11 news as a sports reporter. Just a few months ago, after 19 years with the station, Shaver was promoted to evening news co-anchor.

Throughout his career, Shaver has interviewed such sports greats as Michael Jordan at the Olympic trials in 1992, as well as numerous football and baseball hall-of-famers. Shaver describes himself as a passionate hard worker who is sometimes a workaholic. Shaver is 10 years away from retiring, and says he wants to spend his remaining time mentoring young people at KARE 11. Outside of work, Shaver spends his time as a high school football coach, now in his 10th year. Upon retiring from television news, he hopes to become a full-time high school football coach. “I’m lucky to have the education I’ve had,” Shaver said, recognizing Greenlee professors such as Dennis Hart who helped and prepared him. “The news and stories of the day can get a little crazy, but all of those building blocks helped me.”

– By Kaylee Caquelin


JULIE FIE, ‘81 With a passion for sports dating back to her college days, Julie Fie, ’81, has been pursuing, and succeeding at, her sports journalism career for more than two decades. Now in her 21st year with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, Fie serves as the team’s vice president of basketball communications. “I am fortunate to be with one of the most successful NBA teams from that course of time,” Fie said. “I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be at this very moment, doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing.” Fie began with the Suns in 1991, and serves as the primary liaison between the players and the media. Fie stays very busy traveling with the team throughout its entire 82-game season. “The NBA schedule is an endurance race,” said Fie. “I can travel more than 100 nights in one season.” On game days, Fie arrives at work by 9 a.m. and begins checking up on industry news about the team. She then attends the team shoot-around, and coordinates credentials, media interviews and any special media requests. “After shoot-around, I’m back in the media room two and a half hours before the game for pregame interviews,” said Fie. “By the time 10:30 p.m. rolls around, the game is done and my locker room is cleared.” Between traveling to the playoffs during her first year with the team to becoming an industry-leading public relations professional, Fie continues to strive for excellence in her journalism career. Optimistic, ambitious and adaptable, Fie’s attitude keeps her moving forward. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass,” said Fie. “It’s about learning how to dance in the rain.”

– By Sarah Clark

JEANNE (SMITH) LASLEY, ‘81Tom and I are still living in northern Illinois, where he recently “left the newspaper business in search of new opportunity!” Look him up on LinkedIn. I am at Woodward, Inc. as a communication specialist...great company and diverse job responsibilities. Our daughter Morgan is working toward her master’s degree in forensic psychology, attending the Adler School of Professional Psych in Chicago. Came across European Study tour (1980!) photos the other day. We are all officially old! 1166 Roxbury Close, Rockford, IL 61107 [email protected].

LUCINDA STEPHENSON, ‘81Still working as VP of communications at the Iowa Medical Society. A fascinating time to be in health care. Would love to reconnect with old friends and classmates from ISU. I have great memories of the European study group, especially our trip to Abbey Road in London! 4524 Wistful Vista Dr., West Des Moines, IA 50265 [email protected].

KEN CLAYTON, ‘82Lots of big numbers this year. I hit the 25-year mark in the trade show and marketing communications department at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids. I travel less often, but did get to Singapore. Sue’s dad celebrated his 99th birthday. My folks celebrated their 60th anniversary. Josh and I are enjoying road trips to Jack Trice, hope to get to another bowl game. Cedar Rapids, IA [email protected].

J. SCOTT FOUNTAIN, ‘82Senior vice president for planning/marketing and chief development officer, Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation, Memphis, Tenn. 144 Cloister Green Cove, Memphis, TN 38120 [email protected].

ANNE (PAXTON) HAMMOND, ‘82After 20 years working in the corporate world, I’ve spent the last 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, volunteering and giving to the community. Like the top wafer on an Oreo, I’m now back to looking for a career in writing, editing or related fields (e.g., teaching, user interface design). “Science journalism” remains my favorite career. My children are the light of my life: William (9th grade), John (5th grade), and Cora (3rd grade). My dog, Crystal, is a blessing as is my husband, Bill. I would love to hear from my classmates and wish you all the very best! 9545 Marlbrook Ct. SE, Olympia, WA 98513 [email protected].

DAVID MERCIER, ‘81Formed my own company a few years ago. We publish magazines, directories, maps, etc. and are doing some minor online, too. One way or another, I get along great with the boss. Niwot, CO [email protected].

DOUG SPONG, ‘81 Doug Spong always knew his passion: to write. Following the footsteps of his mother and older sister, he attended Iowa State University and threw himself into myriad activities: Delta Upsilon Fraternity, Interfraternity Council and Greek Week. Years later, ISU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences would present Spong its Citation of Merit Award for his work as a graduate. But his passion for writing best manifested itself in several positions at the Iowa State Daily, and even in the Greenlee School classroom. One of Spong’s fondest memories occurred during JLMC 201 (Basic Reporting), with the late professor Dale Boyd. Spong and his fellow classmates were each given quarters, told to spend them and then report on their experiences. Spong paid for a kiss with his quarter and discovered his love for journalism. After graduation, Spong worked for Colle+McVoy, a Minneapolis PR agency, but after nine years he decided to set out on his own. In 1990, Spong created Carmichael Lynch Spong in Minneapolis. Today he serves as president of the four-time PR Agency of the Year, headquartered in Minneapolis. According to Spong, his namesake business is “one of America’s most envied creative agencies offering holistic strategy and execution in advertising, PR, social and digital media.”

– By Christine DeCoudreaux

DAVE KURNS, ‘82I am proud to have been named editorial content director leading the edit staff at Successful Farming – magazine, Web, TV, radio, and more. A great career change and one that I am devouring. I feel blessed to have joined the best edit team in ag. Also have served as chair of the Greenlee School Advisory Council for the past four years. My term ends in April 2013. But I won’t be far away, for sure. 6920 Northglenn Way, Johnston, IA 50131 [email protected].

CYNTHIA (OPPEDAL) PASCHEN, ‘82I live just south of campus. As I walked the dog today, I thought about the Fiji house fire and other news from my old Daily days. Lots of memories in this town. I’ve been a volunteer with Homeward Hospice and the Israel Family Hospice House since 1988. I ran into Tom Beell the other day at the Obama HQ and told him I use my J-school interviewing skills every day with my hospice clients. Thanks to all my old teachers! 2117 Graeber St., Ames, IA 50014 [email protected].

MARY (GANGEL) SOMMERS, ‘825308 I Ave., Kearney, NE 68847

THOMAS O’DONNELL, ‘82Not much news to report. Still at the Krell Institute, writing about using high-performance computing for science. One son in college and another finishing middle school. Happily in my second and final marriage. Watching my older son going through the U of I and talking to my wife, I’ve come to realize how lucky I was to study journalism at ISU. Paula left her undergraduate career (at Iowa) with no connections to any of her professors. Tony seems likely to end up the same way. Yet, 30 years after graduation, I’m still in contact with current and former instructors like Bill Kunerth, Tom Emmerson, Tom Beell and others. It was – and I hope, still is – a place where instructors take an interest in and get to know their students. It’s truly remarkable. 7005 Horton Ave. Urbandale, IA 50322 [email protected].

LEROY (LEE) OWENS, ‘82After more than 30 years in TV news at stations around the country and lately in the South, I’m living in Chicago where I am currently a promotional adviser for NameOnAnything.com, a marketing and promotion company. I’m also a freelance journalist and part-time actor. It’s been three years since I’ve returned to the Midwest and it’s been great being closer to family, friends and the Cyclones. Been to more ISU football games on campus in the past two years than the past 30 years. 1842 New England Ave., Chicago, IL 60707 [email protected].

This year saw my first Iowa State-Iowa game since 1981 when I was a sports reporter/photographer at WHO-TV in college. Great to see the Cyclones beat the Hawks for the second year in a row on their home field.


JENNIFER (SPEER) RAMUNDT, ‘82Now assistant managing editor/copy chief of Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Media. My team is responsible for copy editing 120-plus print publications/year. We also copy edit the digital content found on BHG.com and related websites and BHG-brand content created for mobile devices. It’s never boring! I’m happy to say Randy and I now have an offspring at ISU; our youngest, Sarah, is a freshman in the Greenlee School! Our oldest, Will, is a senior at the University of Oklahoma and is on track to graduate this spring. 211 38th Place, Des Moines, IA 50312 [email protected].

BETH (BENTSEN) WOLTERMAN, ‘82News editor, Ida County Courier, Ida Grove, IA 51445

DAVID EWOLDSEN, ‘83I am currently a professor in the School of Communication and Department of Psychology at the Ohio State University. 4574 Carriage Columbus, OH 43220 [email protected].

NANCY HYTONE LEB, ‘83Another year. Another update. Arts administration consulting continues to be both a satisfying and challenging career for me (hytoneartsmanagement.com). Lots of Midwest trips this summer including nine days with family and friends in Des Moines while my husband pedaled across Iowa during RAGBRAI’s heat wave. [email protected].

DAVE FENTON, ‘83Retired. 2135 University Blvd. Houston, TX 77030 [email protected].

LON TEGELS, ‘82I continue to travel the United States working at television stations in various capacities. I’ve got 15 stations or so under my belt. I’ve worked as a reporter, anchor, assignment manager, managing editor, satellite manager and four or five news director positions. I finally slowed down here in Lima, Ohio. That’s pronounced “Lie-ma” as in lima bean, not Lima, Peru. Our biggest claims to fame: we are the home to Neil Armstrong and Phyllis Diller, who both passed this year. We are also the home to the M-1 Abrams tank plant, the only tank plant in the USA. It, too, may be going away soon if the defense budget continues to be cut. Joint Chiefs of Staff don’t see a war in the future with conventional weapons. Kind of scary, isn’t it? From my perspective, of course...It’s another news story to lead the 6 p.m. show. I’ve been here 10 years now. A few years ago we became the only TV station in the country to put all four network affiliates under one roof. I am the news director for all four stations. As I write this, I’m going nuts trying to figure out how to do cut-ins on election night at :25 and :55 past the hour with only one studio. By the time this is printed, I’ll have succeeded or have another story to tell. No wife, no kids. Only two Jack Russell terriers to come home to. I still hold hope that some wonderful lady will come in and take me away from the television news business. But then, I’m always dreaming of winning the next lottery. Hope all is well with our gang from 1982. I just recently found a box of old films and tape and have been transferring them DVD. I’m told DVDs will be obsolete soon. But then I’m guessing a thumb drive or portable hard drive will be a thing of the past, also. Drop me an email if you dare. 820 Ewing Ave., Lima, OH 45801 [email protected].

We are growing satellite dishes in the back of the TV station. Nearly 30 to date and growing.-Lon Tegels, Class of 82

SUZANNE HILL, M.S. ‘83I have been communications coordinator for Holy Family Church in Kansas City, Mo., for five years. In that position, I serve as editor for a quarterly four-color newsletter, Webmaster and Facebook administrator, among other special projects that arise. 8025 N. Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64118 [email protected].

Suzanne HillMS 1983

DAVID KURNS, ‘82 “The journalist’s curiosity” is a term David Kurns uses to describe his motivation in developing Meredith’s first commercial website 18 years ago. From launching sites to now overseeing an entire magazine, Kurns believes this curiosity is what’s helped him adapt in his profession. Kurns became the editor in chief at Meredith Interac-tive in 1994 and began building Meredith’s first website, www.agriculture.com. While he had some knowledge of computer science, he doesn’t believe that’s what solely helped him. “There was not a known way to build a website back then,” said Kurns, “so I think the journal-ist’s curiosity is what allowed me to move into brand new arenas, like building a website.” Prior to Kurns’ work in new media, he had worked for 10 years as a newspaper reporter, and as a copy chief and assistant managing editor for Meredith’s special-interest publications. Today Kurns is the editorial content direc-tor for Successful Farming, Meredith’s oldest magazine. “In a sense I’m coming full circle. I built agriculture.com in ’94 and now it’s part of my franchise that I oversee,” said Kurns. He advises future journalists to practice jour-nalism in as many forms as possible. “The time of having one career is over; you’ve got to have skills that can adapt and apply,” Kurns said. “Because of this, there’s no way I could have envisioned where I’d be today [while] walking out of Greenlee.” Part of that vision includes Kurns’ tireless service to the School, where he has led its Advisory Council for sev-eral years. For those efforts and countless others, Kurns received the prestigious James W. Schwartz Distinguished Award in 2010.

– By Alexandra Anderson

JEFFREY HUNT, ‘83I am still practicing First Amendment and media law in Salt Lake City. I am also an adjunct professor at the University of Utah College of Law, teaching pretrial practice. Wife Cindy is teaching English and literature at a Catholic middle school. Daughter Madison is a senior at the University of Pennsylvania and son Christopher is a sophomore at the University of Michigan. Our caboose, Tess, is in seventh grade. I had a wonderful visit to Iowa State for First Amendment Week. It was great to see the journalism school and the Daily going strong. Please contact us if your travels take you to Utah. 787 17th Ave., Salt Lake City, UT 84103 [email protected].

JANINE (STEWART) WHIPPS, ‘83Big news on the personal front - Wayne and I became grandparents in August! Logan David was born Aug. 31 and we have quickly realized what everyone says, that grandparenthood is the greatest! Now that we are empty nesters we have moved to a bigger, but ranch-style, house on the golf course in Dike. Doesn’t make a lot of sense, but we love it and the space is awesome when the three girls, husbands, fiancé and boyfriend are all home. Morgan&Myers is doing well. We continue to have terrific clients and are doing both IMC and issues management work in production agriculture and the food chain. Heaven knows there’s plenty to talk about and lots of educating and trust building to be done. We have fun doing it with some great clients. We’re always looking for new talent - and new clients - so if you’re either, contact me. 830 Fox Ridge Road, Dike, IA 50624 [email protected].

BRIAN MEYER, ‘832012 marks the 22nd year working for Iowa State and the 10th year as director of college relations for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Janell is still working with faculty in College of Human Sciences on food safety research. One son’s in high school, the other in middle school. 2316 McKinley Circle, Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

BETSY FREESE, ‘84Editor in chief, Living the Country Life; executive editor, Successful Farming, 1716 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309 http://www.livingthecountrylife.com/ 515-284-2184; 603 E. Hillcrest Dr. Indianola, IA 50125 [email protected].

CATHERINE ADAMS, ‘84Program assistant for two programs at Iowa State University: psychology and communication studies. Daughter Jourdan is a sophomore at Iowa State studying elementary education. Enjoying summers at Ten Mile Lake, Minn., with my family. 3613 Grayhawk Ave. #102, Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].


KENT HOPKINS, ‘83 When Kent Hopkins first started working in the financial aid office at Iowa State, he had no idea that work-study gig would lead to a 25-year career in higher education. Since graduating with an ISU bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication and a master’s degree in higher education administration in 1987, Hopkins has worked for the University of Toledo, St. Louis University and higher-education consulting firm, Noel-Levitz. Hopkins’ current job as vice provost of enrollment management at Arizona State University puts him in charge of 260 employees and makes him responsible for enrollment strategy and operations within the university. In 2011, Hopkins served as the master of ceremonies for the opening of the Pat Tillman Veterans Center on the Arizona State campus. He said honoring Tillman and watching veteran students tour the center was very moving. “I’ve always been interested in helping others learn,” said Hopkins. “Helping students attain their degrees, whether it’s at Arizona State or somewhere else, is the most gratifying part of my job.”

– By Abe Burzette

JAMIE (KAESTNER) ANDERSON, ‘84I am teaching high school writing and high school public speaking in a weekly home school tutorial, as well as teaching a speech course on the great communicators in an online academy. I volunteer as a chapter sponsor for a local Institute for Cultural Communicators chapter and as a relay center coordinator for Operation Christmas Child.113 Maple St., Tecumseh, MI 49286 [email protected].

BRET GILLILAND, ‘84Now in my 14th year here at the Mountain West and 30th in intercollegiate athletics. The realignment of conferences has created some unique challenges and opportunities. We are working hard to navigate them successfully. Family is doing well, with Morgan a senior, Macy a freshman and Brock a middle-schooler. Leah is back utilizing her Iowa State elementary education degree as a member of the staff at our neighborhood elementary school. 8975 Melbourne Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920 [email protected].

KIMBERLY (GROE) EMERY, ‘85I’m still self-employed at Firefly Publicity. I love working with my outdoor recreation clients. I’m also an integrative healing arts volunteer for the Mayo Clinic and mom to two wonderful kids. 1860 Woodland Dr., Red Wing, MN 55066 [email protected].

DEBORAH GILBERT, ‘85130 Jane St. Apt. 2E, New York, NY 10014

VERONICA (LORSON) FOWLER, ‘84I have been working at the ACLU of Iowa as its communications director for two years now, but I still continue to do freelancing (mainly garden writing) on the side. Is the First Amendment and perennials a weird mix? [email protected]

JAMES WYCKOFF, ‘84Hello, ISU J-school alums. The years are piling up since I graduated from Iowa State, but the benefits of a quality education still reward me. I am still heavy on the work throttle, but I look forward to the day that I can back off a bit. I am fortunate be into my second decade of working from home in my own business – publishing markets analysis worldwide. Work is good, family is good, life is good. The highlight of the year for me was taking a jeeping and hiking trip with my wife, Laurie, to Telluride, Colo. That town fits me well and I can’t wait to get back. So long until next year! Jim Wyckoff, 3221 Cobblestone Court, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 [email protected].

SHARON (ALMQUIST) NAPOLITANO, ‘85After nearly five years as editor of “Better Health” magazine, a publication of the former Saint Raphael Healthcare System in New Haven, Conn., I am back in fundraising, working as communications manager at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Foundation in Hartford. In this new role, I enjoy writing and editing copy for a variety of audiences and formats, from newsletters and appeal letters to website content and more. Love kids, love the mission. I think I’m “home” at last. 82 Leonard Road, Hamden, CT 06514 [email protected].

LORI NELSON-KING, ‘86Digital content manager, Flying Like The Pros (www.flyinglikethepros.com); board member, TEDxBend; board member, Cascade School of Music. 19370 Cayuse Crater Court, Bend, OR 97702 [email protected].

MARCIA MCCREA, M.S. ‘8615371 20th Ave., St. Charles, IA 50240

NICHOLAS JOOS, ‘871003 Prairie Lane, McGregor, TX 76657

ALICIA (THOMPSON) CASHMAN, ‘86Greetings from Wisconsin. Somehow I missed last year. That was probably due to the fact my husband and I are fighting Lyme Disease. I’ve become an expert in all things tick, spider, flea and fly-related, including Lyme and all the wonderful co-infections that come with Lyme. Let’s just say this stuff will rock your world in ways you can’t imagine and leave it at that. If you and yours need info on this lovely spirochetal infection, please don’t hesitate to inquire, but watch the award-winning documentary, “Under Our Skin,” for a primer in why this disease is becoming an epidemic. If you really want to dig in, read Langhoff ’s tome titled, “God Science, The Secret World of Rampant Genetics, Hidden Illness, and Biotech Profiteering.” Thankfully, we have teenagers who are for the most part self-led. We continue home schooling and are excited to learn it works. Our first headed off to the university and is doing exceedingly well. Whew.... and I thought I was going to screw them up for life! 6734 Parkway Dr., Sun Prairie, WI 53590 [email protected].

ELAINE ALLEN, M.S. ‘86

TRACEY (DICKINSON) BRAMBLE, ‘86

JEFF CUE, ‘86

Chris and I spent the 2011-12 academic year in Muscat, Oman, where he was a Fulbright Scholar at Sultan Qaboos University. We both fell in love with Oman. It’s a beautiful country with kind and generous people. Chris taught several courses in the mass communication department. While there, I served as newsletter editor for the American Women’s Group of Oman. And I worked remotely for my part-time position as executive director of the Nebraska Polio Survivors Association. 5809 S. 107th St., Omaha, NE 68127 [email protected].

I am currently in my 13th year back at the Iowa Department of Transportation’s public affairs office. I was in the same position at the DOT from 1990-1992 when I left to roam the world. Once the rest of the world reminded me why I liked Iowa, I came back to the same cubicle, phone number and workload in 1999. My focus areas are internal communications (employee newsletter), news releases and event planning. 3008 Sapphire Circle, Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

And the beat goes on...another year of video production and all that goes with it! Who could have imagined the toys we get to play with in 2012 when compared to the 3/4-inch tape we were dependent on at WOI? It’s a challenging, yet exciting time to be able to make a living in the production world...all referrals welcomed in an effort to keep the ball rolling! www.cue2media.com, 515-991-5778; Cue²Media, 14403 Bryn Mawr Dr., Urbandale, IA 50323 [email protected].

Chris and Elaine Allen enjoyed a dune bashing adventure in the Dubai desert during a January 2012 visit to the UAE. While living in Oman, they visited seven countries: Nepal, Egypt, the UAE, India, Qatar, Turkey and Bulgaria.

Just a boy & his jib down by the riverside...shooting whitewater kayaking in Charles City, summer 2012


CAROL ANDERSEN, ‘87Assistant director, Mississippi Humanities Council; 5359 Briarfield Road, Jackson, MS 39211 [email protected].

CLARE LESCHIN-HOAR, ‘871243 Via Barranca, La Jolla, CA 92037

COLEEN (HILDRETH) MYERS, ‘87I continue to live in Williamsburg, Iowa. The highlight of my year was a bucket-list vacation to Australia, where my husband and I spent time in Sydney and Cairns. 121 Willis Blvd., Williamsburg, IA 52361

KATHIE (KINRADE) OBRADOVICH, ‘87Winding up the mother of all general elections in Iowa as political columnist for the Des Moines Register. I’m also learning a lot as a member of the Greenlee Advisory Council. 715 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309 [email protected].

DOUG JESKE, ‘89I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to work with an extraordinary team and great clients at The Meyocks Group. Karen continues to teach in the community and regional planning department at Iowa State. Jack Trice Stadium and Hilton Coliseum remain two of our favorite places. The Meyocks Group, 6800 Lake Drive, Suite 150, West Des Moines, IA 50026 [email protected].

JOY (ZIMMERMAN) WILHELM, ‘88Resides in West Des Moines. Employed by the Iowa Newspaper Association as a media buyer. 404 47th St., West Des Moines, IA 50265

KAREN (HOSKINS) VANDER SANDEN, ‘87Married with two children. Enjoyed working as a broadcast journalist for 20 years. Now working in the marketing and public relations department at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids. Life is good! IA [email protected].

MALINDA (MILLER) GEISLER, ‘88We continue to grow our agri-tourism business. Visit us at www.growingfamilyfun.com/ 5251 NE 94th Ave., Bondurant, IA 50035

CHRISTOPHER LARSEN, ‘87 CRAIG OLSON, ‘88

PAULA JO UBBEN, ‘88

It’s been a busy year. The highlight was my marriage to Amy Swadener on Sept. 1, five weeks after returning from my third overseas deployment. I served as the public affairs officer for the 364th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, a 5,000-member task force in charge of bringing troops and equipment home from Iraq. I was on the Kuwait-Iraq border with media from around the world as the last convoy of soldiers crossed – a sobering experience. 1121 117th Drive SE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258 [email protected].

2012 found me living in Houston, Texas, for my job for five months until I was able to find employment at Bloomer Plastics, Bloomer, Wis., in July. That allowed us all to remain in Cumming. Rachel is in her sophomore year at UNI while Katie is in her junior year at Norwalk High School. Lisa and I are looking forward to a well-deserved vacation south of the border later this winter! 8884 42nd Lane, Cumming, IA 50061 [email protected].

Custom Graphic Design & Communications - March 2000 to present. I enjoy working as an independent contractor for small businesses in a variety of industries. The majority of clients I work with are located in Southern California (graphic design, copywriting, social media, electronic newsletters, website concepts, branding/image development, voice-overs, public relations, advertising and marketing). 13952 Wellington Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55347 [email protected].

Capt. Christopher Larsen, JLMC ‘87, an Army public affairs officer, on assignment in Kuwait with Task Force Rainier.

The Olson family at Sea World, San Antonio, TX

DOUG JENSEN, ‘89 Though he’s lived and worked in Chicago, Toronto, San Francisco and now New York, Doug Jensen still carries vivid memories of those many treks across central campus to the Parks Library. Six years ago, Jensen began working for Avon Products Inc. as the vice president of global analytics. At Avon, Jensen measures advertisements and, using statistical models, how they correlate to sales. Spending a lot of time in the air, Jensen is lucky enough to travel all around the world to meet with other markets, Avon’s largest being in Brazil. The Fort Dodge native majored in statistics and advertising at Iowa State. At the Iowa State Daily he worked in the advertising department where he sold and composed ads. According to Jensen, journalism teaches people how to tell a story, which he has found important in business. Jensen’s previous jobs have included senior statistician for The Nielsen Company, senior vice president of analytics for Information Resources Inc. and vice president for retail analysis and development for Primedia Enthusiast Media. He still maintains close ties to Iowa State, though, and in some cases, sentimental ones. Jensen has created a scholarship honoring Christopher Jones, his ISU roommate who died in a car accident. Two scholarships are awarded annually to students coming to school from single-parent households.

– By Stephanie Ferguson

JIM COLOFF, ‘89Enjoyed spending a beautiful Saturday tailgating before the Texas Tech game with several J-School classmates from the late 1980s. It was good catching up with Rod Fowler, Brad Pautsch, Paula Ubben and Suzanne (Weuve) Schwartze. Not sure if it was more fun looking at old embarrassing photos, or remembering the idiosyncrasies of our instructors Ken Eich and Steve Coon. Neverthelsss, it brought back many great memories of our days roaming Hamilton Hall. I hope to make it an annual occasion, and expect others from our forgotten era will join us. 721 Shirley St., Cedar Falls, IA 50613 [email protected].

STEPHANIE (GRIMES) WORRELL, ‘89I have continued to capitalize on my second-to-none Greenlee School education as the founder and co-owner of Red Sky Public Relations based in Boise, Idaho, with offices now in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Through the recession, the agency has continued to thrive and grow, representing local, national and global companies. Every year since our inception, Red Sky has captured a spot on the O’Dwyers “fastest-growing firms in the country” list. There is not a day that goes by that I am not grateful to my ISU journalism professors (Haws, Mack, Abbott, Smith, to name a few). I am also blessed to be the wife of an ISU health sciences grad (Wes Worrell, ‘78) and the mother of two great kids, Audrey, 14, and Christian, 8. Never, ever a dull moment in my life between work, family and friends. I travel around the country and speak about “Mothership Meeting Entrepreneurship” and mentoring other women both personally and professionally based on both my failures and successes. Our firm is always interested in interns and new graduates, so consider Idaho as a place to start your public relations career! 13369 W. Bluebell Dr., Boise, ID 83713 [email protected].

DOUG JENSEN, ‘89I continue to lead the global analytics practice in the headquarters of Avon Products, Inc., after six years. My highlight of the year on a personal front was a safari at a private game reserve in South Africa. I saw all expected animals like the Big 5 (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, rhino). Highlights were seeing lions mating and a cheetah killing a steenbok! Makes you appreciate so much more than working and living in a city... 144 W 18th St #5N, New York, NY 10011 [email protected].

SUZANNE (WEUVE) SCHWARTZE, ‘89

Still loving life in the shadow of Pikes Peak! Our little boy, Charles, just turned 3 and he’s more of a tornado than a Cyclone. Took him to his first ISU tailgate for the Texas Tech game but he never made

it to kickoff. Funny... Mom had that problem back in college, too! Enjoyed a great time with former Jl MC pals Brad Pautsch, Rod Fowler, Robert Hein, Paula Ubben and Jim Coloff. Let’s do it again! 14645 Air Garden Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80921 [email protected].

Tailgating before the ISU-Texas Tech football game during fall ’12 were ISU late ‘80s graduates (left to right) Brad Pautsch, Suzanne (Weuve) Schwartze, Robert Hein, Paula (Ubben) Treiber, Jim Coloff and Rod Fowler.


MARK BOECK, ‘90Senior director, corporate and foundation relations, Iowa State University Foundation, Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

KATHRYN MALONEY GREEN, ‘905556 S. Geneva St., Greenwood Village, CO 80111

ANNETTE (MCCUEN) HACKER, ‘90345 Alexander Circle, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 [email protected].

ALISSA KAPLAN MICHAELS, ‘90Hi! Still in NYC, still running my communications con-sultancy. All is good in my world, with the exception of the recent passing of Barbara Mack, of blessed memory. 700 Columbus Ave., Apt. 17D, New York, NY 10025 [email protected].

KELLY (NUTT) PERKINS, ‘90Working in the medical field now and still see so many ways in which I use the skills learned in the J-school.

LAYNE SOLHEIM, ‘90Greetings, fellow Cyclones. Stacey Provo, Jl MC ‘89, and I have now been in Denver for 10 years and love the Rocky Mountains. Our visits back to Iowa remind us of how we’d like to clear Nebraska out of the way to move Iowa and Colorado closer together. We DO NOT miss the Iowa humidity! Our activities seem to revolve around the kids. Turner, 13, and Kennedy, 9, keep us on the move. Two golden retrievers in the mix only heighten the fun/chaos. Our latest venture is a new start-up, Vidyasa.com, which turns 2 in April 2013. We specialize in online video monetization (VidStore.com) and online video streaming (VideoPros.com). Long live our trademarked mascot, The Blue Footed Booby! Best wishes to everyone in Cyclone Nation. Layne Solheim, P.O. Box 270064, Littleton, CO 80127 [email protected].

PATRICK ARTHUR, ‘91I am constantly amazed at how much time has passed since I was at ISU. Time flies when you’re having fun. Since graduating I have had great opportunities to work in public affairs, marketing communications, sales, agronomy and in editorial. Today I am working at DuPont Pioneer in a strategy role and living just outside Johnston, IA, with my wonderful wife and two great kids. [email protected].

CATHY (WINTER) DAKKURI, ‘91Still honing my PR skills from the home – campaigns aren’t as successful with 4-year-old twin girls as my target audience. Saddened to hear about Barbara Mack – she was an original and one of the best. Would love to hear from other Cyclones in the South Bay Area. Soquel, CA 95073 [email protected].

LARA (BEECHER) FISHER, ‘91Joined South County Outreach, a hunger and homelessness service provider in Orange County, Calif., as the executive director in April 2012. 29761 Running Deer Lane, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 [email protected].

KAREN (RISCH) HIEB, ‘91I am very thankful that our resource development department at Children Desiring God is growing, even during this time of economic challenges. We recently added two part-time editorial assistants, and we’re in the process of hiring a full-

time graphic designer. That, along with our production specialist, will bring our resource development team up to five people. We have ambitious goals ahead of us for the next couple of years, so I am very grateful to God for His provision of good helpers. And I’m very grateful for grace as I learn how to manage people, in addition to projects. My husband continues to work as both a professional handyman and a piano instructor. He’s my Renaissance guy, and I’m always thankful for him as well. Send me an email if you’re ever in the area. I’d love to hear from old friends and classmates. Eden Prairie, MN 55346 [email protected].

Enjoying a fall hike at Carver Park Reserve.

HEIDI (SCHUESSLER) HURDLE, ‘91An exciting year for me, all around. I got married and started a new job as senior editor at Bing.com (Microsoft). Would love to hear from other 1991 JLMC grads! Issaquah, WA 98027 [email protected].

JULIANNE (HAYWOOD) JOHNSTON, ‘91Celebrated my 20th year at Pro Farmer this year, writing market commentary, analysis and advocating for agriculture. Look forward to spending a little more time in Ames next year visiting my Cyclone daughter, who plans to study food science. 27554 120th St., Parkersburg, IA 50665 [email protected].

BRIEN MURPHY, ‘91This year’s update is mostly the same as last year’s – still working many hours as a features editor (while resuming the entertainment reporting portion of my career), still hammering my guitar for fun and absolutely zero profit, and my bocce ball team continues to finish in the money. [email protected].

CHRISTINA (TOALE) PERROTTE, ‘916161 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago, IL 60646 [email protected].

JENNIFER (HOLM) DUNLAY, ‘92After 10 years home with my twins, I’m back at work as a risk communicator (public information officer) for the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment in Olathe, Kan. [email protected]

ANDREA HADDOCK, ‘92Greetings from South Carolina! It has been a busy year with lots of travel! I had an amazing trip to Cambodia and Thailand in September. Still doing women’s ministry with soldiers at Ft. Jackson and working part time as the director of HR. In my spare time (haha!) I still love to write, and do so at my blog: www.growingbygrace.com. 27 Fishers Mill Dr., Columbia, SC 29206 [email protected].

HOLLI HARTMAN, ‘923498 Ellsworth Ave. Unit 1210, Denver, CO 80209

TIM KENYON, ‘92I’m blessed for the fortune of being a student of Barbara Mack. While it’s a shame she didn’t get to finish the very end of her tenure, the school will continue to benefit from her dedication and spirit for decades to come. I’m also extremely fortunate to have my family -- my wife, Patti, and sons, Jack, 5 1/2, and Joe, 3 1/2. My life is enriched beyond my previous daydreams because of them. Career-wise, I miss being a full-time newspaper editor, reporter and sometimes photographer. The nearly two decades of it were good in retrospect. It’s interesting to see the continued recovery from the 2008 flood in Cedar Rapids, with a little more space in my perspective with being mostly on the reporter sidelines the past 18 months or so. I’d love to get more freelance journalist work (hint hint) if anyone needs an occasional hand! Nevertheless, it’s a source of great pride when I say I’m a graduate of Iowa State with a major in journalism. In summary on the marking of 20 years since graduation, three cheers to Hamilton Hall, my journalism, history and political science professors particularly -- Jeff Stein, Barbara Mack, Dick Haws, Tom Beell, Bob McConnell, Giles Fowler -- and my fellow classmates. Many thanks for helping a returning student and vet find a way to make a little difference for awhile. To my classmates continuing in the trade, keep up the good work -- it does still matter! Since I submit only about once a decade for this publication, I appreciate this opportunity to speak up and hope for your tolerance of my lack of brevity on this piece. Go Cyclones! 253 Highland Drive NW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405 [email protected].

Joe (left) and Jack Kenyon, sons of Tim Kenyon, ’92.

REED LANDBERG, ‘92Renewable energy team leader, Bloomberg News, 39-45 Finsbury Square,London EC2Y 8ND [email protected].


LAURIE LATTIMORE-VOLKMANN, ‘92I am currently an adjunct professor at the College of Charleston, teaching writing and reporting for social media, online, print and broadcast outlets. My husband Mark and I have two adorable boys – Calvin and Tanner - and we try as much as possible to act more like them rather than have them act like us! It’s a challenge we’re happy to take on. I love reconnecting with ISU journalism folks and former Daily-ites. Find me on Facebook and Twitter. Go Cyclones! 837 Tupelo Bay Dr., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 [email protected].

KENT NANKE, ‘92I continue a fulfilling career at NCMIC Group, Inc. in the Des Moines area, marketing our portfolio of financial products to healthcare professionals and other small businesses under our NCMIC and Professional Solutions brands. Can hardly believe it’s been A QUARTER OF A CENTURY since my graduation in journalism and mass communications with an emphasis in advertising. I appreciate the exceptional education I received from Iowa State and have three kids that are anxious to become Cyclones. Go State! 9401 Enfield Dr., Johnston, IA 50131 [email protected].

MARIETTA NELSON- BITTLE, ‘92Our family returned to Iowa in August 2012, after being away for 20-plus years with the U.S. Navy. We are excited to be near family again and also to be in this beautiful state. Our new home overlooks the Loess Hills. Incredible! I am rebuilding a freelance writing career locally and always looking for work. If any ISU JLMC folks have a need for a writer, please contact me. 52560 230th St., Glenwood, IA 51534 [email protected].

C.J. BUNCE, ‘93To quote Charles Foster Kane, “I always thought it would be fun to run a newspaper...” and he was right. Well into my second year running the daily Web magazine borg.com and having a great time utilizing my press credentials in my free time. I also received a promotion to senior vice president of my telecom company this year. My DW Elizabeth C. Bunce continues being authorly, creating new worlds and characters and getting ongoing recognition for her novels. Best to all! [email protected].

STACY (OBERDIN) KAMINSKI, ‘93In December 2010 I became in need of a kidney transplant. Less than a year later my sister gave me one of hers, and I am now in much better shape to chase after my holiday-obsessed 3 year old. Give an organ. Save a life! I am also fortunate to be working as an adjunct librarian for the College of Southern Nevada. [email protected].

LISA KRUSE, ‘931421 Hammond Ave., Waterloo, IA 50702

TRAVIS BALLSTADT, ‘94I’m still loving being back in Ames, and back on campus as the digital media coordinator for the College of Engineering! I’m also working toward a master’s degree in the Greenlee School. Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

ALLISON HOPKEY FULLENKAMP, ‘94After almost a decade in educational materials development, I launched my own business! I opened samozrejme, a community education center and eco-family shop, in June 2009. The name is a nod to my favorite word in Slovak and is pronounced SAHM ohz ray may. It means “of course”. (While I was at Iowa State, I visited Slovakia during the summer of 1992 and then went back to study for a semester in 1993.) Our kids are now 9 and 4 and our joy. Wish more games were televised out here and that we got back more often! Go State! 401 S. Ridge Ave., Troy, OH 45373 [email protected].

JODI (NELSEN) OSBORN, ‘94I just marked my six-year anniversary as workplace campaign manager with Feed The Children, an international hunger relief nonprofit organization. 15814 Franklin St., Omaha, NE 68118 [email protected].

CESAR VEGA, ‘94Cesar Vega has been appointed vice president of sales and marketing for Office Gemini, a market leader and innovator in document management and scanning technologies based in Houston. Prior to joining Office Gemini, Vega served as regional sales manager (Latin America and the Caribbean) for Fujitsu Imaging Products Group, and also has worked for Bell+Howell. He received an MBA from North Park University of Chicago in 1998. [email protected]

Cesar (left) and Janita Vega

DAVE OGLE, ‘94After a long and successful career as a television news photojournalist, I have now entered the world of freelance video production, corporate video mostly. Thanks to Iowa State for getting me started in this field! [email protected].

LEIGH ANN WOLFE-DAWSON, ‘94After earning my bachelor’s degree in journalism/mass communication from ISU, I earned a master’s degree in language and communication from Regis University in Denver, Colo., and a Ph.D. in higher education from Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Each semester, I teach two communication courses: interpersonal communication and public speaking, and I teach two journalism courses: public relations and freelance writing, all through Colorado community colleges. I have lived in Colorado for 17 years. [email protected].

LARRY VAVROCH, ‘952012 has been a year of transition in the Vavroch household. Our 21-year-old daughter, Lisa Marie, is in her senior year at the University of Iowa. It doesn’t seem possible that she is completing her studies at the Tippie College of Business and this summer had an internship with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Although she was based out of its Cedar Rapids field office, she made two trips to Washington, D.C., and was recently hired fulltime by the FDIC to work in its Kansas City office after she graduates, starting in June. So you can tell that we are very proud of her and commend her work ethic during her years at Iowa. As operations manager of Family Radio’s Central Iowa signal, KDFR, 91.3 FM, I continue to host and produce a daily public affairs program that covers a wide range of community issues. In addition, I host and produce weekly public affairs segments for our FM stations in Fort Dodge; Emporia, Kan. and Bismarck, N.D. Since graduating from Greenlee, I’ve done newspaper and magazine writing and it is my desire to get back into freelance writing as well. However, my passion is to get involved in ownership of a couple of FM stations since I have two format ideas that have the potential of being financially viable. What separates me from my dream is the fact that it takes millions these days to purchase a frequency with local ownership of radio stations, very rare in today’s corporate media environment. Earlier this year, Linda was hired for a part-time position with a Curves for Women fitness center in the Roosevelt area, combining her interests of exercise and health care. She has the opportunity to move up to a management position and working there has been a wonderful opportunity for her after enduring quite a lengthy period of unemployment. Prayer has been our source of strength as we cope with all the seemingly endless changes in our lives this past year. Each day is a gift from God and we strive to live today to its fullest. 2021 53rd St., Des Moines, IA 50310 [email protected]

VALERIE (DENNIS) PASSONNO, ‘03 A self-described visual journalist, Valerie Dennis Passonno works behind the scenes at the Palm Beach Post, creating the front page that will grace coffee shop tables the next day. She uses the full, graphic presentation of a newspaper to pull readers in and enhance each story. “You need to figure out all the elements that go with the story,” explains Passonno, “If I have to choose between two different photos, will one photo give a certain emotion or will another photo tell the whole story on its own?” Even behind the scenes, a story can develop overnight. When the President of the United States announced that Osama Bin Laden had been killed, the Palm Beach Post was just 10 minutes from going to the presses. The newspaper staff had to completely rearrange the paper, wait for the copy and gather new resources to support it as the minutes flew by. Those experiences are why Passonno got into journalism because “with breaking news like that, that is when people are going to see it and pick up the paper.” Currently Passonno has taken on an exciting new digital challenge in her career, taking over page layout for the Austin (Texas) American-Statesman in addition to the Palm Beach Post.

– By Maren Goeke


ANDY COMBITES, ‘96Received my MBA from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota, where I ran into Becky Waller, Jl MC ‘95, doing the same thing! Currently working as a principal e-marketing strategist at Boston Scientific, where I spend my days working on iPad apps, social media and websites. I also work with Ann Strong, Jl MC ‘96, from Olson, one of the design agencies we partner with. Small world. Wife Diane (Taylor), Jl MC ‘94, is the best stay-at-home mom in the world for our daughter Taylor and son Elliot. 1396 16th Ave NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 [email protected].

AMANDA (SVEC) GRASK, ‘96January 2013 marks my 10-year anniversary with Wells Fargo. I continue to support team member recognition programs, Community Support and United Way campaign, charitable giving efforts and volunteerism for the home lending business across the country and in Des Moines. I also am an independent consultant with Rodan and Fields Dermatologists, building my business while changing skin and changing lives. My husband and I enjoy spending time with our 3-year-old daughter. This year we introduced her to VEISHEA and Iowa State football games. Go Cyclones! West Des Moines, IA [email protected].

JOHN LOECKE, ‘96I’m still in New York and still traveling. Spent two months in China and biked through southern France. My partner and I also spent the past year rebranding our design business as Madcap Cottage. We are still doing design work – mostly residential – and the occasional editorial project, but our focus is slowly turning toward product. Check out our new website, Madcap Cottage.com. Our goal is to design fabulously affordable products for the home. Stay tuned on that front. 17 Chester Court, Brooklyn, NY 11225 [email protected].

MARC T. HOLLANDER, ‘96The past few years have been a whirlwind since moving into professional services marketing at the Davis Brown law firm, and most recently the newly merged CliftonLarsonAllen LLP. Getting my ISU MBA opened a number of doors for me and made for some great relationships. Life is good with Mandy (our 15th wedding anniversary is coming up), and Maddie, 8, and Malcolm, 4. Go Clones! 4306 Aspen Dr., West Des Moines, IA 50265 [email protected].

Madeline, Mandy, Marc and Malcolm Hollander

LYNN MANTERNACH, M.S. ‘96, PH.D. ‘99Dr. Lynn Manternach was named 2012 Ad Person of the Year by the American Advertising Federation Cedar Rapids-Iowa City. She is president, brand arsonist and co-owner of MindFire Communciations, with offices in Cedar Rapids and Le Claire, Iowa. 3602 Caribou Court NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 [email protected].

KATHY (SATTEM) RYGG, ‘96After spending 10 years in corporate marketing and public relations, I am enjoying being a freelance writer and editor. I am currently the editor in chief of knowonder!, which publishes short stories for kids ages 3-10. I am also a children’s book author and had a middle grade novel released in August 2012 by Muse It Up Publishing called “Animal Andy.” I’m happy to be back in my hometown of Omaha, Neb., with my husband and two sons. [email protected].

KRISTIE BELL, ‘974105 Ovid Ave., Des Moines, IA 50310 [email protected].

KRISTEN DURST, ‘97I live in lovely Madison, Wis., where I work as a reporter, host and news anchor at Wisconsin Public Radio. Seven years ago I married one of my on-air guests, a TV weatherman. Life is pretty darn good. But I do still miss you, ISU! [email protected].

TIM (FRERKING) ENGSTROM, ‘97I have been the managing editor at the Albert Lea Tribune since February 2006. My wife and I reside in Albert Lea, Minn., and have two sons. One was born in 2007 and the other in 2012. When you don’t find me at my work or with family, I am at one of the local disc golf courses. 1210 W. Fountain St., Albert Lea, MN 56007 [email protected].

MARTIN MEHL, M.S. ‘97Lecturer, Communication Studies Department, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Enjoying life with my wife Jennifer (Jl MC ‘98) on California’s central coast along with our 5 year old twin boys, Alexander and Carsten. 1291 Hollysprings Ln., Santa Maria, CA 93455-5157 [email protected].

LEANA (BENSON) HERSCH, ‘98

My husband, Ethan, and I welcomed our son, Archer Owen, into our family on August 24. Since then I have probably had a total of 12 hours of sleep. In September, I celebrated five years as the manager of marketing communications for Oberthur Technologies in Los Angeles. Now that I’m a mom, I’ve decided to stay home with baby Archie full time. Wish me luck – I’ll need it! Long Beach, CA 90807 [email protected].

Archer Owen Hersch, future Cyclone.

SHARON (EVANS) KIBILOSKI, ‘98

It’s been another crazy year full of changes! I transitioned to using my communication skills in a different way as I am now the Congressional liaison for the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology and Engineering at the Pentagon. I’m really using the science comm and technical writing skills that I learned at Greenlee to help me develop strategies to defend the Air Force’s science and technology program to our U.S. Congress. I’m also still proudly serving as an Air Force Reservist...just recently being promoted to lieutenant

colonel. This summer I had the pleasure of leading a team of Army, Air Force and Botswana Defense Force public affairs professionals during the largest U.S. military exercise ever on the African continent (SOUTHERN ACCORD / MEDLITE 12). We provided print, photo, broadcast and social media coverage of this landmark exercise which focused on teaching peacekeeping and aeromedical evacuation operations to the Botswana Defense Force. It was truly a life-changing experience and I can’t wait to return to the continent as soon as possible. 413 S. Columbus St., Alexandria, VA 22314 [email protected].

Sharon (Evans) Kibiloski, ‘98, traveled to Botswana this summer as an Air Force Reservist. She led a team of Army, Air Force and Botswana Defense Force public affairs professionals covering the largest military exercise ever on the African continent.

DIANE HELDT, ‘95In my eighth year as a reporter for The Gazette, and my sixth year covering higher education based out of the paper’s Iowa City newsroom. Go Cyclones! 814 Benton Dr. #31, Iowa City, IA 52246 [email protected].

AMY (MILLER) ORR, ‘952934 Arlington Ave., Davenport, IA 52803 [email protected].

LANA RUSHING, ‘94 From Iowa to Los Angeles, Lana Rushing, ‘94, has not only made her mark with large-scale public relations firms but now owns a small flourishing agency. Just a few years after her transition from employee to boss, Rushing remains confident about her choice to strike out on her own. “I’m going into my fourth year as a small business owner and it has been a great decision,” Rushing says. “I love the freedom and flexibility that it brings.” After graduating from the Greenlee School with a passion for technology, she quickly found a position with the Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau, where she’d interned. She called her time there a ‘great stepping stone’ into the technology-based Engineering Animation organization, which eventually led to her move to Los Angeles. Rushing also has worked for Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, Edelman and BSMG Worldwide (now Weber Shandwick). According to her firm’s website, Rushing has assisted in the launches of the first MP3 player in the U.S., LG phones and HP printers. Rushing’s team of five now represents clients all based upon referrals, leaving her “in awe of the power of my network. I’m really proud that people refer me on an ongoing basis.”

– By Lili Ruff

ANDREA VOGT-LYTAL, ‘95Arlington, TN 38002 [email protected].

JOHN WOODS, M.S. ‘95Brooklyn, NY [email protected].


SHUVA RAHIM, ‘98I’m a professional photographer and have worked for myself since 2008. Prior to that, I was working as an editor at a small publishing company in the Quad Cities for about a year. Prior to that I was in Portland, Maine, doing a graduate certificate program in photography, which is something I realized I had a passion for while I was a Peace Corps volunteer in the South American country of Suriname (2004-06). I joined the Peace Corps after six years working in the newspaper industry as a reporter in Iowa, Kansas and Ohio, which I loved... but I wanted to do something else. And now I’m back in Iowa. I have been since 2007, and it’s been quite an adjustment to come back to my home state. But I don’t regret it. I met the love of my life in Iowa City a few years ago, and we had a beautiful small wedding in September. Otherwise, I get to do what I love. I document people in love. I blog (www.shuvarahim.com). And I teach continuing education classes in social media marketing, digital photography and basic computer skills for Kirkwood Community College in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. Life is good. Iowa City, IA [email protected].

ALLAN SCHMIDT, M.S. ‘98I have not strayed too far from the nest. I am assistant director at the ISU Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching. I lead a team of talented instructional designers involved in developing and supporting online learning. In a typical day I might work with faculty from physics in the morning and history in the afternoon. Of course I get to work with some of the great Greenlee instructors, too. I have a 15-year-old son named Patrick who runs cross country and a 14-year-old daughter Chloe who loves riding horses. 1202 Northwestern Ave. Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

MICHAEL SWAN, ‘79, M.S. ‘98The fundamentals of journalism still rule around here. Son William, now a freshman in the dorms at Wichita State, and daughter Katy, a high school sophomore, have come to Dad in the recent past for headline writing help. It reminds me of the days when we used to sit around and dream up headlines in school – just for fun. With all the social media out there, our mass communications department here at Butler Community College is on the same page: We need to turn out people who are interested in accuracy. Wife Linda continues to make an hour commute to her family and consumer sciences teaching job at Udall High School. My students continue to traverse the Midwest and beyond to cover sports, via the Internet, radio and print. And I’m in year two as president of Kansas Collegiate Media, our state journalism organization. Journalism still strikes a chord with me. I was able to visit some of the old haunts I covered in the ‘80s around Okoboji this summer during a family reunion. That included looking up my friend from a local radio station. We covered 6.5-hour city council meetings together and can laugh about it. Is that what we call “synergy” nowadays? We helped each other back then. 1403 Park Ave., El Dorado, KS 67042

JENN (WING) WOOD, ‘9821 St. Thomas Walk, 02-23, Singapore 238145 [email protected].

AMY (COLLINS) YOST, ‘98In April 2012, I joined the Downtown Community Alliance in Des Moines as community relations manager. I enjoy working on the promotion and fundraising for events like such as the World Food Festival, the WOW! Wonder of Words Festival, Lunch Unplugged, ImaginEve and the Downtown Farmers Market in Des Moines. [email protected].

KATE (ADAMS) BRUNS, ‘99Still working as associate director of communications at the Iowa State University Alumni Association. My husband, Ben, (Constr. Engr. ‘01) and I welcomed a baby boy named Clayton Jacob (C.J.) Bruns Sept. 5, 2011. We continue to enjoy living in Des Moines’ Beaverdale neighborhood and following Cyclone athletics. 3218 40th Pl., Des Moines, IA 50310

AMANDA CARSTENS STEWARD, ‘99I joined Aviva USA as its corporate responsibility manager in 2010, and am loving the role. It is made for my professional background and my personal passion of giving back in the community. I have three children – 9, 6 and 4 – who keep my husband and I on our toes. Would love to hear how others are! Go State!! 1417 Elmwood Ave., Earlham, IA 50072 [email protected].

AMANDA KNIEF, ‘99Greetings! I am the managing director and in-house counsel for American Atheists. Cranford, NJ [email protected].

MIKE MORES, ‘99Foundation director at Manhattan Area Technical College. In the early stages of moving to a junior college and adding athletics. Son Parker, 6, is in first grade and very active! 2101 Goodnow Circle, Manhattan, KS 66502 [email protected].

JENNIFER SCHAFFER, ‘99I am in my seventh year of being an academic adviser at the University of Missouri. I love living in Columbia and love my job, but yes, I am still very bitter about Missouri leaving the Big 12! My husband, Jim Meyer, and I just had our first child on October 5, 2012. Claire was 7 lbs. 4 oz. and 20 1/2 inches long. So far we are exhausted and loving the journey of parenthood. Columbia, MO [email protected].

CHERYL (OLDENBURG) SCHULTZ, ‘99I am still working as an academic adviser at the University of Iowa and advising some journalism students as part of my work. While I can’t flaunt it at work, it’s always a good year when the Cyclones beat the Hawks! [email protected].

MELISSA (FALK) ASHRAF, ‘004110 N. Western Ave., Unit 4N, Chicago, IL 60618 [email protected].

KEITH KMETT, ‘00My wife, Rebecca Kmett, and I have two amazing kids and our lives are dedicated to them. I am working as a user interface/user experience designer at The Principal Financial Group. After taking one HTML course at ISU, I learned more about Web development and have focused my career around content strategy and marketing. I attribute all the knowledge I gained from the Greenlee School to helping grow my career in user experience strategy and design. 308 NW Driftwood Dr., Ankeny, IA 50023 [email protected].

RANOSHA (JONES) COFFELT, ‘01Public relations manager at Style-Architects, a creative services company specializing in lifestyle industries. 18135 8th Ave N., Minneapolis, MN 55447 [email protected].

JEN HACKE, ‘01 (FORMER GREENLEE STAFF 2004-05)I am in my eighth year in the Office of Admissions at Iowa State University. Every day I enjoy helping a new generation of Cyclones choose Iowa State! I also love influencing my six nieces and nephews to perhaps choose Iowa State in a few years! Ames, IA [email protected].

JOSEPH LEONARD, M.S. ‘98I am currently utilizing my science writing skills as a technical writer at a biomedical firm in Wisconsin. However, the job mainly underwrites my creative writing as a blogger and hopefully soon, e-book author. I am learning about Kindle publishing and my first effort will be a work/life balance guidebook for corporate professionals, based on my 12-plus years in “research” in corporate America. I have much to share about how to be happy working for THE MAN, and get the most out of life. It is tentatively titled “Juice Your Life.” Keep an eye out for it via Kindle. It will be free, largely promotional for future creative writing output. I miss Iowa, but I am still doing RAGBRAI most summers and this past one was no exception. My gosh, it was hot! I hope everyone is well. N4475 Wolff Rd Cambridge, WI 53523 [email protected].

SARA (BJORKE) MASON, ‘98Freelance writer, editor and graphic designer, stay-at-home mom. www.saramason.wordpress.com and sites.google.com/site/saraswords/ Algonquin, IL 60102 [email protected].

JENNIFER (JOHANNSEN) MEHL, ‘98Director of information technology, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara. Loving life with my husband Martin (M.S. ‘97) on California’s central coast along with our 5-year-old twin boys, Alexander and Carsten. 1291 Hollysprings Ln., Santa Maria, CA 93455-5157 [email protected].

MELISSA (JOHNSON) O’BRIAN, M.S. ‘98Fall 2012 – harvest time, Thanksgiving…In a few short weeks all this, too, will be history. It’s just 14 years since graduation, the last two the most gratifying, researching family history. Maternal and paternal lines coming together on three ancestry.com trees. Those ISU research skills aren’t getting rusty now! They help document the lives of family members from pre-1700 to 2000-plus. A half brother I never met, his family in Maine found. Mothers, half brother & sister in Iowa and Missouri found and now all residing in the “tree.” Last night at a genealogical society meeting, a colleague shared her Van Meter, Pa., family connection to the “tree”! Another year coming – 2013 – it, too, is marching across the pages of American frontier history. Nothing beats using academy skills in the real world! Come along, join us, as we practice lifelong learning in our search for family history. 811 N 14th St #3 Indianola, IA 50125-1564 [email protected].


BRETT HART, ‘01I am completing my eighth year as the sports editor for The Dunn County News in Menomonie, Wis. I’m happy to become the most decorated journalist in the 152 years of the paper’s existence, with 28 journalism honors, including seven first-place awards from the Wisconsin Newpaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest. When not working for the paper, I enjoy spending time with my family and working on my art (mostly woodburning and photography these days). My wonderful wife of seven years, Kristi, gave birth to our lovely daughter, Kortney, in October. We also have a son, Parker, age 2. Menomonie, WI 54751 [email protected].

AMY (PINT) KORT, ‘01We’ve had an exciting year! After moving into our new house in October 2011, Jonathan and I welcomed our new daughter, Abigail, in January. She’s been a bundle of joy and a blessing in

our lives. Professionally, I continue to work at the Principal Financial Group in the communications department. My 10-year anniversary with the company is coming up in January 2013. 1903 SW 19th St., Ankeny, IA 50023 [email protected].

Jonathan, Abigail and Amy Kort

BRIANNE (HOUSLEY) SAHRMANN, ‘01After more than a decade in advertising, I sold my first memoir and it hit shelves in October. “We Hope You Like This Song” is a tribute to the ineffable, incomparable bond that we call friendship, and a celebration of living life to the fullest. It chronicles the life and death of my 16-year friendship with fellow ISU alumna Shelly Warner Bridgewater. Whether it makes you laugh or cry, you will definitely want to reach out to your friends, old and new, after reading this story. The memoir can be purchased at amazon.com. 1618 N. May St. #1, Chicago, IL 60642 [email protected].

LISA (KOLLASCH) FRERICHS, ‘03Received the ISU Alumni Association’s 2012 James A. Hopson Alumni Volunteer Award during the 81st Honors & Awards Ceremony on Oct. 26. Frerichs’ first child with husband Matt (‘04 elec. engr.) is also due Homecoming weekend. 5426 Clemens Blvd., Ames, IA 50014 [email protected].

JACQUI (BECKER) FATKA, ‘03In June 2012 I became policy editor for Feedstuffs, the weekly newspaper for agribusiness. On a personal note, we also welcomed Avonell Joy on April 10, 2012. She is cherished by her two older brothers, Josiah, 5, and Spencer, 3. 81 Lantern Chase Dr., Delaware, OH 43015 [email protected].

HOLLY DEIMERLY, ‘037619 Eagle St., Milwaukee, WI 53213

TERA LAWSON, ‘022013 Jensen Ave., Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

NICOLE PECKUMN, ‘02I manage the media and marketing initiatives for Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health - North America. Kemin nutritional solutions help produce safe, efficient and healthy animal protein to help feed the world. Kemin’s goal is to touch half of the people of the world every day with our products and services; our current count is 1.8B. I’ve also joined the fall 2012 cohort for Drake University’s master in communication leadership program, expected graduation is 2014! Des Moines, IA [email protected].

JAMIE LANGE, ‘02I was recently appointed interim general manager for WQPT, the Quad Cities’ PBS station. Combining my passion for education and community, I am leading the station’s efforts to create more local programming and to increase educational outreach to at-risk students. I’ve always been supportive of community events, and the artistic, historical and cultural institutions in the Quad Cities, so I jumped at the opportunity to engage with our local public television station.

KATIE (NORRIS) SMITH, ‘033637 Shoshone St., Denver, CO 80211

PETE IACOVAZZI, ‘03Account supervisor at Zimmerman Advertising; education chair for AAF, Dallas. [email protected].

AMBER (BILLINGS) ALLEN, ‘03This last year has been extremely busy for my family. So busy, I forgot to write in last year! In May 2011, my husband, Drew, and I welcomed our first child, Penelope. In March 2012, we bought our first house. I left my job as a book editor at a local publishing house to be a full-time stay-at-home mother. Motherhood is extremely rewarding but also my toughest assignment yet. So tough that sometimes I long for the late nights and tough deadlines that a newspaper job requires! But I feel that my journalism degree still serves me every day, because I hope to use my communication skills to strengthen my community’s mothers. I formed a play group network that brings mothers of infants and toddlers together, so the babies can play and the moms can have much-needed adult conversation. I feel this is only the beginning of my mission. I have much work to do. I send lots of love to my fellow Greenlee graduates and also my sympathies to the Greenlee staff for the passing of our beloved Barbara Mack. My door is always open to my friends. Come see me down here in the Low Country! Charleston, SC [email protected].

VALERIE (DENNIS) PASSONNO, ‘036563 Via Regina, Boca Raton, FL 33433

MEGAN (HINDS) MYERS, ‘03In May 2012, I accepted a position in government relations with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society. I work with our South Dakota grassroots volunteers to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and make cancer a local, state and national priority. 1900 S. Lake Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57105 [email protected].

I joined public relations agency Carmichael Lynch Spong as the firm’s social engagement manager, working with a variety of national clients. My husband Scott and I also built our dream home in the suburbs of Minneapolis. [email protected].

CAVAN REAGAN REICHMANN, ‘03

Cavan Reagan Reichmann

CLAIRE (LEE) VARRELMANN, ‘00 As vice president of one of the world’s most successful public relations firms, Claire (Lee) Varrelmann, ’00, is an Iowa State alumna who has always gone “the extra mile” to achieve success. Varrelmann began her involvement with Weber Shandwick (then Shandwick International) as an intern in London, where she studied the summer before her senior year at Iowa State. She was hired out of college by the Weber Shandwick Minneapolis office, where she spent two years as a member of the healthcare practice division. Varrelmann now works from her home in Stoughton, Wis., where she manages a team of five people that focuses on media relations. Much of Varrelmann’s success comes from her perseverance in the workplace. “The things that have gotten me to where I am today were really having a positive attitude, a hunger for learning and always wanting to go the extra mile on projects,” she said. By continually networking inside the company and establishing relationships all over the world, Varrelmann was able to make a lasting impression on her fellow co-workers. Not to mention her clients. From Microsoft to Perfectmatch.com to The Wall Street Journal, Varrelmann continues to work placing companies in every major media outlet.

– By Paige Berg


KATE (SONDERMAN) GUESS, ‘04Cedar Falls, IA [email protected].

SARAH (FACKRELL) BURSTEIN, ‘04The University of Oklahoma College of Law, 300 Timberdell Road, Norman, OK 73019 Twitter: @design_law.

Miyoko Hikiji began her studies at Iowa State in the fall of 1998. A first-year journalism student and Iowa Army National Guard soldier, she slid into the chairs at Hamilton Hall armed with the GI Bill and an expectation to graduate in four years. Everything clicked along according to plan until her junior year. Shortly after Sept. 11, 2001, Hikiji was mobilized for six months as

part of the security force at Camp Dodge in Johnston, IA. She had to withdraw from her studies for the entire school year, but returned in the summer of 2002. Then in spring 2003, during the U.S. invasion of Iraq, she was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a truck driver with a transportation unit. Between supply convoys, security and raid missions in Iraq, Hikiji put her journalism skills to use by acting as the unit’s correspondent. She penned a company newsletter, articles for a hometown newspaper and updates for the family support group. She had the privilege to transport embedded journalists and meet Geraldo Rivera. Transitioning back to civilian life in the summer of 2004, after a 403-day deployment, was difficult for Hikiji. She felt fortunate to have two trusted mentors to help her pick up where she’d left off and move forward to graduation. One of those mentors was (former Greenlee academic adviser) Maureen Deisinger who helped get her registered for the semester she’d return to campus while she was still in Iraq. At the time, Internet access overseas was sporadic and unreliable, so Deisinger corresponded by letter and phone and with Hikiji’s sister living in Cedar Rapids. Hikiji’s second mentor was Barbara Mack, who worked with Hikiji’s company commander to verify her hours of writing in order to use them toward internship credit. Hikiji said that Barbara Mack acted as much more than an adviser; she was a friend. She listened to Hikiji’s intensely emotional and fragmented stories about Iraq and about her two comrades that died there. Hikiji completed bachelor’s degrees in journalism and mass communication and psychology in 2004. Since then, she has combined her lessons in journalism with her wartime experience in a

MIYOKO HIKIJI, ‘04

JENNIFER MARTIN, ‘04Finally put my grammar skills to good use and spent the summer teaching English in Myanmar. Such a wonderful experience; can’t wait to go back! Arlington, VA [email protected].

ANNA HOLLAND, ‘04I’m nearing my fifth anniversary at the International Herald Tribune in Hong Kong, where I’m now running the copy desk three nights a week. Asia is still a very exciting place to be, both professionally – think of all the news from this part of the world! -- and personally – I’ll go to Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Mongolia in the coming year. But I would kill for a halfway decent taco. Int’l. Herald Tribune,1601 K Wah Center, 191 Java Road, North Point,Hong Kong [email protected].

ALISON MONAGHAN, ‘05 Imagine not only meeting, but also getting a kiss on your cheek, from your childhood obsession, Steven Tyler – all while on the clock. This is just one of the many “pinch-me moments” Alison Monaghan has experienced while on the job. Months after graduation seven years ago, Monaghan moved to Las Vegas. For three years, she worked on various accounts at Kirvin Doak Communications, assisting with such events as the opening of CityCenter. She then moved to Wynn and Encore Resorts and Casinos as an in-house public relations specialist, where she worked with TV programs like “Entertainment Tonight” and “E! News.” After a year, Monaghan returned to Kirvin Doak, where she now manages her own mini-team servicing eight clients. One of the main projects she works on is North America’s largest music festival, Electric Daisy Carnival. Monaghan also handles PR needs for Rolling Stone Magazine, Billboard Magazine and the New York Times, among others. Monaghan says she’s fortunate to also still work with the two Wynn nightclubs, monitoring celebrity sightings and interviewing artists for MTV. “I love that every day is so different and you don’t get just one thing to work on. How did I get to be so lucky to be a part of this?” Monaghan said.

– By Anne Watkins

ADAM RICH, ‘07While I ultimately would like to get back into public relations/advertising, I have found great success and personal satisfaction as a trainer with Nationwide Insurance. I had the privilege of marrying my best friend last April and have put down roots in West Des Moines. I look forward to a great future, and thanks to everyone at the Greenlee School for giving me the tools I needed to start my professional life! 9165 Greenspire Dr., Unit 116, West Des Moines, IA 50266 [email protected].

JANA MCCONNELL, ‘07801 SE 12th St., Grimes, IA 50111

DAN WINTERS, ’03 AND ERIK WHEATER, ‘10 Dan Winters and Erik Wheater are at very different points in their careers, but each can trace their success back to opportunities provided by the Greenlee School. After 8 ½ years at WHO-TV in Des Moines, Dan Winters was promoted to evening news anchor in November. “This is an incredibly fast-paced job. Days fly by in the snap of a finger. I think it’s important to kind of step back and take stock in where you’re at. That’s what I am doing,” says Winters, as he absorbs the moment and what it means for the station and his family. Winters is humbled and honored by the promotion. Yet, if not for Greenlee professor Tom Beell’s suggestion to apply at WHO-TV, Winters might not be where he is today. After graduating in 2010, Erik Wheater interned for an ABC affiliate in Las Vegas for four months. There, he assisted Doug Kezirian, now an ESPN anchor. “If you are going to take the time to do a 400-hour internship, you better leave with something solid,” Wheater suggests to current students. Two years later, after working as a weekend/general assignment reporter for KTVE in Louisiana, Wheater made his way back to central Iowa. He is currently working as a general assignment reporter for WHO-TV, hoping to one day, like his colleague, land a spot on the anchor desk.

– By Leah De Graaf

BETHANY KOHOUTEK, ‘03I love my job at Meredith Corporation as editor of Do It Yourself magazine, a quarterly special interest publication of Better Homes & Gardens. My husband, Boonie, a fellow Greenlee grad, owns a successful custom furniture design and railing fabrication firm in Des Moines, Factor II Fabrication. Des Moines, IA [email protected].

memoir, currently titled “All I Could Be: The Story of a Woman Soldier in Iraq,” set to be published by History Publishing March 5, 2013. As she plans her book signing and speaking tour for next year, Hikiji hopes to inspire other veterans to tell their stories by journaling, speaking, acting and creating other forms of lasting art. She believes that healing comes, in part, through sharing the burdens and sorrows of soldierhood. 6810 Mill Pond Dr., Urbandale, IA 50322 [email protected].


RYAN CURELL, ‘06 When Ryan Curell was a student at Iowa State, he began working part time at the local Walmart. At the time he still saw himself as the next Roger Ebert, so he never envisioned his part-time job opening the door to the abundant possibilities in Walmart’s corporate offices. In July 2011 Curell stepped into his current position as senior manager of Walmart’s global associate communications. Responsible for internal interactions, he sees himself as a communication strategist, ensuring positive relations throughout the company. Curell says his career at Walmart has been a wild ride, but the qualities Greenlee instilled in him have kept him on top. “If I wasn’t naturally curious and forced as a student to look at things differently, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” explains Curell. As if the corporate world isn’t challenging enough, Curell is also undertaking the final portion of his master’s degree in journalism at Iowa State. Balancing the load of a demanding job with school work has not been easy, but he is confident he will finish it. The completion of his graduate degree will undoubtedly open even more doors for Curell in the future, but he is sure Walmart is the place for that future. “I came here knowing that there is a lot of opportunity and this job will probably just be the beginning,” Curell says. “Although communication will always be a part of who I am, here it is more a skill set I will be able to transfer to another job down the road.”

– By Kelsey Schirm

In May, I married the love of my life, Edward Predl (ISU Engr.’09). The celebration included many Cyclone elements, including a cardinal and gold garter - signed by Paul Rhoads! Zach Johnson, Jl MC ‘09, served as part of our bridal party. We became best friends during our time together in class at Hamilton Hall and in Ethos - a friendship I have no doubt will last a lifetime! Last fall, I became the Omaha regional director of admissions for the University of South Dakota, a position my PR degree greatly prepared me for. I am so grateful for the education I received and the wonderful faculty and staff at Greenlee that taught me so much in those four years! 4603 Woolworth Ave., Omaha, NE 68106 [email protected].

Hey, there, fellow Greenlee alumni! Not a day goes by that I don’t miss ISU and the great friends I made within Greenlee. After graduating, I moved to Chicago for an internship at a small advertising agency in the city. I fell in love with the city and have lived here ever since! I am currently living in Lakeview and working as a project manager at a marketing research agency. I really enjoy getting together with other ISU alumni for football game watches and would love to meet other Greenlee alumni here in Chicago to network with! 4250 N. Marine Dr., Apt 830, Chicago, IL 60613 [email protected].

AIMEE (HAUGAN) PREDL, ‘09

CLINT BROCKA, ‘09

LINDSAY PETERMEIER, ‘09203 Carver Ave., Rhodes, IA 50234

LAURA (ROSENBOHM) FERNANDEZ, ‘098730 W. Plank Rd., Hanna City, IL 61536

CHRIS CONETZKEY, ‘09After a one-year stint in Florida working as an editor for ESPN’s College GameDay, I returned to Iowa in 2011 to take over as editor of the Business Record, a business news media organization in Des Moines. I am also currently the professional representative on the Iowa State Daily’s publication board. On a personal note, I got married in May 2012 to Kaci Kohlhepp. 1719 Grand Ave., Apt. 338, Des Moines, IA 50309 [email protected].

Zach Johnson - BA Greenlee ‘09 Groomsman

Aimee (Haugan) Predl - BA Greenlee ‘09

Greenlee gave me friends for a lifetime. Can’t imagine a better classmate and friend to stand up for me at my May 26, 2012 wedding.- Aimee Predl

Clint BrockaJESSICA KNIGHT, ‘08 “Des Moines has grown substantially over the years, and it’s my job to cover what the young people are doing,” said Jess Knight, 2008 Greenlee School graduate and now reporter for DM Juice, a weekly special section of the Des Moines Register. Knight said the best part of her job is trying new places in the Des Moines area. She researches places that offer something unique to Des Moines, such as a restaurant or event. While she doesn’t consider herself to be a food critic, she and her colleagues often critique food and feature the items they like best in Juice. Knight has always had a passion for the written word. She was inspired by her father, who was an English major, and by her Ames High English teacher, John Forssman. While a student at the Greenlee School, Knight interned for the Meredith Corporation in Des Moines. When Knight isn’t out exploring all that Des Moines has to offer its young professionals, she organizes photo shoots and writes feature publications for the Des Moines Register. Knight has developed quite a travel bug since graduation, visiting Turkey, Greece and recently, multiple countries in Central America. “I am an advocate for Des Moines. I would encourage everyone, especially recent graduates, to come to Des Moines and keep it a place for young professionals,” said Knight.

– By Heidi Nyhus

BRITTANY WYENO, ‘09I am currently living in Dallas and working at Neiman Marcus as an assistant beauty buyer. Dallas, TX

WADE HARLE, ‘095174 Greystone Dr., Bettendorf, IA 52722

ANDREA WEARE, M.S. ‘08Began the University of Iowa School of Journalism & Mass Communication Ph.D. program in the fall with anticipated graduation of Spring 2016. [email protected].

JODI (JURGEMEYER) KORTH, ‘08Clear Lake, IA 50428

CHELSEA FADDEN, ‘0819050 81st Place N., Maple Grove, MN 55311

AMANDA DAHL, ‘082631 Lakeport St., Sioux City, IA 51106

JENNY (KEENEY) KITE, ‘05Jenny (Keeney) Kite started her public relations career as an intern at GolinHarris in Chicago before making the jump to Fleishman-Hillard’s healthcare department with the help of several former ISU Greenlee School alums. She’s now celebrating her five-year anniversary at Astellas Pharma U.S., Inc., a global pharmaceutical company, where she was just awarded Outstanding Employee of the Year. Kite is a manager in the corporate communications department where she is responsible for managing the public relations for each of the companies’ pipeline compounds and 11 marketed products, as well as corporate reputation management. She enjoys the balance of also working closely with the corporate social responsibility program, which includes an employee volunteer and matching gifts program and a science education program called Science WoRx. [email protected].

SHINHENG CHANG, M.S. ‘09I work as an international news reporter at Sanlih TV in Taiwan. Three years ago, I graduated from the Greenlee School and went back to my hometown in Taiwan, where I started my journalism career. Working in a newsroom has always been tough, fascinating and frustrating sometime. It’s good to have the graduate program’s training applied to my job that connects me with the rest of the world. Fl.4 No.16 Alley 1 Lane48 3rd Sec. Muja Rd., Wenshan Dist., Taipei City, Taiwan 216 [email protected].

PATTI BROWN, M.S. ‘09Working on Ph.D. in rhetoric and professional communication at ISU with an emphasis on political speech. Graduation goal Fall 2013 or Spring 2014. Des Moines, IA 50312 [email protected].


PATRICK TARBOX, ‘12Taking graduate school classes at TCU in Fort Worth, Texas, and working in the TCU athletics media relations office.

CHELSEA EVERS, ‘12210 S. Prairie View Dr. Apt. 1115, West Des Moines, IA 50266.

KAROLYN DOCKUM, ‘12Wire copy editor at Gannett’s Des Moines Design Studio. 5288 Meredith Dr., Des Moines, IA 50310

IVY CHRISTIANSON, ‘12It’s so strange to me that I’m sending in an alumni update for the Glimpse! College went by way too fast. I’m happy to announce that I have started a job with Northwestern Mutual in Des Moines as a recruitment/training/special events coordinator. I wear many hats and my day-to-day life is very busy, but also rewarding! After spending much time in publishing, I decided it was time to try out a new path, so I’ve landed here. It’s been great so far. 1300 Coconino Road #129, Ames, IA 50014 [email protected].

SARAH BINDER, ‘12Reporter, Corridor Business Journal, Coralville, IA

RACHEL BEGLE, ‘12Began working as a multimedia producer at KCRG TV-9 in Cedar Rapids in July. Now producing TV-9 First News and co-producing the TV-9 Early Morning News and the TV-9 Morning News. Cedar Rapids, IA [email protected].

ERIN AMEND, ‘123478 Gunston Lane, Woodbury, MN 55129

LAURA DILLAVOU, M.S. ‘10After working at Iowa State University’s College of Human Sciences for approximately four years, I accepted a marketing manager position with Dice Holdings in Urbandale, Iowa. I was led back to education in July 2012 and started my “dream job” with Johnston Community School District, in a new district communications and marketing position. I am thrilled to again be working in education and using communication to inform others. Grimes, IA 50111 [email protected].

SAMUEL BERBANO, M.S. ‘10I’m a Greenlee alumnus and a third-year law student at Drake. Before she passed away, Barbara Mack helped me prepare to argue before the Supreme Court of Iowa. I followed in her footsteps and argued State v. Schories this past September. Ames, IA [email protected].

TYLER KINGKADE, ‘11Currently working as assistant editor at The Huffington Post in New York, NY. Covering colleges, education and millennial issues. 31-53 38th St. Apt. 2R, Astoria, NY 11103 [email protected].

TREY HEMMINGSEN, ‘11I currently work through IBM and ServiceSource as a senior sales representative for IBM Hardware & Software Maintenance in Denver, Colo. 1320 S Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80210 [email protected].

BRAD RILEY, ‘10Promoted to creative services supervisor at WOWT, Channel 6 in Omaha, Neb.

EMMA REED, ‘10233 Redstone Hill Rd. Apt. C8, Bristol, CT 06010

GWEN DYRLAND, ‘10After a few months in graduate school at Syracuse University in New York, I came back to my roots here in Iowa and was fortunate to find a job at Stamats Communications, Inc. doing magazine design and marketing. Cedar Rapids, IA [email protected].

ROSS BOETTCHER, ‘09 Reporter, editor, photographer, designer -- Ross Boettcher did it all while working for the Iowa State Daily during his years at Iowa State. As a senior, his experience with the Daily earned him an internship with the Des Moines Register. After graduation, Boettcher joined the Omaha World-Herald as a business reporter intern. “When I was notified that I’d be joining the business desk as an intern, I was wary,” Boettcher said. “Aside from a few economics courses, I had zero business background and, frankly, I didn’t have much interest in it. That changed pretty quickly.” As one of five business reporters at the World-Herald, Boettcher has covered topics such as technology, entrepreneurship, banking, food and food safety, manufacturing, telecommunications and labor markets. “I’ve covered high-profile M&A deals, interviewed CEOs and executives, and profiled cutting-edge new technologies, small businesses and major business events like Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder meeting which annually brings more than 30,000 people to Omaha,” said Boettcher. Boettcher may have graduated from the Greenlee School with a print journalism degree, but after his internships, he said he feels as if he’s earned a business degree, too.

– By Mark Jungman

JESSICA OPOIEN, ‘11Ten days after graduation, I started my job as a reporter with the Oshkosh Northwestern newspaper in Oshkosh, Wis. I focus on politics, and I couldn’t have landed in Wisconsin at a better time for that beat. 806 Nebraska St., Oshkosh, WI 54902 [email protected].

JENNIFER BROWN, ‘1120 S. 41st St. Apt. 118, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

VALERIE BROPHY, ‘11410 West Pleasant St., Apt. 1, Mankato, MN 56001 [email protected].

KYLE PETERSON, ‘10 “It was one of the best days I had ever had,” Kyle Peterson recalled of the day he realized he wanted to pursue writing. Peterson was interning at a public relations agency and working toward a business major during his senior year at Iowa State when he decided to add a double major in journalism. Travel has been a big part of Peterson’s career since graduating from the Greenlee School. He had an interest in politics throughout college and moved to Washington, D.C. for an internship as a reporter for The Daily Caller right after graduation. Politics continued to be Peterson’s focus following the internship as he drove around Florida covering the 2010 elections for National Review Online. “One of the things that’s cool about being a journalist is that it gets you through the door,” Peterson said, referring to his opportunity to meet and interview Rick Scott (current governor of Florida) at a Jacksonville Starbucks. “It was sort of surreal.” Peterson also worked as a staff writer reporting on local government for two daily newspapers in South Carolina. Today, he is managing editor for The American Spectator in Arlington, Va. “I love what I’m doing,” Peterson said. “I love politics and I love writing and I love being at the intersection of all sorts of big ideas.”

– By Allie Knapp


FORMER FACULTY

ROBERT L. CROM, AN. HUSB. ‘50In February Lucy and I moved into a retirement commu-nity about 15 miles from our daughter Linda. Although we spent June through September at Ten Mile Lake in Minnesota, we have returned to Illinois “for the winter.” 0N801 Friendship Way, Unit 1345, Geneva, IL 60134 [email protected].

STEVE COON M.S. ‘70Beth and Steve continue to enjoy retirement in Ames. There is always something to do to keep us busy. Beth is involved in several clubs and organizations with at least one activity scheduled every day. Steve continues to do occasional international media training, writes a blog called “Wiston Papers,” and still is doing video productions. Our children and their spouses continue to prosper. In a phrase, we’ve been blessed. Steve and Beth Coon,1608 Stone Brooke Rd., Ames, IA 50010 [email protected].

DENNIS HARTAfter leaving the journalism faculty in 1981, I went back into broadcast journalism, from which I have just semi-retired. Sharon is still working in school administration, and we both are trying to figure out how to move back to Ames. 4155 Harlan Ranch Blvd., Clovis, CA 93619 [email protected].

D. FREDERICK COOK, M.S. ‘58Working with farm management. 7009 Franklin Ave., Windsor Heights, IA 50324; (515) 802-7117

M. LARUE POLLARD1875 Mesilla Hills Dr., Las Cruces, NM 88005

KARL FRIEDERICHKarl and Teresa Friederich have lived in a retirement home in Columbus, Ga., since Dec. 1, 2009. In 2012, we celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary with family and friends. We always are welcoming visitors. Teresa’s Alzheimers is getting a bit harder to handle, but as the caregiver, I am able to manage as long as I have my trusty walker around. 100 Spring Harbor Dr. Apt. 245, Columbus, GA 31904

WAYNE DAVIS, M.S. ‘881003 Kennedy St., Ames, IA 50010

BILL KUNERTH Willie and I and our son John had a ball in our return to Ames after a decade or so. It was so gratifying to see Barbara Riedesel Iverson receive the James Schwartz Award and to have brief but great conversations with so many old grads and faculty. And we were pleased to finally meet Michael Bugeja. We saw folks we first met more than 50 years ago. And as I looked across the room and teared up a little, I reflected on all of the outstanding faculty and administrators who had walked these halls and who are no longer with us--Jim Schwartz, Barbara Mack, Jack Shelley, Ken Marvin, Rod Fox, Harry Heath, my old Boston buddy Ed Blinn, Lorraine Wechsler, Jack Engel, Carl Hamilton, Dick Disney, Dale Boyd, Bob Johnson, Gene Bratton, Don Wells, Jerry Nelson and Carl Johnson. We were so busy I didn’t get any pictures taken. If any of you who were at the event did, I’d appreciate your sending them to me: [email protected]. Jeff is still at the Orlando Sentinel. The University of Florida Press published his book, “Trout--A True Story of Murder, Teens, and the Death Penalty,” a creative nonfiction tale which has been compared to Truman Capote’s work. It’s on Amazon. Billy left Pocatello, Idaho, to become publisher of the Fairbanks (Alaska) News Miner. Myla and her husband Russ, are in Tensleep, Wyo., where he is principal and she is a teacher-counselor at the boys’ training school. John has moved from Des Moines to Belle Fourche, which makes us happy. He works part-time and helps on the ranch. Willie and I are begging off many volunteer activities and are trying to act as genuine retirees. Cheers. 605/723-6563; 19 Statesboro Dr., Belle Fourche, S.D. 57717 [email protected].

EMMA REED, ‘10 Two years ago, just weeks after her ISU graduation, Emma Reed heard her dream come calling – right straight to ESPN. Reed is a production assistant at ESPN headquarters in Bristol, Conn., where she is “responsible for cutting video and sound, and creating montages and highlights, among other responsibilities,” she said. Those “other responsibilities” include writing and producing encores, teases, vignettes and game highlights, according to Reed’s LinkedIn profile. She also works, says LinkedIn, with analysts to produce breakdown tapes for specific players or teams. Some of Reed’s most memorable projects to date include her solo production of all January 2012 images, which aired numerous times on Sports Center. As part of that project, Reed had complete control over sound, music choice and visuals. “I enjoyed working on this project, because it allowed me to express my creativity,” she said. Reed also travels to remote assignments to shoot and produce components of events or shows, according to LinkedIn. She especially enjoyed traveling to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., in Maryland in May. “It was such a rewarding experience,” Reed said. “I developed relationships with the kids, who were so thankful,” she added. Although her work is untraditional and work hours are all over the board, Reed said those are among the reasons she loves her job. “Seeing your hard work and hours pay off is incredibly rewarding,” she said.

– By Caroline Havekost

Reed (left) with Notre Dame point guard Skylar Diggins

100 Greenlee Glimpse

WE REMEMBERWendell R. Benson, attended 1940s

Wendell R. Benson died Dec. 31, 2011. He was 86. Following service in World War II, he majored in journalism and then became a reporter, and eventually the managing editor, of the Marshalltown Times-Republican. His survivors include Arlene, his wife of 62 years of Marshalltown, and five children.

H. Lee Schwanz, ‘47

H. Lee Schwanz, ’47, died Jan. 3, 2012. He was 88. While a student, Schwanz was instrumental in changing the name of the student newspaper from the “Iowa State Student” to the “Iowa State Daily,” for whom he served as editor in chief. He worked as a farm reporter for the Cedar Rapids Gazette, and went on to serve as associate editor of Country Gentleman, a national farm magazine in Philadelphia. After moving to Milwaukee with his family, he started Farm Profit, a magazine for Massey Harris, and then his own publishing company, Market Communications. He wrote two agricultural books as well as a farm weather book. Schwanz is survived by his wife of 64 years, Kathleen (Boland) Schwanz, ’48, Pewaukee, Wis., whom he met when she was the women’s editor of the Iowa State Daily. His four children also survive him.

James Ford, ‘57

James “Jim” Ford died Monday, April 30, 2012. He was 80. He earned his journalism degree in radio and TV journalism, and started his radio career at KASI in Ames. Pfizer, Inc., recruited Ford after graduation, resulting in his National Salesman of the Year Award. He also worked as a salesman for another veterinary supply company, and eventually created Ford Real Estate. He was known as the “voice of Indianola,” announcing high school and Simpson College home games for 50 years, as well as the Indianola National Balloon Festival. He is survived by Mary, his wife of 61 years of Indianola, and three daughters.

Lorraine Wechsler, former faculty 1970-90

Lorraine Wechsler died March 24, 2012, in Chapel Hill. N.C. She was 87. She taught journalism at Iowa State from 1970-90, retiring as professor emerita in 1990. A New York City native, she earned degrees from Hunter College and Columbia University. She also taught at the University of Tennessee and was a science writer for the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Oak Ridger newspaper in Tennessee. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Monroe, three children and two grandchildren.

Richard (Rick) Edel, ‘78

Richard (Rick) Edel died October 2012. He was president of Edel Partners’ Advertising Agency in Chicago. His survivors include his partner, Geof Shives of Chicago, and his mother, Rita Edel.

Jerome Labra, attended 2006-08

Jerome Labra, graduate student from 2006-08, died of complications due to acute myeloid leukemia Nov. 26, 2012, in Cebu City, Philippines. Jerome was dedicated to development communication. For his master’s degree project, he investigated the possibilities for using new Intel broadband hand-held devices to improve delivery of medical care in two regions of Uganda, Africa. He married fellow grad student Shalom Mula (also from the Philippines) in Ames while they were both students at Iowa State. They have a son, Sebian Juan.

PASSAGES

Alumni support is vital to the School’s success!Many thanks to alumni and friends for your loyalty and generosity to the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication.

Outright Gift

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Designate Gift Barbara Mack Memorial Fund (2700237)

Jack Shelley Professional Development Fun (2702976)

James & Toni Schwartz Scholarship Fund (2700237)

General Scholarship Fund (1960941)

Greenlee School Master’s Program (2701633)

Greenlee School Library (1900812) with my/our donation above or:

I/We would like to adopt a journal, newspaper or other resource for student use in the Greenlee School library. Prices range $50 to $500. The

school needs a variety of resources including The New York Times, Des Moines Register, Wall Street Journal, Visual Communication, Advertising

Age and Creativity online (supported by Joel Geske), The AP Stylebook Online, PR Week, Christian Science Monitor (supported by Wayne

Davis), Time magazine to name a few. If you would like to adopt a resource, please email [email protected] for more information about

prices and availabilities. Donors supporting the full cost of a resource may have their names posted in the library.

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For a list of funds please visit http://www.jlmc.iastate.edu/alumni/donations/donate.shtml

Gift Code 07 J13:03

Pledges and EndowmentsElectronic gifts may be sent via the ISU Foundation Web site at http://www.foundation.iastate.edu/gift/

if you would like to speak with someone now about making a gift, call the foundation toll free at 1-866-419-6768 and ask to speak with a representative about annual giving.

101 Hamilton HallIowa State UniversityAmes, IA 50011

GREENLEE SCHOOL OF JOURNALISM AND COMMUNICATION

2012 greenlee glimpse

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