ball state alumnus

A Ball State University Alumni Association Publication / November 2011 / Vol. 69 / No. 3

alumnus

INSIDE: Marketing your business without paying the high price; the modern key to success page 22

Food for ThoughtFarmers and educators weigh in on how to live healthily and sustainably

Ball State

2 Ball State Alumnus / Winter 2010

alumnuseditor’s note

2011 Alumni Council Officers: Terry R. Coleman, Chairman; Kimberley A. Stout, Chairwoman-Elect; Douglas W. Reddington, Past Chairman; R. Wayne Estopinal, Foundation Representative; James A. Andrew, Vice Chairman; Jennifer J. Budreau, Vice Chairwoman; Frederick E. Cox, Jr., Vice Chairman; Larry W. Metzing, Vice Chairman; Dr. Don L. Park, Interim Executive Director. Other members: Thomas L. Andrews, John S. Bergman, John H. Bowles, Julie C. Bradshaw, Michael L. Chisley, Samuel C. DeWeese, Thomas L. Farris, Jerilyn K. Giska, Brian D. Hayes, Kerry L. Hendel, Christy A. Horn, Hollis E. Hughes, Jr., James J. Ittenbach, Greg E. Jacoby, Jacqueline J. Johnston, Holly R. Mahnensmith, Michael M. McMillen, Philip L. Metcalf, Annette A. Munoz, Heather D. Perry, Michael L. Shumaker, Edward M. Sitar, III, Robin L. Sparks, Ebony B. Strong, Kathy M. Thomas, Vincent J. Von Der Vellen, Stephanie M. Walton, Lori K. Wean, and Nicholas R. Zuniga

Alumni Association StaffCeleste Booth, Managing Editor; Steve Fulton, Director, New Media; Jon Gorman, Director, Alumni Communications; Michelle Harrell, Information Coordinator; Tracy Hendricks, Director, Alumni Outreach; Julie Johnson, Communications Assistant; Michelle R. Johnson, Director, Special Events; Erin Lambert, Executive/Financial Assistant; Deborah Linegar, Director, Alumni Services/Executive Assistant, Alumni Council; Dr. Don L. Park, Interim Executive Director, Alumni Programs; Jessica Myrick, Alumni Communications Specialist; Sue Taylor, Director, Alumni Reunions/Constituent Relations; Laura Waldron, Program Coordinator; Kate Webber, Director Alumni/Student Programs

Advertisements contained in the Ball State Alumnus are not necessarily endorsed by Ball State University or the Ball State Alumni Association. Contact us: [email protected].

Interested in Advertising? Contact Steve Fulton at 888-I-GO-4-BSU.

We Welcome Your LettersYour feedback is important. The Ball State Alumnus invites letters to the editor. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for clarity and space.

Address letters to:Editor, Ball State AlumnusBall State University Alumni AssociationMuncie, IN 47306E-mail: [email protected]

The views expressed in published letters do not necessarily reflect those of the Ball State Alumnus.

Ball Statealumnus

The Ball State Alumnus is a publication printed by Sport Graphics, 3423 Park Davis Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46236. The magazine is produced by the Alumni Association and funded by Ball State University and the Alumni Association. The first issue of the Ball State Alumnus was published in April, 1937. This is the 73nd year of uninterrupted publication. For more information contact the Alumni Association, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306-0075, call (765) 285-1080; Toll Free: 1-888-I-GO-4-BSU; Fax: (765) 285-1414; E-mail: [email protected]; bsu.edu/alumni

Ball State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution in accordance with Civil Rights legislation and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, handicap, Vietnam veteran status, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by law in any of its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment policies. Concerns regarding this policy should be referred to the Director of Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action, Administration Building, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306, (765) 285-5162. The Title IX Coordinator and the 504 Coordinator may be reached at the same address.

President: Dr. Jo Ann M. Gora

Vice President for University Advancement: T.W. Hudson Akin

Executive Publisher: Dr. Don L. Park

Editor: Jon K. Gorman

Managing Editor: Celeste Booth

Alumni Communications Specialist: Jessica Myrick

Communications Assistant: Julie Johnson

Undergraduate Assistants: Alex Burton and Michelle D. Johnson

Advertising Sales: Steve Fulton

Contributing Writers: Katherine Greene, Deanna L. May, Jean Kramer Crosby

Photographers: Ball State Photo Services, Celeste Booth

Front Cover: ©iStockphoto.com/SilviaJansen

Back Cover Credits: Photos by Ball State Photo Services

Chaotic SystemsHave you ever watched the movements of a flock of birds that has found perch atop a telephone wire? It’s an amazing ballet of movement that can best be described as chaos. Birds atop the wire shuffling (do birds shuffle?) left and right to allow flying birds space to land atop the wires. There’s a constant reshuffling of positions, up and down, left and right. A bird seeking space finds it as others make way.

I’m not a scientist, biologist, ornithologist, or chaos theorist, but I am able to recognize when a system works. In this issue of the Alumnus, we explore two systems, which may seem chaotic to observers, but to those with the specific knowledge and experience, there are lessons and explanations availalble for all.

First, Jessica Myrick explores the machinations and complicated system of nutritional biology, but she does it in a way that anyone can understand. How the food you consume affects your body, and what systems exist to support improved nutrition are the targets of her exploration. She discovers that supporting local farmers not only affects your health, it affects local economies and the environment. Myrick also discusses the process of canning, sustainability, and organics in her article “Food for Thought: Do you eat locally, organically, or mindlessly?” beginning on page 16. Whether you choose to eat healthy or not, simple understanding and revelations abound in her article.

Second, we explore how technology, specifically emerging media, can be used to affect your company’s bottom line. Social and emerging media have created a complex system for marketers, advertisers, brand experts, and business leaders for their products and/or businesses. We talk with Ball State faculty for clarification and explanation into emerging forms of media beginning on page 22.

Also, we profile alumni who have made headlines in their respective fields, including those who have found success using social and emerging media, another Ball State alumna to compete at Miss America, an alumnus whose company was featured on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” an alumnus whose art is both unique and functional, and an alumna who has been recognized at the top of her professional field.

Finally, we share with you the latest accolades recognition received by the university, its students, and its faculty and staff, as well as a 60-year retrospective of the Ball State University Foundation and its far-reaching impact.

Best,

Jon K. Gorman, [email protected]

Ball State Alumnus / Summer 2009 3

on the cover

November 2011Social media sites like Facebook are just one form of emerging media targeted by savvy marketers and advertisers to build, define, and grow businesses, brands, and customer loyalty. See page 22.

features 16 Food for Thought: Do you eat locally, organically, or mindlessly? By Jessica Myrick

22 Going Social? Marketing and advertising considerations on emerging media By Jon Gorman

departments 2 Editor’s Note28 Philanthropy: Ball State University Foundation Celebrating 60 Years of Service46 Parting Shot

eye on the ball 4 Animated Film Makes it to Film Festival 6 Senior Wins Lunch with Warren Buffett 8 “the A Campaign”10 Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival

fully immersed12 From Page to Stage14 Vernacular Memorials

alumni connection34 Alumni Events Around Indiana and Beyond36 Class Notes

A Ball State University Alumni Association Publication / November 2011 / Vol. 69 / No. 3

alumnus

INSIDE: Marketing your business without paying the high price; the modern key to success page 22

Food for ThoughtFarmers and educators weigh in on how to live healthily and sustainably

Ball State Choosing organic and local produce over fast food not only affects your waistline, it affects local economies and the environment as well.

4 Ball State Alumnus / November 2011

created the studio’s identity Still Life Animation.

“I think this opportunity really simulated what a studio production experience could be like,” says Symons, a graduate student in Ball State’s digital storytelling program. “My job was to creatively make sure the art produced was congruent and as high of a level as we could afford.”

Andy Beane, assistant professor of art, and the film’s executive producer, is proud of the students’ work on “Two Life” and the attention it has received. “It is exciting to be part of the Heartland Film Festival,” he says. “It is the largest film festival for the state.”

Beane is entering his fourth year overseeing the university’s animation program, which has seen tremendous growth under his leadership. Enrollment has increased

50 percent to 60 majors; a second faculty member, John Ludwick, has been hired by the department of art to assist with teaching; and a masters of fine arts with an animation emphasis has been created.

Symons says the most exciting point of working on “Two Life” was completing the music, setting it to animation, and watching the finished product for the first time. “There was this overwhelming sense that this was a movie; that we’d made it work,” recalls Symons. “It took a lot of time to get there, but it was very satisfying.” l

4 Ball State Alumnus / Fall 2009

eye on the ball

Ball State senior, Laura Merz, spent four months in Liberia, West Africa, working on a journalism and marketing internship, but also unexpectedly changing a young girl’s life forever. See page 8.

6SeniorWinsLunchwithWarrenBuffett

8“theACampaign”

10ChestertonWizardofOzFestival

12FromPagetoStage

14 VernacularMemorials

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A collaborative, interdisciplinary effort by more than 65 Ball State University students has brought to life the love of two mannequins in “Two Life,” a 12-minute film, which is the latest creation of the university’s growing animation program.

“Two Life” was one of six animated shorts selected to be included in the 2011 Heartland Film Festival. Held each October in Indianapolis, Ind., this year’s festival featured a record 129 films. “Two Life” takes place during the nearly 100-year lifespan of an upscale department store in New York City.

Students participating in the film’s creation represented a variety of majors, from animation and graphic design to telecommunications and music technology and composition. Director Paul Symons, ’08, who co-wrote the film with Ann Thurber, ’07, explains that the bulk of the work on the project was created as part of a 10-week summer course called the Summer Animation Studio, which

Animated Film Makes it to Film Festival

Watch “Two Life” at vimeo.com/21769565.

eye on the ball

Ball State Alumnus / November 2011 5

4 Ball State Alumnus / Fall 2009

Photo courtesy oF daNe carLsoN

Bachelor of architecture and planning graduate, Dane Carlson, ’11, won the 2011 American Society of Landscape Architects Student Honor Award in the General Design Category for his submission titled, “Reclaiming the Shoreline: Redefining Indiana’s Lake Michigan Coast.” His project explores the recovery and revitalization of industrial landscapes along the Lake Michigan shore.

Of Carlson’s work, one jury member stated, “The entrant deftly

Ball state university named the david owsley Museum of art on october 6, honoring a major benefactor for his leadership, service, and dedication in significantlyexpanding the cultural horizons of the campus community as well as the state of Indiana.

owsley is also being honored for his work to enlarge the museum as a result of a successful fundraising campaign. the 82-year-old former Muncie resident plans to bequeath $5 million to the museum as an endowment together with his bequest of about 90 percent of the works in his extensive art collection.

“I am greatly flattered and honored for the university naming the museum after me, and I hope to continue my long-standing interest with the museum and art,” owsley says. “It is gratifying to know that all of this is appreciated and used by students, Ball state’s academic community, and the residents of Muncie and Indiana.”

the expansion will allow the museum to showcase more of its collection of nearly 11,000 works, including more than 2,300 pieces of art owsley has provided over the last few decades. the museum will occupy the entire second floor of the fine arts building, adding four new galleries expected to open in 2013. the museum exhibition space will expand to 25,000 square feet, about 50 percent more gallery space than it currently occupies. l

revitalizes a neglected area without denying its heritage. It’s an amazing project in and of itself, but particularly impressive that it’s an undergraduate work. Fabulous.”

Carlson’s faculty advisor was Meg Calkins, and he received additional support from faculty mentors Chris Marlow and John Motloch and professionals Todd Thompson, ’97MA01, and Noel Pavlovic.

This was the second year in a row that a student from Ball State has won this award.

This year, more than 450 submissions were received, mostly from graduate-level programs. Competing schools included Harvard Graduate School of Design, the University of Pennsylvania, Louisiana State University, the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Virginia, and the University of California Berkeley. ASLA presented awards on November 2 in San Diego, Calif. l

recent Graduate Wins architecture award

David Owsley Museum of Art

Photo By BaLL state Photo servIces

(above) Carlson’s project depicts the revitalization that could take place to improve the landscape around Lake Michigan.


Senior Wins Lunch with Warren BuffettJenna Marie James, current senior and telecommunications major, won Business Wire’s 50th Anniversary “Future of Pubic Relations and Communications” college video contest. James was flown to New York City on September 30 to lunch with Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. The meeting was held at the New York Stock Exchange, and included other company executives, including Business Wire CEO Cathy Baron Tamraz, who was on the judging committee for the contest. About her meeting with Buffett, James says, “He was extremely easy to talk to and kept the conversation light and humorous. He told me I was in a great major and that my video about the future of communication was terrific. When I met him for the first time on the stock market floor, he got down on one knee and took my hand for a picture. He also signed my ukulele. It reads, ‘To Jenna: Who is terrific on YouTube and even better in person – Warren E Buffett.’”

According to Business Wire, the entries “were judged on their

originality, creativity, and appropriateness to theme.” The theme was, “What is the Future of Public Communications?”

“From the beginning, I knew I wanted the video to be visually appealing,” says James. “I decided to use sped-up illustrations to help explain my vision of the future of communication. I pulled ideas from classes I’ve taken at Ball State, outside speakers, and various research to tie together the narrative of the piece.”

Although a wide range of ideas were presented in the various videos, Tamraz says of James’ entry, “Jenna’s video really stood out for its creativity. We were also impressed by her take on emerging technologies and how they apply to communications. The creative presentation of her ideas also showcases her impressive ability to engage audiences and share information in a very compelling and entertaining way.”

As for where James sees herself headed in the near future, “I’m going to apply for a spring media internship with the U.S. Olympic Committee and the ‘Ellen DeGeneres Show.’ My dream is to get over to London for the summer Olympics and hopefully live there some day.” She adds, “Wherever I end up, I want to work in an environment where I’m able to fully use my creativity.” l

(left) Jenna James and Warren Buffett. (above) Buffett greets James on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Photos courtesy oF Nyse euroNext

eye on the ball


alumni headliner: twisted house

eye on the ball

Growing up one block west of the intersection of tillotson and riverside, John McNaughton, ’65, developed his love for art at a young age.

“I only wanted to do one thing. I never wanted to be that cowboy or pro football player, I wanted to be an artist. I wanted to be a sculptor at 10 years old,” he says.

since then, McNaughton has received attention nationwide for his expertise in sculpture, woodwork, and furniture making. McNaughton’s artwork has resided in the White house and the smithsonian Institution as well as the homes and businesses of more than 300 private collectors.

although McNaughton has created hundreds of practical furniture pieces such as cabinets, tables, and chairs, he often taps into a more creative side with what he likes

Photo By ceLeste Booth

to call “fantasy architecture.”“architecture sometimes on

steroids, architecture gone crazy, architecture twisted and bent, contorted into things you would not expect,” he describes.

McNaughton’s most iconic piece of fantasy architecture has attracted thousands to its home at the Indianapolis art center’s outdoor artsParK. “twisted house” is a 19-foot long by 13-foot high cedar wood sculpture depicting a tall house bent on its side.

as a recipient of two National endowment for the arts awards, McNaughton still faces some of the same challenges he did as a young artist.

“as it was when I was a teenager and as it is now, coming up with an idea that I feel I’ve never explored before, that is new and exciting to me, and is not duplicating something I’ve already done … is always a challenge,” says McNaughton.

Now retired after 35 years as a professor of art at the university of southern Indiana, McNaughton can still be found producing his next piece of artwork in his self-built studio set deep in the woods, 15 minutes from his home in evansville, Ind.

“I don’t work as hard as I used to, as you’d expect. Now I can get up, have an extra cup of coffee and head out to my studio. I spend most of my time out there, and if not, I’m traveling,” says McNaughton. l

—Michelle D. Johnson

There has been a growing trend toward “mixed” schedules among students; specifically, on-campus students wanting to take online courses in addition to face-to-face classes. Consequently, the distinction between on- and off- campus students is blurring.

This summer, the university restructured its approach to tuition to help facilitate students taking mixed schedules. Already this fall, there has been a 26 percent increase in the number of on-campus students also taking online courses. During the past two years, that number has increased 64 percent. The belief is that this flexibility will help students graduate in a timely fashion, while at the same time increasing online enrollments.

However, it is important to continue building on the pedagogical strengths in online learning in ways that benefit faculty as well as students. As a result, the School of Extended Education is broadening its role, adding course development and design leadership and support to the portfolio. The goal is to utilize technology to strengthen the educational experiences of students, both in wholly online and hybrid courses, and to provide support to faculty as they explore the application of technology in course design. l

educational Mashup: classroom and online

Architecture graduate students Michela Cupello and Wes Stabs won the U.S. Green Building Council Multifamily Midrise Design Competition, designing a residential mixed-use building on a specific site in New Orleans, La. Cupello and Stabs worked this past summer with Bob Koester, professor of architecture, as their critic and advisor in the development of their entry. Cupello and Stabs were recognized on the Residential Summit Plenary stage at Greenbuild, Toronto, on October 6. l

Graduate students Win architecture design competition


Laura Merz, marketing and journalism senior at Ball State, knew for years that she wanted to travel abroad to a third-world country. By the time fall of her senior year rolled around, she knew it had come to the point of “now or never.” Determined that it was something she needed to do for herself, she decided to delay graduation and take the spring semester off.

She had been recommended to contact Seren Frost, ’02, who founded the organization Life and Change Experienced Thru Sports, which works to mentor children in respect, teamwork, positive role modeling, and character development through soccer leagues around Liberia. For Merz, it was the perfect fit for her interests. She contacted Frost, and soon the two set up a plan. Merz would work three months in the United States in a marketing internship followed by three months in Liberia working on marketing and journalism in the capital, Monrovia.

Come mid February, the day had finally arrived for Merz to begin her

work in Africa. Joined by Frost for the first two weeks of her stay, she was introduced to the new surroundings that she would be calling home for the coming months. Stepping off the plane, she described it as a “slap in the face,” more of a reality check than culture shock. Merz likened her first impression to seeing the pages of National Geographic come to life. The thoughts of “why is the world so unfair” arose in her mind. This thought would be echoed throughout her time in Africa, yet it would also spur her on to make a positive, life-long impact on a young Liberian girl’s life.

In early April, Merz visited Harbell, a city in Liberia where one of the L.A.C.E.S. soccer leagues is located. While there, she met Alberta. Struck at first by the scar on Alberta’s forehead, she asked the young girl’s grandmother what had happened. The grandmother unzipped the five-year-old’s dress, exposing the child’s massive scars and disfigured arm. Just two years ago, Alberta had accidentally fallen into

a pot of hot frying oil and suffered severe burns. Although she survived the accident, she was left without mobility in her left arm as it was fused to her side. When she tried to move it, her skin tore, causing her pain. Merz’s heart went out to the little girl and she told Alberta’s grandmother she would do what she could to help. “Anything that makes you different or stand out in a culture like Liberia really hurts you growing up. It’s hard to get married, have a normal life, and function in society,” Merz says, knowing that Alberta would benefit from a surgery to help her regain some normalcy.

Merz took photos of Alberta and contacted her host family who was in Sierra Leone volunteering with Mercy Ships, a program that revamps old cruise ships and turns them into floating hospitals. “They float around to third-world countries providing first-world care,” explains Merz. She emailed them the photos of Alberta and asked if there was anything medically that could be done. A day later she got her response; if she could get Alberta to Sierra Leone, they could perform the surgery for free.

Thrilled by the good news, Merz knew she needed to find a way to raise enough money for Alberta to make the journey to the Mercy Ship. Thinking her friends back home might like the local coconut jewelry she had seen during her travels, Merz was determined to sell the pieces to raise the necessary funds.

Teaming up with friend David Bond, ’10, who was back at Ball State working on his master’s degree, the two launched a website within a week that would facilitate the selling of the coconut jewelry. Merz contacted the man who made the jewelry and asked if he could make As out of

Photos courtesy oF Laura Merz“the A Campaign”

At the beginning of this year, a little girl in Liberia, West Africa, was unaware that her life would soon be changing forever. Nor did she know that the change would come from the other side of the globe at the hands of a student from Ball State University.

eye on the ball


Read Merz’s blog for more on her time in Liberia and Alberta’s story: lauramerz.blogspot.com or visit “the A Campaign” website at theacampaign.com

(top) Merz with children from L.A.C.E.S. soccer league. (bottom) Merz holds Alberta. (video) Watch as Merz gives the good news to Alberta and her grandmother that Alberta will receive her surgery.

coconut shell to put on bracelets to be sold for Alberta’s cause. Having previously lost a child who could not receive the medical attention needed due to lack of medical infrastructure, he wholeheartedly supported Merz’s effort. Officially named “the A Campaign,” Merz’s and Bond’s work soon paid off. Creating this real-life campaign inspired Merz. “At Ball State, I’ve always done projects that are mock campaigns of real-world ideas,” she says. “So it was cool to take what I learned and the skills that I developed over the past four years and put them to not only a real-world problem, but an extremely important problem.”

Within a couple weeks, more than enough money for Alberta’s trip had been raised. In fact, with a surplus of funds, Merz found herself wondering what to do.

Down the road from where Merz lived was an orphanage. “[The Ma Dewelie Orphanage] was very well run. They treated the children with respect, they made sure they went to school … these kids are really taken care of, but this orphanage is dirt poor,” recounts Merz. Seeing the opportunity for the extra money to go somewhere else beneficial, Merz decided to change “the A Campaign” website to include information about the orphanage, and informed donors that rather than stopping with Alberta, they would try to help as many children as possible by directing all donations to the Ma Dewelie Orphanage.

Now, months later, Merz is back at school finishing her last semester. Things have slowed for “the A Campaign” as the bracelets have sold out, donor contacts have been exhausted, and the momentum has been lost. Because of the difficulty

shipping items over from Liberia, it is unlikely any more bracelets or bags—an item added later in the campaign—will be sold again. Donations are still welcome, but Merz notes that they are few and far between. “I’m watching the bank account go down and I’m not sure what will happen when it gets to zero,” says Merz. “Every month I send over money for food (rice and beans) and tuition fees.” Although she would love to keep the campaign going, she’s not sure how it will happen.

With graduation on the horizon, Merz has begun contemplating jobs she might not have considered before going to Liberia. “My dream for the past four years has always been to graduate with this degree, make a lot of money, and work for a big corporation in a big city,” says Merz. “Then I went to Africa, and I had the realization that nonprofits need advertising just as much, if not more, than for-profit corporations do.” She is currently looking at different non-profit organizations around the United States with jobs ranging from clean water initiatives to HIV education, or even something at a world-conscious, for-profit company like Tom’s Shoes.

As for Alberta? She has successfully had her surgery and, despite a few minor setbacks, has happily returned home and is doing very well. l

—Celeste Booth

Watch Merz’s video blog regarding her experience sharing the news that Alberta would be able to get the required surgery she needed aboard a Mercy Ship, as well as the reactions of her family.lauramerz.blogspot.com/2011/04/alberta-part-3.html


This year celebrated the 30th

anniversary of the Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival. Founded in 1981 by Jean Nelson, with the help of others in the town of Chesterton, Ind., the festival has grown to be the world’s largest Wizard of Oz festival and is attended by hundreds of vendors, thousands of visitors, and celebrities from the original movie. In addition, live actors dress as official Oz characters to help bring to life the magic of the three-day event. This year, three students from Ball State University brought to life the characters of the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and Glinda.

Zachary Allen, who plays the Scarecrow, has participated in the festival for 10 years. Starting as an attendee and quickly moving up the ranks, he became director of the costumed characters in 2009. Pushing

the other actors to give as lively and interactive a performance as possible, he is happy to see their hard work pay off. “There is nothing quite like seeing the look on the face of a child who is meeting Dorothy and the gang for the first time, or hearing a little kid shouting, ‘Hi, Scarecrow!’ or ‘It’s really them!’”

Jacob Everetts was approached by Allen to take over the role of

the Cowardly Lion when the previous actor could no longer participate. “Zach and I were involved in high school theater together, so he knew about my acting capabilities,” says Everetts. Likening the experience to “reliving his childhood dreams,” this year marked Everetts’ second year in the role. “My strong acting background and teaching ambitions led me into theatre education at Ball State,” he says. “This has greatly aided my interaction skills and personality, which is what being an official character is all about, in my opinion.”

Haley Dillon plays Glinda the Good Witch of the South. The role came to her when she stepped in for a friend who couldn’t make it to an event. Allen noticed her comfort at playing Glinda’s character, and after some discussion, Dillon officially took

l

Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival

(above) Official Oz characters. Among them: Haley Dillon (Glinda), Zachary Allen (Scarecrow), and Jacob Everetts (Cowardly Lion).

(above) Glinda and Miss Indiana pose for a photograph during this year’s Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival.

over the role. “Most little girls want to be Dorothy, but that wasn’t me,” she says, explaining why Glinda’s character felt like such a good fit. “I do remember watching the movie and wanting so much to be Glinda, with all her poise and grace.” But like the others, what delights her the most is the reaction of those who come to see them in the festival. “Every little girl that gasped in delight this past weekend or was dressed to match added ten years to the end of my life.”

—Celeste Booth

Photos courtesy oF haLey dILLoN

eye on the ball


Ball state university’s residential property management program received a $1 million gift from dean Weidner, owner of Weidner Property Management.

“Ball state’s residential property management program has proven to teach and develop in its graduates the necessary skills for this exciting career,” says Weidner, who founded the seattle-based real estate investment and management company in 1977. “With this donation, I’d like to expand the program, as well as enable more students to attend and pursue careers in this industry.”

Marie virgilio, Weidner’s director of recruitment, presented the gift to Ball state during a public presentation on october 4, saying Ball state’s rPM program is the best in the nation. “I wish every college in the country had a program of its caliber,” she says. In the past three years, 15 Ball state students have interned or been hired by Weidner. “I can think of no higher quality graduates with the level of strong industry knowledge and designations we are seeking than those I’ve met here at Ball state,” virgilio says.

With the gift, Ball state will create the Weidner center for residential Property Management, using funds to establish an educational collaboration between the company and university that elevates the program to national status. Funds will also be used for establishing the Weidner scholarship endowment, creating multiple scholarships annually for talented students interested in pursuing residential property management as a career. l

eye on the ball

Million Dollar Gift

New York City’s Michael Silver topped an international field of candidates to secure the inaugural Design Innovation Fellowship within Ball State University’s College of Architecture and Planning. He will lead a series of graduate and

undergraduate topics studios and seminars during the 2011-2012 academic year.

Specializing in the relationship between technology and design practice, Silver currently directs a Brooklyn-based multidisciplinary design practice involving mathematicians, computer scientists, engineers, and others in the production of furniture, consumer products, and websites, as well as buildings. He has taught previously at Cornell University and Yale University and also is a former faculty fellow at the University of Michigan and The Ohio State University.

“The Design Innovation Fellowship,” explains Mahesh Daas, chairman of the department of architecture, “is intended to bring an emerging and cutting-edge designer to campus each year, not only infusing fresh energy into the department, but also enhancing the reputation of our institution as one that redefines architectural design, education, practice, and research.” He adds that, as an experimental collaborative, Silver’s firm “is deeply committed to the precise alignment of advanced technology, environmental design, poetic consciousness, architectural theory, academic scholarship, and the logistics of building construction. The variety and scale of his work should inform significantly our students in the coming months.”

The New Museum of Contemporary Art in Manhattan, N.Y., has featured his designs, as have the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., and the Architecture League and Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York.

—Kevin Burke, Marketing and Communications

First design Innovation Fellow

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Ball state ranks in top tenRecently, the 2012 U.S. News & World Report ranked the best national colleges and universities, naming Ball State eighth for best up-and-coming school in the nation. According to

U.S. News, the universities listed in the best up-and-coming schools were those that were identified as “making the most promising and innovative changes in the areas of academics, faculty, and student life.”

Additionally, Ball State’s entrepreneurship program continues to be one of the best in the nation, ranking 13th.

The university was listed among 18 institutions that excel in making students feel connected to the campus by building into the curriculum first-year seminars or other academic programs that bring small groups of students together with faculty or staff on a regular basis. l

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Ball State University’s master’s degree in public relations is the first graduate program in the nation to receive Certification in Education for Public Relations by the Public Relations Society of America. The university’s undergraduate public relations program was also recertified as one of only 22 nationally certified programs in the country.

this just in


Although many immersive learning projects tend to diminish after their allotted semester and/or project is complete, a handful of projects continue to thrive under the auspice of a core group of students and faculty committed to seeing their project reach its full potential.

“The Circus in Winter,” a musical adaptation of the novel written by Cathy Day, has come a long way since its inception as a Virginia Ball Center Creative Inquiry immersive learning project in the spring of 2010. Now

a full performance complete with a memorable bluegrass score, a set built to travel, and an electrifying cast, “The Circus in Winter” anticipates an invitation to the Kennedy Center’s American College Theater Festival. If the play is selected as one of the five regional finalists, it will be performed at the University of Illinois in January.

“You just keep working on it, keep rolling with it,” says Ben Clark, ’11, who was a part of the original group and has since received an opportunity to stay on as a visiting artist at Ball

State. He notes that a well-known Broadway producer, Brian Nitzkin, told the cast and crew, “Don’t ever, ever stop for any reason.” This is a sentiment shared by Beth Turcotte, director of “The Circus in Winter” and associate professor of theatre.

“When you love a project like this, it’s like a child,” she explains. “You don’t just say ‘see ya.’” She says that the core group of students stayed in close proximity to the project.

Jonathan Jensen, ’10, who was responsible for writing the majority of

From Page to Stage(above) Theatre students bring to life the musical theatre piece “The Circus in Winter,” which opened this fall semester.

Beth turcotte receives vBc creative Inquiry grant 2009

November 2009students travel to Peru, Ind., to visit

april 2010two readings in sursa Performance hall at Ball state and drury Lane theater, oakbrook terrace, Ill.

July 2010two readings at the ole olsen Memorial theater and the International circus hall of Fame in Peru, Ind.

Writing beginsspring 2010

Provost Immersive Learning Grant received to continue the projectsummer 2010

university theatre presents full production as a part of its 2011-2012 performance seasonoctober 2011

Pho

to B

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eye on the ball


fully immersed

the Porter Wallace character, and was its original performer, says that even though he’s graduated and pursuing other acting opportunities, this project has stayed with him as well. Jensen returned to his alma mater to see the fully realized production. “It’s an itch that won’t go away,” he says. “You can’t let it go.”

Turcotte credits the Virginia B. Ball Center for Creative Inquiry for allowing this musical project to come to fruition. “There [was]n’t the space or the money for something like this without the gift from the Virginia Ball Center,” Turcotte explains.

After finding students with a shared ambition for writing musicals, Turcotte began applying for grants. Along with the grant from the VBC, she secured the Provost Immersive Learning Grant, in addition to other grants from organizations such as Discovery and A.S.P.I.R.E.

The original group of 14 students came from backgrounds that include

creative writing, dance, theatre, music, and technology. Several students suggested Cathy Day’s novel, “The Circus in Winter,” for consideration after reading it in history professor Tony Edmond’s introduction to American studies course. Two and a half years later, “The Circus in Winter” was featured as a part of University Theatre’s 2011-2012 performance offerings. A quick process that Michael O’Hara, associate dean of the College of Fine Arts, calls remarkable. He explains that the typical period of play development is between two and three years, with another year or two of production.

Champaign-Urbana, Ill., may be a long way from the bright lights of Broadway, but as O’Hara explained at a special “Talk Back” session after one of the show’s performances, festivals are one way to get there. Typically, he says, plays go through the festival circuits and receive feedback before they make it to a regional theater. Depending

on the success of a play or musical, it can get in line to wait for one of Broadway’s 36 theaters to become available; however, the wait is long. He notes the Broadway production of “Funny Girl” has been waiting for two years.

“The Circus in Winter” has come a long way since 2010, and those who have been touched by the experience will strive to keep the momentum going. “This has been the most extraordinary experience of my creative life,” Turcotte says. “We are going to see it through.”

You can find more information about the creators and hear songs from the musical at www.bsu.edu/thecircusinwinter. l

—Katherine Greene


“I’m looking forward to what they learn about history, memory, and human nature,” says Debbie Mix, professor of English. Mix is leading a new immersive learning project this semester titled, Vernacular Memorials: Commemoration in Delaware County. Her 15-credit, interdisciplinary class consists of 14 students who have come together to chronicle the memorials found throughout Delaware County during the course of the semester.

Vernacular memorials, as Mix refers to them, are the memorials created by individuals and put into public. These personal memorials are seen in such examples as a roadside cross, a tattoo, car decal, or even a blog or post on a social media site. “I’ve always been curious driving by roadside memorials, and I got really interested in the stories behind [them],” says Mix, of her initial interest in the project.

Through essays, descriptions, and photographs, the culmination of the class’ work will be showcased in both a catalogue-book compiled of their findings as well as at a website they will build using Google Earth to help map and pinpoint the locations and descriptions of the found memorials.

During the first few weeks, students dedicated their time to in-class work, reading scholarly materials, listening to guest lectures, and writing essays. Once the fundamentals had been established, and before they dove in to their own investigations, the class took a fieldtrip during the September 11 weekend to visit the national memorials in Washington, D.C. Mix wanted to give the students a chance to compare what the United States memorializes to the smaller-scale memorials they would be researching over the coming months.

Ball state sports Link, the nation’s first fully immersive sports media and production program, is producing a new weekly football show in partnership with Fox college sports.

covering season highlights such as the cardinals’ 27-20 win against Indiana university, the show will also give viewers inside access to the cardinals both on and off the field.

Papa John’s will be the show’s exclusive sponsor, marking “3rd down chirp” Ball state sports Link’s first nationally sponsored production, in cooperation with Ball state athletic corporate sales.

Ball state sports Link senior Ben Wagner created the show and serves as executive producer. seniors Joel Bragg and Kyle Binder are the assistant producers. all 21 students in the immersive learning program assist with weekly content production.

visit sports Link’s youtube channel at www.youtube.com/BSUSportsLink.

Mix’s goal is that the students will work collaboratively and develop a vision for their work, thereby giving them the opportunity to take charge and “run the show.” Now that their work is well under way, Mix has begun to look forward to the end result.

A showcase of their work, which will be open to the general public, is scheduled for December 7 at the Cornerstone Center for the Arts in Muncie, Ind. l

—Celeste Booth

vernacular Memorials

“3rd Down Chirp”

(above) Debbie Mix and immersive learning students meet on to discuss the class’ recent field work. (below) Students look at a map of Delaware County examining what places have been researched and where they still need to go.

Photos By ceLeste Booth

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By Jessica Myrick

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:Do you eat locally, organically, or mindlessly?

ALL Photos Courtesy of MiNNetristA


Fast food? Slow Food? Eat local? Eat organic? Giving thought to and understanding better the many different concepts related to the simple act of nourishing one’s body is the first step in making smarter food choices that not only benefit your health, but can also support local economies and aid in preserving the environment.

“We’re losing the war against obesity in the U.S.,” states celebrity chef and restaurateur Jamie Oliver at www.jamieoliver.com. “Our kids are growing up overweight and malnourished from a diet of processed foods, and today’s children will be the first generation ever to live shorter lives than their parents,” says Oliver. “The problem stems from the loss of cooking skills at home and the availability of processed foods at every turn, from the school cafeteria to church function halls, factories, and offices.”

Awarded the TED prize in 2010 for his Food Revolution initiative, Oliver’s proposed strategy to combat the obesity epidemic that afflicts this country includes efforts to reform school lunches and educate parents, caregivers, young adults, and children on choosing better food and learning how to prepare it.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, adopting healthier lifestyle habits can lower the risk of becoming obese and developing diseases related to the condition. In concurrence with Oliver, the CDC reports that the dietary choices and physical activity of children and adolescents are influenced by their families,

communities, schools, and child-care providers as well as outside sources such as government agencies, media and entertainment industries, and the food and beverage industries.

Campaigns such as Oliver’s and the Let’s Move! initiative endorsed by First Lady Michelle Obama, call for action at home first. As challenging as it may be in the fast-paced society in which we live today, these plans encourage parents and care-givers alike to give more thought to the planning and preparation of more nutritious meals and snacks, and making physical activity a priority everyday.

Going local, choosing organicThose looking to improve their health often seek to incorporate the freshest quality produce, meat, eggs and dairy available into their diets. Apart from growing or raising it themselves, many take advantage of the seasonal bounty of locally grown, certified-organic, or farm-fresh products for sale at farmers markets, farm stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) farms.

“I think the local food movement seems to be gaining momentum,” says Craig Brown, farmers market vendor and owner of Brown Family Farms located in Montpelier, Ind. “I’m seeing more shoppers at farmers markets and I’m hearing friends and acquaintances talk more about concerns about what [is] in their food.” Food writer Victoria Wesseler agrees, “It appears that more and more people are interested in where their food is

coming from. The growth in the number of farmers markets in the last few years tends to support this.”

Consumers concerned with chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics, and other food additives used in conventional farming practices often opt to buy certified organic food products. Foods certified organic must meet strict growing and processing standards regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture. Because the certification process is expensive and requires more expensive farming practices, those costs are often passed on to consumers, resulting in a higher price for organic food products.

While many choose to pay the premium to feel confident in the safety of their food, others simply prefer the taste of organic products to non-organic.

Nutritionally speaking, however, organic food products may not fare any differently than their non-organic counterparts. “There hasn’t been research that demonstrates that organic bioavailability of the actual vitamins that are available within those vegetables and fruits are at a higher level or have a greater health

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:Do you eat locally, organically, or mindlessly?

Did you know?

In the United States, an average meal travels 1,500 miles before arriving on the dinner plate.

Eric Himelick, Victory Acres


benefit than non-organics,” says Dr. Deanna Pucciarelli, assistant professor and assistant department chairperson, department of family and consumer sciences at Ball State. “What we can say with a relatively high level of confidence is that pesticides have been negatively affiliated with certain cancers. So, having an organic product without the pesticides has been correlated with a higher positive health outcome.”

In regards to obesity, shopping your local farmers market or CSA farm is not exactly a guarantee for weight loss, yet the practice is associated with a healthier lifestyle. “If you are eating too much food, and fruits and vegetables are apart of that, you may still have a problem,” says Pucciarelli. “When you look at trends and groups, people who have a tendency to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables and shop at farmers markets choose

lifestyles that don’t consume a lot of processed foods.” While shoppers can find fried pork patties, apple dumplings, and many other pastries for sale alongside the fruits and vegetables at farmers markets, Pucciarelli advises, “It has to be a lifestyle change and [individuals] have to change what they choose.”

Choosing to purchase locally grown food products—organic or not—offers advantages beyond the desired freshness quality and potential health benefits that many consumers seek. Shopping local farmers markets, farm stands, or CSA farms also provides local economies a shot in the arm as well as opportunities for consumers to support food producers who help preserve the environment using sustainable farming practices.

“We’ve been convinced that cheap, processed food is our right,”

says Brown. “We could all benefit from buying food from farmers rather than from multinational corporations.”

According to the USDA, farmers markets are an integral part of the urban/farm linkage and are important sales outlets for agricultural producers nationwide. As of mid-2011, the USDA reports 7,175 farmers markets in operation throughout the U.S. While the government does not track CSA farms, localharvest.org cites more than 4,000 CSA farms in their comprehensive database.

Dr. Vikki Sonntag’s research reported in the study “Why Linkages Matter: Findings from the Local Food Economy Study” illustrates how locally directed spending by consumers more than doubles the number of dollars that circulate among businesses in a community. The report states that

(above) A farmer counts out a bunch of radishes at the Minnetrista Farmers Market in Muncie, Ind.

View Jamie Oliver’s TED speech.


the more food dollars circulating locally, the greater the number of community linkages, and the greater their strength.

Eric Himelick, public relations representative for Victory Acres, a CSA farm located in Upland, Ind., concurs, “More money staying locally has an increased economic impact in the area: we hire local people, we purchase supplies locally supporting other businesses, and we spend the money our costumers pay for their shares locally.”

Sonntag concludes that locally directed buying and selling connects a community’s resources to its needs, resulting in relationships that serve to regenerate the community and restore the land.

In addition to making valuable contributions to local economies, the local food movement is also raising awareness about sustainability issues. According to www.sustainable.org, individuals contribute to local and global sustainability when they adopt more responsible patterns of buying and consumption, thereby consuming less energy and fewer resources.

John Vann, associate professor of marketing and green initiatives coordinator for Ball State’s Council on the Environment, defines sustainability as long-term human survival, with an acceptable quality of life, indefinitely into the future. What you eat, how you prepare it, and how you dispose of the waste all affect sustainability says Vann. He suggests consumers follow a few key principles in an effort to make more sustainable food choices, including eating

lower on the food chain, eating food that is produced as near as possible to reduce energy used for delivery, and eating more organically grown foods to reduce chemical pollution of the soil, air, and water.

Enjoying good, healthy food starts with practices that nourish the planet and its people. This belief, held by members of Slow Food ECI, East Central Indiana’s volunteer chapter of Slow Food USA, falls in line with the group’s mission to educate community members on how the strengthening of relationships between organic and sustainable food producers and consumers builds healthier communities, families, and people.

“Slow Food,” “from farm to fork,” and “going local” are all expressions that describe concepts associated with making responsible food choices. They also represent alternatives to maintaining the status quo of the fast-paced, fast food-fed lifestyles we live today, which are contributing to the detriment of our health and the health of our planet. “The food we choose to put into our bodies is an intensely personal decision,” says Brown. “It is up to the eater to decide what food they want to feed themselves and their families.” l

(above) A local farmer sells flowers at the Minnetrista Farmers Market.

Did you know?

We consume more than 140 pounds of non-food additives per year. This breaks down to 120 lbs. of sugar, 8 lbs. of salt, and 14 lbs. of fake flavoring, preservatives, dyes and more.

http://www.snyderhealth.com/toxicity.htm


Another growing season in Indiana has come to a close, as evidenced in October by the teams of farmers clearing their fields and smaller farm operators preparing their plots for the winter months. For many, this represents the time of year when the freshest, most reasonably priced produce is difficult to come by as farmers markets close for the season and produce is trucked to supermarkets from distant locations.

One solution to this challenge lies in the antique art of home canning. Made popular during times of hardship, such as with the Victory Gardens of World War II, canning is enjoying renewed

popularity courtesy of the local food movement.

Those who practice canning do so because it is a way of life for them, or a family tradition, says Tanya Brock, ’02, Minnetrista’s visitor services manager and canning workshop instructor. Others can for economic reasons, growing their own produce and canning enough to last them through the winter months without having to pay higher prices for produce at the supermarket. Also existing are canners who, says Brock, do it to closely control the nutrition and ingredients in their food. Perhaps they want to control their sugar or

salt intake or want to preserve the integrity of their organically grown product.

While the history of the glass canning container itself dates back to the Napoleonic Wars, the art of canning has changed a great deal in the past century says Brock. Before, she explains, there was not a lot of documented research in regards to the canning process. “At least now there is a stronger understanding that while it is an art, there is also a science behind it for the safety of the food and, more importantly, the safety of those who are eating the food,” says Brock.

For those interested in learning how to can, Brock advises beginners first do their research as well as a personal inventory to identify what, why, and how much they want to can, and how much time they can realistically devote to the process. “I think that because it is a scientific process, it can be overwhelming for somebody who is a novice or has never been in the kitchen when someone was canning,” says Brock. In preparation, she recommends reading the “Ball Blue Book” (the popular home canning guide still published today and originated in the home kitchen of George and Frances Ball), participating in canning workshops, or visiting

Well-preserved (above) Tanya Brock, ’02, demonstrates some canning techniques during a workshop.

1884

Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company begins making glass fruit jars in Buffalo, N.y.

first glass products (glass oil cans and lamp chimneys, not fruit jars) made in Muncie.

the first automatic glass machine, known as the Ball-Bingham Machine, invented

first edition of the “Ball Blue Book” published

Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company builds branch factory in Muncie, ind. operations continue in factories located in Buffalo, N.y., and Bath, N.y.

frank C. Ball invents world’s first semiautomatic glass machine (patented in 1898)

totally automatic glass making perfected by Ball

1887

1888

1897

1900

1908

1909

BALL BROTHERS GLASS MANUFACTURING CO. TIMELINE


The Ball Canning Jarthe five Ball brothers, founders of the company behind the world renowned Ball canning jar, did not get their start in glass by making fruit jars, says Karen Vincent, ’87, director of collections at Minnetrista. the brothers’ first foray into the business was the manufacturing of wood jacketed glass containers that held kerosene and oil.

ever the opportunists, however, the brothers soon discovered that the patent for the Mason improved fruit jar had expired, says Vincent. in 1884, the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company also began making glass fruit jars with metal screw-on lids.

the company’s expansion to indiana soon followed. “they heard about the gas boom in the Midwest and came out to investigate the possibility of building a branch factory,” says Vincent. “they decided on Muncie because they got a good offer from the city fathers of land, gas, cash, and a railroad line.”

the first glass products were made in the Muncie plant in March 1888. By 1894, the factories in New york were closed and frank Clayton, edmund Burke, George Alexander, and Lucius Lorenzo had relocated to Muncie. William Charles followed in 1897.

Nearly a century later, the company’s signature product remains immensely popular, and the impact of the family’s philanthropic endeavors stretch beyond Muncie and the Ball state campus.

Jarden Home Brands’ website at www.freshpreserving.com.

Brock cautions that the initial investment of time and money into home canning may be more than one might expect. However, come mid-winter, enjoying the freshness of the produce you grew—or purchased locally—and preserved yourself is very gratifying. l

Take a virtual step back in time as the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Co. is brought to life courtesy of the Virtual Middletown Project. Visitors will witness the Ball brothers’ glass factory in action during the early 20th century—right down to workers removing hot pieces of glassware from the furnaces. Ball State’s Institute for Digital Intermedia Arts created the project in collaboration with the university’s Center for Middletown Studies and University Libraries.

3-D virtual museum brings Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Co. to life

(above) Fresh preserves are in the jar and ready to be sealed.

(above) View a video tour of the simulation.

(above) The five Ball brothers.

No. 1 glass plant in Muncie burns

New Muncie home canning closure plant completed

Ball stops producing glass

During World War ii, the company produces more than half of all the battery shells used by u.s. armed forces as well as Allied forces

Muncie glass plant closes

Community canning centers program established; discontinued in 1980

Ball headquarters moves to Broomfield, Colo.

1943

1945

1962 1970

1970 1996

1998


G o i ng S o ci a l ?

Marketing and advertising considerations for emerging media to affect your company’s bottom line

by Jon K. Gorman


Call it what you want—emerging media, social media, new media, electronic media, or mobile media—the ways we communicate and the ways business leaders are considering certain aspects of their business operations are changing at light speed. These changes—and the pace at which they are taking place—are to varying degrees confusing, daunting, challenging, exciting, invigorating, and enticing to business leaders and practitioners. Adding in the consideration and practice of measuring results and return on investment makes the waters even murkier.

Feel left behind? Don’t worry, there’s time to catch up, but understanding a few critical basics and acting strategically is vital.

“It’s daunting,” says Ball State’s Associate Vice President for Emerging Media Initiatives and Executive Director of the Center for Media Design David Ferguson, ’78. “Just when you start to get a handle on one, here comes another. And, it does blur because you’re starting to look at the proportionate use of each channel, which is shifting.”

Since the Center for Media Design’s founding in the early 2000s, its faculty, staff, and students have adopted the term “emerging media” because the frontier of media is moving so fast, according to Ferguson. Additionally, he says that social media is one of the “hot tickets in town,” and likely one of the fastest moving areas within the field.

So, if you’ve been considering dipping your business’ metaphorical

toes in the waters of emerging media or have begun to experiment in the space, stop thinking or tinkering, and take action.

“The worst thing that you could do is fiddle around with it,” says Ball State Assistant Professor of Journalism Brad King, who also suggests that if you’re a businessperson who thinks first and foremost about hiring and money, you should make the leap when you are willing to commit resources to emerging media solutions while at the same time bringing in people who have an expertise in the field.

“Make the decision to be committed,” says King. “So, if you’re still thinking, ‘Well, I’ll just stop this if it doesn’t work,’ then you shouldn’t do it yet

because it won’t work and you will fulfill that prophecy. And that’s hard to get people to grasp because the web seems so fluid to them that they think you can just start and stop.”

According to the “2011 Social Media Marketing Industry Report” published by the online social media magazine Social Media Examiner, small businesses benefit most from social media. During the past three years, social media has moved from an “uncertain strategy” to a “permanent fixture” in the savvy marketer’s toolkit.

Additionally, according to the report, 90 percent of the more than

3,300 marketers surveyed agreed that social media is important to their business.

The report also identified the top benefits for small business owners’ use of social media: standing out in an increasingly noisy marketplace, experiencing increased exposure, leading to new partnerships, discovering qualified

leads, improving sales, and seeing a reduction in marketing costs.

Advertising and marketingBall State Associate Professor of Journalism Michael Hanley, MA78, who specializes in mobile marketing and performs annual studies on the mobile habits and

preferences of students, says that advertising via emerging media is primarily targeted toward text messaging, which he suggests won’t change as a result of it being “easy, cheap, fast.”

“The marketplace is already there from a technology standpoint,” Hanley explains. “The businesses, for a very little amount of money, can start using mobile devices in certain targeted ways and could be very effective.

“Any phone will get text messaging, or about 95 percent of them will,” he continues. “That’s why text messaging will literally always be the first choice for mobile marketers.”

David Ferguson

Brad King

Michael Hanley

PHOTOS BY BALL STATE PHOTO SERVICES


BrandingWhile mobile advertising has a specific emerging media target, branding requires a different delivery channel and different strategy than mobile text messaging.

“It takes a certain sophistication for a business to want to be able to actually brand itself or its company and do it the right way,” says Hanley. “But if they did, social media is by far the absolute best tool to use to manage your brand identity,” because, as Hanley explains, websites like Twitter and Facebook allow you to watch and participate in conversations in real time that relate to your company and its brand. “Outside of the digital world, if someone says something bad about you on the street corner, you don’t have any idea and you can’t do anything to try to remedy that,” he adds. “You can remedy that on social.”

Ferguson agrees, and points to an alumna who has found great success with a branding strategy via social media channels.

“One of the best examples of somebody who has entered in and has understood the broader implications is one of our alums, Angela Ahrendts, ’93, who is the head of Burberry,” says Ferguson. “You’ve got a fashion company that is old school by their very nature and their history, and they’ve come into the 21st century just roaring into it by bringing their media folks in house and thinking very carefully about how brand and media can merge, and they’ve done it.” Ferguson describes the intentional and strategic proliferation of Burberry’s brand across all forms of media including social, driving the company’s success in its overall branding strategy.

published in 1973 by the University of Chicago Press, which suggests that brand loyalists have moved from a weak tie to a strong tie and have become less trustworthy with information.

Customer serviceIn addition to the branding, advertising, and marketing operations, social and emerging media should be strategically targeted channels by business leaders for providing continual and real-time customer service.

Ferguson says that providing customer service via social and emerging media channels often requires business leaders to adjust their mindsets. Oftentimes, it’s a matter of permeating the customer service experience outside of a single department or job position to more and more parts of the company.

“[It’s a] metaphorical social telephone,” he explains. “In the old-fashioned model of small business, everybody [that you meet who represents that company] is a smiling face. Well, now it’s just online … smiling faces online, engaging you, telling you—if you can say it sincerely—that this is a

“So you think in terms of actually creating a new experience around my brand because of the way technology and media allows you to enter into my world, and people are flocking to it,” he adds.

King, however, warns against creating too strong of a brand loyalty by consumers via social and emerging media.

“When we speak of brand loyalty, you actually don’t want people to have very strong ties to your brand in terms of diffusion of information,” he describes. “We distribute information not amongst people who we have strong ties to, but through weak ties … affinity groups.”

King suggests that by setting out to get people to love your brand, you’re going to reduce your ability to get the word of mouth out, offering up Apple as an example of a company that makes a lot of money, with a relatively small share of the market. King argues that this is due in large part to the fact that people don’t listen to the Apple brand loyalists because of their hyper commitment to that brand.

For support, King references “The Strength of Weak Ties”


great place, and let me help you.”

According to Cision, a public relations and media solutions provider, the five simple steps for social media customer service are to listen, be timely, address both positive and negative comments, fess up and accept that you're going to make mistakes, and answer questions “that are keeping your customers from using your products to their fullest.”

Shifting resourcesEmerging media not only requires that business leaders adjust their mindsets, it also requires, when a company is ready to commit, some shifting of resources. That can be a tricky proposition. The easy answer for many is to hire a young professional newly graduated from college because of the perception that he or she might be “hip,” “connected,” and already an active participant on social and emerging media platforms.

That would be a misguided assumption, according to King.

“I love my 21 year olds, but if somebody hired them and said, ‘I’m going to make you vice president of social media strategy,’ I would say, ‘You should not take that job,’ because they assume that you have a knowledge about this that you don’t yet have,” explains King.

King also has a suggestion for business leaders regarding the placement of emerging media professionals within the business’ hierarchy, believing that managers should not report to the marketing

department or the public relations department. “They should be vice presidents just like anybody else,” he says. “They are the voice of the consumer within the organization.”

Ferguson also has some suggestions regarding staffing and resource allocation.

“In terms of the staffing, I really think that the entire staff becomes part of the marketing effort,” he says. “We’ve become increasingly engaged with social networking, all of us, so why not harness that and think of it not so much as a little part of my company that performs a particular function, but that everybody participates in the same way.”

To develop a plan that encourages all employees to participate on social media, “Social Readiness: How Advanced Companies Prepare,” a 2011 report published by the Altimeter Group, says that the number one requirement is developing baseline governance and reinforcement.

Successful companies have “Established and reinforced a corporate social media policy that

allows employees to participate professionally.” The report further suggests the inclusion of education and the identification of guardrails so that employees know how to participate in a safe and consistent manner. The report states that an established social media policy protects the company, but also

encourages employee ownership.

ChallengesMany of the headaches of business leaders caused by emerging media or the understanding of how best to utilize emerging media as part of a business plan stem from the many challenges that exist in the market.

Hanley, who specializes in mobile marketing, says there are regulations in the mobile market that don’t affect the social media space.

“The mobile system has been very well protected by federal regulations and state regulations,” he explains. “The challenge is, the devices are there, the public is there, but until someone marches into a store with his or her cell phone and says, ‘Hey, I want to buy your product,’ until they get to that base level, most local retailers don’t see a value in using it.”

Additionally, carriers have set up barriers to businesses with regards to access to their customers.

Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter are well suited for branding and real-time customer service.


“If you have a cell phone on Verizon, and if I want to send a message to you, I can’t send it directly to you, I’ve got to go through the Verizon cell phone system,” says Hanley, explaining that Verizon is very interested in making sure its customers don’t have a bad experience on their network from an advertiser for fear of losing a customer who may be paying $200 per month.

But when the system or media is open to all, additional and unique challenges arise when a business leader adjusts his or her messaging to that of a real person as opposed to a corporation. But that’s not a bad thing as long as you’re prepared to make mistakes and openly recognize and react to them.

“We can make mistakes as long as we own up to them, as long as we sort of interact in a human way,” explains King. “What you can’t do is interact in a corporate way, or run away, or pull the curtains back down once you’ve opened the curtains up.

“To build a community, for instance, you can’t ask for feedback from people, and then when they give it, tell them they’re wrong,” he adds. “You can’t walk into a party, walk up to a conversation and start yelling, and then wonder why nobody talks to you. If you’re not committed to building a community, understanding how interaction works, understanding how interactive design works, it will not be surprising when it doesn’t work.”

Additionally, King says you can’t be in a social or emerging media environment and act like a corporation. You can’t just share marketing or advertising messages.

“The truth is, if you just pushed out marketing messages, you then become the local newspaper and you are untrustworthy,” he explains.

But the biggest challenge business leaders face is likely how to measure activity on emerging media and the business’ return on its investment.

According to the “2011 Social Media Marketing Industry Report,” the top question marketers want answered is how to monitor, measure, and track the return on investment of social media activities.

“The big lie of technology that we were told a long time ago is that now we’re going to be able to measure everything,” King continues. “If you don’t understand analytics and you just look at page views and numbers and time on site and things like that, you are wasting your time, and it’s a good indicator that you should get somebody else to run this for you because the metrics you need are much, much deeper.”

Additionally, Ferguson says there’s been a fundamental shift in the areas of marketing and measurement.

“Marketing has moved from the realm of the creative to increasingly that of the scientist, the one who’s the data analyst, and that’s here to stay,” he explains. “So, you’re going to see those two worlds collide in increasing ways, but the data itself, we don’t yet have all of the cause and effect.

“We can’t guarantee that we know everything about return on investment,” Ferguson adds. “What we do know is that everything is being measured and that people

For Johnny Ban, ’03, the strategic use of social media was a necessity. Living in Los Angeles and working as a performing artist and song writer, Ban witnessed first-hand the food truck craze. He and a business partner decided to try their luck and hit the streets. “In Los Angeles, on every corner, you’ll find a taco truck,” explains Ban. “I felt that product was strong enough to bring back to a city that didn’t know much about it, and I knew it would succeed [in Indianapolis, Ind.]”

Today, West Coast Tacos has two trucks, but Ban, known locally by other food truck purveyors as the godfather, has moved on to his second venture, The NY Slice, serving New York style pizza. Ban’s use of social media channels allows him to interact with his followers, notifying them of the current and future locations of the truck, as well as offering regular promotions and receiving real-time customer feedback and input.

“Obviously, we didn’t use any other form of marketing and advertising, it was purely on social media, so that alone lets you know that it works,” says Ban.

“Utilizing and making connections, it is a community,” Ban continues. “You want to be positive to that community, and they are, in turn, going to have a positive effect on you.

“As far as social media is concerned, for those who are looking to get into that realm and use it to their advantage, it’s just putting out info or material that people want to respond to, not just the promotional material,” Ban explains, crediting the communities he’s created via social media channels for the successes of his ventures.

“As long as I have good friends, a good community, and a good following, I can’t fail with that.” l

PHOTOS BY CELESTE BOOTH


are being smarter about how you analyze that data, and the best consultant is the one that sits down and looks at your goals and then can slice and dice and figure out and extract what it is that is actually provable in that environment.”

Hanley adds that mobile technology and the service providers create a unique challenge regarding measurement and ROI.

“Mobile should be the easiest technique to measure, the problem is privacy,” he explains. “If I’m an advertiser and I send my message through Verizon, and then next week I go to them and say, ‘Oh by the way, can you tell me everybody who looked at my message?’ They’ll say, ‘No we can’t, that’s illegal.’”

King suggests that the confusion regarding ROI shouldn’t hinder efforts to move your business onto emerging media.

“The ROI doesn’t come from counting, ROI comes from being able to develop products that have this human factors element to them,” he explains. “The goal is how do I move you to do this thing. One way to do that is through interaction design and human factors, which is creating pleasure around your product. We know there are things that we can do to make you feel and do certain things. You are an individual, just like everyone else.”

But all three say doing nothing is not an answer. Action is key.

The reason: emerging and social media is where your audience is increasingly moving. According to the “Pew Internet” report published in August 2011 by the Pew Research Center, the number of online adults in the United States using social media on a typical day has increased from 13 percent in 2008 to 43 percent in 2011. Additionally, 83

percent of Internet users 18-29 years old and 69 percent of all online adults in the United States are using social media.

“[Business leaders] just can’t be afraid of it,” Hanley says. “The first one to get the customers is usually the one that keeps them, certainly on social because it’s an almost addicting way of communicating with family and friends.”

Ferguson agrees. “Do you want to get into it? Absolutely,” he says. “But the dust hasn’t settled, and there is no template that everyone can follow, and different companies have different scenarios. You’re going to have to be careful and take it a step at a time.”

The principles by which you should be acting on or moving onto emerging media are relatively simple. “There’s a framework that you can go into,” King describes. “You have to have an easy interface. The interface has to be learnable quickly. You have to give people the ability to form ad hoc groups within a network.

“If I see people commenting, and we’re the same, what I would do in real life is befriend them, and so you have to give people the ability to befriend each other, but then unbefriend each other as well. There have to be rules, and there has to be management of those rules.

Additionally and most importantly, you have to make good content according to King. “You can’t just slap stuff up and think people are going to show up,” he says. “That’s why you have to commit time and resources to this.” l

The recession forced Scott Wise, ’95, to make some difficult decisions, one of which was scrapping paid

advertising and diving head first into social media to market and promote his restaurants.

“The day the recession hit, I needed to cut about $400,000 from our company to keep us in business, to keep us alive, and so I wouldn’t have to lay off any of my employees,” Wise explains. Use of social media has replaced paid advertising and has had a profound impact on his business’ bottom line, although he’s quick to point out that it’s not free ... he has a personal investment of his time as well as employees (payroll) committed to the effort.

Wise admits to being an early adapter in emerging media. He began using email marketing in 2001, and was one of the first individuals to sign up for Facebook the day it allowed everyone to get on board, viewing Facebook as a key promotional channel.

Those decisions, among others, have allowed Wise to maintain and grow his Scotty’s Brewhouse universe beyond the original Muncie, Ind., location, which opened in 1996, to include Bloomington, Ind., West Lafayette, Ind., and two locations in Indianapolis, Ind. Wise is also involved with Scotty’s Lakehouse in Fishers, Ind., Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Co. in Indianapolis, and Scotty’s Burger Joint in Columbus, Ind., with eyes toward expanding to Chicago, Fort Wayne, Ind., and Columbus, Ohio.

Regarding best practices, Wise has plenty of advice. “It’s just like working out or just like quitting smoking,” Wise says. “Every single day, you have to work at it, you have to say something. You can’t take a day off because you won’t grow it the way that you want to grow it. You have to be authentic. You have to try to do things creative and give people a little bit of your personality.” l

PHOTO BY CELESTE BOOTH


philanthropy

It all started as a dream for five brothers who believed in community growth and creating an institution of higher education. Clearly, Muncie, Ind., was never the same once the Ball brothers settled here, improving the quality of life through their philanthropy and glass manufacturing business.

Ball State University has evolved from a single-building institution, to a small, regional teachers college, to a broad-based, diversified university with nationally recognized faculty and programs.

A durable partnership

In 1951, when Ball State celebrated its 33rd anniversary as a state-supported college, something happened that would change the face of the campus in many ways.

The Ball State University Foundation was established on October 26, 1951, by seven

Ball State University Foundation Celebrates 60 Years of Service

area businessmen, a school superintendent, and Ball State President John R. Emens with a few thousand dollars in assets. These visionaries saw the foundation as a partner of the university and an independent benefactor that could provide maximum sustainable support for scholarships and other needs not available from state appropriations.

Over the years, the foundation has grown to an established institution with assets totaling more than $199 million, a sizeable professional staff, and a governing board of 31 members with national and international representation. The foundation’s primary function is to receive all private donations to Ball State and keep related donor records, administer gifts, manage investments, and assist donors in making planned gifts through their estates.

The dedication of the foundation’s leaders and their enthusiasm for supporting Ball State has proven to be contagious as thousands of alumni and friends have helped build impressive assets with their contributions. Total contributions in the last 60 years have exceeded $375 million. As a financial partner for the university, the foundation has provided more than $292 million in support for programs and buildings which have added academic, cultural, entertainment, and economic value to the university and community. Future gifts such as bequests, life insurance policies, property, and life income plans have grown to more than $90 million. l

—DeAnna MayAssociate Vice President for

CommunicationsBall State University Foundation

“At Ball State, students are learning both within and beyond the classroom, and I am proud to be a part of a university that fosters an atmosphere of growth and provides students with opportunities that allow them to no longer be defined as “college students,” but rather as unique individuals with talents and extraordinary capabilities to impact the world around them.

“Ball State boasts incredible immersion learning experiences for students and more than 350 different student organizations—each unique and specifically programmed to serve the interests of its members. By being involved in organizations and working each and every day with a diverse and dynamic group of students, I’ve learned intangible life and leadership skills that cannot be attained within a lecture hall. They include the ability to effectively speak in front of a large group or the value of an intentional side conversation to let someone know they are important beyond the work setting. I am proud to be a Ball State Cardinal.”

To ensure other students have the same extraordinary experience as Kayla, please make your year-end annual gift today at www.bsu.edu/give.

—Kayla StantonPresident, Student Government Association


1950s: Great Beginnings Articles of incorporation and by-laws filed with the Secretary of State, officially establishing the Ball State University Foundation on October 26, 1951. The first board of directors meeting soon follows in the office of board member Ralph J. Whitinger, ’29LLD68, a local accountant.

Other highlights:Board member C. Cree Gable makes first donation of $1,000. After one year, assets grow to $4,634, primarily through board member donations. Ledgers close in 1959 with $215,000 in assets.

Foundation authorizes awards of 10 renewable scholarships of $100 each in 1952.

Following the untimely death of board president Joseph T. Meredith, Ralph J. Whitinger becomes the new leader in 1953 and goes on to serve for 30 years.

First fund drive raises $3,075 for L.A. Pittenger Student Center furnishings.

In 1956, foundation accepts half interest in E. Fay Kitselman home to be used as a campus conference center. The other half is received in 1959. The location is now the home of the Virginia B. Ball Center for Creative Inquiry.

1960s: Growth and Expansion

Ball State transforms from a teacher-training institute to a broad-based university under the leadership of President John R. Emens. Fundraising efforts focus on a campaign to build the John R. Emens College-Community Auditorium, bringing in more than $1.5 million.

Other highlights:In 1961, foundation authorizes the purchase of Ballinger farm, a property adjacent to campus for resale to the university, to be used for future growth.

Board Chairman Ralph Whitinger donates $100,000 in 1967 and challenges fellow alumni to give, matching each gift that year up to $100,000.

Assets increase over 600 percent, with funds totaling $237,121 in 1961, expanding to $1.6 million by 1970.


1970s: Continued Growth and MaturityPassing the million-dollar-mark in assets, foundation funds grow rapidly, increasing to $6.6 million by 1979.

Other highlights:Foundation receives the L.L. Ball Home, E. B. Ball residence, and “Lincoln House” from the Ball Brothers Foundation in 1974.

Planned giving program established in 1976, promoting future gifts in wills, trusts, real estate, life

insurance and other assets.

Whitinger Scholarship Program, created in 1976, grants awards based on academic ability, character, creativity, and leadership potential.

As assets grow, new avenues of investment and fundraising activities are explored, strengthening the foundation’s partnership with the university, community, and alumni.

1980s: Transition and Expanded HorizonsBetween 1980 and 1989, assets grow six fold, from $6.7 million to $41.2 million. More than $24 million is provided for university support. Planned gift expectancies total more than $18 million by 1989.

Other highlights:Staff expands: Donald L. Mays, ’62MA65EDD69, named first executive director in 1980, followed by Laura Hansen Dean, ’72, who served from 1987-1990, and previously as planned giving director beginning in 1981.

Alice Prettyman, MA82, appointed director of planned giving in 1987, serving for more than 20 years.

Ralph Whitinger resigns in 1982 and prominent Muncie business executive Phyllis C. Shafer, ’47, elected first female board chairman, serving for 15 years.

Foundation becomes an estate planning resource for Indiana professional advisors by forming the Philanthropy Advisory Council in 1982.

Five-year Wings for the Future campaign kicks off in 1987, ultimately raising $44.7 million.

philanthropy


1990s: Expectations ContinueGreat transformation takes place in the 1990s, affecting the foundation’s financial base and operations. Task forces reshape the organization by modifying its investment policy, strengthening its financial organization, broadening its board membership, and establishing a scenario for long-range planning.

Other highlights:David W. Bahlmann, J.D., named executive director, 1990 to present.

Amended by-laws state that each board chairman serve only two years.

“Garfield” creator and Ball State alumnus Jim Davis, ’67, chairs the Alumni Center Campaign, raising $7.5 million. Opening in 1998, the Alumni Center houses the offices of the university advancement team, including the foundation, and is the hub for hundreds of events each year.

Beneficence Society established in 1995, honoring donors who make a planned gift of any amount for the benefit of Ball State.

The family of charter foundation board member Alexander Bracken donates the family home for use as the president’s residence – Bracken House.

By 1999, total assets grow to more than $103 million, investment earnings exceed $45 million, over $88 million is designated in university support, and planned gift expectancies total close to $39 million.

The Marilyn K. Glick Center for Glass, named for one of Indiana’s most influential arts supporters and avid glass art collector, is a 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art center for hot glass instruction and other art glass techniques. It was built to support and promote the practice of contemporary glass arts at Ball State University and in the East Central Indiana region. Ball State, Muncie, and central Indiana have a strong historical connection to glass. In July 1887, the Ball brothers, five industrialists from New York, selected Muncie as the location for their glass factories. This, among many other reasons, was why the Glick Fund, a fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation, chose to make a grant to Ball State to create a glass center to build upon the rich glass heritage.

The center’s studio spaces, equipment, faculty, and staff support a broad-based and dynamic undergraduate and graduate curriculum in contemporary glass, as well as community outreach and education programs about the glass arts. It has also allowed for the creation of the first bachelors and masters of fine arts degrees in glass in Indiana.

For more information on how you can make a gift to support the Glick Center please contact Sarah Jenkins, director of development for the College of Fine Arts, at (765) 285-7053 or [email protected].

The university encourages you to visit the center and learn more about the program next time you are on campus. The Glick Center is located at 2500 University Avenue, west of the Lucina Welcome Center and across the street from IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.

The Glick Center—Ball State University’s Premier Glass Arts Studio


2000-to present: Providing Maximum Sustainable SupportIt was a time of great highs and great lows in the investment arena. Financial turmoil had significant impact on investment returns, but the foundation is able to continue to provide significant support to Ball State. A strong investment policy allows the foundation to persevere despite economic changes during this decade and achieve the third highest investment returns in its history in fiscal year 2011: +20.6 percent, behind only fiscal years 1985 and 1997.

Other highlights:Financial resources provided for high profile construction including Student Recreation and Wellness Center, Football Training Facility, Shafer Tower, and Women’s sports facilities.

Above and Beyond Campaign concludes in 2002, with the university advancement team raising $112.9 million, including $4.1 million in planned gifts.

Foundation allocates $500,000 to the Student Managed Investment Fund. Since 2005, 125 Ball State business students have participated in building the portfolio to an average return of 2.3 percent.

Cardinal Properties, Inc. established in 2006 to accept and manage real estate gifts and other assets for the benefit of Ball State.

Foundation named “Small Non-Profit of the Year” in 2007 by the editorial staff of Alternative Investment News and Foundation and Endowment Money Management.

First long-term strategic plan (2007-2012) created, paralleling the university’s strategic plan and setting goals to guide future decisions and policy making procedures.

Cardinal Funds, Inc. created in 2008 to oversee and implement donor advised funds, funds serving Greek organizations, and other special funds.

Staff member Thomas B. Heck, MS83, appointed to the new position of Chief Investment Officer in a distinctive role as the interactive staff professional working with the foundation and third party investment firm, Perella Weinberg Partners.

Ball State Bold: Investing in the Future concludes in 2011, with the university advancement team raising more than $210 million, including over $65 million in planned gifts.

Foundation celebrates 60th anniversary having provided more than $292 million in support to Ball State. During this 60-year period, donor contributions exceed $375 million, and the foundation holds assets of $199 million and more than $90 million in planned gift expectancies.

philanthropy

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Your Ball State plate costs only $40* and includes a $15 BMV specialty fee and a $25 Ball State fee. Your Ball State fee supports student scholarships and alumni programs.

For more information about the Ball State license plate program, contact the Ball State University Alumni Association at 1-888-I-GO-4-BSU, or by e-mail at [email protected]. Visit us on the web at www.bsu.edu/alumni. You may also contact your local BMV branch or visit the BMV website at myBMV.com. *The plate fee is in addition to your regular BMV registration fees.

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Upcoming Events

Saturday, Nov. 12Michiana Alumni Chapter’s bus shopping trip to Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, Ill.

Saturday, Nov. 19Black Alumni Constituent Society board of directors meeting, Alumni Center

Friday, Nov. 25Ball State Football vs. Toledo Pre-Game Rally, Alumni Center

Tuesday, Dec. 6Nursing Alumni Society board of directors meeting, Alumni Center

Monday, Dec. 12Chicago Area Alumni Outing at Rock Bottom Brewery, Chicago, Ill.

Friday, Dec. 16Nursing Pinning Ceremony, Student Center

Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012Northeastern Indiana Alumni Chapter board of directors meeting, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012MCOB Alumni Society board of directors meeting, Alumni Center

Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012Alumni Council Meeting, Alumni Center

Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012Journalism Alumni Society awards subcommittee meeting, Alumni Center

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012NREM Internship & Career Fair, Alumni Center

Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012Journalism Alumni Society board of directors meeting, Alumni Center

Monday, Jan. 30, 2012Michiana Alumni Chapter board of directors meeting, Elkhart, Ind.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012Women’s Basketball Alumni Reunion, Alumni Center

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012Women’s Basketball Aumni Game, Worthen Arena

Saturday, March 3, 2012Indianapolis Area Alumni Chapter Casino Night, Indianapolis, Ind.

Alumni EventsAround Indiana and Beyond AluMNi proFESSioNAl SociETiES:

Journalism: The Journalism Alumni Society’s awards subcommittee will meet at 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at the Alumni Center.

The society’s board of directors will meet at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at the Alumni Center.

McoB: The Miller College of Business Alumni Society’s board of directors will meet at 3 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, at the Alumni Center.

NrEM: The Natural Resources and Environmental Management Alumni Society will host its annual Internship & Career Fair, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012, from 12-4 p.m. at the Alumni Center. Businesses and organizations offering full or part-time employment, seasonal

Look for upcoming events at bsu.edu/alumni/events.

alumni connection

34 Events Around Indiana and Beyond36 Class Notes37 Alumnus Pitches in for “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”41 Alumna to Compete for Miss America Crown on Lightning Safety Platform42 Alumna Earns Architecture Distinction Twelve NrEM alumni and friends collected 14 passenger car tires,

one tire and wheel, one large truck tire, and eight bags of trash at the annual NrEM White river clean-up on Aug. 27. The total weight of the materials was approximately 870 pounds.


alumni connection

employment or internship opportunities are welcome. For more information, contact the alumni association.

Nursing: The Nursing Alumni Society board of directors will meet at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the Alumni Center.

The Nursing Pinning Ceremony will be held Friday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. in the Student Center, Cardinal Hall A, B, and C.

AluMNi coNSTiTuENT SociETiES: Black Alumni: The Black Alumni Constituent Society board of directors will meet at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 19 at the Alumni Center.

AluMNi chApTErS: indianapolis: Mark your calendars for the Greater Indianapolis Area Alumni Chapter’s Casino Night scheduled for Saturday, March 3, 2012, at the Knights of Columbus in Indianapolis, Ind.

Michiana: Michiana area alumni will travel to Schaumburg, Ill., for their annual bus shopping trip to Woodfield Mall Saturday, Nov. 12. For more information contact the alumni association.

The Michiana Alumni Chapter’s board of directors will meet at 6 p.m., Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at the Joseph C. Rice Administration Building in Elkhart, Ind.

Northeastern: The Northeastern Indiana Alumni Chapter board of directors will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday,

Jan. 10, 2012, at Mad Anthony’s Munchie Emporium located at 1109 Taylor Street in Fort Wayne, Ind.

other outings: Chicago area alumni are invited to attend a gathering Monday, Dec. 12 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Rock Bottom Brewery in Chicago, Ill. For more information, contact the alumni association.

AluMNi rEuNioNS:Women’s Basketball: Ball State women’s basketball alumni are invited to attend a reunion Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, at the Alumni Center. A reception and dinner will begin at 6 p.m. Take part in a shoot around and game at Worthen Arena Sunday, Feb. 19 2012.

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|1930|In MemoriamElizabeth G. (Willet) Enders, ’34, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., July 15, 2010.Edith M. (McCreery) Ritchie, ’34, Edinburg, Texas, July 29.Mabel I. (Johnson) Long, ’35, Dillsboro, Ind., Aug. 8.Helen A. (Wellington) Stokes, ’36, Warren, Ind., Aug. 18.John O. Lewellen, ’37, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 1.

|1940|In MemoriamG. Lavonne (Wagoner) Baker, ’40, Tucson, Ariz., July 27.Elnora S. (Robbins) Cox, ’40, Warsaw, Ind., July 30.Helen E. (Deam) Hankinson, ’40, Richmond, Ind., Sept. 18.Betty J. (Astbury) Baker, ’41, Angleton, Texas, June 15.Adabelle (Mangas) Hill, ’41, Elkhart, Ind., Aug. 21.R. Louis Curry, ’42, Indianapolis, Ind., Oct. 1.Martha L. Murley, ’43, Richmond, Ind., Aug. 3.Marvene S. (Siefer) Bezucha, ’44, Rosebush, Mich., Sept. 2.Elaine (Bayless) Driscoll, ’44, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 18.Viola E. (Addington) Hart, ’45MA63, Anderson, Ind., Sept. 21.William R. Thompson, ’45, White Sulphur Spring, W.Va., July 27.Victor H. Overman, ’46, Brownsburg, Ind., Aug. 22.

Ralph E. Roper, ’46, Indianapolis, Ind., Aug. 9.Shirley N. (Nelson) Schwartz, ’48, Muncie, Ind., Sept. 29.George L. Kintzel, ’49MA55, Muncie, Ind., Sept. 1.

|1950|In MemoriamCecil R. Hayden, ’50, Plymouth, Ind., Aug. 19.Paul W. Davis, ’51MA55, Anderson, Ind., Aug. 31.Paul S. Liechty, MA51EdS69, Berne, Ind., July 22.Robert E. Evans, ’52, Sebring, Fla., Sept. 13.John W. Hickner, ’52, Anderson, Ind., Aug. 31.Clayton E. Hole, ’52MA73, Carmel, Ind., Aug. 11.John O. Reed, MAE52EdD71, Salem, Ind., July 21.Rose (Hartman) Russell, ’52, Kokomo, Ind., Aug. 28.Ralph E. Clark, ’53MAE59, St. Petersburg, Fla., July 28.Bill J. Hill, ’53MA60, Huntington, Ind., Sept. 26.Arthur T. Keevil, ’53, Chicago, Ill., June 8.Ronald Laymon, ’53, Normal, Ill., Aug. 10.Joanna K. (Kitchel) Anderson, ’54, Carmel, Ind., Aug. 12.Phyllis R. (Davis) Grossman, ’54, La Fontaine, Ind., July 23.Katherine McEndarfer, ’54, West Townsend, Mass., Sept. 30.Beverly J. (Thorne) Markwell, ’55, The Villages, Fla., May 27.Mary L. Shaffer, MA56, Meridian, Idaho, Nov. 22, 2010.

Elizabeth S. (Patterson) Hamilton, ’57MAE79, Holmes Beach, Fla., July 31.Earl J. Heath, MA57EdD60, Winona Lake, Ind., Sept. 17.Emma R. (Gritton) Honnold, ’57MAE79, Pendleton, Ind., Sept. 30.Rex E. Lewis, ’57, Pierceton, Ind., July 29.Sherry S. (Montgomery) Snyder, ’57MA67, Berne, Ind., July 29.Lou I. (Parmer) McMahan, ’58MAE69, Anderson, Ind., Aug. 25.Carolyn J. (Rigsbee) Mullen, ’58, Indianapolis, Ind., Aug. 4.Thomas C. Stankus, ’58MA64, West Lafayette, Ind., Aug. 13.Alice M. (Lay) Stone, ’58, Tucker, Ga., July 30.Edgar E. Haynes, MA59, Greenwood, Ind., July 8.Donald F. Rhodes, ’59, Hurricane, W.Va., Aug. 5.Oral Ross, Jr., MA59, Portland, Ind., July 30.Annis J. (Van Dewater) Titus, ’59, Brooksville, Fla., Sept. 4.

NewsWilbur T. Scrivnor, ’52, Grand Haven, Mich., is currently the fiction editor for Senior Perspectives, an area retirees magazine. Additionally, he writes six short stories per year.

|1960|In MemoriamKenneth D. Brannock, ’61MAE67, Bradenton, Fla., Sept. 14.William J. Menzel, ’61, Wolverine Lake, Mich., Aug. 26.

Randall N. Hass, ’62, Valparaiso, Ind., March 1.Justin G. Rehm, MA63, Saint Paul, Ind., July 21.Patricia E. (Robb) Bennett, ’64, Naperville, Ill., Sept. 7.Carol A. (Blocher) Delk, ’64, Paris, Tenn., July 22.Freddie L. Prescott, ’64MA71, Union City, Ind., Sept. 12.Carolyn J. (Guinn) Brush, ’65MLS77, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 23.Sarah C. (Fair) Kepler, MA65, Plymouth, Ind., Sept. 17.Janice M. (Cheesewright) Wohlfort, MA65, Richmond, Ind., July 16.Joan (Reger) Pugsley, MA66, Anderson, Ind., Aug. 23.Helen F. (Horning) Hoskins, ’67, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 23.Robert K. Kanable, MA67, Columbus, Ind., Aug. 18.Lawrence W. Lewis, ’67MAE74, Losantsville, Ind., Sept. 5.E. Ray McAfee, ’67, Blythewood, S.C., July 23.Rosanne M. (Miller) Zirkman, ’67MAE76, Springfield, Ohio, Aug. 18.Paul D. Burton, ’68, Port Orange, Fla., Oct. 3.Janice L. (Thornburg) Dill, ’68, Richmond, Ind., Aug. 23.Henry W. Herzog, MA68, Cambridge City, Ind., Sept. 11.Gaynel (Inman) Hurry, ’68MA71, Berea, Ohio, Feb. 4, 2010.Judith L. (Siders) Layden, ’68, Indianapolis, Ind., Sept. 12.

NewsDiana J. (Avery) Weaver, ’60, Versailles, Ky., senior nursing advisor at UK HealthCare, received the Daniel J. Pesut Spirit of Renewal Award for Nursing Excellence by the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor

class notes


Society of Nursing. Weaver is also a past recipient of Ball State’s Distinguished Alumni Award (1997) and the Nursing Oustanding Alumnus Award (1989).

Richard B. Conroy, ’67, Leesburg, Ind., published his fourth book, a political thriller titled “Deadly Game.”

Kathryn De Lawter, ’68, New York, N.Y., is the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education’s Non-Governmental Organization representative to the United Nations, and was elected chair of the advisory council for the Committee on Teaching About the United Nations.

Hubert P. Reinhold, MA68, Goshen, Ind., was the 2011 recipient of the “Uncle Elmer” award from the Elkhart Agricultural Society.

Susan E. (Duncan) Sexton, ’68, Columbia City, Ind., authored “Secrets of an Old Typewriter: Stories from a Smart and Sassy Small Town

Girl,” a story of life lived in small-town America.

|1970|In MemoriamJudith (Konwerski) Dempcy, ’70, O’Fallon, Ill., Aug. 3.

class notes

Log cabins are seen in snow-covered mountains, on the shores of clear blue lakes, or even nestled in an evergreen forest. Blue Ridge Log Cabins of Campobello, S.C., specializes in making custom log cabins for patrons all over the nation. Its most recent customer, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

“Our homes are built differently than any other log homes in the world because we build them inside our facility and bring them out in sections to the home site,” says

Greg landess, ’83, vice president of sales and marketing at Blue Ridge Log Cabins.

Landess, who graduated from Ball State with a bachelor’s degree in psychology

with a minor in marketing, has been in the housing business since 1992 doing site building, manufactured homes, and modular and system-built construction. Before joining Blue Ridge Log Cabins in 2007, he was working in the modular home industry. Landess came across Blue Ridge Log Cabins while he was looking at property in the mountains where he could build a log home.

“As I investigated the company more and more, and the more I found out about them, it just intrigued me enough that I actually came over,” says Landess. “In the course of about four months of meeting with the owner, he made me an offer and I left the other company where I was working.”

Landess was not the only person intrigued by the work of Blue Ridge Log Cabins.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” contacted the company after meeting Landess and his colleagues at the International Building Show this past year. The show’s producers explained that they would like Blue Ridge Log Cabins to build an 8,000 square foot log cabin for a program that helps homeless female veterans.

During the build, Landess not only directed and worked alongside 4,000 volunteers, including first lady Michelle Obama, but was also involved in the marketing side of things, using Twitter and Facebook to post status and video updates on the project.

After crews logged nearly 45,000 total man-hours at Blue Ridge’s facility and onsite, the log cabin, located in Fayetteville, N.C., was revealed to its new occupants.

“It’s not about the log cabin, this is how you get the word out about how you help homeless female veterans,” says Landess. “That’s what’s so special about this show … their ability to find something, almost like a wrong, and right it.” •

—Alex Burton

alumni headliner

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Jack D. Gibson, ’70MAE73, Hamilton, Ind., Aug. 19.Marcia E. (Wray) Benson, ’71, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 12.Carol J. (Vollmar) Hadley, ’71MAE76, Kokomo, Ind., Sept. 9.Pamela S. (Flesher) Harrell, ’72MA77, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 20.Marlene D. (Knudson) Koenig, MA72, Vancouver, Wash., Aug. 29.Merrill L. Melton, Jr., MA72, Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 17.Richard M. Cheney, ’73, Muncie, Ind., Aug. 8.Robert A. O’Brien, MA74, Indianapolis, Ind., Sept. 9.Charles B. Spicer, ’74, Greenwood, Ind., Sept. 15.John R. Kelley, ’75, Muncie, Ind., Sept. 10.Geoffre C. Pettygrove, ’75, Des Moines, Iowa, Sept. 30.Marcella L. (Elston) Abell, MAE76, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, May 6.Wanda A. Achor, MAE76, Marion, Ind., Sept. 4.Bruce E. Brandle, ’76, Marion, Ind., Sept. 6. Connie S. (Beecher) Phillips, ’76, Buckland, Alaska, Dec. 22, 2010.Marian L. (Creek) Pope, MAE76, Liberty, Ind., July 27.Howard L. Barrs, MA77, Mechanicsburg, Pa., Dec. 27, 2010.Lars H. Bergdahl, MBA77, Roseville, Calif., Nov. 19, 2010.Charles E. Conley, MA77, Wentzville, Mo., Dec. 18, 2010.Wendell B. Dickinson, MA77, Papillion, Neb., May 20.Scott F. Lacy, ’77, Hagerstown, Ind., Sept. 8.

Ronald H. Stanley, MA77, Lacey, Wash., June 26.Joanne T. Beltrame, ’78, Chicago, Ill., Sept. 4.Mary H. (Hillis) Loeb, ’78, Bloomington, Ind., May 12.Ronald J. Stokel, ’78, Lake Winnebago, Mo., Aug. 19.

NewsJim Banta, ’71, Indianapolis, Ind., along with Jeffrey L. Mason, ’84, Washington, Ind., and John Skelton, ’87, Avon, Ind., participated in the Crane Cyclefest on May 21. The event supports Ride 2 Recovery, providing rehabilitation services for wounded veterans.

Gordon R. Simons, ’71MAE75, Greenwood, Ind., retired from Franklin Township schools, following 37 years of teaching and coaching.

Mark P. Sharfman, ’73, Purcell, Okla., was appointed as Puterbaugh Chair in American free enterprise and re-appointed as director of the division of management and entrepreneurship in the Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma.

Gregory S. Smith, ’73, Freeport, N.Y., associate professor of journalism at Hofstra University, has had his book, “Going Solo: Doing Videojournalism in the 21st Century,” published by the University of Missouri Press.

Richard A. Young, ’73, Indianapolis, Ind., partner with Kightlinger & Gray, LLP, was selected by his peers for inclusion in the area of product liability litigation—defendents in “The Best Lawyers in America® 2012.”

Michael E. Carrier, MA74, Keizer Ore., Ball State NREM Award of Distinction honoree (2002), has been selected the assistant regional director for fishery resources in the pacific region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Carol J. Shrum, ’74, Las Vegas, Nev., is working as a security training supervisor at The Mirage Hotel.

Douglas A. Darling, ’75, Tallahassee, Fla., formerly Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s deputy chief of staff and director of Cabinet affairs, has been named the executive director of the state’s new Department of Economic Opportunity.

William L. Ransom, ’75, Knox, Ind., retired after 36 years as a math teacher with the North Judson-San Pierre School Corporation.

Rick A. Richards, ’75, Michigan City, Ind., was named 2010 Small Business Journalist of the Year by the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center. Richards is the editor of the Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly magazine.

Mark E. Coers, ’77MA79, Muncie, Ind., has been selected to serve as the civilian deputy to the Joint Civil Military Affairs Officer of the Indiana National Guard following his retirement from the U.S. Army/Indiana National Guard. Coers was awarded the Legion of Merit and the U.S. Army Signal Regiment Bronze Order of Mercury during his retirement ceremony.

|1980|In MemoriumHerbert O. Bittenger, ’80, Marietta, Ga., July 21.Gail M. (Comer) Dobbs, ’80MA85, Muncie, Ind., June 30.Beverly L. (Washburn) Speer, MA80, Palatine, Ill., Aug. 14.Lila M. (Smoot) Young, ’80, North Wales, United Kingdom, Aug. 20.M. Pamela Arnold, ’81, Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 6.Carol R. (Cain) Hatfield, MAE82, Richmond, Ind., Sept. 17.Carol A. Stone, ’82, Oak Brook, Ill., July 28.Jerry L. Hannah, ’84, Danville, Ind., Aug. 27.Daniel A. Hill, ’84, Seymour, Ind., Aug. 1.Melton S. Cook, ’86, Canton, Ohio, Aug. 15, 2010.Vickie L. Graham, ’86, Anderson, Ind., Sept. 14.Cherilyn G. (Stephens) Ryder, ’87, Indianapolis, July 28.Daniel K. McNew, ’88, Fishers, Ind., July 26.

NewsTheodore “Ted” C. Buehl, ’80, Berea, Ohio, was appointed pastor at North Liberty United Methodist Church, Butler, Ohio.

Bryan A. Mills, ’82, Noblesville, Ind., president and CEO of Community Health Network, was appointed to the Butler University board of trustees.

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Gregory L. Landess, ’83, Charlotte, N.C., participated in building a home for “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” during which First Lady Michelle Obama visited the building site to support the project.

Jeffrey L. Mason, ’84, Washington, Ind., along with Jim Banta, ’71, Indianapolis, Ind., and John Skelton, ’87, Avon, Ind., participated in the Crane Cyclefest on May 21. The event supports Ride 2 Recovery, providing rehabilitation services for wounded veterans.

Paul R. Tappan, ’84MA90, Anderson, Ind., has become dean of students at Anderson High School, following more than 20 years as a science teacher.

Steven M. Crell, ’85, Fishers, Ind., partner with the law firm of Cohen Garelick & Glazier, has broadened his professional accomplishments and added registered civil mediator to his practice’s scope of work.

J. Andrew Concannon, ’86, Zionsville, Ind., of Goelzer Investment Management was named a top investment manager in the 2011 Indianapolis Monthly Five Star Wealth Managers of the Year Award.

John Skelton, ’87, Avon, Ind., along with Jeffrey L. Mason, ’84, Washington, Ind., and Jim Banta, ’71, Indianapolis, Ind., participated in the Crane Cyclefest on May 21. The event supports Ride 2 Recovery,

providing rehabilitation services for wounded veterans.

Barbara M. (Greenhoe) Vader, ’88BAR88, Portage, Mich., returned to TMP Architecture, Inc., as a project architect.

Erik R. Deckers, ’89MA90, Fishers, Ind., has co-authored his second book on social media, “No Bullshit Social Media.”

|1990|In MemoriamAlan W. Niezabitowski, ’90, Lafayette, Ind., Aug. 13.Ronald L. Rhoten, ’91, Daleville, Ind., July 23.Eric G. Saltzmann, MA92, Anderson, Ind., Aug. 4.David B. Crawford, MA93, Royal Oak, Mich., Aug. 24.Daniel H. Doherty, MA93, Merrillville, Ind., Aug. 31.William D. Brown, ’94, Muncie, Ind., Sept. 7.Tracey L. (Miller) VanScoder, ’97, Avilla, Ind., Sept. 1.Lisa A. Turner, ’99, Fort Scott, Kan., June 11.

NewsDirk D. Haire, ’90, Annapolis, Md., joined Fox Rothschild LLP as managing partner of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, co-chairing the firm’s construction law practice.

Joan E. (Smart) Schmalzried, MA90EdD10, Huntington, Ind., joined the faculty at Huntington University as an assistant professor of education.

Mohammad A. Karim, MS93, New Rochelle, N.Y., is project manager and data architect working for General Electric Company.

Diane M. Welsh, MBA93, McFarland, Wis., chief legal counsel of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, joined von Briesen & Roper, s.c., as a shareholder, chairing the firm’s Government Relations and Regulatory Law Section.

David A. Grantz, ’94, Jeffersonville, Ind., owner of Louisville-based BUZZ Advertising and Marketing, was hired by The PGA of America to manage all marketing and advertising for the 2012 Senior PGA Championship.

John E. Mickle, ’95, Muncie, Ind., has been promoted to assistant vice president, information security officer at MutualBank in Muncie.

Frank E. Ross III, ’95MA00, Chicago, Ill., became the new vice president for student life at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago. Ross is also a professor in educational leadership at NEIU.

Holly J. (Joiner) Wanzer, ’95, Indianapolis, Ind., Alumni Legacy Scholarship recipient (2000), co-founded Wanzer Edwards, PC, an Indianapolis-based law firm focused on family law, collaborative law, and family mediation.

Steven M. Patterson, ’96, Dyer, Ind., Journalism Young Alumnus Award recipient (2006), has been named vice

president with Res Publica Group, a Chicago-based strategic communications firm.

Bryan L. Bain, ’97MA99, Madison, Wis., was appointed assistant dean of students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Jennifer C. Holt, ’97, Fort Wayne, Ind., has been promoted to the rank of sergeant and has transferred to the training division where she will serve in the planning, facilitation, and documentation of programs for the Fort Wayne Post of the Indiana State Police.

Cory D. Miller, ’97BAR97, Fort Wayne, Ind., Legacy Scholarship recipient (1992), an associate principal at SchenkelShultz Architecture, has been selected as the 2011 American Institute of Architects, Indiana Chapter’s Young Architect Award recipient.

James L. Nichols II, ’97, Loveland, Ohio, was hired as principal of Indian Hill Primary School in the greater Cincinnati area.

Jeremy R. Groves, ’98, Rochelle, Ill., was promoted to the rank of associate professor in the economics department at Northern Illinois University.

Daron L. Montgomery, MA98, Berkley, Mich., was named director of athletics at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Sarah A. (McHugh) Futa, ’99, Castle Rock, Colo., was


promoted to senior director of national marketing operations for MDC Holdings, Inc./Richmond American Homes, Denver.

Mark E. Wise, ’99, Carmel, Ind., was named one of the top volunteers in the country by Northwestern Mutual, an honor that awards The Timmy Foundation a $10,000 grant in recognition of Wise’s work with the nonprofit organization.

MarriagesHollie E. (Doleys), ’97, to David Carlson, Aug. 6. The couple resides in Elkhart, Ind.

New AdditionsShelley A. (Beber) Kinder, ’95, and her husband Scott, Woonsocket, R.I., a daughter, April 19.

Scott B. Miller, ’97MAE07, and his wife Lynn D. (Morris), ’97BS02, Coatesville, Ind., a daughter, July 13.

Michael D. Wantz, ’97, and his wife Abby, Indianapolis, Ind., a son, Aug. 15.

Amanda G. (Fields), ’98, and her husband Scott Thomas, ’97, Fishers, Ind., a son, May 2.

Nicole L. (Pressner) Francis, ’99, and her husband Jonathan, Indianapolis, Ind., a daughter, July 5.

Michelle M. (Tullis) Risser, ’99, and her husband Eric, Goshen, Ind., a daughter, May 28.

Riding 40 miles per day for 27 consecutive days, Ellen Bryan, ’11, spent the month of September pedaling around Ohio raising money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. As the current Miss Ohio, Bryan’s bike tour is one of the many fundraising and campaigning opportunities she will take part in to prepare for the 2012 Miss America pageant held in Las Vegas on January 14.

“I got to know a lot of the children by volunteering with the hospital, and got to see their stories and what they had been through,” says Bryan. “you just see how much strength and determination they have to get through anything. That’s what I wanted to raise the money for and do whatever I can to alleviate some of the problems they have in the hospital.”

As a freshman at Ball State, Bryan was encouraged by a professor to try pageants as a resume-booster for her future career in broadcast journalism. After much contemplation, she went on to win Miss Lake Festival 2008, Miss Miami Valley 2010, Miss Clayland 2011, and her most prestigious accomplishment, Miss Ohio 2011. To her surprise, Bryan found her voice in pageants.

“I didn’t realize that once you get a crown, it gives you a voice that you never thought you’d have at [this] young of an age,” says Bryan.

Bryan used her newfound voice to educate others about an issue that hits close to home: lightning safety. Her sister Christina was severely disabled by a lightning strike in 2000, inspiring Bryan to build her platform around educating students, business leaders, and organizations about important precautions to take during a thunderstorm.

Bryan, who is still in shock upon receiving her most recent title, is enjoying the ride while looking forward to a future in broadcast journalism and charity work.

“I can’t even tell you a time when I watched Miss America,” says Bryan. “It’s never something I thought I would do, and here I am, going to Miss America in January … I love it. I think it’s the greatest job I’ve ever had.” •

—Michelle D. Johnson

|2000|In MemoriamJanet G. Polvino, DA00, Northampton, Mass., Aug. 18.Danny D. DeWeese, ’03, Warren, Ind., July 31.Daniel R. Reddy, ’03, Indianapolis, Aug. 13.Micah L. (Wing) Farmer, ’07, Decatur, Ind., Aug. 23.Cassandra R. Enyart, ’09, Portland, Ind., April, 22, 2010.

NewsNeil L. Behrman, ’00MA05, Chatou, France, took a new position as a middle school math teacher at Marymount International School, Paris in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France.

Jason A. Casares, ’00MA02MA03, Sahuarita, Ariz., has been appointed associate dean of students and director of student ethics at Indiana University.

Beth A. (Mickelson) Bray, ’01, Indianapolis, Ind., was promoted to director of charter schools within the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office.

Lauren A. (Fonte) Young, ’01, Fishers, Ind., is a human resources consultant for Yellow Pages Group in Indianapolis.

George A. Arey, MA02, Boston, Mass., was appointed director of residential education at Boston College.

alumni headliner

PHOTO COURTESy OF THE MISS OHIO SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM


PHOTO COURTESy OF DEB KUNCE

Jeffrey M. Malloy, ’03, Terre Haute, Ind., is now the dean of students at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.

Lizabeth A. Arnold, MS04, Louisville, Ky., founder of Top of Your Game Louisville and mental performance coach, was designated a Certified Consultant by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Lalena K. (Ricketts) Boller, ’04, Marion, Ind., published a short story, “Push Button, Get Bacon,” in an anthology, “Dead Souls,” by Post Mortem Press.

Chris Wilson, ’04, Davie, Fla., has earned the Certified Treasury Professional certification from the Association for Financial Professionals.

Elizabeth I. Goshert, ’05, Jacksonville, Fla., was honored by Buzz Magazine as one of the “Top 30 Under 30” of Jacksonville. Goshert works for the Cox Media Group, Jacksonville, as events director and promotions director.

Ryan A. Kelly, ’05, Muncie, Ind., has been hired by Whitinger & Company as senior audit accountant.

Jonathan P. Scott, ’05, Indianapolis, Ind., has taken on the newly created digital media manager position at Indianapolis Monthly.

Matthew B. Segal, ’05, Morehead, Ky., has been named athletic media relations director at Morehead State University.

Natalie K. Shafer, ’05MS07, Muncie, Ind., was promoted to senior accountant with Whitinger & Company.

Jason R. Wiesmann, MA05, Indianapolis, Ind., was hired as an assistant principal by Southport 6th Grade Academy.

Clair E. Burt, ’06, Muncie, Ind., Ball State University Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship recipient (2003), is the new full-time gardener at Minnetrista.

Chyrise S. King, MBA06, Noblesville, Ind., was appointed to the Indiana Non-Public Education Association board of directors.

Steven P. Nawara, ’06, Valdosta, Ga., began work as an assistant professor of political science at Valdosta State University.

Amber D. Sibley, MA07, Dayton, Ohio, has been appointed advisor to the University of Dayton Student Government Association, Campus Activities Board, and the Charity Concert Committee.

David P. Studinski, ’07MA09, New York, N.Y., became product manager at Sailthru. Studinski was inducted into the Ball State journalism department’s Secondary Education Services Hall of Fame.

Cameron S. Andry, ’09, Muncie, Ind., was hired as the new head coach for the men’s golf program at Taylor University.

Believing Mike Brady from television’s “The Brady Bunch” had the perfect job, one that allowed him to be home or on nice vacations with his family seemingly all the time, Deb Kunce, ’93, hasn’t quite followed her inspiration’s blueprint.

Instead, she has focused her passions in architecture with a view toward positively affecting her industry and the communities and publics it serves. Kunce’s dedication to her craft has led her peers to name her as an American Institute of Architects Fellow, an honor reserved for just 3 percent to 4 percent of architects in the nation.

“My focus has really been in three areas, forming the AIA future through integrated media, through strategic planning, as well as being an advocate for emerging professionals or developing future leaders,” says Kunce.

The foundation for Kunce’s work ethic was established while at Ball State where she discovered hands-on and immersive learning opportunities, which provided her with real-life experiences. Such opportunities allowed her to participate in Polyark—a program offered every few years by Ball State’s College of Architecture and Planning—that takes students on a world tour.

Those experiences also prepared her for her career, spent mostly with Schmidt Associates, Indianapolis, Ind., where she has been given many opportunities to lead and be an active participant in the community. “We are really helping our community grow through the projects, but also through community service,” says Kunce.

Working with Indianapolis Public Schools has been one of her most fulfilling projects. She has worked to improve its facilities, and has so far renovated 50 buildings. Making these improvements has also had a positive impact on the surrounding neighborhoods.

“We want the facility to be a tool for the students and not a hindrance,” says Kunce.

Kunce was also elected as vice president of AIA. She takes office in January 2012 and will serve a two-year term, during which she plans to focus on affecting public understanding of the role of architects by increasing and demonstrating the values that architects bring to the community, and how design positively impacts health and community. •

—Alex Burton

alumni headliner


Whitney L. (Kraus) Jones, ’09, Chicago, Ill., works as a facilitator at the Museum of Science and Industry, and as an actress in Chicago. Jones starred in a commercial for Virgin Mobile/Motorola for the Triumph Android phone.

Summer A. (O’Dell) Smith, ’09MA10, Indianapolis, Ind., is a tax consultant at Deloitte, a big-four accounting firm, and is currently finishing up her CPA certification.

Drew M. Smith, ’09, Indianapolis, Ind., is a project manager at Safari Solutions, an HR-outsourcing firm.

MarriagesStefanie A. (Szpak), ’00, to Jeffrey M. Berdine, Aug. 6. The couple resides in Crown Point, Ind.

Ann L. (Fox), ’00, to Jubert Chavez, Sept. 10. The couple resides in Dallas, Texas.

George A. Arey, MA02, to Rachel S. Siebert, March 31. The couple resides in Boston, Mass.

Nakul Bhatia, MS03, to Ruchi Sharma, Jan. 11. The couple resides in Charlotte, N.C.

Joshua M. Burton, ’05, to Eric W. Sanner, ’02, Sept. 9. The couple resides in Muncie, Ind.

Jessie H. (Liles), ’05, to Ryan Broadstreet, June 18. The couple resides in Indianapolis, Ind.

Andrea L. (Hoagland), ’05MAE10, to James W. Potter, June 25. The couple resides in Covington, Ind.

Katie A. (Meyer), ’05MA09, to Mark A. Termion, ’08, July 10, 2010. The couple resides in Wheaton, Ill.

Devin C. (Cierniak), ’08, to Ryan C. Yoder, ’05, May 14. The couple resides in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Michele A. (Faroh), ’06MBA07, to Paul Musson, Aug. 13. The couple resides in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Lisa M. (Cotton), ’07, to Ryan B. Small, ’03, April 23. The couple resides in Fishers, Ind.

Lindsay J. (Miller), ’07, to Austin Rank, July 30. The couple resides in Encino, Calif.

Jennifer L. (Strempka), ’08, to Brandon M. Hoopingarner, ’08MAR11, Sept. 2. The couple resides in Indianapolis, Ind.

Whitney L. (Kraus), ’09, to Justin Jones, Sept. 10. The couple resides in Chicago, Ill.

Summer A. (O’Dell), ’09MA10, to Drew M. Smith, ’09, June 3. The couple resides in Indianapolis, Ind.

New AdditionsNicole M. (Babb) Cassidy, ’00, and her husband Andrew, Toledo, Ohio, a daughter, Nov. 20, 2010.

Michael J. Lively, ’00, and his wife Dawn M. (Huffman), ’01, a Legacy Scholarship recipient (1997), Indianapolis, Ind., a daughter, Aug. 2, and adopted daughter, July 8, 2010.

Kimberly (Scaringe), ’00, and her husband Jason R. Wiesmann, MAE04, Indianapolis, Ind., a son, April 11.

Beth A. (Mickelson) Bray, ’01, and her husband David, Indianapolis, Ind., a son, April 25.

George A. Arey, MA02, and his wife Rachel, Boston, Mass., a daughter, Oct. 15.

Scott A. Buchner, ’03, and his wife Emilie S. (Feick), ’06, Noblesville, Ind., a daughter, Aug. 15.

Jamie D. (Dustman), ’04, and her husband Rich, Fishers, Ind., a son, July 25.

Suzanne M. (Bingham) Henderson, ’04, and her husband Justin, Franklin, Ind., a daughter, April 5.

Susan E. (Thompson), ’04, and her husband Joshua M. Panyard, ’04, Fort Wayne, Ind., a son, Sept. 23.

Kelly C. (Donlan), ’05, and her husband Brian M. Dingman, ’04, Indianapolis, Ind., a daughter, Aug. 25.

Matthew E. Kindler, ’05, and his wife Julia, Rockford, Ill., a daughter, Sept. 14.

Ashley E. (Stewart) Reynolds, ’06, and her husband Ronnie, Portland, Ind., a son, Sept. 15, 2010.

Leah R. (Fernsler), ’06, and her husband Steven A. Shattuck, ’06, Indianapolis, Ind., a son, July 18.

Jennifer A. (Nietupski) Shelter, ’09, and her husband Travis, Mishawaka, Ind., a daughter born Aug. 2.

|2010|NewsJustin R. Toft, MA10, Sandusky, Ohio, following his graduation from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science is employed at his family firm, Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, Sandusky.

Stacy M. Rorick, ’11, Fort Wayne, Ind., was recruited as an intern at The Estopinal Group LLC.

MarriagesHilary M. (Brown), ’10, to Nicholas A. Duvall, ’07, Sept. 17. The couple resides in Indianapolis, Ind.

Charles M. Burgess, ’11, to Margaret A. (Mattmiller), ’09, July 23. The couple resides in Dublin, Ohio.

class notes

Bib with Snap Fastener By Third Street Sportswear, cotton/ spandex. In red with “Ball State” written in white (K4)$7.55

Antigua Men’s Polo 100% cotton. In white with “Ball State University” and Cardinal logo embroidered on front (PS2) (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$49.95

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Ball State Alumni Gilda T-shirt 100% cotton. In black with “BALL STATE” silk-screened across chest and Cardinal logo and “ALUMNI” on right sleeve (T2) (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$13.08

Slide Top Stainless Steel Travel Mug With handle. In red, with Charlie Cardinal logo in white and “Ball State Alumni” written underneath in white (M1)$9.99

License FramesLicense plate frames by Stockdale. In mirrored chrome with “ALUMNI” and “BALL STATE” (L1). “ALUMNI” and “BALL STATE” reflective lettering on black background with Charlie Cardinal logo (L2). $12.95License Front PlateBall State Alumni Front Plate, in white with “Ball State University Alumni” and Benny logo. (L3). $3.95Specify which license plate or frame L1, L2, or L3 when ordering.

Kids Hoodie by Third Street Sportswear Cotton/poly blend. In red with “Ball State Cardinals” written in black and white. “Ball State” is printed inside the hood lining in red (K3). (Check shop.ballstateuniversityalumni.com/ for available sizes)$21.95

NameplatesOne-sided nameplate with a 2X2” logo and a 2X7” nameplate (N1). Please specify font style as “traditional” or “informal” as indicated on image.$25.95 Two-sided nameplate with a 2X2” logo and a 2X7” nameplate on one side, and a full-sized 2X9” logo on the reverse side (N2) Please specify font style as “traditional” or “informal” as indicated on image.$34.95NOTE: On all nameplates, please specify name for engraving.

Kids “First” BSU T-shirt By Third Street Sportswear. 100% cotton. In red with “My First Ball State T-Shirt” in white writing and Charlie Cardinal logo in the middle (K5) (Check shop.ballstateuniversityalumni.com for available sizes)$11.21

Kids T-shirts By Third Street Sportswear. 100 % cotton. In red with “Ball State” in black and white writing (K1). In grey with “Ball State” in black and red writing (K2). (Check shop.ballstateuniversityalumni.com for available sizes) $11.21

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(N2)

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“informal”

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(L1)

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Unisex Quarter Zip Fleece In red with “Ball State” embroidered on front and “Alumni” and Cardinal logo embroidered on back by Port Authority (F2) (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$37.95

(F2)

(H9)

(B1)

Ball State Gildan T-shirt100% cotton, 6.1 oz. IRed with “Ball State” in white, (T7) (S,M,L,XL,XXL) $13.08

(T7)

(W2)

(PS2)

Sunderland of Scotland Cardinal WindshirtIn red (W1) with embroidered Cardinal logo. (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$48.00

(T2)

(T1)

(W2)

Augusta V-Neck WindshirtRed with “Cardinal Head” logo and “BALL STATE Cardinals” embroidered the left chest, “Cardinal Head” logo embroidered on back nape of neck, and white piping the length of each sleeve. 100% nylon with a 100% polyester lining on inside (W2) Unisex (S,M,L,XL,XXL) $42.99

Ball State Alumni Gilda T-shirt 100% cotton. In red with “BALL STATE” silk-screened across chest and Cardinal logo and “ALUMNI” on right sleeve (T1) (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$13.08

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Assorted HatsBlack with white “B” (H1); red with Cardinal logo (H3); red with “Ball State” and Cardinal logo (H4); stone with “Ball State” and Cardinal head logo (H5); Charcoal with “Ball State” and Cardinal head logo (H6); stone with “Ball State Alumni” (H8); and black with “Ball State” and Cardinal head logo (H9)$14.95

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Sweatshirt by Cotton ExchangeIn grey (S8) with embroidered Cardinal logo. (S, M, XL, XXL)$29.95

Gildan T-shirt 100% cotton, 6.1 oz. wt. In red with black and white Benny logo (T4). (S, M,L, XL, XXL)$13.08

Gildan T-shirt 100% cotton, 6.1 oz. wt. In red with black and white “Ball State” lettering with cardinal head and “alumni” printed on back (T8). (S, M,L, XL, XXL)$13.08

60” Hurricane Golf Umbrella In red and white with Ball State Alumni Association logo (U1) $29.95

Sweatshirt by Cotton ExchangeIn red (S7) with embroidered Cardinal logo. (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$29.95

BSU Hoodie SweatshirtRed Hoodie with Tackle Twill embroidery front BSU Cardinals Sports Tek by Port AuthorityUnisex (S10). (S, M, L, XL, XXL)$36.99

Ball State Blanket100% acrylic, red with black and white trim with Cardinal logo and “Ball State” on front, measures 60”X64” (TH2).$59.95

Merchandise Total

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Subtotal

IN residents add 7% sales tax(merchandise and shipping)

Total

Month/Year

Expiration Date

Address To: Cardinal Corner, Inc. Ball State University Alumni Association, Muncie, IN 47306-0075

Circle one VISA MASTERCARD

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X Signature (as shown on credit card) Mailing Zip Code

Name and Description of Item Size Price TotalColor

Name

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Please allow two weeks for delivery.

Items U1, N1, and N2additional shipping fee applies

when shipped separately.

To Order by Mail, complete this form and send it with your credit card information or a check payable to Cardinal Corner, Inc.To order by credit card (MasterCard/Visa only)PHONE: (765) 285-1080 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) • FAX: (765) 285-1414 (24 hours a day) To order electronically, go to the Cardinal Corner Web site at shop.ballstateuniversityalumni.comPlease indicate selection by placing the item number (K1, etc.) in the item box on the form.

To Order:

Sweatshirt by Cotton ExchangeIn red with “Ball State University” embroidered in white (S6). (S, L, XL, XXL)$29.95

(S7)

(S8)

(S1) (S6)

(T4)(T8)

(TH2)

(U1)

Security Code

Ball State University : An Interpretive HistoryA narrative look at the university, authored by Ball State professors Anthony Edmonds and Bruce Geelhoed (B1). $29.95

What’s New?

AHEAD Sweatshirt PulloverScarlet Half zip with sleeves and neck trimmed in white with Cardinal head embroidered (S11) (M, L, XL, XXL)$49.95

Women’s Port Authority Fleece Jacket

Full zip, fitted soft fleece with “BALL STATE

Alumni” and Cardinal head embroidered.

In grey (WF2), in black (WF1), and in

winter white (WF3). (S, M, L, XL, XXL)

$42.00

Ball State Tervis TumblersDishwasher-, microwave-, and freezer-safe polymer cups with BALL STATE and Cardinal head logo emblem. 10 oz. (TT1), $11.00; 12 oz. (TT2), $11.50; 16 oz. (TT3), $12.00; 15 oz. mug (TT4), $16.00; and 24 oz. (TT5), $16.00.

(TT1)

(TT2)

(TT3)

(TT4)

(TT5)

$6.00

2 Ball State Alumnus / Winter 2010

parting shot

Above: Theta Chi alumni participate in the 2011 Homecoming Parade, Oct. 8.Below (left): Students perform dance and lip sync routines during Air Jam. (right) The Black Student Association was the Independent and Overall Winner of Air Jam, during which students tied their acts to the theme, “It’s a bird ... It’s a game ... It’s Homecoming.”

PHOTOS BY M. HICKEY, BALL STATE PHOTO SERVICES

ball state alumnus

Documents

ball state alumni association

edualumniball state

alumni outreach julie

interim executive director

alumni programs jessica

vice chairman jennifer

vice chairman larry

past chairman