Message from President Smeed on New Year 2022
In the vibrant world of academia and athletics, Park University stood out in 2021, marking a year filled with accomplishments and milestones.
The university's athletic department, under the guidance of Head Coach Mike Talamantes, clinched a historic double victory. Senior Nada Meawad earned her third NAIA Player of the Year designation, while Talamantes secured his second NAIA Coach of the Year award. Meanwhile, the Gilbert Campus Department of Athletics was recognised as an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star institution at the gold level in July 2021.
In the realm of academics, Park University continued to foster a diverse learning environment, serving students from 50 states and 60 countries. The university also took a significant step in March 2021, becoming a member of the Federal Aviation Administration's Unmanned Aircraft Systems - Collegiate Training Initiative.
The university's faculty and staff, dedicated to student success, completed a nine-month course on effective teaching practices offered by the Association for College and University Educators. Additionally, twenty-seven faculty members successfully completed the course, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
In the field of music, Stanislav Ioudenitch, associate professor of music/piano and artistic director of the International Center for Music, was inducted into the 2021 class of the Steinway & Sons Teacher Hall of Fame. The university's musical prowess will be showcased at Stanislav & Friends, a gala event at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts' Helzberg Hall, on March 19, 2022.
Park University's International Center for Music also produced a notable graduate, Kenny Broberg, who won the American Pianists Association's 2021 American Pianists Awards competition.
The university's military and veteran student population also received significant attention. Park University announced plans to expand services for this group, including a new tool that will give students insight into how their skillsets translate into civilian career paths. The university also joined the Department of Defense Military Spouse Employment Partnership in October 2021.
As the university looks forward to the challenges and opportunities of 2022, President Shane B. Smeed expresses his honour in serving the institution and his eagerness to chart a bold and innovative pathway forward. Notably, Park University will celebrate its 60th anniversary of establishing its degree completion program for military students in 2022.
The Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center and School of Business officially opened in August 2021, marking a significant step in the university's commitment to business education.
Lastly, the Claude English Court at the Breckon Sports Center will be dedicated on January 8, 2022, to honour recently retired director of athletics, Coach English.
These accomplishments, while not exhaustive, illustrate the vibrant and dynamic nature of Park University in 2021. For more detailed and verified information, we encourage readers to consult Park University's official website, news archives, press releases, and annual reports or newsletters.
Sincerely, Shane B. Smeed, President Park University
At Park University, the Gilbert Campus Department of Athletics demonstrated a dedication to sports excellence, earning recognition as an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star institution at the gold level in July 2021. Concurrently, in the realm of education and self-development, faculty members completed a nine-month course on effective teaching practices, showcasing a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
