The Crow's Nest, on May 3, 2023: Report Provided
**Park University News Roundup: May 2023**
Park University continues to shine in various fields, with numerous students, faculty, and staff making significant strides in their respective areas. Here's a roundup of recent achievements and events at the Parkville Campus.
Lillian Floyd, a senior English and secondary education major, presented an analytical essay at a recent convention. Brandon Schmitz, another senior English major, showcased two papers at the same event. Their academic accomplishments are a testament to the university's commitment to fostering intellectual growth.
Three Park University seniors, whose artwork is currently on display at the Campanella Gallery within Norrington Center, are making a visual impact until June 6. The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for the community to appreciate their creative talents.
Sherry Lawdermilt, an alumna of Park University ('09, MBA '15, PhD.), has been appointed as the associate vice president and chief information officer at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn. This is a significant achievement and a source of pride for the Park University community.
The Park University Department of Athletics is hosting a women's networking event, Arrrgh & Arrrgh, on May 17. This event aims to empower and connect women in the sports industry.
In sports news, the men's volleyball team lost in the semifinals of the NAIA Men's Volleyball National Championship for the third year in a row. Despite the disappointment, junior outside hitter Joao Friedrich was named to the NAIA's All-America first team, a well-deserved recognition for his outstanding performance.
The women's beach volleyball team ended its season in the opening match of bracket play at the NAIA Women's Beach Volleyball National Invitational. The men's golf team, however, qualified for the NAIA Men's Golf National Championship with a one-stroke victory at the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship.
Artistic achievements were also in abundance. Photos from the Stanislav and Friends concert appeared in The Independent, while 18 graphic design seniors will exhibit their work in an exhibit at 2020 Baltimore Ave., Suite 105, in Kansas City, Mo.
Academically, Amber Dailey-Hebert, director of the Faculty Center for Innovation and professor of education, presented a trio of talks during a European trip. Neyamia Powell, a junior interdisciplinary studies major, won first prize and $300 for her literary analysis paper at a convention.
Faculty members also made notable contributions. Greg Plumb, J.D., chair and professor of criminal justice administration, was featured in the City of Parkville, Mo., monthly newsletter. Matt Harris, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science, was interviewed for stories related to former President Donald Trump's indictment proceedings and the race for Missouri's next governor.
Tamera Jenkins, Ph.D., assistant professor of criminal justice administration, was interviewed for preview stories related to Park University's "Women Transforming Criminal Justice" event. Nikki Pauls DeSimone and Leslie Jensby, both assistant professors of social work, presented a session on "A Trauma-Informed Approach: Educating Adopted Children" during the National Safe Schools Convening Academy's spring symposium.
Erik Bergrud, chief strategic communications officer at Park University, presented a session on "Small Staff = Big Results" at the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Pro Communicators Conference. Seth Arnold, MBA '16, was named to the 2023 Class of 40 Under Forty by Ingram's, a Kansas City business magazine.
The Outstanding Parkite Award was given to seniors Elias Eichhorn and Isabela Ribeiro at Park University's annual Honors Convocation. The award recognises students who demonstrate exemplary involvement, leadership, and contribution to the university community. Criteria often include active participation in campus activities or organizations, positive representation of Park University values, leadership roles or significant impact on campus life, and academic achievement and good standing with the university.
Cliff Illig, principal owner of Major League Soccer's Sporting Kansas City franchise and retired co-founder of Cerner Corp., will deliver the keynote address at Park University's Kansas City Area Commencement on May 6. The Dr. Doris A. Howell Leadership Awards were presented to Park University students, faculty, and staff as part of the 28th annual awards program.
Upcoming events at Park University include the Ellen Finley Earhart Department of Nursing Pinning Ceremony, the International Center for Music Concert, the Graphic Design Senior Show, the Kansas City Area Commencement Ceremony, and more. These events promise to be exciting and engaging, further enriching the Park University community.
Education and self-development were evident as Lillian Floyd and Brandon Schmitz presented analytical essays and scholarly papers at a recent convention, showcasing their commitment to learning and personal growth. Meanwhile, career development was on display with Sherry Lawdermilt's new appointment as the associate vice president and chief information officer at Austin Peay State University, a notable achievement that underscores Park University's impact in the wider community.
