Latest Edition of The Crow's Nest Newsletter - April 7, 2025
Park University is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for a series of upcoming events, significant appointments, and notable achievements.
In an exciting development, Park University has signed an agreement with Kansas University's ROTC Program. From Fall 2025, KU will provide ROTC instruction and training to qualified students at Park University, marking a significant expansion of military education opportunities.
Meanwhile, the university's Barnes and Noble Bookstore is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a range of commemorative items. From short-sleeve T-shirts and coffee mugs to men's polo shirts, there's something for everyone to show their Park University pride.
In the realm of academic achievements, Lupe Valdovino has been appointed as the grant manager for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County (Kan.) and Kansas City, Kan. Meanwhile, Lynh Nguyen, a senior psychology major, has been accepted into the U.S. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program.
The Park University International Center for Music is gearing up for its season finale performance on April 25. The father-daughter duo of pianist Stanislav Ioudenitch and violinist Maria Ioudenitch will also perform on May 7.
Academic success extends beyond the classroom as well. Kaya Barringer, Haley Wathen, and Eli Wilhelm presented at the Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society's annual convention. Nash Porter, a senior English major, won a $500 prize in the Common Reader category at the same convention.
In sports news, Symirah Gray has signed a letter-of-intent to play women's basketball at Park University's Gilbert (Ariz.) Campus. Ricardo Hernandez, a senior baseball catcher, was named NAIA Baseball Player of the Week for his exceptional performance the week of March 3. Alex Rodriguez was also featured in the Platte County (Mo.) Citizen for breaking the school record for runs scored and at-bats.
The university's faculty members are also making a mark. Dr. Paul Orscheln, who brings 26 years of experience in student success and enrollment, with the last 13 years at the executive level, has been appointed as the Vice President of Enrollment and Student Services at Park University, effective March 3. His responsibilities include overseeing recruitment, admissions, and enrollment processes, managing student services, collaborating with academic and administrative departments, and developing strategies to improve enrollment and student engagement.
Several faculty members have also been recognised for their contributions. Eleven faculty presented sessions at the Kansas City Professional Development Council's Enhancing Teaching and Learning Conference in Kansas City, Mo., on March 1. Dianna Carmenaty, John Hamilton, and Greg Plumb were among those who presented papers. Greg Plumb also chaired a session on Programs and Policies of Special Needs Populations.
In addition, Susan Keim, Ph.D., was interviewed for a story related to a potential U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Leavenworth, Kan. Matt Harris, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, was a panelist on KCUR-FM's "Up to Date" and was interviewed for stories related to President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico.
The university's Giving Day will be held between April 30 and May 1, with a goal of having 150 donors. Rosjai Curtis earned the NAIA Women's Outdoor Field Athlete of the Week for her performance in her outdoor track and field debut. Vanessa Pearce participated in a nearly 30-minute interview on the "Issues with Steve McIntosh" program on KNSS radio.
Lastly, three Park University faculty members presented at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Annual Meeting in Denver. Dan Gerber, director of academic retention initiatives, competed in the American Lung Association's Fight for Air Climb - Kansas City on March 2.
Park University continues to thrive, with a blend of academic excellence, sports achievements, and community involvement.
- Park University will not only offer education-and-self-development opportunities to students through ROTC instruction from Kansas University's ROTC Program but also encourages general-news coverage through faculty interviews.
- The university's involvement extends beyond the classroom, with sports achievements noted as Symirah Gray signs to play women's basketball, and faculty members, such as Dr. Paul Orscheln, making notable appointments in academic and student services, while also participating in sports activities like the American Lung Association's Fight for Air Climb.
