UMKC Alumni in the Headlines (archives)

Please note that these are links to stories in publications and newspapers. Some news organizations deactivate those links after a period of time.

April, 2013

• Dr. Cody Bell (2011, Dentistry) joins Jackson Dental in Jackson, Missouri
• Elizabeth Bodine (2012, Nursing) has joined Mercy Clinic Physical Medicine
• Lyndell Brenton (2002, Management) has been elected Mayor of Liberty, MO
• Brian Campbell (1997, Education) was named Lee's Summit R-7 School District 2013-2014 Teacher of the Year
• Under the leadership of principal Sheryl Cochran (1998, Education), South Kansas City's Boone Elementary School has earned the Silver Award for national excellence from the National Center for Urban School Transformation
• Stephanie K. Dutton (1992, Management) has been appointed to the board of directors of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Pittsburgh affiliate, for the 2013-2014 fiscal year
• Steve Edwards (1978, Computing & Engineering) will take over as CEO of Black & Veatch in early 2014
• Brian Engel (1995, Law) and Kimberley Spies (1983, Law) have left King Hershey PC for White Goss Bowers March Schulte & Weisenfels PC
• Two UMKC alumni make Ingram's list of "50 Missourians You Should Know" in Ingram's March , 2013 issue. They are Esther George (2000, Management) and Mira Mdivani (1999, Law)
• Claire McCaskill held a meeting with Kansas City female entrepreneurs, including Denise Farris (1991, Law) to discuss the future of women-owned small businesses
• Dwight Frizzel (1988, Arts & Sciences) and Michael Henry create a daring "Darwin" chamber opera premiering April 26th at Union Station
• Governor Nixon has appointed Anthony Rex Gabbert (1980, Arst & Sciences) to the Missouri Court of Appeals
• Esther George (2000, Management) is speaking up for middle America
• Swedish actress Andrea Geursten (2006, Arts & Sciences) has formed a new theater company , Teater C, and is organizing a theater festival, in Sweden, that will feature American plays
• Nicole Higgins (2009, Arts & Sciences) has been appointed to the KCMO Mayor's "Challenge Cabinet"
• Drummer Matt Kane (1996, Arts & Sciences) will return to Kansas City to perform with the KC Generations Quartet this Thursday at the Blue Room
• PB&J Restaurants co-founder, Paul Khoury (1992, Arts & Sciences) adds a new restaurant, Twin Peaks, to the Kansas City area
• An interview with Blue KC vice president Dr. Gregg Laiben (1980, Medicine) on the importance of prevention programs
• Matt Mallinson (1983, Pharmacy) has been elected Mayor of Sugar Creek, MO
• Carole McArthur (1991, Medicine) has received the TWAS Award from the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World
• Dr. Gena McGivern (2012, Dentistry) has joined the staff at Hamilton and Wilson Orthodontics
• Attorneys Pat McInerney (1990, Law) and Steve Aaron (1992, Law) will leave Husch Blackwell LLP for Dentons US LLP
• Jacqueline Miller (1991, Dentistry) has been named to the list of Top Dentists in St. Louis, by STL Magazine
• Attorney Mark Murphy (1986, Law) has joined the firm Sandberg Phoenix as a member of the business litigation practice group
• Dr. Narong Prangcharoen (2010, Conservatory) has received a Guggenheim Fellowship from the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation
• Black & Veatch CEO Len Rodman (Computing & Engineering) has announced his plans to retire at the end of 2013
• Carman Stalker (1998, Arts & Sciences) has been named account manager at Department Zero
• The quest to build self-regulating cars, with a boost from Tim Sylvester (2012, Computing & Engineering)
• Dr. Cameron Wyckoff's(1992, Dentistry) practice has been named Cameron Business of the Year
• Kerwin Young (2012, Conservatory) will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with his hip-hop group Public Enemy on April 18
• UMKC Alumni in the Centurions Class of 2013: Jami Byer (2003 Management) - Bread & Butter Concepts, Brett Gray (2009 Management) – Commerce Bank, Phillip Hickman (1997 Education) – Genesis School, William “Bud” Reynolds (1995 Law) – Reynolds Law Firm

February, 2013

• Charles Bruffy (1988, Conservatory) and the Kansas City Chorale won a Grammy for best vocal performance
• Irene Caudillo (1990, Management) has been named Chief Program Officer at El Centro, Inc.
• Theresa Chu (2002, Law) and Aimme Gromowsky (1999, Law) are nominees for the board of Jackson County Sports Complex Authority
• Maura Cohara (2001, Law) is named a 2013 Rising Star by KC Magazine
• Victim found in the aftermath of JJ's Restaurant gas explosion and fire is believed to be Megan Cramer (1994, Law)
• Kansas City Star reprints article interviewing Megan Cramer (1994, Law) as founder of Gay & Lesbian Student Alliance at UMKC
• Riddhiman Das (2012 Computing & Engineering) is advocating for easing visa restrictions on immigrant entrepreneurs, like him
• Peggy Dunn (1972, Arts & Sciences) has been elected as chair of the board of directors at Truman Medical Centers
• Don Fehr (1973, Law) is rumored to be a possible candidate for chief of the National Basketball Players Association
• Remembering JJ's Restaurant, founded by Jimmy Frantze (1972, Arts & Sciences) and David Frantze (1981, Law)
• Christopher Kelts (2011, Conservatory) is a candidate for the Topeka Symphony's full-time conductorship
• Dr. Lora Lacey-Haun (1988, Education) has been named one of Ingram's 2013 Icons of Education
• Patrick McCown (1983, Management) and McCownGordon Construction has been named the Business Philanthropist of the Year as part of the 2013 Nonprofit Connect Philanthropy Awards
• An interview with Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partner, Allison Murdock (1998, Law)
• Pat Paton (1953, Arts & Sciences) is beginning her 58th year working in public realtions, in Kansas City
• Fritz Riesmeyer (1977, Law) oversees mock trial training for new FBi agents
• Horn professor Dr. Karen L. Robertson (1998, Conservatory) was a guest soloist with the Appalachian Philharmonia
• Carman Stalker (1998, Arts & Sciences) and Jodi Vickery (1995, Management) are named 2013 Rising Stars by KC Magazine
• American World Forwarders President Megan Thornberry (1993, Law) is carrying on the tradition, created by her father, of helping military families move freight
• Charlene Wilson (1996, Law) will retire as CEO of the Mid-America Coalition on Health Care

January, 2013

• Paul Berardi (2002, Management) has been appointed as the chief of the KCMO Fire Department
• Ramin Cherafat (2002, Management) has been appointed board chairman of the Olathe Chamber of Commerce
• Rajiv Chilakalapudi (1997, Computing & Engineering) has created a huge success in India with his animated Chhota Bheem
• An interview with Urban Neighborhood Initiative executive director Dianne Cleaver (1981, Arts & Sciences) on the future of revitalization in Kansas City
• Terri Clinton Dichiser (1990, Law), founder of Take Charge Inc., assists with the emotional and legal complexities of divorce
• Dr. Michael Farrar (1979, Medicine) discusses the potential benefits in using beta blockers to prevent the onset of dementia in senior citizens
• Charting the path to leadership of Roeland Park mayor Adrienne Foster (2005, Management)
• Martha Gabel (1985, Conservatory) is the 2013 President-Elect of the Kansas Music Educators Association
• Nathaniel Hagedorn (2004,Management), CEO of NorthPoint Development, will create a $35 million investment fund
• Bradley A. Lee (1984, Management) has been appointed vice president of commercial banking at Country Club Bank
• Dr. Kim McNeely (1998, Graduate Studies) has been appointed to Associate Vice Provost for University College and Undergraduate Advising
• The family business of Laurie Long Miller (1987, Management) has created a strong foundation for success
• Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Rob Mayer (1996, Law) is leaving the Senate to take over as Presiding Judge of the 35th Judicial Court
• Jackson County executive Mike Sanders (1990, Arts & Sciences) pushes ahead with plans for commuter rail and other transit expansion in Jackson County
• Steve Schanker (1994, Law) has been named to the board of directors of the local charity, Hands to Hearts
• Elizabeth Schild (2009, Management) has been named Community Development and Volunteer Manager at KVC Health Systems, Inc.
• Kentucky Supreme Court Justice Will Schroder (1971, Law) announced his retirement to battle a brain tumor
• Cathy Scott (1996, Conservatory), along with her vocal quintet, Five by Design, performed with the Boston Pops during their 2012 holiday tour
• La Reina, a new opera by composer Jorge Sosa (2008, Conservatory) has been awarded a $15K grant from the Opera Fund for Repertoire Development
• After completing the KDOT I-35 resurfacing project, Integrated Roadways founder Tim Sylvester (2012, Computing & Engineering) is hitting the road with his idea for prefabricated concrete modules

December, 2012

• Charles Bruffy (1988, Conservatory) is nominated for two Grammy awards for his work on the newest recording from the Kansas City Chorale
• A review from the Washington Post of Vinson Cole's (1972, Conservatory) recital performace at the Kennedy Center
• The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association honored local lawyers Tim Dollar (1984, Law), Jennifer Reagan (1995, Law) and Sandra Hessenflow (1992, Law) for contributions to the legal community at its annual luncheon on 12/7
• Dr. Michael Jensen (1979, Medicine) presented a elcture on the effects of obesity and the importance of education about obesity during the annual Dr. Mark Dodge Lectureship at the UMKC School of Medicine
• A new film by Tony Ladesich (2000, Arts & Sciences) is the centerpiece of the fourth annual Murder Ballad Ball, a festival that spotlights songs about love and homicide
• Dr. James Mirabile (1988, Medicine) and his work at Medi-Weightloss Clinics of Overland Park are profiled in HERLIFE Magazine
• Michael Schultes (1977, Dentistry) has been appointed to the Kansas Board of Examiners for Hearing Aids
• Peter Stobie (1990, Management) is the new director of financial planning for Kansas City University of Medicine & Biosciences
• Kerry Strayer (1985, Conservatory), Kansas City Jazz Orchestra artistic director, shares stories from his days as a jazz educator and, on the website of kcmetropolis.org, is interviewed
• Dr. Kristin Weidle (2002, Medicine) and Dr. Gina Mohart (1999, Medicine) join Mercy Clinic as primary care physicians

November, 2012

• Dr. Nicole Allcock (2002, Pharmacy) has received the 2012 Health System Pharmacy Alumni Service Award from the School of Pharmacy
• Dr. Mary Lynn Ayers (1983, Medicine) has been named to North Florida Regional Healthcare's list of "Medical Marvels"
• The Urban Neighborhood Initiative has named Dianne Cleaver (1981, Arts & Sciences) as its first executive director
• Husband and wife duo Brad Cox (2001, Conservatory) and Jennifer Cox presented the world premiere of their dance company's recent works this past Friday
• Sustainable fishing advocate Maria Finn (1991, Arts & Sciences) has released a new e-book on the topic of enjoying the entire fish
• The NorthPoint Development executive team of Brettt Grady (2008, Management), Nathaniel Hagedorn (2004, Management) and Brent Miles (2003, Arts & Sciences) is growing quickly with projects and financing
• Sean Hennessey (1993, Management) is named CFO for KCMO Water Services
• Museum curator Shannon Hsu (1988, Arts & Sciences) has been elected president of the Kansas Museums Association board of directors
• Dr. John Hughes (1966, Dentistry) is a 2012 recipient of the Oklahoma Baptist University alumni association's Profile in Excellence award
• In "Good People," Kelly McAndrew (1988, Arts & Sciences) plays a single mom of a mentally disable adult daughter
• Saumil Mehta (2002, Computing & Engineering) has raised $5.1 million in start-up funding for his marketing company, LocBox
• Sports medicine physician Dr. Frank Moussa (1993, Medicine) announces the opening of his newest clinic, in Phoenix
• Iryna Northrip (2012, Law) has joined Bryan Cave's Kansas City office as a member of the Transaction Client Service Group
• Tech Orchard LLC CEO Phil Poje (1983, Management) talks about his experience as a baby boomer entrepreneur
• Dr. R. August Ritter, III (1986, Medicine) has been added to the board of directors of Missouri Professionals Mutual
• Alan Seidel (1972, Law) has been named to the board of directors of the North Central Missouri College Foundation
• Dale Smith (1975, Pharmacy) has one of the largest collections of AIDS stamps produced by the United States and a heart for helping those with the disease
• Sylvia Stoner-Hawkins (1997, Conservatory) performed at Skidmore College on 11/7/12
• Sylvia Stoner-Hawkins (1997, Conservatory) and her husband performed at Skidmore College on 11/13/12
• Larry Ward (1961, Law) has made a reputation as a lawyer who defends other lawyers
• The new dental offices of Houston dentist Dr. Kevin Yeh (1999, Dentistry) will open on November 10
• The following alumni won seats in the November election:
  • Jeffrey Cox (2003, Law) for Cass County Presiding Commissioner
  • Randy Dunn (2007 Management) for Missouri House of Representatives
  • Sheila Ernzen (1996 Management) for Clay County Auditor
  • Nick Marshall (1999 Law) for Missouri House - 13th district
  • Joe McGaugh (2010, Law) for Missouri House District 39
  • Judy Morgan (1977 Education) for Missouri House - 24th district
  • Jean Peters-Baker (1998 Law) for Jackson County Prosecutor
  • Michael J. Peterson (1971 Law) for Kansas House - 32nd district
  • Luann Ridgeway (1981 Law) for Clay County Eastern Commissioner
  • Rob Willard (2003 Law) for Platte County Treasurer
    

September, 2012

• Christine Albano (1996, Law) has been accepted into Fellowship in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
• South & Associates names Andrew Babtiz (2010, Law) and Kara Elgin (2006, Law) as new attorneys
• Diane Blackwelder (1974, Education) has been elected to serve as National President of Alpha Chi Omega sorority
• Alvin Brooks (1973, Arts & Sciences, Honorary Degree 2012, Arts & Sciences) has received the Lifetime Distinguished Service Award from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America
• Joshua Campbell (2010, Law) was interviewed on KCUR regarding energy pricing in Missouri and Kansas
• The business success of beer-making entrepreneur Jim Caruso (1990, Arts & Sciences) is profiled
• Up close with Kauffman Performing Arts Center CEO Jane Chu (Honorary Degree, 2010, Conservatory)
• Major General Stephen L. Danner (1977, Arts & Sciences) has been elected the new board chairman of the National Guard Association of the United States
• The medical office of LaDonna Finch (1998, Medicine) will be joining the Esse Health physician group
• Charles Haddix (1997, Arts & Sciences) has received the Excellence in the Arts Award from the Johnson County Library Foundation
• Jennifer Helber (1985, Arts & Sciences) is working to build her homebrewing education business, Graint to Glass, in the River Market
• Rachel Hirshborn (2010, Arts & Sciences) brings a background in dialect work to her performances with the Single Carrot Theatre in Baltimore, MD
• Dr. James Kulild (1973, Dentistry) has been named president-elect of the America Association of Endodontists
• Dr. Jennifer LaGrone (2008, Dentistry) opens a new practice specializing in general dentistry in Phoenix, AZ
• Marilyn Lynch (1970, Arts & Sciences) is back on stage again after a long hiatus
• Lifelong pianist Gulimina Mahamuti (2010, Conservatory) recently wrapped up a nationwide concert tour of China, which included a stop at the prestigious China Conservatory of Music in Beijing
• Barbara Ann Morris (1983, Conservatory) talks about the success of her data management business, Laser Image
• Dr. Darryl Nelson (1986, Medicine) was on hand in New Orleans to help with emergency medical relief after Hurricane Isaac
• Deon Pitsor (1987, Management) has been named president of Bank of America's Iowa operations
• Governor Nixon has appointed Michael Rader (1999, Law) to the Missouri Brain Injury Advisory Council
• Dr. Melissa Rickerson (2009, Medicine) has joined Merry Clinic of St. Louis as a pediatrician
• Will Robson (2012, Arts& Sciences) is playing in the Journal Champion of Champions golf tournament in his native United Kingdom
• Julia Rotich (2006, Computing & Engineering) is named one of Kenya's top women in information technology
• Dr. Mary Smith (2010, Dentistry) has opened a new family dental practice in St. Charles, MO
• Sandy Smith (1989, Law) has been hired as counsel in the Kansas City office of Bryan Cave
• Daniel Sullivan (2006, Arts & Sciences) appears on television to promote his new book about starring in the Broadway musical, Jersey Boys
• Molly Wagner (2007, Conservatory) has been appointed to the Company of the Kansas City Ballet
• Joseph Williams (1993, Education) has been named interim superintendent of Twin Rivers United School District in California

August, 2012

• Steve Bodenheimer (2012, Arts & Sciences) competed in the Independence Tennis Association Tournament after a few years off from the sport
• Stephen R. Bough (1997, Law) has been appointed to the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority by Governor Jay Nixon
• Sarah Castle (2012, Law) is defending her gold medal in wheelchair basketball at this year's Paralympics games in London
• Emiel Cleaver (2011, Arts & Sciences) will premiere his documentary film Freedom is Now on 09/13 in St. Louis
  
• For her charity work, London resident Shara Clevenger Brice (1992, Management) was given the opportunity to carry the Olympic torch on its way to Olympic Stadium
• Weight loss specialist Claudia Darnell (1985, Education) has joined the team of Kansas City Internal Medicine after its acquisition of Weight Management Medical Center
• Circuit judge Gael Davis Wood (1975, Law) is seeking re-election to the 20th Judicial Circuit Court of Missouri
• David R. Ebbrecht (2008, Management) has been promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer at Kansas City Southern
• Dr. Mary Feth-Smith (1991, Medicine) has launched a new practice in pediatric direct care
  
• Artist and costume designer Sue Gandy (1974, Arts & Sciences) will show her work for the first time at the Nazareth Arts Center in Pennsylvania
• Dr. Lee Hartman (2005, Conservatory) has accepted the position of artistic director of the Mid America Freedom Band
• James Hoke (1993, Law) is a candidate for Cass County Commissioner in next week's primary elections
• James Hoke (1993, Law) prevails among the six Republicans vying for the November Cass County commission race
• Courtney Huber (2008, Arts & Sciences) is featured in an oil painting by a Philadelphia artist who attempts to draw attention to the U.S. health care system
  
• Heather Jasper (2008, Education) was recently hired as a guidance counselor at Spring Hill High School
• Jani Johnson (1996, Nursing) has been appointed president and CEO of St. Luke's South Hospital
  
• Missouri state securities commissioner Matthew Kitzi (2000, Law) was elected to the board of a national association of state regulators
• Kansas Governor Sam Brownback appoints JoAnn Klaasen (2005, Law) and Jeanne Catanzaro (1993, Nursing) to the Kansas Board of Nursing
• Mike Lally (1991, Management) and Benjamin Hodge (2011, Management) are both candidates for two spots on the Johnson County Commission 3rd District
• John Luther Young (1989, Law) has been appointed to the Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board of Missouri by Governor Jay Nixon
• Erin McGrane (1990, Arts & Sciences) will be bringing her duo act to television and radio this week
• Heather McMichael (1984, Arts & Sciences) reflects on sending her teenage son off to college
• Freda Mendez-Smith (1980, Arts & Sciences) and Sandra Lee Reeves (1998, Management) will receive awards at the 2012 Women's Political Caucus awards ceremony in September
• C. Stephen Metzler (1976, Management) has been elected chairman of the Kansas City Art Institute board of trustees
• Jonathan Metzl (1991, Medicine) is head of the Center for Medicine, Health and Society at Vanderbilt University
• Susan Montee (2000, Law) wins crowded Missouri Lt. Governor Democratic race
• Nicholas Omiccioli (2009, Conservatory) is porfiled as an up-and-coming contemporary composer
• Dan Puccio (2009, Education) has been named associate director of student affairs at Penn State York
• Sprint Foundation president Ralph Reid (1987, Law) has joined the executive board of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
• Rachel Rosanske (2012, Conservatory) was recently hired as a music teache for Paola United School District 368
• Kansas City Northland physician Nancy Russell (1978, Medicine) is showcased in HERLIFE
• Jennifer Shields (2000, Education) was recently hired as an interrelated teacher for Louisburg United School District 416
• A new book by Jim Steele (Honorary Degree, 2004, Arts & Sciences and 1967, Arts & Sciences) examines the modern state of the American economy
• Jim Steele (1967, Arts & Sciences, 2004, Honorary Degree) will be at the Kansas City Public Library on Wednesday night to speak about his latest book, "The Betrayal of the American Dream"

• Designer, mom and fashionista Cathy Sukaromya (1998, Arts & Sciences) talks with HERLIFE Magazine about balancing work and family

• Tech startup article highlights Dr. Pavan Tankasala (2008, Computing & Engineering)
  
• Health Literacy Missouri added a new board member, Dr. Michael Weaver (1977, Medicine)

• Shelly Wells Anderson (2009, Nursing) has joined Northwestern Oklahoma State University as an associate professor of nursing

• Brian F. Wilson (2005, Medicine) has joined the orthopedic surgery program at Cotton-O'Neill Clinic in Topeka, KS
• Kristin Woods (2009, Law) has joined law firm Barney McKenna & Olmstead, P.C.
  
• As Ramadan comes to a close, Dr. Omair Yousuf (2008, Medicine) reflects on growing up Muslim in Joplin, MO

• Tuesday, 08/07/2012 elections results are in:

  • James Hoke (1993 Law) for Cass County Commissioner
  • Randy Dunn (2007 Management) for Missouri House of Representatives
  • Susan Montee (2000 Law) for Missouri Lt. Governor Democratic primary
  • Brandon Ellington (Attended A&S) for Missouri House 22^nd district Democratic primary
  • Judy Morgan (1977 Education) for Missouri House 24^th district Democratic primary
  • Jacob Turk (1982 SCE) for US House of Representatives – MO 5^th district Republican primary
  • Teresa Hensley (1991 Law) for US House of Representatives – MO 4^th district Democratic primary
  • Luann Ridgeway (1981 Law) for Clay County Eastern Commissioner Republican primary
  • Sheila Ernzen (1996 Management) for Clay County Auditor Democratic primary
  • Jean Peters-Baker (1998 Law) for Jackson County Prosecutor Democratic primary
  • Sandra Reeves (1998 Management) for Missouri Senate 17^th district Democratic primary
  • Will Talbert (2003 Education) for Missouri House 38^th district Republican primary
  • Nick Marshall (1999 Law) for Missouri House 13^th district Republican primary
  • Vicki Riley (1978 Education) for Missouri House 21^st district Republican primary
  • Shere Alam (2011 Education) for Missouri House 30^th district Democratic primary
  • Jim Crenshaw (1973 Education) for Missouri House 8^th district Democratic primary
  • Patty Johnson (1983 Law) for Missouri House 21^st district Republican primary
  • Rob Willard (2003 Law) for Platte County Treasurer Republican primary
  • Michael J. Peterson (1971 Law) for Kansas House 32^nd district Democratic primary
  
  
  

July, 2012 

• M.D. Rabbi Alam (2010, Education) is a candidate for Missouri Secretary of State
• Dr. Cassandra Ashley (2006, Medicine) has joined Skaggs Regional Medical Center as an internal medicine physician
• Dr. Brent Ballweg (1987, Conservatory) received the Director of Distinction Award from the Oklahoma Choral Directors Association

• Henry Bloch (Honorary Doctorate, 1989, Management) has created the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation with the ultimate goal of routing all of the family’s wealth toward Kansas City philanthropies

• Former Army sergeant Valerie Brown (2012, Arts & Sciences) was a guest on “The Late Show with David Letterman” to talk about veteran joblessness

• Sarah Castle (2012, Law) prepares to compete in the Paralympics

• Dr. Raymond Cattaneo (2003, Medicine) weighs in on the recent national outbreak of whooping cough

• As an urban farmer in Kansas City’s Westside, Julie Coon (2007, Arts & Sciences) is helping the local food movement in KC take root Jessica Culpepper (2007, Management) and Hannah Lofthus (2007, Arts & Sciences) are on Ingram's list of 20 in Their Twenties

• Courtney Dickerson (2002, Education) has been named assistant principal of South Valley Junior High School in Liberty, MO

• Angela Tammy Dickinson (1998, Law) has been nominated by President Obama to become U.S. Attorney for western Missouri
• Dr. Jared Dirks (2002, Medicine) has joined Northland Family Care as a family physician
• An executive snapshot of Las Vegas entrepreneur of the year Theresa Fette (2004, Law)
• Blake Fields (2010, Law) held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of his new law office in Cassville
• The Colorado dental practice of Dr. Patricio Gonzalez (2001, Dentistry) is expanding to provide dental screenings in area elementary schools
• Gladstone chocolatier Henry Grayum (1979, Arts & Sciences) is bringing Europe’s finest chocolates to Zona Rosa
• Bob Grossman (1977, Law) was elected to the Lathrop & Gage executive committee 
• Kevin D. Harrell (1998, Law) has been appointed circuit judge on the Jackson County Circuit Court by Governor Nixon
• Dr. Mark Hesker (1989, Dentistry), a cosmetic dentist in St. Louis, offers new patient services via a new comprehensive website
• Dr. Nelson Hu (1994, Dentistry) is the new president of the Tracy (California) Rotary Club
• Alice Kitchen (1989, Management) is following her passion for aiding human rights groups in Central America
• Dr. David Koepsel (2011, Dentistry) will join his mentor, Dr. Chuck Pierson (1983, Dentistry) at Wichita Family Dental
• Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts selects Dr. Janet Kraybill (2000, Music & Dance) as the organ conservator for the Julia Irene Kauffman Casavant Organ
• Jenni Mann (2009, Arts & Sciences) has joined Hunt Midwest Real Estate as manager of residential marketing
• Alaska veteran prosecutor Dwayne McConnell (1975, Law) has been named to the Superior Court of Bethel, AK
• William "Doc" McCready (1966, Dentistry) is a candidate for 2nd District Commissioner in Newton County, MO
• Dr. Eliana Megerman (1998, Medicine) will be moving her family to Israel this week to make aliyah 
• Susan Montee (2000, Law) and Jackie McGee (1986, Law) are among the candidates vying for Missouri lieutenant governor in next month's primary election

• Mary Needham (1988, Arts & Sciences) has been named director of development with Kansas City Young Audiences 

• Veteran music teacher Chris Polson (1988, Conservatory) will retire as music director at Polson High School in Montana after 23 years

• Loretta Pope (2004, Conservatory) stars in "Once Upon a Mattress" at the Coterie Theatre through 08/05/2012 

• Dr. Narong Prangcharoen (2010, Conservatory, UMKC Faculty/Staff) is poised to become the first Thai classsical music composer to have his work performed at Carnegie Hall

• Dr. Randy Robinson (1989, Medicine) recently opened his new cosmetic surgery practice in Denver

• Taya Upkes (2012, Computing & Engineering)  is among a growing, yet still small, pool, of female engineers

• Doctoral research by Terrence Ward (2012, Management) examines the use of tax incentives to spur economic growth and finance school districts

• Christina Webster (2000, Conservatory) has been appointed lecturer in flute at Pittsburgh State University, starting fall 2012 

• Jase Wilson (2005, Arts & Sciences) is helping to raise the funds for Kansas City’s streetcar project through his startup Neighbor.ly 

• Ashley Winchell (2008, Arts & Sciences) is helping KCMO elementary schoolers learn about creating compact and walkable neighborhoods conducive to healthy living 

• Fiaz Zaman, a surgeon in Texas, is a top southeastern U.S. ambulatory surgeon

June, 2012

• Olathe Northwest band director Rosa Adam-Bussard (1988, Conservatory) has proven to be a musical force in the metro along with her husband, John 
• Branson Bank announces the hiring of Greg Baker (1989, Management)
• Rita Blitt (1952, Arts & Sciences) will be honored for her promotion of the arts at the 2012 Red Brick Arts Tribute benefit on 7/24 in Aspen
• Kerry Browne (1983, Arts & Sciences) and John McClain (1983, Management), owners of Browne's Market and Deli, celebrate 125 years as a Kansas City establishment
• Kevin Bryce (2011, Arts & Sciences) will present his documentary in his hometown of Summerside, Canada, "We Are Superman" about life on the east side of Troost Avenue in Kansas City
• Rochelle Caruthers (2001, Education) has been named a 2011-2012 Romare Bearden Fellow at the Saint Louis Art Museum
• Chronicling the love story of Dr. Raymond Cattaneo (2003, Medicine) and Dustin Cates (2004, Conservatory)
• Dianne Cleaver (1981, Arts & Sciences) will chair a Jackson County task force aimed at reviewing county electoral issues and procedures
• As general counsel for Sporting Kansas CIty, Greg Cotton (2000, Law) finds a delicate balance between his legal and administrative responsibilities
• Dr. James Craig (2006, Dentistry) announces his new Teeth in a Day implant service, an innovative yet affordable option for dental implant patients
• Carmen DeHart (1985, Management) is a judge for the 2012 Champions of Business program
• Dan Denner (2010, Conservatory) was named the director of music ministries at Living Word Church in Wildwood, MO
• Gary Dickerson (1987, Management) has been appointed president of Applied Materials
• Mark Edelman (1975, Law), as a member of the Broadway League, was in attendance at the Tony Awards in New York
• Jose Faus (1987, Arts & Sciences) will be among the poetry readers at the Downtwon Neon Gallery
• Lisa Garney (1996, Law), president and owner of LMG Construction Services, LLC, and Andrew Wickerham (1999, Law), vice president of the National Center for Drug Free Sport, have been named to the Kansas City  Business Journal's list of "Women Who Mean Business"
• Nick Gehlfuss (2010, Arts & Sciences) has been awarded the Rosemarie Tichler Fund Grant to help him move into the professional world of acting
• Teresa Hensley (1991, Law) will be the featured speaker at the 6/21 Randolph County Democrat Club meeting in Moberly
• UMKC Special Collections librarian Stuart Hinds (1991, Arts & Sciences, Faculty) is working to collect historical memorabilia that chronicles Kansas City's gay and lesbina history during the Kansas City Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
• Jacob Humphrey (2012, Dentistry) will join his father, Stanley Humphrey (1984, Dentistry) at his practice in Gallatin, MO
• Shaul Jolles (2001, Management) is placing a bid to verify the legal status of companies applying for new internet domain names
• The newly-acquired hot tub business of Louise LaGreco (1987, Dentistry) is rapidly expanding throughout Western Colorado
• Zhan Liu (2006, Law) has been named a corporate associate for the Shanghai office of Winston & Strawn, LLP
• Jo Ann Lyon (1968, Education) has been elected sole general superintendent of The Wesleyan Church
• Dr. Bahman Nassim (1975, Arts & Sciences) has been named interim dean of the School of Natural Sciences at Indiana University Southeast
• Nicholas Pettit (2009, Education) encourages project-based learning among his first-grade students by helping open a restaurant in their classroom
• The Lee's Summit Journal welcomes new reporter Russ Pulley (1987, Arts & Sciences)
• Sarah Ranes (2004, Arts & Sciences) is the new administrative clerk for the city of Kearney
• Bob Regnier (1978, Management) has a bright outlook on the performance of Blue Valley Bank in spite of criticism
• Amanda Riedl (2003, Education) has been named the new principal at Mill Creek Elementary in St. Augustine, FL 
• Len Rodman (1971 & 1978, Computing & Engineering) is one of two Kansas City executives moving onto the national Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year competition
• Cameron Rush (2010, Conservatory), a Western Illinois University graduate student, performed a solo horn recital
• Dirk Schafer (1984, Management) will take over as president fo J.E. Dunn Construction's Midwest Region and Dan Euston (1974, Arts & Sciences) will become president of J.E. Dunn's start-up subsidiary Innovations 10.01, LLC
• Julie Silfverberg (1980, Conservatory), Janne Silfverberg (2010, Conservatory) Karen Fremar (1977, Conservatory) and Melody Smith (1981, Conservatory) will perform a free concert on June 23, presented by the Fremar Foundation
• Jan Sternin (1998, Management) has joined Berkadia Commercial Mortgage, LLC, as a senior vice president
• Dr. Robert L. Talley (1971, Dentistry) celebrates his 40^th year in practice as a dentist 
• Elizabeth Tracy (1998, Arts & Sciences) has been named director for the Whistler Public Library
• Louis Van Horn (1997, Management) is one of the Kansas CIty Business Journal's "CFO of the Year" honorees
• Julie Warm (2004, Management) talks to KCUR about how her new summer camp "Madame President" is working to increase the numbers of women in political office
• Joy Wheeler (2004, Management) has been named interim president and CEO of Marrillac

May, 2012

• Dr. Ahmed Awad (1989, Arts & Sciences, Faculty) will present a proposal to redevelop a Westport block using a tax financing plan
• Paul Anderson (2012, Law) has become a leading expert on NFL concussion litigation with a website dedicated to tracking concussion-related lawsuits 
• Dr. Stanley Augustin (1993, Medicine, Faculty/Staff) has joined the medical staff of Centerpoint Medical Center and Centerpoint Trauma and Surgical Services 
• Patrick Avila (2004, Management) has been named director of rehabilitation services at Lee’s Summit Medical Center
• Paul Berardi (2002, Management) is a candidate for the Charleston Fire Chief position  
• Rosana Privitera Biondo (1979,  Education) has received an appreciation award from the MidAmerica Minority Supplier Development Council,
• Under the direction of Charles Bruffy (1988, Conservatory), the Kansas City Chorale will mark its 30^th anniversary with an inaugural concert  
• The scenery for the Julliard Opera production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni is the work of Charlie Corcoran (2001, Arts & Sciences) 
• Raymore City Councilamn Jeffrey Cox (2003, Law) has received the Republican nomination to run for Cass County Presiding Commissioner in November
• Dr. R. Blake Curd (1991, Medicine) is named a top surgical executive by Becker’s 
• Morgan Belle, the first baby in Kansas to be born from a frozen egg, was born to parents Ryan Dickson (2007, Management) and Jessica Dickson (Faculty/Staff) 
• Sean Dooley (2004, Education) appointed head men’s basketball coach at Baker University
• Stacey Estes (2001, Nursing) has been named orthopedic clinical nurse specialist at Lee’s Summit Medical Center
• The Hon. Zel Fischer (1988, Law) addressed a civic organization in Moberly, providing an oral history of his legal career 
• Lisa Garney (1996, Law) is profiled as a plumber and successful businesswoman in the Kansas City area
• Nick Gehlfuss (2010, Arts & Sciences) is appearing onstage in a New York City production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Dennis Hennessy (1966, Arts & Sciences) and Richard Carrothers (1969 Arts & Sciences) celebrate 40 years of entertaining in Kansas City 
• Dr. Rebecca Hierholzer (1981, Medicine) has been recognized by Continental Who's Who Among Medical Professionals
• Announcing the retirement of Anita Jacoby (1996, Nursing) after 39 years as a nurse
• Dr. Jennifer Judd (1995, Conservatory) has received the 2012 Governonr's Award for Excellence in Teaching from East Central College 
• Kelan Kelly (1989, Management) is the new lead internal auditor for the City of Rapid City 
• PerformOUTKC has named Michelle Allen McIntire (2006, Conservatory) as artistic director and conductor
• Mark Moberly (2006, Management) will be honored on Friday as part of the Nonprofit Connect 2012 Class of Rising Stars of Philanthropy
• An interview with dentistry leader Dr. Lynn Mouden (1975, Dentistry)
• Brig. Gen. John D. Owen (1981, Medicine) accepts the 2012 Harry Truman Public Service Award on behalf of the members of the Armed Forces during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars

• Thomas Peters (1992, Arts & Sciences) has been named Dean of University Libraries at Missouri State University 

• A new exhibition at a Norwalk, CT art gallery highlights the 30-year career of printmaker James Reed (1970, Arts & Sciences)

• Anna Stubblefield (2002, Education) has been named director of human resources with the Lawrence School District

• The Hon. Cynthia Suter (1971, Law) was recently a sit-in judge on the 14th Judicial Court of Missouri

• State representative Mike Talboy (2002, Law) is helping Missourians understand the unique challenges of the state’s growing Latino population 

• Louis Van Horn (1997, Management) is a nominee for the 2012 CFO of the Year award from the Kansas City Business Journal

• Rep. Mike Talboy (2002, Law) has been hired by Burns & McDonnell as the firm’s director of government affairs

• Gina Vernaci (1979, Arts & Sciences) has been elected as the first female President of the Independent Presenters Network

• Heart of Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross appoints Heather Vodnanski (2004, Law) to their board of directors

• Zena Weist (1994, Management) joins Expion as Vice President of Digital Strategy

• As a volunteer with MOCSA, Cynthia Wendt (1983, Management) has a compassion and drive to offer support to victims of sexual assault

• With current productions at the American Heartland Theater and Quality Hill Playhouse, Brian Wilson (2005, Conservatory) is the man about town of the Kansas City local theater set  

•  Jazz conductor and educator Steve Zegree (1989, Conservatory) will join the faculty of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music as the Pam and Jack Burks Professor of Music and director of the Signing Hoosiers

April, 2012

• An interview with Arts Council CEO Harlan Brownlee (2004, Education)
• Colonel Robert A. Carr (1993, Management) has been appointed corporate lead executive for company business at Northup Grumman
• Jeff Chambers (1998, Arts & Sciences) is leading the revamp of Alterra Bank's strategy for mobile banking
• Dr. Bipan Chand (1996, Medicine) has been named Director of the Bariatric Surgery Department and Head of Surgical Endoscopy at Loyola University Health System in Chicago
• An interview with dentist and businesswoman Dr. Susanne Cohen (1983, Dentistry) 
• Kathleen Collier (2001, Education) hsa been named superintendent of elementary instruction for the Lee's Summit R-7 School District
• The Honorable Joseph Dandurand (1980, Law) will receive the James C. Kirkpatrick Excellence in Government Award from the University of Central Missouri
• By discovering her great-grandfather's letters frokm a Confederate prison, Dr. Peggy Ann Edwards (1985, Conservatory) has been able to preserve her family's history
• David Embry (1994, Management) has joined SelectQuote Benefit Solutions as Senior Vice President of Sales and Client Services
• Laurie Gehrt (2008, Management) has been named senior vice president at B.E. Smith and will lead the firm's division, Interim Leadership and Consulting Services 
• Becky Gossett (2002, Education) has been named Executive Director of Special Programs for Liberty Public Schools
• John Hile (2001, Management) has ousted the incumbent to win a seat on the KCMO school board
• Bonnie Lou Humphrey (1980, Education) will be intucted into the Missouri Valley College's Women's Hall of Fame
• Tonya Jackson (1996, Arts & Sciences) has been promoted to manager of enrolling and matching at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City
• Jazz musician Matt Kane (1996, Arts & Sciences) was on loan from his NYC home at The Blue Room to lead a jazz ensemble
• St. Louis Magazine names Dr. Lora Lacey-Haun (2003, Education and Dean of the School of Nursing) as a recipient of the 2012 Excellence in Nursing Award
• The practice of Dr. Nevada Lee (1979, Medicine) cares for elderly, homebound patients
• Ryan Lovil (2012, Management) is profiled as a promising businessman 
• Doug McClain (2011, Management) has been named Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Tampa Bay & Company
• Patrick McCown (1983, Management) has been inducted into the Missouri S&T Academy of Civil Engineers
• Dr. Lynn Mouden (1975, Dentistry) has been named Chief Dental Director for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• Unicorn Theatre's play, "Time Stands Stil" is a picture of sacrifice with a performance by Carla Noack (1992, Arts & Sciences and Faculty)
• An interview with Nicholas Omiccioli (2009, Conservatory)
• The Honorable Marco Roldan (1983, Law) was given special designation from the Supreme Court of Missouri to sit in for a recused judge on Friday 
• John St. Clair (1988, Management) is one of a team of executives forming Core Catalysts, LLC, a new business consulting firm in Overland Park, KS
• Dr. Lynette Santos (2006, Medicine) has joined St. Luke's Hospital in St. Louis as a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician
• A new NBC pilot from creator John Scott Shepherd (1994, Arts & Sciences) is one of many potential new shows for NBC's fall lineup
• After the Joplin earthquake destroyed her practice, Dr. Julia Skidmore (2008, Dentistry) relocated her practice back to Kansas City
• Dr. William R. Ward (1968, Arts & Sciences) has been named a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences
• Cathy Warner (1966, Dentistry) is a candidate in the race for Whittier City Council in Whittier, California
• Gwendolyn Washington (2002, Arts & Sciences) received the ACE Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
• Flutist and Fulbright scholar Dr. Christina Webster (2000, Conservatory) performed in concert in Topeka
• Dr. Shawn Zembles (1999, Nursing) is wrapping up an Afghan military nurse training program in Kabul
• Michael Zito (1996, Law) is among a group of lawyers moving from Lathrop & Gage to Shook Hardy & Bacon to work in corporate debt collection
• The Kansas City Business Journal has announced its 2012 "Best Doctors" list.  Many UMKC alumni are recognized.  They are: Tracy Stevens (1990, Medicine); Robert Tung (1985, Medicine); Leland Graves (1983, Medicine); Wendell Clarkston (1984, Medicine); Bradley Freilich (1987, Medicine); David Wooldridge (1994, Medicine); Stephen Smalley (1979, Medicine); Robert Golder (1991, Medicine); Richard Barohn (1990, Medicine); Carl Migliazzo (1973, Arts & Sciences); Amy Jo Nopper (1990, Medicine); Mary Anne Jackson (1978, Medicine); Scott Cozad (1982, Dental); Vickie Massey (1985, Medicine); Joe Cate (1978, Medicine); John Shook (1984, Medicine)
• Announcing the results of last week's elections for UMKC alumni
  

  Name	Year	School	Election	Outcome
  Patricia Dixon	1984	Nursing	Clay County Health District	W
  Russell Andrews	1985	Pharmacy	Clay County Health District	W
  Greg Atkins	1970	Management	Smithville Area Fire Protection District Board	W
  Darrel Box	1988	Pharmacy	Buckner Alderman	W
  James Crain	1978	Management	Grandview Alderman	W
  Vanessa Zaroor	2005	Management	Harrisonville Question 2	W
  Trent Skaggs	1997	Management	MCC Trustee	W
  George Matson	1988	Management	Oak Grove School Board	W
  Damian Clarke	2011	Arts & Sciences	Pleasant Valley Alderman	W

  
  

March, 2012

• Charting the course of Dr. Elizabeth Adkins (1988, Conservatory) from music to veterinary medicine 
• Dr. Joan Aitken (2007, Education) has been granted tenure by the Park University Board of Trustees 
• Ryan Bennett (1998, Conservatory) will appear in the cast of the national production of "Jersey Boys, Tour II" 
• Jarett Bertoncin (1996, Arts & Sciences) and Scott Hobart (2002, Arts & Sciences) provide production assistance for The Coterie Theater's production of "Lucky Duck" in New York City
• Jeff Blackwood (2008, Management) talks about his experience in the Pipeline Entrepreneurship Fellowship program
• Playwright Mitch Brian (2001, Arts & Sciences) premieres a new show at The Living Room
• James Bronner (2000, Management) is highlighted as a top executive in the Waterloo (IA) business community
• An interview with KCMO Councilman Michael Brooks (1980, Arts & Sciences)
• Dr. Julie Brown (2000, Medicine) has joined the staff of Shawnee Mission Medical Center's Department of Pediatrics
• Dr. Timothy Davis (1996, Medicine) has been named a top surgeon in spinal research
• How Brittany Dayton (2011, Management) landed her job as a business analyst for Cerner
• Lockapth, Inc. has hired Brian Dillbeck (2001, Management) as Vice President of Finance
• Peggy Dunn (1972, Arts & Sciences) has received the Adele Hall Spirit of Caring Award from the United Way of Greater Kansas City for her volunteer work
• Dr. Ikenna Egbuna (Former Resident, Medicine) has joined the team of gastroenterologists at Indiana University Health
• Karis Erwin (2011, Management) departs for Ukraine next week to serve for two years in the Peace Corps
• Maria Finn (1971, Arts & Sciences) is a finalist for the Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction for her novel, Sea Legs and Fish Nets
• Pianist and SUNY Oswego orchestra director Juan Francisco La Manna (2000, Conservatory) will performed a free concert
• Amanda Frederick (2011, Conservatory) and Ruth Frederick (Student, Conservatory) performed in New York City during a visit by Chancellor Morton
• Lisa Garney (1996, Law), Laura Laiben (1983, Law) Dr. Tracy Stevens (1990, Medicine) and Ruth Terrell (2001, Arts & Sciences) are named to KC Business' list of "Most Influential Women in Kansas City"
• Sandra Gonsher (2004, Education) is named a 2012 Emporia State University Kansas Master Teacher
• Dr. Deborah Hellinger, DO (1982, Arts & Sciences) will receive a fellowship in the American Osteopathic College of Radiology
• Desarae Harrah (2005, Law) and Aaron Elking (2011, Law) are named new associates at Martin Leigh Laws & Fritzlen
• Justin Hofsetter (2011, Education) takes home third place and a prize of $25,000 on Jeopardy!
• Heather Humphrey (2011, Management) and Anne Spenner (2011, Management) talk about their experiences in pursuing the Executive MBA from UMKC, a growing trend in business
• David James (1998, Management) has been named Vice President of Marketing at CARSTAR Auto Body Repair
• Doug Jones, (1970, Arts & Sciences), filmmaker, will present his film, "Around the World - One Man's Journey" on Saturday on the SUNY Fredonia campus
• Aaron Kirchoff (2002, Conservatory) will take over as principal of Sugar Creek Elementary School in Independence, MO
• Missouri State Senator Rob Mayer (1996, Law) announces his candidacy for a seat on the 35th Circuit District court
• Bernard Mayse (1977, Education) is the only Kansas City area representative on Governor Brownback's Medicaid reform panel, representing those with physical disabilities
• Dr. Matt Miller (2003, Education) has been named Lee's Summit R-7 director of student services
• Former Roos volleyball star Dr. Julie Mohrfield Astor (2010, Pharmacy) has been inducted into the UMKC Hall of Fame
• Edgar Palacios (2008, Conservatory), Brett Vena (2008, Arts & Sciences) and Bobbi Zink (1984, Arts & Sciences) are nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's 2012 Man & Woman of the Year Awards
• Mike Price (1980, Dentistry) is a candidate for a seat on the Poplar Bluff School Board
• Dr. Cameron Sutt (2003, Arts & Sciences) will give a presentation on Hungary in the Medieval Ages at Austin Peay State University
• Xi Wang (2003, Conservatory) is one of two national recipients of the Charles Ives Fellowship from the American Academy of Arts & Letters
• Patricia Webb (1998, Nursing) has been hired by the Child Advocacy Center
• The work of Jamie Young (2005, Conservatory) demonstrates the power of music therapy
• Dr. Stephen K. Young (1971, Dentistry) has been installed as the American Dental Education Association President-elect
• Nine UMKC alumni are named on the list of top executives in accounting and consulting by Ingram’s, March 2012, Ingram’s: 
  •  Paul Blanck (1988 Management)
  • Steve Hawkins (1992 Law)
  • Steve Browne (2011 Arts & Sciences)
  • Randy Gardner (1986 Law)
  • Julie Rentz Welch (1987 Management)
  • Christy Cubbage (2009 Management)
  • Sandra Thomas (1992 Management)
  • Kathryn Rhodes (1986 Management)
  • Mary Ramm (1983 Management)
• Announcing the promotions/appointments of three UMKC alumni at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, 03/13/2012,: 
  • Tamla Edwards (1988 Management) - promoted to Vice President of Community Affairs
  • Renu Mehra (1991 Management) – promoted to Vice President of Check Automation Services User Support
  • Andrew Frank (2003 Management) appointed assistant vice president of Technology Solutions Delivery

February, 2012

• Rhiannon Ally (2005, Arts & Sciences) has been named the morning anchor of Miami's WFOR and is now a rival anchor to her husband, Mike Marusaz (2004, Arts & Sciences)
• Ahmed Awad (1989, Arts & Sciences), Ameneh Paziresh (1992, Pharmacy) and Farrah Zaery (1991, Dentistry) lead a group that seeks to redevelop a block of Westport into family-oriented businesses
• Henry Bloch (Honorary Degree, 1989, Management) is named one of the 50 most generous donors in America in 2011 by the Chronicle of Philanthropy
• Adam Bold (1985, Arts & Sciences) will step down as CEO of The Mutual Fund Store but will remain the company's chairman and chief investment officer
• Steven Bough (1997, Law) has been appointed to the Missouri State Board of Examiners by Governor Jay Nixon
• Dr. Alan C. Braverman (1985, Medicine) has been named the Alumni Endowed Professor of Cardiovascular Diseases at Washington University in St. Louis
• Park University's Women's Day event will feature a talk on the topic of international women's literature from Xanath Caraza-DeHolland (2004, Arts & Sciences)
• Interview with filmmaker Emiel Cleaver (2011, Arts & Sciences)
• Keri Craun (1984, Arts & Sciences), a USGS surveyor, has been named the 2012 ASPRS Fellow Award winner for her work in advancing the use of the mapping sciences
• Major General Stephen Danner (1977, Arts & Sciences) recently visited his troops serving in eastern Afghanistan to commend them for their hard work
• Dr. Connie Drisko (1980, Dentistry) will present at the ADEA Fundraising Academy meeting in April
• Dr. Linda Edwards (1960, Arts & Sciences, Retired Faculty) is named "Icon of Education" by Ingrams Magazine
• Dr. Larry Evans (1969, Dentistry) is named to Ingram's Heroes of Healthcare 2012 list
• Film producer Nick Everhart (2006, Arts & Sciences) is premiering his latest film in Olathe and Leawood during the week of 2/20
• The Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail ranks Donald Fehr the #1 most powerful person in hockey for 2012
• Nathan Granner (1996, Conservatory) and Ben Gulley (2008, Conservatory) will perform as part of The American Tenors in April
• Nathaniel Hagedorn (2004, Management), President of Briarcliff Realty, is purchasing an additional stake in the company
• Dr. Hal Hale (1988, Dentistry), president of the Kansas Dental Association, announces a college-loan repayment plan to place dentists in underserved rural areas of Kansas
• Specialty Fertilizer Products, LLC,  has promoted John Hardy (1982, Law) to Chief Operating Officer and David Hardy (2009, Law) to Vice President of Operations 
• Glenn Hemberger (1971, Dentistry) and Cindi Sherwood (1982, Dentistry) were among the dentists participating in the free dental clinic last week in Kansas City, Kansas
• Suzanne Hendrix (2011, Conservatory) has been awarded the $10,000 George London Award for her outstanding vocal performance
• Justin Hofstetter (2011, Education) will compete in the Jeopardy! Teachers Tournament, starting the week of February 13
• Heather Humphrey (2011, Management) is interviewed in Corporate Counsel
• Chad Jolly (2001, Graduate Studies) has joined the fundraising consulting firm of Gonser Gerber Tinker Stuhl
• GlynnDevins Advertising has hired Kirk Kirkpatrick (2008, Management) as its executive creative director
• Fred Krebs (1974, Arts & Sciences) is named "Icon of Education" by Ingrams Magazine
• Dr. Sendhil Krishnan (2003, Medicine) will make a presentation on how to recognize and prevent a heart attack at Lake Regional Health System
• Professor of education Carol Lauritzen (1975, Education) has received the lifetime achievement award from the Oregon Reading Association 
• Kid Stitch, the side business of Kristi Lewczenko (2007, Management) aims to make embroidery more affordable 
• Dr. Matthew Matava (1987, Medicine) is serving as team physician for the St. Louis Blues
• Steve Metzler (1976, Management) is named a Kansas City Do-Gooder
• Jerry Nevins (2009, Management), co-founder of Snow & Co., is the man behind the high-end frozen cocktail
• Sharon O'Oconnell Campbell (2000, Conservatory), a mezzo soprano, will perform as a guest soloist at the Messiah Festival of the Arts at Bethany College
• Nicholas Omiccioli (2009, Conservatory) and Ingrid Stolzel (1995, Conservatory), local composers, premiered new compositions at Saturday evening's NewEar chamber performance
• Dr. Ann Powell-Brown (1989, Education) will be inducted into the Harrisonville High School Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame
• Kathy Quinn (1983, Arts & Sciences) named St. Pat's Day Parade Grand Marshal
• Timothy Rooney (1991, Management) has been named the chief financial and legislative officer at the Rockwood School District
• Eric Scott (2010, Arts & Sciences), author and editor, finds his way back to his hometown, St. Louis
• Diane Swanson (1982, Arts & Sciences) is named the Edgerley Family Chair in Business Administration at Kansas State University
• Latra Wilson (2005, Conservatory) and Winston "Dynamite" Brown (2004, Conservatory) will perform in the Friends of Alvin Ailey performance, Setting the Stage
• Kate Wozniak (2008, Education) reports on the positive impacts of studying abroad
• Dr. Stephen K. Young (1971, Dentistry) will lead the Commission on Dental Accreditation's investigation of the University of Texas School of Dentistry's application for reaccreditation

January, 2012 

• Dr. Gary Ace (1970, Dentistry) is winding down his Emporia dental practice after 40 years 
• Clint Ashlock (2006, Conservatory), Hermon Mehari (2010, Conservatory) and UMKC faculty member Bobby Watson talk about the future of jazz
• Richard Carrothers (1969, Arts & Sciences) and Dennis Hennessey (1966, Arts & Sciences) pass along the good fortune of the New Theatre Restaurant
• Greg Clark (1992, Conservatory) will perform backup for Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton on the Today Show, 1/12
• Charles Connely (1973, Management) is quoted in Metal Construction News
• Terry W. Drake (1976, Management) has a new book out, Sanctuary, a fantasy novel about preserving sanctuary during wartime
• Terry Dunn (1973, Management), in a guest blog, makes his case for increased federal investment in public education
• Mark Edelman (1975, Law) and the Theatre League make return engagement to Kansas City
• Dr. Brett L. Ferguson (1986, Dentistry) is interviewed
• Marvin Ferguson (1962, Law) is appointed to the Platte County Election Board by Governor Nixon 
• William Geary (1975, Law) is appointed City Attorney of Kansas City
• Tom Gerke (1985, Law) is named top legal counsel at H&R Block  
• Jason Greene (2009, Arts & Sciences), MO Republican Congressional candidate, is interviewed
• Dr. Janet Helms (1972, Arts & Sciences) receives award from the Gail McKnight Beckman Trust for inspiring students to make a difference in their communities
• Abigail Henderson (2002, Arts & Sciences) is among the most influential Kansas City women musicians
• Teresa Hensley (1991, Law) seeks the Democratic nomination to run for a House seat representing Columbia and Boone County
• Dr. Randy Hestir (1977, Dentistry) expands his Arkansas dental practice
• Shaul Jolles (2001, Management) talks about his Crossroads-based business, OfficePort, and his decision to move to Kansas City from Israel
• Jennifer Judd (1995, Conservatory), pianist, performed at the Friends of Music concenter in Kennett, MO
• Marnie Kaller (1977, Conservatory), cellist, and her son Rick will perform in concert together at Morristown UMKC in New Jersey
• The Honorable Karen Krauser (2002, Law) is named Associate Circuit Judge for Clay County Circuit Court
• Terry L. Lister (1977, Law) is appointed as chair of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards' Public Policy Council
• The Honorable Jan Marcason (1999, Management), Kansas City Councilwoman, is appointed to the National League of Cities' Finance, Administration, and Intergovernmental Relations Steering Committee
• Greg McDanel (2009, Management) is named City Manager of Maryville, MO 
• Dr. Shelly Moorman-Stahlman (1986, Conservatory) to perform solo piano recital at Lebanon Valley College
• Garry Noland (1978, Arts & Sciences) has experienced unmeasured success since his 2010 show at the UMKC Gallery of Art
• Mike Reneau (2009, Arts & Sciences, Law Student) is joining the race for the newly-formed 33rd District of the Missouri House of Representatives
• Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders (1990, Arts & Sciences) is optimistic about Kansas City's athletic future in the wake of the University of Missouri's move to the SEC
• Florida Governor Rick Scott (1975, Management) brings his aggressive entrepreneurial style to the state capitol
• David Stallings (2004, Management) discusses new role as CFO of Girl Scouts of NE Kansas and NW Missouri
• Sherri Wattenbarger (1993, Law) named Woman of the Year by the Association for Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City
• Todd Wilcher (1989, Arts & Sciences) is the new judge of the Kansas City Municipal Housing Court
• Jeff Williams (2003, Education) is a new principal in the Independence School District
• Thomas R. Willy (1974, Law) is the new president of Van Osdol & Macgruder
• Charlene Wright (2004, Law) is promoted to partner at Lathrop & Gage
• Dr. Anne Zimmerman (1982, Medicine) joins the DuPage Medical Group as a staff radiologist at its new Naperville Breast Center

December, 2011   

• Ed Beasley (1983, Management), City Manager of Glendale, Arizona, announces retirement
• Jack Bangert (1976, Law) will join Kutak Rock, LLP 
• Angela Bennett (1977, Law) is interviewed in Star Magazine
• Lori Burns-Bucklew (1984, Law) is representing Zenia Acedo
• “A Christmas Carol” actor Clark Carmichael (1995, Arts & Sciences)
• Jonathan Cohn (1977, Management) and his father, Cliff Cohn, talk about success of Yarco Companies
• John Comerford (Attended, Arts & Sciences) is elected Chairman of the Missouri Veterans Commission
• Steven Coronado (1989, Law) will open a law office in the River Market
• Pat Dalrymple (1993, Nursing) received the Future of Nursing Award
• Dr. Edward Ellerbeck (1982,Medicine) named chairman of the search committee to select the next dean of KU Medical Center
• Karis Erwin (2011, Management) and Erika Kauffman (2000, Management) make the list in KC Magazine  
• Jo Leigh Fischer (1998, Law) is re-elected president of the Kansas City Metropolitan Insurance Fraud Task Force
• James Fluker (1986, Law) is a Lifetime VIP Member of Stathmore's Who's Who Publication
• Kristin Griffeath (2011, Conservatory) has won the 2012 UMKC Outstanding Thesis Award from the School of Graduate Studies  
• Dr. Alan Grimes (1994, Medicine) and Alejandra Beardman (1997, Medicine) have seen tremendous growth in their medical practice  
• Chris Heigele (1996, Law) and Paul Gordon (1998, Law) will open Coronado Katz LLC
• Shaul Jolles (2001 Management) of OfficePort, LLC is a recipient of the 2011 Urban Heroes award from the Downtown Council of Kansas City  
• Anthony Ladesich (2000, Arts & Sciences) receives national attention for upcoming documentary 
• George Mount (1994, Arts & Sciences) is named artistic director at Seattle Shakespeare Company  
• Phyllis Norman (2003, Law) received the President's Award from the Greater Kansas City Association for Women Lawyers
• Drs. Scott Robinson (1986 Dentistry) and David Ries (2010 Dentistry), receive outstanding reviews for patient care and technological enhancement  
• The portrait in flowers of Alicia Sabaugh (Attended, Law), now deceased, will be displayed on the Donate Life float in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, CA  
• Wayne Taff (1977, Law) will open a solo practice in Blue Springs 
• Gay Tedder (1987, Law) starts work with Hughes Hubbard & Reed in 2012  
• Scott Turner (1989, Law), Deputy DA in Silverthorne, CO, is in the running for CO Fifth Judicial District DA    
• Henry Wash (2003, Arts & Sciences) talks about helping at-risk males find their path  
• Louie Wright (1991, Law), head of Kansas City's firefighter's union, will step down December 31

 November, 2011

• Barbara P. Allen (1985, Law) jons the Heartland SPCA leadership team

• Louis Angles (1983, Pharmacy), James A. Fluker (1986, Law) and Karen Krauser (2002, Law) are named as nominees for the Clay County judgeship

• Paolo Andino (1997, Arts & Sciences) stars in "The Santaland Diaries" play at the Stella Adler Theatre in Hollywood

• Douglas R. Baker (1995, Management) has been promoted to Executive Vice President and CFO of Discovery Networks International

• Beau Bledsoe (1996, Conservatory) and Melinda Hedgecorth (1997, Conservatory), were featured in jazz/flamenco mashup performances in Spain

• Stephen R. Bough (1997, Law) is appointed to the Missouri State University Board of Governors

• Julie Donelon (Attended, Management) is named CEO of MOCSA

• Pat Grove (1987, Management) joins race for Buchanan County sheriff

• Stephen Huber (2006, Dentistry) provided free dental work to local children as part of the KC Chiefs’ TeamSmile 

• Tom Hyde (1975, Law) and Vina Hyde announce pledge to UMKC

• Governon Nixon appoints Susan Kendig (1993, Nursing) to Missouri Task Forceon Prematurity and Infant Mortality

• Donnie Keshawarz (1998, Arts & Sciences) appears on the 11/30/2011 episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

•  Dr. Eric Leuhr (2005, Medicine) and Dr. Laura Leuhr (2005, Medicine) join the team at St. John's Clinic

• Ali Littrell-Finstrom (2004, Conservatory) talks about the balance between motherhood and acting

• Michael Martens (1977, Management) steps down as CFO of Mediawire Systems to rejoin former employer

• Erin McGrane (1990, Arts & Sciences) is interviewed in The Pitch

• Jack Novorr, nephew of Alyson Novorr (1997, Dentistry), raises money for Children's Mercy Hospital 

• Michelle Pence (2005, Arts & Sciences) selected to serve on executive board of the International Listening Association

• John Picerno (1993, Law) joins the legal team assisting the parents of Lisa Irwin

• Bob Regnier (1978, Management) has been named 2011 Kansas Citian of the Year

• Michael Stern (Honorary Degree, 2001, Conservatory) and the Kauffman Center receive rave reviews from the New York Times

• Steve Sullivan (1985, Law) adds an executive position at Ameren Energy 

• Lantz Welch (1959, Law) and Laura Welch host fundraisers for the Medical Missions Foundation

• Keith Wenzel (1986, Law) has been hired by Polsinelli Shughart 

• Randell Wood (1979, Law) and son Noah Wood (1999, SCE) attempted to represent ousted leader Moammar Gadhafi

• Mike Yunghans (UMKC Student, Conservatory) has been hired by the Carnegie Arts Center

August, 2011

• Stephen Byrd ('11, Pharmacy) joined John’s Pharmacy in Cape Girardeau, MO 
• Gina Gail Milburn ('89, Music & Dance) is new director of Barry-Lawrence Regional Library in Monett, MO 
• Rhonda Holman ('11, Management) appointed to KC Tax Increment Financing Commission by Mayor James 
• Kalhoun Ahmad ('10, Arts & Sciences) fasting is more difficult during long, hot summer days
• David Goring ('02, Law) named new assistant prosecutor in Adair County, MO 
• Blake Julian, DDS ('10, Dentistry)appears on “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelor Pad” 
• Cynthia Buchanan ('89, Education) named Blue Springs Examiner’s Teacher of the Week 
• Brian Harris ('09, Arts & Sciences) ormer UMKC Scholastic All-American awaits 2011-2012 Missouri Comets season 
• Scott Hamilton, DDS ('84, Dentistry) appointed to Kansas Dental Board by Gov. Sam Brownback 
• Wesley E. Brown ('33, Law)(oldest federal judge in U.S.) (age 104) gives stiff prison terms for illegal hunting operation 
• Stephen Hadzima, MD ('83, Medicine) named vice president/chief quality officer at Texas Health Presbyterian Plano 
• JoAnn Oppenheimer (58, Education) helps women overcome adversity and learn to cope with new book
• Jennifer Pieren (11, Dental Hygiene) awarded 2nd place in American Dental Hygiene Association’s 2011 research competition
• Bryan Williams ('04, Education) named principal at Spring Branch Middle School
• Amanda Swift ('08, Arts & Sciences) to wed Daniel Tucker ('04, Arts & Sciences)

July, 2011

• Victoria Uzomah, PhD ('09, Nursing) work with the KC School District Health Clinics highlighted
• Andrew Talbert ('09), Lauren Cloud ('08), and Jerry Nevins ('09), open frozen-cocktail bar Snow & Co. in Crossroads
• Mark Funkhouser ('00, Graduate Studies) named director of Governing Institute, a Washington-based think tank
• Tony Ladesich ('00, Arts & Sciences) featured on KSMO’s “CinemaKC” as local filmmaker
• Frasat Chaudry, MD ('03, Medicine) joined St. Luke’s Hospital brain and spine center in Chesterfield, MO
• Alfred Lomax ('75, Arts & Sciences) appointed by President Obama as US Marshal, Western District of Missouri
• Brenda Lea Peak ('71, Arts & Sciences) named Blue Springs Examiner’s Teacher of the Week 
• James D. Youngs, Judge ('89, Law) appointed by MO Gov. Nixon to the Coordinating Board for Early Education
• Jeff Dalsing ('89, Education) discovers his roots with author of ‘In Broad Daylight’ 
• John Yancey, Jr. ('68, Arts & Sciences) retires as senior financial advisor with Edward Jones after over 39 years
• Jarrod Casner ('09, Nursing) selected by Saint John Hospital of Leavenworth as new infection control nurse 
• Kari Besharse ('98, Conservatory) enjoys composition as a natural process
• Sharon Redding ('74, Education) Teacher of the Week 
• Troy Greenfield ('07, Management) appointed to Northwest Foundation’s board of directors
• Jennifer Nicholson ('78, Management) appointed to Northwest Foundation’s board of directors
• George Lebovitz ('74, Education) moved back to Israel with his wife where they met in 1963
• Rita Blitt ('52, Arts & Sciences) announces art exhibitions and film screenings in Missouri, New York and California
• Dwight Scott ('94, Arts & Sciences) is Oklahome City Zoo Executive Director
• Dustin Cates ('04, Conservatory) discusses teaching and performing as Shawnee Mission South HS choral director
• Lindsey Ramsey ('04, Management) named head softball coach at William Chrisman High School in Independence
• Michael McClintock ('06, Conservatory)is master of Brazilian music with Kansas City Guitar Society
• Jordan Shipley ('09, Management) is master of Brazilian music with Kansas City Guitar Society 
• Eileen McDonald ('90, Education) appointed to Kansas State Board of Cosmetology by Governor Brownback
• Danette Miller, MD ('07, Medicine) is one of a dwindling number of med school grads to go into primary care 
• Jo Leigh Fischer ('98, Law)named one of Missouri Lawyers Weekly’s 2011 “Up and Coming” lawyers
• David Keim ('01, Dentistry) is active in volunteerism and community outreach in Montana
• Kathleen Hauser ('73, Law) appointed by KC mayor tothe Citizens’ Commission on Municipal Revenue
• Steve Glorioso ('74, Arts & Sciences) appointed by KC mayor tothe Citizens’ Commission on Municipal Revenue
• David Vaughan ('07, Education) named assistant principal at Meadow Lane Elementary School in Lee’s Summit
• Bernard Mayse (1977 Education) appointed to Kansas Employment First Oversight Commission by Gov. Brownback
• Michael Payne ('05, Arts & Sciences) remembers musician James “Pappy” Garrett
• Jared Reichenberger, DDS ('09, Dentistry) opens new dental clinic in Wichita
• Mike Racy ('92, Law) NCAA Division II President joins University of Central Missouri as member of American Council on Education Fellowship 
• Allison M. Murdock ('88, Law) honored among 25 women by Women Who Mean Business 
• Diana Kander ('02, Arts & Sciences) honored among 25 women by Women Who Mean Business 

June, 2011

• Arthur L. Cole, DDS ('80, Dentistry) elected to American Association of Endodontists Board of Directors
• Harlo Donelson, DDS (62, Dentistry) featured attendee at the Memphis (MO) Memorial Day celebration
• Cynda Johnson ('99, Business & Public Admin) named the board at Blacksburg VA’s largest retirement community
• Greg Slinkard ('97, Business & Public Admin) appointed new internal auditor for Columbia, MO
• Ralph Prosper ('06, Arts & Sciences) touring North America as narrator of Baobab
• William Ferguson ('10, Business & Public Admin) named Bank Midwest executive vice president of consumer banking
• Chris Vukas ('08, Business & Public Admin) working forthe Greater Kansas City LISC
• Daphne Johnson ('02, SCE) named a Texas Society of Professional Engineers’ 2011 Young Engineer of the Year
• Charles McKenzie ('88, Law) appointed by Gov. Nixon as Circuit Judge for Jackson County, MO
• Michael Marusarz ('04, Arts & Sciences) joins WSVN Miami/Ft. Lauderdale news desk and shortens last name to “Marza” 
• Todd Shaffer, MD ('88 Arts & Sciences) named 63rd president of Missouri Academy of Family Physicians
• Catherine Hamilton ('04, Nursing) named Chief Nursing Officer at Hendrick Medical Center in Chillicothe, MO
• Lora Arnott ('79, Arts & Sciences) named director of special services for Elk River Area School Board in Elk River, MN
• Willie Lanier ('01, Management) establishes Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society scholarship in Ohio
• Allison Murdock ('88, Law) named a Kansas City Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business Honoree
• Mike Keefe ('74, Arts & Sciences) Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist interviewed by Editor & Publisher Magazine
• Raymond Rico ('11, Law), speaks at 2011 HSF Awards Banquet
• Suzanne Bradley ('75, Law) appointed by Gov. Nixon to Missouri Gaming Commission 
• Kevin Hellman ('08, SCE) joined DuraComm Corporation as marketing associate
• Stephen Bass, MD ('82, Medicine) brings plastic surgery services two Arizona clinics 
• Nancy Thayer ('69, Arts & Sciences) praised for latest novel Heat Wave
• Dan Hoxworth ('91, Management) welcomed as new President/CEO of Child & Family Tennessee
• Thomas Hastings, MD ('86, Medicine) named to  Best Doctors in America
• Rory Ellinger ('78, Law) speaks on former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant’s involvement with the Civil War
• Marshall Miller ('67, Arts & Sciences) got the Art of the Car Concours rolling
• Cody W. Bell ('11, Dental Hygiene) joins Kaelin Dental Group in Cape Girardeau
• Jean Paul Chaurand ('03, Management) appointed president of Kansas City Parks & Recreation Board 
• Jim Lane ('90, Arts & Sciences) is ready to hang up his hat as a set designer for the Kansas City  Shakespeare Festival 
• Harvey Williams ('79, Arts & Sciences) performs role of chauffer in Driving Miss Daisy in KC and in Bedford, England
• Lindsey Martin-Bowen ('00, Arts & Sciences) presented poetry and prose at fundraiser for tornado victims
• Kim Martin-Cotten ('93, Arts & Sciences) performs Macbeth in Kansas City's Shakespeare Festival

May, 2011

• Jose Dominguez (1989 Med School) recognized as 2010 Salute to Healthcare honoree
• Peter Lawless ('08, Conservatory) cast in DreamAcres Barn Series play called ‘Boom!’ 
• Carla Noack ('92, Arts & Sciences) cast in DreamAcres Barn Series play called ‘Boom!’ 
• Marcia Torbett ('85, Management) named Executive Director of Child Watch Children’s Advocacy Center 
• Jerry Kelly ('94, Business & Public Admin) is honored by UMKC EOY Awards
• William “Bill” Weber ('01, Education) named new principal of Olathe East High School 
• Stephen L. Danner, Brig. General ('77, Arts & Sciences) organized Missouri Guard for Obama’s Joplin visit
• Deland Myers ('78, Arts & Sciences) represents Summit League on NCAA Academic Cabinet 
• William R. Ward, Ph.D. (1968 Arts & Sciences) was awarded prestigious Kuiper Prize in planetary sciences
• Traci Nelsen ('99, Law) received Victim Advocate Award from Nebraska Coalition for Victims of Crime 
• Wesley E. Brown ('33 Law), 104 year old judge, is a modern Solomon 
• Troy Schulte ('02 Arts & Sciences) named Kansas City’s city manager 
• Jacqueline Thompson ('79, Conservatory) was special guest at the Charles MacNaider Museum in Mason City
• Robert M. Clayton III ('94, Law) nominated to fill vacancy on Missouri Court of Appeals 
• Alexis Petersen ('06, Education) named Independence Teacher of the Week
• Daniel J. Thomas, DDS ('90, Dentistry) honored by KC Asian American Chamber 
• Douglas Niedt ('74, Conservatory) release new guitar instructional DVD 
• Bruce Ricker ('71, Law), champion of KC jazz and film, leaves behind a legacy
• Oliver Burnette ('01, Arts & Sciences) turns over the reins of Muddy’s Coffeehouse
• Paul Kincaid ('45, Dentistry) talks about his life as a dentist 
• Troy Schulte ('02, Arts&Sciences) KCMO City Manager wins Greater Kansas City Chapter Public Administrator of the Year Award
• Kristine Merrell ('92, Education) named Lee’s Summit R-7 School District 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year
• Rebekah Mayer ('06, Education) – receives Lee’s Summit R-7 School District 2011-2012 Excellence in Teaching Award
• Brian Campbell ('97, Education) – Lee’s Summit R-7 School District 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year finalist
• Dawn Wessling ('97, Education) Lee’s Summit R-7 School District 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year finalist
• Tuan Tran ('08, Management) found job through UMKC job fair 
• Michele Thompson ('71, Arts & Sciences) leaves as secretary to the UI president
• Christian Mueller ('00, Management) is F&M Bank’s new Vice President
• Susan Krigel ('89, Education) Cancer survivor named KC Royals Honorary Bat Girl
• Peter Lemonds ('82, Conservatory) honored by Yale University
• Dr. Mutuku Mutinga ('68, Arts & Sciences) tells his story to KCUR
• Christy Albano ('96, Law) receives Board Certification in Family Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
• Nursing leads Jacki Witt ('92 Law & '87 Nursing) down many paths
• “How to Make a Million Dollars Playing the Guitar” book by Douglas Niedt ('74, Conservatory) is a no-nonsense guide
• Thomas D. Hyde ('75, Law) has been appointed to the Great Plains Energy board of directors
• Rep. Jean Peters-Baker ('98, Law) has been named Jackson County prosecutor by Mike Sanders
• Yale University honors Dr. Peter Lemonds ('82, Conservatory)
• Michele Thompson ('71, Arts & Sciences) is leaving as secretary to the UI president after 21 years
• Christian Mueller ('00, Bloch) is F&M Bank’s new Vice President
• Cancer survivor Susan Krigel ('89, Education) named KC Royals Honorary Bat Girl

April, 2011

• Donald Fehr ('73, Law) has been named to the Board of Directors of the Hockey Hall of Fame
• Governor Nixon appoints Jim Kanatzar ('92, Law) as Jackson County Circuit Court judge
• Carmen Roberts ('10, Dental Hygiene) joins DeAtley Dental Care in Mountain Home
• Mr. Brent Miles ('03, Arts & Sciences) explains how KCK was able to land Google’s high-speed internet project
• Dr. Robert Cater ('54, Dentistry) has become a successful orthodontist at the age of 88, starting out from rural Missouri
• Dr. Tara Aghaloo ('94, Dentistry) has been named to the Board of Directors of the Academy of Osseointegration
• Katie Gilchrist ('03, Arts & Sciences), local actress with the Metropolitan Ensemble Theater, was profiled by the Star
• Michael Keefe ('74, Arts & Sciences) is the 2011 Pulitzer Prize for editorial cartooning recipient
• Poet Jose Fauss ('87, Arts & Sciences) win Poets & Writers’ 2011 Maureen Egen Writers Exchange Award
• JD Gravina ('03, Arts & Sciences) chosen to be new Western Illinois University women’s hoop coach
• Dr. James T. Lane ('84, Medicine) has been named to the Harold Hamm Chair in Clinical Diabetes Research at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
• Don Chaffer’s ('95, Conservatory) musical Son of a Gun has been chosen by the Eugene O’Neill Theater in Connecticut to be developed at its 2011 National Music Theater Conference
• Metropolitan Community College – Penn Valley names Joseph Seabrooks, Jr. ('01, Graduate Studies/Education) President
• Fox 4 interviews Mike Albano ('68 Law)
• Dr. Matthew Standridge ('10 Dentistry) has joined the dental team at Flint Hills Community Health Center in Emporia, KS