FRANKLIN COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019
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FRANKLIN COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019 THE VOICE Broadcaster achieves career win with Indianapolis Colts. Pg. 28
RENEE KEAN ’06
2 Franklin College MAGAZINE
NATURE’S CLASSROOM
With the sun shining, birds chirping, squirrels scavenging and
magnolia trees blooming, spring is an enticing time to enjoy
the outdoors at Franklin College. These students and their
professor found the perfect spot in front of the Pulliam School
of Journalism, on the west side of campus.
SPRING 2019 3
PRESIDENT’S
MESSAGE
FRANKLIN
COLLEGE
Volume LV, No. 2
MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019
Contributing Staff
Director of Communications
Deidra Baumgardner
Editor
C
Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96
Pulliam Fellow
Shelby Mullis ’19
Director of Marketing
Ann Smith
Dear Alumni and Friends, Assistant Director of Marketing for Visual
Communications
Renee Kean ’06
Spring, as we all know, is a time of renewal and transformation in Sports Information Director
nature. With lengthier daylight hours, blossoming plants and trees Ryan Thomas
and visibly active wildlife, spring surrounds us with symbols of Senior Leadership
promise and a fresh start. Vice President for Development and Alumni
Engagement
Dana Cummings
My appreciation of the spring metaphor has deepened greatly
Vice President and Dean of Admissions and
during my four years of service as Franklin College President. I have Financial Aid
Kate Coffman
observed in our college community, as in nature, how a culmination
of efforts, at just the right time, enables a flourish of awe-inspiring Submissions and Changes
For content submissions, email aversteeg@
achievements. FranklinCollege.edu or call 317.738.8188. For
address and phone changes, email recordupdates@
This spring, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the hard work FranklinCollege.edu or call 317.738.8052. Mail
correspondence to Franklin College Magazine,
faculty continue putting into our new curriculum implementation Attn: Amy Kean VerSteeg, 101 Branigin Boulevard,
and for the critical support staff provide. The chance to congratulate Franklin, Indiana 46131-2623.
another class of students on their graduation and the start of exciting Franklin College Magazine
careers and graduate school programs also gives me tremendous pride Published three times annually. Copyright by
Franklin College.
and joy.
Franklin College
Established in 1834, Franklin College is a liberal
Our college life cycle moves forward with each new endeavor, every arts college in the Indianapolis metropolitan area,
new class and all of you. I am sincerely grateful for your ongoing and about 20 miles from the city’s downtown. In 1842,
the college began admitting women, becoming
generous support of ideas, programs and projects that profoundly
the first coeducational institution in Indiana
impact the people in our Franklin College community. This magazine and the seventh in the nation. Our students and
issue highlights some of the remarkable outcomes for which you are alumni are self-motivated lifelong learners who
relentlessly pursue the best in themselves and in
responsible. Thank you for all the reasons you continue to give us to our community.
celebrate, year after year. Nondiscrimination Policy
Franklin College is committed to the principle and practice
of equal opportunity for all its students, faculty, employees
Sincerely, and applicants for admission and employment. For that
reason, the college provides equal employment opportunities
on the basis of merit and without regard to the individual’s
race, color, religion, gender, disability, age, national origin,
marital status or sexual orientation, in accordance with state
and federal laws and any other characteristic protected by
law. The college prohibits, forbids and will not tolerate any
FRANKLIN COLLEGE PRESIDENT verbal, physical or other conduct that belittles or demeans
any individual on the basis of the above-listed statuses. All
Follow @PresFC on Twitter. employees, managers, supervisors and job applicants are
covered by this commitment. No person or employee, no
matter his or her title or position, has the authority
expressed, actual, apparent or implied to discriminate against
any employee of the college. This policy applies to all terms
and conditions of employment, admission to and enrollment
in Franklin College, including, but not limited to, recruitment,
selection, hiring, benefits, educational policies, admission
policies, financial aid, scholarship and loan programs,
housing athletic and other college-administered programs
and activities.
On the Cover
Matt Taylor ’08 stands on the Indianapolis Colts’
practice field.
PHOTO BY MATT BOWEN
4 Franklin College MAGAZINE Follow Us
CONTENTS
CELEBRATING PHILANTHROPY 8 DISTANCE LEARNING 16 LIVE AND LEARN 20
AHEAD OF THE CURVE 24 ON THE RISE 34 PUPPY LOVE 36
Featured Stories
22 WAVE OF SUCCESS
Get up to speed on the 2019 HCAC champion Grizzlies’ swimming and diving program,
and learn which five students recently competed in the NCAA Division III Championships.
26 TALK THIS WAY
Meet the personalities behind the voices of four sports broadcasters covering high
school, college and professional leagues for radio and TV.
45 NO SMALL FEAT
Reminisce with Ric Flecker ’67, as he recounts his mother’s courageous role in helping
him attend Franklin College and realize his dream of playing football.
SPRING 2019 5
CAMPAIGN GOAL
EXCEEDED
A public announcement on “We are extremely grateful Minar said another gener-
to the many donors, includ- ous and impactful gift came
May 13 let the world know that ing trustees, alumni, friends from the Elba L. and Gene
Franklin College had exceeded its and organizations, who Portteus Branigin Founda-
$10 million fundraising goal for have been instrumental in tion. In January, the Branigin
Foundation challenged the
helping us reach our goal,”
the Campaign for the Sciences. said Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D., college to raise the remain-
The campaign helped fund the Franklin College President. ing funds needed to reach its
fundraising goal by May 1.
construction and renovation “One of the most impact- If accomplished, the foun-
of the new 51,000-square-foot ful was college trustee Dr. dation would provide the
Margot Lacy Eccles (HD ’02).
Franklin College Science Center The generous $2.5 million
final $225,000 to bring the
campaign across the finish
on campus. financial promise and line.
matching challenge she
PHOTO BY CHAD WILLIAMS made prior to her death “We are thankful for the
in 2012 was a substantial Branigin Foundation’s
impetus to getting the substantial gift and for
campaign off the ground. challenging us to be
The ripple effect that fol- diligent in reaching our
lowed was game-changing, campaign goal,” said
The college hosted a Science Center dedication and we are so pleased the Minar. “As impactful
and ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 16. Science Center’s Lacy Labs as Dr. Eccles’ gift was in
Full event coverage will be included in the will honor her memory and getting the campaign
next Franklin College Magazine. contributions.” started, so was the Branigin
Foundation’s challenge
6 Franklin College MAGAZINE
RECORD-BREAKING
GRANT
A new grant funding research on
Canada Geese in urban landscapes is
enabling Franklin College, Ball State
University and the Indiana Department
of Natural Resources to collaborate.
The four-year, $250,000 grant is the
largest Franklin has ever received for
undergraduate student research and
is administered through the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service’s Federal Aid in
Wildlife Restoration Act.
Each research partner will study
Canada Geese in distinct urban set-
tings across Central Indiana. Franklin
College’s optimal location south of
Indianapolis will permit on-site
research in one of the Midwest’s
fastest-growing cities.
Ben O’Neal, Ph.D., associate professor
of biology and one of the principal
and gift toward eclipsing May 2018, and the entire
investigators, said, “Appropriate
our goal.” facility was opened for use
management of these beautiful, but
in January 2019.
The Science Center project contentious creatures necessitates
began in February 2012, “I’m proud to be a Grizzly deliberate, evidence-based decision
when the college’s board of every day, but the success making. This study will help meet that
trustees announced moving of a $10 million campaign need and also offer Franklin College
forward with preparations is a truly extraordinary students an opportunity to immerse
for a campaign to enhance occasion,” said Dana Cum- themselves in the practical work of
science programs and mings, vice president for wildlife research and management.” J
facilities. In October 2016, development and alumni
the board approved moving engagement.
forward on the construction
and renovation project, “The entire Franklin College
breaking ground in May community came together
2017. Phase one was the in support of our beautiful
construction of a 21,000- new Science Center, and
square-foot addition to the the results are remarkable.
existing science building, My heartfelt thanks go
Barnes Hall, and phase to each and every person
two was the renovation of who made the decision to
Barnes Hall, built in 1927 support Franklin College
RENEE KEAN ’06
and last renovated in 1987. students and the future of
The newly constructed education with their hard-
portion of the Science earned dollars. We are ever
Center opened for use in grateful.” J
SPRING2019
SPRING 2019 77
Celebrating
PHILANTHROPY
Giving society members and donors who
participated in the Campaign for the
Sciences were special guests at the
President’s Circle Celebration, Feb. 8.
PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06
AND QUINN FITZGERALD ’20
President Thomas J. Minar, to the official dedication on
Ph.D., thanked donors for their May 16. Science faculty and
exceptional generosity and students were on site to
highlighted how annual gifts facilitate tours, demonstrate
help the college address prior- technology and share examples
ity areas of need and opportu- of ongoing research projects.
nity. He focused on the critical Each of the Science Center’s
role of leadership gifts toward three floors offered a variety
the $10 million Campaign for of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and
the Sciences, and he gave a spirits. J
progress update on the 51,000-
square-foot Science Center, Want to become a President’s Circle member
for which the college broke and join the distinguished men and women
ground in May 2017. who represent the pinnacle of commitment
to Franklin College? Contact Lee Ann Jourdan,
After Minar led a champagne
assistant vice president for alumni engagement
toast in the Napolitan Student
and annual giving, 317.738.8755. View the full
Center, the celebration relo-
Honor Roll of Donors, recognizing everyone
cated to the Science Center.
who made a gift of any size last fiscal year, at
Donors enjoyed an exclusive
FranklinCollege.edu/giving/honor-roll-of-donors.
preview of the facility, prior
8 Franklin College MAGAZINE
SPRING 2019 9
5PRIDE WAYS TO SHOW
COLLEGE
1. Wear blue and gold on National College Colors Day,
Sept. 1, 2019. Share pics on social media using
#FranklinCollege, #GrizAlumni and #CollegeColorsDay.
2. Put a plate on it! Join the more than 900 Indiana motorists
proudly driving home their support with Franklin College
license plates. Purchase plates online at in.gov/bmv.
Live outside of Indiana? Shop for license plates frames
at bit.ly/2IcFc61.
3. Advocate for Franklin College. Share examples of your
college experiences to help recruit future Grizzlies.
Refer students online at bit.ly/2ErgKeF. Also, consider
volunteering for alumni career panels, offering student
internships or participating in college-sponsored
networking events. Email kbixler@FranklinCollege.edu
for details.
4. Be part of the tradition during Homecoming and Alumni
Weekend, Oct. 9 – 13, 2019. Reunite with friends, attend
your class reunion, get free Griz swag, eat great food, watch
the football game and tailgate. Share pics on social media
using #FCTradition.
5. Follow, like and share Franklin College on social media.
Your influence will help build awareness, involvement and
Griz pride!
10 Franklin College MAGAZINEILLUSTRATION BY CARA WAHLERS
$
130
202 NUMBER
FACULTY OF GOLD
(graduates of the
AND STAFF last decade)
GIFTS ALUMNI
DONORS
12
YOU
BECAUSE OF
1,0
TOTAL DONORS
$165,288
Thank you for making the seventh
annual #GivetoGRIZ the most successful
24-hour fundraising challenge in program
history!
“It’s truly incredible to watch the
difference made on our campus through
TOTAL RAISED
philanthropy on this special day. The
entire Grizzly Nation came together this
year, and we are grateful,” said Dana
Cummings, vice president for develop-
ment and alumni engagement.
#GivetoGRIZ benefits the Franklin Fund,
which helps provide tuition assistance
326 208 100%
for qualifying students along with
addressing college areas of priority need.
Promotion through Facebook and Twitter
drove this year’s donor participation.
Donors wishing to make a gift to the
Franklin Fund during the current fiscal
STUDENT STUDENT ALUMNI year have until June 30. Give online
PARTICIPANTS DONORS COUNCIL at FranklinCollege.edu/give-now, call
317.738.8040 or return the enclosed
PARTICIPATION envelope with your gift today. J
SPRING 2019 11REIMAGINED
CURRICULUM
Faculty and administrators have been hard at work for the past year and
a half on the most comprehensive curricular reform in the college’s 185-year
history. The new curriculum, the Pursuit at Franklin College, will make
engaged learning an integral part of every student’s Franklin experience.
PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06
The Pursuit leverages many of the best
practices already deeply embedded in the
college’s liberal arts and sciences curriculum,
carries them across every discipline and
integrates them into all majors. In this way, the
Pursuit immerses students in four years of engag-
ing, cohesive, transformational experiences.
Upon earning a bachelor’s degree, students will
have knowledge in their chosen disciplines as
well as skills to help make them more adaptable
and valuable to employers, not just now, but in
the decades to come.
According to Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D., Franklin
College President, the Pursuit positions
graduates to succeed in a rapidly changing
world.
“Throughout all of history, we can find
examples of how innovative ideas have
driven economies and changed the world.
Some of the most inspirational innovators
are from Indiana, which continues to be a
springboard for thinking big.
“Hoosiers such as Colonel Eli Lilly,
Madam C.J. Walker, Frank Ball and Orville
Redenbacher are some of greatest examples
of innovators who achieved extraordinary
success because they recognized opportuni-
ties, developed ideas and pursued dreams.
They knew how to think, and we believe
Franklin College graduates can build on
their impactful legacies.”
12 Franklin College MAGAZINEThe Pursuit hinges on six high-impact During the 2019 Immersive Term, the college
educational practices: rolled out the Pursuit’s inaugural element,
Pivot, an offering of nontraditional mini-
1. Launch: A yearlong program that helps courses that ranged from cooking creatively on a
propel new students through the budget and practicing meditation to deciphering
transition into college and offers fake news and maintaining a gratitude journal,
empowering opportunities for social, among more than 50 other topics.
personal and academic growth throughout
“ The Pursuit, Launch
their first-year experience.
2. A relevant and responsive liberal arts
experience: Specially designed courses and the Center for
Student Success are all
will help students learn to see the world
through a variety of lenses and to under-
specifically designed
stand how values are formulated from
different perspectives.
3. Immersive, applied experiences: Learn- to provide students a
high-touch, innovative
ing will take place somewhere other
than in a traditional classroom. The
college will expand opportunities so that
every student completes at least one and distinctive path
internship but also so that every course
students take during January’s Immersive
to thrive in college.”
Term (previously Winter Term) will be
experience-based.
KERI ELLINGTON
DEAN OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND RETENTION
4. Overt opportunities to use technology:
Whenever possible; both in- and out-of- “With an emphasis on lifelong learning, profes-
classroom experiences will involve sional development, life skills and wellness, Pivot
technology. courses are designed to teach students skills
and strategies that will help them adapt and
5. Undergraduate research opportunities: flourish personally and professionally long after
Over four years, students will conduct graduation,” said Keri Ellington, dean of student
research of an increasingly professional success and retention.
caliber, gaining the confidence and ability
to pursue and answer meaningful Another key element of the Pursuit is a yearlong
questions. program called Launch. It is specifically designed
for new students and provides resources to
6. Cohesive professional development help with the transition into college. First-year
opportunities: Every major will integrate experiences greatly impact student outcomes,
customized opportunities for a student’s according to Ellington.
professional development, helping forge
a clear vision of the path between college “The Pursuit, Launch and the Center for Student
and career. Success are all specifically designed to provide
students a high-touch, innovative and distinctive
“These practices characterize an approach that path to thrive in college. With equal parts rigor
is intentional and unique to Franklin College. and resources, we are confident that these new
The Pursuit is carefully crafted to intersect efforts will deliver an exciting, empowering
liberal arts education with experience-based and inspiring first-year experience that puts all
preparation for the world of work,” said Lori K. students on a successful course to graduation.”
Schroeder, Ph.D., provost and dean of the college.
“The Franklin faculty are fully committed to Full implementation of the Pursuit will coincide
delivering a curriculum that can help students with the start of the 2019–20 academic year. J
succeed in the pursuit of their individual goals.”
SPRING 2019 13FROMLEARNINGTO
DOING
Internships are a key part of the
Franklin College experience, and
January — the Immersive Term — is a
prime opportunity for students to intern
full time for four weeks. Internships
“Connor Holland ’19
can help students build skill sets, was very personable,
professional connections and a professional and
portfolio of work and experience,
providing a springboard for entry into
competent. He
the workforce or graduate school. displayed excellent
Data collected through an annual survey consistently indicates work ethic,
enthusiasm and
95 percent of Franklin College students are employed or attend-
ing graduate school within six months of graduating.
For employers, hosting an intern is a great way to find promis- eagerness to learn.”
ing new talent. Interns also can help lighten employee work-
loads and bring new perspectives to problem solving. Want to NATALIA ULLOA
discuss hiring an intern? Contact Kirk Bixler, director of career COUNSELOR, SHELBYVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
development, at 317.738.8803.
PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06
“ Deciding to bring an intern to NYC for our most import-
ant trade show of the year was a leap of faith. We had
a 600-square-foot booth to set up and manage, 100 sales
agents to train on 400 products and hundreds of custom-
ers who packed our booth every day. Marena Drake ’19
won the praises of everyone. She was professional in
her appearance, the way she handled customers, even
her interactions with the owner of the company. It was
a pleasure to have her on our team. We look forward to
continuing her internship and seeing where this may
lead!”
Julie Wells
president, DJECO-U.S.
14 Franklin College MAGAZINE“ Rob Warren ’19 was THE
model intern for not only
our area office, but for our
“ BRYCE HALE ’20 WAS A
GREAT TEAM PLAYER, EAGER TO
LEARN AND DO ANYTHING ASKED.
HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING
DOCUMENT OUR WEBSITES AND APPLICA-
entire network of offices. TIONS. HE ALSO HELPED OUR DEVELOPER
His ability to continuous- REVIEW CODE AND UPDATE FILES WITH
ly push through obstacles OPTIMIZED IMAGES, WHICH HELPED INCREASE
and work harder each day OUR SITES’ PAGE SPEEDS. I WAS REALLY
to reach his goals was IMPRESSED WITH THE WAY HE TACKLED
exemplary. He has set the OUR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INVENTORY
standard for what we will PROJECT AND DIGITAL DASHBOARDS.”
expect each of our college
interns to strive.” JUSTIN HART
MARKETING DIRECTOR,
Adam K. Ellis CHRISTY VENTURES
managing director,
Northwestern Mutual
“ IT WAS A TRUE PLEASURE HAVING CHELSEY ARVIN ’19 IN THE
LAB. SHE IS A BRIGHT STUDENT WITH THE PASSION AND DRIVE TO
SUCCEED. CHELSEY GAINED EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE IN TISSUE
CULTURE TECHNIQUES, TREATMENT OF CELLS WITH DRUGS
AND ENDPOINT ANALYSIS FOR VIABILITY AND ATP CONTENT.
SHE WORKED WITH BOTH NEURONAL AND CARDIAC INDUCED
PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS EVALUATING FUNCTIONAL ENDPOINTS,
LIKE ELECTRICAL CONDUCTANCE.”
THOMAS K. BAKER ’91
RESEARCH SCIENTIST, ELI LILLY AND CO.
SPRING 2019 15learning
Distance
The best way to develop a truly global
perspective is to engage with the world.
The college offers a variety about and willing to collabor-
of faculty-led Immersive ate with international
Term study-away courses colleagues. Individuals with
for students every year. The global perspective also may
three-week courses, offered in be more compelled to help
January, vary in location but address complex issues related
consistently share the goal of to world financial systems
helping students learn to better and poverty, religious conflict
understand the world’s inter- and persecution, and the
dependence and complexities. environment and sustainable
agriculture.
“These courses deepen learning
by connecting the classroom “Travel helps empower stu-
to the broader world. They dents for many possibilities,”
give students the chance to said Cataldi.
immerse, investigate and
explore global issues they The 2019 international courses
have studied but perhaps have enabled students to volunteer
not experienced firsthand or with the Special Olympics
for which they have a limited in Costa Rica, delve into the
frame of reference,” said Jenny culinary culture and lan-
(Piland) Cataldi ’05, office of guage of France, work on
global education director. a fair trade coffee farm in
Guatemala and see how art
The benefits of Immersive therapy is helping people in In the Normandy region of France, Danielle
Term travel are twofold. In the Uganda work to overcome Nuckols ’19 took this photo of a souvenir coin
commemorating the 75th anniversary of D-Day.
immediate, students may be wounds caused by poverty,
The nickname refers to June 6, 1944, during
inspired to take responsible British colonialism and years World War II, when American, British and
action such as helping raise of guerilla warfare. A domes- Canadian forces landed on five beaches in
awareness of issues or reach- tic immersive course took France, embarking on a two-month battle that
resulted in the liberation of Western Europe from
ing out to policymakers. Over students to New York City to Nazi Germany’s control.
the long term, students with participate in the Model U.N.
global travel experience may While on safari in Uganda’s Murchison Falls
Here, we share some photos National Park, Kylee Carr ’20 spotted an elephant
be more valuable to employ-
in the marsh. In the background, native women
ers and graduate schools who by students who captured the
carry tall grasses back to their village, possibly to
want individuals confident essence of global learning. J make huts.
16 Franklin College MAGAZINE“Travel helps
empower students
for many
possibilities.”
JENNY (PILAND) CATALDI ’05
Quinn Fitzgerald ’20 and classmates worked with
small-holder coffee farmers and cooperatives
in Guatemala. Several farmers welcomed the
students into their homes for lunch. On one
occasion, Fitzgerald met Esmeralda, a farmer’s
granddaughter. She was shy but captivated by the
camera, Fitzgerald said, “This photo of her is one
of my favorites from the entire trip.”
SPRING 2019 17BUZZ WORTH NATIONAL ACADEMIC The fund recognizes three influential professors
whose combined teaching careers represent a
RECOGNITION century of mathematics excellence at Franklin
College, Dwight F. Heath ’43, Richard “Dick” Park
The American Mathematical Society (AMS)
(HD ’02), Ph.D., and Dan Callon ’77, Ph.D.
bestowed the 2019 Award for an Exemplary
Program or Achievement in a Mathematics The fund’s annual proceeds will support
Department to Franklin College on April 8. engaged-learning activities, including student
T. Christine (Chris) Stevens, Ph.D., AMS associate participation in undergraduate research, intern-
executive director for meetings and professional ships and professional conferences. Recipients
services, made the presentation on campus. will be selected by mathematics faculty.
“The undergraduate program offered at Franklin
College has unique curricular and co-curricular
aspects. It considers the student holistically and
PI BETA PHI CREATES FUND
is intentional, carefully planned and regularly Melissa Beer ’19, who double majors in applied
assessed and revised,” cited the AMS in its award mathematics and quantitative analysis, and
notification letter. Brianna Hutton ’19, who majors in exercise
science, are the inaugural recipients of gifts
Franklin’s faculty were applauded for following
from the IN Alpha Pi Beta Phi 125th Anniversary
well-defined programmatic goals and a model for
Award Fund.
student success. The AMS acknowledged that the
Mathematical Association of America has invited The fund, commemorating the chapter’s
the faculty to present at two previous MathFest founding at Franklin College on Jan. 16, 1888,
conferences, and they will present, again, this is designated to assist collegians with their
summer. educational expenses. More than 50 alumnae
and friends have contributed to the fund thus
Mathematics professor Dan Callon ’77, Ph.D., said
far, raising more than $19,000. Donations are still
the AMS award is a reflection of the department’s
welcome to the active fund, which began in
culture “developed through the investment of
2013, coinciding with the chapter’s 125th
time, talent and energy of our wonderful current
anniversary celebration.
and emeritus faculty and staff, outstanding
students, highly-involved alumni, welcoming Eligible recipients must be initiated Pi Beta Phi
community partners and generous donors.” 1 members, who are in good standing with the
college and uphold the fraternity’s core values.
Jessica (Lillpop) Mahoney ’96, chapter alumna
MATHEMATICS FUND and current collegiate adviser, and Taylor Dwyer,
Franklin College director of student involvement
Franklin College Trustee and Board Chair
and Greek life, chose the recipients, who were
Emerita Christi S. Fields ’74 (HD ’19) with her
recognized in February. Future recipients will
spouse, Jack Borgerding, made a lead gift of
be recognized at the annual Homecoming and
$50,000 establishing and endowing the Legacy
Alumni Weekend Pi Beta Phi Breakfast. 2
Fund in Mathematics. Additional gifts from other
donors, alumni and friends helped increase the
fund to $100,000.
18 Franklin College MAGAZINEHY
PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06, VIKTORIA ROCK ’20 AND LINDA STRIGGO
3
1
In the foreground are emeritus mathematics professor
Richard “Dick” Park (HD ’02), Ph.D., associate professor
Justin Gash, Ph.D., and AMS associate executive
director for meetings and professional services
T. Christine (Chris) Stevens, Ph.D. In the background
are emerita professor Bonnie Pribush, professor
John Boardman, Ph.D., lecturer Angie (Hughes)
Walls ’88, associate professor Paul Fonstad, Ph.D.,
associate professor Stacy Hoehn, Ph.D., emerita
professor Karen Wade, professor Dan Callon ’77,
Ph.D., trustee Christi Fields ’74 (HD ’19) and president
Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D.
ART MUSEUM EXHIBIT
A painting by David Cunningham, associate
professor of art, is included in the 87th annual
juried exhibition of Indiana artists at the
Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields
through June 1. His painting shows how 4
nature has transformed industrial waste
from the ’50s into beautiful stones
frequently found along Lake Michigan’s
shoreline. Cunningham’s artwork has earned
several awards of professional excellence
and been displayed at galleries and museums
across the United States, and at the Indianapolis
International Airport. 3
BOOK AWARD
David Carlson, professor of philosophy and
religion, earned a Bronze in the 21st annual
Independent Publisher Book Awards contest
for Enter by the Narrow Gate. It is the first novel 2
in Carlson’s mystery-thriller series following Jessica (Lillpop) Mahoney ’96, Melissa Beer ’19, Brianna Hutton ’19
Lt. Christopher Worthy and his friend, Greek and Taylor Dwyer
orthodox priest Father Nicholas Fortis, as they
investigate unexplained murders. Learn more at
davidccarlson.net. 4 J
Source: UNOS.org
SPRING 2019 19Live
By Shelby Mullis ‘19, Pulliam Fellow
and Learn
Age is no obstacle to learning for Joyce Duvall ’60
and Gene Critchfield, “seniors” at Franklin College.
After decades of giving to others opportunity. The courses, which do
through teaching, counseling, minis- not provide college credit, are offered
try and coaching, the two are back in at a discount.
the classroom; only this time, they are
“We’re both physically quite healthy,
the students. “We’re not ready to sit
and probably our brains are the
around and do busy work. We want
most important part of who we are,
to be intellectually challenged. That’s
to us, our brains and our hearts,”
important to us,” Duvall said.
Critchfield said. “When people ask,
Critchfield, 88, and Duvall, 84, lifelong ‘Why are you doing this?’ my first
learners, reside two miles from the reaction is, ‘Why not?’ Life is interest-
college at Otterbein Franklin Senior ing, and life is good. We want to keep
Life Community, and when they on experiencing it and learning all
discovered they could audit courses that we can.”
for self-enrichment, they took the
20 Franklin College MAGAZINEPHOTOS BY BRYAN WELLS ’19
They recently were enrolled in two
courses, one on gender and sexuality
and the other on nonprofits. They
previously audited a class on gerontol-
ogy. Critchfield and Duvall enjoy the
campus community.
“I’m fascinated by the students, how
bright they are and how interested
they seem,” Critchfield said. “It’s a
family-like environment. I’ve never
experienced any of that in previous
schooling.”
Critchfield graduated from Ball State
University in 1954, earning a bachelor’s
degree in education. He later went
on to pursue additional degrees in
theology and counseling at Garrett
Seminary and Indiana University.
Duvall graduated from Franklin College
59 years ago with a bachelor’s degree
in music education. She notices stark
differences between what the college
looked like then compared to now.
“It’s twice as big,” she said, referencing
the number of buildings as well as
“I suppose that’s the main thing we
have in common. We share values.
“Life is
the enrollment. “However, the same Both of us are very people-oriented.” interesting,
and life is
standards seem to exist. There are high
academic standards, which I really “Both of us have always believed in
good. We
admire, and a family-like atmosphere.” the power of knowledge, and of the
human being,” Critchfield added.
want to
Critchfield and Duvall share an admira- “There’s some drive in each of us to
tion for the college’s uniqueness, some- be of service to other people, and you
thing that emulates the distinctiveness
of their 34-year marriage.
can’t do that if you don’t have any-
thing to offer. Of course, all of us do
keep on
They met in 1978 when Critchfield
have something to offer.”
experiencing
offered Duvall a job with Indianapolis
Public Schools’ adult-education pro-
The two agreed that returning to
college has been extremely beneficial
it and
gram. Two years later, the tables turned for their well-being. learning all
that we can.”
and Duvall asked Critchfield to work
with her. They say the rest is history. “It’s such a healthy thing for the
elderly,” Duvall said. “We’ve educated
“I was fascinated by her energy and others and helped others to see their GENE CRITCHFIELD
attracted to her immediately because potential for lifelong learning. That’s
she has a positive attitude about life,” been at the core of everything we’ve
Critchfield said. done.” J
Duvall agreed.
SPRING 2019 21Wave of
SUCCE
No pool, no problem.
When you have a
championship mentality,
anything is possible.
The Grizzlies’ swimming
and diving program is
proof of that.
The program, guided by founding
coach Andrew “Andy” Hendricks,
capped off the most successful season
in its 10-year history, with five women
advancing in March to the 2019 NCAA
Division III Championships in Greens-
boro, North Carolina.
Teammates Ashley Snoke ’21,
Jacqueline Richard ’21 and Courtnee
Coffman ’21 brought home honor-
able mention All-American honors
from the four-day competition. Their
1:35.76-finish in the 200-freestyle relay
broke both the Grizzlies’ program and
Heartland Collegiate Athletic Confer-
ence (HCAC) records and earned 16th
place overall. Teammate Brynna Sentel
’21 joined them in the relay and added
an individual All-American honorable
mention nod in the 100-backstroke.
Her finish time of 56.27 earned 12th
place overall.
Brynna Sentel ’21 and Jacqueline Richard ’21
(in back) with teammates Ashley Snoke ’21
and Courtnee Coffman ’21
22 Franklin College MAGAZINEPHOTOS BY CATHERINE WARREN
ESS
Ashley Snoke ’21 competes
in the 100-breaststroke.
Coffman, Snoke and with a competitive, yet With such achievements, ant aspects of their lives,”
Jessica Halsmer ’21 also humble spirit.” the program’s reputation Hendricks said.
competed individually in has grown nationally, and
the 50- and 100-freestyle, Since the college does not Hendricks previously
beyond. One current team
100- and 200-backstroke and have a pool, the Grizzlies served as an adjunct
member is a native of
100-breaststroke. In total, hold their practices and instructor of mathematics
Australia. Previous members
the five women qualified competitions at Franklin at Franklin College, and he
have been from as far away
in 13 events and came Community Middle School, currently is coordinator of
as Switzerland, Ukraine and
away as the most decorat- approximately one mile research for institutional
Hawaii.
ed swimmers in college from campus. Still, the analytics. His dedication as
program history, with five Grizzlies have consistently Artur Schneider ’17 was the a coach is widely known.
All-American honors and outperformed competitors first-ever Grizzly to qualify He previously was named
three Scholar All-American at the conference level. for the NCAA Division III the NCAA Liberal Arts
honors. The 200-freestyle Prior to formation of the Championships in 2015. Women’s Coach of the
relay, 400-freestyle relay and HCAC Swimming and He qualified again in Year, the NCAA Liberal Arts
400-medley relay were all Diving Championships in 2016 and 2017, when Regina Men’s Coach of the Year
new program records and 2018, the men’s team had Solik ’17 also qualified. three times and the HCAC
HCAC records. won five consecutive NCAA Men’s Coach of the Year this
Liberal Arts Championships “The program’s success is season, upon the teams’
“Every time these women while the women had won contingent on helping the dual titles. J
took to the pool they repre- two consecutively. After student-athletes set goals,
sented Franklin College in a a transition to the HCAC evolve and get better. We
way that should make every this year, the men’s and know that success in the
Grizzly proud,” Hendricks women’s teams both won pool helps instill skills and
said. “They consistently respective championships discipline that support
performed at a high level, in February. success in other import-
SPRING 2019 23AHEAD OF THE
A former three-sport
CURVE
By Quinn Fitzgerald ’20, Pulliam Fellow, and Shelby Mullis ’19, Pulliam Fellow
Now, Fifer stands on the sidelines. It’s his job. As an athletic trainer for the Arizo-
na Diamondbacks Major League Baseball team, he has a different perspective of
high school athlete the action, but his goal remains the same.
and four-year baseball
“As an athlete, you think and worry about the pitcher you’re facing or whether
player at Augustana you’re going to get any hits,” Fifer said. “As an athletic trainer, you’re still doing
College in Rock Island, everything you can to win, just in a different way.
Illinois, Daniel Fifer “You’re creating an environment for the athletes in your care to go out and suc-
(MSAT ’18) was the one ceed. Your success is watching those athletes perform at their best.”
to watch on the field. Franklin College’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program helped
He ran the bases. prepare Fifer for the career he has today. He is one of six students who graduated
on May 19, 2018, cementing a legacy as the first-ever students to earn master’s
He scored the points. degrees from the institution since its founding 185 years ago.
Implemented in July 2016, the MSAT program is a comprehensive curriculum
designed to integrate formal and rigorous classroom instruction with clinical
PHOTOS BY SARAH SACHS/ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
24 Franklin College MAGAZINEeducational experiences in a variety of summer session followed by work because they give students full days to
allied health-care settings. across the span of two school years. immerse in health-care delivery side
by side with professionals already
“We’re a professional-level athletic Director of graduate studies in health
established in their fields.
training program, which means we sciences, Kathy Remsburg, ATC, said
prepare students to take the board of Franklin created its program when Austin said the MSAT program is
certification exam so they can prac- the accrediting body for athletic unique because it focuses heavily on
tice as athletic trainers,” said program education issued a new mandate evidence-based practice, which means
director Jennifer Austin, Ph.D., LAT, ATC. requiring all athletic training majors searching for information to support
to obtain a master’s degree. She said
“It’s different at Franklin. It’s not
just about getting good grades.
It’s about students developing
personally and professionally into
good and well-rounded people.”
DANIEL FIFER (MSAT ’18)
“We focus on the prevention and man- by 2022 undergraduate programs in what students are doing in their
agement of injuries for individuals athletic training will cease to exist. clinical practice.
who are physically active.”
“Knowing this was coming down the “We’re not just using traditional meth-
The MSAT program offers two options, pipeline, I proposed a curriculum to ods that have been done over and over
a 3+2 program and a two-year post- start the MSAT program at Franklin again,” Austin said. “We’re actually
baccalaureate program. College,” Remsburg said. backing up what we’re doing with
evidence.”
The 3+2 route allows undergraduate The MSAT program put Franklin
students to complete the program ahead of the curve. Students also focus on building their
prerequisites and bachelor’s degree soft skills such as communication,
“We’ve already graduated master’s critical thinking, research and applica-
requirements before stepping into the
students, although the program tion, all pillars of Franklin’s liberal arts
master’s program during their fourth
requirement is still several years and sciences education.
year.
away,” she said. “While some other
The two-year program is for students schools are just getting started, we’ve From Fifer’s perspective, what set
with a bachelor’s degree who have been established and able to fine tune Franklin’s MSAT program apart from
already completed the required the details.” other options was the people.
prerequisite courses for the program.
Fifer said his MSAT program experi- “The professors and the community
It’s a common track for college grad-
ence included spending two days a we had behind us were the best
uates who want to change paths or
week in a classroom environment and I’ve seen,” Fifer said. “It’s different
those who did not have time to major
three days completing clinical work in at Franklin. It’s not just about
in athletic training during their under-
a variety of health-care settings. getting good grades. It’s about
graduate career.
students developing personally
Remsburg said the clinical rotations and professionally into good and
Regardless of the option, coursework
are a key part of the MSAT program well-rounded people.” J
for the program is completed over one
SPRING 2019 25talk
PHOTO COURTESY OF PURDUE UNIVERSITY
THIS WAY
By Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96, Editor
Boom baby, holy cow and booyah are catchphrases
embedded into pop culture, thanks to sports broadcasters
Slick Leonard, Harry Caray and Stuart Scott, but it took
more than a distinctive voice to cement their legacies.
The fact is when it comes to watching or listening to our favorite sports teams, the
voice on the mic is a significant part of the experience. We expect broadcasters to
share illuminating backstories about athletes and coaches, to dispense fascinating
facts from sports history and, of course, to keep us updated on the live-game action.
Sports broadcasters can help us feel like we are part of the action, whether we are
calling shots from our couch at home, sitting on a barstool among friends or reliving
highlights at a postgame tailgate. Even when we disagree with what they say, the
best ones compel us to listen. They are masters of their craft.
Here, we recognize four broadcasters for their past, present and future roles.
PHOTO COURTESY EMMIS COMMUNICATIONS
26 Franklin College MAGAZINEFLASHBACK
At the mic, Joseph “Joe” F. series, three Super Bowls Journalism’s Elmer Davis
McConnell ’62 was one of for the Minnesota Vikings, Award. The awards were
the greats. an American Basketball As- a fitting tribute for a man
sociation championship for whose career in sports
Prior to his death in April the Indiana Pacers and broadcasting began while
of 2018, he called the action Purdue’s 2000 Big Ten he was a student, calling
for 23 years in the National championship in football Grizzlies’ basketball games.
Football League, including a and victory at the Rose
tenure with the Indianapo- Bowl. He also had stints McConnell also was an
lis Colts, and he announced broadcasting Major League inductee of the Indiana
games for 15 years at Baseball, professional golf, Broadcaster Pioneers Hall
Purdue University, where he boxing and hockey. of Fame, a five-time Asso-
was the voice of the Boiler- ciated Press/United Press
makers’ football program. In recognition of McCon- International Play-by-Play
nell’s distinguished career, Sportscaster of the Year and
In all, his sports broad- Franklin College inducted an Indiana Sportscaster of
casting career spanned 46 him into the Athletic Hall the Year in 2000. He won
years and covered dozens of Fame as a friend in 2010. Illinois Sportscaster of the
of significant chapters in Less than one year later, Year in 1981. J
sports history, including he received the Franklin
five NBA championship College Pulliam School of
CALLING THE SHOTS
The name Bob Lovell ’73 is synonymous with “Indiana Lovell’s passion for the game and knowledge of Hoosier
Sports Talk,” a radio program covering the Hoosier state’s sports history have helped him earn many career accolades,
high school and college basketball scene as well as including Indiana Sportscaster of the Year. He also is an
professional teams. Since its launch in 1994, the program inductee of the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters
has spread to nearly 40 affiliate stations statewide, but Hall of Fame.
Lovell’s involvement in sports began decades ago, before
he was ever a broadcaster. In 2018, he earned the Indiana Pacers Silver Medal Award,
an annual honor bestowed to a living person for outstand-
Lovell was an all-conference basketball player at Plain- ing contributions to Indiana high school basketball in a
field (Ind.) High School prior to attending Franklin College, capacity other than playing or coaching. Recipients of the
where he became a three-year letterman in basketball and a Silver Medal subsequently become Indiana Basketball Hall
four-year letterman in baseball. He later became head coach of Fame inductees. Lovell holds other honors from the Indi-
of two sports at his college alma mater, running the bas- ana Basketball Coaches Association, Indiana Football Coach-
ketball and baseball programs from 1977–81. After that, he es Association and Indiana High School Athletic Association.
was athletic director and head coach at Indiana University-
Purdue University Indianapolis from 1982-94. His teams Lovell said, “‘Indiana Sports Talk’ has allowed me to contin-
won 270 games and made four national tournament appear- ue involvement in sports, and I feel blessed to have had two
ances. He then served as senior associate commissioner different careers that have been sports-related. The show is
for the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I a very important part of high school and college fans’ week-
Horizon League for seven years. end experience, and I am proud to be a part of it.” J
SPRING 2019 27FROM BASEMENT TO
BOOTH
How Matt Taylor ’08 made his way from hosting an
imaginary rock radio station in his parents’ basement to
calling plays for the Indianapolis Colts in the announcer’s
booth at Lucas Oil Stadium is not a fairy tale, but it is his
dream come true.
“I was blessed in the sense could continue playing Thomas Fluty ’07, also a
that I knew early on what I the game he loved most — broadcast journalism major,
wanted to do as a career. I football — while pursuing a as a co-host.
liked the concept of hearing degree in broadcast journal-
somebody come out of a ism. Franklin College was “We wanted to DJ people
speaker. I was fascinated the right fit. into the start of the week-
with it. My first love was end so we came up with
radio,” Taylor said. “I remember talking as a a rock show we called the
freshman to Ann Barton ‘Friday Night Fiasco.’ We
Some of his earliest child- (Pulliam School of Journal- had a blast, and the show
hood memories include ism Assistant Director) three became somewhat popular.
spinning his dad’s records weeks before classes started It started out as a 7 to 9
on the stereo and pre- to see how soon I could get show, expanded to 11, then
tending to be a DJ. Family involved in the college radio to midnight.”
photos show Taylor stag- station (WFCI),” he recalled.
ing a racecar track as the Taylor also began traveling
backdrop to his version of At that time, the station’s with the men’s and wom-
an Indianapolis 500 report, format was alternative rock, en’s basketball teams and
and he vividly can recount a genre he loathed. the baseball team, providing
fashioning flashlights into play-by-play radio coverage
“Being as passionate as I of their away games.
strobe lights to imitate the
was about radio, the format
start of a Pacers’ basketball
didn’t really matter. I was “As I got better, the more I
game at the former Market
more concerned about liked it, and the more seri-
Square Arena.
taking full advantage of the ous I got about it. I treated
“My parents will tell you resources. I spent a lot of those games like I was
that growing up I had the my free time in the studio, calling the Super Bowl.”
biggest imagination you figuring out how to edit,
and run a board. I remem- As a starting linebacker for
could find.”
ber pushing buttons just to the Grizzlies’ football team,
When Taylor was not see what magic they could Taylor could not do dou-
talking about sports, he do. WFCI is where I cut my ble duty as a play-by-play
was playing them. He was teeth behind the mic.” announcer, but he made
a three-sport athlete at sure the broadcast team’s
Indianapolis’ Roncalli High After building some confi- equipment was set up in
School, and he was eager dence in his skills, Taylor the press box prior to each
to find a college where he recruited football teammate game. Taylor also launched
28 Franklin College MAGAZINEMATT BOWEN
a Franklin College coaches’
radio program.
“I tried to model it after
Division I and pro-ball
shows, half an hour of
dialogue with coach inter-
views and players as special
guests. Outside of the
players’ parents and friends,
there wasn’t much of an au-
dience, but I didn’t care. For
me, it was all about learning
how to formulate a show. I
was ambitious, and Frank-
lin gave me the opportunity
to explore.”
Taylor said division head
and professor of journal-
ism Joel Cramer was
instrumental.
“He gave me a really long
leash, and he didn’t squash
any ideas. He helped
and gave advice without
inhibiting me, and that
meant a lot. Everything I “Our number one goal
is always to make a
did in college radio poured
gasoline on the fire that
made broadcast the career I
wanted to do.” broadcast the best
Taylor also had intern- possible for Colts’ fans
ships with ESPN 950 AM,
where he edited shows
and to enhance their
and with WFBQ 94.7, where
he worked in promotions
game-day experience.”
with his childhood idol and MATT TAYLOR ’08
family friend, Jimmy “Mad
Dog” Matis.
After Taylor graduated from
college, he faced the reali-
ties of entering a highly
competitive field. Early in
his career, he worked at
Emmis Communications in
Indianapolis, where he an-
swered phones for “Indiana
Sports Talk,” a radio show
hosted by Bob Lovell ’73.
SPRING 2019 29“I remember having to eventually led to an offer put on my plate,” said Taylor. the broadcast, was squeez-
justify to my buddies why I from the Indianapolis Colts. ing in a crash course on the
couldn’t go out on a Friday In 2012, he became manager You could say his plate Ravens.”
night. I had a job to do, of radio production and, began to runneth over
answering phones and until recently, has mostly in August 2018, when the Taylor spent hours memoriz-
writing down scores as the worked behind the scenes team’s longtime announcer, ing facts about the Ravens’
high schools called them to ensure every broadcast Bob Lamey, resigned after units, coaching staff, team
in. It wasn’t glamorous, reaches the more than 50 reportedly using a racial slur history and achievements,
but it led me to producing radio affiliates who help off the air. taking notes and mentally
a drive-time show, then to keep the Colts’ fans engaged preparing for a game that
The Colts had a preseason he said “went off well.”
doing play-by-play, then to in the action.
Monday night football
covering state champion-
“Anything you hear during game scheduled against the Executives agreed and soon
ships and up, up the ladder
the Colts’ programming Baltimore Ravens less than after named Taylor interim
I went.”
coming through your 48 hours later, and the exec- announcer, kicking off what
Since then, there has not speaker has my DNA all over utives counted on Taylor to essentially became his five-
been much time for looking it, whether I wrote it, said it transition smoothly into the month audition.
back, but Taylor has learned or produced it,” Taylor said. announcer’s chair.
“I had some sleepless nights,
some valuable lessons.
On occasion, he has segued “I understood the gravity trying to get inside other
“The best career advice I into visual media, hosting of the situation, that I’d be people’s heads. I wondered
can offer is don’t say no the Colts’ web shows and TV doing a job that only 31 if they liked what I was
to anything; it’s what has programs. He also has been other people have in the doing or if I should be doing
helped me the most. You a sideline reporter during NFL, but I had a great anything differently.
never know when an open game-day radio broadcasts baseline of experience from
being with the Colts’ organi- “I never wanted to take
window might lead to a and has done play-by-play
zation for so many years. the opportunity for grant-
door you can bust down for announcing for past pre-
ed, but there finally was
a bigger opportunity.” season games on TV.
“The biggest difference a point where I had to
All of Taylor’s notable work “The longer I’ve been with doing the play-by-play com- have an internal conver-
at Emmis Communications the Colts, the more I’ve had pared to doing other parts of sation with myself: ‘You’re
GOING It’s a long road from Indiana to California, but one
Brandon Barger ’21 hopes to travel. He wants to announce
PRO
soccer matches for the Summer Olympics when the games
return to Los Angeles in 2028. In pursuit of his dream,
he’s majoring in multimedia journalism and building a
well-rounded skillset.
By Daily Journal of Johnson County “In my major we study photography, videography, news-
Reprinted with permission. paper writing and broadcast writing,” said Barger, a
graduate of Indian Creek High School in Trafalgar, Indiana.
The aspiring professional sports broadcaster also is
gaining valuable experience at local games. He announces
football, girls’ and boys’ basketball, softball and base-
ball for his high school alma mater. That’s where Butch
Zike ’72, former head coach for the Grizzlies’ softball team,
heard Barger call a game, liked his style and asked if he
30 Franklin College MAGAZINEqualified to do this. Live in “Even though I couldn’t say been my driving force. It’s colleagues for helping him
faith, not fear. Be yourself. anything on the air, that day why I took the job with the balance the duties.
Do your best. Hopefully, this was a lot of fun on so many Colts. This opportunity is
why I stayed for so long.” “We have a great broadcast
is destined to be.’” levels. The Colts won their
lineup and infrastructure.
first playoff in three years
Preparation and persistence The view from the an- Both are why we can adapt
(21 – 7), and I was feeling
paid. In early January 2019, nouncer’s booth at Lucas Oil on the fly. I’m really proud
more like myself because a
the Colts offered Taylor Stadium is one Taylor savors, of how we’ve been able to
lot of trepidation about the
the full-time play-by-play even amid chaos. pull off some new things
future was gone.”
announcer’s position. without a hitch but also
“Play-by-play announcing is how we cut our losses when
Twelve days later, they
“I got the offer on a Friday like a game of chess in your something isn’t working.”
publicly announced Taylor’s
morning, one day before head. You have to talk, and
new position as the full-
the Colts were flying out formulate and finish your Most important to Taylor is
time “Voice of the Colts.”
to play the Houston Texans thoughts while all these what the fans think.
in an AFC wild-card game. “It was one of the top five other voices are coming
through your headset. “I’ve stepped into a role the
I was jumping out of my greatest days of my life! It’s
You’re getting updates from same guy had for 34 years.
skin with excitement, but not in my nature to crave
a spotter, anticipating when Inevitably, some people
I also remember thinking, the spotlight, but I was so
to break for a commercial have made comparisons.
‘OK, you have to get on the grateful for all the support
and trying to set up your That’s just human nature. As
plane and get back to work. and for everybody who
color guy, all at once. Plus, fans get used to the chang-
You still have to prove your reached out to me.”
you’re following the game es, I’d like to think we’re
worth every single day.’”
Taylor realizes he has and keeping fans informed. building something special.
Taylor told his spouse and reached the peak of a career There’s a lot to compartmen-
“Our number one goal is
immediate family, but a climb that began decades talize and manage.”
always to make a broad-
public announcement was ago, in the basement.
Taylor remains manager of cast the best possible for
on hold until end of the
“Of all the things I can do in radio production in addi- the Colts’ fans and to
season. His secret made
radio, I feel like play-by-play tion to the role of play-by- enhance their game-day
announcing the wild-card
is my biggest strength. It’s play announcer. He credits experience.” J
game extra exciting.
QUINN FITZGERALD ’20
would be interested in announcing college games. Since
then, Behrens Softball Field has been Barger’s training
ground.
“Every time I go into a game it’s to get better. As an
announcer, you’re not there to be the focal point. You’re
there to enhance the game. Sometimes I take pieces of
what I hear from other announcers and adapt it to my own
style,” Barger said.
After graduating from college, Barger wants to work at a
TV or radio station. He’s also considered graduate school,
where he could possibly announce Division I soccer or
hockey, his favorite sports. In the meantime, he’ll keep
practicing in preparation of a golden opportunity at the
Olympics. J
SPRING 2019 31You can also read
