Vol. 27 No. 2 - August 29, 2022

Features

  • New Nursing Lab Increases Department Resources

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    Nursing students now have additional resources on campus following a lab renovation in the Pershing Building.
     
    Last year, Truman received more than $500,000 through the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) fund to support and expand the nursing program. A project of Missouri’s Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, GEER funds are designed to provide educational opportunities for students, drive progress toward economic recovery from the pandemic and meet specific workforce needs.
     
    During the past year, a portion of the Pershing Building was renovated to create additional lab space similar to a hospital wing. The eight-bed facility includes a handicap accessible bathroom complete with a sprayer arm on the toilet for simulation of cleaning bedpans, urinals and other patient supplies. It also features compressed air that simulates the use of oxygen as well as the capability for suction.
     
    Between the new lab in the Pershing Building and the existing Nursing Simulation Center in the Health Science Building, Truman now has a total of 17 beds for training.
     
    “We can use both of the labs for skills instruction and practice, as well as simulated clinical experiences,” said Brenda Wheeler, department chair and associate professor of nursing. “This allows for additional space to accommodate more students in these learning experiences.”
     
    The new lab is the latest in benefits Truman has seen from GEER funding. In the past year, two temporary nursing faculty positions and one tenure-track position were created in the department. With the additional personnel the department was able to restructure its clinical offering, allowing for more students to participate. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) students now have classes on opposite days, with clinical offerings taking place on the alternate days.
       
    Another key benefit of the GEER funding has been the addition of cutting-edge technology. Among the new equipment the University has purchased are a high-tech geriatric nursing simulator, three point-of-care computer medication carts and bedside workstations on wheels with new laptop computers which allow students opportunities for patient bedside charting. The renovations in the Pershing Building were also made possible by the funds.
     
    Truman was able to secure some of the competitively awarded GEER funds thanks to the collaborative efforts of the School of Health Sciences and Education, the Nursing Department, the Business Office and the Provost’s Office.
  • Truman McNair Program Receives Largest Grant Award in Missouri

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    Truman’s McNair Program saw eight students graduate at the conclusion of the spring semester.

    Truman recently received a five-year award of more than $1.5 million in support of the University’s McNair Scholars Program to help college students prepare for postgraduate studies.

    Of the 189 new grants distributed by the U.S. Department of Education, Truman’s award ranked in the top 20 in the nation. The University’s total of $1,517,720 was the largest among the four awards distributed in the state of Missouri this year.

    “For 30 years, McNair Scholars have been a dedicated and talented group of Truman students who commit to completing additional work while enrolled in rigorous undergraduate programs of study,” said Heather Cianciola, Truman’s McNair director. “They do this to ensure that their goals for advanced education stay within reach. For many first-generation, low-income and underrepresented students, opportunities to complete master’s and doctoral degree programs evaporate if students do not have consistent access to financial resources and effective preparation. The McNair Program grant from the U.S. Department of Education enables Truman to have a vibrant and academically driven community of student-leaders who combine their own strengths with McNair’s targeted resources and services. As a result, what Truman McNair alumni accomplish for themselves and their communities year after year is never surprising and always amazing and worth celebrating.”

    The Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program honors the second African American to fly in space. After his death in the Challenger space shuttle accident in 1986, members of Congress provided funding for the McNair program. It is one of eight federal TRIO programs designed to remove social, academic and cultural barriers to students’ higher education goals.

    Located in Adair House with Truman’s Upward Bound Project, McNair works with highly qualified Truman students across all academic majors to provide effective preparation for graduate study toward doctoral degrees. This includes: academic and social support through regular programming and academic counseling; funding for original, faculty-mentored undergraduate research, scholarly and creative projects; summer research internships; travel to conferences and graduate program visits; and graduate application costs.

    Truman has been affiliated with the McNair program since 1992, and the University supports more than 30 scholars each year. In its history, 421 students have participated in the program with more than 75% who have completed or are currently enrolled in graduate studies and 26% who have completed a Ph.D. or other terminal degree.

    Each year, junior and senior McNair Scholars have the opportunity to receive NASPA-certified peer educator training and to help first-year Truman students participating in the Pre-McNair Fellows Program explore graduate study opportunities.

    Applications for the McNair Scholars Program and the Pre-McNair Fellows Program are open now. For more information visit mcnair.truman.edu and follow @tsumcnair on Facebook and Instagram.

    A list of all the new grantees can be found here.
  • Truman Scores Top Ten Ranking from National Publication

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    Washington Monthly included Truman as one of the top master’s institutions in the nation, placing the school at No. 7 in its 2022 college rankings.

    The Washington Monthly rankings are unique in that they place an importance on social mobility, research and promoting public service. Along with traditional benchmarks such as graduation rates and costs, schools are rewarded for criteria including the number of first-generation students enrolled and the percentage of students receiving Pell Grants or participating in ROTC. Of the 200 schools included on the master's list in the September/October issue of the magazine, Truman was the only Missouri public university.

    In its Best Bang for the Buck rankings, Truman came in at No. 40 among the 200 schools recognized in the Midwest. This list primarily consists of regionally focused public and private nonprofit colleges that are dedicated to providing affordable educations to their students.

    This marks the 11th time in 12 years Truman has been included in the top 10 of the Washington Monthly rankings. More information can be found in the September/October issue of the magazine and online at washingtonmonthly.com/2022-college-guide.
  • New Art Exhibition Features the Work of Truman Faculty

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    A new exhibition that features recent work by studio art faculty in the Department of Art, Design and Art History will be on display in the University Art Gallery through Oct. 8.

    This year’s faculty exhibition will feature work by printmakers Laura Bigger and Nick Phan, painter Lindsey Dunnagan, ceramicist Amy Smith and sculptor Danielle Yakle. In addition to showcasing a variety of media, the work in the exhibition explores several themes including relationship to place and to the body, memory, materiality and documenting experience.

    An opening reception will take place Aug. 30. The faculty artists will be in the gallery from 4:30-5 p.m. to talk with visitors about their work. A reception with refreshments will then follow from 5-6 p.m. The University Art Gallery is located in Ophelia Parrish 1114. All exhibitions are free and open to the public.

    For more information or to view the full 2022-2023 schedule of exhibitions, visit gallery.arttruman.com. For any questions about visits or bringing a class to the gallery, contact Heidi Cook, director of the University Art Gallery, by emailing hcook@truman.edu.
  • Fraternity Celebrates 100 Years on Campus

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    Truman’s chapter of Sigma Tau Gamma marked its 100th anniversary with a weekend of festivities, Aug. 26-27.
     
    More than 100 alumni returned to Kirksville in celebration of the historic event, participating in a chapter golf outing and a luncheon at the organization’s house on Davis Street. As the fraternity’s Beta chapter, the Truman branch is the second-oldest chapter of “Sig Tau” in the country. The fraternity officially turned 100 on July 30 of last year, but the formal celebration was rescheduled due to the pandemic. University President Sue Thomas and Sigma Tau Gamma CEO Buz Barlow Jr. both spoke at the luncheon, with the keynote address provided by Bryan Witherbee (’94).
     
    “Celebrating 100 years is such an accomplishment by any account,” said Mike Wilson (’91), president of the Beta chapter alumni association. “Sig Tau is the oldest social fraternity on campus. We are proud of the years, yet also our legacy of involvement and impact with Truman State University and the Kirksville community.”
     
    Throughout its history, active members could be found leading student organizations, participating in athletics and the performing arts, and volunteering at campus events. Recent philanthropic efforts have included supporting AM Transitional Housing in Kirksville. Sig Taus have served the University as instructors, administrators, donors and in leadership positions on University boards. Chuck Foudree (’66) chaired Truman’s first endowment campaign, Bright Minds, Bright Futures.
     
    “The values and principles that form the foundation of Sigma Tau Gamma and the relationships I was so fortunate to develop during my time at Beta have helped shape me as a person, as a lawyer and now judge,” Patrick Horsefield (’95) said. “They are also values and principles that I am passing down to my children, and hopefully someday to my grandchildren.”
     
    As a chapter, Beta is one of the most recognized of Sigma Tau Gamma, having received the Most Distinguished Chapter Award a record 13 times. Alumni have led the national organization eight times, and active members have been nominated for the Man of the Year award 22 times with six wins, the most recent in 2011.
     
    Since its inception, the Beta chapter of Sigma Tau Gamma has included more than 2,400 University alumni.

Announcements

  • Welcome Week Activities Continue

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    Aug. 29
    Open House – Student Health Center/University Counseling Services

    4-6 p.m.
    McKinney Center
    Students, faculty and staff are invited to drop by and meet the therapists, nurse practitioners, nurses and supporting staff for the Student Health Center and University Counseling Services. This is a chance to learn more about the services offered and tour the facilities. Free lemonade and cookies will also be available.

    Bonus Bucks
    20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Sept. 2.

    Roommate Agreements
    Due by Sept. 2.

    Aug. 30
    Pictures with the President

    6-7 p.m.
    West Campus Suites
    WCS residents will be able to pose with President Thomas and take a picture with her to kick off their year at Truman.

    Aug. 31
    National Trail Mix Day

    2:30-3:30 p.m.
    Quad

    Treats with President Thomas
    6-7 p.m.
    Campbell Apartments
    Go door-to-door to reverse trick-or-treat with President Thomas and the residents of Campbell.

    Activities Fair – Find Your Flock
    12-5 p.m.
    Student Union Building
    This event is a great way to learn more about numerous campus and community organizations.

    Sept. 2
    National College Colors Day

    10-11 a.m.
    Fountain Area
    Rally Towel Give-A-Way to those wearing purple.

    Bonus Bucks
    Last day to purchase bonus bucks.

    Roommate Agreements
    Last day to submit roommate agreements.
  • Activities Fair Provides Opportunity for Involvement

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    The annual Activities Fair will take place from 12-5 p.m. Aug. 31 in the Student Union Building. This event is an excellent opportunity for students to find organizations to join on campus. A full list of organizations can be found here. For more information contact Union & Involvement Services in the Student Union Building 2000 at 660.785.4222 or by email at orgs@truman.edu.
  • FSL Recruitment Begins Sept. 6

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    Truman’s Fraternity and Sorority Life recruitment will take place in September.

    Sorority recruitment will be Sept. 6-11 and fraternity recruitment will be Sept. 9-16. Recruitment sign ups can be found here. Those interested in joining a National Pan-Hellenic Council organization can keep an eye out for interest events in the fall. Questions regarding recruitment can be emailed to fsl@truman.edu. More information can also be found by following @trumanfsl on Instagram.

    Since 1914, Fraternity and Sorority Life has provided tens of thousands of Truman students and alumni with a community where they can enjoy college. Fraternity and Sorority Life is guided by four values: growth, scholarship, leadership and unity. The community currently has more than 19 different organizations from three different councils: Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council. In the 2021-2022 school year, the Fraternity and Sorority Life community accounted for approximately 20% of the University’s student population. Additionally, 90% of these students would recommend joining a fraternity or sorority to their friends and strongly agree that joining a fraternity or sorority made their college experience better. Fraternity and Sorority Life members also had a higher cumulative GPA than the general student body during the 2021-2022 school year.

    Some of Fraternity and Sorority Life’s accomplishments this past school year include raising more than $47,000, which includes the $19,000 raised during Greek Week. This year’s Greek Week efforts went toward the YMCA for the free meals they provide for children in Adair County. Members of the Fraternity and Sorority Life community also performed more than 4,000 hours of community service throughout the year during events such as the Special Olympics and at the Food Pantry for Adair County.
  • Downtown New Student Welcome Set for Sept. 11

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  • Open House for Student Health Center and University Counseling Services

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    The Student Health Center and University Counseling Services open house will take place from 4-6 p.m. Aug. 29 in the McKinney Center.

    Open house will be a twice annual event that gives students, faculty or staff a chance to interact with staff in a more relaxed environment. They will be able to talk and get to know the therapists, nurse practitioners, nurses and supporting staff better and to ask any questions they may have. There will also be posters about therapists that are unavailable during the event.

    For freshmen and new incoming students or students unfamiliar with UCS or SHC, they may explore the facilities by asking for a tour while also learning about the services that are offered by UCS and SHC. Free lemonade and cookies will also be provided.
  • Alpha Gamma Delta Hosts Cornhole Fundraiser

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    Alpha Gamma Delta’s signature fall philanthropy event, Cornhole for a Cause, will take place from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 17 at Rotary Park. Anyone from Truman or the Kirksville community is invited to participate in the cornhole tournament. Tickets will be $20 per team and sign-ups will close at midnight Sept. 9. All proceeds will go to Feeding America and the I Think I Can Foundation. Food and refreshments will be available as well as prizes for the top players. For more information or to purchase a ticket and sign up a team, visit here. For timing purposes there will be a max of 50 teams.

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  • Sodexo Bonus Bucks are Available for Purchasing

    Aug. 22-Sept. 2 load $100 worth of bonus bucks and get $20 free. For more information call 660.785.4197.

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  • McNair Program Applications Open Through Sept. 19

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    The McNair Program supports and prepares first-generation, Pell-eligible and underrepresented students for graduate studies. Paid summer research internships, funds for graduate school visits and conferences, and academic counseling are just a few of the benefits the program has to offer. Applications are open now with a priority deadline of Sept. 19. Check eligibility here or come to one of the information sessions listed below.

    Sept. 1
    5-6 p.m.
    Student Union Building Down Under
     
    Sept. 7
    5-6 p.m.
    Adair House

    For more information visit mcnair.truman.edu or follow the program on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
  • Applications Open for Student Conduct Board

    The Office of Citizenship and Community Standards is seeking students who want to become members of the Student Conduct Board. This opportunity allows students to be part of a positive restorative education-based conduct process. In addition to hearing cases of alleged misconduct, other optional opportunities include professional development, participating in educational outreach programs, creating and giving presentations and assisting with the evaluation of outcomes. Those who are interested can visit conduct.truman.edu or click here for more information.

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  • Access the Wall Street Journal Digitally

    Pickler Memorial Library has partnered with The Wall Street Journal to provide school-sponsored memberships to students, faculty and staff. This membership can be used to get unlimited access to WSJ.com, Wall Street Journal mobile apps, newsletters and podcasts. The Wall Street Journal provides articles on job preparation, financial advice and career insights through the WSJ student center. Professors can integrate content into their course through custom professor tools and resources found at the WSJ professor hub.

    To activate an account, visit WSJ.com/Truman and register using a Truman email account. Students will be asked for their graduation month and a year in order to gain uninterrupted access during their time at Truman. Faculty and staff will be asked to refresh accounts annually. For those who already have an account and have questions about the school-sponsored membership, call 800.JOURNAL or emailsupport@wsj.com.

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  • Promote Events with Campus Resources

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    Campus organizations sponsoring on-campus events are encouraged to submit information to the Truman Today as well as the master calendar. The Truman Today is emailed to all students, faculty, staff and some off-campus subscribers, making it an excellent tool to publicize an event. The majority of the content in the Truman Today is also utilized on social media platforms and is likely to be shared with others. Various content and events from the Truman Today will also be posted on TruView. Truman Today submissions can be emailed to pr@truman.edu or by filling out the submission form found here.

    Truman Publications can also assist in the creation of posters or fliers to help promote campus events. Publications request for a work order can be found here.

    For all other questions, email pr@truman.edu.
  • UCS Offers Art Therapy

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  • Applications Open for Counseling Master’s Programs

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    Truman’s counseling program is currently accepting applications for the spring 2023 cohort.

    The program offers two degrees – a Master of Arts in Counseling: Mental Health Counseling and Master of Arts in Counseling: School Counseling.
     
    The Master of Arts in Counseling: School Counseling program is geared toward meeting the academic, career and personal/social needs of culturally diverse students in elementary, middle and secondary schools as certified and licensed school counselors.

    The Master of Arts in Counseling: Mental Health Counseling program specializes in community-based work as licensed professional counselors.

    The counseling program seeks to equip caring, committed and culturally aware individuals from all backgrounds with the knowledge and skills required to become professional counselors in school and community settings.
     
    Cohort size is limited, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. For priority consideration, apply here by Nov. 1. For more information about either program visit counseling.truman.edu or email Karl Witt at karlwitt@truman.edu.
  • Tru-Positions Helps Students to Find Jobs on Campus

    The Financial Aid Office has a centralized student employment website called Tru-Positions, which provides a database
    of existing scholarship service, institutional and work-study positions, including job descriptions and transferable work skills. Tru-Positions can be found online at trupositions.truman.edu.

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  • Student Loans Available Through University Foundation

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    Students with financial needs that may interfere with their ability to continue their education can seek assistance through the Truman State University Foundation Loan Program.

    Foundation loans can come in the form of short-term loans, long-term loans, access loans and cultural loans. Applications go through the Financial Aid Office and are repaid directly to the University. Banks and outside lenders are not involved in the process.

    To be eligible for a Foundation loan students must be enrolled on a full-time basis and be in good academic standing. Students also need to demonstrate an ability to repay the loan in a timely manner. Deferments of up to five years are available for cultural and long-term loans, provided the student is enrolled on a full-time basis.

    In addition to scholarship assistance, the loan program is an example of the immediate impact of donations to the Truman State University Foundation. Gifts from alumni and friends allow Truman to provide assistance directly to students as they pursue their education.

    For more information on the Foundation loan program, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@truman.edu, at 660.785.4130 or in person at McClain Hall 103.
  • Instructional Designers Available to Help Faculty

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    Faculty can schedule a meeting with Val Sevilla, instructional designer in learning technologies, for various course needs.

    Instructional designers can help enhance presentations, infuse courses with technology, answer questions about digital accessibility, improve use of existing technologies, assist in finding open education resources or design an online course. They can also assist with developing course materials such as Blackboard courses, multimedia elements, eLearning units and digital video and audio clips.

    Morning and afternoon times are available on Mondays and Thursdays and can be scheduled here.
  • At-Home COVID Tests Available

    The Student Health Center has at-home COVID tests available. Email studenthealth@cfmcares.com or visit truman.cfmcares.com for more information.

Notables

  • Huping Ling

    Huping Ling, professor emerita of history, recently published “Chinese Americans in the Heartland: Migration, Work, and Community” with Rutgers University Press. The book draws rich evidence from various government records, personal stories and interviews and media reports. It also sheds light on the commonalities and uniqueness of Midwestern and Southern states as compared to the Asian American communities on the East and West coasts and Hawaii. Ling has authored or edited more than 30 books and published more than 200 articles on Asian American studies. From 2008 to 2012 she served as the executive editor-in-chief for the Journal of Asian American Studies.

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  • Victor Marquez-Barrios

    Victor Marquez-Barrios, associate professor of music, was recently awarded a McKnight Visiting Composer Fellowship. This competitive program is sponsored by the American Composers Forum and the McKnight Foundation and designed to provide meaningful support to artists to create music through an engagement with Minnesota communities. Music creators throughout the U.S. were invited to propose a residency project that responds to or reflects the unique qualities of people and communities in Minnesota. Each McKnight Visiting Composer receives $10,000 to spend time in Minnesota pursuing a self-designed residency project.

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