This document is a magazine from Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) called Lancer Luminaries that provides updates on the college. It discusses the EWC president's vision for the future of the college, which includes strengthening agricultural programs and developing a new campus. It also discusses the EWC Foundation's support of the college, including assisting with potential new agricultural facilities. Additionally, it provides an overview of EWC's cosmetology program, tracing its history from a small initial program to a thriving current program that offers degrees and certificates in cosmetology fields.

1. Lancer Luminaries
Vol. No. 13
Winter/Spring 2012
Inside:
Read about EWC’s partnership with
the Wyoming Law Enforcement
Academy
A magazine for EWC alumni, contributors and friends

2. Foundation Board MeMBers
Patrick Korell, President
Tom Gardner, Vice-President
In This Issue
Dr. Donna Beth Downer, EWC President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Secretary/Treasurer EWC Foundation President . . . . . . . . . . 4
Dr. Tom Armstrong, College President Office of Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Barbara Bonds Cosmetology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Bruce Brown New Foundation Members . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chuck Brown Donors and Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Joe Guth EWC Workforce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Kathryn Kelly Livestock Judging Team . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
Sherri Lovercheck Alumni Event. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Deidre Newman EWC Donor Dinner . . . . . . . . . . 15
Blake Ochsner Student Senate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17
Gary Olson EWC & Law Enforcement Academy
John Patrick Partnership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Todd Peterson Science Wing Completion . . . . . . . 20
Bill Rueb EWC Foundation Golf Tournament . . . . . . 21
Tom Saunders
Marion Smith, MD
Ryan Schilreff
Wayne Tatman
Lancer Luminaries
Eastern Wyoming College
3200 West C Street
Torrington, WY 82240
(307) 532.8200
1.866.EASTWYO
(1.866.327.8996)
Lancer Luminaries is published twice a year by the
EWC Institutional Development Office and the
College Relations Office. It is distributed free of
charge to alumni and friends of the college. We
welcome letters, articles, and updates!
Oliver Sundby, Institutional Development Director EWC Board Trustees
oliver.sundby@ewc.wy.edu Carl Rupp, President George Nash
Tami Afdahl, College Relations Director
Holly Lara, Administrative Assistant for Development Julene Asmus John Patrick
Sondra Dent, Graphic Designer Angie Babcock Mike Varney
Visit our college website at ewc.wy.edu
Cover photo by: Sondra Dent Sherri Lovercheck

3. Spring 2012
From the EWC President
Friends and Family,
I’d like to share an email that went to our EWC staff in June. This is typical of the
nature and content of similar messages shared throughout the year. I’ll attempt to
keep people up to date and also address concerns that surface. We are moving ahead
deliberately and intentionally. It is with great confidence that I say we are good and
getting better. Our challenges and celebrations lie ahead of us; this year will require
some authentic introspection and sharing with others. It’s about focusing on shared
goals, rolling up our sleeves, and working shoulder to shoulder. We are on track.
New lights, windows, labs, and landscaping. Strong recruiters, quality faculty, strong
support services, dedicated physical plant staff, caring coaches. Involved college
trustees and committed foundation directors. Successful students who enter the
workforce or transfer to four year schools.
From:Tom Armstrong
Sent:Wednesday, June 22, 2011 11:49 AM
To: Lancers
Subject: Moving ahead
Eastern Wyoming College has submitted four capital construction requests to the Wyoming Community College
Commission.
1) These include a request for funding new Ag facilities on our North campus to house exciting program
enhancements and changes through positive collaborations with community focus groups and strong ag
advisory committee and begun well over a year ago—with amazing progress made in a very short period of
time.
2) We have had almost weekly meetings in Douglas developing concepts for the new Converse County Campus,
a single building structure to house general education transfer with a pronounced interest in education; other
key focus areas include pre-nursing, welding & joining. This facility will also provide flexible, dynamic work
space to assist business and industry training as well as address specific workforce demands. It will replace our
current functional but failing 1931 elementary school location.
3) We will complete the Lancer Hall project with approval of the addition of two wings that were present in the
original plans.
4) Further, we are seeking state funding for our Data,Voice, and Emergency Alert Network. This includes
support for telephone, internet, wireless, digital controls, and a variety of campus solutions reliant on a
strong fiber backbone and modern compatible equipment.
Ultimately, however, it’s not about rocks, or carpet, or buildings. It is and has always been about people. It is about all of us
pitching in, being available full-time, contributing at capacity, getting along, not cutting corners, enjoying the journey,
and giving whatever it takes.
We have great people moving vital projects ahead, breathing life into programs, creating new opportunities for students in
active and ongoing advising. Updating and streamlining curricula. Working well across departments. EWC is contracting
with a company called Culture Prep to facilitate a series of activities ranging from campus climate surveys to town hall
meetings dealing with difference. Such interventions will also assist us continuing internal dialogues in advancing our positive
traits and honestly seeking new understandings of how we can grow together to better serve students and better support
each other in all of our individual and institutional efforts.
I encourage you to share, optimistically, a glass that is more than half full,
Tom
At our full staff opening activity on August 23, we shared a quote: “Transition is never easy and it isn’t always aimed at making
us more comfortable. Dealing with transition is only partly a matter of good analysis and problem solving. It is also a matter
of the conditions of our hearts.” Author unknown.
Thank you for joining us on an exciting journey; thank you for contributing to the success of our students.
Tom
3

4. Spring
2012
From the EWC Foundation
In late July of this year, the Board of Directors for the Foundation
held a special retreat in Hulett for the purpose of confirming its
mission and for developing its vision for the future. The Board, in
choosing the venue, wanted to reach out to other locations within
the college’s service area to gain new friends and to establish a
greater presence. The Eastern Wyoming College service area
consists of Goshen, Platte, Niobrara, Converse, Weston and Crook
counties.
The retreat was facilitated by an outstanding consultant who gave
the Board a “launching pad” to move ahead in concert with Dr.
Armstrong and the EWC Trustees. The Foundation relies upon the
college to identify its needs and the needs of its students so that the
Foundation may better offer support. Along with an extensive analysis and discussion of the Founda-
tion’s strengths, and weaknesses, the Board intently listened to the vision which Dr. Armstrong has
for the future of Eastern Wyoming College.
It is invigorating for me, and I know for the other members of the Foundation, to hear the direction
of the college. This is particularly true for the foreseeable development of a stronger and more vital
program in agricultural education. At some future date, the Foundation anticipates assisting with
the construction and development of a facility which will (in the words of college leadership) help
Eastern to have “the best agricultural program in the state.” We do not know as of this moment what
it may mean for the Foundation, but, because of our thoughts in advance about our mission and fu-
ture relationship with the college, we are well positioned to move ahead with Dr. Armstrong and the
trustees when the time comes.
The college recently hosted its annual banquet to recognize the donors and recipients of scholar-
ships. Through the help and financial commitments many have made, the college awarded over
ninety scholarships to its students. It is amazing to see some of Eastern’s brightest and most capable
students be recognized and rewarded as a result of the generosity and forethought of our friends.
Finally, I want to welcome three new members to our Foundation Board of Directors who many of
you know: Chuck Brown of Wheatland, who is one of EWC’s distinguished alumni; Wayne Tat-
man, Lingle rancher and former UW Extension Educator; and Ryan Schilreff, CEO of Points West
Bank in Torrington. The Board will greatly benefit from their enthusiasm, experience and commit-
ment to the college. Please let them know you recognize their involvement when you see them.
As always, my personal appreciation to all who do so much to help students succeed at EWC.
Patrick Korell, President
EWC Foundation
4

5. Spring
2012
A Note from the
Office of Development and the
EWC Foundation
Over the course of the last year – even the last several years – many friends and alums have made
significant commitments to improve educational opportunity for our students. Through the ongoing
endowed scholarship program, through gifts for books and educational materials, or gifts for
specialized equipment related to program needs, the support of the EWC family of donors and friends
continues to be remarkable. We at EWC and the EWC Foundation want to take a moment to once
again thank you for that commitment.
In the last year, the EWC Foundation initiated its first gift annuity, which provides current income to
the donor and will eventually provide a significant source of ongoing support for the College’s fine
arts and natural science programs. Endowment gifts have also grown, and continue to be matched
by the State of Wyoming Endowment Challenge program on a dollar for dollar basis. Memorial
gifts for friends we miss have also grown – often directed to scholarship support for succeeding
generations to come. Annual support has grown as well, allowing the College and Foundation to
“leverage” important activities in such areas as the institutional diversity project, cultural programs,
and specialized classroom equipment. Special events such as our elegant Sagebrush and Roses dinner
dance, and the Foundation golf tournament continue to support similar needs related to the EWC
agriculture program, and ongoing College enhancements.
If you have been on the campus in the last year, you have seen how the Foundation has been able to
supplement funding of the College’s landscaping plan, which has brought new vitality to the campus
and provided a tangible feeling of pride for not only our students but our faculty and staff. The 2010
gift from the estate of Mary Lou Atkins gave the College the impetus to move ahead with additional
campus beautification from both public and private sources.
The State of Wyoming will continue to be the primary source of funding for ongoing operational
and construction requirements. Having said that, it is clear that the support of a growing number of
donors over just the past few years has made a major difference in the “extra edge of quality” that our
students need for success. As we move into and past another holiday season and on to the challenges
of 2012 and beyond, it is the sincere desire of all of us at the College and the Foundation involved in
development and fund raising to thank every individual, every family, and every business for their
commitment to building a future of excellence at your college.
Thank you !
5

6. Spring
2012
EWC Cosmetology Program . . . then
Bill Schmidt arrived on the EWC campus in the 1983. The first was to survey community demand
summer of 1983, and says “Before I knew where for trained cosmetologists, which was accomplished
I was, I was in a car with Guido driving south by communicating with the businesses in the area and
through corn fields. I wasn’t sure what to think, determining the need for trained people in their shops.
but in no time we were pulling into Huntley, and While there was some community concern, virtually
Guido stopped the car by a small green building. all of the area cosmetology-related businesses were
‘This is where you’ll be,’ Guido told me. I literally enthusiastic about the employability of graduates in the
didn’t know what to say. I had signed up as the program. The next step was to gain the approval of
new cosmetology instructor and before I knew it I the Wyoming Community College Commission, which
was walking into a tiny building with two shampoo was obtained in the fall of 1982.
sinks. Guido assured me that I’d be in a brand new
facility on campus within a year, but the first view I With the necessary preliminary steps taken to
had of the program I would operate was somewhat establish the program, the next critical step was to
of a shock.” This from Bill Schmidt, the first director hire instructors who had the talent and background to
of the EWC Cosmetology program, recounting his establish the program successfully. As Guido Smith
introduction to the College and the program in 1983. says, “ I had never hired a cosmetologist, and luckily
It took two years of preparation to get to that point. for me and the College, former dean of students
As Eastern Wyoming College moved into the 1980’s, Billy Bates walked in my door and said “I think I have
president Chuck Rogers and dean of instruction the person you need. It didn’t take me long to see
Guido Smith were looking for ways to broaden the that he was right, and within just a few months I had
college’s occupational program offerings. Already met, interviewed, and hired Bill Schmidt, who was
strong in academic transfer program areas, they felt operating his own beauty salon in Casper. It turned
the need to provide a better balance of offerings to out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.”
students who were aiming at technical and vocational The first class of eleven students worked with clients
training related directly to moving graduates into the from the Torrington senior center, who were bused
workplace. At the same time, the Goshen County to Huntley. But true to Smith’s word, the College
school district was planning to drop its program in had moved ahead with the new facility, which opened
cosmetology. Seeing a community need to continue in early 1984, and Schmidt was able to move from
this program, Rogers and Smith began the process of Huntley onto the main campus. While still in
taking on the program at the college level as a way to Huntley, Schmidt hired another instructor – Donna
bolster its vocational offerings. Charron, who came to the College from Rapid City.
Judy Stellpflug was also instrumental in providing
In 1982, Eastern took several important actions that her years of experience as an instructor as the
led to the establishment of the program in the fall of program developed. Together, these people built the
6

7. Spring 2012
. . . and now
only public cosmetology program in the Wyoming right away. Working in Las Vegas I have appeared on
community college system into a solid and thriving television ‘makeover’ shows, and have had the chance
activity. “Starting out, none of us had ever related to work with many celebrities. After being away
our work to development of a college curriculum, eleven years, I can sit back and reflect on the start
with everything that goes with that in terms of student I got with EWC and the wonderful instructors and
credit hours and those types of things” said Schmidt. friends I knew.”
“We knew our subject inside out, but it took a lot of
effort and help from Guido and Chuck Rogers to get Taking over the leadership role for the program
the educational side of the program established, as well after the retirement of Bill Schmidt, Donna Charron
as to be sure we met State licensure requirements.” and her team have continued to strengthen the
Today, the program offers students a two year associate program with Pam Capron and Nancy Landers on
of science degree in cosmetology, and separate one board as instructors. The community continues to
year certificates in hair, nail and skin technician and is be involved with the public being able to schedule
licensed by the State Board of Cosmetology. appointments with students for haircuts, pedicures
and manicures. Charron says “the program
Donna says “cosmetology has always been about hair, continues to provide a well trained student to the
nails and skin. Even after more than 25 years in workforce in our area and throughout the region.
operation, our program still emphasizes these three We have a first rate modern instructional facility,
areas. The bottom line is that we are in the business highly qualified instructors, and – most importantly
of training students to make people look good and feel -- strong demand for our graduates. We look
good about themselves, and making them employable. forward to maintaining our quality at the highest
We have of course moved ahead with new technologies level, and in fact we just received our annual re-
in the field to make sure our students have the best licensure from the State of Wyoming’s Board of
possible background as they move into their jobs, Cosmetology.”
and bring more in the area of health science into the
curriculum. We have worked with other departments In its nearly 20 years of operation, the EWC
on campus to expand our training in areas of business cosmetology program has developed into one of
management and the things a person needs to know to the College’s strongest occupational/workforce
operate a shop of their own.” programs. Along with welding, veterinary
The EWC cosmetology program is stronger technology and a growing agriculture program,
today than ever, and continues to attract students cosmetology plays a major role in providing a
from throughout Wyoming and the region. 2000 strong program that puts people to work. From
Cosmetology graduate Amanda Tanner told Lancer the original vision of people like Chuck Rogers,
Luminaries “I didn’t really know cosmetology was Guido Smith, Bill Schmidt and Donna Charron, the
something I could excel at. It was tough but I loved cosmetology program will continue to play a key
it, and I left with the skills I needed to start work role in EWC’s instructional mix for years to come.
7

8. Spring
2012
New Foundation Members
Chuck Brown
Chuck is president of C.H. Brown Company, a nationally-recognized
equipment finance business in Wheatland. Chuck is a 1958 graduate of
EWC, who moved on to UW to obtain a BA in Business Administration.
He served in the US Army Security Agency and was stationed in Korea.
He was selected as the EWC Distinguished Alumni for 2007. Chuck is a
member of the Denver Branch of the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank,
and recently completed his term on the UW board of trustees – serving
as its president. Chuck has served on many state and local boards and
agencies, and is a long time single and multi engine- rated pilot. Chuck is
married to Katie, and they have two daughters.
Wayne Tatman
Wayne graduated from Rock River High School and attended the
University of Wyoming where he was a Cowboy Joe (mascot) handler,
and graduated in 1974 with a BS in Ag Business. He worked for the
UW Cooperative Extension Service in Park and Niobrara counties,
and returned to UW in 1985 to obtain an MS in Animal Sciences. He
continued with the Extension Service in Albany County prior to moving
to Goshen County in 2008. Wayne currently ranches in Goshen and
Niobrara counties. He and his wife Kathy have three sons with UW
degrees in Agriculture and a new granddaughter.
Ryan Schilreff
Ryan has worked with Points West Community Bank for nearly ten
years, and is currently Senior Vice President of Lending and President of
Points West Community Bank of Torrington. Ryan is a native of Casper,
but was raised in Goshen County. He graduated from Torrington High
School in 1991, and then served from 1992 to 2000 in the Navy with the
US Naval Intelligence Community. His service in the Navy included
being assigned to the nuclear aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. Ryan
graduated from Excelsior College in Albany, New York in 2001 with
a BS degree, and completed the Graduate School of Banking in 2007.
Ryan and his wife Sommer have two children, Owen and Afton.
8

9. Spring 2012
EWC Foundation Corporate Event
Donors and Sponsors 2010-2012
Adorn John’s Pump Service, Inc.
Autumn Pine Construction LLC Kath Broadcasting Company, LLC
Banner Health Kelley Bean Co. Inc.
Bartlett, Doug & Lynnea Kelly’s Superette Inc.
Bear Creek Veterinary Services, PC Kenda Knudsen CPA & Associates
Benchmark of Torrington, PC Lance H. Griggs, D.D.S.
Best Value Inn Leitheads, Inc.
Bloedorn Lumber Madden Brothers, LLC
Brice’s Refrigeration Inc. McBrayer Insurance Center
Brown Company McGee, Hearne, & Paiz, LLP
Bucking Horse Steakhouse & Lounge Mike Rafferty Insurance Agency, Inc./State Farm*
Buck’s Pizza Mikro Inc./Taco Johns
Burger King/G.F. Foods LLC Miller Cattle & Feedyards, LLC
Burns Insurance Agency Inc. Newman Realty
C.H. Brown Co. Northern Exposure Computer Center
Century 21 Valley Realty Olson Tire Company
Century Lumber Center Panhandle Co-Op/Main Street Market
Chesapeake Energy Corporation Patrick Brothers, Inc.
Colyer Funeral Home Peak Wellness Center
Community Drug Inc. Pinnacle Bank
Converse County Bank Pizza Hut
Cottonwood Country Club Platte Valley Bank
Cottonwood Pro Shop Points West Community Bank - Lingle
Courtesy Automotive Points West Community Bank - Torrington
Culligan Water of Torrington Porchlight Real Estate, Inc.
Deacon’s Restaurant Powell Title & Escrow Inc.
Destry’s Secret Garden Premier Properties, Inc.
Devils Tower Forest Products & Neiman Timber Print Express
Dinklage Feed Yard Inc. Raben Ranch
Edward Jones Investments Rock N’ Horse Lounge
Faces N’ Furs Rose Bros.
Falkenburg, Garret & Shelly Bill & Paula Rueb
Family Dentistry, P.C. Scott & Son Inc.
Farm Bureau Insurance/Chuck Curry T.D.S. Collection Service, Inc.
Farm Credit Services of America Torrington Beverage Inc.
Farmers Insurance Torrington Livestock Markets LLC
First State Bank Torrington Travel Plaza
Fisher and Weisshaar, LLC Torrington Vision Clinic
Frank Implement Company US Bank
Freudenthal & Bonds P.C. Valley Mercantile Co.
George Ochsner Ranch, Inc. Valley Plumbing & Heating
Goshen County Abstract & Title Co. Vandel Drug
Goshen Veterinary Clinic, Inc. Wagner’s Floral
Hageman Ranch WestCo
Hartman Family Dentistry Western Mall
Hein’s Greenhouse Wyoming Newspspers, Inc./Torrington Telegram
Hickey & Evans, LLP Wyrulec Company
HorizonWest Inc. Z & W Mill Inc.
Matching Gift Company *
9

10. Spring
2012
Eastern Wyoming College Workforce
“Where the Rubber Meets the Road”
W orkforce development is front and
center in Goshen County and at Eastern
Wyoming College. It literally is “where the
climate of economic stagnation both in Wyoming
and across the country. It is difficult to find a
conversation that doesn’t include jobs, training,
rubber meets the road” at EWC and with its national infrastructure or business development.
partnerships in business and industry. In fact, National leaders recognize and emphasize the
one of EWC’s many workforce projects was value of community colleges in rebuilding our
with the Goshen County Road and Bridge economy, and in his first “state of the State”
Department where the College provided hands- address, Governor Matt Mead emphasized once
on work experience for students who worked again the importance of Wyoming’s community
to repair and rebuild a portion of County colleges in the area of workforce development
Road 68. Goshen County Road and Bridge as a fundamental underpinning of the State’s
Superintendent Gary Korell made special note economy – both in initial job training for high
of this project, saying “When the College and demand needs in Wyoming, and in retraining
the McMurry Training a population for new
Center approached the careers as old ones
Goshen County Road disappear.
and Bridge Department
to implement a heavy The EWC Workforce
equipment class, I staff, directed by
was delighted to help. Ashley Harpstreith,
As the project was has developed and
completed, I found the offered a wide range of
students, training staff programs, certifications,
and everyone involved and customized training
to be responsible and throughout the College’s
positive in their efforts. service area of Converse,
I would look forward Crook, Weston,
to working with them again next season on a Goshen, Niobrara and Platte counties. Through
similar project.” Instructors Tom Reed and partnerships that utilize the best business and
Jim Kalinski added “We appreciate the chance industry professionals as instructors, the EWC
to train with younger people. Most of these Workforce office has delivered valuable training
kids come from farm and ranch backgrounds, directly related to the region’s growing oil
which is helpful. We can train them in a lot of and gas industry. Safety training and OSHA
the mechanical aspects of the heavy equipment requirements are major concerns for the industry,
they’ll use in their jobs, and take them beyond and EWC is responding.
being just operators. It is good to see EWC
involved with us as well as major national In describing the impact of EWC workforce
companies in teaching trouble shooting, programs and their role as a fundamental part
electronics and diesel mechanics – and bring of the area’s growth, Goshen County Economic
them into the workforce as qualified entry level Development Corporation Director Lisa Johnson
mechanics.” says, “In the economic development field, it is
vital to have the right resources readily available
Preparation for the world of work through in recruiting companies to the area. One of
expanded emphasis on community colleges GCEDC’s most important resources in its tool
continues to be a major theme in the current kit is the extremely effective and responsive
10

11. Spring 2012
workforce program operated through Eastern families who need initial training or re-training
Wyoming College. They provide an extensive to develop sustainable employment skills
range of industry-specific training programs that including basic computer skills, workplace
can be a deciding factor in a company’s decision and personal safety, money management
on whether or not to come to Goshen County. and job searching, resume building and
EWC is right on target in helping to boost the interview techniques. ETSS grant recipient
economy of our county.” and Torrington native Adrian Flores said, “I
was working at odd jobs, but knew that with
The EWC Welding program, long recognized as three young boys I couldn’t just sit around
one of the finest in the country, understandably and wait for something to happen. The ETSS
plays a major role in the growing workforce commercial driver’s license program helped me
needs in the region and even state-wide. As begin to build a foundation to make progress,
Ashley Harpstreith notes, “Nothing highlights and I’m going beyond that and starting the
the College’s ‘flexible training built for industry’ EWC program in heavy equipment operation. I
attitude like our welding department. The think this a huge opportunity for me.”
College’s mobile welding lab allows us to offer
theory and practice of welding and joining and EWC President Dr. Tom Armstrong says,
industrial repair virtually anywhere. Through “Through its workforce development programs,
American Welding Society accredited offerings Eastern Wyoming College delivers high-
held on and off the campus, employers have demand, customized, and job-specific training.
access to training and certification in machine Working closely with business and industry,
tool technology, boiler and pressure vessel EWC partners to identify existing needs and
codes, shielded metal arc, gas metal arc, flux match up the best possible candidates. Such
cored arc, gas tungsten, oxycetyline cutting and educational opportunities provide new students
repair and maintenance welding. Entities such an entry point and incumbent workers the
as the Wyoming Department of Corrections, chance to advance. Special training gives
Basin Electric Power, them all they need to
Warren Air Force join and more fully
Base and major coal contribute to a skilled
mining operations in Wyoming workforce.
both Converse and With education and
Campbell counties training come improved
have all used the EWC choices. Completers
mobile welding lab are positioned to earn
for initial training, a good income, to
standards testing and enjoy the satisfaction
welder certification with of working, and to
additional uses in the oil experience a better
and gas industry being quality of life.”
planned.
EWC will continue to be an active and
Yet another aspect of the College’s responsibility involved partner in the growth of the Goshen
in workforce related activity involves a strong County economy, and in the economies in its
partnership with the Wyoming Department multi-county service area. A commitment to
of Workforce Services, and a special grant student success, and a commitment to strong
called the Employment and Training for Self partnerships with business and industry will
Sufficiency program (ETSS). The ETSS grant remain the cornerstone of this valuable and
project, coordinated by Jo Ellen Keigley, necessary aspect of the regional, state and
supports educational expenses for students with national economies.
11

12. Spring
2012
Livestock Judging
T he Eastern Wyoming College Livestock
Judging Program was established as an
because of their work ethic, critical thinking skills and
the ability to communicate.
innovative program under the Wyoming Excellence in J.D. Sexton left the program to work with his family
Higher Education Endowment Program (EHEE) in business in Colorado in 2008, and the College brought
2006. Developed at the State level, the program is in yet another highly qualified instructor, who teaches
designed to encourage innovation and new academic not only livestock judging but animal science and
programming in all of the State’s community colleges. agriculture economics. Nebraska native Rob Eirich
The first instructor in came to the college with a
the new program was wealth of experience in all
John “J.D” Sexton, areas of agriculture education
who came to EWC and livestock programming.
from private ranching. Rob holds a BS in Agriculture
J.D. also worked with Economics from the University
the University of of Wyoming, and an MS in
Wyoming’s College Agricultural Leadership from
of Agriculture, and as the University of Nebraska
assistant coach for the at Lincoln. He brought
UW livestock judging extensive experience in the
team. livestock production area,
One of the advantages the new EWC program including cow-calf and feedlot operations, plus
enjoyed early on was the willingness of local ranching experience working with UNL agricultural extension
operations to work with our judging team by programming. He has judged and facilitated clinics
allowing our students to work with their animals. in livestock evaluation in Wyoming, Nebraska, South
Because the program was new, a dedicated facility Dakota, Kansas and Colorado, as well as internationally
for judging and for holding an appropriate number in Kenya and China.
of animals was not available. Organizations and
The program attracts students from a variety of
ranches from Wyoming, Nebraska and Colorado
College major areas, including Ag Business, Farm
were instrumental in giving the budding program
and Ranch Management, Animal Science and even
the chance to build from the ground up. Wyoming
Welding. Students that graduate in these areas and
ranches and institutions included Booth Cherry
who participate in the livestock judging program all
Creek Ranch, Ochsner Herefords, Haas Angus,
benefit from the added skills in livestock evaluation,
Middleswarth Herefords, Morrison Angus, University
decision making, and verbal communication that can be
of Wyoming, Casper College, and various other
utilized either in their personal/family business, or in
operations and colleges in Nebraska and Colorado
their company’s perspective. They represent not only
also assisted in this early effort.
Wyoming, but Nebraska, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas
While not a College academic major as such, and South Dakota and Eirich says that about two-thirds
livestock judging students are prepared with critical of the team members in the last four graduating teams
skills needed for a variety of jobs in agriculture, have transferred to complete bachelor’s degrees in
including work in feedlots, agriculture sales, ag agriculture, animal sciences or ag business, mainly at
education, livestock evaluation, and ag journalism UW. There have also been three team members from
among many other areas. Many employers seek out Eirich’s last two teams transfer on to compete at the
individuals who have participated on judging teams four-year university level in livestock judging.
12

13. Spring 2012
“The livestock judging team has been a large part of my life When asked where the agriculture and livestock
at EWC. Our team is a close-knit family that works well judging programs can be at EWC in the coming
together both on the road and at home. Judging has been years, Eirich says, “EWC sits in the strongest
a great experience that helped me develop decision making agricultural county in the State of Wyoming, by any
skills, and become a better speaker in front of people. This measure you want to use. It is a natural fit for our
wonderful opportunity also gave me the chance to network agricultural efforts as we support the needs of our
with other judges and producers around the country that will community and region. I want to have a top quality
help further my career.” program that gives our students the best opportunity
- Susan Button, Newcastle in the region to excel. With the likely development
of a major Agriculture/Veterinary Technology facility
on the campus in the near future, I know we can be
Livestock judging means travel, and lots of it. The recognized as one of, if not the top programs in the
2011-12 team will compete at the Flint Hills Classic region.” He adds, “The first steps include not only
in El Dorado, Kansas, the National Barrow Show the facility, which will contain major animal holding
in Austin, Minnesota, the American Royal Show improvements, classrooms and a dedicated teaching
in Kansas City, the North American International arena, but acquisition of livestock, such as, eight
Livestock Expo in Louisville, Kentucky, the Houston to ten head of beef cattle, ten sheep and ten hogs.
Stock Show and Rodeo, and the National Western Ideally, these will be market quality animals that will
Stock Show in Denver. Eirich has expanded the be purchased and sold on a revolving basis annually.”
involvement and partnerships with local and regional
ranching operations and businesses related to animal In his third year as Livestock Judging Coach at
production. Along with those originally participating Eastern Wyoming College, Eirich has taken the solid
during the program’s early years, the 7X Angus Ranch, base built by J.D. Sexton and stepped up the program
Dudley Booth and Family, Miller Cattle and Feed in terms of recruiting and numbers of high quality
yard, Lazy Heart Ranch, Jeff Chapman Family, Duello students. He says, “in the not too distant future, I
Ranch, High Plains Feedlot and Lippincott Farms have want to have eight to ten solid sophomores, and eight
stepped up to help EWC students become exposed to to ten solid freshmen on my teams – with students
the “real world” of animal evaluation and production. who are dedicated, competitive and want to come
Eirich’s connection to Nebraska has also allowed home with recognition and awards from some of
the College to work closely with the University of the best shows in the country. With the support I’m
Nebraska-Lincoln and western Nebraska producers. getting from the College and the EWC Foundation
Being on the Livestock Judging team also means that as to put the tools in place, we can build a regionally
a student you join other agriculture and rodeo students recognized agriculture department here at EWC.”
in working with the Foundation’s annual Sagebrush and
Roses dinner dance – with funds raised being dedicated
to the Agriculture program, including scholarships and
educational materials for these students.
“Livestock judging was an awesome way to travel around
the nation and see top livestock operations that otherwise
I wouldn’t have been able to experience. It is a lot of work
to be devoted to judging, but in the end I gained valuable
critical thinking and communications skills, plus made tons of
memories and friends I’ll never forget.” Members of the 2011-2012 Livestock Judging Team - Susie
-Rustin Roth,TorringtonWyoming Button, Olivia Garl, Ashley Ralco, Kaden Hubbard, Keelyn
Hubbard, Rob Eirich - Coach.
13

14. Spring
2012
1st Annual Alumni Event
August 2011
Attention Alumni and Friends !
EWC alumni are making a difference in Goshen County, and throughout Wyoming and the nation. If you
wish to nominate someone as a Distinguished Alumni, we’d love to hear from you. Nominations are taken
throughout the year for this annual award.
Also, if you know of anyone who should be receiving our Lancer Luminaries magazine, either as an alumni of
the College, or as someone who wants to keep up on its activities, please let us know.
Contact the Office of Development (307- 532-8304) or the Office of College Relations ( 307-532-8206)
for details on the Distinguished Alumni program or any other questions you may have related to the Lancer
Luminaries magazine.
14

15. Spring 2012
2011 EWC Foundation Donor Recognition
and Appreciation Dinner
EWC Leadership Award
Kathy Francisco Memorial Scholarship
R.W. Fullmer Memorial Rodeo Scholarship
Ruth & Glen Gorman Scholarship
Goshen County Beet Growers/Rotary Scholarship
Goshen County Quilters Scholarship
Margaret Hageman Memorial Scholarship
Albert Harris Memorial Scholarship
Lisa M. Hinkley Experience Scholarship
William W. & Beverly D. Hovey Memorial Scholarship
Jolovich Family Scholarship
Kerm Kath Memorial Scholarship
Mara Garcia Jane Hommel Elizabeth Kelly Memorial Scholarship
The EWC Foundation Donor Recognition and Kenyon Family Scholarship
Appreciation dinner and reception event began in 1996, Mildred Kidney Scholarships
Marna M. Kuehne Endowed Scholarship
allows the Foundation to thank donors for their ongoing Irv Larsen Memorial Scholarship
and growing support of the endowed scholarship Lenhart Agriculture Scholarship
program. Working with the office of financial aid, the Lenhart Nursing Scholarship
Foundation annually expends over $85,000 toward Tom Lowry Memorial Scholarship
student opportunity in every area of the College. Donors (Goshen County Rooster Boosters)
have the opportunity to designate the program they wish David Ludwig Memorial Scholarship
to support as well as the qualifications the students must Edward Lynch Memorial Scholarship
meet to obtain the scholarship. The dinner is also an Ima Lynch Memorial Scholarship
opportunity for selected students to speak about how their Maffe Family Scholarship
scholarship has advanced their academic goals and thank L.W. and Jean Maxfield Memorial Scholarship
the donors in a personal way. The Foundation once again Lloyd and Marian McElhaney Scholarship
thanks all of those listed for their support of the College Norwest Bank Scholarship
Carl and Orma Oberg Scholarship
and student success. Carl Sawyer Memorial Award
Lee Seid Memorial Scholarship
Eastern Wyoming College Foundation Arlene Shindledecker Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Endowments John C. & Ora M. Simons Memorial Scholarship
William and Edna Smith Memorial Scholarship
Alma Anker Memorial Scholarship Margaret Tebbet Scholarship
L.C. & Mary Lou Atkins Scholarship Rex Tebbet Scholarship
Gail Branham Memorial Scholarship Thaler Family Scholarship
Dr. F.S. Brown Scholarship The Torrington Lions Club Scholarship
Kellie Burden Memorial Scholarship Tucker Memorial Scholarship
Cecilia Casillas Scholarship Union Pacific Corporation Scholarship
The Wayland H. Cato, Jr. Foundation Inc. Scholarship John and Joyce Vandel Scholarship
Jo Davis Memorial Scholarship Kelley Vandel Welding & Machine Tooling Award
Jo Davis Memorial Vet Tech Scholarship R.W. Weickum Memorial Scholarship
Tuffy Dicken Agriculture Scholarship Jeannie Wells Memorial Scholarship
Kenneth Dill Memorial Scholarship Betty Wesch Memorial Scholarship
Downing-Reed Memorial Scholarship Neal Willhite Memorial Scholarship
David Eddington & Gertrude Poage Eddington Ray E. Wilt Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Kathryn Winship Scholarships
Bob and Martha Erickson Memorial Scholarship Jim Wiseman Memorial Scholarship
EWC Employees’ Scholarship Wyoming National Guard Scholarship
EWC Foundation Scholarship Endowment Kenny and Alice Youtz Memorial Scholarship
15

16. Spring
2012
Eastern Wyoming College
Student Senate
EWC Student Senate members exemplify dedication to education, attainment of
personal goals, integrity and perseverance. To a person, they are high energy,
personable, conscientious and spirited. Throughout their time at Eastern Wyoming College, they
balance academic demands, off-campus jobs, extracurricular activities and social opportunities.
Lancer Luminaries is proud to once again give you a brief glimpse of the students who have taken on
leadership roles with the Student Senate – and who work with talent, dedication and humor to make
the college experience of their fellow students challenging and enjoyable.
S tudent Senate President
Colby Sturgeon is a Torrington W yatt Clark hails from Wellfleet,
Nebraska. As Student Senate
native who is working toward his Vice President, he is majoring in
AAS in Agriculture Business. He is a Business Management and is known
member of Phi Theta Kappa, the national for his quiet approach to leadership
community college student honor with his peers. Wyatt is also a member
society. Colby works part-time off of the EWC rodeo team, where he is
campus, as well as being a member of a calf roper, team roper and bare back
the EWC rodeo team as a team roper and rider.
calf roper.
16

17. Spring 2012
S tudent Senate Parliamentarian
Shianna Fry comes to the College from
O
Harrisburg, Nebraska. Her major at EWC is
ne of the primary responsibilities of
Farm and Ranch Management, and she will
the Student Senate is allocating funds
also earn a certificate in beef production. She
to various clubs and projects on the campus.
is a leader on the EWC livestock judging
That responsibility belongs to Senate treasurer
team, and a member of the Block and Bridle
Josie Bretzman, who hails from Lakefield,
Club. Shianna is well known, not only for
Minnesota. A Criminal Justice major, Josie
her academic and campus involvement, but
belongs to the Criminal Justice Club, and also
also for her voice -- she sings the national
works off campus. Her goal is to transfer to
anthem at many home athletic events. A
the University of Wyoming and eventually
testament to perseverance, Shannon spent her
work in law enforcement.
first semester at EWC in a wheel chair – the
result of two broken ankles in an automobile
accident. Not one to feel sorry for herself,
she came to the Senate’s Halloween costume
party as a crash dummy!
T roy Wilcox from Red Owl, South Dakota , is
the Student Senate Secretary. He is a Farm and
Ranch Management major and as with his fellow Student
Senate officers, Troy is a member of the rodeo team where
he participates as a roper, steer wrestler and tie down roper.
17

18. Spring
2012
Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy and
Eastern Wyoming College Partnership
Almost 20 years ago, Eastern Wyoming articulation meetings involving all
College and the Wyoming Law community colleges and the
Enforcement Academy in University of Wyoming as they
Douglas forged a great work together to deliver high
partnership. Through this quality courses.
agreement, cadets at the
Academy were able to Another benefit of this
earn college credits for agreement involves
some of their courses the criminal justice
which afford them program being available
a great start towards through EWC’s distance
earning an associate’s education offerings.
degree in Criminal Many officers will
Justice. continue as EWC students
after they graduate from the
For the cadets, this move WLEA, or they return to their
further professionalized the home communities and continue
academy experience and served as a the pursuit of a criminal justice degree
further incentive for them. Since that time at their local community college.
there has been an ongoing agreement between
the two entities. Students enrolled in Peace EWC Criminal Justice instructor Dr. Rick
Officer Basic and Detention Officer Basic at Patterson has worked hand in hand with the
the Academy can earn EWC credit for those WLEA for the past four years. He travels to
courses. Douglas and teaches about interaction with the
mentally ill for peace officers, detention officers
Originally, cadets had to register and pay a and communication officers. He also teaches
small administrative fee for the courses. Now suicide prevention for the detention officers
the students qualify for EWC scholarships advanced class. Patterson indicated, “This long
which cover the tuition and fees. This change standing relationship will certainly continue and
coincided five years ago with a request from there could possibly even be other classes that
EWC to the Wyoming Community College may be available for EWC credit.” He further
Commission to count the enrollment numbers explained, “This agreement gives students
in official college reports. an opportunity to get started with a college
education and their career at the same time.
The curriculum is constantly evolving Educational credits help officers advance to the
as EWC Criminal Justice instructors and next level of certification for career moves.”
administrators meet with WLEA instructors
on a regular basis to review and modify the WLEA Director, Dave Harris indicated, “This
agreement and course content as needed. Not relationship is a win-win for those officers
only do EWC and the WLEA coordinate attending our basic training, not only are they
efforts, both also participate in the state meeting their P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards
18

19. Spring 2012
opportunities for their officer’s formal
education.”
“We value this long-standing partnership
with WLEA. A recent meeting involved
discussing the possibility of working with
them to develop a continuing education course
via distance methods,” said Dr. Dee Ludwig,
Vice President for Learning, “The WLEA
enrollments represent part of the enrollment
growth in Outreach we have seen in the last
few years, and the average annual enrollment
of WLEA participants in EWC courses
is 118 students. In addition to criminal
David Harris
Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy Director
justice instructors Rick Patterson and Larry
Curtis, several EWC folks are involved in
and Trainings commission) mandated basic supporting our efforts with WLEA including
training requirements, but they can also start Mike Durfee, Associate Vice President for
or add to their existing college course work Learning; Sue McBride, Director of the
as they further their formal education. I Douglas branch campus, and Jamie Sullivan,
truly believe that this not only benefits the Administrative Specialist in Douglas. “
law enforcement officers themselves, but
more so the communities that they serve. As technology and resources evolve it is
The feedback we receive from the students critical that EWC and the WLEA embrace
has been very favorable once they realize these changes in resources as we continue to
the benefits of the program. More noteworthy provide quality, up-to-date and cutting edge
would be the feedback we receive from our law training resources to the communities we
enforcement administrators. They certainly serve. This long-standing partnership is truly
support providing incentives and continued a win-win for all involved.
Dr. Richard Patterson instructing peace officers at the Law Enforcement Academy in Douglas Wyoming.
19

20. Spring
2012
Science Wing Completed up-to-date feel of the space. It sends a message
to students that EWC wants them to have the
advantages of well-appointed classrooms that are
the norm in higher education. We have always
had very good students, but they are possibly
even more engaged with their in-class work
in the updated areas with updated and modern
equipment.” The student “pods”, seen in these
photographs, accommodating six students each,
have replaced the rows of wooden tables that
were in the biology labs for nearly fifty years.
The major science wing classroom renovations
in the Tebbet building were completed in Along with the science wing renovation,
early August. Funded primarily through the the campus was re-fitted with new lighting
State Fiscal Stimulus and Federal Stimulus throughout the facility, and all exterior windows
funds which were dedicated to renovation and were replaced. Not only did these projects
updating classroom space, the project updated improve the look of the campus and its usability,
classrooms that suffered from over 50 years but will save the college several hundred
of wear and tear. EWC Vice President for thousand dollars in future utility costs. Vice
Finance Bob Cox said, “the biggest challenge President Cox said, “the window and door
for our maintenance, custodial and purchasing replacements, new interior lighting, new heating,
staff was the short four month time frame we air conditioning and ventilation controls, and
had to coordinate and complete the renovation. new boilers and air conditioning units were
Moving faculty offices and lab equipment all major projects that make the entire campus
to storage, tearing out old cabinets, timing so much more usable, comfortable and safe.
delivery of new equipment, fixtures and The team of faculty, staff and maintenance
furniture was quite a feat.” people at EWC who worked to make this
happen in a coordinated way deserve a special
Faculty who returned to their newly remodled commendation.”
classrooms were extremely satisfied with the
outcome. EWC chemistry instructor Dr. Lorna
Pehl said, “I am exceptionally pleased with
the remodeling of the chemical storage and
preparation areas. Chemicals are now stored
appropriately, with filters to remove toxic and
corrosive fumes from the prep area. The whole
teaching environment is fresh and modern, and
I especially appreciate the upgrades that relate
to the health and safety of our students.”
Again referring to the improvement in quality
directly related to student learning, biology
instructor Dr. Peggy Knittel said, “Students
notice and appreciate the newness and the
20

21. Spring 2012
EWC Graduates Capture
Foundation Golf
Tournament Title
Andrew Jackson and Ryan Yung are EWC Alumni
and past EWC Golf Team Members.
1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
Buck Klemola Rad Smith Kris Brooks
Gary Pittman Roger Feagler Ron Brooks
Andrew Jackson Mary Feagler Bob Childs
Ryan Yung Rick Stapleton Bonnie Childs
21

22. Spring
2012
Riders In The Sky
Thank you to our sponsors!
Pinnacle Bank
First State Bank
Platte Valley Bank
US Bank
Points West Community Bank
Westco
Kelley Bean Company
Dinklage Feed Yard
Brown Company
Freudenthal and Bonds, PC
EWC Foundation
Eastern Wyoming Arts Council
CP Ranch - Ron & Sherri Lovercheck
Ochsner Ranch - The Ochsner Family
Lone Tree Ag - Virgil & Peggy Jackson
Rocking B Ranch - Julie Kilty & Dave Bartlett
Patrick Brothers - John & Katherine Patrick
V Box Ranch - Wayne & Kathy Tatman
Dennis & Sandra Thaler
Madden Brothers - Torrington Livestock Exchange Shawn & Lex Madden
22

23. Spring 2012
Eastern Wyoming College
Rodeo
Gillette College
March 16-18
Gillette, WY
Colorado State University
March 30- April 1
Ft. Collins, CO
EWC L NCER RODEO
A
April 5-7
Torrington, WY
Casper College
April 20-22
Casper, WY
University of Wyoming
April 27-29
Laramie, WY
College National Finals Rodeo
Casper Events Center
June 10-17
Casper, WY
EWC Alumni competed at the
2011 National Finals Rodeo
l Dean Gorsuch - Steer Wrestling
l Seth Brockman - Steer Wrestling
l Jake Reinhart - Steer Wrestling
23

24. EASTERN WYOMING COLLEGE
PRSRT STD
3200 West C Street US POSTAGE
Torrington, WY 82240 PAID
TORRINGTON, WY
82240
PERMIT NO 14
Return Service Requested
Wyoming College Commission
Fall Meeting
Eastern Wyoming College