The Crow's Nest Daily Update - August 3, 2020
In a recent letter to students, faculty, staff, and University stakeholders, President Gary Gunderson of Park University expressed his support for social justice, emphasising the importance of rule of law, free civil voice, truthfulness, and legislation that benefits all citizens globally. Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s promise that "the arc of history bends toward justice," Gunderson called for individuals to focus on healing societal divisions and contributing positively rather than fueling authoritarian tendencies.
One of the key figures driving this positive change is Lisa Hickok, who was appointed as the executive director of the International Center for Music at Park University on July 13. Hickok, who previously worked as a consultant with the International Center for Music at Park University from January 2017, is now responsible for fundraising growth, audience engagement, developing community partnerships, and securing philanthropic support.
As for upcoming events, the 2020 Park University Golf Scramble is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 12, at The National Golf Club of Kansas City. The event, which benefits the University's Parkville Campus athletics programs, has limited registration to 25 teams (100 players) due to the coronavirus pandemic. Registration fees are $225 per golfer or $900 per four-person team. Sponsorship packages range in price from $1,400 to $5,000.
Other events include the International Center for Music Gala on September 17, the International Center for Music Concert: Stanislav and Friends Virtual Broadcast from September 25-27, and the River Read Children's Literature Festival on October 13.
Notable achievements include Jefferson Roblee, '95, being appointed the women's soccer assistant coach at Kansas City Kansas Community College, and Park University being ranked No. 28 on EdSmart.org's "Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs" list.
The University has also received several rankings, including being ranked No. 31 on Learn.org's "Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs" list and No. 12 on BestMastersPrograms.org's "25 Best Online Executive MBA for 2020" list.
Park University's First Family was featured in a cover story in the July issue of Northland Neighbors magazine, and Alissia Canady, '08, a former member of the Kansas City, Mo., City Council and a 2020 candidate for Missouri lieutenant governor, was featured in Essence magazine.
Unfortunately, some events have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Minot (N.D.) Air Force Base Campus Commencement, the Fall I Term / Fall Semester Begin, and the Fort Irwin (Calif.) Campus Commencement. However, the University continues to adapt and find ways to engage its community virtually.
In other news, Nada Meawad, a student-athlete at Park University, was interviewed by KCUR's "Up to Date" program and KCUR-FM regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announcement. Additionally, the Meawad sisters were interviewed following the government's agreement to rescind ICE and Department of Homeland Security rules.
President Gunderson, along with the Meawads, were also interviewed by KCTV, KSHB-TV, WDAF-TV, and KCUR-FM regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announcement. Gina Chambers, Ph.D., and Suzanne Tiemann, Ph.D., assistant professors of education, were also interviewed for a story that aired on KSHB-TV in Kansas City.
Steve Youngblood, associate professor of communication arts and director of the Center for Global Peace Journalism, was featured in the Platte County (Mo.) Citizen, and Lisa Hickok, executive director of the International Center for Music, was featured in an article that appeared in The Independent, Kansas City's journal of society.
In conclusion, Park University continues to make strides in various areas, from social justice to education and sports. The University's commitment to its community and its students is evident in its numerous events, achievements, and interviews. As the University adapts to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains dedicated to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all.
- With the appointment of Lisa Hickok as the executive director of the International Center for Music, Park University is focusing on education and self-development, aiming to secure philanthropic support, develop community partnerships, and engage more audiences.
- General news outlets have been covering Park University extensively, featuring interviews with key figures like President Gary Gunderson, student-athlete Nada Meawad, and assistant professors of education Gina Chambers and Suzanne Tiemann, highlighting their contributions in areas such as social justice and sports.
