Homecoming is rapidly approaching for Emporia State University, and one of the highlights will be the formal recognition of the Distinguished Alumni at the Black & Gold Gala.
ESU has named its five honorees, including:
*Shirley Antes, who received bachelor’s and masters degrees in speech and theater before getting both degrees in business education and a masters in educational administration. Antes’ career has also included time on the Kansas Board of Regents and directing the Emporia Community Foundation in addition to creating scholarships for returning adult learners and student teachers
*Sean Bird, who received a masters degree in library science and now serves as a senior associate dean at Washburn. He has been awarded the American Library Association’s I Love My Librarian Award and mentors School of Library and Information Management students
*Joretta Duncan, who received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and spent more than 60 years teaching in Kansas and Oklahoma
*Steve Harmon, who received bachelor’s degrees in political science and instructional design technology as well as a masters in college student personnel and administration. Harmon is the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Kansas National Guard and started Freedom Fest, one of the signature events in Emporia’s All Veterans Tribute
*Dr Marilee McBoyle-Wiesner received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and begame the first female board-certified general surgeon in Kansas. The surgical skills laboratory at KU School of Medicine-Wichita is named for her. She has also founded a scholarship at ESU for pre-med students
The Black & Gold Gala will be held on Oct. 31. Numerous activities are ahead for Homecoming. Details are online at emporia.edu/homecoming.
