ISU News Flash

ISU News Flash is published every other Friday. To keep up on the latest university news between issues, bookmark & visit the ISU News Service homepage and follow the ISU Alumni Association blog.

(A)=Annual Member, (L)=Life Member, (S)=Student Member

On Campus

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Students: Imagining a future with
the nation’s most creative company
A team of three ISU design and engineering students captured first place last week at the 26th annual Walt Disney Imagineering Imaginations Design Competition. Cristina Diaz, a senior in interior design from Aurora, Ill.; Alex Doppenberg, a senior in mechanical engineering from Spencer, Iowa; and Joshua Kurnia, a senior in architecture originally from Jakarta, Indonesia, say they were fortunate to have found each other over the summer. They formed a team for the competition not as part of a class project, but solely out of a shared extracurricular passion for working in the theme design industry, specifically as “Imagineers” – the elite team of professionals who dream up, design, and build Walt Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and experiences.

The students conceived “Hourglass” in response to the competition’s prompt to design, following Disney principles, a unique place of respite for their college campus. In August, the team began working on its winning idea – a structure shaped like an hourglass turned on its side to represent the pausing of time that also features geothermal pods, heated benches, and nature map projections. In December, the team was one of six finalists selected from among 330 submissions to spend last week at the Walt Disney Imagineering campus in Glendale, Calif., presenting their concept to current Imagineers, touring Disney facilities, networking, socializing, and interviewing for prestigious internship opportunities. On Friday, a week that was already a “dream come true” got even better when Diaz, Doppenberg, and Kurnia were announced as first-place winners at the competition’s awards banquet.

“I was beyond disbelief, but just so grateful that we won,” said Kurnia, who is currently interning with Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., and hopes to secure one of the Imagineering internships for which he and his colleagues interviewed last week. “This competition has opened so many doors, so I really hope that my future with Disney has started with the Imagineering competition.”

Campus Links: Celebrating culture
February is Black History Month nationwide, and the ISU campus has many events planned in honor of the celebration. Get a complete listing online.

Around Campus:
Textiles and Clothing Museum
Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Last week ISU’s Textiles and Clothing Museum in 1015 Morrill Hall opened a unique exhibit to celebrate its 10th anniversary. “Our Favorite Things” is a collection of 34 objects – dresses, hats, handbags, illustrations, notion samples, and more -- selected by 32 faculty and staff members who are passionate about the ISU textiles and clothing program. “It’s a lot of different points of view interpreted through many lenses,” explains curator Janet Fitzpatrick (’04 liberal studies, MS ’07). “It’s different because we have so many people involved.” The exhibit will run through April 8 in the museum’s Mary Alice Gallery.

 

ISU Research:
Going with the flow
So here’s the question: As the climate warms, how rapidly will the flow of melting glaciers speed up over the next century? And here’s maybe the key to getting an answer: ISU professor of geological and atmospheric sciences Neal Iverson (’83 geology), who has traveled the world studying glaciers, in 2009 created a complex 9-foot-high simulator on campus to study this very issue. And now, thanks to two new grants from the National Science Foundation, Iverson and his collaborators are hoping to use the device to its fullest potential.

“These are complicated systems,” Iverson says. “Modelling them is hard. But we need to include how water in ice affects its flow resistance, and we need sliding laws that are based on the real topography of glacier beds and that include rock friction.” The new grants, he says, will allow for that level of complexity in the research – as well as supporting the work of two postdoctoral research associates, a graduate student research assistant, and two undergraduate summer field assistants on campus.

Sports: Campbell inks 26
on National “Cyning” Day
Second-year head football coach Matt Campbell unveiled a top-40 recruiting class Wednesday as Iowa State officially welcomed 26 newcomers to the 2017 Iowa State roster on National Signing Day. Campbell says he is especially proud to sign six in-state players, the most by ISU in nine seasons. The class includes six mid-year signees or graduate transfers, 18 freshmen, and two junior college transfers, as well as five four-star-rated recruits. Meet the new Cyclones online.

Quotable
“While we recognize the need for federal actions to protect our national security, we are concerned this executive order will unnecessarily interfere with members of our campus community. As a result, we will continue to work with leading national higher education organizations to advocate for immigration policies that protect national security, but also promote and safeguard the international relationships and people who are core to our success as an institution of higher education as a nation.”

-- ISU President Steven Leath (L), in a Jan. 30 letter to the Iowa State community addressing a Jan. 27 executive order suspending immigration to the U.S. from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. According to Leath, the executive order affects 115 members of our Iowa State community, including three who were immediately affected over the weekend.

Alumni

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Put a pin in this one
A Des Moines-based startup business that began with some crafty Pinterest-inspired design is going global in 2017, with plans to expand its physical footprint beyond a small Beaverdale storefront and shipping furniture across the U.S. and even overseas. Riana LeJeune-Copeland (’04 psychology) started Repinned on Craigslist in 2013, and the furniture restoration and re-upholstery business has steadily grown ever since. LeJeune-Copeland now spends a significant portion of her time doing custom furniture design for clients; Repinned’s work has been featured on HGTV and recognized as a top design of 2016 by Richlooms Fabrics. LeJeune-Copeland recently spoke to Silicon Prairie News about the entrepreneur life.

Inside VISIONS:
Our Changing Landscape
In our continuing online coverage of the winter 2017 VISIONS magazine cover story, “Hello, 2017,” we now have available on our blog “Our Changing Landscape,” a facilities check-in that highlights what’s new to campus, what’s been remodeled, and what’s soon to come – with pictures, of course!

Mark your calendar:
For the OLLI at ISU Spring Open House
Thursday, Feb. 16, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Reiman Ballroom, ISU Alumni Center
Lifelong learners aged 50 and over are encouraged to enroll in our spring OLLI at ISU classes, and your first chance to register will be Feb. 16 at our open house event. Meet the instructors, learn more about and register for the classes – which start March 20, talk with friends, and enjoy a cookie or two. To browse the list of spring 2017 course offerings – which includes topics ranging from music and health to current events, fishing, and Russian spies, visit the OLLI at ISU website.

 

Traveling Cyclones: Isn’t it romantic?
This year, want to surprise your Valentine with the romantic gift of a lifetime? Our Provincial French Countryside tour, Sept. 4-18, will give you an in-depth journey through France – starting in Toulouse and ending in Paris, the City of Love. Or how about a romantic adventure through Scotland Aug. 1-9? The Alumni Campus Abroad program will give you an insider’s perspective on Scotland’s epic history and colorful culture. Browse all of our 2017 travel opportunities online at www.isualum.org/travel2017 or call Shellie Andersen (L)(’88 marketing) at (877) 478-2586 to learn more about how we can plan your next unforgettable getaway.

 

Kansas City, here we come
As part of a week of festivities in Kansas City during the Big 12 men's basketball tournament early next month, the ISU Alumni Association is excited to be hosting the next edition of "Celebrate State:” an evening at Union Horse Distilling Company in Lenexa March 7. Kansas City Cyclones are invited to eat, drink, socialize, and get the Cyclone 4-1-1 straight from Lora and Russ Talbot Endowed President & CEO Jeff Johnson (L)(PhD ’14). Register online for this complimentary event by noon on Tuesday, Feb. 28. And stay tuned to www.isualum.org/big12 for Big 12 men’s (and women’s) tourney fan info as it becomes available later this month.

 

Merchandise spotlight: Add a little
Iowa State to your home or office
The ISU Alumni Association’s latest limited-edition print by artist Joe Gallagher is entitled “Iowa State University.” This signed and numbered 11x14 print depicts the iconic Campanile and Fountain of the Four Seasons and is available for $195 plus $35 shipping in your choice of gold or black frame with white mat. Framed size is 22x26.

Happening Everywhere:

• ACROSS THE NATION, tomorrow:
  Cyclone MBB Gamewatches, 1 p.m. CT
  Find an ISU at Kansas men’s basketball gamewatch near you using our online events calendar.
  No registration required.
• IN MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 12:
  Bulls at Timberwolves and Postgame Free-Throw Shoot, 2:30 p.m., Target Center
  The ISUAA Club of the Twin Cities has secured a special group ticket offer for this game vs. former Cyclone All-American and head coach Fred Hoiberg’s (L)(’95 finance) Chicago Bulls. ISU fans are invited to shoot free throws on the court following the game.
  Purchase tickets online ASAP.
• ON CAMPUS, Feb. 16:
  OLLI at ISU Spring Open House, 1:30 p.m., ISU Alumni Center
  Your first chance to preview spring courses for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at ISU (for 50+ life learners) and register for your favorites. Classes begin March 20.
  No registration required.
• ON CAMPUS, Feb. 21:
  ISU Retirees Social and Program, 2:30 p.m., ISU Alumni Center
  Alex Fejfar will provide an overview of Ames’ first schoolhouse, Hoggatt School, which was built in 1862 and still stands today.
  No registration required, but attendance limited to ISU Retirees Association members.
• IN DES MOINES, Feb. 22:
  Young Alumni Night at Up-Down DSM, 6 p.m., Up-Down Des Moines, 500 E. Locust Street
  Iowa State young alumni: You’re invited for a night of fun and games with your fellow Cyclones at this hopping new DSM arcade bar.
  Register online by Feb. 20.
• In OKLAHOMA CITY, March 3-6:
  Big 12 Women’s Basketball Tourney
  Every year the Alumni Association is at the center of the action at the Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Tournament with spirit rallies, get-togethers, and lots of Cardinal & Gold spirit. Details TBA.
  No registration required.
• IN KANSAS CITY, March 7:
  Celebrate State, 6 p.m., Union Horse Distilling Co., 11740 W. 86th Terrace, Lenexa, Kan.
  Kansas City Cyclones: Eat, drink, have fun, and learn about how support from alumni and friends is benefiting Iowa State at this free event on the eve of the 2017 Big 12 tournament.
  Register online by Feb. 28.
• In KANSAS CITY, March 8-11:
  Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tourney
  Every year the Alumni Association is at the center of the action at the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament with spirit rallies, get-togethers, and lots of Cardinal & Gold spirit. Details TBA.
  No registration required.

As always, visit our online events calendar to get a complete listing of upcoming events.

Class Notes: Alumni Bookshelf

• Josiah Dykstra (MS '04 info assurance) is the author of his first book, Essential Cybersecurity Science (O'Reilly, 2016). This book provides practical and hands-on advice, case studies, and guidance for students and practitioners of cyber security.
• Cheryl Mullenbach (A)(MS '01 interdisciplinary grad studies) has released her fourth book, Women in Blue (Chicago Review Press).

Class Notes: Awards & Honors

• Four Leaves Winery in Durango, Colo., which is owned by Dean Fagner (L)('87 marketing), was recently presented with the "Spirit of Durango" award by the Durango Chamber of Commerce for its contributions benefiting and promoting the community.
• Gary MacNoll (’77 ag business), a beef producer near Abilene, Texas, who recently retired from the FBI, was named the 2017 Rancher of the Year by the Middle Clear Fork Soil and Water Conservation District.
• Josiah Dykstra (MS '04 information assurance) was honored by President Barack Obama with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers. Dykstra was recognized for his exemplary work with as a computer systems researcher with the U.S. National Security Agency.
• David Meyerholz (L)(DVM '94, MS '01 vet microbiology, PhD 04 vet pathology) was awarded the Mid-Career Excellence Award at the 2015 American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) meeting in Minneapolis, Minn. Meyerholz is an associate professor (Department of Pathology) and serves as Director of the Division of Comparative Pathology at the Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa.

Class Notes: Careers

• Barbara A.M. Howard (A)('95 architecture) recently launched Stonebridge Learning, providing online continuing education for the heritage industry, including preservation, architecture, history, and planning professionals.
• Park University (Parkville, Mo.) has announced the promotion of Jayme Uden (MS '03 ed) to the position of associate vice president and dean of students, effective Jan. 1, 2017.
• Shelby Fields (’16 animal science) is a new swine account manager for Cargill.
• Jacob Swanson (L)('14 global resource systems) has joined the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as special assistant to the secretary of agriculture.
• Jenna Alme (A)(’12 ag studies) has joined the ANIMART Midwest sales team. 
• Stacie Turnbull (MS '03 ag and life sciences ed) has been named program director of the new agri-business program at York College in York, Neb.
• Cheryl Morris ('02 animal sci, animal nutrition) has been named chief conservation officer for the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Neb.
• Paul Anton ('89 ag studies) has been named vice president of business banking for BankIowa in Waterloo, Iowa.
• Vince Lawson ('75 horticulture, MS '83) has retired as superintendent of the Iowa State Muscatine Island Research Farm in Muscatine, Iowa.
  
• Shaobin Zhu (MS '99 computer sci) has been promoted to partner at Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dummer, LLP, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the world.
• William Smith ('16 MIS) has joined Ernst & Young in Des Moines, Iowa, as a member of the firm's IT risk advisory practice.
• HGA Architects and Engineers (HGA) is excited to welcome recognized architectural leader Richard Smith (A)('86 architecture) as associate vice president and Principal. He will direct the firm’s growing services in the science and technology markets nationally.
• Holly Boman ('89 English) has been promoted to director of marketing for the Iowa State Center, managed by VenuWorks. She brings 15+ years of advertising, marketing and management experience.
• Matt Mahler ('08 civil engr) has been appointed by the Waterloo (Iowa) Water Works board of trustees to replace retiring general manager Dennis Clark. Mahler comes to Waterloo Water Works after previously serving as a project engineer with Snyder and Associates Inc. in Ankeny, Iowa. His roles at Snyder included planning, designing, and overseeing construction of municipal drinking water projects.
• Hilscher North America, Inc., a provider of industrial network connectivity solutions based in Lisle, Ill., has appointed Craig Lentzkow (A)('78 mech engr) to the newly-created position of business development manager.
  

Read the latest Class Notes in full online

Do you have a new job? Won an award? Got married or had a child? Please submit YOUR class note by logging into the ISU Alumni Directory at www.isualum.org/directory and posting on your profile or by emailing isualum@iastate.edu.