The Lindenwood - Fall 2020

10 11 FALL 2020 EDITION FALL 2020 EDITION THE LINDENWOOD THE LINDENWOOD IN DEPTH SERIES Lindenwood University was featured in a November episode of “In Depth with Host Laurence Fishburne”. Through this award-winning series, “In Depth provides a podium for new ideas and unique perspectives through a short documentary format.” Lindenwood was highlighted as a university facing the challenges of the modern workforce head-on. With an entrepreneurial mindset and a focus on experiential learning and forward- thinking, the documentary detailed what Lindenwood is doing to prepare students for the future, within the historical perspective that has supported the campus since its founding in 1827. CELL #77 Lindenwood alumnus Aslan Demir ‘18 released his book Cell #77 in July of 2020. Demir, who is from Turkey explains that Cell #77 is a “bloodied portrait of state oppression” — referring to his home country. In an effort to make a difference in a “so-called democratic country” Demir speaks out calling attention to the menacing acts taking place in the country he calls home. “This book is my way of fighting injustice that is going on in my country” explains Demir. “That’s why it is by far, the most important thing I have ever accomplished.” Demir graduated from Lindenwood with a master’s in writing, and continues to create. LIVING OUT DREAMS Dr. Marcus Smith, assistant professor of history, joined Lindenwood’s faculty in August of 2020 to pursue his dreams of helping students become aware of the much broader and interconnected world they are a part of. “Our lives are not as local as we might often think they are,” said Marcus. In 2005, Dr. Marcus spent a year in Baghdad as part of the National Guard. After earning the Purple Heart and returning home to the States, Marcus shifted his focus, making it his goal to learn more about the deep Middle Eastern history that he recognized he was a stranger to. Inspired by his experience, Dr. Marcus now passes his knowledge to help teach cultural competence and well-roundedness to his students. EXPRESSIONS Expressions by Four Artists in Wood, Stone, Wool, and Steel opened in Lindenwood’s Boyle Family Gallery on Oct. 15 and is expected to run until Dec. 4. The exhibition contains the work of four St. Louis based artists — Abraham Mohler, Matt Schiermeier, and two of Lindenwood’s very own –Dean of Education, Anthony Scheffler and Lindenwood alumna (’15) and Web Content Administrator, Alexandra Bardon. “I am grateful for the opportunity to present my pieces alongside gifted artists whose work is technically accomplished and esthetically striking,” said Scheffler. The Expressions exhibit is intended to not simply showcase the work of these four St Louis area artists, but to examine expression through four different mediums. The works vary from simple representation to complex interpretations, and from high-craft to abstraction. BASKING IN THE LINDENWOOD IN THE NEWS SUPPORTING LOCAL Supporting local organizations is an impactful way for Lindenwood to serve the St. Charles County community. This fall, Lindenwood sponsored charity golf tournaments supporting All American Athlete, and Five Acres Animal Shelter. All American Athlete’s mission is focused on developing athletic and life skills in children to help them become better citizens through guidance, encouragement, and instruction. Five Acres Animal Shelter is the only no-kill animal shelter in St. Charles County and seeks to find loving homes for animals. Lindenwood was proud to partner with these incredible organizations and looks forward to future opportunities in St. Charles County. DESERVED RECOGNITION Robert Fontaine-Holman ‘20 was recognized by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and was presented the 8th District and International William H. Hastie Scholarship Award for Creative Research. He works in the community to host reading nights for children and brings together Brothers of Omega, firefighters, and college athletes to support child literacy. Lindenwood is proud to congratulate Robert Fontaine-Holman on his award and grateful to his commitment to community. He is currently working as a language arts teacher in Columbia, Mo. GIVING BACK Lindenwood partnered with Francis Howell School District to provide ten mobile hot spots to ensure reliable internet connectivity, essential for students participating in virtual learning. Dr. John Porter, President of Lindenwood University, and Scott Myers, Director of Development, presented a check for the purchase to Dr. Nathan Hoven, school district superintendent. “We are grateful for the generous support of Lindenwood University and Dr. John Porter,” Hoven shared. “This donation demonstrates Lindenwood’s deep commitment to our community and will help ensure technological equity among students in the Francis Howell School District. I look forward to the many ways our two great institutions will partner together in the future.” THE GIFT OF MUSIC Lindenwood University School of Arts, Media, and Communications donated twelve drums and 100 marching band uniforms to the band at Madison High School in Madison, Ill. The 40-member band is under the direction of Lindenwood alumnus and adjunct faculty member, Bernard Long, Jr., who shared the impact of the gift: “We are very appreciative of this donation as it will save students’ lives and produce and prepare future Lindenwood University band students.” This gift will provide students with the necessary equipment to revitalize their band program, as 96% of the student population at the school is considered economically disadvantaged. Linden BRANCHES LINDENWOOD IN THE COMMUNITY