The Pershing Scholarship is unique among Missouri institutions of higher learning and is recognized throughout the Midwest as one of the most prestigious awards offered to high school graduates. We ask you to share your thoughts and memories about the program, Dr. McClain, and others in the program that have made an impact on your life. If you would like to submit an entry, please email bulldogforever2@truman.edu.
“I have made some life-long friends from students I met who went through the program. It was my honor to serve on the Board of Governors with three Pershing Scholars, Dr. Dorothy Munch, Dr. Maria Evans, and Judge Mary Rhodes Russell. Another Pershing Scholar, Randa Rawlins, was appointed to replace me on the Board. I was thrilled to have someone I helped select as a Pershing Scholar as a high school senior take on that important responsibility.
Dr. McClain had a huge impact on my life. His vision for Truman early on was seen by some to be totally unrealistic given Truman’s location and the traditional mission of the state’s regional universities. By God, he and our team got it done and those who followed have continued the quest for excellence that Dr. McClain instilled in the faculty, staff and students. Soon, it will be the 30th anniversary of the mission change. In a lot of ways the development of the Pershing program was the first step towards accomplishing the mission change.” – Tom Shrout
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“When I received notice of my scholarship, I knew right from the start that Truman was a place where I would be valued. As I continue to work with hundreds of new Truman students each year, I try and return the favor and make each one feel valued by the institution.” – Zac Burden (’03, ’09)
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“I think that I may have been one of the first out of state students awarded the Pershing Scholarship and remain grateful to have received such an honor. Dr. McClain was a true visionary and was always interested in the students as well as the institution.” –Vicki Kijewski (’84)
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“Dr. McClain is the finest educational leader Missouri has ever produced! He influenced the campus, the Missouri General Assembly, and the Governor to establish the Liberal Arts and Sciences mission for Truman. He made the plan and followed the plan to cause Truman to become the finest public liberal arts university in the U.S.A. His leadership as Commissioner of Education for Missouri was truly outstanding for the entire state. He is deserving of every honor that has been bestowed upon him and he has been honored greatly. It has been a blessing and honor for me to call President McClain my friend and mentor.” – Dr. Jack Magruder (’57) President Emeritus
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“As the fourth of six children, I most appreciated that the Pershing Scholarship Program gave me the opportunity to attend college without concerns for the hardships my parents might otherwise have suffered to support me. The ongoing connections to other academically motivated students, as well as frequent access to high quality faculty and administrators outside of the classroom, really gave me a chance to engage fully in the college experience. My time at NMSU/Truman provided the foundation for the work I do now as a community college faculty member, preparing future teachers to impact the lives of all of their students.” – Deb (Brockschmidt) Poese (’81)
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“Little did I know as a freshman at the first Pershing Society picnic in Red Barn Park, I was meeting some of the people who would become my longest-term friends, confidants, and heroes. To this very day, these relationships are some of my strongest and most cherished. The Pershing Scholarship also granted me confidence, and the ability to launch into adulthood without the burden of student loan debt. I’m forever grateful for the opportunities.” – Karman (Wittry) Hotchkiss (’87)
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“Without the Pershing Scholarship Program, I simply would not have had the opportunity to leave a destructive home environment to be given the opportunity to flourish in a safe, encouraging university environment. From day one, the members (mentors, faculty and other students) serve as a supportive social structure that allowed me to feel an immediate sense of community.
The Pershing Society structure allowed me the support to get involved in other university activities as well: Delta Sigma Pi, Student Ambassadors, as well as via my Pershing assignment to the Admissions Office. This continued to strengthen my involvement in the university community, and to feel valued.
These activities also allowed me to become involved with the leadership of the university, including interacting with Dr. McClain. His leadership of the university, and his personal support of the students and faculty, helped to create an environment of learning in a safe, challenging way. He truly cared about the university — and everyone tied to it — and worked tirelessly to move the university’s image from ‘just another state school’ to a nationally recognized university, attracting the ‘best and brightest’ and instilling in them a sense of social awareness, community, and educational excellence.” – Pamela L. (Weatherby) Popp (’83)
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“I can’t begin to describe what my Truman education has meant to my professional career and for my family. The Pershing Scholarship opened doors for me that seemed unattainable when I was 18 years old. I am a direct beneficiary of President McClain’s foresight and I hope that I can help pass along that opportunity to others.
I read the accolades for President McClain on the web site, but the true power of his genius is the exponential growth that he fostered in creating the Pershing Scholarship. His legacy is the young men and women who can achieve their potential with a world-class education through the generosity of the University by use of the scholarship. It results in smarter people, serving others for generations and generations.
During my time at Truman, President McClain was my mentor and I was fortunate to begin my work portion of the scholarship with Tom Shrout who was the head of Tel-Alumni at the time. Great people providing great opportunities!! President McClain took the time to have breakfast with me a couple times a semester. I was very fortunate.” – Lee Viorel (’85)
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“I am forever grateful to Dr. McClain for recognizing that strong students with potential should be rewarded regardless of financial circumstances. He made clear to me that Pershings were expected to become leaders on campus, which encouraged me to pursue opportunities and develop skills that have changed my life in a very positive way. I am proud to do all I can to pay it forward and help to develop the next generation of leaders.” – Dr. Susan LaGrassa (’87, ’89)
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“The Pershing Scholarship was part of what made it possible for me to attend Truman, and definitely enriched my experience. Because I did not have to worry about finances, I was able to focus on the many other wonderful opportunities Truman has to offer. The study abroad stipend made it possible for me to spend a summer in China – an experience I will never forget. Thank you for all you have done – I know my life would not be the same if I weren’t a Pershing Scholar.” – Frankie Bruning (’11, ’13)
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“It was a special privilege to work with President McClain as he transformed Northeast Missouri State University into a public liberal arts and science with a national reputation for excellence and innovation. He was a brilliant leader, and the Pershing Scholarship Program was one of his early steps to move the University forward. He had great vision and a total commitment to public education. His service to the University was both distinguished and distinctive!” – Ray Klinginsmith
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“I was blessed to be awarded the Pershing Scholarship in 1987. It began a relationship with Truman State University that has lasted for over 25 years. I think President Paino said it best this past Homecoming when he stated that Truman is not an “Institution” but a “Community”. Thanks a million, Dr. McClain, for your vision which did so much to elevate the amazing community that is Truman State University!” – Sarah (Hartmann) Burkemper (’92)
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“I am fairly certain that I would not have a college degree if I had not been awarded the Pershing Scholarship. This program has expanded my world and inspired my wife and children. I cannot say enough about the positive impact my Pershing Scholarship has had in my life. Thank you, Dr. McClain!” – Paul Zimmerman (’77)
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“When I was 22-years-old, Dr. McClain asked me if I would be the Director of Admissions at the University. He really did. After much hesitation, I indicated if my initial official title could be Acting Director, I would give it a try. From that time forward, I owe every professional position and any accomplishments directly to him. Much more than that, however, we have had a lifelong relationship that is unwavering. No matter how much time passes between contacts, it never skips a beat. This man has been a very wise second father for me, and I know he has engendered that feeling and emotion among many, many students and colleagues. I was honored to be a member of the inaugural Pershing Committee (at age 9, ha) and have taken great pride in a program that has emulated throughout the country: a vision typical of this great man.” – Terry Taylor (’72)
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“Dr. McClain had the greatest impact on our family (not just on me) than any other known person in our family’s history. I’m sure my brother Les would agree. His stewardship of Northeast Missouri State University is unmatched. Through his dream and determined actions, he turned a farm-town college into the internationally-respected Truman State University, an act that has benefited us all in ways that even he could not have imagined.” – Terry Dunseith (’85)
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“As I reflect back on my life, one of the things I am most proud of is receiving the Pershing Scholarship. This scholarship was very important to my family and provided the platform for me to catapult my career. I will be forever grateful for the experience it provided me at school and beyond.” – Linda (Scheffer) Ehler (’91)
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“There are many stories of Dr. McClain remembering even the smallest details of the lives of the many people he dealt with each day. I was impressed not just by his knack for remembering those details, but by his intuitive connection to people. Between my freshman and sophomore years when I went back home to St. Joseph for the summer, Dr. McClain sent me a clipping telling the story of a college student working at the local radio station during a summer break. As I was then working in broadcasting, I thought it was extraordinary he would remember that aspect of my life. What made him sending me the story more incredible was that it was set in the same Nova Scotia town where my Irish ancestors first came to the Americas. I mentioned that small family detail in my Pershing interview almost 1 1/2 years prior to getting Dr. McClain’s letter. Normally, I would write this off to coincidence, but with Dr. McClain, I cannot help but believe he remembered that point of family history and was part of the reason he took time to send me that clipping.” – Arthur David Peppard (’80)
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“The Pershing Scholarship gave me the freedom to pursue two very different degrees at the same time — a BA in Art and a BS in Math and Computer Science. I wouldn’t have been able to do this anywhere else, because my family had no college fund and the farm put me at a disadvantage on financial aid forms. I had already had to decline acceptance to Washington University’s School of Art because of finances. The art/computer science dichotomy is still with me: I work as a senior software engineer in Silicon Valley and as a professional artist. I am very grateful for the head start!
The Society provided fellowship with smart, funny, driven, diverse people unlike any I’d known before. Some of whom I’m still in touch with 32 years after graduation.
Thank you, Dr. McClain, for such a great opportunity!” – Denise Howard (’82)
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“It is unlikely that any president of an existing university made a greater contribution to transforming it into a different and far better institution than Charles McClain did for Truman State University. The focus of this event is appropriately on the Pershing Scholarships for they were an important stepping stone on the path to that transformation. As he foresaw and the rest of us came to realize, the scholarships not only made a major impact on the lives of those receiving them, but the presence of these exceptionally talented students elevated an entire university culture. ‘A little leaven leavens the whole lump.’
Initiating this program was but one of many evidences of the vision and wisdom that permeated Dr. McClain’s leadership at Truman and beyond. Those qualities, combined with his keen attention to detail, ability to develop and manage a team, willingness to work harder than anyone else, and unsurpassed love for the institution and its people made him the perfect leader at just the right time. It was one of my greatest privileges in life to have worked with him.” – Dr. Lanny Morley (’62, ’64)
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“Dr. McClain is a great visionary and a wonderful leader. He knows how to hire and interview people. He loves the State and saved the University through his insights and persistence.” – Dr. Darrell Krueger, Dean of Instruction, VP of Academic Affairs, Former President
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“The Pershing Scholarship program has deeply impacted my life. It allowed me to study abroad in Spain during my time at Truman due to the support from the scholarship. This experience connected me to my family’s roots in Spain which was amazing. Being a Pershing Scholar gave me the confidence to continue being a leader and pursue my goals during undergrad and beyond. I was able to be an Anatomy Teaching Assistant at Truman State and teach my own health and exercise course during my senior year. From there, I decided to return to Spain as an English Teaching Assistant for two years with a Fulbright Scholarship. I am now beginning a PhD at the University of Kansas. I plan to use my background of interacting with different cultures to help improve the health of the hispanic community and prevent disease through promoting a healthy lifestyle. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve my goals without the Pershing Scholarship, and will forever be grateful for that.” – Ashley Ward (’07, ’11)
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“I have the utmost respect for Dr. McClain and found him to be warm and personable. I am grateful for him creating the Pershing Scholarship which provided a way for students (like myself) who might not be financially able to attend a stellar university to do so. I was so proud to be chosen to be a Pershing Scholar and my time at NMSU was some of the most memorable of my life!” – Deborah Speas (’90)
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“Dr. McClain’s leadership contributed not only to the growth and development of students, but also to the growth, development and engagement of faculty. We are very grateful for the impact he’s had on our lives.” – Dr. Maria Di Stefano
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“I am saddened to miss this opportunity to reconnect with Dr. McClain and the others attending this special event. I would have enjoyed seeing everyone, but am glad to have the opportunity to share how the Pershing Scholarship impacted my life. As a Pershing Scholar, my life was forever changed. Graduating without debt was one of the perks, but also feeling connected to the University as a special member. Dr. McClain and I share a birthday and he was always so personable. He even invited me to the President’s office to share his cake with me my Freshman year! He was a true visionary as far as making NMSU and now Truman an institute where students PURSUE their dreams and become more than they ever thought possible. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to share my love for this university with my Truman students daily.” – Melody (Cox) Jennings (’83, ’84)
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“Dr. McClain was an inspiration to all students during my time at NMSU. He became the face of the University and single-handedly started the university on the path of being known as the “Harvard of the Midwest”! Without his vision, leadership, and compassion for students there would be no Truman State University as we know it now!” – Darin Powell (’90)
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“As a non-Missouri resident, I likely wouldn’t have come to Truman had it not been for the Pershing Scholarship. For the past four years, I have truly been blessed to meet, study, and work with some of the most hard-working and kindest people I know, friends, faculty, and even community members. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to be a part of something much bigger than myself! I am confident that my time at Truman has prepared me for medical school, which is where I am headed next year!” – Priya Maillacheruvu
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“There are no words to explain how much the Pershing Scholarship influenced my life. I have no doubt that I would have had a completely different life had I not gotten the scholarship. My education at Northeast Missouri, because it was not Truman then, was outstanding and prepared me well for graduate school and my career in higher education. I owe a debt of gratitude to both the Institution and to Dr. McClain, who also gave me my first professional job.” – Donna (Newhouse) Gardner (’77, ’78)
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“When I wrote my letter to President McClain indicating the date on which I planned to retire, I remember making two points: one, I could not have been happier serving as a faculty member at any other university; and two, I was grateful for having had the privilege of serving on the faculty during his presidency. Few, in any field or endeavor, have the experience of witnessing the work of a transformational leader, and Dr. McClain was a truly transformational leader. The distinction that Truman State University has achieved is the result of his forward looking, enlightened leadership and his constant striving for excellence.” – Jack H. Reiske
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“As a student (1984-89), student-worker (1986-89), and then staff member (1990-93) of Truman State University, Dr. McClain was one of the greatest leaders of my era. I so respected his ideas and visions for the University and the mission he set out to achieve. He put Truman on the path to success and added value to our future.” – Jill (Winner) Salmon (’89)
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“I was selected to attend a symposium on the Presidency in Washington, D.C., and met with Dr. McClain when I returned. I remember that he told me that the most important thing I learned was that a kid from rural Missouri could hold her own, intellectually, with students from prestigious schools. This is paraphrased, I am sure Dr. McClain expressed it more eloquently. it was an important lesson that stuck with me beyond the content of the symposium.” – Susan Crigler (’76)
“At first, I thought the financial freedoms of the Pershing Scholarship Program would be the best part. Now I know that being a member of the Pershing Society and being surrounded by the most inspiring and accomplished Truman alumni and students is a magnificent opportunity that I couldn’t have received any other way.” – Rosalie Swingle
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“Dr. McClain’s vision to create the Pershing Scholarship forever changed my life. Hailing from Columbia’s Hickman High, I had many choices for college – but receiving the Pershing Scholarship in its inaugural year sealed the deal! At Kirksville, I was an active participant in the music department, English department, Cardinal Key, and more, receiving what I still view as a world-class education. I met my husband there, and my children still travel back regularly to see their grandmother. In Albuquerque, where I now live, I have been a teacher and school principal for more than 30 years, and I carry my NMSU (now Truman State) experience with me every day. I made the right choice! Thank you, Dr. McClain!” – Dr. Ann (Schmidt) Piper (’77)
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“My name is Rebecca Vadalabene and I am a second year Truman student. When I applied to Truman, I knew that the only way that I would be able to attend is if I received scholarships. My parents were not financially able to support my college career, and the Pershing Scholarship Program has bridged that financial gap. I can honestly say it has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. This scholarship has given me the opportunity to invest myself fully in my education without the heavy burden of student loans and I am very thankful for that. With the help of the Pershing study abroad stipend, I will be spending this summer in Costa Rica finishing my minor in Spanish. Without this scholarship, I know that none of this would be possible and I am so incredibly grateful for this investment that Truman has made in my future.” – Rebecca Vadalabene (’16)
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“I can’t tell you what a privilege it was to be part of the first year of Pershing Scholarship recipients. What made it even more exciting was that my best friend was also a part of that first class. What were the chances that two students from the same small high school would receive such an honor the same year!?
The years at (then) Northeast Missouri State were special indeed, memorable, challenging, life-changing, full of hard work, good times, and lessons learned. It was the start of living out our chosen path, our passion. I owe a lot to NMSU and the Pershing Scholarship Program. The chance to study at NMSU opened doors to a lifetime of career opportunities that I continue to enjoy today.
I would like to thank Dr. McClain and the Pershing Scholarship Program for the leap of faith you took in launching such a generous, ambitious program. Its longevity is tribute to its impact on helping to fulfill the dreams of these young students for the last 40 years. Thank you, Dr. McClain, and congratulations!” – Brenda (Mudd) McSherry (’77)
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“The Pershing Scholarship Program has allowed me to focus solely on my studies while here at Truman, helping me achieve further success.” – Caleb Haselhuhn
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“One of my first memories as a student was attending a reception at Dr. McClain’s lovely presidential home. It was wonderful, warm, special and made me feel welcome into the Truman family immediately. He always remembered my name at any function we attended together, and asked me personal and poignant questions. He called me into meet with him several times during my tenure at Truman (imagine me, meeting with the President!). His innate ability to develop a vision for individual and institutional success was contagious. It inspired me to want to lead, change, learn, and mostly give back (to my family, school, profession, community, and world).
The Pershing Scholarship was a concrete and specific way to not only recognize my hard work in high school, but to push, drive, and challenge me in my endeavors ahead. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who took learning and contributions and others seriously and respectfully. The different aspects of the scholarship all played an important part in my future academic choices, my treatment of others, and my eventual career(s), including: my regular meetings, the 10-hour weekly service commitment, and obviously, the financial freedom of a full-ride scholarship. The Pershing Scholarship was key to my success as a wife, a mother, a CEO, a physician, and a community servant. I am eternally grateful to Dr. McClain’s vision and to Truman State for the opportunity to be a Pershing Scholar representing Truman State.” – Dr. Tammara Goldschmidt (’88)
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“Looking at the big picture, it was always quite obvious that Dr. McClain impacted the University in a significant way. The improvements he brought are well documented. Looking at the small picture, it always made me feel good that he recognized me, knew my name, and frequently said hello and asked about my well-being. He is a special person.” – Bob Borgstede (’78, ’82)
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“The Pershing Scholarship is a phenomenal opportunity. It further reinforces Truman’s dedication to its academics. I knew Truman was an exceptional institution when I found out about this scholarship because it made me feel like they truly cared about recruiting students. I was not just another number coming to Truman; instead, I was a student that they personally wanted to admit to the University. It is an incredible feeling knowing that I do not have to worry about finances so that I am able to be the committed and passionate student that I want to be.” – Zane DeZeeuw
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“Dr. McClain made an instant impact on my life. I spoke to him about my family and when my mother & father attended parent’s weekend, he came up to them and knew their names and occupations. How could he keep all of those specific details in order?? He was blessed with the ability to make you feel that you were the most important student on campus. Knowing that he was one of the main reasons for the Pershing Scholarship, my admiration for him could not be any greater. This scholarship gave me that opportunity to focus on my studies and be the best student that I could be both in and out of the classroom. Because of my wonderful experiences at Truman, I was able to continue my education and become an architect. I feel blessed and honored to be a part of the Pershing Scholarship Program and will forever be thankful for the lifelong gift that was given to me as a recipient of this honor.” – Joel E. Haag (’84)
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“The Pershing Scholarship cemented my decision to attend Truman State University (NMSU, then). That decision opened up a variety of opportunities that included campus (Pershing Society, Blue Key, Circle K, Accounting Club) and state/regional leadership positions (Circle K) as well as national competitions (Emory business Games). Additionally, Dr. McClain handed me an unforgettable experience by offering an internship position with the late Harry Wiggins in the Missouri Senate. The education provided was top notch. I have fond memories of Mr. Edwards, Dr. Dager, Mr. Croarkin, Dr. Vittetoe, and so many others. All of this has contributed to a wonderful and rewarding career in accounting and higher education. Thank you, TSU and especially Dr. Charles McClain.” – Gary Steffes (’77)
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“I was blessed and honored to receive a Pershing Scholarship in 1977. I had no idea at the time that students from states other than Missouri had only recently been included in the Pershing Scholarship Program. Looking back, it is even more of an honor to have been among the first students from Iowa to receive the scholarship. NMSU was a great school then, and TSU is an even greater school now. Dr. McClain’s mission for the University, which has been fulfilled, and his creation, the Pershing Scholarship, are fantastic legacies. All Truman State graduates and current students are beneficiaries of Dr. McClain’s vision. Thank you, Dr. McClain.” – Greg Van Gorp
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“The Pershing Scholarship provided me with the opportunity to get an excellent college education in an environment that nurtured my individual aspirations and accommodated my life choices. My family was a single-parent household with five children to educate, so it is likely I would not have had a college education without it. I got married when I was at NMSU and had my first child, but all throughout, felt very supported in finishing my education through the scholarship. The Scholarship was unique for its time, and opened doors for me throughout my adult life. This, along with my NMSU/Truman experience in general, helped me to develop greater self-awareness and self-confidence. It put me on my path into the education and law fields, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone in order to learn new things.” – Jill (Koester/Morrison) Stover (’82, ’84)
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“Most obviously, graduating relatively debt free provided me the financial freedom to attend graduate school directly after college. If I had acquired debt from undergraduate studies, I likely would have chosen to work right away and avoid pursuing my dream career. Secondly, studying abroad was the highlight of my college career. Going to Spain, learning the language, making friends with people in the community, and immersing myself in a culture outside of my own is an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am so grateful for Dr. McClain’s foresight on the importance of providing students with a chance to both concentrate on their schooling (rather than how they will pay for it) and on the importance of experiencing what life and culture are like outside of the United States.” – Vanity Gee (’08)
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“Being awarded the Pershing Scholarship for the Fall 1978 semester is still one of my most rewarding achievements. I am not sure that I really grasped the magnitude of the award until several years later, when many of my friends and former classmates were struggling to pay back their student loan debt. It was a tremendous blessing to have completed my Bachelors degree and then to enter the workforce relatively debt free.
Since graduating from Truman State in May 1982, I have completed my Master of Public Administration degree at Drake University in Des Moines. I have also enjoyed a very successful career working for large, reputable companies based in Central Iowa. I have recently joined LifeServe Blood Center in Des Moines as a Process Excellence Project Manager. Working for this outstanding organization, I will have the opportunity to make a difference every day through my leadership in supporting the LifeServe Mission of saving lives while working in partnership with the communities we serve. None of this would have been possible without the tremendous financial assistance provided by the Pershing Scholarship.” – Mary Easter Kunce (’82)
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“The Pershing Scholarship opened me up to worlds I had never thought possible growing up in rural Missouri. Through the international travel and the community of Pershing Scholars, I grew immensely during my time at Truman. I am eternally grateful for being selected as a Pershing Scholar.” – Kristopher Kueker (’04, 05)
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“Amazingly enough, I distinctly remember the interview I had for the Pershing Scholarship almost 40 years ago. How nervous I was – but how excited when I was actually selected and then had the opportunity to visit campus that summer for the awards banquet. I was in awe that Dr. McClain would take the time to have dinner with us and visit with my parents. They were ecstatic! The Scholarship was an incredible blessing to me, as my family did not have savings that would pay for my college education. It allowed me to receive an undergraduate degree, and put me in a financial position to further my education in graduate school.
Now, all those years later, I am so grateful that I live in Columbia where Dr. McClain lives and have the opportunity to see him nearly every week. Those of you who know him well will appreciate that he still remembers the date of my birthday without any prompting. He has always been an inspiration to me and I am so thankful that we can honor him in this special way on the 40th anniversary.” – Randa Rawlins
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“The Pershing Scholarship was the deciding factor in my choice to attend Truman, and I have never regretted that decision. I got a great education, made wonderful friends, and got to experience a semester abroad in Germany. The Pershing Scholarship brought me to Truman, and for that I am incredibly thankful!” – Laura (Meierhoff) McGuire (’01)
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“I had a fabulous time during my summer abroad with the Missouri/London program. I certainly would not have had that opportunity if I had not been a Pershing Scholar. In general, my husband and I both have fond memories of our years at Truman and I appreciate the opportuntities our degrees have opened up to us.” – Laura (Schmitz) McDaniel (’03)
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“Dr. McClain was a kind, wise mentor to me during my four years at Truman State, especially during the time when I had suffered a serious in jury playing football on the NMSU team and was suffering from some depression related to that event and loss of confidence from that event.” – Jack Schaffner (’80)
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“I still remember my great excitement at receiving the letter announcing my selection as a Pershing Scholar! It was the key to my active participation at (then) NMSU. I had no fear of losing the scholarship due to GPA, but I was unsure of my leadership abilities and was driven to get involved. I am very thankful for how it stretched and changed me. I am blessed to be a stay-at-home mom since my daughter’s birth 15 years ago, but I serve in leadership roles at church and in the community.” – Nancy (Dintleman) Venezia (’82)
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“We were the beneficiaries of Dr. McClain’s vision. Scholars worked with us in the Residence Life and Advisor/Counseling offices. To a person, Pershing Scholars were compassionate, bright, mature and driven to help others. Through this outstanding program, Pershing Scholars learned both in and outside of the classroom and each emulated some of the elite leadership attributes of Charles McClain!” – Ron Gaber ( ’82) & Dr. Elsie Gaber (’87)
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“My education at Truman State (then Northeast Missouri State) began during my Pershing finalist interview. I was asked what I thought about euthanasia. I paused a long moment before responding. This was a topic of national discussion, and I knew my answer was potentially controversial. Later I asked my interviewers why they wanted to know what I thought.
I learned the interviewers weren’t really looking for my opinion. They were asking questions like that to determine whether we candidates were knowledgeable about current events, and whether we were able to express our opinions thoughtfully and clearly. They were not looking for an agreeable opinion.
From that day, I started to value discussion and argument in a new way. Many of my favorite memories at Truman involve discussion and debate with friends and acquaintances. The point was not so much that we agree as that we share information and get to know one another better. Agreement is intellectually easy. My most valued lessons have come after a struggle to build consensus or to understand dissenting viewpoints.
Forty years on, I’m still learning and changing and growing. Such is the continuing influence that started with Dr. McClain, the Pershing Scholarship, and the community that is Truman State University.
P.S. At age 17, I was overwhelmed and naïve, unable to grasp the significance of being awarded a Pershing Scholarship. I was just me. I’m still “just me”, but now I realize what a tremendous honor it is to join the company of lifelong learners and thinkers who are Pershing Scholars. I want to thank Dr. McClain and the University (by any name) for your tutelage and for offering us all an opportunity to thrive.” – Rhonda (Laird) Schweinbold (’78)
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“Thank you for the opportunity to pursue my interests without having to worry about finances. It has allowed me to focus on much more enjoyable experiences.” – Anna Staudacher
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“The Pershing Scholarship Program was that wonderful first vote of confidence from the wider world, choosing to invest in me because I had “something” that would make the investment pay off. As a result, the experience launched me forward, believing in myself just a little bit more. It helped me see myself increasingly as someone “to whom much is given” and thus “much is required.” This commitment remains with me today and going forward, as with a grateful heart I seek to make a positive impact on my field of study and on my community.
As for Dr. McClain, those twinkling blue eyes never waivered as they looked at all of us with great expectation. He never doubted that all Pershing Scholars were somehow destined for greatness, and he communicated his high expectations to us in word and in deed. Having someone believe in you 100 percent is a gift I wish every student in this world could receive. I am thankful to Dr. McClain for his steady wisdom, curiosity, humor, and passion for excellence. I treasure my life’s opportunities and adventures, many of which sprang from that magical moment when I first learned I was a Pershing Scholar!” – Patricia (Wilsdorf) Brown (’81)
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“To Dr. McClain: What wonderful foresight you had when you founded the Pershing Scholarship Program. It was both a huge honor and tremendous help to me and many others through the years.
I remember my first visit to campus as a high school senior with my parents. We were introduced, and spoke briefly. Then we met again at summer orientation and you remembered our names! We were absolutely blown away that the president of the University took that much interest in a prospective student! We were then certain that Truman (then NMSU) was the right place for me. Thank you for all of your leadership!” – Karen (Kettler) Gratza (’85)
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“I am a current freshman at Truman with a Pershing Scholarship. Even with only one semester under my belt, I am extremely appreciative of the opportunity I have received thanks to Dr. McClain. This has had a great impact on my life and on many others. Thank you.” – Brendan Murphy
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“Among his many significant contributions to higher education, I hope Dr. McClain realizes what a truly special program he launched with the Pershing Scholarship at NMSU. The full-ride scholarship, unique in its time, certainly punched my one and only ticket to ‘going away’ to college. I am so grateful for the opportunity it afforded me to learn, grow and challenge myself.
Dr. McClain was invested in the success of the program, and his personal touches – such as sending letters to my parents to underscore achievements – reflect his talent for great leadership. I am sorry a previous commitment precludes my attendance at the 40th Anniversary Celebration. Dr. McClain, THANK YOU!” – Maureen (Kelly) Temme (’74, ’79)
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“I had the opportunity to work for Dr. McClain on a special project a couple of summers during my college years. It was a very enlightening experience. Missouri was considering implementing a funding formula for state universities and colleges, providing a dollar amount for each credit hour generated, with higher amounts for graduate level hours, etc. I learned a lot from Dr. McClain about management, leadership, and communicating with people with different opinions. At the time, my career goal was to become a math teacher, which I did for a couple of years. Then I moved into the business world. The lessons I learned from Dr. McClain on leadership, communication, and management were very helpful as I took on analytic leadership roles at large companies.” – Mary Herring (’76)
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“I’ve always been proud to say NMSU/Truman State when asked where I went to college, and am pleased that Truman State continually ranks as one of the best value institutions! Keep up the great work and tradition!” – Gary Lamprecht (’86)
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“The Pershing Scholarship has been an amazing opportunity for the start of my academic career and the development of friendships I still have today. Thank you, Dr. McClain for being a great model for my own academic career, and for taking a lifelong interest in student success. Now in my 19th year as an economics professor at SUNY Oswego, I recognize in hindsight how important a role faculty mentoring plays in the development of young professionals and engaged citizens. As a student and now a professor, I carry a deep commitment to the noble mission of the public university in providing quality and access to millions of young adults in the United State every year.” – Elizabeth (Dunne) Schmitt (’90)
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“I come from a low-income family, and debt is something that has always plagued us. I was very nervous about how I was going to afford college, so the Pershing Scholarship really was a Godsend. Though I hadn’t actually seriously considered Truman until I came for my scholarship interview, the warmth of the professors and students won me over and I genuinely felt accepted for who I was.
Life at Truman was amazing in more ways than I can explain here, but I grew and laughed and learned more than I thought possible. I went in with the dream of becoming a high school English teacher and it’s sort of surreal to be writing this as I am halfway through my first year of teaching. Most people say that the first year is the year from hell, but I beg to differ. While I do make many mistakes, I have never felt more joyful or fulfilled in my life. All the struggles are worth it because I am doing what I love and I know I am making a difference in so many lives. Thank you for making all of this possible!” – Beatriz Parks (’11)
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“The Pershing Scholarship had an enormous impact on my life. The study abroad stipend allowed me to study in London my sophomore year which really opened my eyes to a world beyond what I knew. That experience led me to change my major, focus on international affairs and participate in an international business internship in Mexico during my senior year at Truman.
After Truman, I earned a Masters in International Affairs. I have spent my career in international affairs and now live abroad. The Pershing Scholarship sparked all of this interest in international issues by offering the stipend that encouraged me to study abroad. I’ll always be grateful for the Pershing Scholarship! Thank you Truman!” – Erin (Lesczynski) Church (’02)
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“I would like to thank Dr. McClain who was my Pershing mentor. I try to emulate many things about his leadership approach and style. Perhaps the trait I admire the most is his ability to always make me feel like I was a priority. Even though he had so many requests for his time from the University, as well as the community and his personal commitments, Dr. McClain never seemed rushed when I would stop by. Today, I serve as Vice President of International IT for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Like most of us, there are many demands for my time but I do my best to make time for all of my teammates.” – John Laurent (’89)
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“Without the Pershing Scholarship, I never would have ended up at NMSU. If I hadn’t studied at NMSU, I would not be where I am today, working at a job that I absolutely love.” – Sherry (Brown) Miller (’86)
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“While it is definitely the case that receiving the Pershing Scholarship changed the trajectory of my life in many wonderful ways for which I am truly grateful, I am even more indebted to both President McClain and to my Pershing mentor, Terry Smith, for teaching me the skill of showing genuine interest in the person to whom you are speaking. Whenever I spoke to President McClain, he always made me feel as though I were the most interesting and most promising person in the room. Dean Smith had the same skill. By example, they taught me something that has proven invaluable throughout my communications career: If you are always interested in people, in things, in ideas, you will more than likely be successful, very rarely disappointed, certainly never bored and can almost certainly motivate others to do amazing things.” – Peggy Schoen (’82)
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“During my last year at NMSU/Truman, Dr. McClain graciously agreed to write letters of recommendation to the law schools to which I applied. After being accepted, I stopped by his office to thank him. Dr. McClain’s response is forever etched in my memory. He seemed a bit surprised, but smiled, said “Congratulations,” and then (somewhat wryly) added: “Well, at least what I said in my letter didn’t keep you out!” I’ve never been quite sure if I was witnessing his good humor or a moment of candor. Perhaps both…
There decades slipped by, and then our youngest daughter decided to attend Truman. Once again, we found ourselves driving to K-Vegas, albeit this time on four lane highways (Macon, notwithstanding). She LOVED Truman, and like many others summed it up with: “It’s like home.” During the last four years, we were honored to serve on the Parents Committee, and we had many opportunities to see first-hand that Dr. McClain’s vision has been realized and reaffirmed as year-after-year Truman has stood above – if not towered over – its competition. Dr. Paino now continues to build on that legacy, and Truman’s graduating students truly enjoy a “leg up” as a result of decades of effort in carrying on what Dr. McClain implemented. If “proof’s in the puddin’,” our daughter was accepted into medical school this week, so on behalf of two generations – Many Thanks, Dr. McClain!” – Ed Harvey (’79)
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