Sterling College’s Enrollment Services Office is excited to invite prospective students and their families to explore its vibrant campus during several upcoming Preview Days. These events are scheduled for October 16, November 13, February 17, and March 28. For more information please visit sterling.edu/visit.
Participants will start their day with a personalized welcome packet at Cooper Hall, followed by an introductory session about what makes Sterling College unique. Attendees will experience the Sterling College Chapel, enjoy lunch with current students, and take a guided campus tour. The day also includes an academic and activity fair at Mabee Library where prospective students can meet with faculty and learn about the various majors and student activities offered.
“These Preview Days are a cornerstone of our outreach to prospective students. They provide a firsthand experience of the vibrant community and academic excellence that define Sterling College. They also offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the various scholarship opportunities available to help students achieve their educational goals,” said Mitzi Suhler, vice president for enrollment services.
Optional afternoon activities include financial aid consultations, coach appointments, and auditions and portfolio reviews for those interested in Sterling’s arts programs.
Sterling College offers a range of unique scholarship opportunities designed to support an energetic student body, from academic and athletic scholarships to special awards for community service and leadership activities. For more details on available scholarships and grants, prospective students are encouraged to visit Sterling College Scholarships and Grants.
This announcement comes on the heels of the Enrollment Services office announcing its recruitment travel schedule, which will see the College visit over 40 locations to recruit new students this fall.
If you would like to attend a visit event, please visit sterling.edu/visit.
If you have any questions please contact the Sterling College Enrollment Services team, by calling 620-278-2173 or contact admissions@sterling.edu.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.
Sterling College and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) are excited to announce the upcoming Fields of Faith event. This inspiring gathering will take place on Wednesday, September 25, at 7 p.m. at Smisor Stadium on the Sterling College campus. The evening will feature worship and praise songs, along with a special message delivered by Ty Zimmerman, FCA’s Area Director for North Central Kansas.
“I am looking forward to joining together with the Sterling community. I encourage everyone to come out and bring a friend for a time of worship, fellowship, and proclaiming Jesus,” said Zimmerman.
Fields of Faith is a “certified ministry program where athletes gather at sport environments in their communities to challenge their peers to read the Bible daily and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.”
Zimmerman, a former Kansas State University football player and NFL athlete with the New Orleans Saints, will share insights from his journey in sports and faith. After ending his professional sports career, Zimmerman dedicated himself to full-time ministry, driven by a deepening relationship with Jesus.
“We are excited to host a regional event that allows youth from around the area to come see and hear that others are going through some of the same highs and lows that they are, that they are not alone, and that we can be encouraged to continue to grow in our faith, and emboldened to live as a bright light for Christ,” said Dillard.
High schools and church youth groups are invited to attend. To reserve your group or for more information about the event, please contact Jack Dillard, FCA Central Kansas Area Representative, at jdillard@fca.org.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.
There’s a little something for everyone in this year’s Sterling College Theatre season with a variety of productions that celebrate creativity, community, and storytelling through both contemporary works and timeless classics. Audiences can expect an unforgettable blend of comedy, drama, and musical theatre, while experiencing performances that reflect Sterling College’s Christ-centered mission.
The delightfully quirky musical, The Addams Family, kicks off the season with its unforgettable classic comics/television/movie characters created by Charles Addams. The show is filled with both hilarious and heartfelt moments and centers around the macabre Addams family as they face a night of surprises when daughter Wednesday Addams brings home a new, “normal” boyfriend.
Filled with catchy songs, spooky fun, and hilarious family dynamics, this musical is sure to be popular with audiences of all ages. Featuring an enchanting score and quirky characters, this show reminds audiences to embrace who they are, a message that aligns with Sterling’s faith-based belief in the intrinsic value of every individual.
The Addams Family – the musical will be presented Thursday, September 26 through Saturday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 29 in Culbertson Auditorium. It is directed by Lesa Brown with music director Marisa Callan and technical director Greg McGlynn. Tickets are currently available at www.sterling.edu/arts.
The master of farce, Ken Ludwig, brings a whirlwind of backstage drama to the stage for Sterling College Theatre’s next offering. Set in 1953, Moon Over Buffalo follows a dysfunctional theatrical couple as they navigate career mishaps, mistaken identities, and second chances. A hilarious romp, this play leaves audiences in stitches. With themes of redemption and perseverance, this play highlights the power of laughter and hope, themes central to Sterling’s mission as a Christ-centered institution.
This show will be presented in Culbertson Auditorium on November 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 p.m. on November 10. McGlynn will direct and design the show.
Continuing the story of the Ibsen classic, A Doll’s House, Part Two explores the aftermath of Nora’s controversial decision to leave her family. The play is by contemporary playwright Lucas Hnath whose sharp, insightful dialogue engages with complex issues of identity and forgiveness, encouraging thoughtful reflection on relationships and faith. This powerful drama provides an opportunity for deep conversations about grace, understanding, and the human journey toward redemption.
A Doll’s House, Part Two will be directed by Betsy Dutton and will be presented January 31 and February 1 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 p.m. on February 2.
Generally regarded as one of history’s most beloved comedies, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream will take the Culbertson stage next on March 7 and 8 at 7:30 and on March 9 at 2:00 p.m. Audiences will experience the magic, mischief, and romance of this classic set in an enchanted forest. This timeless tale of love, jealousy, and mistaken identities brings together a group of lovers, mischievous fairies, and bumbling actors for a whimsical and unforgettable adventure.
The show will be directed by Brown and invites audiences into a fantastical world where love prevails and joy triumphs, mirroring the hope and beauty found in God’s creation.
Closing out the mainstage season is the Tony Award-winning musical Urinetown – the musical. The show carries a tagline “Terrible title…Hilarious show” and is a satirical comedy that tackles themes of capitalism, politics, and environmental catastrophe. Set in a future where water is scarce and citizens must pay to use public amenities, this cleverly irreverent musical combines humor with a powerful social message.
Urinetown uses humor and wit to explore important themes of greed, corruption, and the common good. With its message about resource management and care for creation, this show encourages us to reflect on our role as caretakers of God’s world. The show will be presented in Culbertson Auditorium from April 10 through 12 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 on April 13. Music Director Callan will helm this production.
The year will close with An Evening of One-Act Plays & Dance set for May 3 at 7:00 p.m. in Culbertson. It will include one-acts directed by SC Theatre students as well as dance performed by SC dance students.
With this new season, Sterling College Theatre is offering online ticket sales through the platform “On the Stage.” The center section of seating will be offered as “reserved seating” while general admission seating will be offered in the two side sections. Tickets may be obtained by going to www.sterling.edu/arts or at the door before each performance.
Sterling College Theatre is dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and excellence in theatre arts. With a commitment to producing high-quality, diverse performances, the Sterling theatre department provides students with the opportunity to hone their craft while entertaining, educating, and inspiring our community all within a context of a Christian worldview.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.
Fresh from comics, television, and movies, the classic, spooky clan known as the Addams Family is back, this time on stage. Sterling College Theatre will present “The Addams Family Musical” at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, September 26, 27, and 28, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 29 in the Culbertson Auditorium on the Sterling College campus.
The Addams Family Musical brings to life the beloved characters of Charles Addams with an unexpected turn – daughter Wednesday falls in love. When Wednesday invites her new love, Lucas, and his conventionally “normal” family to dinner at their home, the two families are taken on a bumpy ride while learning about the importance of honesty, trust, and fear of the unknown. The musical brings a thrilling mix of dark humor, romance, and unbeatable music numbers.
Through the enchanting score by Andrew Lippa and quirky characters, the story reminds audiences to take the time to know and listen to others. Even those most different can inspire us to grow in profound ways, reflecting Sterling’s values of Christ-centered humility and love for both neighbor and enemy.
The Sterling College production will feature Noah Svaty, junior, leading the cast as Gomez Addams with Aubrey Anderson, senior, as Morticia Addams. Both are from Sterling. Wednesday Addams will be played by Mary Little, junior, of Hutchinson and her love interest Lucas Beineke will be played by junior Caleb Brownlee, Sterling.
Mackenzy Carter, a sophomore from Wichita, will be playing Addams’ family son – Pugsley Addams, while freshman Harleigh Baker, Burlington, will be Grandma Addams. Uncle Fester will be played by freshman Chandler Reiman, Kinsley. Lurch, the family butler, will be played by Wellington sophomore Philip Starnes. Alice Beineke, Lucas’s mother, will be played by senior Morgan Pellegrino, Las Vegas, NV. His father, Mal Beineke, will be freshman Brennan Blake from Cambridge, MN.
The ensemble/chorus for the show all play Addams Ancestors. They include seniors Anya Billings, McPherson; Macy Brownlee, Sterling; Janine Owen, Natick, MA, and OBrien Hall, Plano, TX. Juniors in the show are Kurt Keegan, Burlington, Lily Stansbury, Lorraine. Sophomores include Mariana Inchauriga, Hutchinson, Kim Skirvin, Emporia. Freshmen are Elles Herndon, Coldwater; Olivia Ivie, Burlington; and Kassia Lopez, Lyons. Two guest performers are Micah Svaty and Anna Cortez, from Sterling.
On the technical side of the musical are lighting designers Noah Svaty and Mariana Inchauriga, Anya Billings is props master and Stage Manager, make-up design is by Kim Skirvin and Mary Little. Little and Svaty also serve as Dance Captains while O’Brien Hall and Lily Stansbury are the wig masters.
The Production Team for The Addams Family Musical includes Lesa Brown as Artistic Director, Marisa Callan as Musical Director, Greg McGlynn as Technical Director/Set Designer, and Travis Nesbitt as guest Choreographer.
Tickets for “The Addams’ Family Musical” are $15 for adults and $10 for students and are available at www.sterling.edu/arts, as well as at the door before each show.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.
Exploring the realms of storytelling through branding, comics, motion, and toys is the art exhibition titled “Hypertopia” currently on display at the Sterling College Art Center Gallery. Created by Sterling College Art & Design faculty member Sean Engler, the theme for this exhibition is based on his love for good stories, the captivating visuals of science fiction (Sci-fi), and his childhood of broad imagination and fascination with Sci-fi creations.
Engler received his MFA this past May from Ft. Hays State University and presented his collection at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art in Hays, Kan., recently. He said, “Hypertopia, by definition means ‘beyond the lived physical places’…I chose these because all my life I have been creating narratives.”
Beyond the captivating visuals, “Hypertopia” holds themes of loyalty, justice, and friendship. “Good stories have meaning,” Engler said, “Behind all the bright colors, there are themes of speaking out for ones who won’t or can’t speak for themselves, protecting relationships between friends and family, speaking out against injustice, and doing the right thing when everyone else is too scared to.”
At the heart of the exhibition is “Submersion Tide Illustrated Novel Illustrations” which is a collection of nine digital illustrations from a novel that Engler is in the process of writing. “This is my favorite piece because it’s my original idea for this collection of work,” said Engler. “Once the exhibition is torn down, the work continues.”
The main character of the nine digital illustrations is a tribute to Engler’s late best friend who passed away in 2020. “He had such an impact on my life. I’m using this to keep his memory alive and to honor the man that he was,” said Engler.
“Hypertopia” will be showing until November 1 on weekdays from 9 am to 5 p.m. at the Sterling College Art Center Gallery (306 West Washington, Sterling) and is open to the public free of charge. Engler encourages people from all backgrounds to come and view the exhibit, as he says it is meant to be viewed by all. There will be a reception and Artist Meet & Greet this Friday, September 20 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in the Gallery.
Engler hopes that through “Hypertopia”, people will walk away with inspiration and joy for creativity. He said, “I hope people are inspired to be creative in their own unique way after they see my art,” he continued, “I also just want people to feel fulfilled because they received a good story. Stories bring joy and I hope my art does that for people.”
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu
Sterling College is excited to celebrate its second annual Giving Day on November 1, 2024, coinciding with the College’s founding anniversary on November 1, 1887. This year, the College aims to build upon the success of its inaugural event by announcing a $100,000 matching challenge, made possible through the generosity of two lead donors. Every dollar donated will be matched up to $100,000, potentially doubling the impact to $200,000 for student scholarships.
All contributions during Giving Day will support the Sterling Fund, the College’s primary fund dedicated to providing essential student scholarships. As the cost of higher education continues to rise, these scholarships play a critical role in alleviating financial burdens and enabling students to pursue their academic and personal growth.
“On this 137th birthday of Sterling College, we are blessed with a tremendous opportunity to enhance the educational experiences of our students through this remarkable matching challenge, thanks to the generosity of two dedicated supporters of Sterling’s mission,” said David Earle, vice president for advancement and alumni relations.
The generosity of the two lead donors for the matching challenge was inspired by Sterling’s commitment to missional purity and biblical fidelity. Sterling’s mission is “to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith.”
The Giving Day campaign highlights the transformative power of scholarships in a student’s journey at Sterling College. The Sterling Fund supports scholarships that allow students to focus on their studies and develop as leaders, without the financial strain that can often hinder academic success.
Sterling College invites all alumni, friends, and supporters to join in the celebration of this special day by making a gift, sharing the event with their communities, and proudly wearing Sterling apparel. Supporters are also encouraged to pray for the College, share the Sterling story with prospective students, and participate in the day’s festivities.
To take part in Sterling College’s Giving Day, visit www.sterling.edu/giving-day or contact the Office of Advancement at 620-278-4219.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visithttp://www.sterling.edu.
Sterling College will honor its legacy and rich history with a Founders Day celebration on Friday, November 1, 2024, the same day the College was founded in 1887. The highlight of the day will be a Heritage Convocation service, which will take place at 10 a.m. in Culbertson Auditorium and is open to students, faculty, alumni, and the public.
David Earle, vice president for advancement and alumni relations, will present a reflection on Sterling College’s heritage and enduring impact on the community and beyond. During this special presentation, Earle will share stories from the College’s past and celebrate how Sterling continues to shape future leaders in line with its Christian mission.
In addition to the Heritage Chapel, attendees are invited to wear Sterling apparel and enjoy the spirit of the day by engaging with the campus community. Founders Day celebrates not only the College’s history but also the ongoing contributions of students, faculty, and alumni who advance its mission every day.
The event coincides with Giving Day 2024, another momentous occasion for Sterling College. As part of the celebration, the College encourages alumni and supporters to participate in both events by giving, sharing their Sterling stories, and wearing their Sterling gear with pride.
For more information about the Founders Day celebration, contact the Office of Advancement at 620-278-4219. To take part in Sterling College’s Giving Day, visit www.sterling.edu/giving-day or contact the Office of Advancement at 620-278-4219.
Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visithttp://www.sterling.edu.
New Orleans, LA – Dillard University recently held its Blue Coat Ceremony, honoring 14 graduating seniors who have achieved academic excellence with a cumulative GPA of 3.45 or higher. The event recognized not only their academic accomplishments but also their leadership in pre-health organizations and their commitment to community service.
The ceremony marked the introduction of the Pre-Health Student Alumni Mentoring Program, which aims to connect current students with alumni mentors in the healthcare field. This initiative is designed to provide guidance and support as students navigate their educational and professional journeys.
Dr. Ashanti Jones ‘03 shared inspiring words, encouraging students to pursue their passions rather than solely chasing financial gain. “If you chase a passion, you will never work a day in your life,” she said. “Be open and confident. You belong in every room you step into.”
During the ceremony, a total of $158,000 in Dillard University Pre-Health Scholars Institute (DUPSI) Scholarships was awarded. Additional scholarships from alumni mentors were also announced, bolstering the financial support available to aspiring healthcare professionals.
Among the highlights, Autumn Jeffries was honored as the Dr. Susan Ward Jones Outstanding Pre-Health Sophomore Scholar, while Ariana Duncan received the Dr. Byron Jones Outstanding Pre-Health Program Junior Scholar award. These recognitions underscore the students’ dedication to their studies and their future careers in health.
The event emphasized the critical importance of mentorship, academic achievement, and community service in preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders. Dr. Michael Griffin ’94, a member of the Board of Trustees and President and CEO of Ascension DePaul Services of New Orleans, delivered the closing remarks. He encouraged students to continue Dillard’s legacy of excellence, urging them to face human rights challenges head-on. “You are being well prepared to confront these issues,” he said, emphasizing the university’s rich heritage spanning 155 years.
The Blue Coat Ceremony served as a celebration of achievements and a reminder of the vital role that Dillard University plays in shaping the future of healthcare professionals, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to impact their communities positively.
In a powerful convergence of passion and purpose, Dillard University, alongside Southern University at New Orleans, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Alcorn State University, hosted a pivotal HBCU Voting Summit organized by the Campus Vote Project. The event emphasized the vital role of voting and advocacy in shaping the future of students and communities.
Interim President Dr. Guillory welcomed attendees with a stirring message about the importance of civic engagement. He remarked, “Today marks a significant milestone in each of your lives. This moment is not just about casting your vote; it’s about challenging yourselves to envision what you want for your future.” Dr. Guillory highlighted the essential spirit of service that should drive students to participate actively in local elections, reminding them that local elections often have the most immediate impact on their communities.
Rebecca Carrauthers, representing the Campus Vote Project, shared insights into her organization’s mission. “When individuals have positive voting experiences, they’re more likely to show up at the polls next time,” Carrauthers stated, acknowledging the current political climate. She pointed out the vitriol and hate directed toward HBCUs that surfaced during contentious elections, particularly if notable HBCU graduates like Vice President Kamala Harris are in the spotlight. “We must bolster our commitment to voting as a powerful act of advocacy,” she added.
The summit featured keynote speaker Tevon Blair, a Dillard University alumnus from the class of 2018. In his address, “Say It Louder: Rethinking HBCU Engagement,” Blair drew on his personal journey, illustrating how Dillard empowered him to use his voice and engage constructively on campus. “My time at Dillard instilled in me the importance of civic responsibility and the urgency of making my concerns known,” he explained. Blair emphasized the need to rethink HBCU engagement, referencing the innovative Xceleader program that promotes leadership development among students.
He also shared the VoteHBCU initiative, which aims to inspire a legacy of giving back, not just through financial means, but by fostering a culture of active participation among HBCU students. “The future of HBCU engagement lies in our leadership and commitment to community service,” Blair noted.
The event was further enlivened by remarks from Rep. Delisha Boyd, who reflected on the summit’s success. “What an inspiring day! Our recent panel at Dillard University on the importance of voting brought together passionate voices and insightful discussions,” she stated, underscoring the positive energy and engagement evident throughout the day.
As the summit concluded, students left equipped not only with knowledge about the voting process but also with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to making their voices heard in the democratic process. With local and national elections on the horizon, the significance of this event resonated deeply, rallying the next generation of leaders to take action and advocate for their futures.
New Orleans, LA – Dillard University is proud to announce the opening of its 90th Theatre Season with a powerful production of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean.
The opening night will take place on Friday, October 11, at 7:30 PM, with additional performances on Saturday, October 12, at 7:30 PM, Sunday, October 13, at 3:00 PM, and again on Friday, October 18, and Saturday, October 19, at 7:30 PM. The production will conclude with a final performance on Sunday, October 20, at 3:00 PM. Additionally, there will be two school matinee performances on October 15 and October 16 at 9:45 a.m.
Gem of the Ocean, the first play in Wilson’s acclaimed Pittsburgh Cycle, tells the story of Citizen Barlow, who seeks guidance and solace from Aunt Ester Tyler as he confronts the struggles of his identity and soul in a world fraught with oppression. This poignant play set in the early 20th century explores themes of suffering, hope, and the journey towards redemption.
The production is directed by Ray Vrazel, Assistant Professor of Theatre at Dillard University, whose creative vision and expertise promise to bring this significant work to life in a compelling way.
“We are thrilled to kick off our 90th season with such a meaningful play that resonates with contemporary audiences,” said Ray Vrazel. “August Wilson’s rich storytelling provides invaluable insights into the African American experience, and we are excited to share this journey of discovery with our community.”
Purchase tickets HERE >> or call the Dillard University Theatre Program’s box office at (504) 816-4857.
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