Opening Convocation Livestream

Watch the 139th Opening of the College ceremony live. Saturday, August 20 at 7 p.m.

Convocation

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Vacation College

REGISTER FOR VACATION COLLEGE 2023

Vacation College 2023 is scheduled for May 17-22, 2023.

Vacation College 2022 Photo Gallery

Vacation College

Vacation College

Vacation College 2021 Photo Gallery

Vacation College 2019 Photo Gallery

Vacation College is a wonderful opportunity to combine a Cottey experience with personal enrichment, and have some fun along the way. Participants experience Cottey from the inside out as they stay in one of the residence halls, eat in Raney Dining Room, and attend classes taught by Cottey College faculty and staff – all without the pressure of mid-term exams or finals! Nightly entertainment, recreational activities, and extraordinary chances for fellowship are all a part of this exciting week. It is bound to be an experience you will never forget! P.E.O.s, BILs, alumnae, and friends of the College who are over the age of 21 are invited to attend.

COST AND REGISTRATION

Cost includes tuition, room and board, recreational activities, and entertainment. Many classes fill up quickly, so plan to reserve your spot early!

Vacation College

Vacation College

Regular Full Price, which includes room and board:

  • Early Registration is $660 per person by March 15.
  • After March 15, Registration is $760 per person.

 

THE FOLLOWING REFUNDS FOR VACATION COLLEGE WILL BE AVAILABLE.

  • Before March 15, guests may receive a refund of $450 and an account credit for their registration fee the following year. If guests are unable to attend Vacation College due to extenuating circumstances and cancel their registration in writing before March 15, they will receive a partial refund amount of $450 and they will be credited with $50.00 toward their registration fee the following year.
  • March 16 to April 15, guests may receive a refund of $250 and an account credit for their registration fee the following year. If guests are unable to attend Vacation College due to extenuating circumstances and cancel their registration in writing March 16 to April 15, they will receive a partial refund amount of $250 and they will be credited with $50.00 toward their registration fee the following year.
  • Because items for classes and evening activities/giveaways are purchased in advance, no refunds will be made after April 31, but they will be credited with $150.00 toward their Vacation College registration fee the following year.
  • Cancellations must be received in writing.
  • Cancellations made after April 31 may not be credited as tax-deductible gifts to the College, but registration cancellations received prior to April 31 may be donated as a tax-deductible gift.

A Cottey College residence hall will be your home during Vacation College. Air conditioning is provided in all bedrooms. The suite area is made up of a living room; a shared, multi-unit bathroom; and a small kitchenette. Double and single bedrooms surround the perimeter of the common area, housing about 10 people. A small number of single rooms are reserved for those with health concerns on a first-come, first-served basis. Suites are located on the first through third floors with designated couples suites located on the third floor; shared bathrooms are designated women’s or men’s. Robertson Hall is equipped with a wheelchair ramp, an elevator, and air-conditioning.

FLYING

Participants flying into Kansas City International (MCI) may rent a car and drive approximately 100 miles to campus or take advantage of Cottey’s shuttle service. A car will not be needed once you are on campus, and shuttles will be available for activities that are not within an easy five-minute walking distance.

Shuttle to Cottey: Cottey offers a complimentary shuttle to campus for those who arrive at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) before 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17. As it is approximately a 2-hour commute from the airport to campus, the shuttle will arrive at Cottey in time for dinner. To ensure you meet the shuttle, your flight should arrive no later than 3:00 p.m.

There is no additional cost for the shuttle; shuttle times are non-negotiable.

Return Shuttle: The return shuttle on Monday, May 22, will depart campus at 6:30 a.m. and arrive at the Kansas City airport at 10:00 a.m. Your flight should depart after 11:30 a.m. on Monday, May 22.

There is no additional cost for the shuttle; shuttle times are non-negotiable.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

Driving south on Interstate 49 to Nevada: Upon leaving the airport, take I-29 South downtown. I-29 merges with U.S. Highway 71. Follow the signs downtown to stay on Highway 71 South. Highway 71 becomes Interstate 49 and leads directly to Nevada. The trip from the airport to Nevada will take 2 to 21⁄2 hours depending on traffic. Follow the directions below to find Cottey once you have reached Nevada.
When you arrive at Nevada heading south on Interstate 49, you should take the fourth, and last, exit. This exit is Austin Street but is listed on the exit sign as “K Highway, Camp Clark.” Once exiting the highway, turn right, or west, onto Austin.
Driving north on Interstate 49 to Nevada: If you are arriving on Interstate 49 north into Nevada, you should take the first exit, which is listed as “Camp Clark, K Highway.” Turn left, or west, onto Austin Street.
Once on Austin Boulevard: Proceed west for approximately 2.2 miles. You will pass Main Hall on your right and the Rubie Burton Academic Center on your left. Immediately beyond the stop light at College Street, you will see the circle drive in front of the Chapel on your left. You may park temporarily in the circle drive to unload your bags and check in at Robertson Hall. Parking is available behind Robertson off of Tower Street. The handicap entrance is located at the rear of the building.

Classes

Classes represent a wide range of interest areas in locations across campus. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Students may not switch classes upon arriving on campus or during the week. When registering, please indicate first, second, and third choice for classes. If your first choice is full or the class is cancelled, you will be placed in your second choice.

Shuttle transportation is available for all activities that are not within an easy five-minute walking distance, but transportation to and from class is not provided by the College. Classes have limited enrollment and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The size of a class is limited to ensure a pleasant experience for all guests. The limits are set by Cottey faculty and are non-negotiable.

Classes will be either 2 ½ hours in length or one hour in length, with a schedule that includes options so that attendees may schedule in free time, if they so desire.

The following classes will be offered in 2023.

Long Morning Classes 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Jorge Dioses: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Take a journey through history, archeology, and culture as we discover the great pre-Columbian civilizations. The class will focus on two geographic regions: Mesoamerica (Olmec, Teotihuacan, Zapotec, Toltec, Maya, Aztec) and South America (Chavin, Nazca, Moche, Chimu, Huari-Tiwanaku, Inca). We will discuss the extraordinary achievements of these civilizations in art, science, technology, and agriculture as we explore the complex social structures and the vast, rich cultural legacy produced by the indigenous peoples of the Americas.

Cindy Spencer: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

In this class, you will learn the basics of jewelry making techniques, tools needed, and how to use them. You’ll be designing a minimum of 3 projects: a pair of earrings (or a pendant if you do not wear earrings), a bracelet, and a necklace. You’re only limited by your creativity as you design a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. All supplies and tools needed will be furnished, however if you have special bead(s), or broken jewelry that you want to take apart and incorporate into your masterpiece, please bring them. If you have your own tools, you are welcome to bring them as well.

Wei Cui: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

A game of skill played by four people with domino-like tiles, Mahjong requires cooperation and strategy. In this class, you will learn how to play the popular game of Mahjong and learn the opening moves, the middle strategies, and endgame. Stories, histories, and explanations will be introduced. It is said that the clacking of Mahjong tiles during shuffling resembles the twittering of sparrows, so come and hear it for yourself! No Mahjong experience is necessary!!

Ganga Fernando & Patrick Ryan: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Have you ever had an interest in tennis, but feared that fierce overhand serve and extra strain on your knees? Well, look no further because Pickleball provides everything that tennis does and MORE. It’s played on a similar court either in or outdoors, easier on the knees, has a bowling like stroke, and incorporates music on the sidelines! It’s frantic, loud, and FUN! So, come and bring your tennis, get some exercise, and get ready to party on the court with this very social and team visioned sport! Come learn the basics and play a mock tournament by day 4!

Tara Booth and Abby Daleki: 8:30- 11:00 a.m.

The earliest known history of printmaking began during the Han Dynasty of China (206 B.C.E. – 200 C.E.) and is a way to transfer images from a matrix to various surfaces such paper or fabric. In this class you will learn various forms of print making and its history as we design and print custom Vacation College tote bags, develop a DIY screen to create t-shirts and prints. Have fun creating various print making projects as you develop a skill that will customize your gifts all year round!

 

Angela Firkus: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Each day we will learn about gender expectations of a time period, watch a movie, and discuss how it reflects and contradicts American ideas about femininity and masculinity. The movies we will watch are: 1930s: ‘It Happened One Night’ (Frank Capra), 1950s: ‘How to Marry a Millionaire’ (Jean Negulesco), 1970s: ‘The Goodbye Girl’ (Herbert Ross), and 1989-90s: ‘When Harry Met Sally’ (Rob Reiner).

Amanda Gilchrist: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Do you have an air fryer, but only know the basics? This is the class for you!  We will learn how to prep food for the air fryer, and make a variety of foods, from homemade tortillas and pasta chips, tasty side dishes like roasted veggies and twice-baked potatoes, entrees, and desserts. By the end of the class, you’ll have solid recipes and skills that will impress your family and friends! Go lean, go clean, be an air fryer queen!

Dave Heringer and Jack Weitzel: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Come, join in the fun, and relax in the refreshing country air as we small pond fish in search of largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and the illusive whatchamacallit. Relax and put your mind at ease in this laid-back sport.

Manjira Kumar: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Did you ever feel the curiosity to explore mysterious worlds of tiny living cells? Are you interested in knowing the genetic cause of your existence? How come you are so different with your son, but also so alike? Biological concepts will be presented in ways suitable for both science-minded and the non-science minded commoner. You do not need to be a scientist to join this class. Moreover, there will be opportunities to do hands-on experiments … feel like a scientist for a week. The class will leave you wondering “who created these perfect lives in the midst of all imperfectness?”

Tatiana Jones: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Books, movies, documentaries – review a collection of clever con men and women who have made their mark in the past and taking over the Internet now.

Gracie Travis: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Do you have children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews that are active and sometimes hurt themselves? Would you like to have a basic knowledge on how to help them? LOOK NO FURTHER! In this course, we will delve into the basics of first aid, and some basic taping and bracing techniques! Some of the topics covered: How do dress an open wound, ankle taping, crutch fitting, how to fit a sling, different KT tape applications, and what to look for in a brace.

Short Morning Classes A: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Tim Bradshaw: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Have you ever wanted to take professional photos, but didn’t have top-of-the-line equipment? No need to buy a thousand-dollar camera; come to Cottey and gain knowledge, not gear. In this class you’ll learn everything from framing, lighting, composition, identifying your subject, and finding clear points of interest to capture the moment and captivate your audience. Learn to edit your photos to look first class from your very own smart phone! We will be shooting every day from different areas on campus, so bring those walking shoes!

 

Adam Dean: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Who else fell in love with the character Katniss Everdeen in ‘The Hunger Games’? Well, now is the time to bring your A-game as you learn how to shoot a bow and arrow or simply improve on previous skills. In this class you will learn safety, equipment handling, sighting, and shooting of different types of archery supplies and gear. There will be several days of shooting and contests throughout the week. Get your aim on and let the GAMES BEGIN!

Jo Byrnes: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Tai Chi is a mind-body exercise originating in ancient China, where it was practiced as a martial art form. Tai Chi is a series of slow gentle exercises, performed standing or in a chair. The movements are easy to learn, and adaptable for any level of physical condition.

Rose Howell: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Start your day off right with a brisk walk around Nevada to warm up your mind and body for the day ahead. Each day we will begin with some light stretching then embark on a new, invigorating 2-mile journey on foot together. Each class session will end with a stretch while sharing in the camaraderie that exists in activity groups like this. Bring your walking shoes, your focus, and build your health during your days here at Vacation College!

Peter Hyland: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

You’ve got that deck of cards but can’t bring yourself to play War anymore. We’ve got you covered. We’ll explore a different card game every day. Nothing complicated; no Bridge for us. Simple games where we can chat and discuss how to play the game with each other is the order of the day.

Hannah Masters: 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

We all know the stories of men from the ‘Iliad’ and ‘Odyssey,’ but do you know the stories of the women who impacted this 10 year-long war? In this class we will cover both the historically accurate and mythological impacts women had in this battle. We will begin with the story of Helen (or rather the many stories, depending on who you believe) and continue through the Trojan war (delving into the mindsets of women such as Clytemnestra (Queen of Mycenae) and Andromache (the wife of Hector, the greatest warrior of Troy), ending with the stories of both female Greek victors and Trojan captives. Whether you are an expert or new to the subject, this class should interest you as we discuss the many stories and decide what really happened!

Short Morning Classes B: 10:00 – 11:15 a. m.

Dakotah Johnston: 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Participate and learn about lawn games from the Viking age in Europe to modern-day America. Play games like Kubb, Mölkky, Corn hole, and more!

Adam Dean: 10:00 – 11-15 p.m.

Who else fell in love with the character Katniss Everdeen in ‘The Hunger Games’? Well, now is the time to bring your A-game as you learn how to shoot a bow and arrow or simply improve on previous skills. In this class you will learn safety, equipment handling, sighting, and shooting of different types of archery supplies and gear. There will be several days of shooting and contests throughout the week. Get your aim on and let the GAMES BEGIN!

Jo Byrnes: 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Learn short, easy dances from a variety of countries. Appropriate for dancers of any level of experience—yes, beginners are welcome!

Stephanie Grgurich: 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

If you want to know more about the BEST college around, then this class is for you! Enjoy learning a bit more about Cottey history! We will survey Cottey’s founder and her sisters, the history and growth of the College, examine the profiles of notable Cottey alumnae, and do some investigating of our own in the library! This class is open to anyone with an interest in Cottey College history. Bring your curiosity and let history do the rest!

 

Peter Hyland: 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Do you find yourself captivated by the night sky? Are you interested in the vast universe and the mysteries it contains? Each day we will examine a new constellation and the myths that surround them. We will explore space and its bizarre and enigmatic formations – some which can be seen through backyard telescopes while discussing others invisible to all but the experts. Bring your curiosity and turn your quandaries into class discussions!

Long Afternoon Classes: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Peter Carver: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Do you have a passion for poetry? Do you like to explore tales of storytelling through audio books? Come and enter into a world and learn how imagination and voice can take your audience on a journey of epic proportions without the stress of memorizing lines. In this course you will rediscover your passions of play as we delve into text analysis, voice technique and narratives, script interpretation all while honing your communication, comprehension, and team building skills. Discover your authentic voice and purpose in reading and storytelling.

Abby Daleki: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Come, join in, and let’s have a PAINT PARTY! Each day of class will introduce a new and fun paint project with step-by-step instruction as you paint alongside the instructor. While this class will be a relaxing and exciting way to spend your afternoon, you will learn painting techniques that will transfer back home for use in other crafting or creative projects.

Greg Hoffman: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

The Estate Planning workshop will be a hands-on course where general estate planning topics will be discussed. If something happened to you today would your family know what your wishes are? Would they know where to find your Will or Trust document? Are your beneficiary designations up to date? Are your assets titled properly? Do they know the passwords to your accounts?  Who gets dads tools or moms wedding ring? Do you have a Health Care Directive? Do you have a Healthcare POA appointed? We will cover these, and many other topics related to end-of-life planning.

“How much money should you leave your kids? Enough so they attend the funeral but not so much that they are smiling.”

Cindy Spencer: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

In this class we will work with metal and epoxy resin to make unique pieces of jewelry. You will learn how to create metal and epoxy resin jewelry from start to finish. We will explore different coloring methods for metal and resin and experiment with foil, decorative flowers, glitter, and beads adding the finishing touches to make your piece(s) truly unique. All you need is a desire to explore your creativity.

Tiffany Carriker: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

What is microbiology and why is it important? Come and discover what a microorganism is and the overlap they exhibit in our everyday lives from food production to its application in medicine. In this class we will discuss the branches of microbiology, the good versus the bad organisms, and the employment of both in the world around us. What are microbiomes in soil, where do they come from, and what are their antibiotic resistances? What are the industrial implementations and why do we use them in food production? Come and get a hands-on experience – find the Micro in the Macro!

Wei Cui: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Do you have a basic knowledge of Mahjong and would like to learn more and become a good player? If so, this is a class for you! In this class, you will learn a variety of skills and strategies which will help you to maximize the chance of winning the game. For example, you will learn what kind of tiles should you discard so other players won’t get a winning tile.

Allison Fast: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

How about a relaxing afternoon playing cards? Canasta is easy to learn and fun to play. This “Argentine Rummy” game has been around since the 1940s. If you’ve never played, or if you played years ago, it won’t take long to catch on. Former class participants, and those who know the game, are also welcome!

Ganga Fernando & Patrick Ryan: 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Is Pickleball your new passion? In this session you’ll work to improve basic technique, perfect your strokes, and develop that game-winning drop spin! Spend your afternoon with other experienced picklers! Come, bring your tennis, and get some exercise. Get ready to party on the court with this very social and team-visioned sport! Learn the basics and play a mock tournament by day 4!

Angela Firkus: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

We will spend our time transcribing documents for the Library of Congress and share with each other what we have learned from our work. We will volunteer with the By the People program and help make sources easily available and searchable on the internet. The documents currently (October 2022) need transcribing are related to poet Walt Whitman, judge Jospeh Holt, philosopher Hannah Arendt, members of the abolitionist family the Blackwells, President Theodore Roosevelt, architect Frederick Law Olmsted, and nurse Clara Barton. By next May some of these projects may be complete and others available. Transcribing does not require creating an account but those who wish to register to review and finalize transcriptions would also have that option.

 

Fakeha Khokhar: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Learn about the history of Mehndi designs and applications in a hybrid environment including lecture and video simulations. Each class will focus on one style of Mehndi art and will be provided Mehndi cones for learning beginner and intermediate design styles. At the end of four classes, you will learn how to make leaf, floral, name and abstract mehndi designs.

Becky McConnaughey and Deb Leibbrandt: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Painting country crafts – seasonal decorations for the home with a farmhouse flair. Come and create a seasonal sign with interchangeable decorations that can be used throughout the year. In this class we will be staining a 3X1 foot wood sign that says, ‘HOME’, which can be used throughout the year either in or out of doors. Come with inspiration and your creative minds as we decorate and make interchangeable ‘O’s to make this sign match the seasons all year round. Keep in mind this project is a little larger but should fit as a carry on along with your luggage OR we have a shipping center on campus in which you can mail this item back home at your own cost.

Afternoon Short Classes A: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

Jorge Dioses: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

This course is all about exploring the playful side of mathematics, investigating math in popular culture, and having FUN learning basic math facts and functions using logic puzzles, math riddles, fractals, and number tricks. There’s more to math and numbers than you imagine! Come and explore the unique ways mathematics surface in our day-to-day lives. And, above all, no one is leaving this class without taking a little bit of math humor back home!

Tara Booth: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

Polymer clay is used by artists and hobbyists ranging from children to professional artists and movie makers. This clay stays continually soft and can be customized in color, weight, and stability. It can also be baked in a home oven, retaining its color and size.  It is used to simulate many materials such as stone, porcelain, wood, and glass. In this class we will explore bead and jewelry making while creating home decorations and an assortment of crafts. Let your imagination sore and the sky be your limit.

Keith Spencer: 1:00 – 2: 15 p.m.

Visualize brewing beer at its finest — in the comfort of your own home. Gain a larger appreciation for creating and bottling your very own product that is bigger and better than you could have ever imagined. Learn a tasty new hobby! Create your own mini brewery and welcome friends and family over for Superbowl Sunday with a tasty craft beer made in your very own kitchen. In this class we will be brewing with the recirculating infusion mash system. Discover a new passion for home brewing!

Bill Stanfill: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

Quando a Roma vai, fai come vedrai. When in Rome, do as the Romans do! This course covers various topics that contribute to a positive experience as an Italian tourist.  We’ll talk about how you appear to the natives in dress, courtesies, and actions.  We’ll discuss getting around, basic pronunciation and common useful phrases as well as numbers.  And finally, the course wouldn’t be complete without a discussion of Italian food and wine!

Sarah Quick: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

Indigenous representation goes back to the beginning of motion pictures. Initially, Indigenous actors and filmmakers forged early paths in the industry, but with the establishment of Hollywood the stereotypical “Indian” tropes emerged. This course will consider this early history eventually shifting to explore how recent producers across multiple media had pushed these depictions into more accurate and compelling realms.

Jo Byrnes: 1:00 – 2:15 p.m.

Tai Chi is a mind-body exercise originating in ancient China, where it was practiced as a martial art form. Tai Chi is a series of slow gentle exercises, performed standing or in a chair. The movements are easy to learn, and adaptable for any level of physical condition.

Afternoon Short Classes B: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Adam Dean: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

From Blackstones to PitBoss jump on the phase of outdoor griddles! Learn new techniques and recipes as you partake in cooking outdoors on a steaming hot griddle. If you bring the appetites, we’ll bring the YUM!

Jo Byrnes: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Asana is the physical practice of yoga. These exercises involve moving your body into a variety of positions, done standing, sitting, on all-fours, and laying down. The exercises can also be done sitting or holding onto a chair. Practice of yoga asana increases flexibility, balance, strength, and often, mental well-being.

Heather English: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

“One not only drinks wine, but one smells it, observes it, tastes it, sips it, and one talks about it,” King Edward VII. Do you enjoy drinking wine with friends and family? Have you ever wanted to know more about wine, winemaking, or how to pair wine with different foods? This course will cover the introductory essentials of educated wine tasting, including the basic steps of tasting, the importance of olfactory memory, the history of world winemaking regions and the process of winemaking, pairing wines with different meals, and cooking with wine. A practical approach will be taken in this course–be prepared to taste several different wines in each class session!

 

Sarah Quick, Jackie Lordo and/or Jon Green: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Bring your instrument, voice, and musical skills to campus to share with others in daily jam sessions. If you have a particular instrumental-musical background, great! If not, you may still join in as a singer, rhythm keeper, or in dance roles. A few instruments will be available.

Meghan Vincent: 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

Your next creative leap begins here, personalize your art like a pro! In this class you will be using a Cricut. What is a Cricut, you ask; a Cricut is a smart cutting machine that helps you create personalized projects. We will focus on the many ways their cutting abilities can be used in your crafting endeavors! A Cricut can help to make all sorts of DIY projects, cutting everything from iron on heat transfer vinyl to paper to card stock and even fabric and wood. If you’ve ever wanted to create organization labels with fancy art or unique home décor then come and join in the fun! Unlock the potential of your Cricut and take your crafting abilities to the next level!

Instructors

Tim Bradshaw

Tim Bradshaw

Tim Bradshaw currently serves as the Videographer/Photographer for Cottey College.

Professor Byrnes

Professor Byrnes

Professor Byrnes has undergraduate degrees in computer engineering technology and theatre with dance emphasis, both from Kansas State University, and an M.F.A. degree in dance and related arts from Texas Woman´s University. She has over 35 years of teaching experience in private studios, public schools, and at the college level. She was a founding member and artistic director of a.musing.dance.company and the Instant Dance Project. She is the director of the Cottey-in-Motion Dance Company, coordinates the Cottey College dance department and is the Faculty Chair. Jo has been teaching yoga for six years and is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT -200) with the Yoga Alliance. Professor Byrnes will be teaching Beginning Tai Chi, Dancing Around the World, and All Levels Yoga Asana this year at Vacation College. 

Tiffany Carriker

Tiffany Carriker

Tiffany Carriker currently serves as an Enrollment Counselor at Cottey College.

Gracie Travis

Gracie Travis

Gracie Travis is the Head Athletic Trainer at Cottey College.

Dr. Cui

Dr. Cui

Dr. Cui studied at Guizhou University in China and Gavale University College in Sweden and he came to Cottey College in 2016 after teaching at the University of Alabama. Wei teaches college algebra, pre-calculus, calculus sequences, and differential equations. Wei’s research lies in financial math and its applications. Financial math is a field of applied math that is concerned with solving the problems in finance with mathematical models. This is his third year teaching at Vacation College. Dr. Cui will be teaching Mahjong Class for Beginners and Mahnong Class for Advanced Players this year at Vacation College.

Adam Dean

Adam Dean

Adam Dean, director of academic computing, has been at Cottey for 23 years. Adam is responsible for all technology on the academic side of campus which includes faculty, students, library, residence halls, and both academic buildings. He designs and installs all of the smart classrooms and computer labs on campus. In his personal time, he has served as president of the Vernon County United Way for 12 years, Chairman of the local chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), and serves on the State Board for the NWTF. In his work with the NWTF he has organized and run several Outdoor Youth events, Women In The Outdoors events, and distributes food to local pantries through his local Share the Harvest program. Adam will be teaching Archery for Fun and Grilling and Griddling this year at Vacation College.

Heather English

Heather English

Heather English currently serves as the Student Disability Support and Student Success Coordinator at Cottey College.

Allison Fast

Allison Fast

Allison Fast has been working in IT at Cottey for nearly three years as an administrative computing support specialist, though as an alumna, former CCAA board member, and Nevada resident, she has remained close to Cottey through the years. She is a long-time member of the American Association of University Women, an organization nationally prominent in advocacy for women and girls. She also meets weekly with a card group of six, as schedules allow. She is eager to share her experiences with others who are looking for a relatively easy card game to learn, or re-learn. Allison will be teaching Let’s Play Canasta! this year at Vacation College.

Dr. Fernando

Dr. Fernando

Dr. Fernando grew up in the island of Sri Lanka and joined Cottey in 2008 as a faculty member of the chemistry department. She serves as the faculty sponsor for Phi Theta Kappa honor society and International Friendship Circle. She is an advocate for STEM for women, especially in undergraduate research in analytical chemistry. She sponsors student interns and visits local schools with her chemistry students for outreach activities. She is the chair of the local Mo-Kan-Ok chapter of American Chemical Society. She is a resident of Nevada and her family is very active in local YMCA. They participate in many sports in their free time including Pickleball, their newest addiction. Dr. Fernando will be teaching Pickleball Mania this year at Vacation College.

Angela Firkus

Angela Firkus

Angela Firkus is a Professor of History at Cottey College.

Amanda Gilchrist

Amanda Gilchrist

Amanda Gilchrist is an Assistant Professor of Psychology, and has been at Cottey since August 2013. Dr. Gilchrist earned her Ph.D in Psychological Sciences from the University of Missouri. At Cottey, she teaches courses related to experimental psychology including Cognitive Psychology, Research Methods, and Biopsychology. She is a member of the Psychonomic Society and Women in Cognitive Science. Dr. Gilchrist will be teaching How to Master Your Air Fryer! this year at Vacation College.

Stephanie Grgurich

Stephanie Grgurich

Stephanie Grgurich is the enrollment outreach coordinator. She has worked at Cottey since August 2011, and works with P.E.O.s, alumnae, and other volunteers in promoting the College. She graduated from Cottey in 2003 and earned her Bachelor of Arts from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland, in 2005. She joined the P.E.O. Sisterhood in 2010 and is a member of Chapter BB, North Carolina. Stephanie will be teaching Cottey College History Hour! this year at Vacation College.

Greg Hoffman

Greg Hoffman

Greg Hoffman is a retired financial advisor with over 31 years of experience in financial planning. He was the Founder of Hoffman Financial Resources with clients in 36 states. He is currently the President of the Nevada/Vernon County Community Foundation. Greg purchased and restored the historic Carnegie Building here in Nevada, one of 2,811 libraries for which Andrew Carnegie funded the construction. Greg served on the Cottey College Board of Trustees from 2008-2015.

Rose Howell

Rose Howell

Rose Howell is Cottey’s Head Cross Country/Track Coach.

Dr. Peter Hyland

Dr. Peter Hyland

Dr. Peter Hyland has worked extensively with astrophysical experiments at Case Western Reserve University, the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and McGill University. While he found work in astrophysics rewarding, Cottey has provided him an opportunity to focus on teaching and students. He teaches physics and astronomy during the semester and at Vacation College and summer workshops. He also loves board games and card games. Dr. Hyland will be teaching Card Games for beginners and Astronomy Zero to Backyard Hero this year at Vacation College.

Dakotah Johnston

Dakotah Johnston

Dakotah Johnston came to Cottey from Ohio in 2019. He currently serves as P.E.O. hall director and is the Coordinator of Campus Activities and Student Diversity. Not only has he been playing lawn games all of his life but he also leads lawn games for the students at Cottey multiple times a semester. He has a Master’s in students development administration and Counseling and is currently working on another masters in Athletic and Activity Administration.

Tatiana Jones

Tatiana Jones

Tatiana Jones serves as a Library Technician/Cataloger in Cottey’s Library. She was born in Volgograd (former Stalingrad), Russia. Tatiana moved to the USA in 1999. In 2008, she joined the Cottey College team in Ross Memorial Library and her main responsibility is cataloging. Tatiana became a P.E.O. in 2016. She has enjoyed teaching Vacation College classes Oh, Those Russian Women… and Learning Russia History and Customs through Movies from 2010-2015. Perhaps surprisingly in light of her engineering background, she loves to read and watch biographies.

Fakeha Khokhar

Fakeha Khokhar

Fakeha Khokhar recently joined Cottey College as Instructional Technology Specialist. She has a background education in computer sciences and human resource development. She likes to learn and share about new online learning tools and technologies. She is a tea lover and tries different recipes to make a great cup of tea! Fakeha will be teaching Explore the Beauty of Mehndi Tattoos this year at Vacation College.

Dr. Kumar

Dr. Kumar

Dr. Kumar earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Calcutta in India, her Master of Science degree from Kalyani University in India, and her Ph.D. from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. She studies aquatic, photosynthetic microorganism called cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) which have the distinction of being the oldest known fossils. This large group of bacteria, that survived billions of years of evolution, provide a unique model system to study environmental pollution. Her lab focuses on the biochemical, molecular, and phenotypic changes within the bacteria due to the exposure of surface waters or other chemical toxins such as antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs.  Dr. Kumar is also a member of the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). Dr. Kumar will be teaching Genes and Heredity this year at Vacation College.

Dr. Lordo

Dr. Lordo

Dr. Lordo is an assistant professor of music and music department coordinator at Cottey College. She teaches brass lessons, music history, pedagogy, and basic conducting in addition to her duties as director of the Wind Ensemble. She is a proud member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and several professional music organizations. Jackie is excited to share her love of puzzles as well as her professional expertise in music. Dr. Lordo will be teaching It’s Time to Jam! this year at Vacation College.

Sarah Quick

Sarah Quick

Sarah Quick is a sociocultural anthropologist and an ethnomusicologist who studies contemporary heritage performance by Native peoples in North America. She has a B.A. in anthropology from the University of South Carolina, a M.A. in anthropology from the University of Missouri-Columbia and a Ph.D. in social-cultural anthropology from Indiana University where she also minored in ethnomusicology. Sarah is interested in music/dance, ethnographic film, gender studies, heirloom seed-saving, southern heritage food, sustainable farming, community gardens and urban chickens. Dr. Quick will be teaching Native Americans and Film: from Hollywood to Hulu to TikTok and It’s Time to Jam! this year at Vacation College.

Dr. Dioses

Dr. Dioses

Dr. Dioses was born in Lima, Peru. He has been teaching at Cottey College as an assistant professor since 2012. He has taught every math course offered at Cottey: college algebra, statistics, calculus 1-3, and differential equations. His main academic interest is number theory and he is a member of the Mathematical Association of America and the American Mathematical Society. Jorge was one of the co-leaders of the college-sponsored International Trip to Peru in 2016. Also, he has participated in Vacation College for several years teaching courses such as Math and Art, Recreational Math, and Ancient Civilizations of the Americas. Dr. Dioses will be teaching Ancient Civilizations in the Americas, and Numeration Nation this year at Vacation College.

Cindy Spencer

Cindy Spencer

Cindy Spencer currently serves as the Director of Housing at Cottey College. Cindy has worked in housing and higher education for 35 plus years, working at nine colleges/universities.   Her career has taken her from her hometown of Nevada, MO   to Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee, Indiana, Nebraska, Texas, and North Dakota.  She has always loved jewelry and enjoys creating “something from nothing”.  She has taken formal classes in metal work and jewelry making, as well as a number of workshops over the years.   Jewelry making is a relaxing hobby for Cindy.  Through this hobby and interest, she has met many friends across the country. If you were to look in her GPS you will find that she stops at various bead stores, flea markets and antique stores- looking for baubles and beads she can incorporate into her projects.  She also finds great resources at some unusual places, such as hardware and tool stores.

Keith Spencer

Keith Spencer

Keith Spencer is a longtime Cottey administrator and beer connoisseur. He enjoys brewing beer and growing hops. Keith will be teaching Hang 10 with Home Brewing: The Lone Rider of Beer Making this year at Vacation College.

Becky McConnaughey

Becky McConnaughey

Becky McConnaughey currently serves as Accounts Receivable Manager/Accounts Payable Assistant for Cottey College.

Bill Stanfill

Bill Stanfill

Bill Stanfill currently serves as the Registrar at Cottey College. After serving in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, Bill began teaching at the post-secondary level, primarily in technical schools. He held Associate Dean and Academic Chair positions before becoming a registrar and academic scheduler. Most recently he was the campus director of a career school in Jackson, MS. Bill has a B.S. in Physics from the University of Kentucky and an M.A. in Procurement Management from Webster College. He and his wife Colleen have two sons, one daughter, and three grandchildren. Bill took Italian lessons for 14 years and has visited Italy seven times. He loves cooking Italian and favors Chianti and Nebbiolo wines.

Meghan Vincent

Meghan Vincent

Meghan Vincent serves as the Coordinator for Residence Life/Hall Director at Cottey College.

Jack Weitzel & David Herringer

Jack Weitzel & David Herringer

Jack Weitzel is the husband of recently retired president, Jann Weitzel. Jack is a retired electrician, having owned his own electrical contracting business, followed by a semi-retired career in electronic sales. His current “work” includes numerous weekly runs to Walmart, lots of time fishing, reading voraciously, smoking meats, drinking coffee, and running errands as “assigned” by Jann.  Jack grew up in Iowa, served in the Navy during Vietnam, and has supported Jann’s education and career. They have two grown, married daughters and four grandchildren. Jack reports his biography is “old, retired, works for the president, and likes to fish!!!!!”

David Herringer joined Cottey in 2019 as vice president for enrollment management and marketing.  Prior to Cottey, Dave served as vice president for enrollment management at McMurry University in Abilene, Texas. He has held similar positions at University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas. He earned a Master of Management from University of Mary and a Bachelor of Science with double majors in business administration and sociology/anthropology from Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana.

Jack and Dave will be teaching Fishing with Jack & Dave! this year at Vacation College.

Tara Booth

Tara Booth

Tara Booth is an Assistant Professor of Art at Cottey College.