Central College experienced another memorable year in 2018. Take a look back at 2018 with the year’s most popular stories.
10. An Exercise of the Mind and Body
Pam Richards, associate professor of exercise science and former cross country and track and field coach, looks back on her 35 years at Central.
9. Central’s Boardwalk House Gets New Home
The Boardwalk House on Central’s campus got a new home, thanks to new owner Mikol Sesker. She moved the historic house—located at the northeast corner of Broadway and University streets—to southern Marion County.
8. Central Presents Holiday Entertainment
Central’s theatre and music departments each presented remarkable holiday performances, including “Merry Christmas, Strega Nona” over eight nights, and the annual Christmas Candlelight Concerts in Des Moines and Pella.
7. Central Celebrates Renovated Douwstra Auditorium
Central hosted a public open house Tuesday, Aug. 7, to celebrate the completion of renovations to historic Douwstra Auditorium. The $2.2 million renovation—funded by private donors—is the first of two phases planned to transform the local landmark into a regional concert hall. The college also completed its new garden classroom and kitchen, an extension of the college’s community garden.
6. Central DNA
Edna Boot Van Zee ’31 and Monica Powers ’18 are Central’s oldest and youngest known living alumnae. The two talked about their years at Central and how it helped shape who they are.
5. Degrees of Engineering
Among the 320 graduates on Saturday, May 19, were the first from Central’s four-year engineering major program, which was launched in 2015. The undergraduate program offers students the chance to complete and compete in four years instead of five in traditional 3-2 engineering programs.
4. The Unbroken Circle
Carol Mendez ’09 was raised by her immigrant parents to believe school and hard work would pay off. It has for the fifth-grade teacher in St. Louis, who won awards for her work toward ensuring her inner-city students also have a path to college.
3. From Dutch to Dream
Chris Weaver ’10 has turned his love of music into a career, including wowing the judges during a deep run on NBC’s “The Voice.” He returned to Central in September to help celebrate the college’s Homecoming with a performance in the newly renovated Douwstra Auditorium.
2. Homegrown Brewers
Central alumni are taking beer to the next level. Whether they are running taprooms and breweries or making their own, alumni share their experiences as part of the booming industry.
1. Central Strong
Meet five Central students who each faced their share of challenges with determination, grace and gratitude—and the support of the Central community.
