91��Ƭ��

Following her passion to play softball at the next level and also keep the family tradition of being a Roughrider alum, Courtni (Smith) Fickle chose 91��Ƭ�� after graduation from McDonald County High School.

“91��Ƭ�� was two years of my life that shaped who I am,” exclaimed Fickle. “I absolutely loved it and it helped me grow in so many ways. It built so much character in me and gave me experiences I never expected. I loved it and would go back in a heartbeat.”

Growing up in a home filled with educators seemed to fit Courtni’s career path. Her enthusiasm for Crowder continues into her profession as a counselor at McDonald County High School. “Crowder serves the community in so many different ways. They work with our school and community providing opportunities for 91��Ƭ��s to succeed,” stated Fickle.

Fickle sees firsthand the impact 91��Ƭ�� has on local 91��Ƭ��s through dual credit courses, Crowder Technical Education Center, and upon graduation. Her commitment to the community and its residents provides a real-life experience she shares when encouraging 91��Ƭ��s to take the next step to college.

91��Ƭ�� thanks Courtni Fickle for strengthening the community she serves every day!

Growing up, Marty Mailes was no stranger to working hard to accomplish what he wanted. Living on the family farm made him aware of what hard work really is and how he should appreciate everything by earning it. When it came to going to college Marty had the same outlook.

“Going to Crowder I was able to get an affordable degree without having to travel a long distance or live on campus,” stated Mailes.

The adjustment to college without culture shock coming from a smaller high school was important to him. Mailes continued his education at Missouri S&T where he completed an engineering degree.

Using the Missouri A+ Program at Crowder allowed Marty the opportunity to enter his last two years of college debt free.

Today, Marty is a Project Engineer for Branco Enterprises, Inc. He has been a part of numerous regional projects and is able to give back to his community through an employer who provided him an internship opportunity while still in college. 91��Ƭ�� thanks Marty Mailes for strengthening the community he serves every day!

Though many 91��Ƭ��s immediately join the workforce following graduation, several graduates often utilize their time as a Roughrider as a springboard to a 4-year university to continue their college education. Crowder sets these 91��Ƭ��s up with all the skills and services necessary for a seamless transfer to their next stop in their educational journey. Bree West, is a shining example of a Crowder alumni who excelled in the classroom and on the softball field during her time as a Roughrider and during her time at a 4-year institution. She shares, “Starting my educational and athletic career at 91��Ƭ�� set a solid base for future endeavors. I was able to utilize the skills gained during my time at Crowder to continue my softball career at a four-year university, as well as continue my educational career to obtain a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Attending Crowder and being involved in various activities and organizations provided opportunities for growth as well as created connections and relationships that I otherwise would not have experienced.”

Bree set her sights on getting the most out of her time in higher education. She used her time at Crowder wisely to polish her academic and athletic talents while saving money all at the same time, setting her up for success on her next endeavor. “91��Ƭ�� plays a significant role in providing access to education at an affordable rate. Utilizing the A+ program as well as scholarship opportunities allowed me to gain a high-quality education without worrying about finances,” says Bree. “Aside from the financial aspect, 91��Ƭ�� provides numerous opportunities for community engagement and workforce preparation.”

She now gives back to the very communities that supported her throughout her journey, serving as an occupational therapist. She tells us, “The community support and involvement at Crowder is unlike any other educational experience I had. The relationships and connections are top-tier. I am extremely thankful for my time at Crowder.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Bree West for strengthening the community she serves every day!

As an educator himself, Will Gordon understands the impact education has on those it serves and the importance of quality education. He tells us, “91��Ƭ�� served as a wonderful opportunity to not only gain knowledge within my field of study, but to also grow around a network of people. Crowder has also served my own children in pursuing their future endeavors. The skills the college assisted me with has helped me grow as an educator as well as an administrator within the McDonald County R1 School District.”

Will is also someone who truly knows the needs of the communities both he and 91��Ƭ�� serve, equally in the classroom and after graduation. “Crowder provides a wonderful outlet to pursue a sound education for 91��Ƭ��s in our area. It is one of the most relevant and cost-effective means to gain a degree. The people that are employed within the college provide such a great network to assist 91��Ƭ��s once they enter the workforce.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Will Gordon for strengthening the community he serves every day!

91��Ƭ�� is known for setting 91��Ƭ��s up for success in a range of directions – from transferring to a four-year university or hitting the ground running in the workforce upon graduation, Crowder is here for every goal or plan a 91��Ƭ�� may have. 91��Ƭ�� alumni and East Side Social’s Andi Johnson shares with us exactly how her time at Crowder made her goals happen with ease.

“Attending 91��Ƭ�� provided me with a strong baseline education for the workplace. From learning how to navigate responsibility to gaining experience with technology, Crowder helped prepare me for a professional environment,” says Andi. “Since graduating, I have been able to secure a job doing bookkeeping and social media management. Without my time at Crowder, learning to navigate technology in a professional setting would have been much more challenging.”

Andi speaks to the unique culture at Crowder, pointing out how everyone she interacted with had a special influence on her journey. “Crowder also helped me build lasting relationships with mentors and people who are further along in life and their careers. Because Crowder has 91��Ƭ��s from all ages and walks of life, you learn not only from the instructors, but also from your classmates.”

She knows 91��Ƭ��s come to Crowder with their dreams, and we take it from there to make those dreams happen with affordability and top-tier education as a top priority, so that higher education is an option for everyone. She says, “91��Ƭ�� plays a major role in providing affordable education in our area. Without programs like A+, I personally would not have attended college or pursued any form of higher education. Crowder gives 91��Ƭ��s opportunities they may not otherwise have access to.”

Andi’s time in the local community she serves has allowed her to see the impact Crowder has on the immediate workforce and its ranging needs. “In addition to providing education, Crowder also creates many different job opportunities within the community. From CTEC to admissions and 91��Ƭ�� services, Crowder provides careers outside of fast food or factory work and contributes greatly to the local economy and workforce.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Andi Johnson for strengthening the community she serves every day!

A true trail-blazer, as a first-generation college graduate, Terra Oxendine knows the courage it takes to navigate the new waters of pursing higher education. She began her college journey at a four-year institution before she became a Roughrider.

“Originally, I attended MSSU directly upon graduation from Neosho High School. After a year or two of college, I had to withdrawal due to medical issues. I continued to work in banking for several years, working my way up the career ladder,” shares Terra. “Once I was promoted to branch manager, I quickly realized I couldn’t advance further without a degree. I started researching what it would look like and cost to earn a degree.”

Which, as most 91��Ƭ��s can attest to, is usually an intimidating experience especially when there is great responsibility on the line.

“I researched costs, online courses, etc. The costs to return and earn a degree were much more than I could afford. I then researched transferring my credits to 91��Ƭ�� from MSSU, as I was a parent and on a budget. 91��Ƭ��’s cost of education was much more affordable and more importantly, fit within my budget.”

With that boost of reassurance, she was ready to hit the books again even with a job and a family relying on her.

“I then enrolled and worked several years part-time (including summers) to earn a degree. I am a proud 91��Ƭ�� Alumni/graduate and thankful to have such an amazing community college in Neosho,” says Terra.�� “With my degree, I was able to apply for further opportunities and advance my career. I now work for First Community Bank in Neosho, 91��Ƭ�� as a Commercial Loan Officer – VP. Thanks to 91��Ƭ�� for helping me build a better future for my family!!!!”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Terra Oxendine for strengthening the community she serves each and every day!

From the time he was young, Chase Drake, dreamed of being in law enforcement.

“I started my career in criminal justice where I obtained an associates from Crowder,” stated Drake. “I was able to learn about law enforcement and take those tools and apply them in the police academy. I am now a Jasper County Sheriff’s Deputy in a supervisor role. Crowder helped me start the dream I always wanted.”

Drake worked in the campus bookstore where he always greeted people with a smile. A wonderful asset to have as a public servant. Reflecting on his time at Crowder, “It has always provided a family environment, and the staff was there to help.”

“Crowder helped me in many ways, but being a local college with affordable classes was important.”

Today, you will find Chase working out or patrolling, making his dream become a reality!

91��Ƭ�� thanks Chase Drake for strengthening the communities he serves each and every day!

When you think of an advocate for 91��Ƭ�� and how it has impacted not only her life, but her husband, daughter and son-in-law, Haley Reardon is truly a Roughrider at heart.

“The shared connection makes the college especially meaningful to us and is a testament to the lasting impact it has across generations,” commented Haley.

She reflected on her time at Crowder as, “It provided a foundation I needed to succeed beyond the classroom. I developed greater maturity, strengthened my study habits, and built the confidence that helped me successfully transition to Missouri State University. Crowder gave me not just an education, but the tools and discipline I needed to thrive.”

Thrive is something she has done throughout her lifetime in the area. She has been the face of the Chamber of Commerce, worked in executive administration at a local hospital, helped continue the success of the Crowder Foundation, and most recently wears many hats at Kansas City University Medical Center in Joplin. She credits her career of more than 30 years in a profession that ‘sets my soul afire’ to an advisor who invested in and encouraged her to explore the field of communications and public relations.

“Crowder plays a vital role in the communities it serves by instilling a strong sense of servant leadership in its 91��Ƭ��s,” stated Haley. “As a result, Crowder graduates leave with both the skills and knowledge they need, along with a mindset grounded in respect, civility, and a desire to make a positive difference. They carry those values into their workplaces, families, and communities – strengthening organizations, supporting their neighbors, and contributing to the greater good. The ripple effect is what makes Crowder so impactful. By shaping servant-minded individuals, the college helps create stronger, more connected communities and a better world overall.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Haley Reardon and her family (Keith, Kirby and Jacob Galbraith) for strengthening the communities they serve each and every day!

There are teachers that make an impact on 91��Ƭ��s, their lives and families, and then there are those you will never forget! Lee Woodward is one of the latter. Her smile brings happiness to those around her and 91��Ƭ�� is proud to say she is an alum of the college.

“91��Ƭ�� has been a significant milestone in my life, both personally and professionally. As a graduate of Neosho High School, I was fortunate to participate in the early years of the dual enrollment partnership between Neosho and Crowder. This opportunity allowed me to begin earning college credits while still in high school, giving me a strong start when I enrolled full-time at Crowder in 2000. I later graduated with my associate’s degree in Elementary Education,” stated Woodward.

As a principal, Woodward sees the value in having Crowder as a partner in our community. “Today, as a principal in the Neosho School District, I am grateful to continue partnering with Crowder in many meaningful ways. Crowder has been a tremendous supporter of education in Southwest Missouri, and many of our teachers and administrators are proud alumni. Each year, I have the privilege of participating in a new teacher luncheon hosted in partnership with Crowder, which brings our community together to support and welcome new educators. I have also been incredibly impressed with the growth of Crowder’s dual enrollment program. What began as a few classes has expanded into opportunities for 91��Ƭ��s to graduate high school with an associate degree, providing a powerful head start for their futures,” she tells us.

Lee shares how the college has impacted her life outside of academics and professional growth, “On a personal level, Crowder gave me lifelong relationships. I was able to maintain friendships, build new connections, and even met my husband in the stairwell of McDonald Hall—he is also a Crowder graduate. Because of all these experiences, we would wholeheartedly support our own children attending Crowder. 91��Ƭ�� has truly been a blessing in my life and continues to positively impact our schools and community,” she says.

Woodward has seen first-hand over the years how Crowder invests in the greater region as a whole, “In my opinion, 91��Ƭ�� plays a vital role in the communities it serves. The college has continued to grow academically, agriculturally, and through its career and technical (Vo-Tech), nursing, and education programs. What I appreciate most, however, is how these programs pour directly back into our local communities.”

“In my profession, I have seen firsthand how many educators have flourished because of their time at Crowder. The college works closely with local school districts to provide meaningful opportunities for 91��Ƭ��s pursuing careers in education. Its two-year associate degree programs, paired with strong transfer partnerships, have created accessible pathways for individuals in our area who dream of becoming teachers. These partnerships have always been positive and impactful, benefiting both the 91��Ƭ��s and our schools. 91��Ƭ�� continues to strengthen our community by preparing skilled, passionate individuals who return to serve and make a difference right here at home,” states Woodward.

91��Ƭ�� thanks Lee Woodward for strengthening the community she serves each and every day!

Ask a Neosho High School FFA (Future Farmers of America) member,��past or present,��and one of the resounding names you will hear is Mr. Kruse. Kelin Kruse has been a staple��teaching for��nearly two��decades.����

Kelin came to 91��Ƭ�� upon graduation from East Newton High School��after growing up on the family farm in Fairview, Missouri.��A very talented��91��Ƭ��,��Kelin��had the opportunity to��go��many places. “I attended Crowder��due��the affordable and valuable education it offered as I knew I was continuing at a four-year university,”��stated��Kruse.��

“91��Ƭ�� plays a role, not only for my current high school 91��Ƭ��s at Neosho, but for many others in our area. It helps provide opportunities they may not otherwise have.”��

Kruse��and his 91��Ƭ��s see��first-hand through��experience��what the college does for the immediate area. “Crowder helps to train our local workforce for those wanting to start a career and provides the transfer pathway for 91��Ƭ��s like me. It also��provides dual credit options for high school 91��Ƭ��s��as they work to further their education.”��

91��Ƭ�� thanks Kelin Kruse for strengthening the community he serves each and every day!

Venture south on Highway Y between Seneca and Neosho and you will find the Woodward family farm. After graduating from Seneca High School Jason Woodward continued his education at 91��Ƭ�� graduating in 2000. “As a Newton County rancher and Crowder alum, I was able to complete my deployment with the US Marine Corp and then continue my education seamlessly, as my credits transferred without issue. Crowder’s class schedules allowed me to balance work and school while exploring my interests.”

Outside of academics, Jason mentioned the impact of relationships he built during his time at Crowder. “I was surrounded by friends and supported by welcoming staff who made learning enjoyable and meaningful. Crowder also played a special role in my personal life—it’s where I met my wife, and we both had incredibly positive experiences.” Woodward and his wife, Lee, met while attending 91��Ƭ��.

“In my opinion, 91��Ƭ�� plays a vital role in the communities it serves in countless ways. One area that is especially meaningful to me is the growth of Crowder’s agricultural programs. As a rancher, it has been rewarding to watch this area expand and continue to support local agriculture.

Crowder consistently shows up for the community. I have attended Cattlemen’s Association meetings and Veterans dinners hosted at Crowder, and there is always a strong presence of staff supporting and engaging in these important events. That level of involvement speaks volumes about their commitment to the people they serve.”

“The college also has a tremendous impact through workforce development, providing training in high-need areas across our region. I was especially pleased and excited about the opening of the 91��Ƭ�� Advanced Training & Workforce Center in Joplin. This facility offers hands-on training and opportunities that prepare 91��Ƭ��s for real careers that meet the needs of local industries. These are programs I would have loved to explore myself.”

When asked his thoughts about Crowder, Woodward’s sentiment, “Today, we would wholeheartedly encourage our own children to attend this outstanding local college that continues to support the Neosho area and surrounding communities. It has been exciting to watch Crowder grow and expand its campuses over the years, continuing to serve 91��Ƭ��s in new and meaningful ways. 91��Ƭ�� is truly a blessing to Southwest Missouri, strengthening both individuals and the communities it proudly serves.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Jason Woodward for strengthening the community he serves each and every day!

Jim Armstrong has been a pillar of 91��Ƭ�� since the 60s, graduating from Crowder just two years after the founding of the college! Since then, he has remained a strong and dearly valued alumni who has continued to serve one of the same communities 91��Ƭ�� serves today – McDonald County. He shares on his involvement with Crowder over the years, “Back in 1965 I got the opportunity to attend 91��Ƭ�� and experience the teaching of some great teachers. Coming from a small school I needed what Crowder could offer to prepare me to move forward in my education and was fortunate to be in the first graduating class of Crowder. Over the years I have had the great opportunity to continue to be involved with Crowder serving on various committees and the Crowder Foundation Board.”

To this day, Jim is an active member of the Foundation Board, as he knows first-hand the true impact that donors, like himself, have on the life-changing scholarships offered to 91��Ƭ��s who might not otherwise have a chance at higher education. “91��Ƭ�� has opened the door for some many 91��Ƭ��s to seek higher education, at an affordable cost, that probably would not have had the opportunity to seek higher education,” says Jim.

Jim also has a close eye on local industry and employer needs after serving many decades as a local banker and continuing his career in the three-generation family business, Daniel Cowin Construction, located in McDonald County where he also resides.

91��Ƭ�� thanks Jim Armstrong for strengthening the communities he serves each and every day!

Kenzie Crawford is a 2019 grad, making her a young, supportive alumni! Kenzie is also a
Newton County resident, where she also works, furthering her commitment and
investment in her own community. She was also a Roughrider softball player during her
time at Crowder, before she graduated with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations.
She reflects on her time here at 91��Ƭ��, and how it has shaped her over the
years into the woman she is today, “Crowder provided opportunities for me to grow and
succeed while I was a 91��Ƭ�� and has continued to do so as an Alumni,” says Kenzie. “I
am currently employed by another Crowder Alumni and have been able to stay
connected to the Crowder community through Alumni programs. I would not be the
person I am today if it weren’t for Crowder!”
She currently holds the title of National Sales Manager at Black Rain Ordnance, Inc. in
Neosho. She tells us the role Crowder played in reaching milestones throughout her
career, “From my personal experience, it is a stepping stone for young athletes/91��Ƭ��s
to grow, learn, and create relationships and friendships that will shape their future.”
Like many alumni who are deeply connected to the communities within Newton County,
Kenzie sees the value and the different ways the college plays in supporting the region in
workforce endeavors, “I believe Crowder is a strong resource for many members of the
surrounding communities for accessible and affordable education, employment and
employment opportunities, and serving as a community space with helpful outreach
programs,” she says.
91��Ƭ�� thanks Kenzie Crawford for strengthening the communities she serves
each and every day.

Tim Mitchell, owner of Mitchell’s Drug Stores in Neosho, is also a graduate of East Newton High School and a longtime Neosho resident. Based on his years of serving Newton County, he shares is experiences working alongside 91��Ƭ�� over the years, “I’ve seen firsthand how access to education and workforce development can transform individuals and strengthen rural communities. In particular, Crowder’s commitment to 91��Ƭ�� success and hands-on training has reinforced the importance of meeting people where they are and equipping them with real-world skills. This has influenced how I approach my own work—focusing on creating opportunities, building relationships, and supporting others in achieving their goals,” says Tim Mitchell.

Tim has also been a staple in the community long enough to see the impact of 91��Ƭ�� on the entire Southwest Missouri region, particularly regarding crucial workforce needs in several local communities. Knowing these exact needs, Tim shares, “Crowder’s presence in the region has been vital in developing a skilled workforce and fostering partnerships that benefit local businesses and healthcare providers. It has helped create a pipeline of motivated, capable individuals who are invested in staying and contributing to our communities.”

Mitchell’s Drug Stores shares similar values with Crowder, especially when it comes to servant leadership. Tim’s business works with the Neosho High School NewCaps Program, provides vaccines in community health fairs, and works with other area schools to facilitate pharmacy rotations, among many other community affairs. Tim tells us, “Crowder plays a vital role in the communities it serves by acting as both an educational institution and a community partner focused on growth and sustainability. It provides accessible, affordable education that allows 91��Ƭ��s to gain skills, certifications, and degrees without leaving the area—helping keep talent local and strengthening the workforce.”

91��Ƭ�� thanks Tim Mitchell and his family owned and operated business for strengthening the communities they serve each and every day.