Stephens College is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Brescia as interim Dean of the Conservatory for the Performing Arts. Brescia, a distinguished Broadway veteran and respected educator, has served as Associate Professor and Chair of Performance since 2022. She now succeeds Jennifer Hemphill in leading the Conservatory into its next chapter.
With a celebrated career on Broadway and a passion for arts education, Brescia brings a wealth of professional experience and a deep commitment to student success. Her impressive stage credits include starring roles in Dear Evan Hansen (Heidi), Mamma Mia! (Donna), Wicked (Elphaba), Aida (Amneris), The Times They Are A-Changin’ (Cleo), and The Woman in White (Marian Halcombe). She has also earned critical acclaim for regional theater roles in The Winter’s Tale, Hamlet, August: Osage County, and Cabaret.
“Lisa’s unique combination of Broadway experience, classical training, and academic excellence makes her the ideal leader for the Conservatory,” said Dr. Dianne Lynch, President of Stephens College. “Her impact on our students and programs has already been profound, and we are excited for her vision and leadership to shape the future of performing arts at Stephens.”
Brescia began her training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she was selected for the prestigious third-year company. She went on to earn a B.A. in Theatre Arts from Empire State College and completed her M.F.A. in Classical Acting with honors from the Academy for Classical Acting at George Washington University. Her blend of hands-on industry knowledge and advanced academic credentials makes her both a mentor and inspiration to aspiring performers.
Since joining Stephens in 2022, Brescia has played a key role in enhancing the Conservatory’s performance programs, nurturing artistic excellence, and fostering a collaborative, supportive learning environment. Her leadership has earned praise across campus, with students and colleagues alike lauding her dedication and vision.
“I’m deeply honored to step into this role,” said Brescia. “The Conservatory at Stephens College has a long-standing reputation for preparing passionate, driven artists for meaningful careers. I look forward to building on that legacy and empowering our students to grow, take creative risks, and make their mark on the world.”
Known for its rigorous training and innovative programs, the Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College equips students to thrive in theater, film, and beyond. Under Brescia’s leadership, the Conservatory is poised to expand its reach and continue producing graduates who are bold, skilled, and industry ready. Students benefit from working closely with seasoned faculty and guest artists—including world-renowned composer and lyricist Craig Carnelia—who bring real-world experience into the classroom.
With small class sizes, individualized mentorship, and a curriculum designed to reflect the demands of the professional world, the Conservatory offers a transformative educational experience grounded in creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
For more information about the Conservatory for the Performing Arts, visit Stephens.edu.
Students earn top honors and scholarships, including $10,000 international study award
Stephens College senior fashion design students showcased their talent and creativity at the Fashion Group International (FGI) Dallas Scholarship Competition on last week, earning top honors and significant scholarship awards.
Julia League earned 2nd place in the highly competitive Denim category, receiving a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of her exceptional design work.
In a surprising and exciting turn of events, Hannah Kleman was awarded 1st place in the Cocktail category, winning a $1,500 scholarship. Neither Kleman nor her faculty sponsor, Dr. Monica McMurry, had received prior notification of her finalist status, making the win a delightful surprise. Although she was not present at the event, her work stood out among the competition and was honored accordingly.
Claire Johnson received the prestigious Paris American Academy (PAA) Couture Award, given to the highest-scoring design across all apparel categories in the competition. This distinction comes with a $10,000 scholarship to support a study abroad experience at the Paris American Academy, one of the premier fashion institutions in Europe.
“Working with such talented and driven students to create senior collections from that first spark of an idea to realized garments has been a joy and testament to the years of training seen in these scholarship winners,” McMurry said.
“These results are a testament to the skill, creativity, and dedication of our students,” said Dr. Kristin Kite, Chair of Fashion Program at Stephens College. “We’re incredibly proud of Julia, Hannah, and Claire for representing Stephens College so well on a competitive national stage.”
The annual FGI Dallas Scholarship Competition is hosted by Fashion Group International, a worldwide membership organization of industry leaders in the fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and retail sectors, with global headquarters in New York. FGI’s mission is to provide a dynamic forum for discussion and connection across all sectors of the fashion industry.
Through programming focused on the industry’s most current and crucial topics, FGI champions emerging talent, highlights trends at the forefront of innovation, and opens doors to career advancement through a broad platform of resources and opportunities.
By supporting professional development and recognizing excellence, FGI helps unleash creativity, foster innovation, and drive the business of fashion forward.
Elizabeth Herrera, a United States Air Force Veteran and Executive Director of Mission Promise Kept at Stephens College, has been recognized as a 2025 Woman Veteran Trailblazer by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Women Veterans (CWV). As part of the national “Women Veterans Forging a Path” initiative, Herrera stands among just 28 honorees nationwide celebrated for their profound impact on Veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors.
“This is both an honor and a reminder that blazing trails often means walking through fire first,” said Herrera. “It’s about grit, healing, and turning pain into purpose.”
Beyond Herrera’s recognition, the CWV will also honor two remarkable women Veterans—Ms. Ivy Brooks and Ms. Lynda Van DeVanter—posthumously, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire future generations.
Leading the Way for Women Veterans
As the force behind Mission Promise Kept, the first residential program of its kind in the nation, Herrera is breaking new ground for women Veterans and their children. The program at Stephens College offers:
- Free on-campus housing
- Childcare services
- Mental health support
- Legal and healthcare navigation
- Academic advising
- A strong, supportive community
By providing these wraparound services, Mission Promise Kept empowers women Veterans to reclaim their futures, ensuring they are seen, supported, and equipped to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Trailblazers Making a Difference
Honorees like Herrera are vital partners in the CWV’s mission to connect women Veterans with the VA, their earned benefits, and a broader community through initiatives like #BringWomenVeteransHome2VA.
For more information on the Center for Women Veterans and the Trailblazer initiative, visit www.va.gov/womenvet.
Alumni Spotlight: Amanda Kujiraoka ’22
Amanda Kujiraoka ’22 has never been one to shy away from a challenge. Whether leading student organizations, conducting research, or fostering dozens of animals in need, she made the most of her time at Stephens College—an experience that continues to shape her promising veterinary career.
A driven leader and scholar, Amanda majored in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, balancing rigorous academics with an impressive slate of extracurriculars. She served as president of Tri-Beta, Sigma Eta Rho, and the Acute Math Club, while also tutoring math and science in the Student Success Center. Her passion for research led her to become a two-time Summer Research Scholar, an experience that helped her stand out in the competitive world of veterinary school applications. When it came time for graduation, Amanda’s impact on campus was clear—she was chosen as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2022.
Learning by Doing: Hands-On Veterinary Training at Stephens
Stephens offered Amanda something invaluable: real-world animal experience integrated into her coursework. Though she had no prior equine background, she jumped into hands-on learning at the College’s stables, mastering horse handling, equine medicine, and nutrition. Working closely with Equestrian Program Coordinator Sara Linde-Patel ’02, she built foundational skills that would later shape her veterinary career.
Her passion for animal care extended beyond campus. As a volunteer and foster caregiver for Second Chance animal rescue, Amanda provided medical care to animals in need—an experience that deepened her love for shelter medicine and even earned her a Stephens scholarship. Over the years, she fostered 65 animals, including a cat named Kawhi, whom she couldn’t resist adopting.
Taking the Next Step: Veterinary School and Forensic Science
Today, Amanda is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine candidate at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, where she continues her research and clinical training. Her interests extend beyond traditional veterinary medicine—she’s particularly drawn to lab animal medicine, regulatory work, and research, a passion that took root during her time as a Veterinary Research Scholar at MU.
Currently, she’s taking on an exciting new challenge: a prestigious externship with the ASPCA’s Forensic Sciences team in New York City. Working alongside veterinary forensic experts and the NYPD, she assists with animal cruelty investigations, gaining invaluable insight into the intersection of veterinary medicine and the justice system. From forensic pathology to diagnostics, the experience has given her a unique perspective on how veterinarians contribute to criminal cases.
After completing her ASPCA externship, Amanda will return to Columbia, Missouri, for her clinical rotations. She has also secured additional externships at Stanford Medical Center, City of Hope, and other institutions specializing in lab and exotic animal medicine, further expanding her expertise.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Veterinary Medicine
Reflecting on her journey, Amanda credits Stephens for preparing her for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“The hands-on experience at Stephens was built into the system. I left prepared to not only pursue veterinary school but to thrive and explore diverse fields within veterinary medicine.”
From the stables of Stephens to the forensic labs of Manhattan, Amanda Kujiraoka’s path is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. And with every step, she continues to prove that veterinary medicine is more than a career—it’s a calling.
For those who knew Margaret “Maggie” Ruth Cowgill, the barn was more than just a place to ride—it was a sanctuary, a space where challenges were met with determination and where the powerful bond between horse and rider was nurtured. Now, in a fitting tribute to her unwavering spirit, Stephens College has dedicated a plaque in her honor and established the Margaret Ruth Cowgill ’71 Endowed Scholarship, ensuring that her legacy of resilience and passion will continue to inspire generations of equestrians.
Born into a life of horses, Maggie carried the legacy of her mother, Annie Lawson Cowgill, a pioneering equestrian and the first female program chair of the Stephens College Stables. From the moment Maggie first sat in the saddle, her destiny was intertwined with the sport of equestrianism. But her journey was not without hardship. Stricken with polio as a child, she was told she would never walk again. Yet, in defiance of every medical prediction, she not only walked—she rode.
A Life Defined by Resilience and Passion
To Maggie, riding was more than a skill; it was her sanctuary. The horse became her partner in defying limitations, a symbol of strength that carried her through the toughest battles. After earning an associates degree from Stephens and a bachelors from the University of Missouri, Maggie started her career in teaching equitation at one of the premier show barns in the nation. For 45 years, she built a career as a beloved trainer and mentor, operating and owning her own training facility. She nurtured young riders, transformed difficult horses into champions, and became a highly respected judge, earning countless accolades in national competitions.
But Maggie’s true impact wasn’t measured in trophies. It was in the confidence she instilled in her students, in the way she could take an untrainable horse and turn it into a willing, eager partner.
Preserving a Legacy of Strength and Inspiration
Maggie passed away on April 8, 2008, in Kansas City, Mo., but her spirit remains woven into the fabric of the equestrian world she helped shape. To honor her memory, her classmates from the Stephens College class of 1971—Joyce Shepherd French, Judith Blackburn Vokac, Zola Ballauer Frank, and Linda Hummelstein Newport—have ensured that her passion and perseverance will continue to inspire generations to come.
The establishment of the Margaret Ruth Cowgill ’71 Endowed Scholarship will provide aspiring equestrians with opportunities to pursue their dreams, just as Maggie did. Furthermore, the historical stable structures at Stephens College will be preserved, ensuring that the barn—Maggie’s sanctuary—remains a place of learning, camaraderie, and growth for future riders.
“This is a powerful tribute to the deep love for Margaret and the stables,” said Sara Linde Patel ’02, Equestrian Studies Associate Professor and Program Coordinator. “Being an equestrian is more than just riding—it’s about resilience and the extraordinary bond between horse and rider. Maggie embodied that spirit.”
For those who knew Maggie, and for those who will come to know her through her legacy, she serves as a reminder that resilience is born in the face of adversity and that the bond between horse and rider is one of the most profound relationships a person can experience.
As her friend Zola Frank poignantly put it, “The ‘S’ in Stephens stands for Susie and Spirit.” And for those who continue to ride in Maggie’s memory, it also stands for strength—the kind that carries you through life’s toughest hurdles and leads you to triumph.
Stephens College has been awarded a $621,975 grant from the Missouri State Board of Nursing’s Nursing Education Incentive Program (NEIP), marking a significant milestone in the advancement of its nursing program. The funding will be used to develop a state-of-the-art nursing learning center featuring virtual reality technology, mid-fidelity manikins, and hospital-grade facilities, ensuring students are fully prepared for real-world healthcare settings.
This transformative investment will enhance Stephens College’s nursing facilities by converting space within the campus Visitors Center into a cutting-edge nursing lab with an emphasis on safe patient care. The newly designed nursing center will have dedicated space for hands-on nursing care, skill development and practice, modern educational tools, and the use of technology and resources to augment instruction.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, the grant supports faculty training in emerging healthcare technologies and expanding student recruitment efforts. These initiatives aim to attract prospective students, parents, and counselors by showcasing the advantages of beginning their nursing education at Stephens College.
Additionally, Stephens College is strengthening its partnership with Boone Health. The collaboration will provide new federal work-study opportunities for students and further integrate clinical training within the local healthcare system, offering invaluable hands-on experience.
Dr. Michael Barger, Dean of the Women’s College, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative. “The new Nursing Learning Center will enhance our capacity to offer the highest quality nursing education to Stephens’ students. We are very grateful to the State Board of Nursing for this award. Like all nursing programs throughout Missouri, we are committed to supporting healthcare by educating and training the next generation of nurses. Our nursing program boasts an outstanding group of nurse educators, an incredible partnership with Boone Health, and an ever-growing group of students dedicated to their profession. The new Nursing Center will be another impressive aspect of an already innovative and dynamic program.”
Dr. Noreen Houck, Nursing Program Chair, emphasized the impact of the new facility on student learning: “The new Nursing Center allows Stephens College to expand learning opportunities for our students. Students working with their faculty in the new Nursing Center will emphasize patient safety, comfort, and collaboration. The nursing center supports our partnership with Boone Health, where the focus is on the patient’s experience. The addition of an eight-module patient care center in the heart of campus, just blocks away from Boone Health, creates a foundation for the growth of the nursing program.”
The Missouri State Board of Nursing awarded a total of $5 million in competitive grants to 13 nursing programs across the state. This funding, recommended and approved by former Governor Mike Parson, aimed to address the nursing workforce shortage by increasing faculty salaries, developing future educators through scholarships and training programs, and investing in educational technology.
Lori Scheidt, Executive Director of the Missouri State Board of Nursing, highlighted the broader impact of these investments: “These financial investments are evidence of Missouri’s commitment to invest in the pipeline of future nurses. Education is the foundation for addressing the nursing workforce shortage. These funds allow nursing programs to increase that pipeline and leverage advanced technology.”
With this significant grant, Stephens College continues to advance its mission of preparing skilled, compassionate nurses ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. The new Nursing Center is set to become a cornerstone of innovation, ensuring students receive top-tier education and hands-on training before stepping into the field.
Dr. Shannon B. Lundeen has been named the 25th president of Stephens College, effective June 1, following an extensive nationwide search and approval by the Board of Trustees.
With nearly 20 years of experience in academic and administrative leadership, Lundeen is dedicated to enhancing access and opportunity in higher education.
“On behalf of the board, I am honored to welcome Dr. Shannon Lundeen as the next president of Stephens College,” said M. Anne Murphy, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her visionary leadership, deep commitment to our values, and extensive experience in advancing inclusive educational programs align perfectly with the mission of Stephens College. We are confident that under her leadership, Stephens College will continue to thrive and empower students for generations to come.”
Lundeen currently serves as the Vice President of Programs and Operations at HERS (Higher Education Resource Services), where she oversees program development, delivery, admissions and assessment, as well as organizational operations, including human resources, marketing, recruitment, and alumni engagement. Since joining HERS in May 2022, she has been instrumental in advancing initiatives that promote inclusive excellence and bold leadership in higher education.
Lundeen has held several key positions at renowned institutions, including Associate Director of the Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies Program and the Alice Paul Center at the University of Pennsylvania, where she developed curricula, organized events, and fostered interdisciplinary partnerships. She later became Director of the Flora Stone Mather Center for Women at Case Western Reserve University, where she led the center’s growth, fundraising, and gender equity initiatives. In 2015, Lundeen joined Elon University as the inaugural Director of Academic-Residential Partnerships, where she executed a vision for integrative learning that contributed to the university’s national recognition. She holds a PhD and MA in Philosophy from Stony Brook University and has made significant scholarly contributions ranging from feminist bioethics to inclusive education.
When asked what excites her about Stephens, Lundeen replied, “Stephens’ rich history of expanding access to education for diverse and historically underserved populations is deeply aligned with my passion for advancing equity in and through higher education. The opportunity to lead an innovative and values-driven community that champions women and provides all students with an inclusive, transformational education is an incredible honor. I am eager to join this dynamic, dedicated community and work alongside faculty, staff, students, alumni, community partners, and trustees to shape a bold and thriving future for Stephens College.”
Lundeen will succeed Dr. Dianne M. Lynch, who has served as president since 2009 and will retire at the end of the academic year. Lynch’s tenure includes securing a historic $2.5 million annual donation in perpetuity, doubling the college’s endowment. Under her guidance, the college also launched the School for Health Sciences, including a Master of Physician Assistant program, a Master in Fine Arts in TV + Screenwriting, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in partnership with Boone Hospital and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Behavior. Lynch also helped introduce a co-educational a Conservatory for the Performing Arts, launch an Animal Behavior program on the pet-friendliest campus in the country, and launch a new Workforce Development program offering training in high-demand fields with guaranteed apprenticeships.
“Stephens College has truly been my life’s work,” Lynch said. “It has been a privilege beyond measure to be a member of this extraordinary, mission-driven community for the last 16 years. I look forward to supporting Dr. Lundeen as she transitions into this role. I am excited for everyone who holds Stephens College dear, knowing they have a leader with her expertise and passion that will successfully guide the college into its next chapter.”
Stephens College will host a campus event in early March to welcome Lundeen with faculty, staff and students.
About Stephens College: Founded in 1833, Stephens College is the second-oldest women’s college in the United States, dedicated to providing innovative, experiential, and career-focused education across various disciplines. Located in Columbia, Missouri, Stephens College continues to be a leader in women’s education with some co-educational programs, including the Conservatory of Performing Arts and graduate programs, where students are empowered to learn, grow, and lead.
Dr. Merrill Sapp, a Physician Assistant Professor at Stephens College, is bringing the world of elephants to life through her newly released book, Knowing Wonder: An Elephant Story.
A blend of fiction and nonfiction, the book explores the lives of elephants within the context of real behaviors, scientific insights, and environmental challenges.
As part of her book’s launch, Dr. Sapp hosted a “Conversation with the Author” event at Skylark Books in Columbia, Missouri, offering readers a chance to engage with her work and the stories behind it.
Sapp, a cognitive psychologist, professor, and advocate for elephant conservation, has dedicated her career to understanding and protecting these magnificent creatures.
Knowing Wonder invites readers to view elephants not just as animals, but as individuals with unique experiences, emotions, and social dynamics. “Clearly, every elephant has a story to which we must pay close attention,” she said.
Her motivation for writing the book is deeply personal and urgent. “African elephants may go extinct in the wild within a couple of decades—mostly because of what people from outside of Africa have done and are continuing to do,” Sapp explained.
“I can’t live with that knowledge and not do everything I can to raise awareness and inspire action. The main goal of the book is to close the distance people feel from animals and humans in faraway places to help readers feel more connected to the unfamiliar.”
A passionate student of nature, Dr. Sapp has traveled the world to study and work in the service of elephants. Her expertise in cognitive psychology allows her to explore how elephants perceive their world, how they respond to their environment, and how their environment, in turn, shapes them. Her writing has been featured in About Place Journal, Ecological Citizen, Earth Island Journal, and Mongabay News, showcasing her commitment to conservation and scientific storytelling.
For those eager to learn more, Knowing Wonder: An Elephant Story is now available for purchase. The book is available locally at Skylark Books in Columbia, or on Amazon.
Stephens College’s student-run literary magazine, Harbinger 2024, has been awarded second place in the Outstanding Literary Arts Journal Award by the Sigma Tau Delta Communications Committee. This national recognition comes with a $400 prize and acknowledges the exceptional work of the students who contributed to, edited, and designed the publication.
The competition was particularly fierce this year, with many impressive entries from colleges and universities across the country. Despite the tough competition, Harbinger stood out for its high literary standards, creative excellence, and dedication to the arts. The magazine features student-written and -edited works, including short fiction, poetry, nonfiction, one-act plays, and interviews with artists. In addition to its literary content, the perfect-bound publication showcases student-designed layouts, full-color art features, and original illustrations.
A flagship publication of Stephens College, Harbinger serves as a launchpad for emerging writers and artists, providing them with a platform to share their voices. Every submission undergoes a rigorous selection process, ensuring that only pieces with vivid detail, sharp language, and innovative themes are published. The magazine’s mission is to capture the common human experience while also pushing creative boundaries.
Adding to this success, three Harbinger contributors—Jubilee Forbess, Jordan Davis, and Genavieve Hudson—have been selected to present their creative work at the national Sigma Tau Delta conference, taking place March 19-22 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
This achievement highlights the remarkable talent and dedication of Stephens College students, reinforcing Harbinger‘s reputation as one of the top college literary magazines in the country.
Stephens College is proud to announce Dr. Craig McCoy, an esteemed Osteopathic Physician at Moberly Regional Medical Center, as the recipient of the 2024 Physician Assistant (PA) Preceptor of the Year Award. This honor recognizes his exceptional dedication, mentorship, and commitment to the education and success of Stephens College PA students.
A Passion for Mentorship
Dr. McCoy, who has been in practice since 1996, became a preceptor with a clear mission: to help train the next generation of medical professionals. Reflecting on his decision, he shared, “My wife asked me, ‘Who’s going to care for our kids?’ Knowing about the current shortages in the medical field and the need for well-trained physician assistants, it just seemed like a perfect fit.”
His passion for women’s health, obstetrics, and gynecologic care has made him an invaluable instructor, ensuring students graduate with hands-on experience and confidence in treating a wide range of conditions. “My hope is that all students who come through the Stephens PA program leave with a deep knowledge of women’s health and the ability to provide compassionate, expert care,” he said.
A Legacy of Excellence
Dr. McCoy’s connection to Stephens College is also a personal one—his daughter, Shelby Baxley, graduated from the Equine Studies program in 2015 and now serves as an assistant professor and barn foreman for the program. Inspired by this family connection, Dr. McCoy saw the opportunity to give back to the college through mentorship.
Throughout his time as a preceptor, he has provided unparalleled clinical instruction, fostering a supportive, yet challenging learning environment. His approach goes beyond technical training—he instills professionalism, empathy, and a deep commitment to ethical, patient-centered care.
A Leader in Medicine and Education
Dr. McCoy’s distinguished career includes:
- Board Certifications in OB/GYN (since 1998) and Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (since 2014)
- Specialization in bladder control issues, pelvic prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and minimally invasive surgery
- Consulting and training roles for leading medical companies, including Bovie Medical Corporation, Boston Scientific, and Intuitive Surgical
- Active involvement in research and medical device development
- Adjunct Assistant Professor at Stephens College, the University of Missouri, and A.T. Still University
Shaping the Future of Healthcare
The Stephens College PA program, which began in 2016, has successfully graduated over 180 PAs who now serve communities across Missouri and beyond. The program boasts a 96% five-year first-time PANCE pass rate, a testament to its rigorous training and strong network of dedicated preceptors like Dr. McCoy.
PA Program Director Dr. Megan Blakemore emphasized the significance of his mentorship, stating, “Dr. McCoy is an invaluable asset to our program. His unwavering commitment to our students is truly remarkable. While this award is just a small token of our appreciation, we hope he knows the profound impact he has made on our students and the future of healthcare.”
A Well-Deserved Honor
The Stephens College PA program relies on passionate, experienced mentors to provide students with the clinical expertise and confidence needed to succeed. Dr. McCoy’s leadership, dedication, and mentorship have set a standard of excellence, preparing students to deliver high-quality, compassionate care.
Stephens College proudly recognizes Dr. Craig McCoy as the 2024 Preceptor of the Year, celebrating his lasting contributions to the program, the profession, and the future of healthcare.
Stephens College Athletics is excited to announce the appointment of Don Trentham as the new head coach of the Stars women’s soccer program. With more than 20 years of coaching experience at multiple levels—including NAIA, NCAA Division I and II, and professional soccer—Trentham brings a proven track record of success to the program.
A Homecoming for Trentham
“I am honored to be named the new head coach of the Stephens College women’s soccer program,” said Trentham. “I want to thank Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Melinda Wrye-Washington and Assistant Director of Athletics Betty Villalobos for this exciting opportunity.”
A Missouri native, Trentham expressed his enthusiasm about staying in Columbia, calling it “one of the great college towns in the country.” He and his family are eager to join the Stephens College community, and he looks forward to leading the team both on and off the field.
A Career Built on Success
Trentham’s coaching career spans NAIA, NCAA, and professional soccer, with numerous championships and accolades along the way:
- NAIA Championships – As both a player and coach, Trentham has been part of five NAIA championship-winning teams. Most recently, he helped Columbia College claim the AMC Regular Season and Tournament titles, along with a Final Four appearance in 2024.
- Montana State University Billings (2002-2010) – As head coach, Trentham led the team to its first-ever NCAA Division II Tournament appearance, compiling an 85-75-10 record. He remains the program’s winningest coach and was inducted into the Yellowjacket Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.
- NCAA Division I Coaching – Over 13 years, Trentham served as an assistant and associate head coach at Kansas State, Missouri, Colorado, and Wyoming. His teams earned three NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run with Colorado in 2013.
- Professional Coaching in Austria – In 2024, he led FC Pinzgau in Austria’s Frauen Bundesliga II to a second-place finish, with an impressive 11-1-1 record.
Developing Top Talent
Trentham has played a key role in shaping elite athletes, including:
- 4 full national team players
- 14 professional players
- 8 youth national team participants
- 4 NWSL draft picks
- 12 All-Americans and 7 Academic All-Americans
A Leader in Soccer Education
A graduate of Columbia College (1999) with a degree in education, Trentham later earned a Master’s in Education from East Stroudsburg University (2007). His coaching credentials include:
- USSF “A” License
- USSF National Goalkeeping License
- United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma & Performance Analysis Diploma
A Bright Future for Stars Soccer
Trentham and his wife, Jenn, live in Columbia with their two children, Landon and Adelyn.
“We are excited to welcome Coach Trentham to the Stephens College Athletics family,” said Melinda Wrye-Washington. “His extensive experience and deep ties to Columbia make him the perfect fit to lead our program. We are confident his leadership will elevate our soccer program to new heights.”
Stephens College is proud to announce that its Women in Trades Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program has been awarded a $300,000 grant through the Highway Construction Training Program (HCTP).
This significant funding, provided by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and administered through the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), will strengthen the program’s mission to empower women with the skills and opportunities needed for successful careers in the construction industry, particularly in highway construction and related fields.
“We are honored to receive this $300,000 grant from the Highway Construction Training Program,” said Dr. R. Scott Taylor, Founding Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Studies. “This funding will help us expand training opportunities, enhance our curriculum, and ensure that more women can access rewarding careers in highway construction, an industry vital to our state’s infrastructure.”
About the Women in Trades Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Stephens College’s Women in Trades program provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Participants acquire essential skills in carpentry, tool usage, safety protocols, and construction mathematics while earning industry-recognized certifications, including OSHA 10. The program emphasizes career readiness by connecting participants with local employers, union training centers, and industry mentors.
How the $300,000 HCTP Grant Will Be Used
This substantial grant will enable Stephens College to:
- Expand Program Reach: Increase enrollment, particularly for women from underserved communities.
- Enhance Training Opportunities: Provide advanced hands-on fieldwork experiences focused on highway construction projects.
- Strengthen Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with unions, contractors, and local employers to create seamless pathways to apprenticeships and jobs.
- Support Career Placement: Offer additional job placement assistance and long-term support for program graduates.
- Procure Updated Equipment and Resources: Ensure participants have access to modern tools and materials for training.
A Commitment to Workforce Development and Diversity
The Highway Construction Training Program grant represents an investment in both workforce development and diversity. By equipping women with the skills to excel in highway construction, Stephens College is addressing critical labor shortages while fostering greater inclusivity in the trades.
“This grant will help us open doors for more women to enter the construction industry, where they can build stable, high-paying careers,” added Dr. Dianne Lynch, President of Stephens College. “We’re excited to see the impact this funding will have on both our participants and the broader community.”
