Alumni Newsletter - 02/10/2026
February 10th, 2026
Campus Updates!
Athletics Welcomes New Coaching Leadership
Missouri Valley College Athletics continues to strengthen its programs with the addition of several new coaches across Viking sports. These hires bring fresh energy, experience, and a strong commitment to student-athlete success, both on and off the field. As our teams prepare for upcoming seasons, we look forward to the leadership and impact these coaches will have on our student-athletes and athletic programs.
Caroline Matz
Men's & Women's Tennis Head Coach
Dillon Humphreys
Women's Flag Football Coach
Leonardo Bilitardo
Men's Volleyball Head Coach
Melvin Johnson
Football - Running Backs
Kevin Griffin
Football - Defensive Line, Defensive Coordinator
Barrett Mathews
Football - Tight Ends
Leadership Updates in Admissions and Financial Aid
Missouri Valley College recently announced key leadership updates within the Admissions and Financial Aid Office, recognizing both internal growth and a valued alumnus taking the next step in his career.
MVC is proud to promote Linze Hawkins and Jessica Clevenger, two longtime employees whose experience and dedication continue to strengthen student support services. Hawkins, an MVC alumna with a master’s degree in Education Administration, has served the College since 2015 in roles spanning Financial Aid, Admissions, coaching, and teaching. She has been promoted to Assistant Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, where she will focus on student and parent education regarding financial aid, oversee online and graduate admissions, and assist with daily operations of the admissions office.
Clevenger, who has been with Missouri Valley College since 2018, has been promoted to Associate Director of Financial Aid. In her role, she plays a critical part in helping students and families navigate federal aid and the FAFSA process. Both Hawkins and Clevenger expressed excitement about working even more closely together as they continue serving MVC students.
At the same time, the College will launch a national search for a new Director of Admissions and Financial Aid following the departure of Derek Bohnsack ’15, who has accepted the position of Activities Director at Marshall High School beginning July 1. During his tenure, Bohnsack led record-breaking enrollment growth at MVC, including a recent spring enrollment of nearly 1,400 students. A proud alumnus, Bohnsack will remain on campus through mid-June as the College prepares for the transition.
These changes reflect Missouri Valley College’s ongoing commitment to strong leadership, student success, and continuity as the institution moves forward with its new strategic plan this fall.
More Than Memories, A Legacy
Lexi Fenstermacher
Being a legacy student is about far more than simply having parents who attend Missouri Valley College. As I grew up, I listened to stories of their struggles and successes, the friendships they formed and still cherish to this day, the late nights, road trips, and experiences that helped shape who they are today. From them, I learned the importance of faith, family, meaningful relationships, personal responsibility, and hard work. Their experiences taught me that the true value of MVC lies in the community you build and the impact you make within it. I was always told that it’s not about where you go but it’s about the people you go with. I am grateful for both their time at MVC and now my own.
When it came to choosing a college, MVC stood out not only because of my family’s connection, but because it felt like a place where I could grow academically, personally, and spiritually. I was also drawn to the opportunity to play basketball at MVC, where I could continue competing in a sport I love while being part of a team that emphasizes discipline, commitment, and accountability. The close-knit campus and strong athletic culture made MVC feel like a place where I would be challenged, supported, and known.
Legacy, to me, is not a privilege to be assumed but an opportunity to create my own place and contribute in a meaningful way. It allows me to carry forward the connection my parents have while building my own path through both academics and athletics.
I am thankful for my parents’ guidance as they encourage me to use my time here as a foundation for lifelong learning, humility, perseverance, and gratitude. I hope to honor their experiences at MVC while adding my own perspective, voice, and contributions on and off the court.
Blast From the Past!
Recap!
QDOBA Ribbon Cutting
Missouri Valley College recently celebrated the grand opening of QDOBA on campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking an exciting addition to dining options for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The event brought together campus leadership, community partners, and members of the MVC family to officially welcome QDOBA to campus. This new space offers fresh, customizable menu options and provides a convenient gathering place that enhances the overall campus experience. The opening of QDOBA reflects MVC’s continued commitment to student life, campus growth, and partnerships that enrich our community.
💜🏀Winter Sports Social 🏀💜
Missouri Valley College welcomed 75 guests to this year’s Winter Sports Social, marking the largest turnout the event has seen in years. Alumni, supporters, and friends of the College gathered to cheer on our Viking Men's and Women's Basketball teams, reconnect with one another, and enjoy an evening of camaraderie and school spirit. The strong attendance reflects the continued enthusiasm and support for MVC and highlights the growing momentum behind alumni engagement events. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the Winter Sports Social such a memorable and successful evening.
Upcoming Events!
Stay in the Loop with Viking Athletics
Want to keep up with the latest news from Missouri Valley College Athletics? From game recaps and postseason highlights to athlete achievements and program updates, our Athletics News page is your go-to source for all things Viking sports. Stay connected, celebrate our teams, and follow the momentum throughout the season by visiting valleywillroll.com/landing/headlines-featured.
Greek Life Update
Spring of 2026: Return of the Greeks
Spring 2026 at Missouri Valley College will go down as one of the most pivotal moments for Greek Life on our campus. We are seeing a large influx of student interest following the return of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. At the time of writing this newsletter, Alpha Sigma Alpha has welcomed 24 new members and plans to continue growing.
Theta Phi Alpha is looking to build on its growth from last fall while continuing to make positive impacts across campus and in the community alongside our other Greek organizations. Their recruitment week will take place February 16–20 and will include tabling and a variety of fun events throughout the week.
Tau Kappa Epsilon is also expected to see an increase in membership, momentum that is anticipated to carry into the fall as significant progress is being made on remodeling their chapter room to create a space members can truly enjoy.
Alpha Sigma Phi will be conducting its recruitment week alongside Tau Kappa Epsilon and Sigma Nu. Sigma Nu Headquarters has granted MVC alumni permission to assist with recruitment efforts to help build interest that could eventually lead to the formation of a colony.
Many exciting developments are taking place within Greek Life at Missouri Valley College, and Spring 2026 is shaping up to be a semester to remember for the Greek community.
Why Missouri Valley College?
Chase Zollmann
Coming to Missouri Valley College felt like a leap of faith at first, but it quickly became one of the best decisions of my life. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed, not just as a student or an athlete, but as part of a community that genuinely cared. During my visit, I was able to meet with my coaches, admissions staff, and the president.
After committing to Missouri Valley College for wrestling, I truly felt at home once I arrived. The team was very close, and the coaches were incredibly supportive. What truly made me fall in love with Missouri Valley College was the people. The relationships I built here shaped who I am today. My teammates became family, my coaches became mentors, and the faculty believed in me both on and off the mat. I tell people all the time that coming to Missouri Valley was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The support I received gave me confidence during the toughest practices, the hardest losses, and the most challenging moments of growth.
I was beyond excited when I won my national title, not only for myself, but for my family. Not just my family at home, but the family I had made since coming to Missouri Valley. I looked to my corner, where my coaches stood, and then to the stands, where my entire team was cheering me on, and an overwhelming sense of pride hit me. I was home.
After graduating, staying to work at Missouri Valley College felt like a natural next step. I wanted to give back to the place that gave me so much and continue being part of the culture that helped shape my success. Working at the college allowed me to pursue my ultimate goal while contributing to the program and community I love. My success in wrestling is deeply tied to this college, and it stands as a reflection of what is possible when you are surrounded by people who believe in you.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here!
Career Opportunities at MVC!
Missouri Valley College continues to grow, and a variety of job openings are now available for those seeking to join our campus community. Whether you’re interested in academic roles, student-focused positions, or administrative and support opportunities, MVC offers a collaborative environment where you can make an impact while advancing your career.
We encourage alumni to explore these opportunities and consider sharing them with friends and colleagues who might be a great fit for life at the Valley. Your experience and connection to MVC make you uniquely positioned to help shape the next generation of leaders.
To view current openings and learn more about building a career with Missouri Valley College, visit
Your Education Journey is Never Over!
Take the Next Step with a Master’s Degree at MVC
Missouri Valley College continues its commitment to lifelong learning through its growing selection of master’s degree programs designed for today’s professionals. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current career, pivot into a new field, or strengthen your leadership skills, MVC’s graduate programs offer the flexibility, personalized attention, and academic excellence you expect from your alma mater.
As an MVC alumnus, you already know the value of a Valley education. Now is the perfect time to come back and take that next step—build on your bachelor’s degree, reconnect with campus, and invest in your future. Explore MVC’s master’s programs and see how you can elevate your education to the next level.
Give to MVC
Your Support Matters
For more than 125 years, Missouri Valley College has thrived thanks to the generosity of alumni, families, and friends whose gifts help sustain our tradition of excellence. Your support, no matter the amount, directly impacts students, academic programs, campus improvements, scholarships, and student success initiatives—ensuring MVC remains a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
There are many ways to give: make a one-time or recurring gift, support the Valley Fund, contribute to scholarships, athletics, endowment, or campus enhancements, or explore planned giving options that leave a lasting legacy. You can even purchase a personalized brick on the Legacy Walkway to honor a loved one and make your mark for generations to come.
To learn more and make a secure gift online, visit our website or contact Dallas Hopping
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