On May 13 and 14, the Graceland University F.M. Smith Library went to the dogs! As part of the library’s efforts to help students survive finals week, Library Director Alisha Linam invited three therapy dogs and their trainers to visit.
Labrador retrievers Annie, Splash and Trice provided therapy to Graceland students through play, comforting nuzzles and cuddling on the floor. Graceland students quickly came to the consensus that the library needs to employ full time therapy dogs.
Annie, Splash and Trice were accompanied by their handlers Beth Harmon, Lynn Carico and Erin Jansen. The dogs and their handlers are registered with Therapy Dogs International (TDI), a well-established nonprofit organization dedicated to the regulating, testing and registering of therapy dogs. TDI relies on volunteer dogs and handlers to provide comfort and companionship by visiting hospitals, nursing homes, schools, libraries and many other types of facilities.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
September 2, 2026
Graceland University mourns the passing of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who died Sept. 1, 2026. An alumna, longtime faculty member and university leader, O’Daniels dedicated nearly 40 years to serving Graceland and its students.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 20, 2026
Michelle Fillinger ’97 Schamp has been named Associate Dean and Executive Director of Residence Life. In this role, she will provide leadership for the university’s residence life program while fostering a residential experience that supports student learning, leadership, and community.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 6, 2026
Graceland University has named Dr. LaVerne Manos as the new Dean of the School of Nursing effective July 31.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for Graceland University men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
Graceland University and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 13, 2026
Graceland University is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
