The family’s journey began with Linda Elsner, who attended CWU for one year from 1961-1962. The tradition was solidified in 1986, when Sharryn Walker became the first in the family to graduate. The family’s legacy has since spanned generations, with each member leaving their unique mark on the university.
Sharryn, now a respected professor of literacy at Central, sums up how deep her family’s CWU roots are when she introduces herself to at the beginning of each quarter.
“I am the second oldest of eight, and five of us are Central grads who married Central grads,” she shares. “My husband is the second of six. Three of his siblings attended CWU and one married a CWU grad. Between my husband (Bruce) and I, there are 20 within my family.”
Over the years, the family has collectively supported and contributed to the university in many ways, with their ties to CWU Athletics being particularly strong.
Bruce Walker played football at Central and later joined the coaching staff. His dedication to the sport and the university was recognized with his induction into the CWU Athletic Hall of Fame and through his active role with the Wildcat Athletics Association Board.
“Bruce hosts an alumni football player get-together for his teammates every year in July. He also organizes a former teammate tailgate spot for homecoming weekend,” Sharryn adds, underscoring her husband’s commitment to maintaining these cherished connections.
Mark Bannish, Bruce’s brother-in-law, played football for four years and earned a place in the Athletic Hall of Fame as well. His wife, Shelley Bannish, contributed to campus life as a cheerleader and a member of student government.
Kirk Elsner, brother-in-law to Bruce and Mark, was recruited to play football and achieved All-American status. His daughter, Kennedy, graduated from Central last spring, along with her cousin, Alli Roe. Kennedy Elsner is now continuing the Central legacy and working for the alumni association, while Alli has also worked several events for the association.
“Working for the alumni association and being able to meet the Wildcat community has been one of my favorite memories made at Central,” Kennedy said.
Despite the many different experiences all 20 family members have had at CWU over the years, one thing remains the same: memories made at Rossow’s and Campus U Totem, The Palace, and, most beloved of all, The Tav. These places are more than just hangouts for them; they are the backdrop to countless memories that have transcended generations.
While the family has created countless lasting memories of their own, they also enjoy giving back to the university to ensure future generations of Wildcats can thrive and make memories of their own.
For this family, CWU is not just an alma mater; it is a cornerstone of their history and a vivid reminder of the profound impact a single institution can have on multiple generations.