NW Missouri Times

With the countdown to Northwest Missouri State University's annual event underway, numerous gift-matching opportunities are available for donors interested in supporting meaningful programs. One notable initiative is the Joe and Kelly Quinlin Scholarship Challenge, announced by Dr. Terry Long, the director at Northwest, and his wife, Anne. This challenge aims to recognize the enduring contributions of the Quinlins to the university.

To achieve this, the Longs propose that if 58 donors contribute to the Joe and Kelly Quinlin Scholarship Fund—reflecting the 58 points scored by the Bearcat football team during their 1999 NCAA Division II national championship—the Longs will make a special donation. The objective is to establish an endowed scholarship to be granted annually to a student at the School of Health Science and Wellness. Preference will be given to students pursuing careers in athletic training or strength and conditioning.

“Joe and Kelly are as much a part of the academic family as they are the athletics family,” Dr. Terry Long stated. He praised their careers on the field and their lasting impact in the classroom, noting their mentorship roles to student interns. “Creating this scholarship is the perfect way to honor their dedication to lifelong student growth and success.”

Joe Quinlin, the head strength and conditioning coach at Northwest since 2008, has a rich history with the institution. He was part of the Bearcats’ 1998 and 1999 championship teams and completed his studies in corporate recreation and therapeutic wellness at Northwest in 2000.

Kelly Archer Quinlin, with a bachelor's degree in biology and psychology from Northwest and a master's in athletic training from West Virginia University, launched her career with Northwest's athletic training staff in 2003. She later opened her own clinic, KQ Rehab + Performance, in Maryville.

The Quinlins have contributed as adjunct instructors at Northwest, with Kelly teaching care and prevention of athletic injuries and Joe covering strength and conditioning theories.

Mel Tjeerdsma, former head coach of the Bearcat football program, recognized the Quinlins' contribution, stating, “To both of them, it’s not a job, it’s a passion.” He emphasized their influence on student-athletes and their relationships with Bearcat coaches.

Kelly, reflecting on her journey, credited D.C. Colt, Northwest’s head athletic trainer during her formative years, for the opportunities that shaped her. “If I wasn’t given the opportunities that D.C. gave me, I would not be who I am today,” she said.

Joe, with roots in Ankeny, Iowa, grew through his involvement with the football team and found passion and release in lifting. “Lifting was always kind of my release,” he said.

The Quinlins, known for setting high expectations and supporting growth, find joy in seeing former students succeed beyond Northwest. Through the scholarship challenge, alumni and friends can honor the Quinlins' legacy and aid students pursuing similar career paths.

“It’s an opportunity to make a difference, and that’s what we’re about,” Kelly remarked.

The Bearcat Day of Green invites participation from individuals and organizations from April 2 at 9 a.m. to April 3 at 4:45 p.m.