S P R I N G 2 0 2 1 | I T ’ S T I M E T O C E L E B R AT E !
ANDERSON UNIVERSITY
2021 SPRING MAGAZINE It’s Time to Celebrate!
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AU's unprecedented success is extending beyond the classroom
8
enrollment success during a pandemic
10
Miller family continues lifetime commitment to AU advancement
14
successfully addressing the leadership gap with a new Ph.D. in Leadership
AU Book Corner 16 18
The AU Diary 22
AU professors co-author The Bible Toolbox Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship helps AU’s campus look more like God’s kingdom
Center for Cybersecurity exceeds expectations in more ways than one
26
engineering success: the birth of a new college
AU Update 32 Athletic News 36
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it is a true blessing to attend AU
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Alumni Spotlight 30
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18
professional excellence is intertwined with a call to serve and love others
26
seven more reasons to celebrate Trojans in motion
Visit AndersonUniversity.edu/magazine
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ADMINISTRATION
EDITORIAL STAFF
Dr. Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D. President & Professor of Management
Andrew J. Beckner, BS Executive Editor
Jonathan Todd, MFA Editor-in-Chief
J. Wayne Landrith, M.Ed Senior Vice President for Development & Presidential Affairs
Caroline Cothran, BA Managing Editor
Ed Welch, MMC Writer
Omar Rashed, MA Senior Vice President for Administration & Brand
Shelli H. Rutland, BA Production Director
Bates Whitaker Writer
James Duguid, BS Associate Vice President for Marketing & Communication
Beth Friend, BA Associate Editor
Eric B. Whitlock, MA Creative Director
Photographers Calvin Bowman, BSB (Staff) Erin Drago Photography Jamal Sessions Jason Jones Photography Dawson Powers Richard Shiro Stacey Wylie
Anderson University Magazine is a publication of the Marketing and Communication Department of Anderson University for alumni and friends.
Anderson University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or religion in its programs and activities. Please direct inquiries to Dr. L. Dianne King, Associate Vice President for Student Development/Dean of Student Success/Title IX Coordinator, Thrift Library Office 203, 316 Boulevard, Anderson, SC, 29621, (864) 231-2026, ldking@andersonuniversity.edu or to the Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-421-3481 or ocr@ed.gov.
Follow our Journey! Follow our official social media channels for a glimpse into life at Anderson University. From student events and alumni profiles to campus enhancements, athletic success, and other university news, you will get a clearer picture of what it means to be #TruetoAU.
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It’s time to
Celebrate!
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university happenings...
S P R I N G 2 0 2 1 | I T ’ S T I M E T O C E L E B R AT E !
COVER STORY Freshman student Destiny R. Donald proudly wearing an AU face covering made by a dear friend.
It’s Time to Celebrate! If all goes well, by the time you’re reading this issue of AU Magazine, you would have celebrated the holidays, be headed towards spring, and hearing better COVID-19 news. From our end, we’re celebrating the completion of a historic semester at Anderson University. While many college students were required to learn from home through video-conferencing applications, by God’s grace, fall 2020 students at AU completed the semester on campus with physical distancing and mask-use precautions.
• Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie, the MIT-and University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology-trained engineer who founded biomedical engineering firms, has been named the founding dean of AU’s College of Engineering and our vice president for industry relations. Before AU, he has served as the founding associate dean of Engineering Innovation of the Engineering Medicine program at Texas A&M University and as the head of that university’s biomedical engineering department.
And while that news alone is worth 1,000 “Hallelujahs!”, we are pleased to report many more reasons in this edition of AU Magazine:
• In our Alumni Spotlight, Associate VP for Alumni and Parent Engagement Jason Rutland shares how three alumni from around the world describe how AU prepared them for success in their fields of communication, investment banking and nursing.
• We’re enjoying the greatest period of success in our nearly 110-year history. U.S. News & World Report ranks AU #11 in its Best Undergraduate Teaching category among Southern regional universities, and that’s in addition to our other high marks from U.S. News & World Report and other ranking systems regarding our programs and distinctions. For instance, The Wall Street Journal ranked AU #26 among all American universities in its Best Student Engagement category.
With joy we share these exciting stories and thank you for your loyal interest and support of educating traditional, adult, online and graduate students at AU. • A record number of freshmen enrolled at AU despite the pandemic, and they say our hospitality, authenticity and Christian fervor is what drew them to choose AU over other universities. • Doctoral students jumped at the chance to pursue a new, online Ph.D. in Leadership at AU—a program that offers concentrations in business and ministry. • AU’s enrollment of 21 freshmen who are pursuing one of the University’s new cybersecurity programs exceeded the expectations of Dr. Kenneth Knapp, the founding director of our Center for Cybersecurity, and our new student cybersecurity team placed #74 among 1,000 competing schools in the world.
2 | GR EETIN GS
• In the AU Book Corner, read about The Bible Toolbox, a volume that College of Christian Studies and Clamp Divinity School professors Dr. Bryan Cribb and Dr. Channing Crisler co-wrote to give readers tools to interpret the Bible. • We celebrate longtime AU contributors Kip and Kim Miller for their investment into The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at Anderson University. The institute educates and provides networking, resources and research to help family businesses maximize their health and sustainability. • In this issue’s AU Diary, freshman Olivia Johnson, one of this year’s Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship recipients, writes about her joy of competing for a scholarship, finding out she received one, and getting to attend college in-person despite the pandemic. With joy we share these exciting stories and thank you for your loyal interest and support of educating traditional, adult, online and graduate students at AU. We are keeping you in our prayers in 2021. We are grateful for your continued prayers and gifts. Contributions by mail and online through andersonuniversity.edu/giving support the work at AU, which we can celebrate in future issues of AU Magazine. To reach out, send an email to Andrew Beckner, executive director of public relations at abeckner@andersonuniversity.edu. Warmly, - Anderson University Magazine
Photo: Michaela Beth Johnson
GREETI NGS | 3
AU isn’t just a great place to study—it’s a great place to work, too: how the university’s unprecedented success is extending beyond the classroom Maybe the spring of 2020 was the wrong time to send out a nationwide survey asking how people felt about their jobs.
Honor Roll
2020
faculty and staff engagement in good times and in bad.” Anderson University? It’s what Boyer calls a “truly great workplace.” That’s because, for the first time, AU was
Most of us would rather forget the pandemic-inspired
named a “Great College to Work For.” What’s more, it
uncertainty that gripped the country. COVID-19 created
was one of just 42 institutions around the country that
a shock to the global economic system, with colleges and
made the Honor Roll.
universities among the hardest hit—especially private, Christian schools. The result? Some reduced employee salaries. Others eliminated faculty and staff positions entirely. Then
“ Despite this challenging and uncertain
there were those that shut their doors for good.
season, Anderson University has remained
But Anderson University, and the men and women who
united in our purpose of providing a highly
work there, see things differently. And that brings us back to the survey.
selective, entrepreneurial, Christian liberal
ModernThink is a consulting firm that helps engagement and overall outcomes.” It operates a
arts education to our students. — Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D.
division—ModernThink Higher Education—whose sole
organizations improve “workplace quality, stakeholder
”
President & Professor of Management
focus is on colleges and universities. Each year, it partners with The Chronicle of Higher Education to survey the employees of hundreds of institutions as part of The Great Colleges to Work For program.
“Being recognized as a ‘Great College to Work For’ is truly a great achievement. We work hard to foster a culture
It is one of the largest and most respected workplace recognition
of trust built on transparency, employee feedback and
programs in the country. Now in its 13th year, it recognizes
thoughtful planning. I credit our Human Resources team
the colleges and universities that get top ratings from their
who developed strategies to enhance employee engagement,
employees regarding workplace practices and policies.
satisfaction and build on our strong Christian community. The Board of Trust challenged leadership to take careful
“At the outset and in the midst of a worldwide pandemic,
measures to preserve every position. What is most remarkable—
221 colleges and universities across the country intentionally
this survey was completed by our employees two months
chose to participate in the 2020 Great Colleges to Work
into the pandemic! Despite the uncertainty surrounding
For program,” said Richard K. Boyer, senior consultant
us, the AU family fully embraced the challenges we faced
at ModernThink. “Truly great workplaces, and those on
with perseverance and a commitment to thriving in spite
the journey to become one, stand by their commitment to
of them," Rashed said. (Continued on page 6)
4 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL EBRAT E !
Photo: Jessica Jacobs
Diane Sutherland
IT IT’ ’SS TIME TIME TO TO CELEBR CELEBRATE ATE! ! | | 5
The results of the survey bear him out. ModernThink
culture and workplace quality,” he said. “In the face of
ranked AU as “Very Good to Excellent” in nine of 16
unprecedented uncertainty, their commitment to faculty/
categories, including job satisfaction, collaboration and
staff engagement never wavered…(and) proves that it
school pride. In each of the remaining seven categories,
is possible to be a great workplace even in the face of
ModernThink ranked Anderson University as “Good.”
disruption, uncertainty and limited resources.”
“
Being recognized as a ‘Great College to Work For’ is truly a great achievement. We work hard to foster a culture of trust built on transparency, employee feedback and thoughtful planning. I credit our Human Resources team who developed strategies to enhance employee engagement, satisfaction and build on our strong Christian community. The Board of Trust challenged leadership to take careful measures to preserve every position. What is most remarkable—this survey was completed by our employees two months into the pandemic! Despite the uncertainty surrounding us, the AU family fully embraced the challenges we faced with perseverance and a commitment to thriving in spite of them.
— Omar Rashed
”
With its “Stronger Together” approach to an academic year like no other, Anderson University weathered the storm. Despite the pandemic, not one faculty or staff member lost their job. No one saw their wages reduced. No academic programs were cut. Construction continued. Indeed, Anderson University is flourishing. When the final history of AU is written in some distant future, COVID-19 will be a minor footnote in the chapter about 2020. Instead, the story will be about the unprecedented success the University enjoyed. At no time in its 110-year history has AU risen to these heights. In addition to being named to the “Great Colleges to Work For” Honor Roll, AU saw its greatest enrollment—more than 3,800 students. And ModernThink isn’t the only reputable and respected organization to recognize AU’s success. In its latest “Best Colleges” rankings, U.S. News & World Report placed Anderson University in a record six categories, receiving the highest marks in University history.
Senior Vice President of Administration & Brand AU ranks #42 among regional universities in the South, rising eight spots from the year before. In addition, the “This year’s list of recognized institutions in the Great
University was named to the publication’s “Best Under-
Colleges to Work For program was united in their
graduate Teaching” (#11), “Most Innovative” (#16), “Best
commitment to organization culture, even in the face of
Value” (#26) and “Top Performer: Social Mobility”
a worldwide pandemic,” Boyer said. “They stand apart in
(#64) lists, among others.
their recognition that workplace culture can actually be a roadmap for navigating uncertainty.
“Despite this challenging and uncertain season, Anderson University has remained united in our purpose of providing
“The institutions participating in the 2020 Great
a highly selective, entrepreneurial, Christian liberal arts
Colleges to Work For program deserve special kudos for
education to our students,” said President Evans P.
their commitment to being good stewards of institutional
Whitaker.
6 | I T ’S TIM E TO C EL E BRAT E !
Photo: Jon Gropp
HONOR
ROLL SCHOOL
The “Great Colleges to Work For” survey requires high ratings in five or more categories to qualify as an Honor Roll school. Anderson University received Honor Roll designation in an extraordinary total of eight categories: • • • • • • • •
Collaborative Governance Confidence in Senior Leadership Job Satisfaction Professional/Career Development Programs Respect and Appreciation Supervision/Department Chair Relationship Teaching Environment (faculty only) Tenure Clarity and Process (faculty only)
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEBR ATE ! | 7
Left to right: Bethany Turner & Atyona Lambright
changing the story: the simple way Anderson University found enrollment success during a pandemic Everything you read told the same story. “A Crisis is Looming for U.S. Colleges,” blared the headline from NBC News. “Coronavirus Drives Signs of a Major Drop in College Enrollment,” reported The New York Times. “Pandemic Hammers College Enrollment This Fall,” was The Washington Post’s take. But here’s the thing: None of these news outlets talked to Atyona Lambright, Faith Davis, Gabriel Linder or Hampton Clawson. If they had, they’d have heard a different take, one that turned national trends on their heads. Lambright, Davis, Linder and Clawson are just four of 3,848 students who enrolled at Anderson University last fall. There’s a different story here. A new headline. And it is this: “Despite COVID-19 Pandemic, Anderson University Sets New Record for Student Enrollment.”
8 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL EBRAT E !
It wasn’t supposed to happen. The reason it did is pretty simple. Anderson University is a special place. Atyona Lambright is more than the sum of her parts. She’s more than a former high school cross country athlete. She’s more than where she’s from (Pickens, South Carolina.) She’s more than her name; it’s pronounced “Ah-tee-yawna,” by the way. She’s more than her upbringing as an AfricanAmerican woman raised by white parents. To paraphrase Whitman, she “contains multitudes.” And it is at Anderson University where she is seen as she wants to be seen. People at AU, she said, take the time to genuinely know her as an individual and not size her up based on her appearance, background or personality. That wasn’t always the case during her childhood, and it played a pivotal role in bringing her to AU. She is one of 970 first-year students—the largest freshmen class in the University’s 110-year history. Lambright said God led her to AU after she didn’t feel quite right staying overnight at another college she hoped to attend. After praying, she saw an email from an AU
admission counselor that encouraged her to apply for a Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship. After applying and visiting campus for the scholarship competition, Lambright won a “great” scholarship “that was my open door,” she said. Her story is just one of many that has changed the narrative of what was possible amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Student Clearinghouse is the nation’s most trusted source of college student data. It’s a non-profit, non-governmental agency “that works with higher education institutions, states, districts, high schools, and educational organizations to better inform practitioners and policymakers about student educational pathways and enable informed decision making.”
“
I went to a BCM service…and it was amazing. Along with individual conversations and actions, that event showed me that the students and staff at AU are serious about authentically living out their faith for Jesus.
”
— Gabriel Linder Class of 2024 Last summer, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic’s first wave, it reported undergraduate college enrollment was down 2.5 percent across the board. The news was worse for private, nonprofits; enrollment was down 3.8 percent, the Clearinghouse reported. Its findings produced a rash of news articles as evidenced by headlines from the The Washington Post, The New York Times and other leading news organizations. Others took a closer look. In August, just after the start of the fall semester, Inside Higher Education, one of the country’s leading higher education industry news organizations, ran an article titled “How Did a College You’ve Probably Never Heard of Do Well on Admissions: How an under-the-radar college in South Carolina nailed its admissions year.” As you might have guessed, their story focused on Anderson University. It detailed AU’s approach to recruitment and enrollment following a look at the University’s enrollment report and an extensive interview with President Evans Whitaker, Ph.D.
Count William Monts among those who isn’t surprised by AU’s success last fall. Monts, associate vice president and dean of traditional admission, said COVID-19 affected every university. While he was unsure why some universities shined while others struggled to meet their enrollment goals, he believes families chose AU, in part, because they see the value of an Anderson University education and are “committed to having that experience regardless of COVID.” “They are seeking a quality academic experience, a school that is intentional when it comes to genuine hospitality and an institution that is going to support their Christian faith,” Monts said. “I think people like AU because we are who we say we are.” Monts also credited the entire AU community for successfully recruiting so many students. Faith Davis, a freshman from Aynor, South Carolina, listed AU’s close-knit community as a characteristic that attracted her. “It’s like a family,” Davis said. She also said that she and her family noticed AU’s hospitality during her visit. In addition, Davis said she came to AU because its curriculum upholds her Christian values and will encourage her to develop her faith and the professional skills that will help her thrive. Freshman Gabriel Linder, who is majoring in emergency services management, said the confidence that upperclassmen exuded while discussing their faith was one of several elements that attracted him to AU. For Linder, another attraction—echoing Monts’s assertion that it takes an entire Dr. Emory Berry Jr. campus to recruit students—is that the collective campus Diane Sutherland communicated a commitment to authentic Christian living. Linder saw AU in action during the two-day Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship. “My host and I went to a BCM service…(and) it was amazing,” Linder said. “The event atmosphere was lively, the worship team did very well and Pastor Stephen Splawn delivered a powerful message. That event is what solidified my commitment to attend AU. Along with individual conversations and actions, that event showed me that the students and staff at AU are serious about authentically living out their faith for Jesus.” Hampton Clawson, a freshman criminal justice major from Gastonia, North Carolina, said people at Anderson University made him feel welcome when he visited. For him, it wasn’t about national trends, the pandemic or anything else going on in the world. It was much more simple. “It felt like home.” IT ’ S TIME TO CELEBR ATE ! | 9
Miller family continues lifetime commitment to Anderson University’s success The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South
Unique in the state, The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise
Carolina is the natural outgrowth of an Upstate family’s
Institute of South Carolina (FEISC) is a membership
commitment to philanthropy locally and globally.
organization whose mission is to provide education, networking, support resources and research to help family
Kip and Kim Miller, 1977 Anderson University alumni, own
enterprises and those involved in or helping them maximize
and operate The Eastern Companies, whose focus is exceeding
their overall health and sustainability. The FEISC fosters
customer expectations through God-honoring values of
learning, sharing and creative solutions regarding the many
honesty, integrity, caring, self-responsibility and being positive.
critical issues and problems faced by family enterprises. “As Christian business owners, Kip and I are called to
The Millers are husband and wife partners in Eastern
steward the business God has placed in our hands,” Kim
Industrial Supplies and other family enterprises that are
said. “Family businesses have unique opportunities and
renowned as one of the most successful family-owned
challenges and we can all learn from each other.”
enterprises in the South, serving markets in the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Alabama. Kip is president of Eastern Industrial Supplies, a full line supplier of industrial pipe, valves, fittings and commercial plumbing products. Kim is the president of Eastern Power Technologies, a division started in 2014 as a specialty products
a company based on Christian “ Leading principles is more about what you do instead of what you don’t do.” — Kip Miller
distributor devoted to serving the power generation field.
President of Eastern Industrial Supplies
More Precious than Jewels Kip said that for many years he has searched for ways to honor his wife, whom he describes as a “modern Proverbs 31 woman.” “She is respected and trusted by all that know her, she knows how to operate a business successfully, she is uplift ing and encouraging, she has a ‘serve fi rst’ mindset, she is unselfish, she puts herself at the bottom of the organization chart, and she cares about our associates like she does our own family,” he said. To Kip and their three children, Kim is known as a godly wife and loving mother. Their children, Anderson University graduates Meagan Miller Owen (’07, master’s ’12), Derrick Miller (’09) and Tricia Miller Daniel (’15), joined other family members in supporting a University initiative
Taking the Helm After graduating from AU in 1977 with an associate’s degree, Kip earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Carolina. After leaving UofSC, he began working in Eastern’s warehouse and greatly benefited from the mentoring of owner George Bagwell as he learned the business “from the ground up.” As they worked together, Bagwell expressed a desire that Kip become his successor someday if anything were to happen to him. On New Year’s Eve in 1986, Kip was praying about an attractive offer he received to work for a competitor when he received a call that Bagwell had suddenly passed away. In July of 1987, Kip became president and majority owner of Eastern Industrial Supplies. (Continued on page 13)
that was established recently and named in Kim’s honor. 10 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
Center: Kim & Kip Miller
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB R ATE ! | 1 1
12 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL E BRAT E !
“I raised my salary just enough to cover debt payments
These Christian values are reflected in Eastern Cares, begun
incurred with purchasing George’s stock and made no more
in 2002 and dedicated to four main C’s of caring: company,
money over the next several years as I concentrated on growing
communities, country and other cultures. Eastern Cares
the business and caring for our associates and customers,”
embodies the family’s desire for a culture that positively
Kip said.
impacts people. Eastern cares for its associates, as associates care for one another, whether through weekly chaplain visits
For the next few years, Kip and Kim developed a roadmap
in partnership with Corporate Chaplains of America or
for strategic growth and streamlining the company’s operations,
providing assistance in times of crisis. Also, a fund was
establishing a location to serve as headquarters, building a
established for awarding undergraduate scholarships to
second location in Anderson, building a strong corporate
children and grandchildren of full-time associates.
management team and implementing a new computer system to efficiently handle inventory and transactions.
Eastern and its associates are in the community participating in blood drives, supporting rescue missions, youth homes
“
As Christian business owners, Kip and I are called to steward the business God has placed in our hands. Family businesses have unique opportunities and challenges and we can all learn from each other.
”
— Kim Miller President of Eastern Power Technologies
and children’s shelters. Among the many organizations they have helped are Special Olympics, Helping Hands Ministry, Miracle Hill Ministries, Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU) and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). They have also established The Cares Fund for meeting specific fi nancial needs within their communities. Nationally, Eastern and its associates have taken part in national outreach efforts including Operation Rise & Conquer, National Breast Cancer Awareness, and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Awareness and have also been involved in hurricane relief. Outside of the country, Eastern
Specializing in the quality distribution of pipe, valves,
associates have traveled overseas to Peru, Kenya, Guatemala
fittings and commercial plumbing products, Eastern believes
and Tanzania. Among the projects overseas was the start of
people are always more important than profits, articulated as
an orphanage in Tanzania, where Eastern and its associates
“PVF150”–People, Values and Faith, paired with the goal of
provide the majority of their monthly support.
being a $150 million annual enterprise in the next five to seven years.
“We are convinced that our core values are the key to our success,” he said. “We understand that living out deeply held
A Biblical Foundation
values sometimes comes with a price. Our associates are committed to taking this risk.”
When he applied to Anderson, Kip was asked to write a paper; he chose the title “Being a Christian Businessman in an
“Giving back to our community is an honor and privilege that
Evil and Sinful World.” Years after becoming the president
we do not take lightly,” Kim said. “God has graciously blessed
of Eastern, Kip realized that the paper he had written was
us and we are called to be a channel of blessings to others.”
actually God’s call on his life and he was challenged to lead Eastern from a biblical perspective as he grew the business and cared for its associates. “Leading a company based on Christian principles is more
For more information contact Brad Bechtold, associate professor of business and FEISC executive director at 864.231.2463 or at bbechtold@andersonuniversity.edu.
about what you do instead of what you don’t do,” he said. Photo: Kip Miller
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEBR ATE ! | 1 3
successfully addressing the leadership gap:
Anderson University meets the need with a new Ph.D. in Leadership It’s not hyperbolic to say the future of organizations is at risk. The cause? A lack of leadership.
Here’s how: Students in both concentrations take core classes in leadership that cover topics including organizational structure and culture, leadership strategies, team development and leadership philosophy.
Among those sounding the alarm, the Journal of Leadership Accountability and Ethics in 2018 illustrated the crossroads we face: “Leadership development…is an urgent and challenging issue. Organizations globally are striving to identify and develop outstanding leaders who will be able to face the new challenges, embrace change, deal with crises, solve real-life problems and have an impact not only on their organizations, but on society at large.” Anderson University has always educated future Christian leaders. The difference today is one of urgency—hence the logic behind Anderson University’s newest Ph.D. program. Last fall, the University launched a Doctorate of Philosophy in Leadership, a fully online program available to students focused on careers in business or Christian ministry. Academics and researchers apparently aren’t alone in recognizing the dearth of leadership development programs in higher education. Students see it. Case in point: last fall, 50 students entered the Ph.D. in Leadership program. It was an overwhelming response that defied expectations. They were evenly split between those enrolling in the College of Business and the College of Christian Studies, both of which offer concentrations specific to their fields. Beyond the supply of, and demand for, leadership training in higher education, the program’s convenience and real-life applications are a draw for many students. “It’s very practical and insightful,” said Dr. George Parks, a ministry leadership student and senior pastor of New Hope Baptist Church, a congregation with locations in North Little Rock and Conway, Arkansas.
14 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL E BRAT E !
Dr. Emory Berry, Jr.
Drs. Berry and Parks also say that the Ph.D. in Leadership program works well for the lives of busy pastors. It gives them space for reflection: of their own leadership, the needs of their congregation, and the perspective of their colleagues. In the program concentrations, students take classes that address leadership issues in their respective fields. For example, business students take seminars on consulting skills so they can assess whether change is needed in individual positions, in teams of employees and throughout organizations,
said Dr. Evie C. Maxey, associate dean of the College of Business and interim director of the program.
has studied business leadership, management and development in China.
The payoff for students is immediate; most of those in the program already serve as leaders in their respective organizations, allowing them to apply immediately what they’re learning, Dr. Maxey and leadership students say.
In addition to core leadership classes, ministry students study leadership in contemporary ministry settings and preaching as a leadership tool, said Dr. Michael Duduit, dean of the College of Christian Studies.
Through their studies, students analyze existing organizational culture to see how it can be changed for the better, Dr. Maxey said. In business, students also study human resource management, technology issues—such as assessing and using applications to support remote workers—and management techniques to keep organizations nimble and adaptable in turbulent times, such as during a pandemic.
Ministry concentration student Dr. Parks says the program’s benefits are immediate. He said the program inspired him to ask more probing questions of himself and his leadership team at New Hope Baptist Church to help them grow in their leadership skills.
A central component of the program is scholarly research. In addition to enhancing leadership ability and skills, the degree program prepares and engages students in conducting reach in the leadership discipline to discover and contribute new information about the field.
“These questions provide the supervising leader a window into the contributions and heart of those they lead and how they discern their strengths and evaluate their contributions,” Dr. Parks said. “Additionally, it assists leaders to…do the deep work of thinking about tasks as a calling and not simply as a paid profession.” Dr. Emory Berry, Jr. is senior pastor at Greenforest Community Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia and an Anderson University Ph.D. in Leadership candidate. He is creating programs to promote leadership development within his 4,000-member congregation. He envisions intentional leadership components in programs for youths, teens, fraternities, sororities and summer camps. Dr. Berry said the program helped him think more deeply about the need for a leadership pipeline that not only trains future leaders in churches, but in the community at large. Drs. Berry and Parks also say that the Ph.D. in Leadership program works well for the lives of busy pastors. It gives them space for reflection: of their own leadership, the needs of their congregation, and the perspective of their colleagues. Needless to say, Dr. Berry said he highly recommends the program. It’s “what the doctor ordered,” he said.
The courses teach leadership for government, nonprofits, business and ministry from a Biblical perspective, Dr. Maxey said. The faculty for the business concentration includes existing College of Business faculty, such as Professor of Business Dr. Jeff Moore, as well as sought-after consultants Dr. Scott A. Quarto, the business department chair at Covenant College, and Dr. LeeAnn Brown, who
For more information about the Anderson University Ph.D. in Leadership, contact Dr. Evie C. Maxey at emaxey@andersonuniversity.edu or visit AndersonUniversity.edu. For more information about the ministry concentration visit auministry.com.
IT ’ S TIME CA TO MP CELEB U S NREATE W S! | 1151
Dr. Bryan Cribb, co-author
The Bible Toolbox, co-authored by Anderson University professors Dr. Bryan Cribb and Dr. Channing Crisler and published by B&H Academic
Dr. Channing Crisler, co-author
16 | AU B O O K CO R N ER
A
s ubiquitous as the Bible is, it is also perhaps the most avoided book ever printed—even by Christians. Familiarity among believers has bred not necessarily contempt, but perhaps apathy among many Bible owners. Sure, Christians readily confess the Bible’s intrinsic value, nature and divine origins. But a distinct chasm exists between this stated belief and actual practice, between confessions of faith and expressed affections. The excuses in avoiding the Bible are myriad. But if you boil down the excuses, there are two fundamental issues. Christians often don’t see the value of the Bible and Bible study. And this lack of esteem is often because of the second issue: Christians often don’t know how to study the Bible.
The Bible Toolbox provides prospective Bible readers with the proper tools to understand and interpret the Scriptures for themselves. The Bible Toolbox, co-authored by Anderson University professors Dr. Bryan Cribb and Dr. Channing Crisler and published by B&H Academic, seeks to address this second issue head on. In the book, the authors argue that if God has spoken and if he has revealed himself specifically, he has done so in a way that was meant to be understood. That doesn’t mean that Bible interpretation is easy, they point out. It takes work, but understanding can be achieved if you have the correct tools.
But Bible interpreters need to access the tools. Imagine attempting to put together a bookshelf or model airplane without a manual and the correct instruments. The Bible Toolbox provides prospective Bible readers with the proper tools to understand and interpret the Scriptures for themselves. Each chapter describes to readers the tools to engage the Bible actively. The authors even demonstrate how these tools are used with select texts. In this way, they hope not only to offer readers proverbial interpretive fishes, but to give them the exegetical tools of the poles, lines and hooks. Ten years from now, the authors want readers to be able to read the biblical text intuitively and naturally through this process. The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 serves as a manual for the process of interpretation. Parts 2 and 3 then detail and explain the tools for interpreting rightly both the Old and New Testaments. Each chapter in parts 2 and 3 has three main sections: Understanding the Tools, Putting the Tools to Use, and Applying the Results. The goal of this text is not to be exhaustive, but to serve as a resource. An instruction manual for a computer might tell you how to turn the computer on or how to understand some of the programs, but it won’t comprehensively describe all that you might do with your computer. Similarly, the authors do not provide all there is to know about the Bible. But their hope is that this text will open the door for future Bible study by incorporating the discipline of Bible study into the reader’s own walk of faith.
The Bible Toolbox (B&H Academic; $49.99) is available now on Amazon.com and other outlets.
AU B OOK CO R NE R | 1 7
finding success through a diverse community: how a new Anderson University scholarship grew enrollment—and helped its campus look more like God’s kingdom Olivia Johnson had two prayers answered at once.
The answer to that prayer—and the second—was the inaugural Anderson University Connect: Diversity
The first? Becoming a student at Anderson University.
Leadership Scholarship. Johnson was one of the 58 first-year students who received the scholarship for the
“I had my heart set on Anderson University by the start of
2020-2021 academic year at AU.
my junior year of high school,” she said. “The financial burden of paying for college education on my own was
Now, about that second prayer. It is one echoed by students
incredibly stressful.”
of color on campus, and seeing it answered is a strategic focus of the University, its Board of Trust and the entire campus community:
18 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
The Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship, All Access Event February 27-28, 2020
“It is important that Anderson University not only embraces diversity among its students, but also seeks to reflect God's kingdom because His kingdom is the truest example of diversity,” Johnson said.
Office of Diversity and Inclusion seeks to “ The create a campus climate where everyone is
(Read more of Olivia’s story in the AU Diary on page 22)
an insider and no one is an outsider to the
The Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship was the
glory of God.
brainchild of President Evans Whitaker and his wife, Diane Whitaker, who serves in the Office of Traditional Admission. Anderson University Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion
”
— James D. Noble, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion
Dr. James Noble is tasked with implementing the University’s strategic diversity plan and, as such, he also calls it an answer to prayer.
(Continued on page 21)
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB R ATE ! | 1 9
2 0 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL E BRAT E !
“Anderson became an option when I decided to apply and
“
Diversity means more than just the color of a person’s skin. It means culture, language, ideology, faith...I don’t think I can express just
then attend a nursing workshop that I was invited to,” she said. “I had an overwhelming feeling as if I was meant to attend this institution within my first few hours of being on campus.”
how much I believe that it is important that AU
Part of Anderson University’s commitment to increasing
embrace diversity within its students since as
more properly reflects God’s kingdom. Dr. Noble takes
its cultural diversity on campus is so its campus community
true Christians we should know and accept the
Rev. 7:9 as one of his department’s guiding verses:
fact that God’s kingdom is so richly diverse and
After this I looked, and there before me was a great
God loves all people no matter what they look
multitude that no one could count, from every nation,
like or any other unique traits that make
and before the Lamb.
”
tribe, people and language, standing before the throne
someone who they are.
Jordyn embraces that view, which is one of the reasons
she chose to attend Anderson.
— Jordyn Rhone Anderson University Nursing Major
“Diversity means more than just the color of a person’s skin. It means culture, language, ideology, faith…I don’t The students it brought to AU helped the University break
think I can express just how much I believe that it is
enrollment records overall, but also was part of the catalyst
important that AU embrace diversity within its students
for seeing the highest number of students of color in the
since as true Christians we should know and accept the fact
institution’s 110-year history.
that God’s kingdom is so richly diverse and God loves all people no matter what they look like or any other unique
“I honor the Lord Jesus for this diversity scholarship. He
traits that make someone who they are,” she said.
knew the countless blessings it would bring to extremely bright young students,” Dr. Noble said. “Now, many students
That’s something the entire University can—and
of color can see their dreams come true of matriculating
should—celebrate.
through college and reaching their goals of having successful careers and ministry opportunities.”
“These two testimonies are only the beginning of the many stories of how our minority students feel about Anderson
The scholarship was a major factor in bringing nursing
University,” Dr. Noble said. “The Office of Diversity and
major Jordyn Rhone to Anderson, too.
Inclusion seeks to create a campus climate where everyone is an insider and no one is an outsider to the glory of God.”
The Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship, All Access Event February 27-28, 2020
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB R ATE ! | 2 1
There have been a handful of moments in my life that a calm engulfs me, and I know with my whole being God is showing me I am on the right path. The day my family and I visited Anderson University was one of those days. I immediately had a feeling of comfort and acceptance, a feeling that I had not experienced while touring any other college. I knew Anderson University was the place I wanted to call home for the next four years. Not long after my acceptance into the university, AU’s Connect: Diversity and Inclusion Club presented me with an amazing scholarship opportunity. This was another sign that God was ordering my steps to attend Anderson. Soon after going through the requirements to be considered for the Connect: Diversity Leadership
“Anderson University took the necessary steps to ensure their students would be able to start school safely in the fall of 2020 in person. AU has kept us healthy by implementing the use of masks and social distancing.” Scholarship, the unexpected happened: COVID-19 took the world by storm, and the idea of attending Anderson University in the fall seemed uncertain. I knew I could only pray and have faith that God would take care of me in such uncertain times. By the grace of God, I received a letter from Anderson University inviting me to compete in the Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship competition, where students vied for two different kinds of scholarships. I could hardly believe I was offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity from such a distinguished school. The competition process was challenging yet exhilarating at the same time, an experience I will cherish forever. After completing the scholarship competition, my family and friends offered supportive prayers as I waited for the decision. I can vividly remember the moment I found out: I received a voicemail from Anderson University congratulating me on being a recipient of the full scholarship. I immediately dropped what I was doing and bolted into my mom’s bedroom. We both cried tears of joy; it was such a surreal moment. I am forever grateful to Anderson University for providing me with such an astounding opportunity. 2 2 | AU D IA RY
Shortly after COVID-19 struck, life as we knew it was forever changed. My classmates and I completed the remainder of our senior year online. Our graduation was not the one we always envisioned it to be. The thought of attending college virtually became a harsh reality for many. However, Anderson University took the necessary steps to ensure their students would be able to start school safely in the fall of 2020 in person. Throughout this global pandemic, AU has kept us healthy by implementing the use of masks and social distancing. Anderson has the distinct advantage of being a smaller university. Even with the limitations placed upon us by COVID-19, the school still organizes fun events that allow us to meet other students while still adhering to safety guidelines.
Share your story at
AndersonUniversity.edu/au-diary
I am now halfway through my freshman year and still confident AU is the place I am meant to be. I have experienced obstacles and growth that have strengthened my character as well as my faith. My teachers and friends who are faithful servants of God are always there to support me, whether it be in academics or my spiritual growth. It is a true blessing to attend Anderson University.
Olivia Johnson is an AU freshman and a recipient of Connect: Diversity Leadership Scholarship.
AU D I ARY | 2 3
success in innovation: the Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity exceeds expectations in more ways than one It’s important to understand that one of the early steps in creating a new academic program at any university is something called a pro forma. A Latin phrase meaning “as a matter of form,” it’s a simple projection, really. Developing an academic program pro forma essentially boils down to answering the question: Is it feasible? Or, to put it more simply: Does the plan make sense?
Anderson University is one of the fastest growing universities in the country. So it stands to reason that its administrators have conducted a number of pro formas over the years. And their projections are usually right on the mark. The Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity is a notable exception. As it turns out, to those planning for the first crop of students into the program for the fall of 2020, what happened didn’t make sense at all. Dr. Kenneth Knapp isn’t used to making mistakes. Sure, it’s an important part of learning. But for those who are as accomplished as he is, success outweighs failure by a wide margin. 2 4 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
Dr. Knapp is well-suited to his role as the founding director of the Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity. A 20-year veteran of the United States Air Force, his resume is long and speaks for itself. Certifications in security systems, cloud security and ethical hacking. A bachelor’s degree in computer science. An MBA and Ph.D. from Auburn. More than 30 academic papers published in leading industry journals, ranging from the security architecture of
biological cells to cyber warfare. Experience in launching cybersecurity programs from the ground up, first at the University of Tampa and now at Anderson University. But for all of his accomplishments—and his role as a cybersecurity prophet—there’s one thing he didn’t see coming: just how successful the first recruiting class of the Center for Cybersecurity would be. Which brings us back to the academic pro forma Anderson University administrators created in January 2018, in the early stages of developing a comprehensive cybersecurity program.
A vital part of any pro forma is the number of students it assumes will enroll in year one. AU’s best-case projection? A dozen people, give or take. As it turns out, he underestimated. Last August, 21 students became part of the Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity’s inaugural class. In hindsight, maybe Dr. Knapp should have seen this coming. Cybercrime is one of the fastest growing global security threats. It therefore stands to reason its rise requires a commensurate response from the government, the private sector and academic institutions. Therein lies the incredible opportunity. Anderson University’s commitment to helping keep our nation’s information technology infrastructure secure—and meeting the needs of the 21st century workforce—is why the Center for Cybersecurity exists.
MetaCTF competition included more than “ The 1,000 teams from around the world. AU's first-year cybersecurity students placed 74th out of 1,000, finishing higher than teams from Princeton, Georgia Tech, Boston University, The University of Maryland and Texas A&M, among others.
”
— Dr. Kenneth Knapp
Professor and Director, Center for Cybersecurity “Modern society has become extremely dependent on information technologies. Unfortunately, many of our networks, devices and critical computer systems have significant security vulnerabilities,” Dr. Knapp said. “It’s the job of a cybersecurity professional to help secure and protect the computers that we depend on for daily living.” That’s where the Center for Cybersecurity’s initial class of 21 students comes in. But as impressive as that number is, what’s more important is the impact they’re already having. Last semester, Dr. Knapp’s students signed up for a regional cybersecurity competition at the University of Virginia.
It’s called MetaCTF. CTF stands for “capture the flag,” a type of competition that tests skills by presenting cybersecurity challenges to contestants, who are judged by how well, and quickly, they solve them. Think of it as a college football bowl game for computer science students. But instead of two teams in a head-to-head battle, hundreds compete. In the case of MetaCTF, more than 1,000 signed up from institutions around the world. Students from the Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity (its team name was “root@au”) placed 74th. AU students finished higher than teams from Princeton University, Georgia Tech, the University of Maryland, Boston University, Michigan State University and Texas A&M, among others. Anderson University cybersecurity student Hyeokjin Oh said the competition didn’t just test his skills, its rigorous challenges brought him closer to his classmates. “There were so many times when we thought we hit a brick wall; but as we approached the problem from different angles and researched how to solve a specific problems that we did not learn how to do, we were able to eventually come up with solutions,” he said. “This experience is something I will not forget, not to mention how far we got in the competition.” Knapp said that this level of motivation in his students excites him for the future of the Cybersecurity program. He is planning for further growth in the program by the 2021 school year by bringing on more students and starting new programs within the Center for Cybersecurity. “I would like to see the program grow in both quality and Diane Sutherland quantity,” Knapp said. “We are developing a Cybersecurity Advisory Board to help provide industry expertise in the development and maturation of our entire set of programs.” Knapp is also considering developing a cybersecurity graduate program in the next few years through the Center for Cybersecurity. Given the Center’s initial success, expect the first graduate class to be larger—and more accomplished—than anyone expects.
To apply or learn more about the Anderson University Center for Cybersecurity visit AndersonUniversity.edu/cybersecurity
IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB R ATE ! | 2 5
Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie
engineering success: Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie and the birth of a new college Dr. Anthony Guiseppi-Elie has seen the world. From the
“I wanted to be part of that magic,” he said.
sun-kissed sands of Kingston, Jamaica, to the cobblestones on Coronation Street in Manchester, England. From
But something was missing.
the placid, cold waters of the Charles River surrounding Boston, to the wide-open and impossibly blue skies of
Dr. Guiseppi-Elie is one of the most respected engineers
College Station, Texas.
working in academia today.
As it turns out, to find the next step in his journey of
He founded companies that developed a way to monitor
accomplishment and success, all he needed to do was look
blood loss in victims of serious injuries. He holds eight
out of his window in Upstate South Carolina.
U.S. and foreign patents, and has worked with the United States Department of Defense and civilian organizations in
It was in his backyard all along: an institution called AU,
utilizing his life-saving technologies for servicemembers
with humble roots built by people just like him—those with
and healthcare workers. He served as the founding associate
a passion for innovation and a commitment to Christian
dean of Engineering Innovation of the Engineering
liberal arts education.
Medicine program at Texas A&M University and as the
2 6 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
head of the university’s biomedical engineering department.
in a way that would be distinct from most engineering
He holds degrees from the University of the West Indies,
programs,” Dr. Whitaker said. “From there, we established
the University of Manchester Institute of Science and
a blue ribbon task force of engineers and industry
Technology, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
representatives to study the feasibility of such a program.”
That made him a perfect fit to help bring something new
The group, formed in 2015 and comprised of Anderson
to Anderson University: an engineering program.
University administrators and other academics who’ve led engineering programs at other universities, met several
While he worked as a research professor at Texas A&M
times a year. Dr. Whitaker said the conclusion of the task
University beginning in 2015, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie
force was that an engineering program was “needed in
commuted from his home in Anderson, South Carolina.
our state and that AU is uniquely positioned and
Before taking the position at Texas A&M, he taught at
resourced to launch it.”
Clemson University for a decade and served as the Dow Chemical Professor in the Department of Chemical and
And there was only one person uniquely qualified to lead it.
Biomedical Engineering. Dr. Guiseppi-Elie joined Anderson University last August as founding dean of the Anderson University
“ He understands and speaks the language of
College of Engineering, as vice president for industry
local industry, and more than that, he is driven
relations and a University distinguished professor. He is actively and aggressively recruiting students ahead of the
to serve South Carolina’s industry especially by
program’s formal launch. He said students of the College
providing them with exceptional engineers who
excellent engineers, but also be able to translate the facts
have the design and technical skills required
be it a computer or an assembly line.
for new product development, manufacturing
of Engineering will have the education not only to serve as and figures to the stakeholders of engineering projects,
Anderson, said Dr. Guiseppi-Elie, is the perfect place to
improvement, systems integration and resource
produce such articulate engineers because its thoughtful
management. Industry leaders are going to feel
academic programs.
that Tony is one of their strongest advocates.
— Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D. President & Professor of Management
”
liberal arts core curriculum is central to all of its
He applauds Dr. Whitaker’s success in starting new programs. He believes Dr. Whitaker’s vision, research and careful staging of the program’s implementation will make engineering a success at Anderson.
President Evans Whitaker and his wife, Diane Whitaker,
Dr. Guiseppi-Elie said that the first thing that AU must
met Dr. Guiseppi-Elie and his wife, Annette, at a dinner
do as it creates a College of Engineering is to seek God’s
party hosted by Anderson University regents Marshall and
guidance. AU has great leadership, and the school must
Bitsy Pickens. In casual conversation, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie
pray that everyone works together to embrace the new venture.
shared how impressed he was by the accomplishments and
Dr. Guiseppi-Elie hasn’t seen AU leaders and deans
growth of the University.
saying, “No, we can’t,” but rather, “How can we help?”
“We developed a fast friendship, and before long we began
AU needs the community’s involvement as well, Dr.
talking about opportunities to offer engineering at Anderson
Guiseppi-Elie said. The Anderson County Chamber of (Continued on page 28) IT ’ S TIME TO CELEBR ATE ! | 2 7
Commerce, community leaders and business executives all
industry especially by providing them with exceptional
have a role to play. Consulting with these officials will help
engineers who have the design and technical skills required
AU produce engineers to serve the growing and evolving
for new product development, manufacturing improvement,
industry in the I-85 corridor.
systems integration and resource management,” Dr. Whitaker said. “Industry leaders are going to feel that Tony is one of
Faculty involvement across the University is also key.
their strongest advocates.”
Learning from professors’ experiences with students in their disciplines can inform how the new College of
A native of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie studied
Engineering can build relationships with its own students.
analytical chemistry, applied chemistry and biochemistry at The University of the West Indies. He holds a master’s
In addition to Dr. Guiseppi-Elie’s curriculum vitae,
degree in chemical engineering from the University of
Dr. Whitaker said he is a phenomenal leader to start the
Manchester Institute of Science and Technology in
Anderson University College of Engineering.
the United Kingdom. Dr. Guiseppi-Elie earned his doctoral degree in Materials Science and Engineering
“Dr. Guiseppi-Elie is not only highly credentialed, he is
from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
also an excellent fit with Anderson’s Christian ethos and
In addition to being a highly sought-after speaker and
culture, and he is passionate about this opportunity
consultant on biomedical device entrepreneurism and
and AU’s mission,” Dr. Whitaker said. “Beyond that,
academic program creation, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie was
Dr. Guiseppi-Elie is a builder. He has the ability to start
awarded a Fulbright Specialist Award in bioengineering
something from scratch, put it on firm footing and
at the University of Tucumán in Argentina.
continuously refine it.” In his work at Texas A&M, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie not only led the biomedical engineering program; he advised and nurtured “exceptional” doctoral students as a professor. “I don’t know of anyone better to build our College of Engineering, and anyone I’d like to do it more,” Dr. Whitaker said. Dr. James M. Tour, a professor of computer science and materials and nanoengineering at Rice University, said AU is “lucky” and “blessed” to have Dr. Guiseppi-Elie leading
In his work at Texas A&M, Dr. Guiseppi-Elie not only led the biomedical engineering program; he advised and nurtured “exceptional” doctoral students as a professor. “I don’t know of anyone better to build our College of Engineering, and
the creation of its College of Engineering.
anyone I’d like to do it more,” Dr. Whitaker said. Dr. Tour, who has known him for 25 years, described Dr. Guiseppi-Elie as both “a gentleman” and “fearless.” He’s “calm, very respectful, cordial, polite and hard-working,” Dr. Tour said. He sees AU’s program benefitting from Dr.
Dr. Tour described Dr. Guiseppi-Elie as his hero,
Guiseppi-Elie’s experience at other universities and his
and Dr. Whitaker says Dr. Guiseppi-Elie is “a brilliant
leadership roles in both corporate and small businesses.
scholar-leader.”
Dr. Whitaker said Dr. Guiseppi-Elie’s personal traits and range of experiences will help him connect with industry
“He’s smart, practical and engaging,” Dr. Whitaker said.
leaders in his role as vice president of industry relations.
“He will sit at the table with all our vice presidents and myself to shape and lead our future advancement as a
“He understands and speaks the language of local industry, and more than that, he is driven to serve South Carolina’s 2 8 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
leading comprehensive university.”
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alumni spotlight By jason rutland, Associate Vice President for Alumni & Parent Engagement
Professional excellence is intertwined with a call to serve and love others. The term success is defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. A defined and articulated purpose is standard for any organization and is accomplished through crafting a mission statement that should inform its daily functions. At Anderson University our mission is defined as the following: Anderson University is an academic community, affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention, providing a challenging education grounded in the liberal arts, enhanced by professional and graduate programs and a co-curricular focus on the development of character, servant leadership, and cultural engagement. This is a diverse community that is Christ-centered, people-focused, student-oriented, quality driven, and future-directed. We could fill the pages of many publications with the typical “success stories” of our graduates, but I wanted to bring attention to three graduates who are measuring up to our mission statement in three very different fields. Jamie Seagrist graduated from our College of Business in 2018. According to Jamie, “Anderson University definitely helped shape, define, and inform my calling. I came to Anderson as a general business major but quickly fell in love with my economics and finance courses. The University uses a Biblical lens to instruct and educate its students. This Christ-centered worldview that is woven into Anderson’s curriculum drives its competitive education and quality. The University informed my calling to use the skills, abilities, and passions that I have developed to bring God glory through my profession in Investment Banking and Private Equity. I am forever grateful for the way God used Anderson University to guide and direct my professional career while drawing me closer to Him!” Challenging education, Christ-centered… I would say mission accomplished! Across the globe in Abuja, Nigeria, we find 2004 graduate Adaobi Ezeokoli, who came to Anderson as an aspiring journalist and standout soccer athlete. “Anderson informed my calling by providing me with the tools and resources I needed to build a solid foundation in the sphere of communications, journalism, and media, as well as broadened my insights into diverse cultures… I still remember writing for the school newspaper and the literary magazine. I remember playing on the soccer team and being part of the AU gospel choir, learning to line dance, and working at the post office. I remember attending chapel services and accepting Christ as my Lord and Saviour at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) meeting on a Monday night in March 2001... These remain heart-warming memories for me. Anderson gave me the first taste of the world that would become my career path, as I pursued a degree in Communications with
3 0 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
emphasis on Journalism and Creative Writing. Today I am the Editor In Chief of one of Nigeria’s leading health communications and advocacy NGOs, Nigeria Health Watch, bringing informed commentary and insightful analysis of Nigeria’s health sector to Nigerians, helping them make more informed decisions about their health and holding government to account for their actions.” Certainly Ada’s story is an “AU success story” on many levels. Then there’s Olivia Walker, a 2018 graduate from Anderson’s School of Nursing. Olivia had this to say about the way she was educated for her current profession. “The moment I arrived in Anderson from Boston, I recognized the focus on servant leadership, palpable throughout the entire campus. Dozens of current AU students surrounded my vehicle to welcome me to my new home and help unload my entire life. As I diligently pursued a nursing degree at AU, the commitment of the staff and faculty to character development, servant leadership, and cultural engagement became abundantly clear. As a nursing student, I was given opportunity after opportunity to meet the needs of my local community and beyond, as I traveled to Ireland to learn of cultural differences present in health care. Each of my professors instilled in me the importance of keeping Christ at my core...to more effectively meet the needs of my patients. Now, nearly three years after graduation, I work as a nurse in both a Neuro Intensive Care Unit and a Pre-/Post-Op Unit. I have always said nursing is a calling rather than just a career, and Anderson University certainly solidified that belief. Patients and colleagues alike frequently comment about the gentleness and love with which I treat my patients. The verse ‘…Not I, but Christ who lives in me…’ always comes to my mind (Galatians 2:20). I believe this value was instilled in me during my studies at AU.” As you can see through these few examples, students at Anderson are prepared to become alumni that exemplify our mission statement in terms of how they carry out their life calling and purpose. The focus on professional excellence is intertwined with a call to serve and love others— all seen through a Christian worldview that makes our graduates stand out from others in society. Don’t forget you can play a vital role in our students’ continued success by supporting the Anderson Fund. Gifts can be given online at AndersonUniversity.edu/giving/online or by mail to the following address: Anderson University Development Office 316 Boulevard Anderson, SC 29621 | Long Live Anderson!
Anderson University Development Office 316 Boulevard | Anderson, SC 29621
Gifts to the Anderson Fund provide lifechanging scholarships for our students. Make your gift today with the enclosed envelope or visit: AndersonUniversity.edu/giving/online. You may also contact our Office of Development at 864.231.2147. The Anderson Fund helps pay for computers and laboratory equipment, course development, art exhibits, athletic enhancements, theatrical performances, library books, student mission trips and so much more.
AU UPDATE Anderson University News curated by Executive Director of Public Relations Andrew J. Beckner
College of Business Professor Receives Fulbright Scholar Award
“Supporting Remote Teachers”—that were designed to support teachers and schools that were required to immediately move to remote teaching and learning because
An Anderson University College of Business professor has received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Award to serve as a cultural ambassador to Belarus.
of the COVID-19 pandemic. The two certificate courses provided K-12 educators with relevant, timely strategies and techniques that can be immediately applied to support or administer teaching and learning in this challenging time.
The U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board last June announced that Dr. Kent Saunders, a professor of finance and economics at
“Developing these certificate courses embodies
Anderson University, was selected based on his project
Anderson’s commitment to servant leadership
titled Financial Management and Investment Foundations in Belarus. Saunders’ Fulbright award will entail teaching
and its place as a leading innovator in teaching
courses to undergraduate students and MBA program
and learning,” said Dr. Joshua Herron, dean of
courses to professionals along with consulting on curriculum and faculty development in Belarus.
online and continuous learning.
“I am very excited for the opportunity to share what I know with students and faculty in Belarus,” Saunders said. “Additionally, living, teaching and learning for a prolonged period of time in a country whose economic system is
AU Class of 2020 a Diverse, Accomplished Group
different from my own will have a profound effect on my own understanding of financial economics.”
Despite commencement being postponed because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, 515 students graduated from
AUCIDL Develops Training for Educators Needing Help with Remote Teaching The Anderson University Center for Innovation and Digital Learning (CIDL) last summer provided professional learning experiences for K-12 educators and administrators across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. Two self-paced certificate programs were offered— “Fundamentals of Remote Teaching and Learning” and
3 2 | IT ’ S TI M E TO C EL E BRAT E !
Anderson University at the conclusion of the 2019-2020 academic year. Amid the challenging and unprecedented circumstances it faced, the Anderson University Class of 2020 is incredibly accomplished. In total, 436 students earned a bachelor’s degree and 66 earned a master’s degree. In addition, four students completed a doctorate program and another nine earned a graduate certificate.
Honorary doctorates were conferred upon Jack Shaw, founder, chairman and president of Shaw Resources, Inc., a residential and commercial real estate and property management company; and Robert M. Rainey, a retired environmental engineer, nonprofit executive and chairman of the Stringer Foundation and the Callie and John Rainey Foundation. Dr. Chuck Fuller, associate professor of Christian Studies and director of the Anderson University Honors Program,
College of Health Professions to Offer Medical Imaging Degree Anderson University has launched a new Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Imaging program that will prepare graduates to work in a variety of settings and industries including hospitals, medical imaging centers, outpatient care centers, primary care clinics, mobile imaging, and radiology sales and service.
is the recipient of the 2019-2020 Boles Award, given
The program, a partnership with AnMed Health, is the first
annually as the Anderson University Excellence in Teaching
of its kind in South Carolina.
award for full-time faculty. Miranda Brakefield, who teaches theatre at The South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson
“This academic degree is a tremendous opportunity for
University, is the 2019-2020 Excellence in Teaching
students who have either completed hospital certifications
award-winner for part-time faculty.
programs in radiology or a related medical imaging fields
AU Online Program to Bridge Digital Skills Gap
or those transferring in from two-year degree programs to complete their academic degree in a relative short span of time,” said Dr. Donald Peace, dean of the Anderson University College of Health Professions.
Anderson University last June announced the launch of its online Digital Marketing Science Certificate (DMS) program, in partnership with GreenFig, a market-driven
College of Business Launches StudentManaged Investment Fund
education company that provides universities with turnkey experiential programs in applied business science that
The Anderson University Center for Finance and Economics
upskills adult learners and working professionals.
(CFE) is launching a $100,000 student-managed investment fund, providing further opportunities for students studying
“We target our professional development offerings to meet the increasingly high-tech needs of today’s organizations,” said Andria Carpenter, director of professional and lifelong learning at Anderson University. “Through our partnership with GreenFig, we are excited to offer working professionals an innovative Digital Marketing Science Certificate.”
finance and business. Students in the Anderson University College of Business are given the unique opportunity to analyze this $100,000 investment fund in real-time across 11 different equity sectors. Students will be required to monitor and report on the fund to director and faculty advisor Dr. Kent Saunders, alongside the CFE Investment Fund Committee. (Continued on page 34) IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB R ATE ! | 3 3
Dr. Saunders said that this fund is a fantastic opportunity for students to have hands-on experience alongside their academic education in the field of business and fi nance. “The use of real money gives students the additional responsibility to act as stewards on behalf of their clients,” he said.
Department of Theatre & Dance Produces Richard III podcast COVID-19 didn’t stop The South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson University from fi nding creative ways to showcase student talent. Originally scheduled as a typical on-stage production, the Department of Theatre and Dance instead produced a four part live-performance podcast of Shakespeare’s Richard III. Live readings took place over four days last October and November, with production being divided into a four-episode
“This agreement is a culmination of our efforts to partner with the SC Technical College System to create streamlined pathways for students who desire to continue their education at Anderson University,” said Dr. Evans Whitaker, president of Anderson University. “Students from all 16 technical colleges will now find their credits seamlessly applied to our numerous online or on-campus bachelor degree programs. This partnership is reflective of our commitment to the state’s workforce and economic development by creating more access to AU’s high-quality, in-demand programs.”
podcast. Episodes are available on most podcast streaming services, or at richard3.schooloft hearts.com. Twenty-three student cast members, 10 student production
AU Online Creates Partnership with Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
staff and three Anderson University faculty members produced the podcast, creating new potential for an
Anderson University Online and Continuous Learning
audience unlimited by theatre space.
recently partnered with the Billy Graham Evangelistic
Anderson University and Technical Colleges Sign Statewide Agreement to Enhance Transfer Anderson University and the South Carolina Technical College System signed a partnership agreement designed to enhance the seamless transfer of students and graduates from the 16 technical colleges in South Carolina to Anderson University. This agreement works to increase and encourage access to baccalaureate education for twoyear college students.
Association (BGEA) in offering a tuition grant and priority access to professional development for employees who are looking to advance their education. The partnership collaboration is intended to provide educational opportunities for employees of BGEA. “More than just a tuition benefit for our array of strong online and hybrid undergraduate and graduate degrees, a Preferred Partnership involves dedication to meeting a full range of professional learning needs and using feedback to strengthen programs,” said Dr. Josh Herron, dean of Online and Continuous Learning. As Preferred Partners with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, employees are eligible to participate in more than 30 academic programs as well as customized and on-demand, non-credit professional development offerings.
3 4 | I T ’S TIM E TO C ELE BRAT E !
Episodes are available on most podcast streaming services, or at richard3.schoolofthearts.com. IT ’ S TIME TO CELEB CELEBR R ATE ! | 3 57
Trojans in motion! athletic news…
Women’s Cross Country In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic that wreaked havoc with athletics at every level, the women’s cross country team remained focused and posted stellar results. The Trojans won their first two outings of the fall season and closed out their fall slate by finishing second at the Newberry Invitational in a field that included a trio of NCA A Division I teams. Competing individually, junior Melea Sangl captured first place at Spartanburg Methodist’s Biscuit Collegiate Invite in Mill Spring, N.C. Senior standout Olivia Rish paced AU in all three team meets, including a runner-up finish at North Georgia, a third-place finish at Newberry and a fourth-place performance in the Queen City, with Trojan runners combining for 15 top-10 spots over the course of the three races. Four Trojans (Rish, Hannah Beach, Rebecca Ward and Kamryn Osterbind) notched personal-bests during the fall campaign. Along with its success on the course came national recognition, as the team received votes in the Division II National Coaches Poll.
Men’s Cross Country The men’s cross country squad also enjoyed notable success, winning the Eighth Annual North Georgia Invitational, finishing as runners-up at Newberry and claiming third place at the Royals Challenge. Senior Ben Clark led the Trojans in all three outings and paced by the York, S.C., native, Trojan runners opened the season by claiming five of the top-20 spots at the Royals Challenge in Charlotte. With four Trojan runners finishing in the top five spots and claiming six of the top nine slots, the team won the 8th Annual UNG Cross Country Invitational; and the Trojans finished second at Newberry College’s firstever invitational in late October, where four runners claimed top-10 spots and placed six runners in the top 14 berths.
Men’s Golf The Trojan men’s golf team opened its abbreviated fall schedule by winning West Georgia’s Matt Dyas Invitational and followed up with a fourth-place finish at the Full Moon
3 6 | ATH L ETI C N EWS
BBQ Invitational, which was hosted by Montevallo. Sophomore Anthony Sutton used a three-round, 4-under– par 212 to earn his first collegiate victory by three strokes over Newberry’s Tom Bueschges at West Georgia. AU freshman Calahan Keever finished in third place. Two weeks later another sophomore, Reece Coleman, carded his best round of the season with a final-round 1-under-par 70 to lead the men’s golf team to a fourth-place finish in Alabama. The Trojans are ranked seventh nationally in the latest Golfstat Top-25 Poll.
Women’s Golf The women’s golf team posted a pair of third-place finishes during its shortened fall slate. Newcomer Jessica Rathbone carded a two-day 9-over-par 153 to pace the Black and Gold at Flagler’s Fall Slam. The native of Montpelier, Va., finished with a share of eighth place. Veteran Victoria Hall fired her best round of the fall season ( 3-over-par 75) to propel the Trojans to a third-place finish at Lander’s Savannah Lakes Fall Invitational. Hall shared eighth place, with Rathbone taking home a share of 15th place. AU is ranked 13th nationally in the latest Golfstat Top-25 Poll.
Victoria Hall
Graduate student Jack Zilgme, freshman Nick Calabrese, junior Ryley Zopfi and freshman Tagrt Houghton were chosen by their teammates to serve as team captains for the 2021 campaign. “It’s my pleasure to announce and congratulate Jack, Ryley, Nick and Tagrt as our captains for the 2021 season,” said Mitchell. “While I think there are several players on this team who are great leaders, these four young men have stepped up this fall and they have earned the votes to be named captains. All of them bring a strong and diverse leadership experience to the team and I look forward to working with them to lead this team through our first season as a program.”
Reece Coleman
Men’s Lacrosse Names Team Captains for Inaugural Season Head men’s lacrosse coach Albert Mitchell in December announced the team’s captains for the Trojans’ inaugural season, which is slated to begin in early February.
Zilgme, a native of Albany, N.Y., was a four-year starter for the College of Saint Rose where the midfielder earned Northeast-10 Conference Academic Honor Roll honors all four years. A native of Auburn, Ga., Calabrese served as a team captain for two years at Mill Creek High School, where the attackman notched 113 goals and 161 assists during his prep career. He earned the school leadership award and also lettered in football.
(Continued on page 38)
ATHLETIC NE WS | 3 7
Trojan Lacrosse & Soccer Fieldhouse
Zopfi, from St. Michael, Minn., transferred from Young Harris after scoring nine goals and recording seven assists and 23 ground balls in two seasons with the Mountain Lions. He was named to the YHC Dean’s List and was an Academic All-Peach Belt Conference honoree. A native of Weddington, N.C., Houghton helped lead Weddington High School to a pair of football state championships (2018 & 2019) and two lacrosse state championships (2018 & 2019). He was a member of the Honor Roll, a National AP Scholar, a North Carolina Scholar and graduated with honors. Houghton also lettered in basketball and football.
Women’s Basketball The women’s basketball team was recognized during a volleyball match in the fall for their continued success on the hardwood. The Trojans were presented with their championship rings after winning the 2020 South Atlantic Conference regular season title, marking the fourth time in the past six seasons. Led by Head Coach Jonathon Barbaree, AU closed last season with a 26-5 overall record and a 19-3 mark in the league, while returning to the NCA A Tournament for the 14th time in the program’s history. 3 8 | ATH L ETIC N EWS
Trojans Celebrate New Home for Lacrosse, Soccer Programs Anderson University senior leaders, Board of Trust members and Trojan athletics officials in January held a groundbreaking ceremony for the University’s newest state-of-the-art facility: a fieldhouse for the AU lacrosse and soccer programs. Held outdoors with physical distancing protocols, the event brought together teammates from the men’s lacrosse and men’s and women’s soccer teams with members of the campus community to celebrate the start of construction. The 10,000-square foot facility was designed by McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture and is being built by J. Davis Construction, Inc. In addition to remarks by President Evans Whitaker, Anderson University Board of Trust Chairman Don Harper and Anderson University Vice President for Athletics Dr. Bert Epting, Trojan men’s lacrosse coach Albert Mitchell expressed his appreciation followed by Annie Kate Hodge, a senior who plays women’s soccer for the Trojans, and new men’s lacrosse player Nick Calabrese. Anderson University Student Government Association President Riley Dixon offered the invocation, and Anderson University vice president for diversity and inclusion Dr. James Noble provided the dedicatory prayer.
The two-story fieldhouse will feature four locker rooms— two each for men’s and women’s soccer and men’s and women’s lacrosse athletes—and eight coach’s offices. Two meeting rooms, a common space for student-athletes and an exterior porch facing the field are also part of the facility design. Workers began construction on the lacrosse and soccer fieldhouse in January, which is scheduled to open this summer.
To read Annie Kate Hodge’s reflections on her journey at AU, given during the January groundbreaking ceremony, visit: AndersonUniversity.edu/news/MyAUjourney-AK-Hodge.
Taylor Hair
She earned her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from AU in 2016 and garnered her master’s degree in organizational leadership in June, 2020. The native of Clemson and resident of Seneca, S.C., had served as a graduate assistant in strength and conditioning since August 2018, working directly with the volleyball, softball, women’s basketball, tennis and golf programs, while assisting with every teams’ off-season, preseason, in-season, and postseason programs.
Women’s Basketball Picked Second in Preseason Poll; Hair Named Second-Team All-SAC Jennifer (Monroe) Anderson
Anderson Named Director of Strength and Conditioning After serving as an assistant director and then Interim Director of Strength and Conditioning, former Anderson University women’s basketball standout Jennifer (Monroe) Anderson was named as the Trojans’ Director of Strength and Conditioning in October.
After winning its second consecutive South Atlantic Conference title last season, the women’s basketball team was voted by the SAC coaches to finish second in the 202021 campaign, with senior Taylor Hair earning Second-Team All-SAC honors. The native of Orlando, Fla., averaged 4.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game to go along with 49 blocks and 16 steals captured All-SAC Honorable Mention accolades a season ago.
ATHLETIC NE WS | 3 9
Left to right: Crosby James II & Quin Nottingham
James and Nottingham Earn Preseason All-Conference Honors; Men’s Basketball Tabbed Sixth in Preseason Poll
The Trojan Athletic Fund will raise support for black and gold clad student-athletes to be competitive, while helping fund scholarships, purchase equipment, improve athletic facilities and provide professional development opportunities.
The men’s basketball team was tabbed to finish sixth in the league this season in a vote by the league’s coaches, while Quin Nottingham and Crosby James II earned Preseason All-Conference honors. Nottingham, a native of Champaign, Ill., headlined the first-team after leading the team and ranking fourth in the conference in scoring with 19.6 points per game a year ago. James, a native of Columbia, S.C., earned SAC Freshman of the Year accolades a season ago after ranking third on the team and 25th in the conference with 12.6 points per game.
The mission of the Trojan Athletic Fund is to provide financial support for Trojan Athletics through charitable contributions from Trojan alumni, fans and families.
Re-Branded Trojan Athletic Fund makes Debut The Anderson University Athletics Trojan Club was re-branded and relaunched as the Trojan Athletic Fund (TAF) and debuted in October. It will focus on charitable gifts in support of the AU student-athlete experience.
Give to the Trojan Athletic Fund at AndersonUniversity.edu/taf. For membership questions, contact the Athletic Department at 864.231.2752 or trojanfund@andersonuniversity.edu
4 0 | ATH L ETI C N EWS
Funds raised through the Trojan Athletic Fund create opportunities and provide resources for student-athletes to excel in both the classroom and athletics, while developing leaders that will positively impact the world. The new Trojan Athletic Fund will focus on communicating the successes, experiences and day-to-day activities of the Trojan studentathletes to supporters. Additionally, the Trojan Athletic Fund will continue to connect with alumni and supporters outside of the Upstate. Trojan Athletic Fund members will have the opportunity to support the overall athletic department or may support an individual team of their choice. The Trojan Athletic Fund rebrand was a result of a thorough review of the Trojan Club and the Athletic fundraising structure into a model that is consistent with the best practices in the industry to enhance the benefits for Trojan student-athletes. It is directed at supporting and enhancing the experience of AU student-athletes and the success of the athletic programs.
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