Anderson University 2015 FALL/WINTER MAGAZINE | CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS ISSUE
AU named Apple Distinguished School U.S. News & World Report: AU ranks No. 16 among regional colleges in the South student center construction keeps pace despite record rain
Anderson University Magazine 2015 Fall/Winter Campus Improvements Issue Largest freshman class in history........... 5 Student Center Campaign................... 7 AU unveils new sculptures on campus.....10 Record U.S.News & World Report Ranking.........................................12 AU named Apple Distinguished School.....14 A Decade of Growth..........................16 The Face of AU................................18 The AU Diary: Thoughts from The Journey.................26 AU Journey Coaches..........................28 The South Carolina School of the Arts.....30 AU theatre professor performs in New York City...............................32 Athletic News..................................34 Alumni News...................................40 Class Notes.....................................50 Contributing Writers: Evelyn Beck, Richard Breen, Barry Ray, Brenna K. Morris, Leigh Savage, Jonathan Todd, Donald White Anderson University Magazine is a publication of the Marketing and Communications Department of Anderson University for alumni and friends. President: Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D Editor In Chief: Barry Ray Editorial Director: Jonathan Todd Creative Direction, Art Direction & Design: 229design.com Contributing Photographer: Jason Jones Photography
university happenings ...
Campus News Major construction, record enrollment, big recognition and more...
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greetings from Anderson University As we approach the end of 2015, we at Anderson
much of our time, energy and resources to enhance
University want to update you on what has been
the experience of our students, who remain our
a momentous year in the life of our institution.
top priority in all that we do. To that end, we’ll be
During an unprecedented period of growth in
updating you on efforts to expand programs and
the quality and quantity of what we offer as part
provide a deeper level of customer service to our
of the “Anderson Experience,” we have striven to
adult and professional students. In 2016, expect
make each record-breaking year better and more
to see a themed AU magazine about strides we’re
exciting than the one previous. Most of the time
making to enhance diversity on campus, especially
we have succeeded in that goal, but never quite as
in our faculty and staff. AU has sought to be a
dramatically as in 2015 as you will see in the pages
place that welcomes everyone, but we have been
to follow.
intentional about broadening the ethnic and cultural richness of our campus.
The theme of this edition of Anderson University Magazine is Campus Improvements. While we are
At no time in her history has Anderson University
in the midst of the single largest building project
enjoyed higher rankings, higher enrollment,
in the University’s history and are clearly focused
more momentum or greater offerings in the
on the future impact it will bring, we thought it
academic program. In order to maintain that
would be inspirational to take a quick look back at
momentum and reach the great potential we see
what has been accomplished through the Lord’s
ahead of us, it is important that as many of our
blessing and the hard work of a lot of people who
alumni and friends as possible join us with their
love AU. We rarely allow ourselves the luxury of
support. There is so much our recent success has
looking back as we are committed to being a forward-
made possible for us, but we feel the urgency that
looking organization, but it is truly inspirational
we must do all we can during this season of so
to momentarily count our blessings and thank
much promise. We hope you catch the vision as
those of you who have helped make it all possible.
you read what follows and that you will be inspired to join us in the journey.
While the “brick and mortar” additions to our campus are tangible and very noticeable, campus
- Anderson University Magazine
improvement is about far more than that. We are in the “people business” and we have invested
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820 new Anderson students launch the new academic year The largest freshman class in Anderson University history began its college experience with a rousing worship service and a march through the storied arch of the University per Anderson tradition as the new school year officially began on Aug. 23rd. Anderson students march through the arch twice in their college careers – once as freshman on the Sunday before the beginning of classes with parents lining the sidewalks to cheer them on, and again at graduation where faculty offer a gauntlet of support as they conclude their college careers. This year there are 700 new freshmen and 120 transfer students, composing the largest class of incoming students in University history.
Evangelist Clayton King challenged the students to make the most of these pivotal college years in a family worship service, which featured rousing music by Anderson’s music group AUthenticity. The new class at AU is also one of the most academically qualified in school history. Anderson now leads private universities in South Carolina in the number of enrolled students who received merit-based state scholarships (Palmetto Fellows and Life scholarships). Move-In weekend at Anderson University is one of the most unique experiences among colleges in South Carolina as scores of volunteers, from current students’ parents, to faculty and staff, cheerfully descend on each new car as it arrives and quickly move the contents to the respective room of the new student. Sunday, faculty and staff eat and worship with the new families before the moms and dads head back to their respective homes and the students begin life at AU.
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student center construction keeps pace despite record rain As Dane Slaughter, Anderson’s vice president for facilities, will tell you, most large construction projects factor in the likelihood of losing time due to rain. Unfortunately, this fall has been one of record rainfall in South Carolina. Still, the largest building project in university history is still on track for July completion—that is, if the rain tapers off for the month of December. The 86,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art G. Ross Anderson Jr. Student Center is something Anderson University has waited for decades to construct. If an office or two aren’t completely ready in the fall of 2016, no one will complain too much. Luckily, the roof over the structure is nearly completed as of this writing; and once the building is “in the dry” as they say in the construction business, rain and inclement weather won’t be as serious of an issue going forward. The average student walking across campus will tell you, “Just make sure the Chick-fil-A” and the Einstein Bros. Bagels shop are open. The student center means much more than that to Anderson 6 | CAMPUS NEWS
University, however. A 400-seat dining hall, a large banquet hall, a theatre for movies and other presentations, a new bookstore and post office and a beautiful fitness center are just a few of the amenities that will make the student center the new focal point of campus. While the construction, which began in May, is on track but a little tight on the schedule, the same could be said for the $15.2 million fundraising campaign for the project. More than $13 million has been raised, but contributions received in the next few weeks will determine whether the university reaches some important challenge grant benchmarks. “While we are thrilled that more than $13 million has been raised toward our $15.2 million goal for the G. Ross Anderson, Jr. Student Center, we still have some considerable work to accomplish to raise the remaining funds by July 1, 2016 in order to claim a $500,000 challenge grant,” says Wayne Landrith, AU’s vice president for development. “During these final months and days of our campaign, I respectfully encourage our AU family, especially every alumnus, parent, friend, or leader, to demonstrate your support for this crucial legacy building by making a first-time gift or increasing your contribution or pledge. Long live Anderson!” If you would like to join the growing number of friends and alumni who keep up with the progress of construction on a weekly basis, visit the university website at www.andersonuniversity.edu/scupdates where detailed construction progress reports are posted regularly.
G. Ross Anderson Jr. Student Center Campaign
You can make your contribution by using the enclosed envelope or by contacting our Office of Development at 864-231-2147
(Capital Campaign) Balance Needed: $2,000,000.00 13.16% To Meet Our Goal $15,200,000.00 $13,200,000.00
86.84% Raised
Your Gifts and Pledges for G. Ross Anderson Jr. Student Center Campaign Construction began in the spring on our 86,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art student center, which will include a new dining hall, a 400-seat theater, a banquet hall, fitness center, bookstore and many other amenities. It will be completed next fall. We hope that if you have not been a part of this momentous moment in our history that you will consider doing so. To learn more about the new G. Ross Anderson Jr. Student Center,
visit andersonuniversity.edu/studentcenter.
To make a contribution, please call 864.231.2147, or send a check marked “Student Center Campaign� to Office of Development, Anderson University, 316 Boulevard, Anderson, South Carolina, 29621.
* Our goal is to reach $15,200,000 by July 1st, 2016, in order to claim a $500,000 challenge grant. CAMPUS NEWS
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new AU statue celebrates “park bench statesman” Anderson University dedicated a new sculpture on campus Thursday, Sept. 24, honoring a South Carolina native and great American statesman, philanthropist, and advisor to six presidents from
campus with original artwork in the form of sculptures. It was the Raineys who commissioned the stunning sculpture by renowned artist Marc Mellon that is the centerpiece of the fountain in front of The Thrift Library on campus. During the Thursday ceremony, held inside the Daniel Recital Hall due to rain, Anderson Mayor Terrence Roberts said John Rainey and the man he felt compelled to memorialize in bronze had a lot in common.
Woodrow Wilson to John F. Kennedy. The bronze sculpture of Bernard Mannes Baruch is a gift to Anderson University from the late John Rainey, who commissioned it not long before he passed away last spring, and his wife Anne Edens Rainey. The larger Rainey family, including Robert Rainey, Nancy Crowley, and Mary Belser, along with their late parents, has been a valuable partner with AU in adorning the already beautiful
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“Bernard Baruch and John Rainey were independent thinkers who stood up for what they believed in. Just because someone is different doesn’t mean that they are inferior and these two men understood that.”
Terrence Roberts
Anderson Mayor
The bronze likeness of Baruch sits in a plaza
with citizens about the affairs of the day, he
on one of three park benches across the street
earned the sobriquet “the Park Bench Statesman.”
from the Rainey Fine Arts Center and the South
He died in 1965 at age ninety-four and is buried
Carolina School of the Arts. It was cast by Maria
in Flushing Cemetery in Queens, New York.
Kirby-Smith of Camden. Bernard Baruch was born in Camden, South
jobs, eventually becoming a Wall Street broker.
“John Rainey was passionate about nurturing the cause of racial reconciliation in his native South Carolina. He was a key source of support to Anderson University as we have made diversity a major priority in our strategic plan. He chose Bernard Baruch because he is one of South Carolina’s most noted early leaders of racial reconciliation.”
In 1897, he married Annie Griffen of New York.
Dr. Evans Whitaker
Anderson University President
Carolina, on August 19, 1870, to Jewish immigrants Dr. Simon and Isabelle Baruch. His early years were spent in Camden, the city that he claimed as his home all his life, although his family moved to New York when he was ten. At age fourteen, Baruch entered the College of the City of New York where he excelled at economics and languages. After college he worked various
As Baruch amassed a fortune, he also became a philanthropist. Extremely modest about his good deeds, he insisted that his charitable endeavors be shared by all races and religions. In his native Camden, his gift to help establish the Camden Hospital in 1913 was given with the condition that the hospital provide an adequate number of beds for black patients. Baruch was an independent thinker whose opinions were not determined by political partisanship. Advisor to six presidents, Baruch’s opinion was
“He felt that students would benefit and be inspired by the subtle visual reminder of Baruch’s leadership and his example. Later this fall, we did dedicate another bronze statue on campus of an African-American South Carolinian provided by the Rainey Family. These gifts are going to be an invaluable source of inspiration to our campus and the Upstate,” he added.
sought by Wilson, Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy. Baruch influenced national policy and international negotiations from World War I through World War II and into the Cold War era. Because he often sat on park benches in New York’s Central Park and Washington, D.C.’s Lafayette Park to converse
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Veteran’s Day saw statue dedicated to South Carolina’s first African-American Medal of Honor recipient at Thrift Library Anderson University dedicated a statue to Corporal Freddie Stowers, South Carolina’s first African-American Medal of Honor recipient, on November 11 at 11 am on the grounds of the Thrift Library.
An Anderson County native from nearby Sandy Springs, South Carolina, Corporal Stowers was posthumously awarded the nation’s highest military honor in 1991 by President George H.W. Bush. He served in World War I in the Ardennes region of France. His heroism has been compared by some to that of the more famous Sergeant Alvin York and is best described in the account that accompanied his Medal of Honor. The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (posthumously) to Corporal Freddie Stowers, United States Army, for exceptional heroism on September 28, 1918, while serving as a squad leader in Company C, 371st Infantry Regiment, 93d Infantry Division. Corporal Stowers’ company was the lead company during the attack on Hill 188, Champagne Marne Sector, France, during World War I.
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A few minutes after the attack began, the enemy
Although Corporal Stowers was mortally wounded,
ceased firing and began climbing up onto the
he pressed forward, urging on the members of
parapets of the trenches, holding up their arms as if
his squad, until he died. Inspired by the heroism
wishing to surrender. The enemy’s actions caused
and display of bravery of Corporal Stowers, his
the American forces to cease-fire and to come out
company continued the attack against incredible
into the open.As the company started forward and
odds, contributing to the capture of Hill 188
when within about 100 meters of the trench line, the
and causing heavy enemy casualties.
enemy jumped back into their trenches and greeted Corporal Stowers’ company with interlocking
Corporal Stowers’ conspicuous gallantry,
bands of machine gun fire and mortar fire
extraordinary heroism and supreme devotion
causing well over fifty percent casualties.
to his men were well above and beyond the call of duty, follow the finest traditions of military service and reflect the utmost credit on him
Faced with incredible enemy resistance, Corporal Stowers took charge, setting such a courageous example of personal bravery and leadership that he inspired his men to follow him in the attack. With extraordinary heroism and complete disregard of personal danger under devastating fire, he crawled forward leading his squad toward an enemy machine gun nest, which was causing heavy casualties to his company.
and the United States Army.
The Stowers statue is the second statue honoring an historic South Carolinian to be installed at the Anderson University campus this fall. Previously, a statue bearing the likeness of Bernard Baruch, a South Carolina philanthropist and advisor to six U.S. presidents was dedicated. Both statues are gifts from the family of the late John Rainey. Rainey was dedicated to the mission of honoring the memory of great South Carolinians as well as helping to
After fierce fighting, the machine gun position
beautify the Anderson University
was destroyed and the enemy soldiers were
campus with great works of art.
killed. Displaying great courage and intrepidity, Corporal Stowers continued to press the attack against a determined enemy. While crawling forward and urging his men to continue the attack on a second trench line, he was gravely wounded by machine gunfire.
CC AA MM PP UU S SNN EE WW SS
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U.S. News & World Report: AU ranks No. 16 among regional colleges in The South, and No. 2 for innovation Anderson University climbed six spots to #16 among regional colleges in The South in the newly released U.S. News & World Report rankings. In addition, Anderson was named the #2 regional college in The South for innovation. The recognition for the most innovative schools in the country was previously called the “Up and Coming” list by the publication. In the past five years, Anderson University has been ranked among the most innovative universities each year.
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“We’re very pleased to see our continuous quality improvement progress recognized with our highest ranking ever,” said AU spokesperson Barry Ray on behalf of the university. “To move up six spots to #16 and be solidly among the top 20 in The South is most gratifying.
Our president reminds us yearly that the hard work we put in on behalf of our students is for them and we don’t do what we do for the sake of rankings. However, the work being done by our faculty, staff and students should raise the profile of our institution and that’s clearly happening.” “We are also pleased to see our ranking of #2 in The South among regional colleges for innovation,” Ray said. “We feel it demonstrates the effectiveness of the groundbreaking Mobile Learning Initiative we launched some five years ago.”
AU students loving townhouse living
arrived in August, there were 20 nicely renovated townhouses in five buildings near the Athletic Campus in move-in condition for 76 students. At least that’s the short version of the story.
With record growth in enrollment and increasingly robust freshman classes at AU, it has become more and more of a challenge for the university to plan for housing needs. Add to that equation the fact that unlike those at many other universities, AU students overwhelmingly prefer to live on campus as opposed to off campus and it is enough to keep those who plan facilities up at night. Heading into the spring, a time when college admission professionals notice a slight melt in their early commitment pool, Anderson discovered that no such phenomenon was occurring. That created a need for additional housing with no time to construct a residence hall. Providentially, a long-time friend of the University who owns some townhomes near the campus was already thinking of how they would make great student housing, unaware of the potential housing crunch record growth was creating. By the time students
Getting the townhouses ready and worthy of the standards for Anderson University housing in a period of six weeks called for all hands on deck. Charlie Dickerson, physical plant director worked around the clock to update every facet of the townhomes. Not only did it require long hours and herculean work by the facilities staff at AU, but others from the vice president of student development to the President’s wife pitched in to ensure the University would meet the tight deadline. As for the students who left school in the spring not even knowing townhouses existed? They love them. In fact, it’s safe to say the line to apply for townhouse living at Anderson University will be a long one this spring; and with Trojan Transit, the campus shuttle bus system, making routine stops at the new complex, it’s just as convenient as living in the center of campus.
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Anderson University named Apple Distinguished School
Ben Deaton, dean of the Center for Innovation, Design, and Digital Learning, for playing a major role in making the idea come to life on campus. Dr. Parker and Dr. Deaton emphasized that the initiative has been successful because of buy-in from the faculty and students.
By Donald White Apple Inc. has recognized Anderson University as an Apple Distinguished School, an honor that places AU in the forefront of educational institutions around the globe in the use of mobile technology as a teaching and learning tool. According to Apple, this designation is reserved for programs such as AU’s Mobile Learning Initiative that meet stringent criteria for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence, and that demonstrate Apple’s vision of exemplary learning environments. The university celebrated this rare achievement last semester by announcing it to local officials and then to the student body. First, Anderson University was presented the award at a luncheon held at the Vandiver Gallery on campus. University President Dr. Evans Whitaker emceed the event, attended by nearly 100 guests, including community leaders, alumni, friends of the university, as well as faculty members and students. “Ten years ago we produced a long-range plan that called for leadership in educational technology,” he said, “and today we achieved that goal with the help of Apple. This award truly sets us apart... It symbolizes our international stature as a leader in implementing mobile technology as a learning platform.” Dr. Whitaker said AU’s Mobile Learning Initiative began five years ago and that its objectives aligned with those presented by the Apple program. He cited then-Provost Dr. Danny Parker for championing the idea of using mobile technology and Dr.
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The luncheon featured demonstrations of how faculty and students are using iPads and other devices in innovative ways. For example, Katey Robinson, a senior biology major, uses her iPad to better understand the structure of molecules. Atley Citeno, an education major, showed how iPads provide dynamic platforms for presenting material to schoolchildren. The second part of the celebration shifted to Henderson Auditorium, where the presentation of the award was recreated for about 1,000 students who came armed with their iPads. Dr. Whitaker, who emceed this event as well, said, “Those iPads and the way you use them have paved the way for Anderson to be recognized as a leader in the use of mobile technology.” In addition, the ceremony in Henderson served as a platform for announcing the startup of AU’s revamped website. It has a multitude of enhancements, including the capability to accept photos shot by students and faculty on their iPads.
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our faculty and students...
Faces of AU Recognition for academics on campus
Recognitions and Awards graduate, former volleyball captain wins outstanding medical resident award
Health in Anderson, South Carolina. “Warm and
By Richard Breen
AU grad Chris Pitts, there was another resident
engaging, yet studious and knowledgeable.” That combination of traits helped earn Dr. Pitts this year’s Outstanding Resident Award at AnMed. The honor was unexpected. “Flabbergasted is a nice way of saying it,” says Dr. Pitts, who had already told her husband, fellow she was sure would win. AnMed Health is a 588-bed, not-for-profit health system that serves an eight-county area in Upstate South Carolina and northeast Georgia. The award goes to an AnMed resident in their final year of training. Dr. Pitts is scheduled to complete her internship in January. This spring, faculty members selected from a group of nine residents. They considered excellence in patient care, empathy and communication skills, medical knowledge, and teaching ability. AnMed is also home to students currently in medical school.
Perhaps the greatest compliment a doctor can receive is to have another doctor say they would
“It was a clear majority of the faculty who voted for
trust them with their own family.
her,” Dr. Cline says.
Dr. Andrea Ray Pitts is barely into her medical
He says the faculty also considers how good of a
career, yet the Anderson University graduate has
doctor that resident will be in the future.
already earned such accolades. “It’s almost a ‘most likely to succeed,’ ” Dr. Cline says. “Andrea Pitts really personifies the kind of doctor
That would be an accurate superlative for Dr.
we would all want to go to,” says Dr. Matthew Cline,
Pitts, who graduated from AU in 2008 with a
director of family practice residency at AnMed
degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. She
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was captain of the volleyball team, leading the
“It really took shape in high school,” she says, as
squad in pregame devotionals and teaming with
she witnessed her father overcome two different
then-boyfriend Chris and other students to
types of cancer.
minister to fellow athletes. Dr. Pitts received her medical degree from “The biggest life lessons I learned there came
Ross University.
through sports,” she says. “I went to a medical school in the Caribbean,” she
Dr. Pitts credits volleyball coach Jennifer Bell (now an associate athletics director at AU) with teaching her punctuality as well as the importance of preparation. She also thanks professors such as Drs. Margarit Gray and Carrie Koenigstein, who steered her toward classes that would prepare her for medical school.
says. “It wasn’t the traditional route.” It’s also not traditional to have a baby in the middle of a three-year residency, but Dr. Pitts and her husband welcomed son Jackson into the world in April. Now Dr. Pitts has a family of her own to match her family practice residency, where doctors can do anything from delivering babies to performing minor surgery to caring for the elderly. “We’ve got patients that are 102,” Dr. Cline says.
“I had some really great professors that really
Currently serving as chief resident at AnMed,
helped,” Dr. Pitts says.
Dr. Pitts is looking into a possible specialty in sports medicine and has applied for a fellowship.
She says she had wanted to be a doctor since childhood.
Dr. Cline says he’s trying to recruit her to continue practicing medicine in the Anderson area. “She would be an asset,” he says. FA C E S O F A U
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Recognitions and Awards College of Business faculty members won award for showing how leadership style change reaped benefits for Walgreens distribution centers
for the benefit of all workers. After Dr. Moore won approval from the company to examine the transformation, the faculty team interviewed 80 percent of the managers for a case study.
By Evelyn Beck
Among the solutions was to let a worker with autism wear headphones since the music helped him to focus even though company policy did not allow music. Another worker who walked with a limp fell every time he crossed an uneven spot on the factory floor until he was allowed to exchange his safety boots for tennis shoes.
Four Anderson University business faculty members received an Outstanding Scholar-Practitioner Award from the Academy of Management for research presented at the organization’s conference in Vancouver in August. AU Professors Dr. Jeffrey Moore, Dr. William Hanson, Dr. Evie C. Maxey, and Larry Kraemer were honored in the Management Consulting Division for their paper entitled “Fully Integrated Inclusive Organization: Beyond Accommodations.” The research examined how leadership style changed at Walgreens distribution centers in Anderson, South Carolina, and Pendergrass, Georgia, in response to the challenge of managing employees with cognitive or physical limitations. Walgreens has been widely recognized for hiring individuals with disabilities. At these two distribution centers, 38 percent of the over 650 employees have limited skills. Former AU students who had gone to work for Walgreens told Dr. Moore about how managers had adapted their approach
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The faculty learned how managers transition from an authoritarian style of management to a style focused on getting to know the employees and what motivated them. This transformation involved three steps: 1) a change of heart away from thinking that their way was the best way, 2) the building of a caring relationship with employees, and 3) the institution of innovative or adaptive solutions.
Such changes allowed the company not only to meet production standards but to exceed them by 20 percent. Even more surprising is that many workers with disabilities now aspire to do greater things in the organization. A deaf man is driving a forklift. A blind man who can only count to ten has become the most accurate of inventory takers. “The employees changed,” said Dr. Moore. “The managers also changed. They said they’re different people because they learned how to develop others.” Dr. Benyamin Lichstein, who teaches entrepreneurship and management at the University of Massachusetts Boston, was at the
conference where the Academy of Management award was presented. “This is exactly the kind of paper that should win such an award because it exemplifies strong research into an area that actually matters for employers and society,” he said. “Diversifying the employee base is pretty much the only way that companies are going to stay successful. Plus, people want to see companies doing this.” The research has been important to Walgreens, too. “It validates what we realize about how it changes the management style,” says Kraemer,
area human resource manager for Walgreens Distribution Centers and part of the research team in his role as an adjunct professor at AU. “Instead of managing to the masses, it forces you to manage to the individual. It forces you to know employees better and creates much more of a teamwork environment.” In the future, AU business faculty will seek funding for follow-up studies at Walgreens distribution centers in Texas and Connecticut.
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Recognitions and Awards AU musical theatre student Craig Smith wins second place in national competition
Smith credited Dr. Watson with teaching him essential vocal techniques, which have helped him achieve his current success. Smith said he also received audition training through the theatre department at AU’s South Carolina School of the Arts. “Everything that he was taught along the way, I think, showed up in the performance,” Dr. Watson said.
Craig Smith, an AU musical theatre major and Anderson, South Carolina, native, won second place in his category at the 2015 National Student Auditions hosted by the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Smith is the first student from AU to advance to the national round of the NATS competition. “I’m very honored to represent not only Anderson University and (The South Carolina) School of the Arts but also my city, my state, and even my region,” Smith said. The national competition, held in July on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, featured two rounds of competition. Smith first competed with 14 other students in his category in a semifinal round. He and two others advanced to the final round, where Smith won second place. Smith said that his personal goal during semifinals was to advance to finals, and his goal during finals was to at least place second. He achieved both goals and went home with a cash prize of $600. “I was just very impressed by his ability to maintain focus and to maintain the professional presentation of everything,” said AU Associate Professor of Music, Dr. Tommy L. Watson Jr., Smith’s voice teacher, who went with him to the NATS competition.
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Dr. Watson described the NATS competition as a “tremendous journey.” Earlier in the year, Smith competed at the state and regional levels, placing first and second, respectively. He then passed a YouTube audition, which qualified him to compete nationally. To advance so far, Dr. Watson said, performers need more than mere talent: it takes reliability, responsibility, dependability, and focus—qualities that Smith possesses. “That’s my motto: go in, do your personal best, and whatever happens, happens,” Smith said. Dr. Watson called Smith “the student that every teacher wishes they had.” He said he looks forward to voice lessons with Smith. “I am richer, I am better, I am more inspired because I have the opportunity to work with him,” Dr. Watson said.
AU professor honored for teaching excellence Anderson University psychology professor Dr. Robert Franklin has been honored for Excellence in Teaching by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU). Faculty from 20 private colleges were recognized for dedication to teaching by South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) at the 10th Annual Excellence in Teaching Awards Dinner held on Tuesday, April 14.
grant that accompanies his award to purchase EEG headsets for classroom use so that students can see their brain waves in real time. Robert Franklin Jr., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Anderson University. Prior to coming to Anderson in 2013, he was a research fellow with affiliations at Brandeis University and Massachusetts General Hospital. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and history from The College of William and Mary (2006) and a Doctorate in psychology from Penn State University. He currently teaches a diverse mix of courses in psychology, including introduction to Psychology, History and Systems of Psychology, Physiological Psychology, Psychology of Religion and Advanced Statistics.
Each of the 20 member institutions of the SCICU consortium selects one faculty member to receive the award, which includes a professional development grant of $3,000 for the professor. Each recipient is chosen by his or her institution according to rigorous criteria. Franklin, who joined the AU faculty in 2013, is described as integrating a passion for research and critical thinking into his teaching discipline. Students describe his teaching as thought provoking, inspiring, and intellectually deep. Outside of the classroom, he mentors students through research projects. Some of the students have presented their research in local and national conferences, with one student winning an award for best presentation at the Society of Southeastern Social Psychologists. His scholarly interests include understanding the neural and mental mechanisms behind complex social behaviors such as empathy and reading the facial expressions of others. He has an active research program with more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and several presentations and book chapters. He plans to use the $3,000 SCICU
“This year’s award recipients demonstrated a remarkable blend of scholarship, passion, commitment, and the ability to motivate students to new heights,” said Kathy McKinney, chair of the SCICU Board of Trustees. The award ceremony is part of SC Independent College and University Week (April 13- 17), which was recognized by the South Carolina General Assembly and Gov. Nikki Haley.
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AU senior Brenna K. Morris was a featured speaker during this semester’s Welcome Week Trojan Tradition program. She addressed the freshman class in her speech printed here. Morris is a communication major who is earning a concentration in public relations. She is from Aiken, South Carolina.
I had no idea then all that the Lord would do over the next four years. It’s been four years, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting countless friends that will be my bridesmaids one day, changing my major, not once or even twice, but three times, working four different jobs, going to countless events, and drinking tons of cups of coffee. I’ve met mentors and gone to intramural games and eaten birddogs and gone on mission trips. I’ve watched too many seasons of television and pulled too many late nights, desperately trying to study after said television. I’ve smelled the cookies that Mrs. Whitaker bakes for us, I’ve felt the green grass of the front lawn under my feet. I’ve heard the sound of hundreds of voices raised to praise the Lord. I’ve watched the faculty bend over backwards to give us the experience that we have. I’ve witnessed people cross from death to life in campus ministry events, within the residence halls, and many places in between. I’ve seen grace poured out. I’ve seen restoration in lives. I’ve seen the Lord show up over and over and over.
Four years ago, I would have never dreamed that this place would be Home to me. Four years ago, I toured Anderson. I knew next to nothing about college, except that I was sure I needed to go. I had never toured a college before, and I hadn’t yet applied anywhere, but somehow, I wound up touring this university.
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Each day of the last four years, I have been shaped by this place. By the students here, by staff like Scott Taylor and Winfred, by the professors that have deeply cared for me, by the worship here, by the prayers of my roommates, by the good, and bad grades, that I’ve gotten. By the Lord, who is evident here. By the love that is rooted in this campus. It is in the halls, in the classrooms, in the oak trees, and in the theaters. It is in offices, down hallways, up stairs, and, already, in the foundation of the new student center. Really, I believe that there is no environment more loving than this one.
These four years have proven to be some of my hardest days ever. I struggled, and I’ve failed. And I’ve let people down. I’ve found regret, and I’ve hurt. But I wouldn’t change a thing if I could because all of that is the “More Than a Diploma” that I’m talking about. One of Anderson’s core values is commitment to the student. This means that this University is committed to doing more for us than just giving us a degree. This University is committed to building us up spiritually, mentally, physically, academically, and socially. Your tuition dollars pay for much more than just your degree, and it is my prayer that, by the end of your four short years, you will know that. You couldn’t give me enough money to go back four years ago and decide on a different school. You couldn’t convince me that Anderson isn’t one of the best places to be. And you surely couldn’t make me transfer, two years ago, six months ago, or even now.
I will be more than sad to graduate. The idea of leaving the place that has so deeply shaped me for four whole years is not a feeling that I welcome. I will not soon forget all four years I spent here. And on the day in nine short months that I walk across that stage to shake Dr. Whitaker’s hand and receive my diploma, I will know, without a doubt, that I am stepping into the real world with much more than just a handshake and a degree. The life I’ve learned here is irreplaceable. Anderson is committed to showing you life and life abundantly. And of all the things I’ve seen here, I couldn’t trade a single one. It is my hope that you will continue on in this abundant life. That you will let Anderson take you on the adventure because it is one most worth taking. — By Brenna K. Morris For more AU Diaries go to: www.andersonuniversity.edu/myjourney
THE ANDERSON FUND Because our students are worth the investment. Make your contribution today! You can use the enclosed envelope, or contact our Office of Development at 864.231.2147
knowledge for the journey South Carolina
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nurse and student with five children grateful for the Journey Coaches program By Leigh Savage A full-time nurse with five kids who is earning a degree needs all of the time-saving assistance she can get. Robin Rhoton, who works at Roper St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, was excited to find out about Anderson University’s Journey Coach program, which she is using as she pursues her RN to BSN degree. “I really feel like Anderson has gone the extra mile in establishing that Journey Coach role,” said Rhoton, who works in open heart surgery and expects to complete her degree in 2017. “It was another person helping me walk through the process, and I was well taken care of.” After 20 years as a nurse, Rhoton needed to complete the RN to BSN program, a new requirement for her job. But she had so many questions: would her credits from 20 years ago count? What was she required to take? When would she graduate? Living in Charleston, working and family obligations made frequent trips to Anderson to speak with registrars and deans impossible. “As an adult learner, these waters are difficult to navigate,” Rhoton said. “But it’s been wonderful.” Her Journey Coach Casey Baldwin, walked her through registration, contacted the registrar about her transfer credits and helped her decide on an academic plan. Chesley Tench, Journey Coach supervisor, worked with Rhoton before Baldwin took over and said
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Rhoton is exactly the type of student her program was created to help. “She’s not local; she has credits from different places and time periods. The Journey Coach has a lot of training with the registrar and works closely with the dean of their department.” The mentoring program was designed as a time saver for students in Adult Studies, online and graduate programs, allowing them to juggle their busy lives more easily. “These students are great at what they do, but education might be something that is foreign to them,” Tench said. “We want to help them navigate it and do this as well as everything else they do.” For Rhoton, the Journey Coach and the RN to BSN degree will have extra significance, as she will finish her bachelor’s degree the same year her oldest child finishes college and another graduates from high school. “It’s going to be very exciting,” she said. “It’s been a life-saver. It’s so hard to have that work-life balance already, and then when you add school into that, it’s a challenge. But I can’t thank Anderson enough for looking out for students like me, nontraditional students embarking on a new journey.” Like many journeys, this one will likely lead to new beginnings, since pursuing her degree now has Rhoton considering advancement options. “Sometimes, a little change like this in the requirements for your role at work can give you that nudge to advance your role,” she said. After two weeks in the program, she sent Tench an email that sums up how the Journey Coaches program is helping adult students change their lives. “I always believed I was at the top of my game,” Rhoton wrote. “I see now…that I am capable of so much more as a professional nurse. It is as if I am awake for the first time in a very long time. Thank you again for all that you do.”
“I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know how to approach it… (The Journey Coach program) will help students out tremendously, especially those like myself who’ve been out of (the) civilian education game for a while, to help (us) transition back in.”
—Korey Graettinger Veteran & nursing student
“Anderson University has been a Godsend for me and my family. I have already told friends about this program for when they are ready to pursue their degree.”
—Melanie Schackmann Online graduate student
“Mrs. Norwine served as a liaison with my instructor, Dr. Perry, who graciously gave me an extension, which allowed me to finish my assignments. I also received a sympathy card from Mrs. Norwine and Anderson University. This extension of love was very comforting and showed that I was cared for as a person, and not just as a student.”
—Christa Faison Online graduate student
Adult students are generally not on campus often so the personal touch of the Journey Coach has proven to be a great way to keep them connected to AU. FA C E S O F A U
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Leading the way: Arts with spirit. Arts as professions. AU professor takes one-woman show to NYC
AU theatre professor selected to perform at United Solo Theatre Festival in New York Dr. Deborah McEniry, chair and professor of theatre at Anderson University, was selected to perform her one-woman show, YESNOMAYBE: The Doppelganger and the Professor, at the prestigious United Solo Theatre Festival in the heart of the acclaimed Theatre Row on 42nd St. in New York City in October. McEniry, who performs professionally under the name Deborah Colleen White, developed the play as a humorous, dramatic and thought-provoking look at the experience of a former NYC actress turned theatre professor whose dream of working in New York theatre and being on Broadway has never been extinguished. Realities of life—a job, children, a husband’s career—have put her dream on hold. After 20 years, the spark of hope is ignited as she returns to NYC to find that world she thought she knew has changed dramatically. Additionally, another AU theatre faculty member, Cara Wood, was a part of the performance as technical director and lighting designer.
Dr. Deborah McEniry Chair and Professor of Theatre at Anderson University
“The Importance of Being Earnest” Enthusiastic, capacity crowds greeted the AU Playhouse production of the English comedy “The Importance of Being Ernest” in September. AU actors enjoyed taking on the sharp-tongued wit of Oscar Wilde. 3 2 | S O U T H C A R O L I N A S C H O O L O F T H E A RT S
Senior Kate Evans Receives South Carolina’s Top Collegiate Acting Award
Senior Acting Major Kate Evans wins top honors at South Carolina Theatre Association Screening Audition. By virtue of having the highest score in the competition, Kate is essentially the best collegiate actress in South Carolina among those competing in the South Carolina Theatre Association. She will have a spot in the prestigious SETC Auditions in March.
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athletic news ...
Trojans in motion! A new man at the helm of AU athletics and a season to remember in soccer
D’Andrea brings experience and excitement to AU athletics
“About the time I was convinced I really wanted to get back into athletics,” D’Andrea says, “someone here in Anderson told me about this position at Anderson that he thought might be a fit. It didn’t take long in visiting with Dr. Whitaker to confirm that it was just the right opportunity at the right time.”
When Bill D’Andrea packed up his office at Clemson after 33 years guiding such initiatives as IPTAY, the fundraising engine that fuels Tiger sports, student academic achievement, and coaching football, he knew he was retiring; but he also knew if a challenge came his way, he still had plenty left in the tank and would love to take on another athletic administrative role. That opportunity came last summer when AU Director of Athletics Nancy Simpson decided to step down to spend more time with family.
“We were truly fortunate to bring a person of Bill D’Andrea’s experience and stature in collegiate athletics to our university,” said Dr. Whitaker at the time. “Bill has a proven track record of excellence in building winning programs, maintaining high academic credentials in athletes, and in securing the resources it takes to grow an athletic program. We’re delighted he’s joining our team.”
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It’s not as though D’Andrea was unfamiliar with NCA A Division II athletics either. Early in his career he was an assistant football coach at one of Anderson’s South Atlantic Conference foes, Catawba. “I love Division II athletics. It’s vastly different from being at major university; but if you are interested in true ‘student athletes’ and their success, you don’t find a more pure example of them than at this level,” he says. D’Andrea comes to AU at a time of unprecedented growth and expansion across the university. Enrollment is at an all-time high, the largest construction project in university history, the student center, is halfway through completion and new programs and new accolades have thrust the university into the forefront of Southern private higher education. “We want to get the community involved in our athletic program,” he says, “whether they have a real connection to the university or not. It’s time to get the community, and more importantly our alumni involved in the Trojan Club. The product is here. These student athletes deserve the support, and the games and competition are just as exciting and entertaining as they are at any level of athletics.”
There were athletic projects coming to fruition as well. A new tennis center was being completed and a brand new softball stadium that is the envy of coaches of all levels was being finished at the Athletic Campus. One of the first items of business after D’Andrea’s arrival was to modernize the look of the soccer stadium. Old bleachers that dated back to the Athletic Campus’ days as the Anderson Fairgrounds were removed and the stadium almost looks brand new. Brand new is a theme D’Andrea hopes to carry throughout the entire athletic program as he seeks ways to make what has often been a well-kept secret, a community and regional draw.
The new attitude is beginning to manifest itself in tangible ways. A record homecoming crowd cheered on the soccer teams as though they were in the playoffs. Other improvements and initiatives are on the way and D’Andrea says there’s no time to waste in getting it done. “Get on board,” he says. “It’s time to stop wishing or thinking about it and it’s time to do it!”
Join the Trojan Club today. Call 864.231.2029 for more information or visit www.autrojans.com
athletic update men’s cross country With every Trojan runner significantly improving their time from a year ago, the men’s cross country team finished third at the 2015 South Atlantic Conference Championships. Sophomore Mason Hazel garnered First-Team accolades after finishing sixth. Junior Ben Boerma earned Honorable Mention honors.
women’s cross country
men’s basketball
With a trio of runners finishing in the top-12, the women’s cross country team captured third place at the 2015 SAC Championships in October. Junior Olivia Gardner and sophomore Haylee Love earned First-Team All-Conference honors, while sophomore Alex Dixon captured Second-Team All-SAC accolades. Freshman Martha Coleman was named to the SAC All-Freshman team.
Former Trojan associate head coach Jeff Brookman was named as the Trojans’ newest head men’s basketball coach in late August. Brookman, who served as an associate head coach with the Black and Gold from 2006-2010, returns to the Electric City after serving five years at the helm of the Spartanburg Methodist program. The Charlotte, N.C. native, averaged 24 wins per season and compiled a 120-42 record in Spartanburg. For his efforts, Brookman earned back-to-back Region X Coach of the Year accolades in 2012 and 2013.
women’s basketball With expectations higher than they have ever been, the Trojans were projected to claim their second straight South Atlantic Conference title in the annual SAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, announced in late October. Anderson returns Preseason All-SAC First Team selection Jasmine Franklin and Second Team honoree Alexis Dillard to a team that set a conference record with 20 league wins a season ago. The 2015 SAC Coach of the Year Jimmy Garrity returns to the bench in 2015-16, as he looks to improve on a 43-19 record here at AU.
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women’s golf Freshman Makalyn Poole’s collegiate debut was a memorable one, as the Williamston, S.C., native overcame a one-shot deficit and won individual medalist honors at the AU Invitational in midSeptember. Poole became the first Trojan women’s golfer in school history to claim the AU Invitational title after recording a pair of birdies and 11 pars during the final round to earn a twoshot victory.
men’s golf
men’s soccer
The Trojans began their fall schedule on a successful note, as they became the first Black and Gold squad to capture the AU Invitational team title since former standout and current AU assistant coach Denton Moore led AU to the 2003 title. Anderson trailed an Erskine squad by four shots and Mars Hill by a pair of strokes following the opening round, but vaulted past both the Fleet and Lions to claim the win by four shots over Lenoir-Rhyne.
Senior Andre Carle was named to the Preseason All-SAC Men’s Soccer First Team, as he has shined in his final season with the Black and Gold. Carle has scored seven goals and handed out three assists to lead the Trojans in points with 17. Carle has recorded two matches this season where he has tallied two or more goals this season, as he currently has 25 goals scored in his three years with Anderson. Redshirt junior goalkeeper Devon Ashy is near the top of the conference in saves this season with 63.
volleyball Redshirt junior Priscilla Irizarry was named to the Preseason All-SAC Volleyball Second-Team. The native of Lares, Puerto Rico, started all 34 matches last season for the Black and Gold, while leading the team and ranking fourth in the league after tallying a career-high 1,007 assists, including a career-best 56 assists in a win at Coker.
wrestling
women’s soccer
Junior Tre’vontay Rhodes headlines the 2015-16 roster after finishing sixth at the Super Region II Tournament a season ago. Rhodes enters this season as the No. 5 ranked wrestler within the region at 174 pounds, after closing the 2014-15 season with a 23-10 overall record, highlighted by wins over opponents from VMI and George Mason. The Trojans enter the year with eight sophomores and 10 freshmen, marking on the youngest rosters in the nation.
The Trojans have put together one of their best seasons in program history, earning double-figure victories for the first time in the South Atlantic Conference era. Junior forward Idoia Agirre has contributed greatly to AU’s success on the field, scoring a conference-high 19 goals with six assists and 44 points on the year. Agirre is a two-time recipient of the AstroTurf SAC Player of the Week award, becoming the first women’s soccer player in program history to earn the honor twice in a year. The attacker was also tabbed Hero Sports Gem of the Week after notching her second hat trick of the season on Oct. 14. AT H L E T I C N E W S
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united with a passion ...
Alumni News Revisit the biggest Homecoming in AU history
perfect weather, record crowd, make homecoming 2015 a smashing success A sun-splashed day with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees found a crowd of more than 2,000 people laughing, reminiscing, eating barbecue and carnival treats, and having loads of fun at Homecoming 2015. Just about every facet of the celebration could be described as “the best one ever,” from the opening session to the final buzzer of the men’s soccer game.
Homecoming culminated as it does each year with the announcement of the Homecoming Court between the two soccer games. This year’s honorees were as follows:
In the morning, on the main campus, reunion classes gathered and the newest members of The Golden Anchor Society (those alumni who have reached the milestone of 50 years since graduation) were inducted. Then the activities shifted to the Athletic Campus where attendees were serenaded with classic rock music and the enticing aroma of barbecue filled the air as a barbecue competition sanctioned by the South Carolina Barbecue Association tantalized the crowd until lunch was served to a record crowd.
• Miss Freshman – Mary-Paige Miller, a nursing major from Anderson
In addition, there were bouncy houses, face painting for the kids, funnel cakes and other treats and there were plenty of kids, as recent graduates returned to their alma mater, many pushing strollers or chasing rambunctious youngsters. Families of current students were able to visit with their students’ professors to get the real scoop on how they were doing in college and everybody got to bid on silent auction items ranging from getaways to Apple Watches and home entertainment gadgets. The auction raised a record amount for the Student Emergency Fund, which assists students and their families during times of need.
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• Mr. Freshman – Caleb Sizemore, a business management major from Mt. Pleasant, SC
• Mr. Sophomore – Parker Miller, a business marketing major from Anderson • Miss Sophomore – Mary Koke, a marketing major from Duncan, SC • M r. Junior – Joel Smith, a business management major from West Columbia, SC • Miss Junior – Jill Frink, a psychology major from Holly Springs, NC • Mr. Senior – John Echols, a marketing major from Athens, GA • Miss Senior – Anna Wilson, a communications major from Columbia, SC • Homecoming King – Micah Smith, a Christian ministry major from Seneca, SC • Homecoming Queen – Emily Rice, an art education major from Gastonia, NC
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2015 distinguished alumni gallery
Every day I wake up and love what I do. Anderson University has been incredibly instrumental in helping me understand the importance of God’s call on your life. Anderson also helped me understand that God’s calling is unique to one and his gifts. I understand, now, that preachers of the word are needed not only in the pulpit, but also in the courtroom. . . and wherever else the Lord uniquely gifted and enabled you to present his truth, glories and mercy. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required; and to whom much was committed, more will be asked of him. . .” Luke 12:48
Alonzo Davis ’07 Attorney at Law, Foy & Associates Currently, I am a litigation attorney in Atlanta, Georgia. My practice focuses on tort liability, mostly comprised of claims of negligence. This includes general personal injury claims, medical malpractice, insurance bad faith, premise liability and products liability. I’ve been able to litigate claims before the State and Federal Courts in both Georgia and Illinois. During my time as an attorney, I have had the opportunity to be a part of many exciting projects. One, in particular, involves providing research to the United States Sentencing Commission’s Advisors on the unjustifiable disparity in sentencing for certain controlled narcotics. Ultimately, this research and recommendation of the advisors led to the reduced disparity in sentencing for these substances. I’ve also had the opportunity to be involved with helping assist in the defense of the first British Lord to ever be tried and convicted in the United States.
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Brandon T. Gilliard ’05 World Touring Bassist, Janelle Monae Brandon Gilliard is a world touring bassist/ music director who has recorded or shared the stage with artists such as Janelle Monae, KIMBRA, Big Boi of OutKast, David Crowder, Erykah Badu, Avery*Sunshine, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Tye Tribbett, Maceo Parker, P. Diddy, Bob Carlisle, Jennifer Holliday, Ann Nesby, Archie Bell, Vicky Beeching, Daysahead, Juanita Bynum, Angie Stone, Bebe Winans, INOJ, Chinua Hawk, Roman GianArthur and a plethora of others. He has also performed with world
class ensembles such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, The Chicago Symphony and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Brandon Gilliard has performed on the stages of stadiums, clubs, auditoriums, theaters and arenas around the world from Nashville to Australia to Europe. That list includes The Ryman Auditorium aka “The Original Grand Ole’ Opry” in Nashville, two sold out performances at The Sydney Opera House, The Super Bowl Budweiser Pre-Show, The United Center (joint show with Prince) and several performances at The White House. Brandon has also appeared in numerous music videos and major television performances such as Saturday Night Live, The Arsenio Hall Show, The Today Show, The Late Show with David Letterman, Later with Jools Holland, Austin City Limits, Le Grande Journal, BET’s 106 & Park, The Fox & Friends Morning Show and The BET Awards. His bass lines have also been featured in movie soundtracks. Those credits include working with Henson Studios, Fox, Blue Sky Studios and world renown composer, John Powell on the major animated film, RIO 2. Brandon began playing bass alongside his father in church as a small child. As a teenager he performed in his high school marching band as the drum major and the school’s first electric bassist. He continued his education as a Music Major at Anderson University and graduated in 2005 with a B.A. in Music and a concentration on Double Bass. Immediately after graduation Brandon moved to Atlanta, GA to further his professional career. Soon afterward he was being called upon as one of America’s first call studio recording session players. Today, Brandon Gilliard is one of the most sought after and respected bass players in the world. His ability to adapt, attention to tone and vast
knowledge of theory allow him to work with artists ranging a wide variety of genres such as country, hip hop, rock, jazz, bluegrass, R&B, gospel, classical, funk and pop. Brandon credits musicians such as James Jamerson (Motown), Rocco Prestia (Tower of Power), Pino Palladino ( John Mayer, D’Angelo) and Verdine White (Earth, Wind & Fire) as his biggest influences.
Richard T. Robinson ’01 Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin The son of Gary and Pamela Robinson, Rich grew up in Irmo, SC. Rich attributes his success in life to his parents, who encouraged and supported his education at every stage in life, and who demonstrated the importance of hard work, good character and family. Rich considers his time at Anderson College (AC) to be among the most important years of his life, and looks back fondly at his time there. It was at AC that Rich met his future wife, Kathleen “Kathi” Philips. It was also at AC that Rich was inspired to become more involved in basic science and knowledge discovery. Professors Tom Kozel (Biology), Dorota Abramovitch (Chemistry),
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Robert Fries (Physics) and Jacque Davison (Calculus) provided Rich a solid foundation in Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Mathematics; they also taught him the societal importance of basic science and mathematics. Also important to his undergraduate education at AC were Professors Wayne Cox (who shared the value and importance of writing), Daniel Mynatt, Stuart Sprague and Robert Burks (who each encouraged thoughtfulness in one’s religious and moral life). Last—but certainly not least— he valued the encouragement and support provided by AC Librarians Cheryl deHoll, Kay Maynard and Brenda Dubose: their discussions with Rich on those evenings and Saturday mornings in the library were invaluable, and Cheryl’s admonishment to Rich to go win the Nobel Prize has stuck with him and keeps him going to this day. After graduating in 2001 with a B.S. in Biology, Rich worked for a year at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine (Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience) as a research technician. In 2002, he and Kathi moved to Vermont, where Rich began his graduate studies at Dartmouth Medical School (Hanover, NH) in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. His Ph.D thesis was performed in the lab of Dr. James Gorham, and focused on the causes of autoimmune liver disease. In 2004, Rich and Kathi had a daughter, Abigail “Abby” Robinson. Tragically, a year after Abby was born, Kathi died in a car accident on her way to her work at Hartford High School (White River Junction, VT) where she worked with special needs children. It was only with the support of his family, friends and Dartmouth colleagues that Rich and Abby got through the difficult period following Kathi’s death. In 2006, Rich met his best friend and wife, Bridget. After Rich and Bridget married on a Vermont hillside, Bridget adopted Abby (who was
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renamed Abigail Kathleen Robinson). In 2007, Rich completed his PhD and began post-doctoral studies at the Trudeau Institute (Saranac Lake, NY), studying immune responses to the disease tuberculosis (TB) in the lab of Dr. Andrea Cooper, a world-renowned expert in TB Immunology. In Saranac Lake, Rich and Bridget welcomed two additional daughters, Georgianna (2007) and Maple (2009). In 2011, Rich and his family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he began his own basic research laboratory as an Assistant Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). In addition to performing TB Immunology research, Rich teaches medical and graduate students on the topics of Immunology, Autoimmunity, and Infections of the Urogenital Tract.
Elyse LeRoy South ’12 Actress, Walt Disney World Elyse Leroy South, an alumnus of the Musical Theatre Department’s Graduating Class of 2012, is currently contracted as an actress in Orlando, FL, at Walt Disney World. Through the various shows in which she has been cast at Disney, she has become a proud member of the Actor’s Equity Association, which broadens the possibilities of her career! The value of the lessons she learned
from her professors at AU, both in and out of the classroom, are immeasurable in the auditions she frequents. She was always taught by her professors’ examples that you can indeed make a living at what you love if you are passionate and work hard, and she finds it thrilling to be doing that daily! As Walt himself once said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
corporations in fields such as technology, engineering, education, healthcare, finance and retail. I partner with them to develop and implement business strategies and deliver training to improve their sales effectiveness and increase sales revenues. My greatest pleasure is seeing personal and organizational improvements in the businesses I support.
Helen Talmadge ’83
J. Thomas White ’97
Sales Consultant and Actress, Sales Performance International
President, Cedarville University
As a former theater student at Anderson University, my passion is acting. I’m fortunate to have been able to work in theatre and television for over 25 years. This includes numerous theatrical stage productions, over 750 television commercials, over 350 corporate training films and several nationally syndicated television shows. I’ve been the spokesperson for Jeff Lynch Appliances for almost 18 years! My acting career has run parallel at times with my career in sales and sales management. In the last seven years, as a sales consultant, I have had the privilege of working in many countries of the world, with a variety of major multi-national
Thomas White became the 10th president of Cedarville University on July 1, 2013. Serving in a variety of leadership roles and responsibilities, White has more than a decade of administrative, teaching, and research experience and combines strong leadership with a pastoral heart for ministry while standing for biblical truth. As the son and grandson of Baptist ministers, White grew up with a firm spiritual foundation and was saved in September 1993. Little time passed before he felt a call to vocational Christian ministry. While White attended a Christian university, he also opened four karate schools and began to fight competitively, having been involved in the sport through high school. These competitions led to him being inducted
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into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame and winning the Black Belt Middle Weight World Amateur Championship. Still pursuing a call to ministry, White used his karate schools as his mission field, seeing students come to Christ and watching them go into ministry. After selling the karate schools and beginning seminary, White was ordained jointly by Chiquola Baptist Church in Honea Path and Riverside Baptist Church in Greer, South Carolina. At seminary, White met his future wife, Joy Martin. Joy was pursuing a Master of Divinity in women’s studies. They were married in July 1999. Throughout seminary, White combined theological depth with evangelistic passion. While studying with astute theologians, he put the Gospel into action by participating in missions and itinerate preaching. In addition, White served as Director of Student Life at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in North Carolina. During these three years, he oversaw student services and participated as a representative during reaccreditation. In July 2004, White was called to serve at Southwestern Seminary in Texas as Director of Leadership Development. His initial assignment included overhauling the on-campus conference center and hotel to make it more profitable. After two years of vision and decisive leadership, the number of events doubled and hotel occupancy rose to an all-time high, correcting an annual half-million dollar loss. In June 2006, White was promoted and has served until June 2013 as Vice President for Student Services and Communications. Serving as an executive leader as part of the President’s Cabinet, his administrative oversight included admissions, communications, international students, the chaplain, student life, financial aid, recreation center, the student center, housing, dining services, media services, and the on-campus conference center and hotel. In
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this role, White was also involved in strategic planning, accreditation, retention, and fundraising. During his tenure, White enjoyed the challenge of identifying problems, evaluating people, finding the right solution to move forward while minimizing harm, and casting a clear vision while building a successful team. White also served as Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Southwestern Seminary. In his faculty role, he taught in the Oxford University study program and was a visiting professor, along with his wife, Joy, at Word of Life Bible Institute in New York. At Southwestern, White has developed online graduate-level classes; taught master’s and doctoral courses in subjects including systematic theology, public relations for the local church, and advanced expository preaching; and revamped the seminary’s evangelism program. White has been active in research, writing, and contributing to the academy. Early in his career, he received an academic excellence award and a study grant, which led to him publishing a three-volume series on James Madison Pendleton. White co-authored Franchising McChurch: Feeding Our Obsession with Easy Christianity in 2009 and served as editor of First Freedom: The Baptist Perspective on Religious Liberty, Restoring Integrity in Baptist Churches, and Upon This Rock. White has contributed to other books, written numerous articles, and is active in social media through Facebook, Twitter, and his blog.
Anderson University has been incredibly instrumental in helping me understand the importance of God’s call on your life....that God’s calling is unique to one and his gifts. I understand, now, that preachers of the word are needed not only in the pulpit, but also in the courtroom. . . and wherever else the Lord uniquely gifted and enabled you to present His truth, glories and mercy.
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class notes For additional information on alumni, go to www.andersonuniversity.edu and click on Alumni and Friends.
honors & awards Several alumni were recipients of the “20 Under 40” award, which each year seeks to honor twenty of the brightest young leaders in the Anderson area. Honorees for 2015 included Brandon Meares, ’13, Nick Elliott, ’11, Ashley Brooks, ’07, and Christy A. Tripp, ’99. Honorees for 2014 were Elise W. Echols, ’12, Brian Williams, ’11, Rob Wallace, ’08, David Locke, ’02, and Nakia Davis, ’00; Brandon Meares, ’13, was named the Anderson School District Five Teacher of the Year for 2015. He is the assistant principal of New Prospect STEM Academy; Jena K. Putnam, ’09, was named Powdersville Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for 2015-2016; Kellie Cathey, ’09, was awarded the WYFF Golden Apple Award in February. She is a first grade teacher at Homeland Park Primary School; Stephan Botchie, ’08, was named the South Carolina Music Educators Association’s Outstanding Young Music Educator Award for 2015; Tracy Whitten-Bowie, ’07, received the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce’s ATHENA Award in June; Stacie Gibson, ’07, was named the Anderson School District Three Teacher of the Year for 2015. She is a fourth grade teacher at Flat Rock Elementary; Laneika Musalini, ’06, was awarded the Young Athena Leadership Award by the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce in June; Sharon Harbin, ’00, was named Starr Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for 2015-2016; Kindra B. Williams, ’80, is a professional territory sales manager with Mission Pharmacal and was awarded Pinnacle Club 2014 as top performer in her district; Gay L. McLeskey, ’78, is the owner of Kitchen Emporium and Gifts, which was honored as the Anderson Area Chamber’s Small Business of the Year in June; Nancy M. Arrington, ’77, was named a Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Fellow at Georgia Southern University, where she is an assistant professor in the College of Education; Ann D. Self, ’74, was named the 2015 recipient of the C. F. Reams Distinguished Teacher Award presented annually by Anderson University; Sammy Dickson, 73, was elected to the board of Blue Ridge Financial Corporation, the parent company of Blue Ridge Bank; Elva C. Martin, ’73, has published her first mini-book, Power Over Satan. It is available on amazon.com. She is also polishing two inspirational novels and leading two Christian writers’ groups.
grad school Gabriel Woods, ’14, is pursuing a doctorate in music education at The University of Georgia; Haley Monda, ’14, is pursuing a master’s in education at Anderson; Cassie Bruce, ’14, is pursuing an MBA at Anderson; Patrick Orgel, ’13, is pursuing a degree in cardiovascular perfusion at the Medical University of South Carolina; Will Davis, ’12, earned his doctorate in physical therapy from Marymount University in May; Molly Mullikin, ’12, is pursuing a master’s in marriage and family therapy at Converse College; Jordan Brown, ’12, is pursuing his doctorate in policy studies at Clemson University. He earned his master’s from Converse College in 2014; Courtney S. Harmon, ’12, earned her master’s in educational leadership from Clemson University in August; Michael “Big-G” Gross, ’12, earned a master’s in abnormal psychopathology for adolescents from Pace University in May; Brianne Holmes, ’12, is pursuing a master’s in English with a concentration in creative writing/fiction at East Carolina University, where she is a graduate assistant; Sarah Carter, ’12, is pursuing a master’s in language and literacy at the University of South Carolina; Kristen Devlin, ’12, earned her master’s in education from Furman University in 2014; Brandon Cox, ’11, is a grad assistant at Liberty University, where he is pursuing a master’s in music education; Nathanael Benitez, ’11,
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graduated from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Carolinas Campus on May 23; Mark Deichman, ’11, graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in December 2014; Joey Farrington, ’11, received his master’s in Christian ministry from Southeastern Baptist Seminary in May; Adreaunna Rhome, ’11, earned her master’s in marketing from Clemson University in 2014; Valine Mullen, ’11, is pursuing a dual degree in Old Testament and biblical languages at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; Sara Lynn W. Hanberry, ’10, earned her master’s in Christian education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in May 2014; Luis Audelo, ’10, earned his master’s in special education and teaching from Azusa Pacific University in May; Nathan Milhous, ’10, earned his master’s in applied economics from John Hopkins University; Kathryn Jordan, ’09, completed her master’s +30 in administration and supervision from Clemson University in August 2014; Sarah Swofford, ’05, earned her Ph.D. in English and Education from the University of Michigan; Niki E. Turco, ’05, earned her master’s in instructional technology from University of West Georgia in 2011; Melody M. Lollis, ’03, earned her educational specialist degree in administration and supervision from Converse College in July 2014. She has her master’s in education from Columbia College; Nikole T. Hanson, ’02, earned her MBA from Southern Weslyan University in May; Apryl A. Bailey, ’00, earned her MBA from Clemson in December 2014; Brian Gaines, ’99, earned his master’s in professional communication with a concentration in user experience design from Clemson University in 2014. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in Rhetorics, Communication and Information Design through Clemson University.
weddings Meg Campbell, ’15, wed Aaron Sanders on September 26; Adina Richardson, ’14, wed Trey Lundquist on August 16, 2014; Elizabeth Baker, ’14, wed Zach Gunnels, ’14, on June 28, 2014; Ashley Harbin, ’14, wed Stephen Christopher Rollins on May 17, 2014; Gage Govero, ’14, wed Amber Kellum, ’14, on May 18, 2014; Shelby Marinaro, ’14, wed Patrick Koone on May 20, 2014; Catherine Owens, ’14, wed Brett Michael Claycamp on June 21, 2014; Stephen Franklin Sherard, IV, ’14, wed Julianne Marie Williams on June 14, 2014; Katherine Anne Cade, ’14, wed Jay Harvey on May 17, 2014; Katie Binion, ’14, wed Samuel Leguizamon on June 27; Gabriel Woods, ’14, wed Brittny Hargrove, ’14, on June 18; Emily Hungerpillar, ’14, wed Randy Beams, ’14, on December 13, 2014; Donna Lane, ’14, wed Stephen Anderson on June 14; Elizabeth Massengale, ’13, wed Jonathan Rutland on May 23; Julie Laxton, ’13, wed Nathaniel Benitez, ’11, in July 2013; Mary Gardner, ’13, wed Justin Palmer on September 19; Jessica Valentin, ’13, wed Evan Fields on August 16, 2014; Abigail Brown, ’13, wed Craig Williams, ’13, on June 27; Brynne McSherry, ’13, wed Conner Nichols on July 12, 2014; Allisha Misamore, ’13, wed Nathan Allison on March 28; Amanda Ezell, ’12, wed Leonidas Gutierrez on September 19, 2014; Anna Dunlap, ’12, wed Josh Renfro on November 15, 2014; Courtney Sargent, ’12, wed Roy Harmon on July 25; Elise Welch, ’12, wed Bradley Echols on May 16; Candace Buchanan, ’12, wed Brent Madden on June 14, 2014; Brittany Frost, ’12, wed John Crumley on August 23, 2014; Casey Deer, ’11, wed Mark Deichman, ’11, on December 27, 2014; DJ Miller, ’11, wed Brittni Joette Everhardt on April 25; Ben Roberts, ’11, wed Meagan Marie Miller on October 25, 2014; Joey Farrington, ’11, wed Ansley Renee Junkins on May 30; Ben Bartley, ’10, wed Mallory Pike Swann on May 16; Katy Hine, ’10, wed Jeffrey Whatley on March 14; Michael Davis, ’10, wed Skye Bruce on August 2, 2014; Jenna Mitchell, ’10, wed Mike Anderson on November 15, 2014; Bailey O’Brien, ’10, (M.Ed., ’13), wed Cameron McCarley on August 2, 2014; Kristen Hatfield, ’10, wed Brent Odom on January 3; Josh Crocker, ’09, wed Ashley Higgins on September 26; Jessica Parks, ’07, wed Mark Burton on May 16; Alecia Parker, ’06, wed Matt Dawkins on August 7; John Hembree, ’04, wed Erica L. Hembree on February 8, 2014; Jessica
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Jackson, ’04, wed Rucker Williams on November 8, 2014; Liz Snyder, ’03, wed Kevin O’Neal on October 31, 2014; Brian Gaines, ’99, wed Melissa Hayes on October 4, 2014; Mandee Helms Stone, ’85, wed Chris B. Moree, Sr., on March 28, 2013; Linda Chastain, ’64, wed Jerry Parker on September 21, 2013.
baby news Allison G. Pettigrew, ’12, and Alston Pettigrew, ’11, a daughter Anna Claire, October 10, 2014; Stephanie W. Ledford, ’11, and Aaron Ledford, ’10, a daughter, Emma Lyn, August 1; Blythe H. Strawhorn, ’11, a son Sawyer, October 3, 2014; Anna P. Wooton, ’11, a son, Carter Alexander, August 7. An older son Grayson Lee was born in December 2013; Morgan J. Martin, ’11, a daughter, Baylor Evans, April 13; Meghan M. Cole, ’11, and Dalton Cole, ’10, a daughter, Emerson Reese, April 13; Sara Lynn W. Hanberry, ’10, a daughter, Landry Nell, December 13, 2014; Torri M. Atkins, ’10, a son, Gideon Parks, October 5; Mary Kathryn R. Cone, ’09, a daughter, Anniston Hazel, June 3; Alison W. Miller, ’09, a daughter, Magnolia Lee, April 2; Corey Myers, ’08, and Courtney G. Myers, ’10, a daughter, Colette, April 23. They have an older son Cullen, born January 17, 2013; Hannah R. Lollis, ’08, a daughter, Sophie, and a son, Judah, October 29, 2013; Brandon Loudermilk, ’08, a son, Theodore Brandon Gareau, October 11, 2014; Emily L. Hill, ’07, a son, Amos Scott, September 15, 2014; Meryl D. O’Donald, ’07, and Austin O’Donald, ’06, a daughter, Carey Anne, October 2, 2014; Meagan M. Owen, ’07 (MBA, ’12), and Caleb Owen, ’05, a daughter, Josie Grace, May 19; Christina R. Hjalmer, ’07, a son, Zebediah Blaine, June 18; Rachel B. Porter, ’ 07, a daughter, Hannah Faith, December 4, 2014; Audrey Durham, ’06 (M.Ed., ’09), and Steven Jennings, ’03, a daughter, Bethany Janice, June 3, 2014; Adam Lynch, ’06, and Bonnie W. Lynch, ’06, a son, Dax Elias, November 30, 2013; Sally B. Moore, ’05, and Thomas Moore, ’05, a daughter, Mary Anderson, May 28; Leslie M. Pearson, ’05, a daughter, Sara Joanna, November 17, 2014; Niki E. Turco, ’05, a daughter, Maggie, February 6, and older son Wyatt, August 10, 2013; Dohnia O. Galloway, ’04, and Ryan Galloway, ’03, a son, Goodson Lane, April 10; Kathryn K. Evans, ’04, a son, Gray Bryant, and a daughter, Caroline Moran, March 22; Jacob Queen, ’04, (MBA, ’13), a son, Jackson Henry, September 9, 2014; Katie H. Crispin, ’03, a son, Charlie Nathaniel, September 13, 2014; Tracy W. Williams, ’03, and Jonathan Williams, ’05, a daughter, Briley, in July; Becca H. Taylor, ’02, a daughter, Karah, in July 2014; Jane H. Harshaw, ’01, a daughter, Eve, April 4; Rachel H. Rish, ’95, a daughter, Anna Kate, in 2013, a son, Noah, in 2011, and a son, Hayden, in 2003.
in memoriam Rev. Dr. Marshall Kelly Tribble, Sr., 76, of Honea Path, died October 14, 2014. Born in Oglethorpe County, GA, he was the son of the late James Whaley Tribble, Sr. and the late Hattye Smith Tribble. Following his graduation from Elbert County, GA, High School, he earned his BA Degree from Mercer University, M. Div. Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, M.Ed. Degree and Doctor of Education Degree both from the University of Georgia. Dr. Tribble did additional graduate study at Clemson University. He taught for 5 years in public schools in Georgia and North Carolina during the 1960’s. He came to Anderson College in the Fall of 1973, where he taught full time in the Sociology Department until his retirement in 2011. Beginning in 1974, he worked part-time with Anderson School District 5 as Director of Research and Evaluation, a position from which he retired in December 1999, after 25 years employment with the District. Dr. Tribble is survived by his wife, Patsy Ashley Tribble of the residence, and his former wife, Ila Kidd Tribble of Anderson; his children, Joy Tribble of Clayton, NC, Janis Maxwell and husband, Mark, of Athens, GA, Kathy Culpepper and husband, Stephen, of Anderson and Dr. Marshall Kelly Tribble, Jr. and his wife, Laura, of Irving, TX; a step-daughter, Robin McCurley and husband, Grant, of Honea Path; 5 grandchildren, Rush, Morgan, Holley, Brooks, and Emma; and 9 step-grandchildren, MJ, Chase, Kevin, Brian, James, Tim, Max, Nick, and Nathan.
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Jean Nichols Alewine, ’72, passed away peacefully with family after a heroic battle with Alzheimer’s disease on May 9, 2015 in Boerne, Texas. Born in Anderson, SC, on September 13, 1932, she was the daughter of the late McDuffie Nichols and the late Clara Leone Brock Nichols. She spent many years of her life in Starr, South Carolina. She loved music and served as church organist at Flat Rock Baptist and Middleton Road Baptist Churches. She also was the Director of Admissions at Anderson College for several years prior to moving to Amarillo, Texas in 1978 when Boyce was transferred with Owens-Corning Fiberglas. She and Boyce retired while living in Amarillo, Texas and returned to Starr, South Carolina where she and Boyce spent many years. Dr. William “Billy” Eugene Middleton, ’63, died January 12. After attending Anderson, Billy received a degree in psychology from Carson-Newman College and his master’s in vocational rehabilitation at Virginia Commonwealth in Richmond, Va. He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina in educational counseling. Dr. Middleton was a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Anderson; and while in West Columbia, he was a member of Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church, where he served as an usher and on several committees. Billy was employed by the S.C. Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. He served as Deputy Commissioner of the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, and subsequently as Deputy Commissioner of the S.C. Department of Social Services. He served in these areas for thirty years prior to his retirement in 1998. He is especially appreciated by the State of South Carolina for his visionary skills in promoting state agencies to work together in assisting people to become less dependent on welfare and to become independent in the work place. Through his tenacity and vision with welfare reform in the S.C. Legislature, the first bill in the nation was created and was later adopted as federal legislation. He was a member of the Anderson University Alumni Board. Billy is survived by his wife Kitty R. Middleton, ’63. Pat Holland Thompson, ’57, died January 29. She was retired from Oconee County Schools. Pat was a member of the Alumni Board of Directors from 1995-2002 and served many years as a class agent. George Calhoun Langston, ’48, died January 31. A veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War, George had a long career in textiles. He joined Milliken And Company in 1955 and held many positions in the company until departing in 1979. He then joined M. Lowenstein Company where he was a Corporate Vice President. Later, he was a Vice President with J. P. Stevens. In 1985, he purchased the woolen-worsted department of J.P. Stevens and formed Forstmann & Company, Inc. where he served as C.E.O. and Chairman of the Board. He was a member of the National Association of Accountants, Financial Executive Institute, APICS, Institute of Industrial Engineers and SIM. He was a National Director with American Textile Manufacturer Institute and was a Director with Georgia Textile Manufacturers. He was also President and C.E.O. of GCL Associates. He was active with Rotary International where was a Past President with the Greer-Lyman Club, and was a former member of the LaGrange, Ga. Club, the Hilton Head Island Club, the Anderson Club and was a Harris Fellow in the Dublin, Ga. Club. While a resident of Hilton Head Island, Mr. Langston was a member of the Greater Island Committee, Chairman of Transportation (LRTA) and was a member of the Navy League of Hilton Head Island. He was the owner of Key Realty and Rental and was a member of the Million Dollar Real Estate Club. While a member of Hilton Head First Baptist Church, he served as a Deacon and Chairman of the Stewardship Committee. He was a former Board member of Anderson University and was a member of Boulevard Baptist Church where he had served as a Deacon. Marilyn Carson Clement, ’06, died July 26; Brenda Maxwell Phillips, ’04, died November 26, 2014; Lynn Pike Garton, ’97, died January 31. She is survived by her brother Phil Pike, ’94; Karen K. Neeley, ’97, died March 18; Cherise McQuilla-Mitchell, ’92, died December 22, 2014; Claud W. Bond III, ’90, died
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February 1; Joan Eheart Cinelli, ’87, died January 3; David Pitts, ’86, died November 9, 2014; Dorothy Hagood, ’83, died April 12; Bruce Emerson Crocker, ’81, died January 30, 2015; Stephen Thomas Furtick, ’81, died May 5; Roderick Dowd “Rick” Howell, II, ’81, died August 1, 2014; Connie McClain Fowler, ’81, died November 25, 2014; Jeffrey D. Brown, ’79, died February 28; Alan “Skip” Farrow, ’73, died June 9; Mike Cothran, ’71, died August 13; Stanley Ragsdale, ’70, died September 12, 2015; Debbie A. Wilson, ’68, died October 17, 2014; James Wilson Jones, Sr., ’68, died December 29, 2014; Jacqueline A. Nowell, ’66, died December 21, 2014; Judith Wagner Bryant, ’66, died October 9, 2014; John F. Robuck, Jr., ’66, died March 14; Danny Hutto, ’65, died January 7; Clement F. “Clem” Goldson, ’64, died October 13, 2014. He is survived by his brother Charles H. Goldson, ’64; William Stevenson “Steve” Weston III, ’63, died February 1. He is survived by his wife Judy J. Weston, ’62; James Melvin Pilgrim, ’63, died March 23; William Eugene Nalley, ’62, died June 19; Brenda Davis Bettger, ’62, died December 26, 2014; Marvin Arthur “Butch” Allred, ’61, died February 24; Gary Winfred Williams, ’61, died January 31; Larry Gaillard, ’61, died December 11, 2013; Elaine Ellis Pitts Dennis Elliott, ’60, died September 16, 2014. She is survived by her husband Virgil Elliott, ’65; Jean Wilson O’Barr, ’59, died July 9; Nita Alewine Acker, ’58, died March 9; Levi “Lee” Victor Patterson, Jr., ’57, died March 28. He is survived by his brother Shelton Patterson, ’56; Dorothy Hawkins Smith, ’57, died July 8; Hazel Crowe Rampey, ’56, died February 17; Martha Sadler Rogers, ’55, died November 23, 2014; Barbara Forbes Malotke, ’53, died June 14; Clytie H. Sessions, ’52, died September 4; Jimmie Stokes Bratcher, ’52, died January 12; Jean Davis Foster, ’51, died February 23; Elizabeth “Betty” Chamblee Rogers, ’50, died January 31; Ella Styhr Miller, ’49, died July 17; June Kay Griffin, ’49, died June 10; Grayson Ellison, ’49, died May 10; Joy Ann Foster McIlhenny, ’49, died July 26; Thomas L. Bruce, ’48, died January 2; Sybil Moore Ray, ’47, died February 20. She is survived by her sister Foy M. Griffin, ’51; Dorothy Wilder “Dot” Wilkerson, ’47, died May 8; Joan King Elrod, ’45, died May 10; Martha Acker Burgess, ’45, died April 12; Constance Gloria Morgan, ’44, died March 12; Sally Clinkscales Hubbard, ’44, died July 9; Myrtle Parrott Stewart, ’44, died September 8, 2014; Emmaline Griffith Porter, ’43, died October 29, 2014; Dorothy “Dot” Fouche Murphy Corley, ’43, died November 1, 2014. She is survived by her sister Iris F. Sturgis, ’45; Rachel Smith Sherriff, ’43, died November 22, 2014; Margaret Bracken Hayes, ’42, died March 10; Anne Johnson Hambright, ’41, died November 30, 2014; Betty Anderson Barton, ’40, died January 8; Mildred Miles Branham, ’40, died January 11; Estelle Hollingworth Holder, ’39, died February 23; Alene “Pat” West, ’39, died February 13; Hazel Elrod, ’39, died September 14, 2014; Sarah LaFoy Harman, ’38, died May 18; Julia Des Champ Harvin Manos, ’38, died March 3, 2013; Virginia Ashby Griffin, ’36, died December 17, 2014; Irene Hendrix Hadden, ’36, died February 2; D. Wilson Stringer, ’35, died June 5; Sarah Brown Schrimpf, ’32, died Oct. 16, 2014.
career news Caroline Lee, ’14, is a teacher at TL Hanna High School; Wilson Hatcher, ’14, is a music teacher at Pendleton Elementary and music director for Flat Rock Baptist in Liberty; Gage Govero, ’14, is an assistant manager with Quik Trip. He is a commissioned officer and platoon leader with the U.S. Army National Guard; Cassie Bruce, ’14, is branch coordinator at Employment Solutions for Human Technologies, Inc.; Elizabeth B. Gunnels, ’14, is a teacher at Chastain Road Elementary School; Jamie Sellers, ’14, is employed with Peoples Bank; Victoria Cockrell, ’14, is a teacher in the Upper School English department of Wardlaw Academy; Katie B. Jaynes, ’14, is design and marketing manager with Haven of Rest Ministries; Justin Rabon, ’14, is in sales support with Henry Schein, Inc.; Lauren Roberts, ’14, is a packaging design administrator for Revman
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International; Sarah Leugemors, ’14, is a graphic designer with ZWO; Jarrod Hall, ’14, is employed with Chick-fil-A; Leah Ivey, ’14, is the office administrator for Event Rentals at their Anderson location; Alyssa Crozier, ’14, is a junior graphic designer with Dewberry Consultants, LLC; Julie L. Benitez, ’13, is a graphic designer for Create Expectations, Inc.; Patrick Orgel, ’13, is a soil and water chemist with General Engineering Laboratories; Amber W. Pierce, ’13, is a rehab technician with North Platte Physical Therapy; Jessica V. Fields, ’13, is a substitute teacher for Anderson County School Districts Two and Five; Craig Williams, ’13, is a graduate assistant with the Residence Life program at Greenville (Ill.) College; Kala Goss, ’13, is a second grade teacher at Concrete Primary; Michael Shirley, ’13, is the community prevention coordinator for Children’s Trust of South Carolina; Bryan Glace, ’13, is a CV operator for Prysmian Group in Abbeville; Casey Baldwin, ’13, is a recruiting coordinator for HTI Employment Solutions; Joshua Taylor, ’13, is in accounts receivable with Care Medical; Chase Heatherly, ’13, is the marketing manager for the Independent Mail; Laura D. Montgomery, ’12, is an examiner for the S.C. Board of Financial Institutions; Allison G. Pettigrew, ’12, is a second grade teacher at West Pelzer Elementary; Courtney S. Harmon, ’12, is the marketing coordinator for planned giving for the National Rifle Association; Will Davis, ’12, is a physical therapist at Brookdale Senior Living Solutions; Josh Overstreet, ’12, is associate editor of Business Black Box Magazine in Greenville; Lori Mitchell, ’12, is a third grade teacher with Allendale County Schools; Candace B. Madden, ’12, is a math teacher at Crescent High School in Iva; Kristen Devlin, ’12, is a first grade teacher with Greenville County Schools; Brittany F. Crumley, ’12, is a teacher at Boulevard Baptist’s Child Enrichment Center; Brittany Arledge, ’11, is an interior designer for Wanda S. Morgan Designs in Seneca; Silas Godfrey, ’11, is a product design lead for Yelp and SeatMe, Inc. He was recently interviewed about his work: the article can be found at http://blog.invisionapp.com/inside-design-yelp/; Brandon Young, ’11, is the athletic director at Anderson Christian School, responsible for all basketball programs; Nathanael Benitez, ’11, is a physician with the AnMed Family Medicine Residency Program in Anderson; Casey D. Deichman, ’11, is in guidance administration at Barnwell High School; Mark Deichman, ’11, is a chiropractor with Action Medical in Augusta, Ga.; Whitney B. Llaneza, ’11, is a third grade teacher at Southwood Elementary in Elkton, Fla.; Michael Zequeira, ’11, is an 11A infantry officer with the U.S. Army; Adreaunna Rhome, ’11, is an administrative assistant with Greenville Hospital System; Katy H. Whatley, ’10, is a physical therapist at Healthsouth Rehabilitation Hospital in Columbia; Lisa Gorman, ’10, is an interior designer with Perkins+Will; Michael Davis, ’10, is employed by First Quality Tissue of Anderson; Courtney G. Myers, ’10, is employed with the financial aid department at Anderson University; Luis Audelo, ’10, is a teacher with the Whittier (Calif.) Union High School District; Sean Kerr, ’10, is a second year member with AmeriCorps, currently serving with the St. Louis Emergency Response Team; Kristen H. Odom, ’10, is a second grade teacher with Mitchell Road Christian Academy in Greenville; Sam Beals, ’10, is an administrative assistant to the department of physics and astronomy at the University of South Carolina; Rebecca G. Loftis, ’09, is a pediatric occupational therapist at the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters; Greg Loftis, ’09, is a lieutenant and occupational therapist with the Navy; Kathryn Jordan, ’09, is a fourth grade teacher at Pendleton Elementary; Anna M. Beam, ’09, is the executive assistant and premium services coordinator for Engenius; Adam Moseley, ’09, is a senior statistician with AT&T; Amy B. Lown, ’08, is currently a talent/ booking agent for FFS Model and Talent, event coordinator for Once Upon A Princess and a company member at Trustus Theatre, where she is a professional actor and lead costume designer; Corey Myers, ’08, is a financial advisor for Edward Jones; Marshall Pickens, ’08, is a branch manager for Anderson Federal Credit Union; Lauren H. Taylor, ’08, is a database manager and program associate for Upstate AHEC; Hanna KozlowskiSlone, ’08, is an assistant professor and foundations coordinator for the School of Art & Design at Marshall University; Amanda Spurling, ’08, is a master’s therapist for Generations Group Home; Joya Sellers, ’08, is a third grade teacher at The Collegiate School in Richmond, Va.; Meryl D. O’Donald, ’ 07, and Austin O’Donald, ’06, are serving the North American Mission Board as church planters in Baltimore, Md.; Howard
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Braden, ’07, is a fourth grade teacher at College Park Elementary in Ocala, Fla.; Jason Clardy, ’07, is sales manager for Condrey Corporation in Greenville; Adam Lynch, ’06, is an interaction designer for Benefitfocus; Josh Allen, ’06, is an attorney with Allen and Allen Law Firm and a municipal judge for the City of Anderson; Lauren Shell, ’06, is a freelance fabricator and model maker. Some of her work can be seen in the miniature spaceships used in Interstellar; Mandy P. Adams, ’06, is a physical therapist assistant for Proaxis Therapy; Sarah Swofford, ’05, is an assistant professor of writing for the University of Central Arkansas; Ryan Holtzclaw, ’04, is associate pastor of students and discipleship at Greer First Baptist; Ada Ezeokoli, ’04, is the health communications manager for EpiAfric in Nigeria; John Hembree, ’04, is a First Sergeant with the U.S. Army Reserves and is currently with the 305th PSYOP Company in Virginia Beach, Va.; Liz S. O’Neal, ’03, is a servicing ops analyst for Ally Bank; Sabrina Whatley, ’03, is an agent with Carolina One Real Estate in Goose Creek; Melody M. Lollis, ’03, is a sixth grade math teacher at Belton Middle School; Michael VonCannon, ’03, is the upstate regional coordinator for the S.C. Department of Social Services’ Independent Living Program; Becca H. Taylor, ’02, is an administrative assistant in the financial development office at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary; Lauren W. Youngblood, ’02, is an import compliance specialist at BDP International; Eric Cilli, ’01, has joined the Woodruff Road office of Allen Tate Realtors in Greenville; Apryl A. Bailey, ’00, is an accountant with Love Bailey & Associates, LLC; Allyson Holmes, ’00, is a staff associate at the University of North Georgia - Cumming Campus; Tim Hill, ’99, is minister of music at Providence Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C.; Brian Gaines, ’99, is a multimedia artist/web architect/user experience designer for Tri-County Technical College; Jennifer J. Van Cleave, ’98, is the senior PET Program manager and disabilities liasion for the Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging; Jason Moss, ’98, is senior pastor at Eureka Baptist Church in Anderson; Tina Y. Moss, ’98, is an adminstrative assistant at St. Andrew UMC; Meredith G. Repik, ’97, has been promoted to state development director for the S.C. chapter of the March of Dimes; Dana S. Cahill, ’97, is the ACCEL academic advisor at Anderson University; Rachel H. Rish, ’95, is an interior designer and salesperson with Turner’s Fine Furniture; Shannon E. Kohn, ’94, is a social media strategist for Infinity Marketing; Jason Mowen, ’92, is the program director for Miracle Hill Ministries’ Homes for Life; Blease Young, ’88, is employed by the Adidas Warehouse and is an assistant boys basketball coach at Shelby Middle School; Mandee H. Moree, ’85, is a payroll specialist for TriNet SOI; Maureen D. Bolmgren, ’82, became a registered nurse this year. She is employed with Navicent Health; Tom Hellams, ’80, is the vice president for denominational relations and chief of staff to the Office of the President at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
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