Spring 2012
Emmanuel College
P r e s i d e n t M i c h a e l S . S t e wa r t
Dear Friend:
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
The 2012 graduates of Emmanuel College have walked across the platform and received their degrees. Watching them were hundreds of parents, grandparents, spouses, and friends. After all, those graduates represent hundreds of hours of study, scores of essays, and many tests. They were not simply given a degree, but they earned it. They make us all proud. Those eager young men and women are entering a world filled with challenges. Our ever increasing complex society calls for the best and brightest to help lead us into the future. Our graduates make me optimistic about the future because of the Christcentered education they have received here at Emmanuel. Our world needs smart and innovative thinkers, but our world also needs moral leaders who will stand by the values of God’s Word. Our prayers and hopes are with them. Thank you for your faithfulness to Emmanuel College. As you will see in this issue, God’s hand is upon us, and we take that as a serious responsibility. As we endeavor to follow God’s direction and grow forward, we need your prayers and your support. This is a great time at Emmanuel, and you are an important part of the future. May God’s rich blessing rest on you. Sincerely,
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Dr. Michael S. Stewart President of Emmanuel College
spring 2012
in this issue...
For Alumni and Friends of Emmanuel College Mission Statement Emmanuel College is a Christ-centered, liberal arts institution which strives to prepare students to become Christlike disciples who integrate faith, learning, and living for effective careers, scholarship, and service. President Dr. Michael S. Stewart Vice President for Development Brian James Alumni and Development Staff Shanterrin Harland Harrell Queen Erin Rosene Ginny Swails Managing Editor Ginny Swails Contributing Writers Paula Dixon Sydnah Swails Kingrea Lauren Peeples Jamie Powell Harrell Queen Kayla Ray Erin Rosene Sherm Smith Dr. Michael S. Stewart Ginny Swails Tam Tilley Contributing Photographers Paul Crawford Paula Dixon Ginny Swails Tam Tilley Design and Printing Services Beth James Wansley, Designer LifeSprings Resources, Inc.
Quad Spring 2012, Vol. 66, Issue 3 (USPS
POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Emmanuel College Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 129, Franklin Springs, GA 30639.
Larry and Joyce Shaw are helping Emmanuel Grow Forward
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Alumni News & Events Golf Tournament Raises $25,000
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New Board Members EC Becomes Full Member of CCCU
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Back Page
The Gathering Generous Donations Princess Night Ministry Coach Brister on the Mission Field Alumni Spotlight Hartsfield Hall Dedication A Total Woman Our Journey to Jayden Alumnotes We Remember Homecoming 2012
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175-200) is published four times a year by the Emmanuel College Alumni and Development Office, 181 Spring Street, Franklin Springs, GA 30639. Periodicals postage paid at Franklin Springs, GA 30639. To submit address changes, send an e-mail to alumni@ec.edu or call 800-860-8600, opt. 4.
Generous Donation! 7
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news & events Golf Tournament Raises $25,000 for EC Athletics
2nd Annual
EMMANUEL COLLEGE Athletics Golf Tournament
April 27, 2012
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
–by Tam Tilley
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It was a beautiful day at Chateau Élan in Braselton, Georgia, as nearly 80 avid golfers turned out for a tournament in support of Emmanuel College Athletics. Golfers arrived bright-eyed and ready to go, receiving their tournament instructions at 9:00 a.m. The sun was shining, except for five minutes of a refreshing sprinkle half-way through the day, and golfers steadily made their way through the course without mishap—at least, according to them. By 2:30 p.m., all the teams had arrived at the clubhouse a little tired, but in good spirits. Several spouses, who had enjoyed an afternoon of shopping and sightseeing, arrived for the post-tournament luncheon of pulled pork and chicken barbeque, potato salad, and baked beans. The delicious meal was punctuated with a choice of apple or cherry pie. After the meal, Emmanuel College President Mike Stewart and Athletic Director Mike Bona spoke for a few minutes, followed by the announcement of raffle award and tournament winners. Next, the group moved to a nearby green, and 600 balls were released for the Ball Drop race to the hole. Charlene Lee was the $1,000 grand prize winner. Over $25,000 was raised for Emmanuel College Athletics from the golf tournament alone. Thank you to all who participated in the Second Annual EC Athletics Golf Tournament. Please visit our website for photos of each team and highlights of the day.
The Chateau Course at Chateau Élan
Team Winners: • 1st Place (Gross) – Nick Fleischer, Eddie Campbell, Billy Carey, and Raymond Scott • 2nd Place (Gross) – Graham Maxwell, Vic Knighton, John Vollrath, and Will Gretsch • 1st Place (Net) – Jose Larios, Ricky Johnson, Ben Hall, and Mike Fowler • 2nd Place (Net) – Mike Bona, John Henzel, Greg Hearn, and Matt McRee
Sponsors: Elite Level Sponsor Gilbert & Sheilah Shaw The Carroll Company Gold Level – Tournament Sponsor Carroll Rentenbach A Joint Venture Charlene Lee Harrell & Linda Queen Kenneth Shealy Sherm & Bett Smith Rhetta Tatum Harold & Cynthia Taylor Silver Level – Team Sponsor Reeves Insurance Agency, Inc. Kevin & Rebecca Crawford Haley Boyce Millard, Inc.
Bronze Level – Hole Sponsor Bluegraphics John & Sherri Burdette Bill & Miriam Campbell Duplicating Products, Inc. Geo-Hydro Engineers, Inc. Georgia Institutional Furnishings Robert & Deborah Tanner James & Carolyn Taylor Tri-County Sporting Goods, Inc. Sara Wood Lion Backer James & Genie Byrd Other Sponsors LifeSprings Resources Moonville Signs Sign Crafters, USA
Emmanuel Becomes Full Member of CCCU Board Member Elections at Emmanuel College The Board of Trustees of Emmanuel College proudly announces the re-election of Linda Thomas as chair and the election of new board member Joey Leggett. Thomas joined the board in 2001 and became the first woman to serve as chair when she was elected to her first four-year term in 2008. “Linda Thomas has led the board through a time of great change and growth. Her commitment to excellence and her professionalism have allowed the board to come together in great unity and purpose,” Linda Thomas says Dr. Michael Stewart, president of Emmanuel. “I look forward to our partnership in the years to come.” Thomas was also the 2012 graduation speaker at Emmanuel. She and her husband, former state Senator Joseph Eugene Thomas, live in Vanceboro, N.C., and own and operate Thomas Development, Inc. Leggett, an alumnus of Emmanuel, is the CEO of Falcon Children’s Home in North Carolina. Since he took that role in 2007, the home has grown from 16 to 70 students and now offers new programs for teen mothers, as well as for students seeking to earn their Joey Leggett GED and live more independently. “Mr. Leggett is a proven leader and visionary,” President Stewart says. “He has excelled in his profession and has been honored as a leader in North Carolina. His keen insight as a businessman and alumnus will bring strength to the Board of Trustees.” Emmanuel’s Board of Trustees establishes and implements broad policies for the college and secures financial resources to adequately support the college’s strategic and annual plans, all in accordance with the college’s mission.
HONOR ROLL
After years as an affiliate member, Emmanuel College joins more than 100 other colleges and universities as a full member of the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). The news came to President Michael Stewart in December 2011 when Dr. Paul Corts, CCCU president, called to congratulate Emmanuel on being accepted. “This is a goal that we have desired for a long time as we move forward, and it is an affirmation of both our spiritual and academic mission,” President Stewart says. “God’s grace is on Emmanuel, and I am humbled by His constant provision.” Some of the benefits of full membership include development conferences, research opportunities, job announcements, tuition exchange, off-campus study experiences for students, and peer networking with other member campuses. CCCU is a higher education association of intentionally Christ-centered institutions around the world. Founded in 1976 with 38 members, the council has grown to 115 member campuses in North America and 69 affiliate campuses from 25 countries. “We fully support the mission with the council, which is to advance the cause of Christ-centered higher education and to help its institutions transform lives by faithfully relating scholarship and service to biblical truth,” adds President Stewart.
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Emmanuel College has been listed on the 2012 President’s Honor Roll for the Corporation for National and Community Service. Each year, the Corporation for National and Community Service chooses a select few hundred colleges and universities that represent excellent dynamic community service programs, activities, and classes. These colleges and universities are chosen for their level of creativity, student body participation, and overall quality of service. Emmanuel College was one of eight Georgia colleges chosen for their superior community service and engagement of students, faculty, and staff in their programs and classes. For a complete list of the 2012 honor roll winners please visit: www. nationalservice.gov/pdf/2012_hr_awardees.pdf.
–by Paula Dixon
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It was our last night together. Sunday morning brought an end to this most enjoyable trip as we all checked out of the hotel, said our goodbyes, and headed for home, our heads filled with thoughts of where we might want to go next year. If you haven’t been to one of these ‘Gatherings’ before, watch for the announcement of the next one in the Quad and join us. You’re sure to have a wonderful time!
The Gathering in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
–by Harrell Queen, Sr.
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Alumni from Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland arrived in Pigeon Forge on Thursday, April 19, to begin four exciting days of fun and fellowship in the foothills of East Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains. Our home for the next three nights was the Inn at Christmas Place, which boasts exquisite year-round Christmas decorations. The college provided each room with a beautiful basket of snacks for the participants to enjoy during their stay. Our first evening together consisted of a delicious dinner at the Partridge and Pear Restaurant, followed by a gathering in a private room at the hotel for a time of welcome, fellowship, and playing games. The next day began with a bus ride to Dollywood where we enjoyed all the shows and features this theme park had to offer, including the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum. We even had a few who dared to ride the roller coaster. We concluded the day with dinner at the famous Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant and entertainment at the Smoky Mountain Opry. The show consisted of everything from Broadway to gospel,
country, and bluegrass music—all interspersed with comedy. After such a full day, everyone was ready to retire for the evening. Saturday began with a trip to the Titanic Museum, which contains one of the world’s finest collections of Titanic artifacts. There were replicas of parts of the Titanic, along with pictures and a self-guided tour of the ship. We actually experienced what it would have felt like being on the ship that fateful night. The afternoon was free for those who wanted to shop and others who chose to play golf. We gathered later for a fun evening at the Smith Family Dinner Theatre, where we enjoyed a Southernstyle buffet dinner followed by a very entertaining music and comedy show, which included impersonations of many famous musicians. As if we hadn’t already had enough to eat, the group wanted to go out for ice cream. Oh, well!
Emmanuel is Growing Forward As you may know, Emmanuel is “Growing Forward.” There is a vision for the year 2020. 1200 students at Emmanuel. New academic buildings. New dormitories. And happening now: a new athletic center. Emmanuel College is in the middle of a capital campaign to raise $4 million. To date, pledges and gifts to the school total approximately $2 million. Now is an exciting time to be a part of what God is doing here! Join the “growing” number of alumni and friends who have already pledged and given to Emmanuel College. There are so many ways you can be a part of campus growth. To learn more about the Growing Forward campaign, visit the website at: www.ec.edu/grow. If you would like to participate in any way, please contact Vice President for Development Brian James at 706-498-0210 or email bjames@ec.edu.
Brian James with Larry and Joyce Shaw
Generous Donations make way for Athletic Progress In November 2011, Larry and Joyce Shaw made their way back to Franklin Springs to present Emmanuel College with a $100,000 check for the wellness center in the new athletic facility. The wellness center will be 5000 square feet and include state-of-the-art equipment such as elliptical and treadmill machines, free weights, and weight machines. The wellness center and all that’s in it will be available to the entire student body for exercise and weight training
After months of excavating red Georgia clay and laying a foundation, the new athletic facility is looking more and more like a four-walled structure. For a long time, steel beams outlined where walls would eventually stand. A
hard-hat tour through the building now reveals hallways, foyers, offices, locker rooms, and the massive new arena. Concrete has been poured to shape the collegiate competition 25-meter pool. Stairs leading to the upper level—where the VIP seats, broadcast media suite, and executive offices will be located— have been put into place. While it
is not good to envy, former athletes are sure to wish they’d had the opportunity to compete in this new facility! But this building is not just for athletes. All Emmanuel students will be able to take advantage of exciting additions like Papa John’s pizza, the eight-lane bowling center, and the 5000 square-foot wellness center with aerobic room. A quick glance while driving by on Highway 29 is sure to give passersby all the information they need about how impressive this structure really is! Construction crews are on schedule to finish by August. Opening night for volleyball and basketball is sure to be standing room only. Emmanuel will celebrate this new addition to campus during Homecoming 2012, so make plans to be present for this exciting time.
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Athletic Facility Update
purposes. All Emmanuel sports teams and health and fitness classes will be able to take advantage of this facility. “We are very grateful to Larry and Joyce Shaw for helping continue the mission of Emmanuel College,” says Vice President for Development Brian James. For years, the Shaw family has been instrumental in helping Emmanuel College grow. The athletic facility will be completed in August of this year, in time for the 2012-2013 school year.
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position with The into action by searching for those who Dream Center have strayed into sexual slavery and in downtown restoring to them dignity and beauty Atlanta. through the simple gift of a rose, The Dream prayer, words of encouragement, Center is and most importantly, a reminder of an amazing God’s faithful love. As seeds of Christ’s non-profit compassion, grace, and love have been organization planted in the hearts of the women, that maintains many have been able to escape their over 40 different lifestyle of bondage and embrace a inner-city new life. ministries. Let us join together in celebrating Becki has been this opportunity that Becki has to blessed with change lives and make an impact in the opportunity God’s Kingdom. Her story is only one to direct one of their most of many students who are powerful ministries, Princess leaving Emmanuel College, Night, which reaches out to the taking their experiences, streets of Atlanta’s red light lessons, and God’s love out districts to share love, hope, into the world for the glory and a chance of freedom to of our Lord. Let us also join women entangled in the life of in prayer that the Holy Spirit prostitution. will change the lives of these Princess Night is a pure young girls and women and Becki Moore reflection of God pursuing that God will keep His loving His beloved by rescuing victims of hand of protection over Becki and human trafficking. Every Friday night the other volunteers. You can find out in downtown Atlanta, volunteers go to more about Princess Night by visiting the streets to put the heart of Christ www.princessnight.com.
Becki Moore Joins Atlanta Dream Center to Direct Princess Night Ministry Becki Moore, member of the women’s soccer team for four years and the women’s cross country team this past season, graduated in December 2011. While she was at Emmanuel, she was able to serve as captain of the soccer team, participate in and lead different small groups, and serve on the mission team that traveled to Costa Rica in the summer of 2011, among many other activities. While her degree is in sports management, Becki’s heart for missions has led her to a
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
Movie Wins First Place
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Last semester, Emmanuel College Senior Sydnah Swails submitted one of her video class projects to the Georgia Communication Association’s Annual Film Festival, a statewide competition among public and private college and university students. She recently learned she won first place. Her movie was shown during convocation recently, and she was presented with a plaque by Jennifer Lester Benson, communication department chair at Emmanuel and executive board member of GCA. “Not only were the judges impressed with the quality of her video, but with her positive message,” Benson says. “She was awarded their highest honor, first place. Her movie
was exhibited at the GCA Annual Conference in February.” Swails graduates in May with her Bachelor of Science in multimedia communication. She is a valued member of Emmanuel’s communication program as a model student, video assistant, and yearbook editor. “My video, ‘Snowball Effect,’ is a redemptive movie about how one decision can affect your life in a negative or positive way, inducing a series of negative effects or helping one avoid those effects,” Swails explains. “This particular video is about how the loss of innocence before the right time can create a series of unfortunate circumstances, but it also offers redemption in the sense that the leading character had the opportunity to change her past by the end of the movie.”
Jennifer Lester Benson presents Sydnah Swails with her first place plaque.
Benson says the motto of the communication department at Emmanuel is to impact the world for Christ through media. “It is always our hope that our graduates will do just that, and we are so proud that one of our current students is doing that now,” she adds. To view the movie, please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9oeODa kVCY&feature=youtu.be.
Coach, Professor, Father, Missionary: Emmanuel’s own Coach Brister
Coach Brister teaching eager young learners the game of baseball
–by Lauren Peeples Santo Domingo a day, he thought of a way to make it work. Asking the ticket lady if he could get to the island that day, she told him a flight to Punta Cana was taking off in two hours. “I had never heard of Punta Cana, but it was in the Dominican Republic and I was going.” After a four-hour taxi ride through dirt roads, sugarcane villages, trash dumps and slums, the driver arrived at a supermarket. Coach Brister waited in faith for a man named Giovanni. When Giovanni stepped out of a van and spoke English, Coach Brister knew he’d learned a valuable lesson: total dependence on God. Since that trip, Coach Brister has taken members of his team and church to the Dominican Republic. One of Coach Brister’s biggest fans, Paul Crawford, a 1966 graduate of Emmanuel College, was able to journey to the Dominican Republic with him. He was amazed at the work the coach does down there and how the children remember him and love him so much. Paul Crawford remembered fondly, “Everybody knows who Brister is!” On his fourth trip, Coach Brister was able to take Emmanuel baseball player Blaine Seagraves, who was
EC Alum Paul Crawford showing the love of the Father to the “fatherless.”
searching for God’s direction with his own life. Blaine was able to use his baseball skills and other gifts the Lord has blessed him with. Blaine really enjoyed the ministry opportunity with the orphans and was affected so deeply by the experience, he was inspired to change his major to Christian ministries. Coach Brister’s own experience with the orphanages has drastically impacted him; so much so that he’s stayed in contact with four orphan girls, all of whom are about to graduate. While none of Coach Brister’s trips to the Dominican Republic have been a collaboration with EC, the school has contributed to his missions and he is grateful to Emmanuel for allowing him the time off to go. Last summer, Coach Brister took his first official trip with the EC family. He and Alice Black led a group of six students to Tanzania, Africa. His next mission trip: the Dominican Republic this November. “I guess I’ll keep being obedient until God says stop going.” Coach Brister said his favorite aspect of missions is witnessing God’s will overcome obstacles. “Each year I see God’s love power its way through [different] barriers. The hardest aspect for me is that I can’t bring all of the orphans home. I just try to give them as much Jesus as I can and know that He is the Father to the fatherless,” said Coach Brister. Coach Brister has served on the Emmanuel College Missions committee for seven years, and as a huge believer in living out Matthew 28, he encourages everyone to participate in a mission trip.
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“It’s in my blood.” Those are the words said by Emmanuel College head baseball coach and associate kinesiology professor Dr. Aaron Brister when asked what has inspired him to embark on numerous mission trips for nearly 25 years. Since age 11, Coach Brister has participated in short-term mission trips. For the past five years, he has traveled to the Dominican Republic to minister to orphanages as he continues his quest to spread the Word of God. During his first two years at EC, Coach Brister worked diligently to include members of the EC baseball team in his missions. “I wanted them to experience the feeling of giving back to others.” But it wasn’t to be. Funds were hard to raise for the entire team to make the trip, and after two failed attempts, it was through prayer and the words of a friend that Coach Brister realized maybe the Lord only wanted him to go. So he did. Coach Brister says his first year was an unbelievable experience. He recalled how the devil tried to keep him from going with bad Atlanta traffic, resulting in him missing his flight by one minute. He was “heart-broken and frustrated” and asking God why this was so difficult. After several years of trying to go to the Dominican Republic with the baseball team, it seemed like he wouldn’t go again. Coach Brister was determined Satan would not win. He sat for a few minutes, prayed, and knew he had saved enough personal money to purchase another plane ticket. Although there was only one flight to
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Alumni SPOTLIGHT HUBERT VERNON & PHYLLIS (SPARKS) SYNAN (’55)
At Emmanuel College in 1953, Vernon and Phyllis were brought together through the Emmanuel singing groups. This developed into a love affair that has lasted 52 years. They have two sons, Bert and Jim, who also attended Emmanuel College. The Synans currently have a granddaughter, Libby, at Emmanuel. She is the third generation of the Synan family to attend Emmanuel and has already made her family, community, and the college proud of her accomplishments. She felt so honored to be nominated as one of the 2012 Miss Emmanuel candidates and was overwhelmed when she was selected as the new Miss Emmanuel. At the request of Libby, Vernon was her proud escort. Vernon showed his exhilaration by dancing her around the room. This animated grandfather delighted her college peers with his agile steps. As a retired Emmanuel professor of 30 years, Vernon can often be found, along with Jack Puckett, at the area meeting spot: The Roystonian. They will most likely be reviewing their stock portfolios on their laptops while sharing breakfast together.
STAN & EVE (NICHOLSON) OLIVER (’56)
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
Stan, along with his siblings, Don and Jane, were part of the Franklin Springs community until adulthood. Recently, Stan and Eve returned to the Franklin Springs area where they have built a new home. Frequently, you may now find Stan “hanging” with other alumni at the local social spot: The Roystonian. Their daughter, Debbie (’76), is married to Chris Maxwell (’82), the Emmanuel College campus pastor. Stan and Eve’s two sons, Stan, Jr., and Joe, reside with their families in Orlando, Florida. The Olivers also have 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Stan and Eve would like to hear from friends. You may contact them via email at soliver1937@att.net, or at their address: 118 Cobb Drive, Royston, GA 30662.
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Old Oliver home (across from the Pavilion behind the school) Picture courtesy of Don Oliver.
BENJAMIN F. DUNN (’61)
After graduation, Ben returned home to Andrews, South Carolina, to help with the operation of the family business, established in 1929 by his father. During his time with the family business, Ben also served as assistant coroner for Georgetown County. In 1991 he was appointed by the governor of South Carolina to serve as summary court judge for Georgetown County, a position he held for the next 20 years. In June 2011, he retired as judge, but still resides in Andrews. Ben is an active community leader and is currently campaigning for an elected position on the county district council. Ben and his wife, Beverly, have three sons, three granddaughters, and one grandson. This proud couple will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in November. Alumni have enjoyed Ben and Beverly’s presence at the last two Emmanuel College “Gatherings,” which were held in Charleston, South Carolina, and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
CAROLYN (JOHNSON) STOCKS (’57)
Carolyn lives in Greenville, North Carolina, and is a retired teacher. She recently spent three months writing the history of the Greenville First IPHC and was amazed at many of the facts during her research: I. H. Presley was pastor from 1928-1931. Charles Presley (EC Alumnus and well-known and loved pianist) was born there in 1931. [photo: Mrs. Presley with infant Charles] Rev. Presley also served as principal of the Falcon Holiness School in Falcon, N.C., where his son, Moody, was born. Carolyn also learned that Dr. John D. Messick, president of East Carolina College (now University) from 1947-1959, attended and graduated from the Falcon Holiness School (1916-1918). It was exciting to know that Carolyn’s current pastor, Rev. Paul Brafford, was in Charles Presley’s choir during his days as a student at Emmanuel.
Linda Thomas, President Stewart, Nellie and Kirk Hartsfield
Hartsfield Hall Dedication –by Kayla Ray students he served as dean of men. It will be a reminder to all who come after him of his devotion and passion that has helped to keep the flame of knowledge and Christian character alive … and of a passion that will continue to live on through those who will dwell here in days to come.” In his thirty-six years at Emmanuel, Dr. Hartsfield served the college in many different capacities. He served as the dean of men in Wellons Hall, instructor in the Academy, psychology instructor, dean of students / director of student activities, academic dean / registrar, and lastly, before retirement, the vice president of academic affairs and director of institutional research. Dr. Hartsfield first came to Emmanuel College as a student in 1948. He graduated in 1950 with an associate degree in general education before continuing his education at the University of Georgia, where he earned his Master of Education and Doctor of Education degrees. It was President W. G. Drum who saw the leadership potential in Dr. Hartsfield and encouraged him to continue his education as well as work for Emmanuel. Four generations of his family have attended Emmanuel over the years: his mother and father, Eva Kirk and Fernando Lewis Hartsfield; Dr. Hartsfield himself and his wife, Nellie Holliday Hartsfield, whom he met while attending Emmanuel as a student; Mike Hartsfield and Sharon Hartsfield Atkinson, his children; and two granddaughters.
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On Saturday, March 3, the dedication for Hartsfield Hall was held at Emmanuel College. The dorm facility, formerly known as King Street Hall, was renamed in honor of Dr. Kirk Hartsfield, a long-time employee of Emmanuel College who retired in 1995. The dedication was held at noon in front of the newly-christened building. In attendance were President Stewart, Board Chair Linda Thomas, and several of Emmanuel’s faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as Dr. Hartsfield’s friends and family. Linda Thomas had this to say at the dedication: “For so many years he has firmly stood on the foundation of the mission of this college and has been committed to its purpose. Dr. Hartsfield has impacted the world through the students he has served through the years, as he has made indelible imprints in their lives.” “There is no question about where his heart has been. His is truly a man with a heart for the things of God, and a big chunk of his heart has been given to the ministry of Emmanuel College. He embodies everything for which this school stands.” She continued, “It is right and fitting that his name be inscribed on this dorm. It is representative of the dedicated service to the
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A Total Woman
Evangelist Tashara Luster is impacting others by living life from the inside out. – by Jamie K. Powell
asked God that night to use me like He used her to minister to His people. Quad: What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect of ministering in this way?
Tashara Luster, 2003 graduate of Emmanuel College, is everything you might expect a successful woman to be: strong-willed, hard-working, dedicated, and focused. Such ingredients have the potential to make for an intimidating person, but this is not the case with Tashara because coupled with these outwardly dominant traits are internal stirrings toward faithfulness, compassion, and love for others. It is this perplexing dichotomy, paired with a stalwart faith in God’s plan for her life, that has carried Tashara to the point of founding her own ministry (Daily Benefits Ministry), authoring her first book (The Total Woman), and ministering and evangelizing full time. Quad magazine sat down with Tashara to discuss how she became the woman she is today.
Q ua d m a g a z i n e s p r i n g 2012
Quad: Tell me a little about your experiences growing up.
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LUSTER: I am the product of teen parents, and I was truly raised on the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I had the most inspirational “villagers” in my life [that] helped raise me along with my parents. Quad: What inspired you to become an evangelist? LUSTER: Honestly, I only thought I would sing for God. … Growing up, I never even heard or saw a woman preacher. It was only [when I was in] my teens that I heard a woman preach for the first time, and I
LUSTER: Ministry, especially full time, is a faith walk like none other. There are challenges at every corner because the enemy makes it his mission to try to derail the call, purpose, and furtherance of the Gospel and its messengers. Quad: What is the most rewarding part of being an evangelist? LUSTER: Seeing people saved, healed, set free, and delivered! Doing outreach, and blessing people in whatever way I can. Last, but not least, seeing God get [all] the glory! Quad: You published your first book, The Total Woman, recently. What inspired you to write it? LUSTER: God told me He had a love letter to write to His daughters. He wanted all of us to start living out our maximized potential and purpose. This season of your life is the defining moment that will lead to the journey of becoming “The Total Woman.” God desires to unleash the possibilities inside of you, so that you can live life from the inside out!
mirror. It reveals to you that all you need right now is already down on the inside of you; it just needs to be unleashed! Quad: That seems like a powerful message, spoken from a wise woman. Did your experiences while you attended Emmanuel have anything to do with the woman you are today, this “Total Woman”? LUSTER: The spirituality gained at EC in every capacity (as a student and as an employee) has been the cornerstone for my success and enrichment today. I learned the value of [living] a Godcentered life, [seeking] a purpose driven life, and having a community of love and support from all. During my time at EC, it was all about legacy: What you leave behind is just as important as what you live! In order to leave a great legacy, one must live a great life. Not a great life in essence of worldly success based on a monetary level, but rather the greatness of the impact of your life on others.
Quad: So, who is the book for, and how do you believe your message will touch the lives of the women who read it? LUSTER: This is the book for every woman in every walk and place in life. This book goes to the core of who we are as women. It focuses on who you are when it is just you and God. The book pulls back the covers of the real you, the woman who is staring at you in the
You can order your copy of The Total Woman at www.amazon.com. For more information on Evangelist Tashara Luster or her ministry, Daily Benefits, go to www.tasharaluster.com.
Our Journey to Jayden –by Erin Rosene
had he said, “Amen,” than the phone background checks, physical exams, rang. Nikki was on the other end drug tests, and many other things, crying. “Jason, we got our referral. Jason and Nikki still had to be We have a little boy.” At that moment, approved through their home study Jason hit his knees, laughing and visit. Then, the couple had to undergo crying at the same time. 30 hours of adoption training, which Six long months later, Jason and included reading books and attending various seminars and conferences. But Nikki received the call they were really waiting for. It was finally time to travel finally, they were approved. to South Korea. There, they were able Even after all that, the Croys to meet Jayden’s foster mother, who still faced the hurdle of funding the had loved and adoption. Jason had heard about an adoptive parent who had Six long months cared for him since They also run a marathon to help raise later, Jason and birth. had the opportunity money. When he mentioned it to Nikki, she thought it was a great Nikki received to interact with a dozen or so Korean idea. They started a website, the call they children waiting to www.endure4love.com, and let be adopted. They their friends and family know. were really were all taken care In March 2010, Jason and some waiting for. It of and loved by the supportive friends ran in the ING Atlanta Marathon, and they raised was finally time workers there. Jayden Yul more than half of the total amount needed. That summer, Jason and to travel to South Croy is a blessing from God, and even more friends participated Korea. Emmanuel in three different triathlons. By College welcomes him with open the end of the next March, the Croys arms. Jason and Nikki both graduated had reached their fundraising goal of from Emmanuel in 2001, and they $22,000. reside in Royston, Georgia. Jason is One of their fondest memories is the vice president for Student Life at of the morning they received their Emmanuel, and Nikki is a child and child referral. Jason had just finished adolescent counselor at Wellsprings telling a friend how they were learning Psychological Resources, where she to trust God each and every day. His now works part-time so she can be at friend prayed with him, asking God to home with Jayden. work on their behalf, and no sooner
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The young couple, Jason and Nikki Croy, could not have anticipated anything more than they did the idea of meeting their little boy for the first time. The thought of holding him in their arms was something that ignited emotions they did not even know they were capable of feeling—and they had not even met him yet. After finding out they were unable to conceive, Jason and Nikki began praying and considering international adoption. The entire process, including the paperwork and cost, was overwhelming, and the wait they would have to endure was excruciating. However, they both felt that this journey of trusting God was leading them to South Korea. So, the journey to Jayden began. After an application process that included interviews,
Jason, Nikki, and Jayden Croy
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A lu m N ot e s 1970s
1940s CULBRETH Y. MELTON (’47) Dr. Culbreth Melton is a long-time resident of Franklin Springs. He enjoys catching up with friends wherever he is whether at the post office, church, or his own home. Dr. Melton has been involved with Emmanuel College in many capacities: student, registrar, professor, president, and is still a strong supporter of the mission of the school. Though long retired from formal education, Dr. Melton is still teaching Sunday school, which he began doing in 1949.
DON OLIVER (’71) Don and Kay (Ward) Oliver (’70) live in Watkinsville, Georgia. Don is retired after a long tenure of work in the field of recreation. Don joined the Athens-Clark County Recreation and Parks Department as division administrator in 1973, where he worked for the next 26 years. After retirement, he joined Oconee County Parks and Recreation as division administrator where he spent his second career from 1999 to 2009. During his 10 years at Oconee County Parks and Recreation, Don’s experience brought significant growth and progress to the department. Since retirement, Don has enjoyed working part-time opening the Oconee County Parks Department facilities for the morning “early birds.” Additionally, he now works the gates of the University of Georgia home football, basketball, baseball, and gymnastic events. Don was recently invited to serve on the Emmanuel College Alumni Association Board (ECAA).
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1950s/1960s
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PEGGY (BLEDSOE) MILLER (’58) Upon Peggy’s husband, Wayne’s, retirement from NASA and Peggy’s retirement from Clear Creek Independent school district in Houston, Texas, they moved to Branson, Missouri, their present home. They have enjoyed visits from other Emmanuel alumni, David and Theresa (Peale) Myles (’58) from Friendswood, Texas, and A. D. and Shirley (Ingram) Robertson (’58) from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Peggy’s sister, Linda (Bledsoe) Strickland, also attended Emmanuel in 1961 and now lives in Newnan, Georgia, with her husband, Rev. Joe Strickland, former pastor of Newnan IPHC. Both are now retired. GILBERT & SHEILAH (GUTHRIE) SHAW (’59 & ’60) Gilbert and Sheilah live on Lake Hartwell in Georgia. They are regular “motor home” travelers and have visited much of the United States (as far away as Alaska) and also enjoy traveling to special seminars and events such as the Charles Stanley In Touch Ministries. Living directly on Lake Hartwell, they are able to actively pursue and enjoy a variety of activities including boating and fishing. Gilbert and Sheilah are very active in the Emmanuel alumni activities.
PAT (POTTER) ZIMMERLY (’78) What a difference a year makes! Life has changed dramatically for me. Last year my husband of 22 years went to be with the Lord and left me wondering what my life was going to look like. God is shaking things up! I now live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and have applied to Lee University to finish my degree. I would love to work at Lee while I take classes, so I am waiting for God to move in that direction. My son, Nate, is a sophomore at Lee and has applied to study at Cambridge. I am so proud of him! All I can say is: God is good!
1990s JAMIE & KRISTI (BECK) CAIN (’95 & ’97) Annabeth Caroline Xann Cain was born on October 6, 2011, at 8:59 a.m., weighing 6lbs 8oz. and nineteen inches long. She was born at Gwinnett Medical Center in Gwinnett, Georgia. Proud parents are Jamie and Kristi Cain, and grandparents, Joe and Sandy Beck. SUNNI (HAGEE) GREEN (’99) My husband, Lee, and I are happy to announce the birth of our first child, William Whitten “Whitt” Green. Whitt was born November 20, 2010, and he is the joy of our lives. He is a very happy boy and makes his mommy and daddy laugh every day! We thank God daily for our beautiful boy!
2000s ANDREW MANN (’01) Andrew and his wife, Sarah, live in Hoschton, Georgia. Andrew is an executive with BB&T and Sarah is an assistant district attorney with Barrow County, Georgia courts. They have one daughter, Lyla Katherine. Lyla’s proud grandparents are EC professor Dr. Frank Mann and his wife, Carolyn.
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w e r e m e m be r 2000s RYAN SWAILS (’04) Afton Irena Moore Swails was born on Thursday, December 1, 2011, in Athens, Georgia. She weighed 7lbs 5oz and was 20¼ in. long. Ryan and Ginny Swails are the proud parents of their little girl. Maternal grandparents are Gary and Catherine Edwards, Virginia; aunt and uncle, Mike and Becky Brady, North Carolina. Afton was born into a strong Emmanuel legacy. Paternal grandparents are Dr. Jim (’73) and Deb (Redd) Swails (’77), Georgia; aunts and uncles: Greg and Summer (Swails) Heil (’09), and Andrew (’13) and Sydnah (Swails) Kingrea (’12); late great-grandparents: Dr. Henry J. (’51) and Alice Faye Redd, and Rev. John W. (beloved long-time professor) and Glenda (Baldwin) Swails (’44). IAN COLE (’05) Sarah Elizabeth Cole was born on September 17, 2011. She weighed 8lbs 7oz and was 21½ in. long. Ian (’05) and Leslie Cole are the proud parents of this happy little girl. Ian is the director of the Emmanuel Singers.
SERGIO & KRISTI (HORNE) CASTRO (’08) Isabella Grace Castro was born on Monday, April 9, 2012, at 5:13 p.m. She was 7lbs 5oz and 19½ in. long. Proud parents of this beautiful baby girl are Sergio and Kristi (Horne) Castro, both of the class of 2008.
Anne Hendrick Young Marsh (’42) passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2011. She was born in Switchback, West Virginia, July 28, 1922, to the late Ida Belle (Lovell) and Walter Wilson Hendrick. Mrs. Marsh attended Emmanuel Academy in Franklin Springs, Georgia, where she met her first husband, Howard Glenn Young, Sr., of Lake City, South Carolina. Besides being a homemaker, Mrs. Marsh was employed for several years at the Pee Dee Center for Disabilities and Special Needs in Florence, South Carolina. She was a member of the Lake City Pentecostal Church. Mrs. Marsh is survived by a daughter, Glenda Young Sweet (’63); a son, Michael Young; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A service celebrating her life was held in Lake City, South Carolina, on July 11, 2011. Mr. Larry Glenn Shaw (’53) passed away December 21, 2011, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted and loving husband and father. As a man of faith, he leaves an example and legacy of prayer and worship for all who knew him. He was born in Honea Path, South Carolina, on January 21, 1933, to the late William Erby Shaw (for whom the Emmanuel College Library Plaza is named) and Mittie Saxon Shaw. Larry is survived by his adoring wife and their children: L. Glenn Shaw, Jr., and his wife; David L. Shaw and his wife; LaDonna S. Umberger and her husband; grandchildren: Mariah and Christian Shaw; Stephen, Matthew Andrew, Lauren, and Hannah Shaw; Olivia, Emma, and Lilly Umberger; Alexandria Alverson; son-in-law Jason D. Alverson and his wife. Larry is also survived by his sister, Martha Shaw Franks, and her husband, and his brother, Jack E. Shaw and his wife. He was predeceased by his daughter, Rebecca S. Alverson, and baby granddaughte, Emily Grace Alverson, and sister, Ruby Shaw Shepherd. Larry had a lifelong love for Emmanuel College, where he received the foundation for a life of service to Jesus Christ and where he served a year as Dean of Men.
He possessed a giving heart expressed through his church and Christian ministries he loved. He is dearly missed by Emmanuel, his friends and family, and all he touched through his unselfish generosity. Mr. Lindsey Roy Quick (’60) passed away on September 16, 2011. Lindsey was born August 11, 1940, to the late William Roy Quick and Cornelia Carlisle Quick. He was a loving, Christian husband and father and a devoted friend. He was a kind and compassionate man who faithfully served the Lord in every avenue of his life. Lindsay had a distinguished career as an educator and administrator. He was a faithful long-time member of the East Laurinburg Pentecostal Holiness Church, where he served in many capacities. He joined Gideons International in 1969, serving in offices for the local camp as president, vice president, secretary treasurer, and chaplain. He was a lifetime member of the Stewartsville Fire Department. Lindsey is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Linda Wood Quick, and his children: David Roy Quick, Sharon Linda Quick, Donna Carolyn Quick, and Sheila Gale Quick. Charles Aubrey Humphries (’81) passed away on March 2, 2012. He is survived by his mother, Charlotte, brother, Fran, sister, Jan, and niece, Georgia, and nephew, Tradd. His personality was too big for his 6’5” frame and his heart was even bigger, allowing him to travel through this life loving easily and easily being loved. He leaves this life lesson that you are not measured by what you do, but how you are loved. Challenge was Charles’ constant and uneasy companion, having visited him early in life and remaining with him until his passing. In every challenge, he overcame in a way unique to him. He proved time and again that the victory is in the persevering. Dorothy Dalton Hopkins, mother of former Emmanuel president, Dr. David Hopkins, passed away Friday, December 16, 2011. Mrs. Hopkins was born December 17, 1916, in Stuart, Virginia, to the late William Critz Dalton and Mary Lula Carter Dalton. Throughout her life, she was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker and stood by her husband as he pastored churches for more than 50 years in the IPHC denomination. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Dr. William Paul Hopkins; two sisters, Ellen and Rachel; and four brothers, Leslie, Joel, Carter, and Crawford. Survivors include three sons, Dr. Kenneth P. Hopkins and his wife; Dr. Gerald T. Hopkins and his wife; and Dr. David R. Hopkins and his wife, Claudia; six grandchildren; and 19 greatgrandchildren.
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JESSICA (STOKELY) MOLE (’05) Jessica and Joe Mole are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter. Janna Grace Mole was born August 5, 2011, and weighed 7lbs. Proud grandparents are Rev. Ricky (’79) and Jeanette Stokely.
Miss Evelyn Virginia King (’41) passed away Monday, January 16, 2012. Miss King was born in Franklin Springs, Georgia, on May 30, 1924, to the late Rev. Joseph H. King, Sr., and Blanche Moore King. She was a supervisory medical records librarian having worked with the Civil Service and was a member of the Redwine United Methodist Church. Survivors include her brother, Joseph H. King, Jr., of Franklin Springs, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Easter Lily King and Mary Ann King.
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October 5-6, 2012 Join fellow alumni and friends for this year’s homecoming weekend! Highlighted Events: • Feast of Ingathering • Golden Grads Breakfast • Alumni Luncheon • Class Reunions • Basketball Alumni Reunion – Players and Coaches • Ribbon Cutting at the New Athletic Center • Special Programs Watch your mailbox and check the website at www.ec.edu/alumni/homecoming-2012 for more information.