RECORD THE
Fall 2023
FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY
RISE UP A Vision for GU
IN THIS ISSUE
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Forever Transformed, Forever Grateful The Personal Touch The Ride, A Surprising Sabbath for the Soul A Game-Changer Good Things on the Horizon City on a Hill Rise Up 101 Campus News
Chief Development Officer Brad Warren Chief Philanthropy Officer Scott Giffen ’99 Executive Director of Advancement Evan Abla Director of Advancement Brett Brannon ’97 Director of Athletics Advancement Johnny Garvilla Manager of Advancement Services Matthew Young Manager of the Annual Fund Brianne Hair ’05 Major Gift Officer Coordinator Jen Liss ’97 Development Officer Pat Bond ’62 Director of Alumni & Church Relations Dewayne Neeley ’98 Coordinator of Advancement and Alumni Engagement Tina (Martin ’90) Watterson Chief Economic Development and Innovation Officer Breck Nelson Managing Editor & Writer Julia Roat-Abla Writer & Photographer Dave Bell Contributing Writer Carla Morris Contributing Writer Minh Doh Graphic Designer Carol Pérez Contributing Graphic Designer Megan Chapman Our mission: Greenville University empowers students for lives of character and service through a transforming Christ-centered education.
Alumni News In Memory
“Thank you for giving me the GU experience and the opportunity to discover the difference within me.” Sports Management major Jalen Franz ’24, cross-country athlete, GSGA member, Pursuit Worship band, and grateful recipient of donor-funded scholarships. 2
THE RECORD (USPS 2292-2000) is published two times a year for alumni and friends of Greenville University by the Office of Advancement, Greenville University, 315 E. College Ave., Greenville, IL 62246. Phone: 618-664-6500. Non-profit class postage paid at Greenville, IL 62246. Vol. 114, No. 1. Greenville University online: www.greenville.edu Email: therecord@greenville.edu Send address corrections, correspondence, and alumni updates to the Office of Advancement, 315 E. College Ave., Greenville, IL 62246; or call 618-664-6500; or email alumni@greenville.edu.
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Views and opinions expressed by individuals in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Greenville University.
I’m blessed!
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
RISE UP, THERE’S MORE.
I
n the fall of 2020, amid the global COVID pandemic, quarantines, masks, loss of taste and loss of life, Greenville University not only continued to hold in-person classes, but also completed construction of the innovative SMART Center on Greenville’s town square. But this isn’t the first time that the people of Greenville University, believing God was already doing the next good thing, answered the call to RISE UP. • In 1932, creative thinkers installed printing and manufacturing enterprises on campus to employ students during the Great Depression. • Students produced and directed the first Agape Christian music festival in 1978. • Greenville College’s Contemporary Christian music major launched in the late 1980s, just as the Christian Music industry took off. • In 1999, Greenville College became the first college in the nation to go wireless.
to strengthen and revitalize our support of Greenville University and the students it serves through a major fundraising effort. I believe the same imagination, faith, and perseverance that inspired men and women throughout GU’s 133 years is in you. We are ready to RISE UP again to the MORE God has in store. I see Greenville University living into our 130+ year legacy of... • Equipping students to influence by building skills and character and helping them to grow spiritually. • Empowering students to lead by creating spaces where students practice servant leadership and grow in intellect and faith. • Inspiring students to serve by unlocking experiences that expand what it means to “learn by doing.” Will you join us and RISE UP to the call to live into that future now and continue GU’s good work?
Greenville University has always been a place for people with faith in God to RISE UP to face the doubt, adversity, or fear the world brings. Of course, no one knows the future. At the launch of the RISE UP campaign in 2019, we made a commitment
Suzanne Allison Davis ’00 President, Greenville University THE RECORD | 2023 FALL
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FOREVER TRANSFORMED, FOREVER GRATEFUL Is that your experience? The freshman arrived at a moment of truth on a choir tour. She saw in her choir mates faith that plunged deeper than any faith she had known. What is Jesus to Steve Ellsworth ‘80, Melissa Westover ‘84, and Jerry Hood ‘82 me? she thought. The thought gave way to desire: I want Him. “I decided I wanted Jesus at the center of my to me about giving back,” recalls Jerry Hood life,” recalls Melissa Westover ’84. More than 40 ’82, “and about personal integrity and Christ-like years later, she still harbors gratitude for the events values.” The conversations resonated. Jerry still that led to her choice. She wants events like that for expresses thanks. Oh, that driven young people others. today could hear those words. An accounting major struggled until a professor Melissa, Steve, and Jerry head Greenville noticed and breathed new life into his academic University’s Rise Up campaign that just turned the mess. The professor? Watson Tidball, a man with corner from quiet, behind-the-scenes conversations a history of going out of his way to help students to broad public invitation: “Join us!” Why? Because succeed. “He stuck with me,” recalls Steve legions of GU graduates claim “forever transformed, Ellsworth ’80, who still marvels over Tidball’s loyalty. forever grateful” as their Steve wishes turnarounds like that for strugglers experiences, too—reason today. to ask everyone touched A young business by GU to ensure the student pursued University’s good work into success with laserthe future. What do these like focus. He three want others to know? crossed paths with a From Melissa, the onetime professor who took choir member who saw the more interest in the light of Jesus in her peers: tycoon-wannabe’s “GU delivers the Gospel’s spiritual walk than salt and light to students. in his ambitions. The students deliver salt “Professor Frank and light to others. Your Thompson talked willingness to engage and orth ‘80
Steve Ellsw
Melissa Westover ‘84 2
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Your RISE UP gift makes space for students to strengthen bonds in small groups, teams, dorm floors, and other community groups for character andservice.
say ‘yes’ financially advances this good work.” From Steve, who benefitted from a professor’s personal attention: “Your time, talents, Jerry Ho and treasure can od ‘82 transform students’ lives. GU’s mission to empower students for lives of character and service through a Christ-centered education is bigger than dollars and cents. Still, we need dollars and cents to help us fulfill that mission.” From Jerry, who took words about giving back and serving others to heart: “This world needs more Greenville graduates—young people with character who understand the meaning of servant leadership and who shine the light of Jesus into a dark world.” Does “forever transformed” describe your GU experience? Are you grateful still? Melissa, Steve, and Jerry invite you to Rise Up with them and commemorate your transformative experience and gratitude with a gift to GU today.
Burritt Hall to undergo $3.4 million upgrade For more than a century, young women have called Burritt Hall their campus home away from home. It has facilitated community for generations of students. Now, thanks to a $3.4 million grant, Burritt will facilitate community for generations more. The grant funding comes courtesy of the Illinois State Board of Higher Education (IBHE). It covers major renovations that include new heating and air conditioning systems, electrical and plumbing work, new bathrooms, and improved ADA accessibility. GU’s growing enrollment and its ability to serve residents of downstate Illinois proved influential in GU obtaining the grant. “These upgrades continue the legacy of Burritt Hall,” says Chloe Bauder, Burritt’s resident director. “We want it to be a comfortable and safe community for our students to call home.” Community has long been a hallmark of campus life at GU. Funds raised through GU’s current Rise Up campaign also create spaces and expand opportunities for students to learn and grow in all ways.
101 year-old Burritt Hall
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THE PERSONAL TOUCH Student chaplains strengthen spiritual formation on campus
Helping students conform to the image of Christ empowers them for lives of character and service once they leave. Reverend Elliott Renfroe, Reverend Keli Pennington, and a newly formed group of student chaplains lead the way for spiritual formation on campus, not just through programming, but through relationship-building. Renfroe leads the team. The former Free Methodist pastor has experience discipling in urban and multicultural ministries. Pennington, now in her second year as campus chaplain, envisioned adding student chaplains to the team. Relational discipleship is key. The team practices skills like reflective listening and offering spiritual
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counsel and care. The student chaplains learn how to walk alongside their peers, encouraging them, praying, and reminding others of Christ’s presence. Pennington says the students resonate with their peers, “who are looking for someone who will ‘be with’ rather than ‘preach to’ them.” Renfroe asserts that the entire GU community— faculty, coaches, students, and staff—plays a role in relational discipleship. “This is a collaborative effort.” The team serves the GU community through an expanding menu of spiritual development opportunities. Thirty different small groups meet each week, in addition to GU’s weekly all-campus
Meet Olivia, Hiva, and Nick
Fully immersed in the life of the GU community, this year’s student chaplains have the unique opportunity to minister to their peers. GU Chaplain Keli Pennington cites their compassion and deep care for discipling others: “It’s a blessing to be able to empower them to lead in ways that connect with their God-given gifts and passions.” Sophomore history education major from Carlyle, Illinois, Nick Christ looks forward to knowing more students and supporting campus spiritual development. He says, “I’m excited about the small group I’m leading and seeing what it could become.”
Olivia Antonacci, a senior education major, from
Chatham, Illinois. Olivia saw a need on campus for personal care and wanted to follow in Keli’s footsteps. She says, “I’m excited to see the fruit of disciplesmaking-disciples. I hope that throughout the year we’ll see more people come to Christ or go deeper in their relationship with God.”
Talahiva “Hiva” Talanoa, a junior Christian Pictured left to right: Nick Christ, Olivia Antonacci, Talahiva Talanoa, Keli Pennington.
gathering, The Wednesday Experience (TWE). Students participate in Vespers and Encounter services, and gather around the breakfast table on Friday mornings, a Community Café where conversations surrounding the week’s TWE message continue. GU’s spiritual formation team can’t think of anything more rewarding than helping students know and become more like Jesus and walking alongside them as they do.
education major from Murrietta, California. Hiva understands the importance of shared experiences and welcomes a leadership role. She says, “Making deep connections that are rooted in Christ along with the fellowship aspect of college is really important. You won’t remember the grade you got as a sophomore but you will remember the friend that you made.”
Meet Rev. Elliott Renfroe
Elliott Renfroe, GU’s new dean of students and chief diversity officer, offers students a perspective on spiritual formation that’s been 30 years in the making. Simply put, disciples make disciples through relationships. They show to others what God has shown them. Elliott covets your prayers for students’ spiritual formation this school year.
Your RISE UP gift equips students to develop as servant leaders and influencers in the world.
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THE RIDE, A SURPRISING SABBATH FOR THE SOUL Equine Program nurtures career and character Working with horses changes people. It catalyzes discovery about oneself and others. Liz Bays knows it. Liz, director of Greenville University’s new equine program, describes a horse’s strength, beauty, speed, prey intelligence, and social instinct as the doorway to growth for its rider. Awareness and confidence grow. Emotional maturity grows. Leadership, problem-solving, patience, empathy, and responsibility all grow. Inspiration weaves its way into the picture, too. Says Liz of horses, “Enthusiasts frequently describe their presence as therapeutic and a sabbath for the mind and soul.” GU’s equine program is designed to enhance the student experience and offer another context to develop character and service others. The equine program upholds GU’s long-standing tradition of innovative, ahead-of-the-curve thinking coupled with a deep commitment to Christ-like character and service. Equine Assisted Services (EAS) reflects a growing interest in health and wellness. Health and clinical professionals increasingly use equine therapies to address cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physical challenges. Community organizations tap them to serve veterans, foster children, at-risk youth, and even prisoners. As a result, state and federal legislation continues to acknowledge the benefits of therapies that use horses. Students can choose a pre-veterinary Students enrolled in the curriculum or agribusiness major or program participate in take horsemanship classes as a part clinics where they learn of their general education how to conduct riding requirements. lessons and learn about using horses for therapy and emotional healing. They can build portfolios toward certification as PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors. In the future, students will conduct riding camps and give private lessons. 6
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To learn more about GU’s equine program, email Liz Bays at elizabeth.bays@greenville.edu.
Bays (picture here) champions the equine ect program as a great fit for GU. “I see or of character development every day G [in] students working with their horses. I see the confidence it brings, the skills it develops, the joy it offers, and the inevitable growth that follows for a person mentally, emotionally, and physically.” “The Equine Assisted Services program will help me combine my love of teaching and my love of horses.”
Liz Bays, Dir
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Taylor Weiss ’24, a future special education teacher, is using the training she receives through GU’s Equine Assisted Services program to add another tool to her teaching tool belt. She is discovering how horses can be a powerful way to engage students with disabilities. “There is such a special connection between the horses and students with disabilities. I hope to help my students by exposing them to horses; they can learn so much just by being around them.”
Your RISE UP gift expands students opportunities to “learn by doing” into new areas like Equine Studies.
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Practice Makes Perfect Innovative “Experiential Classroom” adds realism to the learning mix
Bright colors, boardgames, and smart boards—GU teacher education students have a new space on campus to put their developing teaching skills into practice and gain valuable feedback. A grant from the Illinois Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity made this space dedicated to skill development possible. The classroom functions as an educational laboratory for students to practice teaching their lessons in front of peers and professors and engage with area special education students. A “sensory” corner provides the future teachers extra resources to enhance children’s learning experience. The Experiential Classroom helps students gain insight into the teaching profession. GU’s Director of Teacher Education Crystal EfflerFoles says, “It can confirm that they’re on the right track, or it may show them that they’re better suited for something else. Others may discover they are more successful teaching a different age level or subject.” The practice and preparation students receive in this immersive context means GU teachers are more effective in their future classrooms and ready to serve their students.
Junior Alea VanDeVelde’26 (pictured above), and Mallory Armstrong’26, and Kilee Webster’25 (pictured left to right) play board games to engage with students from area schools.
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Your RISE UP gift unlocks students’ potential for connecting career-building skills to character development.
A GAME-CHANGER You’re locked in a room with seven others, pressed to escape before time runs out. No obvious openings, no visible keys—your heart races. Is this a dream? No, it’s an escape room, a 60-minute puzzle-like adventure where participants find clues and collaborate to get out. The most valuable asset is what each individual uniquely brings to problemsolving. Last semester, three professors used the escape room experience to help students understand the complexities of problem-solving. Twenty-six students majoring in chemistry, math, or digital media participated. At first, they attempted to escape with others in their major. Later, they did the same with students from different majors. Some groups escaped in time. Others did not. More importantly, students enjoyed the gameplay. It allowed students to respond authentically to each other. The professors then used David A. Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle framework of Experience – Reflect – Think – Act to guide the students and help them reflect on the emerging learning styles.
While many colleges and universities claim to offer “hands-on” learning, GU’s unique approach connects the learning experience to character development. In the classroom and assignments like the escape room, GU’s Experiential Learning engages, interprets, and integrates students’ knowledge with self-awareness, and empathy. Insights flow. “By having grace for myself, I could move on from failed attempts and accept failure as an important part of this experience,” said one escape-room participant. “By having grace for others, I could focus on the final goal of escaping the room without unnecessary conflicts.” Chemistry Professor Scott Pattenaude champions GU’s ever-expanding expertise in experiential learning. “Students develop the ability to collaborate and cooperate successfully,” he says. The teamwork that gets them out of an escape room has value in the workplace and life. “It’s something beyond the grade,” he says.
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Greenville University Students: Salt and Light to the world “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Key: Greenville, Illinois: Experience First (EXPF) classes engage students each year with hands-on opportunities to learn and serve. Local Internships with local businesses, schools, and organizations engage students in hands on learning and service.
Illinois/St. Louis Metro:
Science/Engineering Internships connect students to career-building experiences. GU’s Career & Internship Fair gives students a chance to explore job opportunities and meet with local business and organizations.
The United States:
The Contemporary Music Center in Nashville, Tennessee, immerses students in the music industry with hands-on experience in production and business.
St. Louis Metro
The Health Experience Institute in Dallas, Texas, immerses students in the field of hospice care practicing the four areas of holistic healthcare medical, social work, chaplaincy, or business.
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Key: United States continued...
The World
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As part of Experiential Learning, sophomores travel to Washington D.C. to broaden awareness and understanding of their place in the world and the world of work.
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Summer Ministry Interns engage and learn from Free Methodist pastors and churches in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and California.
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Community Circles builds bridges between alumni from around the country and students in the same field of study through career mentoring, internship opportunities, job shadowing, job leads, and networking.
The World:
The U.S Green
A forthcoming SCORE International partnership provides students with a gap year of learning and service in the Dominican Republic.
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GU Partners with multiple programs that provide week and semester long programs including: ▪ Students International in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic ▪ Jerusalem University in Jerusalem, Israel ▪ GlobalEd ▪ United World Mission's Advance
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Good Things on the Horizon Equipping young people to influence, empowering them to lead, inspiring THE RECORD | them 2023 FALLto serve 11 locally, in the U.S. and around the world.
A WIN-WIN AT THE GREENVILLE GYMNASTICS CENTER
Panthers Gain Valuable Experience Coaching Young Tumblers Experience is a great teacher at the Experience Institutes in Nashville and Dallas. It’s also a great teacher in Greenville, Illinois, where students gain valuable job experience and serve their community too. The recent addition of gymnastics to Panther athletics brought with it the vision of community gymnastics in Greenville. Why not use GU’s gymnastics facility for training tots to teens as well? The Greenville Gymnastics Center does just that. In the process, it expands opportunities for GU students to pick up valuable experience in youth coaching, program development, facilities management, marketing, community relations, and more. Home to Panther men’s and women’s gymnastics, the center is also home to a USA Gymnastics (USAG) club where even the youngest gymnasts and tumblers develop strength, confidence, social skills, and love for movement. Skilled gymnasts like GU’s Ryan Barela, a sophomore from Arizona, gain valuable experience working with them. A junior national all-around champion, Ryan majors in exercise science and minors in coaching. Throughout the week, he trains at the center on high bar, rings, vault, parallel bars, pommel horse, and floor exercise. In the evening, he shares his passion for the sport, coaching club members. “I enjoy working with kids and helping them learn new things,” he says. Serving others, sharing joy, growing and helping others grow— gymnasts like Ryan gain opportunities to advance in their sport and help others along the way. “I’ve learned about leadership,” he says, adding with a grin, “and I’ve certainly developed patience.” In turn, the young gymnasts under Ryan’s care have soaked up lessons about perseverance, respect, and sportsmanship, all from a national champion. No one can deny that it’s a winwin for sure. 12
Your RISE UP gift multiplies experiences for students to be salt and light in the world today and tomorrow.
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CITY ON A HILL
SMART Experience Institutes Shine Bright With Opportunities Gear, check. Personnel, check. Venues, chaplaincy, non-profit administration, and more. transportation, accommodations, and meals. Breck Nelson, GU’s chief economic development Check, check, check and check. and innovation officer puts the genius of the SEIs No classroom assignment matches the like this: “We maintain traditional educational challenges a tour-managerstandards but apply them to in-training takes on at GU’s You are the light of the real-life opportunities in a Contemporary Music Center supportive educational setting. (CMC) in Nashville, Tennessee. world. A town built on a [The] students who graduate Travel restrictions, sound from these programs have jobs regulations, plans and waiting for them.” hill cannot be hidden. contingency plans for a hitchEmployability is just the start. free concert—did we mention The real thrill about the SEIs (NIV) Matthew 5:14 budgets and tour profitability? for Nelson is how they help Experiential learning. students deliver the Gospel’s Students who emerge from it call it the opportunity salt and light to workplaces that need it. That of a lifetime. GU plans on delivering more of these reality factors into his assessment that “these experiences through the CMC and other SMART experiences equip students in a way traditional Experience Institutes (SEI) in days to come. education never could.” Twenty-five students embraced “deep learning” What does Nelson want others to know about in the CMC’s semester-long experience this fall. SMART Experience Institutes? Simply this: That GU’s latest SEI—the Health Experience Institute well-trained, well-prepared students shine bright in Dallas, Texas—is on target to receive students for Jesus Christ in a world brimming with industry next spring. There, students working with Faith and enterprise. And this, too: Experience is a great Presbyterian Hospice will learn about holistic endteacher. of-life care by “doing” social work, counseling/
The vision for the next Experience Institute includes a partnership with SCORE International Ministries in the Dominican Republic. The program will immerse “gap year” students and GU student interns in culture, mission, and non-profit ministry. THE RECORD | 2023 FALL
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RISE UP 101
Wondering what your support of the Rise Up campaign means to a GU student today? In the dorm or chapel, the classroom or the field, your RISE UP gift equips, empowers, and inspires students today...and tomorrow.
EQUIPPED TO INFLUENCE Academic programming that supports Christ-centered learning and prepares servant leaders. Smile One-on-One conversation with Theo 101 professor, Bob Munshaw
Computer "Artificial Neural Network Programming" Summer Science Research Project ready for presentation Phone Vespers @ 9:30 pm Thursday Reminder
EMPOWERED TO LEAD
INSPIRED TO SERVE
Develop appealing spaces where students meet Jesus.
Expand “learning by doing” to new areas of study and create alternative revenue streams for GU.
Water Bottle Hydration for workout at University Hall weight room
GU Sticker bought from 320 EXPF group project
Key Card Opens new University Hall dorm room
Business Card Alum’s contact information to network for internship
T-shirt & Foam Finger Fan gear to cheer on GU football team 14
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PANTHERS CLAIM MULTIPLE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Eight Panther teams claimed conference crowns during the 2022-23 school year. Greenville won titles in men’s cross country, women’s cross country, women’s volleyball, men’s tennis, men’s indoor track and field, women’s indoor track and field, men’s outdoor track and field, and women’s outdoor track and field. Three teams received automatic bids to the NCAA National Tournament as conference tournament champions. The winners included men’s soccer, women’s soccer, and men’s tennis. Greenville vaulter Ricky Mays was conference champion and qualified for the NCAA national finals and placed 28th overall. The men’s and women’s
gymnastics team launched their first season in the fall of 2022. NCAA All-Americans C.J. Anderson and Carson Rantanen led the men’s track and field program at the NCAA Division III indoor national championships, where the team finished 19th in the nation. Rantanen, Anderson, Dylan Webster, and the 4x100 meter relay (Chase LaTouche, Kourtland Harris, Rantanen, and Anderson) helped GU to a 25th-place national finish in the outdoor national championships. Rantanen and Anderson doubled as outdoor All-Americans. On the women’s side, NCAA qualifier Cayden Sharp finished as an All-American in both the indoor pentathlon and outdoor heptathlon.
Athletic facilities underway
Men’s Volleyball relaunches with alum as head coach The athletic department will resume men’s volleyball in the 2025 season. GU hired Emily (Thebeau ’17) Butler as its new head men’s volleyball coach. Butler graduated from Greenville University and was previously head women’s volleyball coach at Monmouth College. THE RECORD | 2023 FALL
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ATHLETICS NEWS
Construction on the W. Richard Stephens Fieldhouse and Robert “Ish” Smith Museum continues. The Stephens building will include restrooms and locker rooms for multiple teams, while the Smith building will include a baseball museum (from Smith’s time with USA and international baseball), public meeting rooms, and a viewing area for baseball games. Expanded bleachers and a press box will allow fans and the media unprecedented views of the football and track facility. The facilities are scheduled to open in February 2024.
GU WELCOMES NEW FACULTY
Chelsea Jenkins ’16 Experiential Learning
Daniel Raja Donna Matanane Fendan Zhao Mechanical Engineering Accounting and Business Physical Chemistry
Kevin Taylor Digital Media
Nicholas Pyles Music
Shawn Foles Criminal Justice
Joanna Boyd-Wilhite English
Tony Moon Criminal Justice
CAMPUS NEWS
GSGA 2023-24 is ready to connect students to the GU community Greenville Student Government Association President Makenna Hintz believes the GSGA bridges students with growth opportunities at Greenville University. This year, the GSGA team consists of Luke Motsinger, Kara Willson, Dylan Collins, Makenna Hintz, Clark Kent, Talahiva Talanoa, Kaidyn Johnson, Carolina Hoffman, and Jalen Franz (pictured left to right). Hintz says, “We want to make sure that students not only enjoy their time at GU, but also thrive here. GSGA has the potential to make a huge impact on the lives of students.”
GU launches new website Greenville University recently unveiled a new website design that offers users an improved digital experience as they seek information about the University. The clean, bold design of greenville.edu tells the GU story in an easily navigated format. The new site, designed by the FORM Group 16
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of Cleveland, Ohio, features clear articulation of the University’s brand; a modern, mobile-friendly design, filtered news and media; a robust program search by field of study, degree type, and keywords; stories from GU students, alums, and donors; and dashboards for frequent users.
GU’s RISE UP campaign goes public
Graduate Assistant Emily Penfold ‘20 helps a student at the new Writing Center.
The Greenville University Writing Center Greenville University launched the GU Writing Center this fall to reinforce learning objectives for 100-level English classes. Kathy Ice, professor of English, says, “The ultimate goal is to improve the confidence and agency of every writer who walks through our door.” Chief Academic Officer Kathy Taylor spearheaded creation of the Writing Center. Ice provided additional consulting and implementation. The GU Writing Center offers a safe, non-evaluative space where students develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. With its studentcentered focus, the Writing Center improves skillsets that serve all majors and disciplines. This free, ongoing support is accessible to students through the Writing Center’s online webpage at greenville.edu/writingcenter.
In December 2022, the Council of Independent Colleges’ Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) awarded Greenville University the Institutional Saga grant to recover, discover, and compose a largely unwritten history of the lives of key women who shaped the University throughout its 130-year history. Through the project, GU will tell the story of growth, influence, and faithfulness through the lens of women connected to it. The emerging stories remind those connected to Greenville University, the Free Methodist Church, and the University’s larger constituency how these women contributed to our collective history.
Ross Baker ’14, Chief Student Experience Officer interviews a panel of students on being equipped to influence, empowered to lead and inspired to serve at GU. Students pictured left to right: Norah Swinigan, Callie Adkins, and Antulio Castillo Sisniega.
Factory Theatre 2023-24 Season The Factory Theatre relaunched in the spring of 2023 with the production of James and the Giant Peach. The 2023-24 season opened with the fall production of The Play That Goes Wrong. The show is directed by senior Gabby Kunz and produced by Gret Tindall, Factory Theatre Production Manager. The theatre’s advisory board reinstalled an elevated stage and accomplished other renovation work this summer.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Institutional Saga grant reveals the University’s unwritten history of women
The public phase of Greenville University’s RISE UP fund-raising campaign was launched on October 20 as a part of the University’s homecoming celebration. The original $30 million goal, established in 2019, was increased to $60 million as dedicated alumni and friends quickly rallied to surpass the initial mark. To celebrate the remarkable start and cast a vision for the future, a service of thanksgiving was held in Whitlock Music Center. That was followed by a concert by Grammy and Dove award-winning recording artist Michael W. Smith. Throughout Homecoming Weekend, consecration services were held for the W. Richard Stephens Fieldhouse, the Robert “Ish” Smith Museum, and a new 246-bed residence hall, which is currently under construction. The RISE UP campaign focuses on raising funds to: • Equip students to influence through academic excellence. • Empower students to lead through the creation and renovation of spaces where they can grow in all ways. • Inspire students to serve by giving them opportunities to learn by doing.
ALUMNI NEWS
Submit your information online at greenville.edu/alumni.
1960s
1980s
Bill Jenkins ’67 has published a book, The Greatness of the Gospel: Meditations on the Greatest Story Ever Told (Westbow Press, 2023).
1 Bob Managbanag ’89 published the book One Jungle Night: A Vanishing (Dorrance 2023), a trilogy of short stories that draws friends and foes into a mystical shadowy world between the living and the dead. He writes under the pen name Leo Hill. Bob is a hospice spiritual/grief counselor and an ordained minister in the Free Methodist Church. He serves at Roze Room Hospice in Los Angeles, California.
1970s Marquis’ Who’s Who recently included Matthew Jones ’72 among the accomplished individuals and innovators it recognizes. A computer systems analyst, Matthew designed computer networks for Fortune 500 companies before authoring various works, including the book MoonPie in Knox County (Xulon Press 2015). AI Rice ’72 received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award by accumulating over 20,000 flight hours. Rice spent 30 years at Moody Bible Institute before working for Cessna Aircraft Company and retiring in 2016. Al is now self-employed as a contract pilot and flight instructor.
ALUMNI NEWS
What’s New With You?
After serving 32 seasons in the NBA, John Hammond ’76, is senior advisor to the president of the Orlando Magic’s basketball operations. Hammond served six seasons (2017-23) as general manager of the Magic, bringing more than 40 years of coaching and administrative experience to the Orlando team.
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2000s 2 Jeremiah Williamson ’02 was recently elected as the 10th bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Albany, New York. Prior to his election, Williamson served as rector of Grace and Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, since 2016. He holds a master of divinity from Drew Theological School and a diploma in Anglican Studies from the General Theological Seminary in New York City.
Kevin Kwilinski ’91 now serves as CEO of packaging supplier Berry Global. He formerly served as president and CEO of Multi-Color Corp., a global provider of label solutions. Marcia Brown-Medina ’94 now works with Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness Welcoming Center. She enjoys engaging immigrant families, using her Spanish skills, and utilizing the network she built over the last 25 years in social services.
3 Beth Bombara ’06, released her album It All Goes Up on August 4. The album resulted from her creativity during the pandemic when she wrote one song each week. It All Goes Up is Bombara’s first album released by Black Mesa Records from Tulsa, Oklahoma. In it, she presents a cohesive song
Stephen Mason ’94 has gained celebrity superfan status as Soccer Moses, cheering on Major League Soccer’s Nashville Soccer Club with the slogan “Let My People Goal.” A member of the band Jars of Clay, Stephen uses his platform to raise funds
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Jeremiah Williamson ’02
THANK YOU FOR GIVING | GREENVILLE.EDU
Erin (Miller ’99) Cash received her doctorate in ministry from Lexington Theological Seminary in June 2023. Her research focused on building the capacity of elders in local congregations. She also received the Kitchen-Adams Pastor Scholar award for academic excellence and served as project director of the seminary’s Thriving Congregations Project.
1990s
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Bob Managbanag ’89
for Nashville non-profits including a local soccer charity and the humane society.
Beth Bombara ’06
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Dr. Camille Dunkley ’08
Josh Frewin ’14
cycle about embracing optimism. She previously released Map & No Direction (At the Helm, 2017) and Evergreen (Lemp Electric, 2019). Dr. Camille Dunkley ’08 is assistant professor of family practice at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and director of the Division of Addiction Medicine. She holds board certifications in family medicine from the American Board of Family Medicine, in addiction medicine from the American Board of Prevention Medicine, and in medical toxicology from the American Board of Emergency Medicine. She is currently featured as a faculty member for the SIU School of Medicine in an advertising campaign. 4
2010s Melissa (Kopp ’14) Frandsen has served as a business analyst at Centene Corporation since April 2023. 5 Josh Frewin ’14 works as parks and recreation manager for the City of Sedona, Arizona. He obtained his parks and recreation professional certification (CPRP) in 2021. Josh previously served as a recreation professional on the statewide Arizona Parks and Recreation Association board.
Daniel Frandsen ’15 was promoted to sales manager at Hoffmann Brothers Heating and Cooling, with locations throughout the St. Louis Metro area.
2000s Ty Carlton ’22 currently serves a as sergeant in the Bloomington, Illinois Police Department. 6
Greenville University was well represented at GC23, the General Conference of the Free Methodist Church USA, held this July in Orlando, Florida. Students, together with representatives from GU’s advancement, alumni, and admissions offices interacted with clergy, GU alums, families, and teens from around the world. Nearly 100 alumni and friends gathered to hear President Suzanne Allison Davis share the University’s action plan and 10 reasons to be proud of GU.
and plants native to Illinois. Club members viewed wildlife skins and skulls, bird specimens, and insects preserved at the Center. Rick was the first “land steward” at Ayers Field Station and a major force in the construction of the White Center. Rick and Kelly own a farm north of Greenville. Rick is active in the area Farm Bureau and Kelly has been involved in Illinois agribusiness. Alumni fall event hosted at Eckert’s Farm. Nearly 130 people (alumni and families) attended the GU Alumni event at Eckert’s Millstadt Fun Farm on September 30. GU Alumni Council members in the St. Louis area (Amanda Shaw ‘14, Tim Finley ‘92, Nicole Crites ‘08) planned and hosted the event.
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GU’s Ayers Field Station welcomes budding biologists. 7
Thanks to the efforts of GU alums Rick DeAngelo ’98 and his wife Kelli, Bond County 4-H members visited the White Environmental Education Center at Ayers Field Station to learn about plants and wildlife during their April club meeting. Youth enjoyed hearing from several local experts including Dr. Bill Ahern, professor emeritus at Greenville University. Topics included wildlife, birds, insects,
In a world of the instantaneous, we need an anchor that holds our Christian worldview in place. Just as it was for us as students, Greenville University is that anchor for the next generation of Christian leaders in all walks of life. That is why we give to GU. – Jana (Tidball ’74) and Dennis ’75 Spencer, supporters of capital improvements at GU
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Ty Carlton ‘22
GU’s Ayers Field Station welcomes budding biologists.
THE RECORD | 2023 FALL
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ALUMNI NEWS
Alex Carie ’17 coaches Mattoon High School’s boys’ varsity soccer team in Mattoon, Illinois.
Justin Willis ’19 plays on the Landberg X-Press, a member team of the German Football League. The league formed in 1979 to play American football. The X-Press recently claimed the 2023 Bavarian State championship. Justin shares his experiences as a pro-athlete in Europe on his YouTube channel J-Willy TV.
ALUMNI IN MEMORY
Jerald Huntsinger ’55, age 90, of Williamsburg, Virginia, died August 6, 2023. Jerry was a nationally recognized expert on communications and fundraising, creating marketing campaigns for many companies and organizations. During his 61-year career, he wrote fundraising letters signed by celebrities and politicians, including U.S. Presidents Reagan, Carter, and Clinton. Dr. Paul Wesley Schaper ’56, age 88, of Chesterfield, Missouri, died January 23, 2023. He served as general surgeon for more than 40 years. Paul was a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and certified by the American Board of Surgeons. Azora (Steinberger ’56) HemmingerSwift, age 88, of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, died March 7, 2023. She served as a teacher and a registered nurse. Merlene Hill ’57, age 87, of Downey, California, died August 5, 2023. She enjoyed a 36-year career teaching English in public schools and served as a member of the Light and Life Church of Downey, California.
ALUMNI IN MEMORY
Dr. Wesley Sandness ’59, age 87, of Overland Park, Kansas, died May 27, 2023. He retired as dean at Pittsburg State University in Kansas after serving 34 years. Wesley was a rancher and a well-known horseman and musician. Joy (Dixon ’61) Ensminger, age 79, of Kissimmee, Florida, died June 5, 2018. Joy served actively in her local church, helping with children’s church and vacation Bible school. She also sang in the choir. Helen (Geries ’62) Bohanan, age 82, of Garner, North Carolina, died August 16, 2023. Helen taught for more than 30 years. James Wilson ’62, age 85, of Crawfordsville, Indiana, died September 12, 2023. Jim taught seventh grade science for 42 years.
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THANK YOU FOR GIVING | GREENVILLE.EDU
Rev. David Dyer ’63, age 85, of Napanee, Ontario, died June 11, 2023. After answering the call to ministry in 1956, he served as pastor for over 48 years. Merle Cromwell ’65, age 81, of Wood River, Illinois, died April 19, 2023. He served as a teacher at Alton Middle School and was a member of Emmanuel Free Methodist Church in Alton. Gean Gregory ’68, age 79, of Alhambra, Illinois, died September 9, 2023. A Vietnam-era veteran, he served as a medic in Germany. Gean owned Alhambra Auto Body and was well known for his custom restoration work. Tad Flowers ’71, age 74, of Greenville, Illinois, died August 30, 2023. A Vietnamera veteran, he served with the 183rd Tactical Dispensary. Tad owned BassMollett Publishers, where he worked for 50 years. Long-time educator William Hale ’72, age 72, of McDermott, Ohio, died April 21, 2023. He coached high school soccer in Ohio and Kentucky and served as head soccer coach at Shawnee State University. Brent J. Pilger ’72, age 72, of Mount Zion, Illinois, died November 6, 2021. He retired from Archer Daniels Midland after 32 years and was a member of Lampstand Presbyterian Church. Former teacher Norma (Lavon ’72) Whited, age 90, of Mulberry Grove, Illinois, died October 7, 2020. She taught elementary school in Smithboro and Mulberry Grove, Illinois. Norma and her husband of 62 years ministered to seven churches before his death. Judy (Snyder ’73) Edwards, age 71, of Mt. Vernon, Missouri, died July 16, 2023. She worked as a tour guide, a U.S postal worker, and an elementary teacher’s aide before teaching the third and sixth grades at Mt. Vernon, Missouri, schools.
Donald Meier ’73, age 72, of Indianapolis, Indiana, died August 19, 2023. He served as a pastor in the Free Methodist Church. Debbie (Williams ’99) Creal, age 72, of Brighton, Illinois, died September 22, 2020. She served as an executive assistant for human resources at Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois. Liz (Marsh ’10) Reilman, age 35, of New Baden, died Monday, August 21, 2023. Liz worked at Willow Walk Learning Center in Trenton, Illinois. Brandon Leonard ’11, age 35, of Litchfield, Illinois, died September 1, 2023. Brandon was employed with Springfield Clinic in the Department of Neurology. He was an active member of Net Community Church in Staunton, Illinois. Fred Zbinden, age 86, of Greenville, IL, died August 27, 2023. He owned the electoral contracting business Z&Z Electric in Greenville, Illinois. Scott Brown October 13, 1968 - September 28, 2023 Let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: And establish thou the work of our hands upon us; Yea, the work of our hands, establish thou it. – Psalm 90:17 Senior Graphic Designer Scott Brown gave the greater GU community the work of his hands and the full embrace of his heart before his death this September at age 54. Scott designed The RECORD and hundreds of other print and digital pieces. A five-year battle with cancer challenged him repeatedly, but the joy he found using his art to advance the University’s mission never flagged. “The culture, the people, the work, are all truly rewarding,” he said. “I can truly say that I love my job.”
This list includes notifications received from 3/16/23 to 9/15/23.
How Will You Rise Up for GU? Give a gift to Greenville University. Pray for faculty, students, and staff of the university. Connect to students through Community Circles. Join an Alumni Council in your area. Refer a prospective student. Scan the QR Code to discover how you can Rise Up today!
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