ACU Today Spring-Summer 2022

Abilene Christian University 2022Spring-Summer Stepping Up to the National Stage ACU moves up to doctoral tier in latest Carnegie classifications Higher Gr0und Campaign  Basketball: Reaching New Heights  The Road to Recovery  Outlive Your Life

DR. PHIL SCHUBERT (’91), President

Contributing Graphic Designers/Illustrators

Samantha

Long Ex-officio: Dr. Phil Schubert

Alumni Relations: Craig Fisher

The late Dr. Don H. Morris (’24) and Dr. Max Leach (’31) described some of them in Like Stars Shining Brightly, a fascinating 1953 book looking back on ACU’s first 50 years and the watershed moments – among them, our founding in 1906, accreditation, and expansion following World Wars I and II – and how this growing Christian college was challenged and rewarded with even greater days to come.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE Administration: Suzanne Allmon (’79), Kevin Campbell (’00), Robert Rhodes, Dan Macaluso, Rendi (Young ’83) Hahn, (Bickett ’01) Jim Orr, J.D. (’86) (’92), Jama (Fry ’97) Cadle, Young (’16), Mandy (Becker ’13) (Boyer ’03) (’91) Many of them have defined this university in moments when we have the opportunity to do difference-making things to help secure the future and meet the high expectations each of us has for Abilene Christian.

From the PRESIDENT B DELONYSCOTT

Editorial Assistants: Vicki (Warner ’83) Britten, Sharon (McDaniel ’79) Fox, Rachel (Jinkerson ’11) Goodman, Sean Hennigan

CORRESPONDENCE ACU Today: hadfieldr@acu.edu ACU Alumni Association: alumni@acu.edu Record Changes: ACU Box 29132, Abilene, Texas 79699-9132, 325-674-2620 ON THE WEB Abilene Christian University: acu.edu Address changes and EXperiences: acu.edu/alumni ACU Advancement Office (Exceptional Fund, Gift Records): acu.edu/give ACU Alumni Website: acu.edu/alumni Watch Us on YouTube: youtube.com/acu Find Us on Facebook: facebook.com/welcometoACUfacebook.com/acusportsfacebook.com/abilenechristian Follow Us on Twitter: twitter.com/welcometoACUtwitter.com/acusportstwitter.com/acuedu Follow Us on Instagram: instagram.com/welcometoACUinstagram.com/acualumniinstagram.com/acusportsinstagram.com/acuedu Follow Us on Linkedin: acu.edu/linkedin ig steps.

ACU Today is published twice a year by the Division of Marketing and Strategic Communications at Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas.

Morris and Leach referred to many of what they called the “big steps” ACU made toward growth with prayerful confidence, often in spite of large odds. Nearly 70 years later, we are clearly on the threshold of other big steps with profound importance. Our new $250 million Higher Ground campaign (pages 8-15) describes our upcoming steps as an emerging national university. We were excited to publicly launch this historic campaign in April with more than $167 million of our goal already committed by donors who believe in the potential of this place and its people. The total has now surpassed $180 million!

Anthony Williams Advancement:

This Issue: Holly Harrell, Todd Mullins

Contributing Writers This Issue: Dr. Terry Childers (’74), Lance Fleming (’92), Jonathan Smith (’06)

Contributing Photographers This Issue: Steve Butman; Susan Carter; Scott Delony (’06); Matt Dirksen; Jeremy Enlow; Gerald Ewing; Allison Farrand; Kim Leeson; James LaCombe; Newman Lowrance; Tammy Marcelain; Mackey Mitchell Architects; Dr. Michelle (Murphy ’87) Morris; Tim Nelson; Caroline Adele Nikolaus (’14); Jimmy Parsons (’64); Clark Potts (’53); Kyle Pulek; Gary Rhodes (’07); Kari Sherman; Caroline Smith, M.D.; Paul White (’68); Lisa Woods

April

Other content that makes this issue a must-read:

Adkins,

• In “The Road to Recovery,” a look back at how the university community responded in amazing ways to support each other following a tragic accident more than a decade ago (pages 24-41). In Second Glance (page 106), we revisit an essay by the late Dr. Terry Childers (’74), a former trustee and business leader. His insights about growing up in Abilene and the people on campus who invested in him concludes with profound testimony: “… my life changed for the good because my God used ACU to do great things in my life.” I feel that way and know many of you could say the same. We are grateful for your reciprocal generosity because it gives us confidence to keep taking big steps, and makes our mission possible. God clearly blessed the work of those who came before us, and is once again providing opportunties for Abilene Christian to serve students in even greater ways than ever before. Thank you for taking big steps with us. 

Dr.

The mission of ACU is to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. Brooke and Phil Schubert

• Profiles of Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life award recipients who have served others with distinction for decades (pages 42-45).

STAFF Editor: Ron Hadfield (’79) Assistant Editors: Wendy (Waller ’01) Kilmer, Robin (Ward ’82) Saylor Production Manager: Amber (Gilbert ’99) Bunton

Collum Marketing and Strategic Communications: Blair Schroeder Student Life: Tamara

• An upcoming Carnegie Classification change moving ACU from a regional to a national university, and continued impressive rankings in “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report (pages 4-7).

• The success of our basketball programs and how they, along with NCAA Tournament experience and a renovated Moody Coliseum, raise ACU’s visibility in “Reaching New Heights” (pages 16-23).

OUR PROMISE ACU is a vibrant, innovative, Christ-centered community that engages students in authentic spiritual and intellectual growth, equipping them to make a real difference in the world.

This ISSUE 4 Stepping Up to the National Stage 8 Higher Ground Campaign Launches 16 Reaching New Heights: Basketball at ACU 24 The Road to Recovery 42 2021 and 2022 Outlive Your Life Awards 46 Homecoming Planner 2 Horizons 48 #ACU 50 The Bookcase 56 Hilltop View 60 Academic News 66 Campus News 70 Wildcat Sports 77 Your Gifts at Work 78 EXperiences 106 Second Glance

(Photograph by Scott Delony) ON THE COVER An expansion of doctoral degree programs is one example of the university’s growing national reputation in academics. Here, ACU president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91) congratulates new Doctor of Education graduate Dr. Ben Griffin (Ed.D. ’21), preaching minister of the Suncoast Church of Christ and headmaster of the Suncoast Christian Academy in Lake Worth, Florida.

(Photograph by Scott Delony)

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 1

A popular late-night event at Homecoming unites generations by blending two important ACU traditions: gathering on the front steps of Hardin Administration Building and a Candlelight Devotional. The building, bathed in light to welcome alumni back home, adds to the ambiance.

RudolphINSET was featured on a USPS stamp recognizing her in July 2004. The 20th of her parents’ 22 children, she was crippled by polio at age 4 but recovered to become one of the world’s most elite athletes. She retired from running at age 22 and died in 1994 at age 54.

Wilma Rudolph leads a field of fleet sprinters in one of the races at ACU’s Elmer Gray Stadium that determined the 1960 U.S. Summer Olympic team for women’s track and field. She and her teammates from Tennessee State University finished 1-2-3-4 in the 100-meter final, which Rudolph won in 11.5 seconds, tying the American record at the time. All four made the American team and combined in Rome to set a world record in the 4x100 relay semifinals and win gold in the finals.

ACU head coach Oliver Jackson (left) with his Wildcat quartermiler Earl Young after the latter won gold at the 1960 Summer Olympic Games in Rome. Jackson served as director of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Trials for women.

2 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

PARSONSJIMMY

Large crowds at Elmer Gray Stadium watched competitors in four track and five field events vie for a place on the American team. Among them was Wilma Rudolph, seen here competing in one of two events in which she finished first.

H ORIZONS

Rare image of 1960 U.S. Olympic Trials for women, held at ACU While Earl Young (’62) was in Stanford, California, auditioning for the 1960 U.S. Olympic track and field team headed to Rome that fall, the best women in the sport were gathered July 15-16 at ACU for the women’s Olympic Trials.

ACU did not enroll its first Black undergraduate student until Fall 1962, following a fiery speech by Bible professor Dr. Carl Spain at Lectureship in February 1960 that accelerated the process. Head track and field coach Oliver Jackson (’42) was among the first at ACU to promote changing admissions policies. His Wildcat teams competed in meets that were integrated starting in the late 1940s. Elmer Gray (’32), the ACU stadium’s namesake, was the first Wildcat to compete in the Olympic Trials (as a halfmiler in 1932).

Rudolph’s rivals in this race were chiefly teammates from Tennessee StateSheUniversity.wentonto win gold medals and set Olympic records in the 100, 200 and 4x100 relay, becoming the first woman to capture three golds in one Olympic year.

Rudolph became an international sports icon and a pioneer in civil and women’s rights. She and others gathered in Abilene for the Trials also broke a color barrier on ACU’s campus: They became the first African Americans to stay in a dormitory when they lodged in Mabee Hall, a short walk from Gray Stadium.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 3

4 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY BY WENDY KILMER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY ENLOW ACU moves up to doctoral tier in latest Carnegie classifications TO THE NATIONAL STAGE SCOTT DELONY

RhodesDELONYSCOTT

“The move to R3 or National classification recognizes our growing focus on research and our increased presence in graduate education,” said Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), ACU president. “We look forward to new challenges and opportunities in this new peer group, and I believe we are well positioned to succeed as a research institution while maintaining our focus on quality teaching as we educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world.”

In its latest update, released Dec. 15, 2021, the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education designated ACU as a Doctoral/Professional University (also known as R3). Only 469, or about 10%, of U.S. colleges and universities are included in the doctoral levels of classification. ACU had previously been part of the Master’s Colleges and Universities category. One of the most visible uses of the Carnegie groups is for the purposes of the U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Colleges rankings. U.S. News collapses 12 of the Carnegie categories into four main groupings: National Universities, National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities and RegionalPreviouslyColleges.–including in the rankings highlighted in these pages – Abilene Christian was considered a Regional University; in the 2023 rankings, to be released this fall, ACU will be in the National Universities comparison group. On its website, U.S. News says National Universities “offer a full range of undergraduate majors as well as master’s and doctoral degrees, and many strongly emphasize research.”

It’s a three-year evaluation cycle, and the threshold for R2 is $5 million in annual research expenditures. We spent $4.5 million on research in 2021, so we are on track to surpass that criteria well before the next classification. It’s a confirmation of the trajectory we’re on to expand our programs and research.

What does it mean to be considered a National or R3 university?

A bilene Christian University’s broad reach, expanded degree programs and increasing research opportunities have propelled it into a new tier among higher education peers.

Has this been a goal for ACU?

What we’ve been working toward for some time is to expand our reach in both undergraduate and graduate education. So, over the last decade, we’ve moved from one doctoral degree (D.Min) to four and expanded our master’s programming, and those are two key criteria. What we were working toward is being a university with a broader academic and research reach. A trailing result of that is moving us to the National category, but our focus was to gain greater impact and national prominence.

The Doctoral/Professional University classification through Carnegie includes institutions that award at least 20 research/scholarship doctoral degrees each year. In 2021, the university awarded more than 150 doctoral degrees. “Our faculty involvement in research is steadily increasing, which is a significant part of our move to a higher, more prestigious classification,” said Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost. “Students, both graduate and undergraduate, work alongside faculty in that Q&A with provost Dr. Robert Rhodes

How does it help with recruiting faculty? For faculty looking at a position here, it validates our breadth of programming, the level at which we operate, and the nature of the research activity at ACU. As we reach out to bring in faculty, they’re also looking at schools such as Baylor and other faith-based universities. This grouping indicates that ACU is similar in scope, on the same level. It moves us into a pretty select number of universities. A regional university just does not have that resonance. Will ACU soon move into the next category –R2 (Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity)?

ACU has always had a focus on teaching. Will this move to a National university shift that focus from teaching to research? One of the unique sweet spots of being in R3 or R2 is that it allows for specialized research programming but doesn’t require us to change in other areas. Our undergraduate programs are the same today as they were previously. We don’t have to do anything differently in faculty assignments and programs. It recognizes faculty who are focused on research in certain areas, but it doesn’t require all faculty to participate. That helps us expand research opportunities for students, and it brings in revenue to help support our undergraduate mission. It’s the best of both worlds. We don’t need undergraduate faculty to be reassigned to research in order to fulfill these criteria. We have latitude to do exactly what we think is necessary for the undergraduate and graduate experience without restrictions. How does this recognition contribute to our mission to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world? We are a uniquely resourced and blessed institution with a product that is needed at the undergraduate and graduate level. The world needs more universities like ACU participating at the highest level. We need to be educating professionals and influencing in a way that fits our resources and what we are called to steward. If we believe what we are doing is impactful, we should do it across multiple levels on a national stage. To do less would not be stewarding what we are called to do. 

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 5

In essence, it’s similar to a move to NCAA Division I athletics. It puts us on a national stage among all universities considered doctoral or research universities and moves us out of the more confined sub-tier of Regional.

# 2 20 7

16 4 INNOVATIVEMOSTTEACHINGUNDERGRADUATEBEST VALUEBEST BEST COLLEGES FOR VETERANS # # #

6 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Category descriptions as defined by U.S. News 2022 “Best Colleges” 7 9 9 43 FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCES Orientation can go only so far in making freshmen feel connected. Many schools now build into the curriculum first-year seminars or other programs that bring small groups of students together with faculty or staff on a regular basis. #8 Yale • #13 Princeton • #15 Baylor #24 Notre Dame • #28 Texas

#43 (tie) Boston College, Northwestern #46 (tie) Stony Brook, Penn, Villanova

#10

In service-learning programs, volunteering in the community is an instructional strategy – and a requirement of a student’s coursework. The service relates to what happens in class, and in turn, the coursework plays off of the volunteering. Georgetown • #11 Vanderbilt • #13 Michigan State LEARNING COMMUNITIES

At some schools, students typically take two or more linked courses as a group and get to know one another and their professors especially well. The idea is to keep the discussions going after class ends.

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH / CREATIVE PROJECTS

At many schools, students receive the opportunity to do intensive and self-directed research or creative work that results in an original scholarly paper or other product that can be formally presented on or off campus. They may work independently or in small teams and are typically mentored by a faculty member.

In USNWR’s 2022 “America’s Best Colleges,” Abilene Christian ranked 16th overall among Regional Universities (West) and garnered a few other honors in that grouping. For the 2023 rankings, to be released in September 2022, ACU expects to move from the Regional Universities to the National Universities category. #

SERVICE LEARNING

#12 Boston College • #13 Dartmouth #18 (tie) Bucknell, Duke, Rice, Syracuse

Faculty and staff from Christian colleges and universities will examine the intersection of high-impact practices and Christian higher learning. Keynote speakers include Jennifer Keup, the executive director of the National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition, and Dr. Richard Beck (’89), professor of psychology at ACU and a sought-after speaker and author. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, share insights and research, reflect on the distinctiveness of Christian education, and join together in worship. “This is an exciting way to showcase our campus and national leadership in student success,” said Derran Reese (’00), director of experiential learning. 

ACU continues to rank among top U.S. universities A

The Carnegie Classification categorizes all degree-grantingaccredited,institutions in the U.S. Carnegie updates the classifications every three years, and the new list became official in January 2022. View the full list of institutions at carnegieclassifications.iu.edu.

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 7 bilene Christian took another victory lap in 2021-22 as the highest-ranking university in Texas in U.S. News & World Report benchmarks focused on programs that lead to student success. Administrators hope to leverage that momentum to secure a position of thought leadership related to undergraduate studentTheexperience.“Academic Programs to Look For” benchmarks debuted in the 2020 rankings, highlighting “colleges and universities that offer well-regarded study abroad, service learning and other special programs that, research shows, are linked to student success and positive learning outcomes while fostering a successful undergraduate student experience,” according to the methodology. In the past three years of rankings, ACU garnered multiple top 10 placements in the various categories, ahead of all other TexasInuniversities.the2022rankings, released in August 2021, ACU again achieved top 10 status in three of the eight categories, and no other Texas university was named in the top 10 of any category. ACU also ranked No. 43 nationally in Undergraduate Research – the only Texas institution to be ranked in four of the eight categories. “We are honored that U.S. News & World Report rankings show our peers continue to recognize the exceptional work being done by our faculty and staff who make ACU a top-choice university for so many students,” said Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), ACU president. In keeping with those student experience honors, ACU has partnered with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities to host a series of two-year, cohort-based research seminars examining critical features of student success and a biennial conference that will be hosted at ACU.The inaugural Best Practices in Christian Higher Ed national conference will take place Sept. 25-27, 2022, with the theme “Cultivating Engaged Learners Through First-Year Experiences.”

One example of such research underway at ACU is the Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Lab, which is funded by a $30.5 million sponsored research agreement from Natura Resources. This collaboration with The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University and the Georgia Institute of Technology is already bringing new researchers to Abilene and enhancing ACU’s reputation and reach. In addition, Dr. Rusty Kruzelock joined ACU’s administration in 2020 as the inaugural vice president for research. In that role, he works to promote scholarship and research, strengthen external funding and partnerships, and enhance the university’s research infrastructure.

Carnegie Classification FROM PAGE 3 research, and that’s a distinctive trait we’re proud of at ACU.”

“This new Carnegie designation reflects forward movement in our research program and in the higher education community,” Kruzelock said. “Advancing our research involvement is a key part of preparing students to face new challenges, create new knowledge and be fully prepared for future careers.”

Leading the way in student success

n the late 1920s, Abilene Christian’s early leaders sought a new campus on which to build a better future. They looked east of their small campus on North First Street and dreamed bigger. They chose a hill above the city, where Abilene Christian could grow and mature. With God’s leading, they hoped to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality. Surely, they could not have imagined all that would grow from their vision.

In April 2022, Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), ACU president, stood in front of the crowd at the 53rd annual President’s Circle Dinner and painted a similar picture of a university at a turning point. He told of ACU repeating as the highest-ranked university in Texas for student success by U.S. News & World Report and how Abilene Christian had recently received another distinction: becoming a national university. He pointed to the continued rise of the athletics program, highlighted by the basketball programs’

GROUNDHIGHER

University launches largest campaign in its history

8 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

BY JONATHAN SMITH

But, Schubert said, ACU is capable of more. “As we move onward and upward,” Schubert said, “we must answer God’s call for this university – a call to higherWithground.”thosedeliberately chosen words, Schubert officially launched what he called “the most significant, formative fundraising campaign” in university history: Higher Ground. What is Higher Ground? Higher Ground is a comprehensive, $250 million campaign that aims to capitalize on the momentum the university has been building to secure its future. It will

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 9 appearances in the Division I NCAA Tournament in 2019 and 2021 that drew millions of eyes to the Wildcats. And he showcased an increasing commitment to developing next-level research that has ACU on track to join the ranks of just a few faith-based universities doing the kind of high-level work that will appeal to new generations of young scholars and engage them in finding innovative solutions to the world’s most significant challenges.

• Strengthen and elevate ACU’s academic profile by investing in the long-term success of world-class faculty, facilities, research and scholarships ($132 million).

you we will achieve it,” Schubert said. “There’s absolutely no doubt in my mind. It’s going to be one of the greatest journeys this university has ever taken.”

The most recent campaign –the $75 million Vision in Action initiative, which launched in 2014 and was completed in 2018 – ushered in major upgrades for ACU’s science and athletics programs. New and renovated facilities included the Robert R. and Kay Onstead Science Center, the Halbert-Walling Research Center, the Engineering and Physics Laboratories at Bennett Gymnasium, Wildcat Stadium and a new Elmer GrayWhenStadium.Schubert referred to Higher Ground as the most significant and formative campaign in university history, he wasn’t exaggerating. The $250 million goal is more than double the amount of any previous campaign.“Icanpromise

Although the university publicly launched the campaign at the President’s Circle Dinner in April, Higher Ground has been in the works for more than three years, since the 2018 conclusion of Vision in Action. After three years of planning, conversations and commitments, donors had already given or committed more than $167 million of Higher Ground’s $250 million goal by the public launch in April. By August 2022, that number exceeded $180 million. “That level of generosity and support says so much about our donors who believe in what we’re doing here,” said Dan Macaluso, vice president for advancement. With a significant amount already committed, work is well underway or completed on several campaign priorities. “It’s astonishing to look around and see the incredible changes that are taking place because people believe in the mission and vision of Abilene Christian University and want to support our students,” Macaluso said. The most visible of these projects includes facilities at the heart of the student experience: Moody Coliseum and two residence halls. Renovation of the half-centuryold domed home of basketball games, volleyball matches, Chapel, Sing Song performances and Commencement ceremonies – to name a few – began in December 2020 and will conclude thisTheAugust.$52million project brings significant enhancements, including upgraded arena seating, improved accessibility, new spaces for student-athletes and coaching staff, lighting and sound systems, new classroom and office spaces, expanded lobbies, a hospitality suite and “Moodymore.Coliseum is at the heart of many of our campus traditions and is a critical part of our athletics program,” Schubert said. “It was time to invest in improvements that will bring Moody up to par with our NCAA Division I programs and the many other events for which we need a large gathering space.”

fundraising campaigns like Higher Ground have a way of significantly reshaping campus and academic programs.

Schubert said the aim is to reach the goal by 2025 “to support the people, programs and places that allow ACU’s mission to be extended, deepened and broadened all across this country and literally around theToworld.”accomplish that, the campaign is built on two broad pillars:

10 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY invest in ACU’s people, programs and facilities to ensure the university can successfully compete on a larger national and international stage.

What has accomplished?been

Shannon (Buchanan ’07) Kaczmarek, dean of community living and wellness, said students have been overwhelmingly positive about their first year in Bullock Hall, particularly regarding all the common spaces. “We know that one of the most important things our students can experience when they get here on our campus is a sense of belonging,” she said. “And it is hard to experience that sense of belonging if you don’t feel a sense of community. So we have the opportunity to help create spaces where they don’t just sleep at night,

• Enhance and transformationalincreaseexperiences by boosting the ACU experience for all students and creating modern, welcoming spaces where they develop life-changing relationships ($118 Comprehensivemillion).

Women’s basketball head coach Julie Goodenough likes what she’s seen so “Thesefar.improvements will allow us the opportunity to recruit players who may not have been interested in ACU otherwise,” she said. “I believe our facility will rival or surpass every college basketball venue in theResidenceSouthwest.”halls are also making an enormous leap forward, with more improvements on the way. Thanks to a lead gift from ACU board chair April (Bullock ’89) Anthony and her husband, Mark Anthony (’86), Bullock Hall opened to freshmen in August 2021, replacing McDonald Hall, a 1920s-era building original to the campus.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 11

Architectural rendering of ACU’s renovation of the exterior, including a new North Entrance, to Moody Coliseum.

ACU president Dr. Phil Schubert introduced the Higher Ground campaign to members of the President’s Circle at their annual dinner in April 2022.

12 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Wessel Hall represents Phase Two of Freshman Village along East North 16th Street. The 96,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in Fall 2023 and house 350 first-year students. Phase One of ACU’s Freshman Village housing initiative was completed in Fall 2021 with the opening of 72,000-square-foot Bullock Hall for first-year students.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 13 but where they feel at home. And once there’s that feeling of home, I think there’s more of an opportunity to engage with that student about what it is that ACU is trying to equip them to Bullockdo.”Hall marked the first phase in the Freshman Village project, a comprehensive renovation and construction initiative underway along East North 16th Street to modernize ACU’s residence halls to meet the living and learning needs of today’s students. Phase II launched in early 2022, when the university broke ground on Wessel Hall – thanks to a lead gift from ACU trustee Rick Wessel (’81) and his wife, Debbie (Rains ’80) Wessel – on the site of the former Gardner Hall. Construction is well underway, and it will open to freshmen in August 2023. In addition to the construction projects across campus, early returns from Higher Ground have also been a major boon to endowments. At the time of the campaign launch, dating back to the early planning stages of Higher Ground, donors had provided more than $37 million in endowment funding. These gifts supported many existing endowments, while also establishing more than 100 new ones. Endowment funds support a range of programs across campus, including scholarships, endowed chairs and professorships, coaching support in athletics, library collections and academic departments. One such endowment – the Steve and Gari (Brooke) Lugar Endowment for the School of Nursing – has been providing funds for that program since“The2019.Lugar endowment enables us to invest not only in our faculty and our staff but our students as well,” said Dr. Theresa Naldoza, chair of the School of Nursing. “The return on investment is greater than anything you can imagine.” For the Brown Library, the Christopher and Mary Lou Hutson Africana Studies Collection Endowment will provide recurring funds to acquire materials in the area of African American history, literature and theology. “That’s an area that we haven’t been able to focus on at the ACU library,” said James Wiser, dean of library services and educational technology. “But it’s exciting because we will be able to build one of the most outstanding collections in this particular area for a university of ourTheseprofile.”projects represent just a sampling of the impact the Higher Ground campaign is already having on campus. What comes next? With more than $180 million donated or committed as of August, there’s still plenty to be accomplished as fundraising continues over the next three years of the campaign. Among the high priorities is increasing research opportunities and funding. Thanks to recent improvements and investments in the university’s master’s and doctoral programs, ACU improved its Carnegie Higher Education Classification System ranking from Master’s-Large University to a Research 3 (R3) Doctoral/Professional University in December 2021. If ACU continues on its current trajectory and increases research spending, the university is on track to achieve R2 status later this decade. Dr. Robert Rhodes, ACU provost, said the importance of these classifications can’t be overstated. (See page 5 for more details.) “It’s rare for a faith-based university to be a Research 3 or national university and it’s exceedingly rare for a faith-based

Experiential learning includes programs such as service learning, missions, Study Abroad and

“The reason why it’s important to make this investment in diversity, equity and inclusion is because it’s consistent with our mission – and not just our mission as an institution, but also our mission as Christians,” Williams said.

14 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY university to be classified as a Research 2,” Rhodes said. “And that places us with a select group. I think that’s appropriate based on the training we provide and the level of research that is conducted here.”

For Dr. Rusty Kruzelock, vice president for research, this push to expand research fits perfectly into ACU’s“Whilemission.most other universities are focused on research for the sake of generating knowledge, here at Abilene Christian our research is more focused not only on creating new knowledge, but because of our faith-based mission, how we can take this new knowledge and apply it to the betterment of society or humanity. In other words, we do research that blesses the world.”

It’s a subject Schubert also believes is important for the university.“Iwant students to learn and grow in a place where our differences are celebrated,” he said, “where we see that as an opportunity to learn from each other and continually expand the answer to ‘Who is yourForneighbor?’”

PILLARSCAMPAIGN Strengthen and Elevate ACU’s Academic Profile GOAL: $132 million • Recruit, retain and reward exemplary faculty • Develop a next-level research engine and infrastructureacademic • Remove financial barriers for current and future Wildcats • Invest in academicstate-of-the-artfacilities Enhance and ExperiencesTransformationalIncrease GOAL: $118 million • Reimagine residential living communities and student-centric spaces • Expand opportunities for life-changing and spiritually formative student experiences • Embody a culture of diversity and inclusion • Advance Division I, Christ-centered athletics Learn more at acu.edu/higherground and watch for expanded coverage in the next issue of ACU Today magazine.

Derran Reese (’00), ACU’s director of experiential learning, Higher Ground will expand opportunities for students to learn outside the traditional classroom.

Rhodes said Higher Ground can also benefit faculty retention through endowed chair and professorship positions. “We want to attract missionspecific Christian faculty who want to be at ACU, who are experts in their field,” Rhodes said. “And to do that, donors can help us by providing avenues for faculty retention and recruitment.“Wehave faculty members at ACU who are developing a national reputation in their fields, and we want to retain them,” he said. “We want to be able to both honor them by making them namesakes of endowed chairs and professorships, and also provide additional funding to be competitive with salaries and funding for research.” Higher Ground will also provide an opportunity to invest in diversity initiatives across campus. Some of that work is already in motion, according to Anthony Williams, ACU’s chief diversity officer, but he plans to expand that work.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 15

mentored undergraduate research.

The problem for some students seeking these opportunities is that they often have additional costs that can be “Donorprohibitive.support is so crucial for experiential learning because it’s going to give access to so many more students,” he said. “When the costs go down, new opportunities open up for more students.”

Dr. Cliff Barbarick, associate professor of Bible, missions and ministry, spent Fall 2021 serving as the faculty member alongside students in ACU’s Study Abroad Oxford program in England. He’s a big supporter of the value of the Study Abroad experience. “We want our students to have an impact that’s bigger than just locally here in Abilene, bigger even than here in Texas. We want them to be prepared to have an impact on the world, and if they’re going to do that, they’ve got to know a little something about the world. I don’t want students not to be able to study abroad simply because of money.”

– DR. PHIL SCHUBERT, President

For those interested in learning more or joining the journey, Schubert encouraged them to find their place in the“Findstory.that intersection of your passion and our mission and help us write this next chapter,” he said. “There’s no way we can achieve these incredible goals and lofty aspirations without your partnership. Let’s climb higher, together.”  “Find that intersection of your passion and our mission and help us write this next chapter. There’s no way we can achieve these incredible goals and lofty aspirations without your partnership. Let’s climb higher, together.”

Continuing the climb Like the early pioneers of Abilene Christian seeking a new campus, Schubert believes Higher Ground presents a choice: remain where we are comfortable or heed the call to something greater. When launching the campaign in April, he reflected on the selfless people who have dedicated their lives in service to ACU. Higher Ground is this generation’s opportunity to pick up the baton from all those who have come before, Schubert said. “It’s our job to push forward, bursting through every door of opportunity that God has opened,” he said.With three years and about $70 million in fundraising remaining, Schubert knows reaching the goal will take the entire ACU community. “This is a journey we can’t take on our own,” he said. “It’s a partnership.”

In addition to reducing the cost of participating in experiential learning programs, Higher Ground also aims to reduce the overall cost of an ACU education through the expansion of scholarships. Dr. Tamara (Boyer ’03) Long, vice president for enrollment and student life, has seen the impact scholarships can have on students. “Students can choose to stay here because a donor steps up and into a student’s life, providing a scholarship that allows them to stay at ACU and be transformed here,” she said. “That’s what we’re about. That is the mission of this place.”

BY LANCE FLEMING

It was, he said, the year before when the Wildcats went 20-11 in a season that ended because of COVID just before ACU could try to defend its Southland Conference championship. However, after losing Jared Lewis (’19), Jaylen Franklin (’19) and Hayden Farquhar (’19) from the previous year, Tanner knew his team had arrived even without the benefit of defending its conference title. “We had won the Southland in 2019 and made it to the NCAA Tournament with some great players, but we lost some of those guys after it was over,” said Tanner, who was named head coach just a few weeks after the win over Texas after ACU’s Joe Golding (’99) resigned to take the same role at The University of Texas-El Paso. “We had to fill in a lot of pieces, but we still won 20 games in the regular season and we were heading into the conference tournament with a team I fully expected would win another championship, and then COVID-19 shut us “Butdown.thatteam in 2019-20 was led by Payten Ricks (’20), Trey Lenox (’20) and Hayden Howell (’20), and

REACHING Tournament

invigoraterenovatedexperience,coliseumbasketballprogramsandfans

52 16 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY 53

t would be easy to assume that Brette Tanner thought the ACU men’s basketball program had arrived on the national scene in March 2021 when the Wildcats knocked off The University of Texas at Austin, 53-52, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament to reach the Round of 32 and a date with UCLA. Those who think that’s the case, said the ACU men’s basketball head coach, would be mistaken.

NEW HEIGHTS NCAA

JEREMY ENLOW / GETTY IMAGES

ACU guard Madi Miller averaged scoring 9.4 points per game in 2021-22.

ACU guard Coryon Mason heads to the basket against Texas forward Brock Cunningham in the Wildcats’ 53-52 win over the Longhorns in the 2021 NCAA Tournament.

Jaren Lewis (’20) drives around Kentucky forward Nick Richards in ACU’s 2019 first-round game in the Midwest Regional in Jacksonsville, Florida. A senior guard, Lewis led ACU in scoring with 17 points against Kentucky.

18 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY $ 74.7 MILLION Total advertising value equivalent from more than 10,000 media mentions during March Madness broadcast, online and print coverage in 2019 30.7 MILLION Total broadcast television audience reach for the men’s NCAA Tournament game in 2019 vs. Kentucky

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ACU guard-forward Dominique Golightly (’20), ACU’s second-leading scorer in 2018-19, drives around Baylor forward Aquira DeCosta in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

JEREMY ENLOW

“It” was a win in the NCAA Tournament, and it came one season later with the upset of the Longhorns. For women’s head coach Julie Goodenough, it goes back to that 2018-19 campaign when both the men’s and women’s teams won Southland NCAAforchampionships,ConferenceearningspotsthefirsttimeeachintheTournament.“Idon’tknowthatwecould have had a better example for our fans, donors or ACU community of how big a deal March Madness is without each team making the tournament in 2019,” said Goodenough, who believes there was no better way for Abilene Christian fans to see how big Division I basketball can be for a community. “I don’t think anything can compare to the spring of 2019 when both teams won conference championships on back-to-back days in Katy,” said Goodenough, who led her team against No. 1-ranked Baylor in the first round of the NCAA Tournament that year. “The number of fans we had there for both teams was amazing. People were tailgating in the parking lot before our games, which was awesome. And it seemed the further we each went, the more fans would show up and other alumni began to take notice as well,” said Goodenough, who enters her 11th season as head coach this fall. “That was the realization for me that we had finally made it. I don’t know that anything compares to the ‘First Dance’ for both programs.”

– JULIE GOODENOUGH

It wasn’t long after those trips to the NCAA Tournament that talks began to heat up about what needed to be done at Moody Coliseum. The arena – which opened in 1968 –hadn’t undergone a major renovation since it opened, and its age was beginning to show on the inside and outside. The time for a facelift was drawing near, and now the university “I don’t know that we could have had a better example for our fans, donors or ACU community of how big a deal March Madness is without each team making the tournament in 2019. I don’t think anything can compare to the spring of 2019 when both teams won back-to-backchampionshipsconferenceondaysinKaty.”

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 19 they kept the ship together,” Tanner continued. “People thought we would have to rebuild, but those three allowed us continue our upward momentum. The maturity those three brought to the team, allowing the culture we have in place to continue to grow, made me believe it was going to happen one day.”

20 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY NCAA ACU guard Damien Daniels drives against UCLA guard Tyger Campbell in the second round of the 2021 Tournament.NCAA

The Wildcats’ first-round upset win over Texas and the second-round game against UCLA in 2021 yielded the most brand-building momentum experienced by Abilene Christian in more than half a century. Total advertising value equivalent (known as AVE) for the two games was more than $200.89 million, eclipsing the $74.7 million from the men’s and women’s games against Kentucky and Baylor, respectively, in 2019. The total broadcast television audience reach for the Texas and UCLA games in 2021 was 136.8 million people, compared to 30.7 million for Kentucky and Baylor in 2019.

And it’s not just the renovations of Moody that are changing the game for ACU Athletics. The university is committing more money to recruiting, staffing and other areas to make the student-athlete experience even better and more relevant to recruits.“We’remore attractive to a wider group of people,” Lassiter said, “but for young people, tradition is what you’ve done in the last 36 months. What we did in the 1980s, ’90s or 2000s resonates with a large group of ACU fans, donors and others, but for those young kids we’re recruiting, ACU’s deciding free throw by forward Joe Pleasant falls through the rim with 1.2 seconds remaining in the first-round 53-52 upset of Texas in the the 2021 NCAA Tournament’s East Regional in Indianapolis.

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 21 had what it needed to make its case to donors for investing more than $50 million in a renovation more akin to building a new arena.

“That win over Texas and those trips to the tournament by both programs have made all the difference in the world,” said Zack Lassiter, vice president for athletics.

“It’s created the belief that the idea of ACU at the Division I level makes sense and that it’s possible we can have success here. It’s not just a hope; it’s a reality, when people talk about ACU’s ascension from being a regional university to a national university and how athletics can play a role in that. We have the proof that it absolutely did.”

–

Division II level that it has been hard to spread the word about its Division I status. “But with all of the success we’ve both had, and with the men beating Texas, that’s made it easier to express,” she said. “We’ve created a lot of excitement among people who might not be big followers of athletics, but the media coverage generated by all of those things has made them realize how important athletics is to a university. The entire thing is game-changing, but the renovation of Moody is transformational.”Tanneragreesthis move by the university that will benefit not only the programs use it daily – both basketball teams and the volleyball program – but the entire university itself. And it changes expectations. “The new arena will mean so much for this university,” Tanner said, “but it also raises the stakes for all of us because with success comes higher expectations. Our president, Dr. [Phil] Schubert (’91), has said, ‘You never want to work anywhere that doesn’t have expectations,’ and he is Tannerright.”saidhis coaches and players deeply appreciate the many people who care about ACU and his program, and have stepped up to make the new Moody a reality.

Wildcat guard Mahki Morris, guarded by New Mexico State guard Clayton Henry, scored 12 points for ACU in the 2022 WAC LaschampionshipTournamentgameinVegas.

“We took a step up in conferences [from the Southland to Western Athletic Conference], and we’ve got to add some things on the floor to continue to advance. I want to be coaching an ACU team that’s fighting to get to the Sweet 16, and we’re being given the tools to make that happen.” BRETTE TANNER it’s a successful,andhelpedandThearenaadvertisingtwoMoodytremendousACUagainAnthonypracticevideooffices,duringofficesrenovation,forunablethecannowrelevantlately’‘what-have-you-done-for-me-mentality.We’vebecomemoreandinterestingbecausetheyseethisasaplacewheretheymaketheirmark.”BothbasketballprogramsandvolleyballprogramhavebeentoplayorpracticeinMoodythelasttwoseasonsduringitsandmostoftheAthleticsmovedtoMcKinzieHallthetransition.However,newlockerrooms,teamspaces,rooms,trainingrooms,agymandWesselCourtinArenabecameavailableinJuly.TheycombinetogivewhatGoodenoughbelievesisarecruitingadvantage.“We’veusedtherenovationofinrecruitingforthelastyears,”shesaid.“We’vebeenitasthebestbasketballinthispartofthecountry.amenitiesforplayers,coaches,staffaresecondtonone.It’stremendouslyinrecruitingwithnamerecognition.”GoodenoughsaidACUwassooverall,attheNCAA

22 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

“The university is trusting us with those resources, and that’s great, but we know we have to perform,” he said. “We want to be a team that’s always winning, and we

WESTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 23

Tanner’s team nearly pulled off another historic end to the 2021-22 season, advancing from a No. 6 seed to the championship game of the WAC Tournament before falling to perennial league favorite New Mexico State. The Wildcats (25-11, 11-7), won 20 games for the fourth straight season and played in the semifinals of the postseason College Basketball Invitational. After the 2021 upset of thirdseeded Texas by his 14th-seeded team, Golding took his seat in the interview room and spent the next half-hour answering questions about how the Wildcats had beaten an opponent from a university with a $190 million athletics budget. “We just beat the University of Texas,” Golding said, minutes after forward Joe Pleasant’s clutch free throws and steal of an inbounds pass set off a raucous celebration that reverberated across college basketball. “Little old Abilene Christian out in West Texas built a program that went toe-to-toe with The University of Texas. It’s an incredible story. It’s what March is allHeabout.”wasright. And no matter when it happened – whether in March 2019 in Katy or the next season or in that seismic takedown of the Longhorns –there could no longer be any doubt: The Wildcats had arrived. And they have no intentions of leaving anytime soon. 

U.S. News 2021 “Best Colleges” can’t be afraid of expectations. We took a step up in conferences [from the Southland to Western Athletic Conference], and we’ve got to add some things on the floor to continue to advance. I want to be coaching an ACU team that’s fighting to get to the Sweet 16, and we’re being given the tools to make that happen.”

Season and single-game tickets go on sale Aug. 19 at acusports.com/tickets

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Work continues toward completion in August 2022 of a complete renovation of Moody Coliseum, home to ACU’s men’s and women’s basketball, and volleyballwomen’steams.

RECOVERY

24 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

BY RON HADFIELD

Eleven years ago, a tragic accident stunned and united the campus

raveling mercies. Perhaps in our busy lives we don’t consider the concept often enough. It does not refer to the band, jazz album, book title or jewelry in an Etsy store, but the slightly archaic term for the heavenly favor on which some believers call before beginning a journey: A prayer to God for safety while moving about from one place to another.Intoday’s mobile world, we take for granted the ease with which we travel by automobile, bus and plane. Each school year in Texas, vehicles move sports and cheer teams, marching bands, debate squads, and groups of all kinds across roadways to games, competitions, seminars and retreats. Abilene Christian University owns minivans and buses of various sizes to help with the people-moving enterprise of higher education, and charters others when needed, because experiential learning frequently requires leaving home. For decades, the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (A&E) has been among ACU’s most ambitious and mobile academic units, sending students and faculty to livestock judging events, conferences, field trips and weekend “outreaches,” the latter a missionsthemed attempt to be the hands and feet of Jesus in places where

The Road to

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Traveling mercies were no doubt extended; God did not look the other way that day. But gaining an understanding of how he acts, and why and when, is a work in progress for an academic department and campus still healing from an accident nearly 11 years ago that no one wants to remember, but can’t forget.

Frantic first minutes of an emergency A little after 2 p.m. on Nov. 4, A&E administrative coordinator “ T his tragedy, this trouble, it shouldn’t surprise us. Someone once asked C.S. Lewis, ‘Why do the righteous suffer?’ ‘Why not?’ he replied, ‘They’re the only ones who can take it.’

None of us want to be tested like this. But here we are.”

– DR. PHIL SCHUBERT ACU president, speaking to faculty, staff and students gathered Nov. 7, 2011, in Moody Coliseum The family of Anabel Reid maintains a roadside memorial on the southbound side of U.S. Highway 83 in Runnels County.

both are needed. From small rural churches to children’s homes across the Southwest, a van or bus or station wagon from ACU’s A&E department has been as welcome as a slow, soaking rain on dry summer ground. More than a decade has passed since the sunny afternoon of Friday, Nov. 4, 2011, when the unthinkable hit uncomfortably close to home for a busload of 16 selfless students, faculty and family headed for a weekend of volunteer work at Arms of Hope (formerly Medina Children’s Home) in southwest Texas. At about 3:15 p.m., an otherwise scenic 224-mile trip turned tragic near Paint Rock, an hour’s drive from campus, where the vehicle veered off a highway, hit a culvert, became airborne and landed back on the roadway. The impact nearly sheared the top from the chassis, ejecting passengers, killing one and critically injuring several others.

Mandy (van Rensburg ’98) Scudder looked out her west-facing office window on the second floor of the Zona Luce Building to see a white vehicle pull away from Campus Court with 16 representatives of her close-knit department. “There goes our bus,” she remembered saying aloud to no one in particular. “God be with them.” Emmett Miller (’70), assistant professor of range and environmental science, was taking the group to Medina for its seventh annual trip to work with and love on kids who could use a little of both. “The Medina trip was his baby,” Scudder said. “Lots of groups come to our campus each year,” said Troy Robertson, president and CEO of Arms of Hope who was the Medina campus minister in 2011. “We always looked forward to the A&E group from ACU being here. They were great at both manual labor and ministry, helping cook food and conducting devos. Everyone lovedAroundthem.”3:20 p.m., while Scudder was picking up mail in the McGlothlin Campus Center, student employee Jaimie Howard (’12) received a cell call from the bus driver, A&E faculty member Dr. Michael Nicodemus, who said the group had been involved in an accident just minutes earlier. He didn’t think anyone was hurt seriously, and wanted the department to know they would need a ride back to campus. Cell service in the rural area was spotty at best, and the call disconnected.Aftertrying unsuccessfully to phone several offices on campus, professor of agribusiness Dr. Foy Mills walked to the parking lot across the street to check on the availability of an ACU van used by A&E. When he returned, he found Scudder on the phone with Mandy Wilson (’14), one of the student passengers in the bus. “From the look on Mandy’s and Jaimie’s faces, I knew something was wrong,” Mills said, and he was handed the phone. Wilson had an entirely different view: She might be the only uninjured passenger, Nicodemus was badly shaken, and some on the bus were seriously hurt, perhaps fatally.

26 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

ACU Police chief Jimmy Ellison was in the drive-through lane at McDonald’s on Judge Ely Boulevard at 3:30 p.m., just minutes before heading to a hunting camp near Junction on the opening weekend of deer season. Delayed in leaving town that afternoon, his drive south would have taken him down U.S. Highway 83, the exact route as the A&E bus had been heading to Medina. Instead, he was still in Abilene, wishing he were closer to beginning a long-awaited annual hunting trip withAtfriends.3:36p.m., a call from Sgt. Thomas Valdez, one of Ellison’s on-duty officers, alerted him to a report they just received: A Wildcat team bus had crashed in Dallas with minor damage and no injuries. At 3:38 p.m., Ellison received a second call, this time from the Abilene Police Department, offering assistance and “all the resources you might“Assistanceneed.” with what?” Ellison asked, referring to what he just heard of a fender-bender bus accident in the“WithMetroplex.abus crash south of Ballinger,” the APD representative said. “Six in-bound life-flights, possibleValdezfatalities.”calledback with an update reflecting the worse scenario, a far cry from the first report. The possible connection to an ACU team began to make more sense, as the 2009 Ford E-450 24-passenger bus in which the group was traveling had a large purple Wildcat logo sprawled in vinyl across the back. A call to ACU Athletics, however, ruled out any sports team’s use of such a bus that Ellisonday.rushed back to his office to learn that the Runnels County

THE OPTIMIST

Bailey searched the wreckage and found a list on a clipboard – crucial information to help emergency personnel and anxious people back in Abilene confirm who was aboard. While his family waited in their car, Bailey used Wilson’s cell phone and his own to stay in contact with Scudder and Mills over the next 40 minutes, sharing information about the identity and condition of each A Bald Cypress tree was planted in Anabel Reid’s memory near the front steps of the Hardin Administration Building.

When an officer asked if anyone had a list of passengers, Wilson said she remembered seeing the information somewhere on the bus.

Sorting through the chaos Twelve of the 16 passengers were students, and all but one a major from the A&E department: Anna Ciufo (’15), Naomi Cruz (’16), Allison Dorshorst (’16), Merissa Ford (’13), Kathleen Henderson (’13), Jason Iris (’13), Tiffany Lutz (’13), Anabel Reid (’14), Kendra Unamba (’15), Anna Watson (’15), Haley Wilkerson (’15) and Wilson. Three were faculty members: Miller, assistant professor of range and environmental science; Nicodemus, assistant professor of environmental science; and Dr. Jim Cooke (’73), professor of environmental science. Miller’s wife, Pat (Vannoy ’70), was also a passenger.Notfarbehind the wrecked bus was another transporting players and coaches of the Winters High School football team to Mason – further south in the Texas Hill Country –their collective minds on a big game with playoff implications. The accident scene changed everyone’s focus. Coaches made players stay on the Blizzards’ bus while they and trainer Jessica Cox, a graduate student from HardinSimmons University, began treating injured passengers. “We were about the third vehicle [to arrive],” WHS head coach Stephen Hermesmeyer told the San Angelo Standard-Times. “We got all of our tape and towels out while she was administering help, and all of our coaches were helping, too.” They assisted until the first Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) units could arrive. Cox stayed on site to help while her team continued its trip to Mason. An unidentified truck driver used his fire extinguisher on the smoking bus engine, and other motorists assisted as best they could. Dr. Garry Bailey (’85), associate professor of conflict resolution and academic director of ACU’s Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution, recalls his car being about the 10th vehicle to arrive, behind several 18-wheelers. He and his wife, Janet, and their two children were headed to the HEB Encampment in Leakey, Texas, for a Highland Church of Christ familyWhenretreat.another motorist told him the vehicle up ahead was from ACU, he jumped from his car and ran to the scene, where he found his friend, Cooke, and talked to him so he wouldn’t lose consciousness. Bailey then met Wilson, at first assuming she was one of the accident responders, but realizing from some blood on her forehead that she was a passenger.Ajunioranimal science major from Walsenburg, Colorado, Wilson had been walking around the wreck, checking on the condition of her classmates and professors, some of whom were feared to be trapped beneath the bus. She, Nicodemus and Cooke were reportedly the only passengers not thrown from the vehicle. Bailey draped himself over Cooke, who had a shoulder injury and limited vision after losing his eyeglasses during the impact. One of Cooke’s relatives, Kim Fulbright (a second cousin to his wife), was one of the travelers on U.S. 83 who stopped to help, but was unaware until weeks later that a family member was involved. “It was a serendipity beyond words,” said the professor’s spouse, Cynthia (Litton ’72) Cooke.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 27 Sheriff’s Office had confirmed the accident on U.S. 83, near County Road 234. “There may be multiple fatalities. You need to be prepared for the worst,” the caller said. ACUPD officers Valdez and Tim Savage were sent to the accident scene some 60 miles away, and another across the street to Zona Luce, where the fast-spreading news had A&E officials already huddled with heartbroken students and friends who had rushed to the building upon hearing the news.

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Among the other motorists who stopped to help was a woman who stayed with Unamba to keep her awake and Unambacalm.was not an A&E student but a nursing major who served a ministry internship at Medina the previous summer. “I recall having ‘a God moment,’” she said of the crash. “I could feel myself being tossed around for what felt like forever. I wanted to open my eyes and see what was happening, but this peace came over me and said, ‘No, don’t open your eyes; you don’t need to see this,’ so I agreed and kept them closed. I landed on a pillow like I was sleeping. I believe that pillow saved my life.”

Hand-stamped medallions, placed each year on the roadside descanso by her mother, denote things or events important in Anabel’s life.

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Bailey said. “To respond and be helpful the way she did – and with such stamina – even though she had been in the accident with all the others, was impressive. She went right to “She’swork.”atake-charge person,”

Scudder said. “We had to calm her down a few times, ask her to stop shouting into the phone, because it was a very tense scene.” Because of the remote location, six helicopters were called in to fly passengers to Abilene (Hendrick Medical Center) and San Angelo (Shannon Medical Center and San Angelo Community Medical Center). Others were transported by ambulance to Shannon and to Ballinger Memorial Hospital. Later, one passenger was transferred to Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas.“When I realized they were not putting me in a copter, I figured I must not be hurt that bad,” Reid

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 29 person, and later, who was headed where for Initially,treatment.theirinjuries made it difficult for first responders to identify some of the passengers because photo IDs in their wallets, purses and backpacks were strewn across the “Mandyroadway.Wilsonwas a heroine,”

Anabel

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Hospital vigils begin Close to 50 student friends of the A&E group gathered in Hendrick’s ICU waiting room for news about the injured. ACU faculty and staff representatives were present to help support them, joined by David McQueen (’88), senior pastor of Beltway Park Church, and Abilene mayor Dr. Norm Archibald (’76 M.S.). “I’m ‘Miss Mandy’ and these students consider me their ‘Mom,’” Scudder told Hendrick medical personnel about the three A&E

30 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY said Cooke, who checked himself out of the hospital on Saturday after an overnight stay. Accounting for everyone proved challenging with passengers strewn among what was left of the bus, and around the road and bar ditches. The headcount was made more difficult by the number of students on the original sign-up list (as many as 26 at one point), which grew and shrank dramatically in the days and hours prior to the trip. The last person to commit was 19-year-old Reid, a sophomore environmental science major from the unincorporated community of Becton, near rural Petersburg, south of the Texas Panhandle. The campus responds On the other side of Campus Court in Abilene, Ellison had notified the university’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), and the campus sprang into action: the President’s Office, Student Life, the Counseling Center, ACU PR representatives and others. As the incident commander designated to manage such a crisis for ACU, Ellison set up an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in the squad room of his building. There, a team of administrators hurriedly assembled to begin gathering information and making plans, and ACU’s marketing and communications professionals did the same in a second-floor workroom of Zellner Hall. “We were struggling in Zona Luce with how to divide our group to go to the different hospitals,” said Scudder. A&E had two staff members, three adjunct professors and 86 majors. Three of its five full-time professors were on the bus that afternoon. In the EOC, the response team was quickly developing a comprehensive plan to staff the waiting rooms of each of the five hospitals with people to provide moral support to families and friends who could be facing crushing news about loved ones. It organized a cross-functional Care Team, with a different university representative assigned to each passenger. They were empowered with streamlining communication between the families and ACU, anticipating needs and coordinating any assistance necessary. At 4:50 p.m., Scudder and three A&E students drove across town to Hendrick Medical Center. Mills and his wife, Mitzi (Ayers ’96), headed south to Ballinger and San Angelo, followed 30 minutes later by A&E professor Dr. Ed Brokaw (’71) and his wife, Jan (Hammitt ’03), and Dr. Autumn Sutherlin, assistant professor of chemistry andBybiochemistry.5p.m.,thehome page of acu.edu linked to an emergency blog to share the latest news, with content generated by the communications team. At 5:15 p.m., ACU president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91) and Dr. Gary McCaleb (’64), vice president of the university, headed to San Angelo to check on passengers reportedly en route to hospitals there. Dr. JeanNoel Thompson, vice president of student life and dean of students, and Mark Lewis (’95 M.M.F.T.), assistant dean for spiritual life and Chapel programs, went to nearby Hendrick, where three passengers had reportedly been taken. Suzanne Allmon (’79), senior advisor to the president; Kevin Campbell (’00), chief enrollment officer; and Kevin Roberts (’88), chief information officer, headed to Ballinger. In Abilene, Hendrick’s heliport and nearby parking lots were put to the“Intest.one of our recent ‘mass casualty drills’ with Dyess Air Force Base, we had been preparing for just this thing: landing helicopters in places where they don’t typically land and treating large numbers of patients in the trauma area,” said Lynne (Dampier ’88) Bruton, Hendrick public information officer. “We are diligent about practicing emergencies. Hendrick is a regional trauma center, so we are used to incoming air ambulances, but never three at once.”

Social media was a blessing and an adversary that afternoon and evening. News traveled fast, sometimes quicker than facts. University officials had no choice but to wait for DPS confirmation of passengers, and for Student Life to speak with family members, before releasing names. That was a challenge, as the students lived in all parts of Texas, as well as Colorado, Pennsylvania, Washington, evenLocalBermuda.media, in an effort to be the first to report news in the hours following the accident, repeated information and shared photos found on students’ Facebook and Twitter pages. For about four hours, it was a dizzying flow of information and misinformation regarding injuries and possible fatalities, but ACU had to hold its ground while confirming facts and respecting students’ privacy rights. The university conducted a press conference at 6 p.m. to share as much confirmed information as possible.

Family and friends of Anabel Reid met on campus in 2012 on her birthday (Jan. 28). They included (from left) Becton Reid, Shelly Reid, Kathleen (Henderson) Attillo, Mandy Wilson, Anna (Ciufo) Welch, Anna (Watson) Long, Allison Dorschorst, Haley Wilkerson, Tiffany (Lutz) Bagby, Jason Iris, Merissa Ford, Naomi Cruz, Dr. Jim Cooke, Pat Miller, Dr. Emmett Miller and Dr. Michael Nicodemus.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 31 students in ICU. “Their parents and family don’t live anywhere near here, so if they ask for Miss Mandy, you take me to them.” And they did. Scudder spent the evening alternately sitting with Cruz, Ford and Lutz, talking with and praying over them. The aggregate injury list was staggering: fractures of the heel, ankle, pelvis, clavicle (collarbone), sternum, shoulder, jaw, vertebra, hand and wrist; punctured lungs; cuts and abrasions; and assorted head injuries. One passenger had 18 pelvic fractures. Another was in a coma. Wilson, who thought she was unhurt, later learned she had an elbow fracture and torn ligaments in her shoulder. Five passengers were released that night from hospitals, but three of the other 10 were in ICU, and several underwent surgery that evening and the next day. Anabel Reid’s mother, Shelly, was traveling to Canton, Texas, with a group of friends for a get-away weekend. Her daughter’s roommate, Abigail (Talley ’14) Davis, called to report the wreck. Shelly turned her car toward Abilene, praying and continually trying to phone Anabel but only hearing her voicemail. “Anabel was never a slave to her phone, so the fact that she wasn’t answering truly wasn’t worrisome,” Shelly said. “I figured that she was busy comforting whomever needed comforting – which was very typical of her – so I just kept trying as we drove. … At no point in our drive was I worried that Anabel was deceased, or even majorly injured.”

Hamilton quoted Psalm 130: “Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord.”

Angelo State University students brought gift baskets of food to families at the two hospitals in their city, and started a prayer chain with members of the local chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Student Life staff at McMurry University brought gift baskets to families waiting at Hendrick.

She received news at Hendrick from a DPS officer that her daughter did not “Firstsurvive.ofall,I’m sorry you were the person who had to tell me that,” Shelly told the officer. “You know, Anabel was not of this world. She never has been. If there was one person who was ready to go, it wasWhenher.”Mills and Brokaw arrived in Ballinger, and later, San Angelo, they were amazed to find each patient had one or more people – including total strangers from local churches –keeping them company. “I told [the hospital staff] I was the student’s mother,” said one volunteer who wasn’t related at all but couldn’t stand the thought of the injured young woman being alone. “I couldn’t let these kids sit here by themselves.”

The First-Year Program volunteered candles left over from the Wildcat Week devotional back in August, and Dr. Mark Hamilton (’90 M.Div.), associate dean of the Graduate School of Theology, was asked to speak. Thompson and Lewis returned to campus for the service. When they first caught a glimpse of the amphitheatre, they were astonished to find an overflow crowd seated on the concrete steps, hundreds of people gathered on short notice on a chilly November Friday night.

“This is not a night for explaining

ACU Student Life representatives quickly began to plan a 9 p.m. candlelight prayer service in Beauchamp Amphitheatre, leaning on social media to help spread the word.

32 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY The Chapel of Hope at Arms of Hope-Medina Campus.

Jessica Rae (Huckans ’13) Van Hoose (left) and Anabel Reid helped A&E classmates clear land in Medina.

Kevin McDonald, Arms of Hope president and CEO at the time, was in Houston with his wife, Nathalie (Baugh ’98), where their infant daughter, Marlie, had begun cancer treatments. On Sunday he visited hospitals in Abilene and San Angelo to deliver handwritten get-well cards to ACU patients from youngsters in Medina.

“We were devastated,” McDonald said. “The ACU group was so beloved by the kids and mothers. It meant a lot to them to be around students who were successful and good roleThatmodels.”night, the popular Nine O’Clock devotional in the University Church of Christ auditorium was devoted to helping students worship and wrestle with their feelings about the tragedy. More than 800 attended, and the church livestreamed it for others to watch as well. Unamba was released from Shannon Medical Center in San Angel0 and attended the devo. She had hip and neck

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 33 things, but it is a night to remember things,” Hamilton said. “God weeps with us more than we know, and God will have to straighten this out.”

The Anabel Reid Prayer Room is located at the top of the stairs in the Chapel of Hope in Medina.

DELONYSCOTT DELONYSCOTT

“Dr. Mills continued to remind everyone in A&E: ‘You are the department, not this building, not the bricks and mortar,’ ” said Scudder. “You are resilient.”

The accident created more than physical and emotional trauma for the A&E department. It sidelined three of its five full-time professors until they could heal from injuries, and exacerbated anxiety over the semester’s organizational challenges. Professors from other departments stepped in to teach some classes, and alumni such as Ronnie Vinson (’73), a retired agriculture teacher, assisted with“FacultyMiller’s.are not interchangeable parts,” said Mills. “Each of us has specialties, and while we could ‘cover’ in the classroom for each other to some extent, we did have to be creative in our solutions. We were going through the motions for a while; we were all numb. Each of us is a professional and did what we needed to do, but at the end of the day, without the support of others and the Lord, we’d have never made“[Theit.” shortage of faculty] put Ed and Foy in a difficult position,” said Dr. Jeff Arrington (’82), associate vice president for student life. “On top of that, they were essentially functioning as pastoral shepherds, trying to care for everyone’s emotional and spiritual needs. The way they filled those roles was inspiring and heroic.” Scudder, who also was the department’s degree plan specialist, “was a rock,” said Arrington. “She was hurting, too, but she went far past her job description to care for those students. They were her kids, and she showed a mother’s love to all of Eventhem.”before the Nov. 4 accident, the department was struggling with implications of campus-wide budget cutbacks and reorganization that would eventually affect staffing and course offerings for one of its majors. At one point in October, the department learned it could be facing closure. Plans changed following the accident, and after negotiations early in the spring semester, it was announced in March that space reallocations would instead result in A&E moving to the Hardin Administration Building from its longtime home in the Zona Luce Building, making room for a new School of Nursing that fall. Some days, the sense of loss and upheaval was profound, but the department chose to stay positive.

Angels raised up to help “We can’t answer the big questions such as ‘Why?’” said Brokaw. “In spite of all that, our rock and foundation is the Lord. He raised up angels to help us. I saw the ACU community rise to its calling in a higher way than any other time in my 37 years here. We lived up to our rhetoric: who we say we are and what we say we are. People demonstrated that in many ways, and still are.”

HOPEOFARMS

34 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY injuries and was in physical therapy for months afterward. In a solemn Chapel livestreamed the next morning from Moody Coliseum, Reid’s family was present for the entire university community’s first opportunity to be together since the“Theaccident.heartbreak we feel began at a specific spot on a specific road last Friday afternoon. But our healing will take place over a long period of time,” said president Schubert. “The road to recovery will run through classrooms, dorm rooms and counselor’s offices. Healing will occur along sidewalks, in sanctuaries and in moments of stillness with God. Our suffering is severe, but this ACU family is strong. Our pain is real, but so is our God.” Schubert continued, “This tragedy, this trouble, it shouldn’t surprise us. Someone once asked C.S. Lewis, ‘Why do the righteous suffer?’ ‘Why not,’ he replied, ‘They’re the only ones who can take it.’ None of us want to be tested like this. But here we are.”

A trying time

“I can still see Anabel sitting in the front at a departmental Chapel, smiling and nodding her head in agreement while one of us was talking about how we needed to stay focused and positive with the changes,” said Brokaw. “Even then, she was being supportive and encouraging, and helping her classmates work through the issues.”

“Within hours, people began calling our office, saying, ‘Don’t just tell me the name, tell me about this person,’” said Arrington. “It astounded the parents of students who were in the accident to know so many people wanted to know enough about their children to be able to pray

Two days after the accident, Kevin McDonald delivered get-well cards and notes to Dr. Emmett Miller from children and mothers at Arms of Hope-Medina Campus.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 35 for them and their specific needs.”

Each of the faculty and all but one of the students was back in school for Spring 2012.

“The Counseling Center came into our building that Friday and never left us,” Scudder said. “Their staff was an amazing help because several of us have needed it, including me. I tell students, ‘I may not be equipped to help you but I can get you to someone who can,’ and that is a great blessing andOfresource.”particular interest to everyone was how Pat Miller, Emmett’s wife, was progressing on a path that few could describe except by using the word miracle somewhere along the way. In a coma since the accident, Pat was moved in mid-November from San Angelo to the hospice unit at Hendrick in Abilene, where she wasn’t expected to live more than a few days after doctors reported she had “no brain activity.” But Pat rallied, waking up, speaking and generally astounding her family, friends and physicians.

“To be truthful, we were braced for another funeral in late November,” Brokaw said. “She had a long way to go and had a number of health issues even before the accident, but her recovery was one of those miracle kinds of things, and all you can do is be thankful.”

The Care Team, which organized over the weekend, used that information to connect needs with resources. It also assigned a congregation to each hospital to coordinate help for patients being treated away fromACUhome.students collected funds in Chapel the next week, donating $10,000. One of the students’ favorite hangouts near campus, Nicki’s Swirl Shoppe, donated a percentage of frozen yogurt proceeds to assist families.

A new university blog was created to share information and organize resources being offered by volunteers: food, transportation, housing, money, laundry, encouragement, a listening ear, even translation assistance for the deaf. One person volunteered to drive A&E students to Lubbock for Reid’s memorial service. Several offered to help counsel the passengers’ roommates. Another wrote, “Anabel blessed me with her comforting presence after I lost my son this summer. I want to help her family in any way that I can.”

The healing begins Anabel’s memorial service took place Nov. 9 at Broadway Church of Christ, her home congregation in Lubbock. A&E faculty and staff traveled in a car caravan for the 165-mile trip, causing some in the group to breathe a sigh of relief not to have to ride a bus again so soon. Although Naomi Cruz was one of the most seriously injured passengers, her Facebook photo gallery chronicled the recovery process from the night of the accident through several surgeries – she proudly shared X-rays of the various pins and screws in her body – through transfer to a children’s rehabilitation hospital near her home in Houston, and her release to her home in midDecember. Whether greeting friends, eating pizza, sharing close-up shots of scars and bruises, learning to walk again – Cruz’s infectious smile, sense of humor and never-give-up personality were omnipresent. Back in Nelson Hall, the women on the third floor used video-chat software to “Say goodnight to Naomi” each evening before going to sleep, walking a laptop from room to room that showed her smiling back at her friends from a Houston hospital. Cruz amazed everyone when she showed up, using a cane to steady herself, in January 2012 for the first day of spring semester classes. After four months of surgery and physical therapy, she received permission in mid-March from her doctor at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to return to as active a life as possible. Ciufo, who still had a fracture wound on her right heel, was walking without assistance but faced another surgery to reconstruct her foot. “The bones have healed but they’re not in all the right places,” she said at the time. She moved downstairs to a first-floor room in Gardner Hall so she wouldn’t have to climb stairs and could be near a more accessible bathroom.ShellyReid said kindnesses shown to her family by the ACU community were innumerable, standing by their sides the evening of the accident and throughout the next year. “The outpouring was overwhelmingly huge and a blessing to us,” she said. Twice each week, ACU students attend small-group Chapels conducted by special-interest groups, residence halls and academic departments. A&E used several of its Thursday Chapel programs to share news, rally spirits and celebrate important milestones in the recovery process.

So two days after the accident, the emergency website became a blog – acu.edu/iwanttohelp – allowing people to volunteer, donate and pray.

“The first Chapel after the accident, we invited Jessica Cox, the trainer from HSU who was on the Winters football team bus,” said Brokaw. “We had a special prayer for her, and thanked her for what she did to help Anabel. It was an emotional experience but provided a lot of healing for everyone. Those departmental Chapels are a normal part of every school week, but they became really important to students and faculty as we processed the issues we faced.”

The department has several active student organizations and continues to hold its annual Homecoming barbecue banquet where it honors two outstanding alumni. In April 2022, A&E hosted the spring meeting of the Agricultural Consortium of Texas, which attracted about 200 students and faculty from across the state, a sure sign of its increasing visibility among peers and prospectiveUniversitystudents.driverprotocols at ACU were revised following the accident. “We have a smaller fleet, only a handful of vans and also use outside contractors with their own drivers,” said Kris Sutton (’09), director of institutional compliance and riskThoseassessment.whooperate ACU-owned passenger vans must be approved drivers who have a motor vehicle record check annually and complete

Faith and resilience

Hope for healing, and a future Like life’s other undeserved blessings, traveling mercies come in all shapes and sizes, and the true benefits of the Nov. 4, 2011, trip may take an eternity to measure. “If you haven’t had to live with tragedy, you haven’t lived long enough,” Mills said. “But we deal with it; we have great hope and the Lord has been gracious to us. As people of faith, healing has come and we’re movingToday,on.”

“This was a horrible, inexplicable tragedy,” said Arrington. “But the character of the ACU team was amazing. It made me proud to see the president and senior leaders at work; nothing was more important to them than caring for those students and their families. Some people were actually offended that they were not asked to help. And students couldn’t think of anything better to do than get together and pray as a first response. I was so proud of them.” “The way our students reacted –stepped up – was beyond my wildest imagination,” Mills said. He was particularly moved the Tuesday after the accident when he entered his 9:30 a.m. class to find chairs organized to reflect the team-oriented work groups, and a vase of yellow roses sitting in Anabel’s place. “That got me,” he said. “We always knew what kind of family we have here in this department,” Scudder said. “We’re always asking students, when they’re considering ACU, to join our family here. So it was sweet for the rest of the campus community to see that side of Ciufous.”said she was not sure she could rationalize what happened and why – she did not remember much from the accident until she woke up in a Dallas hospital. “But it definitely changed my life and how I think about things and how I view God,” she said. “I know now without a doubt that God is real and loves me and will never let me down. Even if I can’t see his plan, that’s OK. If I keep walking with him, even through some dark places, everything will turn out for the “Thebest.”accident helped shape me into the nurse I am today,” said Unamba, an RN in the busy ER of a major children’s hospital, who described being overwhelmed with the kindness of strangers and developing relationships with people she met under the worst of circumstances. “It has given me a different perspective on trauma patients. I try to explain things as they are happening to them. I consider myself to be a very compassionate nurse, always doing everything I can for my patients, going the extra mile. The accident showed me how easily love can be spread even when you don’t know the“Theperson.”strength of these students and their families reflected deeply and precisely what a Christian community is all about,” Thompson said. Pat Miller – pushed in a wheelchair by her husband – was one of more than 400 people who participated in March 2012 in the inaugural 24-hour Anabel Reid Run for Water. The event attracted 100 volunteers and raised more than $16,500 for the Water4 foundation and Anabel’s passion – wells to provide clean drinking water for others.Therewere many smiles and few dry eyes among onlookers as survivors of the bus accident covered the first lap together on the Elmer Gray Stadium track. Supporters added another 11,000 laps afterward, good for 2,700 miles and enough money to dig 150 water wells in Anabel’s memory. And while there was no 2011 district football trophy displayed at Winters High School the following spring, the team wearing blue and white would forever be champions to their purple-shirted new friends at ACU.Although they eventually made the state playoffs, the understandably distracted Blizzards lost later that frantic Friday night in November to the undefeated Mason High School Punchers, 28-6. “It really put life into perspective,” said coach Hermesmeyer, whose team had to borrow tape, gauze and towels from their opponent during the game that night, having used their supply at the scene of the accident.

Dr. Jim Carpenter (’87 M.S.) is associate professor and chair of A&E, which is focused on recruiting students and what he calls “a rebuilding mindset.”

36 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

The years have changed everyone involved, regardless of how they mark time. Each person’s healing has been different. And some have passed on. But the best group therapy – the busload of generous souls decided that weekend nearly a year later –included another opportunity to fulfill their academic family’s legacy of blessing and being blessed by others.

In A&E style, they rolled up their sleeves, organizing inventory in the commissary, cleaning out farm pens used by kids showing animals at a livestock show in Bandera, and decorating mums for the following week’s Homecoming festivities at Arms of Hope. No return to Medina was more meaningful that autumn. 

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 37 an online driver safety training course every five years. Before traveling out of town, a group’s sponsoring department submits a passenger list to the university that includes photo ID including name, cell phone and emergency contact information, and must update ACU each time the roster changes. When a group of students, staff or faculty participate in international travel, the Emergency Response Team must be notified ahead of time about the passenger list and daily itinerary. In Medina, a Texas Hill Country-style Chapel of Hope now sits on land once cleared by Reid and her A&E classmates and professors. In the bell tower at the top of the stairs, the Anabel Reid Prayer Room is open 24/7, and has proven to be a popular place to spend time alone with God. The chapel and prayer room were dedicated in 2012 at a ceremony attended by Reid’s mother and Emmett and Pat Miller, with ACU faculty member Randy Harris as the featured speaker. Mandy Wilson has turned the focus of her career from agriculture to missions-based community service, thanks in large part to her experiences at ACU, especially that tragic day in November. “I have never felt the presence of the Holy Spirit as I did on that deserted road, realizing that God was all I had to help me pull my friends through until any sort of help arrived. It built my character as a person and a Christian, and I have been a more empathetic person ever since,” Wilson said. “We all grow most during the hard times, and for that at least, I am grateful. God is worthy of praise, in both the mountains and valleys of life.” It took months for Kathleen Henderson to heal from her injuries, and from the severe PTSD she wrestled with afterward. Today she is a ranch manager in western Ohio. In 2017, Henderson used anecdotes from her livelihood while blogging candidly about the accident and what she has learned from it: “They say fire tempers steel to make it stronger, and trials on earth have a similar effect on our lives. I now know that to be true. But the fire can be so intense you are sure it will melt the steel and ruin the blade, just like it feels like the trial will ruin your life. But it is not so. Burning has always been a purifying process. Burning grass pasture is a way of making way for new fresh growth and getting rid of unwanted noxious or invasive plants that could devastate and overtake the pastures, ruining them for any productive use. So it is in our lives. Trials burn away those seeds of pride and bitterness that can so easily plant and take hold, growing fast and ruining the soil of our heart for good use. Now, I know this trial is not done with me yet, and I know there will always be scars. Just like a controlled burn leaves scars for years to come on the landscape, so trials leave their mark on you forever. But it is not all at a loss, for as Anabel always used to say, ‘No matter what happens, we are always promised God,’ and with him there is hope. Hope for healing and hope for a future, and to be stronger than steel to face it. To look death in the face and get up and walk away.” Eleven months after the accident, the A&E department had some unfinished weekend work to do and hugs to hand out in Medina, where its arrival Oct. 12, 2012, was as welcome as another slow, soaking rain on a warm Texas afternoon. On the drive down U.S. 83, their bus stopped near County Road 234, where its passengers could reflect and pray. Just steps away, a roadside descanso is marked with a white sign on one of the fence’s green and white metal T-posts.

The memorial proclaims “Anabel Reid, 1/28/92 - 11/4/11, Daughter of the KING.” Her ashes have been spread here and in several locations in Texas, even in Anabel’sAfrica.mother visits the site annually on Nov.4, sometimes with friends and family, other times alone. Each fall she attaches another round metal medallion to the sign’s edges, each hand-stamped to commemorate something significant from the past year in which Anabel would have otherwise participated. Other years, the medallion icons and wording represent something that was special to her daughter, such as a tent to symbolize her love for camping.

O

“Since 2012, [her fund] has raised more than $233,000 for Water4, investing in the vision of a world where everyone has access to safe and living water,” said Chris Shaw, communications and marketing manager for the nonprofitDollarsorganization.fromtheReid events have benefitted Water4’s work in several countries, including the West African nation of Togo and further east in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the DRC, Anabel’s fund has helped with agricultural activities among the Pygmy peoples of the IturiTheRainforest.diminutive Pygmies are often enslaved by other Africans, and resettled in areas away from the rainforests along the equator where they have lived for centuries. Water4 and its allies help free Pygmies from slavery, drill water wells, teach them new skills for farming and raising livestock, and share the Gospel.

In March 2012, survivors of the accident and several hundred friends gathered at Elmer Gray Stadium for the Anabel Reid Run for Water, a 24-hour fundraiser to build water wells for Tanzanians. Walkers and runners did their job, raising more thanShelly$16,500.said her family, still grieving their loss, was not sure they had the time or energy to organize a second event in Abilene in 2013. Bethany Rolan, a high school student at the time, volunteered to organize the next one in Lubbock.Overthe last nine years, it has transitioned to the annual Anabel Reid Event for Water, held solely on the Reid farm 25 miles northeast of Lubbock. In 2022, the event neared the quarter-million-dollar mark for generating donations to Water4, a Oklahoma City-based nonprofit that builds and supports local, missional businesses across Africa that provide a sustainable, aspirational solution to the water crisis in their own communities. Water4 utilizes funds in Anabel’s name to make the world-changing difference she once envisioned.

The Reid farm home sits in the middle of that two-mile stretch of County Road 5300, which leads to nearby Becton Cemetery, where a headstone for Anabel rests. More than 8,000 miles away in sub-Saharan Africa, however, the Anabel Reid Memorial Fund at Water4 is hard at work.

“The first Sunday night of May each year, we gather on the farm, feed everyone, clean up two miles of roadside and take donations for Water4,” said Shelly Reid. “It’s a family friendly event.”

38 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

Water4’s efforts in the DRC are complicated by poor roads and other infrastructure challenges, and humanitarian crises including civil strife; high rates of cholera, Ebola and COVID-19; and malnutrition. But in 2020-21, Anabel funds helped provide 17 new potable water wells benefitting more than 3,000 people who sorely needed them. “In 2022, Water4 plans to create 1,325 new water points, serving 265,000 people with safe water and reaching 100,000 with WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene training) and Multiply (our discipleship program),” Shaw said. “By 2030, we will reach 7 million people impacted by safe water.”

She had her eye on Tanzania, an East African nation where Tim (M.S. ’01) and Rebecca Talley lived at the time. In 2011, the Talleys were nearing the end of a 27-year career as missionaries, most of it served in Kenya. Beloved by Anabel, they were supported by the Broadway Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas, where the Reids attended at the time. The Talleys also were the parents of Anabel’s ACU roommate, Abigail (Talley ’14) Davis “Anabel wanted to go see them,” said her mother, Shelly Reid. “In her mind, Tanzania was where she first thought about doing mission work with water.” The 2011 bus accident changed that. But it also gave life to Anabel’s African aspirations.

In other words, the former environmental science major from Lubbock and ACU is far outliving her short life as a Texan. Anabel was not buried in Becton Cemetery’s austere surroundings on the Texas prairie. Her ashes are present there, as they are in numerous places with special meaning to the Reids: the accident site in Runnels County, the family farm, the church where she Updates on the lives and influence of those in the story

MAKING DIFFERENCEA

ne of the late Anabel Reid’s goals was to travel to Africa, where her personal and philanthropic interests as an environmental science major were merging.

Anabel Reid painted her face for a presentation on the importance of providing clean water for people around the world. drills a borehole using a manual drilling system in Togo.

Water4

WATER4

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 39

Tiffany (Lutz ’13) Bagby is a dairy business coach in northwestern Wisconsin.

Updates In Fall 2021, ACU’s Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, chaired by Dr. Jim Carpenter (’87 M.S.), had its largest class of freshmen in years. A&E’s animal science major features tracks in livestock management and production, and pre-veterinary; the latter was by far the most popular among freshmen last fall. “There are a limited number of spots each year in veterinary schools,” Carpenter said, and most with bachelor’s degrees have to apply three times before getting in. But ACU students gain 100% admittance by following A&E’s career guidance. “Most people don’t realize it’s much harder to get into veterinary than medical school.”

Kathleen (Henderson ’13) Attillo lives in Dayton, Ohio, where she is a ranch manager for Carson Agriculture and also studies regenerative agriculture at Polyface Farms in Swoope, Virginia. After graduation, she was an environmental scientist, and later managed a cow-calf operation and cutting horse farm in New Mexico.

WATER4

40 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY attended, at Abilene Christian, and in Tanzania. Her mother made sure of the latter, traveling there a few years ago with her son, Becton Reid; Anabel’s college-days boyfriend, Alex Wann (’10); and friends from the Broadway congregation. Wann is a programs manager for Water4, and the group scouted places where wells might one day carry Anabel’s name. She is deeply missed, and friends and family still leave photos, videos and other memories of her on a Facebook group page – Memories of Anabel – where the faithful, fearless and fun-loving Reid is remembered.

Jessica (Cox) Abbe earned a master’s in physical therapy from Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, and lives in Abilene. She has become a close friend of Anabel Reid’s family. In 2017, Dr. Jeff Arrington (’82) became professor and dean of arts and sciences at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama, following a 27-year teaching and administrative career at ACU.

Dr. Garry Bailey (’85) continues to teach at ACU as professor of conflict management and resolution and organizational development. Dr. Ed Brokaw (’71) retired from 42 years of full-time teaching in 2018 as Bray Cook Professor Emeritus of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, and lives in Abilene. Dr. Jim Cooke (’72) recovered from his injuries, retired in May 2018, and traveled the country that fall with Cynthia (Litton ’72) Cooke, his wife of 46 years. The avid outdoorsman and environmental educator received numerous awards for his teaching from state and regional A Pygmy woman carries lumber and leaves in the Ituri Rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“Anabel is at home [in heaven] and we are at peace with that,” Shelly said. “She is where she wanted to be, and where we wanted her to be.”

Naomi Cruz (’16) lives in Dallas, Texas. She earned two degrees from ACU: a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in counseling psychology (2018). Allison Dorshorst (’16) graduated in with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology from West Texas A&M University. She is a veterinarian technician at In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center in Wylie, Texas, and interns at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary, where she works with mountain lions, tigers and other endangered big cats.

Mandy Wilson (’14) worked at an equine hospital for a time, and is now director of Love Waterford, a community-based nonprofit in central California, east of San Francisco. She was recently named Citizen of the Year by Love Stanislaus County, another local nonprofit.  RON HADFIELD Dr. Jim Cooke

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Dr. Michael Nicodemus, former ACU assistant professor of environmental science, taught from 2014-20 at Harding University and is now an associate professor of biology at Simpson University in Redding, California. Mandy (van Rensburg ’98) Scudder is now academic support manager for ACU’s College of Business Administration. Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson is executive vice president at Harding University. He was vice president for student services at Faulkner University from 2013-22 after serving from 2007-13 as ACU’s vice president for student life and dean of student life. Kendra Unamba, RN (’15), earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from ACU, serving an internship at Shannon Medical Center, where she was a patient following the accident. She is a registered nurse in the emergency room at Children’s National Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland. Unamba begins work on a Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in Fall 2022 at the University of Arizona, and wants to help trauma patients deal successfully with PTSD, anxiety and other emotional challenges. In 2018, Anna (Ciufo ’15) Welch, PT, D.P.T., earned a doctorate in physical therapy from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She is a physical therapist at a nursing home and two trauma centers in San Antonio, and plans to become a therapeutic riding instructor. Haley Wilkerson (’15) earned a bachelor’s degree from Ouachita Baptist University and is enrolled in Ross University School of Veterinary Science.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 41 industrial arts organizations, and at ACU, and was an early and ardent advocate for creation of the Cedar Creek Waterway project in Abilene. He joined ACU’s faculty in Fall 1982 to teach in the Department of Industrial Technology and later served as its chair. Cooke taught full time in the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for 14 years, and died unexpectedly in January 2019 following a short illness as he was preparing to teach a senior Capstone course.

BUTMANSTEVE

In December 2020, following two decades as chief of the ACU Police Department, Jimmy Ellison became chief of police for the City of Mont Belvieu in Southeast Texas. After pursuing a career in music and ministry in Nashville, Tennessee, Merissa Ford (’13) now lives in Seattle, where she is working on a master’s degree in agriculture at Washington State University. In 2021, Stephen Hermesmeyer was named athletics director and head football coach at Troy (Texas) High School after four years at Winters and nine years at Comanche high schools in West Texas. Jaimie Howard (’12) is a zookeeper at the San Antonio (Texas) Zoo. Jason Iris (’13) is an environmental consultant/ technician who worked for his native Bermuda in the Central Government Laboratory of the nation’s Department of Health. He recently moved to Abilene to enroll in ACU’s Master of Divinity degree program through the Graduate School of Theology. Anna (Watson ’15) Long earned a B.S. degree in animal sciences. She is a graphic/web designer for TEU Services in Austin, Texas. Kevin McDonald is a board member for Arms of Hope, as well as executive vice president, chief administrative officer and general counsel at NexTier Oilfield Solutions in Houston. Pat (Vannoy ’70) Miller made what many consider a miraculous recovery from the serious injuries that left her in hospice care at one point in 2011. She rebounded and returned home, but died six years later at age 69. She earned a B.S.Ed. from ACU and retired after a career teaching in Texas public and private schools in Goldthwaite, Mills County, Evant and Abilene. She and Dr. Emmett Miller (’70) were married 48 years. The assistant professor of agricultural and environmental sciences is retired and lives in Early, Texas, near Brownwood. Dr. Foy Mills recently retired as provost and chief academic officer at Lubbock Christian University. He taught 23 years on ACU’s Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences faculty, and later, six years at Sam Houston State University.

WAYNE & JANICE MASSEY2021 Awards

42 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

ith more than nine combined decades of treating patients and teaching future physicians, Wayne (’66) and Janice (Munn ’68) Massey’s professional similarities are striking. Both graduated from Abilene Christian and attended medical school. Both work at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, North Carolina. Both even specialize in neurology. But ACU’s 2021 recipients of the Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award each took unique paths, and their accomplishments more than stand on their own as they treat the sick and educate future doctors. For both, that journey began at ACU’s Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award takes its name from Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference, the 2011 book by minister and best-selling Christian author Max Lucado (’77). The award is designed to recognize all types of servant leadership, including civic and community contributions, meeting spiritual or physical needs, producing changes with generational impact, helping redirect the course of people’s lives and inspiring others to make an eternal difference. Recipients may be alumni or friends of the university.

M.D.SMITH,CAROLINE

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 43

RON PHILLIPS2022 ANDERSENGREG

Phillips didn’t have law school in mind when he majored in business administration at ACU. His older

onald F. Phillips may have briefly constructed homes upon graduation from Abilene Christian in 1955, but people today know him for building something quite different.

Referred to as the architect of Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law, Phillips helped establish the school in its early days, serving 27 years as its first full-time dean. ACU’s 2022 recipient of the Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award didn’t follow a direct road to the law or Malibu, California.

ACU still holds a special place in the Masseys’ hearts. Both have served as trustees – Janice from 1990-2011, and Wayne from 2013 to present. Spoken like true doctors, they both say that coming back to campus is like getting a “spiritual treatment.” “We’re surrounded by people who are interested in others,” Janice said. “It reminds us to come back home and be that way.” The Masseys live out that philosophy with every life they impact – the medical students they’ve trained and the patients they’ve treated. Each new doctor and patient serves as a reminder that the Masseys share a legacy that will be felt for generations to come. 

WAYNE AND JANICE MASSEY

Janice had been exposed to neurology over the years through Wayne and his colleagues, but when it came time to choose a specialty, she faced a conundrum. “I didn’t really want to do the same thing that Wayne was doing, but I really liked neurology,” she said. Her love of the field won out, and once she graduated, the pair of neurologists ended up at Duke in 1979 – Wayne on faculty and Janice in the residencyBecauseprogram.oneorboth of the Masseys was either in school or medical training for much of the 1960s, ’70s and into the ’80s, they put off starting a family. But once Janice completed her training in 1983 and joined the Duke faculty, the couple began looking to adopt. Between 1984 and 1992, they adopted three children – Austen, Patrick and Elizabeth –whom they call their “miracles.”

Wayne retired from daily practice in 2014, but he still teaches regularly and sees patients one day a week. And Janice still loves her work and feels like “I’m getting better at it.” In October 2021, she became only the second woman to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

– JONATHAN SMITH

2021

ACU. Wayne arrived in Abilene from his hometown of Los Angeles. From the start, he enjoyed the Christian atmosphere everywhere he turned. “There were 754 people in my high school senior class. There was only one other kid who went to church with me,” he said. “When I went to ACU, everybody went to church. All the teachers went to church. It was so inspiring to see.” Janice arrived two years later from Paducah, Kentucky, having never previously visited Abilene. She was the first in her family to attendWaynecollege.initially thought of becoming a preacher, but he jokes that he didn’t want to spend his Saturday nights preparing sermons. In truth, he discovered a love of science that led him to medicalJaniceschool.planned to become a teacher. Medicine was not even on theTheyradar.didn’t meet until November of Wayne’s senior year and didn’t date until the following semester. When it came time to pick a medical school – Wayne was accepted at UCLA and The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston – he chose the Gulf Coast so he could be closer to Janice. “You made the wise choice,” JaniceThejoked.twomarried a year later, and she began teaching high school math. Though she enjoyed teaching, Janice thought she would become a stay-at-home mom. But she felt drawn to graduate school. She remembered being fascinated with a genetics seminar she took while in Abilene. When UTMB began offering a new program in genetics and human biochemistry, she took theWayneplunge.was drafted into the Vietnam War, and he completed his service in the Navy as a neurologist at the Bethesda Naval Hospital in Maryland. Meanwhile, Janice attended the nearby Georgetown University School of Medicine.

44 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

Fewer women went to medical school at that time, so Janice was a pioneer at Duke – initially as the first female neurology faculty member and later, the first female professor of neurology.Shespecializes in treating neuromuscular diseases, such as myasthenia gravis, a rare and potentially debilitating autoimmune disorder that causes weakness of the muscles, especially in the face, neck and limbs. Janice also pioneered the use of botulinum toxin to treat neuromuscular disorders long before the treatment was popularized in cosmetic procedures. She proudly recalls treating a music professor who had developed myasthenia gravis. His speech had become difficult to understand, and he could no longer sing. But with the right treatment plan, Janice was able to give him back his voice. Wayne has held various positions at Duke and other area hospitals. He directed the Duke Rehabilitation unit for 25 years and served on the American Academy of Neurology. His passion lies in patient care and teaching, and he’s received several teaching awards from Duke. He recalls one patient who was in the hospital after having a particularly bad stroke, and he had a do-not-resuscitate order placed on him.“After I examined him, I said, ‘I don’t agree with this. He’s recoverable,’ ” Wayne remembered. “I met with his daughter and convinced her to take him off the DNR. And he did great. He had 10 more years with her.”

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 45

He may have moved beyond construction jobs decades ago, but his work at Pepperdine and its law school has built a foundation to educate generations of future leaders.

But in 1969, Pepperdine acquired the Orange University College of Law – a five-year-old, unaccredited night school in Santa Ana, California – and began looking for a full-time dean to leadPhillipsit. wasn’t keen on leaving Abilene but agreed to interview for the position. Privately, he decided he and his wife would only consider it if Pepperdine offered him the job as well as a certain amount of money –two conditions he didn’t dream would be met. But an offer did come – for the exact amount he had indicated.

Phillips felt God was calling him to California, but he was still hesitant, feeling a bit like one Old Testament prophet who resisted God’s call.

RON PHILLIPS brother had graduated from there in three years, so he did too. “I assumed that’s what you were supposed to do,” he said. During his senior year, he visited Highland Church of Christ to support a friend who was leading singing, but he came away with much more. It’s where he first met Jamie Bottoms (’59), whom he would marry in 1957. Upon graduation, he worked with his older brother for two years building custom homes. After a job in sales, he joined his father’s weatherstripping company. His father urged all his adult children to take the Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation aptitude test. After six hours of testing, Phillips received some unexpected career path feedback: The results showed he should consider law school. Phillips didn’t even know a lawyer at the time, but he followed that advice in 1962 and was accepted into law schools at SMU, Baylor and The University of Texas at Austin. He chose UT for its reputation and shorter program – just 27 months. With his law degree in hand, he returned to Abilene and worked in the legal department of an oil company until it was sold in 1967. When informed that keeping his job would require moving to Houston or California, Phillips remembers telling management: “You don’t need to tell me how much you’ll pay me or what I’d be doing. I will never leave Abilene, Texas.” He didn’t hunt jobs for long. “I had two professional goals,” he said. “I wanted to have my own law practice and teach business law at ACU.” Both presented themselves within just a few weeks of finding out he needed a new job. A friend and business owner approached Phillips about starting a law practice and taking on his company as a client. Shortly after, Phillips’ old business law professor let him know he was retiring and that Phillips should take over his courses at ACC.Forabout three years, Phillips lived his dream. “I taught first thing in the morning, and then I had my law practice, and I intended to do that for the rest of my life,” he said. “I absolutely loved it.”

“While I was playing the role of Jonah, my wife said that if I could help develop a law school that honored the Lord, wouldn’t that excite me,” Phillips recalled. “I wasn’t sure I was qualified to be a law school dean, but I believed God was telling me to go, so I needed to trust him.” In 1970, three years after saying he would never leave Abilene, Phillips found himself working in Orange County. By 1972, the law school obtained provisional approval from the American Bar Association. In 1975, it received full ABA approval and state bar accreditation, and by 1978, Phillips moved it into a new building on Pepperdine’s main Malibu campus. The law school has only continued to grow in size and stature, but Phillips appreciates that there’s more to it than just the legal education.

“Not only do a lot of our law students grow their Christian faith while in law school as opposed to backing off a bit because they’re so busy, but quite a few have found the Lord,” he said. “I just love that.” His interest in the academic and spiritual education also stands out for Dr. Mel Hailey (’70), ACU’s professor emeritus of political science, and former chair and pre-law advisor. Hailey said Phillips visited ACU every year to interview prospective law students, and he gave each one special attention – unusual for a law school dean. Phillips would also ask about former students long after graduation.“Hiscare and concern for the students are what really set him apart,” Hailey said. Phillips’ wife died in 1996, and a year later he became dean emeritus of the law school and vice chancellor for the university. He’s now senior vice chancellor, working to build support for Pepperdine and the Caruso School of Law.Even after 52 years at Pepperdine, Phillips doesn’t seem interested in retirement.“Ihaveheard that some people who are 87 aren’t working full time,” Phillips joked. “I do it not because I have to do it but because I love to do it.”And with so much of his family nearby – of his three grown children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, most still live in Southern California – it’s no wonder Phillips is content.

– JONATHAN SMITH

2022



Homecoming Candlelight Devo

Campus activities/New building open houses Various locations, 2-4 p.m.

Carnival Hardin Administration Building lawn, 5-7:30 p.m.

Hardin Administration Building steps, 7:45-8:15 p.m.

Gutenberg Celebration Hunter Welcome Center, 6:30 p.m.

Musical: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Boone Family Theatre, 8 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 Sorority and fraternity breakfasts Various locations, 6-9 a.m.; see extended schedule of events at acu.edu/homecoming

Musical: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Boone Family Theatre, 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 Chapel Moody Coliseum, 11 a.m. Lunch in the Bean World Famous Bean, 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; $6.50 for all you can eat Make and Take ACU Maker Lab, Brown Library, 2-4 p.m.

ACU Sports Hall of Fame Celebration Hunter Welcome Center, 6 p.m.

Spring-Summe r 2022  ACU TODAY46

Concert by Backroads, led by Stephen Bailey (’92) Siggie Pavilion Park, 8 p.m.

Musical: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Boone Family Theatre, 8 p.m.

Class reunion lunches Campus Mall and The Quad, noon

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

Musical: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Boone Family Theatre, 2 p.m.

ACU TODAY  Spring -Summer 2022 47

Beginning on East North 16th Street, 10 a.m.

October 13-16, 2022 REUNIONS Reunion class lunches are on Saturday in the Campus Mall and The Quad after Homecoming Chapel. If your preferred class year is 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012 or 2017, enjoy a barbecue lunch catered by The Shed Market and hang out with friends and classmates before heading over to tailgating and the football game at Wildcat Stadium. Learn more and register for your class reunion today at acu.edu/homecoming Parade

Homecoming Chapel Moody Coliseum, 11:15 a.m.

Gameday tailgating begins Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium, 12:30 p.m.

Wildcat volleyball: ACU vs. Grand Canyon Moody Coliseum, 7 p.m.

Wildcat football: ACU vs. Southern Utah Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium, 3:25 p.m.

Find a friend that loves Jesus and loves others! A friend that speaks truth into your life and makes you a better friend, professional, and human being. I sat down in @jenndeegolden class in Spring 2012 and am so thankful for our friendship today. #ACUDifference #LoveLikeFamily!

We love our followers on social media. Here are just a few of the posts by and about Wildcats. happilyharrellhive August 17, 2021

This weekend, I brought Brooks “home” to mama (& grandma’s) alma mater. He was a trooper through the parade, chapel, football game & 3-hour dinner. Thank God for good company & the coming-home QUEEN herself. @jessica_jaxson

Aston Whiteside November 15, 2021 Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science with a minor in criminal justice.

Grapevine Faith December 9, 2021

Carlee Jane Pruden October 18, 2021

Our future Wildcat was so excited to receive his ACU pillowcase! Thank you @ACUedu! #futureWildcat Shatise Chism May 7, 2022 Wanna make God laugh? Tell him your plans!

Go Wildcats! This @acuedu flag will hang in the Worth Street gym, thanks to the Wessel family, who purchased the right to fly their chosen flag at the annual gala. Today, Mrs. Munson’s class came to support our facilities team as they hung the flag! #oneheart #faithgala

Sherrie Miller October 17, 2021

#WalkByFaith onTheSide#StateofTheArtStadiumthatHasYaBoyFace#HeOnOurSideWeCantLose

When you start fostering a child, you don’t think about college, you don’t think about the next Christmas, the next birthday, you don’t even get to fully look forward to the next day. On Aug. 23, 2016, a freshly turned 13-year-old little girl showed up on our doorstep. I was 28. Steve was 32. Overnight we went from parenting only toddlers, to teens. Today is a day I can be confident in what the Lord called us to do many years ago. Today the #harrellhive is down a bee. But I’m so proud of this girl. I’m SO at peace with her new “home.” I’m also ISO someone to come unload the dishwasher ...

Felicia Woods July 30, 2022

Them: How long did it take you, Whiteside? Me: 9 years later, bro. Well, I started in 2007 and finished in 2021, so do the math. But it’s not about how you start. It’s about how you finish and the ones you inspired along the way. Going to #ACU, I thought it was about football and the whole time it was about the lifelong friendship/relationship established that’s still #Prominent way after football. My foundation was found and set. Jeremiah 29:11. Give God glory.

48 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY #ACU

The MOST valuable lesson I learned during the journey is that without God I CAN’T do anything, however, with God I CAN do ANYTHING! Philippians 4:13 … I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!

#ToGodBeTheGlory #ACU#WannaMakeGodLaugh#MasteredIt#TellHimYourPlans#GoWildcats

Texas RepublicanHouseCaucus March 20, 2021 Well, don’t think we will be able to keep the smile from @RepStanLambert’s face on Monday. Congrats to @ACU_MBB on a historic win. Great fight to the end by @TexasMBB #MarchMadness

NCAA March Madness March 21, 2021 It’s not alright, alright, alright.

Mel August 28, 2021 We decided to drive by @ACUedu this evening and ran into officer Rick Woodard of ACUPD. We stopped him to ask a quick question and it was very nice of him to go out of his way to give us a personal tour of the campus. Thank you Officer Woodard! #wildcats Ted Lasso March 21, 2021 @ACUsports Heck, that’s a 10/10 in my book. Congrats to Coach Golding and his team!

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 49 Andrea Osorto July 25, 2022 Game time with the birthday boy Jordan and also hanging out with ACU Admissions and alumni at the Astros game.

thomasrhettakins March 21, 2021 Hey! So I put ACU to be in the finals! Anywhere I can buy an ACU basketball jersey?

benay_sifford August 10, 2021 We’ve got one SUPER EXCITED future ACU Wildcat on our hands! A big THANK YOU to @acualumni for her new Cat Pack from Willie! #acuwildcats#shesreadyforkindergarten@acuedu

Weston Jameson March 29, 2022 Our favorite place to eat! The @ACUedu caf aka The Bean. Berk went pizza, yogurt, waffle & brownie. Kel had French fries, watermelon & a waffle. I went for steak & baked potato. Harry pictured trying to steal some of the dessert sampler. You can see why it’s our favorite!

Kobi Kathleen April 18, 2022 Today, one of my students wore an ACU sweatshirt to class; as an ACU alum living 700 miles away, it made my entire day! @ACUedu

Shalesia Rhodes-Brown May 2, 2022 When randomly stopping in to see one your professors prompts them to give you a voice lesson! It’s like we picked up right where we left off almost a decade ago … this man has seen me AND helped me grow up as a person, a spouse, and most definitely as a musician. You played a MAJOR PART in my upbringing! I love you Papa Cook! The endorphins are running strong and my heart is full of hope! God is good!

John Layfield March 20, 2021 It’s giving day at my old alma mater. Everyone giving $53.52 – which coincidentally is the score of @ACUsports victory over Texas in March Madness, 53-52.

By Ron L. Deal (’93 M.M.F.T.) ISBN 978-0764239694 • 220 pages bethanyhouse.com For engaged or pre-engaged couples who have at least one child from a previous relationship, Deal offers premarital counsel about preparing to blend family relationships, parenting, finances, rituals and daily routines.

Making Space for Grace A BELIEVER’S GUIDE TO LIVING OUT GRACE By Dr. Art McNeese (’73) ISBN 978-1973689232 • 120 pages westbowpress.com

A proper understanding of grace is essential to our spiritual and emotional health. McNeese explores how Christians can move from a theory of grace to experiencing it on a daily basis.

The Heart’s Charge By Karen (Gaskin ’93) Witemeyer ISBN 978-0764232084 • 384 pages bethanyhouse.com

50 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY The BOOKCASE A View From the Pew HAVING MY SAY By Shirle (Moore ’55) Smith ISBN 978-1646548200 • 188 pages amazon.com For those who struggle as a Christian and sometimes want to give up, Smith’s testimony speaks to the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and empower one’s life. Well, Girl AN INSIDE-OUT JOURNEY TO WELLNESS By Jami (McKelvie ’96) Amerine ISBN 978-1643525587 • 256 pages shilohrunpress.com Well, Girl offers scriptural truths, honest and thought-provoking ideas about wellness, and an in-depth look at a life free from culture’s lies –with increased self-worth, better overall health, and more confidence in one’s physical appearance. Begin Again YOUR HOPE AND RENEWAL START TODAY By Max Lucado (’77) ISBN 978-1400226474 • 240 pages thomasnelson.com Bestselling author Lucado asks: Are you ready to leave the pandemic behind and start a new chapter? If so, there is good news: Our God is a God of fresh starts. Out of Many, One PORTRAITS OF AMERICA’S IMMIGRANTS By George W. Bush ISBN 978-593136966 • 192 pages crownpublishing.com One of the 43 immigrants featured by the former U.S. president is Gilbert Tuhabonye (’01), 2016 ACU Young Alumnus of the Year. Tuhabonye is a motivational speaker, author and co-founder of Gazelle Foundation, which funds and builds clean water projects in his native country of Burundi, Africa. Hunting Magic Eels RECOVERING AN ENCHANTED FAITH IN A SKEPTICAL AGE Dr. Richard Beck (’89) ISBN 978-1506464657 • 250 pages broadleafbooks.com With attention and an intentional and cultivated capacity to experience God as a living, vital presence in our lives, Hunting Magic Eels shows how to cultivate an enchanted faith in a skeptical age.

By Dr. James W. Thompson (’64) ISBN 978-1725258358 • 122 pages wipfandstock.com

Big Hare & Big Faith MAY YOUR FAITH BE AS BIG AS YOUR HAIR AND YOUR IMPACT CROSS OCEANS By Caroline Hare (’09) ISBN 978-1676966692 • 144 pages amazon.com

One Horseman is drawn to an old flame. Another is trapped by his past. Neither can ignore the mystery of missing children nor the women determined to intervene. Working together to find the children, will these two couples find love as well?

Preaching Second Corinthians

The issue of what constitutes legitimate ministry, the focus of 2 Corinthians, is a pressing one today for churches as they face an identity crisis. Thompson is a celebrated scholar and professor emeritus of New Testament at ACU.

The founder of Waves Ministry Inc. draws on her years as youth pastor and mentor to offer practical advice and inspiration to other women considering careers in ministry.

Preparing to Blend THE COUPLES’ GUIDE TO BECOMING A SMART STEPFAMILY

is gaining nationwide attention for practical advice about how to fulfill our responsibility to care, show up and act every day in a global movement to create extraordinary good. Gravel and Grit A WHITE

At the time of his death in 2017, Jenson was arguably America’s foremost theologian. In this book, all his writings on Scripture and its interpretation have been collected for the first time.

By Al Price (’63) ISBN 978-1984577689 • 398 pages xlibris.com In this autobiography, Price recalls growing up in a culture that reveals the gravel (the coarse, unflattering and shameful racial hostility) and grit (remarkable will to survive) of people learning to live and work together in the American South.

Edited by Dr. Leonard Allen and Dr. Carisse Mickey Berryhill ISBN 1684263516 • 160 pages acupressbooks.com

and

Field’s

The author teaches in the biology department at the University of North Texas. She takes a scientific look creationism range geology, paleontology biology, her own Christian faith. Chris Field (’06) ISBN 978-1684263110 acupressbooks.com book BOYHOOD THE SEGREGATED SOUTH

Grounded in research, this book provides middle school teachers with lesson plans promoting skills for active media consumption and creation. Shewmaker is former dean of the College of Education and Human Services, and Boone is a teaching and learning specialist in ACU’s Adams Center.

You Were Made for This Moment COURAGE FOR TODAY AND HOPE FOR TOMORROW

and

By Dr. Janet (Kellogg ’82) Ray ISBN 978-0802879448 229 pages eerdmans.com

Creating and Consuming Media Messages with a Purpose A GUIDE FOR EDUCATORS By Dr. Jennifer (Wade ’92) Shewmaker and Amy (Nichols ’92) Boone ISBN 978-1953360021 • 58 pages giftedunlimitedllc.com

of fields, including

IN

By Max Lucado (’77) ISBN 978-1400231799 • 240 pages thomasnelson.com

By Robert W. Jenson, Edited by Dr. Brad East (’07) ISBN 978-0190917005 • 376 pages global.oup.com

through a

A GUIDEBOOK FOR CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER By Dr. Jackie (Straker) Halstead (’87 M.M.F.T.) ISBN 978-1684260416 • 192 pages acupressbooks.com

Divining Gospel ORACLES OF BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION IN A UNIQUE SYRIAC MANUSCRIPT By Dr. Jeff Childers (’89) ISBN 978-3110617214 • 241 pages degruyter.com Childers’ study centers on material presented here for the first time: the text and translation of a unique sixth-century Syriac manuscript, the earliest and most complete example of a hermeneia Gospel.

A Billion Hours of Good CHANGING THE WORLD 14 MINUTES AT A TIME By

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 51 Selections of books published by Abilene Christian University or those written, edited, compiled or contributed by ACU alumni, faculty, staff and students. Jesus in Isolation LAZARUS, VIRUSES AND US By Dr. W. Scott Sager (’87) ISBN 978-0764239694 • 180 pages wipfandstock.com In a world of illness, isolation, distancing and death, making sense of suffering has never been of more critical importance. Jesus experienced all of that and more in Bethany with his beloved friend, Lazarus. Baby Dinosaurs on the Ark? THE BIBLE AND MODERN SCIENCE AND THE TROUBLE OF MAKING IT ALL FIT

The Triune Story COLLECTED ESSAYS ON SCRIPTURE

at

Several current and former ACU scholars are editors and contributing authors of this look back at an event at the roots of modern-day Churches of Christ.

•

Queen Esther’s courage during tough times changed the course of history. Lucado takes a fresh look at the Old Testament character and makes application for those today who are weary, wounded or worried about the future: God can and does provide relief. Answered by Fire THE CANE RIDGE REVIVAL RECONSIDERED

Leaning Into God’s Embrace

• 208 pages

Halstead, a longtime ACU marriage and family therapy faculty member, offers a best-practices guide for those who are beginners with contemplative prayer, including templates everyone can use.

Let Us Come Before His Presence 365 DAYS TO LEARN, MEDITATE AND PRAY FROM THE PSALMS AND THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT By Yann Opsitch (’07 M.A.C.M.) ISBN 978-1946849946 • 642 pages sulisinternational.com Opsitch, former ACU missions coordinator for Europe, draws on Psalm 95:2 as motivation to help Christians develop the discipline of coming each day before the Lord in a quiet place for the renewal of their faith, hope and love.

A Murder in Searcy By Deana (Hamby ’93) Nall and Mike S. Allen ISBN 978-8743783519 • 346 pages amazon.com

Edited by Dr. Mark W. Hamilton (’90 M.Div.) and Dr. Pamela Barmash ISBN 978-0884145547 • 244 pages amazon.com

When Holy Scripture is read aloud in the liturgy, the church confesses with thanksgiving that it has heard the word of the Lord. What does it mean to make that confession? And why does it occasion praise? The Doctrine of Scripture is a theological investigation into those and related questions, and this book – by East, an ACU assistant professor of Bible, missions and ministry – is an exploration of that doctrine.

The Doctrine of Scripture By Dr. Brad East (’07) ISBN 978-1532664991 • 228 pages eerdmans.com

An Ethic of Trust MUTUAL AUTONOMY AND THE COMMON WILL TO LIVE By Dr. W. Royce Clark (’60) ISBN 978-1978708709 • 432 pages rowman.com

This volume explores the literary and archaeological evidence for what may be the most impactful century in history, the sixth century BCE. The Bible bears the traces of that era on nearly every page. Events of that time, especially the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, still reverberate today.

Relationships require mutual trust. So do nations of diverse people and different religions. If laws are based on the common “will to live” and mutual trust, is it possible to find an ethic that provides unity and freedom, and is inclusive enough for all citizens to support?

The Church’s Book THEOLOGY OF SCRIPTURE IN ECCLESIAL CONTEXT By Dr. Brad East (’07) ISBN 978-0802878151 • 416 pages eerdmans.com

Development in Mission A GUIDE FOR TRANSFORMING GLOBAL POVERTY AND OURSELVES

By Dr. Monty Lynn, Rob Gailey and Derran Reese (’00) ISBN 978-1684264216 • 224 pages acupressbooks.com Jesus’ words, “Blessed are you who are poor,” are the seeds of a new reality. So how can God’s people participate in this transformation of how to live and serve? Development in Mission offers a way forward and encourages readers to embrace a holistic approach to poverty alleviation. Co-authors include ACU’s Lynn, professor of management sciences, and Reese, director of experiential learning.

The author’s historical memoir recounts following her late husband to Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, where he helped eradicate smallpox. What she encounters deepens her love for Africa, while eroding her naïveté.

The 1974 murder of a 68-year-old socialite in a small town in Arkansas – a crime that captured the attention of an entire state, and beyond –is recounted from court records, police documents and personal interviews.

FIGHTING SMALLPOX IN AFRICA AMID TRIBALISM, TERROR AND THE COLD WAR

Vaccines and Bayonets

52 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY In the Shadow of Empire ISRAEL AND JUDAH IN THE LONG SIXTH CENTURY BCE

What role do varied understandings of the church play in the doctrine and interpretation of Scripture? In this book, East – ACU assistant professor of Bible, missions and ministry –explores recent accounts of the Bible and its exegesis in modern theology and traces the differences made by divergent, and sometimes opposed, theological accounts of the church.

By Bee Harbin Bloeser (’60) ISBN 978-1627878579 • 420 pages beebloeser.com

Edited by Bruce Horner, Megan Faver Hartline (’10), Ashanka Kumari and Laura Sceniak Matravers ISBN 978-11646420193 • 252 pages upcolorado.com

The second children’s book authored by Moore, ACU professor and chair of language and literature, is the story of a young boy who learns how to befriend a bully.

Christian Compassion A CHARITABLE HISTORY

Written in a parent’s voice, Blackburn affirms the unique role a neuro-typical child (the main character) plays in the family, when living alongside a sibling with special needs. The book acknowledges the tender dynamics within their world and encourages the child in a way that says, “Your parents see you, love you, are proud of you, and know this road you walk is not easy,” a message these children need and long to hear.

By Zach Garza (’04) ISBN 978-1735346977 • 161 pages amazon.com

By Dr. Monty Lynn ISBN 978-1725251175 • 338 pages wipfandstock.com

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 53

A whimsical picture book for children helps your kids process their emotions in a fun, healthy way so they can transform from grumpy to laugh-out-loud happy. Do your children sometimes feel out of sorts and don’t know why?

Follow a sad, mad little boy as he searches far and wide for joy – and discovers that the best way to be joyful is to help others find their happiness.

BOOKS FOR CHILDREN You Are a Superhero, Too!

By Brittanie (Wright ’05) Blackburn ISBN 978-1973696445 • 30 pages westbowpress.com

By Dr. Steven Moore ISBN 978-1643723747 • 30 pages amazon.com

GUARDIANS OF NIGHT By Becca (Unger ’06) Archer and illustrated by Audie Pope (’18) ISBN 978-1735987729 • 42 pages amazon.com

Hartline, assistant professor of English at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, co-edits this book examining how a mobilities perspective allows new ways of thinking about concerns across the field of rhetoric and composition. It takes up questions of how the movement of texts, ideas and people, both geographically and socially, affect the ways we think about writing, language, literacy and teaching.

Theodore Thumbs and the Yellow Balloon

Mobility Work in Composition

Where’d My Giggle Go? By Max Lucado (’77) ISBN 978-1400220670 • 32 pages thomasnelson.com

Archer writes and freelance artist/mural painter Pope illustrates a book for children who find themselves scared or lonely at night, reassuring them they are never alone.

The author, executive director of Forerunner Mentoring, offers practical advice on how you can build positive, lasting and life-changing relationships with the kids who need it the most.

You Can Mentor HOW TO IMPACT YOUR COMMUNITY, FULFILL THE GREAT COMMISSION, AND BREAK GENERATIONAL CURSES

Selections of books published by Abilene Christian University or those written, edited, compiled or contributed by ACU alumni, faculty, staff and students. Cracked PREPARING FOR OPEN HEART SURGERY By Jon Frazier, CRNA (’98) ISBN 978-8587363779 • 222 pages amazon.com

With degrees in business, nursing and anesthesia, Frazier writes an informative and humorous account about what to expect through the planning, surgery and recovery of open-heart surgery, based on his expertise and personal experience as a patient.

Luna Moona

Getting

From the antique and medieval to the modern and contemporary, each age offers unique actors and insights into how Christian compassion is viewed and achieved. The ACU management sciences professor also looks at modern movements in justice, peace, humanitarianism, mutual aid and community development.

A concise introduction to the variety of recent movements within the broad stream of Christian nonviolence. Werntz is associate professor in ACU’s Graduate School of Theology, and Cramer is managing editor at the Institute of Mennonite Studies and teaching pastor at Keller Park Church in South Bend, Indiana.

By Dr. W. Royce Clark (’60) ISBN 978-11978708648 • 582 pages rowman.com

Perceiving Things Divine TOWARDS A CONSTRUCTIVE ACCOUNT OF SPIRITUAL PERCEPTION Co-edited by Dr. Frederick D. Aquino (’89) and Dr. Paul L. Gavrilyuk ISBN 978-0198802594 • 272 pages global.oup.com

Perceiving Things Divine expands the topic of the “spiritual senses” by systematically correlating spiritual perception with other types of perception such as ordinary, moral and aesthetic. Aquino is professor of theology in ACU’s Graduate School of Theology and Gavrilyuk is Aquinas Chair of Theology and Philosophy at the University of St. Thomas.

KEY THINKERS, ACTIVISTS AND MOVEMENTS FOR THE GOSPEL OF PEACE

54 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

Strangers on the Earth PHILOSOPHY AND RHETORIC IN HEBREWS

From Isolation to Community A RENEWED VISION FOR LIFE TOGETHER

By Dr. David C. Cramer and Dr. Myles Werntz ISBN 978-1540960122 • 192 pages bakerpublishinggroup.com

Preaching Hebrews and 1 Peter

Many Europeans who immigrated to the New World to escape Christendom’s divisiveness represented three powerful majorities – white, male and ironically, Christian. Despite democracy’s unrealized ideals of equality of liberty, opportunity and justice for all, these earlier forms of majoritarianism persisted and still threaten democracy. This book posits a solution.

PREACHINGPROCLAMATION:THENEW TESTAMENT

It is no secret that isolation – in political, cultural, physical and social forms – is one of the key ailments of our age. Werntz, associate professor in ACU’s Graduate School of Theology, argues for a renewed vision of the church community as a theological therapy to isolation. A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence

By Dr. Myles Werntz ISBN 978-1540965059 • 208 pages bakerpublishinggroup.com

When Collaboration Mirrors the Trinity LEVERAGING UNITY TO BLESS OUR WORLD By Avery Stafford (’92) ISBN 978-1666710656 • 206 pages wipfandstock.com “That they all may be one” was Jesus’ first-century prayer. Stafford presents a biblical model to actualize this invitation, detailing four rhythms that mirror the loving community of the Triune God. This is a timely invitation for local churches to make the practice of unity our new normal. God’s Woman Revisited WOMEN AND THE CHURCH

By Dr. James W. Thompson (’64) ISBN 978-1666705300 • 118 pages wipfandstock.com

Reconciling Opposites RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AND THE ETHICS OF A SOCIAL CONTRACT OF A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY

Ths book provides a fresh examination of relevant biblical passages on what women may do in worship assemblies and beyond, with conclusions avoiding the baggage of centuries of unquestioned interpretations and the contamination of reading our world into that of the Bible.

Contrary to what we might imagine from its title, this book is immersed in Hellenistic thought. Thompson, scholar-in-residence for ACU’s Graduate School of Theology, demonstrates an acquaintance with Greco-Roman rhetoric, supporting his arguments with the assumptions of Hellenistic philosophy.

By Gary T. Burke (’66) ISBN 978-1643880778 • 420 pages amazon.com

By Dr. James W. Thompson (’64) ISBN 978-1532684029 • 200 pages wipfandstock.com

A guide for preachers using the results of current scholarship on Hebrews and 1 Peter to enrich the preaching task. Thompson, scholar-in-residence for ACU’s Graduate School of Theology, demonstrates how these ancient letters offer insights to believers who are aliens and exiles in a post-Christian culture.

Perseverance Isn’t Pretty ROAD TO HEALING MIND, BODY AND SOUL By Robbie Freeman Shugart (’82) ISBN 978-1952247941 • 220 pages amazon.com having dedicated much of her life to athleticism and physical health, it wasn’t until the last decade that Shugart’s focus shifted to inner healing and educating herself on nutrition. Now over age 60, she shares insights and tools for a healthy lifestyle. Can Count on God DEVOTIONS Max Lucado (’77) ISBN 978-11978708648 • 582 pages thomasnelson.com Overwhelmed by anxiety about the future? You’re not alone. Bestselling author Lucado will lead you to a place of greater peace with 365 daily reminders of this message – no matter what happens next, the Lord will never change. Each dated entry includes a Scripture passage and a brief powerful devotion.

Humanity needs a common ethic, but religions’ ethics are tied to their unique claims which merge history with mythology or metaphysics, and so cannot be proven by historical data. This inquiry focuses on an alternative method of “corroboration” Christian scholars have used in the last two centuries, with a surprising conclusion.

A Cambridge Companion to Genesis CAMBRIDGE COMPANION TO RELIGION SERIES

THE

Selections of books published by Abilene Christian University or those written, edited, compiled or contributed by ACU alumni, faculty, staff and students.

This Year, Lord TEACHERS’ PRAYERS OF BLESSING, LITURGY AND LAMENT By Sheila Quinn Delony ISBN 978-0578982472 • 168 pages amazon.com Suited for gift-giving, this book is a collection of honest prayers that emerged from two decades of teaching and working beside teachers, written by a former ACU assistant professor of education.

Twenty-one By Amanda (McAdams ’11) Ellard ISBN 978-1950169733 • 138 pages amazon.com In 2020, Lucy Claire Ellard was born with a diagnosis of Trisomy 21, more commonly referred to as Down syndrome. This book is a love story between mother and daughter, and, as with any great love story, it is a patchwork quilt of heartache, joy and growth.

You

Chapter by Dr. Fred Aquino (’89) ISBN 978-1108438322 • 400 pages cambridge.org Written by an international team of scholars, including ACU theology professor Aquino, the Companion provides a multi-disciplinary update of all relevant issues related to the interpretation of Genesis, including key developments in biblical scholarship since the Enlightenment.

Help Is Here FINDING FRESH STRENGTH AND PURPOSE IN THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT By Max Lucado (’77) ISBN 978-1400224814 • 240 pages thomasnelson.com Help Is Here reminds us that our Good Shepherd doesn’t just feed us; he leads us. He does more than correct us; he directs us. God keeps us on track – and best of all, he’s commissioned the Holy Spirit to guide us down the winding roads of life, wherever they lead.

REDEFINING THE ABSOLUTE Dr. W. Royce Clark (’60) ISBN 978-1978708679 • 472 pages rowman.com

While

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 55

Ethics and the Future of Religion

Under the Texas Mistletoe A TRIO OF HISTORICALCHRISTMASROMANCE NOVELLAS By Karen (Gaskin ’93) Witemeyer ISBN 978-1735346977 • 304 pages bakerpublishinggroup.com Spend Christmas in 1800s Texas this year with three charming holiday novellas from bestselling Christian historical romance author Karen Witemeyer, whose writing is spiced with her signature blend of humor, thrilling frontier action and sweet romance.

365

The Grace of Troublesome Questions VOCATION, RESTORATION AND RACE By Dr. Richard T. Hughes (’64) ISBN 978-168426022 • 352 pages acupressbooks.com Hughes shares his lifelong quest to make sense of three exclusivist narratives: the church of his youth was the one true church, the U.S. was God’s chosen people and the embedded notion of white supremacy. He came to see that none of them squared with the teachings of Christian faith.

By

At the 2022 event, junior engineering major Eva Straughn directed the Delta Theta sorority to its first overall Sing Song win in 45 years. Earl Young won gold as a quartermiler for the U.S. in the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. His recovery at age 71 from acute myeloid leukemia in 2012 inspired him to create awareness among potential donors.

HilltopVIEW

Sing Song With ACU’s transition to NCAA Division I, improvements to Moody Coliseum, and a commitment to further develop ACU’s basketball programs, Sing Song has found a new niche later in the spring semester. “February has always been a full month with basketball, Black History Month and theatre productions,” Long said. “Shifting Sing Song to later in the semester allows students to fully participate in more activities throughout the entire academic semester with less competition for

Timing, other changes made in Sing Song, Greek life

manyinhavefraternitiesSororitiesacademicoffirstfoundationalstressallowingofandoutalsoTheresources.”movespreadstheworkpreparationSingSong,forlessinthosefewweeksspringcourses.andwillguidelinesplaceforhowhourseach week can be devoted to rehearsals. In addition, Spring Break will be reserved for students to rest and travel, so Sing Song rehearsals will not take place during the placeSongannualACU’sbreak.67thSingwilltakeMarch31April 1, 2023, in Moody Coliseum. Greek Life Starting in January 2022 and each January after, all includingstudents, BY THE NUMBERS BY WENDY KILMER

TERMS TO KNOW Greek life – The experience of participating in sororities or fraternities, many of which use Greek symbols in their names. Sororities and fraternities –

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For the latest visit acu.edu/news acu.edu/youtube acu.edu/facebook acu.edu/linkedin acu.edu/instagramacu.edu/twitter

Sing Song and Greek life at ACU looked different in 2021-22 and moving forward as the historic musical event has found a new spot in the university calendar after Spring Break, and first-year students are now participating in sororities and fraternities.“Enhancing the student experience and providing meaningful community are the motivations behind changing the timing of both Sing Song and joining Greek life at ACU,” said Dr. Tamara (Boyer ’03) Long, vice president for student life and enrollment. “We also want to fully support ACU initiatives related to experiential learning and athletics.”

Number of patients who have benefitted from a bone marrow donor match with an ACU student, faculty or staff member swabbed as part of an Earl Young’s Team drive on campus in recent years. Olympic gold medalist Young (’62), himself a recipient of a life-saving donor’s generosity, leads the nonprofit that has helped 82 patients find a donor since ____.

Formerly known as social clubs, ACU’s men’s and women’s organizations remain locally based and unaffiliated with national Greek organizations, but the terms sorority (women) and fraternity (men) are more recognizable to new and current students. New Member Orientation –The process of students joining a sorority or fraternity. NMO, as it’s more commonly known, welcomes new members into the organization and orients them to its traditions, history and values. First-year students are now able to join sororities and fraternities through the NMO process.

56 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

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Number of PCR and antigen COVID-19 tests administered at ACU during the 2020-21 school year. Symptomatic patients were tested at the university’s Medical Clinic, but PCR testing was available for asymptomatic students, faculty, staff and dependents at scheduled clinics throughout the year as part of a research study collaboration with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 18

Total economic impact of ACU in its hometown of Abilene in 2021, according to an annual report by the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas (ICUT). Direct spending included $74.9 million in employee spending, $59.38 million in student spending, $12.56 million in visitor spending, $39.4 million in university purchases and $10.325 million in capital expenditures. ACU is a founding member of ICUT, which represents 42 private, nonprofit institutions in the state. ICUT sponsors the Robert D. Hunter Founders Award, named for Dr. Bob Hunter (’52), recognizing individuals who demonstrate the same vision and commitment to independent higher education as those who founded ICUT more than 50 years ago.

ICUT T ACU forms higher education partnership with MLB Rangers hanks to an innovative new agreement, Abilene Christian is now an official higher education partner of the Texas Rangers Baseball Club and will offer customized academic opportunities for players and staff through ACU Online. In addition to the traditional sponsored partnership, the Rangers and ACU brainstormed ideas for a more moretoRangers’playersfinalized2022,collaboration.in-depthInAprilthetwoorganizationsplanstoprovideandstaffintheTexassystemtheopportunityenrollinanyoftheuniversity’sthan40onlineprograms,as well as specially designed certificate programs, through ACU Online. “We look to facilitate as many growth opportunities for our players and staff as possible,” said Ben Baroody, Texas Rangers’ director of leadership, organizational development and mental performance. “This partnership with ACU is a tremendous opportunity, offering many courses that we feel will enhance their professional and personal development.”

first-year28+students, can participate in rushing and joining Greek life.

Countries represented in online seminars hosted in 2020-21 by ACU’s Siburt Institute for Church Ministry, including Argentina, Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Colombia, Cyprus, Kingdom of Eswatini, Germany, Ghana, Honduras, India, Italy, Lebanon, Malawi, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

$355,794,040

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 57

Both Sing Song and Homecoming will continue to serve as significant opportunities for alumni to return to campus, and new fraternity and sorority members will continue to participate in the Homecoming parade, even though the joining process will begin in the spring semester. As Greek life at ACU grows to include first-year students, the fraternities and sororities have also expanded their commitment to philanthropy and spiritual formation. Although ACU’s organizations have a long history of service to the community, that aspect of Greek life has become more formal with a requirement for each group to pair with a local nonprofit. The fraternities and sororities provide service hours and help raise money for the nonprofit. In addition, chaplains are being mentored through the Office of Spiritual Formation, and weekly Greek life gatherings have a more intentional and focused spiritual growth“Students,aspect.alumni, faculty and staff have all spoken into and helped form these transitions,” Long said. “We are committed to ensuring ACU continues to provide students a vibrant Christ-centered experience.”

CANNONLAURENRANGERSTEXAS

The courses will count for academic and professional credit hours and will be specifically tailored for the professional sports industry, with topics such as analytics, kinesiology, nutrition, education and Inleadership.addition, a new certificate program in analytics is in the works for ACU Online beginning in Fall 2022. More details will be announced“Thislater.isa unique partnership with significant benefits for both ACU and the Texas Rangers,” said Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), ACU president. “I’m excited to see how it unfolds and the new opportunities ahead for Rangers players and employees to be a part of ACU’s learning environment.”Aspartofthe agreement, ACU will have co-branding opportunities and receive advertising at Texas Rangers’ home games and on radio broadcasts, social media, etc. The university also will have the opportunity to use Globe Life Field for one football or baseball game in each of the next two years. “We are thrilled to partner with Abilene Christian University. This partnership will create a unique opportunity for our players and staff to continue their education while being a part of the Texas Rangers organization,” said Jim Cochrane, senior vice president of partnerships and client services for the Texas Rangers. 

Jemar Tisby

Bestselling author Jemar Tisby, president of the faith-based media company The Witness: A Black Christian Collective, was the guest speaker Feb. 10-11, 2021, at the inaugural Don Williams and Royce Money Distinguished Lecture Series, hosted by ACU’s Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action. Tisby also spoke on campus April 28, 2021, during Black History Month.

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Ted Poe (’70) spoke April 8-9, 2021, to students at events sponsored by the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice, Alumni Relations and the Diversity Council. He is namesake of ACU’s Ted Poe Chair of Political Science and Criminal Justice and was as a trustee of his alma mater from 1990-2004. Poe served more than 20 years as judge of Houston’s 221st Criminal Court, and was elected seven times to the U.S. House of Representatives, serving from 2005-19.

Twenty-five former editors of The Optimist –representing 70 years of the student newspaper – participated April 19, 2021, in a Zoom reception for 2021-22 editor Sydney Varner, a sophomore from Edmond, Oklahoma: Linda Bailey (’11), Edwin Broadus (’52), Raymon Fullerton (’73), Ron Hadfield (’79), Rick Hagar (’76), Colter Hettich (’10), Brittany Jackson (’16), Julie (O’Neill ’00) Johnston, Dr. Charlie Marler (’55), Dr. Doug Mendenhall (’82), Alan Miller (’75), Dr. Gary Moore (’53), Madeline (Orr ’15) Osburn, Key Payton (’86 M.A.), Dr. Kenneth Pybus (’89), Garner Roberts (’70), Mallory (Sherwood ’07) Schlabach, Dr. Jared Schroeder (’00), Owen Simpson (’21), Dr. Jessica Smith (’02), Jonathan Smith (’06), Mark David Smith (’13), Karen Strong (’73), Rebecca (Gibbs ’90) SunderRaj and John Williams (’74). Also participating was Dr. Heber Taylor, who founded the journalism program at ACU and was Optimist advisor from 1951-55, and his son, Jeff Taylor Dr. Joey Cope, associate professor in conflict management and associate vice president for academics at ACU Dallas, and Josh Ross (’03), lead minister at Sycamore View Church in Memphis, Tennessee, were featured speakers at May 2022 Commencement in Wildcat Stadium. Cope recently retired after 33 years at ACU as an assistant vice president for development operations, executive assistant to the president, interim vice president for advancement, executive director of The ACU Foundation, executive director of the Duncum Center for Conflict Resolution, and dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.

CAMPUS VOICES

Justice. White also is the son of Dr. Jack White (’71), ACU’s 2015 recipient of the Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award. Young Alumni Forum guests in Spring 2021: Tim Holt (’15), senior production editor for Dude Perfect, Feb. 1; Austin Garza-Kilcullen (’16), loan operations manager at UpEquity, and John David Baker (’14), football passing game coordinator at the University of Mississippi, March 17; Megan McConnell (’14), director of public relations at Ramsey Solutions, and Payten Ricks (’20), financial professional at 49 Financial, April 19; Denise Naudé (’17), medical school student at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and Josh Rhodes (’18), doctoral student in psychology in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Baylor University, May 31. Dr. Brian J. Wright , author of Communal Reading in the Time of Jesus, presented a Zoom webinar April 6, 2021, hosted by ACU’s Center for the Study of Ancient Religious Texts. Wright is associate pastor at Denia Community Church in Denton, Texas, and his pastoral and academic work have been featured in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Desiring God and Power for Living

58 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Jack White Jr., a minister and a partner at the FH+H law firm in Washington, D.C., spoke March 23, 2021, to students at an event in ScienceDepartmentsponsoredAmphitheatre,BeauchampbytheofPoliticalandCriminal

Dr. Brad Cheves (’84), longtime vice president for development and external affairs at Southern Methodist University, and Dr. Ben Ries, college assistant professor, associate dean for vocational formation and executive director of the Center for Vocational Formation at ACU Dallas, were the featured speakers at May 2021 Commencement in Wildcat Stadium. Rachel (Smith ’98) Riley, college assistant professor of psychology, was featured speaker at December 2021 Commencement in the Expo Center of Taylor County.

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A downpour did not damper the enthusiasm of pop-rock recording artist Ben Rector or the mostly student crowd gathered April 30, 2021, on the front lawn of Teague Boulevard. White Jr.

Lee

Joe Lee began July 25, 2022, as Abilene Christian University’s chief investment officer and president of Abilene Christian Investment Management Company. Lee is responsible for managing the university’s nearly $700 million endowment. Longtime ACU CIO Jack Rich (’77) plans to retire at the end of 2022. For the last three years, Lee has served as managing director for the family office of Strait Lane Capital Partners in Dallas, and prior to that, he held senior investment positions at HBK Capital Management, JANA Partners and Fortress Investment Group. He earned his undergraduate degree in economics from Harvard University.

Ellis earned a master’s degree in dispute resolution from Southern Methodist University. He’s worked with the Frisco Police Department for most of his 23 years in law enforcement with more than 16 years in management and leadership roles. In Frisco, he led the Peer Support Group, an innovative way to support the mental wellbeing of officers, and served as supervisor of the School Resource Officer program and as lead ethics instructor for new recruits and employees.

Rich is retiring after more than 30 years of service at the university. He has been chief investment officer and president of ACIMCO since 2006. From 1991 to 2005, he served in a variety of positions including executive vice president and vice president for business. During his time overseeing the university’s endowment, it grew from $56.5 million to more than $680 million today (See page 69).  MacalusoDELONYSCOTT EllisDELONYSCOTT

Abilene Christian University announced new hires in several key roles.

long history with ACU, his understanding of our community and mission, and his relational skills really stood out to us as we searched nationally for the right person to serve in this position,” said president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91). Williams said his work in both the Abilene and ACU communities has prepared him for this role and sparked his passion.“Ithink there’s a tremendous opportunity for ACU to be an example of how we bring people together in a world full of schism and division,” Williams said.

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Jason Ellis (’98) joined ACU in July 2021 as the new chief of police. Ellis came from the Frisco (Texas) Police Department, where he was a lieutenant. “We were impressed with his leadership, innovative ideas, and how quickly he built a strong rapport with those he interacted with,” said Kevin Campbell (’00), senior vice president for operations. “Jason lives and believes in our mission and culture.”

Schroeder most recently served as district director for U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington. Other previous roles include working in government relations for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and serving as vice president for public affairs at Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, corporate communications manager for the Ohio and Kentucky region of Duke Energy, and as president and managing director of Sibcy Cline Core Services. “Blair has a range of experiences and expertise that will help push the university forward as we boldly move into the future,” Schubert said.

Anthony Williams was named ACU’s new chief diversity officer in August 2021. Williams has served at ACU for nearly 25 years, most recently as an advancement and executive community relations officer. He’s also been an elected official in Abilene for more than 20 years, including the last five as mayor, and inclusion and diversity have been key aspects of his candidacy and “Anthony’sservice.

Williams, Macaluso, Schroeder, Ellis and Lee named to key administrative, staff posts

Blair Schroeder began in September 2021 as chief planning officer, a newly created position. He will oversee the university’s strategic plan and strategic initiatives, represent the Office of the President in various interactions and provide leadership in governmental relations. “I believe ACU is uniquely positioned to expand its reach and reputation in higher education without compromising its strong Christian foundation,” Schroeder said. “I am excited to use my talents and experiences to help fulfill the mission of this university.”

Alumni in online programs save 20% on tuition

Dan Macaluso began in October 2021 as vice president for advancement. Previously, he was senior consultant and principal in the higher education division of Marts & Lundy, where he guided fundraising strategy for clients including Texas A&M University, California Institute of Technology and Loyola University Chicago. “After conducting a national search that surfaced a significant number of candidates, Dan clearly rose to the top of the list. He has significant breadth and depth of experience in advancement and fundraising that will benefit the entire university,” Schubert said. Macaluso has held advancement leadership roles with Harvey Mudd College (Claremont Colleges system), Emory University, The University of Texas at Austin and Penn State University, including 13 years at the vice president level. “I feel truly blessed to be given this opportunity,” Macaluso said. “While the growing reputation and success of the university was a factor in my decision, I was immediately drawn to the quality and character of the many people I met and their unwavering commitment to the ACU mission.” Macaluso succeeds Jim Orr, J.D. (’86), who is now executive director of the Office of Gift Planning, formerly called The ACU Foundation.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 59

Once you’re a Wildcat, you’re always a Wildcat – and now enrolling in a graduate degree through ACU Online has a new perk. Alumni who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from ACU will receive a 20% savings on tuition when enrolling in one of Abilene Christian’s online programs.

The discount is available for any online bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree or certificate except for the Doctorate of Nursing and degrees offered through the Graduate School of Theology. It cannot be combined with institutional scholarships or other discounts.  KESLERWENDI

In July 2021, the Abilene City Council approved a $2.93 million incentive package that enables the Development Corporation of Abilene to enter into an agreement with NEXT Lab to expand its research and development facility at the former Taylor Elementary School site.

Study Abroad finds new residential hub home in Oxford Center for Pre-Health Professions builds on foundation created by Body & Soul CU’s popular Body & Soul program has expanded into a new Center for Pre-Health Professions (CPHP), offering students academic programming and co-curricular opportunities to enhance their educational experiences. The CPHP builds on nearly two decades of transformational work by Body & Soul, which connected pre-health students with Christian health professionals through shadowing and observation, said Dr. Lori Houghtalen, executive associate dean for the sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences. As the number of students interested in health care careers has burgeoned, so has the need to formalize the wealth of academic and co-curricular support being provided to pre-health students, she said. Approximately 20% of every incoming class on the Abilene campus is pursuing a career in health care. Dr. Cynthia (Barton ’81) Powell, professor of chemistry, has been named executive director of the center. Dr. Diana Flanagan, assistant professor of biology, serves as assistant director.

“This project is an incredible opportunity for Abilene,” said Misty Mayo, president and CEO of the DCOA. “Abilene Christian University’s NEXT Lab not only brings opportunities to Abilene residents and students, but it has the potential to positively impact the world through future research and development projects and the commercialization of clean energy in Abilene. The DCOAis thrilled to be a part of this achievement.”

A

Powell said the center will build upon ACU’s highly successful pre-health programs begun more than 50 years ago by Dr. John Little (’59) and expanded by Dr. Perry Reeves (’65) Over the past five years, ACU students’ overall acceptance rate into medical and dental schools stands at about 80%, twice the national average. The CPHP will provide a foundational experience for students interested in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, podiatry, optometry, occupational therapy and physical therapy, among“Professionalothers. schools want mature students who can handle difficult curriculum, but who also can negotiate difficult social and professional situations and make decisions based on a strong moral compass,” Powell said. “We are working hard to help our students become mature people of faith who are able to be salt and light in the medical community.” 

For the latest visit acu.edu/news acu.edu/youtube acu.edu/facebook acu.edu/linkedin acu.edu/instagramacu.edu/twitter

Incentive funds from the DCOA will be used to support the purchase and improvements of the former Taylor Elementary property, as well as specialized equipment and materials, and the building of the new Gayle and Max Dillard Science and Engineering Research Center (SERC) on the property.

Terri Aldriedge, RN, who has led Body & Soul for 16 years, will continue her work as director of recruiting and shadowing. Through the center, students will have the opportunity to pursue a new minor in Health Humanities that provides a broader lens through which to approach health care practices, said Powell.

Funding from sources on both the local and national level are helping move forward research at ACU’s Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Lab and the construction of its future facilities.

60 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Academic NEWS BY WENDY KILMER

Faculty will teach a menu of seminar courses each year to help students build strong professional portfolios and explore health care careers, to prepare them for international medical mission service, and to prepare them for professional school admissions examinations and guide them through the application process.

The Global Health Care Study Abroad program will now be part of the center’s academic offerings, and the center will coordinate with the Halbert Center for Missions and Global Service to continue sending students to serve with medical mission teams. Students also have opportunities to participate in research programs in their home departments.

Architectural rendering of Gayle and Max Dillard Science and Engineering Research Center at ACU

INC.COOPER&SMITHPARKER,

DCOA, DOE grants contribute to fundraising for new SERC, add to NEXT infrastructure

– ROBIN SAYLOR

Juniors majoring in nursing at ACU helped test students, faculty, staff and dependents for COVID-19.

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The research examined the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 on ACU’s campus from August 2020 through May 2021. The four Abilene Christian undergraduate students joined two TTUHSC students from its Master of Public Health program in assisting Bailey in the project. “These students learned molecular techniques and skills that they can use for other research or in interpreting scientific data,” Bailey said. “Real-time PCR is the gold standard method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, and these students mastered this skill.”

The DCOA also invested $300,000 in NEXT Lab in 2018. In addition, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP) has awarded infrastructure grants to NEXT Lab in each of the past two years. The 2021 grant of $367,793 helped support the radiochemistry aspect of NEXT Lab – specifically, establishing new and unique real-time direct chemical analysis capabilities for molten salt systems. In that grant cycle, NEUP awarded a total of $3.54 million in funding to 24 universities. ACU’s award was the largest of the four Texas schools that received an award and the second largest award overall, behind only the University of Notre Dame. ACU was one of only four private universities to receive a 2021 award in this program. In the 2022 NEUP grant awards, announced in June, ACU received $292,770 to expand the radioactive materials characterization capability in the NEXT Lab. ACU was one of 20 colleges and universities, and one of only three private institutions, to receive a NEUP infrastructure grant for “These2022.grants are helping to establish ACU and the NEXT Lab as emerging leaders in molten salt nuclear research, which will help lead to an operating molten salt nuclear research reactor on ACU’s campus,” said Dr. Kim Pamplin (’91), professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and a senior chemist for NEXT Lab. “We may have the only such operating reactor in the world for a period of time, which will put ACU firmly among the leaders in this area of research,” he said. Plans are already underway to apply for the next round of NEUP grants to request funding for the research that NEXT Lab will now be capable of performing using this well-equipped radiochemistry lab.  hey aren’t history majors, but they may be history makers. While studying nursing, biology, athletic training or other similar fields, many ACU students took historic steps to mitigate the effects of a pandemic –administering COVID-19 tests, processing specimens in a lab and even vaccinating their peers and the community. Nearly 9,000 COVID-19 tests were administered at ACU during the 2020-21 academic year. Symptomatic patients were tested at Abilene Christian’s Medical Clinic, and PCR testing was available for asymptomatic students, faculty, staff and dependents as part of a research collaboration with Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterJunior-level(TTUHSC).nursing students did much of the nasal swabbing for these PCR tests with supervision from Dr. Marcia (Rives ’93) Straughn, assistant professor and dean of ACU’s School of Nursing. “Because they spend time in hospitals and medical settings, nursing students have a deep understanding of the pandemic and awareness of the impact of COVID,” Straughn said. “So this opportunity was pretty cool –actually being involved in prevention and Tomitigations.”complywith NCAA guidelines, ACU student-athletes had to be tested for COVID-19 multiple times each week during their season in 2020-21. Students in the Master of Athletic Training program, much like the nursing students, were trained to help conduct the nasal swab testingSamplesprocedures.fromthe student-athlete testing and the clinics on campus were transported to the TTUHSC laboratory for analysis as part of a research study led by Dr. Emily Bailey, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health in Texas Tech’s Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. Four ACU biology and biochemistry majors served as interns and helped process the samples. “I have a passion to go into the medical workforce and help fight COVID in some way, but as an undergraduate, that was hard to do. When I found this opportunity, it was awesome to be able to contribute in a productive way,” said Aleksander Cook (’21).

In Spring 2021, as vaccines became available in Abilene, ACU students had yet another opportunity to participate in virus mitigation. Nursing students and athletics training students administered vaccines on campus and in city clinics, with supervision from faculty members. “I can tell my grandkids that I helped with the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Lexi McCown (’22). “Not only was I gaining valuable experience in providing vaccinations, but I was actually helping get our world back to a new sense of normalcy. Being able to sign my name as the person who administered someone’s vaccine on that sheet of paper was so rewarding.”

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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Nursing majors have filled key roles in health protocols

T DELONYSCOTT ACU TODAY  Fall-Winter 2021

Manzano Miller

Two new endowments include chair for political science and criminal justice

“These incredible gifts will benefit students and faculty for generations,” said Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost.  Coates

Angels ascending and descending a ladder to heaven, as portrayed at the Jacob’s Dream sculpture site at ACU.

Three ACU students will live, work and learn abroad next school year as recipients of the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. ACU had nine students qualify as semi-finalists this year, a record number, and three were named finalists, tying the university’s record for most Fulbright recipients, set in “We2018-19.arethrilled for our new Fulbright recipients and excited about what the grants will allow them to do and experience,” said Dr. Jason Morris (’96 M.S.), dean of the Honors College and director of the Office of Major Scholarships at ACU. “The Fulbright program is a great fit for students at ACU due to its service orientation and global mission, and we love to see more of our students getting to participate in this highly-regarded program.”

Fulbright grantees to live, learn across the globe

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Two recent generous gifts will provide funding for faculty in ACU’s Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice, and a ofthescholarshipstudentinDepartmentMusic. Dr. CoatesNeal(’87), professor and chair of political science and criminal justice, established the two endowments in honor of his late wife, Cynthia (Cannon ’87) Coates The $1 million Cynthia Coates Endowed Chair for Political Science and Criminal Justice is designated for faculty support, research and development. Funds may also be used for guest and part-time professors or for other designated needs of theIndepartment.theDepartment of Music, students will benefit from a separate gift establishing the Cynthia Coates Endowed Flute Scholarship. The award will be given to an instrumental education major (with preference for flute majors) upon entering the clinical teaching semester or to an outstanding flute major who is a leader in the Big Purple Marching Band and exemplifies a life of Cynthiaservice.died Sept. 14, 2021, at age 57. As a student, she was a member of the Big Purple Band and first-chair flute in the Symphonic Orchestra. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree.

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Cesar Manzano (’22) earned his MBA in May 2022 through ACU Online and has been an eighth-grade English teacher in Brownsville for the last three years. He’ll spend next year as an English Teaching Assistant in Spain. Cassidy Miller (’18) is also a graduate student through ACU Online and works in Abilene as the university’s study abroad coordinator. She will graduate in August with a Master of Education degree in higher education. Miller will spend next year in the Slovak Republic teaching English and advising students who want to come to the U.S. Bree Foster (’17) lives in Glenn Heights, Texas, but will spend next year in Indonesia as an English Teaching Assistant. Foster studied psychology at ACU and went on to study social anthropology at the University of Oxford for her master’s degree. In the previous school year, Autumn Vaught (’21), then a senior secondary education major, received a Fulbright grant, and she spent nine months as an English Teaching Assistant in a plurilingual high school in the Galicia region of Spain. Students or recent alumni interested in applying for Fulbright grants or other prestigious scholarships utilize ACU’s Office of Major Scholarships. This office is part of the Honors College and assists all students interested in applying for competitiveRecipientsawards.ofFulbright awards are selected in an open, merit-based competition that considers leadership potential, academic and/or professional achievement, and record of service. Fulbright alumni include 60 Nobel Prize laureates, 88 Pulitzer Prize recipients, and 39 who have served as a head of state or ACU’sgovernment.traditionof persons being awarded Fulbrights dates back to the 1950s with their fields of study representing business, journalism, music, English, physics, education and political science. 

62 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

A Historic new home welcomes Study Abroad students and faculty back to Oxford, England

fter a pandemic-year break, ACU Study Abroad resumed for Fall 2021, and students traveling to Oxford, England, found a newly renovated home awaiting them. The beautiful Victorian-era house was purchased in 2019 and can accommodate more than two dozen students and faculty, conveniently located with easy access to the historic City Centre. A formal open house took place July 12, 2022. “We completely replaced the two kitchens that will serve students, refitted every bathroom with new fixtures, reconfigured a few other spaces, renovated an art studio space into a classroom/study room space and added a one-bedroom apartment extension to house ACU faculty-in-residence,” said Stephen Shewmaker (’91), executive director of ACU Study Abroad. Seventeen students led by Dr. Tracy (McGlothlin ’80) Shilcutt , associate dean of the Honors College and professor of history and global studies, were the first to stay in the Oxford house. A second group of 15 students led by Dr. Cliff Barbarick, associate professor of New Testament, spent the semester in Leipzig, Germany, at an ACU-owned villa that opened in Spring 2018. “With the purchase of the Oxford house, we now own two properties in great cities that serve as fantastic platforms for ACU students and faculty,” said Shewmaker. “This puts ACU in a strong position compared to many institutions, and it gives us greater opportunities to strategically plan for the future, and also to solidify ourselves as genuine, long-term members of the community in our hub sites – which is vital for the student experience.”

CAROLINE ADELE NIKOLAUSKARI SHERMAN

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At the Oxford open house in July 2022, ACU provost Dr. Robert Rhodes (right) announced an endowed scholarship to support students majoring in history and global studies while participating in study abroad. The scholarship honors Dr. Ron Morgan (’81), professor of history and global studies, and Dr. Janine (Paden ’77) Morgan, instructor of Bible, missions and ministry. The Morgans directed ACU’s Oxford Study Abroad program from 2003-12.

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ACU’s third hub site in Montevideo, Uruguay, returned in Spring 2022. To mitigate potential program disruptions caused by the pandemic, students have been limited to personal travel within their host countries, said Shewmaker. “But we are excited by the possibilities this opens up for students to be able to explore their host countries in more detail,” he said.  – ROBIN SAYLOR Learn more about ACU’s programs at acu.edu/student-life/study-abroad

While she was a senior English teaching major, Courtney Cook (’21) was awarded the Bill Short Prize in World Literature for an essay titled “In Defense of the Art: How Literary Fiction Promotes Empathy.” She was invited to present her work at the 2021 Alpha Chi National Convention, held virtually April 8-10, 2021.

Vice provost Dr. Susan (Lester ’92) Lewis was selected as one of 52 emerging college and university leaders for the 2021-22 class of the ACE Fellows Program, AmericaninstitutionshasFellows1965,education.programdevelopmentleadershiplongest-runningtheinhigherSincetheACEProgramstrengthenedinhigher

“The Seal Lullaby” – a flex-band piece by Grammy Award winner and virtual choir innovator Eric Whitacre – was performed by the ACU Wind Ensemble and featured on Whitacre’s social media channels in April 2021. Almost 30 music majors were involved in the project, which was funded by an ACU Undergraduate Research Grant awarded to Dr. Brandon Houghtalen, associate professor of music. “Whitacre is known and beloved worldwide, and he basically invented the virtual choir concept long before there was COVID-19. He and his music are loved by millions of people,” said Dr. Steven Ward (’92), professor of music. Whitacre

Dr. Christopher Hutson is professor of Bible, missions and ministry at ACU, and associate dean for academics in the College of Biblical Studies.

An Africana Studies Collection Endowment was established at Brown Library with a gift from Dr. Christopher and Mary Lou Hutson The funds will support the acquisition of materials related to African American and African Diaspora history, literature and religion.

ACADEMIC DIGEST Fall-Winter 2021  ACU TODAY MooreDELONYSCOTT

Dr. Jason Morris (’96 M.S.) has been named executive director of ACU’s Center for Building Community and director of the Lynay program.

Stampede of approval wo and a half years of late nights and obsessing over tiny lines and dots culminated in July 2021 when the U.S. Postal Service released four new designs of its Forever stamps, all illustrated by Ryan Feerer (’05), associate professor of design, director of the graphic design program and designer-in-residence at Abilene Christian University. Feerer was asked to illustrate four new USPS stamps with the theme of “Western Wear,” and he painstakingly designed a boot, a pearl snap shirt, a belt buckle and a cowboy hat. “I had never created something so delicate and small. I instantly became obsessed with every detail. I tried to be strategic in the placement of every dot and stroke of each line,” he said. “I would often find myself up late into the morning hours, not realizing how much time had passed.

The result was pages and pages of stamp variations that I was constantly studying and comparing. It was overwhelming at times but in a fun way. This project is probably the most significant thing I will ever work on, and I wanted each stamp to live up to that.”

major Jake Neill earned a 2021 Gold Medal Congressional Award, the United States Congress’ award for young Americans. Participants can earn Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Medals. Each level involves setting goals in four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expedition/Exploration. To earn the Gold Medal one must complete 400 hours of voluntary service, 200 hours of personal development, 200 hours of physical fitness, and engage in an expedition/exploration. Over the past four years, Neill dedicated more than 1,000 hours to this distinction. ACU launched an online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in May 2021, designed for licensed RNs who want to pursue a B.S.N. degree while continuing to practice. Abilene Christian is one of nine recipients of a Council for Christian Colleges & Universities grant totaling $1.5 million to advance STEM Thanksresearch.toaresearch proposal stemming from his work in ACU’s NEXT Lab, senior Keaton Brewstee (’21) earned a prestigious fellowship from the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowships Program. With an annual stipend of $34,000, he enrolled at Colorado School of Mines in Fall 2021 to work toward his doctorate in mechanical engineering.

T LewisMARCELAINTAMMY

64 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Dr. Steven Moore, professor of language and literature and director of the McNair Scholars Program, has been named chair of the Department of Language and Literature. Moore joined ACU’s faculty in 2000 and was named Teacher of the Year in 2004. He is the first Black faculty member to serve as an academic chair at the university.

education by identifying and preparing faculty, staff and administrators for senior positions in college and university leadership through a distinctive and intensive nominator-driven, cohort-based mentorship model. ACU’s online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy program has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education. The new online degree is offered in addition to the university’s long-standing residential M.M.F.T. Freshmanprogram.biochemistry

The center’s mission is to address the crises of community at all levels of society. It also

Ten short films representing the work of more than 70 ACU students premiered to a packed Paramount Theatre during ACU’s 18th annual FilmFest gala April 7, 2022. It was the first time since 2019 the event was held at the historic downtown theatre after the pandemic forced changes of venue for the 2020 and 2021 events. Visit acu.edu/filmfest to watch the winning entries.

family studies

65 provides an ongoing program of research, writing and speaking events for local, state, national and audiences.internationaloccasionallyLynay is a select and ethnically diverse group of 300 students from all majors that meets weekly to develop insights and sharpen skills as current and future community servant-leaders. Morris is dean of the Honors College and director of the Office of Major Scholarships at ACU and will continue to serve in those roles. Dr. Gary McCaleb (’64) founded and led the center and Lynay for more than 20 years. After 57 years at ACU, he retired and will continue to provide a consulting role to the university. Brad Benham, J.D. (’05), led the Lynay program for four years before taking a new role with Hendrick Health in Former2021.FBI special agent Dr. McAdoo(CoulstonBrenda’91) began in Spring 2021 as director and associate professor for ACU Online’s undergraduate criminal justice program. McAdoo spent 24 years as a member of the FBI and was on its crisis negotiation team from 1998-2020, including seven years as team leader. She trained law enforcement officers in crisis negotiation skills, and she was a certified federal mediator for the U.S. Department of Justice from 2007-20. McAdoo was in the first cohort of ACU’s Jack Pope Fellows program, and earned degrees in political science and public service. Dr. Brad East , assistant professor of theology, was selected as ACU’s 2022 Teacher of the Year. Teacher of the Year for 2021 was Rachel (Smith ’98) Riley, college assistant professor of psychology. The honor is voted on by the graduating senior class, and honorees are recognized during May Commencement. Learn more about ACU’s online programs at acu.edu/grad CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS • Business Analytics • Conflict Management • Conflict Management for Church Leaders * • Conflict Management for Educators * • Cybersecurity • Healthcare Collaboration and Conflict Management * • Medical Family Therapy • Precision Medicine Administration • Precision BACHELORMedicineOFSCIENCE DEGREES • Applied Communication • Child and Family Services • Christian Service and Formation • Communication Disorders • Criminal Justice • Health and Human Performance • Healthcare Administration • Information Technology Administration • Integrated Studies • Management • Marketing • Organizational Leadership • Pre-Nursing Track • Psychology • RN to •GRADUATEB.S.N.DEGREESMasterofArtsinChristian Ministry • Master of Arts in Conflict Management and Reconciliation * • Master of Arts in Global Service • Master of Arts in Theological Studies • Master of Business Administration • Master of Divinity • Master of Education in Higher Education • Master of Education in Instruction and Learning (Cohort only) • Master of Healthcare Administration • Master of Marriage and Family Therapy • Master of Science in Information Technology • Master of Science in Management • Master of Science in Precision Medicine • Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership • Doctor of Nursing Practice * Online with residency ACU online certificate and degree programs MorrisWHITEPAUL

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022

Riley McAdooDELONYSCOTT East Faulkner Center to advance marriage, Anew endowment is helping fund the Paul and Gladys Faulkner Center for Marriage and Family, honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Paul Faulkner (’52) and his wife, Gladys (Shoemaker ’52) The Paul and Gladys Faulkner Center Endowment was established in Spring 2022 and led to the creation of a new center in the College of Biblical Studies designed to provide speakers, events, counseling, research and other resources for the ACU community as well as the local Abilene area and beyond. Faulkner, a longtime preacher, counselor, professor, author and entrepreneur, died July 5, 2022, at age 92 (see page 105). They had been married 64 years when Gladys died in 2016 at age 86. He is perhaps best known for the Marriage Enrichment Seminar he began with his college roommate and friend, the late Dr. Carl Brecheen (’52), also a longtime faculty member at ACU. Faulkner was a licensed marriage and family therapist and founded the Marriage and Family Institute at his alma mater in 1979. “Thanks to the generosity of donors to the Faulkner Endowment, we’re able to build on the enduring legacy that Paul began in marriage and family ministry,” said Dr. Heidi (White ’98) Morris, associate professor of marriage and family studies. “The Faulkner Center will focus on promoting and strengthening the formation and commitment of marriages, families and healthy relationships.”  Gladys and Dr. Paul Faulkner

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For the latest visit acu.edu/news acu.edu/youtube acu.edu/facebook acu.edu/linkedin acu.edu/instagramacu.edu/twitter

Campus NEWS

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66 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY BY WENDY KILMER

Renovations of the coliseum arena bowl will reduce seating for athletics events from 4,100 to 3,600.

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Bullock Hall opened in Fall 2021 as the home of 246 freshmen.

Siggie Pavilion Park MACKEY MITCHELL ARCHITECTS

Architectural rending of new GATA Fountain, just south of Moody Coliseum Construction on the southeast part of campus includes the shielded trench of the SERC research bay (in foreground) and Wessel Hall beyond it on East North 16th Street.

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The ACU campus continues to be transformed by a number of new and recently completed construction projects: The $48 million renovation of Moody Coliseum is scheduled for completion in August 2022. Improvements include the building’s exterior, fan access, seating conditions, locker rooms and offices for the men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball programs, plus the addition of a hospitality area, a weight room and an academic center. The Hill’s newest residence hall housed 246 students in 2021-22. The four-story, 72,000-square-foot Bullock Hall features 128 double rooms, eight single rooms, two apartments, nine study spaces and a lobby on each floor. The venue honors JoLynn (Calk ’59) and the late Joe Bullock, parents of ACU board chair April (Bullock ’89) Anthony. Bullock West Wing is named for Robert (’81) and Melanie (Evans ’82) Bullock and Bullock East Wing for Emily (Mahon ’81) Bullock and her late husband (see page 96), Joe Dell Bullock (’80). The Bullock brothers are siblings of April Anthony. Demolition of 60-year-old Gardner Hall made way for construction of another new Moody Coliseum renovation headlines campus venue upgrades

Tim Holt , who earned a bachelor’s degree in digital entertainment technology with a minor in digital media from ACU in 2015, said the program’s flexibility allows students to focus on their specific interests, in his case, film production. “In my video game development class, Dr. Burton allowed the film studies students to create a short documentary about the students making their games,” he said. “He encouraged us to lean into our area of study and grow skills in our passionShortlyareas.”after graduation, Holt took a job with Dude Perfect, a sports and comedy group boasting more than 50 million YouTube subscribers. Now senior production editor, he has worked with celebrity athletes, spent three days filming on the U.S.S. Nimitz aircraft carrier, competed in trick-shot challenges for a YouTube audience of millions, and sometimes gets recognized in public, thanks to his occasional front-of-camera appearances.“TheDET program at ACU is what launched me into my career,” Holt said. “Having the opportunity to produce multiple films and videos in class helped me learn crucial videography skills. And best of all, Dr. Burton helped me build my online portfolio, which played a major role in me landing my first job.”  ACU DET degree program maintains Top 50 ranking in world

– ROBIN SAYLOR INNOVATIVE

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 67 residence hall much like Bullock Hall, only larger. Wessel Hall, named for ACU trustee Rick (’81) and his wife, Debbie (Rains ’80) Wessel, of Westlake, Texas, will be a fourstory, 96,000-square-foot facility housing 350 first-year students, including an Honors living/learning community and a faculty-inresidence apartment. The hall is scheduled to be complete and in use by Fall 2023. Construction of the new Gayle and Max Dillard Science and Engineering Research Center began this year, with anticipated completion in Summer 2023. The 28,000-square-foot center will include dedicated spaces to support research in chemistry, physics and many disciplines of engineering. At the heart of the facility will be a 6,000-square-foot research bay with a 25-foot-deep by 80-foot-long shielded trench, a 40-ton crane, and specialized ventilation and enhanced electrical power. To allow for construction, the Larry “Satch” Sanders Intramural Fields are being temporarily moved to a new location south of Wildcat Stadium. Work is now complete on the 4,400-square-foot Advanced Research Center, a renovation of the former Taylor Elementary School gymnasium, adjacent to the future SERC. Both facilities will allow ACU’s NEXT Lab to continue to grow and develop the systems needed to contain, purify, circulate, analyze and cool the molten salt used in ACU’s proposed molten salt researchRenovationsreactor.are underway on the College of Business Administration’s 35-year-old Mabee Business Building, including updates to the classroom wing, a larger and more advanced finance lab and an upgraded digital experience lab. In addition, COBA’s The Quiet Place and another in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building are being renovated. After damage to the building due to a winter storm in 2021 and to accommodate growth in ACU’s School of Nursing, offices and classrooms in the Zona Luce Building are being reconfigured this summer. An upgraded GATA Fountain will be the centerpiece of a new plaza area outside Moody Coliseum. Construction is underway on the new fountain and other improvements, including additional trees, shade structures, seating and space for special events. These features are scheduled to be in place by October with a grand opening at Homecoming. Siggie Pavilion Park opened in January 2021 and provides a covered, outdoor on-campus space for gatherings. The contemporary, open-air, 51-by-30-foot pavilion sits on an elevated concrete plinth east of the Zona Luce Building  t’s not all fun and games for students in ACU’s digital entertainment technology program. Serious career preparation is happening, and education experts and employers are taking notice.

The DET program at Abilene Christian was launched more than a decade ago, spurred by the rapid growth and high demand for graduates skilled in the field. The demand has continued to increase, with the video game industry forecast to reach $256.97 billion in revenue worldwide by 2025, said Dr. Brian Burton, associate professor of digital entertainment technology. In 2016, The Princeton Review first saluted ACU’s program as one of the Top 50 game design programs in the world –a designation it has held every year since. ACU is the highest-ranked Christian university on the list. “With our strong placement record of graduates, constant updates to our curriculum to reflect changes in the field, and project-based classes, the digital entertainment major is being noticed,” Burton said. “Our top students are now recruited well before graduation.”

DET majors are given the opportunity to combine their passion for technology and creativity in an interdisciplinary approach to game design, film production and digital design. One of the distinctive aspects of ACU’s program is how it merges virtual production and game design. “Ours is one of the few, if not only, programs in the world that includes both areas in the same major,” Burton said. “By combining these two fields, we are able to leverage a large crossover of skills to create two different forms of communicating a message that similar programs are not doing.”

116th

Instead of exhibitor tents with tables of books and other fromthereadwherelivematerial,printedwenowinatimepeoplecanandordersameonlinethecomfort of their own living rooms.”

Dr. David Kneip (’03 M.Div.) has been named associate director of the Siburt Institute, a role in which he will lead a relaunch of ElderLink, host regional Equipping for Ministry events and serve as chief of staff. He will continue in his role as associate chair and assistant professor in the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry. Dr. Houston Heflin (’95) has been named director for the Contemplative Ministers’ Initiative (CMI). He will also continue to teach spiritual formation and ministry courses in the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry and the Graduate School of Theology.Churches can download new and updated materials from the Siburt Intitute for small groups or other adult education programs, thanks to the work of Dr. Mark Hamilton (’90 M.Div.), ACU professor of Old Testament, and other colleagues. Recent Bible study resources include lessons from Exodus, the Ten Commandments, Deuteronomy, 1-2 Kings and three Minor Prophets, and can be accessed at no cost from the institute’s website at siburtinstitute.org

Organizers have made a number of pivots throughout Summit’s history to keep it relevant and serve the needs of its audience.

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Siburt Institute news, new resources for churches

The new format focuses primarily on specific congregational leadership groups – such as children’s ministers, preaching ministers or small-church ministers – and these communities will engage with God, with one another and with material designed to equip them for effective service. Attendance is limited to 400, with registration required.

The Siburt Institute continues ACU’s long tradition of equipping and serving churches and Christian leaders, including programs that create networking spaces for ministry transitions, consulting and learning. Young alumni prominent among local newspaper’s “20 Under 40” profilees Abilene Christian alumni included in the 2021 Abilene Reporter-News’ “20 Under 40” list of young community leaders included Dayton Borger (’11), senior vice president for In Spring 2022, the university’s annual Summit shifted to a new twice-a-year format designed to better serve church leaders.

This year’s fall event is scheduled for Oct. 13-14 with the theme “Abide With Me.” Noted author and practical theologian Dr. Andrew Root will speak at Thursday evening’s plenary session. His latest book is Churches and the Crisis of Decline “In the 116-year tradition of Summit, we find the world has changed drastically,” said Schroeder. “Where folks used to line up to hear a well-loved speaker, we now live in a time where we can hear that speaker with a few clicks of the mouse.

“We must remain open to change to meet the needs of our attendees, yet always hold the greater purpose of Summit high,” Schroeder said. “Although the method may be different, we still serve our mission to connect church leaders in transformative learning communities for dialogue, encouragement and edification.” – ROBIN SAYLOR CAMPUS DIGEST Register for the event and learn more at acu.edu/summit annual Summit settles into twice-a-year format

68 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

Each fall, a two-day gathering will coincide with ACU’s Homecoming weekend, and each spring, a two-day event will lead into Sing Song“Byweekend.connecting Summit to the largest networking events on campus, our attendees will have an opportunity to network with others in their line of ministry, followed by the time and space to visit with old friends, mentors and others in the university community,” said Leah Andrews, who has directed Summit since 2021 and helped orchestrate the change. Andrews recently moved into a new role on campus and has been replaced as Summit director by Dr. Jennifer Schroeder.

precedingyearreturnsendowmentsendowmentausRichstudentsflexibilityuniversities.ACUfinancialforindividualincludesendowmentmorethan975fundsinvestedthelongterm,providingsupportthatsetsapartfromother“Itgivesusinattractingandfaculty,”said.“Italsogivesfinancialflexibilitythatuniversitywithoutandoesnotenjoy.”ACUhasoneofthetop-performingintermsofinvestmentinthenation,Richsaid.Eachsince2006,ACU’sreturnsforthe10-yearperiodrankedinthe

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2021 Rich “Many

Endowment grows to more than $680 million

Three new members joined ACU’s Board of Trustees in February 2021: Leslie Pickett Hutchins, M.D. (’04) of Abilene, Texas; Hon. Shelton Gibbs IV (’02) of Terrell, Texas; and Berto Guerra of San Antonio, Texas.

Hutchins has been a neurosurgeon at Abilene’s Hendrick Medical Center since relocating from Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo in 2017. She has served on the Visiting Committee for ACU’s Department of Biology, and her father, former Wildcat football star Hubert Pickett (’77), also served as a trustee at Abilene Christian fromGibbs1994-2009.isajudge of the 422nd District Court and Kaufman (Texas) County’s first Black district judge. He also is the pulpit minister for Lawrence and Marder Street Church of Christ, where he has served since 2012. Gibbs is frequently a guest speaker for churches, lectureships and panels throughout the U.S., and was the university’s Young Alumnus of the Year for 2021. He served 13 years as assistant district attorney for Kaufman County. Guerra is chair/CEO of Avanzar Interior Technologies, an automotive interiors manufacturing company. He also is co-owner of three VBM Auto Group Dealerships: Toyota of Boerne, Nissan of San Marcos and Nissan of New Braunfels. He retired in 2005 as vice president for legislative and constituency affairs for SBC (now AT&T). He previously served from 2003-18 as an ACU trustee. ACU’s Board of Trustees is the governing body for the university, and trustees are elected at its February meeting each year. They are eligible to serve up to five three-year terms.  commercial lending at First Financial Bank; Rosten Callarman (’12), executive director of Interested Citizens of Abilene North; Dillon Cobb (’04), relationship manager at First Financial Trust; Jesiree (Guerrero ’06) Driskell, director of marketing and communications at Hendrick Health; Nathan Hathorn (’09), president of Silverthorne Insurance Brokers, LLC; Patrick Lewis (’11), finance director at Community Foundation of Abilene; Brandon Osborne (’05), executive director of Abilene Youth Sports Authority; Garrett Smith (’08), partner at Condley and Company LLP; and Jonathan Spencer (’11), president and share owner of Germ Killer. Another five ACU alumni made the list for 2022: Talan (Wadley ’07) Cobb, market president for West Central Texas at Big Brothers Big Sisters; Rosendo Contreras (’07), director of patient safety at Hendrick Health; Jeffrey Duncan (’07), assurance senior manager at Condley and Company, LLP; Ryan Feerer (’05), associate professor of design and graphic design program director at ACU; and Brock New (’14), director of business development for the Development Corporation of Abilene.

Gibbs

Rich believes ACU’s endowment has remained consistently strong for two “First,reasons.our donors are the backbone of our endowment. Their collective gifts of $251 million have resulted in more than $376 million in distributions back to the university while growing the endowment to its current value,” he said.“Second, we have an

The

Weendowmentareorshort-termhave“Manyoversight,”long-termthatmanagementendowmentprocessstartswithboardhesaid.endowmentsboardswithappointmentshavememberswhonotfamiliarwithoversight.areblessedtohave consistent and knowledgeable oversight. This oversight focuses on long-term objectives and not the day-to-day volatility of the markets. I cannot stress enough how important this has been to our long-term investment performance.” ROBIN SAYLO R endowments have boards with membersappointmentsshort-termorhavethatarenotfamiliarwithendowmentoversight.…Thisoversightfocusesonlong-termobjectivesandnottheday-to-dayvolatilityofthemarkets.”

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top 10 percent of all university endowment returns, including both similar-sized institutions as well as billion-dollar-plus endowments, he said. This didn’t happen by accident. “Over 20 years ago, we studied how the best returning endowments were invested,” Rich said. “Over the intervening years we have built on that knowledge to generate above-average returns. Our performance has been influenced by gifts made by donors 50-plus years ago, by progressive endowment allocation philosophies, and by strategic, non-traditional investments.”

– JACK RICH DELONYSCOTT

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Hutchins, Gibbs and Guerra named trustees

ACU’s endowment portfolio passed the $500 million mark in December 2020 and today exceeds $680 million, both milestones,significantsaid Jack Rich (’77), chief Christian’sACIMCO,presidentofficerinvestmentandofAbilene endowment management subsidiary. When Rich started working for ACU 30 years ago, the endowment was $56.5 million and provided about $2.5 million to support scholarships and the operations of the university. Next year, the endowment will provide $26 million to support students and operations.

Brette Tanner

“That came from all of the hard work Joe and I and others had put into building this program,” said Tanner, the architect of an ACU defense that has been one of the best in the nation the last four“Whenseasons.Igot here, I was not a believer, and what I mean by that is that I didn’t know if anyone could do the right thing to turn this program around. But standing up there knowing what we had done and seeing the players … it was emotional,” he said. “I was always the harsh voice when Joe was here, so I wondered if I would get approval from the players,” Tanner said. “We talk all the time about building real relationships, and sometimes you wonder if you’ve really done that. But seeing them in the audience that day and showing me their love and support told me we’ve done that.” His first team in 2021-22 forged an impressive 25-11 overall record. 

And ACU president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91) said he has the “confidence and respect of his So,players.”it’sno wonder it only took ACU administrators one day to determine that Brette Tanner was the right man at the right time to take over the men’s basketball program after Golding resigned to become the men’s head coach at the University of Texas-ElGoldingPaso.resigned April 13, 2021, after leading the Wildcat men’s program to three straight postseason tournament appearances, back-to-back Southland Conference titles, two trips to the NCAA Tournament, and a stunning 53-52 first-round March Madness upset in 2021 of The University of Texas at Austin (see page 16). “We knew after the win over Texas that Joe would have some opportunities, and I was preparing myself to get ready to move,” Tanner said. “Joe always told me I’d be the next head coach here, but I didn’t come here 10 years ago to take his job. However, by this point, I knew I’d be doing myself and my family a disservice if I didn’t try to get the job if Joe did leave.” That wait ended April 13 when Golding told Tanner over breakfast at the Dixie Pig restaurant that he was headed to UTEP. He offered Tanner a job, but – true to his word –Tanner decided he was ready to make a run at the ACU opening. After Golding left Ward’s office later that morning to tell him he was leaving, Tanner entered to let him know he wanted to stay. “Allen told me that he needed to talk to the team and do some other things, and that we would talk later,” Tanner said. “I stayed in his office, and about one hour later I texted and said, ‘It’s later, and I’m still here.’” Ward returned, and they spoke again. The next morning, he was called to Schubert’s office for a 90-minute conversation. And, finally, at 12:30 p.m. on April 14 he was called back to Ward’s office, where the longtime Wildcat assistant was offered the job. Tanner was introduced at a 3 p.m. press conference that same day, and it was an emotional moment for someone not known for giving in to his emotions.

Tanner’s defensive resume, player relationships made him ACU’s choice to follow Golding as next head coach Former ACU men’s basketball head coach Joe Golding (’99) has called him “my most important recruit at FormerACU.”director of athletics Allen Ward said he was “instrumental” to the Wildcats’ recent run of success.

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BY LANCE FLEMING ENLOWJEREMY

70 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Wildcat SPORTS

Lassiter said putting student-athletes first will be the top priority in ACU’s decision-making, helping them grow in faith, in the community and the “ACUclassroom.isanational leader in Christian education and our athletics program will provide a platform to tell the whole world how special this community is,” said Lassiter, who said he sees ACU as the best place to meld his faith and professional goals. “We will win the right way. We will not cut corners. We will do everything with integrity and transparency. And we are going to create one of the best cultures in college athletics because of our people and because of our purpose. We are going to be innovators, and we’re going to have fun and we’re going to do this together.”

Lassiter credited ACU’s success since joining Division I in 2013 as a testament to those “who have put their blood, sweat and tears” into Wildcat programs. “There is great uncertainty and change in college athletics right now … There are programs that are scrambling to maintain what they have and just trying to survive. And then there are programs that are building for a bigger and brighter future,” he said. “Let there be no doubt that at ACU, we are building. The best days of ACU Athletics are ahead of us, and I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and go to work.”

The Wildcats entered the WAC Tournament as the No. 2 seed and beat No. 3 New Mexico State, 4-2, in the semifinals before knocking off top-seeded Lamar, 4-1, in the championship match. ACU qualified for the NCAA Tournament for the first time in the Division I era, but a loss to No. 3 Baylor ended the season. Track and Field The women’s team finished second and the men were sixth at the WAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The teams combined to produce six individual champions, and Annina Brandenburg was voted WAC Women’s Field Athlete of the Year. Thirteen student-athletes qualified for the NCAA Division I West Preliminary Round in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and two – Brandenburg and J.J. Ply – qualified for the outdoor nationals in Eugene, Oregon. Both earned first-team All-American honors.

Lassiter follows Ward as VP for athletics

Zack Lassiter is the 11th administrator to lead ACU Athletics since 1924.

Men’s Tennis Director of tennis Juan Nunez (’09) led the men’s program to its first conference title since the 2019 team won the Southland Conference regular-season championship.

Men’s Basketball Brette Tanner led the Wildcats to a 25-11 record in his first season as head coach and took the undersized Wildcats all the way to the Hercules Tires WAC Basketball Tournament championship game before falling to New Mexico State. ACU went on to play in the College Basketball Invitation (CBI) Tournament where it beat Troy and Ohio before falling to Middle Tennessee State in the semifinals.

Women’s Cross Country The women’s team finished third at the WAC championship meet, led by individual conference champion Irene Rono. The Wildcats went on to finish fifth at the South Central Region championship meet behind Arkansas, Rice, Texas and Louisiana State. Both Rono and Prudence Kiyeng qualified for the national meet after finishing fourth and 10th, respectively, at the regional.  he Wildcats have had 10 administrators oversee the university’s athletics programs since the mid-1920s. The first two – A.B. Morris (1924-69) and Wally Bullington (1969-88) – oversaw 64 of those nearly 100 years, with eight serving as director of athletics in the more than 30 years since. That’s a testament, in large part, to the growing complexity and pressure baked into the role of a 21st-century AD. ACU’s 11th, Zack Lassiter, fits the mold of today’s intercollegiate athletics administrator, now called vice president for athletics at Abilene Christian. Gone are the days of an AD such as Morris also coaching multiple sports, driving the team bus, and managing day-to-day details with an administrative assistant and small staff. ACU now fields teams in 17 sports in a conference with major name recognition, plays regularly on national TV, and wrestles for its share of fast-moving social and mass media attention, recruiting and advertising revenue among NCAA Division I rivals with budgets and other resources many times its size.

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Brandenburg finished eighth in the shot put with an ACU-record throw of 56 feet, 9.75 inches, and Ply was eighth in the men’s decathlon with 7,739 points.

Wildcats advance to regional, national tourneys In its first year in the Western Athletic Conference, ACU experienced the kind of success that could portend great things to come.Twoteams – men’s golf and men’s tennis – won conference championships and two others (men’s basketball and baseball) finished second in WAC tournaments. Men’s Golf The men won the WAC Tournament in Boulder City, Nevada, topping pre-tourney favorite Sam Houston State by one shot. The Wildcats – led by WAC Coach of the Year Tom Shaw – clinched the title when Alex Clouse sank a par putt on his final hole of the day to secure the Wildcats’ championship. The win sent ACU to the NCAA Tournament where it finished 10th in the Stockton (California) Regional, which was won by fourth-ranked Arizona State.

Lassiter, veteran administrator and deputy athletics director for external operations at Oregon State University, was named ACU’s new VPA at a press conference Nov. 9, 2021, and began work Dec. 1. His experience also spanned roles at Utah, North Carolina and Louisiana State. At Oregon State, he oversaw all external athletics units, including marketing, communications, ticket sales and ideation, as well as partnerships with Beaver Sports Properties, Nike and the Pac-12 Network. He succeeds Allen Ward, who announced his resignation in September 2021 after serving three years as AD at ACU.

DELONYSCOTT

“Our success is not going to be because of me. It’s going to be because of we,” he told a press conference crowd at Hunter Welcome Center. “Building great athletics departments is not an individual sport, it’s a team sport. We are going to do this together, we’re going to develop leaders and we’re going to compete for championships.”

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DELONYSCOTT

“I’ve been asked how I will change from my previous stops, and I said that if I have to change, I was doing it the wrong way,” Patterson said. “Everywhere I’ve been we’ve brought in chaplains who shared the gospel with our players. This is a tough sport, and it’s hard to win. Just because I’m a Christian doesn’t mean that I’m a wimp. I was coached by a group of Christian men who were tough and challenged us, but we knew they loved us,” he said. “We’re going to instill into the young men who come here a vision of what they’ll be when they’re 35 years old. We’re going to bring people in to talk to them who will pour into them. And we’re going to coach them hard, but they’re going to know we love them.” 

As Keith Patterson stepped to the podium on Dec. 7, 2021, to introduce himself to the crowd on the club level at Wildcat Stadium and those watching online, the 21st head football coach in program history was overcome with emotion. Maybe it was because, at 58 years old, he thought his time to be a head coach had come and gone. Maybe it was because of the thousands of messages he received in the previous few days offering congratulations. Or maybe it was looking at the front row where his wife, close friends, and his former boss at Texas Tech – the recently fired Matt Wells – sat waiting for him to get“Allstarted.ofthose things hit me at one time, just before I walked up to the podium,” Patterson said. “I was overwhelmed that I had the opportunity to be the head coach at a great university. I thought of people who recommended me for jobs, including [former ACU head coach] Chris Thomsen (’00 M.Ed.), who recommended me for this one. I think 35-plus years of coaching and relationships with players and coaches had built up and came out thatItday.”gave people watching a glimpse at the man the university hired to help jumpstart a program that has found life at the NCAA Division I FCS level to be difficult. With only two winning seasons and one other .500 season to its credit since moving to Division I in 2013, ACU is now on its third head coach of the era. Patterson, however, has the track record the search committee was looking for when they went searching for a new leader.

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“Our committee looked at the great coaches in ACU’s history and asked what those coaches have in common,” said Zack Lassiter, vice president for athletics. “We wanted someone who embraced the purpose of a faith-based institution, someone with connections to Texas high schools, someone who could recruit and retain good staff, and somebody with a history of success who knows how to win. I think we checked each of those boxes with Keith.”

Patterson leaves Texas Tech to become Wildcats’ head football coach

A veteran of 36 years as a coach at several universities, including most recently as the defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, Patterson is coaching for the first time at a place that doesn’t hide its faith. However, he said that aligns perfectly with the person he strives to be each day.

Keith Patterson has coached in 13 FBS bowl games and served as defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, Utah State, West Virginia, Pittsburgh and Tulsa.

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Sports Hall of Fame adds seven more inductees

Verdugo was named All-American and Lone Star Conference Player of the Year three times while a Wildcat in 2011-13.

Another star-studded group will take its rightful place among the university’s athletics greats when they are inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame later this fall. The seven inductees will be honored on Friday, Oct. 14, during the annual induction ceremony at the Hunter Welcome Center. Former ACU quarterback Mitchell Gale (’13) and track and field standout Nick Jones (’12) headline the class that also includes Wildcat football defensive end standout Aston Whiteside (’12), professional golfer Cyril Bouniol (’11), 10-time track and field All-American Arthur Williams (’86), volleyball standout Ijeoma (Moronu ’12) Alstrup, and national champion pole vaulter Angie Aguilar (’07) Gale is the all-time leading passer in both ACU and Lone Star Conference history with 12,109 yards. When Gale finished his career in 2012, he and Billy Malone (’10) – who threw for 12,012 yards from 2005-08 – were only the third set of teammates in NCAA history to each throw for 12,000-plus yards in consecutiveArguablycareers.thegreatest thrower in the history of ACU’s unparalleled men’s track and field program, Jones was recently inducted into the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association NCAA Division II Track and Field Athletics Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th former Wildcat to earn that distinction. Jones is the only athlete in NCAA history – male or female, regardless of division – to win four consecutive national championships in theInducteddiscus. in 2021 were Joseph Thompson (’10), the late Mike Love (’67) and the late Dennis Hagaman (’67) from football; Shawna (Hines ’10) Nehl from volleyball; Kevin Dilworth (’97) from men’s track and field; Maresa Cadienhead (’04) from women’s track and field; and the late Dr. Curt Dickson (’66) as the 28th recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hans Hach Verdugo (’13) of Mexico has become the first former Wildcat to play at Wimbledon and in the French Open. He and partner Philipp Oswald of Austria lost in the second round at 2022 Wimbledon to eventual quarterfinalists Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin. Verdugo and Oswald lost in the first round at Roland-Garros in Paris, France, to eventual champions Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer Verdugo is ranked No. 60 in the world in doubles.

Women’s golf program added, Bennett named the new team’s head coach ACU announced on May 31, 2022, that it is adding women’s golf to its program offerings, joining the rest of its Western Athletic Conference rivals in fielding a team in the sport. About two months later, former ACU assistant Rob Bennett was named the women’s head coach, returning to afterAbileneayear as the women’sassistantgolf coach at the University of Louisville. The university also announced it is dropping beach volleyball, effective immediately. The Wildcat women’s golf team will not compete until the 2023-24 school year while Bennett devotes his time to recruiting and putting a team and playing schedule together. The Byron Nelson Clubhouse, home to Wildcat golf, opened in February 2020 and is designed to accommodate a women’s and men’s program, with locker rooms for each and multiple spaces for coaches’ offices. “We were the only member of the WAC that didn’t sponsor women’s golf,” said Zack Lassiter, vice president for athletics. “At the same time, we’ve got a men’s golf program that just won its first WAC championship, finished in the top 10 at the regional meet and had great success last year. And before I got here, there was forethought into the Byron Nelson Clubhouse in that there’s a women’s locker room, but it’s sitting there empty. The infrastructure and pathway to success are in place, so when we were looking for more opportunities for women, this seemed like a natural fit.”

Wildcats stand out in pro sports Wide receiver Taylor Gabriel (’15) announced his retirement from the NFL. He played six seasons for Cleveland (2014-15), Atlanta (2016-17) and Chicago (2018-19), and helped the Falcons to Super Bowl LI against New England. Gabriel caught 228 passes for 2,860 yards and 14 touchdowns in his career. The Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League signed cornerback Adonis Davis (’20), and punter Simon Laryea (’19) was signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

Brandenburg Blair Gabriel Ply

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Angela Mooney During her four seasons as an assistant coach at SFA, the Ladyjacks put together a record of 105-21, won three regularseason Southland Conference championships and appeared in backto-back NCAA Tournaments. Prior to her time in East Texas, Blair worked as an assistant coach at the University of Central Oklahoma and before that served three seasons as the head coach at Hill College. She is a 2012 graduate of Angelo State University, where she also earned her M.Ed. in coaching, recreation and fitness administration in 2016. 

A pair of NCAA Division I first-team track and field All-Americans in J.J. Ply and Annina Brandenburg were named winners of the Paul Goad Award as the top male and female athletes of the respectively,year, at ACU.Both weeksawardspresentedweretheiraboutfivebeforethey each finished in the top eight in their events to earn All-American status at the NCAA Division I Outdoor National Championship meet in Eugene, Oregon. The awards were handed out May 3 at the annual Wildcat Choice Awards Banquet at the Hunter WelcomeBrandenburgCenter.is the second consecutive track and field student-athlete to win the women’s Paul Goad Award, following up standout distance runner Irene Rono’s award in 2021. A native of Dusseldorf, Germany, Brandenburg was voted the Western Athletic Conference female Athlete of the Year and broke ACU’s shot put and discus records three times each in 2022.Plyfinished eighth in the decathlon at the NCAA outdoor championships. He ended a run of three consecutive Paul Goad Award winners from the men’s basketball program, which had seen Jaren Lewis (2019), Payten Ricks (2020), and Kolton Kohl (2021) win previously. ACU has been handing out the Paul Goad Award since the 1978-79 season, and the men’s track and field program has had the most winners with 14, followed by women’s track and field and women’s basketball with 13 Goadapiece.wasa three-sport star at ACU in the mid-1950s who played professionally for the San Francisco 49ers after being selected in the 1956 NFL Draft. 

Blair named Wildcats’ head volleyball coach Former Stephen F. Austin State University assistant volleyball coach Alisa Blair was named the 10th head volleyball coach in ACU history on Dec. 28, Blair2021.takes over a program that was 9-15 overall and 3-9 in headunderof2021ConferenceWesterntheAthleticininthefinalfiveseasonsformercoach

Former ACU basketball standout Jaren Lewis (’19) continued his fine play professionally in Europe. A forward with the Hakro Crailsheim Merlins in Basketball Bundesliga, the highest league in Germany, he averaged 13.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Eric Kibi (’15) averaged 9.3 points and a team-leading 6.9 rebounds for Avignon Pontet in France’s NM1 League. Jovan Crnic (’17) averaged 13.6 points as a forward for Agriniou in Greece’s HEBA A-2 League. Jalone Friday (’19) averaged 10.8 points and 5 rebounds per game as a center for Samsun in the Turkish Basketball League. Cyril Bouniol (’11) is playing golf professionally on the Korn Ferry Tour. In 2019, he made history in the Suzhou Open

ENLOWJEREMY SPORTS DIGEST LOWRANCENEWMAN

Paul Goad Awards recognize track and field headliners

• Head coach Julie Goodenough enters the 2022-23 season within striking distance of two career milestones: 500 career victories and 200 career wins at ACU. She has a career mark of 488-319 after leading the Wildcats to a 17-13 record in 2021-22, and she is 199-99 at ACU since she took over the program before the 2012-13 season.

Cross Country

Track and Field

• The men’s team was seventh at the WAC championship meet and was led by Levi Chambers, who finished 24th, covering the 8-kilometer course in 24:47.6. The Wildcats qualified for the regional meet where they finished 19th in the team standings. Chambers was 66th overall in 33:04.3 over 10 kilometers.

• The Wildcats set program records for most home runs in a season (82) and strikeouts by pitchers (588).

Football

Women’s Basketball

ENLOWJEREMY Randle

• Five of ACU’s 11 games in 2022 are at home on Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium: Lamar (Sept. 1), Prairie View A&M (Sept. 10), Western New Mexico (Sept. 24), Southern Utah (Oct. 15, Homecoming) and Stephen F. Austin (Nov. 12). Road games are with Missouri (Sept. 17), Utah Tech (Oct. 1), Stephen F. Austin (Oct. 8), North Dakota (Oct. 29) and Tarleton (Nov. 5).

• Four Wildcats earned second-team All-WAC honors in 2021: wide receiver Kobe Clark, placekicker Blair Zepeda, offensive lineman Reese Moore and defensive back Ryan Stapp.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 75 SPORTS ROUNDUP

• The Wildcats put together a stirring run in the Western Athletic Conference Tournament, rallying from a first-game loss to No. 1 Grand Canyon to make it to the championship game, where their season would eventually end with a 7-1 loss to No. 4-seed New Mexico State. The loss left the Wildcats at 30-29 on the season and one win short of an automatic berth in one of the NCAA regional tournaments.

• Junior forward Airion Simmons was named second-team All-WAC after averaging 11.9 points and a team-high 5.5 rebounds per game.

• The Wildcats led the nation in total turnovers forced (755), turnovers forced per game (20.97) and turnover margin (+8.4). ACU was second in the nation in total steals (391 to Texas A&M’s 399) and second in steals per game (10.9 to LSU’s 11.0).

• After losing to Grand Canyon, ACU ripped off wins over Seattle, Lamar and back-to-back wins over Grand Canyon to reach the championship game. Bash Randle – who was named second-team All-WAC and also voted to the All-WAC Defensive Team – was named All-Tournament and was joined on that squad by Tommy Cruz and Mitchell Dickinson

• ACU posted two road wins over Top-25 opponents, knocking off No. 12 TCU, 6-2, in Fort Worth on March 29 and No. 9 Texas Tech, 8-5, in Lubbock on April 26.

• The teams combined for six individual conference champions at the outdoor championship meet.Bonnarens

• Graduate transfer Jamie Bonnarens was the WAC Newcomer of the Year and a first-team All-WAC selection after averaging 15.1 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. She hit a team-high 41.1% from 3-point range, connecting on 69 of 168 attempts.

by becoming the first European player to win a PGA TOUR Series-China event. Coach Don W. Hood Fieldhouse named The Coach Don W. Hood Fieldhouse for track and field was dedicated March 21, 2021, at ACU. Its namesake was the head track and field coach at Abilene Christian from 1977-88, when he led the Wildcats to eight NCAA Division II national championships and one NAIA title. Hood (’55) coached nine Olympians at ACU and 16 overall in a career that included roles at four Texas high schools, the University of North Texas, Wichita State University and Howard Payne University. His teams won nine Lone Star Conference championships, and he was named the league’s Coach of the Year eight times. His 1984 ACU men’s team is considered the greatest in Division II history, when the Wildcats scored 246 points at nationals to outdistance the second-place team by 117 points. He tutored a succession of record-setting ACU pole vaulters, including U.S. Olympians Tim Bright (’83) and Billy Olson (’81). Hood was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in 1998, and the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2006. Baseball

Men’s Basketball

• The Wildcats finished 5-6 on the season (2-2 in the WAC) after a promising 3-1 start that included a 56-0 win at Lamar on Sept. 25.

NELSONTIM Hood DELONYSCOTT

• The men’s team finished fifth at the WAC Indoor Championships and sixth at the outdoor meet, while the women’s team finished third indoors and second outdoors.

• The women’s team finished 9-12 on the season (2-4 in the WAC). ACU knocked off top-seeded Grand Canyon, 4-3, in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament before falling to No. 4 Seattle, 4-2, in the semifinals.

• Junior middle blocker Brea Box was voted second-team All-WAC after hitting .318 on the season (best single-season hitting percentage by a Wildcat in the Division I era).Holman-Mansell

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Volleyball

NELSONTIM

• Cesar Barranquero and Dario Kmet each earned first-team All-WAC honors for the conference champions, while teammates Oswaldo Cano and Daniel Morozov were voted to the second team.

CONFERENCEATHLETICWESTERN

• The Wildcats finished 9-15 overall, including 3-9 in the WAC.

• In her third season as the head coach, Abigail Farler led the Wildcats to a 25-26 overall mark, including a 15-9 record in the WAC.

ACU golfers (from left) Francisco Osio, Alex Clouse, Logan Diomede, Jake Bay and Zane Heusel celebrate winning the 2022 WAC championship May 5 on the final hole of the tournament.

• Graduate transfer pitcher Sidney HolmanMansell – who began her career at ACU in 2017 – transferred back to ACU after three seasons at Baylor and earned second-team All-WAC honors, along with Callie Burris and Sadie Eichelberger.

76 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Soccer

• Brian Choe was first-team All-WAC and Zane Heusel was named to the second team.

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Softball

• Holman-Mansell was the winning pitcher in ACU’s 7-2 win over Texas Tech at Wells Field on April 20, and she finished her season 16-15 with 157 strikeouts.

• The Wildcats finished 6-9-1 overall and 4-5-1 in the WAC in 2021 as Casey Wilson (’99) completed his 15th season as head coach.

• Junior midfielder Natalie Jones was a second-team All-WAC selection after scoring four goals and assisting on another for nine points. She played a team-high 1,036 minutes on the season, the only Wildcat to play more than 1,000.

Tennis

Golf • ACU finished 10th at the NCAA Tournament’s Stockton (California) Regional at 2 under par and was led by Alex Clouse, who posted rounds of 71-74-69 to finish tied for 27th at 2-under 214.

Several important, high-profile projects on campus inspired people to give back to the next generation of students. Projects such as Bullock Hall, the newest residence hall that opened last August, and the nearly completed renovations of Moody Coliseum will touch the lives of almost every student for years to come.

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In fiscal year 2021, which ended last May, the university received a record $76 million in gifts and commitments from donors. Fundraising totals in that year topped the previous best –$49.5 million in 2014 – by more than 50%.

It may have come amid a pandemic, but Abilene Christian friends and donors came through in a big way during the past two years. Despite uncertainty around the world, ACU recorded its best and third-best fundraising totals during the past two fiscal years, which end May “Even31.in the midst of a pandemic – or perhaps because of the unique challenges of the pandemic – our donors saw a need and responded,” said Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), president. “That kind of generosity is inspiring and humbling, and we’re incredibly thankful.”

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“Members of the ACU community consistently rally around our remarkable students, and the Day of Giving was another example of that,” said Craig Fisher (’92), associate vice president for advancement and alumni. “It’s a powerful reminder of the shared history and traditions that connect us.”

The university followed up its record-breaking year with its third-best total – nearly $46 million – in the fiscal year that ended this May. This included another successful Day of Giving in April, which produced more than $397,000 from 1,119 gifts, the second-highest single-day total. More than just record numbers, Dan Macaluso, vice president for advancement, said he’s excited about what that support means for the university’s mission and students. “It’s inspiring that our community is excited about the work going on here,” he said. “We’re that so many have decided to partner with us in our mission.”

 – JONATHAN SMITH YOUR GIFTS AT WORK ENLOWJEREMY $75.8M Amount committed to ACU from June 1, 2020 - May 31, 2021, a record total for a fiscal year $49.8M Previous fundraising record for the university, collected in fiscal year 2014 1,475 Number of gifts given on ACU’s fourth annual Day of Giving in April 2021 –a single-day record that, thanks to matching gifts, raised more than $670,000 Recent scholarship endowments created • Paul Piersall Endowed Scholarship for Music • Harvey Drive Church of Christ Endowed Scholarship • David and Jennifer (Prill) Meredith Endowed Scholarship • William “Bill” Gilbreth Endowed Scholarship for Baseball • Dr. Mark Riggs Endowed Scholarship for Violists • Andrei and Apurva Duta Endowed Scholarship • Kyle and Gayle Mansker Endowed Scholarship • Larry Bonner and Billy Curl Endowed Scholarship • Young Endowed Scholarship for Bible • Nathalie Akin Bartle Endowed Scholarship • Curtain Call Endowed Scholarship for Theatre • Dr. Mark and Debbie Riggs Endowed Scholarship for Actuarial Science • Hole-In-One Endowed Scholarship for Golf • Don and Carla Garrett Endowed Scholarship for Track and Field • Eichelberger Woolfolk Endowed Scholarship for Music • Brad Cheves Endowed Scholarship for Character and Leadership • Kelly and Tami Parker Endowed Scholarship • Clayton-Haught Endowed Scholarship for Study Abroad • Joe and Marilyn (Colby) Willems Endowed Scholarship • Janine and Ron Morgan Endowed Scholarship for Study Abroad • Lea Watkins Endowed Scholarship for Lynay • Hester Endowed Scholarship To create your own endowed scholarship or contribute to an existing one, see acu.edu/give or call 800-674-2600. Students meet at Moriah Commons, an outdoor gathering place at Bullock Hall.

The record-breaking year included one of the university’s most successful fundraising days. On ACU’s fourth annual Day of Giving on April 27, 2021, supporters gave 1,475 gifts that, thanks to matching funds, totaled more than $670,000 – the greatest number of gifts in a single day in university history. This topped the previous single-day record of more than 1,000 gifts totaling more than $268,000 set in 2019.

Generosity of ACU donors shines through adversity

1972 Dr. John Carlton Hobbs Jr. published two books, God’s Eternal Plan and More Precious than Gold. He is retired, and his wife, Mary Etta (Palmer), is a voice teacher at the Rockwall School of Music. They live in Wylie, Texas.

1973 Andy L. Young is supervisor of a business mail unit with the U.S. Postal Service, where he has worked for more than 35 years. He is a part-time farmer and has been married to Victoria (Murray) for nine years. They live in Killeen, Texas.

MARRIED Michael Griffin and Kelly White, Feb. 14, 2021. They live in Keene, New Hampshire.

Dr. Andrei Duta and Apurva Devarajan, May 15, 2021. The couple founded A&A Holdings International, a company focusing on commercial real estate investments, and EX PERIENCES Submit your news online at blogs.acu.edu/acutoday/experiences or use the EXperiences card in each issue of the magazine.

Contact information: To help ensure the privacy of our alumni, ACU Today no longer shares email and postal addresses of those whose self-reported news appears in EXperiences. If you would like contact information for someone listed here, call 800-373-4220 or email alumni@acu.edu for assistance.

1984 Carl Castleberry retired from Phillips 66 and moved with his wife, Juanell, to Abilene, Texas.

78 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY

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1970 Emily Allen Allcorn retired after teaching art for 29 years in the Conroe (Texas) ISD. Her husband, Rodney, died in 2018. She lives in The Woodlands, Texas.

1957 Beth (Clevenger) Summers is retired from the Los Angeles City Schools and from private practice as a psychotherapist. She taught art for teachers through Pepperdine and California State University, Northridge. Her impressionist art works have been shown internationally with more than 1,000 of her paintings in homes of collectors. She lives in Northridge, California.

1975 John and Mary Jane (Mitchell) Perkins have retired: John after 40 years as a commercial insurance underwriter and Mary Jane as an elementary school teacher. They live in Jacksonville, Florida.

By Robert and Penny (Penick) Wall, Rosaline Elizabeth, Feb. 18, 2020, born May 4, 2018; and Eric Malachi, adopted July 30, 2019, and born Aug. 14, 2018. They live in Perkins, Oklahoma.

1949 Bobby Harrison’s wife, Mildred, died in 2018. He lives in Dallas, Texas.

1980 Paul Smith was on campus in January 2020, for a 40th reunion of the record-setting 1979-80 ACU men’s basketball team on which he played as a forward. The Wildcats of head coach Willard Tate that season finished 27-5, won the Lone Star Conference and NAIA District IV, and played in the NAIA Division I national tournament, where they won a first-round game over Illinois Wesleyan. He lives in San Antonio, Texas. 1981 Darla (Bircket) Taylor earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in curriculum and instruction, with a focus on early childhood, from the University of North Texas in 2019. She is an adjunct professor in UNT’s Department of Teacher Education and Administration. She and her husband, David, live in Denton, Texas.

1990 Michael Alexander was named assistant dean for graduate programs at Mays Business School at Texas A&M University, where he previously directed the Professional MBA program. He and his wife, Margaret, live in Bryan, Texas.

1993 Craig Jones was elected county attorney of Hutchinson (Texas) County on Nov. 3, 2020. He and his wife, Lisa (Yates ’94), live in Borger, Texas. Melinda (Stucker) Isbell became director of public and reference services at ACU’s Brown Library on June 1, 2021. She and her husband, Brent (’86), live in Abilene, Texas.

1953 Charles and Bonnie (Carman) Sheppard celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in January 2021. Charles retired from ACU in 1996 after serving as director of development for the College of Biblical Studies. They live in San Antonio, Texas.

In Memoriam: It’s best for a member of the deceased’s immediate family to submit notification, preferably with a copy of the official published obituary.

Glendon and Gaynell (Mitchell ’66) Eppler live in New Braunfels, Texas. He retired as a planner from the Texas Department of Health and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and is serving as an elder at the New Braunfels Church of Christ. She is a retired teacher and financial consultant.

1966 Tommy Spain is employed part time by Home Depot, where he has worked for a decade. He recently moved back to Abilene, Texas.

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1995 Lauren “Laurie” Terlisner Mehew was promoted to senior assistant attorney general in the Colorado Attorney General’s Office. She works in the National Resources and Environment Section and focuses on air quality law. She lives in Centennial, Colorado.

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1985 Wayne and Wendy (Miller) Grizzell live in Florissant, Colorado. Their son, Luke, recently graduated from the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Their daughter, Lauren, also is a pharmacist. Dr. Conne Dee Dunn earned eLearning Online Instructor certification and is a lab supervisor for the city of Fort Worth (Texas) at its Centralized Water and Wastewagter Laboratory. She has taught chemistry and biology at Tarrant County College.

Brittnie Blackburn authored a new children’s book, You Are a Superhero, Too! (see page 43), for kids like her neuro-typical daughter who have a sibling with special needs. Brittnie is married to Brandon Blackburn and they live in Sugar Land, Texas.

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS Fisher Imergers and acquisitions. They also lead His Little Ones, a nonprofit supporting children’s ministries in Romania and India. They live in Georgetown, Texas.

To Matthew and Jessica Shaw, a girl, Iris, May 6, 2020. They live in Golden, Colorado.

2005

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To Dan and Cara (Cowan) Hamlin, a girl, Natalie Jewell, Oct. 6, 2020. She has two sisters. They live in Round Rock, Texas.

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Jon Frazier, after having open-heart surgery at age 44, published a book, Getting Cracked (see page 43). He is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and lives in Wausau, Wisconsin.

– CRAIG FISHER (’92) Associate Vice President for Advancement and Alumni

BORN2001

To Andrew and Ashlea (Allred) Adams, a girl, Renae, May 3, 2020. They live in North Richland Hills, Texas. To Bret and Catherine (Cortez) Hines, a boy, Elijah James, Oct. 13, 2020. They live in Abilene, Texas. To Greg and Tiffany (Thompson ’09) Steele, a girl, Hannah Jo, April 7, 2020. Greg authors a blog, greekgodofstats.com, featuring in-depth statistical analysis

To Todd and Brittany (Fry) Barnes, a girl, Eleanor Ruth, Feb. 28, 2020. They live in Grandview, Texas.

1999 Carolyn Davis Teague started The Functional Wellness Practice of Texas. She lives in Sugar Land, Texas.

To Dave and Jenifer Roland, a boy, Benjamin Frederick, Sept. 18, 2020. They live in Mexico, Missouri.

2004 William and Misti (Senterfitt) Ivie moved to Cleburne, Texas, following Bill’s retirement from the U.S. Navy. They have two children. Zach Garza Sr. was named regional vice president of expansion for The Mentoring Alliance. He serves on the board of Forerunner Mentoring Program, a ministry he founded in Dallas, Texas. He and his wife, Sara (Potter ’09) live in Waco, Texas. Dr. Jackie Beth Shilcutt earned a Ph.D. from New Mexico State University, where she received the doctoral Outstanding Graduate Award. She lives in Abilene, Texas.

BORN To Randy and Deanna (Cromwell) Sanchez, a boy, Zayne Charles, Sept. 15, 2020. He also has a brother. They live in Carlsbad, New Mexico. To Jerry and Julianne (Batts) Kho, a boy, Henry Harrison, April 3, 2021. They live in Houston, Texas.

1998 In May 2020, Jenni Trietsch became director of administration in ACU’s College of Business Administration. She lives in Abilene.

BORN To Tyson and Elizabeth (Canarsky) Schroeckenthaler, twins, Margot Lucile and Everett Thomas, Feb. 4, 2021. They live in Madison, Wisconsin. To Brendan and Erin (Utley ’07) Voss, a girl, Charlotte Ann, Jan. 17, 2020. They live in San Antonio, Texas.

After 18 years in social services nonprofit leadership, Amy (Lebus) Jackson has joined the ACU Advancement team, particularly serving the Central Texas area of Austin, San Antonio and the Hill Country. She and her husband, Josh, live in The Hills, Texas.

ADOPTED By Johnny and Emily (Vaughn) Park, a girl, Madelyn Yun, Feb. 28, 2020, the same day she was born. They live in Sachse, Texas.

To Kyle and Jill (Gray) Featherston, a girl, Rory Olivia, Aug. 5, 2020. They live in Mansfield, Texas. To Brent and Melinda (Rowland) Utoft , a girl, Brynn. They live in San Antonio, Texas. To Dustin and Jessica (McCoy ’08) Marshall, a boy, Crosby James, Aug. 8, 2020. They live in Coppell, Texas. To Greg and Jamie (Shelburne) Crowley, a girl, Merryn Coralie Iris, Jan. 14, 2020. They live in Amarillo, Texas. To Paul and Kelsey Brooke (Lugar) Graf, a girl, Leighton Gayle, Nov. 19, 2020. The Grafs married Jan. 3, 2020, and live in Dallas, Texas. To Stephen and Anna Carroll Ratzlaff, a boy, Daniel Lee, Nov. 10, 2020. They live in St. Charles, Missouri.

2006 Katherine Bowen has a new job as a property manager with TXRE Properties. She lives in Dallas, Texas.

To Kyle and Jessica (Clardy ’03) Brown, a girl, Clara Grace, July 10, 2019. They live in Fort Worth, Texas.

t’s always a joy to watch alumni return to campus. I am reminded how special this place is every time our Wildcats come home and we are privileged to see all the lifelong relationships that began here. That was never more apparent than during Homecoming this past October, when so many of you returned after an extended absence because of the pandemic. The reunions and rekindled connections were amazing to observe. The weekend weather was perfect. The carnival provided fun for the whole family, and a great crowd cheered the Wildcats to victory at the football game. Students and alumni worshiped together at Chapel, and the purple-lit Hardin Administration Building provided a memorable backdrop for the Candlelight Devotional. Huge crowds gathered along the parade route to support student organizations, Homecoming queens and student-athletes, and to see our new ACU balloons. Reunion classes gathered for lunch and shared a meal while re-engaging friendships that started when they were students. And we closed our celebration with a great concert – one last chance for everyone to enjoy the blessing of being in each other’s company. Homecoming weekends are always meaningful, but this last one was perhaps the most anticipated ever, and one I won’t soon forget. The challenges we are all living through have given us the opportunity to appreciate our relationships and the importance of community. Thank you for celebrating each other. And thank you for making time to come home. 

To Dan and Kathryn (Hancock) Bircher, a girl, Sarah Grace, Sept. 27, 2020. They live in Brenham, Texas.

BORN2000

Jeremiah Daniel Garcia, son of Angel and Monica (Garcia ’09) Garcia of Abilene, Texas.

80 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY BORN TO BE A WILDCAT The Alumni Association will send a FREE Wildcat BabyWear T-shirt (12-month size) to the alumni parents of each newborn or adopted infant in yourCompletefamily!the EXperiences news card and mail it to us, or complete the info online at blogs.acu.edu/acutoday/experiences. In-focus, high-resolution digital images (minimum file size of 500kb; use your camera’s highest quality setting) of alumni children wearing their Wildcat BabyWear should be emailed to babywear@acu.edu. Call 800-373-4220 for more information.

Zayne Charles Sanchez, son of Randy and Deanna (Cromwell ’06) Sanchez of Carlsbad, New Mexico.

Luke Jadan Wilson Garrett, son of John (’07) and Kim (Leedy ’09) Garrett of Mobile, Alabama. Halle Greer Stephenson, daughter of Chris (’10) and Katie (Jones ’09) Stephenson of Vero Beach, Florida.

Colson Hargrave, son of Sheyenne and Katharine (Goode ’16) Hargrave of Abilene, Texas.

Magnolia Anne Truxal, daughter of Matthew (’11) and Melanie (Kirkland ’11) Truxal of Denison, Texas.

Shiloh Gutierrez, daughter of Amos (’19) and Amanda (Buchanan ’10) Gutierrez of Abilene, Texas. Bria Fall, daughter of Chris (’05) and Danielle (Chase ’07) Fall of San Antonio, Texas.

Audrey Claire Roe, daughter of Brian (’04) and Erica (Jarvis ’04) Roe of Anna, Texas.

Jaxson Henry Estrella, son of Robert and April (Martin ’00) Estrella of Rowlett, Texas.

Merryn Coralie Iris Crowley, daughter of Greg and Jamie (Shelburne ’07) Crowley of Amarillo, Texas.

Barrett Warner Richards, son of Andrew (’13) and Brie (Buschman ’14) Richards of Grapevine, Texas.

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Winston Bellemy Cook, son of Cameron and Lauren (Leone ’09) Cook of Fort Worth, Texas.

Charlotte “Lottie” Jo Fry, son of Brandon (’12) and Sarah (Beardsley ’12) Fry of North Richland Hills, Texas.

Kyler Collins Holden, son of Bobby (’13) and Rachael (Piccin ’13) Holden of McKinney, Texas.

Dawson, Everleigh and Dylan “Tank” Sellari, triplets of Tre and Lauren (Huff ’08) Sellari of Frisco, Texas.

April Michel, daughter of Adam and Jamie (Meyer ’10) Michel of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Henry Harrison Kho, son of Jerry and Julianne (Batts ’06) Kho of Houston, Texas.

Madilynn Rae McAree, daughter of John and Misty (Preast ’13) McAree of Emory, Texas. Mazie Hutchinson, daughter of Houston (’12) and Kara (Baccus ’10) Hutchinson of Leander, Texas.

Allie Kathleene Lambert, daughter of Wes and Kasey (Moore ’12) Lambert of Hawley, Texas.

Crosby James Marshall, son of Dustin (’07) and Jessica (McCoy ’08) Marshall of Coppell, Texas.

Adelynn Elizabeth Lackey, daughter of Montie and Sierra (Ware ’17) Lackey of Abilene, Texas.

Jack Chapman, son of Brad (’08) and Jennifer Hosler Chapman of Dallas, Texas.

Roach After more than 20 years coaching professional baseball, including 257 career wins in six managing roles in the minors or independent leagues, James Frisbie (’94) landed in the big leagues. Frisbie, a former pitcher at ACU, signed with Detroit as its left-handed batting practice specialist to start the 2021 season and continues in 2022. The first Wildcat to play MLB – the late Bill Gilbreth (’69), also a lefty – made his pitching debut with the Tigers as well. Harris ACU board chair April (Bullock ’89) Anthony, who helped build one of the largest home health providers in the nation, was named one of AACSB International’s 2021 class of Influential Leaders. The class spotlights 25 notable graduates from more than 900 AACSBaccredited business schools.

Harris

Karen Hughes Strong (’73), retired associate executive director of communications for the Texas Association of School Boards, was named to the 2021 Communications Hall of Fame of Ragan’s Top Women in Communications Awards.

Tony Roach Jr. (’01) was promoted from managing director to vice president for customer experience and customer relations at Southwest Airlines. He earned a B.B.A. degree from ACU and has worked in various roles at the Dallas-based company for 19 years.

Paula (McCann ’18 M.Ed.) Harris is recipient of the 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award from Houston Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business honors. The Houston Astros recently named her the new executive director of the Astros Foundation and senior vice president of community affairs. She earned her Master of Education in technical instruction and learning from ACU.

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RAVE Restaurant Group, the parent company of Pizza Inn and Pie Five Pizza, named Clint Fendley (’93) its new chief financial officer. Previously the company’s vice president of finance, Fendley is a CPA and has a MBA from Vanderbilt University in addition to his B.B.A. from ACU.

Keurig Dr Pepper named Anthony Shoemaker (’04) of Dallas, Texas, as its chief legal officer and general counsel and a member of the company’s Executive Leadership Team. He was previously senior vice president and assistant general counsel. He earned a B.A. in management from ACU and a juris doctor degree from The University of Chicago Law School. Downing Bolls Jr. (’08 M.A.) will not seek re-election as Taylor County judge when his term ends Dec. 31, 2022. Bolls earned a conflict resolution degree from ACU following a 33-year radio and TV career as a journalist for KRBC in Abilene, and was first elected as judge in 2010.

Carey (Sharp ’99) Le Mener, M.D., was named chief network and physician experience officer for Southwestern Health Resources and its network of more than 5,500 physicians. She was previously vice president of primary care at Baylor Scott & White Health. Best-selling author Max Lucado (’77) is only the fourth person ever to receive the Pinnacle Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, recognizing his writing contributions over a career spanning more than three decades, both to the publishing industry and to society at large. His books are printed in 45 languages and distributed in 80 countries.

Dallas May (’06) received a Service to the People Award by the Texas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers for bringing credit to his profession through community involvement. May is a staff engineer at LCA Environmental Inc. in Dallas, Texas. After the Last Border: Two Families and the Story of Refuge in America by Jessica (Reese ’00) Goudeau won the Lukas Book Prize, a $10,000 honor for a socially or politically themed work demonstrating “literary grace, commitment to serious research and original reporting.”

Scott Orr (’84) has been named to the board of Dallas CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates). Dallas CASA is a nonprofit organization of volunteers who are voices for abused and neglected children. Jay Stokes (’92), James Stokes (’92) is 2022-23 president of the Texas City Management Association. Stokes is the city manager in Deer Park, Texas. Dr. Heather (Green ’80) Wooten has been appointed executive director of the Texas State atMedicaltheonpreviouslyAssociation.HistoricalSheservedthefacultyofInstitutefortheHumanities,TheUniversity of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, where she taught courses in the History of Medicine

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Now a consultant, she has been a pioneer for women in the communications profession, starting with her work for the city of Austin, Texas, through her long career with the TASB. Nelson Coates (’84) was re-elected president of the Art Directors Guild in Hollywood. Coates was honored May 1, 2021, at “In the Heights of Hollywood,” an Abilene Cultural Affairs Council fundraising event at the Paramount Theatre for its Hearts for the Arts Fund. Coates spoke at the event about his career and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the ACAC.

The J. Anthony Lukas Project, based at Columbia University, is named for the late investigative reporter and author.

• Dr. Michael Heath was named principal of College View High School in the College Station (Texas) ISD. He has been assistant principal at Vandegrift High School in the Leander (Texas) ISD and earned his doctorate in principal leadership from ACU in May 2021.

• Latisha Williams, who is pursuing a Doctor of Education in M.principalhasleadershiporganizationalatACU,beennamedofRobertShoemakerHigh School in the Killeen (Texas) ISD, where she has served 22 years. She is currently principal of Charles E. Patterson Middle School and is the former head girls’ basketball coach at Killeen High School.

Graduates making education headlines:

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John B. Muns (’82) was elected mayor of Plano, Texas. He is general partner with Muns Enterprises and previously served as vice president of Wyatt Cafeterias. His father, James N. Muns (’53), served as Plano mayor in 1992-96.

Among former Wildcat football standouts making news: Greg Feasel (’81), an All-America offensive lineman who played in the NFL and USFL, was named president and CEO of the MLB Colorado Rockies Baseball Club. He has worked more than two decades for the franchise. John David Baker (’14), former quarterback who holds ACU’s single-game TD record (seven in 2013 vs. Concordia), is the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator for Ole Miss after making 247Sports’ 30 Under 30 list of rising stars among college football coaches. He was previously the tight ends coach for the University of Southern California. Former ACU tight end and head coach Chris Thomsen (’00 M.Ed.) is the deputy head coach and tight ends coach at Florida State University.

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Bobby Griffin (’90) was named vice president for human resources and the first chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer for Rockwell Automation, the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation.

• Marvin Bobo (’87) was elected to the Lovejoy (Texas) ISD Board of Trustees. He manages Dashville Real Estate Solutions LLC in Allen, Texas.

The past nine years, Feasel was executive vice president and chief operating officer for the Colorado Rockies. Roberts Thomsen has served as interim head coach for two Power 5 teams during games: Texas Tech in a 2012 bowl game and Florida State in 2020.

• Amber (Tolich ’07) Jacobi was named Teacher of the Year at Mekeel Christian Academy in Scotia, New York.

• Sarah Baulch (’07) was named Hereford (Texas) ISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year and High School Teacher of the Year, and Panhandle FCA Huddle Coach of the Year.

In 2013, Baker had one of the interceptions.andpassing,3,376anyseasonsgreatestofACUQB:yards35TDsonlyfive

• Instructional coach Sarah (Yantis ’14) Contreras was named Professional of the Year in New Caney (Texas) ISD. She serves at Dogwood Elementary School.

• Dr. Trig Overbo (M.Ed. ’08) was named superintendent of Glen Rose (Texas) ISD. He was previously superintendent of Jayton-Girard (Texas) ISD.

• Three veteran educators with ACU degrees were appointed principals in the Abilene (Texas) ISD: Emme (Luster ’00) Siburt at Abilene High School, Leslye Roberts (’11 M.Ed.) at Taylor Elementary and Matilda (Alba ’91) Jimenez at newly renamed Purcell Elementary. Siburt has had teaching and administrative roles at several AISD campuses from 2000-03 and over the past decade. Roberts was principal of Reagan Elementary the past three years but now oversees Taylor, which has a new campus on East North 10th Street in east Abilene. Jimenez devoted 25 of her first 30 years in the AISD to students at Purcell, which was previously known as Elementary,Johnston one of three AISD ConfederatememorializingschoolsleadersfromtheCivilWarerathathaverecentlybeenrenamed.

• John Carroll (’77), associate director of bands for Permian High School in Odessa, Texas, was elected president of the Texas Music Educators Association.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 83 and Ethics. She is project manager for the TSHA’s Handbook of Texas Medicine

Aaron Watson (’00) was named Entertainer of the Year and his American Soul was named Album of the Year at the Texas Country Music Awards in Fort Worth, Texas. Watson also was named Male Vocalist of the Year, Entertainer of the Year and co-Artist of the Decade at the 11th annual Texas Radio Regional Radio Report Awards show. Outlaws & Legends Music Fest, directed by country music artist Mark Powell (’01), received the Best Music Festival award. A Legacy Unearthed, a documentary about Black history in Abilene and produced by Alisha Taylor (’17), was screened July 23, 2022, at The Paramount Theatre. The 75-minute film tells the story of historical preservation work at Curtis House Cultural Center in Abilene’s Carver neighborhood. Rev. Andrew Penns serves as curator of the Curtis House. Lindsay (Epley ’05) Kinzie, J.D., was appointed associate judge for the Municipal Court of Records in Southland, Texas. She recently served a one-year appointment by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on the Texas Crime Victims’ Institute Advisory Council.

• Renee Foshee (’83) was appointed to the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy. Foshee is an assistant professor of accounting at Angelo State University.

• Erin (Prescott ’02) Berg and Felicia (Hazelip ’02) Woods were each named Teacher of the Year for their campuses in Keller (Texas) ISD. Felicia teaches at Independence Elementary School and Erin teaches at Indian Springs Middle School.

• Dr. Bryan Akins (Ed.D. ’22) began work July 1 as superintendent of Wiley (Colorado) School District. Akins has an extensive career in education in large and small districts where he has served as a teacher, technology director, transportation director, special education supervisor, coach, elementary principal and high school principal.

• Coleman Locke (’65) was appointed to the Texas Animal Health Commission for terms set to expire Sept. 6, 2027. The commission works to protect and enhance the health of animal populations across the state. Locke is president of his family’s ranching business, J.D. Hudgins Inc.

• Chip VanSteenberg (’87) was reappointed to the Commission on State Emergency Communications for a term that expires Sept. 1, 2027. The commission administers the state 9-1-1 service program and the statewide poison control program. VanSteenberg is executive director of the Montgomery County Emergency Communication District, president of the Texas 9-1-1 Alliance and a member of the National Emergency Number Association and the Texas National Emergency Number Association.

• ACU’s Department of Teacher Education awards the Morlan Award Medal to an alumnus who has made significant contributions to the field of education. Dr. Tricia (Maynard ’93) Badillo, principal of Blanton Elementary in Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD, received the award for Spring 2020 and was honored at a banquet in April 2022.

• Kayla Torp (’18) was named the 2021 Rising Star Award by the Midway (Texas) ISD Educational Foundation. She is choir director at the district’s Woodgate Intermediate School.

• Brian Jones was appointed to the Texas Commission on Community College Finance. Jones, who is completing his Ed.D. in organizational leadership at ACU, is the director of professional learning at Odessa (Texas) College. He is a member of the Texas Community College Teachers Association, National Education Association and the Texas Association of College and University Student Personnel Administrators.

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• Amy (Halley ’90) Offutt, M.D., was reappointed to the Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council for a term that expires Aug. 31, 2023. The council advises the commission and the legislature on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education related to pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome. Offutt is the medical director and owner of Heart and Soul Integrative Health and Yoga and a member of the Texas Medical Association.

• Cody Blair (’04), principal of Rider High School in Wichita Falls ISD, has been selected to represent the TASSP as Region 9 Outstanding Principal of the Year.

• Dana (Westbrook ’81) Cooley of Snyder was appointed judge of the 132nd Judicial District Court in Borden and Scurry Counties.

• Katie (Russell ’15) Morris received the Trinity Excellence in Teaching, an award created in 1982 to honor the best public school teachers in the San Antonio area – those who go above and beyond to support their students inside and outside of the classroom. She was also named Teacher of the Year on her elementary campus.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott appointed April Ward Farris (’06) as a justice on the First Court of Appeals for a term beginning Jan. 1, 2021. She was previously a partner at Yetter Coleman LLP, and served as an assistant solicitor general for Texas, where she handled appeals for various agencies. She recently completed a three-year term on the Council of the Texas State Bar Appellate Section.

FINDING THE NEXT WILDCAT To help foster relationships with prospective students, Abilene Christian has assigned these dedicated professionals to various markets and areas of academic focus. Contact them or visit acu.edu/future_wildcats to refer a future Wildcat you know would thrive at ACU! Tim Ehrhart • Director of Admissions ehrhartt@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2899 • Text 325-225-4005 Hannah Davis • Associate Director of Admissions Territory: North Dallas-Fort Worth and Wichita Falls hannahd@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2877 • Text 325-238-7995 Chandler Williams • Admissions Counselor Territory: chandlerw@acu.eduHouston • Call 325-674-2588 • Text 325-276-4847 Marlow Rogers • Associate Director of Admissions Territory: marlow@acu.eduAustin • Call 325-674-2869 • Text 325-238-7407 Macy McAlister • Admissions Counselor Territory: Dallas, East Texas and Eastern U.S. macym@acu.edu • Call 325-674-4895 • Text 325-238-7479 Taylor Hilliard • Admissions Counselor Territory: Fort taylorh@acu.eduWorth•Call 325-674-2545 • Text 325-238-7325 Ozzy Garcia • Admissions Counselor Territory: San ozzy@acu.eduAntonio•Call325-674-2504 • Text 325-221-2903 Jordan Dale • Associate Director of Admissions Territory: jordand@acu.eduAbilene • Call 325-674-2687 • Text 325-221-0968 Jennifer Meredith • Regional Recruiter, Houston jenniferm@acu.edu • Call 325-674-4802 • Text 325-238-9088 Nicole Dickey • Regional Recruiter, Lubbock nicoled@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2698 • Text 325-238-7847 Leslie Hayes • Regional Recruiter, DFW leslieh@acu.edu • Call 325-260-3491 • Text 325-238-9077 Victoria Garcia • Associate Director of Academic Recruiting and Student Success (Engineering and Physics, Mathematics) vgarcia@acu.edu • Call 325-674-6608 • Text 325-268-5671 Terri Aldriedge, R.N. • Director of Shadowing and Recruiting for Center for Pre-Health Professions terria@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2937 • Text 325-400-2085 Cindy Gravitt • Enrollment and Student Success Manager (Social Sciences and Humanities) cindyg@acu.edu • Call 325-674-6565 • Text 325-939-8683 Summer Walters • Student Engagement Coordinator (Art and Design, Journalism and Mass Communication) summerw@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2085 • Text 325-400-3398 Jane Clark • Enrollment and Student Development Manager (College of Business Administration) janec@acu.edu • Call 325-674-2173 • Text 325-400-2612 Farris

Abbott named several other alumni to state boards and councils:

To Scott and Emily (Cornelius) Ayers, a boy, Maxwell, April 5, 2020. They live in Severance, Colorado. To Nicholas and Katie Graves, a boy, Johnny Wilde, Aug. 26, 2020. They live in Conroe, Texas. To Bryce and Stefanie (Nicholas ’13) Eaton, a girl, Harvey Rae, Feb. 7, 2020. They live in Allen, Texas. To Cameron and Lauren (Leone) Cook, a boy, Winston, April 27, 2020. They live in Fort Worth, Texas.

• Eddie Martin (’79) was reappointed to the Texas Industrialized Building Code Council.

To Caleb and Vanessa Kay (Whitt) Callari, a boy, Ronen, Nov. 9, 2018. The family moved to Cebu City, Philippines, as missionaries in January 2018. To Zackary and Dakota (Sandifer) Hall, a girl, Lynn Hall, June 3, 2020. They live in Abilene, Texas. To Adam and Jamie (Meyer) Michel, a girl, April, Aug. 24, 2020. They live in Shoreview, Minnesota. To Larry and Amberia (Miller) Wilson, a girl, Ambry Wilson, Nov. 11, 2020. They live in Dallas, Texas. To Chris and Katie (Jones ’09) Stephenson, a girl, Halle Greer, Jan. 6, 2021. They live in Vero Beach, Florida.

Willis-Knighton Health System, one of the largest healthcare systems in Louisiana, named Jerry A. Fielder II (’64) as its president and CEO. With a tenure of more than 30 years, Fielder serves as a senior member of Willis-Knighton’s executive leadership team. Marty Moore (’87) of St. Louis, Missouri, has been named CFO for Central States Water Resources, which manages water and wastewater operations across the country. He previously served as CFO of Gardner Capital. Moore is a past board president of the Association for Corporate Growth and past board chair of Gateway to Hope. He earned a B.B.A. degree in accounting from ACU.

and an honorary director of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, lifetime committeeman of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and a past director of the Federation of State Beef Councils.

BORN2010

CARTERSUSAN Otto Carter III (’84), an artist in Abilene, Texas, admits he won’t be confused with a golfer anytime soon, although he enjoys watching the sport on TV most weekends. But there is now no mistaking his connection to one of the most iconic pieces of professional golf hardware on the planet. Carter, a nationally respected engraver, was offered the opportunity in May 2022 to engrave the Wanamaker Trophy, given annually to the winner of the PGA Championship. The 27-inch tall, 28-pound trophy must be personalized in about 10 minutes after a golfer wins it. Later, travel-size replicas also are engraved with the year and name of the victorious pro. This year, it carries the name of Justin Thomas. Other than contracting COVID-19 at the tournament in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Carter said he had “a blast” and hopes his handiwork earns him the assignment again in 2023. Otto Carter of the NBA. They live in Rowlett, Texas. To Jared and Erin (Knight) Wessel, a son, Reagan Roger, Dec. 27, 2019. They live in Trophy Club, Texas. To Tré and Lauren (Huff) Sellari, triplets Dylan Tank, Everleigh Elise and Dawson Scott, Feb. 6, 2020. They live in Frisco, Texas. To Brad and Jennifer Chapman, a boy, Jack, July 7, 2020. They live in Dallas, Texas.

To Robert and Jessica (Johnson) Black, a boy, Ryan Eoin Alexander, Aug 26, 2020. They live in Little Elm, Texas. To Austin and Shannon (Morgan) Robel, a boy, Emmett Allan, Nov. 26, 2020. They live in Greeley, Colorado.

PURPLE PLATES Want to represent your alma mater on your Texas vehicle? You can now support your Wildcats with a custom ACU Texas license plate! Learn more at your county tax office or order online at myplates.com.

• Marty Lucke (’85) was appointed chair of the Governor’s Broadband Development Council.

• Lindsay Kinzie (’05), J.D., was appointed to the Texas Crime Victims’ Institute Advisory Council for a term ending Jan. 31, 2024. The council is charged with conducting an in-depth analysis of the impact of crime on victims, close relatives of deceased victims, guardians of victims, and society. Kinzie is the legal program director with The Gatehouse – Grapevine and a member of the State Bar of Texas and its Family Law Section, Poverty Law Section, and Criminal Justice Section. She is also an associate judge for Southlake, Keller and Colleyville.

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Narbeli Galindo (’87), an award-winning expert in global entrepreneurship with more than 20 years’ experience promoting economic development in Kansas City, Kansas, has been appointed to the William Everett and Mary Ellen Mealman Endowed Chair of Business Leadership and Innovation at Baker University. Galindo earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from ACU.

BORN2009

Laurie (Bulsei ’90) Barnett recently was promoted to vice president of communications and outreach at Southwest Airlines. Dr. Jill Clevenger Hartness (’20 Ed.D.) has been named chief advancement officer for the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU), effective February 2022. As an educational leader, she will amplify the natural nexus point of K-12 Christian schools with Christian higher education.

To Robert and Morgan (Wilks) McCall, a boy, Finley James, August 2020. They live in Cork, Ireland, where Robert works for BRS Golf and Morgan works for Zazzle Ireland.

To Randy and McKinley (Musgrave ’14) Charleville, a boy, Charlie Jay, Jan. 28, 2021. They live in Abilene, Texas.

To Jason and Emerald (Cardenas) Cassidy, a boy, Chase Wyatt, April 6, 2022. Emerald recently was named director of marketing for the Community Foundation of Abilene. They live in Abilene, Texas.

86 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAYSpring-Summer 2021  ACU TODAY SERVING YOU ADVANCING ACU Do you want to learn about giving opportunities, host an event, volunteer or just learn more about how you can be involved with ACU where you live? To help foster relationships with alumni and future students, Abilene Christian has assigned personnel from its Advancement Office to major markets in Texas as well as Nashville, Tennessee, and other parts of the nation. Through this territory team approach, these dedicated professionals can provide exceptional service to those who contribute so graciously to ACU’s mission. ABILENE AND THE BIG COUNTRY Anthony Williams 325-829-4328, williamsa@acu.edu WEST TEXAS AREA Anthony Williams 325-829-4328, williamsa@acu.edu AUSTIN AREA Amy Jackson 817-307-4881, amy.jackson@acu.edu FORT WORTH AREA Jim Orr 214-733-3689, jim.orr@acu.edu DALLAS AREA Jim Orr 214-733-3689, jim.orr@acu.edu HOUSTON AREA Eric Fridge 713-483-4004, eric.fridge@acu.edu SAN ANTONIO / SOUTH TEXAS AREA Amy Jackson 817-307-4881, amy.jackson@acu.edu Abel Alvarez 325-674-2810, aba98p@acu.edu NASHVILLE AREA / EASTERN U.S. Mark Meador 615-815-4360, meadorm@acu.edu

Home events allow alumni, students an important opportunity to connect

The university helps coordinate events such as this across the state and country, said Craig Fisher (’92), ACU’s associate vice president for advancement and alumni, and not only for families of new students. His team welcomes the opportunity to help organize events in alumni’s homes for many groups and occasions.

“ACU is such a relational university. We’re built on community,” Fisher said. “Meeting in someone’s home is such an effective way to build relationships. People are comfortable in homes, and it feels special to be invited into someone’s home. It allows you to connect in a special way.”

When Rusty (’98) and Andrea (Spencer ’99) Bragg’s son, Ty, decided to attend ACU, Rusty remembered his own experience preparing for college.

So, the Braggs reached out to the university to offer their Brentwood, Tennessee, home to other Nashville-area families who had students going to ACU in Fall 2021.

For alumni who do express an interest in hosting events, Fisher said they can be as involved in the planning and organization process as they like, or the university can handle all the details if they prefer. Events can be geared toward future students, prospective students, alumni or others in the ACU community.

Jenny (Wessel ’04) Haskin began hosting ACU Moms events in her Westlake, Texas, home several years ago. The parents of Abilene Christian students would meet at her Fort Worth-area home to get to know one another and put together finals-week care packages for students.

Even though Haskin’s elementary school-aged children don’t yet have to worry about their college majors, she said it’s an honor to share her home with other ACU parents to connect and put together the care packages.

“You hope when the time comes that someone is doing those things for your children,” Haskin said.

Last August, the Braggs hosted about 30 people in their home – incoming freshmen and current students and their families from the Nashville area. The event offered the students an opportunity to meet others who would be at ACU in the fall.

“When I was getting ready to head to ACU from the Dallas area, we had a local get-together so some of the families could meet one another and the students could have a chance to meet a few faces before heading to college,” Rusty said. “I didn’t know anybody other than one person, so it was helpful to establish some connection and a few names.”

LEESONKIM

“Any time you open your home to people, you end up being blessed by it,” Andrea said. “It’s a small gift of hospitality, but you gain a lot by meeting and connecting withRustypeople.”said their event allowed them to reconnect with a family they hadn’t seen in about two decades. Both families have students at ACU this semester, and the Braggs said it was nice to reconnect with this new shared experience in common. The first time Haskin hosted an event, she hadn’t met any of the parents who attended, but that allowed her to connect with new people in the university community. She also has plans to host another group in her home –prospective students. Inviting these students into her home will give her a chance to share her love for ACU and hopefully steer some of them toward Abilene.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 87

“Someday, I’ll be at a Commencement ceremony and see some of these kids walk across the stage,” Haskin said. “I’ll be able to say that I helped them choose ACU, and I’ll know that they’re going to go out and do great things. You never know what little seeds you plant may have a domino effect later.”

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DELONYSCOTT

“My time there molded me into the person I am today,” she said. “If I can help connect someone else to the ACU community, that makes me happy.”

Holden, Jenny, Harper and Travis Haskin

“We hope it was a blessing to them,” Rusty said. It turned out to be a blessing for the Braggs as well.

Haskin fondly remembers her time at ACU and the relationships she built, and she looks forward to sharing that with others.

That’s a common attitude among many alumni, Fisher said, and hosting events is a wonderful way to stay connected with the ACU community and bless future generations.

 – JONATHAN SMITH ACU IN YOUR AREA Interested in hosting or volunteering at an ACU event in your area, or in getting involved in other ways? Reach out to the Alumni and University Relations Office at alumni@acu.edu. You also can find events and updates at acu.edu/alumni

Andrea, Ty, Grant, Grayson and Rusty Bragg

“We have such generous alumni who want to serve and give back to the university,” he said. “They’re giving back when they open up their homes and share what they’ve been blessed with. For people looking for new ways to serve, this is a great way to merge service with something they’re passionate about.”

88 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY PURPLE PEOPLE Whether flashing the WC, handing out hugs or simply enjoying time together, Wildcats gather on campus and around the world to share their stories and celebrate their common love for each other and for ACU. Here are just a few images we’ve saved since our last issue. Share others with us at acutoday@acu.edu.

1) FROM LEFT: For the past year, Abilene obstetrician Charles Anderson Jr., M.D. (’79) worked in Labor and Delivery at Hendrick Medical Center South alongside Allison (Gillmore ’20) Davis, RN, an ACU School of Nursing graduate whom he delivered 22 years earlier. Davis serves now in L&D at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth and Anderson continues to deliver newborns after three decades in his OBGYN practice in Abilene.

FISHERRILEY

2) FROM LEFT: Gayla (Geiger ’65) Pope, Jama (Fry ’97) Cadle and Karen (Osborn ’66) Sharp joined family and other friends of ACU’s oldest-living graduate, Eloise Reynolds Carruthers (’37), in celebrating the energetic centenarian on her 105th birthday in the Hunter Welcome Center in April 2022. Carruthers lives in Abilene, Texas. Cadle is assistant director of alumni and university relations.

DELONYSCOTT

FROM LEFT: Dr. Billy Curl (’64) and his great-nephew, CBS News producer Rodney Hawkins II, participated in “The Power of Story,” an April 28, 2021, event sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Curl and Hawkins were interviewed by Ryan Bowman (’06), ACU’s director of multicultural initiatives. A longtime minister and an ACU trustee from 2003-18, Curl was one of the university’s first two Black undergraduate students enrolled in 1961.

BORN To Sam and Ashley (Ohlhausen) Hurley, a girl, Iris June, Oct. 11, 2020. They live in Abilene, Texas. To Matthew and Melanie (Kirkland) Truxal, a girl, Magnolia Anne, Dec. 1, 2020. The live in Denison, Texas.

To Jonathan and Sarah (Taylor) Shaw, a boy, Logan Taylor, Oct. 21, 2020. They live in Lubbock, Texas.

2011 Dr. Meagan (Morrow) Sanders received an Ed.D. degree from ACU in May 2021, her third degree from Abilene Christian, in addition to a bachelor’s in 2011 and M.Ed. in 2015. She is teaching with ACU Online. She and her husband, Tony, live in San Antonio, Texas.

To Brady and Jessica (Raber) Robinson, a boy, Lloyd, Nov. 13, 2020. They live in Westerville, Ohio. To Stephen and Laura (Poythress) Dotta, a girl, Dec. 9, 2020. Another daughter, McKenzie, was born March 19, 2018. They live in Madera, California. To Craig and Natasha (Bailey) Stone, a boy, Harrison Bailey, Nov. 23, 2019. They live in Pampa, Texas. To Brandon and Jennifer (Feise) Cotton, twin boys, John Issac and Joshua Asher, May 28, 2020. They live in Floresville, Texas. To Cody and Courtney (Terry ’15) Bowden, a boy, Cash, Dec. 6, 2019. They live in Fort Worth, Texas. To Adam and Angela (Darden ’09) Tate, a boy, Walker Nelson, Nov. 10, 2020. They live in Fort Worth, Texas. To Joshua and Victoria (Dilbeck) Dowdy, a boy, Holden Thomas, Nov. 25, 2020. They live in Arlington, Washington.

BORN2015 To Cade and Allison (Lamberth ’16) Deines, a boy, Jon Theodore, Oct. 8, 2020. They live in Boerne, Texas. To Morgan and Katie (Miller ’12) Lineberry, a boy, Lincoln Frederic, Jan. 9, 2020. They live in Mesquite, Texas.

To Drew and Alyssa (Cavazos) Dossett , a boy, Josiah Michael, Aug. 10, 2020. They live in Dallas, Texas. To Sam and Abby (Alexander) Millitello, a girl, Isabel Rose, Jan. 4, 2021. The live in New Berlin, Illinois.

To Bobby and Rachael (Piccin) Holden, a boy, Kyler Collins, Oct. 7, 2020. They live in McKinney, Texas.

IN MEMORIAM

To Trey and Chelsea (Emberlin ’15) Wrapp, a boy, Brooks Ellis, March 18, 2020. He has a brother, River. They live in Schertz, Texas. To Zachary and Tayler (Bakeman ’15) Roberts, a girl, Clara, Sept. 29, 2020. They live in San Antonio, Texas.

BORN2017

BORN2012

To Montie and Sierra (Ware) Lackey, a girl, Elizabeth, April 13, 2020. To Joel and Emily (Gerlach) Childers, a girl, Elanor Mae, Dec. 3, 2020. They live in Glasgow, Kentucky. To Sterling and Kristin (Kaiser) Bristow, a boy, Carter Hayes, Sept. 9, 2020. They live in Irving, Texas.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 89

BORN2016

To Sam and Abigail (Phipps) McClellan, a girl, Kinslee Hope, Aug. 25, 2020. They live in Merkel, Texas. To Clarke and Krista Hudgins, a boy, Gideon Bennett, Feb. 20, 2021. They live in Baird, Texas.

BORN2018

1942 Vera Lorine Bennett died April 18, 2021, in Lubbock, Texas, at age 98. She was born Aug. 4, 1922, earned a degree in elementary education; and married Gene Herbert Bennett (’43) on Dec. 23, 1941, before he joined the Army Air Corps in World War II. Gene became a rancher and judge in Yoakum County, Texas; his parents were L.P. and Flora Bennett, namesakes of ACU’s Bennett Gymnasium, now the home of engineering and physics laboratories at Abilene Christian. She taught Sunday School for many years and was a member of the Tsa Ma Ga Fine Arts Club in Plains, Texas; and the Tejas Study Club in Denver City, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Felder Richardson and Alma Precise Richardson; her husband, Gene; a son, Bruce Richardson Bennett (’75); two grandsons; and brothers Thomas Richardson and Jack Richardson. Among survivors are daughters Alma Diane Naylor (’69) and Becki Ruth (Bennett ’72) Schwarz; a son, Gene Herbert “Chip” Bennett Jr. (’70); nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

BORN2014

1947 Marie (Chenault) Currey died Dec. 25, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 95. She was born, July 1, 1926, in Sweeny, Texas, graduated

1945 Betty Madge Billingsley Broom died June 29, 2021, in Plano, Texas, at age 97. She was born Feb. 29, 1924, in Cowlington, Oklahoma. She married Wendell Wright Broom Sr. (’45) on June 22, 1945, and for all their 72-year marriage, was a full partner in her husband’s career and ministry, which included preaching full time for about 20 years for churches in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Hawaii and for five years as a missionary to Nigeria before he began a teaching career at ACU that spanned four decades. The Brooms first met at Freed-Hardeman University and continued at Abilene Christian until her studies in piano were interrupted by a call to return home to help care for her father. She completed a bachelor’s degree in social work in 1976 and spent 10 years as a foster care caseworker with Christian Homes of Abilene. She and Wendell consulted, spoke and taught on five continents about anthropology, cross-cultural issues, Christian theology, church growth and missiology. She was preceded in death by Wendell, her husband of 72 years; her parents, Dr. Clarence Burdine and Mary Chloe Harbour Billingsley; a sister, Lavonne Billingsley Scott; and a brother, C.B. Billingsley II. Among survivors are children Dr. Wendell Wright Broom Jr. (’74 M.A.), Mary Elizabeth Best (’72), Dr. David Billingsley Broom (’75), Margaret LaVonne Broom Adams (’77), Kathryn Anne (Broom ’80) Mick, Jonathan Charles Broom (’83) and Linda Cotham Broom; 11 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

To Cyril and Sharlotte Renee (Potter) Bouniol, a boy, Luka Kenzo, July 22, 2020. They live in Aledo, Texas.

BORN2013 To John and Misty (Preast) McAree, a girl, Madilynn Rae, Aug. 8, 2020. They live in Alba, Texas. To Andrew and Brie (Buschman ’14) Richards, a son, Barrett Warner, Oct. 9, 2020. Andrew works in technology data analytics and Brie is a corporate event planner. They live in Grapevine, Texas. To Chris and Bekah (Cooke) Pauly, a boy, Jackson Pierre, Oct. 1, 2020. They live in Albuquerque, New Mexico. To Chase and Kascidee (Kemp) Ellis, a boy, Greyson David, May 21, 2020. They live in Abernathy, Texas. To Alex and Meredith Carpenter, a girl, Anna Kate, Feb. 11, 2021. They live in Prosper, Texas. To Greg and Tatum Lammons, a boy, Lewis, Nov. 21, 2020. They live in San Antonio, Texas. To Garrett and Maddie Beach, a girl, Eleanor Anne, Feb. 3, 2021. They live in Lorena, Texas.

1948 Dr. James Alvin Bryan, 97, died Jan. 20, 2021, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was born June 21, 1923, in Frederick, Oklahoma, to parents who came to Tillman County when the land was opened to homesteaders in 1901. He served in the Army Medical Corps at the headquarters of Gen. Douglas MacArthur in the Philippines during World War II, then returned to Abilene to earn his bachelor’s degree in education. He earned a M.Ed. from Vanderbilt University (1951) and an Ed.D. from Oklahoma State University (1974). A CPA, he taught business courses at Hume Fog Technical High School for several years in Nashville, Tennessee, then returned to teach at several high schools in Oklahoma City and for many years at the University of Central Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, W.P. Perry and Mamie Bryan.

Mary Jean (Dobbs) Green died April 8, 2021, in Austin, Texas, at age 90. She was born Aug. 26, 1930, in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from Grandview (Texas) High School. She married Phillip Henry Green (’51) on May 19, 1951. A homemaker, she was known for writing notes of encouragement and crocheting baby afghans for charity. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Mercer Dobbs and Jessie Anna Woods Dobbs; a brother, Gervais Dobbs; and a son, Phil Alan Green. Among survivors are her husband, Phillip Henry; daughters Emily Ann Green and Cheryl Evelyn Bennett (’70); a son, Gregory Scott Green (’79); six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

1952 Don Alton Faver died June 3, 2021, at age 91, in Abilene, Texas. He was born Jan. 8, 1930, in Fisher County, Texas. He married Joyce Kent (’55) on June 3, 1955. He began serving in the U.S. Navy after graduation, rising to the rank of commander during his 39 years of active duty and reserve service. Following active duty, he

1950 Naomi Ruth (Fonville) Reagan, died Aug. 11, 2020, in Columbus, Georgia, at age 93. She earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics, did graduate work at Texas Tech University and was married to Jesse Fonville for 49 years, until his death in 2006. She was a dedicated minister’s wife who served with her husband at congregations in four U.S. states, and as a missionary to Thailand for eight years. She was the author of a cookbook, Come and Dine, and wrote articles and Bible study lessons for different publications, including Christian Woman. Among survivors are her sons, Alan Jesse Fonville and James Douglas Fonville; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Mary Jo “Jody” Decker died Sept. 4, 2020, in Austin, Texas, at age 90. She was born Jan. 7, 1930, in Blackwell, Texas. She wed William Bailey “Bill” Decker (’49) in 1949 and they were married 61 years until his death in 2010. She faithfully attended Wildcat basketball games and volleyball matches until moving to Austin in 2019. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Quinton Carter and Fannie Mae Graham Carter; her husband, Bill; and a brother, J.Q. Carter Jr. (’49) Among survivors are her daughters , Roma (Decker ’73) Freeman, Lisa (Decker ’79) Webb and Cindy (Decker ’81) Isenhower; a son, Maj. Bill Decker (’78); 13 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. Cloyd Olis Wheeler Jr. died April 15, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas, at age 92. He was born March 6, 1929. He played football on ACU’s only undefeated and untied team (1950) and served in the U.S. Air Force before returning to Robstown, Texas, where he ran the family grocery store. He later became a successful farmer as well as a partner in the Nueces Farm Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, C.O. and Lottie Wheeler; a brother, former ACU football head coach Les Wheeler (’52); and a son, Gary Mitchel Wheeler (’76) Among survivors are his wife, Mona Jean (Burton); daughters Cindy (Wheeler ’78) Low and Tami (Wheeler ’80) Magallon; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sisters Betty Murphy and Dr. Ray Ruth WheelerJames(’62).Eldon “Bucket” Bailey died June 18, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 93. He was born Oct. 17, 1927, in Quanah, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II; earned a degree in biology; and for six years, taught school in the Snyder (Texas) ISD. He then formed Cullers & Bailey, an Abilene-based property tax consulting business where he devoted the rest of his career, retiring in 1996. He was a deacon, adult education coordinator and elder for Abilene’s Hillcrest Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Penelope Bailey; and sisters Lorene Knox (’44), Bettie Brown (’54), Frances Bailey and Cleo Bailey. Among survivors are Sue (Cullers ’52), his wife of 70 years; a daughter, Brenda (Bailey ’74) Bodine; sons Bob Bailey (’78), Brad Bailey (’82) and Bruce Bailey (’85); 12 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. 1951 William Walter “Bill” Ladyman died Dec. 19, 2020, in Abilene, Texas, at age 93. He was born Nov. 12, 1927, in Brownwood, Texas, where he graduated high school. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II and in the occupation forces in Japan. He married Mary Florence Kirby (’50) in 1949. For most of his career, he worked as a chemist in the aerospace/defense industry as a materials expert, serving on classified projects for the military. His work for NASA included an instrument package that flew to the moon on Apollo 11, and the astronauts’ helmets on Apollo 12 through Apollo 17. He retired in 1991, moving to Lometa, Texas, where he focused full time on his cattle ranch and on volunteer work. He was chair of Workforce Solutions of Central Texas, served on the Lampasas (Texas) Historical Commission and sang with the Mills Tones, a barbershop chorus. He was an elder in several congregations of the Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, W.L. Ladyman and Lillie Belle Ladyman; and Flo, his wife of 66 years. Survivors include his sons, Tim Ladyman (’73) and Andy Ladyman (’76); a daughter, Patty Lynn (Ladyman ’84) McRight; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. Melba Faye (Mallett) Billingsley died Jan. 12, 2021, in Jenks, Oklahoma, at age 92. She was born Aug. 15, 1928, and was raised on a family farm in Mallet Town, Arkansas. She graduated high school in Morrilton, Arkansas, enrolled at Freed-Hardeman University and transferred to ACU. She married Walter Billingsley (’50) and taught Bible classesin Churches of Christ until age 91. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elbert Mountie Mallett and Eva Cora Gordon Mallett; Walter, her husband of 67 years; and her daughter, Karen Oliver. Among survivors are a daughter, Tina Brewington; a son, Brent Billingsley; three granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Ruth Hale.

90 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY from high school there in 1943. She wed ACU classmate Jack Keith Currey, J.D. (’47), on Aug. 21, 1947. She was a teacher and softball coach in Ysleta, Sweeny and Austin, Texas, schools. The Curreys later lived in New Gulf, Boling and Galveston before settling in 1956 in Abilene, where Jack established his law practice. She was an avid and highly rated tennis player who competed on two Abilene teams that won the USTA Texas Section and played in a USTA National Championship Tournament. She was a member for more than 65 years at Abilene’s University Church of Christ. She also was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames, U.S. Daughters of 1812, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and a life member of Women for ACU. She was preceded in death by her parents, Barry and Allie Clark Chenault; brothers Barry Chenault Jr. and James M. Chenault (’48); and sisters Anna Louise Peltier (’52) and Ruth Chenault Holley (’57). Among survivors are Jack, her husband of 74 years; sons Billie Currey, J.D. (’70). and Dr. Barry Currey (’73); two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

1949 James Vyrle Lee died June 2, 2020, at age 93. He was born Dec. 10, 1926, near O’Donnell, Texas. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, returning to earn a bachelor’s degree in English from ACU and a master’s degree in education from Texas State University. He married Hazel Juanita “Nita” Lee on Nov. 4, 1949. His career included owning an insurance firm in Dallas and a publishing company, Salado Press. He became a college professor in the 1980s, traveling the world as a civilian teacher in the Navy’s PACE program, and chronicling his experiences in a book, Five Years at Sea. He was preceded in death by his parents, Judson Warren Lee and Rita Belle (Greenlee) Lee; and his wife, Nita. Among survivors are his children, Gail Lee and Kerry Lee.

1953 Jane Evelyn (Rowan) Duncan died Aug. 8, 2020, at age 89. She was born Feb. 9, 1931, in Paris, Texas, and graduated from Lamesa (Texas) High School. She married Floyd Lewis Duncan (’53) and taught briefly at Abilene’s Fannin Elementary school and in Porterville, California, before returning to Abilene, where she taught piano lessons to hundreds of students over 30 years, and at ACU for a decade. In 1991, Lewis and Jane moved to Ruidoso, New Mexico, where they lived 12 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Holmes and Odessa Rowan; and a brother, Byron Rowan. Among survivors are her husband, Lewis; a daughter, Denise (Duncan ’76) Miller and Lavon (Duncan ’80) Burton; a son, Ray Duncan (’78); six grandchildren; and seven greatgrandchildren.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 91 began working as a teacher in the Abilene ISD and earned a master’s degree in education at ACU. He was a teacher and counselor at Abilene schools for 32 years, most notably at Mann Middle School. He also served as an elder at University Church of Christ in Abilene, in prison ministry and helped establish Christian Village. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irl and Ruth Faver; a brother, Robert Faver (’43); and a sister, Marilee (Faver ’43) Jordan. Among survivors are Joyce, his wife of 66 years; a daughter, Gail (Faver ’81) Planes; a son, Kent Faver (’83); five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Simone “Sam” Volpe died Jan. 1, 2021, in San Marcos, Texas, at age 91. A first-generation Italian-American, he was born Aug. 29, 1929, in Akron, Ohio, where he graduated high school in 1947. He attended The Ohio State University on a track and field scholarship before transferring to Abilene Christian, where he anchored a world record-setting sprint medley team. He married classmate Marilyn Key Black (’54) in 1951. He taught mathematics and coached track and field at Midland (Texas) Lee High School for more than three decades. He was inducted into the Lee Legacy Wall of Honor in 2012. He was preceded in death by his parents, Giuseppe and Marzia Volpe; and a brother, Stanley Volpe. Among survivors are Marilyn, his wife of 69 years; daughters Lisa Searle and Marzia Smith; a son, Joseph Volpe; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sisters Cesaria Lancaster and Enza Koger. Patricia Ann Pamplin died Jan. 13, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 89. She was born March 21, 1931, in Brady, Texas. She earned B.S. and M.Ed. (1964) degrees in education from ACU. Her first husband, Dr. Don Hockaday III, an ACU professor she married in 1952, died in 1957. Pat and Don had two sons who were later adopted by her second husband, Leonard Pamplin, whom she wed in 1963. From 1966-71, she and Leonard were missionaries in Hong Kong. After returning, they sponsored two Vietnamese refugee families, helping them settle in America, and were foster parents for Shirley Remington, and for Sue, Tom and Tim To, who were refugees from Cambodia. She was a member of Abilene’s Hillcrest Church of Christ for 41 years, serving as teacher and coordinator for elementary Bible classes, and director of the congregation’s Children’s Learning and Development Center. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl L. and Mary Ollie Bradley; sisters Mary Jo (Bradley ’83) Campbell and Betty (Bradley ’47) Kirklin; her first husband, Don; and Braden Pamplin, who died in infancy. Among survivors are Leonard, her husband of 57 years; sons Bill Hockaday Pamplin (’77), David Hockaday Pamplin (’80) and Dr. Kim Pamplin (’91); a daughter, Shan (Pamplin ’86) Martinez; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Judge Robert Jackson Grant died Feb. 16, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 91. He was born June 28, 1929, in Allen, Oklahoma; graduated from Capitol Hill High School in 1949; served in the U.S. Army; completed a bachelor’s degree at Oklahoma City University; and earned a master’s from Harding Graduate School of Religion and a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University. He married Betty Virginia Phillips (’55) in 1953. He was a Church of Christ minister for 25 years before serving for 10 years as a prosecutor in the Taylor County (Texas) district attorney’s office, then as a judge in the County Court of Law for 14 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Jackson Grant and Muriel Helen Grant. Among survivors are Betty, his wife of 68 years; sons Dr. David Grant (’80) and Glenn Grant (’85); a daughter, Dianne (Grant ’90) Kirk; seven grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren. Carlton Ray Blackwell died May 2, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 95. He was born Dec. 7, 1925, in Cheaney, Texas. He served in the Philippines and in Japan with the U.S. Army during World War II. He played basketball at Ranger Junior College before completing his B.S. degree in agriculture at ACU and marrying Norma Jane Thompson (’52) in 1953. He worked across Texas with the Soil Conservation Service, retiring after 25 years before becoming a realtor. He served as an elder at the 4th & Bois d’Arc Church of Christ in Pecos, Texas, and on the mission committee at Golf Course Road Church in Midland, Texas. He moved to Abilene after Jane died in 2013. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Elmer E. Blackwell; Jane, his wife of 60 years; a sister, Maureen Eastland; and a brother, Herman Blackwell. Among survivors are daughters Kim (Blackwell ’77) Conley and Twyla (Blackwell ’78) Doty; a son, Stacey Blackwell (’83); a sister, June Ice; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; several foster great-grandchildren; and brothers Ed Blackwell and Virgil Blackwell. Oliver Wendell Stephenson died May 31, 2021, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 88. He was born July 11, 1932, in Blossom, Texas, and graduated from Detroit (Texas) High School in 1949. After graduating from ACU in 1953, he served in the U.S. Army and later earned a master’s degree in accounting from The University of Texas at Austin. He became controller of the Bob’s Big Boy restaurant chain in 1966 and founder and CEO of southern California-based Stephenson Financial Services Inc. (SFS). For three decades, SFS provided accounting services to many national and regional chain restaurants. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Albert Stephenson and Lena Josephine Stephenson; Patsy Jo (Ferguson ’52), his wife of 70 years; and five siblings. Among survivors are daughters Pam King, Patresa Miller and Paula Davidson; a son, Wen Stephenson; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Ethelyn “Smitty” Smith Brecheen died Dec. 18, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 90. She was born Oct. 14, 1931, in Buford, Texas. She grew up in Colorado City and graduated from high school there in 1950. She met and married ACU classmate Dr. Carl Brecheen (’52), and was his partner in ministry and life for nearly seven decades. Together they raised three children, ministered in churches, and welcomed to their home many college students and others. After Carl graduated, the couple moved to Searcy, Arkansas, and Fort Worth, where he attended Southwestern Theological Seminary and she earned her degree in elementary education from Texas Woman’s University. She earned an M.S. degree from ACU in 1994. From 1977-84 she sold real estate in Abilene, but most of her life was spent as a homemaker. For the decades that Carl spent traveling the world with his friend and colleague, the late Dr. Paul Faulkner (’52) presenting Marriage Enrichment Seminars, she planned most of their travel. She and Paul’s wife, the late Gladys (Shoemaker ’52) Faulkner, traveled with the pair at least annually and more often if possible. In 1964 she began a longstanding prayer group with seven friends who gave her the nickname “Smitty,” and for 60 years she served at Abilene’s University Church of Christ, teaching children’s and ladies’ classes, organizing funeral meals, and leading the Ministry of Moms, providing a monthly night of fellowship and encouragement to young mothers of the congregation. She was preceded in death by Carl, her husband of 67 years; and her parents, Thurston and Stacy Smith. Among survivors are her sister, Billie Smith Allen; two daughters, Patti (Brecheen ’81) Fite and Stacy Brecheen Truitt (’85); a son, Marcus Brecheen (’84); and 10 grandchildren. 1956 Lacreta (Isbell) Scott died Feb. 6, 2021, as the result of COVID-19 at the age of 86. She was born July 18, 1934, and graduated high school in Elk City, Oklahoma, in 1952. She married Dr. Jack Scott (’54) in 1954. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Pepperdine University and a master’s at California State University Long Beach. After raising her children, she began in 1982 a 20-year career as professor of English at Cerritos College. From 2002-07 she wrote “Life Lessons,” a monthly column for the Pasadena Star News. She was a partner with her husband throughout his long career in higher

education and government. They were honored together as Contemporary History Makers in 2019 by the Pasadena (California) Museum of History. She was preceded in death by a son, Adam Scott. Among survivors are her husband, Jack; daughters Sharon (Scott ’77) Mitchell, Sheila Head and Amy Schones; a son, Greg Scott; 11 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; brothers Dr. Allen Isbell (’59) and Dr. John Paul Isbell (’73); and a sister, Mary Sue Scott (’71) Evelyn Joyce (Forrest) Willis died April 14, 2022, in Abilene, Texas, at age 87. She was born at her family home outside Ralls, Texas, on March 1, 1935. She graduated from Stamford High School in 1952 and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from ACU. During her last semester as an undergraduate, she married Dr. John Willis (’55) on Jan. 27, 1956, in Stamford, Texas. After graduation, the couple moved to Nashville, where John began teaching at Lipscomb University. In 1971, the couple and their four children moved back to Abilene, where John taught Bible at ACU. Evelyn worked as a secretary for Bailey Bridge Company, the McGlothlin Group and Abilene Christian. In 1999, she earned a master’s degree in marriage and family counseling from ACU. She and John were active in their work at Highland Church of Christ. John was appointed an elder in 1976, and Evelyn served alongside him until her death. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellis and Esther Forrest. Among survivors are John, her husband of 66 years; sons David Willis (’79), Timothy Willis (’81) and Paul Willis (’83); daughter Deborah (Willis ’80) Doss; a brother, Dale Forrest (’58); 14 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. 1957 Joyce Pickens Branscome died March 3, 2019, in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, at age 83. She was born Jan. 18, 1936, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, and graduated in 1953 from Little Rock (Arkansas) High School. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucille and E.E. “Hank” Pickens; Bruce H. Branscome Jr. (’56), her husband of more than 40 years; and a sister, Jeanette Wilson. Survivors include daughters Kim (Branscome ’79) Banz, Kathy (Branscome ’81) Engelbrecht and Jan (Branscome ’88) Collier; a son, Bob Branscome (’85); and four grandchildren. Donald Lindsey died June 2, 2020, at age 91. Born April 2, 1939, he met his wife, Patsy Mathis (’58), while they were ACU classmates. He was a retired elementary school teacher, and a deacon and elder at the Camarillo (California) Church of Christ for many years. Among survivors are Patsy, his wife of 58 years; two daughters; and four grandchildren. Thomas William “Bill” Park Jr. died June 5, 2020, at age 84. He was born Aug. 17, 1935. He retired in 1991 from Curtis Mathes, where he was chief operating officer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Mildred Park. Among survivors are his wife, Glenda (Grammer ’58) Park; twin sons Wade Park (’91) and Wyatt Park (’88); a daughter, Carla Park Docken (’89); a sister, Beth Park Stroup (’61); and five grandchildren. Herman Charles Waters died Jan. 13, 2021, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, at age 91. He was born Nov. 17, 1929, in Gainesville, Texas, and graduated high school in Saint Jo, Texas, in 1949. He worked in the oil fields and served in the U.S. Army in Korea before enrolling at Abilene Christian in 1953. He wed Joanne Tindel (’54) in 1954. Later, he worked for his father in the oil fields, was foreman for the Oklahoma State University Research Farm, and worked for Hicks-Crutcher stores for 20 years and for Grady County (Oklahoma) Commissioners District 2 before retiring in 2001. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Carr Waters and Nan Irene Hoover Waters; his wife, Joanne; a sister, Nancy Hansen; and a granddaughter, Kalynn Pena Sain. Among survivors are a son, David C. Waters (’80); daughters Debbie Crawford (’78) and Karee Cox; seven grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Ted W. Colby Jr. died Feb. 1, 2021, in Lewisville, Texas, at age 85. He was born July 6, 1935, Owassa, Oklahoma. He majored in chemistry and married Betty Carter (’56) in 1955. His career included chemistry, construction projects, managing robot manufacturing systems and consulting for General Motors. The Colbys moved in 2001 to Phoenix, Arizona, where he served as a minister for the Northwest Church of Christ and oversaw construction of a new church building. They moved to the Dallas area in 2008, where he worked for nine years in a Walmart garden center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted W. Colby Jr. and Mable Fuchs Colby (’26), a sister, Betty Ruth (’55) and a brother, Don Allen (’59). Among survivors are Betty, his wife of 65 years; sons Dr. Paul Colby (’83), Mark Colby and Christopher Colby (’97); a daughter, Diana Andrew; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Marilyn Willems (’63) Raymond Rodger Callaway “Sonny” Hollis died May 4, 2021, in Houston, Texas, at age 86. He was born Sept. 21, 1935, in Crockett, Texas, and joined the National Guard after graduation from ACU. He earned a master’s degree at Texas Tech University. He taught at Klondike (Texas) High School before becoming principal and assistant principal at Lamesa (Texas) High School. He served for many years as principal and superintendent for Westbrook (Texas) ISD. He wed Alvah Ruth Brown in 1960 and she died in 2012. He then married Margaret Ann Conaway and moved with her to Houston. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney “Bitsy” Hollis and Lucille Herndon; a sister, Y’Vonne “Bunny” Hollis; his first wife, Alvah Ruth; and his second wife, Margaret Ann. Among survivors are a daughter, Ann (Hollis ’77) Ward; stepsons Greg Conway and Jeff Conway; two granddaughters; five stepgrandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

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1958 Lyndall Dale “Lindy” McDaniel, died Nov. 15, 2020, at age 89 due to complications from COVID-19. He was born Dec. 13, 1935, in Hollis, Oklahoma. Although they did not play baseball collegiately, he attended ACU after signing his first professional contract at the age of 19, along with his brother and fellow MLB pitcher, Max Von McDaniel (’61). He won 114 games with 172 saves and a 3.45 ERA in 987 pitching appearances in a 21-year career for the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals. McDaniel was the top relief pitcher in the National League in 1959, 1960 and 1963, earning the inaugural Fireman of the Year Award in 1960 and again in 1963. An ardent evangelist, he authored a newsletter, Pitching for the Master, during much of his MLB career. In retirement he served as a minister for Churches of Christ in Missouri, New Mexico and California. He was an elder and part-time preacher at the Church of Christ in Lavon, Texas, at the time of his death. He was preceded in death by his parents, Newell Grant McDaniel and Ada Mae (Burk) McDaniel; and his brother, Von. Among survivors are his wife, Nancy McDaniel; sons Dale McDaniel, Jonathan McDaniel and Joey McDaniel; daughters Kathi Watters and Susie Miles; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Kerry Don McDaniel; and a sister, Anita. Dr. Bobby Harold Johnson died Aug. 13, 2020, in Nacogdoches, Texas, at age 84. He was born Nov. 9, 1935, in Overton, Texas. Johnson earned a B.A. in journalism from ACU, and a master’s in journalism (1963) and a doctorate in American west history (1967), both from the University of Oklahoma. In 1966 he began a 39-year career teaching American history at Stephen F. Austin State University, where he became Regents Professor. Books he authored included Wiley Post: His Winnie Mae and the First Pressure Suit and The Coushatta People. His plays included A Texas Tragedy: The New London Explosion and Texas Talks He was honored by the Texas Legislature in 1993 for his work as a writer and teacher, and he was past president of the Texas Oral History Association. Johnson was a founding member of the East Texas Timbretones, a barbershop group in which he was involved for more than 30 years. He was an actor in multiple productions at Nacogdoches’ Lamp-Lite Theatre, and was song director for nearly 50 years at Northwest Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold R. Johnson and Johnye McLemore Johnson; a brother, Joe M. Johnson (’60); a sister, Judy Johnson McGuire (’65); and a grandson. Among survivors are Myrna (Johnson ’59) Johnson, his wife of 61 years; daughters Melanie (Johnson ’85) White and Lara Johnson Austin (’89); and four grandchildren.

1959 Beryl Merton Wright died Dec. 3, 2020, at age 84, in Kerrville, Texas. He was born Feb. 16, 1936, in Bisbee, Arizona, where he

Dr. Harold Kent Straughn died July 15, 2021, in Salt Lake City at age 81. He was born Dec. 6, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from Rosedale High School and earned his B.A. in journalism from ACC in 1961, where he served as editor of The Optimist. A humor column he wrote in the student newspaper attracted the attention of freshman Carole Stone (’63), and they married the following year. He earned a master’s degree in Bible from ACU (’63) and an M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School in 1966. His career included working as sports information director and editor of Horizons magazine for Abilene Christian, managing editor of The Christian Chronicle, and writer for radio and TV broadcasts of “Herald of Truth,” Christian radio program “Heartbeat” and Sterling Publishing. He served as head of the writing department of Word Inc., and authored several books, including LifeSpirals: Exploring Your Ascent Through the Seven Transformations That Propel Humanity’s Dreams (2009). He preached at West Islip Church on Long Island from 1985-92. In St. Louis, Missouri, he worked for Liguori Publications and also served as minister for First Christian Church of Luther, Oklahoma. In 2009, he and Carole retired to Salt Lake City, where he served as minister-on-call for First Unitarian Church. He assisted in ministering to the St. Francis of Assisi Christian Church at the Timpanogos Facility of Utah State Prison and served as a hospice chaplain from 2012-17. In 1969, he moved with his family to Tübingen, Germany, for three years, where he studied the early Reformation free church movement. A few weeks before his death, he donated his papers for archiving at the Center for Restoration Studies at ACU. He was honored in 2005 with the Gutenberg Award for distinguished professional achievement by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard R. Straughn and Edythe Straughn. Survivors include his wife, Carole; a son, Jeremy Straughn; a daughter, Joanna Straughn; a sister, Janet Straughn Mills; and a brother, Keith Straughn. Dr. Dan Gordon Danner died June 4, 2021. He was born July 5, 1939, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and grew up in Portland, Oregon, where he graduated from Columbia Christian Schools in 1957. In Abilene, he lived in an apartment behind the home of his uncle, the late Dr. Rex Kyker (’43). The Kykers assisted and nurtured Danner through his years at Abilene Christian, where he sang in A Cappella Chorus and the Men’s Quartet, starred in The Student Prince, was a member of Galaxy fraternity, and played on the Wildcat golf team. He met Dorothy “Dot” Holland (’61) in speech class

Judy Ann Brandon Thomas died May 4, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 83. She was born Feb. 22, 1938, in Hamlin, Texas, where she graduated high school in 1956. She earned a B.A. degree in English and a M.Ed. (1965), both from ACU. She earned her all-level library certification from the University of North Texas in 1979 and a Master of Library Science degree from Texas Woman’s University in 1980. She taught middle school and high school in Levelland, Eula and Abilene, and later, as an adjunct at ACU. She received the Siddie Jo Johnson Child Librarian of the Year Award by the Texas Library Association, served on numerous state committees for children’s literature, and advocated literacy for local boards and nonprofits. She was a founding board member for the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ollis Elton Brandon and Hazel Pauline Tucker Brandon, and her husband, Samuel Alexander Thomas (’56). Among survivors are her son, Brandon Scott Thomas (’92); three grandchildren; and brothers Rob Brandon (’64) and Mike Brandon.

1960 Dr. Stuart L. Love died March 15, 2021. He was born Feb. 16, 1939, in Pendleton, Oregon. He married D’Esta Guild (’78 M.A.) in 1959. He earned a B.A. in biblical studies and a master’s (1968) from ACU, and a Ph.D. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He preached full time for Church of Christ congregations in Oregon and Texas, and served in various roles for 34 years at Pepperdine University, including associate dean, dean of students, and professor of ministry and New Testament, before retiring in 2014 as professor emeritus. He and D’Esta edited Leaven Journal, a Pepperdine publication devoted to theology and ministry, and hosted an annual symposium on ministry at the university’s annual Bible lectures. He was an elder for the University Church of Christ in Malibu while teaching at Pepperdine, and ministered to the Montgomery Church of Christ in Albuquerque, New Mexico, during his retirement years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Ester Love. Among survivors are D’Esta, his wife of 62 years; sons Dr. Mark Love (’82) and Dr. Jon Love (’85); 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and brothers Karl Love (’65) and Max Love. Dr. Lawrence Ray Ward died June 5, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas, at age 83. He was born on May 5, 1938, in Weatherford, Texas. He married Carolyn Ann Fraser (’72) in 1961 and they were married 52 years before her death in 2013. He earned B.S.Ed. and M.Ed. degree (1973) from ACU and a doctorate in education and psychology from Texas Tech University. He also was a pilot and flight instructor for many years. In 1972 he began a nearly 30-year career in Texas public schools as teacher, principal, curriculum director and superintendent, retiring in 2001. He married Donna May Brooks in 2018. He was preceded in death by his parents, David Harrell Ward and Leta Lawrence Ward; his first wife, Carolyn; and a brother, Morris Ward. Among survivors are his second wife, Donna; a son, Kevin Ward (’86); a daughter, Karen (Ward ’87) Moore; stepsons John Brooks Jr. and Clifford Brooks; a step-daughter, Brenda Aubrey; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one step-great-grandson; and a sister, Martha Ann Layton (’61).

1961 Stanley Odell Mallory, 82, died Jan. 24, 2021, in Tyler, Texas. He was born Nov. 12, 1938, in Grand Saline, Texas. He graduated from Mineola (Texas) High School and earned a business degree from ACU, where he met Ernestine Holland (’62). The couple married in 1959. After graduation, they moved to Mineola so Stan could join his father in the propane business. He served on the local school board and was a director of Mineola National Bank. After their children were raised, they moved to Tyler, where he served on the board of Heritage National Bank. He also served on ACU’s Advisory Board. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Linnie Mallory; a son, Marty Mallory (’88); and sisters Yvonne Collett and Rosa Bailey. Among survivors are Ernestine, his wife of 61 years; daughters Dawn Dobbs (’83) and Angela (Mallory ’88) Moreland; a son, Les Mallory (’87); five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 93 played on state championship football teams in 1954 and 1955. He attended ACU for three years and finished his marketing degree at the University of Denver in 1959. He served 10 years in the U.S. Air Force, including the Reserves and National Guard. Wright was a deacon for 18 years at the Northwest Church of Christ in Westminster, Colorado, where he was a longtime volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Vernon Wright and Lottie Mae Wright; and his brothers, Byron O. and Valdon E. Wright. Among survivors are Carolyn, his wife of 58 years; a daughter, Danita (Wright ’90) Leese; a son, Shawn Wright (’97); three grandchildren; and a step-grandson. Dorothy Young Moberly died July 8, 2020, in Montgomery, Alabama, at age 85. She was born Dec. 25, 1934, and married Howard “Dean” Moberly (’60). Although they did not have children of their own, the couple used their resources to help young people earn a Christian education, something they highly valued for themselves. They established the Dean and Dorothy Moberly Endowed Scholarship Fund at ACU and also had a generous heart for aiding the less fortunate, and for Christian world mission efforts. She was preceded in death by her husband, who was professor emeritus of economics at Auburn University. Earl “Tack” Greathouse died Jan. 28, 2021, at age 86. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education and biology from ACU and a M.Ed. from Texas A&M-Commerce University. He taught biology in the Dallas ISD for 10 years at Sunset High School and Skyline High School, and was named regional teacher of the year. He retired as administrator of special projects following 40 years at Wadley Blood Bank in Dallas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Margaret Greathouse; a sister, Judy Greathouse; and two daughters; Kimberly (at birth) and Amy. Among survivors are daughters Kathy and Camille; sons Steve and Matt; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Among survivors are Myrna, his wife of 58 years; his children, D. Miles Pimentel, John W. Pimentel (’89) and Staci D. (Pimentel ’93) Pope; 10 grandchildren; a brother, R. Steve Pimentel; sisters Cecilia

1967 Joe Tom Pittard, M.D., died Sept. 21, 2020, at age 75. He was born March 26, 1945, in Lubbock, Texas, and graduated from Farmington (New Mexico) High School. He earned his medical degree from the The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and did a psychiatry residency at UT Health Science Center in San Antonio. He served in the military at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, where he taught at the Academy of Health Sciences for two years. He then practiced as a psychiatrist in San Antonio for 40 years. Among survivors are Mary (Thomas ’69), his wife of 51 years, a daughter, Lane Pittard (’96); a son, John Pittard; three grandchildren; and a brother, David Pittard. Dr. David Cuellar Pimentel died Jan. 13, 2021, in Hurst, Texas, at age 81. He was born Oct. 18, 1939, in Worland, Wyoming, one of 21 children born to migrant workers Antonio and Apolonia Pimentel. He graduated high school in Worland, and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Magic Valley Christian College, a M.Ed. degree from ACU and an Ed.D. (1982) from the University of Denver in Colorado. His career spanned more than 50 years in education, where he taught, administered and collaborated with U.S. and Mexican leaders on effective methods for the successful education of migrant children.

Delbert DeWayne Wilson died March 13, 2021, in Round Rock, Texas, at age 80. He was born Oct. 2, 1940, in Abilene, Texas, and graduated from Anson High School in 1959. He played football and baseball at Angelo State University before transferring to ACU, where he played football. He coached in Fredericksburg and Lubbock (Estacado); was head football coach and athletic director at Brady (Texas) High School; head football coach and A.D. at Abilene Wylie High School; and a teacher and coach for 30 years in the Lampasas (Texas) ISD. Wilson was inducted into the Lubbock ISD Sports Hall of Fame. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grady and Bessie Wilson; and siblings L.G. Wilson, Dee Wilson and Ladelle Green. Among survivors are Pam, his wife of 30 years; daughters Deana Hargrove, Ronna Wilson and Shaye Lewis; his first wife, Kay Dean; stepsons Randy Wilkins, John Wilkins, Jeffery Wilkins and Ollie Wilkins; 13 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

1963 Vera Jeanne “VJ” Carrizal of Round Rock, Texas, died June 10, 2020, at age 79. She was born April 11, 1941, in Marshall, Texas, and graduated high school in Westminster, Colorado, in 1959. She earned an education degree and married Steve Carrizal on Aug. 14, 1965, after an 18-month courtship based on letter-writing and phone calls while she served on Long Island, New York, with a mission team, and he attended preaching school in Lubbock. Their life of ministry took them to Littlefield, Houston, Corpus Christi and Round Rock, Texas. In each place, along with supporting Steve’s work, she had her own career as school teacher, draftsman and seamstress. In retirement, they ministered in two senior living communities. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Mabel Petty; a brother, Jim Petty (’65); and a grandson. Among survivors are her husband, Steve; a brother, Charles Petty; sisters Janice Wall and Kathleen Judd; a son, Steven Carrizal (’89); a daughter, Janice (Carrizal ’91) Wiginton; and six grandchildren.

James Manley Denton Sr. died May 21, 2021, in Little Rock, Arkansas, at age 80. He was born Nov. 11, 1940, graduating from Merkel (Texas) High School. He played football at ACU and completed his business degree at McMurry University. He married Linda Winter in 1960. He was an executive for more than 45 years in the insurance industry; an elder at Riverchase Church of Christ in Birmingham, Alabama; and a member of San Antonio Master Singers. He served in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature and on the board of Disability Resources Inc. Among survivors are his wife, Linda; sons Manley Denton Jr. (’83) and Norman Denton; daughters Laurie Lee (’89) and Lisa Denton (’93); 11 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; and a brother, Kent Denton (’66).

94 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY their freshman year, and they began dating their senior year and married three days after graduation. The Danners then moved to Lueders, Texas, where he preached for one year while completing his master’s degree in religion from ACU. He taught in Tyler, Texas, at the Church of Christ Bible Chair prior to attending the University of Iowa, where he earned his doctorate in 1969. He became the first non-Catholic professor in the theology department of the University of Portland, teaching there 32 years (1969-2000). His writings on studies in church history included the book Pilgrimage to Puritanism (1999) and myriad articles in academic journals. He retired in 1998 to Arizona, where he continued his loves of golf and singing. He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Katherine Danner; and a brother, Dale Danner. Among survivors are Dorothy, his wife of 61 years; sons J Darin Danner (’84) and Kirt Holland Danner; five grandchildren; and a sister, Dawn.

Patricia Gail Moore Coker died Feb. 24, 2021, at the age of 79. She was born Feb. 15, 1942, in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from Sunset High School in 1960. She was studying toward a B.A. in English from ACU but withdrew from college to live closer to her high school sweetheart, Jerry Lee Coker, and earn certification as a Registered Dental Hygienist from Baylor College of Dentistry. They wed Aug. 28, 1964. She resumed her bachelor’s degree in 1966 and completed it, then earned a M.A. in English from UTA in 1975. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Henry Moore and Juanita Marie “Ree” Moore, and her husband, Jerry Lee. Among survivors are a son, Kendall Turner Coker, and a daughter, Elinor “Regan” Tyler Coker McCamey. 1966 James Stanley “Stan” Harbour died June 14, 2020, in Lubbock, Texas. He was born March 21, 1943, in Hayward, California, and married Patricia Fouts (’68) in 1966. For more than 45 years he ministered to churches in California, Texas, New Mexico and Hawaii. He retired in 2008 and served on the board for University of the Nations. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Paul and Wille Mae Harbour. Among survivors are his wife, Patricia; a daughter, Shelly Pattison; a son, Matthew Harbour; four grandchildren; a brother, Jack Harbour; and a sister, JoDoris Johnson. Robert Gary “Bob” Beustring of Hurst, Texas, died Feb. 1, 2021, at age 78. He was born Dec. 27, 1942, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He joined the U.S. Army after graduation. Among survivors are a son, Gary Beustring Jr. (’99); daughters Lisa (Beustring ’89) Neal, Tina Hart (’91) and Susan (Beustring ’93) Conway ; seven grandchildren; a brother, Glenn Beustring; and a sister, Carole Hazel. Kathie Leslie (Tome) Fry died Feb. 3, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 76. She was born Nov. 14, 1944, in Topeka, Kansas, earned a bachelor’s degree in education and married classmate Jackson Bonner Fry Jr. (’68) on May 26, 1966. She was an elementary school teacher in the Arlington (Texas) ISD for more than 20 years, and a volunteer throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Les and Naomi Tome. Among survivors are Jackson, her husband of 54 years; daughters Jama (Fry ’97) Cadle and Chalon (Fry ’99) Hopper; a brother, Christopher Tome (’73); a sister, Kelly (Tome ’85) Bassett; and five grandchildren.

1964 Bob Glenn Wilburn died Dec. 10, 2020, in Abilene, Texas, of COVID-19 at age 78. He was born Aug. 24, 1942, in Odessa, Texas, and graduated high school in Canadian, Texas, in 1960. His oil and gas career began with 20 years of work for Amoco Production Company, and he continued to work independently in oil and gas until his death. He married Carolyn Jo Brown in 1963. He was preceded in death by his son, Lynn Charles Wilburn; and his sister, Betty Lou Listenbee (’59). Among survivors are Jo, his wife of 57 years; daughters Julie Abston-Wright (’89) and Jenny (Wilburn ’96) Frazier; four grandchildren; and a brother, Dr. Jim Wilburn (’53) Kathryn H. Willbanks died Dec. 18, 2020, in Morristown, Tennessee, at age 78 after a long battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Josephine “MyJo” Harrington; and a half-sister, Barbara Blevins. Among survivors are Dr. David V. Willbanks, her husband of 52 years; a son, Jeff Willbanks; daughters Janice Denson, Julie Hale and Jamie Terry; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, John Harrington.

John Stephen “Jake” MacLeod died Jan. 8, 2021, at age 69 from COVID-19. He was born Dec. 30, 1952, in Kansas City, Missouri, where he graduated in 1971 from DeSmet Jesuit High School. He attended Cornell University and ACU, completing his bachelor’s degree in 1976 from The University of Texas at Austin. His career included designing the first cellular system in Texas. He led the Wireless Communications division of Bechtel Corporation as principal vice president and chief technology officer, and consulted with Iraq on rebuilding its telecommunications network following the Gulf War. Among survivors are Connie (McLeod ’75), his wife of 46 years; daughters Lorrie Ann (MacLeod ’99) Dickerson and Heather Lynn (MacLeod ’06) Goodman; sons Zachary Thomas MacLeod (’02) and Sean MacLeod (’09); 11 grandchildren; sisters Linda Seveland and Marianne Pruitt; and brothers Thomas MacLeod, Michael MacLeod and Patrick MacLeod. 1978 James William “Bill” Allen Jr. of Escondido, California, died Sept. 2, 2020, at age 64 after battling cancer. He was born Sept. 21, 1955, in New Jersey to James William Allen and Marjorie Jane Allen. He served his country as a Marine, a civil service employee, and then through volunteer service as a Mason. Among survivors are his wife, Judy; a daughter, Corrie Amador; a son, Joshua Allen; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and brothers Steve Allen and Mike Allen.

1972 Rodney Reece “Rod” Paine died Nov. 25, 2020, in Lubbock, Texas, at age 70. He was born July 17, 1950, in Tulia, Texas, and graduated high school in Monahans, Texas, before earning his accounting degree. His career in the travel industry culminated in his role as deputy director of the Lubbock (Texas) International Airport. He volunteered his expertise in 2005 in Houston, Texas, helping arrange travel for people separated from friends and family by Hurricane Katrina. He married Brenda Sue Turner in 1978 and she preceded him in death, as did his parents, former ACU board chair Willard Paine (’48) and Billie Jo (West ’50) Paine. Among survivors are daughters Chelsea Couch, Amy Onofre and Alisa Schroeder; sons Chris Paine and Jason Paine; 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and siblings Pam (Paine ’74) Henderson and Russ Paine (’81)

1968 James Newell Voss died July 25, 2020, in Fairview, Texas, at age 75. He was born Oct. 17, 1944, in Lubbock, Texas, and graduated Greenville (Texas) High School in 1963. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications at ACU, where he was a member of the track and field team and a varsity cheerleader. He married his first wife, Darlene Handy (’69), in 1965. She died in 2010. He spent the first 20 years of his career in youth ministry, serving churches in North Carolina and Texas. He was a pioneer in youth ministry in Churches of Christ, and helped develop Christian camps and mission trips for teens. He received the Youth Minister of the Year Award from Lubbock Christian University in 1977. After youth ministry, he earned a master’s degree in counseling, as well as certification as a Texas teacher, serving as an assistant principal and principal in districts across East Texas. He retired in 2013 as textbook and transportation coordinator for the Richardson (Texas) ISD, and reconnected with Johnetta Morton, his high school prom date from Greenville High School. They wed Feb. 8, 2014, and lived in Fairview, where he served as an elder at Greenville Oaks Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Juanita Voss; and his first wife, Darlene. Among survivors are his second wife, Johnetta; sons Brad Voss (’93) and Ashley Ryan Voss (’96); and six grandchildren.

1973 Dr. Gary Louis Hiler of Abilene, Texas, died July 23, 2020, from an automobile accident near Amarillo at age 69. He was born May 25, 1951, and graduated from Abilene High School in 1969. In 1987 he graduated from Patriot University with a Ph.D. in biblical studies. In 1971, he married Janis Mullican. He worked as a boiler inspector, supervisor, QC manager and most recently as a state and national board-certified inspector for OneCIS. He was ordained as a minister in 1985. In the 1990s he joined a team from Arkansas to build a church in Guatemala. He also served as music leader and choir member at Bible Baptist Church in Clyde, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin (’45) and Alta (Howk ’47) Hiler. Among survivors are Janis, his wife of 48 years; sons Tommy Hiler and Mark Hiler; a brother, Jimmy Hiler (’77); a sister, Anita (Hiler ’75) Cahoon; and two grandchildren.

Rubio, Antonia Pimentel, Lorretta Alcaraz, Ruth Mackmiller and Frances Pimentel. Howard Carroll Shanks died March 5, 2021, at age 75. He was born July 10, 1945, in Roswell, New Mexico, and grew up on the Bar M T and Shanks Brothers ranches. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and worked for the USDA as a resource conservationist in New Mexico for most of his career. In 1992, he was named the state’s Outstanding Employee for Contributions in Conservation and Development. He recently moved to Houston, Texas, to be closer to family. He was preceded in death by his father, George Walden Shanks. Among survivors are Jessie Lorraine Shanks, his 100-year-old mother; Mary Ella (Fore ’67), his wife of 54 years; sons Dr. Mike Shanks (’92) and Chris Shanks (’94); sisters Mary Frances, Cheryl (’70) and Karla; and five grandchildren.

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1970 Karen Lee (Young) Reynolds died Jan. 7, 2021, in Denton, Texas, at age 72. She was born April 4, 1948, in Corpus Christi, Texas, and graduated high school in Brazosport, Texas. She wed Dr. Charles Reynolds in 1970. She was a home economics and science teacher, and business owner. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Ronnie Young. Among survivors are Charles, her husband of 50 years; children Jennifer (Young ’95) Robbins and Dr. Hunter Reynolds (’97); five grandchildren; sisters Gale Rieger, Kina Anderson (’76) and Pat Perry; and a brother, Mark Young. Barbara Sharon Starck died March 16, 2021, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, at age 72. She was born Nov. 10, 1948, in Fort Worth, Texas, and met Andy Starck (’69) in a dentist’s office where she was working while attending ACU. They began their married life in Austin at The University of Texas, where she supported them while he earned a law degree. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Cynthia and Kathleen. Among survivors are her mother, Samoa Guthrie Pepper (’47); Andy, her husband of 51 years; a daughter, Shannon Kersemeier; and a son, Aaron Starck (’98); eight grandchildren; sisters Pam Kilmain and Darlene Loza (’78); and a brother, Earl Price.

1974 Kathryn Larue (Thompson) Flesher died Aug. 8, 2020, at age 68. She was born March 16, 1952, and graduated from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1970. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and returned to Tulsa to begin the first of three careers. For the next 20 years, she was a well-regarded member of the city’s advertising and marketing community. After working as advertising director for ComputerLand stores in Oklahoma and the Tulsa Coca-Cola Bottling Company, she formed her own agency. After the births of her two sons, she set aside her career to be a mom, teach classes at the Park Plaza Church of Christ and serve on the advisory committee supporting the creation of Thoreau Demonstration Academy. Later, she served as a paraprofessional at Thoreau, then earned certification to teach English to special education students at Memorial High School. Among survivors are Bill Flesher, her husband of 34 years; sons Andrew Flesher and Patrick Flesher; and a sister, Karen Dale (Thompson ’79) Fasig 1975

1971 William Lewis “Bill” Overly Jr. died July 19, 2022, in Dallas, Texas, following an illness at age 73. He was born Sept. 6, 1948, in The Dalles, Oregon, and graduated in 1967 from Goldendale (Washington) High School, where he was a standout on its track and field team. He attended Yakima Junior College for one year before transferring to Abilene Christian and starring as a sprinter (100- and 200-yard dashes) on nationally ranked relay teams for the Wildcats, helping them win Southland Conference titles in 1969 and 1970, and earning All-America honors. He earned a B.S.Ed. degree from ACU. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill Overly, and his mother, Phoebe Robertson. Among survivors are a former spouse, Vicki Overly Escobar (’71); a son, Todd Overly; two grandchildren; and a sister, Kay Overly Kaps-Blake.

1983 Jeffrey Scott Russell died Feb. 15, 2021, in Carthage, Texas, at age 59. He was born Sept. 15, 1961, in Rome, New York. He graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1979, and earned a B.A. degree in mass communication, serving The Optimist as sports editor. He was a sportswriter for Texas newspapers in Stephenville, Wichita Falls and Panola. He won the Lone Star Conference Sportswriter of the Year Award four times, and other recognition from the North and East Texas Press Association. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold E. Russell and Marilyn Sue Glass. Among survivors are sisters Kim Collier, Kay Dade and Denise Duccatte; and brothers Kevin Russell, John Russell and Andrew Russell.

There he won multiple honors and MVP awards, and caught the attention of several professional football teams. During his senior season, however, he suffered a career-ending injury. He was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Alvin Funderburg Sr., and a sister, Melissa “Missy” Funderburg. Survivors include his mother, Geneva “Jean” Funderburg; his children, Brogan and Britin Funderburg; three grandchildren; and a brother, Johnny Funderburg.

1982 Cynthia Carol “Cindy” (Vanderford) Wright of Alvin, Texas, died June 26, 2020, at age 61. She was born March 30, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She graduated from Oliver Wendell Holmes High School in San Antonio, Texas, and earned a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught for more than 25 years in Texas schools in San Antonio, Stafford and Alvin. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joanne Carol Ozment Vanderford. Among survivors are her husband, Dr. W. Clay Wright; daughters Cayla Carol Welsh and Christy Jo Barr; two granddaughters; two step-grandchildren; her father, Haskell Floyd “Buck” Vanderford; sisters Wanda Gay Myers and Sheryl Kim (Vanderford ’85) Williams; and step-sisters Cindy Cegielski and Brenda Schibi.

1984 Michael Ray Funderburg of Breckenridge, Texas, died Aug. 2, 2021, at age 59. He was born March 16, 1962. In 1980, after an outstanding high school football career that resulted in scholarship offers from elite schools around the nation, he chose Abilene Christian.

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1981 Janice Jean Mulford died Feb. 1, 2021, in Van, Texas, at age 62. She was born Sept. 24, 1958, in Hampton, Iowa, and graduated in 1977 from Bullard (Texas) High School, where she earned all-state honors in basketball and volleyball. A 6-foot-5-inch center, she starred in basketball at Tyler Junior College and Louisiana Tech University before joining former TJC teammate Bonnie (Buchanan ’81) Gray at ACU. Mulholland still holds the ACU season record for rebounds (455) and she and Buchanan are the only two Wildcats to score more than 800 points in a women’s season. She was a teacher-coach at Bullard (Texas) High School from 1981-86. In 1986 she began a 35-year teaching and coaching career in the Van ISD, where she was named district volleyball Coach of the Year 10 times, and took her Lady Vandals team to state three times. Three times she was East Texas Volleyball Coach of the Year, including 1997, when she was inducted to the TJC Circle of Honor. In 2001, she earned a M.S. in school counseling degree from The University of Texas at Tyler and devoted the rest of her career as a counselor at Van Intermediate School. She was preceded in death by her parents, Spencer J. Mulford and Erma Irene Shafer Mulford; a brother, Donald Mulford; and a sister, Marjorie Butts. Among survivors are a sister, Marilyn Hammarmeister; a step-sister, Linda Whitney; and a step-brother, Wayne Mulford. Marshall Robert Aldriedge died Jan. 17, 2021, at age 62. He was born July 6, 1958, in Fort Worth, Texas, and graduated from Arlington High School in 1977. He earned a B.B.A. degree and was a member of Galaxy fraternity and the A Cappella Chorus. In 1982 he married Laurie Kay Harrell (’82) and they moved to the Dallas area, where he owned a Farmers Insurance agency for 35 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Irene (’49) Aldriedge.

1987 Rex Thane Akins died Jan. 23, 2021, in Enterprise, Alabama, at age 62. He was born May 1, 1958, and graduated high school in Midland, Texas. He married Connie Sue Miller in 1988. He earned a B.S. in computer science/software engineering from ACU and a M.A. in education in 2010. He served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force as an automatic tracking radar specialist and 16 years in the Army as an AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopter pilot and instructor. In retirement, he continued to create and test simulation programs at Fort Rucker, Alabama. He served many years on the board of Wiregrass Christian Academy. He was preceded in death by his parents, G. Thane (’55) and Jean (Locker ’54) Akins; a sister, Kara Jean (Akins ’88) Moore; and a granddaughter. Among survivors are Connie, his wife of 33 years; daughters Alyssa Fee and Kylie Hill; a son, Trey Akins; and one grandchild. Patrick Lane Young died Feb. 18, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 56. He was born April 3, 1964, in Killeen, Texas, where he graduated high school. He served 15 years in long-term care administration before beginning work with Elmwood Funeral Home. Among survivors are his parents, Dr. Sidney E. Young (’57) and Kay (Howard ’61) Young; Evelyn, his wife of 34 years; a son, Sean Young; daughters Cassandra Young and Mary Rachel; seven grandchildren; sisters Cydney Barnes and Amy Ybarra; and brothers Wil Young (’84) and Chris Young.

1990 Darin Kimbrough Johns of Andrews, Texas, died Nov. 19, 2021, in Big Spring, Texas, at age 53 in a bus crash involving the Andrews High School marching band. He was born on March 24, 1968, in Abilene, Texas. He married Karen Lyn Gatny on June 7, 2003. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he served on the praise band. He was a high school band director for 32 years, the last seven in Andrews. He previously directed Texas bands at Franklin Middle School in Abilene, Jim Ned High School in Tuscola, Ballinger High School and Colorado

Steven Wayne Thomas died Dec. 1, 2021, at age 62. He was born May 29, 1959, in Blytheville, Arkansas. He graduated from Amarillo High School in 1977 and attended ACU on a football scholarship, where he was honorable mention All-America in 1980, graduating in 1981. He married Melinda Thomas on Nov. 17, 1983. His career was spent building and remodeling homes in Amarillo and California. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bobbye Glenn “BeeGee” Thomas (’52). Survivors include his daughter, Katie Cane; sons Jarrett and Austin; his father and stepmother, Warlick (’53) and Jo Ann Thomas (’58); a sister, Kerri Thomas; a brother, Allan Thomas (’82); stepsisters Sandy Copeland and Sharon Lear; and five grandchildren.

1979 Gilbert Randolph Hearn died April 28, 2021, at age 64. He was born Jan. 23, 1957, in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from Richardson (Texas) Berkner High School in 1975. He earned a degree in marketing from ACU. His career included 41 years of HR work for Texas Utilities, Russell & Sons Construction and Mewbourne Oil Company in Tyler, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur Randolph and Rachel Anne Hearn; and a sister, Charlotte Hearn Dodrill. Among survivors are his wife, Susan; a son, Clint Hearn; and a daughter, Emily Dotson.

Survivors include Laurie, his wife of 38 years; sons Stephen Aldriedge, Hunter Aldriedge (’15) and Tyler Aldriedge; a daughter, Christine Aldriedge; and brothers Randy Aldriedge, Mark Aldriedge and Jay Aldriedge.

1980 Joe Dell Bullock died March 10, 2021, of complications from COVID-19 at age 62. He was born July 2, 1958, in New Iberia, Louisiana, and graduated in 1976 from Humble (Texas) High School, where he starred in baseball and football. He transferred from Texas A&M University to ACU, where he lettered in baseball and completed a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He married Emily Mahon (’81) on June 6, 1981, and was an elder at Southside Church of Christ in Fort Worth. In 1994 he started his own CPA firm, Bullock Hartley. He is the namesake of the Joe Bullock Baseball Coaching Endowment at his alma mater. Among survivors are Emily, his wife of 40 years; a son, Tyler Dell Bullock; a daughter, Taren Lea (Bullock ’09) Lowe; his mother, JoLynn; a brother, Robert Bullock (’81); a sister, ACU board chair April (Bullock ’89) Anthony ; and six grandsons.

1992 Sharon Lynn Felts Shipley died Jan. 10, 2022, in Abilene, Texas, at age 55. She was born Feb. 14, 1966, in Lubbock, Texas, and graduated from Abilene Christian School. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard “Dick” Felts (’53) and Mary Adalene “Addie” (Rheiner ’55) Felts; and a sister, Sara (Felts ’77) DuBose. Among survivors are Bob Shipley (’84), her husband of 37 years; sons Jordan Shipley and Jaxon Shipley; daughters Shelby (Shipley ’13) Nunez and Addie Jane (Shipley ’16) Thomas; nine grandchildren; sisters Susan Felts Fry (’75) and Sherry Felts Ratliff (’81); and a brother, Ricky Felts (’80).

2021 Corbin Thomas Stiefer, a senior history major, died Jan. 13, 2021, at age 21. He was born March 22, 1999, in Tyler, Texas, and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 2017. At ACU, he was historian for Galaxy men’s fraternity, a senator in the Student Government Association, and a member of the ACU Foundation singing group. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Tom Stiefer. Anong survivors are his parents, Jeff (’96) and Carys (Manning ’94) Stiefer; a sister, current ACU student Darcy Stiefer; and his grandparents, Dewayne and Cynthia Manning, Mary Busby, and Lola Stiefer.

1994 Lister “Maambo” Mweemba died June 27, 2020, at the age of 65. He graduated from Namwianga Christian Secondary School (NCSS) in Zambia, returning there to teach in 1979 and becoming principal in 1990 of George Benson Christian College. He earned a M.Ed. degree from ACU in 1994. In 1995 he became the first native Zambian to serve as superintendent of Namwianga Mission before becoming involved in 2002 in evangelism and leadership training in other parts of the country. Among survivors are his wife, Catherine, who teaches domestic science at NCSS.

Women for Abilene Christian University board member Mary Nell (Hammett) Manly died Aug. 23, 2020, at age 92. She was born on May 2, 1928, in Morrilton, Arkansas, and lived most of her life in Abilene, Texas. She served several local organizations, including The Abilene Woman’s Club and Abilene Girls Home, but devoted many hours to the ACU Museum and managing its historical artifacts. She and her late husband, Borden Manly Jr. (’49), were longtime members of 16th and Vine and Southern Hills congregations in Abilene. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arelius and Nelle Hammett; her husband, Borden; brothers John Manly and Bill Manly; and a grandson, Joshua Wolaver. Among survivors are a daughter, Terri (Manly ’92) Wolaver; a son, Marcus Manly (’84); and three grandchildren. Dr. David Edwin Harrell, ACU Brown Library’s 2017 Friend of the Year, died March 15, 2021, at Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, at age 91. Harrell, the Daniel Breeden Eminent Scholar of Southern History and professor emeritus at Auburn University, was a leading historian of the Stone-Campbell movement and American religious history. His work also addressed the expansion of global Christianity through his scholarship and his service as a missionary among Churches of Christ in India. His donation of personal and professional papers to ACU created the Harrell Collection of Global Religious History. Among survivors are Adelia Roberts Harrell, his wife of 65 years; and children Mildred Harrell Harris, David Edwin Harrell III, Elizabeth Harrell Roberts and Lee Harrell Carter; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Iona “Bitsy” Gregory, 86, died April 12, 2021. She was born Feb. 14, 1935, in Abilene, Texas. She married the late Harold Gregory and owned Bitsy’s Flowers near campus for 40 years. Among survivors are her sons, J.K. Gregory, Marshall Gregory and Quintin Gregory; nine grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and her companion, Bob ACUPatterson.benefactor and former Texas Poet Laureate Dr. Walter Robert “Walt” McDonald died Jan. 22, 2022, in Richardson, Texas, at age 87. He was born July 18, 1934, in Lubbock, Texas. In 1959, he married artist and Abilene Christian graduate Carol Ham (’56), who had been a classmate at Lubbock High School. A retired U.S. Air Force pilot with B.A. and M.A. degrees from Texas Tech and a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa, Walt taught English at the U.S. Air Force Academy for two tours of duty, served in Vietnam, and returned for a third tour at the academy as tenured associate professor until his retirement. He then taught for three decades at Texas Tech, retiring as Paul Whitfield Horn Professor of English emeritus. After Vietnam, he wrote poetry for 30 years, and the Texas Senate and House selected him as the Texas State Poet Laureate in 2001. Publishers of his 23 books of poetry and a book of short stories included Harper Collins) and ACU Press ( Faith is a Radical Master: New and Selected Poems). More than 2,300 of his poems were published in journals such as The Atlantic Monthly, London Review of Books (UK), New York Review of Books and Poetry. In 1992, he was named Texas Professor of the Year by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. He also received Texas Tech’s Distinguished Alumnus Award and recognition for teaching and research; and lifetime awards from the Texas Institute of Letters and the Texas Book Festival. Four of his books won the Western Heritage Award from the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; his parents, Charlie and Vera McDonald; a sister, Liz McDonald Paschall; a brother, Bo; and his son, David Michael. Survivors include his daughter, Cindy, and his son, Charlie. He also had nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 97 (City) High School. Survivors include his wife; his mother, Judith Johns (’62); his father and stepmother, Herbert and Karla Johns; his sons, Landon and Lance; his brothers, Daniel Johns and Eric Johns (’94); a sister, Vanessa Johns; and four grandchildren.

1998 Richard Tyrone Wooten died July 30, 2021, in Mansfield, Texas, at age 46 after an extended illness. He was born Dec. 14, 1974, in Fort Worth, Texas. He graduated from Paschal High School in 1993, where he was recognized as one of the top five tight ends in Texas prep football. He played at Texas Christian University in 1993-94, then transferred to ACU, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and later, an MBA (2011). A four-year starter at defensive tackle, he was voted as a Texas Top 100 Player, Lone Star Conference Freshman of the Year (1994) and All-LSC. He was voted to ACU’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s and received the Purple and White Award for leadership. As a high school football coach, he loved mentoring students. In 2018, he moved to Guiyang, China, where he taught English. He married Geralyn on June 16, 2019, and relocated to her native home in the Philippines, where they lived until Richard’s health deteriorated, requiring him to return to the U.S. in 2020 to seek medical care. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Spencer Wooten Jr. and Sharon Elizabeth Powell; and a brother, Robert Joshua Wooten. Survivors include his wife; daughters Libby G. Wilson and Savannah T. Wooten; sisters April M. Hoover and Karen Walker; and a brother, Randy Braswell.

2005 Cody Stewart died July 20, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 39. He was born Aug. 22, 1981, in Fort Worth, Texas. He attended school in Everman, Texas, where he excelled academically and athletically, earning a football scholarship at ACU. In 2007, he earned an M.Ed. in counseling and human development from Hardin-Simmons University. He was manager for Wild Bill’s Pawn in Abilene, then began a career as a parole officer for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in 2016. He married Ashlee Ragan on Jan. 30, 2010. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Hartwell Stewart. Survivors include Ashlee, his wife of 11 years; a daughter, Kenedy Stewart; his mother, Nancy Kathleen Stewart; and a brother, Shane Stewart.

2008 Dr. Joelly Rojo Rasamoelina died June 6, 2021, at age 34. She was born Dec. 21, 1986, in Fianarantsoa, Madagascar. She earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology as one of 24 students selected for ACU’s Madagascar Presidential Scholars Program. She was an e-learning and digital transformation specialist who earned her doctorate and had recently joined the faculty at the University of Fianarantsoa.

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A. Donald “Don” Drennan (’58), longtime ACU administrator, Abilene City Council member and community servant, died Feb. 3, 2021, at age 85 following an extended illness. He was born Oct. 10, 1935, and graduated in 1954 from Abilene High School. After earning his bachelor’s degree, he worked briefly in Midland for Shell Oil Co. before returning in 1960 as purchasing director at the university. He became the university business manager in 1969, and completed a master’s degree while working full time. In 1972 he became assistant to the president for Dr. John C. Stevens (’38). Beginning in 1982, he served six years as associate professor of accounting. Even after becoming director of athletics in 1988, he continued to teach one freshman Introduction to Business course each semester. He wed Rudith Frazier (’65) on Aug. 5, 1977. The couple bought the Rafter T Ranch in Chimney Rock, Colorado, in 1982 and spent summers and holidays there with their children, eventually moving there for two years after his first retirement in 1990. Drennan originated the idea of and provided initial funding in 1999 for the College of Business Administration’s STAR program, in which business students learn to research an investment portfolio and trade based on their information. In 2000 he retired again to spend more time in support of numerous Christian organizations he and Rudith encouraged through the Frazier Foundation, which he served as treasurer. He was an ACU trustee from 1991-2010, including several years as board secretary. He served on boards of directors for United Way; Abilene Christian Schools; Red Cross; Abilene Higher Education Authority; Big Brothers Big Sisters; and Disability Resources Inc. After his retirement from ACU in 2000, the Drennans spent several years at Ohio Valley College, where he taught accounting. They returned to Abilene in 2007. At ACU, a generous gift from the Drennans made possible John C. and Ruth Stevens Park. He was preceded in death by his parents, A.O. and Grace Hunt Drennan. Among survivors are his wife Rudith; sons James Donald Drennan (’90) and Daniel Drennan (’02); daughters D’Ann McAlister (’90) and April Drennan; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Deanna Baker (’64) Former staff member Beth Roberson died Dec. 7, 2020, at age 89. She was born June 22, 1931, in Abilene, Texas, and graduated in 1948 from Abilene High School. She married Claude Roberson on June 24, 1950. She worked for 18 years at ACU as a Central Files clerk, retiring in 1993. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nolan Alfred and Pauline L. Stroud; her husband, Claude; a sister, Nelda Roberson (’74, M.A.); brothers Douglas Meadows and Jerry Don Stroud; and a grandson. Among survivors are her son, Chuck Roberson (’80); a daughter, Rita (Roberson ’77) Vieth; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Paula Roberts. ACU benefactor Tony D. Andress Sr. died Jan. 9, 2021, in Lodi, California, at age 83. He was born Dec. 30, 1937, and graduated high school in Breckenridge, Texas. He was enrolled briefly at ACU before graduating in 1961 from Texas Tech University with a B.S. degree in chemical engineering. He worked for Celanese Corporation and McWood Corporation before forming LaJet Inc., in 1968, with Hal (’58) and Jack McGlothlin (’51). As president and CEO of LaJet, he designed and built a leading-edge petroleum refinery and in 1980, he was a founder of Abilene’s Fairway Oaks Golf and Racquet Club. He was highly involved in philanthropy, including the LaJet Golf Classic, a PGA Tour event held at Fairway Oaks throughout the 1980s. He established The Andress Foundation, which sustained decades of charitable contributions to various churches, ministries and outreach programs. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Polly Andress. Among survivors are a son, Tony “Andy” Andress Jr. (’81); daughters Kellie Andress Alegre and Ashley Andress Timmons; two grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Thurmon Andress.

ACU Athletics benefactor Rex Carlton Klepper (’49) died Jan. 31, 2021, at age 96. He was born July 14, 1924, in Clyde, Texas, where he graduated high school in 1941 at age 16. He attended Baylor University for one year on a football scholarship, served in World War II as a U.S. Navy pilot, and finished his bachelor’s degree at ACU, where he lettered in football (1947) and baseball (1947-48). He married Irene Strain on March 25, 1948. He earned an M.Ed. from ACU in 1957 and devoted his career to teaching, coaching and administration in Texas public schools, including those in Colorado City, Odessa, Snyder and McAllen. Klepper received the 2007 College Division Donor of the Year award from the National Association of Athletic Development Directors, and was inducted to the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in 2004. An endowed scholarship fund for the women’s basketball program is named in honor of the Kleppers, and he participated regularly in the Alumni Baseball Game into his 70s. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene; his parents, Roy and Minnie Klepper; brothers R.V. Klepper, Rae Klepper and Richard Klepper (’52); and a sister, Fannye Mae Klepper. Among survivors are a sister, Connye Hays.

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Former ACU advancement officer Mark Hunter Rogers (’03) died March 13, 2021, in a motor vehicle accident in Abilene, Texas, at age 39. He was born June 26, 1981, in Fort Worth, Texas, and graduated from Plano (Texas) Senior High School in 1999. He earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism marketing and communications and a MBA from West Texas A&M in 2011. He married Jenn (Barker ’03) Rogers on Dec. 28, 2002. His career included sports reporter and sports director at KTXS-TV; director of Children’s Miracle Network and physician recruiter for Hendrick Health System; a senior advancement officer at ACU (2010-16); and West Central Texas market president for Big Brothers Big Sisters Lonestar. He also was co-campus minister with his wife at Abilene’s Southern Hills Church of Christ. He was the radio color voice of Abilene High School’s football team. Among survivors are Jenn, his wife of 19 years; daughters Haelyn and Hope; a son, Hunter; his parents, Urban (’77) and Melissa (Hunter ’76) Rogers; and brothers Brad Rogers (’01) and Jeff Rogers (’02) Dr. Leonard Lee “Larry” Bradshaw (’65), longtime ACU professor and founding general manager of National Public Radio affiliate KACU-FM, died March 17, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, after an extended illness at age 77. He was born May 5, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, and graduated high school in Harper, Kansas, in 1961. He attended Wichita State University from 1961-63 and earned a bachelor’s degree from ACU in 1965, a master’s in speech communication from the University of Arizona in 1966, and a doctorate from the School of Communication at Southern Illinois University in 1970. He married Abilene Christian classmate Dr. Gloria Bradshaw (’66) on Aug. 28, 1965. His long career in broadcasting began by working in news at KMUW-FM in Wichita, Kansas (1961-63), and KWKC-AM and FM in Abilene (1964-65). He was an assistant professor at the University of Tulsa (1968-74), visiting assistant professor at Oral Roberts University (1974-75), associate professor at Eastern New Mexico University (1975-84), and news director and anchor at New Mexico Public Television’s KENW-TV (1977-83). He joined ACU’s faculty in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication in August 1984, serving as director of JMC’s broadcast division and teaching until his retirement in 2004 as professor emeritus. Bradshaw was founding general manager of KACU-FM, Abilene Christian’s NPR affiliate, from 1986-91 and 1994-2000. He took a leave of absence from 1991-94 to serve as visiting professor at Middle Tennessee State University. He also was Bradshaw Andress

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Elaine Polk died April 2, 2021, in Rio Rancho, Nevada, at age 97. She was born Nov. 22, 1923, in New Market, Iowa, and married Virgil L. Polk on March 4, 1948. As switchboard operator from 1966-89, she was the voice of Abilene Christian for those who phoned the campus. She was named ACU’s Outstanding Staff Member in 1973 and retired in 1989. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Pearl Miller; Virgil, her husband of 53 years; and siblings Irvin Miller, Fred Miller Jr., Howard Miller, Dean Miller, Thelma Slump and Betty Cooper. Among survivors are her son, Virgil L. Polk Jr. (’72); two granddaughters; and four great-grandchildren.

Idaliah June Vincent Presley died April 20, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 96. She was born on March 27, 1925, in Cross Plains, Texas, and graduated from Anson (Texas) High School in 1942. She married Theodore Woodrow Presley Sr. on Sept. 9, 1943. She worked in several clerical roles, including at ACU, where she served as central files clerk for 25 years and retired at age 86, researching and cataloging information submitted by alumni for the EXperiences section of ACU Today magazine. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Vincent Crockett and Alta Crockett (’32); her husband, Theodore; sisters Myrl Keith, Faye Bryson, Pat Williams and Doris Chadbourne; and brothers Joe Vincent, Max Vincent, Lloyd Presley and Ed Presley. Among survivors are her son, Dr. Ted Presley Jr. (’68); a daughter, Nancy Sutphen; a sister, Joyce Hullum; four grandchildren; and 11 Formergreat-grandchildren.longtimehistory

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professor Benny Paul Gallaway (’49) died May 1, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 92. Gallaway was born June 14, 1928 in Dublin, Texas, where he graduated high school in 1945. He served in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers from 1950-52, and married Betty June Ripley on Aug. 21, 1951, and were married 65 years until her death in 2016. He earned an A.S. degree in social science from Tarleton State University (1947), a B.A. in history from ACU (1949), an M.A. in history from the University of North Texas (1954), and did doctoral work at The University of Texas at Austin from 1954-63. Gallaway also taught in Brownfield (1949-50 and 1952-53), Goldthwaite (1954-55) and Austin (1957-58) public schools in Texas. He was assistant professor of history at Harding University from 1955-57. The Gallaways moved to Abilene in 1958, when Benny joined the faculty at ACU. Voted Abilene Christian’s Teacher of the Year in 1984, Gallaway taught history for more than 40 years. He authored many articles in professional journals, along with two books, Texas: The Dark Corner of the Confederacy and The Ragged Rebel: A Common Soldier in W.H. Parsons’ Texas Cavalry, 1861-1865. He retired in 1993 but continued to teach his popular Texas and Civil War history courses. Gallaway was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Viola Stephen Gallaway, and his wife, Betty. Among survivors are three children: son Dr. Steve Gallaway (’77) and his wife, Patricia; a son. Brad Gallaway (’80); and a daughter, Lori (Gallaway ’83) Reagan; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

general manager of ACU’s low-power station, KUF-LPTV, from 1990-98. He traveled to England and Scotland during 1987 with Dr. Bill Humble (’48), Dr. Dutch Hoggatt Jr. (’77) and R.L. Roberts Jr. (’47) to gather materials for a documentary film, Light From Above: The Life of Alexander Campbell. He and Hoggatt also traveled to Israel for the project. Bradshaw authored dozens of scholarly research articles on religious communication, mass communication, broadcast journalism, and cameras in the courtroom. His career also included service as a part-time minister in Herrin, Illinois, and at two congregations in Portales, New Mexico. He served on ACU’s Centennial Collections Task Force in 2005-06, and was lead videographer of many special events during the university’s 100th school year. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dalton and Marfabelle Bradshaw, and twin brothers William “Bill” Bradshaw and Robert “Bob” Bradshaw. Among survivors are Gloria, his wife of 55 years; a son, Dr. Alan Bradshaw (’90); daughters Laurie (Bradshaw ’92) Randel and Amber (Bradshaw ’04) Leach; and six grandchildren.

Dr. Al Marcus Nelson (’94), ACU’s 2013 Young Alumnus of the Year, died May 15, 2021, at age 49. He was born March 25, 1972, in San Antonio, Texas, and graduated in 1990 from Judson High School in Live Oak, Texas. He earned a bachelor’s degree from ACU and master’s and doctoral degrees in educational administration from Texas A&M-Commerce University. He married Julie Dickens (’93) in 1994. His career included teaching elementary and high school in Garland, Texas, and serving as an administrator in McKinney, Texas. He was principal at Connally High School in Pflugerville, Texas, a director in the Austin (Texas) ISD, associate superintendent in Judson ISD, superintendent of Laredo (Texas) ISD – where he was named Superintendent of the Year in 2014 by the Texas Association of School Boards – and superintendent of Waco ISD. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Alvin Nelson Sr. and Kitty Mae Hunter, and James Perkins and Ada Mae Walford. Among survivors are his wife, Julie Nelson; sons Austin Nelson and Callen Nelson; his parents, Alvin Nelson Jr. and Mary Alice Feathers; and a brother, Alvin Nelson III. Former ACU journalism professor and public information director Dr. Reginald “Reg” Westmoreland died May 15, 2021, at age 94. He was born Oct. 31, 1926, in Navarro, Texas, and graduated from Mildred (Texas) High School. He earned B.A. and M.A. degrees from the University of North Texas (UNT) and a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri. He married Mary Burns on Feb. 6, 1949. His career included being a reporter/editor for the Dallas Times Herald (1947-55); director of public information, adviser of The Optimist and journalism professor at ACU (1956-63); and journalism professor at UNT (1964-94), with a two-year leave of absence when he was associate dean at Pepperdine University (1983-85). He chaired the UNT journalism program from 1974 to his retirement in 1988. His leadership roles included the Texas Journalism Education Council (president, 1976-77), American Society of Journalism School Administrators (president, 1978-79), American Association of Schools and Departments of Journalism (president, 1980-81), and Association of Schools of Journalism and Mass Communication (president, 1981-82). He also served on ACU’s JMC Visiting Committee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Grace Westmoreland; his wife, Mary; and a son, David C. Westmoreland (’85) Among survivors are his daughters, Linda (Westmoreland ’78) Storm and Lisa (Westmoreland ’81) Burlingame; nine grandchildren; and six Formergreat-grandchildren.ACUtrustee Dr. S. Douglas “Doug” Smith (’60) died June 10, 2021, at age 83. He was born Oct. 17, 1937, in Hatchel, Texas, graduating from Snyder (Texas) High School in 1956 and marrying Nan Frazier (’65) in 1964. He earned a Master of Hospital Administration degree from Duke University and a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham following retirement as co-founder and president of Quorum Health. He served as president of Hospital Corporation of America Management Company, overseeing operations of 200 hospitals around the world. His career also included roles as associate administrative director of Duke University Hospital; southwestern regional manager of Humana Inc.; adjunct professor in Lipscomb University’s College of Business; and professor of healthcare management at Vanderbilt University’s Owen School of Management. He served on the boards of ACU (1986-2010) and Lipscomb, and was board chair of Passport Health

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faculty member Dr. Michael Ervin Sadler died June 20, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 73. Sadler was born May 18, 1948, in Amherst, Texas, and was raised on a cotton farm outside of Lubbock. He graduated from Whitharral (Texas) High School in 1966. He earned a B.S. degree in engineering physics at Texas Tech University and a M.S. (1974) and Ph.D. (1977) in physics from Indiana University. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at UCLA, where he began his career as a research scientist in 1977. He met Ginna Joyce Gustafson (’70) while doing graduate work in Indiana, and the couple wed June 9, 1973. Sadler joined the Abilene Christian faculty in 1979 and taught for 40 years. He was a pioneering ACU science faculty member doing significant research, including roles as spokesman for major experiments at Los Alamos and Brookhaven national laboratories. He spoke fluent Russian, which helped him excel in collaborative subatomic research with physicists in Russian and Eastern European nations. Sadler was a mentor who positively impacted the careers of ACU undergraduate students, who often accompanied him to international conferences to present research with their professor and other physicists. He received numerous research grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and was frequently published. He received the American Physical Society’s Prize for Research in an Undergraduate Institution (1995), as well as two Fulbright Scholarships to conduct research in Russia (2002-03) and Bosnia (2010-11). He was named the Outstanding Teacher of the year for ACU’s College of Natural and Applied Sciences in 1988, and regularly hosted physicists from Russia who joined him in research on campus. Sadler was a longtime member of the American Physical Society, including service as president of the Texas Section. He also was active in the Rotary Club of Abilene and University Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Josephine Sadler. Among survivors are Ginna, ACU professor emeritus of art and design, and his wife of 48 years; daughters Lela (Sadler ’98) Thorne and Laura (Sadler ’01) Tittsworth; six grandchildren; a brother, Stan Sadler; and a sister, Marla Bullock. Dr. William E. “Bill” Wright (’51), professor emeritus of accounting and finance, died June 20, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 92. He was born Dec. 4, 1928, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and graduated from Texarkana (Texas) High School in 1947. He married Geraldine “Jerry” Hays (’51) on Aug. 23, 1951. He earned his MBA degree from Texas Tech University (1952) and a doctorate in accounting from The University of Texas at Austin (1956), where he was an accounting instructor from 1954-56. Wright joined the ACU faculty in 1956, when he and the late Dr. Overton Faubus taught most of the classes in the business department. He served as chair of the Department of Accounting from 1990 to 1993, when he was named its Teacher of Year. His career in the College of Business Administration spanned 44 years, and he retired in 2000. He was a financial advisor for H. Ross Perot and a tax consultant for a number of CPA firms in Abilene, Dallas and Lubbock before and during his service to ACU. He served on the board of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, including a term as its president. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Bell Wright and Joy Bates Wright; and his daughter, Leslie Ann Frazier (’77). Among survivors are his wife, Jerry; sons Alan Wright (’79), Gary Wright (’88) and Chad Wright (’06 M.Ed.); 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Mary Adalene “Addie” (Rheiner ’53) Felts, associate professor emerita of health, physical education and recreation, died Aug. 1, 2021, in Abilene, Texas. She was born Dec. 10, 1931, in San Antonio, Texas, where she graduated from Edison High School. She was voted Miss ACU (1952), was a cheerleader and in 1951, the university’s first Homecoming Queen. While at Abilene Christian she met and married Richard “Dick” Felts Jr. (’53). They were married 51 years until his death in 2003. She taught school at Lampasas (Texas) Elementary School, Dallas (Texas) Christian School, Lubbock (Texas) Christian High School, and for more than 20 years at ACU, where she was employed from 1969-93. She was the Wildcats’ first head coach of women’s track and field (1976-79) and received the W Club Role Model Award for 1991-92. After retiring from ACU, the couple moved to Brownwood, Texas. She returned to Abilene in 2016. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Davenport Rheiner and Lillian Hughes Rheiner; her husband, Richard; a daughter, Sara (Felts ’77) DuBose; a brother, Jack Rheiner; a sister, Sonja Rheiner Botkin, and a great-granddaughter, Baylor Clark. Among

Communications Inc. and The ZOE Group, and was an elder at Otter Creek Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Jewell Smith. Among survivors are Nan, his wife of 57 years; sons Bryan Smith (’90), Troy Smith and David Smith; daughters Elizabeth (Smith ’89) Hill and Carrie Brock; 17 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Shirley Margaret Long Hunter, namesake with her husband of ACU’s Bob and Shirley Hunter Welcome Center, died June 12, 2021, at age 88 in Abilene, Texas, after a long illness. She was born April 17, 1933, in College Station, Texas. She attended The University of Texas at Austin, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in education in 1953. While at UT, Shirley met law student Dr. Bob Hunter (’52) when the two were assigned to chair a Valentine’s Day social at University Avenue Church of Christ. Within a semester, Bob had enlisted in the Navy and been assigned to Japan but not before the two became engaged. They married May 27, 1954, in Bangkok, Thailand. For a year, Shirley taught kindergarten at the American School in Yokosuka, Japan, and later in the Washington, D.C., area, where Bob was assigned after his deployment. After the Navy they moved to Abilene and began a lifetime of service to Abilene Christian. With her friend Vivian Clark (’48), Shirley taught third-grade Sunday School class at University Church of Christ for more than 30 years. She was a founding member of Women for ACU and served on many community boards, including the Abilene Zoo. She was an active volunteer at the Grace Museum, Meals on Wheels and Christian Service Center, as well as a Cub Scout den leader and Girl Scout troop leader. Bob and Shirley were grand marshals of ACU’s Homecoming parade in 2005, and the Hunter Welcome Center – a project of the university’s Centennial Campaign – opened in 2009. Though she grew up in College Station and Austin, she loved Abilene and supported her husband’s long career (1986-2007) of service in the Texas House of Representatives. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Edna Hopper Long, and her brother, Tom. Among survivors are Bob, her husband of 67 years; sons Kent Hunter (’79) and Les Hunter (’86); a daughter, ACU trustee Carole (Hunter ’81) Phillips; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Dr. Eileen Rose Emch (’75), former faculty member, died June 16, 2021, in Dallas, Texas, at age 68. She was born July 30, 1952, in Youngstown, Ohio, and graduated from Manchester (Ohio) High School in 1970. Emch earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics from ACU, a master’s degree from the University of North Texas (1987) and a Doctor of Philosophy from Texas Tech University (1990). From 1975-99, she held teaching positions in Melbourne, Australia; Warren-Harding High School in Warren, Ohio; Irving (Texas) High School, ACU, and West Mesquite (Texas) High School. In 1999 she became a missionary to Rostov-on-Don, Russia, for the Prestoncrest Church of Christ in Dallas, and was particularly close with the church in L’Vov, Ukraine. She returned to the U.S. in 2020 to renew her visa. While international travel restrictions delayed her return to Russia, she planned to serve as the librarian at Prestoncrest. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Lillian Emch. Among survivors are a sister, Debbie (Emch ’81) DeJong; and brothers Dan Emch, David Emch and Ben FormerEmch.

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Martha Jane (Cathey) Renfro, former longtime College of Biblical Studies administrative assistant, died Dec. 25, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 82. She was born Nov. 18, 1939, in Greenville, Texas. She was employed by ACU for 30 years (1979-2009). She also was a longtime member of the Abilene Star Chorus. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Milton Cathey and Rosie Lee Cathey; and a sister, Anita Wright. Among survivors are her husband, Robert; a brother, Bob Cathey; daughters Cathey (Renfro ’83) Beaty and Lisa Renfro Bowman (’91); five grandchildren; and five ACUgreat-grandchildren.BuildingandGrounds

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team lead Elizabeth Ann “Becky” Irby died Dec. 31, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 51 after a battle with cancer. She was born July

ACU Morlan Medal winner Dr. Chad R. Woolery (’67) died Sept. 11, 2021, at age 77. He was born Nov. 13, 1943, in Denver, Colorado, and graduated from Littleton (Colorado) High School, where he was a standout athlete in football and track and field. After graduation, he taught and coached for one year in the Irving (Texas) ISD before beginning a 27-year career as a teacher, coach and administrator in the Dallas (Texas) ISD, where he retired in 1996 after serving three years as superintendent. He received two high honors from ACU: the Morlan Medal in 1994 as the top teacher education graduate, and an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 1995. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Fern Woolery. Among survivors are Patsy (’66), his wife of 54 years; a daughter, Wendy; a son, Mark Woolery; six grandchildren; and a brother, Steve Woolery (’66). Cynthia Ann (Cannon ’87) Coates died Sept. 14, 2021, at age 57. She was born Feb. 18, 1964, at Kincheloe Air Force Base, Michigan, where her father was an optometrist for the U.S. Air Force. She graduated in 1982 from Abilene High School, where she was a top musician. She wed classmate Dr. Neal Coates (’87) on Dec. 15, 1984. After earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from ACU, she served for three years as the elementary ESL teacher and coordinator for public schools in Lawrence, Kansas. She also was a stay-at-home mother who taught Bible School classes at congregations where she and her family attended in Kansas, Texas and Connecticut. In Abilene, she was a den leader for Cub Scout Packs 201 and 205, and an active volunteer with Taylor Elementary School and Abilene Christian Schools. She was a founding member and vice president of the Anencephaly Support Foundation, a board member for the Brazos Valley Crisis Pregnancy Center, and was instrumental in the creation of a Birth Defects Registry in the Texas Department of Health. In 1995, she testified with physicians before the American Medical Association Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs, and they were successful in reversing a rule that allowed organs to be harvested from anencephalic infants. She twice served in Oxford, England, as an ACU Study Abroad house parent and twice participated in the Zambia Medical Mission. She became children’s minister for Abilene’s Hillcrest Church of Christ in 2011, serving in that role until her passing. In 2021, she earned a Certificate in Children’s Ministry from Bethel University. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Samuel. Among survivors are Neal, her husband of 37 years; children Rebekah (Coates ’12) McNeill, Jesse Coates (’17), Martha (Coates ’19) Gardner and Timothy Coates; three grandchildren; her parents, Glenn and Carol Cannon; and siblings Charles Cannon (’00), Kent Cannon (’85) and Debbie (Cannon ’90) Bryan. See story on page 62.

Dr. Terry Lee Childers (’74), a pioneering alumnus and former trustee, died Dec. 8, 2021, in Abilene, Texas, at age 68. Childers was born Dec. 31, 1952, in Abilene and graduated from Abilene High School in 1971. He was the first Black freshman from Abilene to enroll at ACU and he became the first Black trustee of his alma mater. He married classmate Essie Charles (’75) on Aug. 3, 1973. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from ACU and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas (1976), and received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from ACU (2015). For nearly 25 years, Childers’ career was largely focused on public service as a city manager or administrator in Celina, Austin, Tyler, College Station and Amarillo, Texas, and in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He formed Childers Construction Company and The Childers Corporation, employing more than 300 people with offices in 26 states. Later, he was named assistant agency director for the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Childers served on the Board of Trustees for ACU (1988-2008) and for Oklahoma Christian University (1995-2003), where he and Essie established the Childers Institute for Leadership. He also chaired Oklahoma’s Human Services Commission (1992-2019) and served on numerous boards including the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Great Oklahoma City United Way, State Fair of Oklahoma, College Station Medical Center, American Red Cross, National Forum of Black Public Administrators, Leadership Oklahoma, Bryan College Station Family Promise, and the Brazos Food Bank. He was a former member of the White House Minority Business Task Force and the Murrah Building Memorial Task Force, and board chair of First Commercial Bank in Edmond, Oklahoma. He and Essie actively served in congregations where they were members, and they participated in numerous mission trips to Africa, including building a church in Mombasa, Kenya. Terry was an elder at the A&M Church of Christ when his family lived in College Station. He was preceded in death by his parents, Watson and Ruby Mae Childers, in whose name he and Essie endowed a scholarship fund at ACU; brothers Watson Childers Jr., Elijah Childers and Billy Joe Childers; and sisters Adelene Childers and Rudy Jean Hairston Childers. Among survivors are Essie, his wife of 48 years; children Shalawn (Childers ’96) Harris, Jonathan Childers (’02) and Adam Childers (’07); a brother, Rickey Childers; and two grandchildren. (See story on page 106.)

Larry Bonner Sr. (’64), who helped integrate ACU as one of its first two Black undergraduate students along with Dr. Billy Curl (’64), died Aug. 2, 2021, at age 81. He was born Dec. 11, 1939, in Gilmer, Texas, and graduated in 1959 from E.J. Campbell High School in Nacogdoches, Texas. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965-88 and married Donna Patrice Jackson on May 7, 1977. An award-winning entrepreneur, he was president and executive director of the Thirteenth-Irving Development Group Corporation, which helped offer affordable housing opportunities. He was a church elder, a business consultant for the federal government, and for 15 years, a board member of the Selective Service System. In 2021, ACU’s Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action established the Billy Curl and Larry Bonner Endowed Scholarship. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Lee Bonner and Berniece Canyon Bonner; brothers Roger Bonner, Dickey Bonner and Sidney Bonner; and sisters Annie Ruth Bonner, Jeanette Bonner and Beverly Bonner. Among survivors are Donna, his wife of 44 years; a son, Larry Bonner II (’02); a daughter, DeChanta Melané Shelton; one granddaughter; brothers McArthur Bonner and Billy Bonner; and a sister, Joan Bonner.

ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 101 survivors are her children, Susan Felts Fry (’75), Ricky Felts (’80), Sherry Felts Ratliff (’81) and Sharon (Felts ’92) Shipley; 21 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; and honorary sons John Hill Cayce Jr., Cle Montgomery (’78) and Wilbert Montgomery (’77).

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Former longtime ACU trustee John James “Jack” Riehl Jr. died Nov. 29, 2021, at age 85 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was born July 23, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Lower Merion (Ardmore, Pennsylvania) High School in 1953. He attended Philadelphia Museum of Fine Art and Temple University, and married Laura Shulk (’60) on Feb. 8, 1959. He worked 42 years for JCPenney, serving as area manager for its Chicago market, and retiring in 1996 to move to New Mexico. He was a member of ACU’s Board of Trustees from 1986-2007. While living in Chicago, he served on the board of the Chicago Association of Commerce and Industry, and the Chicago Better Business Bureau. He also was an elder and teacher at Cardinal Drive Church of Christ in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Among survivors are Laura, his wife of 63 years; daughters Kathy (Riehl ’81) Lane, Kim (Riehl ’82) Thomas and Karen (Riehl ’85) Conner; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

first graders to adults in the Big Country Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist program. She volunteered in Abilene’s United Way and Toys for Tots campaigns, and joined ACU’s staff in March 2019. She was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Ruth Perry. Among survivors are her father, Jess Jerl Franklin; her husband, Sean Irby; their children, Dennis Irby and Diane Irby Beckham; three grandchildren; a half-brother, Jonathan Franklin; and a step-brother, Brian Stansell.

John Davis Duty III (’74) died Feb. 7, 2022, in Seneca, South Carolina, after a sudden illness at age 72. He was born Dec. 1, 1949, in McAllen, Texas. He attended ACU where he studied drama and mass communication, and was active in theatre, A Cappella Chorus, and cheerleading. He met Janna Castles (’74) when they were both in the cast of Fiddler on the Roof, the 1972 Homecoming Musical, and they married June 21, 1975. From 1974-76, John managed the Gaslight Theater in Oklahoma City before returning to his alma mater, where he served as Sing Song coordinator, director of alumni special projects (1977), assistant to the vice president (1979), 75th anniversary coordinator (1979-81), inauguration coordinator (1981) and director of university events (1981), and was named Outstanding Professional Staff Member in 1982. The couple’s son and twin daughters were born in Abilene and prompted the family’s move to Granbury to be near Janna’s parents. Over four decades, the Dutys contributed to the Granbury community as business owners and educators. Together they repurposed the Carmichael Inn as a restaurant and purchased City Flower Market on the Square. Later, John was camp director at Camp Crucis before joining Janna in Granbury ISD, first at the elementary level and later as high school theatre director for five years after completing his education degree at University of Texas at Arlington. He devoted nearly two decades to Granbury Church of Christ as children’s minister, worship minister and body life minister. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and John Davis Duty Jr., and a brother, Dale Duty. Among survivors are Janna, his wife of 47 years; a son, Jay Duty (’02); daughters Jill Williams (’04) and Jane Kindberg (’05); and brothers Don Duty (’85) and David Duty.

Dr. Alfred Heber Taylor II, first chair of ACU’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, died Feb. 28, 2022, at age 97. He was born Aug. 1, 1924, near Trenton, Tennessee. He developed an interest in journalism in his teens and covered high school sports for a local weekly. When he graduated from Peabody High School in 1942, his mother offered him either a year of business school or a quarter at Memphis State. He chose college and made the money stretch to finish his freshman year before being drafted into the U.S. Army in July 1943. After basic training at Fort Benning, he was selected to study engineering in the intense Army Specialized Training Program at the University of Georgia. But the ASTP was disbanded in March 1944 when it was realized the war in Europe might be won quickly with more invasion troops. He was assigned to serve as a radio operator in the 10th Armored Division’s 80th Medical Battalion Headquarters Company at Camp Gordon and was deployed to France in September 1944. The division, which was part of Gen. George S. Patton’s Third Army, fought at Metz during the Battle of Lorraine in November 1944; played a major role in halting the German’s Bulge offensive through the Ardennes at the Siege of Bastogne, Belgium, in December 1944; and seized Trier and many other German cities in 1945. During the Occupation, he wrote sports for the Bremen Port Commander and traveled with the teams until he repatriated in March 1946. He earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Arkansas in 1948, serving as sports editor and then managing editor for the Arkansas Traveler. He earned a master’s from Vanderbilt University in 1949 and a Ph.D. in journalism from the University of Missouri in 1955. He traveled to Oslo, Norway, in 1953 as a recipient of Fulbright and Rockefeller Fellowships. He had planned a career as a sportswriter, but was persuaded to give teaching a try at Abilene Christian. There he met and married Jean Cariker (’51); she died in 1989. He taught at public and private universities, including Abilene Christian, Tennessee at Martin, Wisconsin at Superior, Memphis, Arkansas at Little Rock, Texas State, Stephen F. Austin and Harding. In retirement, he wrote prolifically as a freelancer, played tennis and traveled extensively. He attended 10th Armored Division and Battle of the Bulge reunions in the U.S. and participated in Second World War commemorations in France and Luxembourg in 2010-16. At the age of 90, he represented the Greatest Generation when President François Hollande of France selected him to be the only American decorated in 2014 at the Palace of Salm, the seat of the Legion of Honor, in Paris. In 2017, he was received at the George C. Marshall Museum of Lexington, Virginia, as the last apparent surviving American witness of the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony of 1953 honoring Gen. Marshall, to which he and Jean were invited during his Fulbright year in Norway. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Heber Taylor and Mary Read Morgan, and a sister, Virginia Taylor Hardaway. Survivors include his sons, Heber Taylor III and Jeff Taylor.

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102 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY 27, 1970, in Queens, New York, and married Sean Patrick Irby on May 22, 1987. She worked from 2005-15 at Abilene Zoological Park as a veterinary assistant, including teaching classes about animal and plant life to Abilenians of all ages, from AISD

Former ACU library director Dr. James Kenneth Roach (’58) of Katy, Texas, died Jan. 10, 2022, at age 86. He was born Feb. 13, 1935, in Mount Pleasant, Texas. When he was in sixth grade, his family moved to Quinlan, Texas, and lived at the Boles Children’s Home where his mother was employed. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian in 1958. While there he met Anita Crowson (’59), and they married May 26, 1959. They moved to Taft, Texas, where he taught high school English. In 1960, he earned a master’s in library science from The University of Texas at Austin. He later earned a doctorate in higher education and administration from the University of North Texas in Denton. He worked as a librarian at Howard County Junior College, Texas Woman’s University, Dallas Public Library, ACU Brown Library (1977-88), and Lee College. He served as an elder at Missouri Street Church of Christ in Baytown, Texas. At the time of his death, he was a member of the Cinco Ranch Church of Christ in Katy. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Bedford Roach and Ruby Smith Roach; brothers Carl Roach and James Billy Roach; sisters Ruth Roach McCauley, Mary Blanche Roach Cain and Noma Roach Bailey; and a granddaughter. Survivors include Anita, his wife of 62 years; sons Danny Roach (’84), Dale Roach, Pat Roach (’92), Mike Roach, Don Roach and Dr. David Roach (’82); daughters Susan Roach Rickard and Jeannie (Roach ’90) Kees; 16 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, Jack Roach. Oleta (Wren) Morris of Plainview, Texas, died Feb. 3, 2022, in Olton, Texas, at age 87. She was born Sept. 6, 1934, in Hico, Texas, graduated from Lubbock High School and lived many years in the Lubbock area. For 18 years, she was known as the “voice of ACU,” as she answered hundreds of phone calls to the university switchboard each week. She and her husband, Bill Morris, often hosted college students in their homes at meals and served as a host home for several international students. Early in her professional life, she worked in the ACU Print Shop, and she was proud that she earned the same salary as the men – well before that was normal. Survivors include her husband, Bill; a brother, Harold Wren; a son, Ric Morris (’86); a daughter, Karen (Wren ’86) Greer; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Longtime ACU biology faculty member Roy Eugene Shake died April 3, 2022, in Abilene, Texas, at age 89. He was born July 3, 1932, in Claremont, Illinois, and graduated in 1950 from East Richland High School in Olney, Morris

Pulitzer Prize winner David Leeson (’78) died April 16, 2022, in Abilene, Texas, at age 64. He was born in Abilene on Oct. 18, 1957, graduated from Cooper High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communication. Beginning while a student, Leeson worked as a staff photographer for the Abilene Reporter-News until 1982, when he moved to New Orleans as a photojournalist with The Times-Picayune in New Orleans, covering civil wars in Nicaragua and El Salvador, political events and other numerous major news stories. In 1984, he began work with The Dallas Morning News. His 1985 coverage of apartheid in South Africa earned a Pulitzer nomination and in 1994, he returned to South Africa to document Nelson Mandela’s election as president. In 1986, he lived on the streets of Dallas with the homeless for six weeks. His photos were published in a 24page special section by the Morning News and he received the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award for Outstanding Coverage of the Problems of the Disadvantaged. In 1991, he was assigned to the 1st Marine Division during the Gulf War and was one of the first photojournalists to document the devastation of Kuwait City. The following year, he returned to give readers an exclusive look inside Baghdad. In 1994, he covered the civil war in Angola, earning a second Kennedy award and was again nominated for a Pulitzer with a photograph of a family evacuating floodwaters in southeast Texas. For more than 14-months (1996-97), he worked on a photo essay about death row in the U.S., then completed stories in China, Bosnia, Turkey and Sudan. In 2004, Leeson won his first Pulitzer for photographs depicting the violence and poignancy of the second war with Iraq. He also received the Edward R. Murrow Award, the National Headliner Award and a regional Emmy Award in 2004 as executive producer and photographer for the WFAA-TV documentary, “War Stories.” In 2005, Leeson was also a member of a Pulitzer-winning team for explanatory journalism during coverage of Hurricane Katrina. He received three awards from his alma mater: ACU’s Outstanding Alumnus of the Year (2004), JMC Gutenberg (1993) and Distinguished Alumni Citation (1991). In 2010, he was inducted into the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association Hall of Fame. Among survivors are his parents, Kirby and Dolores Leeson; children Lauren (Leeson ’06) Eagle, David Leeson II, James Leeson, Gabriel Leeson and Quinn Leeson; six grandchildren; a sister, Deborah Leeson; his first wife, Martha Colglazier Leeson (’78), and his second wife, Kim Leeson. Teresa Ann (Rubart ’77) Grounds, 66, of Hooker, Oklahoma, died May 8, 2022, in Houston, Texas, after a battle with cancer. She was born in Emporia, Kansas, on Oct. 24, 1955. After graduating from Ulysses High School, she earned an education degree from ACU. She was the first player in ACU women’s basketball history to lead the team in both scoring and rebounding in all four of her seasons. She was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in 2015. On March 20, 1982, she married Greg Grounds. She served her community in many ways, participated in disaster relief efforts in the U.S. and took many mission trips to Ghana, Africa. Survivors include Greg, her husband of 40 years; her parents, Perry and Dorothy Rubart; her children Jason, Nic and Megan; sisters Jackie Beall and Debbie Sneyd; a brother, Chris; and five grandchildren. Dr. Robert Lynn Anderson (’90 D.Min.), beloved evangelist and mentor of ministers around the world, and ACU’s first doctoral graduate, died May 12, 2022, at age 85. He was born Sept. 22, 1936, in Saskatchewan, Canada. After graduating from high school at Western Christian College, he attended Freed-Hardeman University and graduated from Harding University with a B.A. degree in 1959. He earned an M.A. in 1965 from Harding Graduate School of Religion in Memphis, Tennessee, and did doctoral work at Fuller Theological Seminary. The Andersons first served a church together from 1960-64 in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, Canada. In 1964-65 he preached in Lepanto, Arkansas, and then established a congregation in Kelowna, British Columbia, where he ministered for six years. He preached from 1971-90 at Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, and from 1991-96 at Preston Road Church of Christ in Dallas. He later founded and devoted his full-time work to leadership development and coaching through HOPE Network Ministries. Along the way, he taught ministry courses at Pepperdine University and Preston Road Center for Christian Education. During his three decades as an adjunct professor at ACU, he taught Bible, missions and cross-cultural communication, befriending and inspiring many young ministers, including Max Lucado (’77) and Rick Atchley (’78). He received Sweet Publishing’s Excellence in Christian Communication Award in 1994. He and his wife, Carolyn Anderson, whom he met while they were students at FreedHardeman, were recipients of ACU’s 2017 Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award. In 2020, he donated the Robert Lynn Anderson Papers to ACU’s Brown Library. The couple are namesakes of ACU’s Lynn and Carolyn Anderson Endowed Scholarship for Doctor of Ministry. He was widely published and authored several books, including They Smell Like Sheep: Spiritual Leadership for the 21st Century (2011) , Longing for a Homeland: Discover the Place You Belong (2004) , The Jesus Touch: Learning the Art of Relationship From the Master (2002) , and Navigating the Winds of Change: How to Manage Change in the Church (1994). Among survivors are his wife; daughters Michele English (’82) and Deborah Boggs (’82); sons Jon Anderson (’86) and Christopher Anderson (’92); 10 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and one sister.

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 103 Illinois. He earned a bachelor’s degree in 1954 from Eastern Illinois University, majoring in botany, geography and education; earned a master’s degree in plant ecology from the University of Wisconsin (1957); and did doctoral work from 1962-65 at the University of Florida. He wed Bonnie Lou Sargent in 1957, and they moved to Decatur, Illinois, where he taught general science, entered the National Guard for six months of active duty, and an additional five years in the reserve. He joined the biology faculty at ACU in 1958 and taught full time for more than 40 years. He was a member of Abilene’s South 11th and Willis Church of Christ, where he served as an elder for 33 years. He and Bonnie were foster parents for more than 100 children and unwed mothers, and served on the board of Christian Homes & Family Services for 18 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie; a brother, Herbert Shake; and a sister, Marie Crites. Survivors include sons Roger Shake (’80), Dan Shake (’83), Gary Shake (’85) and Tim Shake (’88); and daughters Misti Shake (’99) and Linda (Shake ’84) Allen; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Thomas Devine Smith III (’54), a world record holder and U.S. Olympian in pistol shooting, and ACU’s only Olympian to participate in a sport other than track and field, died May 17, 2022, at age 90. He was born Oct. 30, 1931, in Sabinel, Texas, and grew up in San Antonio, graduating from Alamo Heights High School. As a young teenager he crossed paths with Ad Toepperwein, a famous exhibition shooter of the 1920s and ’30s who taught Smith the art of pistol shooting, sparking a lifelong passion for the sport. He had a brief football and track and field career at Abilene Christian before a knee injury ended his competition as a collegian, having won the 1950 Texas Conference championship in shot put as a freshman and playing fullback and tackle in football. He was a member of eight U.S. shooting teams in international competitions. After setting a world record and winning gold medals in 25m center fire pistol and team competition at the 1963 Pan American Games, he placed eighth in 50m free pistol (548.0) at the Olympic Games in 1964 in Tokyo. Smith set more than 80 national records and was the first shooter to score a perfect 300x300 with .22 and .45 handguns in registered competition. He was the first member of the Air Force and first American to set a centerfire pistol world record. The Colt 1911 semi-automatic pistol Smith used in the Pan American Games is displayed at the National Rifle

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Kent Leon Rideout (’86), senior vice president and chief operating officer of Abilene Christian Investment Management Company (ACIMCO), died June 5, 2022, at age 65 in a motorcycle accident in Arkansas. He was born Feb. 19, 1957, in Abilene, earned a B.B.A. degree from ACU, and was employed at the university for 27 years. He began his career at his alma mater in 1995 as assistant controller for plant and endowment. Previously, he worked for Pittencrieff Communications; Davis, Kinard & Co.; and as an auditor in Midland, Texas. He also served as a member of the Board of Trustees at Abilene Christian Schools. He wed Merri Lynn Blay (’80), on July 8, 1978. He was a former elder at Southern Hills Church of Christ and was involved in mission work abroad, including in Haiti, China and Thailand. He was preceded in death by his father, former ACU faculty member Dr. Holbert Rideout (’46 M.S.), and grandsons Cade Rideout and Caleb Rideout. Survivors include his wife of 43 years; a daughter, Kara (Rideout ’03) Collins; a son, Craig Rideout (’06); his mother, Stella (Haun ’65) Rideout; and siblings Larry Rideout (’75), Janna Sue Owen (’75), Teryl Rideout (’75), Deryl Rideout (’76), Dr. Cathy (Teague ’76) Rideout and Nyla Jill (Rideout ’74) Davis; and five grandchildren.

Dr. Andrea Di Stefano died June 6, 2022, in Italy while visiting family. He was an adjunct professor of history and global studies for six years, and was pursuing a Master of Divinity degree through the university. He taught classes both in Abilene and online through ACU Dallas, mentoring hundreds of students in courses such as Twentieth-Century Europe, World Rideout

Dr. Charlie H. “Doc” Marler (’55), professor emeritus of journalism and mass communication, and influential historian who taught and mentored ACU students for 58 years, died May 27, 2022, in Abilene, Texas, at age 89. He was born April 13, 1933, in Garfield, Arkansas, and graduated from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1951. He wed Abilene Christian classmate Peggy Gambill (’55) on Dec. 30, 1954. He earned a B.A. in English (1955) and M.A. in history (1968) from ACU, and a doctorate in journalism from the University of Missouri (1974). He was hired by his alma mater in 1955 as assistant director of publicity, then took leave to serve in the U.S. Army’s 8th Infantry Division in Colorado and in Goeppingen, Germany (1956-57), and in the Army Reserve’s 490th Military Affairs and Civilian Government Company in Abilene (1958-59). He returned to campus to serve as ACU’s first sports information director (1958-63), associate director of development (1963-64), and director of information and publications (196471). Another leave (1971-74) allowed him to complete doctoral work. In 1974, he became assistant professor of journalism and mass communication, then professor (1979) and chair (1987-98). He was named the university’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 1987. As an undergraduate, he was the only student to serve as editor of The Optimist newspaper and Prickly Pear yearbook, and later served as faculty advisor of both. His dream for the JMC department to earn accreditation by the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication was fulfilled in 2001. Marler was a visiting lecturer or journalist-in-residence for Bethany College (1988), the USIA’s U.S. Speaker Program in Brazil and Argentina (1993), and the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities’ Summer Journalism Institute (1998-2000). He also taught in ACU’s study abroad programs in Switzerland (1995), and in Prague, Poland, and the former East Germany (1996). He was editor of No Ordinary University: The History of a City Set on a Hill, a 1998 book by Dr. John C. Stevens (’38) about their shared alma mater. He was a member of ACU’s Centennial Commission, chaired its Centennial Collection Taskforce (2005-06), and received one of 17 Hashknife Awards in 2006 for “heroic and pioneering contributions to the preservation of archives and artifacts documenting the history of the university.” The last 26 years, he worked daily on updating and expanding the digital ACU AnswerBook, a nearly exhaustive style guide and important historical source for JMC students and the campus. The Charles H. Marler Scholarship was established in 2001 by the Southwestern Journalism Congress, for which he served five terms as president. He held numerous other offices and leadership roles in professional organizations, including president of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) and Southwestern Education Council for Journalism and Mass Communication. He also was chair of the American Journalism Historians Association board. In 2003, he was inducted with veteran newscasters Walter Cronkite and Bill Moyers into the TIPA Hall of Fame, and in 2006 into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame for distinguished lifetime achievement, noting his legendary knowledge of Wildcat sports history and leadership role in establishing a nationally respected athletics media relations office. In 1993 he pioneered the creation of ACU’s Gutenberg Award, which annually recognizes the distinguished professional achievements of JMC alumni. He and Peggy were members of University Church of Christ, where he served as an elder for many years. His community service focused on the Boy Scouts of America. He earned scouting’s Silver Beaver and Faithful Servant awards, and pioneered the Members of Churches of Christ for Scouting and its Servant Leadership Awards and curriculum for scouts and the adults who mentor them. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Owen Marler and Velma Valentine Marler McCabe, and a granddaughter, Callie Faith Marler. Survivors include his wife of 67 years; sons Dr. David Marler (’80), Todd Marler (’82) and Scott Marler (’86); sisters Doris Waggoner and Shirley Buchanan; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

104 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Association’s National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia. He survived a military plane crash in Greece in 1966 and received the U.S. Air Force airman’s medal for heroism for his part in the mountain-top rescue of three other survivors. He was the only military member ever awarded the nation’s highest awards for non-combat valor and international marksmanship. Maj. Lt. Col. Smith retired from the Air Force in 1979 after more than 3,000 hours of jet time in fighters and bombers. He was a volunteer trainer with the Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and military snipers. His contributions to improved aiming systems changed long-range shooting for hunters and members of the military, earning 10 U.S. patents, two trademarks and five copyrights for new products and technologies. He is the namesake of Smith Drive in the University Hills subdivision east of campus, which also has streets named after three other Wildcat Olympians: Bobby Morrow (’58), Earl Young (’62) and Billy Pemelton (’64). In 2014, he was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame for distinguished lifetime achievement. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Thomas D. Smith II; his first wife, Letha; and his second wife, Ann. Among survivors are Barbara, his wife of 32 years; daughters Tammy Smith and Amy Smith; a stepson, Billy Lee; stepdaughters Kathy White and Toni Dunna; three adopted sons; one grandchild; many step-grandchildren and step-greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Mitty Katherine White.

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ACU TODAY  Spring-Summer 2022 105 War II, Third Reich and Civilization II. He earned a Doctor of Research degree in history from the Università degli Studi di Teramo in Italy. Prior to his service at ACU, he worked for two prominent history museums in Italy and taught for the University of New Hampshire’s study abroad program before moving to Abilene in 2016. At the time of his death, he was visiting his family in Italy following the recent passing of his uncle. He was a member at University Church of Christ in Abilene.

Dr. Paul Faulkner (’52) was assigned as my advisor. He was highly interested in my fitting into ACU, demonstrating through his actions that he really cared.

One day, as I made my way from Chapel to class, Dr. Robert D. Hunter (’52) stopped me to ask how things were going. Brother Bob was a member of the City Council at the time, so I took advantage of his inquiry to obtain help meeting the city manager of Abilene. Two months later, I was employed by the city manager as an intern until my graduation from ACU. This chance meeting would set me on the road to a successful 20-year career in city management.

Dr. Joe Spaulding, professor of history, made it a point to check on me regularly, just to see how things were going.

Dr. Paul B. Faulkner (’52), teacher, preacher, counselor, professor, author and entrepreneur, died July 5, 2022, in Grapevine, Texas at age 92. He was born Sept. 24, 1929, in Fort Worth, Texas, and was a track and field star at Paschal High School. At ACU his titles included the Drake Relays, Texas Relays (three times) and Kansas Relays (twice). He was the Wildcats’ best in the javelin throw and pole vault from 1949-52. He dated fellow Paschal graduate Gladys Shoemaker (’52) and they married July 12, 1952, after completing their degrees. And at ACC he met the other great partner of his life, Dr. Carl Brecheen (’52), as they walked to church from their residence hall the first week of their freshman year. He earned a master’s degree from ACU in 1961, and master’s and doctoral degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1966 and 1968, majoring in psychology. He was a licensed marriage and family therapist and a clinical and supervisory member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, founding the Marriage and Family Institute at ACU in 1979. For many years, the institute was one of only two nationally accredited MFT programs in Texas. Before and even after joining ACU as a faculty member and for seven years as dean of men, he preached for Churches of Christ in Kansas, North Carolina and Texas. In 1974, he and his lifelong friend Brecheen conducted their first Marriage Enrichment Seminar. Five years later, a seminar at the Abilene Civic Center that drew 1,600 in attendance was videotaped and became part of a video series that was seen by more than 2 million people worldwide. Seminars were conducted in 33 states and seven countries over 32 years. He retired from ACU in 1992 after 35 years on the faculty but continued teaching as an adjunct professor after founding Resources for Living, a counseling and consulting service for major American businesses including WalMart, McLane Trucking and Kroger Grocery Stores. His syndicated, one-minute radio broadcast, “Making Life Work for Your Family,” was heard on more than 600 stations nationally and he spoke for seminars and national conventions of numerous corporations. In 1996, he moved the company to Austin and he and Gladys settled in nearby Dripping Springs where they purchased a home on a small ranch they called Cypress Springs. He sold the company in 2008 and retired again. A passion in the last 30 years of his life was supporting minister couples through the Ministers’ Renewal Workshop, a weekend retreat he and Gladys conducted with three other couples, welcoming couples whose life in ministry brought stress or pain that often could not be shared in the churches where they served. The workshops provided a time of healing and counsel. The Ministers’ Support Network, a part of ACU’s Siburt Institute, is heir to that ministry. At ACU, Faulkner received the Trustees Teacher of the Year Award in 1982 and was a 1994 inductee into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame. He and Brecheen, together with their wives, also received the Christian Service Award in 2001. He also received Distinguished Christian Service Awards from Harding and Pepperdine universities. His publications include three books, one co-authored with Brecheen: What Every Family Needs: Whatever Happened to Mom, Dad & Kids? He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Consuelo (’50) Faulkner; Gladys, his wife of 64 years; sisters Dr. Dartha Fay Starr (’41) and Jean Faulkner; and a brother, Fred Faulkner (’49). Among survivors are children Debbie (Faulkner ’76) Clinton, Von Faulkner (’78), Brad Faulkner (’83) and Connie (Faulkner ’86) Brown; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

I made many friends at ACU who became friends not because they were supposed to be nice to a person of color, but because they cared. They cared enough to get involved with my life and have remained so even to this day. God had a great plan that involved changing hearts and minds. He has used men and women to demonstrate his awesome power to change men’s hearts and then use them to his glory. Growing up in Abilene was a unique experience. I am the product of the Abilene experience. But, more important, my life changed for the good because my God used ACU to do great things in my life.

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Second Glance: A University in God’s Hands

Dr. George Gurganus, a member of the missions faculty and elder in the Treadaway church, continually kept tabs on my efforts.

Then there was Dr. Gary Thompson (’60), a true friend and mentor. He challenged me in the classroom, counseled me outside the classroom. It was Gary who convinced me to choose the right graduate school to pursue a career in city management.

were real Christians, committed to doing the right thing.

In Summer 1971, I became the first Black Abilene native to enter ACU as a freshman. Together with all the baggage of being there when the great debate raged on about opening the school to Blacks, to the desegregation of the Treadaway church in 1968, I took a bold step in my mind to enter a school that I suspected did not really welcome my presence. My next four years told a different story. I found ACU exceptionally open and welcoming.

A University in God’s Hands Childers

106 Spring-Summer 2022  ACU TODAY Second GLANCE BY DR. TERRY CHILDERS

(Continued on page 105)

I was an eyewitness to the hurt of segregation in the collective life of Abilene and ACU. Hurt in terms of the Black community being told that we were really second class in the eyes of God, and that we could not fully participate as equals in the classroom and community life or share in the economic benefits of our community.

ACU’s segregation policy was not unique for the times in Abilene. The public schools were segregated, churches were segregated, neighborhoods were segregated. In a real sense, ACU reflected the Abilene community. The national Civil Rights movement was raising the national consciousness while seemingly passing by Abilene. As I look back to those days, Abilene was not being passed by. Rather, God was at work to correct the obvious wrong in ways that would prove to be best.

This essay was published originally in the Spring 2000 issue of ACU Today magazine as part of “The Right Thing to Do,” a theme issue about racial integration. The author, Dr. Terry Childers (’74), was the first Black Abilenian to enroll at ACU as a freshman, and the first Black to be named a trustee of the university, serving from 1988-2008. Childers died unexpectedly Dec. 8, 2021, at age 68. See page 101.

Growing up in Abilene in the 1960s was a rather unique experience, to say the least. The national Civil Rights movement of the ’60s was far off and viewed primarily through the eyes of national evening news broadcasts. No such events were ever thought of, let alone acted upon, in the small college and ranching community where I was privileged to grow up. Quite the contrary, Abilene was a well-ordered community of Black, white and brown. No one really questioned the orderliness of the community during the ’60s. That was simply Abilene. As I reflect on those days of my youth, I wonder if any of us really understood the tremendous change occurring in our lives and the impact those changes would have on our future. I recall the quiet discussions in our home and in the Treadaway church about the inconsistency of Abilene Christian professing to be a Christian university while not allowing our local preacher to attend classes for credit. In 1962, my older sister graduated from high school and was forced to attend Hardin-Simmons University because she was not allowed to attend ACU. I also remember the first group of Black students who came from Southwestern Christian College as transfer students to ACU and the question being asked again –“If this is a Christian school, why do they not act like Christians and accept our kids as full-fledged students?”

I saw the hurt of my white brothers who struggled with a lifetime of separatism, while having to respond to the inevitable change that was overtaking them. Even today, I am not fully capable of appreciating how difficult it must have been for many white Christians to be confronted with re-ordering their lives to accommodate the significant societal change we all experienced in the ’60s. As a junior in high school, I determined that I wanted to attend The University of Texas at Austin. My parents, however, had other ideas about where I should attend college. To my amazement, they strongly encouraged me to attend ACU. My obvious youthful response was, “Why should I attend ACU?” Abilene Christian had only recently fully opened admissions to Blacks. Both my parents were clear in their conviction that I would receive a “Christian education” and that was important to them. I now know that they had some serious help in directing me to ACU. First, I believe that the Lord was at work. Second, they had befriended several ACU faculty members who worshiped with the Treadaway church. Finally, my father had become acquainted with Dr. John C. Stevens (’38), then president of the university. My father viewed Stevens as a genuine Christian man who saw no difference in men. Whatever may have been suspected about ACU decades earlier, my parents were convinced that the men and women who led ACU in 1971

Office

A Legacy OF ENDURING FRIENDSHIP Abel Alvarez (left) and Jose Moore of Gift Planning

“Now I’ve been able to affect the lives of many kids,” he said, “and those kids will affect other kids, and it’s just an avalanche that rolls in a positive direction.”Ifyou’re interested in blessing the lives of future Wildcats through an endowed scholarship at ACU, please contact our team.

hen Jose Moore (’98) thinks of his friend, Abel Alvarez (’82), he thinks of more than just Sunday morning sermons from the preacher of the church in Lockhart, Texas, where he spent his high school years.

It’s a cause dear to the heart of Alvarez, who has been a longtime advocate for ACU even before returning to the university last year as advancement and university relations officer for diverse initiatives. “I’ve guided a bunch of kids [to ACU], but part of that is helping to find the funding for them,” Alvarez said. “The more resources we stack together, the better.”Moorefeels blessed to be able to help students, and he realizes he’s able to help today because people like Alvarez once invested in him.

In short, Moore remembers a man who selflessly invested time in his life. So, when he had the opportunity in 2016 to establish an endowed scholarship at ACU, Moore didn’t think twice about honoring the man who impacted his life and countless others. “Abel has been instrumental in steering so many young people to ACU and getting them educated, including myself, so I was honored and thrilled to recognize him,” Moore said. Moore, who owns a street sweeping and facilities maintenance company in Austin, Texas, established the Abel Alvarez Scholarship Endowment to help students who may have the grades and the desire to attend ACU, but not the financial means.

Hunter Welcome Center ACU Box 29200 Abilene, Texas 79699-9200 800-979-1906 • giftplanning@acu.edu325-674-2508

Moore remembers moments like catching passes from Alvarez at one of his high school football practices, even though Alvarez was just weeks removed from a kidney transplant at the time.

abilenechristian • acusports acuedu • acusports acuedu • acusports acu.edu/youtube acu.edu/linkedin Abilene Christian University ACU Box 29132 Abilene, Texas 79699-9132 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Nonprofit Org. U.S. AbilenePAIDPostageChristianUniversity Wildcat Visits .............................................. See acu.edu/visit for available dates or check out our virtual tour Wildcat Week August 23-27 117th Annual Opening Assembly August 29 Opening Football vs. Lamar in Wildcat Stadium September 1 Moody Coliseum Grand Re-Opening Chapel September 2 Family Weekend / Freshman Follies September 23-24 116th Annual Summit (fall edition) October 13-14 Homecoming .................................................................................... October 13-16 JMC Gutenberg Celebration October 13 Sports Hall of Fame Dinner and Lettermen’s Reunion October 14 December Commencement in Moody Coliseum December 16 116th Annual Summit (spring edition) March 30-31, 2023 66th Annual Sing Song in Moody Coliseum March 31 - April 1 Class of 1973 Golden Anniversary Reunion April 19-21 COMING UP Celebrating Eloise Ko Jo Kai sorority members Anahi King, sophomore child and family services major (center), and Kristen Mimms, sophomore psychology major (right), visit with Eloise Reynolds Carruthers (’37) during her 105th birthday celebration on April 10, 2022, in the Hunter Welcome Center. Carruthers is ACU’s oldest living graduate. (See page 76.) RILEY FISHER