Berry Magazine - Fall 2018

BERRY Fall 2018

Work of art

The love of Al (61c) and Becky (61C) Christopher

Miss Rodeo America Keri Sheffield (15C) ropes her future as a medical missionary

Alumni Awards 2018

Vision of elegance The Christopher Browning Pavilion at Oak Hill has become a go-to destination for weddings, corporate meetings and other events since its May 19 dedication. The spacious 5,760 square-foot facility already had hosted 23 events by September’s end, with 35 more scheduled over the next year. Turn to page 14 to read about Al and Becky Browning Christopher, the alumni couple whose generosity and hard work helped bring the building to life. Photo by Brant Sanderlin

VOL. 105, NO. 1 | FALL 2018

Features

7

Hall of honor

2018 Distinguished Alumni Awards

12 Miss Rodeo America 2018 Keri Sheffield (15C) ropes her future as a medical missionary

courtesy of Miss Rodeo America Inc.

BERRY 12

14 Work of art

21 Alumni Weekend and Work Week

Two Berry traditions in photos

33 In the end, it’s about the students

Senior Sarah Cooper is a Goldwater Scholar

Brant Sanderlin

The love of Al (61c) and Becky Browning (61C) Christopher

14

Inside the Gate

• STEMTeach program gets $1.2 million NSF grant • Governor’s Honors Program at Berry: A place of learning – and community • Alumni Council chooses new leaders • Crowdfunders help students restore coral reef • What a year! Berry athletes excel

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Well Done!

10 President’s Essay

The value of Berry

22 News from You

Class notes – the original social media

33

Blake Chlders (15C)

2

Brant Sanderlin

Departments

6

17 The Campaign for Opportunity

• Dickey Challenge propels Ford Auditorium fundraising past $3 million • Student-supported scholarship proves small gifts matter

Brant Sanderlin

30 Thank You

17

About the cover: Sophomore Matthew McConnell made history this summer as the first Berry student to shoot our cover photo. Freshman Faith Cox provided assistance in her first week on campus. Both are members of the student work team managed by Chief Photographer Brant Sanderlin.

INSIDE THE GATE

BERRY magazine

Math and education major Frankie Reda student-teaches at Model High School in Rome with (inset) lead teacher Rachel Stewart Burton (11C).

Published for alumni and friends of Berry College and its historic schools Editor Rick Woodall (93C) Contributing Writer and Editor Karilon L. Rogers Staff Writer Debbie Rasure Design and Production Shannon Biggers (81C) Chief Photographer Brant Sanderlin News From You and Gifts Listings Justin Karch (01C, 10G), Jeff Palmer (09C, 11G) and Carrie Rigdon Contact Information News From You: submit online at berry.edu/classnotes or email classnotes@berry.edu Change of address: 706-236-2256; 800-782-0130; alumni@berry.edu; or Berry Alumni Office, P.O. Box 495018, Mount Berry, GA 30149.

Editorial: rwoodall@berry.edu; 706-378-2870; or Berry magazine, P.O. Box 490069, Mount Berry, GA 30149.

BERRY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION President: Jonathan Purser (85C) Immediate Past President: Frances Richey (83A, 87C) Vice Presidents: Alumni Engagement, Chris Hayes (04C); Berry Culture and Heritage, Dr. Jennifer Dickey (77A, 80C); Financial Support, Jason McMillan (98C); Alumni Awards, Patricia Tutterow Jackson (82C) Chaplain: Emmett Long (98C) Parliamentarian: Tim Howard (82C) Secretary: Chad Nash (13C) Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropic Marketing Jennifer Schaknowski Vice President of Marketing and Communications Nancy Rewis Vice President of Advancement Cyndi Court President Stephen R. Briggs

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

STEMTeach program

receives $1.2 million National Science Foundation grant BERRY’S STEMTEACH PROGRAM WAS LAUNCHED IN 2017 to

encourage math majors to view secondary education as their “first choice” career.

One year later, the innovative program, which includes special apprenticeships with master teachers in local high schools, mentoring opportunities and early field experiences, received a $1.2 million National Science Foundation grant to expand its efforts and offer similar opportunities to students in other science, technology and engineering-related majors.

Overall, the NSF grant program addresses a national shortage of secondary teachers in STEM fields. A significant absence of such teachers is already being reported in every state, and the situation is particularly dire in Georgia.

“In the next 10 years, STEM employment in Georgia is expected to increase on par with national expectations of 13 percent, according to national reports,” said Dr. Jill Cochran, associate professor and chair of mathematics and computer science. “But studies show that only 44 percent of Georgia’s secondary students are adequately prepared for college-level courses, compared to 51 percent nationally. As a result, Georgia-based companies have expressed concerns about the skills of the future STEM labor force.”

Cochran is co-leading the STEMTeach program with Dr. Jackie McDowell, dean of the Charter School of Education and Human Sciences. McDowell believes the results of the new grant will be felt strongly at

Berry and beyond. She antici­ pates a 50 percent increase in the number of new Berryeducated STEM teachers.

Senior Francesca “Frankie” Reda is among the first three Berry students to receive scholar­ ship support through the NSF grant. Already, she is gaining valuable experience working as a student-teacher at Model High School alongside teacher Rachel Stewart Burton (11C).

“To know that NSF is putting money into young teachers is extremely important and exciting,” said Reda, who dreams of teaching math at her high school alma mater in Gwinnett County (Ga.). “Thanks to this program, I feel so much more prepared and ready to be in a STEM classroom.”

Brant Sanderlin

photos by Brant Sanderlin

Best and brightest: Governor’s Honors Program

BERRY COLLEGE COULD NOT HAVE BEEN MORE HONORED when selected in 2016 as the site of Georgia’s

Governor’s Honors Program. Now, with two exciting residential summer sessions for more than 600 of the state’s best and brightest high school students under the college’s belt, that sense of honor continues to swell.

GHP aims to provide a learning experience that cultivates and challenges the next generation of global critical thinkers, innovators and leaders, a goal directly in line with the Berry mission, and the Berry campus provides the ultimate setting for such an effort. While deep evaluation of any program can be difficult, 2018 participant Marissa Joseph, a senior at Darlington School in Rome, provided one of the best in a blog titled “My Reflections on the Governor’s Honors Program” for her school’s website. It follows:

Marissa’s reflection on her GHP experience

W

hen I arrived on the Berry College campus and unloaded my bags on the first day of the Governor’s Honors Program, I had no idea of the magic that awaited me in the following four weeks, starting with placing the orange GHP lanyard around my neck.

In the opening ceremonies, each speaker reminded us that it was not only a privilege to be there that Sunday morning, but an honor. This was the first time we would be referred to as “Georgia’s best and brightest,” and it most definitely would not be the last. Those words were a constant reminder of the responsibility all of us had to take the knowledge we would gain back to our communities and use it to make a difference.

As I began to meet new people the first week, I

immediately noticed how passion seemed to radiate off my peers. Whether it was talking about writing a slam poem or the mechanics behind building a bridge, each major was engulfed in their area of study and craved further exploration. My major, social studies, was no exception. Each week we chose two classes ranging from Gender as a Social Construct to American Pop Music, and in each class, discussion and dialogue led our way to personal epiphanies and self-discovery.

GHP gathers students from all walks of life and regions of Georgia, creating an extremely diverse environment that allowed me to attain a broader perspective on the world we live in.

Each social studies major was required to give a “This I Believe” speech, inspired by the popular NPR series. I watched my peers get up each week and bare their souls. They told stories of their backgrounds, how they derived their morals, and their dreams for our nation. Hearing the stories of people of all sides of the political spectrum and truly understanding why they subscribe to the policies and politics they do helped create amazing political discourse throughout the program. I found myself shedding any preconceived notions and labels I had about certain political ideologies and the people

who subscribed to them. Debate and discussion in class became much less polarized as we began to understand how someone’s experiences had influence on why they believed what they did.

I participated in a mock Senate where each student was assigned a state and required to write three pieces of legislation throughout the course of the program; however, there was one abnormality: there were to be no political parties. Our teachers wanted to challenge us to reach farther than the constraints of a label. We were encouraged to remove the partisanship and just be students who loved their country and wanted to work together now, and in the future, to make Georgia and the United States a better place.

My GHP magic wasn’t found in the books I read or in the orange lanyard I wore. I found the magic in the laughs, tears, and everything in between that I shared with people who thought differently than me. I made friendships that I truly believe will last a lifetime, and I could not be more grateful to have been selected to attend.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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INSIDE THE GATE

BERRY PEOPLE

Board honors At its May meeting, the Berry College Board of Trustees bestowed emeritus honors on two recent retirees who served the college with distinction.

Bettyann O’Neill was named vice president emerita for her 23 years of service, including 18 years of high achievement as vice president of advancement. Dr. Gary Waters (80C, 89G) was honored with the title of vice president emeritus for his 32 years with Berry in a variety of positions, including leadership roles in advancement and exemplary service as chief of staff and vice president of enrollment management.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Heida and Taylor assume new leadership roles Longtime administrator Debbie Heida has succeeded the retiring Gary Waters (80C, 89G) as Berry chief of staff, and Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Lindsey Taylor has moved into Heida’s former role as vice president of student affairs and dean of students.

As chief of staff, Heida is responsible for facilitating development of a new Center for Personal and Professional Development, a project central to the college’s strategic vision of enhancing the intentionality of each Debbie Heida student’s Berry experience. A member of Berry’s leadership team since 2004, she also oversees athletics, hospitality and events, Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum, and Historic Berry.

Taylor has served in a number of roles since joining Berry’s staff in 2005, including assistant dean of students for residence life. Responsibilities in her new position include residence life, student activities, wellness and counseling, and recreation. She is also the college’s Title IX coordinator.

Waters retired June 30 after 32 years of distinguished service in advancement, enrollment management and other areas. He plans to continue working on a limited basis as campus liaison for The Spires at Berry College Lindsey Taylor and as a representative for the advancement office. student photographer Matthew McConnell

student photographer Matthew McConnell

Wanda Riggs Mack, a woman with strong Berry lineage, has succeeded Bill Pence (76C) as chair of the Board of Visitors. Brian Brodrick (97C) is the new vice chair, and Karen Houghton (01C) is a new member.

Mack is vice president-producer for NorthMarq Capital in Atlanta, one of the largest commercial real estate mortgage banking firms in the world. She holds Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Arts degrees, both in real estate, from the University of Georgia.

The mother of two and wife of William J. Mack is also the granddaughter of Gordon Keown, who graduated from Berry’s early Boys Industrial School in 1905 and went on to serve Martha Berry and her schools in a variety of positions for most of his life. He was selected by Berry herself to serve as acting director Wanda Riggs Mack upon her 1942 death, a post he held two years, and was the second president of the Berry Alumni Association.

Mack’s mother was the late Sally Keown Riggs (37C).

Brodrick was an All-American distance runner at Berry who has served on the BOV since 2010. An executive and management team member for Jackson Spalding, an Atlanta-based marketing and communications agency, he established the firm’s Athens office in 2004 and oversees all business operations there. He is also a member of the Watkinsville City Council and was 2012 chair of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, among other acts of service. In 2007, he made Georgia Trend’s “40 under 40” list of Georgia’s best and brightest and in 2008 was named Berry’s Outstanding Young Alumnus.

Houghton, the newest member of the executive advisory group, is vice president of Atlanta Tech Village, the third largest tech hub in the nation. Houghton was featured for her own entrepreneurism in the spring 2010 issue of Berry magazine after she opened her first Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee franchise in 2006, following her passion for coffee, entrepreneurism and giving back to the coffeeproducing community of Rwanda.

Alumni Council chooses new leaders Business owner and volunteer Jonathan Purser (85C) is the newly-elected Alumni Council president, succeeding Frances E. Richey (83A, 87C), who twice has served in the role. In this new capacity, Purser is also an ex officio member of the Berry College Board of Trustees.

The owner/operator of a Chick-fil-A franchise in Calhoun, Ga., Purser has participated in five domestic and 12 international mission trips, most recently in Thailand. He has served seven previous years on the Alumni Council and multiple times on class reunion committees. His wife of 31 years, Crystal, also attended Berry, and two of their three children are alumni – Andrew Purser (10C) and Jennifer Purser Keenan (11C).

Jonathan Purser Also in new positions on the Executive Committee are elected vice presidents Dr. Jennifer Dickey (77A, 80C), Berry culture and heritage; and Chris Hayes (04C), alumni engagement.

They are joined by new appointees Tim Howard (82C), parliamentarian; Emmett Long (98C), chaplain; and Chad Nash (13C), secretary. Richey now serves as immediate past president. See the masthead on page 2 for a full list of officers. student photographer Faith Cox

Brant Sanderlin

Mack, Brodrick lead BOV; Houghton joins board

Dasher, Niedrach claim Martindale Awards Orvill Henry, Anthony Key Resort

In 2018, two retiring faculty/staff members with a combined 43 years of outstanding service were honored with the Martindale Awards of Distinction.

The faculty award went to Dr. Tom Dasher, who in 18 years earned the respect and admiration of students and colleagues alike, first through his eight years as college provost and then his subsequent service as professor and department chair of English, rhetoric and writing.

The staff recipient was Mary Finley Niedrach (75A, 97G), who for 25 years shepherded kindergartners, colleagues and Berry teacher-education students as a teacher and mentor at Berry College Elementary and Middle School.

Other faculty and staff members honored last spring include: • Dr. Ron Taylor, professor of mathematics, Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award • Dr. Casey Dexter, assistant professor of psychology, Dave and Lu Garrett Award for Meritorious Teaching • Dr. Lauren Heller, associate professor of economics, Mary S. and Samuel Poe Carden Award for outstanding teaching, scholarship, and service to students and the college community • Dr. Tamie Jovanelly, associate professor of geology, Eleana M. Garrett Award for Meritorious Advising and Caring • Dr. Belinda Lady, lecturer in chemistry, SGA Faculty Member of the Year • Anna Sharpe, director of academic services, SGA Staff Member of the Year • Tom Harris, superintendent of beef operations, Rollins Center, John R. Bertrand Superior Student-Work Supervisor Award

Crowdfunders help students restore coral reef FOURTEEN BERRY STUDENTS SPENT PART OF THEIR SUMMER “BREAK” IN ROATAN, HONDURAS,

Men’s basketball at Berry is now under the leadership of head coach Mitch Cole, an experienced professional with a wealth of proven success. He succeeds Jeff Rogers.

Cole came to Berry from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and previously served on the staff at Texas A&M and as head coach at Birmingham-Southern College. The New Orleans native played collegiately at Montana State University – Billings, where he graduated in 1992 with a double major in history and education.

He also holds a master’s degree in education from Auburn.

Brant Sanderlin

Cole leads men’s basketball

helping to restore a coral reef off the coast of the Central American nation. With them in spirit as they worked in and around the crystal-clear Caribbean waters were alumni and friends who supported their efforts through Berry’s crowdfunding portal, berry.edu/funder.

Gifts funded the purchase of five PVC-pipe “trees,” which the students assembled and seeded with living coral fragments that were harvested from the reef.

These “trees,” which will serve as building blocks for generating new reef, were then installed at a coral farm managed by the Roatan Institute of Marine Science.

“We got a taste of this project back in 2016 when we learned that the director in Roatan was short on funds,” said Professor of Biology Dr. Bill Davin, who has been teaching a Berry study abroad course in the region since 1996. “We had the idea to raise money to help continue their project.”

Davin explained that coral

reefs offer one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth, providing a habitat for thousands of species. They also protect coastal shorelines and are becoming a major source of new medicines. Yet in the past 50 years, an estimated 27 percent of coral reefs worldwide have been lost.

With the help of crowd­ funding donors, the students successfully seeded more than 400 coral fragments on this trip.

Both the environ­ment and the participating students are grateful for the support.

“This project needs to be continued by Berry students and other conservationists since such a large part of the world’s coral is dying off,” said junior biology major Rose Blanchard after the hands-on learning experience that even helped her overcome a fear of oceans. “It’s also a great opportunity for Berry students to make a difference and have a global impact. I felt proud to be part of something that is going to grow thousands of new pieces of endangered coral and continue coral preservation in Roatan.”

reporting by student writer LAUREN HIGDON

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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INSIDE THE GATE

What a year!

A SPECTACULAR YEAR FOR BERRY ATHLETICS PEAKED LAST SPRING with

Not horsing around

Southern Athletic Association championships and NCAA Division III national tournament appearances in softball and women’s golf, an individual national qualifier in outdoor track and field, and five individual top-10 finishes at the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Championships, among other highlights.

All together, Berry student-athletes won eight SAA team championships during the 2017-18 academic year while qualifying for national competition in 10 different sports. An avalanche of individual honors for players and coaches resulted. Here are a few spring highlights (see page 8 for news of summer All-Stars).

Berry equestrian continued to have a formidable presence nationally, with three individual top-5 finishes and five in the top 10.

Mary Catherine Hix led the way with a fourth-place showing in beginner western horsemanship, followed by Sarah Cooper (fifth, novice western horsemanship), Allie Robertson (fifth, individual western horsemanship), Andrea Hill (seventh, walk-trot equitation) and Maggie Sanford (seventh, individual walk-trot-canter).

Fantastic four

Blake Childers (15C)

Softball seniors Kassie Howard, Brittany Tuttle, Kylie Aiken and Elisabeth Federici jumped for joy after helping their team win SAA regular-season and tournament championships for the fourth consecutive year. The team also won its first NCAA regional crown.

Among a host of individual distinctions, Howard made history as Berry softball’s first first-team All-American. She was also an Academic AllAmerican along with Tuttle. In addition, Cori Thiermann was named SAA Coach of the Year for the fifth time in six seasons, one of seven Berry coaches to earn that title in 2017-18.

On the leaderboard Berry women’s golf made the most of its first team appearance in the NCAA national tournament, carding a ninth-place finish. The team also won the SAA for the first time.

Individual honors included All-America recognition for sophomore Jorie Hodapp – who won the SAA title and tied for seventh nationally – and Coach of the Year acclaim (conference and region) for Brian Farrer (02C). The program also produced two Scholar All-Americans, Hodapp and senior Brittany Hadden.

Fleet of foot Senior Alainna Chretien capped a stellar running career as Berry’s first qualifier for NCAA outdoor nationals. Her qualifying time of 4 minutes, 32.9 seconds for 1,500 meters shattered the school record by more than nine seconds, capping a remarkable four-year progression that saw her shave more than a minute off her time at that distance.

Chretien complemented her appearance in the national meet with an SAA championship, also in the 1,500. For the men, Derrell Mims, Mason Kinsey, Quincy Watford and C.J. Stone raced to SAA gold in the 4x100 relay, while Tucker Smith soared to victory in the pole vault.

Lacrosse lightning Berry men’s lacrosse impressed in multiple ways in 2018. The team finished 12-4 overall with 10 All-Conference selections (and 14 on the league’s Academic Honor Roll). In addition, Head Coach Curtis Gilbert was named both SAA Coach of the Year and coach of the Division III South Squad for one of the most storied traditions in college lacrosse, the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association/Nike North-South Senior All-Star Game. He was joined at that event by Berry senior defenseman Jacob Kaplan, who was chosen to play in the game showcasing the nation’s highest caliber seniors on the same field.

Gilbert himself played in the 2001 game and this year coached his team to a win.

Berry’s baseball Vikings posted their best season of the NCAA era, finishing atop the SAA regular-season standings and reaching the championship round of the conference tournament before falling one run shy of Rhodes in the final game. Senior Jacob Delk capped his career as an All-American (among other distinctions) after helping the Vikings win 29 games, while David Beasley was SAA Coach of the Year.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Blake Childers (15C)

Going deep

2018 BERRY’S HALL OF HONOR

Distinguished Alumni Awards Entrepreneurial Spirit

Service

Dr. C. Randall Clark (67C)

Alton H. Christopher (61c)

Dr. Jennifer Word Dickey (77A, 80C)

Outstanding Young Alumni

photos by student photographer Matthew McConnell

Achievement

Aitana Vargas (03C)

A recognized leader in

An energetic and

A highly recognized advocate

An acclaimed print and

forensic drug chemistry

enthusiastic creator and

for the preservation of – and

on-air journalist who has

research at Auburn

operator of multiple

public access to – historic

worked at news agencies

University who, as an expert

successful businesses of

resources across the state

around the world; honors

in mass spectrometry, has

many types, particularly in

and at Berry who serves as

include the Livingston

contributed an amazing

the construction industry,

Berry’s campus preserva­

Award, known as the

amount of new information

who now uses his talents in

tionist as well as associate

“Pulitzer of the Young,”

to the National Institute of

service to Berry. (See page

professor of history and

and the National Arts and

Standards and Technology

14.)

coordinator of the Public

Entertainment Award,

History Program at

among many others.

database.

Kennesaw State University.

More information on each exceptional winner is available at berry.edu/alumni/winners.

To nominate a deserving classmate for a future award, go to berry.edu/alumni/awards.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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WELL DONE!

INTERNSHIPS:

HERE, THERE, EVERYWHERE Brant Sanderlin

Gena Flanigen

Bird brilliance

FOR THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY DR. RENEE CARLETON has been

recognized regularly for her willingness to share her knowledge about Berry’s resident bald eagles and bluebirds with wide-ranging interest groups. She is heralded for discussing her flighted friends in ways that listeners understand and appreciate. In fact, thanks to her efforts, there are a lot more “bird brains” than there were before a discerning pair of eagles chose Berry as their home and multiple cameras made their child-rearing true reality TV. Now, Carleton can also be known as the 2018 winner of the Distinguished Service Award presented by the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she completed her D.V.M. in 1993. Professional distinctions that helped her earn this acclaim include service as president of the Northwest Georgia Veterinary Medical Association and editor of The Oriole: Journal of the

Georgia Ornithological Society. Particularly impressive is her involvement with students, seven of whom have served as undergraduate authors for peerreviewed scientific publications.

Winners at home and abroad BRAZIL WAS THE PLACE TO BE FOR FIVE BERRY STUDENT-ATHLETES invited to compete for USA NCAA Division III summer All-Star teams comprised of All-American, All-Region and AllConference standouts representing colleges and universities nationwide.

Berry men’s soccer had three representatives in Brazil: Jake Williamson, Caleb Ford and Alec Jones, while the women sent Megan Radosta. Only 31 players were selected nationally for the two teams.

Representing Berry volleyball in Brazil was Jordan Leitch. She followed Emily Hancock, who competed on the team last year, and Head Coach Caitlyn Moriarty (14G), who twice has coached for the USA Division III women’s team.

Berry’s soccer All-Stars

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

HOW MANY COLLEGE STUDENTS GET TO SPEND THEIR SUMMERS as interns for the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.?

Not many. But as one of six Katzenberger Art History interns, that is exactly what senior Cecilia Ratke did in 2018. Pictured below, Ratke worked on the “Fabulous Fish: Illustrations and Images” project, a 180-year collection of original art, photographs and other visual works depicting fish species found throughout the world.

Berry students without an interest in fish or art – Ratke has both – scored a plethora of other internship opportunities – way too many to mention. But two (one a spring graduate) spent the summer at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum as participants in the Frank and Peggy Steele Internship Program for Youth Leadership Development; another two went to Bermuda on a missions internship at the Word of Life Bermuda Summer Camp; another worked as an intern in the Zoonotic Disease unit at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta; and yet another was one of two students nationally chosen for a prestigious editorial internship with the international English honor society Sigma Tau Delta.

YOU ALREADY KNOW that Berry

Fulbright times two THROUGH A GRANT FROM WHAT IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE WORLD’S MOST NOTABLE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, Associate Professor of Geology Dr.

Tamie Jovanelly is spending two summers, 2018 and 2019, on a Fulbright Flex Research Grant collecting water-quality data in the forest reserves of Costa Rica. The grant will allow her to reach her goal of “completing water-quality assessments on five continents with the aim of making comparisons between developed, undeveloped and developing countries.”

This is Jovanelly’s second Fulbright; she

received her first in 2013. She is also in the midst of a three-year appointment as a Fulbright Specialist, acting as a consultant for countries seeking support and education. But being a researcher extraordinaire is only one side of the geology professor. Commitment to her students is evidenced by the fact that 85 percent of geology majors received competitive grants/internships or study-abroad opportunities for summer 2018, and 13 participated in the Southeastern Geological Society of America conference; six made presentations.

is a great place to go to school.

But did you know it also is a great place to work? That recognition has been bestowed on the college by The Chronicle of Higher Education based on a survey of more than 53,000 people at 253 institutions. Berry was selected in two categories: “Compensation and Benefits” and “Job Satisfaction.”

“Berry College cares about the personal and professional well-being of its students, faculty and staff,” said President Steve Briggs. “The community values quality of life and place, with a commitment to push for the best in others and for others, even when we disagree. Most students work on campus, so there is a pride of ownership. Faculty and staff alike are educators, teaching students to be responsible by giving them significant responsi­ bility. Berry’s campus itself inspires gratitude and caring.”

Stars are born here FUSION AND CARRIER WIN BIG

Berry’s student-run multimedia website, Viking Fusion, has added to its ever-growing award count, claiming four regional Student Production Award nominations from the Southeast Emmy Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, with Eric Jackson (pictured) winning first place in the photogra­ pher category. Also, Viking Fusion and the Campus Carrier newspaper together were recognized seven times in

Region 3 of the Society of Professional Journalists, with Haiden Widener winning in sports writing and Allie Pritchett, Bruno Rosa and Chris Ferguson doing the same in online sports reporting. In addition, Viking Fusion earned a fourth consecutive nomination for Best Independent Online Student Publication (winning in 2017).

SHORT FILM FIRST – AND SECOND!

Aspiring filmmakers hoping to score top awards at the

Georgia Communication Association Student Film Festival had to settle for less because Berry students walked away with first- and secondplace honors. Producer Sara Arms and her team of Joshua Trammel, Bruno Rosa, Lexikay Stokes and Eric Jackson won first place for their short film, The History Project. Meanwhile, Jackson earned second place himself for his already awardwinning short film, Me and My Camera.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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PRESIDENT’S ESSAY

“

I wish I could properly express how grateful and blessed I feel for the opportunity to let Berry College change my life these past four years. I’ve found my people at Berry – my forever friends and those who have shaped who I am now. I’ve found my faith, my passions and my values.

Everywhere I turn, someone is there beside me, walking with me and having my back. Not many people get to have that experience in college.

”

– HANNAH PARKER (18C)

Dr. Stephen R. Briggs

A

THE VALUE OF BERRY

healthy community has an identity with its own culture and character.

Berry’s identity has always included an emphasis on the personal and vocational success of students. That priority was stamped on Berry from the outset.

One of the earliest Berry stories is that of Clayton Henson (1904H), our first high school graduate. Unsure about Martha Berry’s fledgling school, he questioned just how high she could carry him. Her pledge: “As high as you can go – through the roof and up to the sky.” Together they made that hope a reality. Henson went on to the University of Georgia, becoming an accomplished attorney and long-term supporter of the Berry Schools.

For the past year, we have been studying how best to guide today’s students toward similar personal and professional success.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

We have conducted formal research with prospective students and parents, current students, alumni, faculty, and staff, including questions about the college’s reputation, its “brand.” In various ways, we have asked: When a student walks across the stage at graduation, what do you most want her or him to have accomplished? Deep down, what is most important?

In essence, we are asking, “What is the value of Berry?” What we hear most often across all groups is for graduates to be self-motivated learners – knowledgeable, responsible and resilient – who leave Berry with a sense of direction, conviction about what matters and confidence moving forward.

As we welcome each new class of students, it helps to have this goal clearly in mind. We have eight semesters to guide students through a process of personal and

professional development so they graduate as the type of person they admire and hope to become.

At Berry, this formative process is a shared responsibility between the student and the college, a partnership. Together, we make a compact. Berry pledges to provide a purposeful, highly mentored, four-year journey of intellectual discovery, deliberate reflection and practical learning in a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind place.

Students commit to taking ownership of their educational experience: participating fully and openly in the life of this caring community, sharing freely their ideas and experiences, and contributing to the practical work of running and leading Berry, leaving this place better than they found it.

WHAT MAKES YOU

Clayton Henson graduated with just such an experience more than a century ago; Hannah Parker did in May.

Hannah came to Berry from Alabaster, Ala., interested in the study of physical therapy and with an offer to play on the varsity soccer team. She came well-prepared, excited and eager, so from one vantage point it is not surprising that Hannah thrived at Berry, took advantage of opportunities and fashioned an enviable resume of accomplishments.

But Hannah also came with doubts and disappointments. In her junior year of high school, she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, and life went from normal to forever different. Things that had been natural and easy became a struggle – not just the weakness and loss of energy that interrupted her soccer, but also the cognitive cloudiness that made it difficult to focus and study for some months. What set Hannah apart was a willingness to use the condition that makes her different as a foundation for improving herself and making others better as well. As Martha Berry liked to say, “The troubles you have had are what make you.”

At Berry, Hannah immersed herself in the study of kinesiology, combining rigorous academic work with hands-on learning.

By the beginning of her sophomore year, she had earned certification as a personal trainer. As a senior, she was supervisor of the Fitness Trainer Team. According to her staff supervisor, Michael McElveen, she demonstrated a sophisticated ability to blend the best of evidence-based practice with a client’s preferences and her own clinical judgement. For him, Hannah was a colleague functioning at the level of a professional staff person.

For two years, she also worked with Dr. David Elmer on a research study examining how diabetes affects increases in the blood levels of lactic acid during exercise. And after enrolling in a summer course with Associate Professor Susan Conradsen on “Childhood Cancer,” conducted in conjunction with Lighthouse Family Ministries in Atlanta, she spent the next three summers – including the summer after graduation – working with these children.

CARING MENTORS

Hannah attributes much of her success at Berry to the caring community that embraced her. She came to Berry knowing no one. She left with forever friends, the kind who are there when you fall, helping you to stand up taller, stronger, better than before.

When she totaled her car, then-Assistant

Athletic Director Derek Taylor found someone to pick her up and helped her find a place to take the car. McElveen knew when she was having a rough day and would bring coffee, an ear to listen and quiet words of wisdom. Elmer kept his door open for a million questions that didn’t always pertain to class. He was the one who walked around a professional conference looking to connect her with the right graduate programs.

Hannah gave as she received, serving as a mentor for many other students. In her last two years, she participated in the Berry Center for Integrity in Leadership mentoring program, an experience that shaped her profoundly. Interestingly, her mentor, Cecil “Buster” Wright (73C), was one of Hannah’s personal-training clients; their roles of mentor and learner were interchangeable.

For Wright, Hannah is “a fabulous personal trainer, always thinking of ways to help an aging wanna-be athlete get better and not get hurt in the process.” For Hannah, Wright “started as a client and has turned into one of my best friends, biggest advocates and best supporters.”

In her senior year, Hannah enrolled in a pilot seminar with Dr. Conradsen designed to explore goals after graduation. As Hannah evaluated what she had learned about herself through her many interests and experiences at Berry – her strengths and weaknesses and the work that enlivened her the most – she realized how much she loved the learning as a way to improve herself and others. She is now enrolled with a graduate teaching assistantship in the Master of Science program in health and exercise science at Wake Forest University, one of just eight students selected.

THE BERRY COMPACT

Hannah’s story illustrates how the formative process of discovery and learning is strongest when it is a shared responsibility.

And context is vital. That is why Berry emphasizes a residential experience with a culture of mentoring. It is why we provide structured opportunities and encouragement while asking students to participate fully in the life of the college and the practical work of making Berry better. Learn a lesson well; keep it always.

Every employee at Berry is an educator, some in the classroom, some on courts or playing fields, and still others at work sites and in offices. In all cases, the lessons a first-semester student needs to learn are

different from those of the second year or for juniors and seniors. A first-semester student worker has a lot to learn about the basics, for example, before he or she can move on to a mid-level position, and the expectations for student supervisors are greater again.

The academic challenges given to a senior in his or her major are miles beyond those of a student just testing the waters.

By the point of graduation, we want Berry students to have a sense of direction, conviction about what matters and confidence regarding the next step. Like Hannah, they must take ownership of their learning and their personal and professional development.

One of Berry’s primary efforts this year is to think deliberately as a community about how we guide students during their eight semesters here and the structures that support this trajectory. We appreciate all, including the many alumni, who participated in our process of exploration this last year.

Your insights underpin our efforts. We hope that you too will join in this formative partnership with our students. B

“

I left Berry as a new person, more myself than I have ever been. I came with a lot of hope, but low expectations of myself. I left with good options, more than I was even praying for. I am now at an admired graduate program, and I feel so prepared. I came with dreams of making a difference in my community.

I had no idea if I could, or how I could. I left Berry with experience, confidence, faith, understanding, joy and love. I found opportunity at every door. I found grace in every failure and mistake. I found home and a family.

”

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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photos courtesy of Miss Rodeo America Inc.

Miss Intensive care nurse Keri Sheffield (15C) rode her first horse at the age of 5 and competed in rodeo – on a fullsized quarter horse – at 6. This year, she took the rodeo community by storm, winning the title of Miss Rodeo America. Now she plans to ride the scholarships she earned into the mission field as a doctoral-trained nurse anesthetist.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Rodeo America

2 0 1 8

by KARILON L. ROGERS

K

eri Sheffield makes two things immediately clear: She loves rodeo and the rodeo community, and her heart is in the mission field. She also lets you know she believes strongly that God’s hand is guiding her to her future career and that the decision to join the inaugural class of Berry’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program was “the best choice I ever made.”

Growing up, Sheffield lived and breathed rodeo and always thought she would be a vet. And then a high school mission trip to Costa Rica turned everything upside down.

“I loved being out there and serving the people,” she said. “For no reason, I was assigned to be the trip nurse, which meant I carried around a first-aid kit. I met a little girl who needed a Band-Aid but had never even seen one, and I learned that the people had no access to any kind of health care. I had never thought of becoming a nurse, but on the way home, I prayed and prayed about what I was supposed to do with my life.”

When her plane landed, a phone call from her uncle, Bill McLain, provided the answer.

“My uncle was visiting with Berry’s president when he called,” she said. “He told me that Berry looked as if it was built for Keri Sheffield and that the school was starting a new nursing program. The next day, after just getting home from Costa Rica, where I had left my heart, I drove seven and a half hours to attend an informational meeting at Berry on the new program.

The second I drove through the Gate of Opportunity, I knew my uncle had been so right. And when Dean (Vanice) Roberts said they would be sending the nursing students out into the field in Costa Rica every year, I knew it was the sign I was looking for.”

Sheffield studied hard at Berry and

enjoyed every minute of it. It was difficult when her time at the school came to an end.

“I’m not a crier, but on graduation day, I was crying,” she shared. “I hated that it was time to leave Berry. The time had flown by.”

As a student, Sheffield had done her clinical nurse training in the emergency department of Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome, and she took a job there after graduation. Knowing she would need three years of intensive care experience to become a nurse anesthetist, she soon moved into a position in Redmond’s ICU. THE TUG OF THE RING

Sheffield had to let her rodeo career rest while at Berry, but it remained in her blood, always tempting her to return. The call was strong, particularly for participation in the Miss Rodeo America pageant, and she found a way to answer it while still working toward her mission-field goal.

“I decided I would always regret it if I didn’t go for Miss Rodeo America,” she explained. “So, I went back to Florida, worked in the ICU of West Marion Community Hospital and began getting ready for the pageant.”

Held in Las Vegas in conjunction with the Super Bowl of rodeos, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the Miss Rodeo America pageant is a challenging eight-day event. It involves horsemanship, a written test on anything and everything from animal welfare to knowledge of rodeo, two different personal interviews, and an extemporaneous speech and impromptu questions in front of an audience. The biggest event is a Westernstyle fashion show in front of thousands.

When Sheffield won, she became the first and only Miss Rodeo America from Florida

in the 63-year history of the pageant.

Over the course of 2018, Sheffield will attend a total of 110 professional rodeos with the goal of turning rodeo spectators into rodeo fans by sharing the values of rodeo – cowboy traditions such as respect, generosity, faith and a simpler way of life.

“There are no people quite like rodeo people,” she declared. “We are such a true community. As Miss Rodeo America I want to give back to the sport that, along with my parents, taught me everything I know about responsibility, sportsmanship, teamwork and cheering for others. Those qualities never change in the rodeo community.”

When her reign ends in December, Sheffield plans to go back to work as an ICU nurse and then apply in 2020 for a nurse anesthetist program. The scholarships she received from the pageant will cover half the cost. She eventually hopes to work for an organization such as Operation Smile, which provides free surgery for children around the world born with a cleft palate.

Sheffield feels certain she will find a way to succeed in her goals, in part because of a gift she received at Berry.

“One of the questions I was asked in the pageant was why I chose Berry College,” Sheffield said. “I explained why it was the best choice I ever made. Nursing was difficult, and I often questioned myself. But the people at Berry – the student body and faculty – believed in me and made me believe in myself.” B

Work of art

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

photos by Brant Sanderlin

It would be easy to look at Al and Becky Christopher and think, “These people are too good to be true.” Hardworking and successful, yet

Al

completely unassuming, their lives are defined by their commitment to one another and to Berry. Their love for each other and their alma mater is as rock-solid as the juniper trusses spanning the interior of the new Christopher Browning Pavilion at Oak Hill.

by RICK WOODALL

Christopher (61c) is quick to admit always done a lot of the bookkeeping, which he’s not the “mushy type,” but it’s clear I like to do. I’m not the creative one in the the son of North Georgia sharecroppers family, but that’s OK.” remains smitten with the woman he first met The couple’s enduring commitment on the dance floor as a Berry freshman in inspired the name of Oak Hill’s new event September 1957. pavilion, a generous labor of love that “If you go to a watermelon patch to get sprang from their involvement in Alumni a watermelon, you pick out the best – the Work Week and Al’s service as a crew leader prettiest one in the for various campus bunch – and I thought construction projects. she was the nicest Never ones to brag girl in the bunch,” he on themselves, Al and said, chuckling as he Becky initially shied pointed out to his wife away from putting their of 57 years that he had names on the building. just compared her to a Then Al decided to watermelon. name it in memory of Al’s good-natured Becky’s mother, the late 1958 Cabin Log yearbook photos, humor is one of the Selma Hall Browning Al Christopher and Becky Browning things that first caught (36C), but friends on the attention of Becky Browning (61C), a South Georgia girl who followed in her mother’s footsteps by attending Berry, but the couple’s love is rooted in more than homespun wit.

“He just treated me with respect,” she related. “He didn’t ever talk down to me or think he was smarter because he was a guy, and back then that could happen. I always appreciated that.”

For six decades, they’ve walked through life hand in hand, with Becky steadfastly supporting Al’s many entrepreneurial and creative ventures even as she tended to her own 37-year career in education.

“I am an English teacher and librarian who morphed into a bookkeeper, and thanks to QuickBooks I survived,” she joked. “I’ve

campus encouraged him to take it a step further – thus the Christopher Browning Pavilion was born.

“We couldn’t imagine Becky without Al or Al without Becky,” President Steve Briggs explained at the May dedication. “The two of them have been inseparable since their days at Berry, and that’s how we want to remember them.”

FULL CIRCLE

Though the attention it generated ran counter to their humble nature, the opening of the 5,760 square-foot pavilion represented a full-circle moment for the couple, returning them to the same grounds Al once tended as a student. Career success seeded their generous financial support of the project,

while skills nurtured during a lifetime of building and woodworking allowed Al to play a key role in construction.

Many of the pavilion’s wood features — including the hand-hewn juniper trusses spanning the building’s interior — were built hundreds of miles away at Al’s shop in Destin, Fla. Others were completed during Alumni Work Week. Together, they form a building that blends perfectly with its surroundings even as it enhances Oak Hill’s ability to serve as an inspiring introduction to Berry, providing space for up to 300 guests attending weddings, corporate meetings and other events.

Speaking at the dedication, Al couldn’t help but marvel, “If you had told me back in 1958 that I would be standing here today in this spot, I would not have believed it.”

He was also quick to share credit with others, noting the many partners, on campus and off, who had a hand in the project, including students who helped install the exterior brickwork.

LIFE’S JOURNEY

Al and Becky have traveled many miles – literally and figuratively – in the 61 years since they first began dating, which at Berry in the 1950s meant attending basketball games and other on-campus events in the hope you might get a few moments of privacy on the walk home.

“You might try to sneak behind one of the boxwoods and get a kiss,” Al said with a wry smile, “but the housemother would be out there shaking the bushes saying, ‘OK girls, it’s time to go!’”

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

15

Don’t miss From Tree to Treasure:

Woodturnings by Al Christopher, on exhibit through May 25, 2019, at Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum. student photographer Faith Cox

Brant Sanderlin

Despite such challenges, the couple quickly formed an unshakable bond, remaining true to one another even when Al made the decision to leave Berry after his freshman year to help tend to his ailing mother. He returned to campus whenever possible, and the couple “wrote letters constantly” in between.

“I think we both just knew that we loved each other,” he said.

While Becky completed her English degree at Berry in 1961, Al earned credits from three other schools, eventually graduating from Arkansas State during a stint in the Air Force. Nevertheless, he proudly claims Berry as his alma mater, noting that his experience at those other schools provided perspective that even graduates lack.

“If you only drive a Ford all your life, how do you know what a Chevrolet is like?” he asked.

Al and Becky returned to Georgia after he left the Air Force, but a business opportunity soon led them to Florida, where Al built and for several years operated a beachside campground. A progression of successful ventures followed – homebuilding, piledriving and custom wood finishes, to name a few. All were anchored in Al’s desire to try new things and Becky’s unwavering support.

Earlier this year, the Berry Alumni Association honored Al’s many successes with its Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, but he doesn’t claim such a description for himself.

“I just think of a guy who sees an opportunity to do something and gives it a shot,” he said. “I never set out to build an empire, and I don’t know that I could.”

FOLLOWING THE GRAIN

The construction business was a natural for Al, who has loved woodworking since he was a small boy carving animals out of pine bark and building huts with his friends.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

“I just like smelling wood, working with it and seeing what I can make out of it,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a building or carving a staff for a slingshot, as long as it’s something made out of wood.”

Al’s work ethic and business acumen date back to his first job traveling the dirt roads of Forsyth County delivering newspapers in his father’s car. Both were nurtured during his brief time at Berry, where Al benefitted from student work supervisors who were “firm but fair” as he learned lessons in employee relations and taking responsibility for one’s work that shaped his future success.

Becky gained similarly valuable insights through her student work experience, which included cooking, cleaning and waiting tables in Ford Dining Hall, among other jobs, but she can’t help but smile at the thought of the one place on campus she never worked.

“Some people asked me if I worked in the library,” noted the retired media specialist. “I said, ‘No, I didn’t work in the library. I was too good at manual labor.”

find a really good project every year so we can utilize his incredible talents.”

Reengagement with Berry brought reconnection with classmates such as Aaron Ellis (61C), a neighbor in nearby Santa Rosa Beach who has worked side-by-side with Al on many projects, including the pavilion.

Involvement with the school grew through Becky’s service on the Alumni Council and the couple’s decision to invest in the lives of students like Leah Bolden (15C) through creation of the Selma Hall Browning Memorial Gate of Opportunity Scholarship.

Bolden, now a medical student in Chicago, cherishes time spent with the couple during her Berry years, both on campus and at their home in Florida, and more recently at such special events as her medical school “white coat” ceremony.

“They saw me for who I was and for my potential – potential I didn’t even know I had,” she said. “I have been very blessed to get to know them and call them my friends.”

LIFE IS ART

HOME AGAIN

In the years following their move to Florida, Al and Becky rarely found time to get back to Berry, except for reunions. That changed in retirement, thanks in large part to a friendship formed with Carol Roberts, then a member of Berry’s advancement team, and an invitation to participate in Alumni Work Week.

They quickly became stalwarts at the annual celebration of Berry’s work heritage, with Becky serving on the “Activities Crew” and Al lending his leadership and skills to various construction projects across campus. The first of these was actually a 50th class-reunion project, the “Outhouse o’ Dreams” restroom facility high atop Lavender Mountain. Others specific to Work Week included the restoration of the windows at Possum Trot Church and the reconstruction of the storm-damaged Oak Hill gazebo.

“He’s such a fine craftsman,” said Work Week Project Coordinator Milton Chambers (78A, 82C). “I try to

In his retirement years, Al’s passion for woodworking has found new expression in woodturning, which involves the use of a lathe and hand-held tools to create works of art. Calling the craft his “addiction,” he refuses the title of artist, preferring “hobbyist” instead.

“He has an artist’s touch and an artist’s mind, even if he doesn’t call himself such,” countered Rachel McLucas (12C), who worked with Al to curate “From Tree to Treasure,” an exhibition of his creations – many Berry inspired – currently on display at Oak Hill’s Martha Berry Museum. “He’s a planner. He can look at something and see possibilities in it.”

In woodturning, as in life, Becky is right there by his side, providing inspiration for his vision and taking pleasure in his accomplishments. Such has been the case since two teenagers first glimpsed the possibilities in each other so many years ago. In the decades since, their love has found full expression.

That’s the true work of art. B

student photographer Faith Cox

Campaign Priorities Expand opportunities for students to invest in their own success Develop leaders and entrepreneurs with character and compassion Create places and spaces that spur student achievement Meet current needs and fund future opportunities

Happy Birthday!

Dickey Challenge propels Ford Auditorium fundraising past $3 million OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO A BIRTHDAY GIVING CHALLENGE honoring a Berry icon

Brant Sanderlin

has propelled fundraising for the $5.3 million Ford Auditorium renovation over the halfway mark to $3 million, generating significant momentum and excitement.

Family, friends, colleagues and former students of Dr. Ouida Word Dickey (50C, FFS) gave more than $570,000 in advance of her 90th birthday, with donors receiving double credit for their generosity thanks to matching support from the challenge gift of a very generous anonymous donor. Many supporters joined the longtime faculty member and administrator at a special July birthday reception in the living room of Berry’s alumni center, located in the historic Ford Buildings. Another ceremony followed in early October, at which time the living room officially was named in her honor.

“It’s a very meaningful place for me,” said Dickey, who knew the room as a library when a student in the late 1940s. “I finished growing up there, reading and studying. Then

Ouida Dickey

when the alumni center was established (in 2003), it became the gathering place for so much important work in the interest of students and the institution.”

Dickey provided direction for that work during her two years as Alumni Council president, which climaxed a half-century of near-continuous service to her alma mater.

The Berry double major in English and business joined the faculty in 1956, beginning a 43-year career in which she distinguished herself as an educator, mentor and administrator.

Upon retirement, she was granted the title of professor of business and dean of academic services emerita in recognition of her achievements. She is also a recipient of the Berry Alumni Association’s Distinguished Achievement Award and, in 2009, made history as the first Berry College graduate to be awarded an honorary doctorate from the institution.

Her family is deeply rooted in Berry history. Her late husband, Garland (42C), pioneered the college’s athletic program along with his brother, Ed (41C), while daughters Angela (75A, 79C) and Jennifer (77A, 80C) followed in their mother’s and father’s footsteps as recipients of Distinguished Alumni Awards, for achievement and service, respectively.

Jennifer, who now serves as Berry’s campus preservationist in addition to her work as a history professor at Kennesaw State University, was awed by the outpouring of generosity.

“Like so many students of her generation, coming to Berry changed Mom’s life,” Jennifer said. “And she has spent the rest of

Project at a glance The renovation plan for Ford Auditorium includes: • High-performance acoustics • Enlarged stage • 366 seats in arched configuration • Redesigned balcony • Digital lighting and sound systems • Climate-controlled instrument storage • Renovated foyer/lobby • Restoration of historic architectural elements Read more at berry.edu/fordauditorium

her life making sure that Berry continued to be a place that changed people’s lives. It’s a great honor to have such a beautiful, historic space named after Mom.” Jennifer is equally pleased that the birthday challenge will benefit the planned renovation of Ford Auditorium as a first-class recital hall for students, faculty and the wider community. That facility, like her mother, turned 90 this year.

“I’m glad these gifts will help to preserve and renew this historic building,” she said.

“Mom attended so many events there during her time as a student, as did our family. I still recall a presentation by Maria von Trapp (whose story provided inspiration for The Sound of Music). It’s a special place.”

This is the second successful giving challenge to be completed in support of the Ford Auditorium renovation. The first, a $300,000 challenge by Berry parents Rick and Barbara Gaby, spurred early support for the project. Fundraising continues with a goal of completion in 2019. Visit berry.edu/gift to contribute today.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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Save a studentScholarship

Student-supported fund proves small gifts matter

W

hen small gifts are pooled, magic happens. That is what Berry students are proving through their support of a special scholarship aimed directly at aiding friends and classmates. The fund – aptly named “Save a Student” – helps those in immediate financial need stay at Berry and continue their studies. Many students give $5 or $10 or $2 – it doesn’t matter how much. What matters is they are working together to change lives for the better – lives of students like these. profiles by DEBBIE RASURE

SophiaVeser

arrived at Berry determined to be the first person in her family to earn a college degree. When she found herself short of funds just before her junior year, she panicked. Things only got worse when her parents’ marriage dissolved and her father was injured in an automobile accident.

“It felt like life or death to me,” Sophia said of her financial plight. “There was a lot of crying in the bathroom.”

Desperate, she applied for the Save a Student Scholarship and rescued her dreams.

“

It’s very humbling to know my

success in life is a direct result of getting the scholarship. It’s like the

”

butterfly effect. Because students gave, they changed my life’s path.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

JordanBradshaw

JaneReichard

Lauren Hunter’s life was on track until the tragic death of her mother left the senior animal science major heartbroken and her family in a financial bind so serious it looked like she would have to leave Berry.

“I was in a daze,” she said. “I thought, ‘Wow, I may have to push the restart button on my plans.’”

When she received the Save a Student Scholarship, life started looking up again.

“I couldn’t wait to tell my dad. It’s amazing how students coming together can change someone’s story. Thank you so much! You will never know how much your kindness has impacted my life!”

Jordan Bradshaw recently discovered there’s nothing like family to get you through a crisis, even if that family isn’t the one you were born into.

With his senior year looming, Jordan learned his parents couldn’t afford another college loan. The biochemistry major was terrified, thinking he was finished. Then his Berry family came through with the Save a Student Scholarship.

“You never know who will need this scholarship. I never thought I would. It’s super humbling. Knowing my peers sponsored this is more of a blessing than I could have ever imagined. Thank you!”

You can help too While the Save a Student Scholarship is definitely “studentfunded,” donations are welcome from anyone and everyone.

Scholarships are awarded to upperclassmen with an immediate need; the fund made it possible for three seniors to graduate in 2018. To make a gift, go to berry.edu/saveastudent or send a check to Berry’s advancement office.

ReeceParker

Brant Sanderlin

Lauren Neumann (16C)

student photographer Kathren Lanyon

LaurenHunter

Jane Reichard set her sights on becoming a professor after falling in love with teaching costume production while a student worker with the Berry College Theatre Company.

Her dreams threatened to unravel when her parents were laid off from their jobs and her grandmother’s death left behind medical bills. With nowhere else to turn, she looked to her classmates for help, and they came through with the Save a Student Scholarship.

Now Jane is pursuing a master’s degree in costume production at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“Had I not received the scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to finish my bachelor’s and continue on.

Thank you for your generous support that helped me while I was at Berry and now is helping me chase my dreams.”

Reece Parker was drawn to Berry’s exceptional animal science program, but the college’s culture of community sealed the deal. He came to Berry knowing family support would be limited. Landing a job as an RA provided a stipend and reduced housing cost, and he loved the role.

When a chronic illness put his future at Berry in jeopardy, Reece learned firsthand about the power of community through the Save a Student Scholarship.

“I thought I was going to have to leave. I would have regretted it the rest of my life.

I’m so thankful for the Save a Student Scholarship. It gave me the chance to finish my degree.

People think they’re only giving $5, but they’re really giving a person a chance and hope.”

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

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Providing opportunity Alumni and friends made generous gifts this spring and summer that will provide opportunity that changes students’ lives.

Below we list all those who made gifts, pledges, bequests and estate commitments of $10,000 or more from March 1 to June 30.

We extend sincere thanks to them and to all who make a gift of any size to Berry. It is our privilege to recognize all donors annually in the online Berry College Honor Roll of Donors (berry.edu/honorroll).

Anonymous, $200,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Anonymous, $25,000 for the Dr. Sam Spector Endowed Scholarship Randy and Nancy Berry, $50,000, with $20,000 for the Berry Information Technology Students (B.I.T.S.) program, $23,500 for student scholarships, and $6,500 for the Randy Berry and Thomas Berry Gate of Opportunity Memorial Scholarship Mary K. Boyd and John P. Quinn, $50,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Rob (83C) and Amber Brock, $25,000 for the Luther and Jane Miller Endowed Scholarship Callaway Foundation, $32,543 for the F.E. Callaway Professorship Alton H. (61c) and Rebecca Browning (61C) Christopher, $90,000, with $75,000 for the Christopher Browning Pavilion at Oak Hill, $5,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium and $10,000 for the Selma Hall Browning Memorial Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Cyndi and Doug Court, $50,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Roger Dunkin (85C), $10,000 for the Football Team Booster Club Fund Beth Collins Earnst (93C), $10,500 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Russ Evans (56C), $20,000 for the Class of 1956C Endowed Scholarship with a matching gift from Norfolk Southern Foundation Will Gaines (93C), $10,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Georgia Independent College Association, $24,112 for the general fund Georgia State Society Daughters of the American Revolution, $15,000 for reconstruction of the Oak Hill gazebo Walter K. Gill (63C), $40,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Debbie E. and Steven (10G) Heida, $20,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Anne Hydrick Kaiser, $20,000 for Sisters Theatre and Blackstone Hall with a matching gift from the Georgia Power Foundation Roger W. Lusby III (79C) and Candy Caudill Lusby (82c), $47,000, with $33,000 for the Mr. and Mrs. Roger W. Lusby III Endowed Scholarship, $10,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium, and $4,000 for the general fund Paul C. and Velma Smith Maddox Foundation, $13,500 to fund the Paul C. and Velma Smith Maddox Scholarship Ruby Vestal Mills (61C), $10,000 for the Class of 1961C Gate of Opportunity Scholarship National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, $25,000, with $13,000 for two NSDAR Gate of Opportunity Scholarships and $12,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Junior Membership Committee, $25,000, with $19,500 for three NSDAR Junior Gate of Opportunity Scholarships and $5,500 for the Berry Emergency Relief Fund Anne Cook Neal (52C), $10,000 for the Edward Gray and Doris Cook Dickey Endowed Scholarship The Nichols Trust, $10,000 to fund the Rudge Nichols Professorship Larry H. Osborn (63C), $20,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium Malcolm W. (58C) and Yvonne Jackson (59C) Quick, $10,000, with $5,000 for the Garland Dickey Endowed Scholarship and $5,000 for the Jerry Shelton Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship, funded by the Class of 1958C

Brent D. (88C) and Georgia Anne Ragsdale, $10,000 for the general fund James R. Scoggins (52C), $20,000, with $10,000 for the Dr. James R. and Donna R. Scoggins Endowed Natural Sciences and Math Scholarship and $10,000 for the Dr. James R. Scoggins Scholarship Thomas and Barbara Slocum, $275,000 for the Tom and Barbara Slocum Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship William B. Stokely Jr. Foundation, $10,000 for the Bettyann O’Neill Innovation Fund United States Tennis Association, $10,000 in support of promotion and scholarships for the Professional Tennis Management program Martha Berry Walstad, $140,000 for the Martha Berry Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Virgil P. Warren Foundation, $13,750 for the Gunby Equine Center Frances Wood Wilson Foundation, $30,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium WinShape Foundation, $276,855, with $210,000 for the WinShape Scholarship, $39,355 for the Founders Work Program, $12,000 for the Capitulum Scholarship, $10,500 for the WinShape Appeals Fund and $5,000 for the Truett and Jeannette Cathy Expendable Scholarship Chuck (80C) and Regina Yarbrough, $50,000 for the renovation of Ford Auditorium John S. Yow, $20,000 for the Jeannette Sibley Yow and Lawson Yow Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship

Bequests The estate of Margaret G. Kincaid, $180,000 unrestricted The estate of Patricia L. McPartlan, $48,677 unrestricted The estate of Clovis Smith, $368,407 for the Clovis Smith Family Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship

ALUMNI ALUMNI WEEKEND AND WORK WEEK ♦ MAY 18-25, 2018

Honor worthy ALUMNI WEEKEND provides a wonderful opportunity to highlight achievement and service to Berry. Honorees this year included the Distinguished Alumni Award recipients (see page 7) and the following reunion classes and individuals: CLASS OF 1958C

• Reunion Cup (percentage attendance) • Viking Cup (giving participation) • Ford Cup (dollars given) CLASS OF 1968C

• Martha Cup (percentage increase in giving participation) CLASS OF 1948C

• Heritage Cup (increase in planned-giving commitments) INDIVIDUALS

• Tim Howard (82C), Alumni Council Lifetime Membership • Kay Williams, Alumni Association President’s Award GOLDEN GUARD

• Classes of 1968A and 1968C

photography by BRANT SANDERLIN, ALAN STOREY and student photographer MATTHEW McCONNELL

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

21

News from you CLASS NOTES – THE ORIGINAL SOCIAL MEDIA

1950s Roy Miller (58C) has been elected treasurer of the board of directors of Clairmont Place in Decatur, Ga., where he resides. He also chairs the Finance Committee and serves on the Landscape and Resident Services Committee.

CLASS YEARS are followed by a letter that indicates Berry status. Uppercase letters denote graduates; lowercase letters denote attended/attending and anticipated year of graduation.

C,c College G,g Graduate school A,a Academy H,h High school FS Faculty/Staff FFS Former Faculty/Staff

1960s

1970s

Dr. Barbara Knox Cothran (78C) has written From the Peach Fields to Becoming a University Professor, sharing how God “turned her tears into a testimony” after seeing her through struggles growing up in small-town Georgia and later as an adult. Her book is available for purchase through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Maryellen Raimondi Epperson (78C) has retired after 31 years of teaching family and consumer sciences. She praises her Berry experience, home economics professors and peers for preparing her for a successful career and looks forward to traveling, relaxing and enjoying all the blessings of life.

1980s Joyce Elliott Nelson Dr. Joyce Elliott Nelson (70C) has retired after teaching for 34 years in Georgia’s Barrow and Gwinnett counties. She has relocated to Dacula so she can be closer to her two children and seven grandsons.

Debra Echols Thomas (76C) is planning to retire in 2019 after 42 years as a teacher. She currently teaches kindergarten at a new school in Alpharetta, Ga., and lives in Sugar Hill.

Barry Webb (76C) retired from teaching carpentry, cabinetmaking and English in 2012. He later spent six months teaching English in Saudi Arabia and two weeks helping the Kenyan government write select trade-program curriculums for its technical school system. He now enjoys being a full-time grandfather of two.

Gary Levitt Gary Levitt (80C) has relocated to Orlando, Fla., where he is president and CEO of DesignShop Holdings.

Debbie Rivituso Brilling Debbie Rivituso Brilling (81C) is an advocate for children with

22

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

SUBMIT YOUR PERSONAL NEWS, which is subject to editing,

online at berry.edu/classnotes or email to classnotes@berry.edu.

Photos of sufficient quality will be used at the discretion of the magazine staff. News in this issue was received March 1 – June 30. hearing loss who for 15 years has served as executive director and CEO of the Atlanta-based AuditoryVerbal Center. Her passion is personal, as she raised two children who were born profoundly deaf. The Puerto Rico native also enjoys volunteering with Kiwanis International and this fall begins service as Georgia district governor.

She has earned several notable honors from Kiwanis, including the following awards: Distinguished President, Outstanding Leader, Distinguished Lt. Governor, Hero, Henry C. Heinz, Centennial Zeller and Walter Zeller. She also was the George F. Hixson Fellow.

student photographer Jacob Bushey

Wayne Kelley (60H) is hoping to hear from Mount Berry School for Boys classmates. He can be reached at waynekelleysr@yahoo.com.

Martha “Marti” Andrews Amos (67C) is a happy retiree who spends time landscaping, teaching Bible study, raising money for Shriners children’s hospitals and traveling, among other things. She lives in San Antonio.

Gail Howard Gibson

Gail Howard Gibson (82C) has released her first book, God’s Gift Within: The Story of The Joshua Quilt. The book explains the symbolism of The Joshua Quilt© – which she created in response to the 2009-10 Horizons Bible Study: Joshua, A Journey of Faith – and documents her journey as a wife, mother, daughter and caregiver. Visit thejoshuaquilt.com for more details.

Greg Hanthorn (82C) has been chosen by his peers for inclusion in

the 2019 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for his work in commercial litigation. This is the seventh consecutive year he has been listed. He also has been tapped for continued service on the American Bar Association’s Section of Litigation Federal Practice Task Force. Greg is a member of the business and tort litigation practice in the Atlanta office of the international law firm Jones Day.

Bonnie McKinney Stevens (82C) has published her first children’s book, The Adventures of Dreamer Cat, based on a cat she adopted. All proceeds benefit the Nelson County (Va.) Humane Society, where Bonnie works as cat intake manager.

Cindy Wolfe Gurniewicz (83C) and husband John are among the founding families of Cornerstone Preparatory Academy, a K-12 university-model school in Acworth, Ga. Jonathan Purser (85C) has been named to the Gordon Hospital Foundation Board and is the newly installed president of the Berry Alumni Association (see page 4).

HONORED

published

PROMOTED

RETIRED

MOVED

just baby married

You guys

are rockin’ it!

News From You is bursting at the seams in this issue thanks to YOU! Seven times more alumni are sharing their stories here with college buddies than just two years ago. And they said social media would be the death of alumni notes in college magazines!

We’re betting you turn first to the News From You section of Berry magazine, and so do most of your friends. Keep sharing! Our policy is to print ALL submissions (and as many suitable photos as we can fit). To share your news in our next issue, simply complete our online form (berry.edu/classnotes) or email classnotes@berry.edu today!

1990s

Jennifer Carter Jennifer Carter (90C) published her dissertation for a Ph.D. in education on the effects of social media on attrition rates of online community college students.

Amy Melissa Fairrel (90C) is the newly promoted North American controller for Kerridge Commercial Systems, her professional home for more than two years. She resides in North Carolina.

SteveAnna Soward Williams

Jeff Quagliata (pictured with Ron Howard) Jeff Quagliata (93C) is head of research and development for the YES Network, where he has worked since 2002, winning six regional Emmys. This summer, he found himself in front of the camera thanks to “Quag’s Cam,” a new on-air feature seen during rain delays of New York Yankees broadcasts; he also rubbed elbows with movie director Ron Howard during a May visit to Yankee Stadium. Jeff traces his success as a sports journalist to Berry, where he was a sportswriter for the Campus Carrier and student broadcaster for WBCS, precursor to Viking Fusion.

SteveAnna Soward Williams (90C) was named 2018-19 Teacher of the Year for Willis Road Elementary School. She lives in Sharpsburg, Ga., with husband Wesley. Their daughter, Amberlee Kimiko (20c), is a Berry communication major.

Bernadette “Bunny” Marotti DiPetta Dr. Bernadette “Bunny” Marotti DiPetta (87G) has retired from the Bartow County (Ga.) School System after 40 years, the last 19 as principal of Taylorsville Elementary School.

Mark Kimber (87C) is the new chief revenue officer for Financial Information Technologies (Fintech), responsible for leading development in new business sales, installed client base sales and partner strategy. He lives in Indian Rocks Beach, Fla.

Leigha Young Burnham Denise Sumner Denise Sumner (89C) has been promoted to vice president and financial controller of VF Corp., responsible for ensuring that the company’s accounting policies are compliant with national standards and applied throughout all regions and brands. Prior to joining VF in 2010, the CPA and Berry accounting alumna was a management consultant for Gibson Guitar in Nashville, Tenn., and an audit partner with KPMG in Atlanta. She lives in Greensboro, N.C.

Studio Jaki Photography

Randy Parker/The Daily Tribune News

Reggie Padgett (92C) is a clinical analyst (RN) at Floyd Medical Center in Rome.

Larry Arrington (93C) is director of student engagement and success at Shorter University.

Christy Anderson Fricks

Christy Anderson Fricks (91c) is the new creative director of LickSkillet Public Relations, a socially responsible marketing com­ pany focused on nonprofits and local businesses. She lives in Athens, Ga.

Leigha Young Burnham (94C) received the Georgia Library Media Association’s 2018 Intellectual Freedom of Information Award for her work as media and technology specialist for Kingston Elementary School. She recently earned her education specialist degree in library media and instructional technology from the University of West Georgia and accepted a new position as coordinator of Berry’s STEMTeach program.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

23

NEWS FROM YOU

Susan Keener Ehrlich (98C) married Greg Ehrlich on Sept. 17, 2016, in Big Canoe, Ga. Jennifer Gatlin McAuley (98C) was matron of honor. The couple resides in Atlanta, where Susan is a CPA and Greg works in finance.

Gus Stallings

Dorothy Cottage girls BONDS FORMED 25 YEARS AGO WERE CELEBRATED LAST SPRING BY SIX ALUMNA

who staged their own impromptu Berry

reunion. The “Dorothy Cottage Girls” originally

Gus Stallings (94C) has been promoted to national accounts director for engineered wood products at Boise Cascade Company, where he has worked for 10 years.

He and wife Stephanie celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in June. They have three sons.

were brought together by a chance room assignment in fall 1993, and the resulting friendships have outlived even their beloved log-cabin home, which was destroyed by a fierce 2011 storm.

While back on campus, the group paused for a photo at the “selfie-spot” identifying Berry as a filming location for Remember the

Titans. Pictured from left are Shelley Eyerly (96C), Shannon Wallace Lubin (96C), Donna

“

Thompson Braden (96C), Kelly Wickers Barnes

Share a hug, a conversation and laughs in real time with your Berry friends.

”

2000s Jeffrey D. Talley (94C) has been licensed by the state of Georgia as a level III emergency medical services instructor. He works as a lieutenantparamedic for the Valdosta Fire Department and is a technical search specialist for Georgia Search and Rescue Task Force II. He also serves as an EMS instructor at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.

Daniel Brizard (95C) has been named assistant women’s soccer coach at Indiana University.

GENYTH TRAVIS

Speaking for the group, Genyth encouraged other alumni to follow their lead in returning to Berry whenever possible: “Don’t be happy to just catch up on social media. Get together. Be in the same room.

Share a hug, a conversation and laughs in real time with your Berry friends. I promise it will do your heart good.”

24

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Dr. Michael Lofton (98C, 01G) has been named National Principal of the Year by Magnet Schools of America for his work at Spring Hill High School in Chapin, S.C. Under his leadership, Spring Hill has been named a National Magnet School of Distinction for two consecutive years.

Jeffrey D. Talley

(97c), Christie Brantley Drexler (95C) and Genyth Travis (96C, FFS).

Michael Lofton

Tuten children Brian Tuten (97C) and Jodi Hawkins Tuten (98C) announce the June 12, 2017, birth of twin daughters Faythe Alleluiah and Glory Bea. They joined seven siblings at the family home in Phoenix.

Jonathan Osborne Jonathan Osborne (01C) received his master’s degree in defense and strategic studies from the Naval War College in Newport, R.I. He is employed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and lives in Alexandria, Va., with wife Ashling and daughter Maura.

Travis Armes (02C) is a Navy chaplain at the submarine base in New London, Conn. He and wife Adrienne Thompson Armes (01C) live in Windsor, where she is associate pastor at First Church.

They have two children, Madeleine (12) and Ben (7).

NEWS FROM YOU

don't forget to send your photos The next time you’re typing a status update or tweet, be sure to

premature and, in the words of the couple, is “a miracle from God.” He joined siblings Gavin, Kaitlyn, Caden and Braeden at the family home in Nursery, Texas.

share with us as well.

Submit your news (and digital photos!) online at berry.edu/ classnotes or email to classnotes@berry.edu for inclusion in News From You. Be sure to include your class year.

Bo Wright (02C) recently became a licensed certified public accountant. He is director of research and operational efficiency at Young Harris College and lives in nearby Blairsville, Ga., with wife Sarah Gowder Wright (04C) and their four children.

Aitana Vargas (03C) was named Sports Journalist of the Year for Southern California by the L.A. Press Club for her work with HITN-TV, DirectTV Sports and HispanoPost. She was the only nominee from a Spanish-language network, newspaper or digital media outlet to win first prize. She is also the 2018 recipient of Berry’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award (see page 7).

Garrett Reegan Garrison Erin Shannon Garrison (04C) and husband Caleb announce the Oct. 24, 2017, birth of son Garrett Reegan. Garrett was born extremely

Shannon Casas Shannon Casas (05C) has been promoted to director of content for The Times in Gainesville, Ga.

Leah Hubbell Stockton (05C) is president and CEO of United Way of the Florida Keys.

Amanda Highfield Tortorige (05C) married Carson Tortorige in Helen, Ga., on April 29. The couple resides in Glennallen, Alaska, where they work together with their therapy dog for the Copper River Native Association, an outdoor adventure-based youth development program. Amanda is a mental health counselor for children and youth.

Amanda Renee FriswoldAtwood (06C) married Sarah Michelle Friswold in a lakefront ceremony at Red Top Mountain State Park in Acworth, Ga., on Nov. 11, 2017. Emily Wampler (03C) was maid of honor and Shannon Gorman (03C) a bridesmaid. The couple resides in Jacksonville, Fla., where Amanda is project administrator for International Auto Processing.

Hill/Jones wedding Lauren Hill Jones (06C) and Joshua Jones were married at Frost Chapel on Sept. 30, 2017. Their wedding coordinator was Hester Parks (95C), and their organist was Justin Karch (01C, 10G). The wedding party included Alison Mann Attavar (06C) and Ellen Christian Long (07C). The couple resides in Marietta, Ga.

Genny Castillo Genny Castillo (08C) has graduated from the highly selective Education Policy Fellowship Program, which equips leaders across various sectors to advocate for core education policy issues. She is chief operating officer of BLUE Institute.

Spinks/Miller wedding Ross Spinks (05C) and Katy Miller were married April 14 at Atlanta’s Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. The wedding party included Josh Pham (05C), Dustan Atkinson (05C) and John Hutchison (06C).

Ross is executive producer for Brand RED Studios, a creative marketing and film production company owned

by Ryan Simmons (07C, 14G). He also serves as a local producer and consultant for film, television and commercials in Atlanta. The couple resides in Brookhaven.

Harvey/Patterson wedding Keisha Harvey Patterson (07C) married Terrill Patterson on March 30 in Atlanta, with Deana McDougall (08C) serving as a bridesmaid. The couple resides in Kennesaw, Ga. Sarah Richards Stallrich (07C) and husband Jon announce the June 8 birth of second daughter Dorothy Elaine, who joined sister Matilda at the family home in Cary, N.C.

Brandon Reece Brandon Reece (05C, 08G) is the new administrator for Floyd Cherokee Medical Center in Centre, Ala.

Ledger-Enquirer and The (Macon) Telegraph and acts as a key strategic partner for excelerate™ Atlanta.

A member of the McClatchy team since 2010, Ross was named to Editor & Publisher’s “25 under 35” list of future media leaders for 2018 and is a two-time Emmy nominee for his work in interactive media. He and wife Amber Bryenton McDuffie (08C) live in Columbus with children Larkin and Emory.

McDuffie family Ross McDuffie (07C) is general manager/vice president of advertising for the McClatchy media company in Georgia. He oversees operations for the Columbus

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

25

NEWS FROM YOU

Josie Jia Geren Megan Geren (08C) adopted daughter Josie Jia Geren from Kunming, China, on March 27.

Carroll/Taylor wedding

Gabrielle Long Gong

Mary Claire Stewart (14C)

Amanda Dean Gong (09C) and husband Yan announce the May 21 birth of daughter Gabrielle Long Gong. She joined brother Grant at the family home in Marietta, Ga.

Sally Carroll Taylor (10C) married Rickey Taylor in March. The wedding party included Laura Moore Mattison (10C), Ashley McCarty (10C) and Laura Gerdnic (12C). The couple lives in Buford, Ga., with pup Bruce.

Meredith Shelton (11C) has joined DCBA Law and Policy in Washington, D.C., as marketing and communications manager.

Holden Minor Hamilton Allison Watts Hamilton (09C) and husband Brian announce the Nov. 30, 2017, birth of son Holden Minor Hamilton. The maternal grandparents are proud alumni Bridgette Minor Watts (84C) and Charles Terence Watts (82C).

Christina Smith Wagoner Dr. Christina Smith Wagoner (12G) is the new principal of Westside Elementary School in Marietta, Ga. Succeeding her as principal of her former school, the Marietta Center for Advanced Academics, is fellow alumna Dr. Tricia Patterson (12G). Tricia previously served four years as principal of Tritt Elementary School in the Cobb County School District.

Darren Barnet’s (13C) short film, Glass, premiered at the Burbank International Film Festival in August and won best original story at the New York Film Awards. Another project, Mr. Machine, won best original concept at the Portland Comedy Film Festival.

Cullifer/Wright wedding

Katie Weisbecker Kosmala (13C) has been promoted to vice president of operations for the Atlanta Postal Credit Union. She and husband Matthew were married in April.

Brett Adams (12C) and Amber Rickman Adams (11C) announce the Feb. 26 birth of son Brett Michael Adams Jr. The family lives in Newnan, Ga. Eli Abel Santana

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Benson Phinazee (13C) and Amanda Bellamy Phinazee (15C) were married May 11. The wedding party included Bo Heard (16C), Gabe Steinmeyer (11C), Anna Chan Sherman (13C), Joe Sherman (13C), Brittany Kingsland (16C), Cassie Fiebiger (15C), Nikki Winton (16C), Jessica Taylor (15C), Alexandria Knowles (15c) and Markie Fleming (13C).

Weisbecker\Kosmala wedding

Brett Michael Adams Jr.

26

Phinazee/Bellamy wedding

Erin Cullifer Wright (11C) married Eric Wright on April 21 at Frost Chapel. The couple lives in Silver Creek, Ga.

2010s

Stephen Santana (10C) and wife Monique Masutier Santana (09C) announce the June 5 birth of son Eli Abel Santana.

School in Macon, Ga., where Chelsea was named 2017-18 Teacher of the Year. She teaches eighth-grade English and 12th-grade psychology; he is an administrator in the college counseling and advancement departments.

Caleb Seth Martin (13C) graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in May with a doctorate in veterinary medicine. He resides in Bremen, Ga.

Eric and Chelsea Wegesin Latimer Chelsea Wegesin Latimer (13C) and husband Eric Latimer (14C) work at First Presbyterian Day

Karen Taylor Karen Taylor (13C) is in her fourth year of veterinary school at the University of Georgia. After graduation, she plans to practice dairy-cattle medicine.

NEWS FROM YOU

Natalie Jones Barber (14C) married Shaun Barber on May 6 in Clearwater Beach, Fla. Also this spring, Natalie earned her MBA with a concentration in accounting from Southern New Hampshire University and accepted a new job as controller for Carlouel Beach and Yacht Club in Clearwater Beach.

Alex LaPierre

Casey Coats Casey Coats (14C) graduated from Georgia State University with a doctorate in physical therapy.

Elizabeth Mitchell Craig (14C) has graduated from Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and joined a small-animal clinic in Lenexa, Kan.

Alex LaPierre (14C) is fulfilling her dream as a certified equine sports massage therapist and canine massage therapist. She expects her Berry communication degree to strongly support her “entrepreneurial adventures” and is grateful to the professors and staff who helped set her on a path to success. She and husband Shay Meredith live in Forest Park, Ga.

Sydney Hulebak (14C) is chief operating officer of WildArk, a global social enterprise that partners with local communities to secure land rich in biodiversity and create safe havens for the long-term protection of species and ecosystems.

She also represented the United States as head delegate at the Y7 Summit in Ottawa, Canada.

Ryan James (14C) has been named director of undergraduate and international admissions at California University of Pennsylvania.

Anna-Carson Rimer Uhelski (14C) has been inducted into the University of Tennessee College of Medicine’s chapter of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, an international association of individuals and medical school chapters whose members are selected as exemplars of empathy, compassion, altruism, integrity and service in their relationships with patients and others in the field of medicine. The fourth-year medical student credits Berry with molding her into the person she is today.

Lauren Buschhorn

Duffie/Martinez wedding

Sydney Hulebak

Anna-Carson Rimer Uhelski

Whitney Leigh Duffie Martinez (14C) married Adrian Martinez on June 9 in Peachtree Corners, Ga. The couple met in Costa Rica, where Whitney taught ESL before returning to the States. She now teaches Spanish at the Wesleyan School. The couple lives in Johns Creek.

Katie Beth Murray (14C) earned her doctorate of veterinary medicine from the University of Georgia in May and now serves as an associate veterinarian at Tiger Tails Animal Hospital in Duluth.

Courtney Walls (14C) is a state children’s protective services investigator in Knoxville, Tenn.

Lauren Buschhorn (15C) completed her Master of Science degree in health promotion and wellness management from Missouri State University in May. She works in the employee wellness division of Washington University in St. Louis.

and Jack is a senior social analyst at Coca-Cola. The couple resides in the West Buckhead area of Atlanta.

Melissa DeLozier Holland (15C) works in academic services at the University of North Texas in Denton.

She lives in Fort Worth.

Krista Miller (15C) has earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree from Augusta University. She continues to run her own photography business, KMM Photography, in addition to her work as a PA. She is grateful to her Berry mentors, including Trustee Dr. Brad Bushnell and volleyball Head Coach Caitlyn Moriarity (14G), for helping her to achieve her goal, praising, “I can only hope that I will be as much help to my patients and future health professionals as Berry has been to me as a person.”

Zak Wallingford (15C) and Kylee Merritts Wallingford (16C) were married June 1 in Quintanaroo, Mexico. Zak is a property adjuster for Allstate Insurance, and Kylee teaches special education at Alcova Elementary School in Gwinnett County, Ga. The couple resides in Athens.

Colleen Curlee (16C) has been accepted into the master’s degree program in divinity at Lipscomb University. She lives in Nashville, Tenn., where she is active in church and volunteers with World Vision.

Mosaic Photographics

Jones/Barber wedding

Andrew Kurila (14C) and brother James Kurila (17C) represented Slovakia in the 2018 FIL World Lacrosse Championships in Israel in July.

Miller/Chase wedding Lydia Miller Chase (15C) and Jack Chase (15C) were married April 14 at Frost Chapel. Pictured with the couple are Michael Harper (15C), best man; and Monica Williams (15C), maid of honor.

Attending the wedding were seven additional members of the Miller family who are Berry students or alumni. Lydia is an investment analyst at Core5 Industrial Partners,

Pilcher/Ellwanger wedding

Michelle Pilcher Ellwanger (16C) and Robbie Ellwanger (17C) were married April 14 at Oak Hill, with more than 50 Berry friends in attendance. The couple lives in Auburn, Ala.

BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

27

NEWS FROM YOU

Tis the season

to go ‘retro’

If you’re a mong Berr y’s newest less), we h alumni (fi ope you’ll ve years o join us in Young Alu r “going retr mni Christ o ” a t the 2018 mas Party. features a This year’ new venu s celebrati e – the Ch Pavilion a on ri st opher Bro t Oak Hil w n l in – a g n entertainm d the sam e great ent, the vo cal styling Here are s of Greg the detail Robbins (1 s: 5C).

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Saturday, Dec. 8 5-7 p.m.

R SVP tod ay at berr y.edu/YAC hristm

Meaghan Hughes (16C) married Mike Davis on April 28 in Ball Ground, Ga. Sean Manion (16C) is a master’s degree student at the School for International Training in Vermont.

He has a fellowship position with the Dangerous Speech Project based in Washington, D.C., and recently attended a conference in Budapest, Hungary.

e tinsel!

Mary Cate Wysong (16C) is one of two Georgians in the inaugural class of Baylor University’s accelerated Civilian Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She is working toward graduation in December 2019.

Deanna Cunningham Carter (17C) is morning producer for the KLST news station in San Angelo, Texas.

Alex Moon and Ree Palmer Ree Palmer (16C) and Alex Moon (16C), both former student leaders at Berry, earned their Master of Science degrees in education with a concentration in higher education and student affairs from Indiana University-Bloomington in May.

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Allie Crain

Allie Crain (17C) is an Atlantabased outreach coordinator for the Georgia Institute of TechnologyLorraine in Metz, France.

Taylor Moore Taylor Moore (16C) is social media coordinator for the Georgia Aquarium. Her responsibilities include developing content for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; helping to manage influencer relations; and assisting with promotional efforts for the PR/ marketing/events teams.

Brant Sanderlin

Hughes/Davis wedding

as

Don’t forget th

Katie Truluck Katie Truluck (17C) received the distinguished PT Solutions Scholarship and the Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship for 2018-19 to support her work as a second-year student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Augusta University (Medical College of Georgia).

J. Michael Cheeves J. Michael Cheeves (17C) is assistant editor for Eclipse Post Creative, an Atlanta-based postproduction house that edits, writes and produces shows for HGTV, Food Network, Travel Channel, The Weather Channel, CNN, Cartoon Network and more.

Savannah Robar Savannah Robar (17C) works for Ranchlands, a Colorado-based company specializing in management services for ranch owners with ambitious conservation objectives. She is based at Chico Basin Ranch in Colorado Springs, where she participates in daily ranch management activities including leather-shop work, livestock operations, education outreach, guest services, and cooperative work with the Nature Conservancy and other conservation groups. She is pictured surveying damage from a wildfire.

Zalewski/Williams wedding Krista Zalewski Williams (17C) and Kile Williams (17C) were married June 24 at Summerour Studio in Atlanta. The couple lives in Kennesaw.

Condolences

BERRY COLLEGE EXTENDS SINCERE CONDOLENCES to family and friends of the following alumni and former faculty/staff. This list includes

notices received March 1 – June 30.

1940s

Carlton Marion Dillard (40C) of Augusta, Ga., March 23, 2018.

Travis Jackson Heckle (40c) of Adrian, Ga., June 13, 2018.

Dequindre McGlaun (40C) of Junction City, Ga., June 6, 2018.

Fannie Tucker Beck (41C) of Madison, Fla., April 4, 2018.

Evelyn Tallent Tamplin (42C) of Carrollton, Ga., May 13, 2018.

Mavis Faison Faulkner (43C) of Hendersonville, N.C., April 30, 2018.

Nelda Murdock Kayatta (43c) of Arlington, Vt., May 22, 2018.

Alice Jackson Pendley (43C) of Towson, Md., April 21, 2018.

Edmond L. Underwood (43H) of Marietta, Ga., March 16, 2018.

Helen Alley Duckworth (44c) of Oak Ridge, Tenn., June 3, 2018.

Earl H. DeVane (45C) of Forsyth, Ga., May 17, 2018.

Edna Earle Whatley (45C) of Rome, March 8, 2018.

Louise Fields Holland (46H) of Bowdon, Ga., March 1, 2018.

Dexter W. Hess (48c) of Clinton, S.C., March 16, 2018.

Ed Hucks Jr. (48c) of Savannah, Ga., March 18, 2018.

Kathryn Mallard Hunter (48C) of Savannah, Ga., April 3, 2018.

Doyle V. Ingram (48H, 52C, FFS) of Centre, Ala., June 20, 2018.

1950s Norma Jean Peavyhouse DeWitt (50c) of Spring City, Tenn., Oct. 16, 2017.

Betty Jo Wann McDougale (50H) of Chattanooga, Tenn., Dec. 16, 2017.

Leon M. Bryan (51C) of Ashburn, Ga., Dec. 27, 2017.

Sarah Mills Crozier (51c) of North Augusta, S.C., March 4, 2018.

Mildred McWhorter (51C) of Franklin, Ga., June 17, 2018.

Willene Baughtman Cowart (52c) of Covington, Ga., April 5, 2018.

Hubert D. Greene (52C) of Asheville, N.C., March 9, 2018.

Anne Cook Neal (52C) of Gainesville, Ga., April 19, 2018.

Angie Reynolds Wilson (52H) of Llano, Texas, Sept. 13, 2017.

Lacora Adams Douglas (54C) of Lizella, Ga., April 3, 2018.

Milton T. Black (56H) of Reno, Nev., April 4, 2018.

Bill Albert Dent (56C) of Cartersville, Ga., June 20, 2018.

Harold Hobert Posey (56H, 63c) of Kingston, Ga., June 27, 2018.

Shirley Selman Owens (57c) of Rome, June 19, 2017.

G. Pait Willis (57H) of Ty Ty, Ga., April 22, 2018.

Cecil W. Grace (58C) of Jasper, Fla., June 17, 2018.

Bruce Corbin Hopper (59c) of Rabun Gap, Ga., April 21, 2018.

1960s Thomas H. Gaines (60H) of Lilburn, Ga., Sept. 17, 2017.

Jerry Presley (60H, 64c) of Chattanooga, Tenn., March 18, 2018.

Reba Edwards Hutcheson (61C) of Benton, Tenn., Jan. 23, 2017.

Pansy Moore Corvin (62C) of Englewood, Tenn., March 1, 2017.

Marion David Mooney (62H) of Sainte Genevieve, Mo., May 9, 2018.

Rebecca Miller Gurr (64C) of Gainesville, Ga., May 8, 2018.

Richard M. Hamrick (64A) of Jonesboro, Ga., Sept. 3, 2017.

Frances P. Herndon (65c) of Chester, Va., April 2, 2018.

Johnny James “Jimmy” Nobles Jr. (65a) of Georgetown, Ga., May 31, 2018.

Carole Sparks Thomas (66c) of Delano, Tenn., April 7, 2018.

Lee Hoge Pendley (67A, FFS) of Rome, June 28, 2018.

1970s

2010s

Harriet Joy Stuckey (70C) of Dublin, Ga., Feb. 17, 2018.

Carole Braden Tull (70C) of Hoover, Ala., June 6, 2018.

Richard Frank Cheney (71C) of New Port Richey, Fla., Feb. 14, 2017.

Raleigh C. Dorrough III (71A) of Columbus, Ga., Aug. 4, 2017.

Kathleen Gail Merritt (72C) of Gainesville, Ga., April 24, 2018.

Marie Edwards Ponder (78G) of Rome, March 25, 2018.

Gail Quinn Ellis (79C) of Cordele, Ga., March 29, 2018.

Anna Trahan (18c) of Cartersville, Ga., April 29, 2018.

Former Faculty and Staff Angeline Y. Bedwell of Rome, April 12, 2018.

1980s Katharyn Hoagland McLendon (80C) of Decatur, Ga., June 6, 2018.

Juanita McKinney Case (81C) of Kingston, Ga., April 21, 2018.

Stephen Larue Glasgow (85C) of Harrison, Ark., Dec. 25, 2017.

David C. Hortman (87G) of Rome, March 20, 2018.

1990s Valerie Joyce Jerzak Everette (91c) of Kaysville, Utah, July 22, 2017.

Brian David Edwards (96C) of Springdale, Ark., May 20, 2018.

2000s Jonathan David Snipes (04C) of Aragon, Ga., May 22, 2018.

Kasandra Williams Novinger (06C) of Rome, March 12, 2018.

Emily Ann Chalmers Howell (08c) of Dallas, Ga., May 15, 2018.

In Memoriam The Berry community mourns the April 23 death of former Alumni Association President Dr. Randolph Berry Green (37H, 41C). The son of Berry College’s first president, Dr. Leland Green, the younger Green grew up on campus and drew lifelong inspiration from the experience. He was a World War II veteran and accomplished dentist who served his community and his alma mater faithfully for many years, earning the 2017 Virginia R. Webb Service Award for his work with the Alumni Association. He was 96.

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Thank y ou

SPECIAL THANKS FOR: Memory and Honor Gifts and Gifts to Named Scholarships and Work Endowments. The following gifts were made in memory or honor of an individual and/or to named scholarships or work endowments March 1 – June 30.

MEMORY GIFTS

Mr. Thomas Batey Jr. Becky Maddox Griffith (76C) Mrs. Fannie Tucker Beck David and Rebecca Sellers Terry and Mary Helen Studebaker Mr. Henry Chaney Berry Berry Perkins Mr. Milton Thomas Black Margie Black Sidney and Joanne Thompson Dr. D. Dean Cantrell Maureen Munro Kurowsky (72C) Tom Raulerson (66C) Dr. N. Gordon Carper Justin (05C) and Julia Middleton (07C) Slaughter Mr. Willoughby Gay Crow and Mrs. Mary Louise Stinett Crow Estate of Patricia McPartlan Mr. Earl H. DeVane Craig and Dianne Law Donald Toole Dr. Garland M. Dickey Jennifer Dickey (77A, 80C) Mrs. Lacora Adams Douglas Bob (62H) and Kay Williams Mr. J. Mitchell Elrod Charlie Elrod (86C) Mr. William Ebbert Evans Clara Denton Calvin Doss (49C) Mr. and Mrs. Dale R. Lamb Leon (49C) and Gilda Thompson (51C) Morris Ben and Shirley Turner Betty Turner Mrs. Mavis Faison Faulkner Jerry and Mae Faulkner Dr. Thomas W. Gandy Anna Akers (14C) Mrs. Sherry Barton Gatlin Virginia Battles Dean (66C) Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Glover Brenda Vaughn Melton (74C, 84G) Dr. Randolph B. Green Lester (69C) and Wanda Bennett (68C) Brookshire Ouida Word Dickey (50C) Jimmy and Laurie Douglas Edith Gray Bonnie Grizzard Andrew and Mary Helen Heaner Jim and Linda Owens Mrs. Anne Sims Hawkins Jim Hawkins (49H, 53C) Ms. Barbara Sue Holbert Loretta Hamby (63C) Mr. Chester Hyers Roger (53H) and Neomia Sundy Mr. Doyle V. Ingram Charles (64A) and Jane Downey Mr. Jack A. Jones Harlan (58C) and Doris Reynolds (57C) Chapman

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Mrs. Lisa Bridges Leskosky Jenny Young Noblit (82C) Mr. Fred H. Loveday Gordon Kennedy (48H, 52c) Ms. Annette Loveless B3 Branch Buddies Dr. Lawrence E. McAllister Carl Franklin (67C) Lois McAllister Hatler (66C) Mr. Joseph James McDaniel Wyatt Peterson (18C) Dr. and Mrs. Milton S. McDonald Mackey and Elizabeth McDonald Mrs. Lynda P. McKenzie Bob (62H) and Kay Williams Daughters of Berry Mr. Marion David Mooney Charles (64A) and Jane Downey Mrs. Anne Cook Neal Ouida Word Dickey (50C) Mr. Johnny James Nobles Jr. Charles (64A) and Jane Downey Mrs. Linda Waddell Owens Carol Waddell (72C) Mr. Elton Louie Petty Charles (64A) and Jane Downey Mr. Jerry Presley Charles (64A) and Jane Downey Mr. Jimmy Privett Sandra Cagle Rebecca Jones Dwight and Janice Laird Donna Nickerson B3 Branch Buddies Dr. William Harden Robison III Rudy Wilson (79C) Mr. Samuel Lovick Rush John Rush Mr. Aubrey Sexton Bonnie Bennett Nancy Borgschulte Elaine Foster Mrs. Laura Sexton Elaine Foster Mr. David Christopher Shankles Greg and Lisa Ivins Dr. Sam I. Spector Ouida Word Dickey (50C) Ms. Harriet Joy Stuckey Nancy Eng Elrod (70C) Bob (70C) and Mary Anne Fears (70C) Gaw Mr. Barry C. Sutherland Dan Huff (71C) Mrs. Carole Sparks Thomas Bob (62H) and Kay Williams Ms. Isabel Walker Bunny Shaver Ortiz (68C) Mr. Gene T. Warren Malcolm (58C) and Yvonne Jackson (59C) Quick Mrs. Edna Earle Whatley Daughters of Berry Mr. Paul Renee Willis Jack Allen (72C)

MEMORY GIFTS TO NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS

Natalie Bates Giving Tree Endowed Award Ashley Harzog (13C) A. Milton and JoAnn Chambers Endowed Scholarship Allyson Chambers (80C, 84G) Faith Everett (78C, 88G) Robert Lerosen (66C) Tom Raulerson (66C) Percy N. Clark and Family Scholarship Wells Fargo Foundation, matching the gift of Paul Norman Clark (88G) Earl H. and Karleen Douglas DeVane Scholarship Raymond Douglas (50C) Amelia Wilson Edward Gray and Doris Cook Dickey Endowed Scholarship Anne Cook Neal (52C) J. Mitchell and Cleone Elrod Scholarship Cleone Elrod Tom and Ruth Glover Memorial Scholarship Karen Glover Ball (76c) Jorge A. and Ondina S. Gonzalez Family Endowed Scholarship Georgette deFriesse Larry A. Green Memorial Scholarship Bridget Boyette (88C) Janna Johnson (81C) Melanie Green Jones Debbie Richardson Teal (85C) Jonathan Randall Hardin Endowed Scholarship Fund Jonathan Baggett Dan (94C) and Christel Harris Boyd Daniel Carpenter Lee Carter (76c) Kerrie Hartline Dalrymple (17C) Harriet Higgins Kiser (82C) Penny Evans-Plants (90C) Cindy Gillespie Randy and Nita Hardin Steve Hatfield Marvin Howlett (72C) and Annette Axley Jeff Smith James Terrell Lewis A. Hopkins Endowed Scholarship Aaron and Amy Britt Steve and Linda Hawkins Ruby Hopkins Outstanding Student Teacher Award Aaron and Amy Britt Steve and Linda Hawkins Dr. Peter A. Lawler Endowed Scholarship Hannah Crouse (17C) Sam Crowe (98C) Steven Elrod (08C) Kate Farrar (14C) Joy Fethe (05C) Bob Frank Derek Gebhard (09C) Cate Clements Goodwin (09C)

John Grant (03C) Regina Gilbreath Gupta (88C) Rita Lawler Keri Libby (07C) Emily Smith Matson (03C) Kate Pitrone Pete and Carol Snyder Roberts Milton Simpson Tricia Steele (09C) Catherine and Milton McDonald Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Mackey and Elizabeth McDonald Frank Miller Memorial Scholarship Bill (65C) and Betty Rozar (65C) Banks Baxter and Beverly Burke Gail Miller Rebecca Miller Jeff (75A) and Tara Miller (79A) Smith Tammy Miller Stine (77A) Jacque Terrill (65C) Riggs Family Endowed Scholarship Wanda Mack Dr. R. Melvin and Sarah E. Rozar Endowed Scholarship Melvin Rozar (57C) Dr. Sam Spector Endowed Scholarship Joyce Carper Dwayne and Jane Collier James and Barbara Dixon Gladys Douglas Edmondson (70C), with a matching gift from the G.E. Foundation Steven Fellows Paul Ferguson Bert and Fran Gordon Robert and Libba Harbin Karen Moss Richard Muller (72A) Kerry (72C) and Gloria Noles Jim and Linda Owens James Reed Casey (00C) and Angela Smith Harold Storey George Turner Lowell (75G) and Sondra Ruston (86G) Wilkins Bill and Donna Woolf Patsy Wright Heritage First Bank Knight’s Garage Right At Home Alexander Whyte Whitaker III Endowed Scholarship Whit (81C) and Maria Crego (85c) Whitaker Nell Gilreath Williams Scholarship Pamela Hefner Jeff Wingo Memorial Scholarship Janna Johnson (81C) Davin (93C) and Jennifer Kay (98C) Jones Kay Wingo Craig Allyn Wofford Scholarship Bonnie Bennett Nancy Borgschulte

THANK YOU

Ron Dean Holly Dean Lynch (95C) Equifax, matching a gift from Elaine Sexton Foster

HONOR GIFTS

Mrs. Jennifer Tucker Beard Cindy Brannon (02C) Mr. David L. Beasley Debbie Heida Berry Baseball Team Debbie Heida Berry Softball Team Debbie Heida Berry Women’s Golf Team Debbie Heida Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Betty Carver Melanie Green Jones Catherine Lamphere Chaplain’s Office Katie Johnson (16C) Class of 1995C Marshall Bruner (95C) Ms. Cecily A. Crow Ree Palmer (16C) Ms. Wendy Davis Jeffrey Horn (87C) Dickey Family Malcolm (58C) and Yvonne Jackson (59C) Quick Dr. Ouida Word Dickey Gerald (62C) and Martha Romaine (64C) Allen Beverly Armento Allyson Chambers (80C, 84G) Bart Cox (92C) Jennifer Dickey (77A, 80C) Charlie Edwards and Linda Tennant Loretta Hamby (63C) Mary Harnett Sue Killcreas (78C) Taylor Lee (50C) Catherine Lewis David and Lynn Dee Martin Chuck (84G) and Rose Nix Eric Plants (91C) and Penny EvansPlants (90C) Kathy Robinson Ray (79C) Marti Walstad Lowell (75G) and Sondra Ruston (86G) Wilkins Georgia Council on Economic Education Mrs. Shirley Bowen Elder Bill (58C) and Joan Stokes (58C) Priester Mr. William Brian Farrer Debbie Heida Mr. Paul Alan Flinchbaugh Debbie Heida Mr. and Mrs. William Forbes Monica Forbes Parisi (95C) Mr. Curtis James Gilbert Debbie Heida Mr. Rory Paul Glatt Chuck and Nancy Glatt Dr. Martin R. Goldberg Mark Piecoro (90C) Mrs. Ondina S. Gonzalez Carlos (79A) and Marilyn Gonzalez Jonathan and Allyson Hettrick Rebecca Carroll Hettrick Mrs. Catherine Collingwood Jimenez Mary Williams

Mr. Clay Johnston Steve Eubanks (63C) Mrs. Melanie Moore Jones Harlan (58C) and Doris Reynolds (57C) Chapman Gayla Green Bernice Arnold Holcomb (56H) Pamela Millwood Pettyjohn (81C, 85G) Bernice Ogle Whaley (53H) Carpet Capital Alumni Chapter Ms. Diane Knight DAR – Olde Towne Chapter Mr. and Mrs. W. Rufus Massey Jr. Bonnie Massey Padgett (01C) Mr. Fred H. Mercer Jr. Larry (63C) and Pat Webb Ms. Sarah Anne Murray David Murray Deborah Murray Ms. Sara Helen Nance Myers Ray K. Myers Mrs. Kathryn D. Nobles Carrie Nobles (16C) Mrs. Bettyann O’Neill Anja Buckwalter Tina Stancil DeNicole (85C) Chris Goeckel (84c) William B. Stokely Jr. Foundation Mrs. Angela P. Reynolds Stephen and Brenda Briggs Eric Plants (91C) and Penny EvansPlants (90C) Katherine Powell Kathy Robinson Ray (79C) Kelli Sharpe Tim and Sue Tarpley Mr. David Anthony Rowland Jeffrey Horn (87C) Ms. Carolyn Thompson Smith Sue Killcreas (78C) Carol Waddell (72C) Mrs. Deborah Richardson Teal Melanie Green Jones Ms. Cori Ann Thiermann Debbie Heida Ms. Sharman E. Turner J.C. Albritton (15C) Dr. Roger Clinton Tutterow Northeast Cobb Business Association Dr. Gary A. Waters David (84C) and Kelly Asbury Stephen and Brenda Briggs Tom and Betty Carver Helen Lansing Eric Plants (91C) and Penny (90C) Evans-Plants Kathy Robinson Ray (79C) Noemi Sarrion-Cortes (17G) Tim and Sue Tarpley Mr. C.B. Wright III Michael (16C) and Allie Reed (16C) Stephenson

HONOR GIFTS TO NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS

Julie Ann Bumpus Endowed Scholarship Marcia Rary McConnell (83C) Laura Phillips Katherine Powell Carol Story

Dr. Robert L. Frank Legacy Scholarship Donna Thompson Braden (96C) Steven Hames Randee Walters Paraskevopoulos (92C) Jerry Shelton Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship, funded by the Class of 1958C Billy (58C) and Carol Buchanan (56H, 58c) Blair Ray (58C) and Nancy Boyett Harlan (58C) and Doris Reynolds (57C) Chapman Elizabeth Ashe Cope (58C) Joe Crain (58C) James (57C) and Bonnie Pope (58C) Ellison Frances Busha Hart (58C) Ronald (58C) and Pam Norman Imogene Patterson (58C) Bill (58C) and Joan Stokes (58C) Priester John (64A, 69C) and Jo Shahan Jerry Shelton (58C) Charlie (57C) and Keitha Davis (58C) Weatherford Robert M. Skelton WinShape Scholarship Melissa Fairrel (90C) Laura Gondolfo Ray (90C)

OTHER GIFTS TO NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS AND WORK ENDOWMENTS

Dr. Frank and Kathryn Adams Endowed Scholarship Frank (54H, 58C) and Kathy Adams Tina Bucher Jim Watkins Leo W. Anglin Memorial Scholarship Jacqueline McDowell Berry High Schools and Academy Work Scholarship Cleo Leonard Ray (44H) Gary Sweatt (64A) Alan (64A) and Leanne Killin (69c) Woody Martha Berry Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Marti Walstad Randy Berry and Thomas Berry Gate of Opportunity Memorial Scholarship Randy and Nancy Berry John R. and Annabel Hodges Bertrand Endowed Scholarship Fred and J’May Rivara Dan Biggers Distinguished Actor Award Shannon Walburn Biggers (81C) Karen Baird Carter (87C) W.S. Black Conservation Scholarship Margie Black Alan (64A) and Leanne Killin (69c) Woody Frances Berry Bonnyman Scholarship Al and Jean Bonnyman Anne Bonnyman Selma Hall Browning Memorial Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Al (61c) and Becky Browning (61C) Christopher Dr. David R. Burnette Agriculture Leadership Endowed Scholarship Carol Winfrey Burnette (64C)

Campbell School of Business Accounting Scholarship Andy Watts (14C) Capitulum Scholarship WinShape Foundation N. Gordon Carper Endowed History Scholarship Kathryn Roseen (76C) Michael Tumminelli (71C) Carpet Capital Chapter Scholarship Ella White Cordle (57c) Sue Killcreas (78C) Truett and Jeannette Cathy Expendable Scholarship WinShape Foundation Judge Thomas A. Clark Endowed Scholarship Melanie Sherk Class of 1951C Memorial Endowed Scholarship Reg (51C) and Maxine Strickland Class of 1953C Scholarship William (53C) and Bonnie Pierce (54c) Bell Class of 1953H Staley/Loveday Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Irene Hardy Maguire (53H) Class of 1954C Endowed Scholarship Dorothy Walraven Craig (54C) Gene Johnson (54C) Jean Mitchell Sheffield (54C) Class of 1955C Scholarship Lynn Thurman Mazzucchi (55C) Janice Parker Padgett (55c) Ed Parkerson (55C) Class of 1956C Endowed Scholarship Russ Evans (56C), with a matching gift from Norfolk Southern Foundation Emmett (56C) and Opal Poss (56C) Sims Kenneth (56C) and LaDonna Smitherman (56C) Strickland Class of 1957C Scholarship Patricia Hoffman Iles (57C) Jacqueline Smith Ogle (57C) Margie Grogan Pope (57C) Frank Windham (57c) Class of 1960C Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Tommy Cummings (60C) W.C. (60C) and Sylvia Davis (60C) Rowland J.B. (60C) and Helen Rice (60C) Stanley Class of 1961C Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Ruby Vestal Mills (61C) Elaine Overman (61c) Connell Smith (61C) Class of 1962C Dairy Milk Quality Manager Endowed Work Position Steve (63C) and Nancy Harkness (62C) Kelly Class of 1963C Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Bettie Hester McClain (63C) Midge Johnson Raiford (63C) Class of 1964C Campus Carrier Editor-inChief Endowed Work Position Martha Coe Hitchens (64C) Margaret Horne Laighton (64C)

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I

THANK YOU

Class of 1965C Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Willard Ferguson (65C) Jim (65C) and Lottie Snow (65C) Finney Faye Lovinggood Hood (65C) Dallas (65C) and Judi Reynolds, with a matching gift from the State Farm Companies Foundation Jacque Terrill (65C) Omnova Solutions, matching the gift of Joseph L. Ragsdale (65C) Class of 1966C Assistant Gardener Endowed Work Position Lois McAllister Hatler (66C) John Provine (66C) Class of 1967C Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Janett Cofer Fauley (67C) Jerrie Walker Fowler (67C, 81G) Norris Johnson (67C) Garland Meeks (68C) Class of 1969C Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship William (69C) and Sally Schwartz (69C) Epps Mack (69C) and Linda Godfrey Dennis (69C) and Connie Smith (73c) Hyde June Griffin Lewis (69C) Van (69C) and Sara Malone Mary Camp Patrick (69C) Beverly Philpot Smith (69C) Jane Terry (69C) Ray Tucker (69C) Nelle Hester Watters (69C) George W. Cofield Memorial Scholarship Fund Peggy Pitts Perkins (58c) Hetty McEwen Coleman Scholarship Warren Coleman Fund Dames of the Court of Honor Expendable Scholarship DAR – Georgia State Society Garland Dickey Endowed Scholarship Jacque Terrill (65C) Jimmy R. Fletcher Memorial Endowed Scholarship Daniel (66C) and Joyce Lemons (68c) Bius Patsy Grindle Bryan (68C) Charles (68C) and Elaine Cox (67c) Burdette Clinton (66C) and Sue Dell (68c) Cole Ginny Paese Douglass (68C) Charles Harris (68C) Michael (66C) and Nancy Cagle (68C) Holland Emily R. Ingram Alana Lydick Kilzer (68C) Terry (68C) and Charlene Head (67C) Lingerfelt Emma Fears O’Neal (68C) Gonzolo Penya (68c) Carol McElroy Powell (68C) Richard Wheeler (68C) Alan (64A) and Leanne Killin (69c) Woody Harwell and Lillian Free Scholarship Brenda Vaughn Melton (74C, 84G) Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Kermit (52c) and Gwen Norris (50C) Hutcheson

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BERRY MAGAZINE • FALL 2018

Ed and Gayle Graviett Gmyrek Scholarship Ed and Gayle Graviett (67C) Gmyrek Lyn Gresham Endowed Scholarship Manos Kalargyros Hugh Hagen Student Leadership Scholarship Fund Joe James (08C) Hamilton/Smith Scholarship Evelyn Hamilton (68C) Edna F. Hetsko Scholarship Russ (02C) and Dana Migliore (01C, 07G) Hunt Tim and Odetta Howard Endowed Scholarship Tim Howard (82C) Barbara Ballanger Hughes Scholarship Barbara Ballanger Hughes (71C) H.I. “Ish” Jones Endowed Agriculture Scholarship Jane Jones Block (86C) Ish (49C) and Frances Jones Kerry (72C) and Gloria Noles Kappa Delta Pi Endowed Award Mary Clement Lois and Lucy Lampkin Foundation Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Lois and Lucy Lampkin Foundation Land Management Scholarship Vince Griffith (81C) Fred H. and Mary Loveday Endowed Scholarship Bob (60H) and Tanya Campbell C. Calder Garrason (54H, 59c) Tom (48H, 52C) and Ollie Hodge (51C) Poe David and Nancy Smith Cecil Spooner (49H) Alfred Wallace (51H) Mr. and Mrs. Roger W. Lusby III Endowed Scholarship Roger (79C) and Candy Caudill (82c) Lusby Frazier and Deeter Foundation James N. Luton Endowed Scholarship Tom (48H, 52C) and Ollie Hodge (51C) Poe Paul C. and Velma Smith Maddox Scholarship Paul C. and Velma Smith Maddox Foundation Ross Magoulas Endowed Scholarship Virginia McChesney Cecily Nall (77C) Jacque Terrill (65C) Dr. Charles Scott Markle Award Dale Ash Hooper and Diann Matthews Martha! Centennial Scholarship Reg (51C) and Maxine Strickland Dr. L. Doyle Mathis Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship, funded by the Class of 1958C Jerry (56H, 60c) and Louise Conaway (57C) Winton Roy Miller Endowed Entrepreneurship Scholarship Roy Miller (58C) Linda Mills Memorial Endowed Scholarship Stacey Spillers Amos Montgomery Endowed Scholarship Mary Outlaw Juanita Scurry (97C)

Stacey Spillers Lee-Anda Hutchens Uter (92C) Graden Mullis Scholarship Vicki Holder Lester (77C) Mary and Al Nadassy English Scholarship Tina Bucher Mark Taylor Jim Watkins Mary Finley Niedrach Endowed Scholarship Mary Finley Niedrach (75A, 97G) NSDAR Gate of Opportunity Scholarship NSDAR NSDAR Scholarship DAR – Conejo Valley Chapter DAR – Indiana State Society DAR – Lakeland Chapter DAR – Mecklenburg Chapter DAR – Nancy Anderson Chapter DAR – Nathaniel Massie Chapter DAR – Ohio Society DAR – Sam Houston Chapter DAR – Sandy Springs Chapter DAR – Smith McMillan Chapter DAR – Stanley Redmond Harper Chapter Tim and Mary A. Page Scholarship Mary A. Page Bobby Patrick Endowed Scholarship Gene (70C) and Diana Wilson (69C) Lansdale Dr. Bob Pearson Endowed Scholarship Georgia Power Foundation, matching a gift from Scott and Fay Neal Willis and Nora Pirkle Endowed Scholarship Alice Suroviec Amber T. Prince Memorial Scholarship Janna Johnson (81C) Jamie (97C) and Elisha Wright (98C, 04G) Lindner Vesta Salmon Service Scholarship Allen and Maki Reynolds Angie Reynolds Save a Student Scholarship A total of 460 current students, alumni, faculty/staff and friends made gifts to this scholarship aiding students who face sudden, unexpected financial distress. Visit berry.edu/ saveastudent/donors to see their names.

Gordon and Mattie Schneider Endowed Scholarship Marlene Schneider (49H) Dr. James R. and Donna R. Scoggins Endowed Natural Sciences and Math Scholarship James Scoggins (52C) Dr. James R. Scoggins Scholarship James Scoggins (52C) Tom and Barbara Slocum Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Thomas and Barbara Slocum Clovis Smith Family Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Estate of Clovis Smith Robert Earl Stafford Scholarship Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust

Maxine Strickland Endowed Nursing Scholarship Deborah Hill Reg (51C) and Maxine Strickland Reginald E. Strickland Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship Gene (51c) and Patricia Cox (48H, 52c) Stalcup Student Scholarships Belvinia H. Attaway Martha Perkins Aubel (48C) Hazel Weaver Bagwell (58C) Christopher and Stacy Barshick Randy and Nancy Berry Kristen Diliberto-Macaluso Dora Ditchfield (90C) Alisa Elmore Russ (58C) and Carol Jackson Timothy Larsen Michael Maney (98C) Elwanda Barber McCall (59c) Matt Ragan (98C) and Shelly DriskellRagan (96C) Pat Corbitt Stanfield (68C) Jo Ann Clayton Tumlin (54C) Follett Higher Education Group Georgia Independent College Association Study Abroad Award Vincent and Mary Gregoire Larry and Betty Jane Taylor Endowed Scholarship John (64A, 69C) and Jo Shahan Fred J. Tharpe Endowed Scholarship Fred Tharpe (68A), with a matching gift from Turner Broadcasting System Tibbals/Zellars Endowed Comprehensive Scholarship Randy Tibbals (79C) John Zellars John Zellars Jr. Foundation The Trey Tidwell Experience: A Scholarship for Musical Discovery Mandy Tidwell (93C) Microsoft Corp.

Troy/Gardner Endowed Art History Award Virginia Troy Courtney M. Urquhart Endowed Communication Scholarship Randy and Judy Urquhart James Van Meerten Study Abroad Scholarship Jim Van Meerten (70C) James E. and Dorris Waters Endowed Scholarship Michael Waters WinShape Scholarship WinShape Foundation Work Week Endowed Service Award Mary Outlaw Reg (51C) and Maxine Strickland PFC Robert Adrian Worthington Endowed Scholarship Earl Worthington (52C), with a matching gift from the Delta Air Lines Foundation Jeannette Sibley Yow and Lawson Yow Endowed Gate of Opportunity Scholarship John S. Yow

In the end, it’s about the students.

GOLDWATER SCHOLAR: Senior Sarah Cooper

by KARILON L. ROGERS | photography by BRANT SANDERLIN

W

hat exactly are those personal magnets – those things that make a college simply irresistible to a prospective student? A specific academic major? A certain type of student life? A location close enough for mom to do the laundry? The opportunity to work side-by-side with professors?

Let’s face it. There are a thousand variables, large and small, for every prospective college student.

A few years back, Sarah Cooper was looking for a school with small classes, a serious approach to academics and a reputation for hands-on teaching in the sciences. Oh, and she also wanted a nationallevel varsity equestrian team and housing for her horse. Some might consider her personal combination impossible, but the Lafayette, Ind., native dug deep and discovered everything she wanted – and more – at Berry.

Yes more.

You see, despite her highly effective college-search process and stellar performance as a student, there was one important college factor Cooper didn’t discover for more than two years. Gold. But in her junior year, the biochemistry major learned about and then earned the nation’s premier graduate-school scholarship in the natural sciences, engineering and mathematics – the Goldwater Scholarship.

She was the second Berry student in just two years to be considered by the Goldwater Foundation; Daniel Alligood (17C) earned honorable mention status as a junior in 2016.

Cooper is absolutely rocking her Berry College experience. But she insists when she learned about the Goldwater Scholarship through Assistant Professor of Chemistry Dr. Mark Turlington, she found the gumption to take on the incredibly difficult Sarah Cooper with faculty mentor Dr. Dominic Qualley

application process only through his strong encouragement and that of her research supervisor and Associate Professor of Chemistry Dr. Dominic Qualley and other supportive faculty. She gives them 100 percent credit for her winning the scholarship that only 211 earned nationally in 2018.

Cooper had started involvement in scientific study early – when she became deeply immersed in her high school’s Purdue University-affiliated Science Research Program. So when Qualley became her Berry academic advisor at the end of her first year, it was no surprise – although out of the ordinary – that he took her on as his lab assistant as just a sophomore.

“The level of trust was amazing,” Cooper said. “We were taught protocol and how things should be done, and then we were left to do it on our own. At Purdue, we did a lot more watching and a lot less doing.”

Together, Cooper and Qualley investigated the structure and function of a protein within the bovine leukemia virus and discovered its involvement in viral reproduction. Their work is in submission at the Journal of Virology.

On average, Cooper works 16 hours per week in the chemistry lab – both with Qualley

and as student lab director, supervising 25 student employees and ensuring laboratory safety.

“My dad once complained about the strain of doing two employee evaluations,” Cooper laughed. “I told him not to whine to me about it. I do 25 evaluations!”

In addition to involvement with the Episcopal Church-affiliated Canterbury Club, the final big piece of Cooper’s Berry experience is the 12 hours per week spent in the horse barn. She wanted a first-rate varsity equestrian experience, and Berry proved to be the gold standard right away, winning a national championship her first year. The team finished fifth her second year, and in 2018 she qualified as an individual, placing fifth nationally in novice western horsemanship.

Goldwater Scholars pretty much have their pick of graduate school programs: At press time, Cooper had her eye on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. And her vision for her future is clear. Even though her mom is a doctor with medical school affiliation and her dad an analytical chemist at Purdue, she plans to get her advanced degree and then leave academia.

“I don’t see myself being a professor,” she said. “I plan to work for a pharmaceutical research and development team.”

If past performance is any indication, her research team is sure to find a cure for some­ thing important. One more shot at gold. B

“ ” The level of trust was amazing.

SARAH COOPER

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Berry magazine P.O. Box 495018 Mount Berry, GA 30149-5018

Light-bulb moments (9,216 of them) Can you say, “Berry is innovative!”? US News and World Report did when it named Berry one of the South’s “most innovative schools,” based on the input of other colleges. Two of the opportunities giving Berry the edge are its creative technologies program and HackBerry Lab. Pictured are students Mariah Kelly, left, and Graham Widmann, center, working with faculty member Zane Cochran on an interactive, shape-changing, smart-LED display. Photo by Brant Sanderlin.