MISSIONAL ENGINEERING Hillside Chat | Homecoming 2019
CONTENTS
2. President’s Letter
3. Construction on Campus
5. Campus News
12. Spotlight: Missional Engineering
14. Graduation Day 2019
18. Hillside Chat
20. Student Profiles
22. Athletics 24. Alumni
25. Homecoming 2019 Schedule
34. Featured Alumni
37. Living Christ to the World
38. Lion Tracks
41. Ever in Our Hearts
42. Faculty / Staff Notes
48. Honor / Memory Gifts
Educating students to become servants of Christ to make a difference in today’s world
3
12
14
BRYAN LIFE A publication of Bryan College Volume 45
Advancement Department: Bryan College 721 Bryan Drive Dayton, TN 37321 423.775.7202 www.bryan.edu
President
Dr. Stephen D. Livesay
Editor
Chloe Ann Townsend ’13
Designer
Curtis Jolley
Contributing Photographers
Curtis Jolley Kenney Photography Victoria Mason Wesley Sanders ’15 Ginger Sumerlin Chloe Ann Townsend ’13
Contributing Writers
Don Blanton ’76 Emalee Breeding ’19 Abigail Brown ’18 Hannah Carpenter ’17 Taylor Fink ’15 Paulakay Hall ’84 Dr. Thomas Marshall Krista Reinhardt ’19 Wesley Sanders ’15
Front Cover:
Dr. Thomas Marshall, dean of the Vogel School of Engineering; story on page 12
BRYAN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Ms. Tina Benkiser
Mr. Brad Harris
Mr. Willard Price
Ms. Delana Bice ’74
Col. John Haynes ’15H
Mr. Lebron Purser
Mr. Don Blanton ’76
Mr. David W. Kinsey ’73
Mr. Jeff Smith
Mr. Chris Cashion
Mr. Leighton LeBoeuf
Lookout Mountain, Ga.
Chattanooga, Tenn.
Mr. Ralph Green ’56
Dr. Stephen Livesay
Mr. Ron Wenger
Dr. Kenneth Hanna ’57
Mr. Ronald D. Messer
Signal Mountain, Tenn. Houston, Texas
McDonough, Ga. Spring, Texas
Dayton, Tenn. Fargo, N.D.
Dayton, Tenn. Lilburn, Ga.
Alpharetta, Ga.
Dayton, Tenn.
Lebanon, Ohio
Friendsville, Tenn. Dayton, Tenn. Dayton, Tenn.
Mr. Kevin Stophel
Dayton, Tenn.
*Legal Counsel
Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C.
Letter from the President Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:20 (NLT)
open doors of opportunity to share the gospel and to care for God’s creation. During spring break, Tom and his wife, Sue, led a group of engineering students to Belize to help a community develop their water and sanitation systems and to share the good news of God’s plan for eternal hope found only in Christ Jesus! Also this spring, students and faculty began using Rudd Auditorium’s new state-of-the-art piano lab, made possible by the benevolence of the Baker family in memory of their late sister and aunt, Margaret A. Watson. The school year ended on a high note when Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, a committed believer, delivered an inspiring commencement address to our 2019 graduates and their families.
A
bundance, overflow, blessing—these words only begin to describe what God is doing on our campus and in the hearts and lives of all of us on the hill! Truly, the infinitely more that Paul declares in Ephesians comes closest to describing God’s goodness and faithful shepherding of Bryan College since its founding in 1930. As Corinne and I are well into our 17th year at Bryan, we cannot remember a time when we have seen God’s grace so abundantly displayed. As you read this edition, you will catch a glimpse of the exciting movement of God’s Spirit. The cover story is a great place to begin as we thank God for the successful fall semester launch of the Vogel School of Engineering that was made possible in large part because of George (’58) and Doris Vogel’s generous support. Leading our new Vogel School of Engineering is its dean, Dr. Tom Marshall, who has a tremendous heart for what he terms Missional Engineering—using engineering to
2 BRYAN LIFE
I hope you will make your plans to attend Homecoming in October to reconnect with friends, enjoy a full schedule of amazing activities, and participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Stophel Welcome Center. Located at the top of the hill of our main entrance, this 18,000-squarefoot facility, named for Glenn and Jackie Stophel, will provide a new home for our admissions, advancement, and administrative offices, and will serve as the go-to place for visitors and alumni arriving on campus. I hope you will also take a tour of our new 14,000-square-foot Vogel School of Engineering and let our students show you what they are learning. For the first time since the fire in February 2000, all of Mercer Hall is serving our students! Infinitely more is what God is doing on the hill, and all of us are so grateful to Him and Him alone for His goodness.
Stephen D. Livesay
New on the Hill!
Upgrades and New Construction on Campus Benefit Current and Prospective Students
O
ver the course of the 2018-2019 academic year three exciting construction projects have been underway: the Stophel Center, the Vogel School of Engineering, and the Margaret A. Watson Piano Lab. Students have already begun to reap the benefits of these new facilities. Read more about each project:
Stophel Center This two-story building will encompass 18,000 square feet and will be located at the top of the new entrance, making it the first building to greet arriving guests. The building will house 25 offices, including admissions, advancement, and executive offices, as well as a medium-sized banquet facility. By fall 2019 this welcome center will serve the needs of all visitors, from alumni to prospective students and their families, in one beautiful and easy-to-find location. STOPHEL CENTER EXTERIOR RENDERING
BRYAN LIFE  3 
Construction Updates Vogel School of Engineering Completed this spring, the facilities for the new Vogel School of Engineering take approximately half of the third floor of Mercer Hall, space that has lain mostly unused since the fire of 2000. With construction now finished, this new space boasts faculty offices, classrooms, and roomy labs, in addition to a spacious stadium-style conference hall for use by both faculty and guest lecturers. The ribbon cutting ceremony for these facilities took place on April 11, 2019.
Margaret A. Watson Piano Lab This significantly remodeled lab is a tremendous asset for music majors. Piano majors will use it for piano ensemble practice and for their piano pedagogy practicum course, and the lab will be open for all music students to practice, work on homework, rehearse, or receive tutoring. Dr. Olivia Ellis, assistant professor of music, says that it “gives music students access to some of the best technology and digital pianos on the market today, and allows the music faculty to improve and expand our curriculum.� 4  BRYAN LIFE
campus news 2018–2019 MAY (2018)
AUGUST
BRYAN RECEIVES REAFFIRMATION OF ACCREDITATION OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Recently the Board of Commissioners of the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) reaffirmed accreditation of the business and management programs offered through Bryan College’s Department of Business and Economics and the School of Adult and Graduate Studies. Bryan College President Stephen Livesay said, “The faculty and staff of our business and economics department are to be congratulated for this tremendous achievement. They are setting a high level of standards for our students, which in turn prepares students for the business world they are about to enter. Thanks to their efforts, our students can confidently enter their professions prepared and ready to meet both present and future demands of business.”
BRYAN PARTNERS WITH HAMILTON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN BRINGING FUTURE READY INSTITUTE TO EAST HAMILTON MIDDLE HIGH SCHOOL Future Ready Institutes provide students with learning opportunities around a career theme, this one being leadership, business and marketing. The goal of the program is to provide students with continued opportunities after high school.
SEPTEMBER ENACTUS TEAM AWARDED 2ND PLACE IN LEAGUE AT NATIONALS Bryan’s team competed at the Enactus United States National Exposition on May 22 and was awarded second place in their league in the first round of competition. The Bryan College team presented a multi-media summary of their Global Entrepreneurship Initiative, which focuses on job creation and product innovation in Haiti. Another project the team began is Bel Cosmetics. This project focuses on natural cosmetics crafted from Haitian resources.
JULY BRYAN ANNOUNCES DUAL DEGREE PROGRAM WITH UNION UNIVERSITY The Dual Degree Program offers students the opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in health science from Bryan College and a BSN degree from Union University in 4.25 years.
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY HELD FOR NEW STOPHEL CENTER Bryan College hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Stophel Center on Wednesday, September 5. Glenn and Jackie Stophel were joined by Bryan trustees, faculty, staff, and students for the commemorative ceremony. Numerous state and local officials attended the ceremony, as well as friends and family of the Stophels.
BRYAN LIFE 5
INAUGURAL ENGINEERING STUDENT RETREAT GIVES STUDENTS HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE Bryan engineering students visited Mt. Liberty, Ohio, for a class on missional engineering, an intensive weekend retreat with multiple workshops and activities geared to equip students for a life of missions as engineers. Through handson activities and biblical teaching, students were encouraged to find God’s calling for their lives and challenged to pursue a lifetime of service.
DR. JOHN ANDERSON’S 100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATED AT HOMECOMING 2018
BILL LEE VISITS BRYAN COLLEGE Gov. Bill Lee visited the Bryan College campus on September 25. Lee toured the campus and was then greeted by a crowded room of dozens of students. After Lee addressed the audience, he fielded a variety of questions. Students actively engaged in the event. Many questions posed by Bryan students showed a high level of interest in local and state issues including education, business, and government and private sector collaboration.
On October 6, over 200 Bryan College alumni and friends were joined by more than 20 family members to help Dr. John “Doc” Anderson celebrate his 100th year of life. The birthday celebration took place during the Red & Gold Gala, a signature annual homecoming event. Students from as far back as the 1950s joined in at homecoming to celebrate Doc.
NOVEMBER
OCTOBER BRYAN STUDENTS SPEND FALL BREAK PROVIDING DISASTER RELIEF A group of students traveled to New Bern, N.C., to assist in Hurricane Florence flood recovery and disaster relief efforts during their fall break. Representatives from the Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief team provided flood recovery training.
BRYAN STUDENT FINALIST FOR “PASS THE TORCH” TEACHER SCHOLARSHIP Bryan College student Katelyn Novak was recently selected as a finalist for the Teachers Test Prep “Pass the Torch” Teacher Scholarship. Over 660 students entered the competition this year. Only eight students were selected as finalists, and Novak held one of the four spots for elementary education.
BRYAN STUDENTS HOST LITERACY NIGHT AND MATH CARNIVAL AT RHEA COUNTY ACADEMY Education students hosted a Math Carnival and a Literacy Night at Rhea County Academy (RCA). They spent several weeks preparing various educational activities to play with their young students.
GIVING TUESDAY 2018 A HUGE SUCCESS A record number of donors contributed this year, and at the end of the day the total left the college in awe. Thanks to students, alumni, friends, faculty, and staff, $73,100 was raised for student scholarships. The college is grateful for all those who donated, prayed, and worked hard to make this campaign so successful.
6 BRYAN LIFE
DECEMBER
FEBRUARY
DECEMBER GRADUATES CELEBRATED AT FALL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY Friends and family members gathered in Rudd Auditorium on December 18 to watch as nearly 100 students became Bryan College graduates. “Mid-year graduations, just days away from Christmas, are always filled with excitement for all of our deserving graduates,” said Dr. Stephen Livesay, President of Bryan College.
JANUARY DEBATING LIONS BRING HOME STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Competition was tough in the championship tournament, but the Debating Lions held their own, capturing three of the top four speaking awards and two of the top four debate awards.
BRYAN LION SIGNS WITH KANSAS CITY ROYALS Brandon Marklund ’18 signed a professional contract with the Kansas City Royals. “A huge thank you to my family and friends who have supported me every step of the way,” Marklund stated via his Twitter account. “As well as a huge thank you to Bryan College, its amazing baseball coaching staff and faculty, who have helped me become not only a better player, but a man as well.”
SSTOP CONFERENCE COUNTERS HORROR WITH H.O.P.E. OUTREACH TEAM HOSTS INTERNATIONAL VOICES PANEL On January 16, Bryan College’s Outreach Team hosted “International Voices,” a panel dedicated to showcasing the thoughts and experiences of multicultural students. Panelists included Jesus Astudillo, a senior from Caracas, Venezuela; Daniella Banda, a junior from Harare, Zimbabwe; and Wade Weinburger, a senior from James Cistern, Bahamas. Graduate Assistant of Short-Term Missions Michaela Thomas served as the moderator.
BRYAN COLLEGE HOSTS INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS FOR GLOBAL LECTURE SERIES Bryan College’s Center for International Development featured three international speakers during a global lecture series that opened the spring semester: social and environmental activist Tomas Peciar, humanitarian aid volunteer Mar Lopez, and Dr. Vaclav Rericha of Palacky University.
The Bryan College chapter of SSTOP (Students Stopping the Trafficking of Persons) hosted its biannual chapel conference February 18-20. The theme focused on “H.O.P.E. — Healing, Opportunity, Purpose, and Empowerment,” and the hope that our Savior gives to us in even the darkest of situations.
MARCH STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF SERVE OVER SPRING BREAK Twenty-seven Bryan students and four faculty and staff returned from spending their spring break on various missions trips in the U.S. and Central America. This year each trip was sponsored by an academic department or a student organization on campus to further build on the skills and interests of individual student groups.
CHORALE TOUR BRINGS LIGHT AND LIFE TO CHURCHES Bryan College’s Chorale completed a 10-day tour, during which they visited multiple churches and schools in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana. The group of 42 students put on 12 programs in 10 days under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Keck, with Ms. Erica Holloway serving as tour coordinator.
BRYAN LIFE 7
APRIL
MAY
MAKING MUSIC IN THE WATSON PIANO LAB The fine arts department recently celebrated the opening of the Margaret A. Watson Piano Lab, made possible by a generous donation from Charles and Elizabeth Baker. The donation allowed for a significant remodel of the room previously used as an office and group piano space; the lab now utilizes the entire space, with additional student stations, storage cabinets, window treatment, and a magnetic whiteboard with built-in music staves.
BRYAN COLLEGE WELCOMES GOV. BILL LEE TO 98TH COMMENCEMENT Friends and family members gathered in the Triangle on May 4 to witness Bryan College’s 98th Commencement Ceremony. Tennessee’s fiftieth governor, Bill Lee, served as the keynote commencement speaker. See full story on pages 14–15.
RADIO CLUB HARNESSES THE POWER OF PODCASTS WJBC The Roar, Bryan’s inaugural “radio” station continues to produce quality content via podcasts. Utilizing platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify, the club has grown to include fifteen members, four regular shows, and a small but loyal fanbase of around 100 monthly listeners. The Roar works to connect students to conversations on campus that may otherwise go unheard. One of their most popular shows, Artist Showcase, features artistic works from musical numbers to short stories.
BRYAN EARNS HIGH RANKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Over the course of the 2018-2019 academic year, Bryan has received the following impressive rankings: • #1 in “Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2018” (BestColleges.com) • #1 (tie) in “Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs 2019-20: Tennessee” (OnlineMBAPage.com) • #1 in “Top Online Sports Management MBA Programs 2019-20: Tennessee” (OnlineMBAPage.com) • #2 in “Best Value Accredited Online MBA Programs 2019-20” (OnlineMBAPage.com) • #4 in “Best Colleges in Tennessee 2018” (BestColleges.com) • #5 in “Top Online MBA Programs in Tennessee” (OnlineMBAToday.com)
SCHOLARSHIP DINNER RAISES OVER $252,000 FOR STUDENTS The 12th Annual Bryan Opportunity Scholarship Program Dinner successfully raised over $252,000 for students. Keneisha Love ’19 shared with attendees how the BOP has affected her life, and guests were also treated to a performance by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, one of the nation’s most popular Southern Gospel quartets.
8 BRYAN LIFE
• #25 in “Best MBA in Marketing 2019” (OnlineMasters.com) • #40 in “Best Value Schools: Regional Universities South” (U.S. News and World Report) • #68 (tie) in “Best Regional Universities South” (U.S. News and World Report)
P E R FOR M I NG A RTS Performing Arts Events
2019–20 SEA SO N
2019–2020
SEPT. 13
MARCH 27
Dr. Olivia Ellis Piano Chamber Recital
Fine Arts Concert: Voices Uplifted
OCT. 31 — NOV. 2
APRIL 3
Hilltop Players Fall Musical* NOV. 9
Bryan College Community Orchestra and Wind Ensemble Concert
Performing Arts Workshop
APRIL 17
NOV. 15
Piano Ensemble Concert
Fall Musical Showcase*
APRIL 23—25
DEC. 6
Hilltop Players Spring Play
Fine Arts Christmas Concert
MAY 1
JAN. 23—25; JAN. 30—FEB. 1
Spring Musical Showcase
Hilltop Players Dessert Theatre* FEB. 21—22
Bryan Opera Theatre*
*denotes ticketed events More details about the Bryan College Performing Arts season will be available in August at bryan.edu/arts
BRYAN LIFE 9
THE BRYAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND How will YOU help?
“I never would have made it without YOU. My performing arts scholarship made all the difference.”
“YOU helped me with my basketball scholarship.”
“YOU helped me with my math scholarship.”
“YOU told me to visit Bryan College. I did, and I have found a home on the Hill.”
YOU
make a difference! 10 BRYAN LIFE
Want to learn more? Contact David Holcomb at 423.605.1534 or david.holcomb@bryan.edu
UNSUNG HEROES OF
BRYAN COLLEGE
We believe in Bryan College
Join the Simpsons in supporting Bryan students by visiting bryan.edu/donate
and its purpose to educate students to become servants of the Lord. It is truly a ‘beacon on a hill,’ which sends the Gospel around the world. It is a place where all administration, faculty and staff, students, and friends are loved and respected.
— Bob and Nan Simpson,
Longtime Scholarship Donors
BRYAN LIFE 11
MISSIONAL ENGINEERING THE BRYAN COLLEGE DISTINCTIVE
MISSIONAL ENGINEERING: (n.) Leveraging the marketplace skill of engineering to spread the Gospel of Christ through service and evangelism in our world.
Story continued
T
he Vogel School of Engineering at Bryan College is committed to equipping our students with a world-class engineering education from a biblical worldview preparing its graduates to make a difference in our world as ambassadors for Christ. Missional engineering is a Bryan College distinctive.
Our missional engineering program features the highest level of academic rigor, as well as extensive hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, engineering internships, and capstone design experience. Missional engineering retreats and shortterm engineering mission trips provide an opportunity for our students to leverage engineering as a means to take the Gospel to the unreached. At Bryan College we stand firmly upon the truth and inerrancy of God’s Word. We believe that the historicity of Genesis matters. Affirming the Genesis account of Creation is essential to the proper understanding of who God is, our relationship with Him, our role within His creation, and ultimately the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
The engineering department took an inaugural trip to Belize as part of Bryan’s Break for Change program. They assisted H.O.P.E. Mission for Belize with multiple engineering projects, both onsite and at a local school.
14 BRYAN LIFE
As vice-rulers of God’s creation, we are privileged to study engineering in order to understand the mathematical and scientific principles of God’s incredible design.
The Vogel School of Engineering exemplifies Bryan’s commitment to biblical truth and grounding upon the Word of God through our “missional engineering” approach, which presents the traditional disciplines of engineering from a Christcentered perspective as a framework for evangelism. In Genesis, God commanded mankind to domesticate creation in order for it to be made useful and productive. As vice-rulers of God’s creation, we are privileged to study engineering in order to understand the mathematical and scientific principles of God’s incredible design. We do this for the purpose of correctly managing and optimizing God’s creation to serve others for His glory and our joy. The purpose of the Vogel School of Engineering at Bryan College is to equip engineering graduates to go out into the world as ambassadors of Christ, biblically rooted, with academic excellence and servant hearts to fulfill God’s creation mandate.
By Dr. Thomas Marshall, P.E.
DR. THOMAS MARSHALL, P.E., dean of the Vogel School of Engineering, earned his bachelor of agricultural and biological engineering from The Ohio State University, his master of civil engineering from Loyola Marymount University, and his Ph.D. in environmental engineering from Oregon Health Sciences University. Dr. Marshall has extensive executive management experience as well as many years of teaching experience serving on the faculty of The Ohio State University and California Baptist University. With an M.Div. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, he serves as a church planter, pastor, and missionary, having also served as the founding president of the Belize Bible College in Central America. Dr. Tom and his wife, Sue, homeschooled their five children, with three married and two still at home. BRYAN LIFE 15
Bryan Welcomes Governor Bill Lee to 98th Commencement
F
riends and family members gathered in the Triangle May 4 to witness Bryan College’s 98th commencement ceremony. Tennessee’s fiftieth governor, Bill Lee, served as the keynote commencement speaker. A seventh-generation Tennessean, Governor Lee resides in Franklin with his wife, Maria. After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he returned home to join the family business his grandfather started in 1944, the Lee Company. In 1992, he assumed the role of president. Under his leadership the company has grown into a comprehensive facilities solutions and home services company that now employs more than 1,200 individuals and has won numerous awards for work culture and business accomplishments. He is an active member in his local church, Grace Chapel, as well as a devoted father and grandfather. The Governor gave a moving testimony regarding his own faith journey and the loss of his first wife. He quoted extensively from Job, reflecting on God’s confidence in Job as a man of God, even despite tragedy.
16 BRYAN LIFE
“My prayer for each one of you,” he concluded, “is that you go from here and you walk through life with an eye on the prize. Don’t look to the left and don’t look to the right, but remind yourself of where you’re headed, and know who you are and never veer from it. And the favor of God will follow you all the days of your life.”
Class of 2019 Timothy Hostetler served as the student commencement speaker for the graduating class, providing a time for seniors to reflect on their accomplishments and progress over the last four years. “I challenge you… to be humble, people-loving servants in your homes and the local church, and in the desperately needy world. When you live this way, God will be glorified. You will be satisfied. And you will truly be living with the motto – Christ above all.” President Stephen Livesay recognized two retiring staff and faculty during the ceremony: Dr. Ron D. Petitte and Dr. David Luther. The graduating class of 1969 was also recognized by Dr. Livesay for reaching the 50th anniversary of their own undergraduate graduation. In total, 151 degrees were awarded: 23 masters, 122 bachelors, and 6 associates. Timothy Hostetler received the Highest Scholastic Record award, an honor that goes to the senior who achieves the highest GPA with at least 112 completed semester hours. Gage Goddard and Hollen Christensen were both recipients of the faculty-nominated P.A. Boyd Award, while Grace Graves received the award for Most Progress.
Congratulations to the Class of 2019, and may God bless your endeavors as you seek to lift “Christ Above All”!
By Abigail Brown ’18
BRYAN LIFE 17
Daniel Koehn is a legacy student from a missionary family: his
parents (Robert ’91 and Karis ’90 Koehn) minister in Mozambique, Africa, along with his two younger brothers, Joseph and Caleb.
HILLSIDE CHAT DR. DAVID PERRON EXERCISE & HEALTH SCIENCE PROFESSOR When looking back on my time at Bryan, many great teachers, mentors, friends, and memories come to mind. One that sticks out in particular is the blessing of Dr. David Perron. In fall 2008 Dr. Perron was hired as an assistant professor of exercise and health science, but he has proven to be so much more: He is a true man of God who sets himself aside and put his whole heart into his teachings and his students. Alongside over 30 years’ worth of other students, I have been blessed by the influence and support of Dr. Perron. He started his teaching career at Peoria Christian School in Illinois after graduating with a degree in physical education from Cornerstone University. Before coming to Bryan, he was the women’s soccer coach and an adjunct professor at Bluefield College. One thing that shows his true passion for teaching is his constant growth and efforts to better himself. Dr. Perron has a plethora of certifications and degrees, including Doctorate of Education from the United States Sports Academy.
As an exercise health science major I had the pleasure of having Dr. Perron as my advisor. By the time I graduated, he had also become a mentor, supporter, and friend. On multiple occasions Dr. Perron has guided me through applications, interview questions, and career advancement. His encouraging words are evidence of the heart he has for his students and their success: “God has gifted you greatly, and as long as you are using your gifts to the best of your abilities, I will be beside you giving applause and encouragement!” and “Please keep me informed with what God is doing in your life!” I can say without a doubt that Dr. Perron is a blessing to all. When interacting with him, his upbeat and enthusiastic personality shines, bringing a smile to your face. Before going to college, I never thought that a professor could be more than that. But I am so thankful that Dr. Perron builds intentional relationships with his students. I am truly blessed to call Dr. Perron my friend.
By Taylor Fink ’15
20 BRYAN LIFE
DR. KEITH GOFORTH PSYCHOLOGY & COUNSELING PROFESSOR As a husband and father, Dr. Keith Goforth has a heart for broken families. He and his wife, Jen, adopted their seven-year-old daughter, Hannah, from Russia in April of 2012. Since then, his passion for families has only grown stronger, and it has become a family ministry. For several years now Dr. Goforth and his family have been actively involved in foster care and adoption ministries within the church and surrounding community. To say that Dr. Goforth is a servant would be a huge understatement. Even though he carries many responsibilities, he always makes time for students. Whether by teaching or talking with students after class, Dr. Goforth displays his devotion to the Lord through his service and love for others. With a M.A. in religious education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in child development and family studies from the University of Tennessee, Dr. Goforth demonstrates great passion and wisdom for what he is teaching. In addition, he is a certified family life educator (CFLE) with the state of Tennessee. Before coming on staff at Bryan, Dr. Goforth worked as a Parents as Tender Healers (PATH) Trainer for a couple years at Harmony Family Center, specifically training foster and kinship parents. Although Dr. Goforth has only been at Bryan for about two years, he has already seen new growth in the psychology
department through an increase in students joining the major. He expresses excitement about where the program is headed in the future. Dr. Goforth says that the most fulfilling things about teaching are the interaction of material with the students’ stories, and applying the concept of healing with their stories. As a recent graduate of the program, I can say that Dr. Goforth does an excellent job of preparing students for life after graduation. He equips students well with the tools needed to succeed. My experience with Dr. Goforth has been a treasured one. After sitting under his teaching for a year and a half, I have developed a deep respect for Dr. Goforth. He is a man of great integrity and wisdom in dealing with broken people. His passion for families was evident in the first conversation I had with him. Dr. Goforth is a valuable asset to Bryan College, and I am thankful for his mentorship and guidance during my time at Bryan. Lillie Christiano ’18 said, “During my last year at Bryan, I was so thankful for Dr. Goforth’s personable nature, passion for underserved populations, and readiness to help. He is the type of professor who makes students feel heard and understood; he is someone who puts others at ease and truly exemplifies how to love others in Jesus’ name.”
By Emalee Breeding ’19 BRYAN LIFE 21
STUDENT PROFILE BRYAN KNOWLES JUNIOR MAJOR: HISTORY
Bryan Knowles, a rising senior from Sparta, Tenn., has discovered a passion for the research process. This serves him well during his time at college, as he works toward a degree in history. “The thing that drew me to history most was that it’s a story,” he reflects, “and if you find the right stories and tell them well, it’s fascinating!” He has just completed his role as SGA junior class senator. He also serves as a co-leader for the pro-life Students for Life group and is an active member of the AEI Executive Council, which promotes discussion about solid economic policy. During the recent Undergraduate Research Symposium in April, Bryan presented research he conducted in Dr. Travis Ricketts’ American Military History class, which has been one of Bryan’s favorite courses to date. He has a particular interest in the interwar and wartime eras from the
Growing up in Pulaski, Tenn., Keneisha Love knew that one day she wanted to be a nurse. Having torn her ACL in 8th grade, Keneisha realized her interest in orthopedics and helping people come through similar situations. This passion for knowledge has led her to Bryan College as she works to complete her B.S in health science with an end goal of obtaining a nursing degree via the bridge program between Bryan College and Union University. In addition to working towards her nursing certification Keneisha has also been very active in campus life as a forward and a leader on the basketball team, an R.A., and a member of the Bryan College initiative SSTOP (Students Stopping the Trafficking of Persons).
22 BRYAN LIFE
With the completion of her degree on the horizon, she gives credit to God for her time at Bryan. Learning to put her trust in God and not stress about things she cannot control, Keneisha has grown closer to Him: “He really does have it all under control!” Keneisha looks forward to using her degree to help people – to encourage people and let them know that their injuries are not the end of the world. She wants to be a beacon of hope for these individuals and be as helpful as she can in every way that she can.
By Hannah Carpenter ’17
1920s–1940s, and also early American history from the 1740s–1812. Although he is still unsure where his love for history and research will lead him after graduation, he notes that teaching or attending law school and joining a firm like the Home School Legal Defense Association are just two options he is considering. He also has a keen interest in documentary production, which he hopes to explore during his last year at college. Whatever the future holds, Bryan says that God “has been faithful in opening the doors that need to be opened and in closing the doors that need to be closed”—and he will continue to trust His direction, even in the small things.
By Chloe Ann Townsend ’13
NEW GRAD PROFILE KENEISHA LOVE ’19 MAJOR: HEALTH SCIENCE
MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY WE WANT YOU! Grow Mentally
Grow Spiritually
Grow Physically
Learn more at BRYANLIONS.COM/MARTIALARTS
martialarts@bryan.edu 423.605.1534
/BCMAA
roaring like
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2018-2019 SEASON LIONS CHASE DOWN RAMS FOR SOFTBALL CONFERENCE SWEEP
CLINT MCAULEY TABBED NEW HEAD COACH OF BRYAN COLLEGE BASEBALL
24  BRYAN LIFE
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL CLOSES HISTORIC SEASON IN NAIA TOURNAMENT OPENING ROUND
FORMER LION STANDOUT JEREMY DAVIDSON NAMED HEAD COACH OF BRYAN MEN'S SOCCER
MEN'S SOCCER FINISHES AAC TOURNAMENT RUNNER-UP, FOUR LIONS NAMED TO ALLAAC CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM SANDS & FAIN WIN IT ALL IN CARHARTT BASSMASTER COLLEGE CLASSIC
BRYAN LIFE 25
ALUMNI DIRECTOR moral values in America. In secular universities everything is accepted and encouraged, and true free speech is a thing of the past if you are a Christian. Bryan is unique and becoming a rare breed of godly education in the world today. I would ask you, as Bryan Lions, to pray for Bryan College. Pray for God’s protection over our students, faculty, staff, administration, and trustees. Pray for our alumni as we live out the motto of “Christ Above All.” Satan is like a roaring lion (imitating the true Lion of Judah) seeking to destroy and devour, but prayer makes all the difference. Pray that in every season we as a college – and as believers – always reflect the goodness of God. It is so awesome to see students’ lives changed and impacted; that is what God does every day at Bryan College. God is always up to something good, even through the hard seasons of our lives. Take courage, Lions. Proud to be a Bryan Lion,
Paulakay Franks Hall ’84, Director of Alumni Engagement Dear Lions, Spring and summer bring with them a sense of new life and hope – and warmth, finally! It was a long winter (unless you are among our lucky alumni who live in Florida, Hawaii, or somewhere else exotic). I used to think of winter as a time of death and darkness. But in reality, it is a time when the earth rests and regenerates. Deep within the soil and under the bark of trees there is life – strengthening, forming, and ready to burst forth when the season is right. We go through seasons, too. Seasons of bright, happy days; seasons of rest; seasons of cold, hard days; and seasons of lush growth and incredible activity. What season are you in today? Bryan College goes through the same seasons, as noted throughout our history. We have had seasons of birth, growth, bright days, dark days, and hard days. Today we live in a time of great hostility towards Christianity and
26 BRYAN LIFE
P.S. Join us for on- and off-campus Bryan gatherings! Take a look at the enclosed homecoming schedule. It’s going to be an awesome celebration! For a full listing of events check out bryan.edu/alumni/events
Did you know there is a monthly Bryan Life e-supplement? Mane Street News is full of updates, alumni spotlights, M AN E NE W S campus news, alumni marriages, births, and passings. This is the best way to stay up to date with everything Bryan! But the only way you can receive it is if we have your email address, so update here and start receiving the latest BC alumni news! ST RE ET
bryan.edu/alumni/update-information
Homecoming 2019
e to the t u b i r T A 0-1969 6 9 1 f o Classes
ithful a F s U Find
October 4-6, 2019
Registration REGISTER AT: BRYAN.EDU/HOMECOMING Events marked with the Fast Pass icon can be accessed with your Fast Pass at no additional charge. Get yours now! Fast Passes only available for purchase until October 3. After that only individual tickets will be available. Order online or mail check w/ticket order to: Bryan College c/o Paulakay Hall 721 Bryan Drive Dayton, TN 37321
BRYAN LION FAST PASS......... $25
FP
Includes: FRIDAY – Burger Bash (for all alumni, including reunion classes) or 25th Reunion Dinner SATURDAY – Tailgate Lunch, Red & Gold Gala. This is a savings of at least $11 over tickets purchased separately!
INDIVIDUAL TICKET PRICES Friday Lunch in the Dining Hall..............Pay at the door Groovy Burger Bash..............................$8/adult, $5/child* 25th Reunion: Class of 1994...................$20/adult Baseball Bombs and BBQ.....................Free Rock & Roar Ice Cream Party................Free Saturday Tailgate Lunch........................$8/adult, $5/child Red & Gold Gala....................................$20/adult, $10/child Sunday Lunch in the Dining Hall............Pay at the door *ages 3–11 Children 2 and under are free Children 12+ are priced as adults
Keep up to date with Homecoming changes and additions at bryan.edu/homecoming
28 BRYAN LIFE
Friday, October 4 10 AM – Alumni Chapel Rudd Auditorium Featuring Larry Connors ’69
Larry Connors ’69 met his wife Kathy (Wells) ’71 at Bryan. Larry was a varsity baseball player and served on the Christian Student Association. He says his life was changed and grounded as he learned how to live out our motto “Christ Above All.” Larry has served in several senior and interim pastoral positions from 1973–2015. He is now retired and attends First Baptist Church in Friendsville, Tenn., where he is involved in teaching, pulpit supply, Awana, and a men’s Bible study.
4:30 to 6 PM — Book Signing: William Jennings Bryan: A Difference Maker by Corinne Livesay
5:30 PM – Groovy Burger FP Bash
Latimer Student Center, Prideland Grill, and Triangle All classes can come enjoy a casual meal set to pop hits from the '60s in honor of Classes 1960 to 1969! This dinner is fun for the whole family and also included reunion tables for the Classes of 1979 (40th reunion), 2009 (10th reunion), and 2014 (5th reunion).
6:30 PM – 25th Reunion: Class FP of 1994 Library, 2nd Floor Let’s rock this, Class of 1994! Surrounding classes are welcome to join this celebration dinner. WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN
A Difference Maker
7:30 PM – Rock & Roar Ice Cream Party
CORINNE LIVESAY
11:30 to 2 PM – Lunch Available
Latimer Student Center, Dining Hall Pay at the door.
2 to 6 PM – Registration Open
Stophel Center (at the top of Landes Drive) Register or sign in, receive your alumni gift, and enjoy the photo booth and games for the whole family.
4 PM – Stophel Center Ribbon Cutting & Dedication
Stophel Center Tour our newest facility! Light refreshments provided.
Stophel Center This fast-paced biography is full of exciting historical facts, fascinating events, and many photos that tell the story of Bryan’s colorful and significant life. The reader will be inspired by Bryan’s heart for God, his love for his wife and family, his diligence in his pursuits, and his desire to stand for truth.
4 to 5:30 PM – Business Major and Career Services Meet & Greet Stophel Center Connect with business faculty and other business major alumni. Refreshments, door prizes, and drawings provided.
Triangle Lawn Come enjoy big band era classics as Michael Smith ’93 croons with the Uptown Big Band while you enjoy a free all-you-can-eat sundae bar!
7:30 PM – Baseball Bombs & BBQ Senter Field
This free event is sponsored by BC Athletics.
BRYAN LIFE 29
Saturday, October 5 8 AM to 2 PM – 100-Inning Varsity Softball Fundraiser
2 PM – Men’s Varsity Soccer Game
Softball Field Come out anytime to watch the girls bat for bucks!
Soccer Field Bryan vs. St. Andrews University
10 AM to Noon – Family Game Time
Stophel Center Join us for a relaxed time of games and fellowship for the whole family. Light refreshments available.
10 AM to 2 PM – Registration Open Stophel Center
10 AM – Alumni Soccer Game Soccer Field Meet the new head soccer coach, Jeremy Davidson ’98! All soccer alumni are invited to play. FP 12 PM – Tailgate Lunch
Triangle Fried chicken, bounce houses, games, and more: fun for the whole family!
1:30 PM — Sports Hall of Fame Ribbon Cutting
Stophel Center
Stophel Center
4:30 PM – Varsity Women’s Soccer Game Soccer Field Bryan vs. St. Andrews University FP 6 PM – Red & Gold Gala
Location TBA Delicious chef-prepared dinner and inductions into the alumni and sports halls of fame. See inductees on pages 29 and 30.
Register or sign in, receive your alumni gift, and enjoy the photo booth and games for the whole family.
10 AM to Noon – Book Signing: William Jennings Bryan: A Difference Maker
2 PM to 4 PM – Family Game Time
8:30 PM – Family Movie Night Summers Gymnasium Join us as we dedicate our new Sports Hall of Fame with an interactive touch screen display!
Quad (in front of the gym) Bring a chair or blanket. Concessions available.
Sunday, October 6 10 AM – Alumni Worship
Rudd Auditorium The perfect ending to a perfect weekend. Special guest speaker is Charles Westgate ’62. Chuck Westgate graduated from Bryan in 1962 with a degree in biblical Greek. After that he served in Army from 1963–1965 (Germany, Hawk Missile Battalion). He married Sandra Gail Sorrell ’63, and they traveled as Bryan
30 BRYAN LIFE
College's first student recruiters in the late 1960s. Since then he has represented the college to alumni, fundraising and speaking in churches and high schools to make Bryan known. Chuck has served in a pastoral role in five different churches since 1969 and is currently pastor of Heritage Christian Church.
11:30 AM – Lunch Available
Latimer Student Center, Dining Hall Pay at the door.
Alumni & Sports Hall of Fame Awards Alumnus of the Year: John C. Richardson ’94 John Richardson is a 1994 Bryan College alumnus and graduate of Bryan’s MBA program, but John actually came to Bryan in 1972 with his parents Dr. Brian and Sharon Richardson. “Bryan was where I grew up, as well as where I went to school; it’s always been a significant part of my life,” he says. He discovered computers in the mathematics lab as a kid and taught himself BASIC to pass the time. Years later, he received a call from Bruce Beaty ’85 and Jon Klaus ’86, who remembered him playing with computers as a kid and offered him a job with their technology startup. “Bryan taught me to think critically and working in tech during the ’90s taught me to adapt to change,” John says. John is now the CEO of Rheumatology Associates in Dallas, Texas. John has been married to Cathy, an attorney with homeland security, for nine years. For the last two years he has participated with Bryan’s Business Department Advisory Board: “Bryan has never been far from my heart, but the advisory board has brought the opportunity to engage again with both students and faculty. I’m excited about the development of opportunities for alumni to engage with students. It gives an opportunity for Bryan alumni to participate helping students prepare for careers, as well as preparing to be servants of Christ.”
Young Alumnus of the Year: Jorge Oswaldo Vallejo ’06 Jorge Vallejo hails from Bogotá, Colombia. He attended Bryan College on an athletic scholarship, where he earned all-conference and all-region honors as a forward and attacking midfielder. He played in the Colombian Professional League (DIMAYOR-Lanceros de Boyaca, Chia FC) for three years before moving to the United States to continue his career at the United Soccer League and Major Indoor Soccer League. Jorge ended his career playing for the Philadelphia KIXX for three seasons (2007 to 2009), winning the national league in 2007. While playing in Philadelphia, he served as the FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) director for the inner city of Philadelphia, working with youth, athletes, and coaches. Currently he develops and directs FCA Soccer in Atlanta, using the platform of soccer to develop "TRANSFORMATIONAL" coaches from the pro to rec level. He believes soccer offers a platform for coaches to develop not only great players but great citizens of value, men and women of moral fiber who will go on to become change agents in the world. Jorge has 10 years of coaching experience. Currently he assists the men's program at Georgia Gwinnett College. He holds a USSF (United States Soccer Federation) coaching license. Jorge spends the majority of his time serving Atlanta’s professional, college, club, high-school, and community soccer programs with mentoring and leadership training for their coaches and athletes. Jorge’s passion for soccer and people has taken him off the pitch and into the nations to speak on matters of life, faith, leadership, identity, and character development. Jorge and his beautiful wife, Brittany, live in Buford, Ga., with their four children, Nehemiah (8), Georgia Joy (6), Moriah Grace (4), and Isaiah Victor (1).
BRYAN LIFE 31
Honorary Alumna of the Year: Valerie Castlen Valerie Castlen is the manager of the mailroom and campus store at Bryan College. She and her husband, Tony, grew up in Florida, where they dated all through high school. In 1971 Tony enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. They were married that September. In 1975 he was discharged from the military, and they moved to Tennessee from Tampa, Fla., where they were stationed at MacDill AFB. That fall Tony enrolled at Bryan to pursue a degree in music. Music has always been an important part of their lives and ministry as they serve the Lord together, sharing their testimony through songs (most of which are originals). Tony graduated from Bryan in 1980 and was hired that summer as the band director at Dayton City School. Four years later Valerie started working in the Bryan mailroom, where she says, “I have had the privilege to serve for 35 years. I have enjoyed helping and interacting with the students and getting to know so many of them. And I love being part of the Bryan family.” Valerie and Tony have been married 48 years and have two children. They have been richly blessed with six grandchildren who keep them delightfully busy. Their son, Steve, and his family live in Nashville, and their daughter, Amy, and her family live in Dayton.
Sports Hall of Fame: Robin Renfro ’08 (Volleyball) During her time at Bryan Robin Renfro ’08 earned several awards, including several NCCAA, NAIA, and AAC distinctions, along with many honorable mentions: 2006: NCCAA Mid-East Region First Team, NAIA All-American Honorable Mention, NAIA All Region First Team, AAC All Conference First Team 2007: NCCAA AllAmerican First Team, NCCAA Mid-East Region First Team, National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics(NAIA) All Region First Team, AAC All Conference First Team 2008: National Christian College Athletic Association(NCCAA) Mid-East Region First Team, American Volleyball Coaches Association(AVCA) All Region Honorable Mention, Appalachian Athletic Conference(AAC) All Conference First Team.
Sports Hall of Fame: Amber Smith ’10 (Volleyball, Basketball) During her senior year in volleyball Amber Smith ’10 was an AVCA/NAIA AllAmerican Honorable Mention selection, made the AVCA All-Region first team, and was selected the AAC Player of the Year. She guided the Lions to the most wins in a single season (31), Bryan’s first AAC Regular Season Championship, and their first appearance in the NCCAA National Championships Final Four, where she was named to the All-Tournament team as well.
Sports Hall of Fame: Scott Newton ’11 (Basketball) During his time on the basketball court, Scott Newton ’11 posted 1,408 career points and 678 career rebounds. Highlighting his efforts were two 30-point performances. His offensive and defensive prowess helped guide the team to first- and secondplace finishes in the conference his final two seasons. He also represented the men’s basketball program as a Champions of Character Award winner.
32 BRYAN LIFE
BRYAN LIFE 33
RECENT ALUMNI SIGHTINGS
2
1
6
4
3
5
7
8
9
1. Rhonda Jackson ’77, Leslie (Mishow) O’Neill ’75, and Connie (Peacock) Blanton ’76
7. Jim ’89 and Susan (Klaus) ’88 Woychuk, David Holcomb ’94
2. Chuck ’62 and Sandy (Sorrell) ’63 Westgate
8. Bruce ’82, Rose, Andrew and Jerri (Beck) ’92 Morgan
3. Joy Steele ’75, Larry “Jake” Jacobsen ’73, and Judy Steele ’75
9. Kevin and Paula (Yucoubian) Anderson ’11 with Eva and Asher
4. Brian and Sharon ’96 Richardson
10. Coach Mike Keen, Bob Carigon ’63, and Tim Carigon
5. Bob Conrad ’59, Jim Fickley ’61, and Cliff Branson ’59 11. Anita (Anderson) McMillan ’90, Doc Anderson ’73H, Tracey Bridwell, and Jim Anderson ’75 6. Ken ’57 and Mary (Underwood) ’90H Hanna
34 BRYAN LIFE
11
10
14
12
13
15
16
12. Gary Hicks ’80, Coen Gilmore ’80, Tom ‘80 and Connie (Reehoff) ’82 Branson 13. Greg and Chrissy (Campbell) Barkman ’91 14. Bob Andrews ’67, Sandy Zensen ’02H, and Ken Froemke ’67
17
16. Janice Pendergrass, Tracey Bridwell, Leo, Paulakay (Franks) Hall ’84, Chloe (Nardone) Townsend ’13, and Mariah Goodwin ’18 17. Roy and Barbara Peck Remington ’73
15. Paulakay (Franks) Hall ’84, Shaleen (Hamilton) Fagundo ’99, and Andrea (Loftin) Hamilton ’68
BRYAN LIFE 35
FEATURED ALUMNI
Lynn Talbott ’13 (M.B.A.) PRESIDENT & FOUNDER, HR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
degree in order to help others. She began by enrolling in night courses at a public university in Chattanooga. Despite high quality professors and courses, the learning format was ill-suited to working professionals: it would have taken five years of night courses for her to earn her master’s.
B
ryan College alumna Lynn Talbott ’13 (M.B.A.) has had lifelong passion for business and building relationships. She acquired an extensive background in human resources and finance in large corporations such as REI and Eddie Bauer while living in the Pacific Northwest. This placed her in the perfect position to invest in the success of local businesses when she and her family moved to the Chattanooga area 21 years ago. A “teacher at heart” and “lifelong learner,” she always knew she wanted to go back to school to pursue a master’s
36 BRYAN LIFE
Then Lynn found the M.B.A. program at Bryan College. “Adults learn differently,” Lynn explained, “and that’s something I didn’t realize until I saw it for myself. I wanted a fast-track with like-minded adult learners. At Bryan there was a totally different around-thetable atmosphere that we all loved. The professors were tough, but you could engage with them. I would work all day and study every night, and I loved every second of it!” After 18 months Lynn graduated from Bryan with her M.B.A., having already laid the groundwork for HR Business Solutions. She cited professors Dr. Adina Scruggs ’91 and Dr. Benton Jones ’07 as notable influencers, saying, “I wanted to start my own business but didn’t know what it would look like. Once we started talking about it, it started happening. They helped me feel the confidence to get started.” Exciting days lie ahead for Lynn and her company. Just this year the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce awarded HR
Biz the 2019 Small Business of the Year award (1-20 employees category). In 2015 Lynn received the TSBDC Small Business Person of the Year Award and an accompanying Rising Star Award (Chattanooga). And the company keeps growing and thriving. HR Biz has helped over 100 startups in Chattanooga achieve financial excellence to date! “My philosophy is that we should all be teachable lifelong learners,” she reflected. “People who have been out of school for a while should not be afraid to go back! Your life experience will help, and it’s never too late!”
By Chloe Ann Townsend ’13
?
Did you
know
• Lynn began her M.B.A. studies while her kids were in high school! • She says the HR Biz team is now comprised of 12 women: “We get along great, and everyone knows what we need to do. They work flexible schedules and choose their own hours. I like being able to empower women to work and not to feel bad or embarrassed that they have family obligations.”
FEATURED ALUMNI
Barry & Nancy Gilman ’69 & ’68 PRESIDENT, RICHCLEAN | RETIRED, DAYCARE PROVIDER
year Barry was given an unexpected opportunity to teach business-related classes at the high school in nearby Spring City as well. For two years they continued teaching at opposite ends of Rhea County while living in a little house on Market Street in Dayton.
G
“
od’s principles apply to everyday life, regardless of the vocation you choose,” reflect Barry ’69 and Nancy ’68 Gilman, who recently celebrated their 50th “Golden Grad” years as Bryan College alumni in 2018 and 2019. It does not require a long conversation with the Gilmans to feel God’s love and joy radiating from them both. They met at Bryan early on in college, both working in the dining hall. They began dating the following year. After they married at the end of Nancy’s senior year, she began teaching 9th grade English at Rhea County High School. The next
By 1971 their first child was on the way and Barry accepted an offer to go into the dry cleaning business with his father in Richmond, Va. Then God used his background in business and dry cleaning to add another chapter to the story. In 1975 Barry joined Richclean, a startup selling dry-cleaning and laundry supplies to local companies. Having developed and managed the startup, Barry said that it has been particularly inspiring “being able to provide opportunities for the people who have worked for us – to see them grow, to promote within the company. We’ve been very diverse and equal-opportunity; I’ve had people work for me who have been from Vietnam, Turkey, Iraq, Mexico—from different races and different places!” During this time Nancy raised their three sons and began providing daycare out of their home. This calling grew to care for 5-6 children at a time for an amazing span of 23 years. She still delights in caring for children, especially summers with their grandkids. “All those years, it was word-of-mouth,”
her husband noted. “She never had a problem filling vacancies!” Barry and Nancy have lived in the same home for 40 years, and they have remained in the same church since the 1960s. At Immanuel Baptist Church Barry served as an elder for several years, and Nancy has served in various ministries from nursery to vacation Bible school. “God has blessed us through our family, our church, the opportunities to serve,” Barry and Nancy agreed. “We thank Him every day for those blessings.”
By Chloe Ann Townsend ’13
?
Did you
know
• Barry and Nancy have been married for 51 years, and all three of their sons (plus one daughter-in-law) are also Bryan alumni! The Gilmans have 10 grandchildren, all of whom live nearby. • They cite professors Mrs. Bentley, Dr. Cornelius, Dr. Jensen, Dr. Miller, and Mr. Whitehead as particularly important to them: “Their examples and influences have stuck with us all these years.”
BRYAN LIFE 37
BRYAN
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
S E RV E At Bryan College, you will receive a first-class education and earn a degree that will equip you to make a difference in today's world. In this highly competitive global marketplace, a Master’s Degree can provide an even greater advantage. Now, you can earn both degrees for the price of one. Whether studying on campus or online, you will have the opportunity to earn a Master’s Degree at Bryan College, tuition-free. It’s the Bryan Difference. Learn more at BRYAN.EDU.
LIVING CHRIST TO THE WORLD:
Lifestyle Ceiling
By Don Blanton ’76
S
tewardship is a word mainly used only in Christian circles when talking about money. The word has different meanings to different folks, but a simple definition is that you must find a balance between your current lifestyle desires and your financial requirements. In the parable of the talents three were given resources to steward. The master returned from his trip and held each responsible not just for the amount of money they were given, but for what they did with what they had been given as well. I heard it said one time that we all make enough money, but we don’t all do a good job managing the money we get. There is a great financial principle called lifestyle ceiling. Setting a limit on one’s standard of living is not a very popular concept in American culture, and unfortunately not too popular in Christian circles either. Lifestyle has an insatiable appetite. We are constantly being bombarded with advertising that our life would be much better if we only had the newest and greatest things man develops. It is a lie. When the master returns to see what you have done with His money, make sure that your current lifestyle does not keep you from receiving His commendation.
BRYAN LIFE 39
Li n
Tr cks
1950s – 1970s
Dr. Russell A. and Mrs. Faye Porcella ’67 recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. The Porcellas currently reside in Knoxville, Tenn.
Ron ’52 and Gladys ’50 Meznar recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. The Meznars currently reside in Toledo, Ohio. Clifford Branson ’59 recently turned 90 years old and has retired from church ministry after 56 years. He has completed 28 years of ministry at the Rosehill Evangelical Free Church in rural Newman Grove, Neb., where he currently resides.
Wayne McLeod ’73 has recently retired after serving with Child Evangelism Fellowship of Eastern PA, Inc., for 36 years—the last three as the state director. He and his wife, Sally, have been married for almost 45 years. They have four children and fifteen grandchildren.
2000s – 2010s Darlene Lestmann ’03H recently retired after 18 years as Bryan’s fine and performing arts coordinator. She is enjoying her family and hobbies.
40 BRYAN LIFE
David and Jana Villanueva ’09 announce the birth of their son, Roman Wilder, on Dec. 13, 2018. Roman joins siblings Blake Marshall (6) and Jace Watson (2).
Stephanie (Blank) Johnson ’14 and her husband, Devon, announce the birth of their son, Liam, on March 6, 2019. Stephanie works as a foster care counselor with Youth Villages in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Sharleen Focant ’15 married Jason Davies on April 7, 2018. The Davies currently reside in Sebring, Fla. Erin (Anthony) Rice ’11 and her husband, Jonathan, announce the birth of their son, Walker Anthony, on Nov. 29, 2018. Walker joins older brother Grant.
BRYAN LIFE 41
In Loving Memory
Paul Ardelean ’55 Former Bryan College Alumni Director (1933–2019) Paul served the Bryan College family faithfully for many years and in many offices, including the positions of alumni director, athletic director, dean of students, dean of men, and advancement department volunteer. He passed away on February 20, 2019, of complications arising from Parkinson's Disease. He was surrounded by loved ones as he passed into glory.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. — Psalm 91:1 42 BRYAN LIFE
Ever in Our Hearts
Rev. Robert Jones ’43x
Richard Powers ’59
Dr. Beatrice Batson ’44
Ruth (Falker) Windham ’61x
Esther (McMauley) Moeller ’49x
Lt. Cmdr. Thomas “T.J.” Dubose ’62
Henry Moeller ’49
Dr. Henry Utz ’62
Nita (Bookamer) Brickel ’49x
Phyliss (Frykman) Dixon ’64
Bruce Brickel ’50
Marlene (Schaiper Marsh) Crump ’65
Ardele Costley ’50
Jean (Blount) Britt ’69
Grace (Pulkin) Gillespie ’50x
Lloyd Nelson ’69
Douglas Garnett ’51x
Margaret (Brown) Hallquist ’71
Dr. John Martin ’53
Mary (Pierce) Ewing ’74
Paul Marsteller ’54
Charles Ketola ’77
Rev. John Rathbun ’54
Dr. Samual Oleka ’80
Paul Ardelean ’55x
Suellyn Truax ’84
Mickey Park ’55, former trustee
Rachel (Held) Evans ’03
Charles Marvin ’56
Matthew Neises ’12x
Dr. Alan F. Johnson ’57
Jonathan Stone ’13x
of Herkimer, N.Y., has died.
of Batavia, Ill., died Jan. 22, 2019. of Overland Park, Kas., died Nov. 10, 2015. of Overland Park, Kas., died March 4, 2019. of Franklin, Tenn., died Nov. 18, 2017. of Warsaw, Ind., died June 11, 2015. of Oakland, Md., has died. of Gainesville, Fla., died April 26, 2018. of Chesterfield, Va., died Nov. 22, 2018. of Warsaw, Ind., died March 9, 2017. of Dayton, Tenn., died Jan. 23, 2019 of Kokomo, Ind., died Aug. 14, 2018. of Dayton, Tenn., died Feb. 20, 2019. of Birmingham, Al., died May 17, 2019 of Columbus, Ind., died Sept. 1, 2018. of Carol Stream, Ill., died Nov. 8, 2018.
of Goshen, Ind., died Feb. 11, 2019. of Lakeland, Fla., has died.
of Flatwoods, Ky., died Aug. 31, 2016.
of Fort Valley, Va., died May 13, 2013. of Dayton, Tenn., died Sept. 13, 2018. of Indianapolis, Ind., died Feb. 21, 2019.
of Mays Landing, N.J., died July 27, 2017. of Glendale, Az., died May 16, 2018. of Knoxville, Tenn., died Oct. 25, 2015.
of Brentwood, Tenn., died Feb. 21, 2019. of Oklahoma City, Okla., died April 4, 2019. of Detroit, Mich., died Jan. 19, 2016. of Ravenna, Ohio, died July 23, 2017. of Dayton, Tenn., died May 4, 2019. of Knoxville, Tenn., died July 31, 2018. of Greeneville, Tenn., died May 11, 2018.
Mae (LeJeune) Stagnaro ’57x
of Sonora, Calif., died June 11, 2018.
BRYAN LIFE 43
FACULTY & STAFF NOTES Dr. Zeb Balentine has written and published a book entitled The Singing Teacher: How the Worship Leader Shapes the Theology of the Church, which is available for sale on Amazon. He was invited to share about this recent book on a China-based podcast called The Middle Kingdom. Dr. Paul Boling, Dr. Travis Ricketts, and Michael Palmer attended the faculty retreat for the American Enterprise Institute, Values & Capitalism on Jan. 11–13, 2019, in Bonita Springs, Fla. The topic was “The Fall of Liberalism: Christian Perspectives on the Sustainability of the Liberal Order.”
Dr. Daniel Gates led the FranklinCovey course Leadership Across Generations for Bryan faculty and staff; many members of the local business community also joined the event, making it the largest Bryan training event ever. Dr. Gates was the keynote speaker at an AGS recruiting fair in Atlanta, Ga., delivering a presentation called “The Shaping of Screenagers: Exploring the formative social experiences of Gen Z.” He is also piloting integrated textbooks using the newly adopted international business regimen from McGraw Hill.
Stacey Gates ’06 represented Bryan College at the 2018 Tennessee Association of Christian Schools Educator’s Convention in Murfreesboro, Tenn., on October 3–5. Dr. Daniel Gleason ’05 has had the following poems published: “Sleepwalking” (Tipton Poetry Journal), “Through the Kitchen Window” (Red Flag Poetry), “Shadow Boxing Late at Night” (Rattle), “Funeral Fan, a Lament” (The Windhover), “On the Weather Channel” (Rosebud Magazine). Dr. Gleason has also taken on leadership of the Undergraduate Research Symposium. Dr. Keith Goforth recently attended the attachment-based intervention specialist training in Cincinnati, Ohio, provided through the American Association of Christian Counselors. He also spoke at the Harmony Family Center’s Adoptive Fathers Retreat in March.
Dr. Vaughn Cardona gave a director’s session for the East Tennessee Band and Orchestra Association’s All-East Festival on Feb. 8, 2019. Dr. Neal Doran spoke in March at both The Master’s University’s Creation Summit, as well as the Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum in Rome, Italy. Dr. Olivia Ellis taught a piano master class for the Chattanooga Music Teachers Association on Feb. 9, 2019.
DR. OLIVIA ELLIS
44 BRYAN LIFE
Alexis Landry ’13 directed Front Page News, a production depicting the historic Scopes Trial, at the Rhea County Courthouse as a part of the annual Scopes Festival in 2018. Dr. Alice Lawrence was awarded funds through the Bryan Women’s Auxiliary to purchase muscles in clay lab activities for students in her biology and anatomy classes to use. Dr. Raymond Legg ’07H has been the featured speaker on several occasions at Grace Bible Church in Dayton, Tenn. Dr. Legg also spoke at Bakewell Bible Church on Oct. 7, 2018. DR. KEITH GOFORTH
Benton Jones ’07 attended a professional development workshop on project-based learning with the East Hamilton Climb Institute of Business and Marketing. He also led a panel discussion on the topic of experiential learning at the Southeast Regional Conference of the International Assembly of Collegiate Business Association. Mr. Jones and his production and operations management class toured Robinson Manufacturing and the Nike distribution center.
Dr. Emi Kagawa was recently appointed principal keyboardist with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra after a nationwide search. Dr. Scott Jones and Nick Pacurari ’12 took five students as part of the personal leadership course to the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, Ga., on Oct. 4–5, 2018. Catalyst is an annual conference designed to “empower leaders who love the church.” This year’s theme was “Fully Alive.”
DR. THOMAS MARSHALL
Dr. Jonathan Newman was a judge for an essay contest hosted by the Sound Money Defense League and Money Metals Exchange. He also has had an abstract and research project approved by the editor of a volume on the political economy of virtual worlds, particularly incentive alignment between video game developers and consumers of free-to-play video games with microtransactions. Dr. Jonathan Newman and Dr. Daniel Gates, along with four business majors, traveled to Davidson University for an entrepreneurship workshop called 3 Day Start Up.
DR. RAYMOND LEGG
BRYAN LIFE 45
Michael Palmer attended and presented at Pulacky University’s 2018 International Week in Olomouc, Czech Republic. Other presenters represented nations such as Spain, Norway, Turkey, and the Canary Islands, among many others. Dr. Kelley Pujol recently presented at the 91st Annual ERB Conference in Nashville, Tenn. She also recently presented a session titled “Why Read Moby Dick?” at the 17th Tennessee Association of Independent Schools Biennial Conference in Memphis, Tenn. Dr. Drew Randle preached several times last fall at Faith Fellowship Church in Oak Ridge, Tenn. He was also the keynote speaker at a city-wide youth retreat in Cleveland, Tenn., at Camp Ocoee Ridge on November 16–18.
Polly Revis ’04 attended a class presented online by Midwest Collaborative for Library Services called “Original Cataloging of Monographs Using RDA.” Dr. Travis Ricketts presented “How our View of Liberty Changed from the Founding Fathers to the Twentieth Century” at the Col. Benjamin Cleveland Chapter Tennessee Society of Sons of the American Revolution on Jan. 10, 2019. He was the January program speaker at the I-20 Sons of the American Revolution meeting, addressing “The Founders’ View of Liberty.” Lynn Russell ’16 presented part of her master’s thesis about The Pilgrim’s Progress at the Northeast Modern Language Association (NeMLA) in Washington, D.C., in March 2019.
Dr. Adina Scruggs ’91, Annette Watt ’93, and Luke Morris ’15 spoke in the assembly at Hiwasee College in Madisonville, Tenn., on Oct. 8, 2018. Their topic was “The Three Certainties of Life.” Dr. Adina Scruggs ’91 and Stacey Gates ’06 attended the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships Conference in San Antonio, Texas, Nov. 4–7, 2018. Rick Taphorn presented “The Business Aspects of Higher Education” at the 2018 SASFAA (Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators) Management Institute. Britney Wyatt ’16 attended the Student Digital Summit Virtual Conference.
DR. RON PETITTE
46 BRYAN LIFE
Bob and Nan Simpson
Charitable Gift Annuities
A
re you retired or near retirement? Do you desire a fixed income? Could you use additional tax savings? Perhaps you would benefit from a charitable gift annuity.
A gift annuity is a legal contract by which you can make a gift to Bryan College and in return receive a guaranteed income for life. You would also receive an income tax charitable deduction the year the gift is made. A gift annuity would allow you to give toward Christian education and receive a steady income for living expenses. For more information about setting up a gift annuity, contact Janice Pendergrass, Director of Advancement.
Rates for Single Annuities
Age
Rate
55
4.3%
60
4.7%
65
5.1%
70
5.6%
75
6.2%
80
7.3%
85
8.3%
90+
9.5%
Janice Pendergrass, Director of Advancement penderja@bryan.edu 423.775.7202
Memory & Honor Gifts IN MEMORY OF Eugene K. Anderson Linda Anderson
Harriet Anderson Jim and Priscilla Anderson John C. Anderson
John D. Anderson Jim and Priscilla Anderson John C. Anderson
Jane Ardelean Paul and Winnie Ardelean
Paul Ardelean Andrew and Jenni Bednarz Andy Boyd Gail Boyd Will and Frances Boyd Ronnie and Tracey Bridwell Tom and Mary Frances Carlson David and Kathleen Classen Rick and Kathy Farney Ralph and Ruth Green Judith Leininger Lee Scott and Janice Pendergrass Gary and Betsy Phillips Jack and Karin Traylor
John B. Bartlett Tom and Mary Frances Carlson John and Cristina Oliver
Martha Jeanne Sherman Bastke Ruth Sherman
Mayme S. Bedford Herman and Barbara Posey
Grace L. Bennett Jon and Pam Bennett
Clyde and Connie Boeddeker Daniel Boeddeker
Estell H. Brewer Gordon and Arlene Smith
Jean Blount Britt John and Ruth Schmoyer
William “Preacher” and Violet Cather Laura Cather
Harold P. Combs Mark and Chris Combs
Leslie R. Cox Beth Cox
Bill and Dorothy Crisler Thomas and Carol Cecil
Marlene Joyce Schaiper Marsh Crump Neil and Marcia Denton Jon and Brenda Gawthrop Family David and Charlotte Howett Indiana Historical Society Beth Kelley Mark and Michelle Lamb
Phyllis Frykman Dixon Sam and Nancy Anderson Tom and Mary Frances Carlson Peggy Denton Rick and Kathy Farney Ralph and Ruth Green Bill and Joyce Hollin Jack and Karin Traylor
Thomas “T. J.” DuBose Kenneth and Joyce Roden
Malcolm “Mac” Fary Joseph and Denise Emmick
48 BRYAN LIFE
Tricia Lyons Fraser David and Carol Swanson
Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Frazer Charles and Claire Riley
Daniel Funderburg Wayne and Gay Funderburg
Donald and Ruth Gotts Phyllis Masters
Jim Gould Lois Richardson
Duncan Haase James and Patty Booth
Margaret Hallquist John Hallquist
Malcolm J. Hester Daniel Boeddeker
Ralfe E. Kaiser Judy Cox Broussard
Karl and Sue Keefer Jean Sentz Tobelmann
Charles C. Kirtley Daniel and Martha Nichols
Keith Kiser Tim Boeddeker
Mary Roselyn Lee Reita Hall
Albert Licking Doug and Sharron Padgett
Kent Mann David and Shirley Marsteller
Robert Marsh Chris and Melissa Sorrentino
Paul Marsteller Tom and Mary Frances Carlson
Paul McCarthy Robert L. Hicks
Theodore and Alice Mercer* Edwin and Joanne Hollatz Jean Sentz Tobelmann Paul and Lois Yates
Roscoe Mulvey, Jr. Marjorie Mulvey
Matthew Neises Beth Neises
Christopher Nitzband Lee Anne Cope
Samual Oleka Amaka Rhoda Oleka
Steve Parcell Roger Tittle
Ramon Perdue Trudy Perdue Lonas
Harvey and Ruth Prettyman Steven Prettyman
Jim Quinn Eileen Quinn
Charles and Anna Robinson David and Charlotte McSpadden
Judson Rudd Everett and Onalee Garmon
Doug Schott Paul and Winnie Ardelean
Mr. and Mrs. Williams C. Shores, Jr. Roger and Sandra Jackson
Mae L. Stagnaro Carl and Peggy Wheaton
W. Earle Stevens Ross and Carolyn Campbell
John and Phyllis Stone*
Elizabeth Boeddeker Sullivan Daniel Boeddeker Tim Boeddeker
Ker Clive Thomson Grace Thomson
Ralph and Rebecca Toliver Ralph and Ruth Green
Andy Toombs Vern and Helen Archer
Margaret Watson Charles and Elizabeth Baker Ronnie Cuthbertson
Vivian McBride Walvatne Craig and Stephanie Walvatne
Herbert Wells Reita Hall
Lavana Fuller Williams Robert Williams
William Yeary Carol Yeary
James and Patty Booth
IN HONOR OF John C. Anderson Jim and Priscilla Anderson Sam and Nancy Anderson Vern and Helen Archer Ronnie and Tracey Bridwell
Winnie (Davey) Ardelean Andrew and Jenni Bednarz Andy Boyd Gail Boyd Will and Frances Boyd
Paul and Delana Bice* Wayne and Mary Wendel
Christina (Day) Calvert David and Rosemary Day
David and Kathy (Day) Classen David and Rosemary Day
Mildred E. Davis Jake and Sandy Matthes
Meagan Kennedy Michael and Arleen Kennedy
Margie Legg Eileen Hartman
Stephen Livesay and Team Michael and Judith St. Charles
Doug Mann Dorothy Wagoner
Jake and Sandy Matthes Kevin and Becky Hopkins
Errol Scogin Everett and Onalee Garmon
Stephen and Corinne Livesay Chuck and Cynthia Baker Vance and Connie Berger Ray and Margie Legg Doug and Susi Mann Gary and Adina Scruggs Rick and Roanna Taphorn
*Includes gifts given for individual spouses. BRYAN LIFE  49 
721 Bryan Drive Dayton, TN 37321-6275
Homecoming 2019
to the e t u b i r A T 0-1969 6 9 1 f o Classes
ithful a F s U Find
October 4-6, 2019 REGISTER AT: bryan.edu/homecoming Schedule on pages 27-30