The Chowanoka | Spring/Summer 2018

CHOWANOKA The

Spring/Summer 2018 | Faith & the Future

M aga zi n e

for alumni and friends

faith & t h e fu t u r e

of c howa n U n i v e r si t y

We Look back on 15 years of grow th a nd pro s pe r i ty w i th

Dr . & Mrs . W hite & f o r wa r d t o w h a t l i e s a h e a d

C on t cover story

20

Fa i t h a n d t h e fu t u r e o f C h o wa n U n i v e r s i t y

We look back on 15 years of unprecedented growth and prosperity with Dr. and Mrs. M. Christopher White, and also look forward to what's ahead in their new role.

faith | noun | complete trust or confidence in someone or something: "...the assurance of things hoped for and conviction of things not seen..."

special features

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B e i n g h e r Au t h e n t i c s e l f

Thanks to Chowan, our 2018 Best All Around graduate's sense of self empowers her great confidence and tremendous achievement.

L i fe lo n g l e a r n i n g

Retiring after 25 years, Dr. Gladys DeJesus has a passion for lifelong learning that makes her an outstanding educator.

The Art of Giving

A unique legacy gift rounds out the Wayland L. Jenkins Fine Art Collection and honors the memory of a beloved wife, educator, and friend.

-Hebrews 11:1

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e n t s alumni & friends

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in every issue

To c a l l a Pl ac e H o m e

Alumnus Nick Khoury's path to becoming Director of the Annual Fund makes for an unusual and fascinating journey.

S h a r i n g t h e Sto r i e s

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News for Brave Hawks fans.

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Alumni news & notes.

At h l e t i c H i g h l i g h t s C l a ss Act s

The annual Scholarship Luncheon provides donors and students the meaningful opportunity to share a meal and each other's stories.

H a l l o f Fa m e

Meet the 2017 Class of Inductees in the Chowan University Jim Garrison Hall of Fame.

/ChowanAlumni

/ChowanUniversity

/ChowanUniversity

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/ChowanAlumni

/ChowanUniversity

T r a n s i t i o n i n g into the F u t u r e D r . M . C h r i s to ph e r W h i t e , C h a n c el lo r & F o r m er Pr e si d en t Nearly two YEARS AGO I began thinking and praying about the next stage of my life. At that point, my career as President of two Baptist universities had passed the thirty-year point. Unlike those who have an epiphany, I gradually warmed to the idea of a transition.

The concept of retirement with no responsibilities held no allure, for I want to be helpful as long as I can. The idea of new tasks, new goals and new projects grew. It came to fruition with the new role of Chancellor which I assumed on June 1.

This transition happened at a good time in the life of Chowan University. Enrollment has climbed to new heights and has stabilized. Preparation for the SACS reaccreditation visit next year is on track. The faculty has never been stronger. With the nine residence halls of Whites Crossing, student housing has never been better. Finances are solid. Most of my programmatic dreams for Chowan University have been realized. However, significant capital projects at this point are only dreams. This year Chowan celebrates the 170th anniversary of the founding—a wonderful time to reflect on the past and to think about the future.

In my forty-six years in higher education, I have been fortunate to work with some of the finest people on earth.

The last fifteen years as President of Chowan University have filled me with great affection for the trustees, faculty, staff and students with whom I have labored to transform Chowan College into the fine university she is today. The years were filled with excitement as together we conceived and brought to life new programs and facilities beyond what any of us alone could have achieved.

I am specially indebted to the loyal senior staff, several of whom have been with me from the beginning. They consistently put aside personal ideas to work as a team.

Together we brought about change when change was needed. Their confidence, competence and support made my task easier and much more enjoyable. As for the faculty, I have long been the envy of colleagues for the cooperative and supportive spirit of the Chowan University faculty. They are at the forefront of our efforts to provide a Christian presence to students and to help them be successful. Our campus staff brims with enthusiasm and dedication to maintain a clean, beautiful and safe environment for work and study. To hear others speak about the beauty of the Chowan campus gives me a deep sense of satisfaction.

The nice comments people have made to Linda and me since my announcement are truly humbling. I do not assume that I merit such praise, but I have tried always to do my best and uphold the core values and ideals that have marked Chowan University since its founding in 1848. My professional career has been spent in three schools. In each I have found enjoyment and a sense of fulfillment. However, when I first came to Chowan in 2003 a faculty member from my former university said, “I believe you will do your best work here."

My how prescient that statement was! With the benefit of hindsight, it is clear that the Chowan University years have been the most difficult but clearly the most rewarding.

Without realizing it, we did save the best for last.

Many photographs have been taken over the past fifteen years. They serve as a visual record of events, a way to document experiences and share with others. However, the memories are far more vivid than the photographs could ever reflect. Language may fail, and photographs fade; minds are fallible, and details are lost. But some experiences never dim.

They stand out in our memories, even after years. They rear up

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The

forever over the landscape of our past, dividing our lives into what came before and what came after.

That metaphor has stayed with me during my Chowan University years. For indeed, this experience has stood, and will always stand, as a pivotal point, dividing my life into before and after. To serve as President of Chowan University is a colossal undertaking, one that cannot be truly conveyed in images or words. It is an experience that will burn forever in my memory, dancing with light. A thousand images jostle together in my mind, a thousand recollections, a thousand emotions. Together, they form a great mosaic; together they show the glory that is Chowan University.

I plan to remain in my new role as Chancellor indefinitely.

As Chancellor, I will focus on major fundraising and public relations. I look forward to working closely with and supporting my successor Dr. Kirk Peterson. He is uniquely qualified to lead Chowan University to its next level of success. With his Ph.D. and two master’s degrees from the University of Tennessee along with his collegiate teaching and administrative experience he is well qualified. With his earlier service to Chowan University, he knows the institution and the community. He is a committed Christian who understands the issues related to faith based institutions. A person of impeccable integrity and a dynamic visionary leader, Dr. Peterson is the right leader at the right time for Chowan University.

As I begin my new role of Chancellor, I am prouder than ever to be part of this great institution: one that makes the world not poorer, but richer; replaces despair with hope; raises up those who want a better life; and is a gift to so many, while allowing each of us to be God’s servants to a needy world.

I cannot close these remarks without mentioning my best friend and wife Linda. We have been equal partners in my career. Whatever success has occurred could not have occurred without the teamwork borne out of love and respect. Chowan University and the Murfreesboro community have become our home. We have eager anticipation for the adventures before us.

CHOWANOKA Magazin e

for alumni and friends

Spr ing/Summer 2 018 | Volume 76 A U n i v e r s i t y R e l at i o n s P u b l i c at i o n Editor and Designer: Brooke Reich Staff Writers: B r o o k e R e i c h , A m a n da S h a r p e , Christina Thomas Staff Photographer Christina Thomas Contributors O l i v i a B o r e r , b e tt y B r a bb a n , J B r a bb a n , E va n n C a r p e n t e r , M e l a n y g a r c i a - l o p e z , Carol Hedspeth, Leah L ambson, John McK e i t h , C h a r l e s R e v e l l e , A n g e l a T o d d Cover Photography: T o d d W r i g h t ’ 8 4, Todd Wright Photogr aphy Printed by: C e n t r i c Co m m u n i c at i o n s

Office of Development

Vice President for Development J o h n M . Tay l o e ’ 9 4 | ( 2 52) 39 8 -12 32 Assistant Vice President for Development Director of University Relations & Communication B r o o k e R e i c h | ( 2 52 ) 39 8 - 6526 Senior Development Director Director of Alumni Relations K ay T h o m a s | ( 2 52 ) 39 8 - 6 436 Director of Church and Community Relations L o u A n n G i l l i a m | ( 2 52 ) 39 8 - 6317 Director of the Annual Fund N i c k K h o u r y ’14 | ( 2 52) 39 8 - 6226 Associate Director of University Relations A m a n da B r a d s h aw S h a r p e ’10 | ( 2 52) 39 8 -1145 Assistant Director of University Relations C h r i s t i n a E . T h o m a s ’16 | ( 2 52 ) 39 8 - 6319 Administrative Assistant to the Vice President for Development L i z B r o w n | (2 52) 39 8 -12 33

Connect with Us

Dr . M. Christopher White Chancellor & Former President

Admissions: 1 (8 8 8) 4 - C HOWAN Athletics: (2 52) 39 8 -12 39 Office of the President: (2 52) 39 8 - 6221 w w w. c h o wa n . e d u/ w e g i v e w w w. g o c u h aw k s . co m

Many Happy Returns

Dr. Kirk E. Peterson, Chowan University's Next President at a pr e ss co n fe r e n c e on February 15, 2018, the Board of Trustees of Chowan University announced the selection of Dr. Kirk E. Peterson as the 23rd president of Chowan University. He oficially took office on June 1, 2018.

“My family and I are thrilled to return to Murfreesboro and Chowan University,” stated Dr. Peterson. “We are eager to become reacquainted with members of the Chowan community, faculty, and staff and to become acquainted with those members we have yet to meet. Our family is blessed beyond measure to serve a remarkable university, its talented faculty, its dedicated staff, and its most important constituents: the students.”

“Dr. Peterson’s academic credentials are impeccable,” stated Frank Rose, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Dr. Peterson is no stranger to Chowan University, for he served as a faculty and staff member from 2004-2010. During these years, he served as the Chair of the Department of Health and Physical Education, as the founding Dean of the Graduate school, and as Associate Provost.”

However, Dr. Peterson brings with him more than institutional familiarity.

He brings a Christ-centered philosophy that defines his leadership style. During

an interview with Dr. and Mrs. Peterson, the couple reminisced on their previous experience at Chowan. Recurring themes were servant leadership, students as priority, and Chowan as not just a team, but a family. As Dr. Peterson stated, “The mission of the institution has always been about the students. We are so proud to be servant leaders at Chowan University- working with the students, the faculty, and staff. It is an amazing feeling to walk on a campus and know you’re home. This is where you’re supposed to be.”

Dr. Peterson described the servant leader he strives to be: “The greatest leaders are the ones that serve. Jesus taught us that through the Bible. We are supposed to serve Christ through thought, word, and deed. Being a servant leader means not only acting the right way and saying the right things, but being there for others. Leadership is not about pulling people, but standing right alongside and doing the hard work with them.” Peterson adds, “When you care a little bit more than you should, that permeates and becomes contagious.”

During the press conference, Dr. White said, “I commend the trustees on their wisdom in the selection process. I highly commend the new president. If

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the past is the prologue to the future, he will lead Chowan to unprecedented heights. I believe he is God’s chosen leader for this time in Chowan’s history.”

“Dr. Peterson is a man of faith and integrity,” Rose concluded. “He knows Chowan and her students. He believes in Chowan’s mission and values. He is a proven leader. In summary, the trustees believe that Dr. Kirk E. Peterson is the leader that Chowan University needs at this time.”

Dr. Peterson closed his acceptance stating, “On June 1, I will have the honor to begin as the servant leader of our fine University. I am eager to begin work with a devoted staff, expert faulty, talented senior team, and remarkable Board of Trustees. As Luke 12:48 states, ‘To whom much is given, much will be required.’ As a University community, we will always be reminded that we have been given a tremendous opportunity in educating and mentoring our students.

Also, we are expected to assist in the intellectual, physical, mental, social, and, most importantly, spiritual development and maturation of our students. So, as you can see, we have been given much and much is expected of us.”

learning by design

St u de nts gain real-world kn owledge an d exper ie n ce p ut t ing t h eir t ale nts an d skills t o work in ser v ice t o t h e Univ ers it y.

R e a l Wo r l d E x pe r i e n c e has become one of the factors that sets job candidates above and beyond the rest. Two Chowan University students gained just that, while putting their hard work and talent in service of the University.

Melany Garcia-Lopez, of Clemmons, NC, and Olivia Borer of Melbourne Beach, FL, both graphic design majors, joined forces to design a logo for the University's 170th anniversary.

The Office of University Relations brainstormed ways to promote the 170th anniversary and decided to use this as an opportunity to collaborate with students. This collaboration created a learning experience and allowed the University to showcase a logo that highlights student creativity.

Garcia-Lopez, a junior, became interested in graphic design in high school after completing a project in her art class. She has previous experience designing logos but not with such prestige as a University. “I was really excited and nervous because it was such an important project to me,” she stated.

Borer, also a junior graphic design major, has a similar story. She too became interested in graphic design in high school. When she took her first Adobe Photoshop class

the support and encouragement of her favorite high school instructor, Mrs. Barbara Fine, fueled her interest in the field.

She also had prior experience designing logos, but only for class projects. She stated, “When creating the design, we aimed to create an elegant, simple, and professional design to reflect Chowan.” The duo did just that.

Brooke Reich, Assistant Vice President for Development & Director of University Relations, worked with Borer and Garcia-Lopez on the project. She stated, "Chowan is incredibly fortunate to be able to invest in and also benefit from such talented students. We're sure this won't be the last time, either."

The logo was introduced as part of the spring University Club Celebration honoring the 170th anniversary of the school and marking 15 years with Dr. and Mrs. White. It will continue in use throughout the yearlong celebration of the founding in 1848. One-hundred-seventy years later the University is thriving, and is committed to providing the best education to students possible by providing opportunities just like this one.

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" For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." -Jeremiah 29:11

to call a place home W h e n h e f irs t ar r iv ed in t h e Unit ed St at es (Ch owan Univ ers it y in Mur f rees b oro, NC, t o b e exa c t), Nick h a d on e t rav el b ag an d a b ook b ag. It wa s far f rom t h e Unit ed St at es h e h a d in min d, an im age t h at h a d b ee n c reat ed f rom Hollywood m ov ies of skysc rapers an d f la s hing light s. He recalls seeing n ot hing b ut t rees, an d n ot e v e n b eing cer t ain h e h a d in fa c t m a de it t o Am er ica .

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Nick shares a co ll e c ti o n of ite ms that re p res e nt s o m e of th e m os t m eanin g f ul m e m o r i es f ro m his jo ur n ey.

1) Ph oto of Nick w ith his m o m , da d, an d b roth e r,

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Obj e ct L e ss o n s:

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T h at R u r a l To w n that was once so foreign is now the place Nick calls home. The terrain is different, the food is definitely different, but the people are just as welcoming as his own family in Ramallah, a town outside of Jerusalem. “In order to call a place home it must contribute to your life significantly,” Nick explains. Chowan is where he grew up, developed his personality, and defined who he was. He continued, “I found people who became mothers and fathers, uncles, brothers, and sisters. All the elements you would want in a family; I found at Chowan. And, that’s why I call Chowan home.”

Nick Khoury serves as the Director of the Annual Fund; but, if you think you’ve seen his name before, you probably have. He was also an admissions counselor and is an alumnus of Chowan. He is originally from a small, but busy hometown with mountainous terrain and beautiful weather-though it gets hot, there is no humidity, and not much snow when it is cold.

Nick recalls, “First time I saw real snow on the ground was here at Chowan.”

Although Chowan is home to Nick now, he was born and raised on the other side of the world. “What brought me here,” he says, “was my dream.” He elaborates, “I have always had the dream to study in the United States. And I had the opportunity here at Chowan. A dream that led to an opportunity, an opportunity that led to a reality. That was a true blessing to me.”

Nick learned of Chowan through his cousin who also attended. He then met faculty and staff while they were on a study abroad trip in the Holy Land. Ultimately, Nick made the decision to attend Chowan University and major in business

t ake n b e f o re his da d p ass e d dur in g th e summ e r of 2013. 2) Nick 's Acce pt an ce Le t te r f ro m Ch ow an Uni ve r si t y. 3) H ear t an d Cross N e ck lace f ro m Nick 's m o m , b l ess e d at th e N ati v it y Church in B e thl e h e m .

4) Chr is tmas C ard, han d - e mb roi d e re d by Nick 's m o m . 5) Stu f f e d D u ck f ro m his Aunt (at ag e f o ur).

6) Ph oto f ro m Nick 's f ir s t Chr is tmas in A m e r ic a in f ro nt of Presi d e nt ’s H o us e o n Ch ow an C amp us . 7) H an dma d e O li ve Wo o d Pe n ins cr ib e d w ith ' to my b es t f r i e n d' in Ar ab ic . 8) Ph oto Alb um f ro m his tr ip to N ev a da an d Ar izo na .

administration with a concentration in accounting. At that point in his life he had aspirations to own his own business one day. Once he became a student, he developed a love for his professors, who became his family, and in turn helped him love the School of Business.

Chowan provided Nick not only an opportunity, but sincere care, and one-on-one attention that helped him figure out who he was and what he wanted to do with his life. He was involved in many things on campus which also had a great impact on him.

During his senior year at Chowan, he was confused and didn’t know what he wanted to do- whether he wanted to go back home to Ramallah or stay in the U.S. He had a difficult time determining the right path. He prayed a lot, and God helped him find clarity when Dr. White offered him a job on campus. He was already a student worker in admissions and now had the opportunity to begin his career at Chowan fulltime. He continued to work in admissions for the next three and a half years advancing to Associate Director of Admissions and was able to help students fulfill their dream of coming to Chowan just like his own.

While he truly enjoyed his position in Admissions and the ability to impact so many lives, he always had a passion to work in the Development Office. Recently, he was promoted to Director of the Annual Fund where he now works with alumni, friends, and donors. In this new role, he looks forward to working with some of the same students he helped admit to the University as they graduate and become engaged alumni.

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Lifelong Learners Make the Best Educators After twenty-five years Dr. Gladys DeJesus is ready for her well-earned retirement, having influenced countless students along the way.

D r . G l a dys D e J e su s’ pa ss i o n for learning originated from her father, a businessman who exported cocoa beans from their plantation. Growing up in a small, centric town on the island of the Dominican Republic, she recalls the time spent with her four younger brothers throwing baseballs, climbing trees, and enjoying other outdoor activities. “I had a wonderful childhood, but it didn’t last long because Father died suddenly when I was twelve.”

Soon after, her family relocated to the capital city where life was different. “It was more serious and formal, we had to take school a lot more seriously,” shares DeJesus. That is just what she did.

Upon graduating high school as valedictorian, she knew exactly what she wanted to study in college. Heavily influenced by the world of business her father introduced her to, she began her journey as a lifelong learner with obtaining her undergraduate degree in economics from the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Her brilliance was exhibited there as well when she graduated valedictorian, summa cum laude.

Her thirst for knowledge and discovery was not yet quenched. “The programs in economics were good back home, but not up to my aspirations,” expressed DeJesus. She wanted the opportunity to earn a Ph.D. and there were no Ph.D. level

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"Giv e in s t r u c t ion t o a wi se m an , an d h e will b e yet wi ser: t ea ch a ju s t m an , an d h e will in c rea se in lear ning."

- Pr ov e r b s 9:9 programs for economics in Dominican Republic at the time.

Her journey brought her to the United States when she received the Fulbright Scholarship in 1974. She continued her education earning M.A and Ph.D. degrees from The Ohio State University. Her graduation resulted in her becoming the first woman in her country to earn a Ph.D. in economics.

The common saying that the best leaders are those who know how to follow can likewise be said about educators. The best educators are the ones who never stop learning. What better way to learn than to teach? Staying true to her passion, DeJesus stayed in the United States and began her career as a professor at her alma mater. Later she relocated to the east coast as an Assistant Professor of Economics at East Carolina University (ECU) until her priorities shifted and led her to the place she now calls home.

After marriage and the birth of her daughter, she left the research-heavy institution to join the Chowan University faculty as an associate professor in 1993.

“My employment fit into Chowan’s transition plan from a junior college to a four

year college, so I joined ready to participate in this project.” This was only the beginning of many projects that she participated in to help shape the institution into what it has become today.

Aside from the three years prior to her marriage when she took a leave of absence from ECU to return to Santo Domingo to serve as her country’s main international trade representative, she has been learning from her students. “The moment of epiphany I see in a young person’s eyes when I have nailed the explanation of a concept has taught me new ways of teaching. I have learned throughout this quarter of a century at Chowan that learning is truly a lifelong process.”

Twenty-five years after DeJesus and her family joined the Chowan community, she is ready for her well-earned retirement. She will be missed in the classroom, however she will remain in the area.

“I plan to continue my affiliation with my church, the University and the Rotary Club of Murfreesboro," she concludes. "I also plan to travel far and near, read lots of books, and make lots of new friends.”

“The moment of epiphany I see in a young person’s eyes when I have nailed the explanation of a concept has taught me new ways of teaching.

I have learned throughout this quarter of a century at Chowan that learning is truly a lifelong process.”

-Dr. Gladys DeJesus

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"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well."

Psalm 139:14

her authentic self Don’t let her petite stature fool you. Chowan University's Best All Around 2018 Graduate stands proudly at five feet tall as her most authentic self.

Q e a s h au n da J o h n s o n co u l d easily become overshadowed by her massive list of achievements (ranging from being the recipient of the George T. Barthalmus Research Grant, to serving a prestigious and coveted internship for the United States Department of Justice). However, with humility she says, “I am most proud of learning to be authentically myself.

Because I understand who I am, I am able to pursue my goals with confidence.”

Her journey to Chowan began through an experience at Camp Penuel in St. Louis, MO the summer before her senior year of high school. While serving as a Teen Youth Counsellor for the Christian Activity Center she met Minister to the University Reverend Mari Wiles, Director of Church and Community Relations Lou Ann Gilliam, and Jylian Lohman who was a Chowan student at the time.

Qeashaunda noticed how open and inviting the students from Chowan were, something she'd never experienced with strangers. “Seeing how they responded to children they had never met before really spoke to me and it made me feel good about the University and the values they hold to get such a diverse group of students together to work towards their goal.”

Reverend Drew Phillips, Associate Minister to the University, must have felt the same way, since he also transitioned to Chowan University from the Christian Activity Center where he served as Qeashaunda’s chaplain when she was a sophomore in high school.

Though Chowan is 16 hours away from Illinois, she already had her mind set to travel far from home for school. “Through experiences with the Christian Activity Center, I was able to understand cultural diversity and get to know people from different areas and that became a passion of mine. I wanted to go to a place I had never been before to learn about people and try something new.”

This adventurous mind-set led her to find her calling at Chowan. As a freshman she aimed to study psychology and become a psychiatrist because she enjoyed helping people, listening to people, and diversity. This was short lived once she learned how long she would have to stay in school. After taking a few courses, she decided to challenge her dual-minded brain

and become a double major in mathematics and English. This switch led her to her ultimate calling in the School of Business.

Qeashaunda explains, “I liked being a mathematics and English major, until I took an accounting course and fell in love with it!”

After spending the majority of her life serving others and developing a passion for both numbers and people, the real dilemma was trying to figure out how this would all fit together. How could a love for accounting and ministry produce a satisfying outcome?

Lou Ann Gilliam gave her advice that she will never forget.

“Wherever God calls you, you can serve him in any way. Do not worry about how things will fit together because God will reveal that to you.” These words were proven true on her first international mission trip to South Africa with campus ministry. She came back with revelation saying, “I can serve through numbers!” She returned understanding the importance of financial literacy in low-income areas. Now with eagerness, she plans to use her gift to help people understand why finances are important.

Over her four years at Chowan, Qeashaunda has grown in many different aspects of her life. Along with compliments she receives on her maturity and outstanding academic achievements, she has grown spiritually as well. She has always attended mission trips, but she states, “Through my college experience, I’ve learned why I am a Christian and why I love God for myself. It is not just because that is what people told me I should do, or because that is what everyone else was doing. I have been able to develop a relationship where I feel close to God. Then, I am able to share that with others.”

So, what is next for Qeashaunda? She graduated with enough credit hours to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. She also wants to attend graduate school to obtain her master’s degree in accounting and maybe a certification in missions in her pursuit of a career as an accountant or research analyst, ultimately to finish as a forensic accountant.

Qeashaunda says understanding herself helped her better connect with people and not limit herself. She has been able to reach great heights and Chowan University is proud to have been a part of her journey to becoming her most authentic self.

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Finding God In surprising pLaces Spr i n g B r e a k M i ss i o n T r i p to C u ba

A t r i p t o C u b a is a reminder of so many truths we learn from God. People are infinitely more alike than they are different, work and worship transcend barriers, and God shows up in surprising places.

House churches are growing every day and the need for trained pastors for these churches is dire. Chowan’s team of twelve, ten of them being students, went to the city of Santa Clara to help lay the foundation for what will be the region's first seminary.

Our team, working alongside Cuban Christian workers, shoveled mounds of concrete, pushed countless wheelbarrows, and endured the mosquitoes and sun, but as with any mission trip, the relationships formed and the worship that took place enhanced all that we did.

The people with whom we served exhibited a consistent theme of gracious and generous hospitality in a nation where following Christ comes at a sacrificial cost. Our students worked hard, were generous with their resources and loved well. My prayer is that we live, pray, worship, and work better at home because of our experiences in Cuba and the family we came to know there.

-Reverend Drew Phillips, Associate Minister to the University

John 1 2 :26

" Who ever ser ves me must follow me; and where I am, my ser vant also will be. My Father will honor the one who ser ves me."

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2018 Chowa n Uni v ersity

Ethics Bowl Tea m Ta kes Second Place

T h e C h o wa n U n i v e r s i t y t e a m placed second at the annual Ethics Bowl hosted by North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU). One hundred and twenty-seven students from 24 schools across North Carolina competed on February 16 and 17 at the North Carolina Legislative complex in Raleigh. The topic this year was “Ethics and the Future of Community.”

Teams consist of four-to-six students and the campus coordinators who work with them to prepare for the competition. More than 70 business, non-profit, and government professionals serve as judges and moderators.

The Chowan team is led by Dr. J Brabban, E. Lee Oliver Fagan Professor of Bible, and Dr. Keith Reich, Department of Religion Chair. Team members were Alyssa Born, a junior business administration major from Dyer, IN, Kyle Davison, a senior sport management major from Durham, NC, Regina Jones, a senior religion major from Fayetteville, NC, Courtney O’Keefe, a junior criminal justice major from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and Sean Timmons, a senior religion major from Poquoson, VA. Regina Jones said, “This opportunity helps groups and individuals learn how to debate, process thoughts, and be confident in their ideals."

After four rounds of competition Chowan advanced to compete in two semifinal rounds, along with three other teams. The topic focused on cyber communities and how to exercise personal responsibility to ensure ethical standards and practices in social media.

Chowan University advanced to the final round for the first time in the school’s history, along with Salem College.

The topic for the final round centered around the ethics of deporting undocumented immigrants. In the end, Salem College won the competition.

Sean Timmons said, “I’m so incredibly proud of this team.

Last year we finished in the top four, but this year we made it to the NCICU Ethics Bowl Finals. We didn’t win, but each time we’re improving and I have high hopes for next year.”

"This was a special team that fought hard in every match and proved that Chowan can compete with any Ethics Bowl team in the NCICU. In fact, I think next year no one will want to face Chowan," Dr. Reich said.

All of the students were appreciative of their campus coordinators. Courtney O’Keefe concluded, “I want to thank Dr. Brabban and Dr. Reich again for their continuous support and endless devotion. With their help, we've been able to set a reputation for ourselves and a legacy for years to come.”

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Celebrating Student Successes C h o wa n s t u d e n t s e xc e l i n t h e c l a ss r o o m a n d t h e co m m u n i t y

E ac h Y e a r C h o wa n St u d e n t s pu t i n to n s o f h a r d w o r k , b ot h i n t h e c l a ss r o o m a n d i n s e r v i c e to t h e g r e at e r co m m u n i t y. T h e s e s ta n d o u t acco m pl i s h m e n t s d e s e r v e s pe c i a l r e co g n i t i o n .

Tschida was runner up in the Sport Management Student of the Year Video Resume Competition.

1. Communication Arts: Ten students in the Communication Arts programs received awards at the collegiate competition of the annual Printing Industry of the Carolinas (PICA) Awards Banquet.

A packaging entry designed and produced by Shelby Barlowe and Gabrielle Wilson, both graphic communications majors, won Best of Show.

6. Pi Gamma Mu: Chowan University's chapter of Pi Gamma Mu, the international honor society in the social sciences, was named Outstanding New Chapter at the Triennial Convention in Kansas City. The chapter was also included in Pi Gamma Mu's Roll of Distinction. Fewer than 10 chapters are awarded this honor each year.

2. Campus Ministry: Chowan University Campus Ministry made the cover of Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina's January/ February 2018 Edition of The Gathering magazine which featured the words and wisdom of Mari Wiles, Minister to the University and Associate Dean of Students, and Drew Phillips, Associate Minister to the University, as they shared their experience of learning from Chowan students and finding "holy in the uncomfortable." Campus Ministry was also awarded a gong from Rise Against Hunger for packaging over 100,000 meals.

7. Rotaract: This super-active service club was the recipient of the 2017-18 Mission and Vision Cup for outstanding student organizations. One of their many projects included organizing The Empty Bowl event, raising $1,700 for the backpack program of the Ahoskie Food Pantry to provide food for local elementary students on the weekends. They raised $300 for Shoe That Grows, providing shoes to children living in poverty. Rotaract also collected clothes, supplies and money for those in need from Hurricane Harvey.

3. Miss Chowan: Lakayla Brown represented the institution as Miss Chowan and received 2nd Runner-up for Miss CIAA and the most online votes, earning a $2,000 check for her chosen charity, the Food Bank of the Albemarle.

4. Sport Science: Kyle Davison won the IGNITE Presentation Competition at the NCAAHPERDSM Conference in Winston-Salem, while Brittany

5. Alpha Chi: Seven Chowan members of Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, led by sponsor Syble Shellito, presented academic research at the 2018 Alpha Chi National Convention in Portland, Oregon.

Not Pictured: Phi Beta Lambda: Nine PBL members and sponsor Patsy Taylor attended the North Carolina PBL Fall Leadership Development Conference, earning several honors, including the 2017-2018 Gold Star Chapter award.

Men's Basketball: earned the highest team GPA in the CIAA for the third time.

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gathering the

January/February 2018

of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina

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Vol. 23 Issue 1

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D I V E R S I T Y : Holy in the uncomfortable at Chowan University.

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The

Art of Giving

Joe Henry Jenkins chose to honor his wife, Jenny, through a unique & beautiful gift to the Wayland L. Jenkins Fine Arts Center.

J e n n y Co o k e J e n k i n s o f B e r t i e Co u n t y was an effervescent and humble woman who was full of life and loved to travel. She thrived on relationships, and recognized the power of each individual interaction. For Jenny, connecting with people was the key to life, a belief that molded her into a friend’s friend; someone who never met a stranger.

A life-long educator, Jenny worked as a teacher, and later supervisor, in Hertford County, but she considered travel the best kind of education and made the world her classroom.

As an artist, she collected jewelry from her travels; amassing unique pieces of art she could wear and display on herself.

Jenny and husband, Joe Henry, were multi generational advocates of giving back and have a long lasting relationship with Chowan University, and charitable giving. Soon after her passing, in June of 2017, Joe Henry decided to memorialize his wife, and thought there was no better way than giving a major

gift that included Jenny’s personal jewelry collection, along with multiple collections of china, crystal, and flatware.

Jenny had a whimsical personality, which can be seen in many pieces of her jewelry collection through the ornate animal designs, and vibrant stones. There are 130 pieces in her collection ranging from silver, semi-precious stones, to precious stones, and gold. The jewelry comes from all over the world: Europe, Turkey, Mexico, and the United States among other countries.

The addition of Jenny’s jewelry collection adds a new dimension to the Wayland L. Jenkins, Jr. Fine Arts Center, which was established by Joe Henry's brother. Prior, there were paintings and furniture, but no jewelry. It encompasses an entirely new medium to display, and provides learning opportunities. The jewelry will be on display for the first time when the exhibit opens late summer of 2018. The collection will remain intact and on permanent display.

Even in passing, Jenny will be able to help educate young people, and instill a love for art and travel in them through the display. It was, without question, a fabulous way to celebrate her life and honor her memory.

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W e a r a b l e M a s t e r pi e c e s 1. Matching Sterling Silver and Turquoise Frog Cuff and Necklace 2. Sterling Silver and Turquoise Floral Bracelet 3. Large Sterling Silver and Turquoise Embellished Cross 4. Sterling Silver Feather Choker with Onyx Stones (continued on next page...)

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5. Sterling Silver, Coral, and Turquoise Bracelet 6. Sterling Silver and Turquoise Necklace with Coral on Clasp 7. 14K Gold Cat Brooch 8. Sterling Silver Choker with Turquoise and Topaz Flower 9. 14K Gold Choker with Large Panther 10. Sterling Silver and Turquoise Cuff 11. Sterling Silver Leopard Necklace 12. Sterling Silver Necklace with Intricate Hinged Panels 13. Ornate Sterling Silver and Turqoise Necklace

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co v e r s t o r y

faith & t h e fu t u r e

of c howa n U n i v e r si t y

When Dr. M. Christopher White and his wife, Linda, arrived at Chowan University in 2003, it was for a short-term position as interim President.

They were only supposed to be here one year. Fifteen years and many changes later, Chowan is almost unrecognizable. Together, they have overseen her renaissance and transformation from near financial ruin to years of unprecedented growth and prosperity. Now, they're navigating one final transition, as Dr. White leaves the presidency behind to take on his new role as Chancellor.

As Dr. and Mrs. White made the initial decision to come to Chowan University, they had a strong sense of God's calling here. But it turns out they had no idea what, exactly, God had in store. The Chowan of fifteen years ago was not the institution she is today.

By the summer of 2002, significant operating losses at Chowan College culminated in a state of financial exigency. Serious concerns were expressed about whether the College had a future. When the Whites arrived on the scene in July 2003 they instantly

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became Chowan's biggest cheerleaders.

"The school had significant positives," Dr. White says, "beautiful campus, competent faculty and staff, adequate computerization and learning resources, a long heritage with significant values, and a community of caring people."

“We quickly realized that Chowan University represents more than just a place for higher education,” he continues. “From its earliest days, Chowan was founded with a mission to serve. For many, Chowan University represents family.”

With that in mind, their goals for the first year were straightforward: raise morale both on and off campus, stabilize the financial picture, define the

co v e r s t o r y

Dr. & Mrs. White — bastions of faith As President and First Lady of Chowan University for fifteen years, Dr. and Mrs. White led the reclamation of Chowan University's original mission and emphasis on Christian values, bringing hope forth from despair and igniting a new belief in Chowan inspired by a spirit which can best be defined as Faith in your Future.

"It was definitely God's will that we come, because I don't know who else had the experience or love for a place that Chris did. It's all about the right people that he was able to bring in. And it has been a fit."

-Mrs. Linda Fleming White, 22nd First Lady of Chowan University

niche of the school in the marketplace, and reorganize and redirect the admissions efforts.

A Transformation Begins Based on numerous discussions with various constituencies, Dr. White clarified the school’s points of differentiation. He initiated a return to Chowan’s focus on serving average students who showed potential for growth, the same group the school had benefitted as a junior college for many years. With small class sizes and favorable student-to-faculty ratio, he zeroed in on the benefits of Chowan’s personal attention to students. He also heralded a renewed commitment to the school’s Christian mission and values.

Following the model they had employed at Gardner-Webb, the Whites saw Chowan grow from a small college into a regional university. Both the enrollment and the endowment more than doubled, with enrollment now exceeding 1,500 students for the third consecutive year. For a period of eight years a new enrollment record was set each year, earning Chowan recognition as one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation. The size of the campus almost doubled and every existing building was completely renovated.

Twelve new buildings were constructed, including the nine-building student apartment complex named Whites Crossing by the trustees in honor of Dr. and Mrs. White and their families.

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Dr. and Mrs. White ignited a new belief in Chowan University inspired by a spirit best defined as Faith in your Future.

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"I just enjoy taking things that are broken and seeing if they can be fixed.

Particularly when I was told it couldn't be fixed. That sealed the deal. It was the most challenging thing I've ever done. In some ways, therefore, the most gratifying thing I've ever done. And we're not finished yet."

Dr. M. Christopher White, 22nd President of Chowan University

The academic program was upgraded to University status and the current faculty is arguably the best prepared in the institution’s history. The intercollegiate athletic program was upgraded to NCAA II and competes successfully in the CIAA and Conference Carolinas.

Faith in Your Future A significant part of Chowan’s resurgence has been an emphasis on the University’s Christian values. "I am most proud of the commitment we made during the first year to the renewal of our mission in Christian higher education," Dr. White says. "Reclaiming the mission of 1848 was crucial to the success of Chowan. Staying true to that

mission will ensure continued success."

In that vein, the recruiting slogan Faith in your Future has come to embody the spirit and essence of Chowan University.

"In a sense, faith in our students’ futures has always been the heart of Chowan," says Dr. White. "Much more than just a tag line, this guides our work to provide an education that transforms ordinary students into extraordinary graduates."

It is out of this commitment to Christian identity that the Chowan Christian Service Association (CCSA) was born. The association creates opportunities for students to prepare for ministry through scholarship assistance and to explore their calling through missions experiences. In just 12 years

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since its creation, 134 students have received CCSA tuition scholarships and 58 students have been awarded CCSA mission trip fellowships. "The call to mission is a basic part of the Christian faith," Dr. White explains. "In order to help the Great Commission become reality, everyone can help another prepare for ministry."

Dr. White even came up with an innovative new way to personally contribute to the fund-raising efforts through music. He was trained as a classical pianist in his youth, but relishes adding an improvisational flair to all his selections. "For years I had resisted requests by friends that I record some of my piano arrangements," he says. "I used

every excuse I could think of, but finally I gave in." He recorded the first CD with trepidation. Would anyone actually buy a copy? The favorable response was overwhelming, and Dr. White decided to use all proceeds to benefit the CCSA. He has recorded fifteen CDs so far, including religious favorites, Christmas songs, and popular secular songs.

Another personal point of pride for the Whites is the study abroad program they brought to Chowan. For over twenty-five years they have organized and led study-tours of the Middle East and Europe (with emphasis on Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Greece, and Turkey).

"These trips have had a remarkable impact on the campus by broadening

awareness of the people of the world and the issues they face," says Dr. White.

The first such trip for Chowan was to Turkey and Greece in May 2005, and focused on Paul’s missionary journeys and the churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. The most favored studytour destination is the Holy Land (Israel and Palestine).

The challenge ahead The transformation of Chowan University, as all such true changes, seemed to happen gradually and then all at once. It's easy to list the dates of building openings or the percentage of increased fund-raising. But the timing of, perhaps, the most essential things is much harder to pin down. At some

point over the last fifteen years, hope replaced despair; teamwork began anew; dreams started to come true. Suddenly, people believe in Chowan again.

"I am not a miracle worker," Dr. White demurs, "but I have the ability to help others believe." And yet, the results of the Whites tenure seems nothing short of miraculous.

Looking back at the “miraculous” changes in Chowan over the past fifteen years the challenge becomes clear.

"Let’s make the next fifteen years just as exciting and productive," Dr. White concludes. "Only God knows the heights Chowan University can achieve as we work together."

Q&A with

dr . & M r s. W h i t e W e s at d o w n f o r a h e a r t fe lt co n v e r s at i o n with Dr. and Mrs. White about their fif teen ye ars at C h o wa n U n i v e r s i t y a n d a l l t h at l i e s a h e a d.

What do you love most about Chowan and what has Chowan given you?

We came in part because of Dr. Whitaker, who had been my mentor earlier. I just enjoy things that are broken, seeing if they can be fixed.

Particularly when my friends told me it couldn't be fixed and that we shouldn't come. That sealed the deal.

It was the most challenging thing I've ever done. In some ways, therefore, the most gratifying thing I've ever done.

And we're not finished yet.

has chosen really well and I'm looking forward to see what he will do.

The second is to try to secure some major funding for some projects. Even though we've had some significant progress building things, we're not anywhere near where we need to be, and all that takes some serious money. I've got ideas about how to do that.

LW: It was definitely God's will that we come. I don't know who else had the experience or love for a place that Chris did. He was able to bring in the right people to do the right jobs at the right time. It's all about the people that he was able to bring in. And it has been a fit.

If retirement means stopping and doing nothing, then I am unnerved by that!

I'm excited about this new opportunity.

We found a way to stay and hopefully to be helpful. Never in my career have I had an opportunity to really seek money for the school. We've raised a lot, but I wasn't able to make it a major effort. It's a new challenge I'm anxioius to try on!

What are your favorite Chowan memories?

What are you most proud of?

LW: Some of our trips. Looking back at some our students, watching them play basketball or tennis and meeting their families. Relating to them. Having a student come and sit with me in church.

That's pretty special.

LW: The people. And the students.

Especially some of our first-generation college students and what they have been able to do since graduation. That's what it's all about.

LW: The family atmosphere. And what it has given us is a home.

CW: We've been married how many years now?

LW: Fifty-two...and a half.

CW: Fifty-two and a half years. She took my words! Family and a home.

You know, Presidents don't always have homes. We grew up in Georgia, but none of our family lives there anymore.

It was a great place to grow up, but it's not home. This is home.

This is the third school where we've worked, and we've been welcomed and been part of the community everywhere. But the people here have been so friendly, and supportive, and kind, that this has become home. Even though we had no idea that would happen! It certainly wasn't part of our plans. But it happened! What a great place to live.

Why did you choose Chowan?

CW: It just seemed like the right place to come. I felt like the Lord just picked us up and put us right here. I had retired.

Big mistake! Some people when they retire, go south or go on mission trips.

Well, we came here. It was a mission to save the school.

CW: I've always enjoyed contact with people. Knowing students, knowing faculty and staff by name, knowing the grounds people, whoever. Coming to a smaller environment has made that possible. Getting to know all these people and have them know me is fun.

LW: And being able to hire some of our graduates. That's been a big reward!

CW: I think I'm most proud of the fact that we've been able to be part of going from a school that was seriously facing closure to a school that is financially solvent, solid, with a serious reputation in the marketplace. A school that can now start making some serious choices about what it wants to be, without having to worry if it can survive the next year. That's just...I really enjoy that.

What are your goals as Chancellor?

CW: My number one goal is to help Dr. Peterson be successful. He and Rachel have been friends of ours for a long time. They're special. I think the school

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T o watc h t h e i n t e r v i e w v i s i t Yo u T u b e .co m / C h o wa n U n i v e r s i t y.

Faith in Your Future The Transformation of Chowan University

NESTLED IN THE CORNER of northeastern North Carolina, the NESTLED IN THE CORNER of northeastern North Carolina, school now known as Chowan University has hadhas an eventful the school now known as Chowan University had an history in her first 170 years, but the fifteen years from eventful history in her first 170 years, but the fifteen years2003 from to2003 2018towere most for growth, prosperity, and 2018the were theamazing most amazing for growth, prosperity, and promise.

Faith Your Future: The Transformation of promise.

Faith in YouinFuture: The Transformation of Chowan Chowan University, written and edited by Dr. M. Christopher University, written and edited by Dr. M. Christopher White, White, chronicles this miraculous by focusing on key chronicles this miraculous period byperiod focusing on key events events and persons. It is a story of thanks, for the blessings— and persons. It is a story of thanks, for the blessings—and and faith—for the future. faith—for the future.

Chowan 398-6526 • www.chowan.edu/book www.chowan.edu/book ChowanUniversity University •One OneUniversity UniversityPlace Place •Mufreesboro, Mufreesboro,NC NC27855 27855 • (252) (252) 398-6526

V i e w m o r e c u lt u r a l e v e n t s at c h o wa n . e d u/ e v e n t s

To Tell The Truth

2018 Hobson Prize Recipient Jim Grimsley Visits Chowan University

Au t h o r J i m G r i m s l e y says he dreamed of being a writer from the time he started reading. "Books were a world I could get into and control, and I couldn’t control the world around me,” he said as he presented the 2018 Mary Frances Hobson Lecture. His lecture probed the idea of truth and his attempts to understand and influence it through his writing.

Jennifer Newhouse, Assistant Professor of Creative Writing described Grimsley's style as one that explores the life beyond our polished exteriors.

“His stories take us to the inside, to the reality of our lives," she says. "He writes about tragedy, heartbreak, cruelty, betrayal, and we find our way in through his characters.”

Grimsley's lecture explored the meaning of – and the inherent difficulties surrounding – the concept of truth. Though he was certain of things when he was younger, as he matures he

has came to realize that he hardly knows anything at all. “Many old certainties have vanished," he said. "I used to believe all people are good. I have a hard time saying that these days, even though I still believe it.”

This grappling with truth is part of why Grimsley loves writing. He feels required to state things directly when he speaks, but when he writes he has the ability to sneak up on the truth, to tell it "from a slant." He can present several layers of truth all at once and view it from all angles without having to claim any of it as his own.

“The word truth has fallen out of fashion and it is often stated, these days, that we are living beyond truth. We are told truth is really a matter of point of view. I don’t believe in the idea of posttruth,” Grimsley argued.

"Mankind," he noted, "has struggled over the concept of truth for such a long time that it should demonstrate how

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vital a concept it is. If it did not exist, at some point people would have stopped fighting over it." Instead, he advocates viewing things through a different lens.

“It’s not that I don’t believe in goodness anymore, or truth, or possibility," he said. "It’s not that I’m not hopeful. It’s just, I suppose, that I want to keep quiet about it all; contemplate it all; and avoid throwing empty words into a world already so full.”

Grimsley ended his lecture by reading one of his short stories. In it, a small town experiences two acts of senseless violence. As the story unfolds and the characters come to terms with the events, the audience realizes that, often, the responsibility for tragedy may lie closer than we think. “There is nothing left to say except to repeat the formula," Grimsley concluded. "That things like this don’t happen to people like us, that ours is a peaceful place, and none of us deserved such a tragedy.”

For more information, contact Director of Alumni Relations Kay Thomas: (252) 398-6436 or thomak@chowan.edu V i s i t fac e b o o k .co m /c h o wa n a lu m n i f o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n

2018 R o u s o n L e c t ur e & Awar d s

From Left to Right: Dr. Warren Milteer, Assistant Professor of history at the University of South Carolina, headlined the Reverend George T. and Luvenia B. Rouson Memorial Lecture and received the Rouson Memorial Lecture Award; Katie Vaughan Parker received the Minnie Wood Perkins Award. She is a tireless community servant, donating both time and money to community projects; John A. Hinton received the Futrell/Ruffin Community Service Award for faithful service to the Murfreesboro community through Chamber of Commerce and as Mayor from 2010 to 2017.

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SeniorFest 2018 Special Guest: Susan Sparks Preacher, Lawyer, Standup Comedian

Breakout Sessions • 101 Ways to Support Missions without Leaving your Church • Bending the Spoon - Myth Busting and Aging in America • Fun with Fitness • The Poetry of Rural North Carolina • Take Control of Your Health through Lifestyle • Tears in the Golden Years - Depression in Seniors

C h o wa n U n i v e r s i t y h o s t e d over 375 senior adults for the 12th annual SeniorFEST event.

Held each spring on the historic campus, SeniorFEST highlights healthy lifestyles, Christian living, and sheds light on issues facing senior-adults today. With special guest speakers, informative breakout sessions, live entertainment, a classic southern buffet, and door prizes, SeniorFEST offered a day full of fellowship and fun for individuals and groups.

Senior citizens from the town of Murfreesboro, and from hours away across North Carolina and Virginia gathered to partake in the event. They attended an opening session with entertainment provided by Susan Sparks a trial lawyer turned comedian turned Baptist minister. Sparks had the room in stitches with her Christian comedy. She shared her belief that humor should be kept in church, and demonstrated the age-old ideology that laughter is the best medicine.

The breakout sessions included depression in seniors, living a healthy lifestyle, poetry of rural North Carolina, fun with fitness, aging services, and ways to support missions without leaving the church. The most popular session of the day was facilitated by Hertford County’s very own Dr. Robert Cooke of Vidant Women’s Care of Ahoskie. Dr. Cooke is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as lifestyle medicine (one of only 200 in the country and three in NC). His healthy living session taught strategies to modify one’s lifestyle to take control of health.

Immediately following the breakout sessions attendees gathered for a southern lunch buffet and more laughter and community building provided by the comedic stylings of Susan Sparks. Though the day began with clouds and rain, it ended with sunshine, full bellies, minds and hearts. Chowan is grateful for partners Vidant, Eastern AHEC, The North Carolina Baptist Foundation, and Hertford Health Maintenance Alliance (HHMA) Task Force on Aging for contributing to another successful SeniorFEST at Chowan University.

Ch owa n U n i v e r si t y A n n ua l

Scholarship luncheon

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For many students the impact of scholarship assistance cannot be overstated. Chowan awards over $1 million through the scholarship endowment program each year, with more than 300 scholarships representing academic programs, athletics, campus ministry, financial need, merit, and leadership.

At the Annual Scholarship Luncheon, donors and student recipients get to know each other and share their stories. Many donors follow and even mentor their recipients throughout their Chowan career.

“When I first set foot in Columns I fell in love. The campus felt like a home away from home and there was no going back.

Scholarships are just the door to the future.

The more a student has the more they can accomplish without the added financial stress. Without my scholarships, I would not be here today. After I graduate, I plan to pursue my education in Biology to obtain my Doctorate in Neuroscience. Without the help of scholarships, now and in the future, my dreams would remain unfulfilled.”

-Amber Smaltz Chief Presidential Ambassador, Presidential Scholarship for Academics

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“I had no idea how to find a University or how to come to America. I just kept believing that somehow it would work out for me. I knew that if I only had a chance to come here I would succeed. I needed just one opportunity. Thanks to your help my golden opportunity arrived one day. My biggest dream became true because of your help, not only with money, but with time, love, and encouragement. Thanks to your help, I will be able to graduate and support my family.

I will also be able to inspire good children back home to believe in their dreams. That’s the beauty of love, it can easily open doors around the world. I have learned that no

matter how good you are at something you will never reach your goals alone. It simply cannot be done. We need those people beside us to help open the doors. You are helping us open the doors to a better future.”

-Rafeal Gonzales Presidential Ambassador, Tennis Player “My passion for Chowan University runs to the very depths of my soul. When I was in junior high school, my counselor told my parents that I would never be college material. I went to a school much like Chowan, that gave me a chance. Somehow I managed to flourish. The tuition difference

between a state university and Chowan is significant. Because of your gifts, we are able to make it as affordable to attend here as a state university. Even when we have very little to give I want to assure you, the little we can give is made mighty. Sometimes it’s as little as two or three hundred dollars that will open the door for a student to continue here, and because you have given your ten or fifty or a hundred dollars a month as good stewards, we are granted the flexibility to give extraordinary aid and assist students to become extraordinary servants of Jesus

Christ. That’s what you’re doing today, that’s what you’re doing next month when you give again, and that’s why it’s important that next year you continue to give. If this school has learned one thing in her 170 years it’s that we will continue to serve a God who calls young men and women here who don’t have all of the answers, who don’t have their lives down pat, and you make it possible for them to learn and grow and serve.”

-Randy Harrell Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management

L e a r n m o r e a b o u t s c h o l a r s h i p e n d o w m e n t at c h o wa n . e d u/g i v e

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Class of 2017 Chowan University Hall of Fame

Tommy Forbes, Patron

Wilbert Hunter, men's basketball

Andy Kelly, Men's Basketball

Judy Parsons, women's basketball

The Chowan University Athletic Department inducted five new honorees to the Jim Garrison Hall of Fame. The inductees were recognized at halftime of the football game against Virginia State University on Saturday, October 28th, with a banquet and induction ceremony held afterward.

Thomas Edwin "Tommy" Forbes Patron, 1972-1974 Tommy Forbes has been intricately connected to Chowan since his childhood when he, his parents, and his sister (Joan) lived next door to Dr. B. Franklin Lowe, Jr., a college Dean from 1968-2001.

Lowe was instrumental in Tommy's decision to attend Chowan in the early 1970's.

Tommy was President of the Day Student Organization and his commitment to the University has not wavered. He has served as a member and president of the Braves Club, an active member and donor to the Brave Hawks Club, a member of the Chowan University Board of Visitors, and a public address announcer for the men's basketball team for more than 20 years.

In 2015, Tommy was a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award. A Nationwide Insurance agent since 1979, he has been honored by Nationwide with numerous awards and has served as advertising chairperson for Eastern North Carolina and cochairperson for the state of North Carolina.

After graduating from Chowan in 1974, Tommy attended the

Julius Smith, Football

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He graduated from UNC in 1976 with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.

Andy Kelly Men's Basketball, 1988-1990 Andy Kelly was born and raised in Carthage, North Carolina and currently resides in Charlotte. Andy's basketball career began to take shape as a standout player for Union Pines High School Varsity for Carl Salmon from 1986 to 1988. In high school, he received AllConference honors each year, and his senior year he was awarded the Central Tarheel Conference Player of the Year. Andy also achieved the 1,000-point club at Union Pines, where he is also a member of the Union Pines High School Sports Hall of Fame.

Upon high school graduation from Union Pines, Andy received a scholarship to play at Fork Union Military Academy. Andy's team finished that year 33-1.

In 1990, Andy signed with Chowan Junior College under former coach and Chowan Hall of Famer Bob Burke. Andy averaged 16.5 points per game and helped lead Chowan to the National Junior College Tournament.

In 1992, Andy's dream to play at the ACC Division I level was becoming a reality as he signed a scholarship to play with Clemson University under Coach Cliff Ellis. In the 1994-95 season, under Coach Rick Barnes, Andy started 28 games for Clemson. That year, Clemson advanced to the NIT and won 17 games overall. Andy also

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was awarded Most Improved Player following his senior year at Clemson.

Wilbert Hunter Men's Basketball, 1988-1990 Wilbert Hunter came to Chowan in August of 1988 after being recruited by legendary basketball coach, Bob Burke. The Raleigh, North Carolina native attended Athens Drive High School where he was a standout basketball player.

In his senior season the forward averaged 22 points an outing, enough to turn heads of many college coaches. Wilbert was invited to play in the notable East vs. West North Carolina All-Star game, where he dropped 16 points. Ultimately, Wilbert chose Chowan to continue his education and playing career under Burke.

Wilbert played for two seasons for the famed coach Bob Burke and achieved remarkable success. In his sophomore season, he averaged 16.4 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. He was instrumental in Chowan's drive to the 1992 NJCAA Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas. Hunter led the Braves in total points and total rebounds in the 1992 season. He was the second player to ever achieve that mark in Burke's years at Chowan. Hunter was named to All-Coastal Conference Team and the All-Tournament Team in the Coal Classic (Jasper, Ala.) Hunter was also named to the AllTournament Team in Chowan's own tournament, The NBC Classic.

Also in his sophomore season, Hunter shot 55% from the floor (220 of 399) and 66% from the foul line (100 of 151). Hunter was named the team's MVP in his last season with the team.

Following his years at Chowan, Wilbert continued his playing career at East Carolina University. In 1993, Hunter would also help lead the East Carolina Pirates only their 2nd NCAA appearance the school's history where they played the eventual NCAA Champion the North Carolina Tarheels. In two seasons with the Pirates, he averaged just over six points and six rebounds a game.

Judy Parsons Women's Basketball, 1985-86, 1994-1997 Franklin, Virginia native Judy Parsons did not venture far from her roots when she first came to Chowan in 1985. She attended Chowan, then a junior college, for one brief year before returning in 1994. Judy's success on the basketball court was inspirational to many because she was nearly 10 years older than many of her teammates. Judy, also known as "Jumping Judy", made a name for herself with her grit and determination inside the paint while wearing the Chowan Blue and White.

Judy played high school basketball at Franklin High School in Franklin, VA under the legendary coach, Peggy Wilkins. After a stellar high school career, she came to Chowan in 1985. When she returned nearly 10 years later, she still had three years of eligibility, and became an integral part of the Chowan women's basketball

team. Rebounding was Judy's specialty and she racked up doubledigit rebounds frequently in her three seasons. She amassed 27 double doubles from 1994-1997.

Judy also played one year of softball and one year of tennis while at Chowan. She graduated in 1998 with a B.S. in Sports Science.

After college, she received her teaching degree from Old Dominion University in 2000 and began teaching Health and Physical Education at Luther Porter Jackson Middle School in Surry County, Virginia. She coached the middle school girls' basketball team to their first win in 2000 and took the team to 3 winning seasons before a debilitating illness forced her to stop teaching and coaching.

Julius Smith Football, 1971-1973 Julius Smith came to Chowan in August of 1971 after being recruited by Hall of Fame Coach, Jim Garrison. The Cincinnati, Ohio native was a standout running back from Robert A. Taft High School and right away made an impact on the field for the thenBraves.

Although his freshman year was shortened due to injury, Julius was named All Coastal Conference Honorable Mention after rushing for 572 yards and five touchdowns. The hard as nails running back helped to lead the offensive attack in Garrison's wishbone offense.

In his sophomore season, Julius scampered for 957 season yards and hit pay dirt nine times. After one of the featured backs in the wishbone in his first season, Julius excelled as the top offensive back in sophomore year in Garrison's new I-formation offense. He garnered All Coastal Conference honors, All Region 10 honors, and Coastal Conference Offensive Back of the Year honors. His play during his last season at Chowan helped him lock down a scholarship to play for the University of Cincinnati. On his play as a Bearcat, Julius set a school record with a 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

LTC (R) Julius Smith served 30 years as a member of the Department of Defense. He retired from the United States Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2009 after 24 years of selfless service. Julius served active duty Army tours in Germany, Japan, and other global positions. During Desert Shield/Storm he received the Bronze Star for outstanding Psychological Operations logistic support. After retiring from active duty service, he served from 2009-2015 as a GG-14 Logistics Management Specialist for the Department of Defense, Defense Intelligence Agency. He also supported the Army Intelligence operations in Kabul, Afghanistan from 2013-2014.

Julius has a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University and a B.S. from Virginia State University. He received an Associate of Science in Golf Complex and Operations Management from the Golf Academy of America in 2017.

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Ch o wa n A n n o u n c e s

Conference Realignment In May, Chowan Announced plans to forge new partnerships for the University and the athletic department. Chowan's nineteen-sport athletic department will realign with the Conference Carolinas as a full-member while maintaining an associate relationship with the CIAA for both football and women's bowling.

The Hawks currently compete as an associate member of Conference Carolinas in eight sports (men's and women's soccer, women's swimming, men's and women's lacrosse, men's and women's tennis, and women's golf).

Chowan introduced a men's swimming program in the fall of 2018 that will compete immediately in Conference Carolinas alongside the women's program. The Hawks baseball program will also enter Conference Carolinas in 2018-19 academic year after playing as an independent for the 2018 season.

With the addition of Chowan as a full-time member of the league, Conference Carolinas will have a 12team membership that includes Barton, Belmont Abbey, Chowan, Converse, Emmanuel (Ga.), Erskine, King (Tenn.), Lees-McRae, Limestone, Mount Olive, North Greenville, and Southern Wesleyan.

Chowan has been a full-member of the CIAA from 2007-08 to 2018-19. At the time, Chowan and the CIAA made history after being accepted as the only full-time member institution that was not an HBCU. The Hawks will continue the relationship with the CIAA as an associate member for both football and women's bowling. A timeline for the official realignment has yet to be announced.

Conference Carolinas make-up Barton, Belmont Abbey, Chowan, Converse, Emmanuel (Ga.), Erskine, King (Tenn.), Lees-McRae, Limestone, Mount Olive, North Greenville, and Southern Wesleyan.

Conference Carolinas conducts conference championships in 21 sports (11 women and 10 men), with the addition of men's swimming and men's wrestling starting in 2018-19. Women's titles are determined in cross country, soccer, volleyball, basketball, indoor track & field, swimming, golf, lacrosse, softball, tennis and outdoor track & field outdoor track. Men's championships include cross country, soccer, basketball, indoor track & field, baseball, golf, lacrosse, tennis, outdoor track & field outdoor track and volleyball.

Timetable Chowan will continue to compete in the CIAA in the nine sports (men's and women's basketball, bowling, men's and women's cross country, football, men's golf, softball, and volleyball) until the end of the 2018-19 academic year. Baseball and men's swimming will compete in Conference Carolinas starting in the fall of 2018. Football and bowling will remain as associate members in the CIAA starting in the fall of 2019. Chowan will begin play as a full-time member in Conference Carolinas in 17 sports during the 2019-2020 academic year.

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s pr in g s po rts r o u n d u p

GO CU HA WK S.C OM les, and ticket information for complete athletics coverage, schedu

Men's & Women's TENNIS Co n fe r e n c e C HAM PIONS

The 2018 season saw the Chowan University tennis program secure multiple championships in their first year as members of Conference Carolinas. The Women's Tennis team secured their first title with a 5-0 victory over Limestone, while the Men's Tennis team grabbed their first title with a 5-1 victory over Belmont Abbey.

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Women's Swimming A St r o n g Sta r t

In their first year of postseason competition, the Hawks finished third at the Conference Carolinas Swimming Championships on February 14-17.

Julia Chmielewska and Kjahna O took home individual championships along with 13 total podium finishes. Six Hawks were named All-Conference.

Men's Swimming B e co m e s 19 t h Nc a a s p o r t

In December, Chowan Athletics announced the addition of Men’s Swimming as its 19th NCAA sponsored sport to compete alongside the women’s program for the 2018-19 season.

Matt Hood, head coach of the women’s program, will also handle the head coaching duties of the men’s program.

Nikki White was introduced as the assistant coach for both programs.

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Women's Basketball

The Chowan Women’s Basketball team posted a 19-9 overall record and a trip to the CIAA Tournament Quarterfinals. The Hawks were ranked in the top-10 in the region for the entire season. Chowan picked up their third win over a nationally ranked opponent under LaToya Jones with a win over #5 Virginia Union at home.

Dhyamond Crenshaw and Chantel Roberts were named to the All-CIAA Team. Dhyamond Crenshaw became the fourth Chowan player in DII history to score 1,000 points in her career.

Chantel Roberts was named to the CoSIDA Academic All-Region team.

baseball

The Chowan Baseball team participated in "Mustache March" in support of the Triangle Down Syndrome Network (TDSN) in honor of former Chowan baseball catcher Doug Warren's son, Grayson "Little G" Warren. The players asked for sponsors to pledge $1 for every day that a player donned a mustache in the month of March. The coaches participated in the fun as well, but at $2 a day.

The project raised over $1,000 and had 25+ sponsors.

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Class Acts Remembering fr a n k h o l d i n g Frank Brown Holding, friend of Chowan University, passed away on May 26, 2018 at age 89.

Born on Dec. 7, 1928, Frank graduated from the Darlington School in Rome, GA, and Wake Forest College. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard before joining First Citizens Bank in 1956. During his 58-year First Citizens career, he served in executive management and on the company board from 1962 until his 2014 retirement, making deep and continuing contributions to the banking industry in the Southeast and nationwide.

The North Carolina Bankers Association inducted him into the North Carolina Banking Hall of Fame in 2013.

He led the acquisition of the Anderson Bank of Dillon, SC, which would later become First Citizens Bank and Trust Company, Inc. of South Carolina, growing from a single bank to 185 branches across South Carolina and Georgia. His work and impact were recognized when he was awarded the Order of the Palmetto (2003), the highest civilian honor in the State of South Carolina.

While he took great pride in his work in South Carolina, his roots ran deep in North Carolina. He was heavily involved in the Southern Bank of Mount Olive, NC. Over three decades of service as a Johnston County commissioner, he was instrumental in recruiting industry to the area and driving economic growth.

As a philanthropist, there were no projects too small or too large to capture his imagination. He served as a member of the boards of the North Carolina Global TransPark Foundation, the North Carolina Community Foundation, the Golden LEAF Foundation and the North Carolina State Ports Authority. His passion for educational institutions that prepared North Carolinians to lead productive lives for which he recieved an honorary doctorate from Chowan University in 2001.

While a banker by trade, he was a farmer at heart and spent joyful hours checking on crops or working on various projects to improve the land.

At chowan.edu/classacts you can post an update, share a photo, and be part of the news at Chowan University especially if it’s your reunion year. For Brave Hawks who have joined the Chowanian society - that’s 50+ years since graduation - every year is a reunion year!

1960s

Jerry Harper ’63 retired on December 31, 2017 after 50 years of ministry.

Brigitte M. Elko ’66 published her first children's bookin October, titled Apples Holes Ants and Bees but No Blankie.

Marta Vann ’68 earned her second Doctorate, the Doctor of Ministry degree, from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Her dissertation was titled The Difference Jesus Makes: A Return to Biblically-Based Pastoral Theology, Ministry, and Leadership for Pastors and Chaplains.

20 0 0s

Susan M. Brown ’01 completed 15 years as an English teacher at Gates County High School in Gatesville, NC and received her Master’s degree in Reading Education (K-12) with an Academically Gifted license from East Carolina University.

Dr. Lachelle Waller ’01 served as Master of Ceremony at the Chemistry Graduation at Virginia Tech in December 2017.

Stephanie ’08 and Taylor Furlough ’06 welcomed baby girl Landry Hayes Furlough to their family January 12, 2018.

2010s

Shanice Lawton ’11 accepted a position at Liberty University as an Admissions Counselor.

Elizabeth Miller Villegas ’12 accepted a position at First Baptist Church of Ahoskie as the youth and children’s minister as of January 2, 2018.

Beverly Kwaye ’15 earned her Masters degree in Journalism and Public Affairs from American University and recently landed a new position serving as a Junior Marketing Writer for TCG, Inc. Frederick A. Javon ’17 gained United States citizenship in March. Fred currently serves at Chowan as a Security Officer.

Torrion Lee ’17 served as a CIAA graduate assistant and was selected to attend the 2018 NCAA Emerging Leaders Seminar.

He visited the NCAA Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana from January 24-26 to gain more professional development opportunities and progress his career paths in college athletics.

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Class Acts Clockwise from the Right: Shanice Lawton ’11; Fred Javon ’17; Landry Hayes Furlough, daugther of Stephanie ’08 and Taylor ’06; Apple Holes ants and bees but no blankie by Brigitte Elko ’66

MAKE PLANS TO join us for Homecoming 2018 Help us celebrate 170 years of Faith in Your Future at Homecoming 2018. Join us for a big barbecue under the Alumni and Friends Tent at the the Blue & White tailgate. There will be a dessert bar at half-time, face painting for children, a photo booth, entertainment, and more. Then, help us cheer on the Hawks as they square off against Virginia Union for the Homecoming Football Game. Subscribe to The Chowanian, our weekly newsletter, and be the first to know about additional Homeocming events as they are announced. Visit chowan.edu/subscribe.

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Class Acts Facu lt y N e w s & N ot e s Tom Collins, Chair and Professor of Sport Management received the 2017-2018 Faculty Excellence in Community Service Award for his role as Youth Director at Conway Baptist Church.

Dr. Christopher Cook, Assistant Professor of Music, performed at the Electro Acoustic Barn Dance at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, FL, on February 8-11. His composition, "Gam aka" was performed at the festival.

Dr. Cicely Cottrell, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, served as the Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College Annual Community Diversity Breakfast keynote speaker.

Dr. Bo Dame, Associate Professor of Physical Sciences, presented at a Seminar on Coastal Issues at East Carolina University on February 13. The seminar was sponsored by the Coastal Resource Management Program.

Dr. John Dilustro, Professor of Biology, has been appointed to the board of the Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. Dr. Ashley Doane, Associate Professor of Psychology, presented at the Society for Personality and Social Psychology Annual Convention in Atlanta on March 1-4. The title of her presentation was "Risky Behaviors across Different Modes of Communication as Predictors of Cyberbullying Victimization."

Dr. Paul R Gilliam III, Associate Professor of Religion, published a new book titled Ignatius of Antioch and the Arian Controversy.

Dr. Mary Hellmann, Associate Professor of Music, performed

In Memoriam William Edwin “Joe” Cox ’65 passed March 16, 2018.

Gene Hardin, long-time faithful supporter and friend of Chowan University passed away on March 10, 2018.

Mary Hood Burrough ’72 went to be with her Lord Friday evening, January 19, 2018, after a 10-month battle with recurring cancer.

at the Electro Acoustic Barn Dance at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, FL, on February 8-11.

Dr. Joel McCormick, Assistant Professor of Recreation, presented a paper entitled "Fear of Crime: Not in My Park!" at the Carolinas Joint Recreation and Parks Conference on December 11-13 in Greensboro, NC. Becky McLawhorn who taught Mathematics and Education classes at Chowan from 1986-2001, retired from Gates County High School in 2012 and is now a full time “MeMaw" to her two grandsons. She enjoys volunteering with the Chowan Baptist Association Camp Cale Board, singing in the Church Choir and spending time with family.

Jacob Muldowney, Assistant Professor of Art, has work on display in eleven galleries around the world, including Spain, and the Netherlands.

Chris Rupsch, Dean and Professor of Art, received the 20172018 Faculty Excellence in Community Service Award for establishing the "Just in Time Food Pantry" for needy Chowan Students.

Dr. Teresa Santis, Assistant Professor of Education, presented “RTI: Students’ Perceptions,” at the North Carolina Reading Association Conference in Raleigh, NC, and "Growing All Students: One School's Journey," at the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Common Ground Conference in Greensboro, NC. Dr. Edward Snyder, Assistant Professor of History, serves as a consultant for a book on children and the Holocaust for Red Line Publishing.

Dr. Seok Yoon, Associate Professor of Exercise Science, received the McDowell Columns Scholar Prize

Submit your clas s act: chowan.edu/classact

Our alumni and friends represent thousands of stories and one family. Helps us keep the rest of the family up to date about the latest chapters in your story. If you've celebrated a birth or marriage, landed your dream job, or have a fond Chowan memory to share, we want to hear about it.

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D i d yo u k n ow t h at Ch owa n U n i v e r si t y w e lco m e s g i f t s o f Sto ck /se cu r i t i e s?

E v e ry y e a r , C h o wa n r e c e i v e s g i f t s o f s to c k & s e c u r i t i e s fr o m g e n e r o us su pp o r t e r s j us t l i k e yo u.

A g i f t o f a ppr e ci at e d s to c k g e n e r a l ly o ffe r s a t wo f o l d ta x a dva n tag e: 1. You avoid paying capital gains tax on the increased value of the stock.

2. You receive an income-tax deduction for the full fair-market value of the stock at the time of the gift.

If you have owned stock for a “long-term” period (more than a year) you qualify for these significant tax advantages. Additionally, the IRA Charitable Rollover is permanent, so gifts made from your IRA (up to $100,000 per year) are not reportable as taxable income and qualify toward required minimum distribution (RMD) which can lower your income taxes.

It's easy to make a gift of stock to Chowan University. To learn more contact John Tayloe, Vice President for Development today. tayloj1@chowan.edu or 252-398-1232.

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage paid Norfolk, VA Permit no. 33 Office of Development • One University Place • Murfreesboro, NC 27855 www.chowan.edu/give

a Prayer for Chowan On her 170th Anniversary Ja n . 1 to D e c . 31, 2018 O n O c tob er 11, 2018 , Ch owan w ill cross a mil es to n e to ce l eb r ate 170 year s of Faith in Your Future.

Pl eas e join us as we pr ay w ith o n e voice an d o n e h ear t thro u gh o ut this imp o r t ant year.

Gra c io u s God, We give th anks for all yo u h ave don e for Chowan Unive rs ity ove r th e pa s t on e hun dred se ve nty years .

You h ave blessed u s wh e n t im es we re good, and s u stain ed u s wh e n th ey we re h ard .

You h ave blessed u s with fa c ulty an d s taff who h ave b ee n prepared to h elp ea ch s u ccess ive ge n e rat ion .

You h ave bl essed u s with s t u de nts who h ave t r ied, in sh a des of s u ccess, to m ake this world b et te r.

You h ave bl essed u s with this pla ce, in this t im e, with oppor t unit ies for th e a dvan ce m e nt of yo ur kingdom .

Help u s now, we pray, to cont inu e th e ta sk b eg un so m any years ago.

May our effor ts honor yo u, thro ugh Chr is t o ur Lord, Am e n .