Link Magazine - Fall 2020

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Facing the future Academy of Freedom renovation project prepares facility for renewed purpose

In This Issue

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G R E E T I N G S F R O M D R . CO RY H I N E S ’ 97, HPU PRESIDENT

2 Campus News 8 Alumni Association Spotlight

As we began 2020 with great optimism and excitement for what the Lord would continue to do at Howard Payne, I think few of us could have foreseen the course of events that would unfold. The year thus far has certainly not been an easy one for our university, our nation or our world.

10 Howard Payne University Artifacts: Academy’s Early Years, 1960s-1970s 12 What I love about HPU: By Jordan Favors, HPU junior

However, the optimism and excitement remain. With the Lord’s provision, the HPU family has persisted and we have been blessed to welcome students back to campus to begin the fall semester. We have adapted to a “new normal” and we look to great things that are in this university’s future.

On the following pages, you will find numerous articles about what the Lord is doing at HPU that give me cause for optimism and excitement in the face of adversity. As I read stories about some of our students, alumni and personnel, I celebrate the work that God has done in each of their lives and the work He continues to do through them. As I read about campus improvement projects like the Academy of Freedom renovation and the Newbury Family Welcome Center, I think of the positive environment facilities such as these will create for generations of students to come.

Even in challenging times, HPU’s age-old core values remain. This is the Lord’s school. I am proud to steward this institution alongside the HPU family in service of the Lord.

Please join me in continuing to pray for our enrollment and fundraising efforts, for the health and safety of our students and personnel and for the Kingdom impact this university continues to have on countless lives.

Blessings to each of you,

Cory Hines, Ph.D. President

DR. HINES PHOTO BY HEATHER NIX; CAMPUS PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

I encourage you to share this magazine with anyone who might be uplifted by the many positive stories about HPU. These stories could serve as a meaningful introduction to HPU’s close-knit, Christ-centered community for a prospective student or a prospective donor.

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Cover story – Facing the future: Academy of Freedom renovation project prepares facility for renewed purpose

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Moved by music: Dr. Elizabeth Wallace ’71 reflects on a lifetime of sharing music with others

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26 To be human: HPU’s Dr. Millard Kimery takes a Christ-centered approach to the study of the humanities 28 A bigger plan: How God guided Sarah Ramos ’20 to HPU 30 Making the most of the opportunities: Brad Erskin ’20 32 The business of relationships: HPU’s University Services office finds joy in serving others 36 Growing through community: Recent graduate Paul Chandler looks back on his growth at HPU 38 In Memoriam 40 Alma Mater Inside back cover: Follow HPU Online Back cover: Student Perspective

Office of University Marketing and Communications: Kyle Mize Assistant Vice President for Communications Jarvis Green Graphic Designer and Chief Photographer Rebekah Sterling ’18 Communications Assistant and Social Media Coordinator Seth Rainey ’19 Communications Writer and Website Coordinator Coby Sauce, MBA ’14 Part-Time Communications Specialist Design and layout

by Kyle Mize and Jarvis Green Academy of Freedom artwork on cover by PBK

The Link is published by the Office of University Marketing and Communications at Howard Payne University Articles may be reprinted with permission Correspondence: link@hputx.edu or The Link Office of University Marketing and Communications Howard Payne University 1000 Fisk Street Brownwood, Texas 76801 325-649-8009

Campus News HPU hosts groundbreaking ceremony for Newbury Family Welcome Center

By Kyle Mize

Howard Payne University held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 25 to celebrate the start of construction for the Newbury Family Welcome Center. The facility is named for the family of Dr. Don Newbury, a 1961 graduate of HPU, president of the university from 1985 to 1997 and current chancellor.

The event was attended by Dr. Newbury; his wife, Brenda, and their family; and numerous alumni, community members and other friends of the university. In addition to Dr. Newbury and Dr. Cory Hines, HPU president and 1997 HPU graduate, other individuals who took part in the ceremony were Deborah Cartwright, chairwoman of HPU’s Board of Trustees and 1973 HPU graduate; Dr. Ronny Marriott, member of HPU’s Board of Trustees, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Burleson and 1987 HPU graduate; the Honorable Draco Miller, Brownwood mayor pro tem and city councilman; Dr. Chris Liebrum, HPU’s vice president for external affairs and 1973 HPU graduate; and Dr. Richard Jackson, former member of HPU’s Board of Trustees, president of the Jackson Center for Evangelism and Encouragement and 1961 HPU graduate. A reception in the university’s Grace Chapel concluded the afternoon’s events.

The welcome center will be located at the intersection of Austin and Center Avenues on the historic former site of Old Main, the university’s original building, which was destroyed by fire in 1984. The new building will serve as an inviting facility for visitors to HPU’s campus and help form the first impression of the university for future students. It will house the Office of Admissions and spaces for meetings and events.

“As home to our admissions team, this facility will be an instrument used by the Lord to draw students to Howard Payne so they can have a student experience that equips them to leave our campus ready to make a Kingdom impact through their vocational callings,” said Dr. Hines. “To say that I’m thrilled and humbled by the opportunity we have as a university to construct a new ‘front door’ for Howard Payne for future generations would be an understatement.

Today, the dreams of so many people become a reality.”

Dr. Hines expressed his enthusiasm for honoring Dr. Newbury and family through the naming of the new facility.

“There is no one I know who is more deserving of this honor than Dr. Newbury,” said Dr. Hines. “He has given the majority of his adult life to being an advocate and serving our beloved Howard Payne.”

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ARCHITECT’S RENDERING BY QUORUM

An architect’s rendering depicts the planned Newbury Family Welcome Center at Howard Payne University.

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Pictured at the groundbreaking ceremony for HPU’s Newbury Welcome Center are, from left, Deborah Cartwright ’73, chairwoman of HPU’s Board of Trustees; Melinda Hines, first lady; Dr. Cory Hines ’97, president; Dr. Don Newbury ’61, chancellor and former president; Brenda Newbury, former first lady; Marc Dingler ’84, member of the Facilities Committee of the Board of Trustees; and Robert Morrison ’82, chairman of the Facilities Committee of the Board of Trustees.

PHOTO BY KYLE MIZE

Dr. Newbury shared his appreciation and conveyed his confidence in the university’s direction moving forward.

“This was the highest of honors for the Newbury family, one that includes at least a dozen who hold HPU degrees,” Dr. Newbury said. “We are honored, humbled and delighted to have participated in an event so lovingly and thoroughly conducted. Brenda and I are profoundly grateful, and we have the highest hopes for HPU in the days ahead. We fully believe Dr. Cory and Mrs. Melinda Hines and the team he has assembled are the very best possible people for facing uncertain days like these. We pray God’s richest blessings on them and on all who love our old school.”

Dr. Newbury added his aspiration for Dr. Hines’ ultimate place among the two longest-serving presidents in the university’s history.

“My fondest hope is that the Hines administration will approach and perhaps even exceed the tenures of Dr. Guy D. Newman (1955-1973) and even Dr. Thomas H. Taylor (1929-1955).”

Dr. Newbury is fondly remembered for his friendly personality and leadership displayed throughout his time leading the university. The Newburys were known to frequently open their home to students and university personnel. During his tenure as HPU president, the university added numerous new facilities, including the Mabee University Center, the Mamie D. McCullough Athletic Center and the Thompson H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

Academic Complex, and experienced a major resurgence in student enrollment.

Before serving as HPU president, Dr. Newbury spent much of his career in higher-education leadership roles, including president of Western Texas College in Snyder (1981-1985) and community relations director at Tarrant County College (1967-1980). He was a member of the Council of Presidents of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and served as the president of the Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association and its successor, the American Southwest Conference. He also worked in sports media, hosting radio programs and working as a correspondent for several major Texas newspapers. He has published several books, currently writes a widely published, weekly newspaper column called “The Idle American” and serves as part-time director of senior adults’ activities at First Baptist Church in Burleson. He is a 1956 graduate of Early High School.

Dr. and Mrs. Newbury have three daughters: the late Julie (Mrs. Bryan) Choate ’92, Jana (Mrs. Kyle) Penney ’95 and Jeanie (Mrs. Ryan) McDaniel ’97. The Newburys also have six grandchildren: Ben and Brittin Choate; Kedren and Juliana Penney; and Jonah and Addison McDaniel.

Opportunities to support the project remain. For more information on how to contribute, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at development@hputx.edu or 325-649-8006.

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HPU welcomes BGCT’s Dr. Evans and Dr. Hardage for discussion on race relations

By Seth Rainey ’19

Howard Payne University recently hosted Dr. Michael Evans, president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT) and pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Mansfield, and Dr. David Hardage, executive director of the BGCT, to speak about the need for Christians to listen to and seek good for others. The message presented by Dr. Evans and Dr. Hardage was a continuation of a series of recorded discussions the two had earlier in 2020 regarding the role of Christians in race relations.

“We agreed that we need to help our fellow men and women, that we need to have a dialogue about race relations and how we as Christians should model that to the world,” said Dr. Evans. “We believe that the ‘big fix’ begins in the church and the body of Christ. When we look at John 13:3335, that is quite clear.”

Dr. Hardage echoed Dr. Evans and said that current events and general public awareness are offering Christians the opportunity to take the lead in finding resolutions to

longstanding issues.

“As Christians, we can step in and bridge the gap between society and church and demonstrate what it means to love one another and to practice that love,” he said. “This is a moment in time that God has given us and we can’t let it pass.”

The discussion was held as part of HPU’s weekly Chapel services this year, which have the overarching theme of “Love One Another.” The foundational verses for the theme are John 13:34-35 (NIV), in which Jesus says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

“This emphasis on loving one another is an outgrowth of our university’s mission to equip students for intellectual inquiry, personal and professional integrity and service to God and humanity,” said Dr. Cory Hines ’97, HPU president.

“Throughout the course of this year, we will be talking about how we can obey this command from Christ. I’m grateful that we had the opportunity to start this semester’s Chapel services with insights from Dr. Evans and Dr. Hardage.”

PHOTO BY KYLE MIZE

Dr. David Hardage (above) and Dr. Michael Evans (right) were special guests at a recent HPU Chapel service.

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COVID-19 precautions give new look to campus life

By Seth Rainey ’19

Howard Payne University’s fall 2020 semester began on August 24 with health guidelines and protocols in place to maximize the safety of students and personnel. Fall 2020 American Southwest Conference competition has been moved to spring 2021 as a result of a decision by the ASC Council of Presidents.

“Providing quality Christ-centered education to students in a safe atmosphere is HPU’s foremost goal,” said Dr. Cory Hines ’97, HPU president. “We have been excited to welcome students back and to bring our vibrant campus community back together.”

In March, due to the rapidly advancing health crisis caused by COVID-19, leadership at Howard Payne University took the extraordinary step of temporarily moving coursework to an online format and canceled upcoming events, a decision eventually extended until the conclusion of the spring 2020 semester.

“While difficult, concern for the health and well-being of our students and personnel mandated that we take this step,” said Dr. Hines. “Due to policies in place before the decision, diligent work by our faculty and a motivated student body, we were able to successfully complete the semester remotely.”

Moving forward, HPU continues to monitor health conditions within the state and nation. The university’s COVID-19 Response Team has developed contingency plans in response to scenarios should health conditions change. For more information about the university’s response, please visit www.hputx.edu/covid-19-information.

Masks and social distancing are parts of the daily routine for students this semester, such as HPU senior Morgan Patterson.

HPU Price Promise tuition program announced

PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

Howard Payne University recently announced the HPU Price Promise, guaranteeing tuition costs will remain the same from a student’s first through senior years. Beginning in fall 2021, all new students’ tuition will be locked in at their starting rate until they graduate, as long as they remain enrolled full time in consecutive fall and spring semesters at HPU and continue to make satisfactory progress toward a degree.

Dr. Ben Martin ’04, associate vice president for enrollment management, said the HPU Price Promise is an extension of HPU’s commitment to providing affordable and Christ-centered education to its students and their families.

“Here at HPU, we care about our students,” said Dr. Martin. “In a world full of uncertainty, we want to make sure they can depend on us. The HPU Price Promise comes out of a desire to help provide our students with certainty and stability as they plan to invest in their education and the future.”

For more information, please contact the Office of Admissions at 325-649-8020 or e-mail enroll@hputx.edu.

– Seth Rainey ’19 H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

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HPU and Buckner International continue partnership

By Seth Rainey ’19

In February, non-profit Buckner International and Howard Payne University announced the launch of a collaboration to give students opportunities to better serve their communities and learn about ministry and service. Before the cancellation of HPU’s spring events and the transition to online classes, HPU and Buckner were able to conduct meetings as part of the partnership.

Students and faculty from the Departments of Social Work and Criminal Justice traveled to Lubbock in early March to meet and serve with volunteers and staff from Buckner International. While there, the group hosted a “Parents’ Night Out” event to provide an evening of childcare for area foster families and a “Mom’s Morning Out” event for families in Buckner’s Family Pathway program.

Rachel Derrington-Bourke, chair of the Department of Social Work and associate professor of social work, commented on the value of the collaboration for HPU students.

“We are very excited to collaborate with Buckner in an effort to train our future professionals on cutting-edge practices used to engage with and heal traumatized individuals,” she said. “Learning how to offer services that include this specialized trauma-informed care creates better outcomes in systems like education, criminal justice and child welfare.

Further, trauma-informed care gives professionals the tools to help their clients reach their full human potential.”

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Artwork by Sarah “Abi” Brown ’20 is the first in the scholarship’s new permanent collection.

HPU announces Jack White Character Scholarship recipient and establishes related art collection HPU recently named Haleigh Clevenger, a senior studio art and English major from Brownwood, as the recipient of the Jack White Character Scholarship for the 2020-2021 academic year. HPU also announced the creation of the Jack White Character Scholarship Permanent Collection with a piece by Sarah “Abi” Brown ’20 to serve as the first entry. As a student, Brown was the inaugural recipient of the scholarship.

The Jack White Character Scholarship was established in 2018 in memory of Jack White ’55 by his wife, Mikki Senkarik, and former Baylor University head football coach Grant Teaff and his wife, Donell.

White developed a lasting friendship with Teaff after he requested White create new artwork for the team.

White graduated from HPU in 1955. He became a renowned artist and was awarded the title of State Artist of Texas in 1975. During the course of his life and career, he painted portraits of such notables as Lyndon B. Johnson, Ray Kroc, Julius Irving and Tom Landry.

“I’m sure Jack is smiling down from Heaven with joy knowing these two fine young women have been selected for this award,” Senkarik said.

– Seth Rainey ’19 H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

CLEVENGER AND BROWN PHOTOS BY SETH RAINEY ’19; HINES AND REYES PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

In February, Dr. Cory Hines ’97 (left), HPU president, and Dr. Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International, signed documents formally instituting a collaboration to give students opportunities to better serve their communities and learn about ministry and service.

Haleigh Clevenger is this year’s recipient of the Jack White Character Scholarship.

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HPU El Paso Center Highlights In May and August, the El Paso Center celebrated the graduation of nine students. Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences graduates were Laura Serrano, Victoria Maldonado (double major), Pedro Preciado, Adam Drake, Rodolfo Castro, Melory Carter, Nicole Wilson and Damone Hopewell. The Master of Business Administration graduate was Joanne Jurado. HPU El Paso also recognized nine students who were named recipients of center-specific scholarships during the academic year (fall ’19/spring ’20). Recipients were Raquel Cowans,

Rose Chavez, Bernadette Rowlison, Kelly Knott, Anabel Argueta, Brenda Palma, Irma Garcia and Audria Rausch.

New HPU Alumni Association El Paso Chapter officers were introduced in the spring. Newly selected

officers include President Roxanne Jurado ’09 and ’17, Vice President Russell Ubinger ’06, Treasurer Martha Barranco ’14 and Secretary Everardo Hernandez ’19.

Former chapter presidents Blanca Gamez ’09 and ’16 and Priscilla Macias ’06 and ’18 also continue to assist chapter efforts as ex-officio members.

HPU New Braunfels Center Highlights A current HPU NB student traveled to New York City during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic there.

Kenneth McKenzie, a U.S. Army veteran, worked alongside 200 other volunteers to set up and oper-

ate three tents to accommodate overflow from the area hospitals. McKenzie is set to graduate from HPU in New Braunfels in December. He was also recognized as the Most Outstanding Non-Traditional Student during the 2019-2020 academic year.

The HPU New Braunfels Center graduated 11

students – six MBA students and five undergraduate

students – in May and August.

The center has also created local dual credit partnerships, which included 140 dual credit students enrolled at HPU this fall.

Additionally, the center raised almost $9,000 during The Big Give S.A. that created more scholarship funding for students. A help fund to provide assistance for students during challenging times was also created.

AmazonSmile customers can now support HPU in the Amazon shopping app on iOS and Android mobile phones! Simply follow these instructions to turn on AmazonSmile and start generating donations.

First, open the Amazon Shopping app on your device. Then, go into the main menu of the Amazon Shopping app and tap into “Settings.” Tap “AmazonSmile” and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

If you do not have the latest version of the Amazon Shopping app, please update your app.

For other ways to support HPU financially, please visit www.hputx.edu/give.

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Alumni Association Spotlight To share and to serve Kindness of HPU alumni enabled Sarah Flaim ’05 to serve others

By Rebekah Sterling ’18

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH FLAIM ’05

When it comes to bringing students to Howard Payne University, one of the most meaningful and effective tools is a story. The impact of alumni sharing their love for HPU and memories of their time here cannot be measured. This has been the experience of many, including Sarah (Rozier) Flaim, a 2005 Howard Payne graduate.

Flaim first heard about HPU at a young age from her uncle, Richard Rozier ’86. Years later, while in high school, she met another HPU grad, Dr. James E. “Jim” McEachern ’62, who would ultimately have a great impact on her life.

“He was on the Board of Trustees and very involved in my high school,” shared Flaim. “He was offering scholarships to students from my school who attended HPU. His love of HPU was contagious and, thanks to his faithful support, the reason I was able to attend.”

Flaim has many treasured memories from her time as a student, including being in the band her freshman year, serving on the Student Activities Council and bringing back HPU Fest. She also continued to have positive experiences with alumni. On one such occasion, Flaim was living in an on-campus apartment that had originally been designated for married students.

“My roommate and I came home to find an envelope taped to our door,” said Flaim. “Inside was a note from a couple who had lived there during their time at HPU. They discussed how much they cherished their time there

and how, as newlyweds in col lege, they had str uggled financially. They said they wanted to give us some money for dinner out on them. It was such a thoughtful gesture that blessed my roommate and me. One day, I hope to be able to visit and do the same thing.”

These experiences, as well as other people she met along the way, were very influential for Flaim.

“The friendships I made at HPU helped shape who I am,” she said. “Even though we aren’t as close as we used to be, I still keep in touch with many dear friends from Howard Payne.”

Flaim graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public policy. She explained how HPU helped prepare her for her future career.

“I didn’t realize it when I graduated, but one of the most valuable things I did when I was at college was write term papers,” she said. “I had no idea then that I would end up in a job where I write and craft arguments and messaging for a living. I am so glad I was blessed with the opportunity to go away to college, earn my degree and put it to good use.”

After graduating, Flaim went to work for a congressional campaign in central Texas and, later, for Jeb Hensarling, who represented the 5th Congressional District of Texas. In 2011, Hensarling promoted Flaim to press secretary and she moved to Washington, D.C. – something that she had always dreamed of doing.

“I was so excited to be given the opportunity,” said Flaim.

“I thought I would only be here for a few years, just long enough to gain some valuable experience. Nine years, two

of the committee, Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX).

“I love having a front-row seat to history being made,” said Flaim. “The committee that I work for has been directly responsible for crafting each of the supplemental bills that Congress has passed to fund our response to COVID-19.

When my daughter learns about this time in school, I’ll be able to tell her the small part I played in combatting the pandemic and helping those most impacted by it.”

Flaim hopes that, by serving in this way, she can help leave the world a little better than she found it.

“I grew up in a very patriotic family,” she said. “My grandfathers, my brother and my cousin all served in the military.

While I am not cut out for the armed forces, working in government is my way of serving and giving back.”

To find out more about the Howard Payne University Alumni Association and related activities, please visit www.hputx.edu/alumni.

Fall and Spring Family Reunions held in lieu of Homecoming 2020 Howard Payne University scheduled two new events – the HPU Fall Family Reunion and the HPU Spring Family Reunion – in place of this year’s Homecoming celebration. The Fall Family Reunion was held on October 10, 2020, with the Spring Family Reunion to be held on February 20, 2021. Both events are on a smaller scale than the typical Homecoming weekend, in response to safety concerns and protocols related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Homecoming 2020 was originally to be held as part of the Stinger Spectacular, a large event also comprised of the university’s Family Weekend and Yellow Jacket Preview. While families, alumni and prospective students attended special campus events on October 10, the Stinger Spectacular full-scale combination of all three events has been postponed until fall 2021.

As part of university-wide procedures for health and safety, HPU is instituting appropriate COVID-19 spread mitigation measures for attendees. Details related to these safety measures are communicated through the university’s website.

Visit www.hputx.edu/familyreunion for more information and registration details for the HPU Spring Family Reunion. Check back frequently for updates.

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A LU M N I ASS O C I AT I O N S P OT L I G H T

jobs, a husband and a child later, it seems as though I am here for the long haul.”

Even as she transitioned to D.C., Dr. McEachern, the man who had impacted Flaim so early on in her life by helping her attend HPU, continued to show her kindness.

“When I got the promotion to move to D.C., he was one of the first people to call and congratulate me,” she said. “We were able to talk for a while about the impact he made on my life – not only through his scholarship but his faithful example and encouragement. He passed away just a few months after that phone call. I will always be grateful that I got the opportunity to thank him one last time. He truly was a wonderful man.”

Flaim now resides in Maryland with her husband and daughter and works as the communications director for the House Appropriations Committee Republicans. There, she is responsible for creating and implementing the communications strategy for the committee and the ranking member

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rs Academy's Early Yea

Medal presented to Academy graduates

by Dr. Robert Mangrum, professor of history and government and university historian

DR. ROBERT MANGRUM PHOTO BY KYLE MIZE; ARTIFACT PHOTOS BY SETH RAINEY ’19

The Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom was founded in 1962 as the multidisciplinary honors program of Howard Payne University.

The program emerged from the Democracy-InAction (D.I.A.) program begun in 1956 by Dr. Guy D. Newman, then president of Howard Payne College. Dr. Newman became concerned that many Americans were losing touch with their great American heritage and particularly with the influence of Christianity in the development of the American way of life.

Dr. Newman realized the need for an extended and more sophisticated program than the short one-week format that had marked the D.I.A. program. To establish an intellectual environment, which would nurture understanding and reflective study of the spiritual, economic, social and political problems of contemporary society, the Howard Payne Board of Trustees approved Dr. Newman’s concept of a formal education program designed for superior junior and senior students.

In seeking to dramatize the program and capture public attention, Dr. Newman decided to name the Academy in honor of General Douglas MacArthur, one of the true American heroes of this century. As a military commander, MacArthur had served with distinction in the First World War, the Second World War and the Korean War, establishing a reputation as one of the greatest military strategists in history. As an educator, MacArthur had served as superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, from which he had graduated first in his class in 1903 and where he broadened its curriculum and raised its academic standards. As a statesman, MacArthur had led the occupation government of post-war Japan, helping to

draft the democratic Japanese constitution.

On April 12, 1962, Dr. Newman met with MacArthur in New York City to outline his concept for the Academy and to request permission to use his name for the program. MacArthur enthusiastically endorsed Newman’s proposal, writing in a letter dated April 17, 1962, these words: “It is my earnest hope, as indeed it should be the earnest hope of all freedom-loving peoples, that the students who pass through the portals of this new Academy of Freedom will do so in the determined and relentless search for the means to shore up, fortify and revitalize that cherished heritage which they hold, not alone for themselves but in sacred trust for the generations which are to follow.”

Dr. Newman’s vision was for the building (incorporating Daniel Baker College’s original main building), the museum and the MacArthur name to dramatize the program and capture public attention while honoring General MacArthur for his service to the country. Dr. Newman also had plans for a Hall of Presidents and a replica of the Mayflower sitting in an actual pond across from the Academy building. Though he was not successful in raising the funds for that feature, the MacArthur statue, the MacArthur display and the series of museum rooms – commemorating the Declaration of Independence and more – continue to serve their intended function of emphasizing mankind’s quest for freedom.

In 2013, the Academy Board of Directors and the HPU Board of Trustees unanimously voted to change the name of the academic program to the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy: The Program for Civic Leadership and Public Policy, as a way to honor the program’s founder. The building itself continues to bear the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom name and houses the historic artifacts.

Dr. Robert Mangrum has published an account of HPU’s history titled For Howard Payne My All: 125 Years of Christian Higher Education and Service, 1889-2015. The book, which took 17 years to write, celebrates the university’s history since its founding in 1889. It is available for $30 on DVD or USB flash drive at HPU’s Spirit Store in the Mabee University Center or at www.hputx.edu/store. All proceeds from the book’s sales support an academic scholarship at HPU. 10

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Architect’s rendering

Promotional item

Billboard promoting the Academy as a tourist attraction

Letter designating week in the Academy’s honor, 1964

Dallas Morning News publication reporting on comedian Bob Hope’s 1975 visit to the Academy

Col. Russell O. Fudge, the Academy’s first director, with Mack DuBose ’65, the Academy’s first graduate

B Y J O R DA N FAV O R S , H P U J U N I O R

As a major in communications and the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy, my love for Howard Payne University grows every day. I’ve also enjoyed my involvement with the Black Student Association, Delta Chi Rho, Intramurals, Psych Circle and cheerleading. Choosing to study at HPU was the best decision I’ve ever made. I was tasked with this decision as an indecisive 18-year-old who could barely cook, drive or perform any basic life skill. Somehow, I managed to make the right choice for my future, and I thank God for that. Howard Payne was not my first-choice school, but I firmly believe that I am here because God intends for me to be here. This university has truly been a blessing in disguise.

I graduated as the valedictorian of Tyler Street Christian Academy in Dallas. At TSCA, I held many leadership positions in athletics and my extracurricular activities. I loved being involved, but my overinvolvement caused many people around me to expect a lot from me. I felt this pressure to pursue a university that people around me thought would be best for me and not necessarily what God knew would be best or what I wanted. In the midst of all the pressure I felt, I decided on a larger college, but my college decision never quite settled with me. Finally, I broke down and had this realization that I can’t ask God to move me toward where He wants me to be and run in my own direction at the same time. I realized that if I would wholeheartedly trust God, then He would direct my steps.

Two months before graduation, a small school in a rural community suddenly grabbed my attention. In an act of faith, I took a tour of HPU, and I saw endless opportunities. I completely fell in love with the HPU environment. There is an energy on this campus unlike any other place. I changed my college decision and truly believe that God led me here. He took control of my situation when I let Him. One reason I love HPU is because of the endless opportunities I’ve been given. I’ve been blessed with amazing academic opportunities, such as the Academy. The Academy professors challenge me to be my best. I’ve also been given the opportunity to grow my faith in HPU’s safe, encouraging environment. That opportunity means more to me than anything else. I have experienced so much personal growth and greatly strengthened my 12

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M Y LOV E F O R H O WA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y G R O W S E V E R Y DAY.

PHOTO AT LEFT BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18; OTHER PHOTOS BY JARVIS GREEN

faith. HPU’s environment has allowed me to find my identity in Christ and not any accomplishment. HPU freed me to use my gifts solely to glorify the Lord. For the first time in my life, my extracurricular activities bring me only fulfillment, and, even on the busiest days, I feel joyful. The foundation of my life is Christ, and HPU helps me solidify that foundation while fully preparing me for law school and all my future plans.

Another reason I love HPU is because of the love I’ve been shown since my first day on campus. I have not once experienced the common freshman feeling of being “lost in the shuffle.” I never walk into the cafeteria worried that I’ll have to sit alone. When I enter any office, I’m always greeted with a smile and offered assistance before I even have to ask. If I’m feeling down or stressed, I can take a stroll around our beautiful, clean campus and be uplifted. No matter where I go on campus, I always see a friendly face. Our faculty and staff are unmatched.

The president of our university stops students and asks how they’re doing by name. When HPU faculty say they will pray for you or offer help, they mean it.

They open up their homes to us and ask how we’re doing because they genuinely care. Every faculty and staff member is eager to assist us and show Christlike love on a daily basis. This has consistently been the HPU environment.

I am grateful for my experience working in HPU’s Office of Alumni Relations, which gave me the privilege of speaking to alumni on a regular basis. Whether on the phone or at an event, I was shown the same love and kindness from all generations of HPU alumni. The word “community” is an understatement. This university is a family. HPU is home.

My heart just overf lows with love for this oneof-a-k i nd s c ho ol , and I am incredibly proud to be a Yellow Jacket. Sting ’em forever.

Jordan Favors enjoys HPU’s warm, inviting campus (far left). She makes the most of the challenging, enriching opportunities provided by the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy program (above) and shows her HPU pride through a wide range of extracurricular activities, which included a stint as an HPU cheerleader (below).

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Facing the future

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Academy of Freedom renovation project prepares facility for renewed purpose | By Seth Rainey ’19

An architect’s rendering shows the renovated Academy building exterior.

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“Facing the future with faith and knowledge” – the honors academy’s motto

HPU’s Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom will undergo renovations to give the facility renewed value for HPU students, personnel and visitors. The back part of the historic facility incorporates a portion of the distinctive, original building of Daniel Baker College.

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students in the program are prepared to approach issues with a perspective rooted in the Christian faith and American system of governance.

It is because of the open-ended applications of the curriculum and the structure of the program that the Honors Academy can claim graduates in numerous fields ranging from, but not limited to, political service, vocational ministry, education or law. Dr. Matthew McNiece, a 2003 graduate of the program and current director of the Honors Academy, noted the value he experienced while studying in the program.

“For any student, the ability to read critically, to think analytically through problems and to be able to communicate effectively are the kinds of things that work as well in the boardroom of a business, an office of a law firm or a classroom,” he said. “Those are the things I got out of my experience here and the things that we try to emphasize in our classes.”

The legacy that exists in the halls of the Academy of Freedom – carried on by students, alumni, faculty and staff alike – is an example of the continuing mission of the program. From its founding, the purpose of the Honors Academy H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

ZACHARY PHOTO BY JARVIS GREEN; OTHERS FROM HPU ARCHIVES

ince its founding in 1962, more than 400 students have graduated from HPU’s multidisciplinary honors program – during its years as the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom and, since 2013, the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy. Through the years, the Honors Academy has forged a reputation for excellence that continues to draw civically motivated and academically gifted students, while the Academy of Freedom building continues to serve as a visual reminder of our nation’s highest ideals. (For more on the names and their distinctions, see page 10.)

Following the recent announcement of planned renovations to the Academy of Freedom’s wings, the program will benefit from revitalized facilities that will help expand the capabilities of the program.

At the heart of the Honors Academy is a specific and rigorous curriculum centered in Judeo-Christian values, the study of Western Civilization, free enterprise and civic engagement. Using the Academy’s five foundations (Philosophical; National and Global; Economic; Civic; and Experiential),

Graduate Karla Grace Zachary receives her Guy D. Newman Honors Academy medallion during HPU’s spring 2019 Commencement ceremony.

was clearly defined. In his memoirs, Dr. Guy D. Newman, Academy founder and HPU president from 1955 to 1973, outlined the aims of the honors program.

“Our purpose was to reach the totality of the individual students, giving them a true perspective not only of our American system but also of the world in which they live, enabling them to go out and encounter with courage and confidence the exigencies thrust upon all youth of all times in a meaningful and perceptive way,” Dr. Newman wrote. “We hoped to help them become mature enough intellectually, professionally, morally, ethically, and spiritually to withstand the devastating forces of secularism and crass materialism that seem to characterize contemporary life.”

Mack DuBose ’65, the first graduate of the Honors Academy, said that though the curriculum has been refined over the years to the advantage of later students, he was able to benefit from the strong vision established by Dr. Newman and the early founders of the program.

“We were still developing the program when I was a student, so I feel later students really got the benefit of the full breadth of the program,” he said. “But I think the value of the Honors Academy for me was in comparing the constitutions of different nations and writing on foreign policy. It piqued my curiosity to read more into certain subjects and challenged me to develop different perspectives.”

The reach of HPU’s Honors Academy extends far beyond the facilities and campus, thanks to the broad applications H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

of the program’s curriculum. A focus on civic leadership grounded in Judeo-Christian values acts as the centerpiece to the education offered to students.

Many graduates from the program have gone on to successful careers in the areas of their collegiate training, even occasionally returning as faculty in the program where they were once students, as is the case for Dr. McNiece and several other faculty members at HPU. Dr. Jennifer McNiece ’02, assistant professor of government, director of international study and academic travel and Brand Chair of Free Enterprise; Lorianna Kelley ’02, assistant professor of government; and Gina Gibbs ’05, instructor of criminal justice and chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, were all graduates of the Honors Academy.

“We have a good collection of faculty members who were here as students,” said Dr. Matthew McNiece. “For us, it’s as simple as knowing that this is the building and these are the classrooms where we learned valuable lessons. We learned things about ourselves and about the ways the rest of the world works. From our professors, we experienced support and encouragement and were pushed by them to be better than we thought that we could be.”

Honors Academy alumnus Isaac Sommers ’18, currently a student at Harvard Law School, noted that the education he received through his time at HPU prepared him for the rigorous curriculum of a premier law school.

“Law school is certainly far more intense than college was,” he said, “but I do think that the commitment to excellence at the Honors Academy, the dedication to exploring complex issues and the strong emphasis on writing have made the

The Academy building includes a replica of Independence Hall.

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Academy voices Sidney Ganus, senior English language arts and Honors Academy major from Weatherford: One of the greatest benefits of the Honors Academy is that it encourages individuality and growth. My experiences and education in the program have shaped me into an openminded, strong-willed and active world citizen. Every aspect of the Honors Academy has pushed me to grow as a person. I don’t think that I would be who I am now if I hadn’t joined the Honors Academy.

Isaac Sommers ’18, current student at Harvard Law School: It was evident that my Honors Academy professors were not merely willing to sit down with me and talk about complex issues and questions relating to class – which, of course, they were – but they were also interested in me as a person. The willingness of my professors to invest in both my personal and academic growth is something I am immensely grateful for.

Dr. Matthew McNiece ’03, director of the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy, professor of history and government and department chair:

transition to law school smoother for me.”

Mirroring Sommers’ current experience at Harvard, Dr. McNiece recalled his own level of preparedness to earn a graduate degree at the University of Chicago, thanks in large part to the Honors Academy.

“A professor there once told me what I had gotten out of my undergraduate education was the ability to ask better questions and to think critically through better ways to answer those questions,” said Dr. McNiece. “I credit the educational experience I had at HPU and in the Honors Academy for that preparedness.”

Influences on the legacy of the Honors Academy can be attributed to numerous sources – the standard of excellence in education set by its faculty and students, its location in the historic and family-oriented communities of Brown County and the goals laid out by its founder and current namesake Dr. Guy D. Newman.

The many branches that combine to forge the Honors Academy’s history impact both the program’s present and future, continuing to set the program apart from its contemporaries.

The years ahead will be bright for the Honors Academy.

Looking ahead, the program and the successes its rigorous academic tradition fosters will be bolstered by renovated facilities.

Renovation plans were launched in the summer of 2019

A special display space will house HPU’s historic statue of General MacArthur and the collection of artifacts related to his distinguished military career.

Guy D. Newman and the founders of the Academy set a foundation not only of academic excellence but also service to your community and others. If the academic part is about developing and pushing yourself to be what God wants you to be, the next step is service to others. So, in this way, the legacy that they created is incredibly durable.

Mack DuBose ’65, first graduate of the Honors Academy: It gave me a broader perspective on the world and events that I wouldn’t have received in a different program. The program benefitted me because it caused me to look at how different nations’ economies were structured and consider how we in the United States are governed ourselves.

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The renovation project includes much-needed office space and a reception area for guests.

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simultaneously serve students enrolled in HPU’s honors program and recognize the history of democracy. Renovations will bring this vision in line with the requirements of the modern classroom.

The project will transform the wings of the Academy of Freedom into adaptable classrooms fitted with moveable walls to allow for large lecture-style classes or small classes for more personal instruction. The central hall will be fitted with three “Duty, Honor, Country” windowlights, providing dramatic illumination of the General MacArthur Gallery of Service and Leadership to be located within. The gallery will feature displays of MacArthur memorabilia and rotating exhibitions related to the vital themes of service and leadership.

“Preserving interest in General Douglas MacArthur, his history and what he did in his lifetime is very important,” said Gene Deason ’72, chair of the Honors Academy’s Board of Directors. “I’m not sure how many museums there are that showcase his memorabilia in such a way as this.”

For Dr. Cory Hines ’97, HPU president, the project honors the program’s heritage while positioning it for the future.

“The renovation will not only be of significant benefit to HPU students and faculty but will also serve to support the continued growth of our Honors Academy and HPU as a whole,” he said. “We are excited about the direction in which God is leading this endeavor, which will renew the purpose of both the Honors Academy and the Academy of Freedom building for years of future successes.”

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with an aim to improve the classroom experience of faculty and students as well as provide the surrounding communities with a functional space to host events and learn about the history of the United States and the principles upon which the nation was founded. At the center of the project are improvements to the Academy of Freedom’s wings that will revitalize the physical home of the program for a new generation of students.

Sidney Ganus of Weatherford is a senior in the Honors Academy program, also majoring in English language arts.

As the grand-niece of Mack DuBose, the first graduate of the Honors Academy, she is an example of the program’s continuing legacy. Ganus reflected on the importance of the Academy of Freedom as a place for the program’s mission to be actualized and the bright outlook that the renovation project provides for this mission.

“I have come to understand that the Academy of Freedom is the epicenter of activity,” she said. “It is where all of our Honors Academy and history classes meet, where academic extracurricular teams practice and where Honors Academy students tend to gravitate. I feel that the renovation project will not only benefit those currently in the program but also the future of it. It will make the building a better, more accessible space for current students and attract new students to the program.”

When first built, the Academy of Freedom was envisioned as a way to transform the historic original facility of Daniel Baker College into a state-of-the-art building to

Academy First-floor plan When Daniel Baker College’s Old Main building was first transformed into the Academy of Freedom, Dr. Guy D. Newman anticipated a state-of-the-art facility that would combine dynamic educational spaces with a dramatic display phase – the informational alongside the inspirational.

The planned renovations will revitalize Dr. Newman’s original vision for new generations of students and visitors. Through flexible and modular classrooms, the Academy of Freedom wings will be equipped to accommodate a wide variety of educational and community events while a gallery celebrating General MacArthur will honor the ideals that form the foundation of the Honors Academy.

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Getting involved Fundraising for the project is targeted for completion by December 2021. Numerous giving opportunities are still available.

To learn more about the project and ways to support this initiative, please visit www.hputx.edu/academy-renovation or contact the HPU Office of Institutional Advancement at 325-649-8006 or via e-mail at development@hputx.edu.

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Dr. Elizabeth Wallace ’71 reflects on a lifetime of sharing music with others

by Rebekah Sterling ’18

Dr. Elizabeth Wallace has played piano since she began lessons at the age of 6.

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Music is powerful. One would be hard-pressed to find a person who has not been impacted in some way by music.

It speaks in ways that words cannot, conveys emotions and connects people to one another. Yet, while many enjoy music and benefit from it, comparatively few can say they have dedicated their life to sharing it.

Dr. Elizabeth Wallace ’71, longtime professor at Howard Payne University, can hardly remember a time in her life when she was not surrounded by music. Her love for music was something she inherited from her family.

Her parents sang in the church choir, her brother ultimately studied and earned a degree in music and her aunt was her first music teacher.

“My musical hero was my aunt,” said Dr. Wallace. “She had a master’s degree in music and was the local piano teacher, the church pianist and a wonderful musician. I began studying under her when I was 6 years old.”

Dr. Wallace’s grandparents lived about 30 minutes outside of Brownwood and she was one of several in her family to attend HPU. “I knew I wanted to attend HPU by the time I was 9 or 10 years old,” she said. “As I progressed through junior high and high school, I learned more about its Christian focus and excellent School of Music. I was more convinced that HPU was the place for me.”

Dr. Wallace started as a freshman at Howard Payne in 1967. She met her husband, Alan ’73, while they were HPU students in the A Capella Choir. They were married in 1970 and she graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in the spring of 1971. After graduation, she stayed at HPU to help where she could.

“I taught elective piano and class piano from 1971 to 1973 on an emergency basis,” said Dr. Wallace. “Enrollment in the music department was high and my husband was finishing his degree.”

Dr. Wallace went on to earn a Master of Music degree in piano performance from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1977, followed by a Ph.D. in fine arts music in piano performance

in 1990 from Texas Tech University. She earned both degrees while maintaining a private piano studio.

“While I studied at Texas Tech, I taught elective piano and class piano at the university. I also taught elective piano and classic piano at Lubbock Christian University, in addition to maintaining a private studio at home.”

In late fall 1990, she received a call asking if she might be interested in a teaching position at HPU. The following spring, she returned to HPU as an instructor of music – the beginning of what would become a decades-long career.

“I felt called to teach at HPU and wanted to serve here as God led,” Dr. Wallace shared. “I never had a desire to go anywhere else.”

Dr. Wallace has served as faculty assembly officer several times throughout her tenure, and in recent years was the chair of the Department of Music, in addition to teaching numerous classes.

“In addition to piano, accompanying, keyboard skills, piano ensemble and pedagogy, I have taught music appreciation, music history, world music and pop music,” said Dr. Wallace. “I also accompanied for the Concert Choir, for a number of musicals and for many students’ senior recitals over the years.”

PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

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Dr. Wallace considers her time teaching music to be a privilege and a blessing.

“I love helping students learn how to meet challenges and work through them,” she said. “I love to see them develop a set of skills and the confidence that they are capable of achieving great things. I love seeing them find their own voice.”

During her time at HPU, Dr. Wallace has had some remarkable experiences in Brownwood and beyond. She treasures memories of “trips with music ensembles to California, Mexico, New York, Taiwan, England, Italy and Austria, as well as churches and schools in Texas.”

Particularly meaningful to her are the “moments when students began sharing their knowledge with others and began to be good teachers themselves, moments when students cared for each other and demonstrated their concern, times of stretching and times of laughter in classrooms.”

She also expressed her gratitude for individuals who poured into her throughout the years and helped make her time at HPU significant.

“When I first came to HPU to teach, I had the privilege of working with my former dean, Dr. George Baker, and his wife, Sara,” Dr. Wallace explained. “Their faithfulness to this institution and their love for its students was an

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inspiration to me. Sara never stopped trying to learn how to better teach her students.”

Dr. Wallace reflected on how fortunate she was to have worked alongside and collaborated with so many talented people, including Dr. Cynthia Sheppard, Dr. Amy Rosine, Dr. Monte Garrett, Drs. Greg and Celeste Church, Mr. Stephen Goacher, Dr. Christopher Rosborough ’08, Mr. Corey Ash ’91 and Ms. Patricia Banks, as well as all four of her deans: Dr. George Baker, Dr. Allen Reed, Dr. Robert Tucker and Dr. Richard Fiese. Dr. Fiese, the current dean of the School of Music and Fine Arts, helped Dr. Wallace achieve something she never thought she would.

“One of my favorite things about our current dean is that he actively seeks to help each faculty member realize their full potential,” said Dr. Wallace. “I thought about trying to publish for years but wasn’t sure that what I wanted to say was significant or unique. He encouraged and gently nudged me to take the leap and submit some writing. I haven’t won a Pulitzer, but I have published three small articles because of his support.”

Dr. Wallace’s students also had a great impact on her life.

“I am grateful for students,” she said. “The brave ones who welcomed me to HPU; the ones who went on to earn graduate degrees so that they can replace me one day; the ones who thought I didn’t know they were dating; the one H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

Dr. Wallace has served as a faculty member at HPU for 31 years.

PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

who married my daughter; the ones who are teaching in their own studios and classrooms now; the ones who are wonderful photographers, event managers and floral artists; the one who is teaching theory at a college on the east coast; the one who teaches theory here at Howard Payne; the one who is a professional jazz pianist in Japan; the one who is in medical school and will soon become a caring, compassionate doctor; the one who has triplets and her own piano studio in Taiwan; the ones who serve as missionaries; the ones who bring their children to visit HPU; the ones who challenge me and inspire me every day – I have learned so much from each of them.”

Dr. Wallace believes teaching music has made her a better musician.

“I love what I teach,” she said. “Music moves me, teaches me, inspires me, helps me worship, allows me to express myself, makes me laugh, creates awe and sometimes moves me to tears.”

After serving 31 years at HPU, Dr. Wallace made the decision to retire in May 2020. She will continue to teach part time as an adjunct faculty member. This year, Dr. Wallace was recognized as HPU’s Grand Marshal as a “thank you” for her years of service and dedication to the university.

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In her retirement, Dr. Wallace will remain in Brownwood with her husband and plans to continue making music, serving in her church, spending time with family and traveling.

When asked what she will miss most she replied simply, “everything.”

“There have been moments of pure joy and experiences of profound depths in the process,” said Dr. Wallace. “I have had the opportunity to serve the Lord, to minister to students, to teach the thing I love and to share what’s most important in life with students, faculty members and administrators who also want to know God and do His will.”

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r. Millard Kimery, dean of the School of Humanities and professor of English at Howard Payne University, values the knowledge that comes with unique and varied experiences. This view influences his approach to the classroom, where he feels he has the opportunity to observe and learn from the perspectives of his students.

“The students are always teaching me something,” he said. “Each of them has had experiences that I have not. These things are what drew me to education.”

This appreciation extends to the range of subjects and programs that fall under the humanities designation at HPU, which can also often act as sources for new perspectives on the world. He believes that the humanities, generally thought of as the studies of human culture and society, in a larger sense represent the study of what it is to be human.

“The humanities are courses that teach you what it means to be a human being,” he said. “For example, I believe you are not 26

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as good at being a human being before you read Shakespeare, before you learn history or before you study psychology as you are afterwards. These subjects help us to grow into richer and fuller expressions of who God made us to be.”

To study what it means to be human could be considered an opportunity to better oneself. However, in Dr. Kimery’s eyes, the fruits of this undertaking should ultimately connect to a larger purpose.

“In my case, since I like to read literature and consider how it affects me as a person, my approach to the subject has to be wrapped up in Christianity,” he said. “As Christians, we are hopefully always thinking about every interaction we have with somebody and every choice we make at work or at home in light of the kingdom of God. It makes sense to me that if I think English, psychology, history and government, social work, criminal justice and Spanish are really important, then those fields can teach us something about being better Christians.”

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Dr. Kimery serves as dean of the School of Humanities and professor of English.

PHOTO BY SETH RAINEY ’19

deliver on this objective. The university’s very mission, to provide Christ-centered education, highlights the connection between faith and all aspects of life.

“Here, academics and life can be one piece,” he said. “The word ‘integration’ can be overused or misused, but I like the idea of integrated life – your field of study and work acting as part of who you are and what you believe.”

Reflecting on the role of education in his life as both a student and a professor, he emphasized the value of teaching at a tight-knit, community-focused school such as HPU. He noted that the educational environment fostered at HPU allows students to extend the scope of their academic focus, taking classes and getting to know professors not directly associated with their major, opportunities that may be missed in less-personalized learning environments.

“As a dean, I really like being a part of a university where we’re not so specialized that we are all each in our own little silos,” he said. “I am able to interact with many faculty members outside of the School of Humanities and learn from their experiences and knowledge. The same is true for our students – they are all interacting and learning in academic areas beyond their majors.”

This educational diversity is similar to his own experiences as a college student. He majored in chemistry and English, two vastly different subjects, with ideas other than H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

teaching in mind.

“I had this plan that I could be a lawyer and a pharmacist, giving me options if things got hard for one or the other,” he said. “But my then-girlfriend, Cindy, who is now my wife, asked what I’d really be happy doing and I realized I would be happiest teaching English.”

Following their marriage and graduation from HardinSimmons University, the Kimerys moved to North Carolina, where Dr. Kimery earned his master’s degree in English at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also began doctoral studies while in North Carolina. After seven years away and the birth of their first child, Jesse, the couple returned to Texas. This return saw the birth of their second child, Quinn, and the beginning of Dr. Kimery’s teaching career at HPU. Now, looking back on 23 years spent teaching in Brownwood, Dr. Kimery commented on one of the intangible benefits of teaching.

“One of the great things about my job, and all of us who are teachers and staff members, is that it makes us optimistic because we see the students who are graduating and we know that the world is in pretty good hands,” he said. “Not only does it keep you young in that you’re interacting with young people, but it also keeps you from getting jaded or set in your ways.”

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For recent HPU grad Sarah Ramos, HPU has always been in the family.

“Howard Payne has been in my life since the day that I was born,” said Ramos, who arrived as a student from Pflugerville. “HPU has always had a special place in my heart.”

Several of Ramos’ family members have attended HPU, including her great aunt, Minerva Delgado Lopez ’63, and her mom, Anna Delgado Ramos ’90. Yet, in spite of family ties to HPU, Ramos didn’t originally intend to come to Howard Payne.

“I had my original plan as to what I was doing after high school, but God had bigger plans for me,” she said.

Despite having visited HPU many times before, it was her official campus tour that sealed the deal.

“We were on the way to Lubbock to go to my brother’s orientation,” said Ramos. “Brownwood is a town that we would pass through, so I decided to schedule a visit. I went on an official campus tour and met with my admission counselor and afterwards I knew that God wanted me at Howard Payne.”

Ramos did not regret her decision. She chose to major in business management, got involved in Delta Chi Rho – the same sorority her mother joined as a student – and made lifelong friends.

“Some of my favorite memories include being a part of Jacket Journey all four years, pledging Delta Chi Rho, Christmas on the Plaza, winning Homecoming Princess my junior year, being on Homecoming Court my senior year and receiving my class ring.”

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PHOTOS BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

She also served as a student worker in the Office of Admissions from her sophomore year through her senior year. Her job was to assist with incoming phone calls, welcome visitors, talk with potential new students, lead campus tours and perform other various tasks.

“I’m grateful for the office staff who turned into family,” she said, “as well as getting to meet potential new students and getting to share my love for Howard Payne with them.”

In her interactions with potential new students, Ramos encouraged them to listen to God’s calling and to go where He tells them to go.

“No matter the price or place, God will provide,” she said.

With the spread of COVID-19 during the spring semester, Ramos and others in her graduating class certainly had a lesson in trusting in God’s provision. The global pandemic forced classes online, and HPU officials made the decisions to cancel all on-campus events through May and postpone Commencement. Ramos, however, said she took most of this in stride.

“When classes went online, I took it as an advantage for myself, because it allowed me to focus on just school,” she said.

“It also helped that I wasn’t the only one who was affected, and every classmate could relate and help. I did have moments of frustration when it came to classes being online, but it was nice being able to contact my professors to ask for help.”

Ramos expressed that technology made all the difference in a season of isolation.

“I would have not made it during this time without social media, FaceTime, Zoom and phone calls,” she said. “It was so nice to just pick up my phone and Snapchat my HPU friends and keep in contact with them. It was also nice that a few of my organizations had Zoom calls to wrap up the semester. This time has made me really stop and think of all the blessings God has given me within the last four years at Howard Payne.”

Ramos walked the stage alongside her classmates at the rescheduled Commencement ceremony on August 22. She recently joined HPU’s Office of Admissions full time as the executive assistant to the associate vice president for enrollment management. She also began work on a Master of Business Administration degree from HPU. Ramos expressed her gratitude for Howard Payne and God’s guidance in her life.

“From the moment I graduated high school, I never knew what God had in store for me,” she said, “but when I visited Howard Payne’s campus that day, I knew that He had a plan for me and I had to listen to His calling.”

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MAKING THE MOST OF THE OPPORTUNITIES

By Abram Choate ’98 and M.Ed. ’17, assistant director of athletics for athletic communications

been good at other things besides basketball growing up but I always played it safe. Howard Payne helped me branch out and take more healthy risks.

As a student at another university, Brad Erskin had a short interaction with a Howard Payne University alumnus, and that conversation eventually put Brad on a path to HPU. After graduating in 2015 from Ferris High School in Dallas, Brad transferred to Howard Payne in the spring of 2018 from Angelo State University. He had heard about Howard Payne from an alumnus with whom he was working, telling of the opportunities that the university had to offer.

Over the past two years, Brad has been plugged into those opportunities. He made connections not only in athletics but also in other areas around campus. On the basketball court for the Jackets, Brad played in eight games in 2019-2020 and continues to develop with two seasons left of eligibility.

He has worked on campus with various departments and is involved in a service and social organization. Following his graduation as a kinesiology major, he is now a student in HPU’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

What are your other areas of involvement at HPU? B.E.: Along with playing basketball for the Jackets,

How did you hear about Howard Payne? B.E.: I

was officiating basketball games with a Howard Payne alum who said some good things about the school.

What was the recruitment process like? B.E.:

Short and sweet. My coaches [Troy Drummond and Jorden Young] were upfront and told me, “You’ll get what you put in.”

When did you know that Howard Payne was the place for you? B.E.: When I came to my first visit and saw that my coaches and the environment were genuine.

I felt like I could grow here.

You’re very involved in activities outside of basketball. Was that something that was always a part of you or has it just been at HPU? B.E.: I have

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You recently graduated from HPU and are now working on an MBA degree. What led to your decision to continue your education in that graduate program? B.E.: I don’t want to have just one

job in the near future. I want to be a coach and an entrepreneur. Getting my MBA will teach me the skills I need to know entering the business world and make me more appealing to employers.

How is the experience of being a graduate student different from being an undergraduate?

B.E.: There is really no difference except for being all on-

line. Time management is still the key.

Are you able to continue to be involved on campus? B.E.: Yes. Our basketball team still tries to

volunteer whenever we can. Also, I am working on a project with the BSA and its members, so I look forward to working with that organization and doing things for HPU and the Brownwood community.

What is your favorite thing about HPU? B.E.:

The people! I have met some of the best people here – professors, classmates, teammates and even alumni.

What is your favorite memory at HPU so far?

B.E.: During my first year at HPU, Student Activities held

a big event at the lake. I tried the Blob [water activity] for the first time and played paintball with my roommates.

Are there any last things you would like to add?

B.E.: Howard Payne helped me grow as a person and trust

God more in my process. We are called to be better and do better. Howard Payne gave me the tools and combination of people to take that next step. Sting ’em!

H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

PHOTO BY JARVIS GREEN

“Howard Payne helped me branch out and take more healthy risks.”

I am a student worker for University Services and an honorary brother for the sorority Delta Chi Rho. I’m also involved with the Black Student Association (BSA).

PHOTO BY JARVIS GREEN

The day-to-day of their jobs is planning and executing university events (an average of 115 per month, with busier months reaching closer to 150) but everything HPU’s University Services office does ties back to relationships.

The driving forces behind the staff members’ excellence in work are friendship and the working relationship with each another, the relationships they cultivate with students and fellow employees, their community ties and, most importantly, their individual relationships with Christ.

Comprising the office’s staff are Debbie Childs, director of university events; Kathy James, events and university calendar coordinator; and a team of approximately 20 student employees.

“Customer service is a business about relationships,” said Childs. “There is joy that comes from serving others. You may have difficult days, but you never have bad days.”

Both James, who came to HPU in 2000, and Childs, who arrived in 2003, can look back on their lives before and see how God prepared them for their current roles.

“I went to work at Brownwood ISD, first as a substitute teacher and then as an aide,” said James. “Later I worked as a secretary. Through each position,

H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

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University Services works with maintenance, facilities, food services and other areas across campus to make sure guests are comfortable.

Childs and James also work to tie all events back, in some way, to the student experience. Childs spoke of HPU’s president, Dr. Cory Hines ’97, and his own time as a student at HPU. “Dr. Hines’ relationship with Howard Payne is centered on how much he loved this place when he was a student here and the people he met. That’s why it’s such a focus of his to zero in on enhancing the student experience and why it is a priority of ours.”

Childs and James feel particularly grateful for their student workers and the opportunities they have to minister to them.

I felt God leading me to be patient and obedient and to do my best in whichever job He placed me.”

When she was offered a job as an executive assistant in HPU’s development office and, later, when she moved to her current post, she felt as if she had found her calling.

Childs, too, spoke of God equipping her for her current position through her studies in school, motherhood and her own career in public school.

“I have always believed that God is continuously preparing you for something,” she said. “If you stay in the Word and are willing to be taught, He will equip you daily for whatever is to come.”

Childs and James bring different skill sets to their work, creating an atmosphere of excellence in all they do.

“Kathy’s strongest point is organization, while I’m stronger on the creative side,” Childs said. “If we both had the same strengths, we would not be nearly as efficient as we are.

I think that’s what makes our team work.”

The University Services staff works with offices and departments across campus, as well as community partners, to plan events. From weekly Chapel services to larger events such as Commencement and Homecoming, Childs and James take care to notice the tiny details while also focusing on the big picture.

“When people walk into an event or a party, they notice right away how the room looks, how it smells and how it feels,” said Childs. “Is the room clean? Does the food smell good? Is the temperature right? We want them to have an enjoyable time on campus.”

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H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

PHOTO AT LEFT BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18; PHOTO AT RIGHT BY JARVIS GREEN

“We’re able to help them navigate their way through college and help them to do their best, whether it’s setting up chairs, making flower arrangements or doing audiovisual for a board meeting,” said Childs.

In return, the pair are rewarded with lifelong friendships with former students.

“You make these relationships and they stay with you,” said James. “So many students come back to visit us or text us regularly.”

Childs and James teach their students to do their best and to remember that, first and foremost, they are serving the Lord.

“Sometimes things will go wrong and you have to step back and say, ‘This is the best we can do, and God will take care of the rest,’” Childs said.

Perhaps no greater curveball has been thrown their way than COVID-19 and the containment measures that followed it. As with most schools across the country, students

H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

left for Spring Break and did not return for the remainder of the semester. The once-full calendar for HPU’s spring semester was, essentially, wiped clean.

Though the fall semester is under way, the modified schedule of events and additional safety measures required for preparation make this fall quite different from years past.

Childs and James are choosing to remain upbeat and positive through the uncertainty.

“This will most likely affect the way we do events for quite a while,” Childs said. “But it has also created new opportunities and encouraged us to think outside the box.”

Through the good times and the downright unexpected times, Childs and James will continue to do what they do best – serve the university.

“At the end of the day, it’s about family,” said Childs.

“That’s what we are at HPU – a family.”

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GROWING THROUGH

COMMUNITY

Recent graduate Paul Chandler looks back on his growth at HPU

BY SETH RAINEY ’19 Students frequently arrive at college not knowing what direction their lives should take. At Howard Payne University, these same students will often find their calling – thanks to a campus full of opportunities for ministry, service, friendship and mentorship.

Recent graduate Paul Chandler of Mount Pleasant is one such student. In May 2020, he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian education and is now following a call to youth ministry. However, he arrived at HPU as a theatre major without plans to pursue vocational ministry. He emphasized that his initial major did not preclude him from ministry, noting all Christians are directed to serve, but his calling compelled him to switch majors.

“I started out as a theatre major, but then once I got that call to ministry, I realized there was nothing else that I could see myself doing for the rest of my life,” he said. “While I could do other things, I recognized I would never be satisfied unless I was doing ministry in a full-time capacity.”

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This realization came, in part, through the wisdom and guidance from the people around him. Chandler recognizes his life has changed a great deal in the four years he has spent at HPU, due in large part to the campus community.

“I would like to think that I am a completely different person from when my freshman year began to my senior year,” he said. “God has changed me so much and shaped me into a better man and Christian through the community here, the mentors in my life and other students.”

He began studying in HPU’s Master of Arts in Youth Ministry program during his senior year as part of a plan that combines undergraduate and graduate classes, giving students the opportunity to earn a graduate degree within a year of receiving an undergraduate degree. With his undergraduate coursework now behind him, he is on track to earn the master’s degree in 2021. The hybrid program consists of a week of lectures and other on-site instruction, with the remainder of the semester focusing on research, writing and mentorship.

“I love the format because it helps me to process the information thoroughly,” he said. “The subject that the class is H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

“ God has changed me so much and shaped me into a better man and Christian through the community here …”

Y PHOTO AT LEFT BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18; PHOTO AT RIGHT BY JARVIS GREEN

focusing on is on my mind for an entire week.”

Mentorship is not a new element of Chandler’s education at HPU. A key focus of curriculum in the School of Christian Studies is helping its students find opportunities to work in churches, which can provide unique opportunities to develop skills essential to vocational ministry.

“HPU does a good job of helping students serve in ministry roles,” he said, “because the professors here know that practical experience is what’s going to help ingrain into our lives what we are learning in the classroom and help shape the way we do ministry.”

The graduate program also requires students to participate in mentorships with church leaders and pastors. He says he looks forward to continuing to learn from ministers as he completes the master’s program.

“We get to be mentored by and learn from three experienced ministers before graduating,” he said. “I was able to do a mentorship with Billy Cash [2001 HPU graduate], the college minister at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church. I am really excited about my next two mentorship opportunities H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

and am anticipating learning a lot from them.”

Chandler is an example of the benefits that come from serving in ministry while studying ministry in an academic setting. While at HPU, he became involved at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church as an intern with the church’s youth group. The church family he found while at HPU has had an important role not only in his preparation for ministry but also in his personal life while in college.

“I’ve been thankful to get to serve over at Coggin with the youth group,” Chandler added. “It’s really helped me grow and it’s given me the opportunity to practice ministry while learning here at HPU. It’s given me a great church to lean on. It’s like a family.”

In reflection, Chandler said his time at HPU and serving in the community has influenced his perspective on when ministry begins.

“I’m not preparing for something down the road – I’m doing it now,” he said. “I used to think that ministry would start after college. Instead, I have been able to do it and study it at the same time and that’s been really beneficial.”

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In Memoriam Howard Payne University is saddened by the loss of the following alumni and other members of the HPU and DBC families between the dates of January 1, 2020, and September 11, 2020.

HOWARD PAYNE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI Rev. Eddie Ailshie,

August 31, 2020 (Former faculty/staff member)

Morgan D. Ashworth ’75,

January 24, 2020

Rose M. (Crockett) Barnes,

February 28, 2020

Earl W. Behrens ’63,

March 20, 2020 Fred M. Bell, July 27, 2020 Robert K. Birdsong ’57,

Robert M. Davis ’60,

August 11, 2020

David M. Driscoll ’72,

August 10, 2020

Wilfred E. Emshoff,

July 23, 2020

Larry R. Evans ’65,

February 8, 2020

Nancy K. (Copeland)

’48, March 28, 2020

Billy D. Bullard,

February 23, 2020

Jo (Arvin) Caldwell ’49,

January 17, 2020

Helen L. (Chenault) Chapin ’49,

April 11, 2020

Julie (Newbury) Choate ’92, August 15, 2020

Alfred Y. Chong ’50,

July 30, 2020

Patricia A. Craus ’60,

May 23, 2020

Mickey (Burnett) Cravens ’56, February 5, 2020

(Retired faculty/staff member)

Charlotte A. (Walton) Davis ’48,

January 28, 2020

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Maxine (Behrens) Naylor ’61, April 8, 2020

Hickey ’64,

Rashard B. Nelson,

July 28, 2020

March 13, 2020

Sally K. (Aduddell)

Gamel ’64,

January 5, 2020

Karen D. (Hampton)

March 7, 2020

August 30, 2020

February 12, 2020 Hunter ’55,

September 3, 2020

Terry G. Hunter ’91,

July 2, 2020

Marilyn I. (Isbell) Jay ’51,

Vernelle (Grelle)

Ruth (Rutledge) Brisco

’60, July 20, 2020 Geneva F. (Crawford)

(Former Alumni Association board member)

May 5, 2020

Julie J. (Rossman)

Bostick ’68, June 2, 2020

February 23, 2020

March 2, 2020

Gloria M. (Pittman) Hess

’74, August 20, 2020

Clark O. Hitt ’48,

Lyndon E. Gathright ’61,

Clifford W. Bowser,

January 22, 2020

Jerry D. Haynes ’63,

Betty A. (Keith) Morris

Fahmy ’67, May 6, 2020

Carol A. Freeman,

August 7, 2020

Carolyn S. (Hagan)

Larry G. Harper,

Gilbreath ’50,

May 8, 2020

Barbara (Owen) Gilger

June 18, 2020 Tom Jordan, April 24, 2020 Adelia M. (Houston) Kirk ’89, August 9, 2020

’61, April 24, 2020

Rev. Alvin G. Knox ’64,

February 19, 2020 (Sports Hall of Fame, 2007)

Rev. Roy A. Kornegay

February 14, 2020

Woodrow J. Low ’50,

Glynn ’73,

William C. Lowe ’53,

David L. Gilger ’60,

Hallie W. Gill ’53,

Claydene H. (Anglin)

August 15, 2020

Dr. Carolyn K. (Hill) Goad ’71, May 29, 2020

Gary D. Goates ’68,

April 14, 2020

January 10, 2020

’59, April 6, 2020

(Former Board of Trustees member) March 14, 2020

John N. Parker,

January 24, 2020

Patricia A. Paschall ’85,

April 30, 2020 Pemberton,

Lettie B. (Owings) Perry ’55, April 24, 2020

Doyle Pittman ’62,

May 2, 2020 (Former faculty/staff member)

Barbara E. (Wright) Reed ’63,

January 13, 2020

Roy K. Robb ’69,

July 24, 2020 (Former Board of Trustees member; Distinguished Alumni, 2010)

Elizabeth A. Rodriguez

August 4, 2020

’78, February 20, 2020 Treva V. (Vernor) Roy

McConnell ’54,

’56, March 21, 2020 Charles A.

Wanda (Traylor)

June 14, 2020

Bobbie G. (Fortune)

Marshall C. Gregory,

McCullough ’57,

September 5, 2020

Schweitzberger ’68,

June 25, 2020

Sarah L. Hagan ’55,

August 29, 2020

Karen H. (Bartness)

Sue C. McDonald,

January 18, 2020

June 16, 2020

Charles J. Seidenberger,

January 20, 2020 (Sports Hall of Fame, 2016)

Dr. Louis L. Sherman,

Daniel C. McGhee ’71,

Scriven, July 6, 2020

March 14, 2020

February 7, 2020 (Former faculty/staff) H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

June 24, 2020

Faye M. (Cash) Smith,

May 28, 2020

Jane (Russell) Smith ’63,

January 29, 2020

Dr. Elvin L. Sparks ’52,

May 1, 2020

Jesus A. Subia ’70,

May 18, 2020

Doris (Campbell) Swanner ’49,

January 6, 2020

Barbara (Williford) Tate ’70, August 4, 2020

James H. Thigpen,

May 14, 2020

Burns L. Tongate ’80,

April 6, 2020

Herbert G. Torres ’63,

February 26, 2020

Mary A. (McElroy) Torrillion,

February 9, 2020

Areli (Rodriguez) Verma ’91, February 21, 2020

Russell W. Wadsworth,

February 20, 2020

Rev. Warren D. Wallace,

February 15, 2020

Henry D. Wright ’74,

January 29, 2020

ADDITIONAL HPU FACULTY, STAFF, BOARD MEMBERS AND FRIENDS Barbara Baugh,

June 14, 2020 (Friend)

Dr. Jack Bottoms,

August 27, 2020 (Retired faculty/staff member)

Carolyn Bruner,

June 3, 2020 (Friend)

Doris M. (Dunsworth)

Dickerson, June 9, 2020

(Friend)

Marilyn A. (Perry) Goodson, June 8, 2020

(Friend)

Joseph Isbell,

April 11, 2020 (Friend) Howard S. McGuff, August 21, 2020 (Friend) Selina S. (Starr) McGuire,

February 9, 2020 (Friend)

Renee C. Miles,

July 23, 2020 (Friend)

Dr. John T. Morrow,

July 24, 2020 (Former faculty/staff)

George T. Owens,

March 18, 2020 (Friend)

Alicia Pittman,

January 31, 2020 (Former faculty/staff)

HOWARD PAYNE UNIVERSITY STUDENT

Marion Robnett,

Kylie Everett,

Eugene Sayler,

April 20, 2020 DANIEL BAKER COLLEGE ALUMNI Zelda C. (Keith) Leverett, June 5, 2020 Everett S. McCrum

(Distinguished Alumni [DBC], 1995)

March 10, 2020 (Friend) September 3, 2020 (Former faculty/staff)

Dr. James Shields,

reaches to the heavens,

June 3, 2020 (Former faculty/staff; Medal of Service, 1990)

your faithfulness

January 4, 2020 (Friend)

to the skies.

James S. Switzer, Thelma Y. White,

January 1, 2020 (Friend)

Merridee E. (Love) Yates,

February 16, 2020 (Friend; Medal of Service, 2003) H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

Your love, Lord,

PHOTO BY BRIENNA WILLIAMS

’49, January 6, 2020

IN MEMORIAM

Jerry D. Simmons ’57,

– Psalm 36:5 (NIV)

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Alma Mater

High above old Bayou’s waters, out on Center’s heights Stands our noble Alma Mater, towering in her might

Hail to thee our Alma Mater, hail the Gold and Blue 40

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H OWA R D PAY N E U N I V E R S I T Y

PHOTO BY REBEKAH STERLING ’18

Keep her colors ever floating, sing her praises due

HPU Websites www.hputx.edu www.hputx.edu/elpaso www.hputx.edu/newbraunfels www.hpusports.com General HPU Social Media Facebook: @hputx Twitter: @hputx Instagram: @hputx

Admissions Facebook: @hputxadmissions Twitter: @hputxadmissions Instagram: @hputxadmissions Athletics Facebook: @hpusports Twitter: @hpusports Instagram: @hpusports YouTube: @hpusports

Alumni Facebook: @hputxalumni Twitter: @hputxalumni Instagram: @hputxalumni

Do you know a student who would be a great fit at HPU? Tell the Office of Admissions!

Visit www.hputx.edu/referastudent to help send someone on a life-changing journey through HPU!

P.O. Box 2369 Brownwood, Texas 76804

STUDENT PERSPEC T IV E This photo was taken

by Brienna Williams, a senior from Brownwood majoring in strategic communication with a minor in Christian education.