CSU Magazine - Meet CSU's New President

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MEET CSU’s 33 SPRING BREAK Mission Trips to Puerto Rico and Tennessee PAGE

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New President

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Bobby Ison Serving a Greater Purpose

LEARNING

LEADING C H A R L E S TO N S O U T H E R N U N I V E R S I T Y

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

features 6

Senior Jessica Da Silva Andrade Conquering Fear with Faith

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Dr. Dondi E. Costin Is CSU’s 3rd President

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Ison Finding More to Life Than Baseball

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On the Road – Atlanta: Alumni Tell What It’s Like to Live and Work in Atlanta

Master of Education graduates enthusiastically prepare to receive diplomas Photo by Richard Esposito

On the cover: Dr. Dondi Costin and Bobby Ison Photos by Richard Esposito

MISSION Promoting Academic Excellence in a Christian Environment

VISION To be a Christian university nationally recognized for integrating faith in learning, leading and serving

FOUNDING PRINCIPLE Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. - Matthew 28:19-20

GRADUATES AND ALUMNI HONORED AT ANNUAL LUNCHEON

By Marketing and Communication/Photos by Richard Esposito

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he CSU Alumni Association celebrated the Class of 2018 and several alumni at the annual Graduation Luncheon May 4.

Sissy Hunter ’88 MEd was guest speaker.

As keynote speaker, she said, “You’re armed with Scripture. Don’t forget your background and where you’ve been. Don’t forget your college experiences. Experience is a great teacher. Never stop learning, and remember to integrate faith in everything you do,” said Hunter.

The Alumni Association honored alumni who were nominated by their peers.

Sissy Hunter ’88 MEd University Mission Award As First Lady of CSU, Sissy Hunter hosted countless events and dinners to raise money for student scholarships. She is a member of the CSU Women’s Council, which has raised more than a half million dollars in scholarship aid. The university awarded her an honorary doctorate in 1999.

Alumni Award winners: Phil Byrd, Jessica King, Sissy Hunter, Amanda Leviner and Kenneth Johnson.

Kenneth Johnson II ’12 Alumnus Community Service Award Johnson founded Top Notch Training of Brevard, Inc., in Melbourne, Florida. Top Notch Training provides access to affordable and effective health and wellness plans. He is a strong advocate for education and professional development and speaks in schools across Florida with that message. He started a monthly mentoring program called Generational Cultivation and has organized successful black history events. The Community Service Award honors an alumnus who goes above and beyond the expectations of a community, church or nonprofit group and recognizes his or her personal sacrifice and exceptional volunteer service to a charitable organization.

Jessica King ’11 Outstanding Young Alumnus of the Year King is an RN at Roper Hospital. She won Registered Nurse of the Year for her General Medicine unit in 2012 and 2014 and recently won Acute Care Registered Nurse of the Year for Roper. She received her ANCC Board Certification in General Medicine in 2013 and has received Certificates of Appreciation for Outstanding Performance as a Mentor for MUSC and Trident’s Nurse Extern and Precepting Programs. A member of the Pressure Ulcer Prevalence Team, she serves as the Clinical Coach for nursing students and newly hired RNs. She is enrolled online at Emory University working on her Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification. She recently self-published a book, CALLED, where she uses God’s word to encourage people to live out the life God has called them to live. This award recognizes an alumnus under the age of 30 who has been successful within his or her field of endeavor and shows exceptional promise of future achievement.

Amanda Leviner ’01 Outstanding Alumnus of the Year Leviner owns Leviner Law Firm, which has its roots in domestic litigation in addition to her role as a guardian ad litem for private domestic and probate matters. She is on the executive board of the Dorchester County Bar as chairperson of the Family Court Liaison Committee and is on the Education Committee and Bar Liaison Committee for the Summary Court Judges’ Association. She was appointed a Dorchester County Magistrate in 2009 and then obtained her law degree from Charleston School of Law in 2014. She also leads a mentorship program at Pinelands Group Home for teen girls. She and her husband are former foster parents.

This award honors an alumnus who reflects honor on the university for exceptional achievement in his or her field of endeavor.

Phil Byrd ’76 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Byrd is president and CEO of Bulldog Hiway Express/Daseke. Bulldog and its sister Daseke companies are the largest owner and operator of open deck trucking equipment in the U.S. and Canada. He received the Motor Carrier Executive of the Year Award for South Carolina and the 2014 NTW Transportation Leader of the Year, and has been a two-time chairman of the S.C. Trucking Association, chairman of the S.C. Maritime Association, the American Trucking Associations, and the American Transportation Research Institute. He is currently chairman of the American Trucking Associations Foundation. This award honors the person who has distinguished him or herself in three areas: service to the university, service to the community and achievement in his or her field of endeavor.

Danielle Hensley, a 2018 graduate, was joined at the graduation luncheon by her brother and mother, Brenda Murrell Hensley ’85.

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CSU

magazine

A PUBLICATION OF CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

volume 28 number 2 Summer 2018

EDITORIAL STAFF: Jan Joslin ’82, Editor, Director of Publications

contents

Richard Esposito, Director of Integrated Marketing Jenna Johnson, Assistant Director of Integrated Marketing

LEARNING

Jon Merkling, Graphic Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Seth Montgomery ’15

Kevin O’Rourke ’16

Warren Peper ’74

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Sol Basconcillo

CSU Magazine is published three times a year by the office of marketing and communication for alumni and friends of Charleston Southern University.

Contact CSU Magazine: magazine@csuniv.edu

LEADING

Address changes: csudevelopment@csuniv.edu

Charlestonsouthern.edu

4 Continuing Specialized Accreditation 4 First Doctoral Program 5 Faculty and Student Research 10 Graduation for Class of 2018 12 Blanco Wins Excellence in Teaching 13 LeVan Wins Dissertation Award 13 Service-Learning in Nursing 14 Lewis Releases CDs 14 Thomas Publishes 2nd Book 15 Student Rides with Vets 15 Retiring Faculty

16 Diana Leads Bayer Global Business 17 AFROTC Wins Unit of Year 23 Barber New Athletic Director 28 Baseball Alumnus Donates $500,000

SERVING Design and layout by:

www.facebook.com/bobduranddesign

SCHOOL TIES

Printed by:

29 McBride is Newman Civic Fellow 30 CSU on Mission Plants Seeds 31 Bucs at Sedgefield Intermediate 32 Ronald McDonald House and Water Mission 33 Spring Break Mission Teams

36 Class Notes 38 Baby Bucs 45 Hunter Celebration 46 Facilities Update 48 In Memory 48 Thank You Donors 48 Alumni Fall Event Calendar

© 2018 Charleston Southern University

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 3

LEARNING

CONTINUING SPECIALIZED ACCREDITATION FOR ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

By Marketing and Communication

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pecialized accrediting agencies have granted reaffirmation of accreditation to the College of Business and the athletic training program.

College of Business The International Accreditation Council for Business Education granted reaffirmation to the business and management programs of the College of Business.

The College of Business demonstrated compliance with the following Accreditation Principles of the IACBE: 1. Outcomes Assessment 2. Strategic Planning 3. Curriculum 4. Faculty 5. Scholarly and Professional Activities 6. Resources 7. Internal and External Relationships 8. International Business Education 9. Educational Innovation

Athletic Training Program The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education granted the athletic training program continuing accreditation for the maximum 10 years.

Brian Smith, director of the athletic training program, said, “The CAATE continuing accreditation demonstrates that our program is compliant with all 109 standards and demonstrates to future students that our program is topnotch.”

The CSU program has moved from a bachelor’s degree to a master of athletic training in response to national standards that will require by 2022 a student must earn a professional master’s degree in order to be eligible to take the Board of Certification national certifying exam for athletic training. Current standards allow students who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree to take the BOC exam.

FIRST DOCTORAL PROGRAM ANNOUNCED

By Jenna Johnson

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SU’s first doctoral program – the Doctor of Education with an emphasis in Leadership – began accepting applications July 1. The inaugural cohort of 20 students will begin in January 2019, with completion in December 2021.

The program consists of 60 semester hours offered in traditional on-campus or hybrid formats, with courses meeting on evenings and weekends. Students usually take one course per term. Courses include leadership, cognate and research cores.

Courses conclude with the defense of the dissertation.

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The EdD in Leadership is designed for working adults, and extends into all types of administrative leadership roles, including education, healthcare and business.

Dr. George Metz, dean of the College of Education, said, “We are excited to be part of bringing the EdD to the Lowcountry where all classes are taught by higher education faculty and outstanding practitioners in various leadership roles in the Charleston metro region.”

CSU’s doctoral program includes: • Curriculum designed to advance knowledge and skills by studying and researching various leadership models • Dissertation phase to allow students to develop and implement research rooted in both theory and practice • Research core to provide advanced skills in writing and analysis • Ethical and character-based leadership course unique to the CSU program of study Learn more about the EdD program at charlestonsouthern.edu/edd. This program is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

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LEARNING

FACULTY AND STUDENT RESEARCH

By Jan Joslin/Photos by Richard Esposito

WORLD’S AMPHIBIANS THREATENED

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hat’s the big deal about the massive drop in the number of amphibians worldwide due to the chytrid fungus? Quite simply, amphibians eat insects that spread disease.

Dr. James Brooks, assistant professor of biology, and several student researchers have been conducting a study on how to protect amphibians from the pathogenic chytrid fungus.

Amphibians include frogs, toads and salamanders, some of which are known as newts, and caecilians. Brooks describes the Southeastern U.S. as the salamander capital of the world.

Already, several hundred species of amphibians are extinct worldwide. Mat Fisher, of Imperial College in London, was quoted in a recent National Geographic article, saying, “This is the worst pathogen in the history of the world, in terms of its impacts on biodiversity.”

Brooks and his students, with the help of research funds from South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, have swabbed amphibians, isolated microbes and made frozen stocks for further study.

They extracted and purified DNA and sent it to the Clemson Genomics Institute for sequencing. They are testing for inhibition of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis.

ARE YOU OBSESSED WITH THE SCREEN?

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ccording to Jasmine Belton’s recent research project, The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health, the most damaging thing people do in regard to social media is spending too much time on it.

Belton, a May 2018 graduate with a public health major, said, “The time we spend on social media should be productive and bring joy to our lives. If we are comparing our lives, accomplishments, and looks, it can really affect our mental health.”

Dr. James Brooks

Belton became interested in the subject by observing how the majority of people are glued to their phones. “It was eye-opening to see so many people attached to a small device,” she said.

Belton offers the following tips for using social media in a healthy way: • Block off a small amount of time per day to spend on social media.

• Spend more time by yourself, and with friends and family, without the screen.

• Turn off social media notifications on all devices.

• Keep your devices away from your resting place.

• Have a purpose when checking social media.

Jasmine Belton

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CSU magazine 5

LEARNING

CONQUERING FEAR WITH

By Warren Peper/Photos by Richard Esposito

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t was a month before her high school graduation. While other seniors in her

Connecticut high school were planning trips and proms, Jessica Da Silva Andrade was preoccupied with other concerns.

“I don’t think there’s ever a good time to hear you have cancer – but a month before graduation?” That was Da Silva Andrade’s reaction. After discovering a lump on her neck and undergoing consultations with a specialist, along with an MRI and blood work, a decision was made to surgically remove the lump.

“The Lord was faithful to me through my doubt, and I’m trying to be faithful to Him.” – Jessica Da Silva Andrade

After the surgery, doctors told Da Silva Andrade the lump was an aggressive lymphoma, and the next step would entail chemotherapy.

All of this happened as she attempted to ready herself for her freshman year at Charleston Southern. She had fallen in love with the campus during a visit, and the first week of college was getting closer and closer. But there was this other matter that hung over every passing moment.

The night before she was scheduled to see her oncologist, Da Silva Andrade’s church held a special prayer service. Her minister prayed that the cancer no longer be present. “Sure,” Da Silva Andrade remembered while sitting with her eyes closed with family and friends, “that’s quite a big ask, but is it possible?”

The next day, there was no cancer to be found in her body. Her doctors decided the top specialists and scientists at Yale should take a look. From June until August, she underwent scans, bone marrow tests and multiple visits to Yale. Still, the cancer was not detectable, and it was determined that there was no reason to commence chemo treatments.

Two weeks before CSU’s academic year began, Da Silva Andrade called enrollment to let them know she was still coming. Mom, Dad and her two younger siblings brought her to school, to a new family many miles from her Connecticut home.

It’s been about three years since the surgery; she’s still cancer free. Her story has provided opportunities to share her faith in ways never expected. She really enjoys sharing the story with her nursing friends as it relates to God’s healing power. She also believes it’s had a profound impact on her Dad, who had not attended church since Da Silva Andrade was a baby. Recently, she learned her father was in church asking for continued prayer for his daughter.

Meanwhile, Da Silva Andrade’s now a rising senior, majoring in psychology and child development. She wants to be a child life specialist. It’s a profession that counsels and assists hospitalized children coping with lifethreatening illnesses.

She still admits to battling doubts. Random sick moments such as a cold or loss of appetite can send her mind racing. Her mother, though, quickly reminds her that her faith brought her through much more difficult times.

Da Silva Andrade has a heart for ministry and works with young people at her church, New Spring. She was also involved in forming the school’s first Worship Dance Team.

“The Lord was faithful to me through my doubt, and I’m trying to be faithful to Him,” she said. The Christian atmosphere attracted her to CSU, and she said, she continues to love the ministry of the school. “It’s the perfect place for me.”

GRADUATION

LEARNING

CHARLESTON SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY GRADUATES CLASS OF 2018

By Jan Joslin/Photos by Richard Esposito

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harleston Southern University conferred 682 degrees Saturday, May 5 at North Charleston Coliseum.

President Jairy C. Hunter Jr. was keynote speaker at the final commencement ceremony over which he presided. After serving 34 years as Charleston Southern’s second president, Hunter was granted President Emeritus status during the ceremony.

Hunter said, “Successful people allow their God-given purpose and passion to guide their lives. They have a single focus and undivided heart. Without a clear purpose, people will keep changing directions, jobs and relationships, hoping that each change will bring fulfillment. It is human nature to get distracted by minor issues. Many of us are like gyroscopes spinning around but never maximizing our full potential.”

Dr. Jackie Fish presents Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr. with the President Emeritus designation.

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Three individuals were honored for their service to CSU and the community: Honorary Doctor of Business Administration Jesse Franklin “Frank” Bullard III, Market President for BB&T Honorary Doctor of Christian Leadership James “Jay” Henry Strack Jr., Founder of Student Leadership University Distinguished Service Award John D. Osborne, Executive Administrator of Charleston Angel Partners, Director of The Harbor Entrepreneur Center and Managing Partner of Good Growth Capital.

Frank Bullard has served on the CSU Board of Trustees and has been a member of the CSU Board of Visitors Scholarship Program since 2008. He served as commencement speaker at CSU’s 2013 ceremony.

Hunter said, “Frank has been on our Board of Trustees and has contributed significantly to our Strategic Planning process. His experiences and relationships are important for the university in keeping us connected with the greater Charleston area.”

Bullard said, “Involvement in the Board of Visitors is a great way to leverage your resources. An investment in future generations is key to ensuring a better tomorrow for all of us.”

After overcoming a childhood of abuse and drug addiction, Jay Strack landed at CSU, earning a bachelor of arts degree in 1975. His background inspired him to present a message of first imagining and then executing positive change. For years he led evangelism crusades and has spoken in 10,000 high schools. He is the founder of Student Leadership University.

“The amount of knowledge gained at CSU has prepared me for not only leading SLU but also various other opportunities around the world,” said Strack.

Hunter said, “Dr. Jay Strack is one of CSU’s most committed graduates for youth evangelism. CSU has developed a unique working relationship with Dr. Strack’s organization which serves as a recruiting network for some of the best college student prospects in the Southeast. Dr. Strack is a member of the President’s Council of the CSU Board of Visitors Scholarship Program which provides approximately 200 scholarships each year.”

Based in Orlando, Florida, Student Leadership University provides leadership training for students age 13 to 24. Anna Dyer ’18, has participated in Student Leadership University and been an SLU intern. She said, “SLU opened my eyes to the magnitude of God’s power in both the intricate details of who I am, as well as His sovereign plan over my life. Jay Strack is a large part of this, because he believes in the power of God to radically transform hearts and minds. I have watched SLU change many lives, including my own. I am incredibly grateful Dr. Jay has dedicated his life to a mission he feels called to, because his calling is helping others discover where God is calling them.”

“Today, Christian students need to be reminded that out of the four most critical questions of their life, three or potentially even all four will be answered by where they go to school,” said Strack. The questions are:

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COMMENCEMENT SPECIAL AWARDS Student awards: The Myrtle E. Hamrick Award: Katie Ellen Kramps, a kinesiology major from Summerville A medal awarded annually to the CSU female graduate who possesses the highest virtues of Christian womanhood The Hunter Cup: Sophie Cloessner, a member of the women’s tennis team, a management major from Ehringshausen, Germany Presented to a member of the graduating class who has best served the university and whose character, scholarship and athletic ability are deemed outstanding The John A. Barry Scholar Award: Zachary Davis Kegley, a biochemistry major from King George, Va. Presented to the graduating senior who has achieved the highest scholastic ratio and who, in the judgment of the faculty, evidences the greatest promise for future scholarship

1. What will I do with Jesus?

2. What will I do with my life?

3. Where will I go to school? Strack advises, “Go to a school that will help you build a foundation for the rest of your life.”

4. Who will I spend my life with? He said, “The average age of marriage is 26; the odds are overwhelming that you will not meet the person you spend your life with in high school but most likely your junior or senior year of college. I would encourage anyone to go to CSU as many of the students have a passion and focus for life, as well as an excitement to chase the Lord and pursue excellence in all things.”

One of the key things Strack impresses on students is the thought, “Five years from now you will be the same person you are today except for the books you read, the people you meet, the places you go, and what you memorize.”

John Osborne ’02, a successful Charleston entrepreneur, received the Distinguished Service Award.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

Osborne is the executive administrator of Charleston Angel Partners, director of The Harbor Entrepreneur Center and managing partner of Good Growth Capital. He has a background in the financial services industry in commercial and private banking and wealth management.

“CSU provided a great foundation in my chosen major of finance and economics to build from as I continue to grow businesses which also support economic development efforts in our region,” said Osborne. “My involvement in startups stems from a combination of genuinely caring about seeing people pursue their passions and a recognition of the need for a more systematic way to connect people with resources to those who need them. It’s been a lifelong journey which is still evolving.”

Hunter said, “John always exhibits strong leadership skills and a willingness to help others. John is a superb example of a servant business leader and is humble, intelligent and committed to helping entrepreneurs be successful in their business ventures.”

The Carolyn Killen Hunter Outstanding Christian Teacher Endowed Scholarship and Award: Amelia Rhyne Skelton, an early childhood education major from Goose Creek Awarded to a rising senior in the School of Education who has demonstrated Christian leadership Emeritus Faculty: Patricia J. Hambrick Emerita Professor of Education Stephen Douglas Hudson Emeritus Professor of Chemistry Sandra Hammond Hughes Emerita Professor of Library Science Monica R. Langley Emerita Professor of Library Science Excellence in Teaching Award: Glorimar Blanco Assistant Professor of Spanish

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GRADUATION

LEARNING

BLANCO EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING WINNER

By Academic Affairs

Glorimar Blanco, winner of the 2018 Excellence in Teaching Award, served as Grand Marshal at Commencement. Photo by Richard Esposito

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lorimar Blanco, assistant professor of Spanish, is the 2018 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award presented by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities.

She came to CSU in 2011 and teaches a variety of Spanish classes. She is currently developing Spanish courses for Charleston Southern Online. In 2015, she was part of a team which was awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities grant for Latino Americans: 500 Years of History.

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Dr. Jacqueline Fish, vice president for academic affairs, said, “Glorimar is certainly a shining example of CSU’s mission and is an amazing role model for our students.”

Blanco serves as chair of the CSU Cultural Diversity Committee, recently traveled with a CSU team to Puerto Rico to supply disaster relief, and took a group of students to Spain in the summer of 2017.

Active in her church and the community, she also volunteers as a translator at the Dream Center and Medical University of South Carolina.

She holds a master of education in Spanish from the College of Charleston and a bachelor of science with majors in biology and Spanish from Charleston Southern in 2003.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

FACULTY NEWS

LEARNING

LEVAN WINS DISSERTATION OF THE YEAR AWARD

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Ben LeVan, center, accepts the Dissertation of the Year Award.

Photo provided

en LeVan, a professor in the College of Business, is the winner of the Academy of Human Resource Development’s Esworthy Malcolm S. Knowles Dissertation of the Year Award.

With an extensive background in corporate human resources, LeVan sought to reveal the relationship between a performance appraisal and how that affects an employee’s engagement. After collecting data from nearly 500 surveys, LeVan believes there is a definite correlation between the two – and it’s mostly negative.

It’s entirely possible the common job evaluation process should be totally blown up.

“We put leaders in an impossible situation, serving as both a cheerleader and judge. We need to move away from a management type of process to a coaching process,” LeVan’s research reveals.

The data collected and assessed by Professor LeVan reveals that while goal setting and feedback can be valuable to an employee, it’s best if the feedback is frequent along with continual coaching.

The award is presented each year by the Academy of Human Resource Development to promote scholarly activity.

TAYLOR STRESSES SERVICELEARNING IN NURSING

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r. Wanda Taylor, an assistant professor in the College of Nursing, believes it is critical that nursing education meet the changing needs in healthcare with greater emphasis on community and public health settings.

In a paper published by the Journal of Nursing Education, Taylor teamed up with Dr. Roseann Pruitt and Dr. Tracy Fasolino from the Clemson School of Nursing to recommend changes that might enhance nursing education.

The paper’s primary finding is that service-learning should be introduced more broadly into the nursing education curriculum. The professors recognize that servicelearning is foundational to community nurs-

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

ing, but all facets of nursing would benefit thereby allowing students to view clients holistically while developing cultural competence and social responsibility. In short, nurses need to meet people where they are.

The paper stresses research is needed to further examine the use of service-learning to prepare baccalaureate nurses. The paper also states that service-learning requires significant effort by nursing faculty.

“Service-learning can be a way to break down barriers within communities that may contribute to improved health of community members,” said Taylor. “Cultural sensitivity, cultural competence and social justice were just some of the concepts addressed in our project,” she said.

Dr. Wanda Taylor Photo by Richard Esposito

CSU magazine 13

FACULTY NEWS

LEARNING

PROFESSOR OF MUSIC RELEASES TWO NEW CDS

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oprano Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis, professor of music, has released two CDs with her ensemble, The In-Between. The In-Between is a trio featuring Terhaar Lewis and her husband, saxophonist Robert Lewis, and pianist Gerald Gregory.

The CDs, “Deep in the Night” and “My Soul in Stillness Waits,” were recorded and engineered in Charleston by GRAMMYnominated producer Quentin Baxter.

They contain original music written by members of the ensemble as well as original arrangements of folk songs, standards and hymns performed by the trio and guests, cellist Norbert Lewandowski, and percussionist Ron Wiltrout.

The group explores repertoire that lies both in and in between classical and jazz genres. For information on the CDs, visit theinbetweentrio.squarespace.com.

Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis. Photo by Richard Esposito

THOMAS PUBLISHES SECOND BOOK

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ulletproofing the Psyche: Preventing Mental Health Problems is available from Praeger Publishing. Anthology editors Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas, assistant professor of public health, and Dr. David Albright have pulled together an interdisciplinary team of researchers, practitioners and military veterans to outline the case for resilient skills training.

Mental fitness training methods include somatic protocols long used in the treatment sector to rewire our brains after trauma.

Innovative, somatic treatments are proven alternatives to drug and talk therapy and can have a powerful impact on levels of resilience.

Calling for action, the authors advocate for moving these evidence-based practices into the prevention and training sectors.

The book’s contributors include leaders in the field of trauma research, military social work and veterans’ health practice.

Thomas is also the author of Brave, Strong and True, a Marine Corps veteran and a popular speaker.

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LEARNING

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS STUDENT RIDES WITH VETS, MEETS PRESIDENT

By Jan Joslin

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atthew Shelton is a regular at the gym, but he isn’t ordinarily a cyclist. But that didn’t stop him from cycling 30 miles over two days in late April.

Shelton, a junior majoring in management, and a Marine Corps veteran, was one of 70 veterans selected to participate in the 15th Annual Wounded Warrior Project White House Soldier Ride.

He was the only attendee from Charleston.

Shelton said the ride was a great way to come together and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. He said, “It was a great time of camaraderie and spending time with people who have been through what you’ve been through.”

The vets rode 17 miles in Annapolis, Maryland, on the first day, visited the White House on the second day, and rode 13 miles in Prince William Park outside Quantico, Virginia, on the third day. Shelton said while the Prince William Park ride was shorter, it was full of rolling hills which made it a harder ride.

At the White House, each veteran was greeted by President Trump, and he addressed the entire group. Shelton appreciated the president’s support of the veterans and said it was an interesting experience to be facing the camera instead of watching on TV. He was surprised how well the vets connected and feels he has made friends for a lifetime. “They’ve been through the same or worse as I have,” said Shelton. He is also appreciative of the support veterans have on the Charleston Southern campus. He is a member of the Student Veterans Association and enjoys having other vets in class. “There is a large vet community at CSU,” he said.

Shelton is excited about the arrival of CSU’s third president, Dr. Dondi Costin, a fellow veteran. He also appreciates all President Jairy Hunter has done in making strides to be helpful to veterans attending CSU. Shelton’s biggest supporter is his wife. He said, “She is able to juggle all the things to allow me to be in school and to go on the

RETIRING FACULTY

ride.” Shelton is looking forward to finishing his degree and entering the workforce and hopes to land a job in the transportation and logistics field.

Matthew Shelton, on left, at the 15th Annual Wounded Warrior Project White House Soldier Ride, appreciated meeting fellow vets.

Photo provided

Photos by Richard Esposito

Five faculty members, representing 112 years of service to the university, retired in 2018:

Dr. Patty Hambrick

Sandra Hughes

Dr. Steve Hudson

Dr. Cynthia Putman

Monica Langley

professor of education and director of academic technology and academic grants, came to CSU in 2002

associate professor of library science and director of the library, came to CSU in 1991

associate professor of chemistry, came to CSU in 1980

associate professor of education, came to CSU in 2005

instructor of library science and assistant librarian in acquisitions, came to CSU in 2000

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 15

LEADING

WRITING OUT GOALS LED TO CAREER SUCCESS

By Marketing and Communication

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hen Andy Diana retired in 2014 he was CEO of Bayer Corporation’s Global Business Systems. He credits the MBA he earned at Charleston Southern with his success.

Diana started programming at 15, went to college and then worked his way up the career ladder. When Diana was working on his master of business administration, President Jairy C. Hunter Jr. taught the MBA’s strategic planning course.

Hunter said, “I give all of my MBA students a career planning matrix. It includes areas of faith, health, finance and family.” Hunter said there is an enormous psychological benefit when things are written down.

Diana has never forgotten Hunter presenting the career planning pyramid and his words, “If you share it with others, it may come true. It keeps you accountable.”

Diana wrote in his career plan that he wanted to be director of information technology at Bayer in five years. Instead, he became IT director in three months.

Diana found the MBA valuable for his career. “The first book I opened was The ABCs of Managerial Accounting, and it applied exactly to what I was doing at the time in my job,” said Diana.

Once he completed the MBA, his career with Bayer took off, with positions such as head of the Data Center in Bayer’s Singapore division, VP of IT operations for Asia Pacific, VP of infrastructure applications operations Americas before becoming president of Bayer Business and Technology Services prior to retiring.

Along the way, he provided a conservative approach to finance and took on the task of consolidating and eliminating waste within the company. “They thought we’d save $15 million in five years, but we saved $6 million alone in the first year,” he said.

Diana traces a good deal of that success back to inserting his goals into that career planning pyramid in an MBA class.

Jairy C. Hunter Jr. and Andy Diana. Photo by Jenna Johnson

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Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

LEADING

AIR FORCE ROTC DET. 772 WINS S.C. AFROTC UNIT OF THE YEAR

By Jan Joslin/Photos by Richard Esposito

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SU’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 772 has been named the South Carolina Air Force Association AFROTC Unit of the Year for 2017.

The award marks Det. 772’s successful year of transition from a two-year program to a four-year program, accepting freshman and sophomore cadets. The program experienced a 400 percent increase in size, from seven cadets in 2015-2016 to 37 cadets in 2016-2017.

Lt. Col. Alexandria Watson, commander of AFROTC Det. 772, said, “Competition was fierce. Clemson, USC and The Citadel have great programs. As a detachment new to having a four-year program, we’re honored to compete at the same level as those schools whose programs have been well-established for decades.”

During 2017, the program experienced a series of firsts: first time in 40 years Det. 772 was able to compete cadets in the Professional Officer Course Selection Process, and the high quality of cadets recruited led to a 100 percent selection rate; first time in more than five years a cadet was selected for Phase II of the Air Liaison Officer training; and first time in four years a cadet has been selected for rated categorization (to become a Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot).

“Winning this award truly speaks to the commitment of the cadre to work with excellence to ensure our detachment runs smoothly,” said Watson. “More importantly, this award recognizes the accomplishments of our cadets, who are the REAL recipients of this award. We supported them, helped

them succeed, and then shined a light on their success for others to see. I’m honored to serve as the commander of such an awesome cadre and group of cadets committed to serving their country.”

Det. 772 implemented a new rigorous fitness program resulting in Physical Fitness Assessment scores increasing by 20 percent, with 46 percent of cadets scoring 90 plus, surpassing the national average. Cadets are engaged in campus life and volunteer in the community. Det. 772 also hosts South Carolina’s largest drill meet for JROTC cadets.

CSU’s Det. 772 may be a first-time winner of the South Carolina AFROTC Unit of the Year, but they are no stranger to the award podium. In recent years, they have won: • AFROTC Southeast Region High Flight Award: 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009 (an AFROTC Southeast Region Unit of the Year Award) • National Right of Line Award: 2007 (a National AFROTC Unit of the Year Award) • Southeast Team Excellence Award: 4th Quarter 2016; 1st Quarter 2017

left: Members of the AFROTC color guard present the colors at Commencement. above: Commissioning of the newest Air Force officers is part of the Commencement ceremony.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 17

COVER STORY

LEADING

Dondi E. Costin NAMED CSU’S THIRD PRESIDENT

By Jenna Johnson/Photos by Jan Joslin

T

he Charleston Southern University Board of Trustees unanimously approved the appointment of Dondi E. Costin, PhD, to serve as the third president of Charleston Southern University.

Costin has a track record in key leadership positions with the U.S. Air Force, having obtained the rank of Major General in his 32 years of commissioned service. He most recently served at The Pentagon as Air Force Chief of Chaplains. As Chief of Chaplains, he was the senior pastor for more than 664,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the United States and overseas, and led 2,000 chaplains and chaplain assistants from the Air Force Chaplain Corps.

A native of Wilmington, N.C., Costin graduated from The United States Air Force Academy in 1986 and retired from the Air Force before assuming the CSU office this summer. A decorated combat veteran, he has deployed in support of numerous contingency and humanitarian relief operations across the globe, and previously served as senior chaplain for Air Force operations both in the Pacific and the Middle East. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree in operations research, Costin holds five master’s degrees, a doctor of ministry degree, and a PhD in organizational leadership. In a previous assignment, he taught courses in leadership, management, political science and military history as assistant professor of aerospace studies at Texas Christian University.

“Vickey and I could not be more thrilled to join the CSU family in its drive to develop leaders of character by integrating faith and learning in an environment of academic excellence,” said Costin. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of CSU’s legendary president, Dr. Jairy Hunter, who has transformed Charleston Southern into the jewel it is today. I look forward to leading this team to build upon the firm foundation

he has laid, in hopes that – with God’s help – the best is yet to come.”

The selection and announcement followed a nationwide search process led by executive search firm CarterBaldwin Executive Search of Atlanta, Ga. The 17-member search committee – comprised of trustees, alumni, students, faculty, staff, athletics, external relations and development personnel – reviewed 200 applications. The committee was impressed with Costin’s international leadership experience, solid academic credentials, strategic planning and problem-solving skills, and passion for the faith.

“The search committee selected Dr. Dondi Costin from over 60 qualified candidates,” said Dr. Jerry Williams, chairman of the search committee and chairman of the Board of Trustees.

“The committee unanimously agreed to recommend Dr. Costin because of his passion to lead the university in accomplishing its vision of integrating faith in learning, leading and serving. We believe he is the right fit for our university, and everyone is confident that he will take CSU to the next level of excellence.”

President Costin assumed office July 1.

Dr. Dondi Costin and Jerry Williams, chair, Board of Trustees.

An in-depth interview with President Costin will appear in the fall issue of CSU Magazine. Watch for it in late November.

Vickey and Dondi Costin.

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Dondi E. Costin EDUCATION Doctor of Philosophy, Leadership, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Dissertation: Essential Leadership Competencies for U.S. Air Force Wing Chaplains Doctor of Ministry, Church Growth, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Dissertation: Applying the Purpose-Driven Church Paradigm to a Multi-Congregational Air Force Chapel Setting Master of Divinity, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Master of Strategic Studies, Air University Master of Military Operational Art and Science, Air University Master of Arts in Religion, Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary Master of Arts, Counseling, Liberty University Bachelor of Science, Operations Research, The United States Air Force Academy

SENIOR EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE Chief of Chaplains, United States Air Force, The Pentagon 2015 – 2018 • Senior advisor to four-star Air Force Chief of Staff leading 664,000 Airmen and their family members.

• Oversaw 4,500 employees, $1.5 billion in facilities, and $70M budget serving 100+ campuses worldwide.

• Directed nine major geographically separated divisions to advance organizational mission across the globe.

• Generated $10 million annual budget increase to boost educational funding for Service Members and families.

• Served as Chaplain Corps College senior official, overseeing college mission, vision, curriculum and budget.

• Wrote Air Force Chaplain Corps Strategic Plan, linking Chaplain Corps’ spiritual care and resilience strategy to the United States Air Force’s Strategic Master Plan.

• Launched global FaithWorks campaign to connect resilience with academic research on religion and health.

• Traveled 120,000 miles per year to put eyes on multiple campuses and deliver more than 50 inspirational talks to college-aged American Airmen.

• As Armed Forces Chaplains Board Chairman, provided advice to Secretary of Defense and Congress on issues related to health and well-being of Service Members and families from all three military branches.

Senior Chaplain, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii 2012 – 2015 • Senior advisor to four-star commander leading 45,000 Airmen and family members.

• Oversaw 400 employees, $140 million in facilities, and $15 million budget serving nine campuses in the Pacific region (two sites in Alaska, one in Hawaii, one in Guam, three in Japan and two in Korea).

• Innovative manpower assignment approach saved $1million in operations and maintenance costs. Wrote Pacific Air Forces Chaplain Corps Strategic Plan, assigning resilience metrics and directing effective care strategy for Airmen and their families. Resulted in 31percent increase in face-to-face care in workplaces.

• Revised foundational Air Force regulation to guarantee religious freedom for every Air Force member.

• Traveled 150,000 miles to deliver more than 40 inspirational talks and keynote addresses.

• Recognized as one of two to earn Air Force Inspection Agency Superior Performance Team Award during 2015 Air Force Management Headquarters Inspection. Cited as number one headquarters directorate in exceeding the 7 Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence.

Senior Chaplain, United States Air Forces Central, Doha, Qatar 2011 – 2012 • Senior advisor to three-star commander leading 28,000 multinational Airmen in combat.

• Oversaw 325 employees, $18 million in facilities, and $12 million budget serving 22 campuses in the Middle East and Central Asia (including sites in Afghanistan, Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates).

• Led teams to conduct 72,000 hours of face-to-face engagement with Airmen, 31,000 counseling sessions and 7,000 worship services.

• Earned war zone Bronze Star Medal due to effective and efficient leadership during one-year deployment.

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DONDI E. COSTIN BIO

BIO PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE Graduate Student, Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama 2008 – 2009 • Student in 10-month, 35-semester-hour graduate degree program in strategic studies.

• Graduated with “academic distinction” in top 10 percent of international, multi-Service class.

• Earned “Outstanding” rating from Inspector General for superior classroom instructional performance.

• Developed senior chaplain leadership model as research project to complete degree requirements.

Chief, Chaplain Corps Resource Board, Maxwell AFB, Alabama 2005 – 2008 • Led Chaplain Corps “think tank” team of five officers, five enlisted members, and one multimedia specialist.

• Oversaw Air Force Chaplain Corps needs assessments, strategic planning, extended education and website.

• Implemented corporate project methodology to launch/track multiple projects.

• Managed budgets in excess of $1.5 million. Conducted two leadership summits for 500 senior leaders.

• Developed comprehensive multimedia curricula to elevate Chaplain Corps proficiency at 100 campuses.

• Masterminded $500,000 grant program to fund innovative global ministry benefitting 150,000 Airmen.

• Taught leadership, suicide intervention and counseling courses as Chaplain Corps College adjunct faculty.

• Recognized two years in a row as Headquarters Air Force’s number one education and training team.

• Earned Air Force-level recognition as finalist for prestigious Air Force Association Citation of Honor, leading 11-member staff team to 2nd place behind a 5,000-member special operations force.

Lead Chaplain Instructor, Readiness Training Center, Fort Dix, New Jersey 2004 – 2005 • Senior chaplain advisor to training center’s two-star commander and three independent schools.

• Prepared and evaluated 2,400 Airmen for combat during seven Air Force-level training exercises.

• Led working group of 25 functional experts to build eight-day contingency skills training course.

• Developed curricula for deployment training and effective religious/cultural interaction in the Middle East.

• Partnered with national trauma center to train deploying chaplains in crisis/trauma ministry.

Graduate Student, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama 2000 – 2001 • Student in 10-month, 33-semester-hour graduate degree program in military/organizational planning.

• Graduated as a Top Performer and earned Outstanding Contributor honors for academic excellence.

• Selected as National Semi-Finalist for the White House Fellowship program (Top 100 applicants).

• Researched and wrote on the role of religion in the origin and conduct of the American Civil War. Campus Pastor, Basic Military Training, Lackland AFB, Texas 1996 – 1998 • Pastored the world’s largest Air Force chapel congregation (2,500 students attended weekly) for two years, positively impacting 60,000 college-aged students enrolled in Air Force Basic Military Training.

• Conducted more than 1,000 individual counseling sessions with students.

• Led core values training for more than 20,000 students.

• Named Company Grade Officer of the Year for the U.S. Air Force’s most populous base.

Assistant Professor, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas 1992 – 1996 • Taught college courses in leadership, management, political science, and military history. Supervised 2 enlisted support personnel, a robust cadet recruiting staff, and 120 cadets in the AFROTC leadership development program.

• Established a $250,000 university-funded scholarship subsidy for federal scholarship recipients. Produced eligible AFROTC scholarship applications at a rate of 20 times the national average.

• Tripled minority enrollment during three-year stint as unit recruiting officer.

• Innovative recruiting program resulted in 50% increase in overall student enrollment.

• Carried 1996 Olympic Torch for winning Dallas/Fort Worth Community Hero honors.

• Named Air Force ROTC Company Grade Officer of the Year (#1 of 400 college professors nationwide). continued on next page >>

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LEADING

<< continued from previous page

OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Senior Chaplain, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany 2009 – 2011 • Led team of seven officers, four enlisted members and eight paid civilians providing spiritual care for 5,500 Airmen and their families stationed at seven locations in three countries (Germany, Belgium and Holland).

• Supervised pastors and staff for three Protestant and two Catholic congregations.

• Saved $50,000 and 475 man-hours per year by merging operations from two close bases into central hub.

• Earned “Outstanding” rating from Pentagon evaluators as lead chaplain for European Command exercise.

• Led team to Commander in Chief’s Installation Excellence Award (#1 of 97 major installations). Led team to win Air Force Outstanding Large Chapel Organization of the Year (#1 Air Force Chapel).

Deputy Base Chaplain, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina 2001 – 2004 • Senior pastor for two Protestant congregations serving the needs of 250 active members.

• Growth-minded leadership resulted in 10,000 more chapel participants in 2003 than in 2002.

• Deployed as first permanent Air Force chaplain stationed in Afghanistan after 9/11.

• Ministry recognized as key to flying squadron winning DoD’s Top Maintenance Unit Award.

• Recognized as Air Force Chaplain of the Year (#1 of 550 chaplains).

Senior Flightline Chaplain, Mildenhall Air Base, England 1998 – 2000 • Conducted flightline ministry program recognized by European Inspector General for vast scope.

• Senior pastor for 275-member congregation that doubled in attendance while serving as pastor. Deployed in support of five major military and humanitarian operations in Turkey, Italy and Mozambique.

• Named one of 10 Outstanding Young Americans Award winners, one of just 25 military members in award’s 61 years. Class included Michael Johnson, Peyton Manning, Jimmy Osmond, and Ted Kennedy, Jr. Chief Scientific Analyst, Joint Studies Group, Langley AFB, Virginia 1989 – 1992 • Conducted scientific analyses and led research teams in response to headquarters-directed queries.

• Cited for saving $34 million via expert analysis concerning the effectiveness of unguided weapons against hardened battlefield targets.

• Noted for “unsurpassed expertise” in calculating the number of air-to-air missiles required on hand to ensure victory in the first Gulf War. • Recognized as Headquarters Tactical Air Command Company Grade Officer of the Year.

Scientific Analyst, Weapons Evaluation Squadron, Eglin AFB, Florida 1986 – 1989 • Conducted operational test and evaluation studies of air-to-ground precision guided munitions. Recommended hardware adjustments and tactical innovations required to enhance weapons effectiveness.

• Compiled data and wrote reports for three major Air Force weapons evaluation programs.

• Global manager for the Precision Guided Munitions Analysis Program, which tracked data on every precision guided weapon delivered by U.S. tactical air forces (all military branches) worldwide

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS Costin, Dondi E. United States Air Force Chaplain Corps Flight Plan: Developing Spiritually Fit Airmen to Fly, Fight, and Win, 2017.

Costin, Dondi E. Warrior Care Strategy, Pacific Air Forces, 2015.

Costin, Dondi E., Timothy T. Ullmann, and Steven E. West, eds. Leading an Air Force Chapel: A Handbook for Wing Chaplains. Chaplain Corps Resource Board, 2008.

Costin, Dondi E. “Introduction: You Get Paid to Lead.” Leading an Air Force Chapel: A Handbook for Wing Chaplains, eds. Dondi E. Costin, Timothy T. Ullmann, and Steven E. West. Chaplain Corps Resource Board, 2008.

Costin, Dondi E. (editor), Kerry M. Abbott (editor), and Natalie Jenkins (principal author). Airmen to Airmen: A Culture of Responsible Choices. Denver CO: PREP, Inc, 2008. (17-session character development program for college-aged military members developed in partnership with PREP, Inc.).

Costin, Dondi E., Timothy T. Ullmann, and Richard Novotny, eds. USAF Chaplain Corps Deployment Guide. Chaplain Corps Resource Board, 2008.

Costin, Dondi E. (editor). U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps Strategic Plan. Chaplain Corps Resource Board, 2007.

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LEADING

JEFF BARBER NAMED ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

By Seth Montgomery

J

eff Barber, who spent a decade as an administrator at the University of South Carolina and another 11 years as athletic director at Liberty University, became the third Athletic Director in CSU history on June 1.

Barber brings with him 29 years of total Division I college athletic experience, most recently at fellow Big South Conference institution, Liberty, from 2006-2016.

“Throughout the interview process, it became very clear that this university is poised for tremendous growth and success over the next 10 years,” said Barber. “I feel extremely humbled and blessed to be a part of the Charleston Southern family.”

“Barber’s experience, relationship skills, and positive attitude make him an asset to the CSU family,” said Luke Blackmon, vice president for business affairs and athletics.

During his tenure at Liberty, Barber was instrumental in leading the Flames on to the next level of collegiate athletics. His efforts were recognized in June 2012 when he was named the NACDA FCS Under Armour Athletics Director of the Year for the Southeast region.

Barber spurred a record-setting increase in Flames Club memberships, giving and season ticket sales for football and basketball. During the last 10 years, the Flames Club experienced tremendous growth and collected nearly $10 million in total contributions. Flames Club membership hit the 1,000 mark in 2015, a near 10-fold growth during Barber’s time at Liberty. He also spearheaded multiple construction efforts.

Over Barber’s span, Liberty won 83 conference titles, including seven Big South football championships, and earned NCAA Tournament berths in baseball, field hockey, football, men’s basketball, men’s golf, men’s soccer, softball, volleyball, women’s basketball and women’s soccer. Additionally, Liberty student-athletes won five individual NCAA Division I national championships during Barber’s time.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

Jeff Barber, Photo by Richard Esposito

Barber’s academic backing also paid huge dividends for Liberty’s student-athletes. In 2011, Liberty became the 14th school in the country to receive national academic certification from the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics.

“Jeff Barber isn’t just a slam dunk for CSU; he’s a behind the back, off the glass, windmill 360 slam dunk of a hire,” said Barclay Radebaugh, head men’s basketball coach. “The strides Liberty made under his leadership were absolutely amazing. We are all excited to join forces with Jeff to continue to grow this athletic department to new heights and a new excellence.”

Barber went to Liberty after spending 10 years at the University of South Carolina, including his last three years as senior associate athletic director for development/

Gamecock Club executive director. He also worked in the Furman and East Carolina athletic departments.

“This is a huge win for Charleston Southern,” said Kyle Kallander, Big South commissioner. “To attract an individual with the experience, professionalism and leadership ability of Jeff Barber is a gamechanger. I know from personal experience what Jeff’s vision can do to transform an athletic program. We will see that at Charleston Southern.”

Barber holds a bachelor of science from East Carolina and continued his education with a degree from the Sports Management Institute.

A native of Greenville, N.C., Barber and his wife Donna have three children: Katie, Lindsay and Jay.

CSU magazine 23

COVER STORY

LEADING

Ison Serving a Greater Purpose

By Warren Peper and Jan Joslin/Photos by Jim Killian

W

hen Bobby Ison’s high school baseball days ended at Stratford High, he was undersized and overlooked.

He didn’t receive many opportunities to play college baseball, so he jumped at the offer to play at Charleston Southern. “I was a little guy who had to do all the little things just right,” remembers the former CSU outfielder.

The little leadoff hitter made a huge impact on the field. From the first year, to his final year, he hit over .300. It was his last year, his junior year, that he collected 96 hits while posting a .396 average.

As a player, Ison was what is called a tough out. In his final year at CSU, in 236 at bats, he struck out a mere six times. He was proclaimed the toughest player in the nation to strikeout. When he went to the plate, he always made contact.

24 CSU magazine

CSU baseball head coach, Adam Ward, believes if Ison had stayed for his senior year he would have captured every hitting milestone in the Bucs record book. His freshman year, he immediately won the starting position in centerfield.

There’s another reason he chose to be a Buc. Ison’s brother, Jared, was three years younger and was born with a rare neurogenetic disorder called Angelman Syndrome. “It was tough growing up, knowing my little brother could never play sports.” Jared attended every game. Before Ison entered the batter’s box, he’d use his bat to carve a J in the dirt. “I specifically came to CSU so my brother could watch me play. He never missed a game, though he spent much of his time at the concession stand trying

to score Airheads and a Sprite,” Ison says through a wry smile.

CSU campus pastor, Jon Davis, said, “Bobby’s greatest attribute is the love he displays for God, his family and his brother.”

Ison’s baseball brothers embraced Jared.

Their love and care for each other spread throughout the dugout. But those days ended when Ison decided after his terrific junior year to leave school for professional baseball.

In June of 2014, Ison was a 21st round draft pick of the Cleveland Indians. For three years, he played in the minors and eventually made it to the Triple-A level for a brief period. During that time, he married his high school sweetheart. In 2017, he was released. He was out of baseball. What would he do now?

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

LEADING

at peace with it. I had lived my “I was childhood dream and was ready to move

on.” Ison decided to come back to CSU in the summer of 2017 to complete his bachelor of arts in communication. An average student during his first time in college, he now was on the Dean’s List. His eye was no longer on hitting a curve ball or stealing a base. Those keen eyes were now fixed on securing a degree.

Coming back to complete his degree makes Ison unusual. Less than five percent of Major League Baseball players hold a college degree because of the many opportunities to enter the system before graduating from college.

Kate Hickman, in “Statistics for Professional Athletes with College Degrees,” said, “Many athletes end their professional careers before the age of 30, and without a college degree.”

It is estimated that less than half of minor leaguers return to finish their degrees.

26 CSU magazine

Playing in the minor leagues brought about a fresh view of Ison’s opportunities.

The structure and routines of pro baseball introduced a level of perspective convincing him to hit the books a little harder the next time he stepped into the academic batter’s box.

In December of 2017, Ward expressed interest in making Ison a student assistant coach. “It allowed me to find my purpose and to impact and influence these players,” said Ison. His duties ranged from coaching first base during the game to taking out the trash in the coach’s office. It reconnected him to a game he loves, at a place that allowed him to resume that relationship.

Ward believes the failures Ison experienced make him a better communicator. The ups and downs of the game can beat a person up. Ison dealt with both extremes.

But he drew on a passion and love for a game that, at its core, is difficult to master.

Ward is certain Ison can be a successful college coach, if he pursues it in the future, because of what he saw in just a short time in the Bucs dugout. “He knows how to talk to this guy differently from that guy. Our players really responded to him,” said Ward.

One of those players was Ison’s cousin, first baseman Aaron Miller. Ison turned what could have been an awkward situation into a positive one. “My cousin and I have been very close for as long as I can remember,” said Ison. “That didn’t change when I was his coach. We have the upmost respect for each other, and it was awesome getting to coach a family member.”

Davis, a former college football coach, said, “Bobby is so effective in talking to young players because he, himself, was so undervalued. Bobby excels in his ability to talk to anybody.”

Davis remembers a gesture displayed by Ison while still in high school that told him

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COVER STORY

Before Ison entered the batter’s box, he’d use his bat to carve a J in the dirt.

all he needed to know about the young man.

“As a high school star at Stratford High, he took my son, J.D., to a local park to show him the intricacies of hand-eye coordination in becoming a good fielder of the baseball.

That revealed to me, at an early age, who he was as a person.”

Ison frequently talks about how his spiritual life blossomed thanks to CSU’s faith integration component. “It’s awesome to have prayer in a classroom learning environment.

Worshipping with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes was an unbelievable experience.”

Ison speaks fondly of the Sunday morning chapel services that the CSU coaches conduct on campus and when they’re on the road. “It reminds us that we serve a greater purpose than baseball,” he said.

Ward believes those moments are extremely important. “You get to dive into something biblically that offers something for a player to latch on to spiritually. It also allows the play-

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

ers to know us better,” said Ward.

This spring, Ison led such a devotional moment. “I just spoke from the heart and let them understand there is life after baseball.”

This year’s CSU team took its lumps during a year of development. There were victories over South Carolina, Georgia and College of Charleston. But the coaches’ biggest challenge was getting those players to trust the process as the staff attempted to build a new culture. “Even with a losing season, this experience opened my eyes to a lot of good,” said Ison.

“Bobby has a way with people,” explains Ward. Ward did his best to give Ison a behind-the-scenes understanding of what coaching in college demands. “I want him to know the full experience – fundraising, budgets, recruiting.”

David Padilla, who leads many of the FCA meetings and is director of baseball operations, said, “Bobby has always had an

incredible work ethic, and along with the work ethic he has incredible character. It’s not surprising to me that he would come back to college and finish his degree.”

During his first trip through CSU, Ison was far more concerned with his baseball and social life. Academics showed up much farther down his priority list. Armed with a newfound purpose, he was all about managing his time and establishing routines to finish his degree. He graduated in May with honors.

Now just 24, Ison already possesses a perspective few others his age are ready to embrace. Given all that he’s experienced and accomplished, he believes it will eventually be of benefit. Perhaps becoming a college baseball coach may be in his future, perhaps not. A few days before graduation, he started a management trainee job with Enterprise Holdings.

Bobby Ison was overlooked once before.

That’s not likely to happen again.

CSU magazine 27

LEADING

NIELSEN DONATES $500,000 TO CSU BASEBALL PROGRAM

By Kevin O’Rourke

C

SU has received one of the largest donations in the school’s athletic history from one of its own. Roger Nielsen, a 1974 graduate and former Buccaneer catcher, committed $500,000 to the baseball program in May. CSU Ballpark will be renamed Nielsen Field to honor the generosity of Roger and his wife, Joyce. The Nielsen’s gift will be specifically directed toward the Bucs’ efforts in recruiting, training and player instruction.

Nielsen, who earned an accounting degree and has since enjoyed an impressive career as a business owner, hopes the contribution will provide an all-encompassing experience for current and future players.

“I wanted to give to really enhance the program anyway that we can,” Nielsen said.

“Whatever we can do to attract baseball players to Charleston Southern and make them better players and better people once they’re here, I want to be part of that.”

Nielsen, a New Jersey native who now resides outside of Philadelphia, credits his time at Baptist (now CSU) for the life he’s carved out since returning to the Northeast.

Roger and Joyce Nielsen, center, visited with retired track coach, Jim Settle, on left, and Dr. Jairy Hunter, at the baseball alumni event in April.

28 CSU magazine

“Without the money to play baseball, I don’t go to college,” Nielsen reflected.

“Baseball is a big deal in my house because without baseball, college doesn’t happen for me. I might never have met my wife, and my life would be completely different. People believed in me and gave me the opportunity to be part of something special, and I’m just kind of passing it forward.”

Nielsen, who formed a personal relationship with Christ as a senior, was inspired to get heavily involved with his alma mater by former Buc, Chris Singleton.

Like many others, Nielsen watched with amazement as Singleton, then a rising sophomore outfielder, delivered his “Love is stronger than hate” message at CSU Ballpark just a day after his mother and eight others were tragically killed in a shooting at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church.

“The way Chris Singleton handled himself and presented himself to the public was amazing and, I think, went a long way to driving the way the community responded to such a tragedy,” Nielsen said.

“That kind of led us back into Charleston Southern Baseball and wanting to make a difference in the lives of these kids.”

Roger Nielsen during his playing years. File photo

The university is still raising funds for the Singleton Baseball Complex, which opened this past February as the home for Buccaneer Baseball. Over $1.5 million has already been committed to the facility, which includes a state-of-the-art locker room, student-athlete enrichment center and entryway commemorating Sharonda Coleman-Singleton’s life and legacy.

Assistant Athletic Director for Development Tyler Davis came to know the Nielsens through the Singleton Complex project. Their heart for the university and its mission stood out to Davis then, and has continued to since. Davis welcomed Nielsen and many other former Bucs to campus for an Alumni Weekend in April.

“While getting to know Roger and his family, it has been great to see how Charleston Southern impacted his life spiritually, on the baseball field and from a business perspective,” said Davis. “His passion for CSU is evident, and it is with great pleasure that we name CSU Ballpark, Nielsen Field.”

“On behalf of CSU, the Athletic Department and specifically the Buccaneer baseball program. I want to extend my sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Roger and Joyce Nielsen for their outstanding donation to our baseball team,” Athletic Director Jeff Barber said. “Their generosity will go a long way in building a championship caliber program, and we are so blessed to have them in the Charleston Southern family.”

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SERVING

MCBRIDE NAMED 2018 NEWMAN CIVIC FELLOW

By Jan Joslin/Photos by Richard Esposito

C

ampus Compact, a Boston-based nonprofit working to advance the public purposes of higher education, has announced the 268 students who make up the organization’s 2018 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows, including Charleston Southern’s Princeton McBride.

McBride is a rising senior from Sumter, with a double major in public health and Christian studies. He was vice president of the Student Government Association, a resident assistant, active in campus ministries and a volunteer for campus visitors learning English as a second language. He has worked with Fuge summer camps at CSU and volunteers with Charleston Star Gospel Mission and Operation Christmas Child.

McBride will serve as president of the Student Government Association for the 2018-2019 academic year.

Jairy C. Hunter Jr., said, “Princeton is a model of a civic-minded leader. His future in leadership is bright because he understands the importance of diligently serving others while maintaining a high GPA as a full-time student. We believe that one must be willing to serve before one can lead, and Princeton has certainly demonstrated his commitment to a service philosophy.”

The Newman Civic Fellowship, named for Campus Compact co-founder Frank Newman, is a one-year experience emphasizing personal, professional and civic growth. Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides a variety of learning and networking opportunities, including a national conference of Newman Civic Fellows in partnership with the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. The fellowship also provides fellows with access to apply for exclusive scholarship and postgraduate opportunities.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to celebrate and engage with such an

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

Princeton McBride with Dean of Students Clark Carter.

extraordinary group of students,” said Campus Compact president Andrew Seligsohn. “The stories of this year’s Newman Civic Fellows make clear that they are bringing people together in their communities to solve pressing problems.

That is what Campus Compact is about, and it’s what our country and our world desperately need.”

The Newman Civic Fellowship is supported by the KPMG Foundation and Newman’s Own Foundation.

CSU magazine 29

SERVING

A MISSION TRIP THAT PLANTED SEEDS

By Warren Peper

A

lmost 14 years ago, Dr. Charles Smedley and Dr. David Naylor took a team of CSU students on a mission trip to Romania. They worked with orphan children and with poor people in the community.

Daniel Puiu, a Romanian working in ministry at that time, clearly remembers watching the CSU group teaching and singing with the orphans. “You could see God working through the students,” Puiu recalls.

In 2016, Puiu, his wife and two children, decided to move to the United States.

Though Puiu admits they did not know

why – they chose to live in Charleston.

Puiu had worked as a manager in many big European companies. He continues working from abroad in project management as a consultant. “We don’t know our purpose, yet, but we believe 100 percent we’re where we are supposed to be.”

“That’s the reason I chose CSU; I still remembered the school, the

Daniel Puiu

Puiu decided he needed a master’s degree to compete for jobs in the United States. He suddenly realized the very university that he first saw in his home country all those years ago, was now in his adopted home of Charleston.

“That’s the reason I chose CSU; I still remembered the school, the students and the professors from those years before in Romania.”

Now enrolled in the Master of Business Administration program, he’s confident all of this was not an accident or a coincidence.

“It’s more than I expected. The professors are so willing to help,” said Puiu.

The Puiu family was recently separated for about six months. Mom and wife, Beatrice, was a member of the Romanian Olympic bobsled team. Daniel managed the chaos of his studies, the two children and their schedules until Beatrice returned from South Korea.

It’s hard to know what impact or effect a mission trip might have on those who see groups arrive wearing CSU t-shirts from a city and university thousands of miles away. It certainly made an impression on a young Romanian years ago, and Puiu is certain now, more than ever, that “all things work together.”

students and the professors from those years before in Romania.”

– Daniel Puiu

The 2004 Romanian Mission Team. Dr. Charles Smedley is on back row, far left, and Dr. David Naylor is kneeling in the front. file photo

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Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

SERVING

CSU MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT SEDGEFIELD INTERMEDIATE

By Warren Peper/Photos provided

D

uring spring semester, CSU students decided to give of their time to third, fourth and fifth graders at Sedgefield Intermediate School.

Emmanuel Amon, who is CSU’s volunteer coordinator through Americorps VISTA, brought the school and the students together. Amon recruited nine volunteers.

Jessica Ketcham, a freshman, immediately connected with her 10-year-old mentee.

They played at recess and engaged in board games. Jessica has two young sisters, 4 and 7, that she missed. She enjoyed the positive influence she had as a mentor. She would eat lunch and listen to her new friend tell her about her day.

Logan Schuff, a junior, was looking for some way to give back. She eventually hopes to find a job in social services working with children. Her assigned mentee indicated that her home life might not be the most ideal, CSU volunteers and Sedgefield Intermediate students.

so Logan allowed the child to share her situation. “Sometimes, they just want somebody to listen,” says Logan. “I’m glad I did it.”

The school works with the CSU students and their schedules. They usually spend about one hour a week at the school. “It’s cool to see how happy the child is to see you,” said Ketcham.

Rachelle Hall, student support specialist with Communities in Schools at Sedgefield Intermediate, said, “Our student leaders love the time that they are gifted with their mentors each week! The mentors have modeled what it looks like to become a successful college student or employee and have set a wonderful example for our leaders of what their futures could be! That’s a win-win!”

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

Stephan Platt, who works in IT at CSU, also participated in the program. Because the young boy he was assigned to mentor was reluctant to engage, Platt decided to interact with the entire class until his new friend decided to warm up. Later, Platt learned that the young boy didn’t have a male figure in his life, creating a reluctance to immediately accept Platt. Eventually, Platt believes the two will connect, but he let his new friend deal with it on his own timeframe. Platt understood how this little boy felt more than most. “My dad wasn’t around much when I was about this boy’s age. I get it.”

Platt continued to enjoy lunch and recess with all of the students in this class. “The best part is seeing them smile,” he said.

CSU magazine 31

SUPPORTING FAMILIES WITH A MEAL The women’s basketball team has been serving at least once per year at the Ronald McDonald House since 2015. Sophomore forward Jasmine Blackmon said, “Cooking for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston was a good experience and an eye opener.” Elyse Kiploks ’17, director of operations for women’s basketball, said the team will continue to show support for the strong families staying there. “It’s such a great experience for all of us to help others by simply just making a meal for them,” she said.

WALKING FOR WATER For seven years, Dr. Linda Karges-Bone, distinguished professor of education, has spearheaded the CSU team in Water Mission’s Walk for Water.

The annual walk raises funds and awareness for those worldwide who do not have safe water. Consistently one of the top fundraising teams at the walk, Karges-Bone and the CSU team raised more than $8,600 this spring for the international nonprofit. “For me, the annual Walk for Water speaks of taking action as a community of believers,” said Karges-Bone. “It makes a public statement. And it offers an opportunity to involve my students. We can all walk together. It makes sense.” More than 100 students participated in the event.

SERVING

SERVING BRINGS BLESSINGS TO SPRING BREAK TEAMS

By Warren Peper and CSU Sports Information/All photos provided

I

n Acts 20:35, the Apostle Paul said, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Three teams of CSU students experienced this kind of blessing firsthand during Spring Break mission trips to Eastern Tennessee and Puerto Rico. Most students echoed Madison Gaskins’ statement, “I honestly left the trip feeling I had been blessed more than I had blessed them. Gaskins, a junior human resource management major, was a member of the Tennessee team.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

OFFERING A HELPING HAND IN TENNESSEE Dean of Students Clark Carter and Assistant Director for Residence Life Casey Bolduc took five CSU students to the mountains of Tennessee to help people at Fishery Community Church and at University Parkway Baptist.

The group participated in a drive-in church service. “I want them to see different ways to minister, and my friend Rev. Rusty Wishon is always developing innovative ways…always thinking outside the box,” Carter said.

On a Sunday morning, people pulled their cars and trucks into a parking lot.

“There was Alan Jackson music playing on the loudspeakers,” said Carter. Above the parking area was a small porch with a pulpit. The people, in their vehicles, could tune their radios to a specific frequency to hear the sermon and songs.

Who were these people? Some were attached to oxygen tanks, others in the throes of cancer treatment, some sat with their dogs while others were just simple folks who didn’t feel comfortable in a formal church sanctuary.

Before the service, CSU students passed out coffee and donuts. After the final hymn, the students gave treats to the pets. Later, the students learned that the very parking lot where this service is held was cleared by other CSU students 10 years ago.

The day they left, an older man started to cry while thanking the CSU contingent.

Hope Ivanova, a sophomore studying early childhood development, remembers the man saying, “Your group brought life to this community.”

continued on next page >>

CSU magazine 33

<< continued from previous page

BRINGING HOPE TO PUERTO RICO When looking from a distance at various Puerto Rican villages hammered

by Hurricane Maria last year, the blue tarps blanket the tops of houses, serving as temporary roofs all these months later. There are still residents without electricity, and dead birds still litter the streets.

Led by Assistant Campus Minister Brittany Gordon, 20 students worked with the North American Mission Board in still struggling towns.

Working in 10-person teams, one group helped two elderly sisters clear debris from their houses. Neither sister’s house had a roof. There were power trucks everywhere and still a lack of clean water.

Micah Metts, a freshman prenursing major from Saluda, left CSU feeling crushed about a test score. “Suddenly, I saw real life struggles involving people with no food.”

Very quickly, a large dose of perspective was delivered. In addition to providing manual labor, the students went to every house in their designated neighborhoods handing out cans of turkey, rice and Christian literature.

Director of Admissions Kimberly Ford, said, “It was incredibly encouraging to see the work the Lord did through our students.” As Davis Diel, a freshman from Charleston, said, “The people there had nothing but gave everything.”

The trip was especially impactful for Spanish professor, Glorimar Blanco. She left Puerto Rico as a teenager, but still has relatives there. “I didn’t realize the need was still so real. It shocked me,” admits Blanco. Her ability to communicate with the locals was invaluable. Some days, though, words could not express the depth of loss, and in those cases hugs became a valuable communication tool.

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SERVING

Blanco’s group replaced a roof for a woman in her 80s. It was a tiny wooden house that had doves and pigeons and rats living in the rafters. By week’s end, the group successfully covered the woman’s simple living quarters and cleared out the other inhabitants.

Gordon said, “Twenty students stepped up and selflessly served.” The students all had to sacrifice and come up with money in a short period of time to go on the trip. It forever affected them, though. As Diel said, “I went to Puerto Rico with the mindset of changing lives, but in reality, the trip changed my life.”

SOCCER PLAYERS IMPACT PUERTO RICO CSU soccer players Kelly Hinkle, Lydia Frierson, Peyton Motley and Jazmin Gonzalez joined Athletes in Action (AIA) to minister in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

The opportunity to step outside their comfort zones was an adjustment for all four athletes with Gonzalez taking charge early in the trip. As one of two Spanish-speaking athletes on the trip, she served multiple roles in helping the Bucs and athletes from North Carolina State, Wake Forest and Ball State on the trip with the language barriers.

“I was one of two on the trip that knew how to speak Spanish, so they chose me and our leaders to go through a classroom early on to go through computers and do assessments on people’s houses,” Gonzalez said.

“This trip really did affect me,” she continued. “I’m half-Puerto Rican and seeing everything different from the last time I was there when I was 10. There’s just so much destruction. It was a positive for me to be there for them and help out in whatever way I could.”

After spending the first two days working in the mountains, the group transitioned their focus to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez and sharing their own stories and the message of the gospel with the students on campus.

It was on campus that Hinkle shined, stepping outside of her comfort zone to start conversations throughout the week.

“At the beginning of the week, we did relief work, while the end of the week we trained with the Short Term International

(STINT) leaders who taught us how to interact with the community and meet people on campus,” said Motley.

Motley’s leadership and her ability to adapt to the situations was exciting to see for Frierson in particular. “Watching Pey become the leader she is and seeing her step out of her comfort zone; it was so cool,” Frierson said. “It was just really exciting to see everyone step out and grow the entire week we were there.”

Hinkle is looking into the possibility of returning to Puerto Rico with STINT. Frierson said, “I’ve accepted a position at the University of Maryland to be a volunteer assistant coach and doing part-time ministry work while also coaching a club team. AIA has asked me about joining them on staff as well. I’m excited to be at the Big Ten level and interested to see what comes of that. I feel like I’m called to college ministry and look forward to learning from the leaders and continuing to implement everything I’ve learned.”

Gonzalez and Motley, with one more year left at CSU, look to build off their experience and share what they’ve learned with their teammates.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 35

SCHOOL TIES

Class notes 1970

Transitioning into an advisory role, Nielsen is preparing his Paul Kennemore received a special children to take an active role in developing the business. award at the South Carolina Pictured are: Brian Nielsen, CEO, Athletic Hall of Fame banquet in May. Kennemore was the recipient Roger Nielsen, and Dr. Kristen Nielsen Donnelly, COO. They of the Dom Fusci Leadership have recently launched Abbey in Action Award, sponsored by Research, a business consultancy Founders Federal Credit Union. firm.

Now retired, he used to work in his family’s business, Greenwood Saw Company. He lives in Greenwood.

1977

1974

Al Miller, owner of Sites and Insights Tours, Inc., in Charleston, has published a book, Tourists Can Say the Darndest Things! Exploring Historic Charleston, South Carolina.

He has two more books in the works and is also the business manager for the Choraliers Music Club, Inc. For information on purchasing a book, go to sitesandinsightstours.com.

Rick Thornley ’90 MEd has been named 2018 Teacher of the Year of Berkeley Alternative School in Moncks Corner.

1995 Barbie Walker Washington was incorrectly identified in the last magazine as a 1985 alumnus. She is a member of the Class of 1995.

We apologize for the error.

COMPILED BY JAN JOSLIN ’82

2001 Christi Brinson has been named 2018 Teacher of the Year at Rollings Middle School of the Arts in Summerville.

2003

1997

Dr. Glenda Levine MEd has been named chief diversity officer for the Berkeley County School District, a new position in the district. She has worked for BCSD for 20 years and most recently was Dwayne Boulden earned his the chief human resource officer.

MBA online from CSU in May 2018. Dwayne is Vice Annette Roper ’12 MEd has President of Preferred Utilities been named principal of Fort and Manufacturing Corp. in Dorchester Elementary School in North Charleston for 2018-2019. Danbury, Conn. His wife Veronica Billy Mims, head men’s basketball She is currently assistant principal ’03 homeschools their three Roger S. Nielsen is president coach at Florida Tech, captured at Sand Hill Elementary School in daughters. Veronica is completing of Abbey Color Incorporated, a CiRCE Institute’s Apprenticeship his 600th win at the pro and Summerville. a premier dye manufacturer in Program for Classical educators, collegiate level in February. He is Philadelphia. Abbey Color Inc., and she directs a Classical the winningest men’s basketball has made the shortlist of the EY Conversations Foundations and coach in Florida Institute of Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 Essentials program for students Technology history. He and his Jim Shuman has been named the K4-6th grade in Easton, Conn.

Awards. Under Nielsen’s guidance, wife have three children. head football coach at AllendaleAbbey Color has become a global Fairfax High School for the 2018- Patrick Pye ’10 MEd has been leader in the manufacturing and 2019 year. He has been a science supply of industrial dyes, dye named principal at Rollings teacher at Wade Hampton High precursors, and colorants to both Middle School of the Arts in domestic and international clients. Erin McWhorter has been named School and is assistant football Summerville for 2018-2019. He 2018 Teacher of the Year at Joseph coach and assistant athletics Abbey Color is the flagship of is the current assistant principal R. Pye Elementary School in director. the Nielsen Family Companies, at RMSA. Ladson. a network of six divisions serving a variety of industries including industrial, construction and demolition, and military applications as well as a business consultancy.

1981

1998

1987

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Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

2004

2010

Elizan Collins is a chaplain at Trident Medical Center in North Charleston.

Alyssa Clay-Gilmour and her husband, Gabriel Gilmour, announce the birth of a son, Landon Gabriel Gilmour, born Janet Zielke MEd has been named on July 20, 2017. The Gilmours Lower School Teacher of the Year live in Rochester, Minn. While at Pinewood Preparatory School in in college, Alyssa was on the Summerville. women’s soccer team, and Gabriel was on the football team during the two years he attended CSU.

2006

Heidi Dean and Thomas Odom ’14 were married March 31 at the Charleston Yacht Club in Rachel Van Damme has been Charleston. They now reside in named principal of Newington Elementary School in Summerville Greenville where Thomas works for Nucor Steel as a district sales for the 2018-2019 year. She is manager and Heidi works for ATI currently the assistant principal Physical Therapy as a Physical of Joseph R. Pye Elementary in Therapist Assistant. While in Ladson. college, Heidi was a member of the women’s cross country team, and Thomas was a member of the men’s basketball team.

Jamilah Frazier was named to the Forty Under 40 Class of 2018 by Chelsy Clark Proper is chairperson the Charleston Regional Business of the Heritage Education Forum, Journal. She works for Charleston a consortium of museums and Dorchester Mental Health Center. educational sites.

2011 Maren Elise Abel was born to the very proud and blessed parents, Lauren Mantho Abel and Garrett Abel ‘09 on June 14, 2017. She was 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long.

2008 Mary Kathleen Ruddy has been named Teacher of the Year at Summerville Catholic School in Summerville.

2009 Hilary Surratt and Mike Surratt ’08 announce the birth of a son, Mason Cooper Surratt, April 28, 2017. The Surratts live in Castle Rock, Colo.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

2013 Sarah Meeks has been named 2018 Teacher of the Year at Sangaree Intermediate School in Summerville.

2014 Emery Erin Curl and Bruce Cameron Aldea II were married March 3 in Florence. She is a registered nurse at McLeod Regional Medical Center. They live in Florence.

2015 Michael Hazeres has been named 2018 Teacher of the Year at Knightsville Elementary School in Summerville.

Mike McCourry has earned two master’s degrees from Holt International School of Business in Boston. He holds a master’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in international business.

He is CEO and co-founder of an app called trABu, short for Travel Buddies, which is a ride sharing application. More information is available at trABu.com.

2016 Emmanuel Amon is the volunteer coordinator and AmeriCorps VISTA at Charleston Southern. He began a program called Moving Mountains Mentoring during the academic year.

Andrew Miller MEd has been named 2018 Teacher of the Year at Marrington Middle School of the Arts in Goose Creek.

2017 Katelynn Marjorie Ackerman and Caleb Christian Gee were married Dec. 16, 2017, in Walterboro.

She is a registered nurse, and he is attending Palmer Chiropractic College. They live in Port Orange, Fla. Alison Holliday-Hartley was named Rookie Teacher of the Year at Flowertown Elementary School in Summerville. She is a firstgrade teacher.

Tierrhane Huff was named 2018 Rookie Teacher of the Year at Reeves Elementary School in Summerville where she teaches music.

CSU magazine 37

SCHOOL TIES

Baby Bucs 1

2

5

6

9

3

4

7

10

8

11

1. Liam Joseph Sizemore, son of Christina Ault ’14 and Terry J. Sizemore

6. Savannah Coker and Ella Coker, daughters of Courtney Coker and Joe Coker ‘12

2. Harper Evelyn Privette, daughter of Laura Privette ’14

7. Maren Abel, daughter of Lauren Mantho Abel ’06 and Garrett Abel ’09

3. Fulton Ruby Mims and Phoenix Lloyd Mims, children of Tori Mims ’14

8. Gabriella Juli Sellers, daughter of Maurice Sellers ’12

and Christopher Mims ’12 and grandchildren of Janet Mims ’82

9. Presley Wyndham and Hadley Wyndham, twins of Melanie Wyndham ’11 and Frank Wyndham

4. Thomas Emerson Krontz, son of Rebecca Krontz and James Krontz ’13

10. Levi West, son of Tiffany Rudd West ’09 and Brian West

5. Kinsley Blake Kirtley, daughter of Taylor Williams Kirtley ’13 and Adam Kirtley ’15

11. Mason Cooper Surratt, son of Hilary Surratt ’09 and Mike Surratt ’08

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Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

TO SUBMIT YOUR BABY BUCS PHOTO: Email a picture of your Baby Buc wearing the shirt to alumni@csuniv.edu. Pictures should be 1MB in size or larger, in jpg format.

12

19

TO ORDER A SHIRT CSU graduates, if you have a child under the age of 2, let us know at alumni@csuniv.edu, and we will send a CSU onesie for your Baby Buc. The shirt is free; all we ask in return is a photo of your Baby Buc for the magazine.

13

14

15

16

17

18

20

21

12. Amelia Lacey, daughter of Lynnsey Lacey ’06

17. Griffin Cruz Anderson, son of Susan Anderson ’02

13. Landon Gabriel Gilmour, son of Dr. Alyssa Clay-Gilmour ’10 and Gabriel Gilmour

18. Jasmine Murdock, daughter of Joceline Murdock and James Murdock ’11 MBA

14. Alora Ross and Marvin Magnusson Ross, daughter and son of Nikki Ross ’11

19. Austin James DeGraffenreid, son of Mandi DeGraffenreid and Adam DeGraffenreid ’06

20. Tessa Doerflinger and Julia Doerflinger, daughters of Amy Doerflinger ’09 and Dustin Doerflinger

and Marvin Ross

15. Mary Mac Myers, daughter of Beth Boyle Myers ’08 and JW Myers ’09

21. Landrey Calhoun Strata and Brantley Beau Strata, children of Kayla Strata

16. Benjamin Byeolha McCall, son of Crystal McCall ‘09 and Matt McCall ‘09

and Nicholas Strata ’14 MBA

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 39

ATLANTA

SCHOOL TIES

On the Road Meet some Charleston Southern alumni living and working in Atlanta. CSU Magazine asked alumni to tell us their favorite places to visit and eat in the Atlanta area and some favorite things about their neighborhoods. Read on to discover things to do when you take a trip to Atlanta.

The next city we are visiting on our road trip will be Houston. If you are a BCC/CSU alumnus living and working in the Houston area, let us know at magazine@csuniv.edu.

Carey Dukes ’91, ’92 MBA I have worked in the transportation and warehousing industry since I graduated. We have lived in Charlotte, Nashville, Houston, and finally in Marietta, Georgia, for the last 19 years. I coached travel baseball and basketball while my boys were in school. In 2015, I decided to return to school and began work on my Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at Georgia State University.

I defended my dissertation on the Organizational Readiness of the Trucking Industry for Autonomous Vehicles on my birthday, March 16, 2018. I graduated on May 6. I am currently an Assistant Professor of Business

Management at the J. Whitney College of Business at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Ga. I teach courses in the undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on International Logistics and Supply Chain and Operations Management. My wife, Jane, and I have four children, Garrett, 22, Daniel, 20, Jonathan, 19, and Sophie, 14. I have been active coaching youth sports, mostly baseball and basketball, until the boys graduated from high school. I have also played poker as a hobby for the last 15 years and appeared on ESPN in 2013 during the Main Event of the World Series of Poker. I have one World Series of Poker ring and one World Poker Tour title, both in 2017.

CAREY’S ATLANTA FAVORITES Favorite Museum in Atlanta: The Atlanta History Museum Best Place for a Meal: My wife’s kitchen table Best Place for a Dessert: Cafe Intermezzo Favorite Free Activity: Watching my daughter play softball Favorite Thing about My Neighborhood: Even though I live 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta, our back yard is an acre for our dogs to run Favorite Atlanta Landmark/Tourist Attraction: Braves baseball and The Varsity

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Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

David Miles ’10 MBA With over 20 years of insurance industry experience, I am currently an Estimatics Team Manager with State Farm Insurance Companies in Atlanta. I have held many leadership roles at State Farm in both Auto and Fire Claims. My family and I enjoyed 11 years in the Lowcountry working in North Charleston with State Farm from 2000-2011. In addition to my MBA, I have multiple insurance designations (CPCU, CLU and ChFC) demonstrating my desire to be a continuous learner. I just celebrated 21 years of marriage with Julianne, and we have four daughters, Sarah, Suzanne, Hannah and Emily, and one granddaughter, Riley. We

attended Seacoast Church in Mt. Pleasant while in the Lowcountry and are actively involved at North Point Community Church in Alpharetta. Our daughter, Hannah, is prayerfully considering CSU for the fall of 2019, and our family is praying and hoping that the Charleston area will again be our home in the coming years. You can connect with me on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/ jondavidmiles.

DAVID’S ATLANTA FAVORITES Favorite Museum in Atlanta: Atlanta History Center Best Place for a Meal: Canoe Restaurant, 4199 Paces Ferry Rd, Atlanta Best Place for a Dessert: Venti Restaurant, Ducktown Favorite Free Activity: Amicalola Falls State Park Favorite Thing about My Neighborhood: Evening sunsets and the wide open spaces of North Georgia Favorite Atlanta Landmark/Tourist Attraction: World of Coca-Cola

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CSU magazine 41

ATLANTA

SCHOOL TIES

On the Road Jeremy ’06 and Andrea ’07 Nuckolls We live in Lilburn, which is 30 minutes outside of Atlanta. Jeremy is the High School Director for Grace Church in Snellville, and he also works with a nonprofit called NG3 which works with high school athletes on character and leadership development. An-

drea mainly stays home with our three girls who are 6, 3, and one and a half. She also completes home studies for a local foster agency called Families4Families. We love exploring Atlanta and surrounding areas with our girls. There are so many fun things to do!

JEREMY AND ANDREA’S ATLANTA FAVORITES Favorite Museum in Atlanta: The Children’s Museum of Atlanta - our girls love interacting with the different museum areas like the farm, Waffle House restaurant and sand tables.

Best Place for a Meal: JCT Kitchen is one of our favorite date night places. Excellent food with a great atmosphere!

Best Place for a Dessert: Paolo’s Gelato which is authentic Italian gelato started by Paolo! There is also one in Charleston on John Street!

Favorite Free Activity: Centennial Olympic Park is a fun area to walk around and hang out.

Favorite Thing about My Neighborhood: There are a lot of local parks that we go to and let the girls play. It’s a very family friendly area!

Favorite Atlanta Landmark/Tourist Attraction: We live five miles from Stone Mountain and go there often. We like to hike the trails, ride the sky train to the top, and see the laser show.

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Laura Stellbauer ’15 MBA I am a Workers’ Compensation and Safety Specialist with Hall Boys, Inc. Our company provides instore install services to big merchandisers such as Home Depot and Best Buy all across the United States. We do everything from flip the layout of a store, instore remodels and resets or general renovations. I oversee all safety aspects of our projects and ensure all 600 plus employees are engaging in safe work techniques while on the job. I have been married for three years, and we have a 15-month-old little boy and two dogs. We live in the suburbs of Atlanta, in Alpharetta. It’s just a short drive into the city, but we do not go there often because we have everything we love right here in Alpharetta.

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

LAURA’S ATLANTA FAVORITES

Favorite Museum in Atlanta: Georgia Aquarium (our son currently loves colors and fish) is a great place for children and adults. It is a break from the Atlanta heat and has a wonderful dolphin show.

Best Place for a Meal: We love a great steak and cold salad. Our favorite restaurant is Pampas Steakhouse in Johns Creek. The food is perfect every time; the staff is phenomenal, and it is our go-to for a celebratory dinner.

Best Place for a Dessert: Café Intermezzo, by far the best desserts, chocolate cake and coffee!

Favorite Free Activity: Our neighborhood parks. Piedmont Park is a beautiful place for a Sunday stroll and brunch at Park Tavern. Avalon is a fun development that offers an eat, play, shop and live environment.

Favorite Thing about My Neighborhood: Location! We are within 10 miles of so many different things to do and see. We have a very kid-friendly neighborhood, so everyone is always out socializing.

Favorite Atlanta Landmark/Tourist Attraction: SunTrust Park, which is equally as fun, if not more fun than “The Ted.” There is also the World of Coca-Cola which has history and a tasting room of Coca-Cola from all over the world.

CSU magazine 43

ATLANTA

SCHOOL TIES

On the Road TONY’S ATLANTA FAVORITES Favorite Museum in Atlanta: The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in downtown Atlanta. It takes visitors through the civil rights struggles of the 1950s and 1960s in the Southern U.S. and moves forward with today’s human rights issues.

Best Place for a Meal: For fine dining, my favorite place is Capitol Grill in Buckhead. On my cheat days, my favorite hideaway Chinese restaurant is Mu Lan Cuisine in Atlanta.

Best Place for a Dessert: Cami Cakes is one of my favorite places to find rich, delicious cupcakes.

Favorite Free Activity: My fiancée and I often bike ride the Silver Comet trail on weekends.

Favorite Thing about My Neighborhood: Since my neighborhood is located on a hill, it allows me the opportunity to overlook the skyline of downtown Atlanta and Buckhead.

Favorite Atlanta Landmark/Tourist Attraction: The College Football Hall of Fame, built in 2014. There are a ton of interactive activities and historical context as well.

Tony Kennedy ’15 MBA I’m currently working as a Corporate Assistant Controller for Cortland Partners, a real estate investment company in the Buckhead area of Atlanta. Since 2016 in this role, I have overseen the day-to-day operations of the corporate accounting team, which is responsible for accurate financial reporting, month end close, and budget preparation.

Since moving to Atlanta in 2014, I have had not only career growth but also was able to finish my MBA. I still leverage the tools that I have learned in this program in my day-to-day work life. Lastly, Atlanta has also allowed me the opportunity to meet my beautiful fiancée. After two years of dating, we will be sharing our nuptials in July at the Biltmore Ballroom in Atlanta.

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SCHOOL TIES

CELEBRATING

THE HUNTER YEARS 1984-2018 Charleston Southern University celebrated the leadership of Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr. and Sissy Hunter in mid-April.

View the photo gallery of celebration week and proclamations honoring the Hunters at charlestonsouthern.edu/jairyhunter.

The Hunters were honored at a cookout with students. Photo by Richard Esposito One of the events was the unveiling of a stone for the Reflection Pond walkway highlighting the Huntersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; leadership. Pictured: Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr., Dr. Jairy C. Hunter III, Jill Hunter McElheny and Sissy Hunter.

Photo by Richard Esposito

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

CSU magazine 45

SCHOOL TIES

FACILITIES UPDATE

By Marketing and Communication/Photos by Richard Esposito and Sol Basconcillo

H

ealth Science Building Dedication “This is a continuation of the university’s commitment to healthcare,” said Dr. Jairy C. Hunter, Jr. at the Health Science Building dedication in March.

The $11 million facility meets the needs of Charleston Southern’s expanding undergraduate and graduate degree programs in healthcare and is designed to meet the growing need for healthcare professionals in the Lowcountry. In addition to providing the new home for the inaugural Physician Assistant class, the technologyrich facility also supports the new Master of Science in Biology program and will serve the future Physical Therapy program.

Hunter added, “It’s important to have such a first-class building, and to integrate

46 CSU magazine

faith in such an area is an honor.”

Founding PA Program Director Gabby Poole said, “Our mission is to produce compassionate, motivated individuals in a Christian environment.” Poole also believes the new program has the potential to become the premier PA program in the state.

Students from all over the country sought to gain acceptance. More than 300 applicants competed for the 25 spots in January’s inaugural class.

Some students felt the CSU interview process was a huge differentiator. Students were asked to go through a circuit-based process where they answered questions from different professionals along the way.

“It was the only interview process I actually enjoyed,” said Gabriela Garza of Kansas. “It

was just so much more personal.”

Halie Curry, from North Augusta, said, “CSU’s approach gave me a whole different feel. Getting accepted is so competitive. I was wait-listed at other places, but when I got my phone call saying I was coming here, I was so happy I cried.”

Following the ribbon cutting, the building was available to tour. Supporters saw firsthand the clinical exam room for simulating the patient care experience as well as the lab where students are learning to perform physical exams.

Class President Kristy Gonzalez, from Orlando, Fla., told those assembled, “I truly believe God placed me here, and CSU is the perfect intersection for God’s purpose and my passion.”

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

above: Representatives from Student Services, the Student Government Association, the Board of Trustees, and Trident Construction broke ground for CSU’s first new residence hall in more than 30 years. facing page clockwise from upper left: Members of the first class of Physician Assistants. To meet the needs of CSU’s growing healthcare programs, the new Health Science Building was opened on the front of campus.

After the dedication of the Health Science Building, PA students gave tours through the building for donors such as Jim and Jan Martin.

Fred Yohe, a Board of Trustees member, said, “We’re so grateful for everyone’s effort in making this happen.”

The Health Science Building is located on the front of campus next to the College of Nursing. A second phase for the building is planned for the future Doctor of Physical Therapy program, slated to begin in January 2020.

Residence Hall Groundbreaking Ground was broken in March for a 50,000-square-foot residence hall with three floors and 204 beds to accommodate the ever-growing student population.

Julie Alimpich, assistant dean of students for residence life, said, “We seek to create a community that honors God and enables

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

residents to thrive. Our students are what make us special. This building shows our continual growth as a university.”

Alimpich said an additional bonus of living on campus is avoiding Charleston traffic.

Dean of Students Clark Carter, said, “We’ve dreamed of this for quite some time.”

The residence hall will include: • Furnished suite-style accommodations, with two double-occupancy bedrooms, that share one bathroom and one common living area • A private study room available for residents with additional study and seating areas located throughout each floor

• A full kitchen on the third floor, available for general or reserved use • One large activity room on the second floor for student groups and clubs to reserve To coincide with the increase of oncampus residents, a new parking lot with 138 additional resident spots will be built between the Quads and the road leading to the university’s Physical Plant.

The university plans to open the new building to students in spring 2019.

CSU magazine 47

STAY CONNECTED! Send us news about family additions, job changes and memories of your time at CSU. To include a photo, email a high resolution jpg. (If you send a professional photograph, please include permission to print from the photographer.)

Class Notes: Email your news to magazine@csuniv.edu Address change: Email csudevelopment@csuniv.edu Name change: Email register@csuniv.edu Follow the Alumni Association on Social Media:

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THANK YOU for supporting our current and future Buccaneers! Because of you, we reached our milestone goal of $1,000,000 for student scholarships! Some highlights from the year: Giving Day 2018 was a record breaking day thanks to our alumni, faculty, staff and friends who raised more than $125,000 on April 20 for student scholarships.

You also helped us exceed the Whitfield Matching Gift Challenge of $100,000 through new and increased gifts made between January and May 31, 2018.

Due to the generosity of our alumni, the annual Phonathon raised more than $20,000 for student scholarships.

Every gift matters because… every BUC counts!

Alumni Fall Event Calendar Aug. 18 • Buccaneer Fan Fest Join us at Buccaneer Field to celebrate the beginning of the 2018-2019 football season!

Aug. 26

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• CSU Night at the Riverdogs Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park

Oct. 6

in memory Phillip Todd Carter ’87, age 53, died Feb. 3 in Texas. He had worked in sales for automotive marketing companies across the U.S. While in college, he was a member of the baseball team.

Harold L. Johnson, age 91, died March 5 in Summerville. He was a CPA and was a veteran of World War II. He was a member of the CSU Board of Visitors. Memorials may be made to CSU, care of the Development Office.

48 CSU magazine

Alyce Coker Player ’69, age 70, died Feb. 26 in Lexington.

She was retired from the South Carolina Department of Social Services.

Archie Valentine Proveaux Sr. ’82, age 84, died Feb. 1 in Georgetown, Texas. He was an Air Force veteran and held a master’s degree from Western New Mexico University.

• Alumni Tailgate at Savannah State football game Kickoff at 6 p.m. at Ted Wright Stadium, Savannah, Ga.

Oct. 19 • Golden Buccaneers - 50th Reunion for classes of 1967 and 1968

Oct. 20 • Homecoming 2018

For more details, email alumni@csuniv.edu or call 843-863-7517

Summer 2018, vol.28 no.2

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INTEGRATING FAITH IN LEARNING, LEADING AND SERVING Paige Cole, Class of 2018, highlighted her passions on her brick. Photo by Richard Esposito

LEAVE AN IMPRESSION Charleston Southernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brick Program provides alumni, friends, faculty and staff the opportunity to leave their mark on CSU. The purchase of a brick also supports the future of CSU students through scholarship support.

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