CSU Magazine - Summer 2020

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HELP US FIND BUCKY!

THE ARTS AT CSU

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On the cover: Where’s Bucky graphic design

by Tyler Stokes

© 2020 Charleston Southern University

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S um m er 2020

EDITORIAL STAFF: Jan Joslin ’82, Editor, Director of Publications Richard Esposito, Director of Integrated Marketing Jenna Johnson, Assistant Director of Integrated Marketing Tyler Stokes, Graphic Designer CONTRIBUTORS: Anna McSwain Seth Montgomery Ellen Charis Photography Angela Hopper Photography Rj Photography Frozen Time Photography CSU Athletics Comm/PR

INTERNS: Andrew Boyles ’20, Caleb Summers ’20 EDITORIAL ADVISERS: Rev. Tom Clemmons, Shari Richmond, Dr. Jason Peterson, Dr. Scott Yarbrough CSU Magazine is published three times a year by the office of marketing and communication for alumni and friends of Charleston Southern University.

Contact us at magazine@csuniv.edu.

Address changes: csudevelopment@csuniv.edu

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contents LEARNING

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New Academic Programs

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The Arts at CSU

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Aeroponics Course

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Graduating Virtually

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Wyeth Wins Excellence Award

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Retiring Faculty

LEADING

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Where’s Bucky?

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Creative Coping

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Creative Teamwork Experience

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BUCkle Up Daily Videos

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Deweys Funding Chaplaincy Center

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New Head Coaches

SERVING

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Student Accounts – on Mission

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Dubnicks in the UK

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Karges-Bone & CSU Team Walk

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Ambassadors Impacting Athletics

SCHOOL TIES

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Class Notes

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In Memory

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Favorite Alum Memories

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Digital CSU Magazines

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Baby Bucs

FOREVER CSU

Design and layout by: Bob Durand Design www.facebook.com/bobduranddesign

A socially distanced rendition of “Is He Worthy” by musicians from the Horton School of Music, featuring a surprise appearance by President Dondi Costin.

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Scholarship Luncheon

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Homecoming is Oct. 24

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Every Buc Counts!

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Joyce Rea Scholarship Established

Watch it at: bitly/2WrsMwy

Printed by: Knight Printing and Graphics www.knightpandg.com

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(Lyrics by Andrew Peterson and Ben Shive)

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE PRAYER OF A PANDEMICIAN

By Dr. Dondi Costin

Pan*de*mi*cian (pan´ də mi´ shən) Noun. One who has endured a pandemic.

You treasured each prayer, measured each cry When it took all we had to merely get by No separation between home life and work Some days a saint, some days a jerk Solitary confinement, all day inside No place to run, nowhere to hide Parent, professional—head-on collision One day at a time for each pandemician Stock market freefall, so many jobs lost Businesses closed, incalculable cost But through every trial, You speak through Your Word The Spirit of Truth shouting just to be heard Sometimes You whisper yet captured the room Thanks for coming Yourself and not using Zoom We know ailments are healed by the one Great Physician Who comforts the heart of each pandemician COVID-19 appeared, and we lost all control First physically tired, now weary in soul Enduring lockdown, stuck in quarantine Making the most of this unwelcome routine We assumed two weeks, no more than three Then back to normal, but it wasn’t to be Lord, how did we land in this position?

Living the life of a pandemician

“Don’t waste this pandemic, learn what you can” You said “Come unto Me so you’ll understand” “That My yoke is easy, My burden is light” “And I use hard times to turn faith into sight” “That this is what resting in Christ is about” “At the end of yourself, in the face of your doubt” “When circumstances cloud your heavenly vision” “Remember that I was the first Pandemician”

Millions infected, one hundred thousand dead Wild speculation on stopping the spread All kinds of experts with something to say Best advice we got was to seek You and pray For heroes who show Christ’s kind of love By working their shifts, wearing their scrubs Put their lives on the line, want no recognition Besides increasing the ranks of the pandemician

Lord, You walked the same road we’re traveling now To demonstrate clearly the Why and the How Of coming to know You in a personal way And the joy of living for that glorious Day When pandemics will end and our trials will cease And we stroll hand-in-hand with the Prince of Peace Who loves us and leads us to the point of decision That following Christ is best for each pandemician

Church on the couch, no restaurants allowed Too risky to be a face in the crowd Missing colleagues, students, family, and friends Does this tunnel have a light at the end?

Hour after hour, task after task Do I need gloves? Should I wear a mask?

Irregular sleep, unhealthy nutrition Such is the plight of a pandemician

When my questions outnumber Your answers some days Your Presence alone is enough reason to praise If the virus persists, and no vaccine is found Help us trust You completely as we rebound But if the miracle cure for which we have prayed Falls into our lap, may we be not afraid To proclaim that the Source of our upgraded condition Is the Lord God Almighty, Who loves each pandemician

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LEARNING

NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

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ew bachelor’s degrees, a new minor, and a change to the MBA program are all waiting for students this fall.

10-month or Flex MBA Prospective graduate students may choose between a 10-month accelerated online MBA or a flex MBA for those who desire a more traditional pace.

These new options are a direct outcome of surveying current students and analyzing market trends, according to the Director of Graduate Programs for the College of Business Dr. Maxwell Rollins. Research results pointed to time as a major criterion in the decision to go to graduate school.

The 10-month accelerated MBA will be taught in 7-week semesters, which will allow students to take four courses each semester versus two. The flex MBA has a more traditional approach, where students can choose from online or on-campus 14-week courses and completing in as little as 17 months.

All courses are available online. Both the accelerated and the flex MBAs are 30-hour programs.

Prime candidates for the 10-month MBA are recent graduates or professionals with a flexible schedule. Students must be able to dedicate a considerable amount of time to their graduate work at an accelerated pace.

Learn more about the 10-month and flex MBAs at charlestonsouthern.edu/MBA.

Leadership Studies Minor An innovative 15-hour interdisciplinary minor in leadership, offered jointly by the College of Business and College of Christian Studies begins this fall. Dr. Darin Gerdes, professor of management, who designed the new minor in leadership studies, said, “At CSU, we follow a distinctive approach to leadership by emphasizing character as the key to performance. In addition, we encourage aspiring leaders to focus on the growth of their followers. Service and stewardship are the marks of Christian leaders.”

Faculty and staff will offer additional student leadership development opportunities in several alternate chapels and the Freshman Seminar. President Dondi Costin will also take an active role in selected sessions. He said, “Leadership can be learned. Not every graduate will hold a formal position of leadership such as a CEO, but God wants everyone to exercise responsible stewardship of the people and resources under their care. Students who want others to flourish can use their influence as leaders at any level to make a difference in the world. The leadership development program we have designed will build the character and competence required for any student to become a servant leader committed to a life of significance, whatever their vocation.”

BA in Family and Children’s Ministry In addition to ministry courses, this major will offer electives in Christian Counseling and Child Psychology. Students will choose a minor outside the College of Christian Studies.

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BBA in Global Marketplace Engagement Students will study a business core plus cross-cultural classes from the College of Christian Studies in classes such as Systematic Theology and Christian Discipleship.

BA in Prelaw and Legal Studies History, law, writing, speaking classes, and classes designed to strengthen critical thinking, reading, and reasoning will prepare students for the legal field.

BS in Professional Studies This online degree focuses on courses from supply chain management, project management, organizational management, human resources, hospitality and tourism, and healthcare management to give a broad range of knowledge to the working professional.

BA in Psychology An online bachelor’s degree in psychology is now available in addition to the traditional on-campus degree.

BT in Cybersecurity Cybersecurity has been added as a major for students pursuing a Bachelor of Technology degree.

Department of Aeronautics Two aeronautics courses will be offered this fall in the new Department of Aeronautics. Col. C.J. Will (USAF, retired) is the founding chair of the department.

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PERFORMANCE AND CREATIVITY ARE VITAL

By Dr. Marshall Forrester Chair and Director, School of Music and Performing Arts

Dr. Marshall Forrester conducts the CSU Wind Ensemble. Photo provided

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veryone possesses potential in creative abilities. Development and expression of these God-given talents increase a person’s potential for meaningful contribution to society. If the goal of education is to develop the whole person, mind, spirit, and body—and it certainly is—then a complete education will necessarily include creative, experiential, process-driven studies.

The performing, visual, and media arts are among the best examples of the efficacy of experience-based teaching and learning.

Study in the arts involves personal connections in individual, small-group, and largegroup settings. There are clearly defined processes, goals, performances, evaluations, and creative activity occurring at all levels of expertise. Students are engaged in rigorous study and performance while learning to work toward a common goal with others, involved in enjoyable genres, and immersed in significant and meaningful literature.

This type of engagement is critical to efficiency in producing positive student learning outcomes. For example, because creativity is process-based, it results in any number of beneficial nonartistic outcomes, including selfdiscipline, teamwork, sense of community, and development of motor skills. While these outcomes may in part be achieved elsewhere in the curriculum, the fact remains that there are some aspects of development of the whole person that are most efficiently achieved through creative, experience-based studies.

Students remember a very small percentage of what they are told via lecture, a larger percentage of what they physically do, and an even

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larger percentage of what they feel. This is why the experiences of, for example, operating a music instrument or portraying a character theatrically, are so effective—because a majority of brain and body function are engaged in the necessary physical, mental, emotional, and creative efforts.

This coordination of the whole person is the very essence of engaging learning experiences provided by the arts. The benefit that accrues to the learner is precisely where the distinction of intrinsic versus extrinsic rationale disappears. Extra-curricular has little meaning in this economy but is replaced by the notion of efficiency and relevance through creativity: Practice until you discover how to learn efficiently? Make a relevant contribution? Balance your roles with those of others? Create works of beauty via elegant processes? That these are valuable goals for the software engineer, historian, business executive, youth minister, and performing artist alike speaks to the very nature of arts education philosophy. Learning to code, learning to perform, learning to strategize, learning to compose – we all should aspire to master these processes regardless of discipline.

Assisted by advances in technology, higher education will continue to transition to a more individualized, flexible, and competency-based enterprise. Identification of individual strengths and weaknesses will be more automatic, as will prescribed remediation and enhancement. The high-tech internet of things currently revolutionizing business and medicine will invade the classroom

and streamline the mundane (attendance), the complex (measurement and statistics), and the sublime (assessment).

Is this coming transformation a challenge or an opportunity? Doubtless, both!

The challenge is that in our race to become more automated, we can easily forget that effectiveness is found in the process of education. Said another way, the most prized student learning outcome is the ability to derive the answer, not the answer itself. In our information age, facts abound and are cheaply obtained. However, because student outcomes are concerned with abilities and wisdom gained in relation to facts, the process of education cannot be bypassed.

In the 21st century, knowledge is everywhere, yet students still flock to enroll in college for the experience. The opportunity is to find ways to make that experience richer and more complete than ever. We must remember when dealing with people, a high-touch process is more effective than a high-tech-only process. High-tech devices or apps only assess a student’s thought at any given moment; but a high-touch device such as a paint brush, music instrument, or gross musculature used in dance reveals a student’s ongoing thought patterns. Whether delivering song or sonnet, the voice is a magical device that with the turn of a phrase most truly reveals the thinking behind it. In the same way that a picture is worth a thousand words, giving a student the opportunity to gain his or her voice through creative endeavors is worth exponentially more than mere factual answers.

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WEEK-LONG SEMINAR A RESOURCE TO ALL MUSICIANS

By Jenna Johnson with contributors Andrew Boyles ’20 and Caleb Summers ’20/Photo by Caleb Summers

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he CSU Horton School of Music along with the Charleston Jazz Academy hosted an eight-day seminar on musician’s health and safety in early spring. The free annual event focused on issues facing musicians of all levels with regard to physical, mental, and emotional health and safety demands.

Attendees spanned the musical field: professional and avocational performers, music teachers and students, music therapists, worship leaders, church musicians, and students. “Musicians are reliant on their bodies and minds to function at the highest levels and in peak condition,” founder and chair of the event committee, Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis, professor of music, said.

Lewis is dedicated to arming students with the tools necessary to sustain long careers in music. “Good habits and resources learned now help us all to be informed and prepared should problems arise.”

Workshops covered topics on the physical and mental well-being of a musician. In Dr. Lucinda Halstead’s presentation on the bio-

metrics of singing, attendees learned about laryngeal and wind instruments dystonia as well as hearing loss.

She addressed the training of the voice, explaining that most professional musicians apply sports medicine training and performance knowledge to their careers.

Just like athletes, nutrition and aerobics are important.

“Your body is your instrument,” she said.

“Your brain and emotions drive that violin.”

Her presentation continued to speak to

the biomechanics of the voice: larynx functions, various muscles surrounding the vocal chords, resting the voice, and even the dangers of smoking. Halstead also stressed the use of protective earwear when possible, such as 20db silicone earplugs, while singing.

Erin McCance, intern with CSU’s Counseling Services, took a different approach: the mental health of a musician. She primarily focused on music performance anxiety and self-compassion, noting the reasons for anxiety and stress as well as how to self-treat and when to seek help. The strongest cause of music performance anxiety? Depression, according to McCance. She noted that escape from anxiety and stress caused by the standard of perfection can be found in practicing mindfulness.

“Everyone makes mistakes,” McCance said. “Change the words from ‘how can I fail’ to ‘how can I be successful?’” Workshops were held on campus as well as the Charleston Jazz Academy’s location in North Charleston.

EIGHT HSM VOICE STUDENTS WIN AT REGIONALS; TWO ADVANCE TO NATIONALS

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ight students from CSU’s Horton School of Music advanced to compete at the mid-Atlantic Region National Association of Teachers of Singing Student Auditions, originally scheduled for mid-March at the midAtlantic Regional Conference. The auditions were moved online due to the pandemic.

Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis is the mid-Atlantic regional governor and was integral in coordinating the online submissions as well as a Facebook live presentation of the midAtlantic Honors Recital.

Two students, Megan Roum and Samuel Polk, advanced to the national student auditions, which will be judged this summer.

Photo: (back) Aleah Walker, Samuel Polk, Meghan Roum, Jared Rogers and Kalb Linen-Yates.(front) Adelaide Lovelady, Madeline Krigbaum and Bethany Lytton. photo provided by HSM

Dr. Marshall Forrester and CSU students perform “A Mighty Fortress” in Martin Luther’s Castle Church, Wittenberg, Germany, during the 500th anniversary of the Reformation

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Andrea Glover Curriculum Coordinator, Graphic Design Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

As a child, I was always drawn to being artistic and creating things. There is so much joy with being creative and using one’s imagination. I’ve always seen the world from an artistic perspective. When I look around, I see beautiful colors, lines, shapes, and textures. There is also inspiration everywhere in nature. God gives us so much to be inspired by. I have always felt like art makes the world interesting, and it’s in our everyday lives.

Because of my love of art, I initially wanted to go into advertising, but then I stumbled upon graphic design when I took a college

graphic design course while working toward my degree at the University of South Carolina.

I enjoyed the class so much that I decided to pursue it further. After receiving my Master of Fine Arts degree from the Savannah College of Art and Design, I worked in the field as a fulltime graphic designer and art director. I loved every bit of it. In addition to designing full time, I also did freelance graphic design work.

After a while and after much prayer, I felt that God wanted me to take my experience and knowledge to help others. I ended up working at Trident Tech as an adjunct instructor and had a ball teaching about my passion.

A full-time position opened up at CSU, and well the rest is history. It is rewarding to see students grow and develop their art and de-

sign skills. Just like I was that college student that took that one graphic design course that piqued my interest, I thought maybe I could be that professor that opens the eyes of other students to the world of art and design. I love telling others about our incredibly talented students and alumni. Our students earn a design degree in a Christian environment.

They are professional and well-rounded and it’s always wonderful to see them do what God has called them to do.

Currently, along with teaching, I run a small business called Letter Décor where I create custom hand lettered artwork. I also continue to do graphic design freelance work. Check out Andrea Glover’s work at andreaglover.com.

Photo by Andrea Glover

Andrea Glover Photo by Angela Hopper Photography

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Photo by Angela Hopper Photography

Photo by Andrea Glover

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Emily Reeves Bohl ’15 Music education: choral emphasis

Art Art is skillful expression in any medium.

Art is communication and provides an opportunity to be seen, heard, and understood.

Music is my chosen art form.

Professional goal At the most base level, my professional goal is to advocate for music’s role in our daily lives — particularly in the public school setting. That goal has taken the form of elementary music teacher and choral director, church musician, children’s choir director, community music teacher, Montessori School teacher, music education coordinator, education researcher and presenter, and now takes the form of high school choral director. I have loved every minute. We shall see where I end up.

Art’s role in life Zoltán Kodály was a renowned pedagogue, composer, and Hungarian musicologist. His writings and teachings deeply inspire my own, and I will let his words answer this question on my behalf: “With music, one’s whole future life is brightened.

This is such a treasure in life that it helps us over many troubles and difficulties. Music is nourishment, a comforting elixir. Music multiplies all that is beautiful and of value in life.”

My inspiration I find my inspiration in the students I teach and the music we make together. I am inspired by the tenacity, ability, and purity of my students. They are the future, and I am duty-bound to provide them with the best of everything. The music we make together is, for me, the highest collective art — a way to express what is most difficult to articulate. It is truly the universal language, and no culture exists without their own musical expression. It is powerful and binds us together in literal harmony. Finally, music is a form of prayer — my direct connection to God. I find inspiration in scripture to make music as my offering to God, and as my ministry in the world.

What I say to people who think you can’t make a living as an artist That it just ain’t so. Determination and excellence is the underpinning of all success.

If you are determined to be the best artist you can be, at all costs; you will achieve excellence. If you are determined to go out into the world and do the hard, frequently frustrating, work of making a living in your field; you can.

Emily Reeves Bohl holds the Bachelor of Arts in music education from CSU (2015) and the Master of Education in administration and curricular supervision from the University of Oklahoma (2019). In her time at CSU, Bohl was a voice student of Professor Ricard Bordas, participated in numerous productions under

Emily Bohl, photo provided

the direction of Dr. Jennifer Luiken and Professor Thomas Keating, was a four-year member of Bel Canto and Concert Singers under the direction of Dr. Valerie Bullock, and studied conducting and music education methods with Dr. Marshall Forrester and Dr. Bullock. Upon graduation, she was named the Horton School of Music Outstanding Student in Music Education. In the spring of 2019, she received the R.H. and Jane Logan Fellowship to pursue studies at the Kodály Center at Holy Names University in Oakland, California; and completed the Master of Music in music education in May 2020. Bohl is headed into her fifth year of teaching, having recently been appointed Director of Choral Activities at Goose Creek High School and Berkeley Center for the Arts. She lives in Summerville with her husband, Joshua, fellow alumnus of the Horton School of Music, and their three furry children.

A marimba trio performs during a Percussion Ensemble concert.

Photo by Richard Esposito

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Lee Willey Senior, graphic design major

The need to create I often feel compelled to create. Making something has such a satisfaction to it, when you progress from an idea to seeing something become a reality in front of you, it is truly rewarding. As a Christian, I believe that God is the ultimate creator, and I would say that all of us reflect various qualities of Him in our lives, and for creatives I think we have the ability to reflect a glimpse of His design. I hope that in my creating that I can always point to God as the source of creating.

Creativity I find that my creativity flows well when I am able to connect a significance or meaning into something. I am the type of person

who always looks for the deeper meaning in things, and it definitely carries over into my work. If there is a message or a purpose in my art or creation, I am automatically more interested and motivated in it. When I can hold on to this motivation, my creativity seems to hold up well.

my own life thinking about what God has done and who He has been for me. I find inspiration in conversations. It can be silly, or heartbreaking. People are one of my biggest inspirations.

Role of art in life I would say that art is a connection point for people. Art is a way for things to be communicated, expressed, felt. Art is a story from the artist, and for them it means something. To the viewers, they may connect over the intended meaning, or they may find a different significance that is specifically relevant to their life. Either way, if you let it, art can connect to a feeling, a memory, or a story.

Best career advice I’ve been given I quickly think of two things: (1) Learn from my failures. Frustration is fine as long as I don’t quit. (2) Design is not about me.

Art is about me. As an artist and a designer it is important to know the difference. Art is what I want it to be; design is about meeting the client’s needs and knowing how to do so effectively. Both of these pieces of advice are from my time at CSU. The Graphic Design program and professors here are phenomenal and have heavily influenced me as a designer, artist, and person.

Finding inspiration I find inspiration in nature, in details, (like textures, shadows, color combinations, light movements, etc.) in music, in reading, but honestly I find most of my inspiration from people. I love knowing peoples’ stories about who they are, what they have been through, overcome, struggled with, etc. I often will put portions of my own story into art, but I love making something that pulls from an experience. So I find inspiration in

Lee Willey is 27 and going into his senior year.

He took some time off to figure out a lot of things with life, and God has done tremendous things in his life over the last few years. He loves opportunities to share, so says, come find him. He is a PK (pastor’s kid) with three brothers, one of whom is a fraternal twin. He says, “I have a beautiful wife named Hope who is an absolute treasure, and we live in Goose Creek.” He has a cute little Beta fish named Pop-Tart and enjoys running for fun and also loves to sing.

Lee Willey, photo by Ellen Charis Photography

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Thomas Keating Professor of Theatre Theatre Program Coordinator

“That looks like fun.” I recall myself saying just after my sister came off the stage of the small dessert theatre in Savannah, Ga., where I grew up. Who knew that would be the launching pad for my future in the theatre? It was the summer of 1983, and I had just seen the curtain come down on “They’re Playing Our Song.” My sister’s reply was straightforward – “You should audition for the next one.” The next one? Audition? What does that even mean, really? Of course, I knew that meant try out. But, audition seemed so official. Up to then it was all pretty much athletic endeavors for me – basketball, soccer, skateboarding. As it was, I rode my bike all over town to and from my summer job – lifeguard at the local pool.

Well, audition I did. And I got in. The show was “Pippin” – still one of my favorites to this day. It was one of the most memorable summers of my life. I formed some lifelong friendships and ended up studying theatre in college because of that show. You see, I auditioned for the next show and the next and the next – you get it – I did the next five or so shows at that little theatre.

What was it that kept me coming back?

It wasn’t simply an escape though I get that.

It is indeed an escape to take on other characters and sort of shed your self for a time.

And, it wasn’t applause, per se. Sure, like anyone, I enjoyed the adulation of the audience, but it was something more than that.

It is something more than that. Living in the moment – that’s what it was. That’s what it is.

It’s kind of a technical term – “Living in the moment.” As an actor, you’re compelled to play moments and emotions and responses as they come to you and not before. You know, you don’t want to telegraph, or then it’s predictable. But, I’m not talking about the technical term from an actor’s perspective. Though I am talking about something akin to that. There’s a magical feeling when the actors and the audience are all together in the same room having that shared, common, universal experience – a laugh, a sigh, an intake of breath, a holding of breath for

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Thomas Keating (top) poses with students after a rehearsal. Photo by Richard Esposito

that matter. It’s not incredibly common, but everyone knows what you mean when you describe it. That’s “the moment” I’m talking about living in!

Studying theatre – first in undergrad and later in grad school – was all an attempt to capture that moment again and again. My time in NYC as an actor was no less filled with the pursuit of those moments. And now, my time in front of a class or working on a play (as cast or as director), I try to convey the feeling that can only really be captured by living in one of those moments.

I do my utmost to harness all that is in me to bring forth the knowledge and passion that I have for the theatre to those in my presence so that they too will carry the feeling to others so that we can truly create, and commune, and live together in a magical moment. And maybe when they leave the theatre they’ll say, “That looks like fun!”

Music and theatre students present “Seussical” as a Lyric Theatre production. Photo by Anna McSwain

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Timothy Banks Instructor of Art

It is a pleasure teaching art at CSU. Over the last three years, I have encountered some truly inspiring work from our students, and it is exciting to be a part of their creative journeys.

As an artist and illustrator, I have enjoyed

working on some incredible, professional projects. In January, my illustrated book, Nian, The Chinese New Year Dragon, was released nationally through Sleeping Bear Press.

Last fall, I received a gold medal from Society of Illustrators Los Angeles for my editorial illustration work. A book I wrote and illustrated, Monsters In Charleston, continues to garner

awards including the Judges Award from American Institute of Graphic Design South Carolina. And locally, I have created the official images for Piccolo Spoleto, Charleston Farmer’s Market, YALLFest, and Charleston Music Hall. I am looking forward to the continued success of our Art Program, and I can’t wait to see what 2020 and 2021 holds for us!

All photos by Timothy Banks

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Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis

soothes us.

Working in music allows me the privilege of helping to lead that transaction. Being a university professor allows me the honor of teaching students to do the same. It is rewarding to see former students become teachers, musicians, worship leaders, music therapists, and more, facilitating these transactions in our community to communicate our values and feelings to each other at a level beyond our verbal understanding.

Professor of Music, Chair of the Vocal Programs National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), Mid-Atlantic Region Governor St. John the Beloved Concert Series Co-Artistic Director

Music is a social art. It cannot exist in a vacuum. It matters that someone hears what you are doing and completes the transaction of music in exchange for a reaction. You don’t need a lot of people for this exchange, and, in fact, it can just be an exchange between you and yourself or you and God. But this communication is important and essential. This recent pandemic experience of isolation demonstrates how essential that transaction is. One of the first big moments of hope – when we felt like we were actually in communion with each other - was when videos surfaced of the Italians singing from their balconies during quarantine. That expression of spirit and solidarity jumped from the singers in Italy through the internet to the entire world. We processed that song and their feelings into our own and felt as one for that moment. Since then, many have followed suit. New Yorkers cheer the health-

Dr. Jill Lewis directs a private vocal lesson.. Photo by Richard Esposito

care workers nightly and then sing “New York, New York.” Minnesota Public Radio broadcasts songs like “Lean On Me” on all outlets so that people all over the state can sing it together as one.

Music is a glue that links us together. We crave it. We need it to create community and to help us interpret and express emotions. We need it to soothe us. Expressing grief in conversation at a funeral is difficult, but communal hymn singing in the service can evoke tears and bond people together in a beautiful, shared experience. Singing together can also physically link people.

They breathe as one, and can even sync up heartbeats, while a release of endorphins

Dr. Jill Lewis poses with vocal students. Photo by Richard Esposito

Dr. Celeste McMaster Professor of English, Department Chair

Dr. Celeste McMaster was named a finalist in two poetry contests recently.

McMaster’s poem, “Edisto Island, May 2019,” won honorable mention and will be published in the Fish Anthology 2020. Her poem was one of 10 poems selected for publication out of 1,952 entries.

Her poem, “Courtship,” was a finalist in the 48th New Millennium Poetry Award and will be published in the 2020 issue of New Millennium Writings.

Photo by Richard Esposito

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Graphic Design students present their collection of work each spring. photo by Richard Esposito

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Chantal Maurice ’11 Communication major, theatre emphasis

Art is my Love Language. Art is how I communicate, express myself, stay physically active, showcase my passions and share my gifts with others.

I find inspiration when I’m challenged.

When I challenge myself to step outside of my comfort zone, that is where my inspiration kicks in. I recently created virtual acting classes for actors. Creating, marketing, implementing and completing these courses was a challenge for me. Pushing myself to do something new was a challenge. However, through this challenge came inspiration to continue to strive to do and be my best.

Without struggle, there is no progress.

My favorite form of expression is DANCE. Favorite project A piece that I created that I’m most proud of is my second short film, “Loreen’s Gotta Boogie.” “Loreen’s Gotta Boogie” is a short film that’s based in the late 1970s. It tells the story of a young Filipina girl who has big dreams of dancing on “Soul Train.” The trailer can be watched on my website: ChantalMaurice.com.

Chantal Maurice, photo provided

Pursue Your Dream You can absolutely make a living as an artist. It’s all about being strategic and smart. Not everyone will become famous or a household name by pursuing their art. Yes, you may be an extremely talented singer. However, your talent doesn’t guarantee fame. If your ultimate goal is fame, I don’t have any advice for you. If your goal is to continue to pursue your art, there are many ways that you can make that happen.

Continue your art, and find ways to create multiple sources of income. If you are a

writer, find ways to sell your work (books, ebooks, screen plays, commercials, etc.). If you are a singer, aside from performing gigs, use streaming platforms to sell your original songs, work on voiceovers, jingles, write songs, sell your songs to independent filmmakers, etc. Again, there are definitely ways to create income using your art. If the money from your artistry isn’t enough to cover all of your living expenses, secure a flexible job that does. I believe that it’s helpful for artists to pursue their art out of pure love and passion, without stressing about how they are going to pay their rent or how they are going to get money to eat a decent meal.

Chantal Maurice is a full-time artist living in Atlanta, Ga. She is a SAG-Aftra Actress and Audition Coach. Maurice founded the company CoStar Coaching With Chantal which provides virtual and in-person audition coaching and audition training workshops for actors. She also teaches dance. Her company, Melanin Movements, provides online and in-person dance classes specializing in dance styles of the African Diaspora. View more of her work at ChantalMaurice.com.

Aaron Baldwin Professor of Art

I grew up around artists, and within my family, all of the arts were highly valued.

Still, I went for many years without giving much thought to how art works and where it comes from. Teaching forced me to be more thoughtful about the subject, and I gradually came to understand that our sense of design comes from nature, God’s creation, and that our capacity to make and appreciate art is a gift.

That’s one of the reasons that I enjoy teaching. I like helping to develop the creative potential of students, but I also hope that an art class can help students to recognize that art is a gift. It’s important. If stu-

“Rutledge Road”

by Aaron Baldwin

dents graduate with an appreciation for art, their lives will be richer for it.

In my own work, outside of teaching, I am a design enthusiast. I’ve always made paintings and sculptures, but I’ve also de-

signed and built houses, boats, furniture, and a couple of acoustic guitars.

Currently, I am working toward a show of landscape paintings and relief prints, to be exhibited in my hometown of McClellanville.

above: Aaron Baldwin Photo by Richard Esposito

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Lisa Grant ’17 Master of Science, supply chain management

Art To me art is our imagination rooted in reality. It’s taking our creative subconscious thoughts and giving it life, something concrete. Every year in elementary school we drew and cut out a heart shaped card, and my card always looked like an apple. I could never get that perfect shaped heart, and I kept telling myself I’m not good with art. But art is not perfection, and that’s the beauty of art.

The need to create The scripture says God gives seeds to the sower. Our talents are purposely created to help those around us. And writing brings me clarity; I’m compelled to do it. I usually have my cell phone with me at all times, so I often record memos and keep notes on my phone.

Favorite form of expression My favorite form of expression is writing.

In 2015 my mom suffered a massive stroke, and I was suddenly inspired to start writing. I wrote freely; it was an opportunity to express myself and gain control of my emotions.

Professional goal I’m expanding my real estate business while writing my second children’s book.

Also, my goal is to be a TED speaker and host an episode of HGTV’s “House Hunters Family.”

Photo provided

Role of art in life Art is a vital role in our daily lives; it’s joyful, analytical, fun, and improves our wellbeing. Art is everywhere. From the design of our bed covers, the music we listen to, style of clothing and classic movies like “The Wizard of Oz.” We’re introduced to art from the beginning as a baby – nursery rhymes, storytelling, singing the baby shark dance.

Art will be here forever.

Favorite piece My first children’s book, Maria Patia: Away We Go! As a real estate agent, one of my passions is using the arts to help children cope with the moving and relocating process. Many families, especially military families, face the possibility of moving, and this can be a traumatic experience for kids. I want to add value and make the process less stressful for families; I hope my collection of books can do just that.

Art students work on drawings in the Art Studio. Photo by Richard Esposito

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Lisa Grant Photo by Frozen Time Photography

Best career advice The best way to advance your career is by having the courage and confidence to ask for things: ask for that promotion, ask for a raise, ask for that position you’ve been waiting on. Confidence is the difference between existing and excelling at work.

Lisa Grant grew up in Awendaw and currently lives in Northern Virginia. She is a proud mother to her teenage son, Courey. In addition, she is a Real Estate Agent and founder of See Wee Homes, LLC.

Members of the Pride of the Lowcountry march in the annual Homecoming parade. Photo by Richard Esposito

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Carla Marchione Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

Being an artist and an academic I had to look up the definition of art. My first quick search gave me this: “art /ärt/ noun 1. the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.” - Oxford Dictionary I love that, “beauty or emotional power!”

Emotion is a huge part of art. We all have different stories to tell, and many of us use visual art to tell our story. It is incredible

how a painting, photograph, or sculpture can make us feel so many different emotions or tell us a tale. Art is so incredibly unique to everyone. We do not see things through the same set of eyes or experiences. That is one of the most wonderful and challenging things about art. It does not fit into a box; it cannot be contained and is ever changing. We are influenced by those who came before us, those who work with us, those yet to come, our children, animals, architecture, nature, God and the list goes on. Art is a necessity in my life—the owning of art, the creation of art, the education of art—all of these things are an important part of who I am.

As humans we are designed to create. God

gave us the talent of creativity. As artists we must use those talents and not bury them away. We find meaning and significance in creation. We study art and ache to learn more about the whys and hows. Art allows us to connect with people from all walks of life, all religions, races, and backgrounds.

Art can build communities. Art can heal. Art is a timeline for civilizations.

I express myself creatively in many ways.

I am a photographer, graphic designer, and when I have time, a painter. Each artistic avenue expresses an important part of who I am as an artist. Art is in my blood; it chose me when I was young, and I have enjoyed spending my time exploring it as often as possible.

Carla Marchione Photo by Richard Esposito

photos by Carla Marchione

Jessica Zhou Seymour, 2020 CSU graduate in Music Education, spins her flag with the Marching Bucs. Jessica recently accepted a position with Berkeley County, and will begin teaching orchestra at College Park Middle School in August. Photo provided by HSM

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Production of “Enchanted April.” Photo by Christiana Grace Porter

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Joshua Bohl ’14 Music performance major: instrumental emphasis

Art To me, art is a way to connect with the world around you. My art form, music performance, is my way to connect with others on a deep, emotional level. It is my way to share my innermost passions, to express my emotions, to display my hard work and to create a point of discussion with others.

It is also a way for me to share the gifts that God has given to me with others to bring light to their lives and for me to give my very best back to God. Creativity I keep my creativity flowing by constantly being involved in music and seeking out opportunities to perform. I involve myself in the musical community by constantly listening to new music, attending new performances, and performing with new groups. I also teach students which helps me to keep my skills sharp and to find new ways of ex-

Christopher Johnson ’17 Graphic design major/art minor

Art The art itself may be a definition by individual life experiences determined by one’s role in life. Being a black man from the South growing up surrounded by value and lessons, whether that comes from family or friends, it’s discovered through life’s prejudice and prosperity.

Christopher Johnson creates art with community in Baltimore (kolpeace). Photo by Rj @peculiar_images

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plaining musical ideas. The creativity never stops because there is always something new to explore in music.

Life as a musician When people ask me how I make music as an artist, my answer is simple: hard work, dedication, and flexibility. The field of music is extremely competitive, but there is also tons of work. You may find yourself working multiple jobs at a time, that could be teaching public school, performing in many different groups, teaching private lessons in your own studio, being an artistic director, you name it. It takes a lot of hard work to network and find jobs, but if you stay dedicated and remain flexible to doing different kinds of work, you can do it. The work is hard, but the reward is incredible, and you can rejoice doing what you love.

Josh Bohl is currently the director of percussion at Ashley Ridge High School, where he directs the percussion ensemble, the marching percussion section, assists with general band operations, and teaches beginning percussion at

My inspiration The adventures of culture for service and service for humanity taught me. I cherish the laughs with my family, friends, and community. I believe our smiles inspire a tall tale that comes with the inevitable inspiration.

Favorite pieces My work makes me proud because I feel like I’m wearing dad jeans looking at it. I created a body of work currently displayed at The Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture at The College of Charleston called “Resilient.” This series pays homage to five impactful and admirable American Americans that have symbolized unyielding strength through adversity: honoring Rev. Sharonda ColemanSingleton, Kara Walker, Muhiyidin D’Baha, Cyntoia Brown, and Robert Smalls.

Christopher Johnson continues his practice of kolpeace in and out of South Carolina. He was awarded an artist residency at The Greenmount West Community Center in the city of Baltimore

Joshua Bohl, photo provided

the district middle schools. Additionally, he is an adjunct instructor of music at Charleston Southern. He performs with the Charleston Wind Symphony, Summerville Orchestra, as a percussionist with Lowcountry Pianist and Co., and is a freelance percussionist throughout the state. He earned a Master of Music from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in music performance, graduating cum laude, from CSU. He resides in Summerville, with his wife Emily (CSU alumna), and their pets.

and is in his second year at the Maryland Institute College of Art for MFA in the Community Arts Program. Learn more at Kolpeace.com.

Johnson exhibits his “Resilient” show at The Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture at the College of Charleston.

Johnson’s acrylic on canvas work, “Faith Check,” is a creation for his residency in Baltimore. photos provided

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Madi Kirkwood ’20 Graphic design major/business administration minor

relationships with people: the way that I do that is through design and advertising.

I now feel the need to create because the world needs to connect. Creating aesthetically pleasing forms of traditional or digital art is how knowledge of social awareness topics, emotions, or messages spread, therefore connecting those who understand each other. The need to create doesn’t only go as far as publishing pretty pictures but to connecting to the world around you.

Professional goal My goal for my career as a graphic designer is to eventually gain a position in project management or creative directing. I love to lead others to their full potential while still learning more about how others can complement my strengths and weaknesses.

I would also eventually like to run my freelance graphic design business, Mae Creative, full time in the future.

Madi Kirkwood, Photo by Ellen Charis Photography

The need to create My desire to become an artist has always resonated with me since I was a small child. It started with using art to connect to my emotions and grew to using art to help study coursework and create relationships between material and memorized knowledge. As an adult, I find that it is important to connect to your community and form

Life as an artist My choice to go into an art field as a career has most definitely been looked down on by many people, including some loved ones. While I listen to those who say things along the lines of: “you won’t make enough money” or “think of your future,” I also try to explain to them that my passion for design is not about the money but about the impact on others that I can have. As a freelance designer, there is also a lot of potential to gain more recognition and be able to charge as you see fit due to your portfolio and reputa-

Ricard Bordas leads the all-female choral group Bel Canto. photos provided by HSM

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tion. Maintaining this is tough but rewarding in the end. All in all, in my short time as a designer, I have felt more wholehearted and satisfied with my career than I have ever felt with anything. That being said, I respond to skepticism with a simple: “I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Best career advice “Don’t compare yourself to other people.”

There’s so many people who compare themselves to others and then don’t unlock their full potential: everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Putting aside your pride and asking someone whose strength is your weakness is a major part of this: you should always be willing to learn from those who can teach you, but never fearful to practice your style and originality while using the knowledge and skills you learned.

Madi Kirkwood is the owner and designer for Mae Creative, a freelance graphic design company specializing in branding and advertising.

While at CSU, she completed five internships including CSU Marketing and Communication, Obviouslee Marketing, and Trident United Way. She’s been featured in Indigo, the annual CSU graphic design newsletter in 2019 and 2020.

She resides in Charleston where she is on her sixth internship as a social media manager for Charleston Hospitality Group, where she runs social media pages for various popular restaurants in the Charleston area. Learn more at her website MaeCreative.graphics.

CSU senior Jonnie Hernandez performs with Prof. Mark Sterbank’s CSU Jazz Ensemble.

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LEARNING

AEROPONICS: WHAT’S GROWING ON HERE?

By Andrew Boyles ’20

T

he mysterious purple lights in the Science Building belong to the aeroponics class taught by Dr. Thomas Gurley. CSU is one of a very few universities in the state teaching aeroponics.

Aeroponic agriculture is a technique by which plants are grown without soil, eliminating the use of pesticides and threats of fungi, viruses, and bacteria. In aeroponics, the plant and its roots are suspended in the air using towers, and they receive their nutrition via a modified irrigation system. It also uses LED lights to receive its sunlight, which explains the purple lights in the Science Building.

Gurley has been conducting aeroponic activities for four semesters at CSU. Gurley said that in 2016, he moved to South Carolina from Ohio and realized that he could not grow tomatoes the same here.

He did some research and realized that aeroponics would be the best fit for him, so he grew watermelons, peas, potatoes, and tomatoes all from his front porch.

“During my research, I realized that there were no books about aeroponics, so I wrote one!” Gurley said. The book is called Aeroponics: Growing Vertical and released in May. (available at routledge.com) He said that in September of 2018, he was given the opportunity to work at CSU as an adjunct professor to continue his studies as well as teach a few classes. He was assigned two students to work with on aeroponics.

It was not an official class at the time; it was simply an independent study run

by Gurley and his two protégées. Gurley said the number dropped to one over the summer break, but in this current spring semester, he has a class of six students. He also said that his remaining protégée is currently conducting an independent study of aeroponics.

Gurley also stated that this new technique could revolutionize agriculture. “It uses 90 percent less water. No soil, no pesticides, no weeds; everything is controlled environment agriculture, or CEA.” The plants can grow aeroponically indoors with LED lights or outdoors in a greenhouse. “We control the weather,” he said.

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Dr. Thomas Gurley shows students the basics of the aeroponics structure. Photo by Richard Esposito

There are downsides to this type of agriculture, however. Gurley said that aeroponics requires electricity for the pumps and lights, constant monitoring of the plants, and high buy in costs to acquire the equipment used for aeroponics.

Gurley stated that aeroponics is primarily geared toward home use, but there are a few companies who have embraced aeroponics and implemented it on a business level. Tiger Corner Farms, for example, is an innovative farm from Charleston who was featured on the CBS show, “The Henry Ford Innovation Nation with Mo Rocca.” According to CBS, Tiger Corner Farms is an eco-friendly business that uses aeroponic technology in recycled shipping crates to produce their crops for several of the grocery stores of the Lowcountry.

Hailey Spencer, a senior, said, “It is a privilege to take his class and learn from him during my final semester here at CSU.” “Dr. Gurley is a great professor who takes his time making sure that you understand every topic about aeroponics,” Brianna Thomas said, “along with assisting you with any other questions you may have regarding potential career possibilities or even any other questions you may have.”

“I took aeroponics as a biology elective, and it was something I had never heard of before,” Torii Johnson said, “Being able to grow plants and produce them with minimal resources is possible, and it’s something that

we will be using more in our near future.”

“I was intrigued at the science behind growing plants without the use of soil,” Spencer said. She enjoyed building her first experiment, and she has learned about the benefits of aeroponics in contrast to the traditional growing of crops.

“Aeroponics is interesting because it’s something I didn’t know very much about initially, but as we started to plant with our towers, I have learned a lot more.” Thomas said.

The students said that have grown very fond of their towers. Instead of numbering the towers that the plants are grown in, Gurley suggested to the students that they name the towers to clarify the process. The students enjoyed the idea, and they claim that each tower “has its own personality.”

Two of the students said that they were interested in pursuing a career in the world of aeroponics.

“I have already looked into several companies that specialize in aeroponics and hydroponics as careers after graduation,” Spencer said. “One of them is a company called Vertical Roots which supplies many grocery stores here in the Lowcountry with their produce.”

Thomas is also intrigued by aeroponics as a career option. “I would be interested to pursue it as a career because it’s a unique field where you can plant a variety of plants and get numerous different results.”

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LEARNING

CLASS OF 2020 GRADUATES VIRTUALLY

I

nstead of the traditional commencement ceremony at North Charleston Coliseum, the Class of 2020 and their family and friends were able to watch a virtual ceremony on May 9. While not what the graduates and their loved ones were hoping for, the ceremony featured some noteworthy moments.

Carson Anderson, president of the Student Government Association, addressed his classmates.

“We have the rest of our lives to look to the future,” he said. “Today is a celebration of our past and accomplishments. This is our year – the resilience we have shown. We have proven in these last few weeks we will not be beaten; we are worthy to graduate today.”

President Dondi Costin reminded the graduates they had accomplished something most people never do – graduating from college. He said, “Commencement is a starting line, not a finish line – the best is yet to come.”

He described the Bible each graduate received from the family of Frank Johnson.

Johnson’s daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Christine Hunter and Dr. Jairy C. Hunter III, made it possible.

Senator Tim Scott and Dr. Dondi Costin show the Bible that each graduate received as a gift of the Frank Johnson family.

Carson Anderson, SGA president, addresses graduates during the virtual ceremony.

Costin said, “Go from this place for the glory of God and the good of others. As we have said in recent weeks, Psalm 46 – Don’t Fear, Buccaneer, don’t fear!”

U.S. Senator Tim Scott, a 1988 CSU graduate, delivered the commencement address. Scott said: “I want you to remember three things:

1. Failure is not fatal if you don’t quit.

When I was a freshman in high school, I failed out of ninth grade. I had a couple of things going for me: a praying, powerful mother who never gave up on me and the late John Moniz, a Chick-fil-A operator, who mentored me.

2. To stand out in life, stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. An example is George and Mollie Green of Water Mission, who dedicated their lives to providing millions and millions of gallons of fresh water.

3. Les Brown has said, Sometimes life is going to catch you on the blindside. “Here we are in a global pandemic, which has taken us all by surprise,” said Scott. “When life catches you on the blindside, refer to Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Graduates were invited to pick up their diplomas and Bibles on campus May 29, or receive them in the mail. More than 200 came back to campus to have their photo taken with President Costin. Graduates also received a commemorative video with names and photos of the graduates.

Photos by Richard Esposito

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LEARNING

WYETH WINS EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

D

r. Mela Wyeth, professor of business administration/finance received the Excellence in Teaching award for 2019-2020.

She teaches undergraduate business finance, financial statement analysis, and quantitative methodologies.

Prior to joining the CSU faculty in 2000, Wyeth was visiting professor at the Moscow Institute for Law, Economics, and Political Science in the Russian Republic. Her academic career was preceded by 20 years in international private sector engineering and U.S. Foreign Service. During that time, she was a member of the U.S.-Russian Business Council in Washington D.C., and Moscow.

She is currently active in the World Affairs Council of Charleston and regularly serves as a Great Decisions docent and host.

Wyeth is especially drawn to the challenges of the online teaching environment and tailors innovative video instructional materi-

als and video conferencing to the needs of off-campus populations. When she finds students are struggling with a particular concept, she creates online videos to enhance their understanding.

Her colleagues are complimentary of the dedication she has to student success including comments such as “The effort that she puts into her courses is truly sacrificial. It is commonplace to find Dr. Wyeth working nights and into the weekend to ensure that her lectures are flawless, her demonstrations are stellar, and that student assignments are graded and returned, nearly 95% of the time within 24 hours.” Other compliments include “She knows what is required in the marketplace, and she is unyielding in her high standards. While the rigor that she demands often results in grumbling, she is unwavering pushing students to achieve what they themselves had not thought possible.”

Dr. Mela Wyeth Photo by Richard Esposito

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING FACULTY ON THEIR RECENT RETIREMENT:

Dr. Keith Callis

Dawn T. Lee

Linda P. Rousseau

Larry D. Smith

Elizabeth F. Valentine

professor of English, at CSU since 2012

assistant professor of English and the Bridge program, at CSU since 1992

assistant professor of library science and assistant director of the library, head of circulation, at CSU since 2006

assistant professor of business administration, at CSU since 2001

assistant professor of mathematics and the Bridge program, at CSU since 2007

Photos by Richard Esposito

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WHERE IS BUCKY? LEADING

Can you help us find … 4 Buckys

9 Chick-fil-A bags/cups

1 Fake Alligator Head

5 Treasure Chests

1 President Costin

1 Golden Pearl Ship

7 Ducks

1 Marching Band

1 Praise Band

3 Enos

1 Outdoor Classroom

1 Ice Cream Truck

4 Graduates

1 Intramural Football Game

3 Skateboards

2 Polar Bears

1 OCC Shoebox Collection Point

Circle your finds and post on social media with hashtag #whereisbucky, and tag Charleston Southern in your post by August 31 for your chance to win some CSU swag!

(Graphic Design by Tyler Stokes)

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LEADING

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LEADING

CREATIVE COPING

By Jan Joslin

A

s President Dondi Costin said during the second half of spring semester – this isn’t the way we envisioned finishing. In a video to the campus community announcing the transfer to fully online after Spring Break, Costin quoted Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” He advised students, faculty, staff, and parents to go from being overwhelmed to being overcomers.

Costin’s address to the Class of 2020 during the virtual commencement ceremony captured the essence of the semester – “You turned on a dime, demonstrated your resilience, and finished well.” The semester was challenging, but Buc Nation hung in there and finished well. Read on for a glimpse of some of the creative ways the CSU family is coping with COVID-19.

Online Instruction

One distinct advantage CSU had in moving to fully online was our history of delivering quality online instruction. Currently, U.S. News & World Report ranks CSU No.11 in the nation for online bachelor’s degree instruction.

The Academic Technology office began working toward a possible switch to complete online instruction on March 2, a week before Spring Break. At that time, there were 100 cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. Academic technology created training materials, instructional videos, and content for online teaching and learning, and created faculty and student online communities on Blackboard.

CSU moved all classes to online delivery March 18 and provided 24/7 support via text, phone, web conference, and email.

Zoom accounts were launched to all faculty, staff, coaches, and adjunct professors.

By May 3, two days before CSU would finish final exams, there were 1,122,486 cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. (Source: Johns Hopkins University and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Karan Sorensen, CSU’s director of academic technology and grants, said, “CSU’s Blackboard Collaborate Ultra users increased from

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The few students who remained on campus for the second half of spring semester ate graband-go meals from the dining hall. Fried Chicken Wednesdays were still on the menu.

Photo provided

99 in February to 2,041 in March. We also spiked up to 3 million minutes of usage in Collaborate between March 16 and April 16.”

Blackboard Corporate featured CSU’s pivot to total online instruction on their company blog.

Dr. Jeffery Gray, assistant professor of psychology, said, “The Collaborate Ultra software allows me to do voice-overs on the PowerPoint presentations that I would

normally use in a classroom. In addition, Collaborate gives me the ability to post the recordings of these sessions on my class Blackboard page. This allows my students who are unable to participate during the live session the option of watching the recording to keep up with the class.”

The Horton School of Music offered their monthly recitals via video. Dr. Jill Terhaar Lewis said, “Students selected recorded

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videos when possible (or sent in videos recorded earlier) to participate.”

As the semester progressed, music students performed multiple instrumental concerts and voice concerts on You Tube, including a rendition of “Is He Worthy?” featuring guest soloist President Costin.

Many of these are available on CSU’s social media channels.

Dr. Melinda Walker, chair of the biology department, said, “In biology we are almost tailoring each lab to its needs. For example, physiology experiments were adjusted to be completable at home with household items such as measuring muscle contraction by squeezing a stress ball or rolled up socks. Some courses required students to develop a research project they could conduct in their home environment, submit the protocol for safety and scientific approval, then conduct the experiment followed by a written report in scientific journal format and a presentation of the results through YouTube, Blackboard Kaltura, etc.”

The Physician Assistant program was faced with unique challenges because they have students enrolled who are in the didactic year and the clinical year. Gabrielle Poole, director of the physician assistant program, said, “About 60% of our didactic coursework is delivered through lectures so this has been relatively easy to transition into an online format. Our Problem-Based Learning course is being facilitated by faculty members each week using Zoom. Students are put in groups of 8-10, assigned a faculty mentor, and work through the cases assigned for the day. We often assign each student a diagnosis that they have to research so they can become the patient who has the diagnosis. Another student interviews the patient and does a virtual history and physical exam, similar to how it would be done as a telehealth encounter.”

Poole said, “Our clinical year students spent a few weeks on a break as we worked to come up with a plan for them that would allow for forward progression in the program, align with our accreditation standards, and avoid a delay in their graduation date.

They are currently completing a virtual elective experience which includes several different assessment methods to assess their ability to demonstrate our program learning outcomes. This experience includes Virtual Grand Rounds, in which students have to

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present cases to the rest of their classmates as well as medical literature reviews.”

Campus Ministries Campus Ministries began an online Prayer Wall in response to the pandemic. Jon Davis, associate vice president for spiritual life, said, “We have an e-ministry for our online students and through social media and email we can take prayer requests throughout the year. But, when the pandemic hit we knew that the prayer ministry would be vital for students, faculty, and staff to stay connected.”

They also coordinated virtual Chapel services, Elevate, and devotionals. All are available to view on CSU’s social media channels.

Other examples of creative coping: • The Theatre program was scheduled to perform “The Mousetrap, an Agatha Christie Mystery,” and transitioned to a radio play format instead. Listen at bit.ly/2Ya75RW • Graphic design seniors presented a virtual showcase instead of the traditional live one.

• Marketing and Communication produced CSU backgrounds to be used on Zoom conferences and coordinated hundreds of videos, social media posts, and press releases.

• Campus recreation produced virtual workouts.

For the last several years, graphic design students have entered a contest to design the poster for one of the theatre program’s performances.

Grace Marshall, a senior graphic design major from Greenville, won this year’s contest for The Mousetrap, which became a radio play after the pandemic.

• Brandon Gilbert, director of strength and conditioning for athletics, promoted mental resiliency and self-growth for athletes through a Buccaneer Mindset Development program. He also posted videos of work out sessions that could be done at home using such weights as a backpack full of books and a 25-pound bag of rice.

• Several departments were involved in managing a COVID-19 Student Emergency Care Fund which was funded through donations from CSU staff and friends of the university. Students were able to apply for assistance for food, housing, medicine, travel, and education-related expenses during the pandemic. A committee of CSU employees reviewed each request.

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LEADING

CREATIVE TEAMWORK CLASS LIVES UP TO ITS NAME

By Jan Joslin

F

or the students enrolled in CSCI/BUSI 383 Creative Teamwork, the end result of their project designed to teach strategies for building and working in interdisciplinary teams looked like nothing they expected, but it definitely taught them creative teamwork.

Taught jointly by Dr. Valerie Sessions of computer science and Prof. Emory Hiott of business, the course focused on engaging with a community-based organization to develop and execute a project and taught communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, planning, and delivery to the customer.

The class was originally planned to end with a trip to Southeast Asia to help a school market its summer camp program. That trip and a substitute trip were both canceled.

“In previous semesters, students traveled to another country to help a nonprofit further its goals in either IT or marketing,” said Sessions. After changing plans multiple times as COVID-19 changed everything about the project and the semester, the students organized a virtual conference for the Charleston Women in Tech Mentorship Program with guest speakers such as Jody Davids, retired CIO of PepsiCo. Before the Charleston Women in Tech conference moved to a virtual platform,

refreshments were planned for the event.

Instead, the Creative Teamwork class coordinated more than 70 meals for the Charleston VA Hospital nurses and staff through the nonprofit Feeding Our Heroes. “Professor Hiott and I are incredibly proud of their efforts and attitudes,” said Sessions. They are the embodiment of servant leadership.”

Bailey Dingler, Kevin Jacques, Adelaide Lovelady, and SarahBeth McKenzie highlighted some of the things they learned during the project: “From the beginning of the semester COVID-19 was on our radar, but we were not going to let it stop us. Not only were we going to be able to create a marketing plan for a company, but we had the opportunity to do community service projects, visit facilities, meet with business owners, and tour another country.

But then COVID-19 became much more of a crisis than any of us, or anyone else, had anticipated. By the end of spring break, CSU announced we would not return to campus to finish the semester, and we knew our hopes were shot. No touring another country. No elephants.

One of the goals for the class was to experience a culture shock when we visited these

Kevin Jacques, a junior accounting major, center, and Dr. Valerie Sessions, director of the computer science department, far right, deliver meals to nurses and doctors at the Charleston VA Hospital on May 5. Photo provided

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Students in the Creative Teamwork class created marketing materials for the Charleston Women in Tech virtual conference.

countries. Little did we know, it wouldn’t be our diving into a new culture abroad, but it would be our own culture shocking us from home.

Despite the obstacles in our way, we strove to make the best out of the circumstances. Our plans changed almost every week, and we had to work together so that we could fulfill the beginning goal of the class: teamwork in a real-world situation.

For us it was very simple: We had set goals collectively, and just because our situation had changed did not mean that our goal had changed. We knew there were still things that we could do during the pandemic, and Charleston Women in Tech needed to market their now completely online conference to a remote audience.

We all had active roles that required both research and networking along with adapting to the current situation. Flexibility was key in this project. We had to depend on each other to pull through with questions and updates despite not meeting face-to-face.

There are times in our lives when changes come that we are not expecting. There is no clearer evidence of that than how everyone has been shaken by COVID-19. It comes out of the blue and leaves us worried for what else the future holds. In moments like these we must cling to His word. ‘They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.’ Psalm 112:7 Though this semester was vastly different than what we had imagined, still God has been faithful working through us. He showed us time and time again that His plans are far greater than our own, molding our lives for His glory. Even in the most challenging times, we are reminded that we serve a good and mighty God.”

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LEADING

Dr. Dondi Costin President

“In a space of time where we’re social distancing, what I want us to do is to get spiritually closer and closer. I know this isn’t the senior year you had in mind, it may not be the freshman year you had in mind, and there will be opportunities you won’t be able to experience, but know this – God was not surprised, God was not caught off guard. And remember Psalm 46, God is our refuge and strength, an everpresent help in times of trouble...We will not fear.”

Featuring some of the students and employees who provided daily videos to encourage the CSU Family after the semester went completely online. Watch at youtube.com/charlestonsouthern.

Autry Denson

Head Football Coach

“So much of the Christian life is a sprint, but it’s also a marathon.

We have to have selfdiscipline...purpose... self-control. We’ve got to be intentional in everything we do that we’re running our race for Christ.”

Joseph Corbett

Dr. Nina Grant

Assistant Dean of Students for the Career Center “I encourage you to get up, wake up, rejoice, be thankful every day. Dress up – be sure to have on the appropriate attire when that camera is turned on.

Armor up – remember to put on the whole armor of God so that you will be able to stand strong during this time. Show up – log in daily and participate in online discussions. Power up – take care of yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually. Lift up – encourage someone else. Look up and stay prayed up.”

Rachael Bishop

Senior, criminal justice and psychology majors, Christian studies minor, Niantic, Conn.

Junior, nursing major, Lexington, Ky. “Be in the Word and sit at the Lord’s feet.

During this time of chaos and anxiety, don’t neglect your time with the Lord. Remember that He will keep you in perfect peace when you trust in Him.”

“God loved me yesterday; God loves me today, and God will continue to love and care for me tomorrow. God has continued to be faithful and love us during this time of uncertainty.”

Lindsey Jester ’20

Dan Steffy

Communication studies major, Christian studies minor, Simpsonville, S.C.

Senior, communication studies major, graphic design minor, Telford, Pa.

“In times of darkness and confusion, it’s really easy for us to depend on God because we remember that our world is so much bigger than us, and we’re reminded that God knows what’s going on and is not surprised. Take what you’ve learned throughout quarantine and take it into the busy lifestyle that’s to come when all of this blows over. Continue to make time for God in your daily life.”

“I’m away from my family. I’ve been laid off work, and there’s a lot of stress and worries. [Matthew 6:33] has been a great reminder to me that if you just look to God first and instead of trying to figure it out yourself or do it on your own, know that God has a plan and that He’s with you through all of this.”

Keiara Williams

sophomore, biochemistry major, aerospace studies minor, North Pole, Alaska

Clark Carter ’87 Alex Davis

Junior, nursing major, Bluffton, S.C. “This is the perfect time to rest in the Lord and not only that but share and live out the gospel to our neighbors.”

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Vice President for Student Life/ Dean of Students “During this time when the CSU community is scattered all over the place, how about do us a favor: take care of yourself and take care of your neighbor.”

Glorimar Blanco

Assistant Professor of Spanish “As we go through these difficult times, it is important for us to continue to trust in the Lord and to be rooted in His word.”

“If God is for us, who can be against us? I hope you use this time wisely. I may even learn a song: ‘So don’t worry Buccaneer, do not fear, God is on your side.’ Be encouraged, don’t worry, God bless!”

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LEADING

DEWEYS FUNDING CENTER TO EQUIP CHAPLAINS

By Jan Joslin

T

he Rev. Rob Dewey and his wife, Kathy, recently announced their intention to provide funding to create a center for chaplaincy at Charleston Southern. The more than $2 million commitment will establish the Dewey Center for Chaplaincy and represents one of the largest philanthropic commitments in CSU history. The Deweys have begun providing annual gifts to resource the center and included CSU as the beneficiary of their estate.

“The extraordinary generosity of Rob and Kathy Dewey to establish this chaplaincy center will extend their legacy of ministry for generations. I am not exaggerating when I say that Chaplain Dewey’s hands-on service in the trenches the last couple of decades put chaplain ministry on the map in this region and beyond. How fitting that his name would grace a center to commission a legion of chaplains who will follow in his steps,” said CSU President Dondi Costin.

Rob, a retired Episcopal priest and the founder of Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy, and Kathy, a retired school psychologist, consider it the next step after spending their careers caring for others. Rob said, “Kathy and I do not want to leave the money we have been blessed with up to the probate judge to decide where it goes. We don’t have children and grandchildren, so we have adopted CSU.” The Deweys feel CSU has the same ministry mindset they have. Rob said he has watched CSU for many years. He said, “I thought of other locations locally and nationally, but I know the money will be used, and the vision will go further than I ever intended [at CSU]; it is the right time and right place.”

Kathy said, “We’ve been talking about it for a long time. Rob always had a vision to encourage people to get out on the street, not necessarily stay in the four walls of the church.”

In the 1970s Rob served as a police officer in the Black Mountain, N.C., area and spent a year on staff with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association before attending the

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Kathy and Rob Dewey, photo provided

University of the South and Trinity Episcopal Seminary. It was while he was serving an assistantship on John’s Island and doing ride-alongs with police officers that he first recognized the need for a chaplain program to address the stress, PTSD, and high suicide rate among first responders.

Rob saw the benefit of combining the theological and the practical in ministering to people. He worked with local law enforcement officials, and the result was the birth of the Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy, a ministry for all first responders and victims’ families.

In addition, Rob was a chaplain for the FBI for 24 years, elected as lead chaplain in 2015, was a chaplain for organizations such as SLED and the Lowcountry Hospitality Association, was trained in hostage negotiations, aviation incidence response, and worked with the University of Maryland to form programs in their Pastoral Crisis Intervention. He continues to teach at the Univ. of Maryland. He was named Innovator of the Year in Crisis Response by World Congress on Traumatic Stress in 2016.

Rob said he was flying by the seat of his pants, learning as he went. The years leading up to 2015 and the devastating events

of that year, which included the murder of nine members of Emanuel AME Church and a 1,000 year flood, led to Rob’s own experience with PTSD and the need for a breather.

He retired and rested. He started the Lowcountry Community Chaplaincy in 2017 because he didn’t want to sit at home, and he and Kathy started planning for the future.

Rob said being a chaplain is an opportunity to help people, and not hurt people, in the midst of a crisis. He said, “We are becoming a non-Christian, nonreligious society; the need for more chaplains is going to grow.”

Dr. Ben Phillips, dean of the College of Christian Studies, said, “This new center will develop academic programs to train chaplains for any of the over 60 forms of chaplaincy identified by the North American Mission Board. The center will also develop noncredit, certificate courses to train volunteer chaplains in first responder, corporate, and community chaplaincy, as well as conferences to support professional chaplains serving in the Lowcountry.”

The Deweys are eager to get the center started. Rob said, “It is fun for us to be able to see where the inheritance that we received is going to be used for the glory of God.”

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LEADING

RECENT HEAD COACHES HIRED Story and Photos by CSU Sports Information

Marc MacMillan, Head Baseball Coach Athletics named Marc MacMillan head of the baseball program in May. MacMillan becomes the 11th CSU head baseball coach in program history. He takes over the Buccaneers after coaching stops at Ole Miss, ArkansasPine Bluff, Arkansas-Monticello, Crichton College, and Memphis University School.

“I am extremely excited to announce Marc “Mac” MacMillan as our new head baseball coach,” Athletics Director Jeff Barber said.

“He comes to CSU with an incredible reputation as a great coach and better person from many of the premier baseball coaches in America. Ole Miss has had an elite baseball program under Coach Mike Bianco, and Mac has been an integral part of their success for the past six years.”

The Rebels finished fourth in the SEC in stolen bases, increasing their total from 38 in 2017 to 66 in 2018. Under MacMillan’s guidance and tutelage, the Rebels upped the ante in 2019, tying a program record with 93 stolen bases, a mark set during the 2014 run to the College World Series. Over his four seasons, the Ole Miss outfielders recorded 51 assists under MacMillan’s watch.

MacMillan has been successful in converting players into star players in the outfield

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during his tenure with the Rebels. That success has parlayed into professional accolades with five different MLB draft selections coming from the Ole Miss outfield - most recently 2019 fifth-round selection Thomas Dillard (Milwaukee Brewers).

Jose Gomez, Head Women’s Soccer Coach Jose Gomez joined CSU athletics as the third head women’s soccer coach in program history in December.

Gomez came to CSU after a storied career at both Liberty University and Palm Beach Atlantic, highlighted by leading the Sailfish to their first national championship in program history.

“I’m very excited to have Jose join our athletics program,” Barber said. “I’ve known him for several years and have complete faith and trust in him to lead our team both spiritually and competitively.”

Gomez takes over the reins of the CSU women’s soccer coaching staff after a six-year stint as the associate head coach of the Liberty men’s soccer program. Highlights from his tenure on the Liberty sidelines include leading two players to professional contracts over the 2019 season, while also leading the team to sit among the national leaders in

total offense. The Flames finished in the top10 nationally in the NCAA Division I in total offense in 2018, while sitting in the top-20 in both 2016 & 2017. He also recruited and coached two players who ranked in the top10 nationally in goals per game in 2018.

Prior to his tenure at Liberty, Gomez spent nine seasons at the helm of the men’s soccer program at Palm Beach Atlantic. He led the Sailfish to a 109-65-15 overall record during his tenure and guided PBA to the program’s first-ever NCCAA National Championship in 2010.

Cady Everett, Head Cheer Coach CSU announced the hiring of Cady Everett as the cheer head coach in February.

Everett enters her third season on the Buccaneers coaching staff and was elevated to the Head Coach position after volunteering with the Bucs in each of the previous two seasons.

She was a cheerleader at the University of Cincinnati from 2009-12 and was a part of the Co-ed cheerleading squad during her time with the Bearcats.

More info on all of these coaches is available at csusports.com.

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SERVING

FIRST-PERSON ACCOUNTS

Spring Break Mission Trips Photos provided by Campus Ministries

By Brooke Murray Freshman, Biology major

S

pring Break at Camp Abaco in the Bahamas was an experience of a lifetime, one that I will never forget. From cleaning up endless shingles, to doing a morning devotion as the sun rose, from doing prayer walks around the camp, to burning lots of debris piles, we saw the Lord work in amazing ways.

A group of 16 students and staff from CSU traveled to Marsh Harbour, Bahamas.

Though most of us began this trip as strang-

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ers, we left the experience as a family. As we flew into Marsh Harbour Airport, many of us were unsure of what was to come next.

We had seen the horrific images and videos of the destruction left by Hurricane Dorian, but being there seeing the devastation in person changed our perspective and reminded us of all we have to be thankful for.

One moment that really stuck with me was meeting with the pastor at Camp Abaco.

He took us to the site where he and his family’s home was completely destroyed. I vividly remember their clothes, shoes, and household items thrown all over the entire

property. All that was left of the house was a bare concrete foundation. But behind all of the desolation and destruction, you could look out past the home’s foundation and see the magnificent blue ocean spanning as far as the eye could see. This moment reminded me that God is bigger than the situation that this now homeless pastor was facing, and God’s love and power is bigger than anyone will ever face. This trip was filled with the endless memories, lasting relationships, and hard work that reminded each of us of how God’s love and beauty is always bigger than any storm we could ever face.

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By Bridgett Kolpien Junior, Psychology major, Spanish & Christian Studies minors When I first heard about the mission trip opportunity to the Bahamas I really wanted to go, but I knew I couldn’t afford it. I prayed on it for a while and asked God to provide the funding for the trip if it was in His will for me to go. I sent out donation letters to family and friends around Christmas time and prayed to get a little amount to cover my trip. But God had other plans that exceeded any expectation I may have had. By the time I got back to campus for the start of the semester, I had a flood of donation letters and received enough funding on the first day to cover my entire trip! I continued to get donation letters each day. I was able to use the extra donated money to cover not only my trip but two other girls as well! I am amazed but not surprised by how God totally and completely provided exactly what I needed and gave me ample more to bless others.

My trip to the Bahamas was indescribable, but if I had to put it in one word it would be joy. The people in the Bahamas had lost everything they owned, knew, and even family

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and friends. Yet, everyone I met was so extremely joyful and hopeful. It was so beautiful and inspiring to see. The team and I spent the majority of our trip clearing debris from all over Camp Abaco. We made piles and piles the size of large trucks all over the camp to either be burned or taken away. It was a lot of hard work but so worth it.

I think it’s super important right now to apply the same strong determination to not give up and joyful attitude to our daily lives.

Despite the disruption, chaos, and difficulties, we can still find joy and blessing in each moment the Lord gives us. Take this time to grow closer to God and enjoy each day. God is good, always.

By Nathan Cobb Senior, Business Administration major The Erwin, Tennessee, mission trip was a very inspiring experience. The majority of the work we did was serving the local community by helping them in their yards.

Many members of the church were physically not able to maintain their yards, and it was a blessing to be able to help them. The smiles on their faces and their pure appreciation for what we did was more than enough payment for the work we accomplished.

The people of Fishery Community Church were very welcoming and hospitable and made us feel at home from the second we stepped foot on the property. They provided just about every meal and truly served us as their guests. It felt like if there was a mud puddle to walk across, the members of Fishery Community Church would lay down in the mud so we could have a clear path to cross. We drove out to Tennessee to serve these people, but in reality, we are the ones who went home with a full heart. The most important thing I gained from this mission trip is that I got to experience firsthand what loving like Jesus looked like. It was truly an unforgettable experience!

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SERVING

A LOOK INTO MISSIONARY LIFE IN THE UK

D

r. Kenny Dubnick ’92 and his wife, Kristy ’93, have worked for the International Mission Board for 13 years. The Dubnicks and their two children live in Birmingham, England.

Learn more about what the Dubnicks did after graduation, what a typical day in ministry is like, what they like about living in the UK, and more from Kenny.

After CSU Immediately following graduation, I worked as an admissions counselor for CSU, while my wife finished her degree. Following Kristy’s graduation, we moved to Wake Forest, N.C., where I attended Southeastern Seminary. At Southeastern Seminary I completed an M.Div. and a D.Min. Following seminary, I pastored a church in the Raleigh/ Durham area. As a pastor, I led multiple overseas volunteer mission teams (South Africa, Romania, England). God used these trips to open my eyes to both the needs and opportunities around the world for the work of the Gospel.

God’s Calling to Missions My first sense of God calling me to serve overseas happened in 1999, while leading a volunteer mission project in South Africa (through our church in N.C.). Over the next several years God continued to stir my heart to go overseas. We officially committed to pursue serving with the IMB in 2005-2006.

Life in Birmingham We have served in Birmingham, England, for 13 years. Birmingham is the second largest city in the United Kingdom (population 3.7 million). Birmingham is less than 1% evangelical Christian. In England, every seven days five churches go out of business (permanently close). The fastest growing religion in England is Islam. There are over 200 mosques in Birmingham. From a worldview perspective, Birmingham is a mixture of Islam, Hindu, and secular Atheism.

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The Dubnick family in England. Photo provided

Favorite things about Birmingham • Diversity – Birmingham is an extremely multicultural city. Example - At one local elementary school, students speak 31 different languages as their first language. It seems that most of the world lives in Birmingham.

This makes for great festivals, amazing places to eat, and wonderful opportunities for the Gospel.

• Size – Birmingham is a large city. Growing up in South Carolina, I’ve never lived in a large city. There is always something to do, places to visit, and people to meet. Although, the traffic can be a nightmare.

• Friendliness – Birmingham is known for being one of the friendly cities in England. It is a large city with a down-home feel.

• Gospel Opportunities – It is extremely rare to meet anyone who has ever heard the Gospel. While this is a challenge, it is also an amazing opportunity. People are literally hearing the good news about Jesus for the very first time.

What I Do My job title is Associate Cluster Leader for the United Kingdom & Ireland. I am responsible for providing strategic leadership and supervision for all of our IMB missionaries/ church planters serving in England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland.

In addition, I serve as a local church planter in Birmingham. In the last 10 years we’ve partnered with English believers to plant/ lead two new churches in Birmingham.

Church planting/leadership development is at the core of what we do.

What a typical week looks like Each week we lead two-three Bible studies. Those attending these Bible studies are a mixture of Christians and non-Christians.

Combined, the Bible studies will total 20-30 people. We also lead a Friday morning outreach in our neighborhood geared toward senior adults. We usually have 15-25 in attendance, again, a mixture of Christians and non-Christians. Most weeks, I’m preaching or leading the Sunday service at our church plant or another local church. I also meet-up weekly with local believers for the purpose of mentoring/leadership development. Finally, a typical week consists of administrative responsibilities, team supervisor/leadership responsibilities, etc. All of these gatherings involve drinking enough tea to fill a swimming pool, definitely not simply an English stereotype; they love their tea.

Life Lessons Learned at CSU • Self-Discipline – With the help of my professors, I learned how to become disciplined in my time management, planning/ preparation, study habits, etc. These skills enabled me to complete my master’s and doctorate degrees, as well as to develop the leadership skills I now utilize on a daily basis.

• Learning – While at CSU, I developed a real desire to learn. My professors were engaging and interesting. They helped create in me a passion for learning, reading, teaching, etc. I am forever grateful for this. My heart is to be a life-long learner.

• Commitment – I met students who took their relationship with Jesus seriously. They had a genuine love and commitment for Jesus. From them, I was challenged to know Jesus in deeper ways, enjoy Him to newer heights, and love Him with all my heart.

• Service – I served on student teams that travelled to churches in South Carolina for the purpose of leading weekend revival services. We led music, preached, organized youth events, etc. This was my first experience of serving local churches as well as serving alongside other believers. Life changing.

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SERVING

KARGES-BONE AND CSU TOP FUNDRAISING TEAM FOR WALK FOR WATER

By Jan Joslin

D

r. Linda Karges-Bone likes to walk, and she likes to be involved, especially in something making a significant difference in the world.

When Karges-Bone turned 50, she started thinking about the idea of adopting a signature cause, a charity to which she would commit her efforts. Water Mission, based in Charleston, and their annual Walk for Water became the focus of her energies.

“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 offered an opportunity to involve my students at Charleston Southern. We could all walk together. It made sense.”

Although essentially retired, as a distinguished professor of education, Karges-Bone still teaches Children’s Literature to CSU education students.

In the 2020 Walk for Water, which became a virtual event after the COVID-19 pandemic, Team Dr. Linda Karges-Bone & CSU Civic Engagement raised $8,597, making them the top team of 225 teams.

The amount becomes even more impressive when you consider that Water Mission says, “$1 invested in safe water for rural communities yields a return of up to $7.”

Karges-Bone and her CSU teams have raised thousands over the past 14 years.

In addition to fundraising, Karges-Bone is involved with Water Mission’s educational arm, helping to train teachers to infuse curriculum about the global water crisis into their schools. “My own students enrolled in the Children’s Literature course that I teach now share children’s books and accompanying lessons about poverty, water crisis, and social justice as part of their clinical teaching in high poverty schools,” said Karges-Bone.

The need for clean water touches everyone.

“In a fascinating twist, one of these schools, Malcolm Hursey Elementary, with a high population of families living in poverty, became engaged with the work and raised over $1,000,” said Karges-Bone. “Children helping

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The CSU team gathers for the 2015 Walk for Water. CSU file photo

children. The poor reaching out to the destitute. Only God can speak to hearts that way.”

Current student Teya Faith Bunney, said, “Water Mission is a Christian engineering nonprofit doing incredible things around the world. They work to provide safe water, sanitation and hygiene for people in developing countries and disaster areas. Water Mission has been working since 2001, and it has provided water for over 4 million people in 56 countries. The people who walk with Water Mission are walking to honor the people around the world who have to walk 2-3 hours a day to collect water that is unsafe to drink. The money raised from this charity goes to supply safe water to those who need it.”

Karges-Bone explains the global water crisis and its effect on women to students by telling them most water is collected by women and girls which prohibits girls from attending school, leaves them vulnerable to violence, and perpetuates the problem

of poverty and the lack of a future for these women and girls.

“For my future teachers, most of them women, and my friends in the teaching and nonprofit sectors, again many women, and their husbands, fathers, and friends, this became a critical rallying cry,” said KargesBone. “Water helps women, and women change family dynamics. Interestingly, a number of my friends who are not Christians have written generous checks or pressed $100 into my hand for the Walk. Clearly, the Spirit speaks when we cannot.”

“For me, the annual Walk for Water speaks of taking action as a community of believers.”

– Dr. Linda Karges-Bone

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SERVING

AMBASSADORS

IMPACTING ATHLETICS AND FANS

By Seth Montgomery

Residents of The Elms of Charleston, a 55+ community next door to CSU, at The Elms Clubhouse. Photo provided by CSU Athletics

A

friendly face. A smile. A warm handshake. A knowledge of the athletic venues. All of this and more have been a key part of the launch of the CSU Athletic Ambassador program back in the fall of 2018.

Tom Deso was a key component to the start of the CSU Athletic Ambassador program having volunteered with the Bucs’ Athletic Department in 2017 following a presentation by former Associate A.D. for Development/Tickets Tyler Davis.

“Tyler (Davis) came to The Elms clubhouse to present information on the CSU athletic programs and generate interest from CSU’s neighboring communities,” Deso recalled. “After the meeting, I approached Tyler and asked if I could meet with him about helping out in some way.”

The ensuing meeting led to a one-on-one opportunity where Deso helped volunteer in the Athletic Department, helping with the Buc Club and other game day opportunities.

Having a big heart for service, Deso has enjoyed his opportunity working with the Bucs

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over the last few years.

“As is always said about volunteering, I get so much more out of this than I give,” Deso said. “One of the blessings of being a retiree is that I have time to do things that give me joy. CSU is a small school with great values, and when I was working with Tyler those values surrounded my work.”

Deso’s abilities and passion for sports (he grew up a fan of the MLB’s Yankees and Red Sox, as well as the NFL’s Patriots) came about prior to attending the University of Virginia during the Ralph Sampson era.

“I’ve always loved sports, particularly college sports,” Deso laughed. “My favorite sport at the collegiate level has always been men’s basketball, but I’ve gained a second favorite sport since becoming involved at CSU – volleyball. That said, there is still nothing like the spectacle of college football.”

When Director of Athletics Jeff Barber came on board in the spring of 2018, talks began about starting the CSU Athletic Ambassador program. Having seen programs

similar to this be successful during his tenures at the University of South Carolina and Liberty University, Barber was eager to see the program take off at Charleston Southern.

“The goal for our Athletic Ambassador program is to have volunteers assist with our game day experience, provide customer service to our fans, and help with game day operations,” Barber said. “Their presence means we have a larger workforce at games that allows us to have a greater game experience for our students, our fans, and all of our supporters.”

Prior to the 2018 football season, Barber, Davis, Deso, and CSU head men’s basketball coach Barclay Radebaugh discussed and formulated the development of what would become the current framework of the CSU Athletic Ambassadors. The payoff was immediate – 10 people applied and started work in the Bucs’ home opener on September 22 against Elon.

The positive effect was felt immediately, as noted by both Deso and Barber.

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“I believe our mission is to be the happy, welcoming face of the Athletic program at Charleston Southern,” Deso said. “To be the people who can simply greet and be friendly, we are there to make people feel welcome and at home. We feel like we are part of that family, and we want to make visitors feel that way also.”

Barber concurred, “The Ambassadors have had a big effect on our department. They are a visible sign to our fans for customer service and positive public relations. They are able to greet our fans with a smiling face, answer questions from our fans, and help with crowd control and ticketing.”

The success of the ambassador program throughout the 2018 football season continued through the men’s and women’s basketball seasons as more volunteers from The Elms started to get involved. Their impact was noticed by Head Men’s Basketball Coach Barclay Radebaugh.

“I can’t begin to describe how thankful I am for our Athletic Ambassadors,” Radebaugh said. “It is such a joy to walk into the Buc Dome and see so many ambassadors in place ready to go, greeting our players, greeting our fans and excited to be a big part of game day. Our Athletic Ambassadors are incredible people who are giving their time and excellence to make our game day experience incredible. I am very, very thankful for them.”

As the program continued to gain attention, more volunteers from The Elms came to swell the ranks. During the 2019 season it wasn’t uncommon for there to be 8-12

ambassadors at each football and men’s and women’s basketball games, with more than 20 volunteers reaching out to be of service.

With more members, the roles of the Athletic Ambassadors has expanded, but their core mission continues to be the same.

“Our role has grown somewhat, but our core job is pretty much the same,” Deso said. “We greet fans, provide directions and information, and help greet and assist with the Buc Club tent and meal access. We also mingle with the Buc Club members and help cover the student sections to assist wherever is needed.”

Deso, as the point person for the Ambassadors, has seen his role expand in the job as he helps handle the coordination of game day assignments, while also assisting where needed.

“This year I’ve been helping more with the reserved seat sections, helping check tickets, and letting folks know where their seats are,” Deso said. “I also roam during the game and try to keep in touch with the Buc Club supporters when I can. I’m looking forward to being more involved when the new Associate A.D. for Development/Tickets is hired, if they feel like they could use the help.”

He also sees an expanded role for the Athletic Ambassadors as the program continues to grow.

“We started with 10 ambassadors, but now we’re up to 20, and may try another round of recruiting this year,” Deso said.

“Perhaps at a future date we can become involved with baseball and even other sports

Ambassadors are recognized for their work with basketball. Photo by Richard Esposito

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Athletic Ambassadors spend a moment with Bucky at a football game.

Photo provided by CSU Athletics

as the programs grow. We’ve also been in touch with Campus Security to talk about setting up a program whereby we could provide on-campus transportation to students who have mobility problems due to injuries.”

Barber agrees, hoping to keep building the program up to include more responsibilities on game day, while also not taxing the volunteer corps.

“I would hope we can continue to build the number of Ambassadors so that we can expand their role on game days,” Barber said. “We would like to see the program grow to 30 Ambassadors so that we can have a good rotation that will fit our needs for each game, without pushing or straining anyone too much.”

For their part, the Athletic Ambassadors are up to the challenge. One in particular, Mike Steinbacher, has appreciated the opportunity to get involved at CSU and see the athletes and coaching staffs grow.

“I think being an Athletic Ambassador allows you a unique opportunity to be involved in something special,” he said. “I appreciate being on the inside of these sporting events and getting to know these fine young men and women athletes and their coaches.

It’s been special watching how they compete and excel in their particular sports, and how they react to adversity, winning and losing.

I am impressed at the level of respect, competitive attitudes and professionalism they show day in and day out. It gives you a good feeling about this young generation.”

Deso agrees and looks forward to continuing his work with the Bucs in the future.

“Everyone I’ve gotten to know and work with at CSU has been great,” he said. “It’s obvious folks are doing it for the right reasons.”

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SCHOOL TIES

Class notes 1970

1988

Renee Linyard-Gary MBA ’09 is the new director of health at TriJohn Richter has been named Mark Clark is the Sedgwick Coun- dent United Way. Health is one of three TUW impact areas. She chief distribution officer for Evty appraiser in Kansas. He has guides the strategy and vision for eryday Life Inc. He was formerly worked in the Sedgwick County Healthy Tri-County and supports the national business development Appraiser’s Office since 1995. the integration of overall health director at VantisLife Insurance Formerly, he worked at Wichita initiatives into other collaborative Company.

State University. He and his wife have two children and four grand- impact area initiatives in Education and Financial Stability. She children.

1971 served on the TUW Health Vision Council and later served and/or 1999 led workgroups and other collaborative activities as part of Healthy Tri-County. She also served on all TUW Donor Networks as the chair for the Young Philanthropists Society, on the steering committee for the African American Leadership Council, and as a member of the Women United. She is involved Karen Lewis Crawford was orin the community and serves as a dained as a minister in the S.C. mentor for the College of CharlesDistrict of the Wesleyan Church Dr. Bill Cashion recently pubton MBA program. lished The Winning Season: Stories Aug. 23, 2019. She is the first African-American woman to be of Victory from Baseball and the Bible. God gave Cashion the privi- ordained in the history of the district. She currently serves as lege of serving as a chaplain for professional baseball teams in the an assistant pastor of spiritual formation at Providence Wesleyan USA and in Venezuela for many years. During that time, he taught Church in Summerville and is pursuing a Master of Divinity many Bible studies that included at Wesley Seminary at Indiana true stories from baseball history as illustrations. His new book con- Wesleyan University in Marion, Liz Magee graduated from the Indiana. tains 162 devotions to challenge University of South Carolina with and inspire believers and nonbea PhD in Special Education Relievers alike. Books in paperback 2003 search and College Teaching in and Kindle editions are available Sheri Hutto is a Certified Aging in December 2019. She is an instrucat Amazon at amazon.com. The Place Specialist and has been with tor for Project SEARCH, a schoolbook is also available at BooksAmramp since 2013. Prior to Am- to-work transition program for a-Million and Barnes and Noble. high school students with disabiliramp she worked in the Medical Cashion played baseball for the ties in Lexington Richland District Sales field for Diabetic Supplies Buccaneers from 1967-1971.

Five, and an adjunct professor at and Orthotics & Prosthetics. She USC. resides in Summerville.

34 CSU magazine CSU v30 n2.indd 34

COMPILED BY JAN JOSLIN

2004 Peter Copeland received his PhD in Christian education from New Orleans Baptist Seminary in May of 2018. The Copelands live in Myrtle Beach, where Peter serves as assistant director and resort missionary at Impact Ministries.

He is also the chaplain at Apache Family Pier and Campground and leads Sunday services each week.

Mike Howard has been named head football coach at St. John’s High School in Charleston County School District. He has coached at the high school and college level and is a U.S. Army veteran.

2005 Stephanie Kelly Jordan MBA ’09 received the Black Engineer of the Year Award for Community Service in Government at the BEYA STEM Conference in February.

She is a data scientist for Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic. The award honors her efforts in NIWC Atlantic STEM outreach activities throughout the state. She is also the founder of a nonprofit called Girls Really Excited About Tackling STEM. Through GREAT STEM, she develops programs for young women to learn more about careers in the fields of computer science, information technology and cybersecurity.

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2007 Travis Alexander MEd is the executive director of the Pickens County Board of Voter Registration and Elections. He has been a precinct and poll worker coordinator. He is an adjunct professor at Greenville Technical College and is a former high school teacher and track coach. He has also coached cross country and distant runners at CSU. Michael Winfree is a family nurse practitioner with Novant Health Oceanside Family Medicine and Convenient Care in Wilmington, N.C. He earned a doctorate in nursing from East Carolina University.

2008 Stephanie Spann MEd has been named the new principal at Simmons-Pinckney Middle School.

Prior to her new position, she was an assistant principal at James Island Charter High School. She is a former Teacher of the Year winner at Brentwood Middle School where she was a music teacher.

Dr. Jermaine Whirl MBA is participating in The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program’s 2020-2021 Rising Presidents Fellowship program. Whirl is vice president for learning and workforce development at Greenville Technical College. He is the only person participating from South Carolina.

STAY CONNECTED! Julia Neal and Sean Sweeney were married Oct. 18, 2019, in Crescent Beach, Florida.

Send us news about family additions, job changes, etc. To include a photo, email a high

2011

resolution jpg. (If you send a professional

Kenneth Joyner, a leadership development strategist with the Flippen Group, has written a boy titled Without a Father: From Fear to Faith, available at amazon.com.

Joyner is a former elementary school teacher and the co-founder of Boys with Purpose, a nonprofit.

print from the photographer.)

2014

Address change: csudevelopment@csuniv.edu

Calvin Bryant has created a business called 40 Caliber Fitness.

Currently, his fitness training can be seen online due to COVID-19, but he previously trained in a Tallahassee, Florida, gym. He is pursuing a master’s degree in occupational therapy.

photograph, please include permission to

Class Notes: Email your news to magazine@csuniv.edu

Name change: register@csuniv.edu Follow the Alumni Association on Social Media: alumni_csu

2015

Paul Gombwer was recently featured on the news for his work in 2010 Nigeria with the Alice Gombwer Rachelle Rea Cobb and her husFoundation. He started the Samantha Gambrell and Frederick band, Devin Cobb, announce the foundation in 2015 to honor his Gambrell ’07 are both special education teachers and live in Orange birth of a daughter, Rosalie Jeanne mother’s memory by providing for County, California, with their son, Cobb, born April 17. Rachelle also widows and orphans and running Cash Hudson Gambrell, born Jan. announced the release of her fifth basketball camps. Recently, he fiction title, which released Feb. sent money to provide groceries 4, 2017, and daughter, Lilianna 7. Follow the Dawn is available on for 80 families who have been Melina Gambrell, born Jan. 2, amazon.com. impacted by COVID-19. His 2019. The Gambrells are selfsiblings in Nigeria help to make described huge Disney fans and things happen for the foundation. spend their free time at DisneyGombwer is employed by Home land. Samantha played volleyball Depot. for CSU, and Frederick played football for CSU.

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alumni_csu

2016

Tracey Ard McSwain MS and Tyler McSwain ’09, ’17 MA, announce the birth of a son, Noah Andrew McSwain, born Dec. 15, 2019. Tyler is an instructional analyst/online services coordinator for CSU’s Academic Technology and Grants office.

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SCHOOL TIES

2017

Teri Kearns and Sean McGarity ’16 were married Jan. 2. They live in Atlanta, where Sean is an operations manager for the Georgia Section of the PGA, and Teri is a teacher with the Fulton County Schools.

Tameika Wideman MS organizational management, analytics, is the registrar at Piedmont Technical College in Greenwood and was named an Outstanding Educator for the 2019-2020 at the South Carolina Technical Education Association convention in February.

Wideman manages the staff and daily operations of the Student Records Office. Wideman oversees course registration, graduation and all enrollment-related student records business. Before coming to PTC, Wideman served as a recruitment coordinator at Erskine College and a marketing analyst for the Erwin Penland agency in Greenville.

2019 Brad Horton MS in organizational leadership has been named Air Traffic Control operations competency supervisor within the 5.2 Competency and supporting the ATC Engineering Division with Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic. He is a technical lead for all United States Marine Corps Range Control Facilities and for related Special Use Airspace matters. He travels to all Marine Corps Range Complexes to provide support for the safety of range operations and addresses emerging issues and technologies such as Unmanned Aerial Systems encroachment, and the gap analysis for the 5th generation aircraft’s utilization of current airspace

configuration. He also serves as the lead instructor for the Range Airspace Manager Course. He was a command and control officer in the USMC for 21 years, serving in Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. He has been married to his wife, Tracie, for 32 years, and they have three grown children.

2020 Caroline Beasley and her husband, Brent Beasley ’13, announce the birth of a son, Daniel, born Jan. 11, weighing 4 lbs.

14 oz. Caroline writes that their family alumni list includes: her aunt, (master’s) ’04, her mother ’00, Brent’s brother ’13 and sister ’15.

in memory Lewis Carlton Battle ’75, age 66, died Dec. 29, 2019, in Marion. He worked for Battle Oil Company in Nichols.

Warren Joseph “Joe” Bennett Jr. ’72, age 76, died Dec. 6, 2019, in Charleston. He was retired from Charleston Frame & Wheel Service.

Johnny L. “Trip” Causey III ’96, age 48, died April 27 in North Myrtle Beach. He was also a graduate of the South Carolina Police Academy.

Rev. Norris Cook ’74, age 81, died Nov. 21, 2019, in Zebulon, N.C. He was a pastor in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida.

Dr. Thomas S. Haggai, age 89, died March 26. He was chairman emeritus of IGA. He was also a minister. He received an honorary doctor of laws degree from CSU in 1980.

36 CSU magazine CSU v30 n2.indd 36

Virginia Langford Powers Koester ’69, age 84, died May 4. She was retired as a public school teacher and from Powers School of Music. She was the wife of Eugene Koester, CSU professor emeritus. Memorials may be made to the Eugene Koester Scholarship Fund at CSU.

Joyce Margaret Stewart Rea, age 77, died Feb. 24 in Charleston. She was retired from CSU where she served for years as director of student activities. She was instrumental in beginning the Miss CSU Pageant and had been a judge and director of the Miss S.C. Pageant.

Daniel “Dan” Bryan Mills ’72, age 79, died Jan. 3 in Charleston. He was an accountant and had served in the U.S. Army.

Rev. Tim Tomlinson ’86, age 61, died March 16. He was pastor of Okatee Baptist Church in Ridgeland.

Nancy J. Moss ’92, age 65, died Oct. 10, 2019. She was an activity director at CarterMay Home and was an adjunct music therapy instructor at CSU.

Dr. Alastair C. Walker, age 93, died May 4.

He was a pastor at numerous churches and was pastor of First Baptist Church, Spartanburg for 25 years. He received an honorary doctorate from CSU.

Dr. Patricia A. O’Donnell, age 51, died May 8. She was currently serving as associate professor of sociology at CSU.

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SCHOOL TIES

What is your fondest memory of your time at CSU/BCC?

#alumnicsu #csubucs Eric Gambrell ’02 Too many to say, some involved alligators, swimming pools, reflection ponds, water gun fights (that had the Dean of Students soaking wet in the middle of the night).

Okay, that last one was a trash can full of water from 2nd floor of Quad 2.

Shelby Jennings ’07 Getting to be in the cast of “Little Women” with some of my favorite people. My dad had cancer during that season of my life, and getting to be a part of that play greatly aided in bringing me deep relief in such a tragic season.

Vicki Wilkerson Gibbins ‘92, ‘01 I loved my quiet time, studying in the library.

Julianne Arndt ’85 The friends I made and still have. Also, working with Mrs. Margaret Gilmore as editor of the Buc N Print.

Wil Bradham ’87 This is where I met my Bride, Sarah Sauls Bradham ’87 and received a great education and now have privilege of teaching at the College of Christian Studies. BCC/CSU is dear to my heart.

Debra Roark Siegal ’00 My sociology classes with Dr. Smedley!

Amanda Leviner ’01 New Vision travels, working Super Summer, Student Activities office, Halftime band, late nights at Pappy’s, capture the flag around the duck pond, great religion classes (Dr. Martin, Dr. Johnson, Keith Sharpe, Dr. Dowless), cookouts in the quads, planning freshman orientation, and ohhhhh the friendships!

Dr. Rodney E. Graham ’82, ’02 I was Chapter President of Upsilon Rho Chapter Alpha Phi Omega fraternity. The closeness I shared with my brothers and sisters of Alpha Rho Omega. I also hold fond memories as a full-scholarship drummer in the Jazz Band.

Hans Wunch ’94 Traveling with New Vision and promoting CSU, the brotherhood of PKP, ministry opportunities and more.

Chelsea Hackelman ’16 Young adult literature with Dr. Barendse and talking with Dr. Siko, my academic advisor.

Jillian Dean ’09 Loved it all: the education, the professors my on-campus job with Bob Ratliff and Julia Ard, the friendships and meeting my husband, James Dean ’09

Scott Crothers ’09 Meeting my wife on the top floor of the library in front of the big front windows.

Andrea Banco Jeffcoat ’00 Band! Traveling to Michigan to support the basketball team for the NCAA tournament!

Working in the post office, and my music therapy clinicals!

Kati Noviski ’15 Being a part of the CSU Marching Bucs and music program and still having great relationships with old professors and friends of this day.

Frans Anton de Roos ’72 My last year, I was in student government as a Senator.

Jason Taylor ’94 Meeting Jo Ann Lambert Taylor ’93. We’ve been married for 25 yrs.

Betty H. Andrews ’83 Friends. And the Buc Room.

Did you know?

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You can view digital issues of CSU Magazine at charlestonsouthern.edu/magazine.

Current and past issues are available from issuu.com.

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SCHOOL TIES

Baby Bucs 1

2

3

5

6

4

1. Evie Caroline Dean, daughter of Jillian Dean ’09 and James Dean ’09

4. Daniel Beasley, son of Caroline Beasley ’20 and Brent Beasley ’13

2. Liam Greysen Steed, son of Jennifer Bunch Steed ’95 and Blair Steed ’18

5. Jason Ray Kinney, son of Molly Moore ’18 and Jerry Kinney

and grandson of Willonette Steed ’93 3. Jonathan Wolf, son of Tarah Wolf ’13

38 CSU magazine CSU v30 n2.indd 38

6. Noah Andrew McSwain, son of Tracey Ard McSwain ’16 MS and Tyler McSwain ’09, ’17 MA

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SCHOOL TIES

TO ORDER A SHIRT

TO SUBMIT YOUR BABY BUCS PHOTO:

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.

Email a picture of your Baby Buc wearing the shirt to alumni@csuniv.edu. Pictures should be IMB in size or larger, in jpg format.

7

8

11

9

10

7. Madison “Sony” Kemper, daughter of Carly Kemper ’14 and Nick Kemper ’11, MS ’13 8. Aaron Jameson Willey, son of April McGarrity Willey ’14, MEd ’19 and Jameson Willey ’09, MBA ’13

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9. Theodore South, son of Jaclyn South and Charles South ’14 10. Cash Hudson Gambrell and Lilianna Melina Gambrell, children of Samantha Gambrell ’10 and Frederick Gambrell ’07 11. Charley Rae Anderson, daughter of Reagan Mobley Anderson ’18 and Ryan Anderson

CSU magazine 39 6/23/20 4:28 PM

FOREVER CSU

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON

By Jenna Johnson

M

ore than 350 student scholarship recipients and donors attended an annual luncheon to connect and celebrate.

One recipient, Kenneth Alfieri, shared, “My life and all the students’ lives would not be the same without you.”

CSU alum Jemima Backman created a scholarship so another international student would have it easier. She said, “Like the widow in the Bible who gave out of her poverty, give, knowing the Lord will provide.”

This year, 1,464 university scholarships were awarded due to generous individuals investing in our Bucs.

SAVE THE DATE Homecoming 2020 is Oct. 24 Football will take on North Alabama.

NOMINATE AN ALUMNUS Alumni can nominate themselves or classmates to serve on the alumni board at charlestonsouthern.edu/alumni/ alumni-board/. Deadline for nominations is in October.

Alumni officers and members of the board will be elected at Homecoming.

Kenneth Alfieri, scholarship recipient. Photo by Richard Esposito

JOYCE REA SCHOLARSHIP RAISING FUNDS

F

Joyce Rea visits with Melinda Campbell Welch and the late Stan Parker before a CSU football game. CSU file photo

Joyce Rea and Jessica Eddins. Eddins was Miss CSU 2002, was 1st runner up to Miss South Carolina that year, and the following year won Miss SC.

40 CSU magazine CSU v30 n2.indd 40

riends and family members are engaged in a fundraiser to establish the Joyce Rea Congeniality Scholarship to honor the memory of Joyce Margaret Stewart Rea. This award will be presented at the Miss CSU Pageant annually to CSU’s Miss Congeniality.

Rea, the wife of Robert Rea, entered into eternal rest February 24 in Charleston at the age of 77. Rea retired from CSU in 2016 after serving 26 years in the student affairs division. Her positive attitude, enthusiasm and love of life were contagious. She served as director of student activities and director of the Miss CSU pageant. Throughout her career she assisted and positively impacted multitudes of students. She was a member of Grace on the Ashley Baptist Church.

Information about supporting this scholarship may be obtained by calling 843-6932658.

CSU GIVING DAY

THANK YOU!

T

hank you for your support and participation on CSU Giving Day. It was an amazing day for the university and our students, thanks to you! We have raised over $208,000 from alumni, parents, employees, students, and friends.

Your support during these challenging times sends a strong message that you believe in what God is doing through CSU and is an inspiration and blessing to our students!

877 Donors 50% - Faculty/Staff 24% - Alumni 12% - current students 8% - parents 6% - Friends

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More than 200 graduates were able to come to campus May 29 to pick up diplomas and have a photo with President Costin. The remaining diplomas were mailed.

Photos by Richard Esposito

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Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

Charleston SC Permit #1202

Charleston Southern University P.O. Box 118087 Charleston, SC 29423-8087

INTEGRATING FAITH IN LEARNING, LEADING AND SERVING

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