Faulkner Magazine Fall 2017

FALL 2017

FAULKNER MAGAZINE

ALUMNI PERSPECTIVES

WHAT DOES FAULKNER MEAN TO YOU?

FOUNDED ON HOPE A HISTORY REMEMBERED

FAULKNER GETS IN THE ZONE PARTNERING WITH HEAL ALABAMA

WELCOME TO FAULKNER MAGAZINE

Schedule of events September

February

29

8-9

Autism Conference

October

16-17 Homecoming

3

Faulkner Law Review Symposium

5

Benefit Dinner featuring Donald Trump, Jr.

March

9

Columbus Day Visit

4-8

Faulkner Lectures

13

Hall of Fame Dinner

10

Accepted Student Day

14

Eagle Run Benefiting Friends for Faulkner

April

31

Screening of “Luther” in Faulkner Dinner Theatre

November 4

Scholar’s Day

8

Fall Open House

18

Faulkner Law Open House

January 22

2

Institute for Faith and the Academy Conference

Winter Visit

Faulkner Magazine

19

President’s Day Visit

5-6

College Bound

6-7

Jamboree

23

Last Chance Visit

May 4

Annual Commencement Exercises

12

Faulkner Law Commencement

Editorial Staff Publisher Patrick Gregory Editor-in-chief Loren Howell Design Angela Hardgrave Contributors Randal Bailey Ryan Bartels Rebecca Burylo Scott Gleaves Andrew Jacobs Jason Jewell Rob McFarland Alison Simonton Liz Vinson Anna Shay Wasden Administration President Dr. Michael D. Williams Chancellor Dr. Billy D. Hilyer

Vice Chancellor Dr. Wayne Baker Vice Presidents Dr. Keith Mock Wilma Phillips Dr. Dave Rampersad Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson Dr. John Tyson Associate Vice Presidents Billy Camp Dr. Jendia Grissett Jamie Horn Mark Hunt Assistant Vice President Renee Davis College Deans Dr. Jeff Arrington Dr. Leslie Cowell Dr. Scott Gleaves Dr. Dave Khadanga Dr. Charles Nelson General Counsel Gerald Jones

The mission of Faulkner University is to glorify God through education of the whole person, emphasizing integrity of character in a caring, Christian environment where every individual matters every day.

On the cover...

Board of Trustees Dr. Billy Lambert, Chair Mr. Ted A. Norton, Vice Chair Ms. Glenda Major, Secretary Mr. Roy Johnson, Parliamentarian Mr. Jason Akins Mr. H. Louis Lester, Jr. Mr. Jim Campbell Dr. Mansel Long, Jr. Mr. Ernie F. Chappell Dr. Henri McDaniel Mr. Joseph W. Donaldson Judge Carole Medley Ms. Sherry Douglas Mr. Phil Norton Mr. Michael S. Eubanks Dr. Henry A. Parker Ms. Carlton L. Freeman Mr. David Phillips Mr. Justin “Chip” Garrett Mr. Mike Pickens Dr. John W. Hill III Mr. Tim Richardson Dr. Mike Houts Dr. Bud Stumbaugh Mr. Frank “Butch” Jones Sen. J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner Ms. Libby Jones Ms. Anna Weeks Mr. Dale Kirkland Dr. Jack Zorn Trustees Emeriti Mr. Dewey R. Barber Dr. Lamar A. Harrison Dr. E.R. Brannan Mr. David Howell Dr. Charles W. Britnell Mr. Flavil Nichols Mr. Archie B. Crenshaw Mr. B.O. Richardson Atty. Fred D. Gray Mr. Kenneth M. Shumard Dr. Jess Hall, Jr. Mr. Robert W. Walters Dr. Kenneth L. Harris

Current Faulkner University students attempt to recreate this photo of the Sheaf yearbook staff from 1969. The differences between the two photos highlight changes in fashion and student demographics nearly 50 years later.

Featured on the cover: Top: left to right–Todd Spake, Christian Smith, Jason Geise , Valerie Serna, Hope Sheehy, Cassie McWhirt, Jamie Merrill, William Tidwell Middle: left to right–Omari Neal, Donovan Rillion, Jonathan Strickland, Tylor Ard, Zack Pace Bottom: left to right–Jerald Scott, Taylor Strength, Jade Elling , Caitlian Deuter Cover photo by Loren Howell

Fall 2017

3

Photo by Patrick Gregory

A Letter from the President, MIKE WILLIAMS 4

Faulkner Magazine

This year, we began our 75th academic year at Faulkner University.

Our Opening Convocation launched a year-long celebration of the historic founding of this great institution. Throughout this year, we want to reflect and give thanks for the faith, vision, heroic sacrifice, and unwavering resolve of our university founders. These men and women of faith overcame numerous obstacles in the pursuit of Christ-centered education.

As we envision the next 75 years, we are deeply influenced by the example of these heroes of faith. We want to pursue our goals with the same degree of faithfulness, courage, and tenacity. Faulkner aspires to be a leading Christian university that offers an engaging learning community transforming students for lives of faithfulness, accomplishment, and purpose. This noble goal honors the sacrifice of those who came before us.

I hope you enjoy this issue of the Faulkner Magazine. You will appreciate the heart-warming stories from some of our alumni. You will be encouraged by the vision, creation, and ongoing efforts of the Cloverdale Center for Family Strengths. Finally, you will be inspired by our partnership with HEAL Alabama as we collectively seek to be a part of the solution in one of the nation’s most difficult societal challenges.

Please join us in thanking God for His blessings over this university for the last 75 years. May He continue to bless us for decades to come.

Go Eagles!

Fall 2017

5

Where is it?

Do you recognize this campus feature?

Need a hint? It’s been aROUND since the sixties.

6

Faulkner Magazine

Photo by Patrick Gregory

contents

on Hope in a Time of 8 Founded War

8

10

Generosity Continues to 10 Church’s Strengthen Youth, Family 12 Alumni Perspectives 18 Convocation 2017 20 22 Mission Provides 24 University Foundation for Academic Changes 25 Academic News 28 Law Briefs 30 Sports Briefs 32 Sports Schedules 33 Community News 36 Devoted 24/7 Alumni Spotlight: Ben Brown 38 Summer Reunion 40 Alumni News 44 Faulkner Congratulates New 50 Teachers Faulkner Gets in the Zone Off to a Great Start

18

20

36

38

Fall 2017

7

Founded on Hope in a Time of War

by Loren Howell April 13, 1942 Day 956 of World War II. Twenty-five people were killed by friendly fire during a Royal Air Force demonstration in the village of Imber, England. In Lithuania, Anton Schmid, a sergeant in the Wehrmacht, was executed for hiding Jews and providing them with counterfeit identification papers. Around the world, 16 ships sank as a consequence of the war, resulting in at least 115 casualties, and troops on all sides were mobilized away from their homes, and into enemy territory.

War breeds hopelessness and confusion, dividing families and scattering communities. It spreads fear, and in the face of fear people build bombs, guns, and shelters.

War is loud, and its leaders full of bluster.

In Montgomery, Alabama, 12 men knew that the real war, the real fight, was not against flesh and blood, but against the powers of darkness. Men who had heard it read from Isaiah 54:17 that “no weapon formed against you shall prosper,” held a quiet, unassuming meeting to discuss the possibility of building a school.

April 13, 1942 At 9:30 P.M. Monday April 13, 1942, at the

8

Faulkner Magazine

meeting house of the Church of Christ on Panama Street in Montgomery, Alabama, Rex Turner and Leonard Johnson called a meeting of the following brethren whom they asked to serve with them as trustees of the Proposed Montgomery Bible School: Joe B. Greer, Jack McDonald, Solon Whitehead, Brooks Boothe, John L. McDonald, Charlie Womack, Elly Bird and Wilbur Slauson. Brethren G. A. Dunn Sr. and Horace A. Holt were also present.

Rex Turner acted as chairman. The meeting opened with prayer led by Joe B. Greer. …

It was agreed that we make plans to open the school on or about September 10, 1942 at such a place as might be selected by the board of trustees. It was agreed that we purpose to teach for the first year the 10th, 11th, 12th grades of High School and a special first year college course to young preachers in particular.

The meeting was concluded with a prayer by G.A. Dunn Sr.

It takes hope to build a school. You have to be able to imagine a future without bombs and air raids. These 12 men had the hope of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Despite the simple language used to describe that first meeting, there seemed to be a sense of urgency

Founded on Hope, continued

as well. After all, the meeting happened in April, and the proposed school was to open in September, only 5 months later.

On April 24, 1942, the board unanimously voted to name the school Montgomery Bible School.

May 9, 1942 It was agreed that Leonard Johnson be made Principal of the School and that Rex Turner be made the head of the Bible department. It was further agreed that $5.00 per month tuition be charged all students both in High School and College department.

In June of 1942 the declaration of incorporation was signed, and within it, the first written mission of the school: The object and purpose of said corporation is not for pecuniary gain but for the purpose of teaching the Bible, for teaching men and women to expound the Bible and Gospel to promote their education so that they may more efficiently preach the Gospel as prescribed by the Holy Bible and provide and keep a place or building said work may be done and for social intercourse between its members, and for all lawful purposes and business generally used and enjoyed by such corporations.

The treasurer’s report from August 3, 1942 listed $500 to come due on a note September 1, $87 in cash and approximately $65 already due. The minutes from August 31 indicated that there were plans to meet at the school on September 3 to clean off the premises, and just 11 days after this work day, on September 14, the school opened for the 1942-1943 academic year.

The board meeting minutes for the first year are full of the minutiae of running a school, but they also contain some clues as to what it was like that first year.

December 8, 1942 Janie West to be readmitted on condition she is willing to submit to regulations of boarding student.

Some names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals.

January 5, 1953 John L. McDonald promises to pay George Bryce’s back tuition -- ($15) and to assume the payments for the remainder of the year.

Reports like these show that there were problems, but there was grace and mercy, and that the school’s founders were men of compassion. There are numerous accounts of board members donating items or giving money, but the notes are especially full of accounts of the gifts of their time and efforts.

Now, 75 years after that first meeting and the first opening day of school we can look back on what the founders did. We can see that for 75 years students have been studying the Bible, learning about the world around them, and preparing for their careers and their lives.

There have been many changes, including name changes and locations. The school has grown by student enrollment, acres, buildings and degree offerings.

The school weathered the challenges of opening a new school, of staying open when enrollment was down or funds were low and she met the challenge to stay true to her purpose. Montgomery Bible School, then Alabama Christian Academy, and now Faulkner University have stayed consistently on mission through the guidance of people who kept it ever in front of them. They made decision after decision against the rubric of the mission.

In 1998 the current wording of the mission was adopted.

The mission of Faulkner University is to glorify God through education of the whole person, emphasizing integrity of character in a caring Christian environment where every individual matters every day.

You can see each of these ideas play out as you read the board minutes from the school’s first year: Opening and closing each meeting with prayer, carefully selecting teachers, ensuring that regulations are followed, showing mercy, and paying other’s debts. The first students of Montgomery Bible School were blessed by the founders efforts, and 75 years later, so are we.

Fall 2017

9

Church’s Generosity Continues to Strengthen Youth, Family

by Rebecca Burylo The beloved memory and legacy of Dr. Donnie Hilliard lives on through Faulkner University’s Cloverdale Center for Youth and Family Ministry thanks to the generosity of one local congregation.

Founding the center decades ago as a way to strengthen the family unit and preserve God’s plan for marriage; Hilliard’s passion for shepherding godly husbands, wives and children spurred him to action.

The new director of the Cloverdale Center for Youth and Family Ministry and professor of family studies, Dr. Steve Wages, is honored to continue Hilliard’s mission.

“It is my intention to honor Dr. Hilliard’s memory by building on his efforts to strengthen marriage and family life through the work of the Cloverdale Center,” Wages said.

Hilliard’s dedication, humor and empathetic nature resonated with many in the community and in particular the congregation of the Cloverdale Church of Christ.

Charles Campbell, the associate dean for academic affairs and associate professor of law at Faulkner Law, was just a teen in the church’s youth group when he first met Hilliard.

Hilliard came to the Cloverdale Church of Christ as the new youth minister in 1980. Although he

only stayed a year before moving to Birmingham, everyone quickly fell in love with him and his family.

“Donnie was a great youth minister. He liked the church and the church loved them. When he got hired away from us, it was sad. He was just so good,” Campbell said.

“I remember as a teenager, he was the first person I ever heard pray like God was on the other side of the phone listening. He was extremely devoted, devout, had a great relationship with the Lord and he wanted to share that with everybody.”

The center, which was first called the Center for Family Strengths, was one way for Hilliard to share his vision and mission with more people.

While working with youth, Hilliard noticed how divorce, single parent homes and family struggles had an adverse impact on children. He began researching the science behind what makes strong families and found that everything fell into place when Christ was center of the home.

The Cloverdale Church of Christ heard about Hilliard’s work at Faulkner University and knew they wanted to help.

Around the time when the Cloverdale church decided to close its doors, the elders of the church agreed to use the large sum of money acquired from the sale of their building and other properties to help jump start and sustain the center.

The leaders of Cloverdale Church of Christ signed the agreement in 1997, including trustees Sol Brinsfield Jr., F. Daniel Brock and William Kirkland.

According to the spring 1998 edition of the Faulkner University Reporter, the gift was the largest single gift in the history of the school at the time.

10

Faulkner Magazine

A committee representing the church met with then president Dr. Billy Hilyer and David Short the former vice president for development to make the gift official, a process that had been

Cloverdale Center, continued

two years in developing.

On that occasion, Hilyer told the Cloverdale church representatives, “Words cannot express what your gift means to the students of Faulkner University.

For years to come, our students and those lives they will touch will benefit by what has been done.”

The gift was to be used in three ways. The Cloverdale Endowment for Bible and/or Family Strengths majors provided scholarships for students while the Endowment for the Cloverdale Center for Family Strengths provided financial support for the newly established center.

The principal of each gift was to be invested in perpetuity and 80 percent of the earnings would be used to fund at least eight scholarships each year with the remaining 20 percent reinvested in the endowment to enable it to grow.

Those sums are still supporting the activities and education efforts of the center. Thus the Center for Family Strengths was named the Cloverdale Center for Family Strengths until it was renamed the Cloverdale Center for Youth and Family Ministry in 2016, two years after Hilliard‘s death.

One of the many ways the center shares its mission with students is through the marriage and family relations class which helps students learn how to establish a Christ-centered marriage and family in accordance with God’s plan.

”If we prepare students for their vocations and for H F T ULto others, yet have not been intentional I service A F F them for marriage and family life, about preparing

During the church’s final Sunday service, March 1, 1998, Short spoke to the congregation thanking them for the gift and quoted Philippians 4:17, “’Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.’”

“Whatever Faulkner University will be able to accomplish in the future as a result of this unsurpassed generosity, the credit truly belongs to the members of the Church of Christ of Cloverdale for their faith and vision made it possible.”

then we have done them a disservice,” Wages said.

“I am thankful Faulkner University engages students in serious conversations regarding healthy relationships, God’s design for human intimacy as cast in holiness and the important decisions they will make concerning whom to marry and how to create a lifestyle where God is honored.”

LIES

The remaining funds from the Cloverdale Church of Christ’s donation were used to assist in the construction of the university’s new business building that was under construction at the time.

STRO N

Steve Wages

I AM

G

“We are in a raging battle for the hearts and minds, for the character and faith of our children that begins at the cradle and should never end this side of our grave,” Wages said. “Similarly, we are in a battle for the sanctity of our marriages which begins at the altar and should never end this side of eternity.”

He wants the young people he teaches to form healthy interpersonal relationships and be people of faith who are prepared to make knowledgeable and informed decisions about marriage and family life.

Following a 15-year career as a certified public accountant, Wages obtained a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and a doctorate in family studies. He has spent the last 20 years teaching and equipping college students to serve children and families.

CLOVERDALE

Still a vital part of the V.P. Black College for Biblical Studies, the center continues to strengthen families through research, education, Biblical studies and by serving families in the church and community.

“It is my dream to use my life experience and training to help others create marriage and family relationships which honor God’s design and his desire for us to be a holy people,” Wages said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue that dream at Faulkner through the work of the Cloverdale Center for Youth and Family Ministry.”

Center for Youth & Family Ministry

Wages believes “marriage and family life is a place of spiritual warfare” where Satan seeks to separate husbands from wives and parents from children.

From the resulting turmoil, the faith of those involved is undermined, he said.

Fall 2017

11

ALUMNI PERSPECTIVES

What Does Faulkner University Mean to You?

by Loren Howell We talked to graduates of Alabama Christian College (ACC) and Faulkner University to see what the school was like for them as students, and what it has come to mean to them over the years. Here’s what they had to say:

Dr. Paul Tarence graduated from ACC in 1958. Tarence is an associate professor of Bible at Faulkner University.

He has served as minister and evangelist at several churches in the River Paul Tarence Region, and his résumé lists extensive education and professional activities. He and his wife Elaine live in Equality, Ala. Did you have a favorite teacher or a favorite class?

I really admired all of the good men at the old campus. They worked two or three jobs in order to be on the faculty. I had no favorite class. I was eager to get out and get on with life. I wish I had taken academics more seriously.

What was interesting about your typical day?

From 4 to 6:30 a.m., seven days each week, I and several other boys delivered the Montgomery Advertiser. Several teachers also had large routes to supplement their income in order to teach.

What did you do for fun?

Everything was fun! Working, living together with good simple people, all bent on growing, learning and serving God. We hardly had any bad characters on board.

What does Faulkner University mean to you?

For me Faulkner is a God-given opportunity to pay forward to a rising generation some of the good things I’ve enjoyed. Monetary contributions and serving as a teacher will never repay my personal debts to our school!

12

Faulkner Magazine

Wiley Cutts graduated from ACC in 1960. Cutts taught high school math and served as assistant principal and principal at various schools in the River Region.

He was an assistant superintendent of Montgomery County Wiley Cutts from 1990 - 1992.

He served as registrar at Faulkner until he retired in 2006. Cutts lives in Montgomery with his wife Nancy.

What was the most memorable thing that happened while you were here?

Sue Crabtree was the valedictorian of our class and I was the salutatorian. Since females were not allowed to speak in an assembly, I was given the opportunity to give the address to the graduating class.

What was the most important thing you learned as a student?

I learned that one should appreciate the people in life who influence you in a positive way. I said in my address at graduation, “We may forget some of the things we learned in certain subjects, but we shall never forget the Godly teachers and students whom we met while attending ACC.” What does Faulkner University mean to you?

I have often said to others that the two years I spent at Faulkner were more meaningful for me than any other years I spent in my whole school career. I still have notes that I took in Bible classes and I have used what I learned in my Christian journey as a deacon, elder and Bible teacher. Many of the instructors I had influenced me throughout my life.

Martha Baker Jackson graduated from ACC in 1965.

Jackson is retired from the Family Guidance Center where she served as lead parent educator.

Jackson and her husband David have three children and six Martha Baker grandchildren.

Jackson is heavily involved in mission work. Her most recent trip was to Malawi, Africa to serve as women’s chaplain with a medical mission team.

She has been on several foreign and state side mission trips. “Many of the mission seeds were sown in me while I was at Alabama Christian,” said Jackson.

Who was your favorite teacher?

My daddy, R.A. Baker! He taught Bible and sociology; and Sister Turner who taught home economics. Brother E.J. Turner was my favorite science teacher. They were all pretty special.

What was interesting about your typical day?

I’d walk to the dining hall, eating pears off the trees on the way if they were in season. Sometimes, if I could afford it, I would go to the student center and buy a coke and a candy bar for 10 cents each.

I’d visit my best friend in the dorm. There was only one girls dorm. It was a two-story, built by the students, and it had a bathroom at the end of each floor, with a shower and three toilets - no stalls.

What was the most important thing you learned as a student?

I keep learning that Jesus loves me and that I must love others. I especially remember one chapel talk, though I don’t remember who the speaker was.

He said, “A+O=R. If you have the Ability to do something, and the Opportunity to do something comes along, it is your Responsibility to do it.” That has been my motto.

What does Faulkner University mean to you?

Faulkner University is family. I made friends there that I still have today. It was the foundation of

my academic learning and my spiritual growth.

It prepared me for life and for eternal life. I hope students today feel the unity we had in “the good old days.”

Ken Burton graduated from ACC in 1972. He is retired from Alfa/Farm Bureau Insurance Co. He and his wife Ginger live in Pike Road, Ala. What was the most memorable thing that happened while Ken Burton you were here?

The lifelong friendships I formed, the things that I learned from my experiences, both good and bad and the influence of Willard Tate and Donnie Hilliard. They taught me that in spite of my many failures, grace was freely offered, and I should get back up, learn from my failure and keep moving forward in the strength of the Spirit.

Did you get into trouble?

Not really unless you count the time Mr. Thomas Weaver, the librarian, took me aside for walking a female student to her class under an umbrella with my arm around her. He respectfully expressed his displeasure for the demonstration of PDA. I told him that I appreciated his concern but that I respectfully disagreed with him. That was in my freshman year and the two of us got along really well the rest of my time at ACC. What did you do for fun?

I lived in Baldwin, the only men’s dorm at the time. We had three in a room my freshman year.

One guy had a pingpong table in his room and we had pingpong tournaments. Occasionally a group would go to Fort Toulouse or Chewacla State Park.

Carol Villa was being built. The back part was just roads and it was a favorite place for couples to spend time after a date. On Friday and Saturday evenings, cars would come wheeling in from Carol Villa trying to make curfew. The girls had a curfew but the boys did not, so when we dropped off our dates we would get something to eat and play cards Fall 2017

13

or find something to do other than study.

What was the most significant thing that happened to you while at Faulkner?

Being chosen as Mr. ACC and receiving the President’s Award. I wasn’t surprised that June Lowery was chosen as Miss ACC but I was really surprised when I learned I had been chosen for those awards. I just never saw myself as someone who would be chosen for something like that.

Doug Oliver graduated from ACC in 1976.

Oliver taught school for a few years before deciding to go to nursing school. He is retired from 25 years of nursing and 8 years of teaching at UAB Doug Oliver school of nursing.

What was the most memorable thing that happened while you were here?

I remember one day, I was in line at the cafeteria and my friend Jenny started singing a song about green beans. “Green beans, green beans. Green beans in the morning, green beans at the noon time.” It seemed like we had green beans at every meal. Ms. Foster said, “You don’t have to eat these green beans.” But Jenny answered, “Oh yes we do!

It’s in the handbook.”

What was interesting about your typical day?

We had chapel every day. Sometimes as a student I thought of chapel as an irritant or a burden, but looking back, chapel was a high point. Even so, I always used my 3 chapel skips.

What was the most significant thing that happened to you while at Faulkner?

I was elected vice president of the SGA. That was significant to my personal development because I’d always been such a wallflower up to that point.

It was a real confidence builder. It shaped me professionally. Serving the student body led me on to jobs of service.

14

Faulkner Magazine

Melda McCurdy Tipp graduated from ACC in 1976. Tipp is a retired dispatcher and lives in Mount Vernon, Ala. What was the most significant thing that happened while you were here?

I learned to love studying the Bible.

Melda McCurdy Tipp

Did you get into trouble?

There were gates at the dorms that were locked at curfew. Once I was the lookout when some of the girls took one of the gates off the hinges and put it in the maintenance man’s truck. It was during the day, so we weren’t sneaking in or out, we were just messing with the maintenance man.

What was the most important thing you learned as a student?

I learned that I could have a lot of fun and still be a Christian. Up until then, I didn’t really understand that.

Nedra Rickman Mitchell graduated from ACC in 1980.

Mitchell and her husband, Keith have three children, Brad, Brent and Brooke.

Mitchell has been an art teacher for the last 25 years at Caledonia High School, her alma mater.

What was interesting about a typical day?

I remember that girls couldn’t wear jeans to class.

I always stayed up to socialize until curfew which was 11 p.m., then I’d go to my room and study after that. I never missed a chance to socialize.

I didn’t have a car. I shared a clunker with my brother. Once the muffler fell off on Atlanta

Highway. One morning my brother left me a note that said I’d need to put gas in the car. In the note he left me 7 pennies. I used the pennies and bought 7 cents worth of gasoline.

Did you ever get into trouble?

My Uncle Earl and Aunt LaJean Nichols were dorm parents. We tied them into their apartment by tying their doorknob to another doorknob with twine. We had water cannon fights, and once someone unloaded a fire extinguisher on me.

What does Faulkner University mean to you?

Faulkner got me on the straight and narrow. It was a saving grace for me. I met lifelong friends, people I still talk to today. It was the peak in my growth as an individual and helped me to be the adult I am today. I came back to Faulkner to work for a while, and I got to see that the same values are still there.

It’s important that the students get that sense of belonging. I feel like I’m doing what I’m meant to be doing.

What was the most important thing you learned as a student?

I learned the value of good Christian friendships.

The friendships were far more valuable than the book learning.

Vonetta Elyse Hardy graduated from Faulkner University in 2000.

Vonetta Elyse Hardy

Hardy is the assistant director of the office of student services at UAB, and she recently took on the role of academic advisor for kinesiology students.

What was the most memorable thing that happened while you were here?

I was having a Bible study with friends in my apartment and it was like the words just stood out in red. It was so real and convicting. I said, “I want to be baptized.” They opened up University Church at 10:30 that night, and I was baptized.

What was the most important thing you learned as a student?

I learned that people deserve a second chance.

Nobody judged where you came from. It was just love and forgiveness and being who you were.

The school gave me a second chance. Faulkner grounded me.

Aaron and Lindsey Greenwood

Aaron and Lindsey (Irwin) Greenwood met as students while at Faulkner. Lindsey graduated in 2008 and Aaron graduated in 2009.

They are married and have a 2 year old daughter, Brooklyn.

Lindsey is a pediatric physical therapist and currently works with early intervention patients and in school systems around the Birmingham area.

Aaron is beginning his second year in the athletics marketing department at Samford University.

What was the most memorable thing that happened while you were here?

Lindsey: Traveling to Hawaii with the softball team and traveling to Scotland for a mission trip with the University Church of Christ college group.

Aaron: Playing in the Final Four NAIA Basketball Tournament my sophomore year.

Spring 2017

15

Did you get into trouble while you were here?

Aaron: Yes...some stories are best left untold. I graduated, so not too much trouble.

What did you do for fun?

Lindsey: Hanging out in the Davis lobby watching the giant tube television, or playing ultimate Frisbee on the grass next to Davis dorm. Facebook came out my freshman year, so we figured out how to use it. It was also the first year of football at Faulkner, so we attended the inaugural games at Cramton Bowl.

What was the most significant thing that happened to you while at Faulkner?

Lindsey: Meeting my husband my senior year, his junior year.

Aaron: I think we both agree on this one.

What was the most important thing you learned while you were here?

Aaron: I learned that relationships mean everything! Developing friendships that will last both personally and professionally will take you a long way in life. Those relationships provide a foundation for you through the good times and bad.

What does Faulkner University mean to you?

Lindsey: My friends, faculty, and staff are what make Faulkner the wonderful institution it is today.

My time at Faulkner was meaningful because of the people who invested in me as a student, friend, Christian and future professional. School and studies are important, but it’s everything else that Faulkner is that makes it so special and dear to my heart.

Aaron: It is great anytime we are back to see the continued excellence that is coming from our alma mater!

16

Faulkner Magazine

Randy Curry graduated from Faulkner in 2012. He is an MRP controller at Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. in Vance, AL. Curry also serves as a junior executive board member for Child Randy Curry Protect Children’s Advocacy Center, and is a junior executive board member for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

Who was your favorite teacher?

My favorite teacher was Dr. Uduak Afangideh.

At the beginning of her classes each student had to be prepared to read a passage from Psalms. It set a great tone for each class. I will never take for granted that I got to study science at a school that held Christian values.

What was the most memorable thing that happened while you were here?

Serving as a member of the FORCE which assisted the admissions office in recruiting students. I was able to travel to different places with FORCE and meet so many people.

I got to travel with the chorus to NYC and sing in Carnegie Hall!

I loved participating in Project Montgomery, going out into the community and volunteering at all kinds of places. It was great to see the university making an impact in the community.

What was the most significant thing that happened to you while at Faulkner?

Being elected president of the SGA and assisting in bringing the iPad program to Faulkner.

What was the most important thing you learned while you were here?

The most important thing I learned at Faulkner was how independent I can be. Moving off to college and learning how to be on your own can be difficult and Faulkner was a great place to learn how to do this.

Fall 2017

17

Confetti falls on the crowd at the end of Convocation, opening the 2017-2018 academic year with a bang.

Convocation 2017:

Celebrating Faulkner’s 75th Year

by Angela Hardgrave

photo by Patrick Gregory

“It is well that you have come.” Those words, spoken by Dr. Wayne Baker, opened Faulkner University’s 75th year convocation ceremony on August 16, 2017.

Students, faculty, and staff from both Faulkner and Alabama Christian Academy (ACA) joined together to celebrate not only a new year but also the common heritage inherent in Faulkner’s 75th anniversary. The day opened with a faculty processional, welcome and introductions, and a time of worship and prayer led by professor Matt Sokoloski and former Faulkner presidents, Dr. E.R. Brannan and Dr. Billy D. Hilyer.

The Faulkner University Chorus, the ACA Chorus and soloist Natalie Willis performed an outstanding rendition of “Find Us Faithful” under the direction of Dr. Allen Clements, director of the Faulkner University Chorus.

Following the performance, the Honorable Todd Strange, mayor of the City of Montgomery, spoke about Faulkner’s impact on the surrounding community.

18

Faulkner Magazine

“The community is indebted to Faulkner and the great work that goes on here. You continue to lift the bushel off of the light. The city opens its arms to you, because you are the best we have in Montgomery,” said Strange.

Dr. Misty Overman, head of school at Alabama Christian Academy, and Dr. Mike Williams, president of Faulkner, gave the convocation addresses. Overman spoke of the rich history represented in both ACA and Faulkner and the “sacrifice of the founders and their families” to

Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president for student services, gives a special welcome to the new students of Faulkner University. photo by Loren Howell

Convocation, continued

make the present blessings a reality.

Williams echoed Overman’s words. He said, “It is a momentous occasion when we reflect on the vision, heroic sacrifice, and the unwavering resolve of the founders of this institution.”

Williams continued, “I have been inspired by the imagination and aspirations of men like Rex Turner, Sr. who envisioned a Dr. E.R. Brannan, former President Christ-centered institution here of Faulkner University, leads the in the River Region. I have been opening prayer. photo by Patrick Gregory struck by the perseverance and tenacity of men and women you could be prepared to be a part of the solution, like Leonard Johnson who built this school on to offer hope in the midst of chaos, to bring sacrifice. I have been humbled and refreshed by peace amongst warfare, and to restore what God the stories of courage and generosity of people intended from the beginning,” Williams said. like Joe Greer—individuals who mortgaged their livelihood to see this school be established and Williams ended with a call to action for those flourish.” present. He said, “Faulkner is not an ordinary

university. ACA is not a common private academy.

If (Faulkner) was, I do not believe that it would have ever survived the challenges of the 1940’s.

But, this is an extraordinary place where God has breathed life into us. We are preparing you to be revolutionaries, restorationists, peacemakers, catalysts for positive change, humble servants of God who lay down our lives in sacrifice for other people— It was a full house at Tine Davis Gymnasium for the especially people who cannot help combined Faulkner University and Alabama Christian themselves. We are called to be Academy Opening Convocation. fearless, because the One we serve is greater than he that is the world.”

“Here we are 75 years later. Today, the men and women of 1942 surround us like a great cloud of witnesses. Their voices cry out to us: ‘Little Eagles, do not be afraid.’ They remind us that our battles are not won with guns and harsh words. They are won with love, compassion, generosity, and mercy.

Our founders endured enormous hardship so that

The service closed with another performance by the combined choruses, directed by Trey Holladay, director of the ACA Chorus, and the singing of both institutions’ alma maters. The Faulkner drum line made a special appearance, winding through the crowd amidst confetti and applause, beginning the university’s photo by Patrick Gregory 75th academic year.

Fall 2017

19

Faulkner Gets in the Zone with HEAL Alabama Partnership

by Rebecca Burylo Christy Swaid, founder of HEAL Alabama, at the university cafeteria promoting the partnership between the two organizations.

Students attending Faulkner University this fall may notice a few changes - ones that are geared toward helping them live an active and healthier lifestyle.

Thanks to the university’s new partnership with nonprofit Healthy Eating Active Living, or HEAL Alabama, students, staff and faculty will be able to benefit from preventive health measures and share what they have learned with the River Region.

HEAL Alabama, founded in 2002 by Christy Swaid, a six-time world champion professional jet ski racer and health advocate, is currently serving approximately 100 schools and 24,000 children across the state.

Faulkner University is HEAL’s first school-wide collaboration with a university and the pilot program will serve as a template for partnering with other higher education institutions as well as a model to effectively share HEAL with other states in the future.

Swaid co-authored the HEAL curriculum with Dr. Donna Dunaway, retired professor of physical education at Samford University and Dr. Donna Hester, retired professor of physical education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Both professors field-tested the university concept by teaching HEAL methods and materials at their respective universities. “The university collaboration proved to be extremely mutually beneficial since the university students received valuable field-work and internship opportunities and the HEAL mission received added

20

Faulkner Magazine

support” said Dunaway. Through these experiences and our teacher enrichment program, we developed an allschool HEAL university campaign whereby all students, faculty and staff will be given personal health support and all faculty and staff will be given the chance to filter HEAL curricula as it relates to their department.”

“Faulkner is an essential learning lab to help us refine the most powerful way of stimulating public health.

We are so thankful Faulkner is the first to make this commitment and help us HEAL Alabama from the bottom up and the top down!” said Swaid.

Faulkner University President Mike Williams and his wife have known the Swaids for years so partnering with her and HEAL Alabama was a natural choice.

Since coming to serve as Faulkner’s president in 2016, one of his goals for the university has been to “deeply engage in the community” and address “societal changes.”

Alabama is one of the leading states in obesity and diabetes. According to 2016 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 16 percent of children ages 2 to 4 were found to be overweight and 15 percent were considered obese. In addition, 15.8 percent of adolescents were overweight and 17 percent were obese.

“In the south, the leading epidemics are obesity and diabetes. This pilot program with HEAL Alabama at Faulkner is trying to challenge that,” Williams said.

HEAL Alabama, continued

“If we make these healthy changes in our elementary schools and with our university students, that’s a game changer.”

physical and academic well-being.”

In addition to exercise education, Faulkner students will also be educated in nutrition in order to personally adopt and then share healthy eating habits among their Photos by Loren Howell peers at Faulkner and at Davis.

This school year, HEAL Alabama has agreed to donate 100 heart monitors for students, staff and faculty at Faulkner to check out in order Those visiting the to keep track of their cafeteria on Faulkner’s heart rate. The goal campus will notice the is to get the heart HEAL Alabama logo rate in the “zone,” by certain foods that or get it to pump at qualify as foods rich in 70 -80 percent of nutrients. the maximum heart rate during exercise.

“Think of it as About 150 minutes designing your plate of aerobic activity to be a multivitamin,” like walking, jogging, Swaid said. biking, housework or playing with kids is L to R: President Williams, Christy Swaid, Donna Dunaway, & Donna Hester For example, green recommended. vegetables are nutrient dense foods that promote better health and increased It has been shown that exercise reduces anxiety, energy while processed foods are high in calories depression and the risk of diseases as well as supports with little to no nutritional value. Those foods are apt health, memory and learning and improves attention, to cause fatigue and early stages of chronic diseases. behavior and self-esteem.

HEAL Alabama promotes a diet of lean protein sources, dairy products, whole-grain carbohydrates and a Those schools currently participating in HEAL variety of fruits and vegetables.

Alabama reported 75 percent of children improved their fitness scores, 57 percent of those overweight and Student with majors in education, health sciences, obese have reduced their body mass index and every science, and other disciplines will be equipped by child has reported improved eating behaviors according HEAL Alabama resources and workshops to then in to the UAB School of Medicine. turn educate Davis students and the community.

Since Faulkner University has established a close relationship with Montgomery Public School’s Davis Elementary last year, university students will continue to serve as mentors there and will share with them HEAL Alabama’s disease preventive initiatives.

Faulkner students will essentially be “foot soldiers” for HEAL, Williams said.

“HEAL is grounded in research, not just to do good, but to actually tackle the challenges in our society,” Williams said. “As HEAL Alabama’s first complete HEAL university, we’re trying to be a place that embraces healthy living and then goes into communities and becomes a part of the solution.”

“By empowering college students to make informed choices regarding nutrition and exercise, they can reap the unlimited benefits of good health and become strong advocates for this initiative in the community,“ Swaid said.

HEAL is a no-cost program to schools thanks to generous donors and partners like the Alabama State Department of Education, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Alabama Power, American Beverage Association and others.

“For example, Faulkner students will be given valuable fieldwork opportunities to mentor elementary students, implementing the HEAL curriculum. Faulkner students and faculty will play a role in supporting children’s

Fall 2017

21

Off to a Great Start!

Photos by Loren Howell, Michelle Otwell, and Patrick Gregory Lydia Hicks, Abby Collins & Kaleigh McMath are ready for an evening devotional at Sojourners Park.

Leah McGruder connects with a Davis Elementary student's little sister on the first day of school.

Welcome Week ambassadors Ruben Seibert, Jonah Dawes, Clay Sanders, and Jacob Compton manning the front desk of the new men's dorm on move-in day.

22

Faulkner Magazine

ChantĂŠ Brown, Brianna Woods, and Jordyn Wasden are waiting for their first convocation at Faulkner University to start.

Matt Oliver views the eclipse while Whitney Pace waits her turn to use the special glasses.

Riian Simpson takes time talk to one-on-one with as Davis Elementary student on her first day of school.

Freshman Morgan Page smiles at the camera as she and the other members of her Welcome Week group play teamwork games.

Welcome Week ambassadors Nae McVay and Leah Townsend stand ready to assist new students.

Eric Reeves, Blake Levin, Khalil Pope and Austin Moncus pause for a photo at Davis Elementary's first day of school.

Lisa Williams, representatives from HEAL Alabama and Faulkner's HEAL student leaders distributed information about the new program.

New students and Welcome Week ambassadors are still smiling after completing a teamwork activity despite the heat and humidity of August.

Fall 2017

23

University Mission Provides Foundation for Academic Changes

by Liz Vinson Dr. Dave Rampersad, vice president of academic affairs at Faulkner University, is looking forward to new degree offerings the university is planning to add in the near future. Along with new developments the university has made, Rampersad is optimistic that a master’s degree program in speech language pathology will be granted once accreditation is approved. He hopes to add more programs geared toward health sciences, with degrees catered to becoming a doctor of physical therapy or a registered nurse – all of which align with the university’s mission to make a mark on the community through serving God. “Speech language pathology is a program that’s on the doorstep, but we’re still in the initial phases,” Rampersad said. “We have already submitted the prospectuses for the regional accrediting body, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and we’ve submitted to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) back in February. If everything goes well, we anticipate their visit in April of 2018 and hope that program will begin in the fall of 2019 or 2020. We haven’t begun the registered nursing program, but we would like to have a formal college of health sciences soon. We’re committed to bringing these programs to fruition, because it coincides with our mission hand-in-glove.”

Additionally, the university has recently revamped the College of Arts & Sciences’ (A&S) programs, with Dr. Jeff Arrington stepping in as dean. A revision of core studies for A&S students has been completed, making the degree more manageable, with a lower 120 hours for students to complete.

“These changes afford students to lower their financial burden and will help with faster completion times,” Rampersad said. “We did a comprehensive core review, and it was approved, taking effect this fall. The modifications to the core will result in large elective programs, so students have the freedom to choose from five or six electives, which gives the subject a bit more depth and grants them flexibility to massage their degree plans and meet their particular needs.”

24

Faulkner Magazine

The university’s College of Education has also made changes to its undergraduate and graduate program offerings. Dr. Leslie Cowell, dean of the College of Education, mentions that recently, the college has approved programs in early childhood education, elementary education, and physical education, but that is only a few of the recent adjustments made.

“At the graduate level, degree programs in curriculum and instruction, counseling, and Traditional Class A certification are also offered,” Cowell said. “An undergraduate degree in special education, a fifth year master’s degree for content area students seeking certification, and a master’s degree in school counseling have also been submitted for approval by the Alabama State Department. Once approved, those programs will be added to offerings within the college.”

Rampersad is clear on his goals for the university. By leading the way with new programs geared toward serving and helping others, he doesn’t backtrack on providing programs that go hand-in-hand with the university’s mission to bolster integrity of character for its students.

“To glorify God through education, by taking programs like speech language pathology in particular, our aim is to train competent professionals to glorify God through the community,” Rampersad said. “It is the foundation of what we’re approving with our future programs.

Our programs are built in such a way that students can see their studies through the eyes of faith. While in some areas, it might be a little more diffused, with health sciences, it’s staring you in the face.”

Dave Rampersad

ACADEMIC NEWS Clemons succeeds Terry Brown as chair of the department. Brown retired from the position of departmental chair in May, but continues to serve on the faculty. Brown became chair of the department when he joined the Faulkner faculty in 1984.

New Dean of Arts and Sciences Jeff Arrington is the new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Arrington came to Faulkner from Abilene Christian University (ACU) where he served on the faculty from 1989 to 2017.

Arrington served various roles at ACU including serving as Jeff Arrington their associate dean of arts and sciences for two separate 8 year terms.

Arrington succeeds Dave Rampersad as dean.

Rampersad is now the vice president of academic affairs.

New Department Chairs

Donna Clemons

Donna K. Clemons is the new chair of exercise science and kinesiology (formerly physical education and sports management).

Clemons earned her Doctor of Education in sports management (health science emphasis) this year from the United States Sports Academy.

In addition to her position as chair of the department, Clemons is also assisting the College of Education with assessment needs.

Jon Wright is the new chair of the English department. Wright is a tenured professor in the department and has been with Faulkner since 2000. He succeeds Kelly Morris, who retired as chair of the department in May, but will continue as professor in the department. Morris Jon Wright served as chair of the department since 1992.

James Guy is the new chair of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Prior to his appointment Guy served as associate professor in the department.

The department of social and behavioral sciences was two James Guy separate departments but the decision was made to unite the departments after learning that both departments’ chairs would be vacated before the fall term.

Dixie Hicks retired from the chair of social sciences, although she will continue to serve as a lecturer.

Heath Willingham, formerly the chair of the Behavioral Sciences, is the new chair of Graduate Counseling, which will be moved from the Department of Behavioral Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences to the College of Education.

Heath Willlingham

Fall 2017

25

Tiffany Cantrell is the new director of Faulkner Online. Prior to her appointment to director, Cantrell served as an online instructor.

Cantrell has been with Faulkner since 2011.

Cathy Davis was appointed chair of the criminal justice and legal studies department. Davis served as interim chair of the department prior to this appointment.

Tiffany Cantrell

Cathy Davis

Carol Tarpley is the new chair of the Education Department.

Tarpley, a tenured professor, served as director of Faulkner’s community partner site in Alexander City prior to this appointment.

Lou Harris retired as full-time faculty member in the criminal justice and legal studies department. Harris retired as chair in 2015 but continued to serve as full-time professor in the department until May 2017. Harris joined the university in 1993 and was the architect of the criminal Lou Harris justice and legal studies department, which is the largest department in the College of Arts and Sciences with over 300 students.

Theodore Sabir is now serving as advisor for chemical and environmental safety matters at Faulkner University. Sabir will lead the university in formulating and implementing chemical and environmental policies as required by OSHA, EPA and other Theodore Sabir regulatory authorities.

David Stark is now an associate professor of Biblical studies, and was designated the Winnie and Cecil May Jr. Biblical Research Fellow. A ceremony was held on August 1 in Lester Chapel to confer the award.

Carol Tarpley

Additional Changes

Sabir recently received the Faulkner University Scholar of the Year Award for his teaching and chemical research with Faulkner University students.

In addition to the new position Sabir will continue to serve as chemical hygiene officer and to teach full time as professor of chemistry.

26

Faulkner Magazine

The endowment for the David Stark & Cecil May, Jr. Winnie and Cecil May Jr. Biblical Research Fellowship was established by board members Harrell and Carlton Freeman. It was named in honor of beloved professor Cecil May and in memory of his wife Winnie May, also a beloved member of the Faulkner family.

“The Biblical research fellow is a special post in the Kearley Graduate School of Theology (KGST),” said Scott Gleaves, dean of the V.P. Black College of Biblical

Studies and the KGST. “Its purpose is to establish and inspire the highest form of excellence in teaching and research among students and faculty of the graduate school.”

“The most important aspect of the post is that it represents a concrete step toward raising the research profile of the KGST in particular and of the university in general,” said Stark. “It demonstrates the institution’s commitment to having robust engagement with standard-setting scholarship in a way that remains true to our historic mission and identity.”

Stark completed his undergraduate degree and his Master of Arts in Biblical Studies at Faulkner University.

Stark previously served the university as the director of Faulkner Online.

Faculty Degrees Earned Art Williams, chair of the Fine Arts department, received his doctorate in music education from Indiana University in May. Williams minored in human development with a specialization in child development.

His dissertation examined how Fred Art Williams Rogers taught music to children through his long-running television program, “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”

Stephen Foster

Stephen Foster, director of band, received his doctorate in educational leadership from Union University in May. His dissertation examined the impact of music curriculum software “Quaver’s Marvelous World of Music” on a music teacher’s fourth, fifth and sixth grade classes.

First Master of Philosophy degree awarded The Kearley Graduate School of Theology (KGST) will award its first Master of Philosophy to one of its doctoral students, Garrett Thompson.

The Master of Philosophy is not a stand-alone degree, but is embedded into the doctoral program. Students are awarded the master’s degree once they complete all coursework with a GPA of 3.0 or better, and pass the required exams and comp in Old and New Testament textual studies. These achievements qualify any doctoral student to begin writing the dissertation. The Master of Philosophy is part of the program because reaching this milestone is a tremendous accomplishment and deserves recognition.

“We wanted students who complete this level of work, but fail to complete a dissertation, to have something to show for their work,” said Randall Bailey, director of KGST. “Sometimes life happens and a student never finishes. This way the student can show something for the strenuous effort put forward.”

Thompson will begin work on his doctoral dissertation in the Fall 2017 semester.

The University Read Faulkner University is hosting The University Read throughout the 2017-2018 academic year to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s posting of the 95 Theses on October 31, 1517, the event that began the Protestant Reformation.

Members of the university community will read “Here I Stand,” a biography of Martin Luther by Roland Bainton, and participate in discussion groups held on campus, as well as in an online forum.

All university constituents, including alumni and donors, are invited to take part in the reading and discussion, as well as other events, including guest speakers, film screenings, and panel discussions.

“We will evaluate the impact of Luther on the religious life of the Western world, and maybe learn something about ourselves along the way,” said Jason Jewell, chair of the Department of Humanities. “We hope this common intellectual experience will help the Faulkner community grow closer together.”

For more information visit faulkner.edu or email Jason Jewell - jjewell@faulkner.edu.

Fall 2017

27

LAW BRIEFS

Aucoin participated in a breakfast event hosted by Faulkner Law. This event was attended by Faulkner Law alums and many members of the federal and state bench and bar. Additionally, Aucoin was the featured speaker at the Alabama Department of Archives & History’s Lunch and Learn. There he introduced his work to an auditorium full of individuals interested in this significant historical figure.

The Thomas Goode Jones School of Law was founded in 1928 by Judge Walter Jones, son of Thomas Goode Jones, to honor his father.

Faulkner Law Hosts Biographer of Thomas Goode Jones

Blackstone & Burke Center to Host Annual Judicial College

On August 16, 2017 Faulkner Law welcomed Dr. Brent J. Aucoin to discuss his new book “Thomas Goode Jones: Race, Politics & Justice in the New South” (University of Alabama Press, 2016). Aucoin is professor of history and associate dean for academic affairs at The College at Thomas Goode Jones Southeastern, in Wake Forest, North Carolina. His book is the first comprehensive academic biography of Thomas Goode Jones, the namesake of Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law.

Thanks to generous grants from the Acton Institute, Atlas Network, and the Association for the Study of Free Institutions, the Blackstone & Burke Center for Law & Liberty, housed in Thomas Goode Jones School of Law, will host its inaugural judicial seminar for state jurists in October. The event is scheduled to begin with a dinner and a reception on October 26, during which Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice Tom Parker will deliver a keynote address regarding Sir William Blackstone, natural law, and the commonlaw tradition. The following morning, judges from around the country will meet in the Alabama State Bar Headquarters for intensive seminar sessions.

Aucoin, in a conversation panel with associate deans Charles Campbell and Allen Mendenhall, discussed Thomas Goode Jones’s life and legacy. He noted that Jones remains one of the most notable Alabama politicians of the post-Civil War era. After carrying one of the flags of surrender, Jones served as governor of Alabama (1890 to 1894), and fought fiercely against efforts to disenfranchise African Americans in Alabama. Jones drafted a Code of Ethics that served as the model for the code ultimately adopted by the American Bar Association. A tribute to this work is displayed in the library at Faulkner Law. One of the most notable aspects of Jones’ life was his friendship with Booker T. Washington. Washington recommended Jones to President Theodore Roosevelt, who appointed Jones to the federal bench in 1901.

This is one of many nuances of Jones’ life, according to Aucoin, which is among the complexities of the reconstruction era often neglected in popular thought.

After speaking with Faulkner students and faculty,

28

Faulkner Magazine

Judges from Wyoming to Michigan, and many from our own state of Alabama, have RSVP’d to attend the seminar. They are tasked with reading seminal works of jurisprudence by such figures as St. Thomas Aquinas, John Locke, Sir William Blackstone, and Thomas Jefferson to prepare for seminar discussions, which revolve around landmark cases in the common-law tradition. The goal of these discussions is to broaden the judges’ scope of knowledge and help them to approach their everyday tasks in light of important historical developments and philosophical foundations.

Professor Eric Claeys of Antonin Scalia Law at George Mason University will direct the seminar. He is currently a visiting fellow in the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University and has written widely in the

fields of property, private law and constitutional law.

Claeys has published book chapters on Lockean labor theory and on tort theory in different books in the Oxford University Press “Philosophical Foundations of Law” series. He contributed to a recent Harvard Law Review symposium on “The New Private Law,” and Professor Eric Claeys currently serves as an adviser -photo by Gage Skidmore to the American Law Institute’s “Restatement (Fourth) of the Law of Property.”

Claeys’ current research focuses on flourishing and labor-based natural rights justifications for property. He graduated from Princeton University and the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. He has been a member of the Mason Law faculty since 2007.

His experience teaching and training judges makes him the perfect leader to direct this inaugural seminar.

Ken Starr to Speak at Faulkner Law Review Symposium The Faulkner Law Review is honored to welcome former Solicitor General of the United States and United States Court of Appeals Judge Kenneth Starr as the keynote speaker for the sixth annual Faulkner Law Review Symposium. The symposium will be held on October 3, 2017 at 129 Coosa Judge Kenneth Starr Street in Montgomery. This year’s symposium will explore historical legal and philosophical aspects of executive power in English and American law and bring these insights to bear on current controversies.

In addition to Starr, the plenary speaker will be Josh Blackman, associate professor of law at the South Texas College of Law and author of “Unprecedented: The Constitutional Challenge to Obamacare.” Other panelists include: The Honorable Steve Marshall, 48th attorney general of Alabama; Bryan Taylor, general counsel to Governor Kay Ivey; and Allen Mendenhall, associate dean of Faulkner Law and executive director of the Blackstone & Burke Center for Law & Liberty.

and distinguished members of the Alabama legal community. The reception will include an opening address by Carson Holloway, professor of political science at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and visiting scholar in the Heritage Foundation’s B. Kenneth Simon Center for Principles and Politics. Holloway’s essays and articles have appeared in “The Review of Politics,” “First Things,” “The Public Discourse,” “Interpretation: A Journal of Political Philosophy” and “Perspectives on Political Science.” He is also the author of “Hamilton versus Jefferson in the Washington Administration: Completing the Founding or Betraying the Founding?”

Contact the Faulkner Law Review at executiveeditor@ faulkner.edu for information regarding the symposium.

Faulkner Law Alum Joins Gardere Wynne Sewell This fall, May 2017 graduate Caleb Rush joins Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP, an AM Law 200 firm, as an attorney in the banking/finance section of the Dallas, Texas office.

Gardere is one of the oldest and most prestigious full service law firms in the Southwest.

Gardere’s banking section Caleb Rush has one of the largest middle market lending practices in the nation, documenting over $3.5 billion in loans in 2016.

Steven S. Camp, chair of the banking/financial services section at Gardere said, “We are excited that Caleb is joining our team and are extremely fortunate to have been able to recruit him. We think he will be an outstanding lawyer and is representative of the extraordinary quality of graduates from Faulkner. He and Aubrey are valued additions to the Gardere family.”

During his time at Faulkner Law, Rush was an active leader in and out of the classroom. He served as editorin-chief of the Faulkner Law Review, participated on Faulkner’s nationally ranked Advocacy competition teams, and served in leadership roles as a member of student organizations. Rush's wife Aubrey graduated from Faulkner Law in May of 2016. Both Caleb and Aubrey are graduates of York College.

The symposium will begin with an invitationonly reception attended by symposium speakers

Fall 2017

29

SPORTS BRIEFS

we can’t wait to see. Because I know you’re going to be great. I love all of you.”

The World Series Gold Glove went to John Price as did All-World Series team honors. Tra’mayne Holmes, Ryan Rosa, Paolo Montezuma and Ivan Pelaez joined Price on the All-World Series team.

Three Eagles Selected in MLB Draft

Baseball Finishes Second in World Series

McCarthy receives trophy at Avista-NAIA World Series

For the third time in eight seasons head baseball coach Patrick McCarthy steered his Eagles into the championship game of the Avista-NAIA World Series in Lewiston, Idaho, in June.

L to R: Coach Patrick McCarthy, Olivier Basabe, Coach Michael Mendoza

Basabe went to the San Diego Padres as the 228th pick in the eighth round. The junior out of Maracaibo, Venezuela, became the first NAIA player chosen this year and the 20th shortstop overall.

After claiming its second consecutive Southern States Athletic Conference tournament title with an event sweep in early May, Faulkner went undefeated in the Montgomery Bracket of the NAIA National Championship Opening Round held at its own Harrison Field just two weeks later.

He’s only the fifth player in Faulkner history to be drafted inside the Top 10 rounds. The first-team allconference and league Gold Glove-winning infielder is the second-highest drafted position player in program history after 1987 St. Louis Cardinals selection Anthony Grier.

The Eagles entered the 10-team, double-elimination World Series as the No. 2 seed and made quick work of The Master’s (Calif.) 13-5 and Missouri Baptist 16-2 before suffering their first loss 8-6 at the hands of host school Lewis-Clark State.

Less than 24 hours after Basabe signed his contract, teammates Holmes and Pelaez were selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 11th round and Tampa Bay Rays in the 33rd round, respectively.

Faulkner knocked out top-seeded Oklahoma City 5-3 in elimination action before toppling Lewis-Clark State 6-5 forcing a winner-take-all championship showdown.

For the second straight year the two teams tangled in the title game. Home team Lewis-Clark State clinched its third straight title with a 6-4 decision.

“There are no words for a time like this,” said an emotional McCarthy to his team after the loss. “All I can tell you is that in life, you’re going to face adversity and injustice. But you don’t ever, ever give up. You did everything you could for each other this year and you can’t tell me that you didn’t leave everything you had on that field tonight. It’s just a game, and a game in Lewiston doesn’t say anything about who you are. What matters is what you’re going to make of your life and what kind of men you become from here. That is what

30

Faulkner shortstop Olivier Basabe, utility player Tra’mayne Holmes and pitcher Ivan Pelaez were selected in the 2017 MLB draft in June. Three chosen players ties the most ever for the program in a single season.

Faulkner Magazine

Tra’mayne Holmes

Holmes, a junior from Tallahassee, Fla., was an AllWorld Series team selection as well as a second-team all-conference recipient this year. His brilliant baserunning made him the most lethal bag thief in the nation tallying 59 stolen bases on 69 attempts.

Ivan Pelaez

Pelaez, a senior lefthanded pitcher from Miami, was brilliant for Faulkner for the second

straight season and shined brightest when pressure was heaviest.

The gunner had one of the best National Championship Opening Round performances in history after allowing just three hits and fanning 15 batters over 8 1/3 innings in Faulkner’s win over Huntington (Ind.).

Women’s Golf Caps Record-setting Season with National Tournament Berth Faulkner’s women’s golf team set new milestones over the course of the 2016-2017 season, culminating with an NAIA National Tournament appearance and a pair of All-American nods.

After demolishing all previous program records with three tournament victories and six Top 5 finishes in just eight regular season outings, the Lady Eagles went on to finish third in the Southern States Athletic Conference tournament, which helped secure the postseason atlarge bid.

Faulkner finished 17th in the 30-team field of the National Championship held at the PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., in May.

Hannah Sager

Sophomore Hannah Sager, a Montgomery native, clinched alltournament honors with a fourth place finish in the post-cut, 94-woman field and was named a secondteam All-American.

Anna Reid joined Sager as one of only two female golfers to ever garner All-American honors at the close of the season. The freshman from Demopolis, Ala. secured third-team recognition and is the only Lady Eagle to claim back-to-back SSAC Golfer of the Week titles in eligible selections and is the only female ever to earn the same award at the national level.

The Lady Eagles ranked 17th in the final Coaches’ Poll released in June. The team received its first-ever national ranking in August and held a spot in the Top 25 poll throughout the year.

Klassen Named SSAC Dr. Leroy Walker Champion of Character Faulkner volleyball’s Alysa Klassen was named the Photos by Ryan Bartels

Southern States Athletic Conference Dr. Leroy Walker Champion of Character in July and will go on to represent the league in the national selection this fall.

To be eligible for the conference’s highest character honor nominees must hold a 3.0 GPA, be recognized as a team leader and embody the core values of the NAIA’s Champion of Character initiative including integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.

Alysa Klassen

Klassen, a standout middle blocker and four-year starter for the Lady Eagles, produced stellar numbers on the court and in the classroom. She was named the Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year by both Faulkner and the SSAC in the spring.

The Scottsdale, Ariz., native ranked 18th nationally in blocks per game and 23rd in total blocks last season.

She was a first-team all-conference selection, was voted to the SSAC all-tournament team and was an AVCA all-region honorable mention.

Klassen was a seven-time President’s List honoree, a three-time academic all-conference selection, a twotime NAIA Scholar-Athlete and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma. She graduated with 4.0 GPA in psychology in May. Highlights from Klassen’s volunteer work include four weeks in Malawi, Africa, over two summers, where she and her team Klassen in Malawi, Africa -photo submitted tutored orphans and provided food, housing and medical supplies to families struggling in a regional famine.

Klassen was also a part of the volleyball team’s work with the Special Olympics in Montgomery.

“Alysa is a shining example of what the Faulkner athletic department wishes all of its athletes could be like,” said sports information director Ryan Bartels.

“She exemplifies these important values not because they are part of a slogan, but because they are genuinely ingrained in who she is and what she believes in.”

Klassen will begin graduate work at Biola University in the fall.

Fall 2017

31

Football

All games held at Billy D. Hilyer Stadium SEP 30 1:30 PM vs. Webber International OCT 14 NOV 11

SEP 15 16 22 23

1:30 PM 1:30 PM

vs. Southeastern University vs. Edward Waters

Volleyball 7:00 PM 2:00 PM 7:00 PM 2:00 PM

vs. William Carey University vs. Loyola University vs. Bethel University vs. Martin Methodist

OCT 3 7:00 PM vs. University of Mobile 20 6:00 PM vs. Middle Georgia State 21 2:00 PM vs. Brewton-Parker Senior Day

Men’s Soccer

All games held at Billy D. Hilyer Stadium SEP 16 2:00 PM vs. Georgia Southwestern

OCT 12 7:30 PM vs. Martin Methodist 14 7:30 PM vs. Bethel University 21 7:30 PM vs. Middle Georgia State 28 4:00 PM vs. Dalton State

SEP 2 21 29

32

OCT 12 14 21 28

Women’s Soccer

5:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM

vs. Texas A&M-Texarkana vs. Talladega College vs. Georgia Gwinnett College

5:00 PM 5:00 PM 1:00 PM 1:00 PM

vs. Martin Methodist vs. Bethel University vs. Middle Georgia State vs. Dalton State

Faulkner Magazine

Men’s Basketball

All games held at Tine Davis Gymnasium OCT 27 7:00 PM vs. Selma University Jimmy Faulkner Classic 28 7:00 PM vs. College of Coastal Georgia Jimmy Faulkner Classic NOV 6 7:00 PM vs. Concordia College 10 7:00 PM vs. Johnson & Wales University Veteran’s Day Classic 11 12:00 PM vs. Thomas University Veteran’s Day Classic 14 7:30 PM vs. Selma University 21 7:00 PM vs. Carver Bible College 25 2:00 PM vs. Pensacola Christian 30 7:00 PM vs. Middle Georgia State DEC 2

4:00 PM

vs. Brewton-Parker

Women’s Basketball

All games held at Tine Davis Gymnasium OCT 27 5:00 PM vs. Selma University Jimmy Faulkner Classic 28 5:00 PM vs. Life University Jimmy Faulkner Classic 31 7:00 PM vs. Pensacola Christian NOV 4 14 16 21 25 30

7:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 2:00 PM 5:30 PM

vs. Huntingdon College vs. Selma University vs. Stillman College vs. Carver Bible College vs. Fisk University vs. Middle Georgia State

DEC 2

2:00 PM

vs. Brewton-Parker

COMMUNITY NEWS

Great Summer 2017

Summer Camp at Davis Elementary Students and faculty from the College of Education spent a week at Davis Elementary’s summer camp where 100 children were enrolled as campers. They taught science lessons with a focus on water. The lessons culminated in a field trip on the Harriott II Riverboat.

Great Summer 2017 kicked off a week of learning and fun July 7. Eight high school juniors and seniors and college freshmen along with their families participated in the event. Chad Bland, Carlin Jones, Kenzie Crouch, Crystal Klose, Katelyn Lape, Benjamin Tomlin, and Hayley Turner spent the week discovering the great books model of learning. They participated in activities across Montgomery, including a Biscuits baseball game, a performance of “Mary Poppins” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and a tour of Montgomery’s historic sites. The group had the opportunity to serve at Brewbaker Intermediate by conducting great books discussions with small groups of fourth graders.

Great Summer 2017 came to a close on July 15, as Andrew Jacobs, director of the Great Books Honors Program shared “Words of Honor,” a great books tradition where the students write statements of appreciation and admiration about one another, with the students and their parents.

Great Summer students and director Andrew Jacobs at Brewbaker Intermediate

College of Education at Davis summer camp

Autism Conference Faulkner University is hosting an Autism Conference September 29, 2017. The theme of the conference is Real Life Perspectives. The conference will include sessions on Autism Through the Lifespan and Sensory Integration, as well as a professional panel and a parents panel.

The registration fee for anyone wishing to receive STIPD or Social Work CEUs is $35 and includes lunch.

Parents and students pay no fee, but may purchase a lunch for $10. You must be registered to attend.

Register online at faulkner.edu.

Davis Elementary First Day of School On August 10, Davis Elementary students and parents were welcomed by around 300 students, faculty and staff from Faulkner University for the first day of school. As the children approached the school, they were greeted by the sounds of the Faulkner Marching Band’s drumline. Athletes lined the sidewalk and hallways, wearing their jerseys or team t-shirts, giving high fives, fist bumps, and words of encouragement to students and parents alike.

This is the second year Faulkner University joined with Davis Elementary for the opening of their academic year. Davis Elementary is a Montgomery Public School

Fall 2017

33

The Humanities department and the Great Books Honors Program at Faulkner University joined forces in summer 2017 to offer undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to collaborate academically and explore the culture and sights of the Tuscan region of Italy.

The trip offered the ideal learning environment. The students immersed themselves in Italian literature before visiting the sites that represent the heart of the Italian Renaissance. Students traveled to Pisa, Siena, Lucca, Venice, and Rome, but spent most of their time in Florence.

Davis Elementary student greeted by Faulkner athletes and drumline

System designated Full Service Community School and Faulkner University is one of their community partners.

“This partnership with Davis Elementary has shown me the good in the world again.” said Leigh Woodring, coordinator of the Center for Faith, Calling and Engagement at Faulkner. “It is so refreshing to see that young people can still come together and work towards a common goal and show the community the love of Jesus.”

Humanities Department and Great Books Honors Program Go on Combined Trip to Italy Students atop the Dome of Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence

In Florence, the students accessed some of the most important and most beautiful sites in Italy: its churches, museums and cultural centers. Students climbed the dome of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore which features an intimidating staircase, that shrinks as one rises, until one must nearly crawl to reach the very top. A metal ladder leads to the crowning cupola and a sprawling view of Florence.

“The unique Italian content might in some ways remain inert without the human element and the relationships that drive it,” said Andrew Jacobs, director of the Great Books Honors Program. “Here the humanities/great books endeavor excelled. The trip fostered relationship, affording the opportunity for important discussions and many wonderful encounters between the group and the Italian communities. Rarely can a program involve so many different groups and discover so many connections. It was a true learning community, one backed by truth and succoured by Christian charity.”

Faulkner Science Association Hosts Eclipse Viewing Event Faulkner Science Association (FSA) hosted an eclipse viewing event outside Brooks Hall Monday, August Dr. Uduak Afangideh and students view the eclipse

34

Faulkner Magazine

21. The association provided pinhole viewers, snacks information about joining FSA. Around 100 students showed up for the event. Some students had eclipse glasses and passed them around for others to view the eclipse. Although Montgomery was not in the path of totality for the eclipse, viewers did experience about 89.6% of the sun’s surface covered by the moon.

The Faulkner Science Association exists to foster a community of students interested in science. Members of the association support each other by offering tutoring, explaining concepts, and offering advice and study tips. In addition to hosting events like the eclipse viewing, they also promote environmental awareness and responsibility.

Membership to the FSA is open to anyone. Club dues are $15 and include a t-shirt. For more information or to join the FSA contact FSA president Nnamdi Nze at nnamdi.nze@faulkner.edu.

Cathy Davis Wins Award Cathy Davis, chair of the department of legal studies and criminal justice, received the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) President’s award.

The NALA President’s Award recognizes outstanding accomplishments of NALA members and their contribution to the future of the paralegal profession through their leadership activities within NALA and NALA affiliated associations.

SGA President Sara Womack

Meet your SGA President Sara Womack joined the SGA her sophomore year at Faulkner. “I wanted to make a change. I’ve come to realize that it’s not just up to SGA to make changes to this school. Unless we have the input of students a real change will never happen.”

Womack’s desire to be a part of a positive change at Faulkner University was influenced by something her parents said to her.

“They always told me to leave something better than the way I found it. I want to leave this school better for the future students of this university because I love this school. I love the faculty and the friends I’ve made here at Faulkner, and I love that we are all family.”

The encouragement from her family and love for her school inspired Womack to run for SGA president. She was elected in the spring of 2017 and will serve as SGA president during the 2017-2018 school year.

Womack and the rest of the SGA will work closely with President Mike Williams over the next several months in order to accomplish their goals. “Dr. Williams made it clear that he wants to hear us as a student body,” said Womack. “He wants to make the students of this university happy because that is what makes him happy.”

Cathy Davis wins NALA President’s Award

Spring 2017

35

Photos by Patrick Gregory & Angela Hardgrave

Each year the Faulkner family devotes the first Friday of the academic year to serving the community. Students, faculty and administrators choose from a variety of tasks and locations in the River Region. This year’s service day was August 25.

36

Faulkner Magazine

Fall 2017

37

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Alumnus Ben Brown named Orangetheory Ambassador of the Year

by Anna Shay Wasden “I did not start this to be a role model or someone else’s motivation. I started it because I wanted to lose weight and become a better version of myself.” Ben Brown’s (‘98 and ‘01) goals were simple; he wanted to ride a roller coaster, board a plane with no additional seat-belt equipment, and shop at department stores aside from Casual Male XL. Brown’s humble goals have since been eclipsed by the overwhelming outcome of his experience.

Two years ago, when Brown started his weight loss journey, he had no clue what impact it would have on not only his body but his entire life. He had struggled with his weight for many years and decided it was time to do something about it. Brown met the future coach of Montgomery’s Orangetheory Fitness in the summer of 2015. Two weeks after Jaime Maddox, head coach of Orangetheory Fitness, convinced Brown to sign up, the gym officially opened its doors. Although Brown was slow at first, the coaches stopped at nothing to find appropriate alternatives to fit Brown’s capabilities. At the center of each of Brown’s triumphs is the same common factor: Orangetheory Fitness. “OTF slowly became my second family.”

Brown’s workout regimen slowly increased from twice a week to every single day. His diet was a significant factor in his lifestyle change as well. Brown worked to eat based on the Paleo diet.

38

Faulkner Magazine

Brown rowing during the corporate dri-tri in Miami

Even now, his diet is restricted to meat, fruit, and vegetables, something that can be difficult at times.

Last year, Brown was approached by Lauren Goldasich, owner of Orangetheory Fitness Montgomery, about writing an essay for the Orangetheory Ambassador of the Year Award.

The task was simple: Brown would write what Orangetheory Fitness has meant to him since joining. After the initial draft was immediately rejected by Goldasich, Brown considered the impact Orangetheory had on his life overall. He sent a new draft for Goldasich to read. Without hesitation, she submitted the essay with one final change: the addition of the words “mic drop” to the final paragraph.

Brown and the 2016/17 Orangetheory Fitness Coach of the Year, Jamie Eischen at the OTF Conference in Miami

Eight weeks before the national convention, Brown was met

with the exciting news that he won the first-ever Orangetheory Ambassador of the Year Award.

Since beginning, Brown had lost over 150 pounds.

His amazing transformation had not only inspired people in his home gym, but also a selection board for the entire world. Brown’s ability to keep a secret was severely tested over the next eight weeks.

The time for convention finally came; Brown and Goldasich flew to Miami to receive this prestigious award.

The life of an Orangetheory Ambassador certainly has its perks. Since receiving the award, Brown’s inspirational testimony has been in highdemand all across the country. He has been to the Orangetheory Fitness corporate headquarters and has seen where the entire company began in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Although he enjoys the sightseeing, Brown most enjoys spending time at other Orangetheory Fitness gyms. He is often pushed to perform to his maximum potential thanks to the curious eyes watching him in every guest workout.

has gone from being someone who is always sad and downtrodden to the outgoing Ben we all know and love. He is constantly traveling and meeting new people. He is proud of the accomplishments he has made and it is obvious he feels more confident about himself.”

Brown’s mother and father have played a huge role in his success. They are very mindful of his diet and exercise goals. Brown works to fit his regimen into any family vacation. Finding the nearest Orangetheory Fitness is a priority to him and his family fully supports his determination. Without their support and the support from Orangetheory Fitness Brown knows he might not have made it this far or become the success story he is today.

“OTF to me is more than a gym. I long to be in the studio. I miss it when I’m gone or hurt. It has become a part of my mind, body and soul.”

Brown has been a familiar face at Faulkner since age eight. “I grew up at Faulkner.” His father, Dr. Terry Brown, has been involved with the physical education program there since 1984. After graduating from Faulkner, Brown followed in his father’s footsteps.

He was a graduate assistant and eventual employee at Faulkner for many years. It is obvious how much Faulkner and the people there mean to him.

Since leaving Faulkner, Brown has worked with Capital City Juniors for the past five years. He was promoted to director of operations two years ago. He works with youth in the River Region following their athletic dreams.

Brown’s family and his Orangetheory Fitness family both see the immense change in his life. Maddox, the motivator behind Brown’s beginnings, remarks, “The biggest transformation within Ben is not his weight loss, but rather his mental transformation. He

Brown and the founder of Orangetheory, Ellen Latham

Fall 2017

39

Becky Munlin Fields, Robin Bird Bradford, & Jamie Austin Whitworth

Joey Wiginton, Jerry Oakes, Nancy Wiginton, & Jenny Livingston Oakes

Bruce Lyon, Wayne Baker, & Sam Mullins

Ken Larsen

Tammy Langham Solomon & Deniese Phillips

40

Faulkner Magazine

Sam Mullins, Bruce Lyon, & Brent Missildine

Photos by Robin Bradford

Charlene Smith Harris & Wanda Warmack

Doug Oliver & Sheila Goff Cottingham

Jamie Whitworth brought cheer & club items for the memorabilia tables

Charlene Smith Harris & Deniese Phillips Cathy Davis, Debbie Foley Russel, Ann Diamond, & Jodie Smith Jensen

Fall 2017

41

Nancy Itson, Wanda Warmack, Charlene Smith Harris, & Cindy Warmack Spangler

Cindy Warmack Spangler, Jodie Smith Jensen, & Wanda Warmack

2017 Alumni Summer Reunion attendees

Marty Rucker, Beth Anthony Camp, Stephen Randolph, Cindy Bratten Wheeler, & Lynn McCaleb Sam Mullins

42

Faulkner Magazine

President Mike Williams

Willie Teel, Nedra Rickman Mitchell, & Keith Mitchell

Donna Roberts & Nedra Rickman Mitchell

Bruce Lyon at the reunion concert

Coach Jon Hazelip & Tim Lee

Melda McCurdy Tipp & Tammy Langham Solomon

Sandi Clark Frady & Kim Pannell Willingham

Zak & Cathy Trotter with Ms. Alice Moore

Jeff Gill

Paul Tarence

Sam Mullins, Brent Missildine, & Bruce Lyon

Fall 2017

43

ALUMNI NEWS

1996 Kim Spain Wheeler (‘96) was named Bonaire Elementary School’s 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year.

Bonaire Elementary is in Houston County, Ga.

1997

1974 LaWanna Stewart Wishum (‘74) recently retired from Alabama Home Builders Self Insurers Fund after 22 years of service.

1993 Judith A. Spencer (‘93) received the 2017 Leadership Award from Women in Higher Education - Mississippi Network. Spencer is the chief human resources officer at Mississippi State University.

1994 Debbie Bailey (‘94) was presented with the Dedication to Children Award by the Family Guidance Center’s Child Care Education and Training Program during their Spirit of Excellence Awards Luncheon, April 26, 2017. Bailey is the director of Bell Road Preschool in Montgomery, Ala. Jocelyn Cash (‘94) was selected to serve as alderman for the Benton City Council in Benton, Ark. Cash is a commissioner on Benton’s Planning and Zoning Commission. The selection was ratified June 26, 2017.

David Sharp (‘94), head coach of the United States Baseball Under 12 national team, led his team to a World Cup victory in 2017. The U.S. team beat Chinese Taipei 7-2 in the final game August 6 in Tainan Stadium in Tainan, Taiwan. The team previously won gold in 2013 and again in 2015 when Sharp was the team’s assistant coach.

44

Faulkner Magazine

Eric Musgrove (‘97) is the author of “Lost Suwannee County.”

The book was published in July 2017. Musgrove is a historian and records manager for the Suwannee County Clerk of the Court in Live Oak, Florida.

Musgrove’s love for history, with a particular focus on preserving local history, is evident in his books which include “Reflections of Suwannee County,” “Suwannee Memories,” “There Let me Live and Die” and “Images of America: Suwannee County.”

2001 Ryan (‘01) and Kelly (Hinote, ‘05) Key’s son Asher Quin was born July 20, 2017. He is welcomed by big brother Colton.

2004 Patrick Jones (‘04 & ‘06) is an assistant attorney general at the Alabama Medicaid Agency.

2006 Joey (‘07) and Tiffany (Welch, ‘06) Hunt’s daughter, Allie, was born May 21, 2016. Big brother Colton is 4.

Do you or someone you know have news to be included in the next edition of the alumni magazine? Send updates and photos to Adam Donaldson, adonaldson@faulkner.edu or Robin “Bird” Bradford, rbradford@faulkner.edu.

2007 Jeremy (‘07) and Blythe Smith are the proud parents of Lincoln Brock Smith, born September 25, 2016. Lincoln is baby brother to Langston Brees and Lakyn Blythe.

Theresa Berry-Franks (‘07) is the head volleyball coach at Bevill State Community College. Berry-Franks was hired in October 2016 to rebuild the volleyball program which was eliminated along with all athletic programs in 2011 due to budget cuts. Berry-Franks played volleyball during her time at Faulkner University and was an assistant coach for the Lady Eagles after graduation.

Daniel Land (‘07) was promoted to Air Force major from captain (major select) June 1, 2017. Land was commissioned as second lieutenant the same day he graduated from Faulkner with a degree in criminal justice.

He holds a master’s degree in homeland security from American Military University.

Land and his wife, Brittany Gay Land (‘17) are currently stationed at Offutt AFB in Omaha, Nebraska.

They have two sons, and recently became foster parents.

Brittany, who left Faulkner University in 2008 a few electives short of graduating, received her diploma in July.

Blake (‘09) and Amanda (Pence, ‘12) Boren are the proud parents of Brayden, born May 18, 2017.

Brayden was welcomed to the family by big brother Logan.

Teri Breloski Tenorio (‘09) was sworn in as assistant attorney general with the Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of the North Mariana Islands in March 2017. Tenorio served as a special assistant to the governor of Guam, and before that she was an assistant attorney general with the Office of the Attorney General in Guam.

Joseph (‘09 & ‘12) and Brittany (Morris, ‘09) VanZandt had a baby, Levi, born June 14, 2016.

2010 Jared (‘10) and Chelsea (Janning, ‘10) Jones finalized their adoption of three children June 28, 2017, officially making the Jones a family of six.

Joshua Pendergrass (‘10) was appointed communication director by Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama. The appointment took effect on April 19, 2017.

2011 Tim and Amy (Schroeder, ‘11) Gisczinski were married April 8, 2017 in Fairhope, Ala.

2008 Rebekah Moon Jones (‘08) is teaching second grade this fall at Redland Elementary in Wetumpka, Ala.

2009 Darryl Napolitano (‘09) is a broker/development management associate at the commercial real estate firm Colliers International - Northwest Arkansas in Rogers, Ark.

Rebekah Martin (‘11) is the associate editor of the Opelika Observer in Opelika, Ala.

Fall 2017

45

2012 Andrew Kingsley (‘12 & ‘17) is the new college minister at University Church of Christ in Montgomery, Ala. Andrew Turpen (‘12) joined Carr Allison law firm as an associate in the Birmingham, Ala. office. Turpen will focus his practice on transportation, insurance and personal injury matters.

2013 David Woodason (‘13) is the coordinator of Informal Recreation at Auburn University.

2014 LaShunda Butler (‘14 and ‘16) is an internal auditor at Shelby County Schools in Shelby County, Ala. Xavier Cunningham (‘14) teaches eighth grade history, health/life skills and career prep at John T. Morgan Academy in Selma, Ala. Cunningham will also be assistant coach of baseball and football.

Zak and Andrea (Presley ‘14) Long were married June 17, 2017.

Matt (‘16) and Kayla (Wiginton, ‘14) Martin were married May 13, 2017 on Lake Martin. “We met at Faulkner through mutual friends,” Kayla said. We both love Faulkner and always will because it brought us each other.” The couple currently resides in Montgomery.

Brighton Masuka (‘15) and Cody Bell (‘14) are partners in two business ventures, along with Faulkner University faculty member Grover Plunket. The first, Southern Foundation Solutions, specializes in foundation repair and vapor barriers. The other is Diligent Hands, which offers a variety of services from lawn maintenance to car detailing to janitorial work.

Masuka is currently working on his Master of Science in Management at Faulkner.

2015 Kees Kalonic (‘15) teaches ninth through 12th grade English, Bible and history at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy in Montgomery, Ala.

Jacob Itson (‘14) and Kirk Ottinger (‘14) started Ready Set Goods, LLC. Ready Set Goods sells games, toys and electronics online.

Dylan Vires (‘14) is a biologist at TTL, Inc. in Montgomery, Ala. He is also a videographer at Lex and Lee Photography with his wife Alex Kendrick Vires (‘15) and Callie Nall Starkie. Lex and Lee specializes in natural light photography, shooting weddings, engagement photos, family, children and senior portraits, labor and delivery photos and special events.

46

Faulkner Magazine

Christopher (‘15) and Kelly (Mason) Thrasher were married June 10, 2017.

John (‘15) and Savannah (Burns, ‘17) Dockins were married July 15, 2017 at Central Church of Christ in Augusta, Ga. The couple resides in Wetumpka, Ala.

Caleb (‘17) and Maggie (Mobley, ‘16) McGaughy were married November 19, 2016.

Caleb is the youth minister at Spring Road Church of Christ in Westerville, Ohio.

Zachary and Kayla (Lawson, ‘15) Van Buren were married June 24, 2017 in Powder Springs, Ga.

2016 Rhonda Bennett (‘16) is the director of manufacturing at Benchmark Electronics.

Saul Calderon-Zavala (‘16) married Bethany (Hunter) Calderón September 24, 2016.

The couple currently resides in Texas.

Samuel and Brooke (Harris, ‘16) Welsh were married April 30, 2017. Dr. Matthew Sokoloski, assistant professor of humanities at Faulkner University, presided.

Samuel is on course to graduate in December.

2017 Courtney Castleberry (‘17) is the new executive assistant at the Pell City Chamber of Commerce in Pell City, Ala.

Gregory Nikonchuk (‘16) is the operations manager at Integrated Industrial Technologies, Inc. (I2T), Huntsville, Ala. Leslie Parrish (‘16) is in physical therapy school at the University of Central Arkansas.

John David and Holly (Smith, ‘16) Free are new parents to their daughter Riley, born July 27, 2017.

Jared (‘17) and Whitney (Davidson, ‘17) Kelly were married May 13, 2017 in Dothan, Ala. “We were overjoyed that so many of our classmates and social club brothers and sisters made the drive to celebrate our special day with us,” said Whitney. “We are grateful to Faulkner University for allowing us to grow intellectually and spiritually, and for giving us the best friends that anyone could ask for.”

Ty Taylor (‘17) is a judicial law clerk with Justice Tom Parker of the Supreme Court of Alabama.

Fall 2017

47

Richard Michael Solomon (‘77), 60, of Montgomery, died August 11, 2017 after a brief illness. He was senior vice president at River Bank and Trust.

Solomon is survived by wife, Tammy (Langham) Solomon; daughters, Marci, Leah Deal (Alan) and Rachel; sisters Deebe Taylor (Allen), Paris Donaldson (Joe), and Gena Hill (Kenneth); and brothers Gregg Solomon and Bart Solomon (Ruth Ellen).

Suzanne “Suzie” Darlene Nolen Bennett (‘83), 57, of Huntsville, died April 2, 2017.

Bennett was a talented musician and vocalist.

She played with Tuxedo Junction and Miami Sound Machine, but is best remembered by her ACC classmates as a member of Lighthouse.

Suzanne Bennett

Bennett is survived by husband John Michael Bennett; parents Charles and Shirley Nolen; and brother Scott.

Jimmy Lee Moore (’03), 59, of Navarre, Fla., died August 12, 2017 after a 15 month battle with cancer.

Moore worked as a field service manager with NCR Corp. Moore was a motorcycle enthusiast.

Moore is survived by wife Jean J. Moore and brother Billy Moore (Miriam).

Gifts Honor Legacy of Faulkner Law Alum Vernon Hein Vernon Hein (‘13), 60, of Dothan, Ala., passed away May 9, 2017. Hein’s lifelong dream was to study law and enter the legal profession. Following a successful career in aviation, and inspired by his daughter’s recent journey through law school, Hein enrolled in Faulkner Law in August of 2010. He quickly earned the respect of his colleagues. His positive spirit and enthusiasm for law school blessed many throughout his three years at Faulkner.

Hein’s desire to become a courtroom attorney led him to participate in the Faulkner Law Advocacy Program.

Hein participated in Faulkner’s annual Greg Allen Trial Competition and also represented Faulkner

48

Faulkner Magazine

Law as a member of one of Faulkner’s trial teams in the American Association for Justice’s Student Trial Advocacy Competition.

Upon graduation, Hein returned to Dothan and opened his own legal practice. The Hein Law Firm, like many other things in Hein’s life, took off. In February of 2017, the Hein Law Firm opened its new offices in the historic Porter House in Dothan. Hein had earned the respect of many in the Houston County bench and bar.

Hein’s life was honored at a memorial May 11, 2017, attended by many members of the legal community. Faulkner law school alumni were among those present to honor Hein, and offer love and support to his wife Nancy, daughters Valerie and Carly, and the rest of the Hein family. Several Faulkner Vernon Hein Law alums spoke at the service. Many testimonies demonstrated that Hein loved the practice of law, and he was proud to be a part of the Faulkner Law family.

Earlier this summer, a number of Hein’s classmates created and contributed to a fund to honor Hein’s life and legacy. “Vernon Hein was a friend to all and an inspiration to many,” said Joy L. Danne, who helped coordinate the gift. She noted, “Those who knew him well – and those who knew him merely in passing – could not help but recognize his passion for life and for the law.” Hein’s colleagues and friends contributed $2500 to the Faulkner Law Advocacy Program in his honor.

Additionally, Nancy Hein wanted to honor Hein’s legacy at Faulkner Law. In recognition of Hein’s appreciation of his experience as a member of the Faulkner Law Board of Advocates and a member of Faulkner Law’s advocacy teams, Mrs. Hein donated $50,000 to the advocacy program. This generous gift will fund the Vernon Hein Closing Argument Competition, a trial advocacy skills competition open to all Faulkner Law first year students. The first annual Hein Closing Argument Competition will be held in January of 2018 with a reception to honor Hein and his family. More information regarding the Hein Closing Argument Competition may be gained by contacting Faulkner Law’s director of advocacy programs, professor Joe Lester.

HOMECOMING February 16-17, 2018

Ryan (‘07) and Jody (Brown, ‘04) Dix opened Dixie Snack Company which serves fresh popped kettle corn at events in Alabama. Ryan gives his wife credit for coming up with the idea. “We were eating fresh popcorn from a small store in the heart of Ohio Amish country, when Jody said we should sell gourmet popcorn.” The couple hopes to expand their territory into neighboring states, and to add new popcorn flavors and other fresh gourmet snacks, but for now they are focusing on one thing at a time. “We have to walk before we run,” said Dix. “We have put the Lord first from the start of our business and He placed this opportunity in front of us at the time He knew it would be best.”

Shannon (‘96) and Karen (Turner, ’99) Clifton opened Southern Smokeshack BBQ and Catering, based out of Wetumpka, Ala. “It’s always been a dream of mine to open my own barbecue catering business and provide delicious food to the River Region,” said Shannon. “I challenged myself to come up with some of the most delicious recipes and mouth watering smoked meats you will ever taste.” The Southern Smokeshack food truck can be found weekdays on N Ripley Street in Montgomery. The truck is hard to miss, emblazoned with a giant red BBQ and the slogan “It’s all about the smoke.” Clifton posts a new menu daily on their Facebook page because it changes in order to “keep things interesting.”

Fall 2017

49

Faulkner Congratulates New Teachers

The College of Education and Alumni Relations delivered welcome baskets to these thirty-three Faulkner graduates who began their first year of teaching this fall.

Hayley Carden Armstrong Morris Elementary Montgomery, Ala. Megan Balda Prattville Intermediate School Prattville, Ala. Kaylee Bence Faith Christian Academy Alex City, Ala. Amanda Brewer Stephens Elementary Alex City, Ala. Kelcie Broadhead Jemison Intermediate School Jemison, Ala. Kenneth Busby Milton High School Milton, Fla. Jessica Butterworth Zora Ellis Middle School Talladega, Ala. Christy Cooper Salter Elementary Talladega, Ala. Elizabeth Courson Clay County Christian Academy Ashland, Ala. Jessica Dennis Jemison High School Jemison, Ala. Madison DeWeese WG Nunn Elementary Valdosta, Ga. Savannah Burns Dockins Prattville Christian Academy Prattville, Ala. Emily Byrd Driver Straughn Elementary Andalusia, Ala. Stacey Fleaman Pinecrest Elementary Sylacauga, Ala. Keigna Flynn Peter Crump Elementary Montgomery, Ala.

Treasa Ho Whitehaven Elementary Memphis, Tenn.

Sydney Howard Alabama Christian Academy Montgomery, Ala. Holly Hudson Donehoo Elementary Gadsden, Ala. Marie LaChance Pine Level Elementary Pine Level, Ala. Kayla Fulton Lanier Peter Crump Elementary Montgomery, Ala. Tori Lee William Radney Elementary Alex City, Ala. Alyson McCollough Coosada Elementary School Millbrook , Ala. Melody McNatt Norton Park Elementary Smyrna, Ga. Elissa Cargile Morris Pike Road Secondary School Pike Road, Ala. Nikki Patel Greenville High School Greenville, Ala. Rachel Roberts Pigg Tallassee Elementary School Tallassee, Ala. Rebekah Secrest Elmore County Alternative Program Wetumpka, Ala. Jacob Tidwell Dadeville Elementary School Dadeville, Ala. Paula Tidwell Bear Exploration Magnet School Montgomery, Ala. Henry Woodard Northeast High School Clarksville, Tenn.

Harrison Gore Howard High School Macon, Ga. Jennifer Gunn Talladega High School Talladega, Ala. Kelly Harris Wattwood Elementary School Childersburg, Ala.

50

Faulkner Magazine

L to R: Alumni Relations Director Adam Donaldson, Jacob Tidwell, and College of Education Dean Leslie Cowell

Fall 2017

51

5345 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, Alabama 36109

faulkner.edu