Harding University Magazine Spring 2024

HARDING

WHAT’S INSIDE

2

1 VIEWPOINT

Where beauty meets purpose

2 THE BEAUTY OF BROTHERHOOD

Bison football's journey to the NCAA Division II National Championship

6 A TIME FOR EVERYTHING Highlights of the campus landscape and those who make it beautiful in every season

16 HOME SWEET SEARCY

A Q&A with Searcy Mayor and alumnus Mat Faulkner

18 NEAR THE FOOTHILLS Students connect with God through the beauty of nature.

33 THIS IS HEARTBEAT Dr. Ross Cochran remembers distinguished alumnus Landon Saunders. 2

20 CREATING FOR THE CREATOR Students and faculty fill the McInteer Bible and World Missions Center with art.

22 THIS OLD HOUSE Occupational therapy program renovates Ganus house.

24 ARM IN ARM Women of Faith leaders pilot mentorship program.

26 BEAUTY OF COMMUNITY Stories of mentorship in four academic colleges

31 CONNECTIONS

33 TRIBUTE TO A TRUSTEE Honoring the life of Suzanne Waller

WHERE BEAUTY MEETS PURPOSE MAGAZINE

In my time in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, I had the opportunity to lead hundreds of families on campus tours. I have walked over every inch of these grounds, and guests regularly comment on its unmistakable beauty. Our front lawn holds a special place in the hearts of so many alumni, and we want the entire campus to reflect the beauty of that green space.

To help us consider a strategy for comprehensive improvements, we engaged a nationally acclaimed partner, Credo Design Architects, to orchestrate a new campus master plan. We also assembled a project leadership team including faculty and staff representatives from a variety of areas to solicit broad input from our University community. The Credo team was on campus in September 2023 to begin an institutional audit of facilities and property. They returned in November to host interactive sessions where members of our community shared their impressions and perceptions of what we’re doing well and ways we can improve. This collaborative process has already begun to yield great potential for the future.

We want to continue stewarding well our resources and enhance the Harding experience by creating beautiful spaces. However, when I think about introducing guests to Harding, my memories of the tours are not the towering, magnificent oaks and blooming azaleas or the state-of-the-art facilities. I remember faculty and staff members who shepherded my life as an undergraduate student and young staff member. This is why we encourage future Bisons to visit on days when campus is full of life. The beautiful environment is only enhanced by the people who are the essence of our community and culture.

On bright spring days, you’ll find students and faculty outside enjoying the sunshine, creating art and building relationships that will last a lifetime. The beauty of God’s people walking alongside each other as we all discover our inspired purpose is unmatched. We look forward to another century of Harding where students will continue to be challenged, think deeply, love well and live lives of purpose.

PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR/DESIGNER

Todd Kiles, ’94

EDITOR/WRITER

Hailey Pruitt, ’10

COPY EDITORS

Jennifer Hannigan, ’08

Luke Humphrey, ’20

SPORTS WRITER

Scott Goode, ’97

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeff Montgomery, ’91

VIDEOGRAPHERS

Jake Ward, ’22

Caleb Chunn, student editor

Jonathan Hodge, student editor

CONTRIBUTORS

Ross Cochran, ’79

Joanna Crisco, ’97

Al Fowler, ’68

PRESIDENT

Mike Williams, ’85

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING

Candice Moore, ’01

Harding is published twice a year by the Office of University Communications and Marketing for alumni, faculty, staff, parents and friends of the University.

Editorial offices are located on the second floor of the David B. Burks American Heritage Building at 915 E. Market Ave., Searcy, Arkansas; 501-279-4316.

Send address changes to Harding University

915 E. Market Ave. Box 12234 Searcy, AR 72149-5615.

EMAIL

PHOTO BY JEFF MONTGOMERY

In the rich history of Harding’s football legacy, the Brotherhood stands as a testament to collective will, love, heart and passion, dating back to the reinstatement of football in 1959.

Under the seasoned leadership of head coach Paul Simmons, a 1995 graduate and former player, the 2023 Harding Bisons embodied the true essence of the Brotherhood — a unity forged on the field, echoing the legacy of those who laid the foundation.

The Huckeba Field House, standing tall since 2019, symbolizes not only progress but also the unwavering support of former players who funded the facility entirely through their generous donations.

Beyond being a season of victories, the 2023 campaign — culminating in a 15-0 record, a Great American Conference championship, and triumph in the NCAA Division II Super Region 3

The Beauty of the

Brotherhood

by Scott Goode

— was a collective achievement, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Brotherhood.

Notable regular-season wins included a 27-16 road triumph against No. 20 Henderson State, marked by the Brotherhood’s resilience in overcoming a bus breakdown, and a resounding 41-10 victory over No. 5 Ouachita Baptist in Searcy, reflecting the team’s strength and determination.

Statistical prowess became a canvas for the relentless heart and passion of the Brotherhood, scoring a school-record 97 touchdowns, recording 102 tackles for loss and rushing for an NCAA singleseason record 6,160 yards — a collective effort etched in the annals of Harding’s football history.

The NCAA playoffs witnessed the testing of the Brotherhood with two onepoint victories over Central Missouri and Grand Valley State, showcasing an unyielding determination that defined Harding’s remarkable journey.

The grand finale in McKinney, Texas, saw the pinnacle of a perfect season when Harding secured the NCAA Division II national championship with a resounding 38-7 victory over Colorado School of Mines. The celebration was not just about the triumph on the field; it was a testament to the enduring beauty of the Brotherhood.

SEND-OFF: On Dec. 13, fans line both sides of East Park Avenue in front of First Security Stadium to light the way as the Bisons head to McKinney, Texas, for the NCAA Division II national championship game.

ON-SITE COMMENCEMENT: Seniors Zach Strickland and Omar Sinclair are all smiles at the special ceremony held in McKinney, Texas, on Dec. 15 for players who would miss commencement in Searcy.

WATCH PARTY: Harding fans in Searcy celebrate following the on-campus championship game watch party in the Charles White Dining Hall.

MEETING THE GOVERNOR: The Bison football team visits Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders at the governor's mansion in Little Rock on Feb. 5.

PHOTO BY EDGAR CARDIEL

PHOTO BY REESE STRICKLAND

PHOTO BY JEFF MONTGOMERY

PHOTO BY JEFF MONTGOMERY

WELCOME HOME: The Harding and Searcy communities gather in Huckeba Field House on Jan. 9 to commemorate the Bisons’ historic victory with the final Brotherhood Walk of the 2023 season, band and cheer performances, a meet-and-greet with coaches and players, and remarks from special guests.

AWARD-WINNING COACH: Coach Paul Simmons smiles for the camera after being named Division II Coach of the Year by the American Football Coaches Association on Jan. 9.

PHOTO BY JEFF MONTGOMERY

A TIME FOR EVERYTHING FLOURISHING LANDSCAPES IN EVERY SEASON

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography by JEFF MONTGOMERY

For 90 of Harding’s 100 years, Searcy has been its home. The beautiful grounds with centuries-old oaks and iconic dogwoods have been the setting for many lifelong memories made by students living on campus and alumni returning each year to reconnect and celebrate the Harding experience. Keeping campus beautiful is a big job, and the grounds crew works tirelessly year-round toward their mission to design and nurture an environment where people can comfortably connect with God and one another.

Spring

On the first day in early spring when the weather is warm enough to shed a coat, students can be found spreading blankets on the front lawn, hanging hammocks from the tall trees and enjoying the sunshine together.

Spring is an exciting time as flowers begin to bloom and everything turns green. To prepare for this season of new life, the grounds crew cleans out the flower beds and replaces winter plants with those that flourish in warmer weather. They put out new seeds for grass and enjoy the first colors of the season as the daffodils and crocuses begin to bloom.

During Spring Sing weekend, alumni and friends flood the campus, and the beautiful azaleas become the perfect backdrop for family photos. The high energy of the show is enhanced by the vibrant colors bursting from every corner of the grounds.

Dr. Michael Claxton,s English class enjoys the sun on a bright spring day.

Summer

Although summer on campus is quieter with fewer students, it is perhaps the busiest season for the grounds crew. Ample sun helps the plants thrive, so they need constant attention to keep from getting out of control. Just mowing all the grass is a two-week process, and as soon as it’s finished, they must begin again.

Student worker Jadyn Wilhite enjoys mowing yards for the president and first lady and also residence hall coordinators. He loves the satisfaction of a job well done. As a biochemistry and molecular biology major, Wilhite looks for opportunities to rest and recharge after a difficult class or exam. “When things are hard at school, I can let my thoughts be free and just relax while I’m mowing,” he says. Even in the busiest season, working outside helps him connect with God.

Dr. Andrea Morris shares words of encouragement at the 2023 Juneteenth celebration hosted by the Office of Diversity Services.

FallFall is beautiful as the temperatures drop and campus begins to change colors. It’s a season full of family gatherings like Inspire: Lectureship and Homecoming as well as football games and tailgates. Bison fans are decked out in black and gold, complemented by the trees’ new fall color palette. The grounds crew is busy cleaning out leaves, pruning and replacing the flower beds with heartier varieties that thrive in the winter.

Student worker Jacob Hernandez loves the fall. At home in Costa Rica, the seasons are wet and dry, so he enjoys seeing things change more often here. He still doesn’t like the cold, so fall is the perfect compromise. As a business management major, Hernandez enjoys working outside and also learning skills he will need to help run the construction business his family owns after graduation.

Students enjoy the cooler weather on a crisp fall day.

Winter

Winter is a season of rest as students, faculty and staff spend more time indoors. Most plants are dormant, and the grounds crew slows down, focusing on protecting the plants and preparing for the coming spring.

Director of grounds beautification Joe Burton’s favorite season is winter. He sees it as an opportunity to be still and pursue God. This is a time to “contemplate the connection between personal responsibility and hope,” he says. “The beauty of spring is born from the work of fall and sleep of winter. … None of us living things are designed to bloom all the time. We all need rest.”

This slower season is made magical by 500,000 lights adorning the campus during the holidays. Sharing this festive tradition with our Harding family and the local White County communities makes winter even more special.

Lori-Angela Bassay, Cassidy Park, Zoey Donels, Kristine Castro, Ella Bortell and Emma Savage enjoy the annual lighting ceremony on the front lawn.

Home Sweet

Interview by HAILEY PRUITT, photography by AL FOWLER

The Courts at Berryhill, featuring eight pickleball and six tennis courts, opened June 30, 2023, and provide a great way for students and community members to get outside and move.

Searcy Beats and Eats hosts various events throughout the year including the New Year ,s Eve Ball Drop complete with live music, food trucks and fun!

In the center of Searcy’s historic downtown sits the White County Courthouse. Completed in 1871, it is the oldest in the state still being used for its original purpose.

Searcy’s

small-town atmosphere provides an ideal environment for Harding’s community to thrive. Searcy Mayor Mat Faulkner (’02) sat down with us to discuss the relationship between the University and its hometown and how

we can grow together.

How has Searcy changed since you were a student?

In some ways Searcy has changed a lot since I was a student more than 20 years ago. In other ways, it is very much the same. We are seeing tremendous growth in commercial business development and quality of life. This provides students more options for shopping, dining and recreation. There has also been a tremendous arts movement in recent years. You can see this in the public art installations downtown, fantastic year-round festivals and live music options. What has stayed consistent is the genuine hospitality and kindness of the people here, and that is what makes Searcy truly special.

Where would you like to see Searcy in the next five, 10, 20 years?

Searcy recently invested in developing a 20-year master plan based on a high level of input from the community, including Harding. We now have plans for improving our parks system, bike and pedestrian trail system, and infrastructure. Citizens also recently voted to fund the development of a new community center, an outdoor water park, new ball fields, a food truck park, and the development of Riverside Park, which is ideal for rock climbing, paddle sports, soft surface trails, fishing, camping and other outdoor recreation. What an exciting time for Searcy and Harding!

What is the relationship between Searcy and Harding, and how can they grow together?

I really see Harding and the Searcy community as an integrated partnership. What is good for one is good for the other. I love to see how faculty and students intertwine education with community involvement projects. When students have the opportunity to invest their time and talent into improving the community around them, it creates a lasting, positive impact for everyone involved.

How can students, faculty and staff be more involved in the community?

Students, faculty and staff at Harding have so much to offer. When considering how to get involved with the Searcy community, I’d begin by asking, “What is your passion?” and “What talents has the Lord blessed you with?” Try to find organizations, nonprofits and churches with missions that align with your passion and be willing to share your gifts to benefit others. When you take an active role in finding ways to make your community better, it makes you appreciate where you live even more.

CLICK to watch video interview.

Featuring work by local artists, Art Alley showcases the vibrant culture of small-town Searcy.

Built in the 1920s, the historic Rialto Theatre is a great place to catch a movie, especially on $1 Tuesdays!

NEAR THE FOOTHILLS

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography submitted

Our beautiful campus is right in the heart of The Natural State. Arkansas boasts more than 50 state parks with hiking trails, mountains to climb, and rivers and lakes for fishing — abundant opportunities to enjoy God’s creation that Professor of Kinesiology J.D. Yingling wishes to share with students. “I see God’s beauty all around us, from the stars at night to scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef,” Yingling says.

“Talking about beauty and the creativity of God, you reflect on that with the different colors of the coral and the different fish and the patterns. … You can’t grasp how God could be that creative …”

Yingling wanted to share that passion with his students and started the Explore Club in 2019 to equip students who are interested in the outdoors with the information and resources they need to explore safely. Each semester, they organize camping

and hiking trips with activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and caving. Student favorites include Petit Jean State Park, Pinnacle Mountain State Park and Blanchard Springs Caverns.

This year’s president, Lydia Radke, enjoys meeting new people with similar interests and finding new ways to explore together and experience the beauty of God’s creation.

“I see God’s beauty all around us, from the stars at night to scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef.”

— J.D. Yingling

Sugarloaf Mountain Heber Springs, Arkansas (26 miles)

“[When I’m] walking on the trail and thinking about the root systems underneath my feet or the clouds in the sky, it makes me think about how God knows the big picture,” Radke says. “He’s also detail-oriented and cares about each of us so much. … It helps me remember that God created me and the

people around me as the most beautiful part of this creation.”

Yingling and Radke are also leaders of HU Outdoors, an initiative that provides gear for students to use on their own adventures. Through generous donations from faculty and friends, they have gathered tents,

sleeping bags, kayaks, fishing gear and much more. Students especially love the tandem bikes, and they have recently added sleds in preparation for the next University snow day. Thirty to 50 students are taking advantage of this resource each semester, and the effort continues to grow.

Sugarloaf Mountain Heber Springs, Arkansas (26 miles)

Rattlesnake Ridge Roland, Arkansas (66 miles)

Peters Sugar Loaf Marina Higden, Arkansas (44 miles)

Junior Eva Alsam and seniors Courtney Eby, Lydia Radke and Kaylie Stephenson explore Blowing Cave in Cushman, Arkansas. (56 miles)

D

CREATING FOR THE CREATOR

ART COMPETITION CREATES BEAUTIFUL LEARNING SPACES

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography by JEFF MONTGOMERY

As a mechanical engineering major, Cooper Fitch missed opportunities to use artistic talents he had cultivated in high school and decided to enter the McInteer Art Competition. The 2023 contest theme was “David: Psalmist, Sinner, Warrior, King.” Fitch chose to focus on specific objects representing each element of David’s life and placed them in his hands — an intimate representation of David’s humanity.

Chosen as the 2023 winner, Fitch spent the summer completing charcoal drawings on a scale larger than he had ever worked with before. An engineering intern in Michigan, he had to transport these pieces and all his supplies more than 1,000 miles and work on the collection in a makeshift workspace. The experience gave him an opportunity to spend more time in Scripture and practice relying on God.

“I had to go back and really identify what made these different aspects of [David’s] life important,” Fitch said. “What struggles did he go through? What challenges did he face? Also, it’s a very tedious process to create these detailed artworks, so just trusting in God, …

not rushing it and learning to be patient all helped throughout this process.”

Fitch is the fourth winner of the McInteer Art Competition, a contest that was designed to fill the McInteer Bible and World Missions Center with art. This project was born out of an effort to curate beautiful spaces where students can better engage with theology and biblical studies.

The competition is organized by the College of Bible and Ministry’s aesthetics committee, which also commissioned Tessa Davidson , assistant professor of art, to create large-scale oil paintings of the Old and New Testaments for the dean’s suite. After more than five months of research and meditation on Scripture, Davidson began with preliminary sketches as she sought to depict the full arc of “the greatest story ever told.”

“Art echoes how God communicates with us,” Davidson said. “When God proclaims truth, he doesn’t just do it through words; he does it through colors in the sky. … Putting an emphasis on filling these spaces with beautiful color combinations and … also turning those beautiful images into proclamations of the gospel … is one of the greatest things we can do.”

The figures in the paintings were modeled by members of the Harding community from all over the world showcasing an intimate connection to the University and the global nature of the kingdom of God.

A local church elder is building frames for the pieces from old pews, reflecting the unity of the people of God, a partnership between the University and local congregations. The Old Testament piece is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

A NEW LIFE FOR THIS OLD HOUSE

Creating an immersive and inspired occupational therapy experience

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography by JEFF MONTGOMERY

The University’s newest graduate program in occupational therapy is set to begin with the first cohort in June. Students can complete Arkansas’ only master’s program in two years, allowing them to enter the workforce sooner and helping address a shortage of health care professionals across the state.

In addition to classroom and office space in the newly renovated Health Sciences Building South Main Campus on Main Street in Searcy, a house on campus is being remodeled to simulate a typical Arkansas home where students can practice hands-on skills in a real-world setting. Located at 605 E. Center St., it previously housed offices such as parking and transportation and student health services, but in the late 1980s it was home to Arvis Ganus, younger brother of President Clifton L. Ganus Jr.

Due to epilepsy, a childhood accident and surgery, Arvis suffered brain trauma that affected his intellectual development. Despite this disability, the family provided ways for him to participate in normal life. Young Clifton included Arvis in all his activities — even taking him to boy scout camp though Arvis was not a scout — so he would never feel limited. Arvis was especially quick with arithmetic, and his parents gave him a job in their restaurants in New Orleans so he would have a role to play in the family business.

After their parents died, Arvis was cared for by his brother James and sister-in-law Doris for several years before he moved to Searcy in 1987.

Living on Harding’s campus gave him a community as well as independence, and he enjoyed taking walks and

getting to know students and faculty. He lived in the home until his death in 1993. When the faculty discovered this house had already served many occupational therapy needs, though unofficially, it seemed like the perfect fit.

“I was thrilled at the prospect of utilizing this home for contextual learning,” assistant professor Melodie Mauney said. “The historical connection with the Ganus family enriches our connection to the Harding community, merging past and present, theory and practice while creating an immersive and inspired educational experience.”

Occupational therapists provide independence for their patients, helping them learn or regain skills or make modifications to their spaces that facilitate normal activities. They help increase patients’ quality of life, give them a sense of purpose and support their dignity.

In the same way the Ganus family and Harding community included Arvis in daily activities and helped him live a mostly independent life with dignity, the occupational therapy program seeks to train students who will serve their communities with compassionate and

Assistant professor Melodie Mauney explains to Kay and Edwin Hance how using this sock aid can increase their independence.

Occupational therapy student Michaela Potter assists Edwin Hance in practicing with a wireless hand rehabilitation system.

Occupational therapy student Caitlann Potter demonstrates use of a self-feeder with Kay Hance.

A Spirit-led mentorship

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography by JEFF MONTGOMERY

s the University’s first lady and Women of Faith advisory board chair, Lisa Williams spends a lot of time with students, especially young women. In conversations over the past two years, she has noticed many are looking for guidance, direction and someone to walk with them through one of the most pivotal seasons of their lives, but they don’t know how to find mentors.

If we don’t get close enough to listen, we’re not going to get close enough to love.”

— Marette Jorgenson

FACING PAGE

University first lady Lisa Williams meets with sophomore health studies major Ryleigh Reddell (left) and junior interdisciplinary studies major Jiana Manglicmot.

As the advisory board began to establish pillars on which the Women of Faith initiative would be built, Williams prayed for God’s provision of resources to support these young women. On a presidential tour stop in Nashville, Tennessee, she sat with Topper Long at lunch and shared with him her ideas and the needs she was seeking to address. Long and his wife, Carole, have two daughters and have invested in young women in many ways, including establishing the Lois and Eunice Scholarship for female Harding students. While attending a women’s event in Nashville, Long had met author and speaker Marette Jorgenson. Their conversation led to a deep friendship and a bookwriting partnership, and Long knew Jorgenson had the heart and experience to help.

These Christian servants were amazed — though not surprised — by the Holy Spirit’s leading

through the entire process. From Searcy to Nashville, Tennessee, to a small town in Minnesota, they have opened their homes to each other, shared their life stories and committed to partnering to bless others, especially Harding students.

After Long’s encouragement to connect, Jorgenson contacted Williams to hear about her ideas. She then volunteered to write a curriculum for mentoring groups on campus. The devotional’s title, “Arm in Arm,” conjures the image of people walking with linked arms. This is both a strong and an intimate connection. It’s a posture that requires intentional relationship, which Jorgenson sees as the foundation of mentoring.

“... Listening is the first step in mentoring,” she says. “If we don’t get close enough to listen, we’re not going to get close enough to love.”

This semester Williams and Jill Davis, spiritual formation liaison for the Women of Faith initiative, are organizing presentations in women’s breakout chapel sessions based on Jorgenson’s devotional. They are also piloting a mentorship program where women in Harding’s community — faculty, staff and friends — lead small groups of female students through the study. For eight weeks, they will share their lives and their faith, focusing on recognizing one’s identity in Jesus Christ, with the hope that some students will be ready to lead groups of their own at the end of the experience.

“My hope for this program is for Harding women to learn and grow in wisdom and stature in preparation for the lives ahead that they will live. Older women who have a variety of experiences can pass on wisdom to the next generation. Our graduates can carry this forward with them and have a way to respond to the things they will experience in their lives because of what they’ve learned from a woman who’s already lived many more years.”

— Lisa Williams

THE BEAUTY OF COMMUNITY

NURTURING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS

By HAILEY PRUITT, photography by JEFF MONTGOMERY

Building meaningful relationships is at the core of a Harding experience. Every year, students make connections with classmates, professors, staff members, alumni and members of the local community that will last a lifetime. Whether they are learning strategies for the board room or classroom, hospital or pharmacy, students are also building a supportive network of people who want to see them thrive.

The following are just a few examples of how this kind of intentional investment is happening all over campus.

COACHING TOMORROW'S LEADERS

Working in the Waldron Center for Entrepreneurship and Family Business has given sophomores Mario Mejia and Nathalie Candanedo opportunities to learn more about entrepreneurship, be inspired to take risks, and pass along what they are learning to other student entrepreneurs.

“I thought that entrepreneurs were just people who wanted to make money, but working in the center has changed my mind. Entrepreneurs are actually the ones who support the economy because they create new jobs, encourage growth and innovate.”

— Mario Mejia

The Waldron Center was established in 2016 by David (’76) and Betsy (’83) Waldron to focus on entrepreneurial academics and competitions as well as business development for startups and familyowned businesses. Director Phil Brown and associate director Patti Summers are mentoring Mejia and Candanedo, giving them opportunities to learn marketing and business strategies through coordinating events on campus and contributing to the center’s social media plan. Together they provide advice and resources for other student entrepreneurs.

Mejia has learned that the risk of entrepreneurship is worth it. Experimenting with business plans as part of competitions like the Arkansas Governor’s Cup and Bison Business Shark Tank gives students the opportunity to

practice in an environment with less risk so they are better prepared for the marketplace after graduation.

Walton Scholars Mejia and Candanedo will return to El Salvador and Panama after graduation. Using the skills and connections they gain, they plan to start their own businesses that will support the economies and development of their home countries.

“We are learning how to run social media, manage events and apply all kinds of skills we will need for our future. They inspire us to keep going, learning and innovating.”

— Nathalie Candanedo

Dr. Phil Brown considers marketing strategies with sophomores Mario Mejia and Gerardo Murcia, senior Irvin Briceno, and sophomore Nathalie Candanedo.

EMPOWERING FUTURE EDUCATORS

Emily Byrd (’23) was given the opportunity to intern in a local elementary classroom for a full school year and jumped at the chance to experience all the important moments with her students. Although there is no way to be completely prepared for the first year of teaching, she knew learning classroom management during crucial seasons like the first week of school and the first week after Christmas break would set her up for success in her career.

Byrd was among the pilot class of interns in the Canon-Clary College of Education’s residency program. In partnership with the Searcy School District, the college places student interns in classrooms for a full academic year so they can better understand the environment and gain skills that will prepare them for their future classrooms.

“Harding’s yearlong residency students are getting the absolute most out of their internship program,” Searcy Schools Superintendent Bobby Hart says. “Graduates from the program going into the classroom are equipped with a year of experience under their belts. Our classroom teachers learn just as much about their instructional work as the interns. The program is a win-win for everyone involved. We are thrilled to be a partner.”

Placed in a third grade classroom at Sidney Deener Elementary School with Wendy Leitz, 2022-23 Searcy School District Teacher of the Year, Byrd loved getting to know her students and watching them grow. She also built relationships with fellow teachers and school staff who both

“Harding’s yearlong residency students are getting the absolute most out of their internship program.”

— Dr. Bobby Hart

supported her during her internship and welcomed her with open arms when she decided to stay for her first year of teaching.

“We are so glad to have Ms. Byrd on staff at Sidney Deener,” principal Jeff Graham says. “Having her on our campus for the entire school year allowed us to see what kind of person and educator she was and could become. [She] is quickly establishing herself as an educator with the knowledge and desire to be successful in an ever-demanding field."

“Coupled with a joyful, Christian spirit and a passion for children, there is no doubt that Emily will play a tremendous role in shaping the lives of children wherever God calls her. I look forward to witnessing it.”

— Allison Parker

Now teaching second graders, Byrd knows the curriculum they will be taught next year and is well suited to prepare them for the next step. Her residency supervisor, Allison Parker, has no doubt that she will make a significant difference in the lives of her students.

Emily Byrd ('23) discusses a lesson plan with her mentor, Wendy Leitz.

INVESTING IN ADVANCED NURSES

Dona Clarin moved to Searcy to start Harding’s family nurse practitioner program in 2017 and wanted her students to have the same experience she had had as an undergraduate student even though they would not be on campus. Creating an online graduate program with the same highly relational experience was a challenge, but the faculty were up to the task.

Students travel to Searcy three times during their program: at the beginning of their first semester, in December before they graduate, and the week before their commencement ceremony. In between, they connect with peers and professors through virtual and recorded lectures or meetings, texts, and phone calls. Each cohort also shares a prayer and praise list so they can carry each others’ burdens to the Lord together. In addition to traditional coursework, students gain hands-on experience in clinical settings across the country where faculty supervisors travel to meet their preceptors and see students apply their knowledge.

Students know their professors care about them as individuals — physically, relationally, emotionally and mentally — not just academically. Clarin is known for saying, “Only Jesus was perfect,” as she encourages her students to create a healthy work/life/school balance. Sacrificing a few points to spend time with their families or give themselves enough space to handle the next test well prepares them for the future. They learn the importance of taking responsibilities to their families and their own health just as seriously as commitments to their patients.

Small class sizes help create meaningful relationships and help professors learn what each student needs. Faculty also work in clinical settings and share their weekly experiences with students, walking them through realworld scenarios and discussing how they should be handled.

This supportive culture does not sacrifice excellence. Harding graduates are regularly chosen for jobs and internships based on the excellent reputation of the Carr College of Nursing.

Family nurse practitioners, like all health care providers, seek to bring healing to communities by caring for individuals — a value at the heart of the Harding experience.

92.8% first-time certification exam pass rate 100% employment rate over the last five years

Family nurse practitioner students Kyle Buckner and Halley Thompson review a patient plan with Dr. Dona Clarin.

MENTORING PROFESSIONAL PHARMACISTS

In November 2023, pharmacy student Jennifer Griffin attended a competitive national rotation at the home office of the National Community Pharmacists Association in Alexandria, Virginia. When her mentor and dean, Dr. Julie Hixson-Wallace, learned Griffin was looking for a place to stay, she reached out to friends in Bethesda, Maryland, whose daughter had recently graduated. They were not ready to be empty nesters, so they jumped at the chance to welcome Griffin into their home.

Faculty like Hixson-Wallace often leverage their personal and professional networks to help make connections for students who are looking for a job, a place to stay or a new church family. She first met Griffin in a College of Pharmacy mentorship group, and through shared interests like hiking and the outdoors, their friendship has grown.

Every year pharmacy faculty lead small groups of students from each level who meet weekly to enhance personal and professional growth. Discussions about social awareness and compassion, resilience, leadership development, financial strategies, and time management provide opportunities to share experiences and improve communication skills while also forging strong bonds.

“I’ve learned that it’s easier to make connections when you intentionally put people together who might otherwise never have met,” Hixson-Wallace says. “We often have more in common than we realize.”

New groups are formed each year, and as students move through the program, they play a new role in their group. They may begin by learning from second- and third-year students about how to manage difficult coursework and then pass on their own experiences once they reach their third year.

“Despite the challenge of early Monday morning meetings, we exchanged words of encouragement, discussed insights on projects and exam preparation, and shared many life stories,” Griffin says. “I’m grateful to have developed relationships with other aspiring pharmacists I may get to work with in the future."

Faculty mentors also benefit from these relationships as they learn more about their students and have the opportunity to intentionally support those who struggle academically, spiritually or relationally.

“Mentorship is a two-way street. As I am helping my mentees and students develop, I am learning from them and growing personally and professionally. It also helps me understand and relate to students. There is a sense of personal and professional satisfaction in mentoring the next generation of pharmacists.”

— Dr. Lana Gettman

Dr. Lana Gettman meets with her mentee group, Mak Black, Kourtnei Jackson and Arryanna Majekodunmi.

CONNECTIONS

1957

REMINDER: Beginning June 15, 2024, the University will no longer be able to maintain alumni email accounts for more than nine months after graduation. For tools and more information about how to transition your data to alternate locations, visit www.harding.edu/alumni.

Jerry Lewis retired from Biogen as associate director of biostatistics in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

1978

Glenda Hardman McEuen married Ronnie Scott on Dec. 6, 2023.

1989

Kim Stacy Spink was awarded Cardinal Teacher of the Year for Special Education from Webb City (Missouri) High School.

1991

Michael Ross has been hired by the Madison (Tennessee) Church of Christ as executive preaching minister. He previously served as president of Ohio Valley University in Vienna, West Virginia, and as executive director and dean at Lipscomb University’s Austin Center in Texas. He has also served in various capacities in the church including as youth minister, deacon and preaching minister. He and his wife, Kerry (’90), have eight children.

1995

Dr. Christopher Phillips has been named chief psychologist for Special Operations Command Europe in Germany. He provides technical expertise, consultation and clinical services in the area of operational psychology, SERE psychology and clinical treatment to special operations forces and SOCEUR headquarters personnel.

2001

Jon and Susan Polk Hardy announce the birth of a daughter, Abby Eleanor, on Oct. 26, 2023. Susan is an attorney, and the couple live in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

2007

Michael (’09) and Emily Morris Daniel welcomed a son, Davy Morris Daniel, on June 13, 2023. Michael is a physician assistant, and Emily is a singer-songwriter and entrepreneur. The couple live in Nashville, Tennessee.

2013

Brady (’14) and Erin Gurchiek Clark announce the birth and adoption of a daughter, Ruthie Lynn. She was born April 17, 2023, and adoption was finalized Sept. 1, 2023. Brady is an assistant professor of pharmacology in Harding’s physician assistant program, and Erin is an adjunct clinical educator in the department of communication sciences and disorders.

PASSAGES

LaVera Novak Childs Leopard (’49), 94, of Wichita, Kansas, died July 13, 2023. She was a kindergarten teacher for the Wichita School system and a longtime member of the Northside Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Kenneth Childs (’53). She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Kenneth Leopard (’52); two children, Cory (’83) and Carrie Ammons; and four grandchildren.

James C. Lankford (’50), 98, of Searcy, died Dec. 2, 2023. He served in the military during World War II from 1944 to 1946. He received his Master of Education from the University of Arkansas. He taught business in schools at Rose Bud, Des Arc and Swifton, Arkansas, as well as Grady and Fort Sumner, New Mexico, for a combined 13 years. From 1963 to 1969, he worked for the PCA and helped many people in the White County community with farm loans. He was elected in 1970 as White County circuit clerk and recorder and served the county for 16 years before retiring. He was a founder and charter member of the White County Cattlemen’s Association, a long-time member of the Searcy Kiwanis Club, Armstrong Caldwell Post 106 of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign War and the West Point Masonic Lodge and was a 32nd degree mason. He was a member of Unity Health auxiliary

having volunteered more than 9,800 hours. He was a member of West Side Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Betty. He is survived by his children, James (’84) and Mary Bolin (’87); three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

William R. Whittle (’58), 87, of Charlotte, North Carolina, died Jan. 6. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Arkansas in 1960. He was a software engineer with IBM working in New York, Arkansas, Georgia and North Carolina. A pioneer in the world of computers, he holds two patents for machine tools. He was a supporter of classical music and Friends of the Arts at Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina.

Harriet McClellan Barrentine (’60), 83, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, died Dec. 31, 2022. She was a kindergarten teacher for more than 20 years at Concord Church of Christ in Brentwood, Tennessee. She also worked as an assistant for Nashville Electric Service and as a bookkeeper for Fleet Transport. She was a member of East Main Church of Christ in Murfreesboro. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Moody (’59); three children, Dana Melton (’84), Shannon and Louis; a brother, Bruce McClellan; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Allan Lloyd Isom (’60), 90, of Little Rock, Arkansas, died Feb. 17. He graduated from Ashland High School and then attended Harding College to pursue a degree in Bible. After one year, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served two years during the Korean War while stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. After the war, he returned to Harding where he met his wife, Carole Thomas. He later attended Harding Graduate School of Bible and Religion where he obtained his master’s degree in 1964. In 1972, he received a Doctor of Education in counseling psychology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He spent many years working with churches in Arkansas, Mississippi

and Louisiana before returning to Harding as a faculty member in 1963. He created Good News Singers and also started Uplift summer camp. During his 34-year teaching career, he specialized in family and spiritual counseling and developed the course titled Christian Home for which he wrote the book Family: A Matter of Relationships. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole Thomas (’60), and children Danny and Alana Rose ('86). He is survived by daughters Susan Henry (’91) and Jeanne Burks (’94); 12 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Lorraine Howard Kelley (’61), 83, of Rockford, Alabama, died Jan. 21. She earned a master’s degree from Georgia Tech University. She was a city planner for MARTA in Atlanta. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, David Sr.; children, David Jr., Danna Schuck and Thomas; brother Will Howard Jr. (’68); and one grandson.

Patrick Casey (’63), 91, of Millington, Tennessee, died Oct. 20, 2023. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. In 1967, he became the pulpit minister in Millington where he worked and served for 33 years. He worked with military families and traveled extensively helping other churches with revivals, evangelism and bus ministry workshops. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Shirley; two daughters, Ann McCorkle and Lareea Taylor; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Phillip Dixon (’67), 78, of Searcy, died Jan. 11. He attended Florida State University and served as the first campus minister for the Call Street Church of Christ. He attended Coast Guard officer candidate school and was stationed in Cape May, New Jersey. He graduated from University of Arkansas Law School in 1974. He spent his career helping people through estate planning in banks in Jonesboro, Mountain Home and Rogers, Arkansas. In 1993, he began working in the advancement office at Harding, later returning to the banking world where he retired from Regions Bank in Little Rock in 2015. He served as a deacon at Southside Church in Rogers and at College Church of Christ in Searcy. He also served as a sponsor for Chi Sigma Alpha men’s social club at Harding for

more than 20 years. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ann Cowan (’68); four children, Carrie Jones, Greg, Matt (’13) and Hannah Wood (’02); one brother, Lynn (’70); and four grandchildren.

Cathy Sue McRae Meadows (’76), 69, of El Dorado, Arkansas, died Dec. 15, 2023. A devoted member of her community, she dedicated her time to her church where she volunteered in the church’s sewing room. She also spent many years serving at Camp Kurios. She is survived by her husband, Mike (’75); two sons, Alan (’98) and Clint (’01); three siblings, James McRae, Lola Lawrence and Sylvia McDonald; and four grandchildren.

Tami Jones Robinson (’83), 63, of Russellville, Arkansas, died Dec. 31, 2023. She taught physical education for 15 years at Oakland Heights Elementary School in Russellville. She also coached women’s basketball at Alread, Arkansas, instructing at Center Valley Elementary School and substituting at Sequoyah Elementary School in Russellville. She was a renowned swimming instructor, teaching at her home, at Camp Caudle in Scottsville, Arkansas and at the Russellville Aquatic Center. She was a member of the West Side Church of Christ in Russellville. She is survived by her husband, Thom (’71); two sons, Jonathan (’12) and David (’14); her mother, Dee Lin Jones; two brothers, Rocky and Calvin; and two grandchildren.

Raymond Dale Duwe (’88), 56, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, died Jan. 7, 2023. He received an MBA from the University of Tulsa. When he was 34, he sustained a brain injury in an automobile accident and became a non-verbal quadriplegic. At the time, he was married and had three young children. His parents became his caregivers. His father, Bill, wrote a book about Ray’s life titled We Still Have Him to Love, which contains advice for other caregivers. He was a member of the Broken Arrow Church of Christ. He is survived by his children, Travis (’19), Nicole Michael (’15), and Raychel Alexander; his parents, Bill and Lawana;

sister, Regina McCoy (’91); and one grandchild.

Howard Norton, 88, of Searcy, died Oct. 22, 2023. In 1961, he and his family moved to Sao Paulo, Brazil, to become missionaries. They spent 16 years in Brazil. He served as editor of the Christian Chronicle and as pulpit minister at Memorial Road Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. In 1997, his family moved to Searcy where he became director of the Institute for Church and Family. In his 70s, he accepted a position as president of the Baxter Institute in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, where he served for three and a half years. He served on the boards of World Bible School and Southern Christian Home. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Jane Pearce. He is survived by his children, Laurie Diles, Thomas and Ted; his sister Donna Roberts; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Kenneth “Ken” Miller, 89, of Lubbock, Texas, died Feb. 18, 2023. He taught speech, drama and English at MacArthur High School in San Antonio. Texas. He served as assistant principal at MacArthur and then as principal of Ralls (Texas) Middle School and Lubbock (Texas) Christian High School. He served as education minister for the MacArthur Park Church of Christ in San Antonio, the Southwest Church of Christ in Phoenix, the Idalou Church of Christ in Idalou, Texas, the Sunset Church of Christ in Lubbock, the Cloverdale Church of Christ in Searcy, and the Pittman Creek Church of Christ in Plano, Texas. After his first wife, Juanell, died, he married Carolyn Jackson Conaster and served 10 years as associate professor of religious education at Harding University. He established the school’s first religious education lab and led teacher training workshops throughout the area. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanell Crawford. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn (’92); children, Kim Stern, Kerry, Karen Davis, Sheila Stanley and Keith Conaster; eight grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

HONORING THE LIFE OF SUZANNE WALLER

1949-2024

Suzanne Holland Waller (’71), 74, of Arlington, Texas, died March 7. One of the first women to graduate magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, she and her husband, Rodney, were also the first married couple in the nation to sit for and pass all four parts of the CPA exam on the first try at the same time. Waller was a highly talented and successful accountant and later owner of A Child at Heart, an upscale doll and toy store that became the third largest dealer of Madame Alexander dolls in the U.S. She was a member of the North Davis Church of Christ in Arlington for 48 years and wrote curriculum for the weekly ladies Bible study for 12 years.

“Suzanne Waller was a trailblazer for women in professional accountancy,” President Mike Williams said. “Her faith, love of family and life of accomplishment serve as a guiding example for the Women of Faith initiative at Harding.”

Serving on the University’s board of trustees from 2003-2016, she was the vice-chair of the Academic Affairs Committee and a member of the Audit, Risk and Compliance and Student Life Committees.

“As a member of the board of trustees, Suzanne Waller sought the optimal well-being of all students, both academically and personally,” said Charles Ganus, board chairman. “Her family continues to support the work of Harding at the highest levels. We are saddened by her passing yet blessed by her great example.”

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Rodney Waller (’71); three children, David (’96), Lynsay Brautnick (’00) and Whitney Bielefeld (’03); and six grandchildren.

By Dr. Ross Cochran

“This is Heartbeat.”

Harding has lost a cherished son. Landon Brady Saunders (’68) died Nov. 14, 2023, in his home in Vermont. He was honored as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year in 1981 and as the Outstanding Alumnus by the College of Bible and Ministry in 2008.

In 1971, Landon founded Heartbeat, a ministry with a unique focus — to speak a message of good news to nonreligious persons and to communicate that message using language common to them. I have followed his work for 45 years and have never known of anyone with a similar vision or ministry.

For more than 50 years Landon’s primary audience was “the outsiders” to whom he spoke primarily through community seminars and 60-second radio spots. “Hi. This is Landon Saunders,” the radio messages began, ending with “This is Heartbeat.” Landon also spoke to churches and produced several film series aimed at nurturing the hearts of Christians. Many may remember his “Heart of the Fighter” films or his “Feeling Good About Being a Christian” series.

In Luke 7:36-50, Jesus is a guest in the home of Simon. Their meal is interrupted by the intrusion of an uninvited woman whom Simon disdains. Jesus asked Simon, “Do you see this woman?” How we view other human beings was important to Landon and became a dominant theme of his work. Do we see the people around us? Can we receive them without forming an attitude about them?

Landon taught me that the two most important questions we can be asking are: (1) What does it mean to be a human being? and (2) What does it mean to be

with a human being? He confessed that everything he knew about being present with other human beings he learned from Jesus, and religion fails whenever it does not see people beyond their ethnicity, gender, politics, age, history or self-presentation.

Knowing his cancer would limit his remaining days, Landon expressed his desire that Heartbeat continue, and he articulated his vision for its future. I was excited to learn that Heartbeat 2.0 is re-deploying his substantial volume of material through various media.

Abilene Christian University received Landon’s archives and announced their plans to construct The Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing. The Center will provide access to his materials as well as opportunities to learn to speak to outsiders.

Landon’s contributions to churches and to God’s work in the world were expressed in unique content based on a high view of people and of God’s love for the entire world. His conviction about our need to love the world as God loves it will continue to call us to be more intentional and careful as we attempt to come alongside those who are skeptical of religion but whom Landon believed could experience something of the life Jesus offers if we are sensitive to how they will hear us and committed to learning from Jesus how to be with them.

To access Landon’s words and ideas and learn more about his legacy, visit thisisheartbeat.com.

To hear more from alumni and friends about Landon Saunders’ impact in their lives, visit magazine.harding.edu.

WALLER PHOTO BY JEFF MONTGOMERY, SANDERS PHOTO SUBMITTED.

New date for Founders Day 2024!

On Thursday, Sept. 5, this special event will mark the end of our yearlong Centennial Celebration. Make plans to come for Harding’s 100th birthday celebration as we open the time capsule, fill a new one, enjoy a picnic on the front lawn and cheer on the 2023 NCAA Football National Champions in their season opener. It’s sure to be a day to remember!

For more information, visit www.harding.edu/centennial