High Point University Magazine | Fall 2022

STEVE WOZNIAK Apple Co-Founder HPU’s Innovator in Residence

ELLEN ZANE

DR. JOHN

MAXWELL

JOE MICHAELS

MARC RANDOLPH Netflix Co-Founder

BYRON PITTS

JINAN GLASGOW GEORGE

CYNT MARSHALL Dallas Mavericks CEO HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence

DEAN CAIN

SUE

RUSSELL WEINER Domino’s CEO HPU’s Corporate Executive in Residence

BOB RYAN Renowned Sports Columnist for The Boston Globe

WILLIAM “BILL” E. KENNARD Chairman of AT&T’s Board of Directors and Former U.S. Ambassador

DEE ANN TURNER Former Chick-fil-A Vice President for Talent HPU’s Talent Acquisition Expert in Residence

Actor Rob Lowe

Named High Point University’s 2023 Commencement Speaker

Lowe’s iconic career spans four decades in film, television and theater. He is also an acclaimed author. Rob has been nominated for two Emmys, six Golden Globes, and four Screen Actors Guild awards. He has starred in the ‘80s classics “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “About Last Night” and “The Outsiders,” as well as television classics such as “The West Wing” and “Parks and Recreation.” He currently stars in and produces FOX’s highly acclaimed “911” Texas-set spinoff “911: Lone Star,” which has been consistently one of the top-rated shows in all of television.

His personal legacy and philanthropy were recognized in 2018 with a Horatio Alger Award, which honors outstanding individuals and encourages youth to pursue their dreams

through higher education. HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein knows Lowe through the Horatio Alger Association, where both are inductees. Qubein helped induct Lowe into the association, which ranks among the nation’s largest need-based, privatelyfunded college scholarships providers. Lowe became the first male spokesperson for Breast Cancer Awareness Day in honor of his mother, who died of breast cancer in 2005.

“The success he has achieved as an artist and the significance of his philanthropic initiatives will encourage our students to pursue their own life of success and significance,” says Qubein. “We look forward to the inspiring insight and experience he will share with the HPU family.”

A LOOK BACK AT HPU’S EXTRAORDINARY COMMENCEMENT SPEAKERS

Rob Lowe, actor, director, producer and New York Times’ bestselling author, will deliver High Point University’s Commencement address on May 6, 2023.

Rob Lowe joins an impressive lineup of HPU Commencement Speakers who inspire students. Here is just a glimpse:

Cynt Marshall CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and HPU Sports Executive in Residence

Steve Wozniak Co-Founder of Apple and HPU Innovator in Residence

Dr. Michio Kaku Physicist and Co-Founder of String Field Theory

Daniel Lubetzky

Founder of KIND Snacks

Laura Bush

Former First Lady of the United States

Dr. Buzz Aldrin NASA Astronaut

Josh Groban Internationally Acclaimed Singer, Songwriter and Actor

Clarence Thomas U.S. Supreme Court Justice

Wolf Blitzer CNN’s Lead Political Anchor and “The Situation Room” Anchor

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan Philanthropist, Activist and Former Queen of Jordan

Condoleezza Rice Former Secretary of State

Tom Brokaw First Co-Anchor of The “TODAY” Show and Anchor and Managing Editor for “NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw”

Gen. Colin Powell Former Secretary of State, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and National Security Advisor

Muhtar Kent Former CEO of the Coca-Cola Company

Invest Your Time Intentionally

Walk around the High Point University campus and you’ll see them. Clocks. They line the walkways of our campus, such as our Kester International Promenade. They represent more than simply telling the time.

HPU students live in an environment where they are actively encouraged to consider time. Not how they spend it, but rather, how they invest it.

Spending is transactional. Investing is transformational. At HPU, we want our students to be intentional about how they invest their time. And so, our many clocks around campus are always on guard, quietly but consistently reminding us of the importance of time.

Compressing Time to Achieve More

The HPU educational experience actually compresses time, helping students to amass in four short years the types of experiences and learning opportunities it might take decades to secure in an organic way.

Consider our Access to Innovators Program as only one example (see page 72). HPU students are mentored by global leaders, including the co-founders of Apple and Netflix, the CEOs of the Dallas Mavericks, Domino’s Pizza, and MyEyeDr., and even leadership expert Dr. John C. Maxwell, among dozens of other industry titans.

Companies invest billions annually to help build leadership and life skills

High Point University provides students with a transformational experience that puts them ahead of other graduates — not a transactional exchange for a diploma.

within their workforce. HPU provides that type of life skills development for all undergraduate students. That’s what I mean by compressing time.

But it’s not only about compressing time. Our campus is magical because we can also slow down time. Yes, in our world of constant digital scrolling, texting and selfies, HPU has created an environment where thoughtful interactions and meaningful reflections on the values that define us can indeed create a suspension of time.

Earning, Learning, Serving

I frequently remind our students that the best way to invest their time is by living according to the rule of thirds. This means one-third of your time should go to learning, one-third to earning and one-third to serving.

If you join us at our Annual Veterans Day Celebration, you’ll see it. HPU students shake hands with veterans and offer a blanket to each veteran in attendance as a small token of appreciation. They sing the national anthem and celebrate the service and sacrifice of our military heroes. What you won’t see at that event is a young person on their iPhone. That’s what I mean by slowing down time.

At HPU, I tell our students, "God breathed life into you. And God created you in His own image." I tell them, “That means God intended for you to be extraordinary! You are extraordinary! You are enough! So don’t mess up what the good Lord created when He created you!”

That is straight talk from a college president you’d be hard-pressed to find in many places.

I’m an immigrant who loves this country, despite its flaws. And I don’t speak on any stage or platform without the flag of the United States of America backing me up. I won’t do it. This nation has provided me with abundant opportunities, and it continues to do so for anyone willing to work hard, serve others and endeavor with faithful courage to make good things come to be. I came here with nothing and have gone on to start businesses, publish dozens of books, consult with corporations and CEOs and yes, serve as the president of High Point University. No one can convince me that they can’t achieve their dreams.

Challenging Students to Achieve the Extraordinary

That’s why High Point University’s call to action is: Choose to Be Extraordinary!

Yes, it is a choice. And the first disciplined action one can take toward becoming extraordinary is intentionally selecting how, where and with whom to invest their time.

That’s why families are flocking to High Point University, a God, family and country school. We welcome one and we welcome all with love and inclusivity. But we do not shy away from proclaiming our faith in God, our appreciation for this nation, and our respect for our students, their families, and all faculty and staff who serve this nearly 100-year-old institution.

Our unique and highly-relevant educational model is built on the development of life skills, values, experiential learning and academic innovation. We’ve even produced detailed publications on each of

these fundamental aspects of the HPU experience (find them on the back cover of this magazine).

It’s why our success rate for HPU graduates is 16 points above the national college graduate success rate. That’s right. Within 180 days of graduating from High Point University, 98% of HPU graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school. Ours is an environment that inspires students to develop their extraordinary potential. To live a life of success, of course, but also a life of significance. HPU teaches students to render value in this competitive, ever-changing world. And at the same time, we insist they live a life of value — serving others and ensuring they leave a trail of goodness and gratitude everywhere they venture.

The Premier Life Skills University is in a constant state of striving. Our 11 years of #1 U.S. News rankings is lovely, but it is not the destination for HPU. The world doesn’t stop and neither do we. We’ve grown our campus from 91 acres to 520, from three academic schools to what will soon be 14 academic schools and from 1,450 traditional undergraduate students to 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students today. We created a new paradigm in higher education that continually transforms to meet the needs of students, of America and of the future.

I invite you to visit High Point University. Until you do, it’s impossible to understand the culture, the spirit and the extraordinary learning environment our campus has to offer. We welcome you to discover the HPU distinction.

Sincerely, Nido R. Qubein President, High Point University

INNOVATION: ACADEMIC PREPARING FOR

THE WORLD AS IT’S GOING TO BE

Academic excellence is expected at top accredited universities around the world, but this is also where the academic model for some universities begins and ends. At HPU, Academic Innovation is the foundational pillar that supports Premier Life Skills, Experiential Learning and Values. Collectively, these four pillars distinguish HPU’s educational model from others and prepare our graduates to succeed.

At HPU, innovation is in our DNA. The illustration to the right depicts the Congdon Hall lobby, where a floor-to-ceiling DNA sculpture lights up. The facility is home to the Congdon School of Health Sciences and the Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy.

Rallying

FOR

Research

HPU’s Annual Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium supercharges students’ confidence to present and perform.

Anthony Quagliata, ’22, had a ball – literally and virtually – at High Point University’s Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium, known as High-PURCS.

As a senior from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Quagliata made a presentation titled “Mixed Reality Research: An Interactive Virtual Scene” at HPU’s 10th annual High-PURCS. The event was held inside the new Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center – a superstructure that exudes innovation and prestige.

Wearing a sharp, gray suit, he looked as if he’d been giving professional presentations for years. The math and computer science major walked his audience of 30 students and faculty through

a video that showed a 3D virtual ball bouncing against real-world objects. He explained how he programmed software and set up cameras to make it happen.

“I worked on the project for a year,” says Quagliata, now in graduate school at Vanderbilt. “It was an awesome experience for me to showcase my work to people. I'm proud of what I've accomplished.”

‘Your Day, Your Opportunity’

Quagliata was one of the hundreds of students who flocked to the annual spring High-PURCS. Each year, students range from seniors to freshmen because HPU welcomes first-year students into the process of scholarly research. The spring High-PURCS event showcased nearly 200 projects.

Anthony Quagliata, ’22

Game design students set up four different demonstrations of original games they created during HPU's Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium in the Qubein Arena and Conference Center. Pictured from left to right are Chris Lenhart, Hunter Holbrook, Julia Oliver, Ryan Mijumbi and Christopher O'Brien.

Mentored by faculty members from a variety of academic departments, these fired-up students make presentations in fields that range from physics and pharmacy to exercise science and English. These presentations run the gamut from “Anthocyanins Modulate Drosophila Melanogaster Feeding Behavior” to “Voldemort’s Vulnerability: Violently Falling Victim to Various Mental Health Disorders.”

Built like an actual business conference, Quagliata shared his research in one of nine private breakout rooms.

Later, during poster presentations, the energy level shoots up throughout the entire corridor that wraps around the arena. It feels like halftime at a basketball game. These show-and-tells happen with students crowding around their peers’ professionally-designed posters on easels as enthusiastic conversation fills the halls.

Earlier that day, they piled into an auditorium to hear a pep talk from High-PURCS’ master-of-ceremonies Dr. Joanne Altman. She’s the psychology professor whose job is to create a university-wide culture of undergraduate research.

“This is your day, your opportunity,” she told them. “Don’t worry about being nervous. The next time will be even easier. You’re setting yourself up for what employers and graduate schools require. You guys do extraordinary work.”

Makes no difference who you are / Anything your heart desires / Will come to you.”

But High-PURCS expects more than wishful thinking. It is demanding. It requires students to conduct original research — not recycled classwork. And HPU gets students started as early as possible in the freshman Research Rookies program.

“Students learn about professors who conduct research on campus and how to get connected with them,” says Altman. “The sooner we get our students connected, the more they can accomplish.”

Striving for Excellence

High-PURCS is like the Olympics for research. The event happens in a short span of time, but preparation for it happens yearround, especially for Altman, the director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Works.

“My challenge and my efforts go toward making sure that undergraduate research and creative works at High Point University reflect our diverse areas of study, which include but also extend beyond the sciences,” she says.

Indeed, dance and voice students also made original presentations, including a performance by 43 singers HPU sent to Disney World for an a cappella competition. They sang “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the movie “Pinocchio.” Its lyrics reflected the day’s events — “When you wish upon a star /

What keeps students engaged, particularly STEM majors and underrepresented students in college, according to her, is the mentorship and connectedness the program provides. Freshmen who complete the program get the title of Research Apprentice, a certificate and a medallion to wear at graduation.

Her office has vast resources to help students successfully complete their research. It offers summer programs in which students stay on campus for free. They get a stipend, and they spend the summer working with a faculty mentor on a project.

“The sooner we get our students connected, the more they can accomplish.”

- Dr. Joanne Altman Director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Works and Professor of Psychology

Senior Garrett Alewine, pictured center, worked with Dr. Cale Fahrenholtz, assistant professor of basic pharmaceutical sciences, on Fahrenholtz’s research to develop a new treatment for neurofibromatosis type 1 that could leave healthy cells untouched.

Summer research opportunities and High-PURCS are just a few examples of HPU’s commitment to professional development. The summer programs end with a speed dating-style event. Students each give 90-second elevator pitches about their projects before a panel of judges from HPU’s staff, who choose the winners.

Lasting Life Skills

Courage and confidence. That’s what High-PURCS and HPU’s other student research programs really teach. No matter the student’s focus, conducting research and making a presentation teaches them new ways to conquer fear and be self-assertive.

Abby Copeland, ’22, a biology and Spanish major, had never before delivered a presentation. The experience made her feel more confident in her capabilities. Her presentation was called “Evaluation of Polymer Surface Modification as an Inhibitor of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Biofilm Formation.” In layman’s terms, she investigated ways to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

“I just fell in love with that research,” says Copeland, who plans to get her master’s in public health. “Getting up in front of other people taught me how to sell myself and present my skill set in a relatively low-stakes situation. It will give me a leg up in the future.”

For Quagliata, High-PURCS taught him to juggle many projects.

“Doing research is a great opportunity to learn, grow and do things you’re not able to do in the classroom,” he says. “I got to pair up with my mentors. We’ve become very close, and those are great connections to have.”

As The Premier Life Skills University, HPU knows the real return on investment is these life skills students built along the way.

“This is what students sell themselves on,” says Altman. “This is what they tell employers they did to showcase their skills and passions.” ■

The Confidence Booster

with a double minor in history and criminal justice. “When you’re in front of people giving a presentation, it’s nerve-wracking.

But once you do it, you know that you are your own expert. You know how many countless hours you’ve spent working on it and how much you’ve dedicated yourself to your project. It’s very rewarding to share what you know.”

experience in research — conducting it and presenting it.”

Having gone to a small high school, Tumilty loved the intimate-sized classes she found at HPU.

“I was able to thrive in this environment because it was very small and student-focused, and you don't get that at every university,” she says.

As a freshman, she dreaded being in front of an audience. That fear faded, thanks to HPU’s undergraduate research opportunities. Today, she is pursuing a career in trial consulting or victim advocacy after she earns her master’s at George Washington University.

“Conducting research helped me step out of my comfort zone,” says Tumilty, who majored in psychology

Her senior presentation focused on the relationship between rekindling and psychological aggression in romantic relationships. With the aid of Dr. Kimberly Wear Jones, associate professor of psychology, Tumilty found that aggression is more likely to occur the more often a relationship is rekindled.

“I know that my research with her is going to benefit me in graduate school,” says the Suffolk, Virginia, native. “I wanted to get more

Her professors became her research advisors, which made doing research even easier.

“I was able to form relationships with all of my professors,” she says. “I wasn't just a number. I was a name and a person to them.”

Looking back on the opportunities HPU offered her, Tumilty shares this advice for future students:

“Go for it,” she says. “You’re going to find a passion in your research. Explore it, and don’t be afraid.”

Victoria Tumilty, ’22, started out shy.

HPU’s Tuition-Free

Master’s Degree

HPU has pioneered a master’s degree in communication and business leadership that complements every career path — equipping students with extra confidence and an enhanced toolkit as they enter the workforce.

In 2020, High Point University President Nido Qubein’s idea to launch a newly minted, tuition-free Master of Arts in communication and business leadership (CBL) sprang from a desire to celebrate the university’s centennial anniversary in 2024.

But in the spring of 2020, everything changed. Seniors across

the country missed out on milestone events and graduated into a tumultuous job market.

That’s when Dr. Qubein pivoted. He accelerated the degree’s debut, offering the benefit to students in the Class of 2020 and celebrating a different achievement — the determination of the HPU community to innovate and expand in the face of a global pandemic.

Not only would this provide an opportunity for the Class of 2020 to return to campus and continue an

academic career that had been interrupted, but it also pioneered a new degree and opportunity for students to come.

Today, the program is graduating confident, business-savvy students who enter the workforce armed with impressive abilities in strategic thinking and messaging, relationship building, leadership, analysis, negotiation and problem solving.

Just ask Maddy McCracken.

Real-World Ready

The Baltimore, Maryland, native completed her master’s in 2022 and says it perfectly complements the undergraduate degree in strategic communication she earned in 2021. Upon graduating, she secured a job in Washington, D.C., as a marketing coordinator for the industry-leading contracting and design-build firm Balfour Beatty.

HPU’s fast-track master’s degree helped make that happen.

“Completing the CBL program gave me a lot of professional self-confidence,” she says. “I learned to write persuasively and gained negotiation skills that I used immediately to negotiate both my salary and my starting date.”

The program is challenging, but McCracken insists it’s well worth the effort.

“There’s a lot of opportunity to gain real-world experience you probably wouldn’t get anywhere else. Whatever you put into the degree, you’ll get back.”

Communicating Confidence

“The goal of this program is not just to help our students land their first job, but rather to make them recession-proof," says Dr. Virginia McDermott, professor of strategic communication and dean of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. “Our students graduate with more confidence. They know they’ve gotten smarter and more skilled, and this knowledge sets them apart.”

The approach is working. Just two years into the program, students report doing remarkably well.

Take it from Juliette Holm, ’21, ’22, now a brand sales specialist with IBM in Dallas, Texas. Holm applauds the program’s impactful focus on life skills that set her apart in a crowded job market.

“Having a strong understanding of your leadership and communication style can set you apart in your early career as others are working to figure that out,” says Holm. “And not only did I improve my negotiation and writing skills, but I also strengthened skills related to photography, podcasting and coding.”

As an undergraduate sales major with a minor in social media marketing, Holm found the program to be a perfect fit.

Maddy McCracken, ’21, ’22

Balfour Beatty

Juliette Holm, ’21, ’22

IBM

“We’re giving our students more, which allows them to be more.”

- Dr. Virginia McDermott Dean of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication and Professor of Strategic Communication

“This program allowed me to dive deeper into the communication side of my education as well as continue to build on my business knowledge,” says Holm.

Learning to be an effective communicator benefits graduates in any field, making the program relevant and valuable to students of all academic majors.

“Graduates need leadership and life skills that can be applied on the job from day one,” says McDermott.

Relevant to Every Major

And the CBL program delivers. Courses require students to work in teams, manage conflict, learn to negotiate and develop complex problem-solving skills, regardless of their future career path.

HPU graduate Kevin Rubin, an agile development associate for Freddie Mac, is a case in point. The

Miami, Florida, native completed his bachelor’s in computer science in 2020 and his master’s in communication and business leadership in 2021. Now he writes code to automate business processes for the mortgage loan company giant.

“I write code, but most of the problems I face are not technical problems — they're people problems,” observes Rubin. “I frequently draw on my negotiation and persuasion skills to convince others that the solution I’m offering is the best one to address their problem.”

And these problems are usually complex.

“I’m constantly analyzing situations to determine the best course of action and then communicating our objectives to both internal players and external vendors to reach a common goal, so strong interpersonal communication skills are critical.”

Rubin says the skills he gained in HPU’s master’s program also gave him the confidence to ask his manager to transition to a new team within the company so he could grow in other areas.

“Before entering the CBL program, I didn’t realize I would need all the skills I learned in those classes, but now I use them daily. I’m glad that I got my master’s,” he concludes. “I’m convinced that had I not, a lot of things would have been much more difficult.”

“Students find themselves in many different situations, and the program meets them where they are,” says McDermott.

Everyone is reaping the rewards.

“We’re giving our students more, which allows them to be more,” adds McDermott. “They graduate with a complete and well-rounded skill set. They’re better communicators and negotiators, they have more confidence and they’re more competitive.” ■

Students who take advantage of HPU’s unique tuition-free master’s degree while living on campus not only save nearly $40,000 in tuition, but studies show graduate degree recipients earn on average $17,000 more per year than someone with only an undergraduate degree. The program is also available online. While tuition is charged for this version of the program, a grant is available that will pay 50% of tuition fees. Alumni take note! The CBL degree program is open to any HPU graduate.

Scan to learn more

Kevin Rubin, ’20, ’21 Freddie Mac

Graduating to

Nawal Dergham, ’20, ’21, an inaugural graduate of the CBL program, credits a large part of her success to HPU’s tuition-free master’s degree. Now a crisis response coordinator at Google, she recently returned to her alma mater to talk to current students about how the skills she took from grad school made her stand out.

Here is just a snippet of what she had to say about her visit:

“It was a bittersweet experience. Just under a year ago, I was sitting in that same classroom listening to other successful professionals talk about their journey in obtaining their respective career goals. Now, I am that successful professional.”

Dergham earned her bachelor’s in journalism, sociology and anthropology, so what initially attracted her to the program is also what draws students from all academic majors — its relevance.

“I got to experience students from other majors giving 45-minute presentations, which some of them

I had the amazing opportunity to guest speak for the graduate-level class, Crisis Communication, at High Point University this week. I spoke to students about my new role as a Crisis Response Coordinator and how I landed my job position.

It was a bittersweet experience. Just under a year ago, I was sitting in that same classroom listening to other successful professionals talk about their journey in obtaining their respective career goals. Now, I am that successful professional.

It was a privilege being asked to come back to my Alma Mater to talk about my accomplishments. The students had so many great questions to ask about what made me believe I was qualified for the job, what my biggest take away from graduate school was and how I made myself stand out from others in my applicant pool. My answers to those questions were simple; be patient, take pride in your achievements and be confident in your abilities.

I owe a huge part of my success to the CBL Graduate Program at HPU!

had never done,” says Dergham. “It was amazing to watch their growth from the first week of class to the end of the year. The CBL program helps you develop skills you never thought you needed.”

The most valuable skill she took away from the program? Effective teamwork.

“My top takeaway was learning how to collaborate efficiently with my fellow classmates. In the corporate world, this skill is vital.”

The program also strengthened her interpersonal skills.

“Being able to understand outside perspectives and adapt to group settings was a huge lesson I learned.”

RECORD-BREAKING Expansion Enrollment &

At 6,000 students, HPU welcomed the largest enrollment in its history with a $400 million growth plan underway.

It was quite a year at High Point University. But then again, when isn’t it?

HPU President Nido Qubein not only garnered $100 million in gifts from three families in just 30 days during the spring semester, but he also announced the next major wave of HPU’s growth that their gifts will help support. This includes a $100 million investment in four new academic schools and facilities, $115 million in new housing for hundreds of students, a $25 million enclosed parking garage, and $75 million in additional campus improvement projects.

The driving force behind it all: Continuous record-shattering enrollment.

In the 17 years that Qubein has led HPU, every year has welcomed the university’s largest group of students and achieved an impressive array of milestones.

That happened this fall, too, with 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students coming to High Point, North Carolina, to live and learn on the campus that is bucking higher education trends of declining

enrollment. It's a campus that students and parents across the country are raving about.

You can see the big-picture milestones that have been achieved since 2005 in the growth chart on page 16. Here’s a look at where the university is going and growing in the years to come as its Centennial Anniversary approaches in 2024.

$400 Million Expansion Underway

Soon after HPU opened the massive, new Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center, it announced major groundbreakings and plans for several others.

During a spring press conference that drew national attention, Qubein announced details of HPU’s next phase of growth: A $400 million investment in academic expansion and construction projects supported by $100 million from three families.

These projects are well on their way, with construction in full force

and the hiring of deans who are leaders in their field to lay the foundation for innovative academic schools.

“HPU has been on a very fast trajectory to grow our academic programs to enroll more students from all 50 states and 50+ countries,” said Qubein. “We’ve expanded our academic programs to meet the needs of not only students today, but the needs of America and of the future.”

$100 Million to Accelerate Academic Growth

In addition to the new Workman School of Dental Medicine announced in 2021, the university will continue advancing its academic growth by adding a new library to campus and launching four more academic schools, all of which will go through appropriate accreditation processes to provide graduate-level degrees. The addition of these schools will bring HPU to 14 academic schools, up from just three in 2005.

“We’ve expanded our academic programs to meet the needs of not only students today, but the needs of America and of the future.”

- Dr. Nido Qubein HPU President

HPU will launch the following:

• School of Law: Mark Martin, the former Chief Justice of the N.C. Supreme Court, is the founding dean. The school expects to welcome its first class in the fall of 2024. A new facility will be built for the school.

• School of Nursing: HPU currently has a Department of Nursing, which welcomed its inaugural class this fall. The university will establish a School of Nursing with undergraduate and graduate degrees to prepare leaders who are ready to meet the growing demands of health care.

• School of Entrepreneurship: This school will complement HPU’s successful entrepreneurship major and HPU’s Entrepreneurship Center. A timeline is in development.

• School of Optometry: A national search for a founding dean is underway. It will be North Carolina’s only School of Optometry. A timeline is in development.

Most of these schools will be built in a hub on the university’s Innovation Corridor. Congdon Hall, which houses the Congdon School of Health Sciences and Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy, is also located here. By creating a centralized hub for graduate education, HPU students will benefit from interdisciplinary learning by connecting and collaborating with each other.

• The $80 Million Charman Library will soon break ground and be focused on innovation and collaboration with ample study space for students. Read more about the four-story facility on page 26.

$115 Million in Student Life Facilities

New, modern housing options are also being added on campus to accommodate growing enrollment. These housing options aren’t just any new dorms — they reflect HPU’s

innovative design throughout campus, as well as its national rankings for best dorms in the nation from Niche and The Princeton Review.

The $80 million Panther Commons facility is under construction in the heart of campus near the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center. It is expected to finish by summer 2023.

The 200,000-square-foot building will stand five stories tall and house 400 students. This new residence hall will also include several retail shops on the first floor, such as a hibachi restaurant, nail salon, mail center, fitness studios, study rooms and more, serving as a hub of activity and engagement.

HPU added 32 new student houses near the Qubein Center that support 140 students. This area is close in proximity to the future Panther Commons facility, establishing a new residential hub in the northwest quadrant of campus.

An artistic rendering of HPU's new $80 million Charman Library provides a glimpse of the innovative study space students will enjoy. The new library will be located next to the R.G. Wanek Center.

The $80 million

The 200,000-square-foot

$100 Million Raised in 30 Days

The $100 million in philanthropic gifts received in 30 days is helping fuel HPU’s expansion. Gifts from three families, two of which are featured on the following pages, were made specifically for:

• A facility for HPU’s Workman School of Dental Medicine. Read more on page 22.

• HPU’s recently announced $80 million, 150,000-square-foot Charman Library Read more on page 26.

• A new School of Law, including a new facility.

HPU may very well be the first university in the nation to engineer an innovative tiny home community on its campus. Featuring about a dozen homes, each houses one student and features a modern, fun design.

Construction on all the new houses totals $10 million and has been completed. The additional housing now supports growing enrollment as 95% of students choose to live on campus.

HPU is also building its first enclosed parking garage with 1,200 spaces on campus behind Congdon Hall and the Wanek School of Natural Sciences. The $25 million project is expected to be completed by December 2022.

Additional campus improvement projects total $75 million and dental practices total $30 million.

Panther Commons facility is under construction near the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center.

building will stand five stories tall and house 400 students. This new residence hall will also feature study rooms, fitness studios and several retail shops on the first floor, such as a hibachi restaurant and nail salon.

HPU is building its first parking garage on campus. The $25 million project will provide 1,200 parking spaces in an enclosed facility.

It was another banner year for HPU as 1,600 new students, the largest in history, were welcomed to campus in the fall. The university also welcomed the largest total enrollment of 6,000 students.

Pictured are students in the Class of 2026, HPU's largest freshman class ever.

The Qubein Center: HPU’s New Hub of Energy

The 2021-2022 academic year marked the first time HPU students enjoyed Division I basketball games, including a game televised on ESPNU, as well as major concerts, research symposiums and events like the Annual Veterans Day Celebration inside this state-of-theart facility.

The Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center gives students an ultramodern superstructure where they can cheer on the men’s and women’s basketball teams. And they do cheer — with purple face paint, homemade signs, roaring energy and endless enthusiasm that fills the stands.

Throughout the year, concerts featuring Train, Rain (Beatles tribute band), Chris Lane, Dancing Dream (ABBA tribute band) and the Disney Orchestra were held here. Visitors say the Qubein Arena makes them feel as if they’re inside Madison Square Garden or a major NBA complex. It’s easy to see why. The scoreboard is the second largest in North Carolina, and the basketball court was designed by the architects who also created the home of the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder.

But this space was built to provide opportunities beyond basketball.

Adjoining the Arena is the Conference Center, an extraordinary space that can accommodate up to 2,500 people and be subdivided into nearly a dozen breakout rooms for captivating presentations. Speakers such as Dr. John C. Maxwell, a New York Times bestselling author and global authority on leadership, have delivered impactful programs here. High Point University’s Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium was also held in the Conference Center.

The Kahn Hotel is also part of the facility and named in honor of Jana and Ken Kahn. The boutique property is an active experiential learning facility for HPU students that includes beautifully appointed suites and rooms, as well as the fine dining restaurant Alo.

“The Qubein Arena, Conference Center and Hotel are a game-changer for the university,” said Daniel Dzamba, father of Kristina Dzamba, ’22, ’26, of North Carolina, after attending HPU’s Fall Family Weekend. “From the campus (can it get any better?), to upping the ante on athletics (we became members of the Panther Club), the new arena and its future possibilities are tremendous.” ■

A Hub for Entertainment

Here’s a glimpse at just a few of the major events HPU students, families, alumni and community members have enjoyed inside the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center since it opened in the fall of 2021.

Train Concert for Family Weekend – HPU students operated the Jumbotron cameras.

A Sunday Morning Worship Service was led by Dr. John C. Maxwell, bestselling author, international leadership authority and HPU’s Executive Coach in Residence.

Performance of “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood – HPU ROTC Member Matthew Redbord, ʼ22, introduced the Grammy-winning artist.

Rain, A Beatles Tribute Band, Concert for Spring Family Weekend – HPU students welcomed the crowd and operated the Jumbotron cameras.

Disney’s “A Dream is a Wish” Concert –Thousands of community members, alumni and families enjoyed this free event.

Dozens of Division 1 HPU Men’s and Women’s Basketball Games were attended by thousands of fans.

ESPNU Nationally Televised Men's Basketball Game – The arena was filled to capacity as the Panthers took on Longwood. Students enjoyed a pregame party with free hot wings, mac and cheese bowls, pizza, ice cream, T-shirts and more.

Free Drive-Through Dinner for First Responders – HPU students thanked the men and women who keep their community safe.

HPU’s Annual Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium, known as High-PURCS, found a new home inside the Arena and Conference Center.

The “Onward with Faithful Courage” Senior Send-Off was delivered by HPU President Nido Qubein to the Class of 2022 inside the Conference Center.

Rick and Angie Workman

The Workman School of Dental Medicine anticipates welcoming its inaugural class in the fall of 2024.

Opposite page: Pictured from left to right are Madison and Jordan Workman, HPU President Nido Qubein, Angie and Dr. Rick Workman, Founding Dean Dr. Scott De Rossi, and Jared and Meredith Workman.

High Point University announced during a major event this spring that the future dental school will be known as the Workman School of Dental Medicine in honor of Dr. Rick and Angie Workman.

HPU was blessed this year with a $32 million donation from the Rick and Angie Workman Foundation. Dr. Workman is HPU’s Dental Innovator in Residence and the founder of Heartland Dental, which supports more than 1,600 dental offices nationwide.

“We are grateful for the generous donations from people like Dr. Rick Workman and his wife Angie,” said HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein during the event. “This is what keeps our community and HPU family growing. Our growth is on merit and by design, and we appreciate the faithful courage from the entire HPU family as we expand our academic schools and campus.”

This donation is part of a recordbreaking $100 million investment from three separate families in 30 days in the spring of 2022.

“HPU’s values and focus on life skills are both unique and desperately needed today in higher education,” said Dr. Workman. “My family and I are grateful to be a part of such a dynamic institution and partner with the amazing leadership of President Qubein.”

“This is an incredible, transformational gift for the School of Dental Medicine,” said Dr. Scott De Rossi, founding

dean of the new school. “Dr. Workman is a pioneer in the field of dentistry dedicated to excellence in our profession. He knew a gift this size would enable us to lead the way in oral health care and education. With this gift, we will create a dental program second to none. It is an honor for our school to now carry the Workman name.”

Dr. Workman serves as Heartland Dental’s executive chairman. He graduated from the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine and practiced dentistry for nearly 20 years before founding the company in 1997. It was during his time as a practicing dentist that he realized there had to be a better way to balance the clinical and business sides of the field. This is when he created Heartland Dental and started growing his team to provide dental support.

Today, Dr. Workman provides leadership advice to more than 1,600 dental offices nationwide through various speaking engagements. Heartland Dental supports dentists as they provide high-quality care to offices in 38 states through non-clinical, administrative support services. ■

- Dr. Rick Workman

Founder of Heartland Dental and Namesake for HPU’s Workman School of Dental Medicine

Angie and Dr. Rick Workman

Watch HPU News:

Scan this QR Code to watch moments from the press conference where HPU President Nido Qubein announced Dr. Rick Workman, founder of Heartland Dental, and his wife, Angie, as the benefactors for the Workman School of Dental Medicine.

“High Point University has a great opportunity to quickly become one of the best dental schools in America.”

Dental School Distinction HPU's

In the fall of 2024, High Point University will welcome its first class of students to the Workman School of Dental Medicine.

They’ll benefit from a unique learning model in one of the most distinctive dental schools in the nation.

“We want to educate our students in team-based care in authentic learning environments,” says Dr. Scott De Rossi, founding dean of the school, which will also be North Carolina’s only private dental school.

Dental Education Done Differently

De Rossi and his team have built an experiential model for the school to prepare its graduates for the world as it is going to be. This includes acquiring a network of dental practices that are now part of High Point University Health – a robust network of locations where students in HPU health programs gain hands-on experience.

Several practices across the state, including flagship locations in Greensboro and High Point, have opened. The owners and staff are employees of HPU and are

committed to helping prepare the next generation of dentists.

“We will embed students in these practices to treat patients where they are,” says De Rossi. “Patients are already coming to these established practices for dental care, and our students will get real-life, experiential learning.”

Already, half a dozen dental practices are operating as part of HPU Health.

"These include some of the very best practices, doctors and staff in the Triad,” says De Rossi. “Through this academic oral health network, our students, faculty and staff will provide patient care and experiences unparalleled in dental academia. We’re creating a health network that allows HPU students to get the best dental education in the United States.”

A Futuristic Facility

The approach reflects HPU’s commitment to being The Premier Life Skills University. And it furthers the work De Rossi and his team have accomplished in building an innovative dental school.

Soon, ground will also be broken for a new facility, and HPU’s dental school will feature the latest augmented reality and high-fidelity simulation technology, as well as state-of-the-art lab and classroom spaces.

In addition to DMD students, HPU’s dental school will also provide residency programs in advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD), pediatric dentistry and several other specialties.

“High Point University’s innovative culture and the thriving community of health care programs are the talk of higher education,” says De Rossi.

“Being a founding dean is a unique privilege, and helping to start and grow a school of dental medicine is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The distinction of doing it at a place like HPU under the guidance of President Qubein and his leadership team is a dream come true.” ■

About HPU’s Workman School of Dental Medicine:

HPU will establish the only private dental school in the state of North Carolina, which will be housed in a new 80,000-squarefoot building on HPU’s Innovation Corridor.

HPU’s dental school will own and operate dental practices throughout the local community and across the region. Several practices and flagship locations have already opened.

The total investment in the program is expected to be $150 million.

Dr. Scott De Rossi is the founding dean of the new school and formerly served as dean and professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Adams School of Dentistry.

At full capacity, HPU’s highly competitive and prestigious dental program will bring 240 new students to campus.

The proposed Doctor of Dental Medicine degree program, pending SACSCOC and Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) approval, will enroll its first class in fall 2024.

“We’re creating a health network that allows HPU students to get the best dental education in the United States.”

- Dr. Scott De Rossi Founding Dean of the Workman School of Dental Medicine

Charman Family Gives

to High Point University $30 Million

High Point University President Dr. Nido Qubein unveiled a $30 million transformational lead gift from John and Lorraine Charman to help fund the new $80 million library , which is expected to be completed in 2025-2026.

The new facility will be named the John and Lorraine Charman Library in honor of their generous contributions to the growth of the university.

“John and Lorraine Charman are a wonderful couple who stepped up with faithful courage to invest in our library and in several other important projects on campus," says President Qubein.

John and Lorraine Charman’s gift will fund HPU's new library.

Pictured from left to right are HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein and Lorraine and John Charman.

“They are planting seeds of greatness for HPU students like their daughter Olivia. It is a blessing to have the advocacy and trust from people like John and Lorraine, who share our passion for a valuesbased education, and the lasting impact that a library will make on our students."

The Charmans have a love for literature, particularly in printed books. “Helping build a state-ofthe-art library at HPU is the perfect opportunity for us to share our passion for books with the HPU community. It is our sincere hope that this library creates another environment on campus for students to learn, grow and challenge themselves,” says Lorraine Charman.

This gift is part of the $100 million in support donated by three separate families, which was announced at a press conference in March.

“High Point University is committed to preparing students for the world as it is going to be,” says John Charman. “President Qubein leads a culture that is focused on instilling life skills and values in HPU students.

Lorraine and I are proud to partner with such an innovative and highly relevant institution.”

John and Lorraine Charman are both retired business leaders living in Palm Beach, Florida, and Bermuda. The Charman family are huge HPU advocates who have supported the university from the moment their daughter Olivia enrolled. Olivia, a proud HPU Panther, is a Dean’s List student majoring in criminal justice and psychology. Olivia also has a minor in French.

John is a recently retired executive officer for Sompo Holdings, Inc. He served as the CEO and Executive Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors from 2013 to 2021. As CEO of the Overseas Insurance and Reinsurance Business, John directed the integration of Sompo businesses into a truly global enterprise.

Before joining the team, he founded and held chief executive roles at a series of companies. In 2001, John founded Axis Capital Holdings, Ltd, where he served as the CEO. He also served as the deputy chairman of the Council of Lloyd’s, and a member of the Lloyd’s Core Management Group and Lloyd’s

Market Board between 1995 and 1997. He retired after 50 years in the insurance industry.

Lorraine earned her bachelor’s degree from Stonehill College and her master’s degree from Northeastern University. Lorraine began her career in human resources at Racemark International, before moving into financial services with KeyCorp in 1988. Working primarily in employee relations and employment, she also was a part of the M&A integration team and became the Vice President of employee relations.

In 1992, her experience at KeyCorp led her to Franklin Resources where she served in several senior human resources roles, initially focusing on HR integration and building an HR team. In 2002, Lorraine joined Axis Capital Holdings, Ltd as chief human resources officer, where she remained before retiring in 2006.

John also serves on the Board of Masterworks Museum of Bermuda, where he started the Charman Prize for the museum in 2008. Initially an annual prize, the Charman Prize is a juried art prize which just celebrated its 10th year. ■

About HPU’s Future Charman Library:

HPU’s $80 million Charman Library will provide ample study space for students. The ultramodern, four-story facility will feature 150,000 square feet of textbooks, digital databases, private study spaces, and a gallery featuring historical artifacts and displays of HPU’s expanding collection of artwork. It will feature the Library of Congress Classification System and become the main library on campus, supplemented by several existing satellite libraries across campus.

Premier Engineering Experiences

As a mathematical economics and computer science major at HPU, Kelsey Quinn, ’20, leveraged every opportunity presented to step outside her comfort zone.

“At HPU, I was exposed to many skills, such as being able to effectively communicate, not only with engineers but also with business counterparts,” says Quinn. Her exposure to HPU’s emphasis on life skills was thanks to many hands-on experiences.

“I took part in the inaugural data analysis course, had research published in the cybersecurity space and got exposure to artificial intelligence prior to entering the

workforce,” she recalls. “I was also part of the Woz Project, where I gained project management and leadership skills working alongside students and Steve Wozniak, Apple co-founder and HPU’s Innovator in Residence, to build an autonomous golf cart.”

Quinn knows these experiences, and many others, were instrumental in helping her land her current position as a municipal securities team leader at Bloomberg LP.

“There is not a day that goes by where I do not use something that I learned in the mathematical economics or computer science programs,” says Quinn. “These programs, when utilized to their full capacity, set you up for success, whatever you choose as your next steps after college.”

Achieving Ambitious Goals

Quinn’s experience reflects the goals upon which the Webb School of Engineering was formed in 2018: To prepare HPU graduates to compete successfully in a competitive job market.

In these formative years, Founding Dean Dr. Michael Oudshoorn and his team have intensified their work to strengthen the program. The

HPU's Webb School of Engineering equips students with hands-on experiences, life skills and technical knowledge, preparing them to excel in all areas of their careers.

school’s offerings include three degrees in computer science, two degrees in electrical and computer engineering, and four degrees in mathematical sciences.

And with a diverse team of expert faculty, particularly with a strong representation of women among electrical and computer science faculty, every student benefits from valuable, relatable mentors and role models.

A Practical Approach to Success

Dr. William Suchan, associate professor of computer science and department chair, whose expertise is in digital privacy, cybersecurity and IT education, believes HPU’s educational philosophy encourages students to follow their passions with an entrepreneurial mindset.

“I tell students and parents, ‘Don’t look at graduation as the finish line — that’s the starting line,’” says Suchan. “We want to set students up to be successful when they graduate, so we teach principles that will hold no matter what they’re doing.”

It’s an approach that yields results.

“Our students are getting jobs immediately out of HPU,” says Suchan.

Owen Kelley, ’25, (left) and Ashlinn Corcoran, ’25, (center) work with MakerSpace Manager Matt Eaton (right) in the Webb School of Engineering's MakerSpace where they bring their projects to life — like this custom robot developed as a teaching tool.

These results are evidence that HPU successfully strikes the balance between theory and practice.

“The industry isn’t looking for engineers who are strictly theoretical or strictly technical; companies are looking for people who are jobready,” says Suchan.

“HPU’s engineering programs prepare you for a variety of career paths,” says Quinn. “I didn’t go into the field of my major. Instead, I chose to go into data analytics and leadership. HPU’s Webb School of Engineering set me up for success in all areas of my professional journey.”

Bringing Theory to Life

Engineering students have access to highly equipped makerspaces and a state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab that enables students to build and test security systems so they will be up to speed on the latest tools.

To Dr. Sean Johnson, assistant professor of electrical engineering, the impact is undeniable.

“The hands-on experiences our students get as undergraduates really set them apart,” says Johnson. “It makes our offerings unique, and it ensures that our students graduate with both the theoretical and applied knowledge needed to be practicing engineers.”

It’s not an approach seen in most undergraduate programs. And students notice.

“The opportunity for hands-on learning is one of the main reasons I decided to attend HPU,” says Ashlinn Corcoran, ’25, a double major in computer science and neuroscience from Hamilton, Virginia. “Everyone here places great emphasis on learning to gain experience rather than to just accumulate knowledge.”

Corcoran has her sights set on a job in artificial intelligence, and she’s

confident that her HPU experience will give her an edge over graduates of other institutions. Like when she worked with Wozniak on a special project that involved reading brainwaves through a headset and then converting those thoughts into commands that control a device.

“Graduates from other schools may have the same degree by name, but I’m getting so many extras in my courses — from guidance on handling interviews to insights on landing internships and jobs — that I feel confident I can get my foot in the door,” she says.

HPU is known as The Premier Life Skills University. And Corcoran has experienced the truth in that title.

“Our professors are constantly teaching us things we’ll use in real life rather than just encouraging us to memorize for a test,” she says. “They really want us to succeed.”

Engaging Internships

To Johnson, internships are an important means of developing students’ toolkits.

He encourages students to try both an industry and research internship to gain a better understanding of their likes and dislikes. And he’s there to help students explore opportunities and complete the application process.

“We’re setting expectations for students,” says Johnson.

Luke Schooley, ’23, is a perfect case in point. The computer engineering major has leveraged every opportunity to apply the knowledge he’s gained, and he’s certain his education will translate to greater marketability.

The Woolrich, New Jersey, native will be among the first graduates to

Roger Shore, associate professor of computer science, leads students through class in HPU's state-of-the-art cybersecurity learning facility.

No matter your professional pursuits, you’re likely to know of Steve Wozniak. The co-founder of Apple Computer is renowned for his role in pioneering the first personal computer.

What many may not realize, however, is that Wozniak is equally enthusiastic about educating the next generation of engineers, a task he embraces as HPU’s Innovator in Residence.

Along with the many benefits the Webb School of Engineering offers, students enjoy the rare opportunity

Students Collaborate with Apple Co-Founder

to work with the industry giant through HPU’s Access to Innovators Program.

Wozniak visits campus several times each year, attending classes, holding small group discussions, giving advice and guiding engineering school students in special projects.

For example, take this piece of wisdom Wozniak gave to students working on a device that reads brainwaves:

“I look for little signs of obstacles if I’m running into one issue after another issue,” said Wozniak. “Those signs may make you take a different direction, but you’ll be proud of it when you get it done. That’s the biggest motivator in my life.”

Wozniak guided students through troubleshooting while performing tests on their high-tech device. He

also suggested other projects for the team to work on together.

Students respond with enthusiasm.

“For a computer science major, meeting Steve Wozniak was really helpful and beneficial to see his insight into how computer science and technology are helping society,” says Caitlin Black, ’25. “HPU opens the door to a lot of people who could really help connect you with your career.”

Wozniak is also impressed by his interactions with students.

“In the time I’ve spent on campus, I’ve found that transformation at HPU is second nature,” he says. “HPU students will be builders, and they shouldn’t be afraid to build. That makes the Webb School of Engineering a great addition to HPU’s excellent academic programs.”

receive a degree in computer engineering from HPU. But he says the impressive resume he has built during his three years at the university is just as important.

“All core engineering classes have a lab section, so you immediately apply the knowledge you learn in class in a lab,” says Schooley.

Then there are the summer research opportunities. Schooley spent the summer after his sophomore year researching biophysics in the HPU physics department.

“I created a neural network that performs mathematical parameters from an EKG in order to predict if someone is going to start experiencing arrhythmias,” he says.

And over the summer, Schooley interned with the medical technology company Siemens Healthineers, exploring ways to control and automate the systems that create lab diagnostic tests.

“I’m confident I’ll be graduating with more hands-on experience than students from other institutions,” he says. ■

“These programs, when utilized to their full capacity, set you up for success, whatever you choose as your next steps after college.”

- Kelsey Quinn, ’20 Municipal Securities Team Leader at Bloomberg LP

Health Care Education the Future ofExpanding

HPU’s Congdon School of Health Sciences adds more innovative programs.

In the offices of Drs. Kristin Ackerman and Racquel Ingram, you’ll see whiteboards written in a rainbow of colors and smiley faces that depict partnerships students have with local health care facilities.

Dr. Racquel Ingram, left, is the founding chair for HPU's new Department of Nursing.

These whiteboards unveil the creativity of two busy minds and caring mentors who have contributed to High Point University becoming a health care leader in higher education nationwide.

In the past decade, HPU has invested $500 million in new buildings and programs ranging from pharmacy and dentistry to physical therapy and physician assistant studies.

This fall, Ackerman and Ingram spearheaded two new programs in HPU’s Congdon School of Health Sciences. Ackerman started a master’s degree program in biomedical sciences, and Ingram started a nursing program that will eventually grow into HPU’s School of Nursing.

Both Ackerman and Ingram are passionate. Just look at their whiteboards. Or better yet, talk to their students. They feel their passion, too.

A New Era Begins

Ackerman recently had a heart-toheart with her students.

“You’re creating a legacy, and you were chosen for a reason,” she told them. “You’re building the foundation of the program.”

For a week, they talked. Ackerman listened. They opened up to one another, gave presentations and reflected on their future.

So began the year-long program.

Since then, Ackerman’s students have participated in many hands-on learning opportunities and become better critical thinkers. When they graduate, they'll have a better understanding of what they want to do in the medical field.

Take Gabrielle Ryan, a graduate student in the Congdon School of Health Sciences from Durham, North Carolina, for example. She graduated in May from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a B.S. in biology and a minor in neuroscience, but when she came to HPU, she told Ackerman she was unsure about her future career.

HPU recently welcomed the inaugural cohort for the master's in biomedical sciences. In the top row from left to right are Gabrielle Ryan, Jessie Nouman and Dr. Kristin Ackerman, program director. In the bottom row from left to right are Faith Wheeler, Blair Cloutier and Shelby McCook.

Confidence To Do Anything

With every job interview, Kelley Gosling, ’20, ’22, heard the same thing.

“Tell me about NASA.”

She did. She’d tell them about spending four months in Florida as an athletic training intern for NASA. She worked with their employees, ages ranging from 25 to over 65, and helped with whatever health concerns they had.

Her spring 2022 clinical rotation with NASA represented her fifth during her 23-month stint pursuing her master’s in athletic training at HPU.

In December 2020, she earned her undergraduate degree in exercise science at HPU. But before she received her master’s in May, she had a job waiting for her.

She’s now an athletic trainer with Select Physical Therapy, the company under contract to help the 190,000 employees at Disney World, the biggest single-site employer in the United States.

HPU helped make that happen.

“I wasn’t sure the program would let me do that — go all the way to Florida from North Carolina,” she says. “But they did, and that put me in a position where I felt I could do anything.”

Ackerman understood. She also received an undergraduate degree in biology and felt the same way when she graduated. When Ryan heard that, she didn't feel so alone.

“I know many undergrads are unsure of their next step, and this is a great program that can help you figure out what is best for you,” says Ryan.

Blair Cloutier knows Ackerman well. She majored in neuroscience at HPU and for a majority of her semesters, she had Ackerman as her professor. Cloutier sees Ackerman as her mentor — or as she likes to say, “my mom in North Carolina.”

“She gave us the tools we needed and helped us dig inside ourselves to find our path,” says Cloutier, a 2021 graduate from Wrentham, Massachusetts. “With Dr. Ackerman alongside us, I knew we could accomplish anything.”

New Nursing Program Takes Off

Gracie Felts always wanted to be a nurse.

When she arrived at HPU from Spring Hope, North Carolina, she majored in exercise science because its courses aligned with the prerequisites needed for HPU’s planned nursing program.

When Ingram arrived, Felts asked her loads of questions. She’s now a junior surrounded by simulators, or technologically advanced mannequins modeling every kind of medical condition, from giving birth to having a heart attack.

“We have the opportunity to work on these simulators, and that’s the way I like to learn,” says Felts. “We’re physically doing something, and I am so excited.”

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, more than 200,000 registered nurses are needed per year through 2026 because of aging and the population growth in America.

Ingram knows her students will be well-prepared.

She came to HPU nearly two years ago to create her third nursing program. With nearly 25 years as a nursing educator, she understands the skills and knowledge her students need to master before entering the workforce.

She knows how they’ll get it — from faculty, hands-on experiences and resources available inside HPU nursing students’ new 50,000-square-foot professional home.

Nursing students learn inside a state-of-the-art complex that includes a 16-bed skills lab and three high-fidelity suites that create real-life scenarios involving maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing and adult health nursing.

“I’ve been able to dream big,” says Ingram. “Everything that needs to be in a nursing curriculum is here at HPU.”

The Magic of Research

HPU’s Human Biomechanics and Physiology Lab is an academic playground to Dr. Brett Pexa.

He’s an assistant professor of athletic training, and with the help of a $24,000 grant from the National Athletic Training Association, he’s making sure HPU athletes remain physically and mentally healthy.

He’s developed a wellness and workload app that has benefited

student-athletes from six teams. In June, he started working in the biomechanics lab with his seventh — the HPU Women’s Basketball team. Players like it.

“It’ll definitely make sure you take care of your body,” said Nakyah Terrell, a sophomore guard from Canton, Ohio. “We’re hard on our legs.”

Pexa is more than just a researcher. He’s a mentor. Just ask Matt Patterson about his surfboard.

Patterson is a senior exercise science major from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, who plans to pursue a master’s in athletic training. For the

past three years, he and Pexa have tested the exercise and rehabilitative benefits of SurfinShape, the pool-based surfboard.

In June, Patterson presented their research project at the National Athletic Training Association national conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With Pexa’s help, Patterson discovered more than just the health benefits of a 5-foot surfboard.

“I’ve learned what I’m capable of,” says Patterson. “I never thought I’d ever get close to pursuing a master's or Ph.D., but now, I know I have the capability to do that.” ■

“I’ve learned what I’m capable of. I never thought I’d ever get close to pursuing a master's or Ph.D., but now, I know I have the capability to do that.”

- Matt Patterson, ’23 Exercise Science Major

Matt Patterson, right, conducted research with his mentor, Dr. Brett Pexa, left, on the pool-based surfboard, the SurfinShape.

Jacob Bauer, a senior majoring in chemistry, conducts research with fluorescent liquids. These chemicals could be used in a variety of ways, from iPhones to medical treatment.

Success

Sciences

Myaisha Lucas sees the Wanek School of Natural Sciences as her second home. So, when Dr. Aaron Titus, professor of physics and astronomy, led prospective students through the building last fall, he stopped her and asked for help. “Myaisha, can you tell them what you did this summer?”

She told the group about her 10-week internship with Scripps Research Institute in Florida. She conducted research, connected with graduate and post-doctorate students, and attended workshops on how to become a better scientist.

The institute received more than 400 applications. She was one of 16 students chosen. High Point University, she says, helped her receive such a coveted internship.

“A lot of groundbreaking things are being done here, and when people utilize HPU's resources, they’ll succeed more here than at other institutions,” says Lucas, a senior biochemistry major from Knightdale, North Carolina.

IN THE

Sciences.

“And there are many more things going on that make HPU beautiful in addition to the campus.”

The Allure of Research

The beauty Lucas speaks of is found in the opportunities students find at HPU.

They can begin researching with professors as soon as their freshman year. If they stick with it, they can present their findings on campus or at conferences nationwide and see the impact of their education firsthand.

Brysen Allen did.

In May, he graduated with a double degree in physics and computer science. His research on quantum computing with Dr. Jarrett Lancaster helped him land a job as a solutions analyst in financial and enterprise performance with Deloitte, a professional services network with offices in more than 150 countries.

He got the job offer almost two months before graduation.

Professors are 'more than willing to help' inside the Wanek School of Natural

Jalen Dixon, left, works with Dr. Keir Fogarty, assistant professor of chemistry, right, in state-of-the-art labs in the Wanek School of Natural Sciences to conduct research and gain experience that will make Dixon a prime candidate for medical school.

“My favorite day of the semester is final project day,” says Lancaster. “Students demonstrate how they have connected course material to their own interests, and they end up finding answers to their own fascinating questions. It’s incredible and humbling to see them accomplish remarkable things that truly matter to them.”

What they learn becomes tangible for their future. They find it through their research.

“Coming in as a freshman, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with physics, and I told myself, 'OK, I’ll get a Ph.D. and teach,’” says Allen, who grew up in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. “But at HPU, I was able to understand the many possibilities of what I could do with my major. Now, I’m not saying, ‘What do I want to do?’ I know.”

Titus, who is the founding chair of HPU’s physics department, has this line in his syllabus: Expect to be lovingly pushed out of your comfort zone.

Lancaster, an assistant professor of physics and Allen’s mentor, believes in that, too.

‘Just Ask’

Dr. Keir Fogarty loves to see that impact, too. Last semester, he took Lucas and 23 other students to San Diego, California, for the annual conference of the American Chemical Society. Every student presented, and a few won awards. Afterward, Fogarty relished their reaction.

“Students realize, ‘Oh my gosh, what we’re doing really matters!’” says Fogarty, an assistant professor of chemistry. “They see the value of High Point University and how good the science is we’re doing here when they see graduate schools fighting over them.”

Lucas is one example. She wants to earn a doctorate, become a medical chemist and conduct research in drug development to help people heal. Her research with Dr. Heather Miller, associate professor of chemistry, helped her gain a better understanding of how to fight bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

Two summers ago, her HPU research helped her land the internship with the Scripps Howard Institute. That internship, along with her current new research in organic chemistry, helped her get accepted last summer into a competitive 10-week undergraduate research program at Vanderbilt University.

Now, meet Jalen Dixon. He wants to go to medical school and become a cardiologist. The second week of his freshman year, he approached Fogarty about research opportunities. Fogarty welcomed him.

“Professors are more than willing to help. Just ask.”

- Jalen Dixon, ’25 Biochemistry Major

Dixon and senior chemistry major Jacob Bauer helped Fogarty conduct research in the potential applications for a special dye. Those applications could include being a useful tool in medical diagnoses.

“That’s one of the many unique things about High Point University,” says Dixon, a sophomore biochemistry major from Indian Trail, North Carolina. “Professors are more than willing to help. Just ask.”

Dixon did. His confidence grew.

“That’s a real motivator for me,” says Fogarty. “Seeing students grow intellectually and emotionally, blossoming into interesting, wonderful people.”

From Mentor to Friend

Katelyn Greer did blossom. In May 2021, she graduated with a degree in biology. After graduation, she worked at HPU as a biology lab manager before pursuing her doctorate in physical therapy.

At HPU, she spent four years as a research assistant to Dr. Brett Woods, associate professor of biology. They studied the hibernation patterns of woodchucks and yellow-bellied marmots. Woods became her mentor. She now considers him a lifelong friend.

“You can’t put a price on that,” says Greer. “Dr. Woods will be at my wedding and all the big things in my life. He helped me grow as an academic and a human. He’s always been there for me, and I’m sure always will be.” ■

The Ripple Effect of Mentorship

In the summers, Juliana O’Brien didn’t head home to Long Island, New York. She stayed at HPU.

For two years, she helped Dr. Andrew Wommack, associate professor of chemistry, with his research into organic synthesis. She discovered how much she liked North Carolina and how mentorship can change your life.

“When you have someone pull you aside and say, ‘Hey, you’re doing well. You should be a biochemistry major,’ that’s empowering, especially as a woman in science,” says O’Brien.

In May 2020, O’Brien graduated with a degree in biochemistry and a minor in math. She’s now pursuing her doctorate in chemistry at North Carolina State University and creating a mentorship program for young women.

She calls it Phuture Directions. She’s enlisting dozens of doctoral candidates to mentor high school seniors and undergraduates to show young women the opportunities available to someone with a Ph.D. in a scientific field.

She got the idea from her time at HPU.

She remembers what Wommack, as well as Drs. Megan Blackledge and Keir Fogarty, did for her. She now wants Phuture Directions to do the same thing for scores of young women in and around Raleigh, North Carolina.

Myaisha Lucas, a senior biochemistry major, has conducted research on HPU's campus, landed impressive research opportunities at Scripps Research Institute and Vanderbilt University, and presented her research in San Diego, California, at the American Chemical Society's annual conference.

“They saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” says O’Brien of her HPU mentors. “Who doesn’t want someone to come into your life and say, ‘I know what you should be doing, and this is it.’”

Abby Dwiggins, pictured right, benefited from the guidance and mentorship of her religion professors, including Dr. Chris Franks, left, and Dr. Robert Moses, center. Dwiggins will be attending divinity school at Duke University.

A Place of

Mentorship

The School of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences is led by expert faculty inside life skills learning labs.

Through every course offered, HPU students see their professors as mentors.

In the School of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences, that doesn’t happen by accident.

Julia Aliazzi, ’22, discovered criminal justice professors who guided her at every step. She participated in mock trial competitions, tutored underclassmen criminal justice

Two Professors, Same Purpose

In his 24th year at HPU, Little likes nothing better than to see students like Aliazzi grow. They gain the experience they need to be prepared for any job in the criminal justice field.

The university’s new Crime Lab helps them with that.

“It’s the whole picture of the justice system under one roof,” says Little. “It gives our students an added dimension. They learn by doing.”

majors and honed her problemsolving skills with real-life scenarios in HPU’s new criminal justice learning lab.

During her senior year, she even helped set up the Crime Lab. It’s nearly 9,000 square feet and full of rooms with real-world applications that help students learn how to process evidence and evaluate crime scenes.

There is also the courtroom. Aliazzi helped set that up, too.

She participated in five mock trials, and every time, she felt her heart race. Dr. Scott Ingram, assistant professor of criminal justice and pre-law faculty advisor, showed her how to effectively address a jury and cross-examine a witness.

Aliazzi graduated in May with degrees in psychology and criminal justice. She’s now back in her home state of Ohio as a first-year law student at the Case Western Reserve University School of Law.

Ingram and Dr. Bobby Little, chair of the criminal justice department, helped her get there. She calls them “my role models.”

“I know they care,” she says.

That excites Tommy Canby, a criminal justice senior from Boyds, Maryland.

“The hard work HPU puts into the criminal justice program helps students succeed,” he says. “You’re not sitting in a classroom learning police tactics. You’re physically practicing them and other tasks.”

Dr. Sara Moreno de Nicolas is a lot like Little.

She’s an assistant professor of world languages, literatures and cultures, and she has created a three-course medical Spanish series that helps physical therapy doctoral students learn Spanish and understand the nuances of Hispanic culture.

- Abby Dwiggins, ’22 Pursuing her graduate degree at Duke Divinity School

“This campus has been a blessing. I’m so much stronger now.”

The course has helped physical therapy students find jobs, de Nicolas says. But that’s not all.

“We’re telling the community around us that we care, and we’re reaching out to them with a lot of empathy,” she says. “Empathy is a key word for me. Patients feel more comfortable when you speak their language.”

The Benefit of Big Questions

Abby Dwiggins, ’22, feels more comfortable, too, thanks to guidance from her two religion professors, Drs. Christopher Franks and Robert Moses.

“They’ve challenged me to step outside my comfort zone where religion is concerned,” she says. “That’s challenged my faith, and when faith isn’t challenged, is it faith at all? Without asking questions, you’re not getting to know God.”

Dwiggins graduated in May with degrees in religion and literature and will be attending Duke Divinity School in fall 2023. Until then, she’s pursuing another passion of hers as a full-time youth minister at New

“This campus has been a blessing,” she says of HPU. “I’m so much stronger now.”

Two Seniors, Two Dreams

Aleah Hayes and Dalton Lucas both graduated in May, and both were recognized as campus leaders.

Hayes was president of HPU’s Volunteer Center and Black Cultural Awareness organization. She received the Strickland Trailblazer Award, which recognizes a young woman for her hard work and perseverance.

Lucas was senior class president. He received the University Leadership Award and the Outstanding Achievement in Practical Politics from HPU’s Department of Political Science.

Lucas earned a degree in political science and wants to become an attorney. Hayes earned degrees in philosophy and psychology with dreams of becoming

Philadelphia Moravian Church in her hometown of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

HPU's new Crime Lab features nearly 9,000 square feet of real-world learning spaces that teach students how to process evidence, evaluate crime scenes and become familiar with courtrooms.

a school psychologist. This fall, she began her professional journey.

She’s now at San Diego State University pursuing a master’s in counseling and an educational specialist degree in school psychology.

Like Aliazzi and Dwiggins, Hayes and Lucas found their path, thanks to their professors.

For Hayes, it was Dr. Deborah Danzis, an associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Amy MacArthur, assistant professor of philosophy.

“They gave me the courage to dream big,” says Hayes.

For Lucas, it was Drs. Martin Kifer and Mark Setzler in the political science department and Rev. Dr. Joe Blosser, associate professor of religion and philosophy and the executive director of HPU’s Center for Community Engagement.

“They gave me the courage to advocate for what I believe in and back it up with data,” Lucas says. “They showed me what a liberal arts education can do.”

In May, Lucas addressed the graduating seniors at Commencement. He spoke from the heart.

“Luke 12:48 tells us that ‘To whom much is given, much will be required,’” he said. “I want us to think about those words. We have been blessed with much knowledge, many talents and skills. It is now time to put those skills into action.”

Lucas will. So will many others. ■

The Rewards of Research

Lucie Kirby’s future began with a question.

“I’m interested in research,” she said to her criminal justice professor. “Are you doing any?”

That one question her sophomore year led her to spend three years interviewing inmates. She talked to them about how a computer tablet prepared them for life beyond a jail cell, and she presented her research at conferences in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Baltimore, Maryland.

In May 2019, Kirby graduated magna cum laude from HPU with degrees in criminal justice and psychology. She left campus with a raft of accolades and accomplishments, including an internship with the U.S. Marshals Office in Washington, D.C., during her junior year.

The research she conducted at HPU helped her land a job with Offit Kurman, one of the fastest growing law firms in the country. She’s an accounting specialist in Baltimore, Maryland, and the firm sees her talent.

Her time at HPU crystallized her future. Her criminal justice degree gave her the courage to act. And it started with a simple question.

“Three years out of college, and I think about the Lucie who started at High Point in 2015,” she says. “She would be proud of the Lucie I am now.”

Dalton Lucas, ’22

A FOUNDATION OF

Innovation

HPU’s Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy was established by fearless leaders with state-of-the-art technology and hands-on learning built into the curriculum.

Call Mimi Pham, ’20, an explorer. She visited schools of pharmacy at other colleges but felt they lacked something.

The scholarship of High Point University’s professors of pharmacy impressed her. Their friendliness welcomed her. But those strengths weren’t the tipping point for Pham. HPU professors, according to her, shared an even more powerful distinction — courage.

Pham wanted to be taught by innovators.

“I felt confident that since the school’s leaders had established a new school, they were happier to pioneer,” says Pham, from West Oakland, California. “As a pharmacy student, I wanted leaders who take chances. If you want to help pioneer something new or even just learn how to lead, HPU’s School of Pharmacy is a great environment for that.”

A proud graduate of HPU’s Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy, Pham is now a clinical informatics pharmacist at Triad HealthCare Network.

Preparing Pharmacists to Stand Out

Other students have seen how a pharmacy school with an innovative spirit can benefit them.

“Because it’s a newer program, it’s more open to new ideas,” says TaShawn Marshall, ’21. “Your input matters. You’ll have an opportunity to make a lasting impact to improve the curriculum and break ground in different areas.”

Thanks to her HPU education, Marshall is in a community-based residency program near campus at MedCenter High Point.

Programs like mandatory co-curricular activities, the Longitudinal Patient Experience (LPE), Introduction to Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) and research opportunities unite to bring out the best in HPU’s pharmacy students.

That’s on top of the school’s small class sizes.

“Our student-to-faculty ratio is less than 4 –1,” says Dr. Scott Hemby, chair of the Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Hemby, a neuropharmacologist, conducts research on psychiatric disorders, primarily in the field of substance abuse. He studies whether analogs similar to the plant ibogaine can be used to reduce addiction to methamphetamine, heroin and other drugs, or even prevent users from relapsing.

“We have a lot of unique research areas and unique facilities that other universities don’t have. Our faculty are very eager to work with pharmacy students,” he says.

His class on addiction medicine offers real-world experiences. Visiting lecturers include those recovering from addiction. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials visit classes to explain regulations and penalties for failing to adhere to strict guidelines.

For students interested in learning how drugs are developed, HPU will expose them to the entire process in a microcosm. Faculty members run the range from medicinal chemists who synthesize new compounds to pharmacologists who test and refine them and pharmaceutical chemists who create formulations to make new drugs more effective.

“In a nutshell, our students have the ability to understand from start to finish how these compounds would be made, developed and used,” says Hemby.

Coursework focuses on a three-step learning process.

Mimi Pham, ’20, pictured left, benefited from the mentorship of professors like Dr. Sally McMillin, assistant professor of basic pharmaceutical sciences, right.

First, students are exposed to the material in the classroom. Then, they see it again in a lab. Finally, a standardized client program with actors portraying patients gives students a chance to hone their communication skills.

First-year students start with classes that build a sound foundation of scientific knowledge before they delve into disease states and medications as second-years.

Students will also learn about medicinal chemistry — What are the structures they’re looking at? How do they affect the design of a molecule or a medication? What about the pharmacology? How is the medication distributed in the body? How is it metabolized?

Compressing Time, Achieving More

HPU pharmacy students come from diverse backgrounds. Co-curricular activities spark professional skills. These involve 15 hours every year of the program, a requirement that demands more hours across four years than other pharmacy schools.

Options for co-curricular experiences range from entrepreneurship and cultural sensitivity to selfawareness and hands-on work. Some students choose to make naloxone kits while others create health education pamphlets and hand them out or launder donated linens and clothes for refugees. Many work at free clinics where they do blood pressure screenings or vaccinate senior citizens and members of underserved communities.

Pharmacy students can get certified to administer immunizations as early as the fall of their first year, something that often happens only in the third year at other schools. But first, students practice on each other. And the ones being practiced on joke that their partner better get it right. Otherwise, they’ll be pinched by their classmate.

Students have that “Aha” moment when they’re able to have a patient seated with them. They might have a patient who is afraid of needles, and now they’ll really be able to tie together what they learned in the classroom and apply it.

“It was very intimidating at first,” recalls Pham. “But the patients were very patient with us because they knew

we were learners, and we had a lot of support on-site. At least five professors were there to guide us and fix our technique.”

The Introduction to Pharmacy Practice Experiences program put students on the job. While many are local, some are far-flung in Alaska or the United Kingdom.

Students get out in the field in other ways, too. The Longitudinal Patient Experience course partners every student with a senior citizen, and those relationships last five semesters, longer than comparable ones at other schools of pharmacy.

“You don't learn that bedside manner in class. You learn it from meeting people, looking at them face to face, and talking to them,” says Dr. Phillip Stafford, director of Introductory and Longitudinal Patient Experience programs.

HPU’s pharmacy professors work hard to build strong bonds with their students.

They remember being in their students’ shoes. They understand the frustrations, the time commitment and the sacrifices made throughout the didactic portion of pharmacy school. When students are feeling overwhelmed, they’re reminded that they know their purpose. Students know they want to be a pharmacist. And they have the encouragement, courage and mentorship to achieve that goal. ■

“As a pharmacy student, I wanted leaders who take chances. If you want to help pioneer something new or even just learn how to lead, HPU’s School of Pharmacy is a great environment for that.”

– Mimi Pham, ’20, from West Oakland, California, Clinical Informatics Pharmacist at Triad HealthCare Network

Rebekah Placide, ’21, needed breathing room. Some of her undergrad classes at a previous university had 500 students.

“I felt like a number,” she recalls. That was the last thing she was looking for in a pharmacy school.

“I wanted a personalized experience at a more private institution that was invested in its students,” says the Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, native.

Some of the nation’s best pharmacy schools admitted her. But she turned them down in favor of HPU.

Each of the graduating classes in HPU’s Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy has about 60 students — she liked that. Even better, the typical class size is about 25 students, not hundreds. When she

Mentorship that ‘Propels You Forward’

visited HPU’s campus, she fell in love.

“I could see myself there,” says Placide. “The people were so nice. They were warm. They were caring. They were truly invested. That’s what it ultimately came down to — culture and people.”

For her pharmacy practice experience, she shadowed a clinical pharmacist practitioner at the local Cone Community Health & Wellness Center. She saw how pharmacists counsel patients with chronic disease states, manage them and put in referrals.

“It was cool to see ambulatory care pharmacy up close,” she says.

Today, she is working on her master’s in pharmaceutical sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill while completing a two-year residency in health-system pharmacy administration and leadership. Her goal is to become a chief integration officer for a health system.

Placide’s most challenging moment at HPU came she when had to take

the mandatory course in medicinal chemistry.

Dr. Comfort Boateng, the HPU professor leading the class, believed in her — and every other student. Even though the material was challenging, Boateng broke it down in ways that made sense to Placide, and she praised students and insisted they would succeed.

“I got over 100’s on exams. That astonished me,” says Placide.

Later Boateng invited her to work in her research lab, and they won national grants.

“She believed in me. She showed me what I was capable of and pushed me to succeed,” says Placide.

Placide stays in touch with her HPU professors and often reaches out to them for advice.

“You really get those connections that will propel you forward. Those connections aren’t surface level; they’re deep,” she says.

Glimpses of Greatness

HPU students and Drs. Heather Miller (second from left) and Meghan Blackledge (center), associate professors of chemistry, recently published peer-reviewed research in two American Chemical Society (ACS) Journals. Both research papers describe the synthesis and study of small molecules called antibiotic adjuvants. The research was funded by a major grant from the National Institutes of Health.

Scott Raynor, associate professor and chair of the Department of Art and Graphic Design, judged the regional entries for the Congressional Art Competition. The U.S. Congress invited Raynor to judge the art entries for the 6th Congressional District. As part of the judging process, he provided feedback to the students on their work.

Dr. Brad Barlow, associate professor of astrophysics, along with several collaborators, published a peer-reviewed paper in the “Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society,” one of the world’s leading astronomy journals. His work focused on the discovery of a new symbiotic star system called Hen 3-860, which was captured through a telescope in the Andes Mountains in Chile.

Choose to Be Extraordinary.

This is HPU’s call to action, and you’ll see these powerful words across High Point University’s campus.

For the HPU family, it’s the motivation that fuels goals and ambitions. It unifies and

energizes students, faculty and staff. You see and feel their energy in action on campus.

When families visit HPU for the first time, they often comment that this campus is different. Students smile and walk with their head held high. People are happy to be here. They hold doors for each other, and there’s no

HPU’s Call to Action

It’s the foundation of our distinctive campus culture and total transformation.

stray paper on the ground because students respect their home.

It is different than other campuses.

Throughout these pages, you’ll understand how and why HPU students, faculty, staff and alumni not only appreciate HPU’s call to action but apply it to their lives.

At HPU, “Choose to Be Extraordinary” is a mindset and a way of life. Professors embody it in the classroom and students take it with them after they graduate.

Discover what “Choose to Be Extraordinary” means to members of the HPU family.

What “Choose to Be Extraordinary” means to the HPU Family:

Ashleigh Purvis, ’22 B.S. Chemistry, Ph.D. Candidate at Yale University:

The most important part to me is the word “choose.” You have the ability to choose your path. Yes, there will be obstacles, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get past them. Getting a full scholarship to Yale’s graduate program didn’t come without obstacles. But I chose to keep going. I chose to come to HPU because I knew I would have one-on-one relationships with my professors who would help me excel. I chose to do the summer research program here. All of those helped me get accepted to Yale. I think in some capacity we all are extraordinary, but the choices you make impact your destiny.

Dr. Aurijit Sarkar

Assistant Professor of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences in the Fred S. Wilson School of Pharmacy:

I am a lifelong student of the sciences, and I lead a research group focused on solving real-world, health care-related problems. Accordingly, “Choose to Be Extraordinary” means we not only teach courses about serious problems in health care, but we also train students in how to solve problems. In this way, not only are we solving today’s problems, but we are also preparing future generations to solve the problems that emerge tomorrow. This is the very definition of life skills and an extraordinary education.

Julia Velasquez, ’23 Neuroscience Major from Northbrook, Illinois:

HPU’s call to action is about the path to leading an impactful, fulfilling and meaningful life. HPU is a God, family and country school, and that has resonated with me since I was a prospective student. I appreciate how God, family and country are embraced and celebrated with traditions such as American flags proudly displayed in every corner of campus and our Annual Veterans Day Celebration. I am grateful for the countless leadership, research and academic opportunities afforded to me during my time at HPU, along with incredible resources and dedicated, hardworking faculty.

Kiera DeNicola, ’24

Marketing and Finance Major from Old Tappan, New Jersey:

When I think of “Choose to Be Extraordinary,” all the opportunities that I take advantage of on campus come to mind. I believe everyone has the choice to make the most of their time here. At HPU, I have kept myself busy with the Professional Selling Club, joining a sorority, becoming part of an academic fellowship and having an internship at the new arena! All of these experiences have allowed me to meet wonderful people and have given me great stories to share in internship and job interviews.

Dr. Jazmin Cromartie, ’13

B.S. Biology, DMD, Director of Student Admissions and Engagement, and Assistant Professor in HPU’s Workman School of Dental Medicine:

This call to action not only embodies the contagious spirit of our campus, but it stuck with me throughout my entire career, including my time as an HPU undergraduate student, in dental school, when I became a practicing dentist and now as a faculty member in the Workman School of Dental Medicine. Once you experience HPU’s extraordinary education, you will stop at nothing to seize every opportunity to further your success. You realize that every career choice is nothing less than extraordinary. “Choose to Be Extraordinary” encourages and holds every single person on this campus to a high standard. Once that standard is met, it continues empowering you to raise that bar higher.

Dr. Nathan Hedman

Assistant Professor of English and Theater and Director of the Honors Scholar Program:

I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by students who are extraordinary by every measure. They come to HPU from all walks of life, shoulder major responsibilities and graduate into every sector. While they certainly have big dreams, what I see day after day is their faithfulness to the small, seemingly insignificant details of everyday life. They see beneath the big and splashy to the quiet and unnoticed. They have become, in the novelist Henry James’ felicitous phrase, “One on whom nothing is lost.” They write thank-you notes to beloved mentors, and they catch the eyes of a peer feeling left out. They know in their bones that “How they do anything is how they do everything.” Or, in the words of Jesus Christ, the ultimate model, “Whoever is faithful with little will be faithful with much.”

John Mims Chair and Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication:

The most important part of our call to action is the word “choose.” It reminds us that we can choose how we respond to the world that we live in. Our lives and our attitudes are not predetermined; we get to choose how great we are going to be. I doubt anyone would choose to be average. Instead, we are reminded that it’s our choice — our choice to be extraordinary. We can be extraordinary not just in our studies, but in our service to the community, our relationships with our peers and the work that we do.

Megan Parker

Director of Corporate Relations in the Office of Career and Professional Development:

Choosing to be extraordinary means to strive for excellence in everything I do. I aim to be innovative in the way I do my work so I can help our students learn about different industries and career paths. When our students get internships and jobs at incredible companies, I know I have succeeded. Our call to action also reminds me of one of my favorite quotes from Booker T. Washington: “Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.” This quote sits on my desk, and I read it every day.

Gabe Williams, ’25

Finance Major from Mason, Michigan:

It’s important to go above and beyond in all aspects of life. Academically, choosing to exceed basic requirements enhances our academic experience. Socially, choosing to be active, kind, engaging and contributing toward others builds the wonderful culture here at HPU. The choice to be extraordinary is the most important part. It’s a conscious decision that we at HPU make every day. That’s the difference between those who simply pass and those who excel, making the choice to want to become better, stronger and smarter every day.

Dr. Scott MacLeod

Associate Professor and Director of Vocal Studies:

Many of the most extraordinary people do not know they are extraordinary. They learn, through wholehearted courage, to view the world through the lens of love and empathy, and they demonstrate how we can better ourselves and our environments. In their hearts they are servants and teachers. They model kindness and generosity. They put others in front of themselves. They refuse to take more than they give. Extraordinary people don’t always set out to be extraordinary; they simply attempt to live virtuously, honestly and compassionately, and they communicate these values through their actions.

Kathryn Elliott

Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Director of HPU’s Entrepreneurship Center:

Striving for “extraordinary” is why I teach. It is imperative to create an environment of countless possibilities for our students and to create an environment where they can dream, thrive, and become leaders and change agents for better lives, better communities and the world of tomorrow. It means that we make opportunities for students to create new products and innovations to benefit individuals or society. As faculty, it is important that we foster an environment where “extraordinary” is always in our hearts, hands and minds.

Ben Smid, ’24

Finance Major from Advance, North Carolina:

Two things attracted me to HPU more than anything else: The university’s commitment to the values of God, family and country, as well as the challenge to “Choose to Be Extraordinary.” I’ve been learning through my time here that being extraordinary doesn’t mean achieving worldly or materialistic success, a great job title or the highest salary. Choosing to be extraordinary means waking up every morning and striving daily to become a better version of yourself, whether you feel like it or not. Choosing to be extraordinary means learning discipline and commitment, taking the time to bless other people in little ways and striving to become a leader who makes the world a little bit better by serving first. Some of the most extraordinary people at HPU are the staff and professors who go out of their way to care for us and pour into us daily as people.

President Nido Qubein on HPU’s Call to Action:

When Dr. Nido Qubein became HPU’s president in 2005, he challenged the campus to “Choose to Be Extraordinary.” That simple but bold challenge has become the institution’s call to action. It mirrors his life in many ways. He grew up in the Middle East, lost his father at an early age, and his mother worked to make ends meet. He came to America as a teenager with little money and little knowledge of the English language. He went on to get an education, build businesses and grow companies, become a consultant to CEOs, deliver thousands of speeches and presentations on leadership, and publish dozens of books, as well as audio and video training materials.

His life is an example of the American Dream, as well as what can happen when someone makes the choice to be extraordinary, regardless of the adversity or challenges they must overcome.

Below is a letter – one of many – that President Qubein shared recently with future HPU parents. It provides a glimpse into not only how President Qubein regularly communicates with parents, but also what “Choose to Be Extraordinary” means to him.

From: HPU President Nido Qubein

Subject line: What Choice Will You and Your Student Make?

I want to share High Point University’s call to action with you: Choose to Be Extraordinary!

We believe being extraordinary is a choice everyone can make for themselves.

It’s a topic of discussion in my First-Year Seminar on Life Skills, a course I teach for all freshmen at High Point University. I want them to know that while cynics are plentiful and doubters are abundant, they should never, ever let anyone diminish their enthusiasm and desire to be extraordinary.

I want your student to learn how to pursue life with faithful courage and never be intimidated by life’s obstacles.

HPU is an incredible example of this. Not only do our faculty and staff strive to model this for our students every day, but the entire campus embodies this call to action.

This is how High Point University was able to completely transform, even during the worst economic recession and global pandemic of our time.

Consider this: We broke ground on a 277,000-squarefoot student center and residence hall the day the market collapsed in 2008. There we were, leading a total campus transformation smack dab in the middle of the great recession.

Along the way, some people have asked, “How did you accomplish so much during a recession?”

Sometimes I jokingly say, “We knew there was a recession; we just chose not to participate!”

Then the global pandemic began. Many schools went to remote learning, but HPU remained committed to safe in-person living and learning because we knew it was best for our students.

The truth is, we just chose to move forward with faithful courage. And I know that’s a lesson you want your child to be reminded of often during their transformation into a successful adult.

Because we had a strong vision and a solid strategic plan, our transformation continued with remarkable success. Since 2005, our campus has expanded from 91 to 520 acres. We’ve opened dozens of new academic and student life facilities, established eight new academic schools and achieved national recognition from U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review and other premier education experts. Our enrollment has grown from 1,450 traditional undergraduate students to 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Through it all, our enthusiasm never diminished, and we never wavered from our choice to be extraordinary.

I am blessed to work with a team who has built a campus and a culture that shows students how to make that choice for themselves each day.

When they graduate, they enter the world with humble confidence, unafraid of challenges, and ready to embrace what life throws their way.

Rest assured your student will be prepared for lifelong success as they embrace our challenge to Choose to Be Extraordinary!

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper appointed HPU professor Rev. Dr. Joe Blosser to serve on the NC Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service in 2021. In this role, he promotes service and volunteering to improve lives, strengthen communities and foster civic engagement across the state. He will serve in this position through Jan. 1, 2025.

Dr. Robert Moses, associate professor of religion in the School of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences, is an accomplished scholar who recently contributed to a book chapter about the differences and similarities of early Christians and GrecoRomans. He also published a book based on the Gospel of Mark focused on Jesus and materialism.

Three student entrepreneurs, (pictured left to right) Ivana Korankyi, founder of Flasky Labware, and Jordan Rubin and Addi Antico, co-founders of MJ Bottle, took on the Big Apple to pitch their businesses at the Global Entrepreneurship Initiative event in New York City. After presenting at Carnegie Hall, the students took home $1,500 in grants to further their businesses.

Class of 2022 graduate Samantha Warren was awarded the Fulbright U.S. Student Program grant to assist as an English Teaching Assistant in Mexico. She’ll spend the 2022-2023 academic year there teaching and also creating an inclusive program for the immigrant and refugee populations.

LIFE SKILLS: PREMIER

HPU GRADUATES STAND

OUT

HPU has surveyed CEOs across the nation multiple times (see page 57), and the results are clear: The most successful companies in America need employees who have life skills that outlast and extend beyond technical skills. HPU students master the latest technology, but technology changes. That’s why our graduates are quickly noticed by employers. They are empowered to communicate, build relationships, thrive in competitive environments, adapt amidst rapid change and navigate complex situations without being intimated by life’s obstacles.

Where else does a university president teach a class to all freshmen? This artistic illustration highlights the President's First-Year Seminar on Life Skills taught by HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein. In the seminar, he shares his business expertise and strategies for success in everyday life with HPU's newest students.

DESTINATION Success

Some people picture walking into the interview for their dream job, but the worry takes over. What if their hands are shaking, their stomach has butterflies and their mind blanks?

Sounds scary, right?

But that doesn’t happen, at least not for HPU graduates who studied at The Premier Life Skills University.

They researched. They practiced in learning labs on a campus that mimics real-world corporations.

And when they walked into that interview, they confidently shook hands with leaders, impressed others with their knowledge and work ethic, and exuded a professional presence.

They were ready. After all, they began their professional development journey early.

“Students engage with us as early as possible and have a higher level of confidence,” says Dr. Doug Hall, vice president of Career and Professional Development. “The process of forging their career path is developmental in nature and requires ongoing engagement. Doing so over time allows

Have you ever envisioned your first job interview?

HPU's Office of Career and Professional Development is the launch pad for students to begin stellar careers.

students to see themselves blossom and secure opportunities that position them for success.”

This precedent is what sets HPU students apart from other college graduates. They leave campus ready to take on the world as it’s going to be.

Class of 2022 graduates Emmy Beck-Aden, Myles Brown and Gianna Schiavo are just a few examples.

A ‘Universal’ Understanding

Beck-Aden had her own real-world experiences at HPU that resulted in a full-time job offer with NBCUniversal before graduation.

She remembers how it felt to direct her first show inside HPU's TV studio in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. Overseeing a cast, crew, researchers and social media specialists was a moment she’ll never forget.

As a media production and entrepreneurship major, that was just the beginning. She learned from accomplished professors like Joe Michaels, former director of NBC’s “TODAY” show for 22 years who is now HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence and associate professor of media production and entrepreneurship.

She landed an internship with NBC Sports headquarters, working as a video streaming coordinator for the Winter Olympics. She helped make many of the livestreams possible throughout the Olympics.

“HPU provided me with unmatched opportunities, resources and mentors,” she says. “HPU instills confidence in students to pursue their passions and purpose through inspiration and collaboration.”

Her wealth of experience gave her a fully formed resume that caught recruiters’ attention. HPU’s Office of Career and Professional Development gave her the resources to nail the job search and interview process.

As a result, Beck-Aden was hired by NBCUniversal’s Page Program. The position is a year-long rotational program designed for groups of young professionals in both New York City and Los Angeles. She works with departments throughout the company, spanning anything from production and business development to public relations and digital.

“I'm very grateful for all the handson learning experiences I received, particularly in production,” she says. “I have spearheaded and broadcast a variety of news, sports and entertainment shows while getting valuable advice from fellow peers, faculty and staff.”

The recruitment process was rigorous. But Beck-Aden had the experiential learning opportunities, along with the adaptability and passion those opportunities cultivate, to land the highly soughtafter position at NBCUniversal.

These moments are a foundational element of HPU’s curriculum.

Graduating to GE Healthcare

Brown, who majored in strategic communication with minors in business and marketing, joined GE Healthcare in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in their Commercial Leadership Program.

Brown will be working in three different cities over the span of two years to learn all aspects of the business development process and use his understanding of the company to shape his career beyond the program.

“I learn best when put into real-life experiences, and HPU provided me with those opportunities,” he says. “The career advisors I worked with in the Office of Career and Professional Development helped me. As an underclassman, they showed me how to make myself stand out, build a resume and write a cover letter. I later worked in their office as a peer career advisor where I assisted other students in building resumes and mentored underclassmen.”

By starting his journey early, he quickly reached a level of success that prepared him to pass his expertise on to other students. Now, the life skills he gained at HPU will support him through any career.

“HPU taught me responsibility, interpersonal skills, public speaking, time management and

Emmy Beck-Aden, ’22 NBCUniversal's Page Program

Myles Brown, ’22 GE Healthcare

leadership qualities,” says Brown. “I learned to establish what I want in life, to be relentless in the pursuit of success and to not give up. When I fail, I get back up and try again.”

It’s a true full-circle moment for students and their career advisors.

Connecting with Coca-Cola

Schiavo graduated with a bachelor’s in international business and a minor in Italian. The Buena, New Jersey, native landed an impressive internship in her undergraduate years and secured a position with Sendero, a management consulting firm, before graduation.

“I utilized the Office of Career and Professional Development starting my freshman year and attended the HPU in the City Program in Washington, D.C.,” says Schiavo. “This allowed me to gain networking experience early on. Thanks to my connections with their office, I interned with Coca-Cola Consolidated before my senior year.”

The Office of Career and Professional Development’s employer relationships offered Schiavo an industry connection and taught her to navigate the professional development process.

98%

of HPU graduates are employed or continuing their education within 180 days of graduation. That's 16 points higher than the national average!

Data collected from the Class of 2021. HPU follows the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) first destination reporting protocols.

By partnering with Lindsay Scott, HPU alumna and talent development manager at Coca-Cola Consolidated, Schiavo shadowed positions in sales, delivery and warehouse departments and met a variety of people who helped her gain insight in different avenues of the business world.

“My experience helped prepare me for the future and showed me a career path I didn't know existed,” she says. “After reflecting on my internship experience and what my supervisor kept saying to me, I started asking questions of my professors and people in the career office, discovered my enjoyment for consulting and secured a job in that field.”

Schiavo’s hard work proved she could apply skills from previous jobs and knowledge from classes in any professional setting.

“Support from my advisors and mentors gave me confidence in my abilities and helped me figure out how my skills and interests align with different career paths,” she says.

Schiavo had that unshakable self-assurance during her interviews. She was steady, unwavering and knew she had the capabilities to take on her current role.

Students like Schiavo come in unsure of what they can accomplish. They leave confident and prepared to pursue their dreams.

“Mapping out a career trajectory can be overwhelming, so we take the time to learn their interests, provide resources that enhance their career development and provide guidance in experiential education that helps them explore career paths,” says Hall.

It makes all the difference to HPU students. ■

Career Development In Your Inbox!

To further support students on their professional development journey, HPU regularly shares a Destination Success email series with students and parents that provides practical career advice students can put into action. Topics have covered how to network, dining etiquette, how to excel during job interviews, advice from alumni, things to do your first day in the office and more.

Scan this QR code to see all of HPU’s Destination Success videos. You’ll appreciate these relevant ways to grow your career!

Gianna Schiavo, ’22 Sendero

Life Skills Get You Promoted Hired and

HPU’s national survey asked executives: What makes employees promotable?

High Point University has once again surveyed executives across the nation to examine which skills employees need to thrive in their careers.

In 2018, HPU surveyed national executives to learn what makes the new college graduates they hire successful.

To further explore the importance of life skills, HPU conducted another survey in 2022 to determine not only what leaders are looking for when they hire candidates, but also what skills employees need to get promoted and continually grow in their careers.

“High Point University is focused on rendering value for our graduates, and we regularly survey the marketplace to ensure we are preparing students for long-term success,” says HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein, who leads the First-Year Seminar on Life Skills for all freshmen. “The results from HPU’s second National C-Suite Survey once again reveal that the premier life skills we instill within our students not only help employees succeed but also help them get promoted and continually grow throughout their careers.”

Both polls gleaned a wide variety of insight from 500 executives at organizations with 2,500 employees or more. Here’s a glimpse of the skills that executives said college graduates need to get hired and promoted.

Life Skills Are in Demand

One of the largest takeaways from the survey data is that leaders are looking to hire people with life skills.

For example, 40% of executives said motivation is the hardest characteristic to develop in recent college graduates they hired, while 25% said coachability is the hardest to develop, and only 19% cited technical capabilities as the most difficult to develop.

Similarly, when asked a series of questions about which is easier to develop – life skills or technical skills – majorities of executives always said that technical skills are much easier to develop in their

WHICH

employees than life skills are. A majority of 75% said it is much easier to develop an employee’s technical skills than personal initiative, and 70% said it’s much easier to develop an employee’s technical skills than it is to develop their coachability.

Certain life skills are important from the beginning of the hiring process, too. Of the executive leaders surveyed, 64% said that a lack of emotional intelligence and people skills in a new college graduate would make them more hesitant to hire that person, while only 36% said that a lack of technical skills would make them hesitant to hire.

Lack of emotional intelligence and people skills

Life Skills Lead to Success and Promotion

According to the executives polled, success on the job is highly dependent on a person’s level of life skills, such as motivation, coachability and emotional intelligence. For example, executives were asked: Which is the single most important reason for recent college graduates succeeding at your organization?

Most executives (53%) said recent college graduates who succeeded did so because they had a growth mindset and strong work ethic, while 26% said it was because they had a positive attitude and worked well with others, and only 22% attributed it to industryspecific knowledge.

The poll results also show that a lack of life skills can cause employees to be overlooked for promotions in their organization. Of these attributes, 46% of executives said someone who doesn’t accept feedback and constructive criticism is most likely to be overlooked for a promotion, while 36% said someone who doesn’t know how to solve complex problems would be overlooked, and only 18% said someone who doesn’t have the technical skills would be overlooked.

In addition, executives ranked on a scale of 1-10 how much stress it causes their team when an employee has a difficult time accepting feedback or constructive criticism. The responses averaged at 7.48, indicating it causes a high level of stress for organizations.

National C-Suite Data:

HPU has conducted two National C-Suite Surveys, one in 2018 and one in 2022, to gain insights from leaders across the nation on what employees need to be successful. Access the data by scanning the QR code or visiting www.highpoint.edu/executive-survey

OF THESE ATTRIBUTES, WHICH WOULD MOST LIKELY CAUSE AN EMPLOYEE TO BE OVERLOOKED FOR A PROMOTION AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?

Doesn’t accept feedback and constructive criticism 46%

Doesn’t have the technical skills needed 18%

Doesn’t know how to solve complex problems 36%

LESSONS IN

LEADERSHIP

with Nido Qubein and Russell Weiner

Introduction written by Scott McKain, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, business consultant and trainer, and HPU's Corporate Educator in Residence

We all want to be highly valued and distinctive in every aspect of our lives. But how does one become distinctive? It’s a topic business leaders and organizations are constantly inviting me to speak about. You see, I consult with big brands like BMW and Cisco on the very topic of creating distinctive businesses, and they all require the same ingredient: Distinctive people.

And I share these insights with HPU students. Honestly, HPU itself is a

case study for organizations interested in understanding how to develop a distinctive, highly relevant culture.

This is why I love the following interview highlights with HPU President Nido R. Qubein and Russell Weiner, CEO of Domino's and HPU's Corporate Executive in Residence. The wisdom these two share is the type that permeates the culture and campus of High Point University. These insights are what organizations spend billions on each year to educate and inspire their workforce. And to think that HPU students are surrounded by such powerful life skills lessons every day...it is extraordinary.

As Qubein says, there are no secrets to success, only systems,

and the system to success is at the tip of HPU students’ fingertips.

You’ll want to take notes whether you read or watch this interview. Don’t miss the wisdom from the leader of the world’s largest pizza chain. Weiner shares his concept of the “tiebreaker,” a savvy marketing concept that can easily be applied to your own professional development.

This interview is really a masterclass in life skills and leadership. And when you spend any time on the campus of High Point University, it becomes abundantly apparent how HPU has become The Premier Life Skills University. Enjoy the interview and follow the uplifting advice of HPU’s call to action: Choose to Be Extraordinary!

Dr. Nido Qubein (left), HPU President and host of the statewide "Side by Side" PBS television program, interviews Russell Weiner (right), CEO of Domino's and HPU's Corporate Executive in Residence.

Read Dr. Qubein’s conversation on innovative leadership with Weiner in this transcribed Q&A edited for clarity and brevity.

Qubein: You have revolutionized the way pizza is served. Would you say you are in the pizza business or the technology business?

Weiner: There’s a great quote that says, “We’re a pizza company wrapped in a technology company, wrapped in a marketing company.” We’re a bit of everything. At the end of the day, we sell a product that other people sell, so there needs to be what I call a “tiebreaker.” For example, when you’re hungry, why pick pizza versus burgers? And if you pick pizza, why pick Domino’s? Today, technology is everywhere, so when you have a box of Domino’s, you’re not just saying you bought a pizza; you’re saying you know technology because maybe you ordered this via Twitter. So, we try to give people reasons for eating rather than just the product.

Qubein: What is it that really differentiates your organization’s brand?

Weiner: What differentiates brands is a point of view. There is a sea of sameness, so actions speak louder than words. We approach everything with our tagline, “Oh yes we did,” in mind. We want people to watch our commercial or see what we’ve done and say, “Did Domino’s actually do that?” And if the answer isn’t, “Oh yes we did,” then we need to do it. Oh-yes-we-did moments are ones we try to create. And I think that’s what companies and individuals need to do in general. And while we launch new products, we do innovation, not “spinnovation.” Real innovation has substantial change that allows the product to be there forever, not just three months. And a lot of the innovation we do to make the ordering, delivery and customer interaction process better is around technology.

Qubein: How do you generate new ideas?

Weiner: What I do and urge others to do is look at what good ideas you already have and ask if you can turn that idea inside out. This is what we did with our pizza tracker, which was originally an operational system to help managers keep track of what was being done in the store. But we realized we had all this information and asked ourselves what we could do with it to make the experience with our customers more personal. Maybe they want to know who’s making their pizza and delivering it to their house. So, we took something that was started from an operational standpoint, turned it inside out and made it a marketing idea.

Qubein: What advice would you give to young enterprising adults to propel them forward in life?

Weiner: I think people feel the pressure to choose, and what they should realize is that if you actively check things off the list, that’s just as good as figuring out what you want to do. I don’t mean sitting back and saying, “Come to me, job.” You’re going to spend just as much or more time doing that job as you are sleeping or being with family, so you have to love it. You may not find it right away, and that’s okay.

Qubein: When you hire people, what are three things you look for?

Weiner: I love my diverse background, so I look to see the experiences they have had throughout their life. Some people have had a straight path, while others have had a more circuitous route, and I embrace both. Interpersonal skills are also so important because you hire people as individual contributors starting in their career, but then they become enterprise leaders, and if you’re hiring leaders, you need to see that. The third thing is their style of leadership and platform skills — connecting with people is so important. ■

For more lessons in leadership from HPU’s President and other influential innovators, scan this QR code and watch “Side by Side with Nido Qubein,” a PBS NC program.

Real Real PRODUCE Experiences Outcomes

From Goldman Sachs to IBM, you'll recognize the companies where graduates from HPU's Earl N. Phillips School of Business launch careers.

Imagine landing your dream job at your favorite company before you’ve even graduated. It happened for Tiffany Selberg, ’22, and it’s a common occurrence for HPU students.

Selberg is a strategic sales coordinator at TikTok and credits HPU’s Earl N. Phillips School of Business with helping her land the position at the social media giant.

“HPU has the biggest return on investment out of any school I could find,” says the Charlotte, North Carolina, native and longtime TikTok fan. She’s been making videos on the app for nearly six years. Most are about her favorite place — HPU, showing off her dorm room, beautiful campus and favorite food spots.

But what a 60-second clip can’t express is how HPU transformed Selberg. She admits that as a freshman she was shy and timid.

“HPU’s programs helped me come out of my shell and be more confident,” she says.

She praises the business school’s diverse offerings of majors for exposing her to the full range of career possibilities. Extracurriculars such as the Business Career Boot Camp, the university’s world-class Access to Innovators Program, and the entrepreneurship and selling clubs also made a huge difference to her.

Finding Self-Confidence in Sales

Sales has become one of the university’s most popular majors in recent years. Why the boom?

“Growth has happened because what goes on here begins with the philosophy that selling is about building relationships, having a great self-image and the ability to step beyond your line of anxiety,” says Larry Quinn, department chair and assistant professor of marketing.

Like many of his faculty peers, Quinn, a former Xerox executive and U.S. Navy aviator, comes from a realworld background.

Tyler Thomas, ’22 Tiffany Selberg, ’22

“If you utilize the resources at HPU, you can be someone you never imagined.”

- Tiffany Selberg, ’22 Strategic Sales Coordinator at TikTok

The Plato S. Wilson School of Commerce features a grand lobby (pictured here), boardroom and trading room that includes a live stock ticker. These spaces resemble the environments of Fortune 500 companies.

That's why Quinn oversees HPU's Professional Selling Club and Sales Center, where sales labs provide students places to vanquish stage fright by practicing sales pitches over and over. He's also HPU's Sales Professional in Residence.

“It’s not about making a presentation,” Quinn insists. “I learned that the way to overcome fear is to trust your training, so we give students that training.”

Fraternal twins Sloan and Lauren Strickler, ’23, discovered how to land a presentation with confidence, and they did it thanks to Quinn. When the Newburyport, Massachusetts, sisters were

freshmen, they entered a two-minute sales pitch competition. Few freshmen took the challenge, and neither of them had ever given a stand-up talk like this.

“It was the best experience to put myself out there,” says Sloan, who plans a career in commercial real estate. “HPU pushes students out of their comfort zone to grow every single day by trying something new.”

An Experiential Approach

Tyler Thomas, ’22, is grateful for HPU’s make-it-real approach.

“What I appreciated about the business school is its experiential look at business as it is and how it’s going to be,” says the marketing graduate who works as a corporate analyst for banking titan JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Thomas raves about the Beacon Lab. It’s where students in a marketing research course put on brain sensors. When they look at content, the sensors monitor where their eyes dart on the screen, and it records their brainwaves.

“I didn’t learn about business from a textbook at HPU,” he says. “I learned from real-life experiences, real stories and real-world scenarios and applied that to myself.”

Students in finance, the business school’s fastest growing major, see the real world every day in different ways. In a glass-walled classroom, known as the W. Allen Tilley Trading Room, a real-time stock ticker circles the walls and is visible from the lobby. Director of Finance Programs and Professor Dr. Steven Lifland compares the department’s vigor to the stock market’s rapid pace.

Above: Larry Quinn, chair of the Department of Marketing and Sales, leads weekly meetings with HPU's Professional Selling Club. He coaches members of the club, which is open to all majors.

Lauren Strickler, ’23 Sloan Strickler, ’23

“The big thing with the School of Business is that we’re always changing," says Lifland. "We embrace change, and finance is exciting — it's the science and art of managing money. Whether it’s shifting interest rates, the war in Ukraine or Elon Musk, all of those stories have a financial impact on your life.”

There are no teaching assistants in the business school — students get direct access to teachers, and classes average about 25 students. Besides classroom work, students can earn a Bloomberg certificate proving their mastery of that company’s ubiquitous trading terminal. Freshmen can also take a crash course in Excel for a certificate that will impress potential employers on their resumes.

Producing Outcomes

Students in Lifland’s classes model possible financial outcomes of investments. In his investment classes, his would-be Wall Street wizards create simulated investment portfolios. These allow them to buy and sell securities such as stocks, bonds and cryptocurrencies using strategies that include derivatives, puts and calls, and straddles and strangles.

Textbooks are a thing of the past to Lifland. His students master complex financial analysis software like Evolver and @Risk. Evolver creates algorithms that calculate the optimal mix of securities in a portfolio. @Risk figures whether an investment’s benefits outweigh its risks. To do this, it runs a model of a net present value calculation 20,000 times with variables changing each time.

“This is a very sophisticated piece of software, and it’s at the heart of the trading room,” says Lifland.

Many of his students have gone on to stellar careers at Goldman Sachs and Merrill Lynch or well-known graduate school programs such as at Duke University. Thomas knows. Along with his own success, his friends have landed positions at accounting kingpin Deloitte, IBM and Amazon Web Services.

TikTok marketer Selberg agrees that HPU graduates fly high.

“No one comes to HPU and graduates without a purpose,” she says. “When you come here, it truly transforms you into the person you're supposed to be. If you utilize the resources at HPU, you can be someone you never imagined.” ■

What Makes HPU Graduates Shine

Flexibility. That’s what drew Dakota Tameling, ’22, to High Point University.

When he applied, he was torn between majoring in business or music.

“I looked at big schools, but they told me, ‘You either apply to the music school or the business school.’ HPU encouraged me to do both,” says Tameling, a Wheaton, Illinois, native who majored in finance with a music minor and now works for JPMorgan Chase & Co. in Chicago, Illinois, as a middle market commercial banking analyst.

During his time at HPU, Tameling discovered something else that sets his alma mater apart.

“The unique thing HPU does is put a huge emphasis on what I call ‘the polish level,’” he says.

What is the polish level? It’s a shining focus on life skills — a gloss of competence and confidence that HPU imparts through programs like the Professional Selling Club. For example, business majors create a LinkedIn profile and resume during their first week at HPU.

“I have friends at other schools who didn’t do that until their senior year,” says Tameling.

According to him, the HPU polish comes into play when you are able to stand in front of somebody, look them in the eye, shake their hand and communicate articulately what you’ve learned.

In short, HPU teaches students to believe in themselves and to make meaningful connections. For Tameling, he formed rich relationships with the business and music faculty.

“I’ve had finance professors come to my symphony concerts,” he says. “You’ll get face time here with professors you won’t get anywhere else.”

TAKING HPU TO NASCAR

HPU’s Connor Mosack, ’21, races toward notoriety.

Picture this: You flip on your TV to catch a NASCAR Trans Am TA2 Series race on Fox Sports and see a purple and white car adorned with HPU letters zooming around the track. You’ve just caught a glimpse of Connor Mosack, a Class of 2021 HPU entrepreneurship graduate and living example of the growth mindset that HPU promotes.

Around HPU’s campus, students hear HPU President Nido Qubein share this wisdom: “We don’t see obstacles — we see opportunities.” It’s a message Mosack has clearly embraced.

The Charlotte, North Carolina, native is currently pursuing a career as a NASCAR driver and says the lessons he learned while earning his entrepreneurship degree at HPU — never give up, constantly transform — have put him in the driver’s seat.

“I’m constantly using the skills I gained at HPU,” says Mosack.

Leveraging Life Skills

Mosack draws upon his entrepreneurship degree to

help him progress in his career on and off the track.

While racing is his primary occupation, Mosack still finds time to work with his stepfather and fellow HPU alum, Mark Webb, ’83, at the family business, Interstate Foam & Supply. Here, he applies the knowledge gained at HPU and strives to keep growing professionally and personally.

“I manage projects and deliveries for some of our biggest customers,” says Mosack. “It keeps me busy when I’m not racing and allows me to continue building the business and life skills I gained at HPU.

“My entrepreneurship studies taught me how businesses operate and provided other valuable knowledge I use to collaborate with sponsors

and understand team goals,” he explains.

Specific courses on public speaking and business law have also given him a leg up on the competition.

“For example, the skills I acquired in my public speaking course with Professor Steven Alberts have helped me handle sponsor pitches and media interviews,” he says.

Embracing the Challenge to Grow

Entrepreneurship professors like Kathryn Elliott also left an impression on Mosack.

“My professors constantly encouraged a growth mindset,” says Mosack. “At HPU, you’re always being asked to step away from a fixed mindset and push yourself.”

Elliott, who is the director of HPU’s Entrepreneurship Center, taught Mosack in many classes and is not at all surprised at his success.

“Connor has always been a focused young man,” she says. “I learned of his passion for racing soon after I met him. He was actively racing during his time in college, which was difficult to juggle, but he worked hard to balance his racing and college careers.”

Many would have given up one or the other pursuit, Elliott observes, but not Mosack.

“Connor pushed through and ended up achieving both goals. It is always rewarding to see a young entrepreneur racing after their dream!”

That press to push boundaries is proving useful to Mosack as he chases the checkered flag.

“Racing is one of the most challenging things I’ve ever pursued,” he admits. “There’s so much that goes into every race — even when you feel like you do everything right, it may not end up going well for you. There are so many things out of your control that you’re forced to focus on what you can control and improve those areas.”

“At HPU, we go beyond academics, encouraging and preparing our students to view each challenge as an opportunity,” says Alberts. “Connor makes his own opportunities — embracing the hard and becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable. His ability to connect, analyze and communicate effectively keeps him on the track to success."

When he’s behind the wheel, Mosack is focused on the task at hand — there is no room for outside thoughts. That’s what makes racing such a rush. And he is confident

that the experience he gains behind the wheel will only complement his education from HPU and ultimately make him a more competent, compassionate individual.

“Racing teaches the value of preparation, how to treat people and how to focus in the midst of tough situations, all valuable takeaways,” says Mosack. “These lessons enhance the ones I learned in HPU’s entrepreneurship program, and I’m certain they will enable me to realize success in my racing career and in life.” ■

Tracking Success

Today, Mosack is gaining track experience in NASCAR’s TA2 Series by running a stock style car. It’s highly competitive, making for a great learning environment. And he’s catching on quickly.

Mosack has already made multiple trips to the winner’s circle, claiming the title of 2020 CARS Tour Rookie of the Year; 2019 Cook Out Winter Heat Pro Champion at his hometown track, the Charlotte Motor Speedway; and 2018 Asphalt Nationals Semi-Pro Champion at the Bullring in Las Vegas, Nevada. If all goes according to plan, Mosack will be competing in the NASCAR Cup Series by 2025.

“At HPU, you’re always being asked to step away from a fixed mindset and push yourself.”

— Connor Mosack, ’21 NASCAR Driver

Glimpses of Greatness

HPU welcomed an impressive list of new global leaders to the Access to Innovators Program, including Dr. Willie Jolley as HPU’s Personal Development Expert in Residence. He is a Hall of Fame speaker, an award-winning singer, a bestselling author and a popular national radio and television personality.

HPU students of all majors connected with more than 50 companies at the spring Career and Internship Expo to land full-time positions and internships. Companies in attendance included Coca-Cola Consolidated, Northwestern Mutual, Volvo, Novant Health and Kontoor Brands, the parent company of Lee, Wrangler, Rock and Republic, and more.

Dr. Brandon Lenoir, assistant professor of political communication, led a class to Washington, D.C., to lobby members of Congress. As part of a final project for the semester, students researched issues to present to lawmakers and prepared for the culminating trip.

HPU’s Team Store and Panther Boutique is operated by students inside the Qubein Arena. Students gain experience in customer service, product design and event management while hosting guests during the university’s many athletic and entertainment events.

In HPU’s Podell Extraordinaire Cinema, Dean Cain hosted an exclusive preview for his new movie “Little Angels” followed by a Q&A with Cain, moderated by HPU student Lena Corrado. Cain, HPU’s Actor in Residence, wrote, produced, directed and starred in the movie. The special event is just one of many ways Cain engages with HPU students through the university’s Access to Innovators Program.

HPU’s Stout School of Education hosted a career fair and principal panel to give students the realworld experience of interviewing and networking with educators. Education majors had the opportunity to speak with 22 local school districts.

Anna Lomax, ’22, was the 2022 recipient of the Haverty Cup, which was established in 1988 by the late Rawson Haverty. The Haverty Cup honors an outstanding graduating senior in one of HPU’s home furnishings related programs. Lomax received a $3,000 award and a personal replica of the Haverty Cup.

HPU's inaugural Elizabeth Miller Strickland Women’s Leadership Summit welcomed Lynn Good (pictured third from the left), chair, president and CEO for Duke Energy, as the keynote speaker. The event included a Q&A and panel discussion, and an opportunity for students to network with the Strickland Women’s Leadership Council, which was founded on the belief that the empowerment of women in business and leadership is a life skill worth pursuing.

LEARNING: EXPERIENTIAL

THE BEST TEACHER

Experiential learning accounts for approximately 25% of the academic hours in each major at HPU. Campus facilities are designed to mimic major corporations and real-world spaces. Students are educated in and out of the classroom through labs, studios, career shadowing, internships, research, study abroad and professional settings to accelerate the experience gained within their discipline.

The Jana and Ken Kahn Hotel is nestled in the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center. This artistic illustration showcases how the boutique hotel serves as a unique learning lab where students gain hands-on experience.

The Anatomy Connection

Innovators

When High Point University officially launched the Access to Innovators mentorship program in 2016 with the welcome of Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak as HPU’s Innovator in Residence, the goal was to give students access to global thought leaders and industry experts who would teach them to believe in the art of the possible.

Flash forward just a few short, successful years later, and you’ll see how the program has expanded to include more than 20 influential leaders who regularly spend time on the HPU campus working closely with students.

Cynt Marshall

of

And while the lineup is impressive, a phenomenon that reaches beyond the direct impact of these innovators has started to occur with regularity.

The power of possibility has increased exponentially as the students who call these innovators mentors have taken on the role of a mentor themselves.

It starts with the in-residence leader. They help an HPU student land a job, secure an internship or launch a company. Soon, that student, recognizing the effects of powerful mentorship, pays it forward and helps raise up a classmate or younger HPU student.

Here are a few glimpses of these mentorship moments that keep on giving.

Cynt Marshall is CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. When she was asked by Mark Cuban to lead the team in 2018, she became the first Black female CEO in the history of the NBA. Marshall's values-based leadership made her a standout candidate for not only the Mavericks, but also HPU's Access to Innovators Program. She's since served as a positive influence and motivational mentor for HPU students.

During her on-campus meetings, she shares her personal email address and encourages students to stay connected.

Students like Jake Wilkins, ’20, have taken her up on the offer.

HPU's Access to

Program is a catalyst for mentorship.

Dallas Mavericks CEO and HPU's Sports Executive in Residence

Wilkins, ’20

Wilkins met Marshall as a student and maintained their connection as he began his internship search after junior year. The result? An internship with the Dallas Mavericks the summer before his senior year.

“That internship was amazing and a great way to truly learn how the business world works,” says Wilkins. “I had my own responsibilities rather than getting coffee for someone or helping others with their projects. Everyone was treated like a family, and a huge part of that stemmed from our CEO Cynt Marshall.”

Wilkins ultimately turned that internship into a full-time role at the organization’s headquarters. In the spring, he also helped host a group of HPU students who made the journey to Dallas, Texas, for a multi-day externship experience with the Mavericks leadership team.

HPU Students at

Wilkins, along with Marshall and other members of the Dallas Mavericks executive leadership team, hosted HPU sport management students for a unique externship at the team’s headquarters. They provided students the opportunity to connect with and learn from NBA leaders during the hustle and bustle of game day. Students enjoyed working sessions and shadowing opportunities with a variety of departments, making valuable connections to further their own career aspirations and seeing HPU alumni in action, like Murphy DiRosa, ’20, ’21, who you can read more about on page 87.

Mavericks HQ

Marc Randolph is a Silicon Valley icon who changed the way the entire world consumes media when he cofounded Netflix. When working with students of all backgrounds, he frequently reminds them to put their ideas into action and offers tailored feedback on their business or product ideas. Each year, entrepreneurship students who plan to compete in HPU’s Annual Business Plan Competition first pitch their business outline to Randolph, who offers unfiltered feedback to help their business succeed and grow.

Jenna Tarantino is one such student. She connected with Randolph after pitching her business plan to him as an HPU undergraduate.

Cynt Marshall, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and HPU's Sports Executive in Residence, left, is pictured with Jake Wilkins, ’20, right, who now works full-time for the NBA team.

Jake

Dallas Mavericks Marketing Coordinator

Marc Randolph

Netflix Co-Founder and HPU's Entrepreneur in Residence

After receiving live feedback from Randolph on her invention and business plan during her junior year, Tarantino emailed the Entrepreneur in Residence with updates on her progress. She'd light up when she received a response. Each time Randolph would return to campus, he and Tarantino would find the time to catch up one-on-one. Randolph saw an entrepreneurial spirit and determination in Tarantino that he wanted as part of his team.

After graduating from HPU in 2018, Randolph asked Tarantino to come work for him as the start-up founder and community manager for his podcast, “That Will Never Work.”

Today, she balances working for Randolph, running her own company and returning to HPU to work with current students on their pitches ahead of meeting with Randolph.

Polishing Pitches

In his most recent visit to campus, Randolph had Tarantino by his side. She helped organize the recording of several episodes of Randolph's podcast, "That Will Never Work," featuring HPU student entrepreneurs. Tarantino met with those students ahead of the podcast recordings and talked about life as an entrepreneur. Students like Addison Antico, pictured above on the right, got feedback from Tarantino on their companies before meeting Randolph. Because of those tips and tricks, Antico felt confident sitting down with the Netflix co-founder.

Jenna Tarantino, '18 Start-Up Founder and Community Manager for Marc Randolph's Podcast “That Will Never Work”

Co-Anchor

“Nightline”

Byron Pitts, co-anchor of ABC’s “Nightline,” is widely known for his thoughtful storytelling, on-the-ground reporting and in-depth interviews. He has covered national news stories and in-depth features for ABC, reporting across the news division on programs such as “Good Morning America,” “World News Tonight with David Muir,” “This Week” and “20/20.” The winner of multiple Emmys and a news reporter with more than

20 years of experience, Pitts now works with HPU students across all majors on the art of storytelling and emphasizes the importance of clear communication. He can regularly be found inside HPU’s state-of-the-art TV studio and has formed lasting relationships with students.

In fact, that’s where he first met HPU student Joe Maronski.

Byron Pitts

of ABC's

and HPU's Journalist in Residence

Maronski met Pitts ahead of his freshman year during a campus visit to HPU. Maronski wasn't even a student yet, but Pitts shared his cell phone number and took time to hear Maronski's career goals. The two reconnected months later when Pitts made a return to campus and worked with Maronski and classmates inside HPU’s Nido R. Qubein School of Communication TV studio. It was between Maronski’s sophomore and junior year that the relationship he’d built with Pitts turned into a summer internship with ABC for Pitts’ nightly newscast, "Nightline."

“The Access to Innovators Program at HPU is one of the many things that has truly set me up for success,” says Maronski. “Being able to meet professionals and build relationships with them is like nothing else. It’s because of the program that I’ve been able to develop not just a professional, but a personal relationship with Journalist in Residence Byron Pitts. The chance to work with him and ultimately land an internship alongside him wouldn’t have existed without HPU.”

Back on campus, Maronski has channeled his internship experience into helping other students navigate their own internship and career goals.

Sharing Insider Secrets

only further his own career, but to empower students to do the same. ■

Maronski spends a lot of time giving back to the university in various leadership roles spanning from inside the TV studio to the Student Government Association. Since his internship with ABC, he’s mentored students on how to build their resumes and perform well in interviews. He’s determined to not

Joe Maronski, ’23

ABC “Nightline” Intern

Global Leaders? Have You Met These

High Point University Students Have.

Steve Wozniak

Apple Computer Co-Founder Innovator in Residence

Dean Cain Famed Actor, Producer, Television Presenter and Football Player Actor in Residence

Cynt Marshall

CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and Former Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at AT&T Sports Executive in Residence

Russell Weiner

Domino’s CEO Corporate Executive in Residence

Dee Ann Turner

Former Vice President for Talent at Chick-fil-A Talent Acquisition Expert in Residence

Dr. John C. Maxwell

Bestselling Author and Internationally Renowned Leadership Expert Executive Coach in Residence

Bob Ryan

Famed Boston Globe Sportswriter Sports Reporter in Residence

Ellen Zane

CEO Emeritus of Tufts Medical Center Health Care Executive in Residence

Scott McKain

Bestselling Author, Business Consultant and Trainer Corporate Educator in Residence

Sue Downes

William “Bill” E. Kennard

Chairman of AT&T’s Board of Directors and Former U.S. Ambassador Global Leader in Residence

CEO and Co-Founder of MyEyeDr. Health Care Expert in Residence

Marc Randolph

Netflix Co-Founder Entrepreneur in Residence

Byron Pitts

Co-Anchor of ABC News’ “Nightline” Journalist in Residence

Joe Michaels

22-year Former Director of the NBC “TODAY” Show Broadcaster in Residence

This is just glimpse at the list of industry titans who are attracted to HPU’s campus to mentor students. To see the full and ever-evolving list of innovators, scan the QR code here:

Cross-Continental Connections

Students in Dr. Bob Hirth’s Global Business Maymester course traveled through Germany, France and the Netherlands to learn about international trade, strategy, human resources, and cultural and political topics.

When studying abroad, students deepen their understanding of their own cultural attitudes and behaviors, how those practices came to be and how they may be both similar and different to those of people they meet abroad.

“We call this 'enculturation through acculturation.' We learn about ourselves as we learn about others,” says Dr. Jeffrey Palis, assistant vice president for Global Education at HPU. “I’ve come to see that the most impactful relationship studying abroad builds in students is their relationship with themselves. Studying abroad is empowering. Students grow in confidence, independence, resilience and self-belief.”

Students are immersed in living and learning as a local – engaging with their studies and host culture in a deep and intimate way.

“This sort of purposeful, intentional educational travel is one of the largest opportunities students have open to them in college. Students look back on the decision to study abroad as something that shaped who they are for the rest of their lives,” says Palis.

Studies show that students who study abroad have improved academic performance upon returning to their home campus. But the positive impact of an international education lasts well beyond a student’s time at school.

The global life skills developed –including intercultural communication

skills, the ability to navigate complex and unfamiliar environments, the empathy and friendships developed with fellow global citizens – are always in a student’s professional toolbox and can be used in the classroom, the laboratory, the medical office or the boardroom.

HPU students charter their education across the globe to build lasting relationships through different cultures.

Learning Begins Where Your Comfort Zone Ends

Jorgen Krone is a prime example of one student segueing his international education into his career.

A junior political science major with minors in global commerce, business administration and sales from Chicago, Illinois, Krone’s interests run the gamut. He’s even pursuing a certification in finance and accounting through Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMA).

And last spring, he took the Global Business Maymester course led by Dr. Bob Hirth, associate professor of management and entrepreneurship. In this course, Krone and his classmates spent the semester studying international trade, strategy, human resources, and cultural and political topics. Then, they took a two-week trip to Germany, France and the Netherlands to see these affairs in action.

They visited businesses such as the Mercedes-Benz manufacturing facility, EuraTechnologies Business Incubator, the Heineken production facility and the famous Aalsmeer Flower Auction. Students also

visited the Port of Rotterdam and the Amsterdam Stock Exchange.

Upon his return, Krone interned with Gallagher, a global insurance, risk management and consulting firm. But before he even stepped foot in their U.S. office, he met with their global partners during his study abroad trip.

“This experience truly set me up to make international business connections and allowed me a leg up in the global setting,” he says. “Making those connections before I formally began my internship was amazing.”

‘All the World’s a Stage’

Demetria Hale is a Class of 2022 graduate with a degree in theater performance and minor in musical theater from Dansville, New York. She performs for local theater companies and has been completing various auditions across the country to further her career in the performing arts.

She also took a Maymester class in London, England, titled Shakespeare in Performance and taught by Associate Professor of Theater Jay Putnam.

“The performing arts is a universal language that needs no translation. Getting to experience the arts in a city where so many groundbreaking, historic plays debuted is unparalleled,” says Hale.

On this journey, students saw performances in some of the most famous theaters in the world, including the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

“As someone pursuing this career, having the historical context and the international context makes me a better performer and helps me stand out from my peers in this profession,” Hale explains.

These experiential learning opportunities make all the difference in students’ transformational journey at HPU.

“We talk about preparing students for the world as it’s going to be,” Palis says. “The world is becoming even more interconnected as time moves forward. What happens in Mumbai or Jakarta can impact lives everywhere. Students who experience an international education will be all the more ready for that interconnectivity.” ■

Searching to Study Abroad?

HPU offers more than 50 innovative study abroad programs. These range from semester-long opportunities in which students study at partnering universities around the world, to short-term Global Experience and Maymester programs in which students study for two to four weeks in one or more countries with peers and HPU faculty.

In 2023, HPU plans to offer 29 different faculty-led Global Experience or Maymester courses in 10 different countries, including Australia, China, Czech Republic, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

HPU’s Kester

“HPU's environment prepared me to be comfortable in professional settings. Everything from the classical music playing on the Kester International Promenade to the entrance of buildings on campus prepared my mind and heart to take on opportunities to network with others and develop myself professionally.”

- Kristen Korankyi, ’19, PharmD ’21, Pharmacy Resident in Wisconsin

International Promenade is lined with sculptures of 40 inspiring historical leaders, including Albert Einstein, pictured here.

Access GameChanging

TOP 50 GAME DESIGN PROGRAMS

High Point University has been ranked as one of the Top 50 Undergraduate Schools for Game Design in the Nation by The Princeton Review and is the only North Carolina program with the designation.

Students in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication have game-changing access to global leaders and real-world resources that exceed industry standards. The conversation always takes a similar path.

“You work in the gaming industry?” someone will ask. “I guess that means you majored in computer science?”

Emily Krol, proud of her unique major in game design, is quick to correct and share her experience in HPU’s game design program, housed in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication.

“I love the way that it falls into the School of Communication,” she says. “The way that Dr. Stefan Hall and other faculty designed the program really gives students like me a well-rounded education in all things game design.”

HPU's Esports Arena, housed in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication, provides many unique professional development opportunities and is used by game design, sport management and sports media majors, as well as HPU's Esports club team.

Krol is a 2017 HPU graduate. Today, she thrives as an esports and influencer marketing manager for Logitech, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of input and interface devices for personal computers.

She credits her industry success to the structure of HPU’s game design program, which focuses on the design and development process of game design. Students present projects, create game design documents, write, analyze cultural impact and learn what makes a game replayable.

“Our game design program is a good balance of theoretical understanding mixed with practical knowledge,” says Kristina Bell, associate professor of game design. “We want our students to graduate knowing how to perform in the job they want.”

It’s up-close, experiential learning — a common thread woven through HPU's School of Communication. That next-level, practical application continues outside of class, too.

Opportunity Abounds

Walk into the Miriam and Steve Kimsey Game and Interactive Media Lab, or the Esports Arena, and you’ll see rows of computer monitors with colorfully lit keyboards and a larger-than-life gaming display mounted high on the wall.

It’s where gaming clubs meet, create and connect.

“Having that massive screen in the lab for students to test and play games with each other really creates a sense of community and camaraderie," says Krol. “I found myself in the Game Lab even after class hanging out with classmates for gaming tournaments.”

The School of Communication is home to three unique spaces: the Esports Arena, Maker Space and Game Lab.

The gaming industry is massive — a bigger industry in North America than Hollywood and live music combined — and it’s always growing and changing with more career opportunities than people realize.

Krol works in marketing. She manages partnerships with major esports organizations and influencers, including DrLupo and Shroud, and attends global events like TwitchCon and the Grammys.

She credits her confidence and ability to stand out to the lessons she learned at HPU and the mentors who invested in her success.

“The small class sizes were very impactful for me,” says Krol. “I created a ton of close-knit relationships with professors, and the level of personal attention I received was amazing.”

Anna Harris, ’22, agrees. The small class sizes are what drew her to HPU. She wanted her professors to know her name and to be more than a number.

Mentors Help Students Stand Out

HPU’s journalism curriculum is designed for students to gain accelerated experience in all aspects of the field, including writing, reporting, broadcasting, video production and interviewing.

“The small class sizes were very impactful for me. I created a ton of close-knit relationships with professors, and the level of personal attention I received was amazing.”

- Emily Krol, ’17 Esports and Influencer Marketing Manager at Logitech

Emily Krol, ’17

Class of 2022 graduate Anna Harris is pictured in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication TV studio, where she co-anchored the studentrun news show "HPU All Access."

With access to state-of-the-art TV and podcast studios, production equipment and expert faculty, students know how to handle themselves in real industry settings.

Just ask Harris. She landed a job as a multimedia journalist in Charleston, South Carolina, a whole semester before graduation.

“I love that HPU has equipped me to do ‘all of the above,’ versus being skilled in only one area,” says Harris. “I’m going into broadcasting — something I never would’ve known I was interested in if it wasn’t for this program.”

As a student, Harris was everything but a number to her professors.

“A defining moment for me was when my professor Dr. Bobby Hayes pulled me aside after class and said, ‘I just want to tell you that you have a real knack for this,’” says Harris. “It solidified the fact that I had people behind me and confident in me.”

Nick Harrington, ’21, a general assignment reporter for WLUK Fox 11 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, can vouch for that. He keeps in touch with his HPU mentors and applies the advice he received from them as a student.

And

’22 Multimedia Journalist at WCSC-TV Charleston, South Carolina

- Anna Harris,

“The best piece of advice I ever got came from Dr. Patrick McConnell, my sport communication professor, who told me, ‘No matter what someone asks of you when you start out, say yes because you don’t know what opportunity will come out of it,’” Harrington says.

has done that in his role.

he

“I love that HPU has equipped me to do ‘all of the above,’ versus being skilled in only one area.

I’m going into broadcasting — something I never would’ve known I was interested in if it wasn’t for this program.”

“I am always willing to take on a new story or project. I even covered a story my first week on the job. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do that without the guidance from the people at HPU.”

Those “people,” aren’t just professors. They’re mentors, alumni and global experts.

Unprecedented Access

Connections with leaders such as HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence Joe Michaels, who directed NBC’s “TODAY” show for more than 20 years, are the standard for HPU communication majors.

Then there’s Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall, HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence; and Co-Anchor of ABC’s “Nightline” Byron Pitts, HPU’s Journalist in Residence.

With decades of industry wisdom combined, these innovators do more than teach. They listen, network, mentor and collaborate on real-world projects that shine on students’ resumes.

During Pitts’ most recent campus visit, he visited journalism and media production students in class and co-anchored the class' weekly student-run news show with Harris. Afterward, Harris met with the seasoned professional one-on-one to receive feedback on her video packages for the show.

It wasn’t the first time she’d met the award-winning journalist. Harris has attended his Q&A’s on campus and has met with him and other students about design ideas for HPU’s TV studio, too.

“Having the opportunity to work with professionals like Byron Pitts is one of the main reasons I chose HPU,” says Harris. “It was a fulfilling experience to hear his positive feedback on my video package and to have him see me active in the newsroom.”

Harrington feels much the same. He was coached by Bob Ryan, the famed Boston Globe sportswriter, ESPN commentator and HPU’s Sports Reporter in Residence.

“What do you want to know? I’m here to help you.”

Those were the first words Ryan said when he sat down for dinner with Harrington and other communication students.

“He didn’t focus on himself. He was so eager to answer our questions and help us get to where we want to be,” says Harrington.

For Harrington, this was the fulfillment of an HPU promise to equip him with the exposure and life skills needed to unlock all the possibilities in his career.

Success in Social Media

In their Applied Social Media class, students are given this project: Create a podcast.

Led by John Mims, assistant professor and chair of strategic communication, social media classes teach students to generate content fit for a variety of platforms through hands-on simulation projects.

“Students work on projects that give them real experience without the pressure of making a mistake,” says Mims.

Students build a podcast brand from scratch. They put together all the social media components to promote their podcast. From the concept to planning and development, all the way to evaluation, they experience the whole process as part of their portfolio.

Their podcast genres range from travel and food to influencers and fashion and feature expert guests on the topics. Students learn what it’s like to work and effectively communicate with professionals outside of their industry while gaining the technical and creative skills, like editing and marketing, it takes to develop a podcast.

Gabe Cicala, ʼ22, and his classmates created the podcast “The Reality of Virality,” which discusses the good, the bad and the ugly sides of being a social media influencer.

“This class is unique and valuable because it opens you up to podcasting, and very few people have done that,” says Cicala, who is now the director of marketing for the Florida-based luxury real estate powerhouse HYSER. “But not only does it open you up to that, it also gives you experience in every social media element.”

Mims has had multiple students come to him and share that this podcasting project is the reason they got their job. That’s because creating a podcast is a challenge, and employers want graduates with that full experience.

Thanks to HPU’s School of Communication, students graduate with the experience that puts them ahead. ■

Career Connections

By

DiRosa, ’20, ’21

Since my freshman year at HPU, I knew I wanted to work in sports and events.

My many amazing classes with event management professors like Dr. Brianna Clark only solidified that. Through the opportunities HPU provides, I worked to create experiences that would put me in a position to get to where I wanted to be.

Then, I met Cynt Marshall, the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence. That led me to launching the career of my dreams.

I met Cynt at HPU’s 2021 Commencement. I was taking part in the ceremony as both a communication and business leadership master’s graduate and as the Class of 2020’s class president in a combined ceremony honoring both classes, since 2020 graduates missed their ceremony during the pandemic. There, I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Cynt when she gave the Commencement speech.

After the ceremony, while we all huddled inside to hide from the rain, I was introduced to the CEO. She asked what I wanted to do and where. I answered, "Sports actually. Any kind and anywhere.”

After talking with Cynt more about what I hoped to do in the future, she gave me her card and told me to reach out. By the end of the summer, I had interviewed with the Mavericks and was offered a position.

Murphy DiRosa, ʼ20, ʼ21, (right) and Jake Wilkins, ’20, (left) marketing coordinator for the Dallas Mavericks, work for the NBA team and helped Mavericks leaders host HPU students, such as Alana Sullivan, ’22, (center), at the Dallas headquarters. Read more about this unique learning experience on page 73!

That short conversation created a game-changing career connection.

Now, as a business operations coordinator for the Dallas Mavericks, I work with multiple departments, including Mavs Gaming, the NBA 2K Team, Player Relations and Mavs Academy, to monitor monthly progress, help the team stay on track to meet goals and plan programming events. It’s a phenomenal place to work.

I would have never made that initial connection with Cynt or be working for the Mavericks today without the access HPU offers. While I held leadership positions in various campus organizations, I’m convinced Cynt would have never offered me her card if she wasn't impressed by all I had accomplished at HPU. This place, my HPU home, not only opened doors but made sure I was prepared to confidently walk through them.

Murphy

Business Operations Coordinator for the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas, Texas

Class of 2022 graduates Jordyn Fells, left, and Makenzie Harrington, right, are pictured in front of the Stout School of Education, home to HPU's Education Fellows. Fells is currently pursuing her master's in educational leadership at HPU, and Harrington plans to pursue her master's in communication sciences and disorders.

Transforming Students Teachers into

HPU’s Stout School of Education cultivates students into caring teachers in real-world classroom environments.

Julian Sardo saw his future as he crouched at a table filled with fifth graders and asked about their research project on savannas and their ecosystem. The answers he heard at Allen Jay Preparatory Academy, a school near HPU’s campus, reminded him how education is a collaborative act.

“They’ll teach me,” Sardo says, “as much as I can teach them.”

He’s a sophomore history major, an Education Fellow and a Presidential Scholar pursuing a secondary teaching license.

He wants to teach history and be like the mentors he’s had. Since coming to HPU from his hometown of Kenilworth, Illinois, Sardo has watched teachers in action and talked to them about working with students.

The Education Fellows Advantage

The Education Fellows Program at HPU accepts talented students interested in teaching. The students selected become close because they socialize and learn together over four years.

They participate in activities, service projects and educational opportunities tailored specifically for them. They step into their first classroom their freshman year and begin student teaching by the time they’re seniors.

“That will give me an absolute head start,” says Sardo. “I’m seeing it

from a teacher’s perspective, and I’m learning how to be the best teacher I can be.”

Mentors With a Mission

Bailey Burdine has a mentor, too.

The Stout School of Education has started a mentorship program and matched students with veteran teachers. Burdine, a sophomore special education major from Westminster, Maryland, has been paired with Betty Mayer.

Last semester, Mayer and Burdine shared lunch, conversations and a ride around the city.

Mayer knows the city of High Point well. She taught math at High Point Central High School for 27 years. She sees her role as being someone who listens, guides and shares her own classroom experiences to help Burdine grow as an educator.

“It makes me feel like I have a mission,” Mayer says of the mentorship program. “I don’t teach in the classroom, but I can at least

get out there and be a cheerleader and work with Bailey.”

That connection comforts Burdine.

“I’ve gained a friend,” Burdine says. “I know she’ll always be there.”

Lessons Learned

Jordyn Fells still has the cards.

They’re from her students at Trinity Middle School. Before she graduated in May, Fells interned at the local middle school as a physical education teacher. She lived with her hair in a ponytail and a whistle around her neck.

“I’m seeing it from a teacher’s perspective, and I’m learning how to be the best teacher I can be.”

- Julian Sardo, ’25 Education Fellow

Bailey Burdine, ʼ25, left, with her mentor Betty Mayer

Students in the Stout School of Education host HPU’s Annual STEM Camp for local children every summer. This year’s theme was “Get Your STEM Career On!” The week is packed with fun and educational STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities. Pictured center left in the white coat is Brandon Green, a graduate student, leading children through a fun exercise.

When she finished her student teaching, she received loads of cards decorated with hearts, smiley faces and sentences that read things like “Thank you for being the coolest teacher ever.”

In May, Fells earned a degree in health and physical education with a minor in special education and athletic coaching.

Fells blossomed at HPU. She arrived as a Presidential Scholar from Long Island, New York, and became a junior marshal, campus leader and member of five honor societies.

She’s now back at HPU, pursuing a master’s in educational leadership and a principal/vice principal license. She’s also working as a

health and physical education teacher at Allen Jay Preparatory Academy in High Point.

Her time in the Stout School of Education and as an Education Fellow helped make that happen.

“I’ve grown a lot these last four years,” she says. “I’ve learned how to speak up, I know what I

want, and I know what my kids want. I’ve learned to respect them, their lives and their experiences. They need to feel loved and have a safe space.”

Setting New Goals

In April, when the Education Fellow's Celebration Dinner ended, Fells and the other Education Fellows didn't want to leave.

They'd been busy student teaching and hadn't seen each other in months. So, as they stood around the tables, they shared memories of planting community gardens, teaching children and telling their family, “You’ll never guess what happened in school today!”

Meanwhile, Makenzie Harrington walked to the lectern. She wanted to see Rosemarie Tarara, director of the Education Fellows Program, one more time. Harrington hugged her.

In May, Harrington graduated with a degree in education studies and a minor in special education. As an Education Fellow, she discovered she didn’t want to be a classroom teacher. She wanted to be a speech therapist.

Her next stop is Baylor University in Texas, where she'll start a two-year master’s program in communication sciences and disorders. She discovered that niche after her internship two years ago with High Point Speech Therapy — all thanks to HPU’s Education Fellows Program, which she and a few dozen others were the first to be a part of.

“The idea that we had a helping hand in all that, I’m just so grateful,” she says. “We accomplished what we set out to do.” ■

Passport A to a Dream

Heather Simmons flew to Morocco in August.

She went there to teach.

She’s always dreamed about teaching overseas. Now, that dream is real. Simmons is a third-grade teacher at Casablanca American School in Morocco, a private day school with a diverse group of students.

High Point University helped her get there.

In May 2021, Simmons graduated with a degree in elementary education and a minor in special education.

A year later, while working as an HPU AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) with the High Point Schools Partnership, she received a master’s degree in elementary education with a concentration in literacy.

Her education caught the attention of employers. But her poise and teaching experience convinced school officials she could be one of the two third-grade teachers at Casablanca American.

At HPU, Simmons stepped into her first school the fall semester of her freshman year. By the time she started student teaching her senior year, she had worked with students almost every semester at six different schools.

She learned how to gain their trust, and they gained knowledge. So did she.

Simmons grew up in Marshfield, Massachusetts, wanting to make the world a better place.

She now knows how.

Educating students — one classroom at a time.

Junior Anastasia Avlonitis gained real-world experience working with the company Regina Andrew, a lifestyle brand that specializes in unique lighting, furniture and decor designs, to help clients with orders by taking them through the showroom at the spring High Point Market.

by DesignExperts

Students in the David R. Hayworth School of Arts and Design make professional connections in all areas of the arts.

For many aspiring interior designers, gaining hands-on experience and networking at the world’s largest premier furnishing and design trade show, the High Point Market, is a goal.

To HPU interior design students, the experience is merely an extension of their curriculum.

The biannual event attracts industry leaders around the globe and provides students with experiential learning opportunities to network with experts in the industry.

Coming to HPU, Anastasia Avlonitis was eager to take advantage of this opportunity she knew would set her up for success.

“I wanted to gain the hands-on experience I heard so much about,” she says.

This past spring, Avlonitis walked into her second High Point Market experience with confidence. She

worked with Regina Andrew, a lifestyle brand that specializes in unique lighting, furniture and decor designs, to help clients with orders and take them through the showroom.

“I used my creative thoughts within sales and helped customers make decisions on what kind of finishes or products they wanted,” says the junior interior design major from Westchester County, New York. “One of the reasons I chose to go to HPU for interior design is because of these great networking opportunities.”

Real-World Rewards

Interior design students learn all facets of design, from ideation to execution. They gain experience working on design software such as Revit and AutoCAD and learn about design history, spatial theories and everything in between.

It’s rigorous but rewarding.

“Application of all facets of design make these students highly marketable to employers and flexible in the workplace,” says Dr. Jane Nichols, chair and associate professor of interior design and director of the High Point Design Institute. “It is no surprise many of our graduates already have positions at major firms in Denver, New York City and Nashville, while others are pursuing advanced degrees.”

Not only do students have the skills to launch a successful design career, but they have expert insight, too. In addition to daily mentorship from expert professors, students also connect with industry leaders on campus and at the High Point Market.

A few of the celebrity designers students connect with include Magnolia mogul Joanna Gaines; interior design expert Thom Felicia from the Emmy Award-winning show “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy;” celebrity designer, speaker and author Charlotte Moss; and many more.

Alumni Design Experts

Jack Bowman, ’19 Sr. Graphic Designer at Krispy Kreme

Elisa Crane, ’19 Graphic Designer at Lucky Brand

Not All About Acting

Theater is more than acting. It’s many aspects that contribute to the art — props, makeup, marketing, stage management, ushering and more. And HPU theater students learn them all.

Students are in rehearsals five days a week. It’s where they grow as professionals and as a community.

“You really gain that company experience and create a community around you,” says Class of 2022 graduate Hailey Turner. “The theater department becomes your home. When you’re not there, you wish you were.”

Turner, who worked as an assistant venue manager at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina, over the summer, double majored in theater and English at HPU.

Theater and dance operate under a “company philosophy.” With two theater shows and one dance concert a semester, theater majors audition for dance performances, and dancers audition for theater performances.

“There are so many opportunities, and faculty are dedicated to making sure you get where you want to be,” says Turner.

Students have ample opportunities, such as one-of-a-kind master classes taught by experts who have achieved the level of success students aspire to reach.

That's where students connect with experts, including Joanna Jones, who played Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in “Hamilton” on Broadway; Radio City Rocket Shelby Finnie, who starred in “The Prom” on Broadway and “Jesus Christ Superstar” live on NBC; and Dominick Amendum, who directed music for “Wicked” and “The Prince of Egypt” in London’s West End.

The Graphic Difference

Graphic design students have the freedom to be creative and the support to help them succeed after graduation. And with small class sizes, inspiration and community is never lacking, according to Olivia Krodel, ’20.

That’s why she chose HPU for graphic design.

Students choose from two routes: a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a concentration in graphic design or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in design studies with a concentration in graphic design.

Meredith Matsakis, ’17 Visual Merchandising Project Coordinator at Cartier

Gina Figliozzi, ’20 Licensing Coordinator at The Walt Disney Company

Nick Bellamy, ’17 Buyer, Lighting at Pottery Barn

“Professors focus on a diverse range of projects,” says Krodel, who works as a graphic designer for Gannett. “I never felt like I was repeating the same thing. When I graduated, I felt like I could take on just about any design job because I had such a versatile and diverse background of projects.”

Students are encouraged to mix mediums such as photography, collage and hand drawings. And the support students have from professors allows them to take creative risks and solve problems.

“There’s a culture of a can-do attitude,” says Janis Dougherty, instructor of graphic design. “The tight relationships students cultivate with one another and with faculty create a space where we can all take great risks with our work.”

Crafting Confidence

“The atmosphere at HPU is unlike any other,” says Madilynn Every, ’22.

HPU’s campus fosters creativity. It’s why students in the School of Arts and Design walk into class confident and ready to create.

“There’s always music playing on the promenade that gets you in a creative mode," says Every. "Whenever I walk into the art building, I’m like ‘Yes, let’s crush whatever today’s going to bring on.' "

Because of its central location, HPU has access to the state’s major art hubs, including Seagrove, North Carolina, often referred to as “the pottery capital,” and home to Ben Owen III, American studio potter and HPU’s Artist in Residence.

Owen makes multiple visits to campus each semester. He teaches master classes on the basics of pottery, works one-on-one with students and gives feedback on their individual projects.

As a ceramic studio assistant, Macy McFerren, ’23, spent some one-on-one time with Owen, who not only taught her techniques for throwing, but for marketing her art and owning a business, too.

“His years of experience in the marketing realm have been helping me figure out how to kick-start my own studio,” she says.

And because McFerren took advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow at HPU, she’s confident in her career after graduation.

“Going into my sophomore year, I was very timid in the studio and not confident about my art,” says McFerren. “Now, I feel like an artist. I am proud of my art. In the studio, I am mixing glazes, running kiln fires and helping other students.” ■

Macy McFerren, ʼ23, works one-on-one with HPU's Artist in Residence Ben Owen III in the Ceramics Studio.

ART POSSIBLE of the

At High Point University, students are surrounded by inspiring leaders, mentors and peers. They see extraordinary take shape before them and learn that they, too, can achieve great things. At HPU, we call this the art of the possible.

Every inch of HPU’s 520-acre campus is intentionally designed to support, motivate, teach and inspire — even the art.

Yes, the lessons and values college students take with them after graduating are instilled from the examples set by their professors, president and peers. They learn from their physical surroundings, too. It’s why HPU has created an ecosystem of inspiration on campus, including teachable art around every corner.

To students, the aesthetics of HPU's campus inspires them to achieve success and encourage others — from grand architectural entrances that welcome students into buildings to motivating murals on the walls. So even if you’re not an art buff, you’ll appreciate the impact these works have on students’ success.

>> Here are just a few examples of the intentional art you’ll find across HPU’s campus:

Transformational Butterfly

Students see transformation and growth happen before them constantly — on their campus, in their city and within themselves. Found above the breezeway between the Butterfly Café and Caine Conservatory, this moving mosaic butterfly, pictured above, not only makes the nook more beautiful but serves as a reminder of the vibrant transformation that takes place throughout students' time at HPU — preparing them to spread their wings when they graduate.

Tree of Life

To live life in balance, one must grow intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally. Located next to Roberts Hall, the first building constructed on campus in 1924, this sculpture is one of many symbols that represent HPU’s holistic approach to education.

Historical Sculptures

Classical music plays up and down the Kester International Promenade, providing a sense of calm and concentration for students on their way to class or before a big test. Along the bustling route, they’ll also find inspiration from the 40 sculptures of great historical leaders, such as Amelia Earhart, Martin Luther King Jr., Marie Curie and Mahatma Gandhi. This is because HPU knows who you spend time with is who you become. These sculptures are a daily reminder to students that they, too, can achieve great things.

Free-Flowing American Flag

This giant American flag is located where visitors enter the main lobby of the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center. It's a proud display of how faith, family and patriotism are woven into the fabric of campus life. The words, “God. Family. Country.” are made of forged steel from the Twin Towers in New York City, to honor the heroic sacrifices made by our first responders. It was intentionally designed as a flowing flag to symbolize the transformational nature of the United States, as well as the transformational nature of HPU's campus. Constantly in motion, it represents the essence of the American Dream – the opportunity to improve one’s life and the lives of others. You’ll find much more patriotic imagery around campus, reminding students of the principles on which America was founded –free enterprise, patriotism, an entrepreneurial spirit and more.

Human Link Sculpture

Ask someone who has been a mentor or has been mentored and they’ll tell you that mentorship is an act of service. Parents, who are often one’s first mentors, are shown supporting their child in this sculpture, located in Hayworth Park behind the Slane Student Center. HPU students are constantly being uplifted and supported by caring mentors in every area of campus life. In turn, they learn to extend this act of service to others.

Dream Big Chairs

These are just a few words of gratitude Class of 2008 graduate Christine DiFerdinando McKnight shared in a letter to HPU President Nido Qubein a few months after graduating: “HPU gave me the positive outlook I needed to dream big dreams and achieve my goals without being intimidated by life’s obstacles.”

Her letter inspired the Dream Big Chairs, which represents how HPU equips students with the confidence to embrace whatever life throws their way. And if you take a longer look, you may find more meaning behind the rockers. Being that the city of High Point is known as the Home Furnishings Capital of the World, these 16-feet-tall chairs show support for all the unique opportunities the industry brings to HPU students.

Olympic Strength

This iconic image of Atlas in modern culture, derived from Greek mythology, can take on a world of representations — the power of the entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, inner strength and the list goes on. Most importantly, this 35-foot-tall, seventon sculpture speaks to the individual encouragement each student needs — whether it’s the reminder that anything is possible or just the peace of providing a quiet place to study.

“HPU’s campus encouraged me to live my life to the fullest. I saw reminders everywhere to strive for not only success in the workplace, but success in my heart and soul. In the words of Gandhi, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’”

– Emmy Cristiano, ’22 Event Management Major Pursuing HPU's Master of Arts in Communication and Business Leadership

HPU’s campus is unrecognizable from when First Lady Mariana Qubein began to spearhead the gardens in 2006.

What was once some grass and trees has blossomed into 30 botanical gardens, 3,700 varieties of plants and 700 taxa of trees with a fully revitalized conservatory space.

Many people travel to see the world’s best gardens and outdoor spaces on their vacations. But HPU students are surrounded every day by brilliant flowers, towering trees and sweeping greenery. They appreciate HPU’s outdoor spaces as prime locations to study while professors lead classes on the Kester International Promenade.

The gardens set the tone for HPU’s inspiring environment, encouraging everyone to be the best they can be. That sort of inspiration is often taken for granted, but not at HPU. HPU’s intentionality of surrounding students with beautiful spaces is appreciated and recognized.

HPU’s

Arboretum and Botanical Gardens plant seeds of greatness in students and the campus community.

“Mother nature is a mentor to us all,” is something HPU First Lady Mariana Qubein says often.

Planting Seeds of Greatness

Studies have shown the benefits of exposure to green spaces, plants and trees. People who are consistently exposed to green spaces, such as HPU’s gardens, are on average happier, less stressed and less likely to struggle with their mental health.

The campus community is consistently exposed to these spaces and is inherently happier – even if they don’t realize why.

HPU students grab lunch at the Butterfly Café, located next to Teresa's Garden and a lush outdoor patio. Here, they catch up with friends while enjoying the blooming flowers.

“The HPU gardens have made me a more pleasant and sociable person,” says Kenny Pridgen, a sophomore history major. “My interactions with other students and the gardens’ staff members have made me a harder worker with better resolve.”

There’s a garden for everyone on HPU’s campus, from the Ridley Rose Garden outside Smith Library to Teresa’s Garden outside the Caine Conservatory, where students grab lunch at the Butterfly Café and eat among the flowers.

Teresa’s Garden is named in honor of Teresa Caine. She and her late husband Don, an HPU graduate, made the Caine Conservatory possible.

Passersby will notice the names of families who have sponsored different gardens across campus. Each contains different flowers, plants and meaning, but all reflect one way that families leave important legacies at HPU.

“The gardens are an important aspect of campus life because they show students that what you surround yourself with is what you strive for,” says Pridgen.

A Real-World Learning Lab

Students also use the gardens in art classes and for scientific research. Drawing classes venture outside to draw flowers, printmaking classes use clippings of leaves and flowers to make art prints, and biology, botany and environmental science courses use the garden spaces to complete undergraduate research projects.

HPU’s gardens are a perfect metaphor for how the university has flourished. As the university has grown, so too have the gardens and students.

“The HPU gardens team showed me that horticulture and botany are two areas of science I enjoy,” says Kimberly Casaceli, who graduated

from HPU with a Master of Arts in communication and business leadership in May 2022 and a Bachelor of Science in biology in 2021.

“Working with the gardens team helped me get a position at the Wyoming Botanical Gardens," says Casaceli. "While I started as a coworker to the gardens team, working in HPU’s Arboretum and Gardens gave me lifelong friends.”

HPU’s gardens are the first thing people see when they arrive to campus and one of the last things students see as they cross the graduation stage and take photos of that milestone moment.

"A tree is an excellent symbol of what we believe as a university,” says Mrs. Qubein. “We are a student's anchor; we are their roots. Once they graduate, their roots support them for the rest of their lives. They grow into healthy and productive citizens, and like a grand tree, they reach for the stars." ■

This environmental studies course spent class time in the Caine Conservatory exploring the types of climates in which different plant species thrive.

First Lady Mariana Qubein had a dream of transformation for High Point University. She saw bright colors, spaces that combined nature and art, and students engaging together in the outdoors.

In 2006, Mrs. Qubein formed an arboretum committee to expand the university’s collection of trees and create an array of botanical gardens around campus. She and her husband, HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein, believed a beautiful campus would create an academic Garden of Eden where students could learn, grow and respect what God has provided.

Mrs. Qubein is an alumna of HPU, then High Point College, where she earned a degree in biology. When Dr. Qubein became HPU’s seventh president in 2005, she went back to her academic roots and recruited professors and students to create the arboretum committee.

a Lasting Legacy Growing

Meet Mariana Qubein, HPU's First Lady

She wanted to help transform her alma mater into a tree-canopied showplace where nature lives, flowers bloom and botanical gardens become outdoor classrooms that educate, inspire, encourage contemplation and bring the community together. In 2009, the HPU Board of Trustees named the university’s botanical gardens after Mrs. Qubein.

“I am so proud of what our gardens have become,” says Mrs. Qubein. “We planted our first garden in 2006 with the rose bushes in front of the Smith Library, and we went from there, one garden at a time. These gardens are an example of how we plant seeds of greatness within our students.”

Mrs. Qubein’s dream has blossomed, much as the flowers across campus do each spring, and her vision is recognized each year during the Annual Arbor Day Celebration.

The celebration invites local community members, HPU students, faculty and staff to take part in an afternoon appreciating the outdoors.

It's one of many ways the campus community celebrates the lush grounds of HPU and the benefits they provide to students, faculty and staff.

Pictured left: HPU was recognized in 2022 for the 13th consecutive year with the Tree Campus Higher Education Award. As an Arbor Day Foundation program, the award honors colleges, universities and their leaders for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation. The award was presented to Mrs. Qubein at HPU’s Annual Arbor Day Celebration.

Glimpses of Greatness

Students in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, for the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) annual conference. The NAB Conference gives students hands-on experience with the latest technology and the opportunity to network with industry leaders.

Kate McCarthy, a senior majoring in marketing and finance, landed a summer internship with Chick-fil-A in Atlanta, Georgia, as a consumer data privacy intern. She provided support on data privacy strategy, day-to-day operations and worked on developing and executing a new Privacy Champions group to communicate Chick-fil-A’s vision and goals for privacy throughout teams in the marketing department.

HPU students and faculty in the Departments of Theater, Music, and Physics and Astronomy produced the first-ever opera made for a planetarium, which was then performed inside HPU's Culp Planetarium. “Galaxies in Her Eyes” is a family-friendly opera workshopped by HPU students, which focused on STEM by chronicling the accomplishments of famous women scientists and their groundbreaking discoveries.

HPU’s Professional Selling Club hosted a three-day recruiting event that brought employers in the sales industry to campus to connect with students. The recruiting event included a Speed Selling Competition, individual interviews with students, business dinners, class panel discussions and a Sales Career Fair.

Two groups of HPU students saw up-close how different communities worship and how faith-based organizations and religious leaders work to make North Carolina a more inclusive place to live during the university’s annual Spring Pilgrimages. Students visited various people and places in Asheville, Greensboro and Winston-Salem, North Carolina

The Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena hosted Disney in Concert: A Dream is a Wish for a magical night of music for the entire family. HPU’s Community Orchestra provided the music under the direction of Dr. Brian Meixner, associate professor of music.

Students traveled across the pond to study the history of London, England, during a Maymester trip. Dr. Amanda Allen’s group explored historical sites like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and more. This Maymester course gave students four weeks to immerse themselves in the culture and expand on what they learned in the classroom.

HPU was awarded Level II Accreditation by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and the Morton Arboretum. The honor recognizes the Mariana H. Qubein Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. HPU’s gardens feature 3,700 different plants, including more than 700 varieties of trees.

LEARNING: BASED VALUESTHE FOUNDATION

FOR EVERY DECISION

“When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.”

These words from Roy E. Disney, Walt’s nephew, are inscribed on the Kester International Promenade. High Point University proudly celebrates being a God, family and country school. HPU fosters the values parents instilled in their students for 18+ years.

The Hayworth Chapel, illustrated here, fosters faith for the entire HPU community. As a university originally founded by the United Methodist Church, weekly Christian services, holiday celebrations and more take place in the chapel, while many other religious groups also gather and collaborate here.

It was a celebration the Class of 2022 and their family members won’t forget.

Traditional and iconic, HPU's annual Commencement ceremony welcomed 14,000 people.

The largest graduating class in HPU history crossed the Commencement stage against the backdrop of the beautiful Roberts Hall.

But first, they enjoyed the pomp and circumstance HPU’s Commencement ceremony is known for, including a keynote address from a global entrepreneur.

KIND Founder Daniel Lubetzky encouraged graduates to lead with curiosity, courage and compassion.

KIND Founder: Lead with Curiosity, Courage and Compassion

Daniel Lubetzky, the global entrepreneur who founded KIND Snacks and is regularly featured on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” delivered an inspiring Commencement address.

Lubetzky is a social entrepreneur working to build bridges between people and to increase appreciation for our shared humanity. He is the author of The New York Times bestseller "Do the KIND Thing."

He encouraged graduates to lead with the three C’s: Curiosity, Courage and Compassion.

“If we join forces to treat each other with compassion, courage and curiosity, always working hard to unlock the truth of this human experiment we call life, think of what an amazing world we’re going to create,” said Lubetzky. “You know why you should be enormously energized today? Because the stakes are so high, and you have the power to make a huge difference. We must all join forces in shifting our culture back to what makes our country so great. To reknit the social fabric of kindness that underlines our nation’s greatest achievements. Your generation will lead it. We will all be with you every step of the way. It starts today as all of you graduate. It starts with every one of you. It starts with all of us. Class of 2022, let’s go and steer this ship.”

President Qubein Inspires Graduates

Each year, HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein delivers a powerful send-off message to graduates the Friday before Commencement. Titled “Onward with Faithful Courage,” thousands of graduates and their parents filled the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center to be inspired by HPU’s chief encouragement officer one more time.

He encouraged graduates to put into practice the life skills HPU has instilled in them.

“Do not underestimate, graduates, the power of life skills that has entered your soul,” said Qubein. “You will not understand it fully until a few years have passed. You will look back on this journey time and again and say, ‘I learned that when I least thought I was learning it at High Point University.’ That’s why we’re The Premier Life Skills University. That’s why we insist that you get knowledge inside the classroom, but we insist that you understand it outside the classroom, too.”

“I f we join forces to treat each other with compassion, courage and curiosity, always working hard to unlock the truth of this human experiment we call life, think of what an amazing world we’re going to creat e.”

— Daniel Lubetzky

Founder of KIND Snacks and Global Entrepreneur who regularly appears on ABC’s “Shark Tank”

Timeless HPU Traditions

The intentional details in HPU’s Commencement ceremony are noticed and appreciated by families.

When the Class of 2022 arrived as freshmen in 2018, they walked over the HPU Seal engraved in front of Roberts Hall. They knew not to pass over it again until they walked across the graduation stage on May 7, 2022.

As their ceremony concluded, a bald eagle soared over the audience to represent American ideals, including free enterprise, independence and personal responsibility.

Graduates received an HPU blanket to give to their mothers or mother figure on Mother’s Day, the following day.

And as they crossed the stage, every graduate had the opportunity to shake the hands of Qubein and Lubetzky as they had their photos made with the successful leaders. ■

“Do not underestimate, graduates, the power of life skills that has entered your soul.”

— HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein

As is tradition during Commencement, every graduate shook the hands of and had their photos made with the graduation speaker and HPU President Nido Qubein. Pictured is Alon Parker (left) taking a photo with Daniel Lubetzky, founder of KIND Snacks and HPU's 2022 speaker.

A Life in the Day

Discover what it’s really like to live and learn on HPU’s energetic and engaged campus.

Academics are the foundation. Plotting a path for your career is the focus of college. High Point University, as The Premier Life Skills University, places great emphasis on these areas.

But you also want to love where you live when you’re in college. There are 168 hours in a week. Students

are in class for approximately 20 of those. HPU has long understood that the college experience extends beyond the classroom.

College is a time for making memories and building friendships that will carry students far beyond their four years on campus. It’s a time for students to find their home away from home and grow their passions and hobbies. It’s a time to learn balance.

And while everyone’s personal routine on the HPU campus is unique, one of the best ways to understand how HPU students enjoy a fun, balanced life is to take a look at one student’s day-to-day experience.

That’s why we’re inviting you to follow HPU senior Julia Segalla through a day in her life on HPU’s campus! The following pages provide a glimpse into why students really love living and learning at HPU.

Hi, I’m Julia!

WAKING UP IN THE NATION’S BEST DORMS

Fun fact: 95% of HPU students live on campus all four years of college. Why? Partly because HPU’s dorms are ranked best in the nation. They serve as a space for us to relax and rejuvenate for the day ahead, waking up inspired by our own environment and ready to tackle the day.

BREAKFAST IN THE SLANE STUDENT CENTER CAFÉ

I start every day with breakfast, whether it’s grabbing something on the go from one of two on-campus Starbucks, grabbing a bagel from our Great Day Bakery or taking a seat in our Slane Student Center Café — a favorite of mine. Not only is there a massive variety of food, but it’s also a hub of activity on campus where I can catch up with friends. Today, I sat with HPU President Nido Qubein. That’s right – our university president! It’s not something you hear students at other universities talk about, but at HPU, our president is highly involved. You can spot him throughout campus at any point in the day, but the Café is a frequent place for presidential sightings. If you don’t see him while you enjoy French toast, you’re guaranteed to see him during his semesterly candy handouts – a favorite HPU tradition. On Halloween and Valentine’s Day, you’ll catch him inside the Café, on the sidewalks and in the student center giving giant candy bars to every student he sees! We line up for it, snap our photos and take a moment to chat with our campus leader.

I’m a strategic communication major from Boston, and while every day on the HPU campus brings something exciting and new, here’s a look at my typical day and what students can expect to experience on HPU's campus.

CLASS TIME AND A KIOSK STOP

After breakfast, I walk down our Kester International Promenade on my way to class in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. The promenade is etched with inspirational quotes in the sidewalks and lined with sculptures of historical figures. It’s the perfect space between breakfast and class to get focused for the day. On top of that, kiosks are stationed along my walk with complimentary grab-and-go drinks and snacks. I always grab a quick treat before heading to class.

LUNCH AT THE BUTTERFLY CAFÉ

After class, I meet up with some friends at the Butterfly Café. Almost any student on campus will tell you this place is their favorite eatery. The Mediterranean-inspired menu lets you customize your pick of bowls, pita wraps, pastas and more. Plus, handcrafted coffee and gelato are a perfect midday treat in this unique location. The Butterfly Café is located at the Caine Conservatory, an 8,000-squarefoot oasis that houses tropical plant life.

WELLNESS RECHARGE

After lunch and another class session, I make my way to the Slane Student Center fitness facility. There are several gyms spread throughout campus, with Slane being our largest. It has all the workout equipment you can imagine, not to mention an amazing HPU Rec team that offers free fitness classes led by instructors. There’s also an indoor basketball court and track located in Slane! And while it’s common to catch students having a pickup basketball game there, the space is also used for special and unique classes like bungee aerobics!

BALCONY STUDY SESSION

On busy days, I like to carve out time for catching up on assignments and studying whenever I can. One of my favorite spots is the Learning Commons in the R.G. Wanek Center. The space is part of our library system and provides a quiet spot to work. It even has a balcony with a bird's-eye view of campus. It's the perfect place to have quiet time and pause while taking in the activity of campus.

4 PM

WEEKLY FOOD TRUCKS

An hour into my study session, I can smell the food trucks arrive and decide to head down to the intersection in front of R.G. Wanek Center for our weekly food truck meetup. That’s right – we have weekly food trucks on campus! They serve complimentary treats and switch up times and locations. There’s music and games, and student groups and campus offices take turns hosting the events so students can discover more opportunities to get involved.

PANTHER PRIDE!

5

PM

I’m a member of the HPU Dance Team, so my next stop is practice inside our new Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena. This is where we cheer on our men’s and women’s basketball teams and hype the crowd of students who come decked in their purple and white on game nights. You can typically spot me and my dance teammates performing at center court beneath the state’s largest collegiate Jumbotron on game breaks and TV timeouts during our ESPNU broadcast games.

DINNER AT ALO

I round out my day with a late dinner at Alo, one of two fine dining learning labs on campus. Alo is located inside the Jana and Ken Kahn Hotel that’s adjacent to the arena complex. The hotel serves as a space for event management and hospitality majors to hone their skills, while the restaurant is a space for all students to practice their etiquette and explore international eats. The best part? A weekly meal at Alo is included in the meal plan! The same goes for 1924 PRIME, another fine dining restaurant on campus! And, you can expect to encounter dishes like pan seared salmon and butternut squash risotto on a rotating basis.

And that’s a wrap on my “Day in the Life.” Like I mentioned, no two days are the same, but this gives you a small taste of life at HPU. HPU ensures options for involvement, socializing and leading a balanced lifestyle are built into the campus. That’s why students don’t just live here — we love it here!

Follow HPU on Social!

There’s a lot happening on the HPU campus – too much to list here. Make sure you’re keeping up by following along on social media. Search @highpointu on

WATCH moments like the ones outlined here come to life by scanning the QR code!

Endless HPU Hype

Other universities tend to offer students dorm spaces, study spaces and a cafeteria or two. They eventually venture off campus to find their fun. Not at HPU. Here’s a look at some of the events and unique spaces students enjoy throughout the year without stepping off campus:

Concerts

Students pack the Qubein Center to hear bands and artists like Train, Calvin Harris, DNCE, J. Cole, Lee Brice, T-Pain and Hunter Hayes. Student concerts take place each semester in addition to other concerts held for the semesterly HPU Family Weekends.

Fire Pits

Located throughout campus, with the largest found at the center of an island connected by a bridge to HPU’s Slane Student Center, are fire pits perfect for hanging out on fall evenings.

Carnivals and Winterfest

HPU's Campus Activities Team (CAT) is dedicated to hosting unique events throughout the year. A few student favorites are the annual Winterfest and the spring and fall Carnivals. Winterfest brings a winter wonderland to campus complete with life-size snow globes, horse and carriage rides, hot chocolate and winter games. Carnivals include giant swings, a Ferris wheel, fair food and more.

The HPU Ice Skating Rink

When winter begins, the HPU Ice Skating Rink becomes the hottest spot at the heart of campus. Complimentary skate rentals make it easy to take a spin beneath the twinkling lights with friends.

Pop-Up Parties

On any given weeknight, students can take part in pop-up events to unwind with friends. There's Derby Day, where students can enjoy carnival rides and fair food on campus. Paint-A-Palooza is another example. Armed with paint cannons, students meet up in white T-shirts to plaster each other in glowing paint, making for endless memories and photo ops.

Because HPU knows that when students have a space to safely unwind, they perform better academically and professionally.

Why invest in creating a campus like this?

Meet the Amigos Parenterspective

Lisa and David Amigo are the proud parents of three High Point University students: Cooper, '25, Joshua, '22 and Zachary, '24.

Pictured from left to right are Lisa, Cooper, ʼ25, Joshua, ʼ22, David and Zachary, ʼ24, Amigo, with their family dogs Ramsey and Cameron.

Having gone through the college search process three times, the Amigos stand by the values and life skills HPU promotes. They offer their insight in this Q&A to help future college parents learn more about how HPU prepares students for success in the real world.

Q: What made HPU stand out from other colleges you toured?

L: Everyone talks about how beautiful the campus is, and it is beautiful. But more than that, the campus is clean and well respected. The students walking around campus are well dressed and happy to be there. It’s a place where your body relaxes, and your mind is inspired by the water features and classical music playing along the Kester International Promenade. After visiting other colleges, HPU was such a breath of fresh air.

D: The campus is super impressive, but the culture is above and beyond. I guarantee you that there are plenty of universities that have beautiful buildings, but it’s HPU’s culture that makes it distinct. I love that students are immersed in experiential learning right away. They don’t wait until their third or fourth year, so they have time to figure out what they like. HPU has the resources, ecosystem and professionals to help students figure out and reach their goals.

Q: How did the university's values impact your family’s decision to choose HPU?

L: It was always our children’s choice, but we have a very strong faith and a very strong family. With the foundation that we’ve laid for all these years, we didn’t want them to choose a university that’s going to actively try to break down their belief system. The value placed on experiential learning was also important to us. We started that with our children when they were very young and wanted to make sure they would continue to build life skills.

D: It all comes down to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. HPU's values of God, family and country follow that. That’s all very important to us, but I don’t think we necessarily knew we were looking for values — we knew that we wanted Josh to go to college. By the time our next two were ready for college, we knew.

Q: How has HPU prepared your students for success after they graduate?

L: The 98% placement rate says it all. The goal as a student is not to spend four years just finding out who you are — it’s about spending those four years to find out where you’re going. And HPU does a great job of getting students there in four years.

D: It’s the university’s focus on experiential learning. I think the best way to learn is to get involved, to do and make mistakes. I’ve already seen all three kids mature and grow because they are doing this at HPU. And they have unique access to faculty and a Success Coach to keep them on track.

Q: What advice would you give parents of high school students who are starting the college search process?

L: Visit the campus. Experience the culture and how students live day to day. Find out how your student’s foundational beliefs will be treated, and encourage your student to find these things out for themselves. As a parent you want to know: Are they going to be better after four years?

D: Find a place that aligns with your values. Dr. Qubein sums it up well when he says you spend 17-18 years molding your child, and you don’t want to turn them over to someone who doesn’t share your beliefs.

Q: Tell us about your favorite HPU experience you’ve had with your family:

L: For both of us, it’s been Convocation. It’s the most special campus moment we’ve ever been a part of. The president welcomes families with all the right words, an eagle flies over to represent American values, and parents and students are all together. It’s the perfect way for students to begin college. You’re sending them off with this beautiful ceremony, which includes signing the Honor Code — it’s a lovely way to set them up for success. ■

“HPU has the resources, ecosystem and professionals to help students figure out and reach their goals.”

- David Amigo Father of three HPU students

“Everyone at HPU cares for you and wants you to succeed, whether it's your favorite professor making time for you, the staff at Slane Starbucks leaving cute notes on your order or Chris at the kiosk greeting you on your way to your 7:50 a.m. class. Having such a strong support system here on campus is so inspiring and empowering.”

- Olivia

Bozzomo,

’22, Talent Acquisition Recruiter at Collins Aerospace

MODELING GENEROSITY

At one of High Point University’s campus kiosks, Chris Quick is a mentor who brightens students’ day.

Chris Quick, also lovingly referred to by many as “boss man,” is a campus celebrity. His infectious smile and signature fist bump are sure to make your day brighter.

Quick is a U.S. Army veteran from High Point, North Carolina, and began working at HPU in 2013. Most students know Quick from the kiosk by the Stout School of Education, where he gives out snacks and drinks to students on their way to class. He also works with HPU athletes in the Fuel Zones, weight rooms used by 500 students a day. Wherever he is, he takes care of students by making sure they are nourished with food and positivity.

Whether he’s crossing the street to give someone a water as they rush to class, loading up a student’s car with snacks for their long trip home or praying over an upcoming exam — Quick always goes the extra mile to show students he cares.

And students like Ashton Kajcienski, ’22, go out of their way to see him.

“When I first interacted with Chris, he had the biggest smile on his face telling me to have a good day,” she says. “I would make special trips out of my way to go see Chris — his joy was that infectious.”

A Powerful Purpose

HPU has several kiosks located around campus. They model generosity by offering complimentary snacks, drinks and more that students can grab on their way to class.

“Every student needs to start their day off great. It’s hard to start the day if they’re hungry or have other things on their mind,” says Quick.

By coming to work with a positive attitude, he shows students that every day, they can "Choose to Be Extraordinary." When students see him jumping around with enthusiasm and sharing messages of encouragement, they know they have everything they need to succeed.

“Those 7:50 a.m. classes can be a pain to wake up for, but after talking to Chris, I’m in a way better mood,” says Charles Crowell, ’24.

A Legacy of Positivity

Even before Quick joined HPU, he knew the campus fostered positivity. His family has more than 100 years of service dedicated to HPU combined.

His daughters Kristy, Lakisha and Sharida Norton have all worked in the Café. Lakisha works behind the

scenes making sure students are taken care of. Sharida worked the sandwich station, and Kristy works the omelet station where she knows students’ “usual.” Their mother Kathy Norton, known as “Miss Kathy,” is beloved by students and greets them when they visit HPU’s Silver Line Diner. Their attraction to HPU all started with Kathy’s mother Geraldine Norton, who worked with HPU’s Campus Enhancement team for 20 years.

Serving More Than Snacks

While Quick works in HPU Dining, his role for students is that of a mentor. He’s a counselor, motivator, prayer partner and friend.

“I’ll pray with students if they have an exam coming up. I counsel and do a lot of things. I love my students,” says Quick.

Quick is known across campus for exchanging his signature gesture — the “One Love” sign, but he’s also known for living out the meaning behind it. Making sure that everyone feels like they are a part of the HPU family is important to him. He wants to make everyone feel special.

“Chris embodies what it means to show love,” says Seth Hatherly, ’20, ’22. “He is a blessing to HPU.” ■

Britt Carl, pictured right

Britt Carl is the director of Learning Excellence at HPU, but she started her journey as an HPU Success Coach. In both places, she’s led dynamic teams of caring staff who provide regular academic coaching and support for students striving to improve their academic success.

In Learning Excellence, Carl and her team of specialists work diligently to help students grow their academic skills, including time management, organization, note-taking, study strategies, communication, problem-solving and self-advocacy skills.

“Every student on HPU’s campus is important and has a purpose,” says Carl. “In my work with students, I want them to feel that they matter and that they can accomplish their goals through the support we provide on campus, both inside and outside the classroom.”

HPU’s Learning Excellence Program is a fee-based program beneficial for any student who wants support in transitioning to college, organization, time management, study skills, or strategies to help maximize learning differences.

Learning Excellence HPU’s Legacy of

The Learning Excellence Program offers students a dedicated team to ensure their academic success.

“Once a student has mastered these skills, they feel a sense of accomplishment, and we celebrate these victories with them,” explains Carl. “These are the skills our students can continue to proactively use after they graduate from HPU.”

Because HPU knows that success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept, the program focuses on helping students identify the life skills they need as individuals to be successful and efficient college students. On a weekly basis, specialists meet with students to provide intentional preparation and coaching.

One of Carl’s favorite things about her role is watching students like Dana Weisenborn persist during challenging times.

Weisenborn is a senior majoring in hospitality management from Asheville, North Carolina. She has worked with Carl to manage her time better by creating a set schedule for her workload.

During exam weeks, they even created five-day study plans for Weisenborn to manage exactly what she needed to study and how far in advance to begin.

“Britt has been an excellent mentor to me,” says Weisenborn. “She taught me time management and organization skills. Each week I met with her, she helped me create a schedule to get my assignments done.”

Faculty and staff care deeply about their students, and this is demonstrated through the meaningful relationships the Learning Excellence team builds with students.

“We enjoy serving as mentors because we understand how impactful our mentorship can be in the lives of young adults during their first independent journey away from home,” says Carl.

Although a primary focus of the Learning Excellence Program is academic success, Learning Excellence Specialists are in a unique position to partner with students in their week-to-week progress and growth.

“I now plan out my schoolwork schedule the way Britt taught me, and it’s so helpful,” says Weisenborn. “It’s extremely supportive to have a coach like her, not only because she’s easy to work with, but she’s extremely kind and accommodating. She is always a friendly face on campus anytime I see her!”

In the Learning Excellence Program, developing a student’s values and personal confidence is just as vital as academic success for students to navigate their college careers.

“We are invested in their success as a whole and want to see them further develop as individuals both inside and outside the classroom,” says Carl. ■

Through

Connecting Campus Concierge

HPU’s unique Campus Concierge program is a one-stop shop for the university’s customer service needs.

“How can I assist you?” is a phrase often heard on High Point University’s campus.

In person, by phone, on social media and over email, HPU’s Campus Concierge team is an extraordinary foundation of customer service critical to the university’s daily operations.

Every person who walks up to a concierge desk receives a welcoming smile and greeting from a friendly face.

They answer phone inquiries, provide ticket pick up for events, assist in reserving meeting spaces, and help parents and students in the transition to college life.

“Campus Concierge improves the

daily lives of our students by providing a single source of knowledge for all campus and community information,” says Lauren Whitley, director of Concierge Services. “It’s a one-stop shop to set up HPU students for success with multiple amenities and people standing by to assist.”

Campus Concierge is also an important element in HPU’s

ecosystem of support and mentorship. They support and advocate for students and families during their time in HPU’s care.

“We understand that we have been entrusted with these students’ futures,” says Whitley. “We take extraordinary care of our community with efficient, energetic and empathetic service. We aim to treat everyone with importance, dignity and kindness, so they feel truly seen and cared for at HPU.”

Campus Concierge embodies the mission of HPU: Every student receives an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people.

Five-Star Service

HPU has blended a combination of premier life skills experiences and their care for families into a five-star customer service experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

Students can drop off dry cleaning, use the wash, dry and fold laundry service, and even rent iPads and calculators for their classwork through the concierge desk.

With locations in the Slane Student Center, the R.G. Wanek Center and Cottrell Hall, Campus Concierge is easily accessible in the most high-traffic areas of campus.

They act as the university’s touchstone — from questions on how to join a club sports team to requests for reserving a study space on campus.

And students appreciate this resource. By providing this level of service to students, they can focus on their studies to become this generation’s next group of leaders.

“We want them to have all the tools they need to succeed,” says Whitley. But it means more than providing customer service. It also offers students experiential learning opportunities.

Caring for the Campus Community

As part of HPU’s Student Employment Program, more than 35 students each year are part of the Concierge team.

They learn to model the value of service and communicate in a professional and caring way, preparing them for any career in their future.

Caroline Sykes, a Class of 2023 music major with a focus in vocal performance, understands how transferable these skills are.

“Working for Campus Concierge has given me unparalleled experience in building the life skills that I can use for any job,” says Sykes. “Communicating effectively, managing my time and so many other skills have become second nature for me.”

It’s about intentionality, and it’s all a direct part of the unique High Point University experience.

“I am honored to be a part of this team and to offer a fraction of the help and joy that High Point University has given me in the past three years,” says Sykes. “I love to put my passion for customer service and helping people into the world through Concierge.” ■

HPU Concierge Connector

As part of their customer service efforts, Campus Concierge assists with digital inquiries through the Concierge Connecter Facebook page. They work tirelessly in HPU’s parent Facebook groups to answer questions, address concerns and offer support. Here's a glimpse at how parents feel about the helpfulness of Campus Concierge:

“This was our first time going through the process of sending a child off to college, and we weren’t sure what to expect. HPU went above and beyond in providing communication and answering questions. Campus Concierge was beyond amazing. Having that resource via the Facebook page was incredible.”

- Carrie Rich, mother of Emma Rich, ’25, from Broomfield, Colorado

“We called Concierge over the summer to ask additional questions, and the team was extremely friendly, helpful and took time to search for answers to our questions. You never felt that your question was an imposition or unwarranted.”

- Theresa Troyano, mother of Robert Troyano, ’25, from Wading River, New York

“HPU cares about the family and the student, and it’s great to know that students are the top priority. The care Concierge provides is top-notch, and the service is unprecedented.”

– Andy and Julie Castillo, parents of Jocelyn Castillo, ’24, from Owings, Maryland

“It’s unimaginable how HPU can accommodate so many people so quickly and with top-notch attitudes. The Facebook Concierge Connector goes above and beyond with all requests!”

- Lisa Reyna, mother of Lauren Reyna, ’25, from Boerne, Texas

HPU's Helping Hands

Rodney Slade-Bowers, ’25, is part of HPU’s Bonner Leader Program, a student group that contributes thousands of service hours to the community every year.

It becomes clear the moment he begins to speak — Rodney Slade-Bowers is committed to making a difference. Whether discussing education reform or a teachable moment with a single child, this Bonner Leader is bursting with enthusiasm.

“I was raised to be in service to people — that’s my place,” he says.

It's little surprise that he has committed himself to HPU’s Bonner Leader Program, which puts students at

The Bonner Leader Program is a national service program found only at select universities across the country. HPU Bonners are servant leaders who connect fellow HPU students to nonprofits and social innovation projects in the local community. The Bonner cohort strives to be deeply diverse and is committed to finding ways to work with the community to promote justice and the common good. The program is a four-year responsibility and requires an application to be considered.

the front lines of change — building their community, understanding and preparing them for a life in public service and leadership. During their four years at HPU, Bonners log 300 hours of service annually, working with local nonprofit organizations to enhance their community understanding and leadership abilities.

When searching for the right college, Slade-Bowers saw that HPU offered ample opportunity to enhance his skill set in advocacy work. Already a committed community advocate, he quickly determined the university was a perfect match.

Coaching Future Community Leaders

Now a sophomore at HPU, Slade-Bowers participates in HPU’s social innovation minor through the Bonner Leader Program and is leaning toward pursuing a major in business administration.

“I want an education that will help me pursue my interests in education reform and policy work,” explains the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, native.

Since arriving at HPU, Slade-Bowers has immersed himself in activities with the Bonner Leader Program, assuming a role as a coach with D-UP (Develop Skills, Understand Nutrition, Power Up to Fight Obesity), a Guilford County nonprofit dedicated to fighting childhood obesity in at-risk youth by getting them moving on the basketball court.

“Working with D-UP allows me to give back in a way that’s personal,” he says. “I know what it’s like for a kid to get lost in the system, to become a number, so I make it a point to learn every kid’s name. There’s a reason for the education policies we write, and these kids are it.”

Slade-Bowers sees every moment as an opportunity for growth.

“I do my best to seize every teaching moment and put something of value in each kid’s ear,” he says.

And if only one child walks away from the program stronger and more self-confident, he's happy.

Determined to Make a Difference

“One of my students was having a tough time, really acting out for attention,” he recalls. “I saw that the

Bonners BY THE NUMBERS

Annual Hours of Service13,500 HPU Students Serve as Bonner Leaders45

Local Service Locations9

*It's all part of the 500,000 hours of service HPU students, faculty and staff annually contribute.

measures being taken to correct his behavior weren’t working. I knew he had to want to change his behavior for himself, so I took a different approach. I sought to empower him.”

The shift in focus worked.

“One day, that student came to me and said, ‘Mr. Rodney, I didn’t do anything bad all day,’” says SladeBowers. “I was thrilled. He realized that he needed to take responsibility for himself — that’s huge.”

D-UP’s Executive Director Jakki Davis regularly witnesses such efforts by Slade-Bowers to reach students and says she has seen him pull a student aside to offer encouragement on many occasions.

"Rodney is passionate about the success of our students,” she says. “He has a great deal of compassion and understands the opportunities available for our students who excel in the classroom. He has awarded incentives to students for making efforts to succeed. For example, he and another Bonner bought doughnuts for students with a good report card. We are grateful to have Rodney as a Bonner and look forward to seeing the legacy he will leave at D-UP."

Slade-Bowers believes that the world is made up of great men and women, but even just one person can make a big difference.

“If all I do is work with just one child, I’ll be content with life,” he says. “It’s not always about reaching 10,000 people — sometimes one is enough.” ■

Cottrell

The

Christine B. “Christy” and Dr. David E., ’17, (Hon.) Cottrell recently made a $2 million gift to High Point University to establish the Cottrell Hall and Amphitheater Preservation Endowment. This endowment will support the operations and preservation of Cottrell Hall and Amphitheater in perpetuity.

“We are forever grateful for David and Christy’s committed advocacy of HPU,” says HPU President Dr. Nido R. Qubein. “Their continued support is an investment in the success of the university as well as current and future students. We are excited for the opportunities that await the university and hope that others are inspired by the Cottrells’ display of generosity and leadership.”

Cottrell Hall opened in 2015 as one of the first LEED-certified buildings at HPU. This extraordinary building is home to the Flanagan Center for Student Success as well as the Norelli Global Education program, the Office of Career and Professional Development, Sales Program, Internship Services, Undergraduate Research and Creative Works, the Student Success Program and the Entrepreneurship Center. The building serves as a hub for experiential learning opportunities through the many programs and services offered and allows students the space to expand their education through innovative studies, tailored to their interests and passions. The Cottrell Amphitheater serves as a continuation of the learning spaces available for students. The impressive outdoor learning lab seats up to 1,000 people and hosts several community events throughout the year including HPU’s Annual Arbor Day Celebration, the High Point Arts Council Concert and North Carolina Brass Band performances.

“When David and I chose to support HPU and Dr. Qubein through a capital project, we knew we wanted to assist in developing a facility that would encourage students to discover their American Dream, something my own family and Dr. Qubein frequently speak about,” says Christy Cottrell. “By establishing the endowment to preserve Cottrell

Hall and Amphitheater, we believe that we are helping to ensure every HPU student will have the resources available to them to make their dream a reality.”

David and Christy are the founders of RetailData, LLC, an international retail pricing research firm. The Richmond, Virginia-based company specializes in providing clients with retail pricing intelligence through comprehensive data collection and reporting processes. Currently, the couple serves as co-chairs of RD Holdings, the parent company of RetailData.

Christy graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Business in 1978. In 1988, Christy left her career in the grocery wholesaler industry to start RetailData, LLC. Her goal was to build a company that would improve the collection of competitive retail prices by implementing scanning technology and electronic data delivery. Christy began the company with a $10,000 line of credit and from there was able to develop and position her start-up as a pioneer in pricing intelligence. Today, RetailData employs more than 1,500 people across the United States and Canada.

Similar to his wife, David began in the grocery sector of Procter & Gamble. He later founded the Cottrell Brokerage Company before moving to the PIA Merchandising company as a senior manager. In 1992, David joined RetailData and has since leveraged his extensive

career and industry knowledge to help grow RetailData into the company it is today.

As successful businesspeople, Christy and David have volunteered their talents as well as time toward many charitable boards and organizations. In the past, the couple has been involved with the Richmond SPCA, the Massey Cancer Center at VCU Health, the Make-AWish Foundation and the Greater Richmond Community Foundation board. In 1998, Christy was awarded the Virginia Entrepreneur of the Year and then the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year in 1999. In March 2021, both Christy and David were inducted into the Greater Richmond Junior Achievement Hall of Fame.

As the parents of HPU alumna, Leah Cottrell Rose, ’17, the Cottrells have remained active in the university community as advocates of HPU’s mission and values. In addition to being loyal supporters of campus initiatives, David and Christy have hosted new student networking events in Richmond, Virginia, and have helped facilitate experiential learning opportunities, like the Annual Business Plan Competition. In 2017, David was awarded an honorary doctorate at the May Commencement ceremony and Christy was inducted into the Board of Trustees following her service on the Board of Visitors. In addition to her role on the board, Christy serves as a founding member of the Elizabeth Miller Strickland Women’s Leadership Council since August 2020. ■

To learn more about other extraordinary HPU parents, families and alumni who have continuously shown their support and advocacy of the university, visit engage.highpoint.edu/profiles.

LIFETIME HPU SUPPORTER AND ALUMNUS

MADE

Multi-MillionDollar Estate Gift

Last fall, High Point University lost beloved alumnus and lifelong supporter, Bill L. Minor, ’50. After a long, fulfilled life, he departed earth to meet his late wife, Louise. While Bill is no longer with us physically, his memory will forever live on through the impact he made on HPU’s campus.

“Bill Minor was a special man,” says HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein. “I was lucky to know him personally and had the opportunity to hear the beautiful stories he

would tell of his late wife and their time at HPU. He has left a significant mark on our campus through his support of scholarship and experiential education opportunities. Bill was truly the embodiment of an engaged alumnus and continues to be dearly missed on our campus.”

Bill was born September 17, 1928, in Guilford County, North Carolina, and was a resident of the area for his entire life. Born between the prosperity of the Roaring Twenties and the tragedy of World War II, Bill made the decision to enlist in the army at age 18. He served as a corporal in the 27th Regiment of the United States

Bill and Louise Minor's generosity is recognized throughout campus. Honoring their last and most noted investment at HPU, the Louise D. and Bill L. Minor Scholarship is featured in the Elizabeth Miller Strickland Scholarship Plaza, pictured.

Army and was a part of the United States’ occupation of Japan after the conclusion of World War II. Once his service was complete, Bill returned to High Point and married the love of his life, Louise Dailey, on December 18, 1948. In 1950, he graduated from then High Point College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Following graduation, Bill spent his career with McEwen Lumber, eventually retiring as the CFO.

Bill’s late wife, Louise, was also a lifelong resident of Guilford County. Born February 28, 1930, she graduated from High Point Central High School in High Point, North Carolina, before she began working at Adams-Millis Corporation. In addition to spending time with her family, Louise was an avid gardener and active community member. She participated regularly in the High Point Woman’s Club, Meals on Wheels, the biannual High Point Furniture Market and Girl Scouts.

Louise and Bill had 66 joyful years together. The couple enjoyed traveling, golfing and watching baseball with their family. Louise and Bill had two children, Steve and Jane. The two sweethearts were the happy grandparents of five grandchildren, two of which are also HPU alumni, and six great-grandchildren.

“HPU was always near and dear to my parents’ hearts and continues to be important in our family,” says Jane Sartain, daughter of Bill and Louise Minor. “They were compassionate givers who believed every child deserves an education. I am so happy that their legacy of kindness will continue at HPU and assist student growth and development for years to come.”

Louise passed away on January 27, 2015, at 84 years old. Louise is fondly remembered as an enthusiastic fan of HPU Basketball as she and Bill were active supporters of HPU. The couple regularly supported initiatives like the HPU Fund for Extraordinary Education, the Student-Athlete Excellence Fund, Panther Club, and several notable capital projects including the Hayworth Fine Arts Center and the Jerry and Kitty Steele Sports Center.

In August 2015, after Louise’s death, Bill established the Louise D. and Bill L. Minor Endowed Scholarship through a multi-million-dollar planned estate gift. Bill created the scholarship in her memory as he said they both had “an acute appreciation for the value of higher education and a strong admiration for HPU.” He hoped that this scholarship would tangibly benefit a student from North Carolina in their pursuit of the American Dream.

Louise and Bill Minor, '50, pictured in 2014.

Bill passed away at 93 years old on November 18, 2021, six years after his treasured wife. He spent his last years with family and friends, reminiscing on his time with Louise. During those years, Bill remained active in his interests, faith and relationship with HPU. Bill’s last HPU event was the 2021 Annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast. The breakfast was held at the newly opened Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center. During the program, veterans of all ages and backgrounds, like Bill, were honored for their service.

The legacy of Bill and Louise’s generosity can be seen throughout campus. As you walk by Roberts Hall and the Women’s Complex, there are seven magnolia trees dedicated by Bill in honor of his daughter and grandchildren; near McEwen Hall, the Minor Infinity Garden is named in honor of Louise, a lover of all flowers and plants; on the Qubein Arena and Conference Center Donor Wall, Bill is listed for his support of the capital project; and honoring their last and most noted investment at HPU, the Louise D. and Bill L. Minor Scholarship is featured in the Elizabeth Miller Strickland Scholarship Plaza. These recognitions and dedications all represent the passion and love Bill had for his alma mater and will carry his legacy for many years to come. While his light and sweet spirit will be missed, his enthusiasm for philanthropy and enriching the lives of students will carry on in perpetuity. ■

For more information about how you and your family can include High Point University in your planned giving, please contact Chris Dudley, Senior Vice President for Development, at cdudley@highpoint.edu or 336-841-4530.

Life Skills

Bell Family Establishes Endowment

With $1 Million Gift

Jackie and Steven “Steve” Bell of Greensboro, North Carolina, recently made a $1 million gift to High Point University. This gift was made in conjunction with the Bell Foundation to establish the Steve Bell Family Life Skills Endowment.

“HPU is able to provide our students with the premier life skills education because of the support we receive from families like the Bells,” says HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein. “With this endowment from the Bells and the Bell Foundation, HPU will be able to support many more extraordinary experiences that will assist our students in achieving the excellence they seek.”

The Steve Bell Family Life Skills Endowment will provide the university with additional resources to bring in speakers, experts and practitioners from the fields of business, real estate and entrepreneurship. It is the Bells’ wish that through their gift, students are encouraged to think and act like entrepreneurs through enhanced learning opportunities and business plan competitions.

As established members of the Piedmont Triad where HPU is located, the Bells are very involved with their community and work through different philanthropic endeavors to support area initiatives while encouraging others to do the same. By helping enhance the student experience at HPU, the Bells hope the additional resources will assist in furthering university growth, and by extension, surrounding cities like High Point and Greensboro.

“We chose to support HPU because of the university’s values and ability of faculty and staff to help students succeed through discipline and focus,” says Bell. “As longtime residents of the Piedmont Triad, we hope to continue to see good growth from the school that will

help to support the surrounding community. What is good for High Point University is good for the Triad.”

Steve graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1967 with a Bachelor of Arts in history. After college, Steve spent eight years working in investment property sales and management, focusing primarily on shopping malls, office spaces and apartments. In 1976, Steve founded Bell Partners, one of the leading apartment investment and management companies in the United States. Bell Partners works with high-net-worth clients and large institutions from all over the world through their 11 regional offices located across the nation. The company has been listed as one of the top 20 largest apartment operators with more than 72,000 properties under its management.

The Bells have three children, Jon, Durant and Donna, and 10 grandchildren. In 2016, Steve transitioned from CEO to chairman of the company, and Jon took over as CEO. After Steve’s retirement in March 2022, Jon assumed the role of executive chairman. Durant also works for Bell Partners as the executive vice president of high-net-worth relations and business development. Donna worked for Bell Partners briefly in the condominium sector before transitioning to a homemaker to take care of her four children. Donna’s son, Paxton Gravely, graduated from HPU in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in sport management. He currently works for a paper manufacturing company in Nashville, Tennessee.

In addition to their endowment, the Bells recently made a six-figure gift to support student success at the university through the HPU Fund for Extraordinary Education and have extended their generosity to other higher education institutions throughout North Carolina. The Bells also support Greensboro Day School, where Jackie is a former trustee and currently serves on the Head of School’s Council. ■

Empowers Student Leaders Through Scholarship

Joy Atkinson of Bluffton, South Carolina, recently established the Joy Atkinson and John Atkinson Conlon Endowed Scholarship. Through this scholarship, Atkinson hopes to assist business and communication majors who aspire to become pioneers in their fields. In addition to establishing the scholarship, Atkinson has joined the Elizabeth Miller Strickland Women’s Leadership Council, a distinguished board of women committed to teaching and mentoring female HPU students on how to be trailblazers in their personal and professional lives.

Atkinson is the mother of two children, Kylie and Jack. Jack is a senior strategic communication major at HPU. As a parent, Atkinson was motivated to establish the scholarship because of the focus HPU emphasizes on innovation in both academics and personal development programs. It is important to her that her son, as well as current and future students, can explore new and engaging topics through their classes while building a portfolio of skills and experiences as innovators.

“Throughout my career, I have learned that I was privileged to have my leadership abilities recognized and cultivated early on,” says Atkinson. “I am excited that my son attends a university where leadership is taught as an essential life skill and supported through a combination of classroom experiences and realworld scenarios. By supporting students and their education at HPU, I believe that I am helping to empower the next generation of extraordinary leaders.”

Atkinson is president and CEO of Presperse, a cosmetic ingredient company. She graduated from Georgia State University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. ■

Forever Family B uilds Lasting Connection with University

Cheryl “Cher” Cook-Boyle established the Cook-Boyle Family Endowed Scholarship in 2019. This connection ensures her son Matthew “Matt” Boyle continues to stay engaged with his alma mater and encourages him to continue their family’s spirit of philanthropy. As an HPU parent, Cook-Boyle has also supported the HPU Fund for Extraordinary Education, capital projects like the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center and has continuously invested in her scholarship.

“I learned to give back to the community from my mother and late father who generously advocated for many local initiatives through the family business,” says Cook-Boyle. “I wanted to make sure I modeled that same philosophy for my son while also helping him to feel closer to HPU as an alumnus. I have been so grateful for how the school has supported our family and hope that I can inspire other parents and families to be philanthropic role models for their own children by reinvesting in this extraordinary institution.”

Cook-Boyle was motivated to invest in HPU because of the premier life skills education Matt received as a student. Matt now works at Northeastern Supply, the

Cheryl "Cher" Cook-Boyle Matthew "Matt" Boyle

Cook family business, and Cook-Boyle credits HPU for developing his skills as a businessman and entrepreneur. Cook-Boyle is an active member of many charitable organizations and serves on the board of directors for Project Homecoming, a women’s transitional home located in Bel Air, Maryland. In honor of her continuous support as a Forever Family, Cook-Boyle and her family have been recognized in Cottrell Hall, the Qubein Arena and Conference Center, and on the Arena and Conference Center’s Donor Wall. ■

To learn about High Point University’s Forever Family program and how you can stay involved your graduate’s alma mater, please visit engage.highpoint.edu/foreverfamiles.

Celebrating the Centennial HPU turns 100 in 2024

In 2024, High Point University will celebrate its 100th anniversary. We will recognize our institution’s achievements, traditions and transformations over 10 decades. Alumni and families are encouraged to participate alongside faculty, staff and students in various opportunities, which include on-campus and regional events, special homecoming and reunion celebrations, and more.

Young Alumnus Reinvests in Alma Mater

When Henry Potdevin, ’21, first visited High Point University from Lexington, Massachusetts, he was excited to enter the next chapter of his life as a college student. During his four years at HPU, he experienced firsthand how extraordinary HPU is. After graduating in 2021, Potdevin decided to support the university so those coming after him would have the same transformational experience.

During his undergraduate studies as a finance major, HPU expanded its impressive list of global leaders to include names like Dean Cain, Cynt Marshall, Byron Pitts and Russell Weiner. Through classes and seminars, Potdevin was able to interact and network with these leaders, as well as others. As vice president of finance for the Earl N. Phillips School of Business Professional Selling Club, he participated in real-world environments where he gained professional experience in sales, entrepreneurship, investment and finance.

When the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center was announced as the next campus learning lab, Potdevin was thrilled by the potential for additional applied learning spaces. Once he graduated and had the opportunity to be involved with the capital project, he knew he wanted to reinvest in HPU and make a difference in the education of students who would come after him.

“The growth that has occurred on this campus since I was a freshman has been inspiring to see,” says Potdevin. “I am thankful to be able to give back to my alma mater as a young alumnus, especially after experiencing firsthand, during my own education, the impact of HPU’s development. I hope that my support of the university will motivate my fellow young alumni to stay engaged and give back to an institution that has greatly influenced who we are today.”

Currently, Potdevin is employed with Interactive Brokerage, a technology-driven brokerage firm. In honor of Potdevin’s generosity, he has been recognized on the Qubein Arena and Conference Center’s esteemed Donor Wall. ■

HPU Alumni Engage with Your Alma Mater

STAY CONNECTED with your family, and expand your alumni network by joining our online community at engage.highpoint.edu/alumni or join a social network.

GET INVOLVED by attending events both on campus and near you. Network and socialize with members of the HPU Family in your neighborhood at an HPU Connects event or join us on campus for Homecoming Weekend each fall. Find a schedule of events at engage.highpoint.edu/events

KEEP IN TOUCH. Follow us on social media and update your contact information so we can let you know about events, news and more. We want to hear from you, too! Share your news with us at alumni@highpoint.edu.

High Point University Alumni @HPUAlum

Make an annual gift and enable the university to continue providing more than $75 million dollars in scholarship support for students each year, along with our innovative academic and student engagement programs. Start making your impact today at engage.highpoint.edu/alumni-give.

Henry Potdevin, ʼ21

Glimpses of Greatness

HPU’s Student Council for Exceptional Children hosted a special Valentine’s Day dance for community members with disabilities. High Point Parks and Recreation’s ASPIRE unit co-hosted the event, which included dancing, games, food, a special holiday craft and more. HPU students also host similar Christmas and Halloween dances each year.

Liza Mason, a Class of 2022 special education graduate, helped a local high school earn a grant to support students with disabilities. The money was used to create a sensory garden and the Friendship Table at Ledford Senior High School. The table is a space for students and staff of different learning capabilities to come together, learn and feel comfortable.

Sophomore Education Fellows worked with Out of the Garden Project through their service-learning class to host a food drive that resulted in more than 630 pounds of donated food.

Winter weather didn’t stop HPU students and faculty from honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with service events on MLK Day. About 1,000 students and professors joined together to pack more than 40,000 meals to feed families in need. Other service events included writing thank-you notes to first responders and packing thousands of seeds for community gardens.

HPU students thanked local law enforcement, hospital staff, public health staff and more at HPU’s Frontline Workers Drive-Through Dinner, held in front of the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center. These community heroes received complimentary food, an HPU T-shirt, messages of gratitude and free basketball tickets. The event was organized by HPU’s Student Government Association.

HPU’s Kappa Delta sorority co-hosted the seventh annual Superhero Dash in April. The Superhero Dash raises funds and awareness for Family Service of the Piedmont’s programs and services. Superhero Dash participants showed up in their favorite superhero costume to support Kappa Delta’s philanthropy.

Students in the Bonner Leader Program work with staff and children at the Qubein Children’s Museum to contribute valuable programming and serve children in the community through exciting educational experiences.

Bonner Leaders spend their time at HPU serving throughout the city of High Point to better the community.

HPU's Center for Community Engagement awarded the Arc of High Point with a $1,000 donation as the Community Partner of the Year.

Club Sports Set Records:

Competition builds friends and leaders

HPU students who compete in any of the 34 different Club Sports stay fit, make lifelong friendships and build leadership skills outside the classroom. This past year, these diverse activities have led HPU teams to more regional and national-level Club Sports competitions than ever. Here's a glimpse.

Baseball Team Advances

Head Coach Todd Murphy led HPU’s Club Baseball team to win the Dixie Regional Tournament for the first time. Nationally ranked for the season, the team rose to No. 3 and competed in the National Club Baseball Association Division II World Series for the first time in HPU Club Sports history. The Panthers put on a good showing but lost in the tournament’s third round. With most players returning, the team expects to make a strong comeback in the 2022-2023 academic year.

Men’s Lacrosse Leads

For the first time, HPU Men's Club Lacrosse won the Blue Ridge-Tidewater Conference Championship and qualified for the National Lacrosse League Championship Tournament in Annapolis, Maryland. Assistant Coach Austin Miller leads the young team that will be in the race for another National Championship bid in 2022-2023.

Taylor Meletti, ’22, and Sydney Henry, ’23, in Novice Flat. Steffens qualified for the IHSA National Championship in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Accompanied by Head Coach Cathy Schlaeppi, Steffens finished sixth in the nation for Intermediate Fences.

Golf Tees It Up

HPU Club Golf sent eight students to compete in the National Championship at Hot Springs Country Club, near Little Rock, Arkansas. The team made its highest team placement, finishing 10th among more than 30 schools. Paul Goetz, ’24, Drew Covitt, ’24, and Hayes Esposito, ’23, each finished in the Top 50 of more than 200 individual competitors.

Equestrians Elevate

Six HPU students qualified for the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Regionals. The students were Claire Steffens, ’24, in Intermediate Fences; Emily Zylka, ’23, in Open Fences; Helen De Weissenbruch, ’23, in Limit Fences; and Ashleigh Kloppman, ’23, in Limit Flat with

Esports Rises in the Ranks

Club Esports held its first Local Area Network tournament, the HPU Call of Duty Classic, on April 2 in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication’s Esports Arena. As one of six schools competing, HPU finished as runner up in the inaugural tournament, which was broadcast and livestreamed by fellow students. HPU’s Club Esports held a high national ranking all year, finished at 20th in the nation in Call of Duty and made a brief appearance on ESPN SportsCenter, social media and national TV.

2022 SASSER CUP CHAMPIONS

High Point University earned the Sasser Cup in 2022, recognizing the Panthers as the top overall athletics program in the Big South Conference for the 2021-2022 academic year. The Panthers also won its fourth straight Big South All-Women's title.

HPU becomes just the sixth school ever to win the Sasser Cup, which was presented to Dan Hauser, vice president and director of athletics, during the Big South's spring meetings in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

HPU finished first in the Sasser Cup standings with a score of 10.28. That includes four Big South titles and six championship game appearances.

HPU is the only active Big South Conference member to win the Women's All-Sports Championship, leading the way with four titles.

HPU won four Big South tournament titles during the 2021-2022 season — women's cross country, women's soccer, women's outdoor track and field, and men's outdoor track and field. The Panthers won all four of these titles in dramatic fashion, which helped in the claim of the Sasser Cup. Those milestones were achieved through hard work and dedication, including:

• The women’s cross country team rallied in the final kilometer of the championship race to come from behind and beat Radford by five points to win their fifth straight championship.

• The women’s soccer team defeated Campbell in overtime 2-1 in Buies Creek on a Skyler Prillaman goal to walk off as champions.

• The men’s outdoor track and field team defeated NCAA National Indoor Runner-Up North Carolina A&T by one point 178-177 in a meet, which came down to the final 4x400 relay race in which the Panthers held on to upset a national power.

• The final tournament title was the women’s track and field team, which also upset nationally ranked North Carolina A&T 187-180.

• Both the men’s and women’s outdoor track and field programs repeated as back-to-back conference champions.

All of these close championship victories helped swing the point total in the Sasser Cup in the Panthers’ favor.

This is the fourth time HPU has won a Big South end-of-the-year trophy and the fourth consecutive year the Panthers have claimed the Big South Women's All-Sports Trophy.

“To win the Big South Conference Sasser Cup for the first time in High Point University history represents a special accomplishment,” says Hauser. “I'm excited for our student-athletes, coaches and staff who have poured their heart and passion into creating championship results at HPU every day. I want to also thank and recognize President Qubein who has

supported the transformation and success of our athletic department throughout the years.”

The Panthers also claimed the Women's All-Sports title with a total of 11.03 points on average. HPU finished second in the results for the Men's All-Sports Trophy with a total of 9.43. ■

HPU President Nido Qubein, left, and Dan Hauser, vice president and director of athletics, right, are pictured with the Big South Conference Sasser Cup trophy.

MAJOR HYPE for HPU Basketball

The Qubein Arena takes HPU Men’s and Women’s Basketball to a new paradigm.

After the exciting opening year of the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center during the 2021-2022 season, Panther fans everywhere can’t wait to get back inside the breathtaking facility for another year of High Point University hoops. But Panther fans aren’t the only ones feeling fired up for the upcoming basketball seasons — some of our brightest stars on the basketball teams are optimistic and focused on making the 2022-2023 season memorable for all HPU fans.

Nakyah Terrell: “We are already off to a great start — stronger and better. Since we are so close off the court, it has translated on the court and will be exciting to watch this year! We hope to see a lot of fans in stands as we look to win a championship.”

After a solid freshman campaign, Terrell returns to HPU for her sophomore season. She was third on the team last season and scored an average of 8.4 points per game while recording double digits in the last three games of the season. Terrell was also named to the Big South All-Freshman Team after earning Freshman of the Week honors three times.

In the era of the transfer portal, college basketball fans everywhere are asking: Who are we bringing in? That answer for HPU Men’s Basketball fans is Thiam. Thiam is a redshirt sophomore who chose HPU after being at the University of Minnesota for a season.

Jaden House: “This year will be a good one. We are more mature than we’ve been the past couple of years, and everyone has come in focused this summer. Fans should expect a great year.”

House returns to the men’s basketball team as a junior. Last season, he started in 26 games and averaged 12.3 points per game. HPU fans know House as an athletic guard who can mesmerize from anywhere on the court. As the Richmond, Virgina, native transitions into a leadership role for the Panthers this season, he feels good about the progression heading into his third year with HPU.

Laye Thiam: “Being in the Qubein Arena — this place is incredible. I like the guys on the team already. They want to hang out and be together outside of practice, which I love. I can tell we will have a lot of fun this year. When we had our first meeting this year, all the guys talked about how their goals were to get better and win championships, and that is exactly why I am here.”

Cydney Johnson: “We are looking forward to a great season. We have a lot of experience coming back, and we’re excited about the new additions to the team. We’ve been working hard to reach our goal of winning another conference championship.”

Johnson was a mainstay in the HPU lineup of 2021-2022 and will be back for her junior season. The Raleigh, North Carolina, native started in 23 games and averaged 6.6 points and 3.4 rebounds per game for HPU. Johnson is also one of several returners from the group that won the 2021 Big South Tournament Championship, something she says her team wants to win again.

The Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center opens its doors again this fall for another action-packed basketball season, and both HPU teams are ready to make faithful Panther fans proud. ■

Jaden House

Laye Thiam

Nakyah Terrell

Cydney Johnson

This photo captures the enthusiasm and involvement of HPU President Dr. Nido Qubein as he celebrates HPU’s 2022 Move-In Weekend by welcoming the largest group of new students in the university’s history and the largest total enrollment in history at 6,000 students. New students were greeted by a sea of purple, an energetic marching band, warm smiles from cheering volunteers and a personal presence from the university president on Move-In Day. This is just one example of the many ways President Qubein stays connected with students. Students and families will also see him at events, in the Slane Café, at basketball games and other sporting events, and all over campus throughout the year.

Board of Trustees

Chris Henson, Chairman Mark Webb, Vice Chairman and Treasurer

Shirley Frye, Secretary

Board of Visitors

William Fidler, Chairman Alumni Board of Directors

William G. Tarrant, ’06, President

Panther Club

Darren Hill, Senior Director of Athletic Development

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