Winter 2023 JBU Brown Bulletin

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BrownBulletin

Official Magazine of John Brown University

Bolstering Student Success Through the Steadfast Faith Campaign

PAGE 12

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Mabee LRC Reimagined to Support Students

Spiritual Revival Parallels Cathedral Renewal

Arkansas' #1 University — The Wall Street Journal, 2024 College Rankings

In Person + Online

www.jbu.edu

Bachelor’s + Master’s

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Steadfast Faith Dear Friends of JBU, Carey and I are so grateful to celebrate our 20th year of serving as president and first spouse. In those years, we have been deeply blessed by the excellence of JBU faculty and staff, the curiosity of JBU students, the wisdom of the JBU board, the kindness of JBU’s alumni and friends, and by the steadfast love of our God.

We chose Steadfast Faith because it characterizes the God we serve, our hope for JBU students and our institutional commitment to JBU’s future.

In particular, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the JBU community, which has given over $330 million. We have received eight-figure gifts from leading foundations, significant estate gifts from widows, modest monthly checks from faithful donors and small cash gifts from students. We cherish and steward each gift given and thank you for your generosity.

In this Brown Bulletin, you will learn about our Steadfast Faith capital campaign. I encourage you to read the articles with joy and curiosity. We chose Steadfast Faith for the campaign because that phrase characterizes the God we serve, our hope for JBU students and our institutional commitment to JBU’s future.

GOD’S CHARACTER — In Lamentations, the writer gives voice to our frustrations, even despair, when things are going awry and God seems distant, a frustration that we often can experience. However, the writer doesn’t lose hope because of his faith in God’s character: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lam. 3:22-24 ESV).

STUDENTS’ CHARACTER — JBU cares deeply about discipling students, so they find their true hope in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. As the writer of Proverbs says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart” (Prov. 3:3 ESV). I am encouraged by this generation of students and their longing for Christ’s presence in their lives. They worship enthusiastically in chapel and spontaneously around campus, they serve with compassion through CAUSE ministries and mission trips and they eagerly learn about their place in God’s world. At JBU, they are learning to write God’s steadfast love on the tablets of their hearts.

INSTITUTIONAL CHARACTER — We face many cultural and societal challenges as a Christian university. However, we don’t fear or lose hope because we know the task God calls us to. We seek to “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58 ESV). JBU remains deeply committed to Christ over all in educating students to honor God and serve others.

I do hope you consider getting involved in one of our projects. I commit to you that whether you give to the Cathedral or LRC renovation, scholarships, academic endowments, mission trips, or leave an estate gift, we will use those funds to educate the next generation in the steadfast faith and love of Jesus Christ. May it always be true of us at JBU. Godspeed,

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Giving Decisions Stewardship is one of JBU’s six core values that calls us to “be wise stewards of our time, talents, and financial and natural resources because this world belongs to God.” JBU’s legacy is built on faithful friends and donors believing in the vision and mission of a “Head, Heart, Hand” Christ-centered education.

In my 10 years on staff, including two as part of the President’s Cabinet, I have witnessed firsthand how every contribution, regardless of size, is treated with the same gratitude and care. I’ve seen this ethos of stewardship played out in decisions large and small that ensure your generosity directly benefits our students, faculty and the broader JBU community.

As I write, we are engaged in the annual budget process. It’s a detailed, lengthy, but well-organized undertaking. I’ve seen how every request is examined and prioritized through a lens of commitment to mission, impact on students, stewardship of funds and long-term stability of the university.

I know that my gifts to JBU are stewarded well and help transform students’ lives. These students, whether pastors, teachers, nurses, artists, musicians or engineers, will go into the world and impact others. I believe that JBU is a worthy investment, and I hope you’ll join us in strengthening our mission for the next generation of students.

Julie Gumm ’95 (B.S.) ’20 (M.S.) Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

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COVER FEATURES: Steadfast Faith Campaign 10

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Fulfilling the Mission

Restoring the Cathedral Beauty

The Steadfast Faith capital campaign will strengthen JBU for future generations and ensure a quality, Christ-centered education remains within reach.

Interior renovations of the Cathedral of the Ozarks sanctuary will restore beautiful woodwork, address needed repairs and bring new beauty to JBU’s central worship space.

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LRC Renovation Fills Needs of Today’s Students After 43 years, the Mabee Learning Resource Center will undergo its first major renovation to create a central Academic Success Center incorporating the library and various student services.

Historic Discovery at Abila JBU students were among those that discovered a historically important inscription at the Abila of the Decapolis Archaeological Dig.

CONTENTS

WINTER 2023 The Brown Bulletin is published by University Marketing & Communications for alumni and friends of JBU. www.jbu.edu/bulletin PRESIDENT

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Dr. Chip Pollard VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT

Dr. Jim Krall CHIEF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Julie Gumm ’95 (B.S.) ’20 (M.S.) MANAGING EDITOR AND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Jay Nickel

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COVER DESIGN

Kelly Saunders ’12 LAYOUT DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION

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Anna Campbell ’25, Chloe Eisenmann ’24 Kelly Saunders ’12 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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Gabriela Arosemena ’23, Ella Fletcher ’26, Julie Gumm ’95, Keith Jagger, Jay Nickel, William Newton ’23, Nicholas Robinson, Carlson Wakefield ’20 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

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Scholarships Close the Gap, Leave Legacy Student scholarships provide institutional aid for hundreds of students with financial need. Through the annual fund and more than 350 endowed scholarships established by alumni and friends, families’ dreams of a Christ-centered education become reality.

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Campus News Golden Eagle News Staff Spotlight: Taylor Vanlandingham Alumni Updates In Memoriam

Kirstyn Burwick ’24, Luke Davis/Main Street Studios, Carter Henson ’17 (B.S.) ’19 (MBA), Juliana Jones ’27, Geoshan Lee ’23, Kelsey Moore ’26, Faith Roy ’26, Kelly Saunders ’12 SUPPORT

Sherry Miller ’75 COPY EDITING

Johanna Musgrave ’12 Submit news items, story ideas, letters and corrections to jnickel@jbu.edu or via mail to:

CONNECT Brown Bulletin: www.jbu.edu/bulletin Facebook: facebook.com/johnbrownuniversity

Brown Bulletin 2000 W. University St. Siloam Springs, AR 72761 ©2023 John Brown University

Instagram: instagram.com/johnbrownuniversity Twitter: twitter.com/johnbrownuniv YouTube: youtube.com/johnbrownuniversity Give Online: www.jbu.edu/giveonline

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JBU NOW

Campus News Song Named Chief Innovation Officer and 2023-2024 CCCU Presidential Fellow Ted Song, Ph.D., was named the university’s first chief innovation officer.

The new role allows JBU to expand the innovative work that he has been leading since 2019 as director of innovation, during which he led the launch of six new academic programs.

Song is now part of the Office of Academic Affairs and oversees curricular matters such as program requirements in the catalog and feedback on program reviews. Song also will continue to lead the university in launching new programs and creating strategic partnerships.

In addition, he has been selected as one of the first three CCCU Presidential Fellows. The Presidential Fellowship Program is a yearlong fellowship to prepare leaders to answer the call to Christian college presidency. During the one-year fellowship program, presidential fellows will access

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numerous opportunities for professional development, leadership development and networking. 01

Norwood Named VP for Academic Affairs Robert Norwood, Ph.D., is now responsible for the overall leadership of the faculty and academic administration, encouraging excellence in scholarship, teaching, advising, institutional service, Christian discipleship, curriculum and program development, institutional research, student academic success services, library services, external accreditation and all other programs or services related to the academic mission of the university. Norwood also serves on the President’s Cabinet, an eightperson team that works with JBU President Chip Pollard to set the strategic direction for the university and oversee and implement planning, major initiatives and policies. 02

Posey Named Dean of Undergraduate Studies In her new role, Trisha Posey, Ph.D., has primary oversight of all on-campus and online undergraduate programs, core curriculum and international

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studies. She reports to Robert Norwood, Ph.D., partnering with him with respect to hiring, managing, and evaluating faculty and program evaluation. Posey has served as a faculty member at JBU since 2007 and has been the director of JBU’s Honors Scholars Program since 2012, overseeing the Honors Scholars Program for over 200 high-achieving students. 03

Freshmen Class Sets Record Fall 2023 welcomed a record-setting class of 376 freshmen to the Siloam Springs campus. Total new student enrollment, including transfer students and students returning after one or more semesters away, is 429. Several student population groups saw marked increases, including students from Northwest Arkansas, student-athletes, Latino American students, international students and missionary kids. 04

Creciendo Juntos Receives Tyson Grant Creciendo Juntos, Spanish for “Growing Together,” is a student organization that empowers Latino JBU students living in the U.S. to flourish in through a supportive community focused on

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mentorship, education and service.

In October, the program received a grant from Tyson Foods totaling up to $20,000. This investment will allow Creciendo Juntos to help more than 75 students attend workshops, host community events and cover the cost of book vouchers. Program Director Marcos Gutierrez Angulo hopes this investment from Tyson Foods will improve college enrollment, retention and graduation rates.

Ranked No. 1 in Arkansas by The Wall Street Journal The Wall Street Journal’s 2024 Best Colleges in the U.S. list ranked JBU as the No. 1 school in Arkansas. This is the third time in the last four WSJ rankings that JBU has topped the list.

“We value the Wall Street Journal rankings above others because it focuses on how a university changes a student’s life and future by keeping costs low and graduation rates and

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graduates’ salaries high,” said JBU President Chip Pollard. “It recognizes the economic value of JBU’s rigorous Christ-centered education. JBU also measures results by how students grow emotionally, relationally and spiritually — results that are harder to capture in a ranking but are as, if not more important, to a student’s education.”

Native Nations Flags Installed in Walker Student Center At the start of Native American Heritage Month, JBU celebrated faculty, staff and students from native nations as their flags were hung in the gathering area of WSC. More than 76 JBU students with Native heritage now see themselves represented among the flags representing the students’ nations. “To be given the opportunity to have our nation’s flag hung here in Walker Student Center is a big deal and great honor for not only myself, or my family, but also my tribe.” said freshman

Lindsey Harris. Other speakers included Professor of Visual Arts Bobby Martin, Director of Advancement Engagement Lanya Carson and honored guests from the Muscogee (Creek) and Cherokee Nations. 05

Graduate Certificate Programs Meet Market Demand JBU has launched graduate certificates in data analytics, marketing analytics and cybersecurity. “We have seen an increase in demand for programs that allow people in the workforce to upskill in a shorter amount of time with relevant and high quality curriculum delivered by experienced faculty,” said Brad Gatlin, Ph.D., dean of the Soderquist College of Business. Certificate programs consist of six, eight-week classes that can be completed 100% online. Upon completion, participants will have 18 graduate-level credit hours that can be applied toward a master’s degree.

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JBU NOW

Golden Eagle News Athletics, Community, Cottonelle Partner in Big Win Golden Eagle fans donated 1,493 canned food items to the Manna Center of Siloam Springs at the 40th anniversary of the world-famous Toilet Paper Game, which ended with a 90-60 JBU win over Barclay College.

After junior-transfer guard Drew Miller’s triple fell just 47 seconds into the game, fans threw 2,000 donated rolls of Cottonelle onto John Sheehy Court. Cottonelle also provided an additional 2,000-roll donation to the Manna Center.

Fresh Faces, New Records For the first time in program history, a freshman Golden Eagle runner won the Sooner Athletic Conference Cross Country Championships as

Cera Eckenroth claimed the top podium spot in her first career postseason run. However, Eckenroth wasn’t finished rewriting the program record books, as she finished the NAIA National Cross Country Championships in 28th place out of 331 runners, claiming the first All-America finish for the program by a first-year runner. Alongside Eckenroth, freshman Esmeralda Sandoval claimed third at the SAC race and finished in the top third of runners at the national meet. 01

Women’s Soccer Does It Again Sophomore Aubrey Winter scored her ninth goal of the season in the 20th minute, and senior Lauren Walter scored a second-half brace just 19 seconds apart, powering the league’s top-seeded Golden Eagles to a 3-0 win over Science & Arts (Okla.) to claim the 2023 Sooner Athletic Conference tournament championship for the fourth consecutive season. Alongside the program’s sixth-ever tournament crown, the Golden Eagles captured a fifth SAC regular season title under head coach Kathleen Paulsen, Ph.D., its seventh in

Renny Buchanan

Cera Eckenroth

Oscar Carballo

Lauren Walter

program history. JBU finished undefeated (8-0-1) in the regular season table for the fifth time since 2013.

The Golden Eagles then defeated Olivet Nazarene (Ill.) for the second time this season, launching the ladies into the Round of 16. With just under five minutes to play, freshman Summer Holmes scored the match’s lone goal off a corner service from sophomore Aubrey Winter to stave off the Tigers, 1-0.

Despite losing a 2-1 heartbreaker to Aquinas (Mich.) in the Round of 16, the Golden Eagles finished the season 183-1, tying the all-time, single-season win total in program history. 02

Strong Regular Season Performance from Men’s Soccer The men’s soccer team accomplished something it had only done once before – rack up eight wins in Sooner Athletic regular season action. This allowed the Golden Eagles to finish as the regular season runners-up and conclude the season at 11-6-0 overall, the most wins in the coach Chris Cole era.

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On the Big Stage For the second time in seven years, the men’s basketball team took on Baylor University inside the Ferrell Center in Waco, Texas. Drew Miller poured in five triples and scored a team-leading 19 points as JBU battled the Bears to a single-digit contest midway through the second half in a 96-70 Baylor win. 03

Volleyball Crosses 20-Win Mark For the seventh time in 10 seasons under head coach Ken Carver, the Golden Eagles reached the 20-win mark and finished fourth in the final Sooner Athletic Conference standings.

JBU ended the year 21-11 overall and 14-6 in league play.

Golden Eagle Standouts Joining Eckenroth, the Golden Eagles produced four NAIA All-America selections this fall as senior Lauren Walter and junior Renny Buchanan of women’s soccer and senior Oscar Carballo of men’s soccer all finished their respective campaigns as thirdteam honorees. Walter and Carballo were the Sooner Athletic’s Players of the Year in their respective sports.

These student-athletes helped set a new department record: four All-America selections in the fall semester alone.

First Championship for Esports For the first time in the history of the varsity esports program, the Golden Eagles claimed a NACE divisional championship. The varsity Rocket League team, consisting of Luis Gomez, Nicolas Villalba and Jacob Koslowsky, defeated the University of Kentucky 4-2 in the best-of-seven final, winning a division featuring schools nationwide and finishing 8-2 on the season. 04

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STAFF SPOTLIGHT Taylor Vanlandingham joined JBU in 2018 as academic reference librarian and was named library director in 2022. Creating dedicated librarians for online students is just one of the ways Taylor has led the charge toward improvements and new library support services in her short time at JBU. Working closely with faculty and leadership, Taylor strives to identify and implement new strategies to ensure the library continues to evolve with technology and the changing needs of students. Taylor inspires library staff to provide outstanding support to the entire JBU community.

TAYLOR

VANLAND

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

WHAT PERSUADED YOU TO BECOME A LIBRARIAN?

My mom would take me to the library nearly every day. I considered myself a reader and told my mom I wanted to be a librarian. As a child, I volunteered in my elementary library; and as a teen, I volunteered every weekday at the Gentry Public Library. After graduating, I took some time off and worked as a preschool teaching assistant for several years. I heard about a children’s library assistant position and applied. With my ability to create lesson plans and work with children and my experience in a library setting, I got the job.

I found that I loved what I was doing and needed a degree in library science to continue. Librarianship is helping people, and that is what I love about it. God has given me a talent to help people, which I use daily.

HOW DID YOUR TIME AT SPRINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR JOB AT JBU?

My experience at Springdale Public Library helped me hone my customer service skills. I worked with a wide range of patrons – from the mom trying to apply for a job to the ESL parent working on learning English to the reluctant reader who needed a book for a report. Each interaction taught me essential skills. I learned to listen closely, communicate what I heard and seek the required information. I do the same with our students here at JBU. WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR ROLE AS LIBRARY DIRECTOR AT JBU?

The moment a student takes on their research is the best. As students’ questions become more complex, I am proud of their growth. I have worked with all of our work-study students to teach them how to provide reference assistance, and the moment a student feels confident to help another student is so fulfilling.

HOW HAS ADAPTATION TO DIGITAL RESOURCES IN THE LIBRARY HELPED SERVE STUDENTS?

Let me first say I don’t believe books are going away; there are many benefits to reading from a hardcopy book. However, there are ways in which digital materials have genuinely helped our students. A digital resource does not need a physical footprint, so we can provide more resources than we have space for. In some select

cases, the library can help with textbook costs by ordering unlimited digital copies of a required text; this is impossible with a physical book because of space and financial constraints. Lastly, during COVID, the embedded librarian program and access to digital materials enabled the library to provide comparable service to our students even though they were not on campus. Looking toward the renovation, the library will lean on these digital resources to provide students with research assistance without as large of a physical library.

WHAT LRC ENHANCEMENTS EXCITE YOU THE MOST?

I’m excited to see how gathering all the academic resources at JBU in one space will benefit students. In bringing all the services together, we can quickly troubleshoot what assistance the students need; and instead of just pointing them in the right direction, we can walk them to the department they need. In the new library space, we are reorganizing our area with more room for all types of study — independent and collaborative.

I look forward to giving students what they have been asking for — a higher-quality study space.

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING AT JBU?

I love the students I work with and my library team.

I have never worked with a more polite and caring population. I can see Christ working in our students’ lives through my interactions at the reference desk.

Each day, my staff does not know what they will face, the questions asked of them, who may come up to the reference desk or what emails they may get. They consistently answer questions and meet our patrons’ needs with quick thinking and care.

Librarians are in the customer service business; you must genuinely care to be good at our work. I know that all of my staff members care deeply for our community of students. We want our students to succeed in academics and life, and we all pray for that daily. John Brown University is an exceptional place to work, and I feel that our commitment to having Christ at the center allows for a focus on our students as a whole person, not just as students in a class.

DINGHAM

CAMPAIGN OVERVIEW W

ithin a short time of his middle-of-the-night vision to adding to student costs. start a school that would train young people’s heads, Every year, 99% of our student body receives institutional aid hearts and hands, founder John E. Brown Sr., approached his that helps them close the gap between any federal and state aid friend Jesse H. Jones for financial support to get started. In and what their family can contribute. Without the ability to offer the 1930s, the school began publishing a monthly pamphlet student scholarships funded by generous donors, JBU would which, along with general school news, emphasized the lose students who want to attend but simply can’t make it work. school’s financial needs and entreated donors to join the The Steadfast Faith Campaign is the latest chapter in mission of providing an affordable Christ-centered education JBU’s history of successful capital campaigns. It follows the to young people no matter their means. blessings of the Keeping Faith Campaign (2005-2011) and the Today, the support of donors Campaign for the Next Century remains a vital part of JBU’s (2012-2019), which collectively commitment to remain an provided over a quarter of a “There’s no doubt that affordable option for students billion dollars. Since its soft while not compromising the launch in 2020, Steadfast Faith God has his hand in university’s Christian mission or has garnered over $60.8 million the work we do here at its academic standards. Falling of the $100 million goal, a strong JBU. We’re grateful for within the bottom third of costs testament to the unwavering of Christian colleges in the U.S., support of the JBU community. every person that gets JBU is consistently ranked highly “In my 27 years serving involved, no matter the

by The Wall Street Journal, U.S. at JBU, I am in awe of God’s News, Forbes and Money. continued blessings and the size of the gift.”

In the last 21 years, JBU has financial support he provides to built or renovated 18 buildings the university through so many financed 100% with donor gifts, alumni, parents and friends,” said avoiding adding these costs to student’s tuition. The university Jim Krall, vice president for advancement, “There’s no doubt has added new programs in data analytics and computer science that God has his hand in the work we do here at JBU. We’re thanks to gifts to academic endowments. Endowed faculty grateful for every person that gets involved, no matter the positions help hire and retain quality faculty, again, without size of the gift.”

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Endowed Academic Programs $10 Million Academic endowments are essential for JBU’s sustainability by providing a source of nontuition revenue. Endowed chairs and programs help attract and retain faculty and supplement program costs. They also ensure the continuity of academic excellence and reduce dependence on tuition, making education more affordable. $4.8 million committed as of 12/15

Funded Scholarships $20 Million Annual gifts to funded scholarships are used each year to help students with demonstrated financial need be able to attend JBU. This includes the Walton International Scholars Program and the annual JBU Scholarship Fund. $9.4 million committed as of 12/15

Estate Gifts $15 Million JBU would not be where it is today without the generous estate gifts that have helped sustain and grow the university. Estate gifts have provided scholarships, improved campus facilities and helped build a lasting endowment to support future JBU students. $2.8 million committed as of 12/15

Construction Projects $15 Million Of JBU’s recent capital campaigns, Steadfast Faith has fewer large-scale construction projects but includes an $11.5 million renovation of the Mabee Learning Resource Center (LRC) and $1.5 million for an interior refurbishing of the Cathedral of the Ozarks.

Several smaller projects you can read about on page 30 are already complete. $9.6 million committed as of 12/15

Endowed Scholarships $15 Million JBU prioritizes endowed scholarships in its capital campaigns to assist families in making JBU affordable. Endowed scholarships provide lasting financial support to current and future generations of students. $13 million committed as of 12/15

Operating Support $25 Million Annual gifts to operating expenses support JBU’s educational mission. KLRC donors, mission-trip supporters and athletic boosters are also included within this category. $21.3 million committed as of 12/15 W I N T ER 2023

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FEATURE

Mabee LRC Evolves to Support Student Success

BY GABRIELA AROSEMENA ’23

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riginating as a solution to challenges posed by increasing student numbers and a limited library space, JBU built the Mabee Learning Resource Center in 1977. Now, 43 years later, JBU is renovating the LRC to reinvent it as a modern and integrated Academic Success Center and collaborative learning hub.

The renovation aims to increase awareness and use of the many student support services scattered around campus.

“I couldn’t find the tutoring center the first time,” said Camila Alfaro, a first-year student from El Salvador. “When I asked, people just said, ‘There’s tutoring in the LRC,’ but there weren’t any signs, and it wasn’t in the library. I also didn’t know there were classrooms there.”

This lack of awareness of the full scope of academic resources available to students is not unique to JBU. According to a Tyton Partners 2023 survey of over 2,000 college students, 35% were unaware of critical support services despite institutions confirming their availability.

Additionally, the report found that students who are aware of their university’s services have a higher feeling of belonging

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FEATURE within their school communities. The study suggests this gap may affect students’ school success and retention.

Another study published by the National Library of Medicine found strong evidence of an association between students who utilize academic services and their success and their likelihood to return for the following semester, indicating that this environment enhances their motivation to study and promotes their academic performance.

The LRC renovation aims to reduce confusion by integrating all the academic services and offices so they are together and easy to locate.

“We realized that when things are easier to find — things students need — it just works better,” said Steve Beers, vice president for student development, athletics and facilities. “If we put all the academic services in proximity and within the same space, it allows for formal and informal collaboration.”

The administration also hopes the integration will alleviate any hesitation or stigma students may feel around asking for support.

The renovation is divided into two projects. The first project, which begins this month and should be complete by the end of April, converts the previous broadcast studio to a sound stage for JBU’s film program and moves the information technology offices and the media lab to the previous communication program area. The bridgeway between the LRC and the Chapman Administration Building, which became a storage area in 2001, will get new windows and be remade into a beautiful study space for students. Outdated mechanical systems will also be replaced throughout these areas.

“The building is not unsafe, but we are lacking measures that new building codes mandate,” said Steve Brankle, director of facilities. “We’ll have better technology — the Wi-Fi will be faster, more lighting, a new elevator and a new A/C system.”

The first renovation project is expected to cause minimal disruption to students and staff and cost $2.5 million.

The second project, slated to begin in May 2025 at a cost of $9 million, is the bigger undertaking and involves reimagining the library and the remaining LRC spaces.

“A lot of things have changed since the library opened in 1979,” said Taylor Vanlandingham, director of the library.

“There are no more card catalogs, and as technology has changed, the needs of JBU students have changed. As we’ve added academic services, we’ve kind of just put them wherever we could. The academic needs of today’s students are varied. A lot of times students come into the LRC and know they need help, just not where to get it.”

The area for physical items (approximately 70,000 books, journals, DVDs and games) will decrease due to the popularity and availability of digital versions, allowing the library to occupy the second floor only. The library will move some books to storage on collapsible shelves, allowing access when students prefer a physical copy.

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Construction will eliminate the two-story open space currently in the lobby and extend the second floor from the front of the building to the back. This allows for more space for individual and group study spaces, a reading room and a computer hub near the reference desk.

“When it’s done, the library is going to be a wide-open space with lots of natural lighting and high ceilings,” Brankle said. “This place has the prettiest view on campus. I think all the natural light will help students study and give the place a welcoming aesthetic rather than make the place feel like a cave.”

Moving the library services upstairs will open the first floor to create an integrated Academic Success Center that brings together student academic resources and support offices in one place. To fuel all that studying, the student-run coffee shop, Ground Floor Coffee, will get a new home in the LRC. With a more efficient layout, JBU hopes students implement a more collaborative way of learning.

Decades of empirical research back up collaborative learning and its effect on student success. According to a study by the University of Washington, “active learning leads to increases in examination performance that would raise average grades by half a letter.”

“If I’m a struggling student visiting Student Support Services and need to talk to the research librarian or someone in the writing center, I need to be able to just walk around the corner and find them,” said Beers.

Students agreed that collaborative learning is more effective, and the current library is limited in its ability to facilitate it.

“Right now, even though the first floor doesn’t have a ‘talking rule,’ people don’t seem to know that, and they whisper and don’t feel comfortable having those collaborative study sessions,” said Adeline Gruen, a freshman and library staff member. “I think [this project] will help students adjust and find their study style and still have access to the library.

It allows more talkative students to study with friends in a collaborative setting while being close to the library.”

JBU will begin the second project in May 2025 and hopes to complete it by January 2026.

Take a virtual library tour and learn more about the renovations at www.jbu.edu/steadfast-faith/lrc.

If you’re interested in giving to the LRC renovation, contact Jim Krall at jkrall@jbu.edu or 479-524-7145.

QUAD

LRC Lobby

Sound Stage

First Floor Blueprints

Bridgeway

Second Floor Study Area

Second Floor Blueprints

FA LL 2022

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A Generation Who

WORSHIPS Beautifully Cathedral Restoration Echoes Renewed Faith

BY KEITH JAGGER & CARLSON WAKEFIELD ’20

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n his letter to the early Roman church, the Apostle Paul addresses the foundational issues of worship that stand at the heart of the human condition. The cry, which is seen in Romans 7:24 NIV, “Who will rescue me from this body of death, wretched man that I am?” seems to begin back in Chapter 1, where Paul diagnoses the root of human sin: the human tendency to worship God’s beautiful creation rather than God Himself.

“Since the world’s creation, God’s invisible qualities — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” (Romans 1:20-21 NIV) In sin, our affections turn to idols; iniquity flows from deep problems with worship. It was true then, and even in light of the powerful accomplishment of the cross, it remains today.

But God is not weak; God is not detached. The power of the cross works among us still.

Starting in February 2023, we witnessed an undeniable worship movement of God’s Spirit across the campuses of our country. Student leaders stood up with great humility and led unusual outpourings of worship and prayer. Many of us who lived through it wondered what the summer of 2023 would bring. Would the excitement of late-night praise on campuses die down? Would we see any fruit of revival after the subsiding of emotions? Would the enemy sift student leadership? These

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were natural worries of human concern.

However, students came back from summer compelled.

Many had been developing plans and a strategy to see through for what they had been hoping. They did not want revival to be an emotional high. Students wanted spring 2023 to have changed their lives.

Twice a week, students at JBU have organized ongoing impromptu worship — 16-minute worship, usually as an 8:30 p.m. break from homework. They have prepared this space and shown up twice a week for 17 weeks straight — most often, gathering on the Walker Student Center balcony. The crew is usually 20-people strong. Sometimes, as many as 50 to 70 students take a break from homework to wash their hearts with adoration of the Father. While most head back into the library, the gym or dorm rooms afterward, many linger. This is a picture of sustainability and God addressing the human condition with its proper antidote: true worship.

At the risk of overinterpreting the work of God, I think we can make some confident observations.

Rev. James Choung, D.Min., researcher and vice president for strategy and innovation with Intervarsity, has claimed that distinct from preceding generations, young people in the West today hold as their central spiritual question: What is beautiful?

As they question the meaning of their lives, they are drawn to find their purpose and identity in aesthetics and that which can be calculated. While not inherently sinful, the pursuit of beauty can easily lead to idolatry. Seeing young people faced

FEATURE

with the most potent social technology the world has ever seen, with its allure and endless visions of a beautiful life, we rightly fear for the soul of a generation.

However, at the heart of their question, God is up to some brilliant work in the face of such cultural power. Without dismissing the beauty of his creation, God seems busy rescuing and restoring a generation through worship and for worship.

We know the cross offers freedom from sin and provides power for the restoration of the heart: “Thanks be to God that though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance” (Romans 6:17 NIV). We are watching this happen anew in real-time.

During midterms, the informal student leadership team, in the heart of the semester, organized and covered one week with 24 hours of constant prayer, capped by a worship and testimony night. We feel an intangible vibrancy in chapel worship. We have seen many baptisms and are watching handfuls of extra prayer groups pop up around campus, which ring with a common theme — “God, you are welcome on our campus, in all corners and in all groups.”

Despite the power of media, God is rescuing a generation – showing them that he alone is the source and giver of all beauty and that they can love beauty without worshipping beauty. He uses beauty to help turn their eyes to him, validating their questions and lifting them out of their attachments and loneliness through corporate praise.

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God is accomplishing something only he could — freeing a generation of digital natives from the worship of beauty and, in place of their former enslavement to powerful images, he is working out loyalty and love.

And here we see a poetic parallel occuring: in the same way that we have witnessed a spiritual renewal among our student body, the spiritual heart of campus, the Cathedral of the Ozarks, will receive some needed restoration and repair work.

The Cathedral of the Ozarks has become an iconic piece of architecture in the Northwest Arkansas region. Construction began in 1945 by John E. Brown Sr. The building features a limestone exterior, ornate stained glass windows, handmade pews and beautiful woodwork. Brown intended the design to be reminiscent of the rolling hills of the Ozarks. The sanctuary seats approximately 1,000 people, where students, faculty and staff gather for chapel three times a week. It also hosts events year-round, such as Christmas Candlelight Services, concerts, renowned lecturers, weddings and memorial services.

While the exterior received attention in 2008 with the addition of the originally planned limestone cladding, the interior has remained untouched since 1991. Recognizing the need to restore and preserve the historic building for future generations, JBU is embarking on a $1.5 million interior renovation project. Work will begin in May 2024 and conclude

by August of the same year, in time for students’ arrival for the fall semester.

The renovation plan addresses critical aspects of the aging facility — notably, the refinishing of the woodwork, which has remained untouched for nearly 70 years. Artisans will restore the beautifully crafted dark wooden pews made by JBU students in the campus furniture shop in the 1950s.

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Additionally, the plan includes replacing worn and stained ceiling tiles and fixing failing wall plaster.

Workers will remove the permanent risers to increase the functionality and flexibility of the stage, allowing for a more versatile use of the sanctuary. Installing a new soundboard will ensure the Cathedral remains a dynamic venue for student worship and events like Mock Rock and the Talent Show.

The entryway will also undergo updates to provide a more inviting entrance for visitors. In keeping with students’ pursuit of what is beautiful, digital displays in the lobby will feature images of works of art that correspond with the scriptural foundations of the current chapel messages.

These updates allow JBU to carefully and respectfully steward the history and craftsmanship of the Cathedral, maintaining its original majesty while upgrading features that will enable the building to continue serving the JBU community for many more years.

The Cathedral of the Ozarks holds a special place in the hearts of many alumni and community members, so the university has provided an easy way for people to get involved, specifically in restoring the pews.

Individuals, family groups or organizations who donate $1,500 to the project will get a personalized plaque displayed on the end of the pew. (See next page for details.)

As the renovation project unfolds in the coming months, the Cathedral of the Ozarks will transform and continue to be a source of beauty that points students to a creative God who desires and is deserving of their worship.

For more information on the Cathedral project, visit www.jbu.edu/steadfast-faith/cathedral.

Restore a

Pew

Current Pew

Restored Pew

Contribute to a legacy of worship and faith.

With a gift of $1,500, you can restore a piece of JBU's history — our hand-built pews crafted by students in the JBU woodshop in the 1950s.

Each contribution not only revives these historic seats but honors you or a loved one with a personalized plaque. Act now, as the opportunity to preserve this integral part of our chapel's history is limited.

www.jbu.edu/restore-a-pew

DISCOVERY AT

ABILA

Students Uncover Historic Inscription

BY ELLA FLETCHER ’26

T

wo days before the 2023 Abila excavation season was to end, students from JBU and Lipscomb University, dig staff and local archaeologists made a significant discovery.

Laying roughly two inches below the surface of a previously excavated area, an inscription on the floor of the atrium in the Area G Church Complex revealed the name of a bishop not previously recorded in history. The discovery adds Bishop Epiphanios to the list of three attested bishops of Abila. It also provides an absolute date for the completion of the complex.

Records indicate Jesus traveled through the Decapolis, a group of 10 cities in Jordan, Israel and Syria with a rich history dating back at least to 3200 B.C. One of those cities, Abila of the Decapolis, is thought to have been inhabited for nearly 5,000 years.

After a visit to the area in 1979, Harold Mare, Ph.D., of Covenant Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, applied to the Department of Antiquities of Jordan for a permit to conduct an archaeological survey at Abila. Surveying began in 1980.

Dave Vila, Ph.D., JBU distinguished professor of religion and philosophy, has excavated at the site since 1990 and served as director since 2008.

The Abila site was an expanse of farmland before the land survey in 1980 discovered the history buried underneath. The Department of Antiquities of Jordan owns about 170 acres

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within the site. Still, Vila says local farmers own about another 100 acres that were part of the ancient city and its suburbs, and they are reticent to sell their land.

Fortunately, future generations did not build modern cities on the site.

“Many ancient archaeological sites have modern cities that have been built on top of them,” said Vila. “We are very fortunate that no modern construction is on top of our site.

We have easy and open access to the entire ancient city.”

The site was no small suburb and had a population the size of Siloam Springs at its height around the fifth and sixth centuries A.D. Natural erosion covered the site after it lost its inhabitants in the 11th or 12th century.

Populations this large and continuous leave much to uncover, and the Abila of the Decapolis site is no exception.

Despite 43 years of excavation, Vila estimates that excavators have only uncovered 1 or 2% of the area.

Since the 2006 creation of JBU’s Jordan Summer Studies Program, 250 students, faculty, staff and alumni have visited Abila and participated in history.

Beginning with the 2023 season, The Lanier Center for Biblical Archaeology at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, joined the project. The center offers master’s and doctoral degrees in archaeology, which brings students

FEATURE and faculty with specializations that contribute greatly to the excavation.

The six-week program, held on odd-dated years, allows JBU students in any major to join the Abila excavation while earning up to 12 university core curriculum credits. Over the years, discoveries have included five churches, dozens of tombs, a Roman bath complex, a massive Roman bridge, 15 miles of water tunnels under the city and hundreds of thousands of pottery shards.

These programs are possible because a handful of anonymous donors established an academic endowment that now holds approximately $4 million in funding. Along with excavation and personnel costs, the investment income subsidizes the student cost of the Jordan Summer Studies Program and the Bible Lands Study Trip, a four-week tour of sites of historical and biblical significance in even-numbered years. It also funds the annual Abila Lecture in Biblical Archeology and, in 2022, created the Abila Museum in the Walker Student Center.

Vila said the most impactful part of the excavation work is not the discoveries but the relationships that students build with the Jordanians they work alongside, most of whom are Muslims. The Jordanians invite students into their homes for evening tea and meals, and many friendships are forged.

“Students come back with a renewed appreciation for the scriptures, a much more sensitive understanding of the modern Middle East and a great love for the people who live in the land today,” said Vila.

The Abila project exemplifies the vital role that academic endowments play in advancing knowledge and enriching the educational journey of JBU students, preparing them for future academic and professional endeavors.

Translation of inscription below: In the time of [our] holy father Epiphanios, the Bishop. The construction and adornment from the foundations of [this court] were carefully completed. In the month of April, during the 13th indiction, in the year 643 [AD 580].

Lord, praise to you.

Other recent ACADEMIC ENDOWMENTS Computer Science

JBU’s computer science program has grown from 19 to 55 students since its start in 2020. The university received a $2 million endowment to fund the faculty position held by Justus Selwyn, Ph.D. Criminal Justice

JBU added a criminal justice program in 2020, which quickly grew to 25 students. An academic endowment supports the program’s faculty position, held by Miguel Rivera, J.D., former deputy attorney general and parole board vice chair for the State of Indiana.

Data Analytics

A $2 million grant from the Walton Charitable Support Foundation in 2020 endowed an academic chair for JBU’s data analytics program, which began that fall.

The academic chair is filled by Linda Vytlacil, Ph.D., former vice president for data science/global data & analytics platforms for Walmart Labs. (The foundation also gave $6 million to support scholarships for data analytics and computer science students.)

Science

In addition to the 75 students majoring in biology, biochemistry and chemistry, science faculty support over 1,400 students in their core curriculum science requirements. The academic endowment funds a science faculty position to help keep tuition costs down.

Photo courtesy of Robert Smith, Ph.D., Mid-Atlantic Christian University

TP TAKES FLIGHT: Junior Drew Miller sent the rolls skyward 47 seconds into the game with a perfect 3-pointer. Fans packed Bill George Arena to support the Golden Eagles at the 40th annual Toilet Paper Game.

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FEATURE

CLOSING THE GAP Scholarships Provide Critical Dollars

BY GABRIELA AROSEMENA ’23 AND WILLIAM NEWTON ’23

“I

wouldn’t have been able to attend JBU without your gifts to JBU scholarships.”

It’s a frequent refrain across campus as students gather to write thank-you notes to donors that share their journeys to JBU, what they’re studying and their favorite experiences in college.

Recent surveys of high school seniors and their parents rank cost and financial aid as the second-most important factor in selecting a college, according to Forbes. Academic quality is first.

For families desiring a Christ-centered education, the cost is usually a more significant barrier, with the most expensive Christian universities listing tuition and room and board at nearly $70,000.

JBU, continuing with founder John E. Brown Sr.’s mission of an affordable Christian education, works diligently to keep student costs low, falling within the bottom third of Christian college costs in the U.S. With a listed tuition, room and board price of just over $42,000, the reality is that the average federal, state and institutional aid for JBU students is over $19,000.

This is only possible because of generous donors who support student scholarships in various ways.

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SCHOLARSHIP FUND Started in the 1980s, the John Brown University Scholarship Fund (JBUSF) provides annual need-based scholarships and work-study opportunities that help bridge the gap for students.

The annual $825,000 fundraising goal aids approximately 500 eligible students, with an average annual award of $1,750 per student.

The donations come from alumni, parents of current and past students, and friends of the university.

“We use many platforms to make these connections and meet the goals of the annual fund, including direct mail, email, texting, the semiannual phonathon, giving days and leadership giving, also known as the Founder’s Circle,” said Lanya Carson, director of advancement engagement.

The Founder’s Circle is a group of alumni and friends who commit to praying, promoting and providing at least $1,000 a year for the JBUSF. With 233 members, the Founder’s Circle accounts for over 50% of JBUSF’s total giving.

In the 2023 fiscal year, two annual giving days accounted for approximately 37% of gifts received.

Giving Tuesday is a global movement launched in 2012 as a day intended to inspire people to give and celebrate generosity.

JBU participated for the first time in 2013, and 116 alumni and friends gave approximately $30,000. In 2022, that grew to 240 gifts totaling $240,000. Recently, JBU added a spring Giving Day that has averaged $62,000 in contributions for four years.

“Since 2017, the JBU Board of Trustees has provided matching funds to drive the success of JBU giving-day initiatives further,” Carson said.

A team of JBU students helps conduct a semiannual phonathon that connects with approximately 1,000 alumni, parents and friends every semester through phone calls, texts and emails. “[It] has truly evolved into an engagement center. Student callers use this opportunity not just to request financial support for scholarships but to engage with alumni and friends for encouragement, mentorship opportunities and to pray with our community,” Carson said.

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS JBU has also experienced tremendous growth in its endowed scholarship program since introducing the first endowed scholarship, the H. Ezelle Thomas Hensley Memorial Scholarship, in 1962.

“Most colleges have endowed scholarships,” said Steve Onnen ’82, director of development. “[They] are a larger gift that comes to the university. JBU invests the gift, and the university awards scholarships annually based on the interest earned. Therefore, the scholarship can be awarded each year from here on.”

Over 330 families and organizations have supported JBU students by creating an endowed scholarship to provide scholarships to students with financial need. Donors frequently establish scholarships to honor a specific person or help students in a particular program for which the donor has an affinity. The donors work closely with university advancement staff to determine the scholarship name and criteria for student eligibility, including demographic background, major or other cocurricular interests.

In 1985, the Beverly Meador Sloan Endowed Scholarship was established by JBU alumna and former Threefold Advocate Editor Beverly Meador Sloan ’30 and her husband Raymond. Beverly had received scholarships as a JBU student and wanted to help others similarly. The Sloans endowed their scholarship through an estate gift from their trust when Beverly passed away in 2002. The scholarship supports approximately 165 JBU students each year.

Jess Barber ’23, a senior family and human services major, is one of the Beverly Meador Sloan Endowed Scholarship recipients. She is grateful that the scholarship helps her attend JBU.

“I would not have been able to attend JBU without scholarships — both endowed and academic,” Barber said.

“These scholarships have increased my gratitude for my education and the people who chose to be generous with their blessings and steward them in a way that benefits others like me.”

For the 2023-2024 academic year, JBU offered students 345 endowed scholarships totaling $3,193,420. These numbers have risen significantly since the 2001-2002 school year when 80 endowed scholarships awarded $450,170.

“JBU is in the top 5% among Christian universities in the number of endowed scholarships and the amount awarded to students,” said Jim Krall, vice president for university advancement. “We are very grateful to those that helped provide these endowments.”

This 600% increase in awardable dollars is partially due to the university’s ability to match incoming endowed scholarship dollars. These matching dollars often come from donors who want to encourage other donors to support JBU’s mission.

Onnen, who visits with donors throughout the year, says matching money helps, extending a $10,000 gift to start a new scholarship to $20,000. Many scholarship donors regularly add to their scholarships and JBU matches any gift over $10,000.

JBU appreciates every gift and recognizes the act of generosity from JBU’s donors is often a sacrificial gift.

“We celebrate donors regularly through thank-you videos and notes written by students, faculty and staff,” Carson said.

“We host JBU student card parties and TAG Day (Thank a Giver Day) every other year. Founder’s Circle members and those who’ve created endowed scholarships are invited to the annual JBU Scholarship Dinner and receive personalized thank-you notes from students they support.”

Additionally, two displays in the lobby of Simmons Great Hall honor student scholarship supporters. The Faithful Givers wall lists those who have given a minimum of $10,000 or have given for 20 or more years to the JBUSF. The Endowed Scholarship wall lists the names of each endowed scholarship.

Both walls are updated annually.

Student scholarships were instrumental in recruiting 2023’s record-breaking freshman class of 376 students. Transfer students and reapplicants brought the incoming student number to 429, exceeding the university’s enrollment goal of 390.

The impact of generous donations to JBU’s scholarship programs is profound, enabling a record number of students to access an affordable, high-quality, Christ-centered education. These scholarships not only ease financial burdens but also create a legacy of opportunity and gratitude that extends far beyond the campus.

Closing the Gap:

STUDENT STORIES Jess Barber

Ceth Sluyter

Jess Barber felt drawn to JBU after visiting campus and feeling a strong sense of the spirit. Coming from a singleincome family, scholarships have helped Jess avoid taking out large student loans. Working as a barista at Ground Floor Coffee and a Student Orientation director, Jess has made connections that have given her a new perspective, boosted her confidence in her own abilities and given her unwavering encouragement throughout her time at JBU. Watch Jess’s story at www.jbu.edu/jess.

Ceth Sluyter grew up in a tight-knit family on his family’s ranch in Hiwasse, Arkansas. Growing up, he was involved in all aspects of ranch work, from cattle sales and veterinary services to fixing broken fences. From his first visit to campus, Ceth knew JBU was the place for him. Thanks to the Preach the Word endowed scholarship and the Billy Graham scholarship, Ceth has been able to focus on his studies, rather than meeting the financial gap.

Watch Ceth’s story at www.jbu.edu/ceth.

Jule Warner

Hannah Sanderford

Jule Warner is a first-generation college student who is the oldest of eight siblings. Coming from such a large family who couldn’t contribute to her schooling, Jule found it challenging to find a way to pay for college. But thanks to scholarships and her work-study job, Jule is able to focus on her studies and her college experience.

Now Jule is enjoying college, working in admissions and mentoring younger students in Creciendo Juntos.

Watch Jule’s story at www.jbu.edu/jule.

Hannah Sanderford is a junior at JBU and the daughter of two JBU alumni who serve as missionaries in Ukraine where Hannah grew up. Thanks to the scholarship Hannah receives, she has been able to afford to fly back to Ukraine and Budapest to see her family. After graduating, Hannah plans to pursue a master’s in Eastern European studies.

Watch Hannah’s story at www.jbu.edu/hannah.

Family and Human Services

Psychology

Management/Biblical Studies

International Business/Intercultural Studies

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FEATURE

ESTATE GIFTS ENRICH JBU LEGACY DONATIONS OPEN DOORS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

BY WILLIAM NEWTON ’23

A

nyone familiar with the grassy quad in the center of the JBU campus has seen the boulders sitting between J. Alvin Brown Hall and Windgate Visual Arts East and may have wondered how they got there.

These boulders and the concrete table behind the Cathedral of the Ozarks were just a few donations included in the estate gift of Joe Zimmerman, Ph.D., former music professor.

Zimmerman earned his undergraduate degree from JBU, and after receiving a Master of Music from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, a doctoral degree from Indiana University and a discharge from the U.S. Army, he returned to JBU as a music professor in 1956 until retiring in 1996. With no familial heirs, Zimmerman named JBU to inherit his entire estate, a bequest realized when he died in 2018.

Zimmerman also gifted JBU the Joe M. Zimmerman Memorial Endowed Piano Scholarship, totaling $106,828; the Claude R. & Blanche A. Zimmerman Memorial

Joe Zimmerman

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Endowed Scholarship, totaling $76,477; a sculpture in the art department; an instrument for the music program, tools for the power plant, a suit for the theatre department and a collection of books for the library.

“Over the many years of my association with JBU, first as a student, then a teacher ..., and now as a retiree, I have received so much,” Zimmerman said in an interview with the Brown Bulletin in 2015. “I wanted to give something back.”

Estate planning is an important process that everyone should complete no matter the size of their estate, as a formal plan ensures that all of one’s property, money and belongings are divided and cared for after one’s passing. Not only does a plan designate where the executor should disperse items, but it also eases the burden for those left behind. Many JBU alums and friends of the university have gifted a portion of their estate for scholarships, building projects or other projects that benefit students.

Ruth Wagner Beal

Dorothy Jelley

From 1966 to 1970, Paul Wagner attended JBU as a studentathlete on the swim team. On the way to a tournament, Wagner and his team visited his mother, Ruth Wagner Beal, for dinner. She was impressed with the quality and character of her son’s teammates and the students she met while visiting campus. After battling cancer, Paul Wagner passed away in 2007, and his mother created the Paul Wagner Memorial Endowed Scholarship. She then made a new will for her estate, and when she passed away in 2020, JBU was the sole beneficiary.

“She gave faithfully to the university for many, many years, and she left her estate here,” said Jim Krall, vice president for university advancement. “She left over $3 million to JBU, a wonderful gift. It has created many scholarships for students each year.”

With the funds provided in her estate, the Paul Wagner Memorial Endowed Scholarship gained an additional $99,942, and the university created the Ruth Wagner Beal Endowed Scholarship with $2,527,359.

Sometimes, generous estate gifts come from more remote connections.

For Ida Jean Bryant and her siblings, Jack, Fae and Olin, their only connection to JBU was the radio ministry of John E. Brown Sr., which they listened to on their farm in Highfill, Arkansas. The Bryant siblings established the Bryant Family Endowed Scholarship when planning their estate. Ida was the last sibling to pass, and the final estate gift in 2010 brought the fund to $3,515,647, which aids local students in financial need.

Additionally, the Bryant estate provided funds for building and renovation projects across campus.

Similarly, Dorothy Jelley only knew of JBU from the founder’s radio ministry. Born in England, Jelley served in

Paul Wagner

the Women’s Royal Naval Service during World War II. After some time in Canada after the war, Jelley immigrated to the U.S. and became a citizen. A bookkeeper by trade, she was always passionate about missions and Bible study. Jelley left her estate of more than $430,000 to JBU to create an endowed scholarship for students with leadership potential.

Even smaller estate gifts leave a lasting impact at JBU. James and Margaret Allhands were longtime friends of the university and passionate about education. When James died in 1978, he left a $25,000 bequest to JBU, which his wife chose to use for an endowed scholarship. That relatively modest investment 45 years ago yields $4,970 in annual scholarships today and impacts several students yearly.

Estate gifts are pivotal in allowing JBU to continue to thrive as a private, Christ-centered university and serve the needs of its students. Creating an estate gift has been simplified thanks to JBU’s partnership with PhilanthroCorp. This free, noobligation planning service can help alumni and friends make sure their goals and wishes are accomplished. You can learn more about this service at www.jbu.edu/estate-planning.

“Many people don’t consider creating an estate plan until they retire or are older. There are reasons to have a will earlier in your life, like when you get married or have children,” said Steve Onnen ’82, director of development. “You don’t have to have a lot of money to need a plan, so it should be considered sooner rather than later.”

Since their partnership with Philanthrocorp in 2014, JBU has received 60 gifts from estates totaling $11,592,486.

Ida Jean Bryant

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Completed Projects Witcofski-McLeod Champions Pavilion: Elevating the Game Adding the Witcofski-McLeod Champions Pavilion to Alumni Field has transformed the sporting experience for JBU soccer fans. The pavilion boasts a new entrance and features modern restrooms, a concessions food trailer and an ADA-accessible walkway for inclusive access. The included Wall of Champions is a striking tribute to the storied legacy of JBU’s men’s and women’s soccer teams.

Bynum Theater Esports Arena: Where Virtual Meets Victory In Fall 2023, JBU elevated its esports club to varsity level within the Golden Eagle Athletics Program. The Bynum Theater in the Walton Lifetime Health Complex transformed into a state-of-the-art esports arena. The theater has 20 top-of-theline Alienware gaming PCs, versatile Nintendo Switch consoles and massive 86-inch viewing monitors. The addition of two broadcast cameras, a professional shoutcaster desk, 10 high-definition player cameras, and sophisticated broadcast and lighting controls make it a hub for thrilling esports matches.

Walker Student Center Improvements: Home Away from Home This central hub on campus was ready for a refresh after 20 years of use and received a new coat of interior paint, new carpet and new furniture for the public gathering space. Funding also provided a space on the second floor to house the Abila Museum featuring a conference table and displays for the many artifacts unearthed during the Abila Archaeological Dig. Another new addition to WSC is the Schmieding Foundation Commuter Student Lounge, a haven for the more than 400 commuter students at JBU that offers a space to relax on the couches, collaborate in the study room and prepare meals brought from home.

Lakeside Manor: Gateway to a Different Culture Lakeside Manor has played a central role in JBU’s Irish Studies Program for over two decades. In 2021, JBU purchased the property and began a complete renovation to bring it in line with current needs. Situated in the picturesque landscape of Belfast, Northern Ireland, this historic manor offers an immersive study-abroad experience where students live and study Irish art, culture, literature and history. Besides semester and summer study programs, the manor also serves as a base for diverse student groups, such as the JBU rugby team and women’s volleyball, who participate in local ministry programs, fostering global understanding and cultural exchange.

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ALUMNI

Alumni Updates The 2023 Alumni Award and Recognition winners include the following (full bios are available at www.jbu.edu/alumni/recognition): Ebony Mitchell ’22 – Young Eagle Award 01 Jeff Soderquist ’93 – Career Achievement Award 02 Gil Weaver ’52 – Christian Ministry Award 03 Jan and Terri Wubbena – Christian Service Award 04 Dave ’87 and Leslie LeVan ’87 – Outstanding Alumni 05 Tyler LaBelle ’09 recently published the children’s picture book “What Makes My Home, My Home.” After reading countless books to his three young girls, LaBelle was inspired to create a fun story with a meaningful theme that celebrates the desert and encourages children to be proud of their homes. 06 Shawn Wierick ’07, a former JBU soccer player, has started multiple companies in Northwest Arkansas over the last several years – including Triple Threat Racing, Arkansas Track Club and Gray Matter. He is currently pursuing two master’s degrees at the University of Arkansas.

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John Young ’70 was recently awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award by the FAA. This award is given to pilots with 50 years of accident- and violation-free flying. Young learned to fly in 1969 while a junior at JBU. 07 Kris Magnuson ’99 was named director of anesthesia at CARTI for its new on-site surgery center. Before joining CARTI, Magnuson worked at Southern Regional Anesthesia Consultants and for the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. 08 Bill Mial ’55 was recently recognized for 65 years of service to Trans World Radio that has taken him to six continents. Mial is on the JESUS film partnership team and continues working on projects for the TWR Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships team. 09 Bobby Hoffman ’07 bought and remodeled a five-acre wooded RV retreat north of City Lake in Siloam Springs. Rustic Ridge provides 27 RV sites, cabins and glamping tents for travelers.

Omar A. Mejia ’14 and Bethany Taylor ’10 were named to Northwest Arkansas Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 List. Mejia is vice president and mortgage lender supervisor at Arvest Bank in Rogers and has been named among the nation’s top 250 Latino mortgage originators. Taylor is the CEO and co-founder of Gratsy, a brand acceleration platform that connects brands to hyper-targeted consumers. She also opened the only female-owned and operated fulfillment center in Northwest Arkansas.

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Be featured in the Brown Bulletin! Submit your professional and family news to www.jbu.edu/alumni/magazine/news/.

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MILESTONES

In Memoriam 01

Jack Dean Berggren ’57, age 78, died March 28. (Broadcasting) 01

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Sarah Elizabeth Burlison ’82, age 64, died Sep. 22. (Physical Ed & Health) 02 Arla Janelle Jackson Decker ’61, age 83, died Aug. 4. (English) David Dickason ’88, age 60, died Aug. 29. (Electrical Engineering) 03 Daniel R. Dillman ’94, age 52, died Sep. 2. (Mathematics Education) 04

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Burnice “Van” Ferguson ’49, age 97, died April 26. (Printing)

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Kathy Sue Friend ’07, age 67, died July 24. (Early Childhood Education) 05 Michael Lee Gold ’70, age 76, died Nov. 2. (Physical Ed. & Health) Alfred Gerald Groschang ’67, age 79, died Nov. 1. (Physiology)

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William “Hank” Henderson ’95, age 60, died Oct. 14. (Organizational Mgmt.) 06

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Robert Michael Hickey, age 63, died June 19. (Staff) 07 Corydon “Corey” Drew Hiner ’91, age 54, died June 20. (Broadcasting) Vicki May King ’75, age 70, died June 29. (Music) 08

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Rosemary Lucille Kitchen ’52, age 92, died Dec. 11. (Social Studies) 09 Lyle E. Marsh ’58, age 88, died June 19. (Engineering)

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Misty Lynn Martin ’97, age 48, died April 18. (Elementary Education) Timothy Edward Maxwell ’87, age 58, died Oct. 16. (Accounting, Business Admin.)

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Paul Irving McClendon ’52, age 66, died April 27.

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Margaret “Peggy” McConaghy ’50, age 99, died July 24. (Chemistry Ed.) 10 Michael Paul Messerli ’73, age 72, died April 20. (Biblical Studies) 11 William “Bill” Meyers ’06, age 62, died Sep. 19. (Organizational Mgmt.)

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Karen “Issy” Phillips ’67, age 78, died May 31. (Physical Ed. & Health) 12 John Purviance Robinson ’50, age 97, died Sep. 14. (Home Economics) 13

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Richard Lee Ruble, age 89, died Aug. 16. (Faculty Emeritus) 14 Mary Ann Sisco Rush ’63, age 82, died Oct 8. (Secretarial Science) 15 Amy McAnally Simpson ’94, age 54, died April 22. (Elementary Education) 16

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Constance “Connie” Loock Treat ’58, age 87, died June 12. (Art and Design)

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L.D. Umholtz ’04, age 60, died July 6. (Business Information Systems) Rachel Haney VanAmburg ’61, age 83, died May 10. (Home Economics) 17 Harry Edwin Webster ’58, age 88, died Nov. 18, 2022. (Radio Production)

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John “Jack” Newton Willson ’55, age 98, died Nov. 10. (Social Studies)

17

Sharon “Sherry” Kay Wright ’72, age 73, died Dec. 13. (Elementary Ed.) Edwin “Ed” A. Yoder ’53, age 97, died May 8. (Radio Engineering) 18

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BROWN BULLETIN

To read online obituaries, go to www.jbu.edu/bulletin/obits

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Discover Korea with President Pollard and Friends

We Go Together: A Story of the US-Korea Friendship Dates: Sep. 11-22, 2024 Cost: Approximately $3,750 (+ airfare)

Chip and Carey Pollard Korea Trip 2018

Explore Korea with President & Mrs. Chip Pollard, Dr. & Mrs. Jim Krall and Dr. Ted Song as they explore Korea and learn about the friendship between the two countries.

Through visits to major historical sites, the DMZ, the world’s largest church, and Handong Global University, JBU’s sister school, you’ll come to understand the history of Christianity in Korea and the impact being made on the Kingdom of God. For more information, visit www.jbu.edu/southkorea. We hope you choose to join us!

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID

2000 W. University St. Siloam Springs, AR 72761

@johnbrownuniversity FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM