Graduates urged to remember that strength comes from unity
A Magazine for Alumni and Friends Vol. 28, No. 3
PRESIDENT
Susanna L. Baxter
VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT
Rebecca Roth Nicks
EDITOR
Dean Hartman
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Lindy Oller
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR DIGITAL MEDIA AND DESIGN
Stacy Gorman Ortiz ’00
ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS EDITORS
Martha Pirkle
Jennifer Beedy Booker ’90
LaGrange College (USPS 299300), including Columns, its official publication for alumni and friends, and the Progress Report and Annual Donor Roll, is published quarterly by LaGrange College, 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 302402999. Periodical class postage paid at LaGrange, GA, and additional mailing offices.
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Georgia’s oldest private institution of higher learning, LaGrange College is consistently ranked among the South’s top colleges by U.S.News & World Report. A four-year liberal arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church, LaGrange offers more than 50 areas of study with an emphasis on global engagement and service.
HELLO, GOODBYE
From goodbye hugs to first-time hellos. It happens so quickly. Just a few weeks after graduation ceremonies, the campus shifts into orientation mode, welcoming this fall’s new students. Maybe it’s for the best. The sadness of saying farewell to special graduates is softened by the energy and excitement of a new crop of Panthers, eager to make their mark and take the first steps toward reaching their dreams. The circle continues. May it ever be so.
—the Editor
FEATURES
8 ALL SYSTEMS GO!
In addition to Aviation, the college has rolled out several new academic offerings over the last year.
12 ‘THE POWER OF COMMUNITY’
Having overcome many obstacles to reach graduation, the Class of 2024 was reminded that strength to overcome future challenges comes from collaboration.
AROUND CAMPUS
2 POSSIBILITIES
3 NURSING GRANT
4 RESIDENCE HALL RENOVATIONS
5 UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
6 PATHWAY TO HEALTH PROFESSIONS
ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
18 3D JOURNEYS
19 DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ALUMNI AWARD 23 ALUMNI GATHERINGS
26 COMMEMORATIVE BENCHES
27 IN MEMORIAM
29 CALENDAR
PHOTO: Two classes traveled to Greece in May to study world religions and politics. The group explored both modern and ancient sites on the journey.
ON THE COVER: Aviation student Hannah Godfrey pauses by an LCbranded airplane at the LaGrange Callaway Airport. Aviation is just one of the new academic programs recently launched by the college. See the story on page 8 for more.
POSSIBILITIES WHERE TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS
by Dr. Susanna L. Baxter, 26th President of LaGrange College
As the college hosts new-student orientations this summer, I enjoy watching our incoming freshmen begin to build their first college friendships. We encourage them to embrace the opportunity to get to know their future classmates and to engage in student life. It’s what we’re all about.
I often tell prospective students and parents that it would be easy to spend your college career with your head pointed down into your phone. If that is your choice, however, you’d be missing out on the most valuable parts of the experience—the power of relationships.
As I recall my own college years, I think about the people who made a difference: the peers who helped me grow into my best self, and the professors who believed in me enough to help me believe in myself.
It’s in relationships like these where the transformation of college takes place. Yes, classroom content is vital, but without deep and meaningful relationships, real transformation doesn’t happen.
Join me in offering a prayer for the Class of 2028, that they will embrace all that the LaGrange College experience has to offer them.
Federal grant to boost Nursing technology, facilities
The college’s Nursing program can double its capabilities to put nurses into Georgia communities thanks to $214,000 in new federal funding.
The legislature voted in March on a minibus spending bill, which included multiple local appropriations proposed by congressional leaders. The funding request for LaGrange College was sponsored by Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock.
“We are so grateful to Senators Ossoff and Warnock for taking up this request and getting it approved,” said President Susanna Baxter. “Their offices were very helpful and supportive throughout the entire appropriations process.”
The funding will be put toward new equipment for the program that includes patient simulator mannequins, smartboards, tablets, vital sign simulators, laptops and movable furniture as well as renovating new classroom space.
“It’s going to have a huge impact,” said Nursing Chair Dr. Sarah Jones. “Updating equipment will give students a bedside experience in a lab like they would have at a hospital.”
She said the new equipment will allow more practical learning experiences in class, better preparing students for the real world.
“There are just more immersive learning experiences available with these tools that can enhance students’ classroom engagement beyond merely displaying static images,” Jones said.
In addition to the enhanced learning provided by new equipment, the goal of the project is to increase the college’s capacity for nursing students and, consequently, the number of new nurses it puts into Georgia communities. The state, like the nation, is facing a shortage of health-care professionals, and projections show more nurses retiring
in coming years than new ones entering the field.
To help address this shortage, the college aims in January 2025 to start admitting two cohorts of students into the Nursing program every year. Currently, the program can accept up to 60 juniors per year. The expansion will open the door for up to 120 new students to enter the program annually. Additionally, it will give students who need to retake a class a second chance in the following semester instead of having to wait a full year for it to be offered again.
“I’m thankful,” Jones said. “This is a great opportunity. We want to make sure people who come here get the most for their educational investment.”
275,000 new nurses will be needed from 2020-2030
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
SHIRLEY NAMED TO ENDOWED PROFESSORSHIP
Dr. Kevin Shirley was installed as the Ethel Dallis Hill Professor of History during a campus ceremony on April 9.
“I have to begin by admitting that when I began my graduate studies in history at Florida State University way back when in 1990 I never imagined that such a thing could ever occur,” Dr. Shirley said in his address. “I am both humbled and honored.”
The endowed professorship was created by the family of Ethel Dallis Hill, a generous LC benefactor who provided research assistance in the humanities and social sciences.
Since 1998, Dr. Shirley has risen through the faculty ranks to his current role as Professor of History. He has published articles in multiple history journals and presented research across the country. Around campus, he is perhaps best known for his efforts as the coordinator of National History Day - Georgia.
RENOVATIONS TO BATHROOMS in Pitts, Hawkes and Boatwright residence halls are underway, thanks to generous donor funding. The work is the first step of planned improvements in the freshman living quarters to update these facilities for students. During the school year, more than 200 young men and women typically occupy the buildings, and the project will provide them with refreshed bathroom areas when they arrive in the fall. Future plans call for new furniture, improved electrical and HVAC systems, as well as security enhancements.
Sigma Eta begins new chapter
A sorority first brought to campus more than four decades ago is welcoming a new sisterhood building on the legacy of those who came before them.
Under the leadership of Marjorie Woods, the Sigma Eta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. was chartered at the college with seven members on October 27, 1976, according to Taryl Anderson ’80, M’81.
Head Cheerleading Coach Nicole Joseph M’20, president of Sigma Eta and LaGrange’s Theta Xi Zeta, rechartered the college chapter on March 25, 2024, with five students. The new members were introduced during a ceremonial event in April.
“This is an amazing opportunity not only for the sorority, but for the future of
the college,” said member Carmen Hamilton ’24.
Joseph looks forward to what lies ahead for the sisterhood.
“I envision a sorority where bonds are formed, where support is unwavering and where the journey is shared,” she said.
Undergraduate research showcased on campus
The talent and creativity of student researchers were on full display at the annual undergraduate research symposium on April 18.
The event featured 59 presenters and 36 projects covering Political Science, History, Art and Design, English Writing and Publication Studies, Psychological Science, Biology, Nursing, Theatre, Sports Management and Music.
Political Science Professor and Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. John Tures, who was a mentor for seven projects, said the symposium helps participants gain experience that
can be used in graduate school or the job market.
“Undergraduate research is one of the best ways a student can use the skills they've learned in their classes to develop a theory, test a hypothesis, construct a research design, and present the results,” he said.
At the symposium, presenters compete for the Hines Undergraduate Research award, which is given to winners in four categories: Basic Research; Applied Research; Religious, Historical and Literary Analysis; and Performance and Creative Projects.
The winners were Mayla Daniel
’25 (Basic Research), Ema Turner ’26 (Applied Research), Hayleigh Sebaugh ’24 (Religious, Historical and Literary Analysis) and Jacob Broome ’24 (Creative/Performance).
Sebaugh, who presented her History project “Catalysts for Change: The Roles of Carris Chapman Catt and Alice Paul in Woodrow Wilson's Support of Women's Suffrage,” said she learned valuable lessons that she will take into her profession.
“The symposium has given me more confidence and experience in research, which will help me as I pursue a career in the field of public history,” she said.
NATIONAL HISTORY DAY GEORGIA: About 450 middle and high school students competed in National History Day Georgia on campus in April. The college has served as co-sponsor of NHD with Georgia Humanities since 2014, and the event was the third time it has hosted the statewide event. “NHD is a living expression of the college’s commitment to service and transformation—in many ways projecting the priorities and values articulated in the college’s mission statement outward—across the state and the region,” said History Professor and NHD Georgia coaffiliate coordinator Dr. Kevin Shirley.
Program provides pathway to health care professions
Lilly DeGennaro ’21, a fourth-year veterinary medicine student at the University of Minnesota, entered graduate school with a sense of confidence and determination because of the preparation she received at LaGrange.
“I am further along in my doctoral program thanks to my Biology professors who first invested in me as an undergrad,” she said.
Her advisor, Biology Professor Dr. Melinda Pomeroy-Black, described her as intrinsically curious and motivated to learn.
“Lilly realized that college wasn’t simply a means to an end but was a way to become more informed as a global citizen,” she said.
Biology students are given opportunities to work with faculty on independent, original research projects in Hudson Lab Sciences Building, a 43,000 square-foot science facility devoted to laboratory spaces.
Upon receiving their undergraduate degree, alumni have developed practical skills that give them a solid foundation as they move on to graduate or professional school in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy or physical therapy.
“It allowed me to recognize the fragility of life, and the necessity of medical professionals,” he said. “What I received at LC was much more than an education, but a breeding ground for professionalism and an innovative platform to develop new research opportunities.”
Lance Shealy ’20, a recent PCOM
Trevor McLemore ’21, currently studying dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said his LC degree provided the framework for his understanding of medical and life sciences.
FACULTY & STAFF ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Accountancy Assistant Professor Samantha Sick was selected as a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for the May 2024 Symposium, "Artificial Intelligence in the Holistic Classroom."
Service awards were presented in April to the following faculty and staff members: five years – Elissa Lawson,
South Georgia Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduate who is completing a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital in Pensacola, said the education he received at LaGrange laid the foundation that was further built upon while in medical school.
“The lessons not taught in the classroom have made me a better doctor, and that is all thanks to the people I met while attending LaGrange,” he said.
Amber McGlawn, Justin Muller, Tim Fitz-Gerald; 15 years – Lee Davis, Jon Ernstberger; 20 years – David Wiggins; 25 years – Laine Scott, Kevin Shirley; 30 years – Martha Pirkle; 35 years – Greg McClanahan; and 40 years –Maranah Sauter.
Civil rights tour inspires students
Students heard firsthand accounts of struggle and sacrifice while taking part in a Civil Rights Heritage Tour March 2-3.
During the trip, the LC group visited Alabama sites dedicated to individuals pivotal to the civil rights movement, including the National Voting Rights Museum in Selma, the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery and the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham.
students were able to meet some of the history makers of the movement.”
Seven students participated in the two-day experience through a grant from the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church.
“Being able to engage and speak with people who actively participated in the events we read about in our history books was a humbling experience.”
—Kenneth Howard ’27
“The tour allowed our students to be able to learn not just from textbooks, but also through seeing the places and hearing the stories,” said Chaplain the Rev. Ashley Jenkins ’08. “What made this trip an amazing experience was that people who fought for civil rights and voting rights helped lead the trip. Our
“Being able to engage and speak with people who actively participated in the events we read about in our history books was a humbling experience,” said freshman Kenneth Howard.
On the last day of the tour, the students walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of Bloody Sunday, a tragic event in Selma that killed and injured peaceful protestors marching to Montgomery in 1965.
While at the bridge, students heard Vice President Kamala Harris give remarks commemorating the 59th anniversary of the event.
Sophomore Jaylan Harris said his experience sparked a desire to be more civically engaged.
“I was motivated to be more involved in what is going on in politics after hearing this quote: ‘Voting is the most powerful nonviolent movement that we have,’” Harris said. “This tour showed me that these people sacrificed a lot just to fight for the rights for us to take part in the electoral process.”
ALL SYSTEMS GO!
New academic programs move ahead
learns how to be ready for a wide range of scenarios when training in the on-campus flight simulator.
Aviation student Isabel Rocker ’27
“Change brings opportunity.”
New undergraduate and graduate academic offerings, some familiar and some unfamiliar to campus, have been rolled out this past year to open additional opportunities for students entering the workforce or those deepening their skills in highdemand occupations.
The college included minors in aviation, computer science and neuroscience as well as a strength and conditioning concentration in exercise science. It also added a master’s degree in higher education and an Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction.
“We believe these offerings will provide a pipeline between the college and employers in these industries,” says President Susanna Baxter. “This aligns with our strategic plan initiative to create programs needed by the local and regional workforce.”
Titled ‘Empowering the Present, Building the Future,’ the five-year strategic plan that was approved in 2022 features four key themes—with multiple goals under each—that aim to create transformational change for the institution.
Soaring to new heights
Since being introduced in fall 2023, the aviation program continues to make progress.
“Through the work of Bill Hodges ’72, H’14 and Rhett Yates ’99 and President Baxter, we were able to bring this to the college, and now students who did not originally have LaGrange on their radar are enrolling because they heard about our aviation program,” says Dr. John Head, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Experience.
Sophomore Isabel Rocker, who started in the program’s first year of existence, originally had plans to attend another institution but made the switch to LaGrange after it announced the aviation offering.
“LaGrange being a smaller institution allows me to have a more personalized experience that is helpful when going through flight training.”
—Isabel Rocker ’27
“LaGrange being a smaller institution allows me to have a more personalized experience that is helpful when going through flight training,” she says.
Students receive instruction through a partnership with Paragon Flight Training, a flight academy based out of Fort Myers, Florida. The instructors provide them with the training needed for private pilot certification, instrument flight rating and commercial pilot licensing.
Rocker has achieved her instrument flight rating in the program and is now in the process of working on her commercial license. In addition, she is building hours as an instructor, an opportunity attained after reaching a certain amount of flight time.
“Earning an instructor rating allows me to work and gain more flight hours to meet the airline requirements,” she says. “To be hired, a minimum of 1,500 flight hours is needed.”
Emerging avenues in science
Students aiming to pursue careers related to technology, the mind or the body will have more options with the inclusion of computer science, neuroscience and a strength and conditioning concentration in exercise science.
In the growing field of technology, computer science remains one of the most in-demand disciplines.
Occupations in computer science and information technology are expected to increase by 13 percent through 2026, faster than the average for all other professions, and add about 557,100 new jobs, according to the U.S.
Stevie Nix ’24 (left) and Trip Floyd ’24 assist with summer orientation as part of their practicum experience in the Master’s in Higher Education program.
Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Dr. Brian Peterson, Vice President for Academic Affairs, says the computer science program was created in response to feedback from community and corporate partners about their need for graduates with this background.
“This is one of the programs that we have created with society’s workforce needs in mind,” Dr. Peterson says. “A degree at any level in computer science is in significant demand in Georgia, across the country, and around the world.”
In addition to the new computer science minor, there are also bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the field that will go into effect pending approval from SACSCOC and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, respectively.
With the neuroscience minor, students can pursue careers in varied health-related fields, counseling and biomedical research.
Sophomore Caden Glover says he became interested in the minor during his freshman year.
“Ever since I was little, I have been fascinated by learning
ACADEMIC EXPANSION
The college has expanded its diverse portfolio of programs since the start of President Susanna Baxter’s presidency in July 2020.
Several new academic programs have been put in place:
• Aviation
• Computer Science
• Neuroscience
• Strength and Conditioning Concentration in Exercise Science
• Master's in Higher Education
• Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
how the human mind works and its effects on the rest of the body,” he says. “My goal with pursuing this minor is to attend medical school after graduation. I want to become a neurologist and establish my own practice.”
“My goal with pursuing this minor is to attend medical school after graduation. I want to become a neurologist and establish my own practice.”
—Caden Glover ’27
For those looking to pursue careers in sports and fitness, the college’s Exercise Science program has a new strength and conditioning concentration currently available.
A focus on “learning by doing” rather than simply observing sets the LaGrange program apart. Beyond lab classes, those in the program can contribute to the Sport Performance Enhancement Education and Development Center, which assesses student-athletes to enhance physical performance. There, Exercise Science students put what has been learned in the classroom into practice.
For the love of education
Alumni making up the teaching workforce of schools in Troup County and beyond now have the chance to progress even further in their graduate studies with the addition of the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, the first doctorate for the college.
“This program serves multiple purposes for those who seek to pursue it,” says Dr. Gretta Milam, Education Chair and Director of Graduate Studies. “The versatility of the program allows those who wish to remain in the classroom as a teacher the opportunity to advance their certification and their level of pay while remaining where they are.
“Those who are seeking an opportunity to advance out of the classroom into other roles also benefit—not only from the certificate perspective, but now they will also have advanced practice and scholarship in a field that remains as a primary focus in education.”
Graduate students holding an Ed.S. degree outside of curriculum and instruction can complete a non-degree option to add the specialty to their certificate to be eligible to apply for the doctoral program.
For many students in the first cohort that will start this
fall, it is a homecoming.
LaGrange College has been part of Doctoral student Sallie Kight’s ’03, MAT ’04, Ed.S.’12 life for over two decades.
“I have had the privilege of earning my bachelor's, master's and specialist's degrees at LC,” she says. “The quality of education and the supportive community have continually affirmed my belief that LaGrange College is unparalleled in its commitment to academic excellence.”
“I have had the privilege of earning my bachelor's, master's and specialist's degrees at LC. The quality of education and the supportive community have continually affirmed my belief that LaGrange College is unparalleled in its commitment to academic excellence.”
— Doctoral student Sallie Kight ’03, MAT ’04, Ed.S.’12
Doctoral student Christopher Bolling MAT’12, Ed.S.’15, who is a classroom educator in Newnan, Georgia, says he is more than thrilled to come back to LaGrange for this program.
“I am appreciative of the hard work, dedication, passion, drive and expertise of the faculty and staff,” he says. “I know that this degree will equip me with the tools necessary to be a master educator and broaden my legacy and impact.”
Another recent addition to graduate degree offerings is the Master’s in Higher Education, which welcomed its first cohort this summer.
The program aims to reach graduate students seeking work on a smaller, faith-based campus.
“The program will help you understand how to take research and create solutions to institutional issues within colleges. It doesn't just teach you how to be an administrator; it teaches you how to passionately pursue academic and scholarly excellence.”
—Master’s in Higher Education student Trip Floyd ’24
Cohorts who go through this program will be ready for a variety of roles in such areas as Housing, Student Life, Admissions, Career Services and Athletics.
Current graduate student Trip Floyd ’24, whose ultimate goal is to become a professor, says he was drawn toward this master’s degree because of the opportunity to get experience in higher education administration.
“This will assist me in bridging the gap between faculty and administration as an English professor,” he says. “The program will help you understand how to take research and create solutions to institutional issues within colleges. It doesn't just teach you how to be an administrator; it teaches you how to passionately pursue academic and scholarly excellence.”
An evolving campus
In building on its liberal arts core, the college intends to explore opportunities and look at what degrees and majors would be relevant in a constantly changing marketplace.
“It’s important for us to look outward and to see what the needs are from employers and try to meet those needs,” Dr. Head says. “We must continue to change and adapt.”
The power of COMMUNITY
Graduates urged to live united
They were not going to be denied.
Though light rain plagued the opening of Commencement for the Class of 2024, the clouds parted just as the awarding of degrees began. For students whose high school graduations were altered—or canceled—by the COVID pandemic, it was a fitting tribute to their resilience.
“I am immensely proud of your hard work and perseverance in earning your degree,” President Susanna Baxter told the group as the ceremony began.
And she reminded them that, “Supporting you on your educational journey has been a village of caring people,”—a theme reinforced by the others who addressed the graduates.
Enriching others’ lives
Lindsey Green, the senior who received the Waights G. Henry Jr. Leadership Award, urged her peers to take the influence of their teammates,
professors and classmates with them.
“I hope we find comfort in the fact that nothing is over and things are just changed, and we now have the opportunity to play that role in enriching other people’s lives,” she said. “Today it is not just the Class of 2024 graduating, it’s all of us in this stadium because without the love and concern that each person here has shown us, none of us would be here today.”
In his commencement address, Dr. Zach Taylor III ’77, Georgia Public Health District 2 Director, told the graduates to never lose sight of the power of community.
“The pandemic brought us closer together despite the physical distance that sometimes
The Rev. Carl Von Epps (above) shares remarks with the graduates at Friday evening’s Baccalaureate service. Nursing graduates (below) take part in the traditional candlelighting ceremony during the Pinning Ceremony Thursday night. Dr. Zach Taylor III ’77, Georgia Public Health District 2 Director (bottom left) delivers Saturday’s Commencement address. Gabe Cofield ’24 (bottom right) receives his legacy medallion from his mother, Viedra Sullivan ’15, during the Legacy Ceremony on Friday afternoon.
separated us,” he said. “It reminded us of the strength that lies in unity, solidarity and collective action. Nurture and cherish these bonds for it is through collaboration and cooperation that we will overcome any obstacle that may come our way.
“It is easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day requirements of modern life and lose sight of who you are and who you want to become. Find your purpose and passionately invest yourself in that purpose.”
Honoring public servants
During the ceremony, honorary doctorates were awarded to Dr. Jim Bruce and former LaGrange Mayor Dr. Willie T. Edmondson.
Dr. Bruce is a retired orthopedist who dedicated his time and energy to caring for LaGrange College student-athletes and Troup County residents for over 30 years.
He founded Orthopedic Clinic of West Georgia in LaGrange in 1982 and then, along with Dr. Daniel Guy and Dr. Robert Comerford, established the Southern Center for Orthopedics in 1995. He joined Emory Healthcare in 2011 and continued to practice orthopedic surgery and sports medicine in LaGrange until his retirement in 2017.
At LaGrange College, he serves on the Board of Trustees and held the role of president of the Leadership Council from 2003-2004. He received the Honorary Alumni Award in 2013.
Dr. Bruce is senior vice chair for the board of Local Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides education and healthcare in the Highlands of Guatemala. He also serves as chair of the organization’s Healthcare Excellence Committee and its Local
Hope Forever endowment campaign. Dr. Bruce also volunteers with Faith in Practice, a medical mission to Antigua, Guatemala.
The late Rev. Edmondson passed away in February of 2024 and was honored posthumously. He was a dedicated public servant who faithfully served the city of LaGrange for over two decades, first as a councilmember and then as mayor.
A native of Antioch, north of LaGrange, Dr. Edmondson worked as a nurse at City County Hospital (now Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center) before he was called to serve as a pastor, a role he held at Bethlehem Baptist Church in West Point, Georgia, for 40 years.
Dr. Edmondson was also a business owner who acquired Lakes-Dunson-Robertson Funeral Home in 2002 after several years working there, caring for families in their time of bereavement.
He pursued studies at Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta and Jehovah Jireh Seminary in Alexander City, Alabama, where he earned a doctorate in World Missions and Apologetics.
Dr. Edmondson began serving as LaGrange’s District 2 councilmember in 1998 and was elected as the city’s first African American mayor in 2023. During his tenure, he helped bring important economic and community development projects to LaGrange. Some notable initiatives include The Thread, Great Wolf Lodge, the Downtown Corridor and the redevelopment of the Griggs Recreational Center.
During the ceremony, the Distinguished Service Alumni Award also was presented to Greg Wright ’88. (See the story on page 19.)
Dr. Jim Bruce (above) receives his doctoral hood from Board Chair Kathy Reese McCollum ’81, M’17 (right) and President Baxter. Below, Eddie Montgomery ’24 gets a congratulatory handshake from Pouncer. Johanna Anderson M’24 (bottom right) receives her master’s hood from Dr. Gretta Milam, Education Chair and Director of Graduate Studies. Graduating members of the Panther Baseball team (bottom left) enjoyed their own commencement ceremony on Sunday in Callaway Auditorium due to a game conflict.
PANTHER POINTS
BASEBALL The Panther Baseball Team finished the season 26-17 (8-10 CCS) and placed second in the CCS Postseason Tournament. Outfielder Rhett Mixon and pitcher Dalton Brooks earned spots on the CCS All-Conference First Team. Catcher David Smigelski and outfielder Gabriel Pallo were selected to the CCS All-Conference Second Team. Jackson McCart wrapped up the LC awards by earning a spot on the CCS All-Sportsmanship Team.
BEACH VOLLEYBALL LC Beach found success on and off the court this spring. After the season wrapped up, the team organized a student-run volleyball fundraiser. A total of 23 teams, composed of students from LaGrange College and Callaway High School, participated in a beach volleyball tournament at the LC outdoor courts.
GOLF The Men’s Golf Team had a strong season. In the CCS postseason awards, Ian Bramlett earned CCS Rookie of the Year, Shannon Lipham won CCS Coach of the Year, Jeremy Edmunds was selected First Team AllConference and Martin Prlender made the CCS All-Sportsmanship Team.
LACROSSE Concluding their 2024 campaign with an overall record of 7-10 (3-4 USASC), LC Lacrosse was eliminated from the USA South Conference Postseason Tournament with a tight loss to Methodist University (April 30). Klein Woods and Ryan Comeau earned spots on the USA South All-Conference Second Team and Michael Poteete made the USA South All-Sportsmanship Team.
SOFTBALL Panther Softball finished with an overall record of 13-29 (7-9 CCS). LC fell to Belhaven on day two of the CCS Postseason Tournament, ending the season (May 1). Alexa Gonzalez was selected to the All-Conference Second Team and Kenzie Hornsby was named to the CCS All-Sportsmanship Team.
Ruth sets NCAA career hits record
During the CCS Postseason Semifinals (May 11), LC graduate student Joe Ruth crushed a grand slam—breaking the NCAA Division III Career Hits record (354). Once the season was said and done, he finished with a total of 356 hits.
Since joining the team in 2018, Ruth ’21, M’24 has been dominant on the diamond. During his rookie season, he was the only Panther to play in all 44 games, finishing with team-high RBIs (44), hits (64), total bases (79), stolen bases (15) and sacrifice flies (7).
In 2021, Ruth made his first waves on the national stage. In this junior season, he led NCAA Division III in sacrifice flies (10), led the USA South in doubles (16) and tied for the team lead in hits (50), runs scored (43) and multiple RBI games (11).
During the LC National Championship run of 2022, he broke the DIII season hits record (109), making him the third DIII player to ever account for 100 hits in a season. Ruth would earn spots on the ABCA/Rawlings All-America First Team, D3baseball.com All-America First Team, ABCA/Rawlings All-Region 6 Team, D3baseball.com All-Region 6 First Team, ABCA/Rawlings All-Region 6 First Team and USA South All-Conference First Team and was the All-Region 6 Player of the Year for D3baseball.com and USA South Player of the Year.
Ruth carried this success into 2023, finishing with 68 hits, 50 RBIs, 35 runs, 18 doubles, three triples and three homers while posting a superb .402 hitting average. This earned him a spot on the D3baseball.com All-Region Region 6 Team and the 2023 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. III All-Region Region 6 Team and won him CCS Player of the Year.
Despite being out for a month due to an injury in his final season, Ruth would still record 40 hits, crowning him the all-time DIII hits leader.
“LaGrange College is so special to me,” Ruth said. “I am grateful for the LaGrange community, the whole student body, the faculty and of course, the baseball program.”
Classnotes
NEXT- GENERATION PANTHERS
Summer orientations for new students take place this month, and I had the privilege of enjoying some time with our soon-to-be Panthers. You can feel the excitement as they talk about their hopes and dreams for college and beyond. And for most of them, the realization of those dreams is made possible by those of you who provide student scholarships by supporting the LaGrange College Fund. Thank you for making the LC experience possible for the next generation of students!
MARTHA PIRKLE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
P.S. To learn more about the LaGrange College Fund, visit lagrange.edu/give.
1960s
1969 Annette Palmer Ranger of Juneau, Alaska, says that all the cruise ships stop in her port and old friends are welcome to contact her if they need a tour guide.
1970s
1974 Dr. George W. Baker Jr. of LaGrange was awarded the Perennial
Performance award by BeeTV.
1975 Judge Rick Story of Gainesville received the prestigious American Inns of Court Professionalism Award for the Eleventh Circuit.
1980s
1984 Andrew Stone of Douglasville is a college and career advisor at Soddy Daisy High school and an
Alumni (from left) Becky Spencer ’73, Carol Personius ’73, Chris Austin ’72, Mary Hamby Hall ’73, Steve Shuman ’72 and Mary Wells Conway ’72 gather at Milano’s LaGrange for a “catching up” dinner.
adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University.
1984 Mike Wilson of LaGrange came to campus to share about New Ventures and how his faith led him to nonprofit work.
1986 Dr. John Cary of Yinchuan, China, teaches English and practices traditional Chinese medicine at
Carol Howington Cain ’82 of LaGrange celebrated National Rosie the Riveter Day and 30 years of playing Rosie recently with historical storytelling performances in Dallas and Newnan, Georgia, and in Austin, Texas.
* This issue’s Classnotes are from information received through June 4, 2024. (Unless otherwise noted, geographic locations refer to Georgia.)
Ningxia Medical University. He has authored the fictional novel "Alcatraz Awaits - The Legacy of Donald Trump."
1986 Dr. Gretta Milam M'93 of LaGrange presented how she uses EthicsGame in all program levels at a statewide conference in Macon, explaining how this tool is a catalyst for classroom conversations. She has been named the inaugural Director of Graduate Studies at LaGrange College.
1990s
1991 Dr. C. Terrell "Terry" Alford Jr. of LaGrange has opened the LaGrange Body Lab. He is also the owner of Hometown Family Medicine.
1993 John Fuller of LaGrange has joined the Oakbridge Insurance Agency LLC as Vice President/Client Executive.
1993 Dr. Sonya S. Gaither of Hampton received the Education 2.0 Outstanding Leadership Award for her work in academic librarianship and higher education. She is the owner of Dr. Senithia's Helping Hands LLC.
1995 Sonya Prather Goddard of LaGrange is the Director at the
Cheri Blasingame Garing ’98 of Stockbridge along with her mother, Vickie McBride, participated in the 50th anniversary celebrations of Hank Aaron’s 715 home run record at Truist Park, representing homeruns 381 and 382.
Pineland Campus of Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes.
1997 Darby Durand Pippin of LaGrange has been elected to the City Council representing District 1.
1997 Stormy Weathers of LaGrange is a Life Insurance Agent at COUNTRY Financial.
1998 Cheri Blasingame Garing of Stockbridge and her mother participated in the Atlanta Braves ceremony honoring Hank Aaron. They represented homerun numbers 381 and 382 out of 715.
1998 Dr. Vicki Thrailkill Pheil M’00 of LaGrange has received the credential of National Board Certified Teacher (Renewed/MOC) from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
1998 Jennifer McCoy Ward of LaGrange is in her 25th year of teaching at Troup County Comprehensive High School. She is a math teacher, graduation coordinator and honors day coordinator and has been named volleyball junior varsity head coach.
LC 3D Journeys travelers to Portugal pause for a photo at the University of Coimbra, a World Heritage site. They are (row 1, from left) First Gentleman Mark Huffman, President Susanna Baxter, Barbara McLenon, Elaine McCook ’84, M’88, Jan Bowen, Della Ridley ’74, Marilyn Wallace, Mary Stewart, Martha Pirkle, (row 2) Howard ’72 and Gay Staats, Lauranne Buchanan, Amy DeGennaro, Ron Bowen, Ken and Marlene Rhodes, Laura Shedd, Jerome Ridley ’74, Nancy Stevens ’71 M’74, Kate Cook, Sunny and Chuck Gantner, Jane Cooley ’83, M’84, (row 3) Rebecca Roth Nicks, Mark DeGennaro, Bill Miller, Bonnie Dudley ’75, M’83, Diane Schmidt, Cindy Miller, Tom Pirkle, Elain Blair, Roger Stephens, Murray Schine and Marilyn Anderson.
The 15th season of the popular lecture and travel series—which will focus on Scotland—will kick off with an informational meeting on September 17 at 5:30 p.m. in Lamar Dodd Art Center. “Landscapes of Scotland: Oban, the Highlands and Edinburgh” is the topic.
Wright receives Distinguished Service Alumni Award
The Alumni Association honored Greg Wright ’88 as the 2024 recipient of the Distinguished Service Alumni Award during commencement on May 4.
Wright is the senior director of community and economic development for Coweta-Fayette EMC, a member-owned electric cooperative serving over 75,000 members in eight counties southwest of Atlanta. He also serves as Coweta County’s representative on the Coweta, Fayette, Meriwether Joint Development Authority.
At LaGrange College, Wright served on the Board of Trustees and as president of the Leadership Council. He received the Shackelford Alumni Achievement Award in 2006. In addition, Wright is a member of the Quadrangle Society and Pillars Circle. He graduated from LC with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
His community involvement includes serving as past chairman of both the Georgia Economic Developers Association and Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Wright has also held board member positions with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Foreign Trade-Zone, South-
ern Economic Development Council, Greater West Georgia Joint Development Authority, and Three Rivers Regional Commission.
Outgoing Board of Trustees Chair
Kathy Reese McCollum ’81, M’17, center, was recognized for her service at the college’s spring board meeting by President Susanna Baxter. McCollum is the institution’s first female board chair. Joining them is Bill Plybon, who will assume the leadership role on July 1.
Alumni Association President Spencer King ’00, left, presents Greg Wright ’88 with the Distinguished Service Alumni Award.
Caryn Loyd Cole ’80 of LaGrange celebrates Mother’s Day with daughter Lindsey Cole Robinson ’15 and grandson Dane.
Elizabeth Story ’07 of Smyrna (from left), Melissa Dempsey ’08 of Midland and Abby Allen Noble ’06 of Macon explore Germany.
2000s
2001 Christy Norris Wasdin of Smyrna is payroll & HRIS at GPS Hospitality.
2003 The Rev. Deborah Williams Haag of Acworth was ordained at the meeting of the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church in June.
2004 Ariel Pena M'20 of Greensboro, North Carolina, is the associate vice president of advancement services and campaign management for Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York.
2005 Tammy Haralson Plant of Pensacola, Florida, is the governmental liaison with the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners.
2005 Dr. Michael Thomas Jr. of Athens visited campus to discuss his book
"Black Financial Culture" and share insights on financial planning.
2010s
2010 Dr. Wesley Meares of North Augusta, South Carolina, was the recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Award for Augusta University's Master of Public Administration degree in Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Services. He additionally received the RSCA Award for excellence in research and was approved as a full professor.
2010 James Webb McGhee of Brookline, Massachusetts, is the director of financial assistance at Bentley University.
2011 Samantha Bullard Allen M'11, Ed.S.'13 of Newnan is the 6-12th grade math coach for West Georgia RESA.
2011 Britt Gaylor M'13 of LaGrange has
The LaGrange College Leadership Council welcomed new members in May. From left are (front row) Debbie Thomason, Summer Deal, Lauren Gann ’12, Mandy Bowman ’03, Cathy Hunt ’81, (back row) Bill Miller, Duncan Allen, Maxwell Duke ’91, Blair Tolbert ’06 and Nigel Walker ’04, M’06, Ed.S.’11. Not pictured are Mary Higgins, Lindsey Perkins ’08, ’13 and James Welden ’98. Formed in 1990, the Leadership Council is an advisory and service-oriented group of LaGrange College volunteers who work to advance its goals and mission.
accepted the girls basketball coach position at LaGrange Academy. He is continuing his run as the boys basketball coach.
2011 Paul Parker of Sherman Oaks, California, contributed music to the film "Mending the Line" featured on Netflix.
2015 Leah Foster Chapman is an ordained deacon in the North Georgia Conference of the Global Methodist Church and has been appointed pastor of Macedonia Methodist Church in Tomson, Georgia.
2015 Loishirl Hall of Washington, D.C., graduated from The University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law. She passed the Bar Exam and was admitted into the District of Columbia and Maryland Bar Associations.
2015 Connor McNamee M'17 of LaGrange has been named the offensive coordinator for Troup County Comprehensive High School's varsity football program.
2015 Alexander Rodriguez of Brooklyn, New York, created the music for a national award-winning podcast. He worked on "The Mantawauk Caves," which won Best Fiction Podcast at the iHeart Podcast Awards.
2016 Jasen Jonus M'16 of LaGrange has been named the women's basketball head coach at Oglethorpe University.
2016 Lynda Moncus Perry Ed.S.'16 of Roanoke, Alabama, attended the Georgia Field Directors Association meeting at Georgia Gwinnett College. She accepted the position of secretary in this organization.
2017 Layna Winn Kemp M'17 of LaGrange is an assistant professor of education at Point University.
2017 Ratoya Mason M'20 of LaGrange received the Presidential Award for Student Services at LaGrange College.
Dr. George W. Baker Jr. ’74 of LaGrange received the Perennial Performance award from BeeTV at its annual awards banquet. His daughter, Dr. LeThenia Joy Baker ’02 (left), and sister Jame’ Baker joined him.
The “Gray Panthers” monthly lunch group gathers at the Brickhouse Grill: (from left) Larry Goodman ’67, Jerry “Y.A.” Wynens ’67, John Forrester ’67, Bill Hardy ’68, Gary Brown ’66, Gary Roberts ’67, Coach Phil Williamson and Tom Conway ’69.
Savannah Hicks Hunt ’21 of LaGrange was named LaGrange Academy's Teacher of the Year.
THEY MADE
Another group of students has triumphantly stepped into post-graduate life after years of dedication. Now, there's a whole new group of eager freshmen on the horizon for LaGrange College this fall. Many will rely on scholarships to navigate their journey.
This is where you can help.
Please support their dreams with a generous gift to the LC Fund today. It will make a real difference in their academic journey.
30!
2018 Jacob Krzysiak of Blacksburg, Virginia, is a development associate for Neighbors Inc.
2018 Lydia Subat of Slidell, Louisiana, works at Professional Sports Publications of Atlanta.
2018 The Rev. Garrett Wallace of Dunwoody was commissioned at the meeting of the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church in June.
2019 Mallory Pressley Carson of LaGrange has accepted the position of nurse educator at Thinc College and Career Academy.
2019 Kaylee Morgan Drake of Carrollton received her MFA in costume design at Tulane University.
2019 Jason Hernandez III of LaGrange is an Adjunct Percussion Professor at LaGrange College and co-founder of J&J Studios.
2019 Kelton Hunt of Hogansville is a lecturer of music at LaGrange College and volunteered his talent as the music director for LaGrange Academy's production of "Shrek the Musical."
2019 Katelyn Little of Buckhead was the guest speaker at the Nursing Honor Society's induction for LaGrange College.
2019 Jack McCormack II of Jacksonville, Florida, is the manager of sales with Elevate and its ElevateX vertical.
Jolly ’77 (left) of Roanoke, Alabama, and Ron Farr ’77 of Canton helped Coach Phil Williamson (center) celebrate his 90th birthday at a Panther baseball game. To honor the longtime coach and athletic director, alumni and friends came together for a golf outing, informal meals and a large tailgate gathering outside Williamson Stadium at Cleaveland Field. Williamson served for 42 years as a coach, athletic director and faculty member.
Ricky
C. Jacob Snyder '24 of LaGrange is a Legacy graduate of wife Caitlyn Brooke M'21, Ed.S.'23 and was cheered on by family, including their newest Panther, his son, Judah James.
Jeffrey Albertson Jr. ’10 (right) of Atlanta enjoyed a campus visit with Political Science Professor Dr. John Tures.
Jennifer McCoy Ward ’98 of LaGrange and her son, Elijah, were able to enjoy Aviation Day at LC. He is contemplating that career path.
John D Rasnick ’86 of Luthersville was re-elected on May 21, 2024, to his 4th term in office as chief probate court judge of Meriwether County, Georgia.
Mike Wilson ‘84 of LaGrange shared with LC students how his faith led him to leading the nonprofit organization New Ventures.
College conversations
The Alumni and Community Relations Office hosted several spring events for alumni and friends to enjoy time together and to hear from President Susanna Baxter.
ROME: Joe M’20 and Rebekah Montgomery hosted a gathering in their home in Rome on April 11. On hand were (from left) Ray Cox ’70, Tim Galloway, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Experience Dr. John Head, Lee Ann Head, Joe Montgomery M’20, President Susanna Baxter, Valerie Loner and Tim Tarpley ’77.
MARIETTA:
’24, Gann, Baxter, Allison Coats Hunn ’16, M’18, Ellie Hunn, Alan Hunn ’16, M’18, Dr. Gretta Milam ’86, M’92, (back row) Jack Richards ’23, Noah Stanford ’22, Bill Gibson ’07 and Lena Gibson. Not pictured is Ginny McGee ’63.
ZETA
PHI
BETA: Alumni sisters of Zeta
Alumni gathered at the Glover Park Brewery on April 30 for an event hosted by Spencer King ’00 and Josh Fenn ’00. In the photo, King, President of the Alumni Association, pauses with Jacob Jeffords ’23 and President Baxter.
CARROLLTON:
Amy Baxter ’06, Lauren Gledhill
Gann ’12 and Patrick Yuran ’95 hosted the event held in Carrollton on May 16 at Local Ties Brewing Company. In the photo are (crouching in front)
Sydney Dailey ’23, Jasmine Middleton ’22, Lindsey Green ’24, (middle row) Yuran, President Susanna Baxter, Jordan Alexis
Phi Beta Sorority Inc. gathered on campus on June 10. Pausing on the steps of Turner Hall are (front row) President Susanna Baxter, Geneva Heard Cato ’78, Taryl Woods Anderson ’80 (back row) Cheryl Hines Ward ’82, Treshenia Thrash Gates ’10, M’24 and Carmen Hamilton ’24.
ATHENS: In conjunction with the annual meeting of the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, a group of alumni and friends gathered in Athens on June 12. In the photo are (from left)
the Rev. Deborah Williams Haag '03, who was recognized for ordination; President Susanna Baxter; the Rev. Garrett Wallace '18, who was recognized for being commissioned; and the Rev. Ashley Fitzpatrick Jenkins ’08, LC Director of Spiritual Life.
Kathryn Hatcher Buechner ’08, M’11 was on hand when her former swimmers committed to play sports at LC. Rylan McDowell (left) will play football and Harrison Johnson is joining the golf team. Buechner swam for LaGrange from 20032007 and was a grad assistant for the team from 2009-2010.
Caleb D. Brown ’18 of Sevierville, Tennessee, is a featured performer at COUNTRY TONITE in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Katelyn Little ’19 of Buckhead was the guest speaker at the college’s Nursing Honor Society's induction.
Maya Turner M'24 of Pine Mountain is the art teacher at LaGrange Academy.
Kelton Hunt ’19 of LaGrange (center) lent his talents to LaGrange Academy’s Fine Arts program’s performance of “Shrek the Musical, Jr.” Hunt serves as a lecturer of music at LaGrange College.
Lance Shealy ’20 of Moultrie matched with UF-Pensacola for his OB/GYN resident studies.
Katie Hearn ’12 of Atlanta (center) welcomed Dr. Clay Bolton, members of the LaGrange College Sports Management Advisory Team and the rest of his student cohort for an educational experience at Truist Park. Katie works as the gameday staffing and administration manager for the Atlanta Braves.
Anderson
received the six-figure earner ring, the Regional Manager award and the core value award for "Relationships"
2020s
2020 Laine Fletcher of Valdosta received a master’s in speech language pathology with a focus in vocal health and performance from Auburn University.
2020 Nicole Joseph M'20 of Hogansville is a school-based therapist for the Callaway zone of the Troup County School System. She operates Fresh Start Driving DUI School part time, is the president of Theta Xi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and the Cheer Coach at LaGrange College.
2020 Daniel Lawson M'20 of LaGrange received his doctorate in exercise science at Oklahoma State University.
2020 Alaina Magee of LaGrange received her master's degree in software engineering from Kansas State University.
2020 Lance Shealy of Moultrie was matched to be a resident OBGYN at UF-Pensacola.
2020 Payton Smith passed the Georgia Bar Exam.
2021 Lincoln Anderson of LaGrange received the six-figure earner ring, the Regional Manager award and the core value award for "Relationships" at the Equis Financial National Training Conference.
2021 Savanna Hicks Hunt of Hogansville was named LaGrange Academy's Teacher of the Year.
2021 Joe Ruth M'24 of Gainesville, Florida, became the all-time hits leader in NCAA Division III history.
2021 Caleb Tyler of Hoschton is an international trade specialist in the Western Hemisphere Trade Policy and Geographic Division for the Foreign Agricultural Service in Washington, D.C. He will be covering Chile, Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador.
2022 Riley Hammett of Atlanta is the sales coordinator for the Ritz Carlton on Amelia Island.
2022 Lauren Hicks of Woodland
LONGTIME BUSINESS PROFESSOR RETIRES
Dr. Linda McMullen, Ely R. Callaway Sr. Business Professor and Chair, retired in May after 25 years of service to LaGrange College.
First arriving at LaGrange as Director of LaGrange’s evening college in 1999, she became an Assistant Professor of Management in 2004, and then Associate Professor and Chair of the Business Department. Dr. McMullen also served as co-director of the college’s Cornerstone First Year Experience program from 2019-2021.
“Our students have been the primary beneficiary of Dr. McMullen’s skills and advocacy,” said Dr. Brian Peterson, Vice President for Academic Affairs.
During her tenure, she was awarded the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry Exemplary Teacher Award in 2015 and 2023. She also received the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs Region 3 Teacher of Excellence and Best in Region honors.
Lincoln
’21 of LaGrange
at the Equis Financial national training conference.
Lauren Hicks ‘22 of Woodland teaches voice and piano, and she is a regular featured performer at Nutwood, The Beacon and Ivey Park.
Dr. Michael Thomas '05 of Athens, author and lecturer at the University of Georgia, came to campus to discuss his book on financial planning and share insights from it with students.
Making LC memories last
Efforts to exchange all the aging wooden benches around campus are seeing great progress, as evidenced by several recent dedications of new, powder-coated steel replacements. From commemorating alumni marriages to lifelong friendships, the benches feature descriptive plaques and can be reserved by contacting the Development Office at development@lagrange.edu. Visit www.lagrange. edu/bench to learn more.
KIKI CARMICHAEL BROWNLOW: In April, Jere Brownlow ’73 unveiled the plaque on a bench dedicated to his wife, KiKi Carmichael Brownlow ’74, who is battling dementia. The inscription reads “My Friend, My Love, My Wife.” Afterward, family and friends gathered for a group photo. They are (seated) Bruce Brownlow ’69, Claudia Brownlow, Jere Brownlow ’73, Sharon Brownlow, (standing) Johnny Williamson, Mary Wells Conway ’72, Nancy Nesmith Williamson ’71, Susan Anderson ’73, Karen Pattillo ’77, Raymond Hodnette ’75, Marie Brownlow, Bo Brownlow, Lucia Carr ’71, Larry Fletcher and Mary Hamby Hall ’73.
CLASS OF 1973: Martha McMillian Chewning ’73 (left) and Becky Spencer ’73 enjoyed a visit to their class bench and lunch in the dining hall during a recent trip to campus.
TOM AND MARY WELLS CONWAY: Tom ’69 and Mary Wells ’72 Conway (seated in the photo) unveiled their new bench in April. It celebrates their 50th wedding anniversary and its plaque reads in part: “The Hill, where it all began… .” The couple’s friends join them in the photo. They are (from left) Johnny and Nancy Nesmith Williamson ’72, Jerry ’67 and Carolyn Mitchel Wynens ’69, Debbie Terrell and Bill Hardy ’68.
BILL AND SHARON HEARNBURG: Bill '64 and Sharon Waller '65 Hearnburg dedicated their bench in front of the Quillian Building in March. The spot is where Bill asked Sharon to marry him 60 years ago. The plaque states, "This is where we fell in love."
Loishirl Hall ’15 of Washington, D.C., graduated from the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law. She went on to pass the bar exam and meet all the requirements for admittance into the District of Columbia and Maryland Bar Associations.
teaches voice and piano, and she is a regular featured performer at Nutwood, The Beacon and Ivey Park.
2022 Maurie White of LaGrange is the Property Manager for Southwood Realty. In addition, she is an all-star competition cheerleading director at Tumbletown 2.
2022 Johnathan Williams of Bamberg, South Carolina, is a football contributor on "Sunday Sportsblitz" featured on Erie News Now in Erie, Pennsylvania.
2023 Savannah Barnett M'23 of LaGrange is a 1st grade teacher at Clearview Elementary School and the head volleyball coach at Troup County Comprehensive High School.
2023 Gracie Brunel of LaGrange is the head coach of woman's basketball at Whitewater High School in Fayetteville.
2023 Matt Eden is a staff accountant at Long & Long CPA PC.
2023 Antoine Prather of LaGrange is the director of ticketing and promotions at Virginia Military Institute.
2023 Jason Simmons of Thomasville is a staff accountant at Simmons, Mills & Simmons PC.
2024 Leia E. Avery of Acworth is working as a pediatric nurse at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.
2024 Maya Turner M'24 of Pine Mountain is the art teacher at LaGrange Academy.
Births
To Nicholas Beamenderfer M'17 and his wife, Samantha, a son, Luka John, on May 6, 2024
To Justyn '18, M'21 and Mary Elizabeth Loftus Olson '19 a daughter, Sherry Ann, on February 8, 2024
To Taylor Thrailkill Meadors '19 and her husband, Jonathan, a son, Calvin "Cal" Thomas, on May 15, 2024
To Colby '20 and Sandra Henson Heath '20, a son, Oliver Darren, on March 4, 2024
To Caitlyn Brooke M'21, Ed.S.'23 and C. Jacob Snyder '24, a boy, Judah James, on April 25, 2024
To Victoria “Tori” P. Cason ’23 and Amad Ogletree, a daughter, Arianna Blaire Ogletree, on June 4, 2024
Engagements
Len Spivey '23 to Emma Grant on December 27, 2023
Leia E. Avery ’24 to Casey T. Gibson ’24 on May 7, 2024
Weddings
Wesley "Trae" Long III '12 to Holly Winner on May 31, 2024
Henry Thomas Ruff '20 to Alice Ann Carson on May 4, 2024
Olivia Lauren Hanners '22 to Christain Snyder on April 6, 2024
In Memoriam
Mrs. Eleanor Perryman Roberts '49
Mrs. Bobbie Smith Holleran '50
Mrs. Betty York Meyers '51
Mrs. Claire Jones Jackson Plymel ’51
Dr. Claire Cochran Swann '59
Mr. Gary Reese Todd '60
Mrs. Bobbie Cobb McKeller '61
Mr. Donald W. "Ike" Eichelberger '62
Mr. James R. Anderson '66
Mrs. Kay Johnston Childress '67, M'75
Mr. David A. Fountain '71
Rev. R. Eugene "Gene" Collum '72
Mrs. Cynthia Wapensky Day '72
Ms. Peggy Daniel McGee '75
Mr. E. Scott Middlebrooks '86, M'98
Mrs. Ruby Ann Hale Taylor '91
Dr. Robert "Bob" Copeland HA'18, former Trustee
President Susanna Baxter (second from left) was able to visit with Dr. Ernest ’52 and Doris Howard McClendon ’51, along with Assistant Director of the LaGrange College Fund Lauren Venters Knowles ’17, M’19.
Wesley E. Long III '12 wed Holly Winner Long on June 1, 2024.
Dr. C. Terrell "Terry" Alford, Jr. '91 of LaGrange has opened the LaGrange Body Lab. He is also the owner of Hometown Family Medicine.
Dr. Vicki Thrailkill Pheil ’98, M.Ed.’00 of LaGrange recently presented her research of new-teacher induction practices at the Association of Teacher Educators National Meeting in Anaheim, California. Her session was titled "Supporting Beginning Teachers: What Do They Really Need?"
While there, she won the "Newcomer's" grand prize (next year's membership dues for ATE) and was invited to participate as a member of two special interest groups for Yearlong Residencies and Best Practices in Field Experiences for Teacher Candidates. Here she is shown with the ATE President Dr. John Yoshioka.
DR. ROBERT COPELAND
Shayne Goddard, division director of development for Georgia Sheriffs’ and Youth Homes, and Sonya Prather Goddard ’95, director at the Pineland Campus of Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, spoke at the LaGrange Lions Club. Shown here (from left) are Lions Club President Brandon Adams, the Goddards and Lions Club member Sherriff James Woodruff.
Dr. Robert Copeland passed away on April 24, 2024.
After attending Harvard Medical School, he and his wife, Jenny, moved to LaGrange for him to practice cardiology, and he founded the Georgia Heart Clinic in 1972.
Along with Dr. Waights Henry Jr., Dr. Charles Hudson and Dr. Jim Holder, he played a seminal role in the planning that evolved into the nursing program at LaGrange College. He served on the Board of Trustees from 1998-2009 and was named an Honorary Alumnus in 2018.
Mitch Parks ’04 (third from left, to the left of Ed Sheeran) of Atlanta finished touring Asia as one of Sheeran’s guitarists for the +-=÷× Mathematics Tour and is embarking on the European Tour this summer.
The acclaimed artist Lamar Dodd once said, “If everyone were a Bob Copeland, what a wonderful world it would be.”
Dr. Sonya S. Gaither ’93 of Hampton (right) received the Education 2.0 Outstanding Leadership Award for her work in academic librarianship and higher education. She is the owner of
Viedra Sullivan ’15 of LaGrange enjoys post-game time with her LC Legacy son, Gabe Cofield ’24 (right), and his teammate Zac Hill ’24.
Paul Parker ’11 of Sherman Oaks, California, contributed music to the film "Mending the Line" featured on Netflix.
Dr. Senithia's Helping Hands LLC.
Issei Ohyama ’82, right, traveled from Japan to LaGrange to visit Yasuo Omae ’81. Together they visited campus for a stroll down memory lane.
HOMECOMING 2024, OCTOBER 25-27
THURSDAY
Sports Hall of Fame Induction | 5 p.m. dinner, Turner Hall
FRIDAY
39th Panther Memorial Golf Classic: Remembering Tom Duckett and the Legacy of Former Athletes | Highland Country Club
“The Wizard of Oz” | 3 p.m., Price Theater
Class of 1974 50th Reunion Celebration | 5:30 p.m., Lamar Dodd Art Center
Flashback Friday Party. | 6:30-11 p.m., Overlook Plaza in downtown LaGrange
SATURDAY
Red and Black Reunion Row | 10 a.m. until halftime, Callaway Auditorium parking lot
Football: Panthers vs. Greensboro College | 1 p.m., Callaway Stadium
Hippie Homecoming: “Still Groovy After All These Years” | 7- 10 p.m., Beason Recital Hall at West Side
SUNDAY
LaGrange College Alumni and Community Memorial Service | 10:30 a.m., the Chapel
If you graduated in a year that ends in 4s or 9s, it’s your reunion year! Interested in serving on your reunion committee? Let us know by email at alumni@lagrange.edu.
educational travel adventure hosted by President
“The Wizard of Oz” | 2 p.m., Price Theater
See more events at lagrange.edu/ homecoming in July.
Susanna Baxter and First Gentleman Mark Huffman. Details and rates will be available. Email 3DJourneys@ lagrange.edu for more information.
Fall Break for students
More events at lagrange.edu
Faculty earn teaching honors
Four faculty members were presented with awards centered on research and teaching excellence at the college’s Honors Day ceremony on April 18.
Dr. Marci DeRamus, Assistant Professor of Psychological Science, received the 2024 Vulcan Materials Company Teaching Excellence Award.
Established in 1991, the annual Vulcan Teaching Excellence Awards honor an outstanding professor selected by member campuses of the Georgia Independent College Association.
“She leads her majors through a variety of challenging research projects that benefit not only their discipline, but college students and the community as a whole,” said Dr. Brian Peterson, Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Dr. Melvin Hall, Professor of Chemistry, received the John R. Hines Jr. Undergraduate Research Faculty Award. It recognizes a professor whose work supports the college’s undergraduate research program.
“He pushes his students to their fullest achievement,” Dr. Peterson said.
Dr. Don Livingston, Professor of Education, received the
2024 Flora Glenn Candler Professorship.
Established in September 1971 by Charles Howard Candler Jr., the Flora Glenn Candler Professorship is a twoyear appointment given to a professor who is selected according to his or her effectiveness as a teacher, their contribution to the life and work of the college community, and their service to the community at large.
“Playing an instrumental role in developing the proposal to create our first doctoral program, he works with passion and dedication toward the advancement of education,” Dr. Peterson said.
Dr. Laine Scott, Professor of English Writing and Publication Studies, received the 2024 United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry Exemplary Teacher Award.
Each year, GBHEM member schools select one faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching, civility and concern for students, the institution and the community.
“Stepping up to fill a teaching need whenever necessary, she has designed and taught courses with the good of the students always in mind,” Dr. Peterson said.
The honorees of teaching excellence awards, from left to right, are: English Writing & Publication Studies Professor Dr. Laine Scott, Chemistry Professor Dr. Melvin Hall, Education Professor Dr. Don Livingston and Psychological Science Assistant Professor Dr. Marci DeRamus.
