Columns Summer 2023

Answered Prayers

Service trip provides hope for hurricane survivors

Goodbye, old friend

Henry Hall residents remember longtime home

A Magazine for Alumni and Friends

Vol. 27, No. 2

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. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LaGrange College, 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240-2999.

Correspondence should be directed to the Communications and Marketing Office at the above address or emailed to dhartman@lagrange.edu.

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.

FEELING GROOVY

Bold prints and bell-bottom pants were in abundance at this spring’s farewell to Henry Hall. The retrospective event (featured on page 12) brought forth both humorous and powerful alumni memories of the facility’s 50+ years of service. While fashion trends may change, and buildings come and go, it’s good to know that the memories made here on the Hill are everlasting. —the Editor

FEATURES

8 ANSWERED PRAYERS

Still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Ian, Florida residents found help and hope in the form of LC students who devoted their spring break to service.

12 GOODBYE, OLD FRIEND

Residents of Henry Hall reminisce about the fun and friendships found in the campus dormitory.

16 ADVENTURE AWAITS

Class of 2023 urged to take a leap of faith.

AROUND CAMPUS

3

PHOTO: Rooms in the Ida Callaway Hudson Lab Sciences Building buzz with activity during spring semester as students put their classroom knowledge into practice.

ON THE COVER: Clearing the aftermath of Hurricane Ian may not look like your typical spring break activity, but for several LC faculty, staff and students the respite from class was a week of labor—and a different kind of learning. Read the story on page 8.

POSSIBILITIES SUNSHINE AND SERVICE

by Dr. Susanna L. Baxter, 26th President of LaGrange College

For many college students, the lure of the beach during spring break is irresistible. This spring several LaGrange students felt called to travel to Florida, but not for fun and frolic: They traveled to the Fort Myers area to serve.

Still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Ian, residents found helping hands and hopeful hearts in the form of our undergrads who traded a week of relaxation for a week of making a difference. As you can read in the feature story inside this issue, both students and residents came away changed.

Efforts like this spring break trip speak to who we are as an institution. Our historic ties to the United Methodist Church call us to love our neighbor and to seek out ways to improve conditions for the least of these.

I’m proud to be part of a place that emphasizes preparation for both career and for life —a place that cares not just about what you know, but also who you become.

Thank you for your support as we work to provide transformational experiences to prepare our students for a world that so desperately needs them.

Hallmark production prepares students for film careers

Having the chance to work on a cable network film does not come around often. So, when a Hallmark movie started shooting at the college in December 2022, six student interns took advantage of the opportunity to help with various tasks on set and get advice from experts in the industry.

“Being able to observe professionals in that environment allowed me to see the expected work ethic and attitude while shooting,” said Rebekah Powers, a recent Film & Media Arts graduate who worked as a technical intern for the production’s art department. She said her responsibilities included handling props and set dressing different locations.

Composition & Music Technologies and Theatre Arts students also served as interns on the shoot, according to Assistant Professor of Film & Media Arts Yson DeBlois. In addition, several other students and faculty were able to be background talent on camera.

Campus sites used in the film, titled “A Guide to Murder,” include Lewis Library, West Side, Sunny Gables and Broad Street Apartments.

When the film crew took a break

from the 13-day shoot, DeBlois moderated a question-and-answer session on Dec. 6 with some of the movie’s key production members, including Director Haylie Duff.

During the event, crew members offered words of motivation to students who aspire to work in the industry.

“Once you start to network and you really start to find your niche in the film

industry, it takes some time to get there,” said Derek Wiseman, first assistant director. “Don’t give up, no matter how hard.”

“Your career is always going to have highs and lows,” said Jaime Brightbill, actress and production assistant. “Don’t put your self-worth into it. Learn everything. You’ll never stop working.

CLASSROOM RENOVATIONS CONTINUE

At the start of spring semester, renovation work was completed on second floor classrooms in the Callaway Academic Building.

Built in 1971, it replaced the Dobbs Building that burned down. The Callaway Academic Building last underwent a remodel in 2001.

The ongoing project focuses on enhancing the learning spaces with new furniture and technology. In the photo, Assistant History Professor Dr. Richard Soash and students from his “Medicine and Society” class use one of the updated classrooms.”

POLITICAL SCIENCE CLASS HELPS PRESERVE GEORGIA LANDMARK

Students often think of a project as just an assignment they turn in for a grade. But in Dr. John Tures’ Research Methods class this past academic year, the task of providing data to help Okefenokee Swamp supporters secure a UNESCO World Heritage Site bid had real-life effects that brought the undergraduate researchers to the Georgia Capitol on Feb. 8.

When the students arrived at state government headquarters, they were able to meet with Nick Savas, a representative of Sen. Jon Ossoff's office; Dr. Michael

Angelo-James, Mayor of Waycross; and other local politicians and Okefenokee Swamp supporters.

“We just walked in and started talking to people,” said Hannah Godfrey ’24. “The representative from Senator Ossoff’s office was very engaging and interested in what we were doing.”

According to Defenders of Wildlife, a national organization based out of Washington, D.C., Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, which takes up 93% percent of the wetlands in the Okefenokee Swamp, is known as the largest national wildlife refuge in the eastern United States, covering more than 400,000 acres.

Political Science Professor Dr. Tures said the lack of World Heritage Site protection could be detrimental to the preservation of the Okefenokee Swamp.

“There are companies that want to mine the area for titanium,” he said. “Furthermore, there could be developers or other encroachments on the Okefenokee. It has lasted a long time but has probably never faced environmental challenges like this in its history.”

First African American student returns to campus

Throughout LaGrange College’s history, trailblazers have cleared the way for future students. One such history maker is Alfreda Barrow Fannings '71, the institution’s first African American enrollee, who spoke to campus and community members in March about her experience on the Hill.

At the time Barrow Fannings arrived in LaGrange in 1967, barriers were placed on African Americans seeking a higher education and employment.

“It was in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement, a time when black students weren’t allowed to attend the college or university of their choice,” she said. “We were denied job opportunities even though we may have had a college degree.”

Despite the challenges, Barrow Fannings persevered and received her degree in social work.

“It was faith and prayer that got me through because I had to have faith that I could do it,” she said.

Nearly 50 years later, Barrow Fannings continues to work in her desired profession at the Chambers County Department of Human Resources.

"This college prepared me for my career path," she said. During her closing remarks, Barrow Fannings bestowed some words of wisdom on the students in the audience.

"You can do anything you think you can't do," she said. "You must believe in yourself. Aim for the moon that’s high because if you miss, you’ll always be among the stars.”

FACULTY EARN NEW JOB ASSIGNMENTS

Three faculty members received new job appointments during the spring semester.

Professor of Mathematics Dr. Greg McClanahan was named Senior Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. He previously served as Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Sciences.

Associate Professor of English Writing and Publication Studies

Dr. Justin Thurman was named the inaugural Director of Writing. He will continue to oversee the Writing Center, an academic support for students who need assistance with their writing assignments.

Associate Professor of Art and Design Austin Wieland was named the Lovick P. Corn Associate Professor of Art and Design. Succeeding Retired Art History Professor Dr. Dorothy Joiner as the holder of this endowed professorship, Professor Wieland will advocate for the fine arts programs at LC and create closer ties between the college and the local art community.

Ceramic symposium hosts high school artists

Students throughout the state converged on the Hill to show off their creative talents at the Georgia High School Ceramic Arts Awards and Symposium hosted by the Lamar Dodd Art Center during spring semester.

The event, which a different college or university hosts each year, featured a juried exhibition with around 90 pieces from 28 schools. The work was selected by local ceramic artist Rich Brown, who not only served as this year’s judge, but also demonstrated his skill on a pottery wheel.

“This symposium brings the art community together and builds valuable relationships across the state of Georgia,” said Austin Wieland, Lovick P. Corn Associate Professor of Art and Design. “Historically, there are very few exhibition opportunities for threedimensional art at the high school level.

This symposium gives students and teachers a chance to share the hard work coming out of their classrooms.”

In addition to the exhibition, faculty from LaGrange College and other institutions led hands-on demonstrations in underglaze transfers, brush making, stamps and sprig molds, slab construction and sgraffito. Outside the Art Center, students observed raku, a low-fire process that involves removing pottery from a kiln when it is red hot.

“The workshops allow students to learn and create with art professors and educators from around the state,” Wieland said. “As a result, they get to see what it is like taking a class and working in a college-level studio.”

Next year’s event will be held at Piedmont University, where Wieland will serve as a juror for the exhibition portion of the symposium.

Program prepares students for sports industry

In a sea of applicants vying for internships or post-graduate positions, it can often be a challenge to stand out. But Sports Management students, who build their resumes through work opportunities at professional sports venues, gain the skills needed to help them rise above the crowd.

“Our students learn from experiences both inside the classroom and on the field,” said Associate Sports Management Professor Dr. Clay Bolton. “They do this in operating food and beverage at games, planning in-game entertainment, building and executing marketing plans and forming relationships with mentors already working in the sports industry.”

Undergraduates can learn from industry professionals through the newly formed LaGrange College Sports Management Advisory Team. Members of the group come from professional sports organizations and sports management firms in Atlanta.

Men’s Basketball student-athlete Parker Lovett ’26, who currently serves as president of the Sports Management Club, said his business professors have made a significant impact on his life.

“Dr. Linda McMullen gave me confidence that this was the right field for me,” he said. “Dr. Cindi Bearden

taught me what it takes to give effort and apply classroom situations to the real world. Lastly, Dr. Bolton has helped me adjust to college and provided me with opportunities right off the bat in the Sports Management field.”

Baseball student-athlete Slade James ’24, who earned an internship this summer with the Atlanta Braves, said his coursework has been helpful to his work role.

“My Sports Management classes have given me a better understanding of all the other viewpoints of sports outside

FACULTY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Dr. John Cook, Professor of Religion, had his articles “In Defense of Polyvalence in 1 Cor 12,13c” and "The Spectacle of the Patibulum: A Response to Ruben van Wingerden” published in Biblica and New Testament Studies, respectively. He was also featured in the Washington Post article "How did crucifixion really work? A British discovery offers new clues."

of just the game being played,” he said. “It has opened my eyes to what happens behind the scenes and that everybody from the janitors to the athletes is just as important to the success of the organization.”

Soccer student-athlete Kendyl Anderson ’24 said the program has helped her expand her job options.

“It is teaching me how many different careers there are and leading me into wanting to become an athletic trainer,” she said.

Dr. John Tures, Professor of Political Science, was interviewed by WABE about hate crimes for the article "Georgia Hate Crimes Spike in 2021; Underreporting Remains an Issue."

Ten Sports Management students gained work experience at The Players Championship professional golf event in March at Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Pictured from left to right are Enrique Hernandez ’23, Kendyl Anderson ’25, Kirsten Boyd ’23, Breonna Glover ’23, Israel Hill ’23, Camerin Lyons ’24, Mena Yacoub ’23, Michael Hasse ’25, Nicholas Missert ’25, Bershard Edwards ’23 and Associate Sports Management Professor Clay Bolton.

History contest empowers future leaders

History not only survives but thrives thanks to dedicated middle and high school students who bring life to influential figures of the past at National History Day events. In April, LaGrange College hosted the Georgia state contest, which displayed the academic and theatrical talents of over 400 competitors.

Since 2014, the college has served as state co-sponsor of National History Day with Georgia Humanities.

This year was the first in-person state competition since before the COVID pandemic. Special guests at the event included Alyse Wolf, Regional Outreach Coordinator for Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA); Dr. Cathy Gorn, Executive Director of National History Day; Dr. Shelly Lowe, National Endowment for the Humanities Chair; and Dr. Anthony Mitchell, National Endowment for the Humanities Senior Deputy Chair.

Gorn, who last appeared at the Georgia contest in 2019, expressed the importance of National History Day.

“It provides students the opportunity to discover the past while honing research, writing, analytical thinking skills and creative expression,” she said. “It allows students to take ownership of their research journey. And it helps them build self-esteem.”

Before advancing to the state contest, over 200 students competed in NHD’s West Georgia regional competition that was held on March 10 at LaGrange College.

Competitors, working either individually or in a group, presented their project through one of five media: historical paper, exhibit, performance, documentary or website. This year’s theme was “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.”

Judges from each category advanced the top two state entries to the national contest held this summer at the University of Maryland in College Park.

FACULTY HONORED FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE

Three faculty members were presented with awards centered on research and teaching excellence at the institution’s Honors Day ceremony on April 20.

Yson DeBlois (right), Assistant Professor of Film and Media Arts, received the John Hines Jr. Undergraduate Research

Faculty Award. It recognizes a professor whose work supports the college’s undergraduate research program.

Dr. Linda McMullen, Ely R. Callaway Sr. Professor and Chair of the college’s Business Department, received the 2023 United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry Exemplary Teacher Award. It recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching, civility and concern for students, the institution and the community.

Dr. Kevin Shirley, Professor of History and Chair of the Humanities and Social Sciences Department, received the 2023 Vulcan Materials Company Teaching Excellence Award.

The award recognizes an exceptional faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in other areas of campus life.

When a disaster would strike, former children’s television host Mister Rogers would tell his viewers to “look for the helpers.” Fort Myers Beach residents, who experienced the immense force of Hurricane Ian in September 2022, received much-needed relief from LC students, faculty and staff, who traveled to the area as part of a spring break service-learning trip.

Upon their arrival, the college group rolled up their sleeves and got straight to work assisting homeowners with debris removal in 95-degree weather, a record high for the area. In addition to helping with the cleanup, they also prayed with the residents.

Faith in action

“Our students got to experience the spiritual impact of getting to know the people they were serving, as well as doing the actual work,” said the Rev. Dr. Adam Roberts, Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life at LC. “I really believe that the spiritual growth for the students and the residents we helped was even more significant than any physical labor we accomplished. That's what always

happens on trips like these as we meet God in the midst of acts of service.”

This year’s trip was made possible thanks to Florida Conference Disaster Recovery of the United Methodist Church, the sponsoring organization; Faith United Methodist Church in Fort Myers, who served as the host; and Pine Mountain United Methodist Church, who helped underwrite the trip.

Roberts said the six-day excursion, formerly known as alternative spring break, was the first one to happen since the pandemic.

“Before 2020, the spring break trip had become a cornerstone of the spiritual life experience at LC,” he said. “In 2018, we took 25 students, our largest group. This year’s trip was a huge piece of rebuilding the spiritual life program and its student leaders as we move into the future.”

Catastrophic damage

Hurricane Ian, which first made landfall on the barrier island of Cayo Costa, Florida, on Sept. 28, 2022, briefly reached a Category 5 intensity

National Hurricane Center post-storm analysis.

The center reported that Ian was responsible for at least 156 fatalities, 66 of which were directly caused by the storm.

Ian was deemed the costliest hurricane in Florida’s history. The state suffered $112.9 billion in damages, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information.

Resilience of a community

Aria Mabry ’26, along with four other students on this year’s trip, was moved by the stories told by the storm survivors.

“One woman told us how she rode out the storm on her kitchen counter with her daughter and two dogs and how her husband and her brother were wading in the flood waters that had taken over their house,” Mabry said. “I was heartbroken for her because I know how scary that must have been. She said they stayed in that flooded house for almost three weeks before they could

get out.”

Jonyka Tenney ’24 said they helped lift the spirits of the people they assisted.

“When we were talking to one of the residents, they expressed that they had given up already,” she said. “But just by us coming down to help them it changed their perspective and helped them realize better days are ahead.”

“Hearing their stories made me really realize I need to count my blessings!” said Aubrey Helton ’26. “I should be beyond grateful for what I have, and not take things for granted.”

Political Science Professor Dr. John Tures, who also served on the trip, said he witnessed the transformative power of prayer when gathered in a circle with

the Rev. Roberts, the students and the homeowners.

“One resident told me, ‘Your group is giving us the strength to make it through,’” Dr. Tures said.

He said he also talked with Kelby, who lived on Pine Island for 52 years.

“I asked him, ‘What’s something you know about Hurricane Ian that nobody else knows?’ Kelby said, ‘How many people here are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. You know, Hurricane Charley (a Category 4 storm that hit back in 2004) could fit inside the eye wall of Hurricane Ian.’”

A new perspective

Tenney said this trip taught her to appreciate the small things.

“I am reminded of what I do have and how blessed I am,” she said. “It’s easy to hear about the news of natural disasters in the world and just pray for them, but it is different when you physically see the damage for yourself and hear the stories from residents. Our

small deeds can mean the world to others, especially when people have lost hope.”

Mabry said it was amazing to see a community of residents come together for a common cause.

“It was truly inspiring how fast everyone picked up and started helping even immediately after the storm,” she said. “Every person that we talked to told us how they survived the storm and what they did afterwards. I am glad that I got to be a part of their narrative of Hurricane Ian.”

Tyler Ginn ’26 said he was grateful to have had this experience.

“I enjoyed getting the chance to connect with everyone and learn new things about them,” he said. “Work like this really brings people together.”

Sam Roberts ’25, one of Chaplain

Roberts’ three sons, said he was glad to participate in this service opportunity.

“I enjoyed getting to know all the people we helped and the other students who went on the trip,” Sam said. “It was cool that I was able to go on my first service-learning trip with my dad.”

Dr. Roberts said his fellow travelers made this trip a memorable one.

“I will always remember this group of students who kept going when they were exhausted, who kept good attitudes no matter what and who chose a spring break exertion, service and sacrifice over rest and relaxation,” he said. “I believe that God has made them stronger for it.”

LC faculty and students took their spring break to serve Fort Myers homeowners affected by Hurricane Ian. Pictured from left to right are Professor John Tures, the Rev. Adam Roberts, Aubrey Helton ’26, Aria Mabry ’26, Tyler Ginn ’26, Jonyka Tenney ’24 and Sam Roberts ’25.

GOODBYE, OLD FRIEND

Henry Hall residents remember longtime dormitory

If the walls of Henry Hall (aka New Dorm) could talk, they would share over 50 years’ worth of stories that might make former residents laugh, cry—and maybe even blush a little. Before the sun set on Henry Hall for one last time, a farewell celebration was held on April 20

for alumni and members of the Panther community to gather and reminisce.

Moments of shock and awe

Henry Hall residents shared a collection of experiences that could be best described as unforgettable.

“One memory that stands out is

standing on the balcony and watching the ‘streakers’ run down the street,” said Shelly Fulford Wilson ’76.

George Wheelock ’75 said the occasional hijinks in the hall kept former Dean of Students John Love very busy during the evening.

“One night, some fraternity brothers found a billy goat and brought him over to a fellow’s room,” he said. “Another instance involved some guys moving the Coke machine into the elevator. Dean Love not only kept us in line but would also go to bat for us if he thought it would make a difference.”

Julie Clifton Watson ’76, M’09 recalled one alarming event that occurred while she stayed at ‘New Dorm’ in the summer of 1975.

“My roommate and I woke up in the middle of the night to screams, police cars and ambulances, all in front of the residence hall," she said. "Found out the young woman had delivered her baby, by herself in the room below us! Scary but memorable!”

The ‘mothers’ of Henry Hall

Josh Wilson ’02, said one of his

Dr. George Henry (right bottom) gives remarks about his father Waights G. Henry Jr. and his impact on the college (lead photo) at the Henry Hall farewell celebration in April.

favorite Henry Hall memories was during the ’96 Summer Olympics with his mom, Mary, who was a Resident Director for the dormitory.

“My mom and I took care of the South African Olympic team while they were in Georgia,” he said. “It was cool to host real Olympic athletes.”

Wilson said he was fortunate to grow up at Henry Dorm.

“My mom lived there for over 15 years as the Resident Director/Dorm Mom,” he said. “I will cherish all our walks around campus to go to dinner and the basketball game. She was a mother to thousands over the years and absolutely loved her time living at Henry Hall.”

Cody Furse ’12, who served as one of Mary Wilson’s Resident Advisors, said she was the epitome of the Southern lady.

“She enjoyed spending time with college kids,” he said. “She had her funny quirks, and depended on the RAs, but that, in its own way, was endearing for me.” One memory that stands out to Furse is Wilson’s description of ‘The Bouncer.’

“In the 2009-2010 academic year, there was someone who would bounce a ball at all hours of the night and she couldn’t ever determine who was doing it,” he said. “I heard about this person often. It is a great memory because I was the mystery bouncer,

WHAT’S NEXT?

With Henry Hall leaving its home on the Hill this summer, a common question posed is, “What takes its place?” The honest answer is, “Stay tuned.”

The college began a master planning process in fall 2022, a review that examined every facility on campus with an eye toward future needs. The removal of some residence

hall capacity clearly puts student housing high on the list of concerns, and several options are being considered.

The Sizemore Group, consultants for the master plan, made an initial report to the Board of Trustees in April. While the recommendations are wide-ranging, planners are honing in on the campus’s historic

dormitories for first attention. Needed updates to restrooms and related projects in Boatwright, Hawkes and Pitts residence halls are rising to the top of priority lists.

Once those upgrades—and the necessary fundraising—are complete, attention will shift to adding housing capacity on the Hill.

President Susanna Baxter and First Gentleman Mark Huffman show off their ’70s attire.

and I never told her.”

Wheelock said Alvira Hitchcock, who was a house mother at the residence hall, was responsible for keeping order amid chaos.

“She was a saint,” he said.

A campus oasis

Riley Hammett ’22, who was a Resident Advisor at Henry Hall, said a great vantage point on campus was the dormitory’s rooftop.

“The access to get on the top of the

building is locked to all students for safety, but a group of RAs and I had the chance to sneak a peak of the rooftop,” she said. “After a long hard day of Resident Advisor training, we enjoyed the best bird’s eye view of campus.”

Ben MacMinn ’13, a former Resident Advisor, said one of the best aspects of Henry Hall was the balconies on both sides of the building that overlooked the campus.

“Henry Hall was more than just a place of residence,” he said. “It was my sanctuary, my haven, and my home. The memories I made there will stay with me forever.”

Henry Hall: Then and Now

Henry Hall was built in 1970. The five-story co-ed building had air conditioning, carpeted bedrooms, phone jacks and a master antenna going to each room.

In 1980, LC named the residential building after Dr. Waights G. Henry Jr., who served as president of the college from 1948-1978 and as chancellor from

1978 until his death in 1989.

The facility housed generations of students until its closure in 2021.

The college, which is in the process of updating its master plan, has been working with an architectural firm to assess the existing condition and functionality of facilities, including Henry Hall. After a thorough examination, it was decided that the 50-year residence hall would be slated for removal this summer.

“Unfortunately, Henry Hall could no longer be adapted for the future needs of our growing student population,” said Dr. John Head, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Experience. “The building’s renovation, including new electrical, water and HVAC systems, would have cost nearly the amount of a new structure.”

Various options are being discussed for the area, but in the immediate future it will be used as a green space. The college’s master planning process will identify what will best serve the future residential needs of an expanding student population.

Board Chair Kathy McCollum ’81, M’17 (left) and Lori Medlock Anderson ’83 are all smiles at the Henry Hall farewell celebration.

Former residents Lisa Bonner Tunstall ’84 (left) and Laura Hardy Hodge ’85 beam with joy as they look at the location of their former rooms.

Alumni reunite for a photo at their old stomping grounds. Pictured from left to right are Lori Medlock Anderson ’83, Mary Leslie Hardy ’93, Laura Hardy Hodge ’85, Cathy Cooper Rumble ’84, Merry Maxwell Stewart ’83, Sharon McCord Alford ’84, Marla Phillips Chambless ’85, Lisa Bonner Tunstall ’84, Betsy Strickland Johnston ’82, Anne Worden Ellington ’82 and Elizabeth Langford Parker ’84.

Graduates urged to embrace change

When faced with two paths, people often want to take the safe route because they want to avoid obstacles along the way. During the college’s 192nd commencement exercises, keynote speaker Jim Thornton ’94 asked the Class of 2023 to be open to new opportunities.

take leap of faith

“My simple suggestion is that you practice change,” he said. “The only way to improve is to practice. Practice your own ability to adapt to change rather than offering resistance. Embracing change and seeing it as a friend rather than a foe is likely to result in a more fulfilling life.”

Thornton told graduates how to live dynamically. “A dynamic life doesn’t fight change, but rather welcomes it and does so even when it involves risk,” he said. “It’s OK to fail so long as it doesn’t stop us from trying again.”

In addition to giving the commencement address, Thornton received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. Longtime LC donors Louis and Mary Kay Smith were presented with Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees. (Story on page 29).

The ceremony also recognized Distinguished Service Alumni Award Recipient Shearon Glover ’72. (Story on page 22).

Waights G. Henry Jr. Leadership Award Recipient Emma Rose ’23 encouraged her peers to keep climbing the hills they will come across in their future endeavors.

“When you reach the top of the hill, don’t forget to look back and thank the ones who helped you get here,” she said. “The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters.”

PANTHER POINTS

BASEBALL LC (27-15, 13-5 CCS) swept Huntingdon to claim the inaugural regular-season championship of the Collegiate Conference of the South. It was the Panthers’ sixth-straight title, be it regular season or tournament. The top seeds were eliminated by Covenant in the subsequent conference tourney, ending the season. (See more in the story at right.)

MEN’S BASKETBALL The Panthers (16-11, 7-5 CCS) advanced to the semifinals of the CCS tourney before falling to Belhaven and finishing third in the conference. The team produced a league-high four All-Conference selections and landed the Defensive Player of the Year in senior guard Bershard Edwards (Lehigh Acres, Fla.). Joining Edwards on the first team was senior forward Zac Hill (Senoia, Ga.).

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL In one of the best seasons in the program’s history, the women’s team (20-7, 13-3 CCS) advanced to the semifinals of the CCS tourney, coming up short in a tight contest against Piedmont, 75-73. Coach Jasen Jonus was named Coach of the Year, with Laila Battle (Smyrna, Ga.) claiming Rookie of the Year and Sixth Player of the Year honors. She was joined on the CCS FirstTeam by sophomore guard Zyhia Johnson (Homerville, Ga.).

BEACH VOLLEYBALL In its third full season, the LC team competed in a challenging slate of contests that included the reigning DIII champion, runner-up and third-place finisher. While the team came up short on wins, junior Carmen Hamilton (Alpharetta, Ga.) made program history as the first Beach Volleyball player to earn a spot on the College Sports Communicators (formerly CoSIDA) Women’s At-Large Academic AllDistrict Team.

GOLF In a season that included winning the Port City Invitational, the LaGrange golf team ended up in third at the inaugural Collegiate Conference of the South Championships in April. Freshman

Dodson takes helm of Football

Wesley Dodson was named head coach of the LaGrange College football program in January. He comes to LaGrange from Hampden-Sydney College, where he most recently served as defensive coordinator.

“From a very deep and qualified applicant pool of more than 150 candidates, Wes rose to the top,” said college President Susanna Baxter. “We are confident he will fulfill our vision for an excellent DIII football program committed to our student-athletes and their academic and athletic success.”

Dodson worked at Hampden-Sydney since 2007, first as an assistant coach and then as defensive coordinator since 2008. He also spent two years as an assistant coach at the College of William and Mary.

“Wes is a perfect fit for our program,” said Vice President for Athletics and Recreation Terlynn Olds. “He connected with current team members and our staff immediately.

“He has deep knowledge of all phases of the game and experience working with both on-campus constituents and the wider community. And his recruiting ties within the state will allow him to hit the ground running.”

And Dodson has done just that.

“We are going to build this program on the foundation of family, professionalism and citizenship,” he said. “There will be an emphasis on academics with the purpose of obtaining a meaningful degree, as well as personal development. We are going to build and mold great men that the college and community will be proud of—with the ultimate goal of being a championship football program that is committed to excellence in everything we do."

Dodson earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education from Western Michigan University, where he played both quarterback and free safety and was a four-year letter winner.

Spring teams set records

Panther sports teams broke several records this spring.

LaGrange Baseball (27-15, 13-5 CCS) claimed the inaugural regular-season championship of the Collegiate Conference of the South and then dominated conference awards, taking four of five major honors and notching eight All-Conference selections.

Headlining those honors was senior third baseman Joe Ruth (Chiefland, Fla.), who earned his second straight Player of the Year honor—the first time an individual has won it multiple times.

It is also the first time the program swept both top rookies with freshman outfielder Curt Bonner (Cartersville, Ga.) claiming Rookie Player of the Year and freshman pitcher Eduardo Peralta (David, Chirqui, Panama) earning Rookie Pitcher of the Year.

Completing the domination of the major awards was Head Coach David Kelton who earned his third Coach of the Year honor by making it six straight years with at least one title for the Panthers.

Men’s Lacrosse (8-9, 4-4 USA South) closed out a record-setting 2023 campaign as the team broke the school record for wins in a season with eight, earned the most in-season honors in its history with 10 and made the program's first postseason appearance.

The record-setting season also produced new benchmarks with the first Defensive Player of the Year, senior goalkeeper Isaac Bohrer (Fayetteville, Ga.), and First-Team All-Conference selection, freshman attackman Luke Young (Acworth, Ga.).

LaGrange Softball (13-23, 7-9 CCS) delivered a first in program history and something not seen in six years with a pair of CCS honors.

Freshman pitcher Claire Chamberlain (Rome, Ga.) became the first individual in the program’s recorded history to earn Rookie Pitcher of the Year, while freshman outfielder Katelyn Minnihan (Stockbridge, Ga.) earned All-CCS First-Team honors in the At-Large category.

Jeremy Edmunds (Charlotte, N.C.) delivered a top-10 performance to tie for 7-of-35, and fellow freshman Martin Prlender (Cordoba, Argentina) finished in 12th. Edmunds was named to the CCS First-Team for his powerful first season as a Panther.

MEN’S LACROSSE The Panthers (8-9, 4-4 USA South) broke the school record for wins in a season and made the program’s first post-season appearance in its four-year history. The team fell in the quarterfinals of the conference tourney to Methodist 24-16. The season’s benchmarks included the first Defensive Player of the Year and First-Team AllConference selection. (See the story on this page for more.)

SOFTBALL LC (13-23, 7-9 CCS) closed out its 2023 campaign with a 7-5 loss to Agnes Scott in the CCS Tournament. The Panthers collected seven weekly honors during the season, including five Rookie of the Week recognitions and two Pitcher of the Week nods. (For more, see the story on this page.)

MEN’S TENNIS The Panthers closed out the season with a 6-8 record and collected a total of five CCS weekly honors. Senior Al Robertson (Moreland, Ga.) earned a pair of Player of the Week recognitions, with senior Luke Griffin (Atlanta, Ga.) also notching one. Freshman Nic Bodin (Atlanta, Ga.) claimed a pair of Rookie of the Week honors. At season’s end, Robertson also was named to the CCS Second-Team.

WOMEN’S TENNIS LaGrange faced Piedmont in the quarterfinals of the CCS tourney to end the year and couldn’t keep pace with the regular-season champion. Though a winless campaign, 2023 featured the first two CCS Player of the Week awards for the women’s team, both earned by senior Hannah Miller (Jacksonville, Fla.)

Classnotes

AMAZING ALUMNI

I’m always astounded when I review this magazine’s Classnotes and see what impressive things you and your fellow alumni are up to. From earning state and national awards to reaching professional and personal milestones, you make us proud! And we’d like to honor you. Each year at Homecoming, the Alumni Association presents achievement awards. If you’d like to nominate a classmate for one of these honors, let us know by emailing alumni@lagrange.edu.

MARTHA PIRKLE

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS

P.S. Whether “award-worthy” or not, please share your milestones with us at alumni@lagrange.edu. We’d love to include them in a future issue of Columns magazine and highlight on social media..

1950s

1958 Marjorie Steis Bowling of LaGrange was named vice president of LaGrange College’s Wisteria Garden Club.

1960s

1968 The Rev. Winn Henderson M.D. of Sylva, North Carolina, published his 46th book. The title is “Freedom from Addiction 4 - The Final Message,” and it explains the program of curing over 30 different addictive behaviors at home without taking any time off from work.

1969 Captain Dan L. Payne of Blairsville was selected to the Officer Candidate School HOF at Fort Moore, Georgia. Distinguished members include Senator Bob Dole, Gen. Tommy Franks, Gen. John Shalikashvili and Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger.

1980s

1981 Theresa Basilico Daniel of Forsyth published “Pepper’s Special Day,” a children’s book featuring her dog celebrating a birthday among

other family pets. It is illustrated by her daughter-in-law Samantha Snowden Daniel ’12 of LaGrange.

1981 The Rev. Stephen B. Grantham of Statesboro has been appointed to Isle of Hope United Methodist Church in Savannah.

1982 Carol Howington Cain of LaGrange continued her role as the longtime emcee of the annual Azalea Storytelling Festival.

1988 Melissa Stanley of LaGrange performed in The Lafayette Theatre Company’s rendition of “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” and more recently in Agatha Christie’s murder

mystery “The Mousetrap.”

1989 Tracy Caldwell of Griffin was inducted into the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame for his athletic achievements and contributions, as well as representing the community in a very positive manner.

1989 Jackie L. Morman Jr. M’95 of LaGrange was happy to lend his voice as Tim in “The Ice Fishing Play” featured at the Lafayette Theatre Company. He also directed Agatha Christie’s murder mystery “The Mousetrap.”

Howard ’71 and Gloria Staats stopped in LaGrange to enjoy the Downtown Christmas parade and made some friends on the square.

Barbara Bradley Hilson ’01 of Lakemont and her winery, Southern Origin Meadery, received Best Georgia Show Mead in the Georgia Wine Trustees Challenge. The winery was awarded Best in Show, a gold medal, two silvers and a bronze.

1990s

1992 Gregg McLeroy of LaGrange performed as Mr. Paravacini in Lafayette Theatre Company’s rendition of “The Mousetrap” by Agatha Christie.

Several former LaGrange students took home the softball championship for East Roswell. Pictured are Kyle Gutowski ‘17, Blake Schuck ‘16, Adam Terrinoni ‘17, Justin Yestrumsky (Yaz) ‘17, Alex Murfin (Murf)

Help students access resources to find their path and achieve their goals by making a gift to the LC Fund.

1992 Suzanne Countess Cook of LaGrange was named president of LaGrange College’s Wisteria Garden Club.

1993 John R. Fuller Jr. of LaGrange was instrumental in bringing semipro soccer team Legends FC to LaGrange. 1994 Bradley Bunn of Lawrenceville has been named senior minister of First Congregational Church in Mansfield, Ohio.

1994 Susan Haak Hinson Ed.S.’11 of LaGrange was named treasurer of LaGrange College’s Wisteria Garden Club.

1997 J. Barron Wood of LaGrange is the vice president of business development at National Management Resources Corporation.

1998 Kelly Cline Brooks of Waverly Hall is a real estate agent at Coldwell Banker KPDD.

1998 Kellie Hubbard of Pine Mountain was awarded Teacher of the Year 2022-2023 for Franklin Forest Elementary School.

1999 Jennifer Longshore Pike of LaGrange is the principal of THINC College and Career Academy in LaGrange.

2000s

2000 DJ Morris and his wife, Kelly, of LaGrange, are the co-owners of Chop House Axe Throwing on Lafayette Square in LaGrange.

2001 Serenity Carpenter Graham of LaGrange is the competition cheer coach at Callaway High School. She has also revived the AV program there.

2001 Barbara Bradley Hilson of

‘17, and Allen Tokarz (holding the trophy with Murf).

Kaylen Short ’11, pastor at First United Methodist Church of Pine Mountain, delivered poppy-seed chicken and homemade chocolate chip cookies for a “Soul Food” lunch in LC’s Spiritual Life Center.

SUCCESS is earned, but it also requires access to …

Glover honored with Distinguished Service Alumni Award

The college’s Alumni Association recognized Shearon Wiggins Glover ’72 as the 2023 recipient of the Distinguished Service Alumni Award during commencement on May 6.

She attended LaGrange College for two years before transferring to the University of Georgia, where she received a bachelor’s degree in education.

She has devoted much of her life to gardening, serving as a past member of the Board of Trustees for Atlanta Botanical Gardens and a Lifetime Trustee. Glover and her husband, Taylor, served as chairpersons of the Capital Campaign for the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

At LaGrange College, she served on the Board of Trustees from 2014-2022. Glover was the Chair of the Board’s Advancement Committee during the college’s From Promise to Prominence fundraising campaign.

Fellows of LaGrange College as well as members of the President’s Circle and the 1831 Lifetime Giving Society, the couple funded the redesign of the college’s patio area, which was transformed and named Glover Garden in 2020.

Active in community work, Glover has previously served in campaign leadership roles for The Georgia Conservancy, Piedmont Park Conservancy, Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital, The Schenck School, The Westminster Schools, Peachtree Presbyterian Church and the Go West Gala for The High Museum of Art.

Kacey Smith Werle ’09 of LaGrange was inaugurated as convener for the Order of the Tartan at the Newnan Burns weekend with the Newnan-Coweta Historical Society.

Nancy Kight Stevens ’71, M.Ed.’74, Florence Ann “Pippy” Rogers ’79, M’81 and LC staff member Michael Anderson pause at this spring’s Scholarship Luncheon. The event serves to connect students with their scholarship donors to thank them personally for their gifts.

LaGrange College Wisteria Garden Club arranged flowers for the 2023 Nursing pinning ceremony and Baccalaureate at First United Methodist Church. Pictured are Marjorie Steis Bowling ’58, Bonnie Funderburk Dudley ’75, M ’83 and Amy Davis.

President of the Alumni Association Spencer King '00 presents the Distinguished Service Alumni Award to Shearon Wiggins Glover '72 at the 2023 Commencement ceremony.

Lakemont and her winery, Southern Origin Meadery, received the Best Georgia Show Mead in the Georgia Wine Trustees Challenge. They were awarded Best in Show, a gold medal, two silvers and a bronze.

2002 Dr. L. Joy Baker of LaGrange was awarded “Best Doctor” in BeeTV 33’s 2023 awards.

2002 The Rev. Dr. Alex Harris of Tampa, Florida, graced the cover of C Level Focus Magazine for a feature story on his work as co-founder and CEO of the Arts Conservatory for Teens.

2003 Lucinda Person Muncy Ph.D. of

Shiloh is the senior human resources generalist at Piedmont Columbus Regional Health.

2004 Alonzo Harris of New York has been announced as a Grammy U Spring 2023 Mentor. Grammy U is a program run by the Recording Academy that aims to support and prepare college students to enter the music industry.

2004 Emily Thigpen McCarthy of Savannah was featured at the Telfair Museum’s “Art of Fashion.” She shared her story of starting in graphic design, opening Emily McCarthy Shoppe in 2009, and her eventual transition to lifestyle brand designer.

2004 Emily Holt Nealis of Peachtree City has been named principal of Inman Elementary.

2005 Rebecca White Scarbro of Athens has been named the director of student conduct at the University of Georgia.

2005 Michael G. Thomas Jr. of Athens has released his first book, “Black Financial Culture: Building Wealth from the Inside Out.”

2006 Lloyd Buchanan of Columbus

On the Minor League Tour, All-American Cameron Starr ’21 shot maybe the best 75 in history of mini-tour golf. He was 11 over thru 5 holes and made at least one eagle-birdie-bogey-double-triple-quad.

was a guest lecturer at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and also performed in concert at its Strauss Performing Arts Center. He, along with The Cubed Roots, entertained in Columbus, Georgia, as part of the free Uptown Friday Night Concert Series.

2006 Laura Terrell Ladd and husband Ben Ladd ’13 of Newnan, along with their daughter and son, will be moving to Kwajalein (the Marshall Islands) for a job opportunity for Ben working as a nurse practitioner on the island.

2007 Tim Canady of Brooklet was inducted into the 27th Athletic Hall

LC students Parker Floyd, Hannah Godfrey and Daniel Cody and Professor of Political Science Dr. John Tures pause with Joe Montgomery M’20 during Okefenokee Swamp Day at the Georgia Capitol.

Accounting graduate Mathias Vera ’22 visited campus to talk with accounting seniors about his job as a cost accountant at KIA.

Jasen Jonus ’16 was named Collegiate Conference of the South Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year.

Alex Harris ’01 is the co-founder and CEO for the Arts Conservatory for Teens and was voted one of the 10 Best CEOs of 2022 by C Level Focus magazine.

of Fame class for Southeast Bulloch High School.

2007 Nichelle Ortiz of Peachtree City is a homicide detective for the Atlanta Police Department.

2008 Adrianne Brown Cantrell of Duluth is president of the board of directors at Atlanta Angels Nonprofit. Its mission is to walk alongside children, youth and families in the foster care community by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building and mentorship.

2008 Ashley Fitzpatrick Jenkins ’08 of Cartersville has been appointed to serve as LaGrange College’s next Campus Minister and Director of Spiritual Life.

2009 Ryan Gatens, FNP, Jordan Martinec, PA-C ’12, and John Veal, CSOWM ’15 have opened the LiveWell Health Center in LaGrange, which is a group of board-certified medical professionals providing personalized wellness services designed to help you look and feel your best. They are also co-owners of three UrgenCare Facilities in West Georgia and East Alabama.

2009 David “Swagg R’Celious” Harris won an Emmy at the Children’s

and Family Emmy Awards for the project “We The People,” on which Barack and Michelle Obama were executive producers. Harris co-wrote and co-produced the song by H.E.R. that was set to animation as the first episode of the series. It won for Best Outstanding Short-Form Program.

2009 Satomi Omae Morgan of LaGrange was named Callaway High School’s Teacher of the Year for 20222023.

2009 Kacey Smith Werle of LaGrange

was inaugurated as convener for the Order of the Tartan at the Newnan Burns weekend with the NewnanCoweta Historical Society.

2010s

2010 Grace Burgess of Mt. Olive, Alabama, is the head Volleyball Coach at Oak Mountain High School in Birmingham, Alabama, and was named Coach of the Year for the AllSouth Metro Volleyball League.

2010 Wesley Meares, Ph.D., of North Augusta, South Carolina, was the recipient of the Distinguished Mentor Award in Augusta University’s Department of Social Sciences Graduate School.

2011 Curt Ellison of Roswell has been admitted as a partner at the firm Kelley, Sammons, Toole & Ellison.

2011 Drew L. Carter M’13 of Dalton is the head football Coach at Coahulla Creek High School.

2011 Kelly Pope DeMarino of LaGrange was awarded the Teacher of the Year for Long Cane Middle School 2022-2023.

2012 Blake Craft Jr. M’14 of LaGrange is the part-time Assistant Coach for Men’s Basketball at LaGrange College. Go Panthers!

2012 Emmie Trull Cass of Acworth is the exploratory advising program manager for the Georgia Institute of Technology in the Office of

Undergraduate Advising & Transition.

KD sisters gathered for a celebration at the Swan House in Atlanta. They are, seated, from left, Cheryl Rhyne Farr ‘77, Jaye Mitchell Goddard ‘77, Trisha Carte Bisbee ’77, standing, Merri Herbert Lawrence ‘77, Susan Knight Walton ‘77, Sue Brown Garland ‘77, Lorrie Hecht Taylor ‘76, Judy Houser Jones ’77 and Dawn Cummings Coker ’77.

Lexi Shea Hall ’19 and Ty Crain were engaged on February 18, 2023.

Avid LC sports fan Tom Conway ’69 throws out the first pitch at the alumni game for the Panther softball team.

Ben Ladd ’13 and Laura Terrell Ladd ’06, along with their daughter and son, moved in February 2023 to Kwajalein, Marshall Islands. Ben will serve as Nurse Practitioner on the island.

2013 Austin Burns of New Bedford, Massachusetts, performed a Valentine’s Day-themed concert at The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden in New Bedford.

2013 Ken Nilson M’18 of FuquayVarina, North Carolina, is the strength and conditioning coach at LMR Technical Group.

2013 Antoinette Truitt-Flowers of LaGrange received a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Columbus State University.

2013 David Kelton of LaGrange was named baseball’s Coach of the Year by the Collegiate Conference of the South.

2013 Drew Williamson of Smyrna was recognized in the third edition of “Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America” for his high caliber work in Labor and Employment LawManagement and Litigation - Labor and Employment.

2014 Misty Jo Ward Ed.S. of Hogansville was awarded Teacher of the Year at LaGrange High School. This is the second time she has earned the honor.

Commemorative benches honor loved ones

Nothing lasts forever, but some things can last a lifetime—or more.

The enduring legacy of a name, a memory, a relationship, friendships, a beloved pet—these things can be immortalized in different ways, and one way some alumni have chosen to honor them is through commemorative benches on campus.

It started with Derek ’77, M’97 and Carol Bowen ’78, alumni who met when she was a freshman member of Kappa Delta sorority and he was a sophomore member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, now married for almost 44 years.

Wanting to commemorate their time on the Hill, in early 2021 Carol Bowen reached out to the Development Office at LC about placing a bench on a spot at the edge of campus that held special significance to them.

“That place is where we would meet,” Derek Bowen said of the location where their bench sits. “It overlooked Pi Kap house at that time on Broad Street, and we’d sit there and

study and talk. It was one of the main places to get away.”

The most recent bench debuted publicly on a frigid March morning as a group gathered on Caswell Plaza. Despite the chilly temperatures, the mood was warm as old classmates mingled. Current students also joined to watch as the Class of 1972 unveiled its memorial bench, a symbol of longstanding ties as peers and friends.

“We bonded at the dorms, sororities and fraternities, trips to Callaway— it was a lot of fun,” Debbie Mowery, co-chair for the Class of 1972 committee told the group of students gathered. “So, when you sit on our bench, with a friend or friends, hopefully, like so many of us, that person or persons will still be your friends 50 years later.”

If you would like to sponsor a bench at LaGrange College, you can go to www.lagrange.edu/bench or contact the LaGrange College Development Department at 706-880-8244 for more information.

Jeremy Dockins ‘07 and his son, Hudson, pause for a photo with longtime Coach Phil Williamson. Hudson celebrated his 7th birthday with friends at an LC baseball game.

Members of the Class of 1972 check out their new commemorative bench on campus. They are, seated, from left, Bill Sanders, Mary Conway, Debbie Mowery, Suzanne Kiser Sanders, standing, Gary Welden, Steve Shuman and Chris Austin.

Campus community celebrates four retirees

The college recognized four faculty and staff members who retired during the 2022-2023 academic year at its employee appreciation ceremony on April 27.

Dr. David Ahearn, ordained minister and former Religion and Philosophy Professor, retired from the college in December 2022 after 27 years of service. During his tenure, he served as Chair of the Religion and Philosophy Department from 1997-2022 and the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences from 2000-2007.

He received a bachelor’s degree in ancient history and archaeology from Austin College, a master’s degree in divinity from Perkins School of Theology and a doctorate in religion from Emory University.

Marcia Brown (left), Art and Design Professor, retired this spring after 35 years of service. During her tenure, she has served as Chair of the Art and Design Department since 2007 and Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department since 2012. Brown received the Vulcan Materials Company Teaching Excellence Award in 2022.

She received a bachelor’s degree in printmaking from Guilford College and a master’s degree in drawing and painting from the University of Georgia.

Lisa Farrow ’98, M’18 (center), Circulation Specialist at Lewis Library, retired this spring after 31 years of service.

She first arrived at LaGrange College in 1991 as an Administrative assistant for the evening college. Farrow then moved to the college’s library, where she would work as an Acquisition and Administrative Assistant, Circulation Manager and Circulation Associate/Circulation Specialist.

Tammy Rogers M’02, Director of Special Events and Conferences, retired this summer after 31 years of service. She previously served as Director of Stewardship and Leadership Development.

She has worked with four LaGrange College presidents and assisted with three comprehensive campaigns that raised over $154 million for the institution.

Rogers received a bachelor’s degree in history from John Carroll University and a master’s degree in business administration from LaGrange College.

Farrow received a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from LaGrange College.

The Rev. Garrett Wallace ’18, Associate Pastor at Dunwoody United Methodist Church, teaches children about Ash Wednesday during the church's Preschool Chapel.

Friends exploring Taormina on the coast of Sicily are, from left, Robbie and Stephanie Barrett Westbrooks ‘75, Jerome ’74 and Della Adsit Ridley ’74 and Bill and Betsy Taylor Boyer ‘74.

Alfreda Barrow Fannings ’71 (front, in blue) provided the program about her years as the first African American student to enroll at LaGrange College as part of Black History Month.

2016 Brooke Turner Houlihan M’18 of Bogart is the new head softball coach at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia.

2016 Jasen Jonus of LaGrange was named Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year by the Collegiate Conference of the South.

2016 Lynda Moncus Perry Ed.S. of Roanoke, Alabama, is an Assistant Professor of Education at LaGrange College.

2017 Debbie A. Cox of LaGrange teaches at Gardner Newman Middle School and was named Teacher of the Year 2022-2023 finalist for the county.

2017 Layna Winn Kemp of LaGrange was given the Troup County School System Teacher of the Year award. She teaches at Long Cane Elementary school.

2017 Daniel J. Prohaska of Moncks Corner, South Carolina, received the Young Alumni Award from the Alumni Association of Erskine College in Due West, South Carolina.

David “Swagg R'Celious” Harris ’09 won an Emmy at the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards on Dec. 11, 2022, for "We the People,” a project executive-produced by President Barack and Michelle Obama. David co-wrote and co-produced the song by R&B recording artist H.E.R. that was set to animation as the first episode of the series. It won for Best Outstanding Short-Form Program.

David and Kathy Reese McCollum ’81, M’17 take their college pride to the ends of the earth (literally) as seen in this recent pic from Antarctica.

2017 Sarah Q. Swain of Raleigh, North Carolina, is the associate vice president of foundation relations and alumni engagement at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina.

2018 Richard C. Howell ll of Dothan, Alabama, is a senior relationship banker at Truist.

2018 Christopher D. Jones of Fayetteville is an accounting and operations specialist at MAD Logistics, Inc.

2018 Rebekah Jamison Jones of Fayetteville serves as the client communications manager for Association Services Group.

2018 Shabre Lovelace of LaGrange was named Long Cane Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2022-2023. She is also the girls basketball Coach.

2019 Alexandra Bromby Flippin of Luthersville currently works at the Calumet Center for Healing and Attachment, a nonprofit organization that serves women and children who have experienced substance use and/ or trauma.

2019 Jason Hernandez III of LaGrange is the director of bands at Callaway High School.

2019 Kelton Hunt (musically known as Da’von) of Hogansville released a new album, “fuchsia skies,” on April 7, 2023. He is also an LC Music Technology Lecturer and took the stage as Chairman Shumway in

the Lafayette Theatre Company’s production of “The Ice Fishing Play.”

2019 Katelyn Little of Buckhead is a staff RN for the Choice Plus program at Northside Hospital.

2019 Caitlyn Deal McCollough of Atlanta is a sponsorship manager for the Atlanta Habitat for Humanity team.

2019 Chad O. Vickery of Hartwell is a business development representative at ABM Industries, a facility management provider.

2020s

2020 Nicole Joseph of Hogansville is a school-based therapist for the Callaway zone of the Troup County School System. She primarily works with Callaway High, Callaway Middle, Callaway Elementary and Franklin Forest Elementary. She also operates Fresh Start Driving DUI School part time and is the head cheerleading coach at LaGrange College.

2020 Maura Webb of Norcross is a counselor intern at Summit’s Edge Counseling in Marietta and pursuing her graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling from LaGrange College.

2021 M. Bethany Boyd of LaGrange is an Admissions Counselor at LaGrange College.

Pi Kappa Phi’s seen at “219 on The Lake” in Fortson are Shawn Zwilling ’88, M’91, Tommy Britt ’87 and Stu Marshall ’87. Not pictured is Steve Cone ’88.

2021 Caleb Tyler of Hoschton is the director of scheduling at the U.S. House of representatives for Texas Congressional District 30.

2021 Savanna Hicks Hunt of Hogansville performed as Chairwoman Francis in the Lafayette Theatre Company’s production of “The Ice Fishing Play.”

2021 John W. Keith of Moultrie works at Colquitt County High School and is studying for his Special Education Master of Arts in Teaching degree at the University of West Georgia.

2021 Bridget N. Smith of LaGrange was named the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year for Troup High School.

2022 Jennie R. Andrews of Senoia is a Registered Nurse in the NICU at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 Madelyn L. Battle of LaGrange is a Registered Nurse at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 Rhianna L. Bell of Tallapoosa works at Tanner Medical Center/ Carrollton emergency department.

2022 Taylor L. Bunn of LaGrange is a Registered Nurse in the 4th floor MedSurg Unit at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 Lauren Collins of Fairburn teaches K-5th grade general music at Rosemont and Hillcrest Elementary Schools. She performs with the Choral Society of West Georgia and has been named assistant to the director of the Young Singers of West Georgia, a division of the Lafayette Society for Performing Arts.

2022 Hollie N. Crumpton of West Point is a Registered Nurse at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 A. Madison Dorsey of LaGrange is an ED tech at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 Kellie Bunyard Dudek of Newnan works at Cancer Treatment Centers of America Newnan.

2022 Megan K. English of Atlanta is a BSN, RN at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital.

2022 Madelynn G. Formby of Opelika, Alabama, is a BSN, RN at East Alabama Health.

2022 Brittany D. George of Lakeland, Florida, is a Registered Nurse at Lakeland Regional Health.

2022 Lauren E. Hicks of Woodland performed as a featured artist at Pure Life House of Music’s “Listen LaGrange” concert that benefitted Circles of Troup County.

2022 Abigail G. Hudson of LaGrange is a Registered Nurse at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center.

2022 Jasmine R. Middleton of Villa Rica is teaching pre-K at Rosemont Elementary School.

2022 Lindsey A. Thompson of Molena is an operating room Registered Nurse at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital.

2022 Mathias Vera of LaGrange spoke to accounting seniors at LaGrange College about his job as a cost accountant at Kia.

2022 Maurie Christine White of LaGrange is the property manager for Southwood Realty. In addition, she is

Theresa Basilico Daniel ’81 of Forsyth published "Pepper's Special Day,” a children's book featuring her dog celebrating its birthday among other family pets. It is illustrated by her daughter-in-law Samantha Snowden Daniel '12.

David Kelton ’13 was named Coach of the Year by the Collegiate Conference of the South.

Three alumni are among the owners of the recently opened LivWell Health, which held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 13 for its new facility at 210 W. Broome Street in LaGrange. Owners are Abayomi Oshinowo, John Veal ’15, Jordan Martinec ‘12 and Anthony Gatens ’09.

Thornton, Smiths receive honorary doctorates

The college bestowed Jim Thornton ’94 and Louis and Mary Kay Smith with honorary Doctor of Laws and Doctor of Humane Letters degrees, respectively, during commencement on May 6.

Thornton works in Atlanta as the Georgia Municipal Association’s Director of Government Relations, a role he began in November 2022 after serving nine years as Mayor of the city of LaGrange.

In his current role, Thornton oversees the association’s legislative advocacy team and represents the interests of its 537 member cities. Within the organization, he has served on the Board of Directors, Legislative Policy Council and Federal Policy Council. He also chaired its Municipal Government Policy Committee, co-chaired its Equity and Inclusion Commission and completed a term as its president.

Louis and Mary Kay Smith are retired professionals whose passion for education is exemplified through their establishment of student scholarships at LaGrange College, an institution with deep ties to their family.

Rufus Wright Smith, who was Louis’ great-grandfather, served as President of LaGrange College from 1885-1915. Smith Hall, the college’s oldest building, was named after Rufus’ wife, Oreon. Louis’ grandfather Herbert Mann Smith was a United Methodist minister, professor and Dean of Students at the college.

Guy Smith, Louis’ father, was born in Smith Hall and moved at the age of 4 to Texas, where Louis and Mary Kay first met. They both attended Rice University in Texas, where they received bachelor’s degrees in engineering and French, respectively. Louis would go on to earn a graduate degree in mechanical engineering from Rice University, while Mary Kay graduated with a master’s degree in French from Stanford University. After college, Louis served in the U.S. Army for two years in France. He then went on to work for Exxon, a company he would remain with until his retirement. Louis’ career began with various engineering assignments that eventually evolved into business analysis and international negotiations, which he made on behalf of Exxon in 35 countries.

Members of LaGrange College’s Rufus Wright Smith

Lifetime Giving Society and the Quadrangle Society, Louis and Mary Kay funded a $1 million endowed scholarship in 2018 to support first-generation college students. In March 2020, they committed to giving $5 million to create a Global Engagement endowment to fund the Smith Travel Grant to assist students with study away expenses.

Mary Kay Smith (center) and her husband Louis have been longtime supporters of the college. She earned an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree with Louis at commencement. Pictured with the Smiths are Board Chair Kathy McCollum ’81, M’17 (left) and President Susanna Baxter.

Jim Thornton ’94, who was the keynote speaker at commencement, received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. He served as mayor of LaGrange for nine years.

a competition cheerleading coach at Champions Training Academy.

Births

To Christian F. Johnson ’10 and his wife, Sky Coody Johnson, a daughter, Marigold Clark, on November 11, 2022

To Kelly Lane Ghobadpoor ’11 and her husband, Josh, a son, Reacher James, on November 6, 2022

To Megan Wing Elwood ’13 and her husband, Henry, a daughter, Lindler Anne, on December 12, 2022

To Kenneth ’13, M’18 and Jordan Conner Nilson ’15, a daughter, Austin June, on February 1, 2023

To Kenny ’13 and Drew Wolk Strack ’14 a daughter, Hallie Chapman, on February 21, 2023

To Drew Williamson ’13 and his wife, Madison, a daughter, Mary Oxford, on November 29, 2022

To Hunter Connell Jonus ’14 and Jasen K. Jonus ’16, a daughter, Julia James, on December 19, 2022

To Lindsey Cole Robinson ’15 and her husband, Anthony, a son, Dane Miller, on April 24, 2023

To Nathan ’16 and Rachel Hammond Hoxsie ’18, a daughter, Elsie Grace, on November 22, 2022

To Kara Patterson Rutledge ’16 and her husband, Clint, a boy, Clinton “Rhett,” on February 24, 2023

To Drew ’17 and Casey Pruett Cantrell ’17, a son, Kandler Adams, on April 20, 2023

To the Rev. Garrett ’18 and Kylie Taunton Wallace ’18, a daughter, Everly Blake, on April 11, 2023

Engagements

Mary Kate Nix ’16 to Hayden Olive on December 23, 2022

Jacob G. Gaetanos ’17 to Dr. Paige Smyth ’17 on January 15, 2023

Ashlan T. Bloodworth ’18 to Corbin Lawver on December 29, 2022

Lea Ann Porter ’18 to Alex Hanson on

Representatives from the Human Resources Department of the Troup County School System joined the Education Department to discuss how they can continue to support each other and teacher candidates, as well as beginning and veteran teachers in the school system. Shown, from left, are Dr. Colby Jones M’08; Dexter Martin, chief talent officer with Troup County Schools; Dr. Gretta Milam ’86, M’93; Dr. Vicki Pheil ’98, M’00; Tracy Fox ’95, chief human resource officer with Troup County Schools; Lyn Perry Ed. S.’16; and Dr. Don Livingston.

LC friends gathered for a weekend in St. Simons. They are, front row, from left, Judy Walker O'Farrell ‘70, Carol Cunningham Walden ‘70, Marcia Dalton Loyd ’70, back frow, Peggy Cobb Schug ‘70, Mickie Reese Newman ‘70, Priscilla Prosser Kelly ‘70, Cathy Martin Shockley ’70 and Jean Daniel ’70.

February 19, 2023

Lexi S. Hall ’19 to Ty Crain on February 18, 2023

Betsy Markham ’19 to Joshua Robles Pereira on January 27, 2023

Noah Clipper ’20 to Alexandra “Ally” Chenowith ’22 on January 20, 2023

Olivia Lauren Hanners ’22 to Christian Snyder on February 13, 2023

Jerome ’74 and Della Adsit Ridley ’74 from Kennesaw returned to campus recently to see the West Side building. Jerome grew up in LaGrange and attended West Side when it was a junior high school. He was interested to see how the college was utilizing it and enjoyed memories of his time at West Side.

Weddings

Stacy Gorman Jackson ’00 to Carlos Ortiz on March 23, 2023

Nichelle L. Ortiz ’07 to Scott Seaman on April 8, 2023

Rebeccah Blake Alford ’14, M’17 to Alex Blanton on April 2, 2023

Matthew Elijah Daniel ’16 to Samantha Alterio on March 19, 2023

Brooke N. Turner ’16, M’18 to Griffin Houlihan on December 30, 2022

Blake B. Juberg ’17 to Kaitlin C. Lovins ’18 on November 19, 2022

Asti Nicholas White ’17 to Katie Marie Wax on March 3, 2023

Emily Hampton ’18 to Ryan Stewart on March 11, 2023

O. Bryce Liechty ’22 to Jacob Taunton on December 1, 2022

Kathryn E. Pitchford ’22 to Dalton Trusty on December 2, 2022

In Memoriam

Mrs. Sara Hutchinson Moseley ’43

Mrs. Elizabeth “Liz” Strickland Wurst ’44

Mrs. Carolyn Herring Chason ’51

Mrs. Peggy McElhannon Gordon ’56

LaGrange College’s Wisteria Garden Club annually creates Survival Gift Bags for parents to send to their LC student before fall final exams. Shown delivering the bags to the campus post office are, from left, Bonnie Funderburk Dudley ’75, Elaine Howard, Marjorie Steis Bowling ’58, Genie Sutton, Alesia Nixon, Suzanne Countess Cook ’92, Harriet Wiggley, Robin Copeland and Ann Blackwell.

Mrs. Murbes Smith Shepherd ’58

Mrs. Ann Brinkley Silver ’58

Mrs. Ann Hanson Miller Tate ’59

Dr. Frank Bruce Herrington ’60

Mrs. Gwendolyn Reeves Loveless ’60

Mrs. Betty Holt Pattison ’60

Mrs. Seba Ann Perkins Lanier ’61

Dr. Samuel A. Saxon lll ’64

Mrs. Barbara Smith Edge ’65

Mr. Edwin W. “Buddy” McTureous III ’66

Ms. Wanda Elizabeth Lybarger ’69

Mrs. Susan Chappell Mittelstadt ’74

Captain Thomas Hade Butler lll ’76

Mrs. Julie Rensenhouse Jacobs ’89

Ms. Tracy Renee Maddox ’89

Mr. Andrew “Drew” Martin Porter ’91

Mrs. Deborah Jean Randall Jackson ’95

Mr. James Grady Claybrook ’98

Ms. Callie Jean Wheat ’07

Mr. Lincoln Thomas Bennett ’16

Dr. Jon Birkeli, former faculty

Mrs. Nancy Cole Harvey, former Leadership Council

DR. MITCH TURNER

Mr. Julian P. Hurst, former Leadership Council

Rev. Dr. Richard Donald “Don” Jolly HA’13, former faculty

Mr. James Albert McLean, former faculty

Dr. S.C. “Cliff” Rainey, former trustee

Homer Franklin Sharp Jr., former faculty

Dr. Mitchell M. Turner, faculty

Longtime Professor of Music Dr. Mitch Turner passed away on Feb. 9, 2023. He joined the faculty of LaGrange College in 2002. During his twenty-year tenure, he served as Chair of Music and as Program Coordinator of Music and Film and Media Arts. Turner was the recipient of the Flora Glenn Candler Professorship, a two-year appointment honoring a professor’s effectiveness as a teacher and contribution to the life and work of the college and community at large.

Outside of teaching, Turner spent time playing guitar, composing electronic music and performing with friends.

Lea Ann Porter ’18 and Alex Hanson were engaged on February 19, 2023.

Matthew Elijah Daniel ’15 wed Samantha Alterio on March 19, 2023.

DR. JON BIRKELI

Professor Emeritus Dr. Jon Birkeli passed away on March 30, 2023, in LaGrange.

Originally from Norway, he first came to the United States as an American Field Service Exchange Student during his senior year of high school in 1958. Birkeli earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Lenoir-Rhyne College in Hickory, North Carolina, a year before immigrating to the United States in 1965. He also received a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of South Carolina in 1971.

Birkeli started teaching part-time at LaGrange College before joining the Business faculty on a full-time basis in 1987. He retired as Professor Emeritus in 2018. During his 31-year tenure, he served as President of the Faculty Assembly, Faculty Representative to the Board of Trustees and Department Chair.

DR. DON JOLLY HA’13

Retired Mathematics Professor Dr. Don Jolly passed away on April 23, 2023.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Southern Mississippi, a master’s degree from the University of Illinois and a doctoral degree in mathematics education from Auburn University. He came to LaGrange College in 1961. For 34 years, Jolly served as Professor and Chair of the Mathematics Department. He was also Chair of the Division of Science and Mathematics for nine years. He stepped down from teaching full-time in 1995 but continued part-time until 2009.

In 2000, the lecture room in Callaway Science Building was named for him. Jolly also was named an Honorary Alumnus in 2013.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AUGUST 15

New student move-in day

AUGUST 21

First day of fall classes

SEPTEMBER 25

“Portugal: A Tailor-Made Journey from Lisbon to Porto”

3D Journeys Lecture and Travel Series

preview 10 a.m., Turner Hall

OCTOBER 19-23

Fall break

NOVEMBER 20 -24

Thanksgiving break

DECEMBER 6

Last day of fall semester classes

HOMECOMING 2023 OCTOBER 13 –15

HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS

FRIDAY

38th Panther Memorial Golf Classic: Remembering Tom Duckett and the Legacy of Former Athletes

Highland Country Club

Class of 1973 50th Reunion Celebration 6 p.m., West Side

Flashback Friday Party

6:30–11 p.m., Overlook Plaza in downtown LaGrange

More events at lagrange.edu/homecoming

SATURDAY Red and Black Reunion Row 10 a.m. until halftime, Callaway Auditorium parking lot

Football: Panthers vs. Belhaven Blazers 1 p.m., Callaway Stadium

1965-1975 Barbecue Dinner 6:30 p.m.

SUNDAY LaGrange College Alumni and Community Memorial Service 10:30 a.m., the Chapel

Sports Hall of Fame Induction

Noon, Turner Hall

Aviation program set to launch

Beginning in fall semester 2023, the college will offer a program in aviation, coursework that will allow students to earn a minor in the discipline while preparing for careers as airline pilots, private charter pilots or cargo pilots.

Through the use of a flight simulator on campus and up to four Cessna Skyhawks with digital avionics at nearby LaGrange-Callaway Airport, the program will provide training for Private Pilot Certification, Instrument Flight Rating and Commercial Pilot Licensing. Classes will be offered through a partnership with Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida.

“We look at this partnership with Paragon Flight as an important milestone in creating new educational and career opportunities for our students,”

President Susanna Baxter said. “The option to pursue aviation will open doors to an exciting and growing career field.”

A commercial pilot shortage continues to be a pressing issue in the aviation industry. Recent reports note that over the next 15 years, more than half of current U.S. pilots will have reached the

mandatory retirement age of 65.

With the industry already understaffed, Paragon Flight Training

President Chris Schoensee said the offering couldn’t come at a better time.

“This aviation program prepares students for a fulfilling career that is in high demand, has a great work-life balance and has some of the best benefits in the world, all while earning a six-figure income virtually straight out of college,” Schoensee said. “It’s an amazing life path and this program is going to be a game-changer for interested students.

“We’re ecstatic to partner with the

amazing team at LaGrange College to train the next generation of pilots and aviation industry professionals.”

Students wanting to get a sense of what the program will entail can attend an Aviation Day event hosted by Paragon Flight Training and the college on July 19 at LaGrange-Callaway Airport. During the event, planes will be available for viewing and free flights for prospective students.

For more information, visit the program’s website at www.lagrange.edu/ aviation.