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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.
HOPE ON THE HILL
Criticism of the next generation is as old as Socrates. Recently, however, a guest on campus remarked to me how respectful and kind students on the Hill had been during his visit. I wasn’t surprised. If you need a spark of hope for the future, spend some time with LC students. You’ll be glad you did.
—the Editor
FEATURES
8 GRADUATE GAINS
Master’s and doctoral degree offerings continue to expand at LaGrange College.
12 CAMPUS GEM
Constructed in 1965—from historic materials—the campus Chapel reaches 60-year milestone.
AROUND CAMPUS
2 POSSIBILITIES
3 ACCOUNTANTS AT THE CAPITOL
4 NEW VP FOR FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
5 AVIATION COMPETITION
6 NEW RELIGION PARTNERSHIP
7 FROM LC TO BASEBALL CAREER
ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
18 BENCH DEDICATION
20 TEACHER OF THE YEAR
24 PHYSICIAN OF THE YEAR
25 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP FOR COACH
26 IN MEMORIAM
27 CALENDAR
PHOTO: The “March Madness of Aviation” came to town earlier this year, with five Southern colleges vying for top honors in a variety of skill tests. The event provided a front row seat for LC Aviation students, who hope to soon join the competition. Page 5.
ON THE COVER: Expect to see more hooding ceremonies at commencement as the college continues to expand its graduate offerings. From a doctorate in education to a master’s in computer science, the programs are diverse, need-based and growing. Page 8.
Accountancy students visit Capitol
Inside the gold-domed state capitol, a group of Accountancy students experienced legislation in action on Jan. 30 at the annual Certified Public Accountants Day hosted by the Georgia Society of CPAs.
The event allowed undergraduates throughout the state to engage with professionals in their field and hear discussions about new legislation.
Sophomore KJ Howard, who felt some intimidation when he came to the Capitol with LC last year as a freshman, said he gained more confidence this time around.
“I just took a step out of my comfort zone and started to strike up conversations with the wealth managers and CPAs,” he said.
Junior Abby Hefner said one of her favorite moments was watching Governor Brian Kemp give a press conference.
“It was interesting to see the prep work that is involved in setting up those types of events,” she said.
NCAA event builds up leaders
Senior Kendyl Anderson and junior Jaylan Harris gained new perspectives on what it means to truly be a leader at the NCAA Leadership Forum held in November in Charlotte, North Carolina. Along with Megan Hudson, Assistant Director for Student-Athlete Services and Recreation, the LC representatives attended the annual event that drew participants from across all NCAA divisions.
The four-day forum focused on the theme “Light the Torch,” inspired by the Summer 2024 Olympics.
Anderson said the forum gave her a better understanding of various leadership techniques and how to embrace vulnerability.
“I learned there are different leadership styles that are successful and that it is okay to be vulnerable and let other people take the reins for a while, so you
can figure things out,” Anderson said. For Hudson, the forum provided her with the chance to learn from others in her profession.
“This event was truly life-changing for me,” she said. “Being surrounded by like-minded individuals and administrators helped put so much into perspective for me. I received invaluable insights on how to be a better leader for my student-athletes.”
CAMPBELL APPOINTED
VP FOR FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
KeJuana Campbell has been named LaGrange College Vice President for Finance and Administration, starting in June 2025. Campbell presently serves as campus Controller.
She will fill the role currently held by Dr. Jerry Forster. To assist with the transition and with special projects, he will continue in a parttime capacity as special assistant to the president through 2025.
“After a national search, we attracted a sizable pool of qualified candidates for this very important post,” said LaGrange College President Susanna Baxter. “A CPA with a deep finance and business background, KeJuana quickly rose to the top.”
Campbell joined the college in December 2023. Before that time, she worked as an assurance associate at PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers).
“It is a great privilege to serve as the VP for Finance and Administration, and I am excited to support strategic initiatives that contribute to a thriving academic community,” Campbell said.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Auburn University and her master’s degree in accounting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Students remember victims at lynching memorial site
Austin Callaway’s life was cut short as a young adult by the heinous act of lynching in 1940 Troup County. Eighty-five years later, his legacy and that of other local victims are kept alive with a marker placed outside Warren Temple United Methodist Church in LaGrange, where a group of students joined Spiritual Life in February to pay their respects and learn about this dark period in history.
Thousands of Black people were the victims of lynching and racial violence in the United States between 1877 and 1950, according to the Equal Justice Initiative website.
During the visit, LC students heard from the Rev. Carl Von Epps, pastor of Warren Temple, who shared how the racially motivated murder of Callaway impacted the local community.
“He mentioned both the pain that was born, as well as the healing and forgiveness that resulted from this unfortunate event,” said freshman Solomon Morgan. “I think it’s important to be
knowledgeable about historical events, so that the bad and evil parts of them never get repeated in the future.”
Freshman CJ Kilkelly said he was thankful for having the opportunity to learn about this important part of history.
“This experience gave me a better understanding of how important this was not only to civil rights but to humanity, and how it led to the civil rights movement,” he said.
Non-traditional student Tomeka Laye described the visit as an eyeopening experience.
“Learning about the horrific deaths of Austin Callaway and Henry Gilbert, especially Austin Callaway, deeply impacted me as a student, mother of young African American men, and grandmother of grandsons,” she said. “Standing with my classmates, united in our commitment to making positive changes now and in the future, was rewarding.”
Aviation students volunteer at competition
Wheels up!
The Aviation program’s home base at LaGrange Callaway Airport served as the battleground for a regional competition, where LC students served a direct role as volunteer judges for the three-day event held Feb. 28-March 3.
The National Intercollegiate Flight Association’s Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference, known as the ‘March Madness of Aviation,’ brought Region IX
teams from Auburn University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida Institute of Technology, Jacksonville University and Polk State College to compete in a series of events for a bid to the national championship that will take place in May in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Freshman Jackson Ball was among the judges for the message drop event, which has been called a crowd favorite. It involves hitting a target with a container dropped from an aircraft 200 feet above the ground.
“The way it was set up was seamless, and seeing the designs the different schools came up with for their ‘message container’ was interesting,” he said. “Then watching the schools use trial and error to get closer to the target with each heat also intrigued me.”
Sophomore Isabel Rocker, who is eager to
potentially compete for LC at a future event, said she used the opportunity while serving as observer and judge to learn from experienced people in the field.
“I gained a lot of knowledge from other judges (who had competed before) as well as team coaches,” she said. “I look forward to the day when LC begins a flight team, which will help us as pilots refine our skills in a fun setting and benefit us later in our careers.”
Prior to the competition, a group of LC Aviation students took a trip to the Delta Operations Center in Atlanta, where they toured the facility and used its state-of-the-art flight simulator.
“It was an excellent opportunity for our students,” said Aviation Advisor Dr. Bill McCoy. “In addition to seeing how the pilots work, our students found out about a wide variety of positions that require different skill sets—working in the operations center and elsewhere at the company.”
Religion and Divinity form partnership
With the intent of providing students interested in seminary a faster means to enter the ministry, the college signed a formal agreement on Nov. 21 with Emory University’s Candler School of Theology to launch the 3+3 Accelerated Ministry Track program.
Through this partnership, LC students earn both their bachelor’s degree and a Master of Divinity degree in six years.
For freshman Susannah Lynn, a Religion & Philosophy/Sociology double major, this opportunity puts her one step closer toward her goal of becoming a pastor.
“I want to attend seminary because I want to be ordained in the Methodist Church, and I feel like God is calling me to be on this path,” she said. “Religion has always been a constant in my life.”
But seminary is not the only avenue for students in the program, according to Dr. John Cook, Professor of Religion & Philosophy.
“Graduates have gone on to work in all sorts of vocations including business, education, social work and creative arts,” he said.
Senior Daniel Cody, a Political
Science/Religion & Philosophy double major, said Professor Cook has helped him become a better scholar and theologian.
“His control of the classroom and understanding of religious knowledge are incomparable to those of any other professor I have had.”
Even though his primary major is Political Science, he said Religion & Philosophy was his first love.
“When I began as a Ministry Leadership major in 2020, I felt called
FACULTY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Dr. John Cook, Professor of Religion, had his article “Envisioning the Panoply of the Roman Torturer” published in the journal Klio. He also published a book entitled “The Enspirited Body in 1 Corinthians 15” with Mohr Siebeck in Tübingen.
Dr. Lacey Moore, Assistant Professor of Sociology, received the B.O. Williams Award from the University of Georgia’s Sociology Department for her dissertation “Turning Points, Identity Change, and Community
to missions and believed I could pursue this calling after graduating with that specific degree,” he said. “After COVID struck and the program merged all their Religion and Philosophy courses into one degree, I thought this could be useful for me.
“The program has taught me more about world faiths than I could have imagined, prepared me for a career field in either public service or private ministry and provided me with the resources I need to succeed.”
Cultural Wealth: The Prosocial Benefits of Higher Education Among Formerly Incarcerated Individuals.”
Dr. Justin Thurman, Professor of English Writing and Publication Studies, received the Jeffrey E. Smith Editor's Prize for Nonfiction from The Missouri Review for his essay “Golden Boy.”
Dr. John Tures, Professor of Political Science, was featured in the New York Times article “Canada as the 51st State?”
LaGrange opened possibilities for baseball scout
Known throughout the professional baseball community as “the scout who can find diamonds in the rough,” former LC student Chris Carminucci ’96 and current special assignment scout/ independent league coordinator for the Arizona Diamondbacks finds enjoyment in helping undiscovered talent reach their dreams of making the big leagues.
He credits former LC Baseball Coach and Athletic Director Phil Williamson for helping shape him into the person he is today.
“I would not be here without Coach Williamson,” he said. “I give him thanks for helping me work in the major leagues.”
During his freshman year at New York-based Concordia College, Carminucci was off to a good start, but then he started making poor choices that ultimately cut his time short.
Feeling uncertain about his future and not knowing his next steps, he
reached out to his high school baseball coach Doug Smith, who at the time was coaching at LaGrange College.
Following that conversation, Carminucci’s prayers would be answered after his coach informed him that he could come and play for LaGrange.
With 30 years in the sport, he has
EXHIBITION EXPLORES AMUSING SIDE OF ART
Eight Art & Design majors let out their wittiness through works featured in the exhibition “Art of Play,” currently on display at the Lamar Dodd Art Center.
The collection includes a coloring book as well as sculptures and paintings highlighting whimsical expressions.
“It's exciting to take an idea or emotion from an inspiration I received from something else and transform it,” said junior Hannah Edwards.
“I love when I’m adding depth and dimensions to my work with shading,” said junior Carlissa Best.
The exhibition will run through May 10.
gone from player to manager, followed by CEO and director of baseball operations roles in the U.S. as well as Italy.
He shared his experiences at a Sports Management Club event in February, where he offered this piece of advice.
“Don’t be afraid to fail,” he said.
Artwork by Carlissa Best, “Giggle Water,” (2024)
GRADUATE GAINS
Advanced degrees expand on the Hill
Saturday morning, 9 a.m., Turner Hall. The large assembly room is not only bustling with students, but actually buzzing with students involved in a lively discussion about changes in government education policy.
Though many in the room have a coffee cup nearby, they are alert and engaged. Thoughtful questions are posed. A casual observer might be a bit puzzled by the weekend session.
A closer look, however, reveals that the participants are not, in fact, LC undergraduates. They are among the 100 graduate
students taking part in degree options offered by the college’s Education program.
This Saturday seminar scene offers just one indication of the excitement and expansion taking place in graduate degrees at LaGrange College.
Graduate growth
Since 2021 graduate enrollment has increased at the college by 170%. And that growth has been intentional.
“The number of high school graduates is expected to peak in May 2025 and then begin a gradual decline over the next 10 to 15 years,” says Dr. Brian Peterson, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “As a result, it’s necessary for institutions to look for new applicant pools to boost enrollment.
At LaGrange, the focus on graduate offerings has led the college not only to new degrees in established areas like education—including the institution’s first doctoral degree—but also to new options in disciplines like computer science.
Teaching the teachers
“We know we have to grow graduate programs, and our department is the logical place to start,” says Dr. Gretta Milam, Associate Professor of Education and Chair of the Education and Clinical Mental Health Counseling Department. “Since we’ve been offering graduate degrees for some time, we understand the landscape. Now the challenge is working to find other program options, qualify the viable ones and get them off the
ground and running.”
Clearly, the department’s new Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction is one such success story. Launched last fall with 30 students, the degree expects to enroll 25 more this year.
“It’s good work and exciting work,” Dr. Milam says. “It’s exciting to see people doing their own research—and realize that they can do it—on the way to obtaining that degree.”
Research rewards
The first Ed.D. cohort is just digging into the research phase of their journey, progress that was showcased during a Graduate Research Symposium on April 12.
“My particular study is focusing on the importance of induction programs and teacher mentorship for those new to the profession,” says Chance Giddens Ed.S.’11, Social Studies chair at Troup County High School.
In addition to helping future teachers, Giddens says he hopes that pursing his doctorate will demonstrate the importance of lifelong learning to his own students.
“Being able to talk about the importance of education while getting an education myself is the type of relevance that resonates with young people today.”
He also says that the camaraderie with peers and the support of faculty have brought joy to the rigorous process.
“I know from past experience that if someone has an advanced degree in education from LaGrange College, that someone has earned said degree.”
The college’s first doctoral students are just digging into the research component of their degree program. Ed.D. students Chance Giddens Ed.S.’11 (at left) and Marrisa Merrell Ed.S.’22 (below) present their work at the first LaGrange Graduate Research Symposium in April.
Support superstars
For Marrisa Merrell Ed.S.’22, assistant principal at Dougherty Comprehensive High School, her previous stint in an LC graduate program drew her back for another degree.
“I had such a wonderful time in the Specialist program that I was inspired to return and continue my studies in the doctoral program in curriculum and instruction,” she says.
As was her experience before, the faculty have become her superstars.
“What I appreciate most is the professors’ willingness to go above and beyond for their students,” she says. “They regularly stay after class to address questions, provide support or simply offer words of encouragement during challenging times.”
She believes the degree is preparing her to become a true change agent in the field.
“Overall, the program has been inspiring and transformative. I feel equipped to lead with purpose, engage in scholarly conversations and contribute to positive change in education.”
Careers in counseling
If you’re looking for another example of dramatic growth in LaGrange graduate programs, you needn’t look further than the Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree. Since 2021 the program’s enrollment has increased by 195%.
DEGREE DIVERSITY
The college’s graduate offerings currently include 11 options, with more under consideration.
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.)
• Higher Education Administration (M.Ed.)
• Computer Science (M.S.)
• Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
• Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
Elementary Education
• Master of Arts in Education Studies
• Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.)
• Specialist in Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.S.)
• Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.D.)
• Tier I Educational Leadership Certification
• Tier II Educational Leadership Certification
“People say, ‘They’ve got something special down at LaGrange College in the counseling program,’” explains Dr. Justin Muller, an Assistant Professor in the discipline.
He points to several internal and external factors that have contributed to the exponential growth.
“We promote the success of our alumni and students through social media and our webpage,” he says. “Prospective students can see themselves as part of our program.
“Also, our CACREP accreditation is very visible, and that has really opened up lots of doors for us.”
The leading accreditor in the field, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs endorsed LaGrange’s program in 2021.
The LaGrange degree also offers several unique advantages, according to Dr. Muller.
It emphasizes community service and social justice—while putting those beliefs into action. And, it offers a virtual track for completing the degree, which has proven popular.
Regarding external factors for the recent growth, he points to lessening social stigma of seeking counseling and a new program in Georgia that repays educational expenses for counselors who work in the state for a certain period.
While the growth has been challenging, he says, the faculty strive for personal relationships and a family atmosphere.
“A student recently told me that he learned the most about how to provide counseling services based on how our faculty treats the students versus what we teach in the classroom.”
A professor’s ‘push’
Blair Thompson ’23 is pursuing her third LC degree, this time in the Counseling program, and she says she wouldn’t have it any other way.
A student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, Blair Thompson (second from left) is currently in the internship phase of her degree. Here, she pauses with Covenant Counsel co-workers (from left) Gina Thompson ’22 APC, NCC; Kim Neese ’95 LPC, CAPC II, BCC, CPC; and Caitlin Brooks Ph. D., APC.
“In terms of academic support, the professors have been amazing—encouraging, understanding and always willing to help,” she says. “When I started the program, I was very quiet, but my professors pushed me in the best way possible. Now, while I’m still somewhat reserved, I feel much more confident being vulnerable, asking questions and even giving presentations.”
She is currently in the internship phase of the program,
where 600 hours of clinical experience must be completed. She hopes for a permanent position at the site once she passes her exams.
“The Counseling program has equipped me well for this career,” she says. “Counseling is a profession of continuous learning and growth, and I appreciate that this program has fostered both my personal and professional development.”
Future forecast
Entering an entirely different arena of academic and professional pursuit, the college launched a master’s in computer science earlier in 2025.
As with all the graduate initiatives, the move was grounded in the mission to help meet local workforce needs.
“The graduate programs we provide—indeed, all new programs that we offer—are meant to fulfill a local or regional employment need,” says Dr. Peterson. “For example, the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction was created because there was a desire among teachers in the region to receive additional education to advance into administration and to receive salary increases. Our M.S. in computer science was founded on a desire to help local industry as well.”
As he considers the area’s economic forecast, he envisions other new graduate offerings in the years to come.
“Given the significant increases in manufacturing over the next five to 10 years in LaGrange and in Troup County, I have been discussing with faculty the creation of graduate programs in supply chain and logistics management, human resource management and organizational leadership, among others,” he says.
It appears that the hooding ceremony at commencement may just be getting a bit longer.
Campus gem
Chapel reaches diamond milestone
With a beauty that shines as bright as the colors reflected in its stained-glass windows, the ‘little brick Chapel on the Hill’ has been the beating heart of campus for six decades.
Centuries of history
A gift from Callaway Foundation, Inc., many of the materials used in the construction of the building came from the old sanctuary of First United Methodist Church of LaGrange that dated to 1858, including two large stained-glass rose windows that were made in Belgium. The bricks, original air-conditioning system and slate roof were also part of the Methodist church.
Depicted on the panel in the window above the main entrance is the Biblical parable of “The Sower,” a story told by Jesus in the Gospels that illustrates how people respond in various ways to God’s message.
Just above the altar, there is a window panel that includes a torch of learning and the Bible, which appropriately represents the college’s commitment to being an institution of knowledge and religion.
The 1965 dedication of the Chapel fulfilled the longtime dream of former president and Methodist minister Dr. Waights
G. Henry Jr., who called the sanctuary “a symbol of the place of religion in the life of our institution.”
A guiding light
Through the decades, the welcoming beacon on the Hill has served as a spiritual anchor for alumni whose faith was strengthened during their undergraduate years.
Inspired to enter ministry was the Rev. Blair Tolbert ’06, a former LC Chaplain who said the Chapel was a central feature of her time as a student. She currently works as the associate minister at Marietta (Georgia) First United Methodist Church.
“It provided space for me to preach some of my first sermons as I discerned my call to ministry and helped prepare me for seminary,” she says. “From leading worship to organizing lectures, the Chapel continued to be a place of transformation for me and students.”
The Chapel also helped direct the path of the Rev. Garrett Wallace ’18, who currently serves as the associate pastor at Dunwoody United Methodist Church.
“It has had a great impact on my personal and professional life,” he says. “I planned and led my first worship service there.”
Bonnie Douglas ’06, worship and community minister at Southwest Christian Church in Newnan, Georgia, described the Chapel as her sanctuary.
“It was a refuge where I could grow in my purpose and my faith,” she says.
Bishop Robin Dease of the Georgia Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church shares a sermon with students during a Chapel service in February 2025.
THE STORY BEHIND THE STONES
Placed along the north, south and east sides of the Chapel, three stone markers of religious significance represent countries across the globe.
Temple of Apollo, Greece
Erected in the ancient city of Corinth around 540 B.C., this site served as a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek God Apollo. Most notably, St. Paul preached nearby in the marketplace around 50 A.D., founding the church to which his Epistles to the Corinthians were addressed.
Benedictine Monastery, Scotland
Founded by St. Columba in 563 A.D., the Abbey on the tiny island of Iona continues to be a place used for Christian worship. Tourists often make pilgrimages to the sacred site.
St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, England
Built in 1348, St. George’s Chapel continues to be a place of worship for the Royal Family. In addition, Henry IV, Edward IV, Henry VIII, George VI, The Duke of Edinburgh and Queen Elizabeth II are buried there.
At that time, Douglas recalled God calling her to lead the Chapel worship band.
“Serving in the Chapel worship band developed leadership skills in me,” she says. “When people have asked me about the impact of my involvement there, I would always say, ‘Those years allowed me to find my voice!’ God directed me into my vocation.”
A place of solace
The Rev. Lindsey Solomon ’05 says the Chapel brought the campus community together after the dark events of Sept. 11, 2001.
“I remember hearing the news in drama class and then watching the live coverage on the community televisions in Turner dorm,” she says. “But when it came to the healing that we all needed to experience after that tragedy, I remember attending the worship service in the Chapel, grateful that we had a safe place to go and worship in the midst of the chaos and tragedy.”
During India Gleason’s ’21 college journey, she says she had to navigate through the COVID outbreak and Chapel worship experiences transitioning to the Spiritual Life Center in Henry Hall.
“The irregular use of the Chapel did not mean students lacked a meaningful connection to the beautiful and quaint building,” she says. “In fact, it was quite the opposite. When we did have a service in the Chapel, it was almost implied that it was of such importance that it needed to be held in that sacred space.”
Challenging the mind, inspiring the soul
Whether seeking prayer or an outlet to decompress from the stress
of academic life, students have found community among their peers in the sanctuary, where the college’s Spiritual Life program performs weekly services.
The Rev. Ashley Jenkins ’08 has served as Chaplain and Spiritual Life Director since July 2023. In addition to her and the Rev. Tolbert, the role was held by the Rev. Adam Roberts and the Rev. Quincy Brown, who was part of helping bring a spiritual revival to campus during the late ’90s and early ’00s. A plaque dedicated to Brown’s 17 years of service can be found in the Chapel.
Currently, Chapel worship occurs on Sunday nights at 8 p.m. During the school year, faculty, staff, students and church leaders take the pulpit to share the message.
Just before the Super Bowl kickoff this past February, Bishop Robin Dease of the Georgia Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church provided an uplifting message for the campus and community members in attendance.
Senior Baylor Montoya says he is grateful for a place where students can gather and share their faith among the campus community.
“Being able to preach at Chapel this semester was a wonderful opportunity that LaGrange College afforded me,” he says. “I also enjoy having the ability to freely worship with my classmates, teammates and peers.”
In addition to Sunday worship, Spiritual Life also holds weekly Bible studies and Soul Food on Tuesdays. Most recently,
Katie ’06 and Nate Baughman ’05 (bottom left) say ‘I do’ at their Chapel wedding ceremony in 2005. Dr. Steven Harris ’88 and his wife, Barbara ’88, (bottom right) renewed their vows, with their daughter Stephanie ’15, M’16 present, in the Chapel at Homecoming 2017.
a group traveled to Savannah, Georgia, for a service-learning trip to help those affected by the hurricanes in 2024.
Ring the bells!
Since hosting its first wedding in the summer of 1965, the Chapel has been an ideal spot for alumni to say, ‘I do.’
Katie Baughman ’06, who met her husband Nate ’05 on freshman move-in day, says there was no other place they wanted to get married.
“To me, the Chapel always felt both beautiful and incredibly peaceful,” she says. “I remember that on our wedding day (which will be 20 years ago this June), all my LC best friends were lined up along the railing of the balcony in order to leave space for other wedding guests who wouldn't have braved the tiny spiral staircase.”
Geni Boswell ’75, M’80 and her husband will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this year.
“As we were planning our wedding, the beautiful chapel had always been my choice to have our service,” she says. “On a very hot August 16, 1975, we celebrated with our family and friends.”
In addition to weddings, the Chapel also hosts vow renewals.
“Barbara ’88 and I got married in the Chapel in May 1989, about one year after graduation,” says Dr. Steven Harris ’88. “In October 2017 during Homecoming, we renewed our vows in the Chapel with our daughter Stephanie ’15, M’16 present.”
Looking to the future
Over its six decades in operation, the Chapel has received some updates, including a new roof that was installed in 2023. It still needs some minor work done to keep it in tip-top shape, including plaster repairs on interior walls, safety glass for the windows and exterior window painting.
Even with its storied past, the building continues to welcome new traditions.
Since 2021, graduating seniors celebrate the beginning of their new career or graduate school journey with the ringing of the Chapel Bell. With cheers and fanfare, the Sound of Success has become a cherished event that brings together families, friends, faculty and staff.
As the Chapel itself marks a significant milestone, it seems fitting that it continues to help students celebrate their own.
Jonathan Fuller ’06 of Ashburn received his Doctor of Ministry in Organizational Leadership from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He is the pastor of Ashburn First United Methodist Church in Ashburn, Georgia.
2002 Dr. L. Joy Baker of LaGrange was awarded the 2024 Provider Partner in Practice Excellence Award and was named Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center Physician of the Year.
2003 Mary Beth Carter Pelt of LaGrange is the program facilitator at The Exceptional Way.
2003 Valerie Longshore-Sargent of LaGrange was inducted into the Georgia Thespians Society Hall of Fame.
2004 The Reverend Dr. Erik Mays of Gulf Breeze, Florida, is the senior pastor at Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church. He received his Doctor of Ministry in Church Leadership from Wesley Theological Center in Washington, D.C.
2004 Dr. Carrie Reif-Stice of Evans is an associate professor in communications at Augusta University.
2005 Josh Hale of LaGrange is participating in the 2025 Leadership Troup Class.
2006 Jeff '06 and Suzanna Lewis Delaney '07 of Peachtree City were contestants on Family Feud
Alumni and friends attended the campus commemorative bench dedication in memory of the late Julie Watson ’76, M’09. Her husband, Joe Watson ’75, recounted how Julie was the love of his life and how they met here as students. He and President Susanna Baxter revealed the dedication plaque: “In memory of Julie C. Watson ’76, M’09, and in honor of the love she shared with Joe Watson ’75.” Shown are (front row, from left) Crystal Luke ’76, Karen Pattillo Hodnette ’77, Evelyn Hill Clifton ’53, Joe Watson ’75, Patti Garnett Wilson ’76 ,M 79, Max Caylor ’75, (back row) Josh Watson ’09, M ’11, Donald Chambers ’77, Ray Hodnette ’75, Sarah Bulman ’97, Kathy Sharpton Sivell ’86, M ’97, Dan ’76 and Carol Blanton Brown ’76, John Wilson ‘76, Cindy Purcell Brown ’76, Teddy Howard ’76 and David Naglee ’76.
alongside their family.
2006 Jonathan Fuller of Ashburn received his Doctor of Ministry in Organizational Leadership from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He is the pastor of Ashburn First United Methodist Church in Ashburn, Georgia.
2007 Sgt. Nichelle Ortiz ParentSeaman of Peachtree City was awarded a commendation as Sargeant of the Year for the Atlanta Police Department at the Atlanta Police Foundation's 20th annual Crime is Toast Awards. She was also named Atlanta Downtown Improvement District Officer of the Year.
2009 David "Swagg R'Celious" Harris of Hamden, Connecticut, served as an additional producer and programmer on "The Journey," an Oscar-nominated song featured in the Tyler Perry film "Six Triple Eight."
2009 Joshua Watson M'11 of Salem, Arkansas, was named the Arkansas 3A Football Coach of the Year.
2010s
2010 Allison Lovenguth Hale M'10 of LaGrange is a Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Support teacher at Long Cane Middle School.
2012 Emmie Trull Cass of Acworth
2008 Jodi Karpik Vaughn of LaGrange is in the specialist program in instructional technology through University of West Georgia. She was named Long Cane Middle School Teacher of the Year.
Thank you so much for your generosity. You truly have made it possible for me to be at LaGrange College, and I will never be able to thank you enough for that. I love this place, these people, and the life I have built here more than I could ever explain. –Kenzie Hornsby ’25
Thank you so much for your support of me and so many others! Because of your generosity, I will be able to attend college and graduate this year! –Daniel Cody ’25
Thank you so much for your support and kindness. Your generosity makes dreams possible. –Rylee Grant ’28
Thank you so much for funding my scholarship. Because of you, I will be able to continue my education! –Ellie Smith ’28
Thank you so much for helping me achieve my dreams! I could not do it without you! Thank you for believing in students like me. –Madison Dekker ’25
Thank you so much for your generosity. It’s because of your support that I can pursue my college education with less financial stress and more focus on my studies. –Jalen Jones ’27
Thank you so much for your generosity! This school has been an answered prayer! I am deeply grateful for your support! –Madeline Bullington ’28
“Thank you so much, because without scholarships I would not be here, and I love this place. I would not have the same opportunities at another school, and I think about that constantly. Being here, I have learned to be a better person, student and friend.”
Your support has allowed me to embrace the college experience and fulfill my dreams. Thank you! –Kacyn Collins ’28
Your Scholarship has made a huge difference in my life! Thank you for believing in students like me! –Tito Hernandez ’27
Thank you for helping me continue my education and making it possible to get where I want to be in the end. Your donation really helps and helps push me further. –Kaidyn Thomas ’27
Thank you so much for your generosity— it’s because of your support that I can pursue my college education here at LaGrange. I am able to focus on my studies and not stress about paying for college. I really want to give back to humanity. Thank you. –Arhat Dhabe ’28
Thank you for your kindness and support, which have opened doors for me that I didn’t think were possible. I am so grateful to be able to pursue my studies thanks to you. –Alexa Gonzalez ’26
Help transform students’ experiences and open a world of opportunities by clicking here or scanning this QR code. Also, join us for LC Giving Day on May 20!
I am honored and grateful to be a recipient of your scholarship! I am one step closer to achieving my dreams! Thank you for your kindness and generosity! –Collin Hardin ’27
DOCKINS SHARES GANG TASK FORCE EXPERIENCES
Jeremy Dockins ’07, special agent in charge of the GBI West Georgia Gang Task Force, spoke to the Kiwanis Club of LaGrange in February. In his current role, he oversees the agents, budget and daily operations of the unit.
Dockins was hired by the GBI in 2007 as a special agent assigned to the State Drug Task Force to work undercover narcotics. After the task force was disbanded in May of 2009, he was assigned to the GBI’s Columbus regional investigative office where he worked as a special agent and crime scene specialist for a little more than seven years.
He later worked as the assistant special agent in charge of the GBI’s West Metro Regional Drug Enforcement Office, assisting with the supervision of the staff responsible for a 36-county area from Columbus, Georgia, to Tennessee.
He currently is a P.O.S.T. certified instructor, a Use of Force instructor, a member of the GBI Special Enforcement Team, a member of the GBI Body Recovery Team, the northern vice president of the Georgia Narcotics Officers Association and overseer of the GBI Peer Support Team.
He is a graduate of the National Forensic Academy (NFA), Class 30, through the University of Tennessee, and he earned a master’s in public safety administration from Columbus State University. He is married with two children and lives in LaGrange and attends Wesley Methodist Church.
2023 Madi Novak of Waynesville is in the Thomas University curriculum and instruction master’s program.
2023 Kasey Smith of Hoschton is a neuro ICU registered nurse at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.
2024 Adam Castillo of West Point is a registered nurse at Tanner Medical Center.
2024 Slade James of Smiths Station, Alabama, is an area manager for Amazon.
2024 Emilee Johnson of LaGrange is a teacher in the Troup County School System and operates a handmade jewelry business, “Hello Sunshine.”
over the role to Philip. She moved into the secretary position to continue to support the organization.
2024 Michael Poteete III of LaGrange is a registered nurse at Tanner Medical Center.
Births
To P.T. Alford Jr. '20 and his wife, Alyssa, a girl, Annie Mae, on March 10, 2025
To Madison Murphy Blakley '20 and her husband, Cody, a son, Dawson Axle, on March 12, 2024
To Joely Peterman Coker '21 and her husband, Nicholas Coker, a son, Sullivan James, in May 2024
To Emily Wyzykowski Pannell '22 and her husband, Tanner, a daughter, Baker Tess, on August 29, 2024
Kacey Werle ’09 and Philip Truitt ’98, both members of the Order of the Tartan, attended Dr. Mark Yates’ lecture “Moor than just Lochs: A brief ecological tour of Scotland.” Kacey served as 2024 Convener for the Order of the Tartan and has handed
WATSON LEADS TEAM TO STATE TITLE
Josh Watson ’09, MAT’11 coached Salem (Arkansas) High School to the state 3A football championship last fall and was named 2024 Coach of the Year by Hooten’s Arkansas Football and the Arkansas High School Coaches Association, head coach for the East Football AllStar Team, and Coach of the Year by the Arkansas Sports Network.
With the title win, Watson became the school’s winningest coach with a 43-18 record.
Following the season, he announced that he will take over as the new head coach at Ozark (Arkansas) High School.
Watson’s parents are Joe ’75 and the late Julie Clifton Watson ’76; his grandmother is Evelyn Hill Clifton ’53.
In the photo, he poses with Salem’s Skyler Payne (left), who was named Hooten’s3A Defensive Player of the Year.
Class of 2024 Nursing alumni recently spoke with current Nursing students. Joining Dr. Maranah Sauter (center), Professor of Nursing and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, are Adam Castillo from Tanner Medical Center, Leia Avery from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Michael Poteete III from Tanner Medical Center and Megan Messinger from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
graduate-assistant
University.
Cam Lyons ’24 of Tyrone is a basketball
coach at Gardner-Webb
The Runnin’ Bulldogs finished 11-20 on the year, 5-10 in conference play.
Caroline Yates Oxford ’15, M’16 of Roswell was named Teacher of the Year for Vickery Mill Elementary School. Her family was there to celebrate the honor with her.
Devin Allison ’12 attended an LC football game in November to support his former player from Winder Barrow High School. A.J. Johnson is a freshman on the Panther team.
Brittain "Sylar" ’22 (left) and Dr. Caitlin Morman ’21 celebrated with Olivia Hanners Snyder ’22 as she received her master's in political science from the University of Tennessee.
Joshua Watson ’09, M’11 (right) of Salem, Arkansas, was named the Arkansas 3A Football Coach of the Year.
Joseph Edward “Joe” Ruth ’22, M’23, Ed.S.’24 was engaged to Alexandrea Grace Fulford ’23 on December 27, 2024.
COMMENCEMENT 2025
May 8
Nursing Pinning Ceremony
7 p.m., First United Methodist Church
May 9
Legacy Celebration
2:30 p.m., Bailey Room
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 13
Alumni Reconnect and Reminisce
5:30 p.m., Wild Heaven West End, Atlanta
Enjoy a casual evening of laughter and shared stories with President Susanna Baxter and fellow LaGrange College alumni.
Join friends and President Baxter on the 700 block of Lincoln St. for
More events at lagrange.edu/calendar
May 9
Baccalaureate Service
5 p.m., First United Methodist Church
May 10
Commencement
8:30 a.m., Callaway Stadium
a nostalgic evening celebrating the Class of 2025 and Giving Day.
June 11
Conversation with President Baxter
5:30 p.m., Athens
Area alumni are invited to come hang out and speak with President Baxter.
June 14
LaGrange College Alumni and Friends Day at Truist Park
4:10 p.m., Atlanta
Join President Baxter, friends
and families to cheer on the Atlanta Braves as they take on the Colorado Rockies. Secure your tickets today online or by contacting the Alumni Office.
August 16
New First-Year Student Move-In
August 16-20
Welcome Week
August 21
First Day of Classes
Super Bowl experience teaches students team-building skills
In the week that led to the “Super Sunday” showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs on Feb. 9 in New Orleans, students from the Sports Management Club made the most out of their chance to be directly involved with pre-game festivities.
Throughout their time in New Orleans, the LC group helped with various stations, including those set up at the Super Bowl Experience and NFL Fans First.
Senior Jaden Long, who assisted with operating games and taking photos of fans with NFL legends and the Vince Lombardi trophy, said he was amazed at the amount of preparation that goes into developing a Super Bowl atmosphere for the fans.
“This experience taught me the importance of teamwork,” he said. “There is a lot of work happening that people do not see.”
Junior Kyle Moore said his
favorite part was interacting with the participants.
“We were there to provide an unforgettable experience for NFL fans and create memories for families, whether it was through intentional conversation with fans or helping families take pictures to be able to share on social media or with loved ones,” he said.
For senior Parker Lovett, the networking opportunities were beneficial.
“We met a lot of individuals in the sports industry who have jobs a lot of us dream to acquire one day, so getting to work with them hands-on was a unique experience,” he said.
Associate Sports Management Professor Dr. Clay Bolton said these types of experiences help students build connections and gain real-world knowledge about the industry.
“Our group made lasting memories and was able to see what happens behind the scenes leading up to and on gameday at arguably the largest sporting event in the United States!” he said.
