L-R: Dr. Randie Timpe, Scott Peterson, Dr. Dan Martin, and Dr. Keith Newman review
planning notes.
Experience MVNU!
Inside this issue you will discover the ways in which the MVNU campus, sites and programs are experienced each day. You will gather a taste for the everyday life at Mount Vernon—whether as a traditional student living and learning on the main campus, or as an evening student in the Adult and Graduate Studies program at one of nine sites across Ohio. You’ll also read about some upcoming changes and investments in creating an even more fulfilling experience.
I am excited about all of the unfolding plans for the University in the days ahead—the revised campus plan will be completed this fall; strategic plans are being formed to continue the University’s development in both depth and breadth; our Adult and Graduate Studies continue to create quality and unique programs such as our Bachelor’s of Business Administration “blended” program (a mix of classroom and online studies); our new University Chaplain, Rev. Scott Peterson, has been dreaming and planning for the University’s spiritual life efforts; Ms. Lanette Sessink can’t wait to begin as vice president for Student Development and watch the Cougar Crazies in action; and plans are just about complete for an expanded Prince Student Union. These are great days at MVNU and the future is filled with tremendous opportunity! I will be presenting the Campus Master Plan and the University Strategic Plan to the Board of Trustees at the November meeting and, after their review and approval, the documents will be released to the broader MVNU community.
All of the plans and strategies for the future revolve around one thing—engagement. The University can do all it can to “Teach, Shape and Send” but there is a reciprocal role for the student—that is,
“These are great days at MVNU and the future is filled with tremendous opportunity!”
to “Learn, Grow and Serve.” Everything—seen and unseen—that happens each day on the campus is intended to foster this philosophy. In fact, it is the only way we will fully accomplish our mission: “to shape lives through educating the whole person and cultivating Christ-likeness for lifelong learning and service.”
Although each person’s MVNU experience will be unique and their own, there is certainly a common thread that can be traced to the University’s founding: the people with a passion for the MVNU Experience and all that it can mean—in lives, and in our world. Passionate people such as our faculty and staff, retirees and emeriti, friends, community leaders, alumni, parents, pastors and churches, and on and on. One thing I have learned is that there is no shortage of people who love this place and who will do anything they can to advance the MVNU Experience into the future with strength and vibrancy.
Although we embrace the past, and relish the present, each day we are trying to plan for a higherquality engaging experience that will challenge and prepare students’ hearts, minds, bodies, and souls for whatever and wherever God calls them.
Your prayers and support are welcomed in this endeavor to create a life-changing experience… actually, a world-changing experience.
Dr. Daniel J. Martin President
Campus Construction
Building the Campus Experience
Have you ever caught yourself staring at the calendar, wondering where the time goes? Summer days move so quickly, no matter what responsibilities you have. There never seems to be enough time to accomplish your “to-do” list. Imagine having the responsibility of preparing a university campus for 1,400 new and returning students. That challenge is reality for Denny Taylor, MVNU’s director of Facilities Management and Safety.
By Marcy Rinehart (‘91), WNZR Station Manager
This summer, Taylor and his department have worked on numerous projects. In Regents Hall, the nursing skills lab was expanded to include eight head wall units and roll beds where nursing students will gain practical experience. Students will also work in a simulated private hospital room where Sim-Man will be housed. A room in Founders Hall has been converted to an extension of WNZR radio with editing lab space where broadcasting students can complete both radio and video projects. The Cougar Den (barn) has been under construction as well, and will soon feature a large banquet room seating 80, kitchen serving facilities, a conference room, new restrooms, furnace, air conditioning and lighting. This project will be completed for Homecoming.
Several campus offices have been renovated. A new office has been constructed in Founders Hall for the Enrollment Services marketing event coordinator, and the Student Government Association (SGA) office in Hyson Campus Center has been renovated to support a user-friendly atmosphere. “The construction will offer a community-friendly workspace for SGA members that supports a creative atmosphere and an engaging style,” said SGA President Nate Okuley. “The livingroom-styled area will allow students to visit and engage in discussion. The most important aspect is keeping the students first. Our goal is to serve the student body and maintain transparency, so they can really see what SGA does and why.”
MVNU is committed to finding ways to conserve energy and Facilities Management has been given the responsibility to “lead the charge” in energy-reducing strategies. This summer, 60 new Energy Star windows were placed in Maplewood apartments and Founders Hall. These new energyefficient windows will save in the cost of heating and air conditioning. Other housing projects include 14 new showers in Maplewood, new carpet in 25 rooms in Galloway Hall and new laminate flooring for Central Complex.
• Broken drawers are fixed
• Lighting and plumbing problems are solved
• Furniture is reconditioned
• Office buildings and classrooms are cleaned
MVNU’s Facility Services crew is committed to presenting a beautiful campus with well-kept grounds, walkways and landscaping. In this vein, construction took place outside the Lakeholm Administration Building to provide visitors with new sidewalks, landscaping and specially placed stone walkways. The farm’s original stone walls next to the road have been recreated to form a welcoming entrance to the buildings, which will now be handicapped-accessible. Landscape architect Bob Stovicek from Vermilion, Ohio, designed the project, including the new eight-foot-tall sculpture of basalt stone columns with a cascading water feature. The Lakeholm building dates back to 1871 and MVNU President, Dr. Daniel Martin, saw this as an opportunity to preserve and protect a historic jewel of the campus and the community. “We sought to make a more attractive front entrance—one that reflects the beauty of the home and capitalizes on the natural environment,” said Martin.
In the midst of coordinating campus construction, cleaning, grass mowing and the maintenance of lighting and plumbing, Denny Taylor’s day includes purchasing, motor pool and
biggest challenge each day is to juggle the many responsibilities. His office handles an average of 20 service requests each day over the summer months and over 50 daily requests during the school year. These range from flooded rooms due to leaks, to heating or air conditioning problems.
In addition to special projects, painting and housekeeping crews kept very busy this summer preparing for Move-In Day:
• Over 500 gallons of paint are used
• Over 500,000 square feet of carpet are cleaned
• Living areas (105 apartments and 4 residence halls) get a thorough cleaning 9 times (top to bottom, inside and out with sanitization)
• Old mattresses are switched out
• Desks are cleaned
“We have to prioritize these requests to cater to our customers,” said Taylor. “The students are our top priority. Our department has recently gone through customer service training to provide the best possible service. We want to be the department that says, ‘Let us think about your request and try to solve your problem.’”
The next time you walk through MVNU’s campus and see a member of Facility Services, think about your own to do list and offer your thanks for their commitment and hard work.
Mount Vernon NOW
Technology at MVNU:
Movement, Momentum, Meaning
By Nathan Washatka, Communications Student Assistant
The University has been busy phasing in technological upgrades and innovations, introducing everything from wireless networks to video conferences and walking computer labs. The result, according to Director of Information Technology Tim Myatt (’82), has been a more mobile MVNU.
“We want to increase mobility,” Myatt said. “One of our primary goals is to facilitate learning by making students and instructors more mobile.”
Myatt and others have introduced several changes in recent months, but none has been more visible than the
recent upgrades to the University’s wireless network. Earlier this spring, MVNU expanded its wireless coverage to include all classrooms, conference rooms and common areas, like the cafeteria, the Prince Student Union and residence hall lounges.
“Having a wireless signal in the lobbies has met a significant need,” Myatt said. “I believe we’ll get wireless throughout the residence halls eventually, though I don’t know the pace at which we’ll pursue that.”
Technology is also changing the way instructors and students in Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) conduct
Mount Vernon
classes. Beginning this year, many AGS programs will issue students tablet PCs, which are lighter and more versatile than traditional laptops. Since students equipped with tablets will be a lot more mobile than their laptoplugging classmates, it now makes sense to install wireless networks in AGS classrooms.
“It’s almost as though tablets were built with teachers in mind,” said John Washatka, Director of Academic Services for Adult and Graduate Studies. “With the tablet, a teacher can walk around in classroom, still able to use PowerPoint and other programs.”
Another technological upgrade is taking place in AGS, but this one is actually aimed at making students less mobile – that is, a new video conferencing system will eliminate the need for students to drive long distances to class. Instructors will deliver lectures live from the Mount Vernon campus, and via two-way video and audio feeds, students at campuses throughout Ohio can listen and interact.
“This is essentially taking a traditional classroom and carving it up geographically,” Myatt explained.
“Everything will be live, so students and instructors can have group discussions.”
Mobility is at the heart of Myatt’s most exciting project: a portable computer lab. The University has bought an assortment of personal PCs, Macbooks and tablets which will be available at Thorne Library. Students, faculty and staff can use the computers in the library or check them out like books. “We’re taking the first steps this year,” Myatt said of the mobile computer lab concept. “If it works, we could do more in the future to reduce our static computer labs.”
All the upgrades mean MVNU is doing its part to keep pace with a tech-savvy society. But don’t think that the University’s pursuit of innovation is simply an exercise in keeping up with the Jonses. Myatt said that MVNU adopts technology for very specific reasons. “Our ultimate goal is to use technology to support instruction,” he said. “We can use technology for recreation and communication, but the primary reason we introduce technology on campus is to enhance instruction.”
When it comes to implementing technology, this University isn’t about to sit still.
A long-term project supporting both teachers and students is the Teaching and Learning Center that will come to fruition in Thorne Library over the next three years. Dr. Randie Timpe, vice president for Academic Affairs, outlined several shifts in higher education leading to the recent development of such centers:
• From a focus on teaching (instructor-centered) to learning (studentcentered),
• From colleges being generators of knowledge to conveyors of knowledge,
• From college libraries being warehouses of knowledge (mostly print resources to connectors or distributors of information (through electronic data),
The goal for 2008-09 is to find leadership for the Center.
The future of technology at MVNU is anyone’s guess. Myatt said the University is open to changes, and that some of the most popular innovations have been driven by student demand. Two years ago, students indicated in a survey that they didn’t like the University’s voicemail system, and that they wanted increased wireless coverage.
• From studying being a solitary activity to a group activity.
“Technology is changing how students learn, and should transform how faculty teach,” said Timpe. “MVNU’s Center for Teaching and Learning will support faculty development in their use of new technologies in the classroom, online assessments for learning, and teaching practices that build on student learning styles and preferences. A wide span of services will be available to students, including writing centers, workshops on video editing, the use of online student portfolios and more—all things that augment learning.”
“Just six months after that survey, we intro-duced a voicemail system that digitizes recordings and sends the electronic file to a student’s email,” Myatt said. “We’ve also just finished an expansion of the wireless coverage. Students love the new voicemail system, and they’re happy about the wireless.”
This fall the Information Technology Services office will send out another survey. Myatt is eager to read responses and learn what students think about technology at MVNU.
“When students talk, we listen,” he said.
When it comes to implementing technology, this University isn’t about to sit still.
A reflection of life on campus
By Lee Yowell (’06 MSM), Associate Dean of Student Development
Do you have a favorite shirt? My closet is full of t-shirts; it comes with the territory when you work at a university. College students have an unusual appreciation for t-shirts. It seems we make shirts for just about every campus event, we give them away when guests visit the campus, and they are the highly soughtafter prize for each MVNU intramural championship.
Well, in my closet at home, I have a favorite. My navy-blue, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church t-shirt—the very shirt I bought at a thrift store for 50 cents my sophomore year of college. This would be the shirt I would wear for a series of class competitions, known as University Games. Our class color was blue and 50 cents seemed like a reasonable sum to show off my class spirit.
I remember being in a number of events, activities, plus skit and talent shows, but when I think of this shirt, I think of the “fish-and-egg game.” The game consisted of me gently duct-taping an egg on my forehead, then carrying my teammate on my back, as she brandished a very large gutted fish with the intent of smashing the eggs of the other seven teams. I’d like to tell you that we won the day, but a senior girl slammed (with incredible force, I might add) her fish in my face. Alas, the egg was crushed along with our dreams of victory. Walking back to my apartment covered in fish guts and egg yoke, I remember stinking to high heaven, but laughing all they way back with my apartment mates. My shirt smelled awful, so I threw it outside on the stairs behind our apartment, where it stayed for the rest of the year.
Yes, living on campus means more than just being able to roll out of bed five minutes before class and still be on time, eating in the cafeteria, and living without Mom and Dad. At no other time in students’ lives will they have the opportunity to engage within this type of community. It is a time in one’s journey that is unique to college life, living with hundreds of people your age, with similar schedules, common interests and shared experiences. Whether you’re looking for someone to go work out with, get a snack at The 586, study at the library or make a random trip to Wal-Mart, there is almost always someone willing to go along with you.
MVNU sophomore, Justin Nowicki, had this to say, “On the weekends, we’re always doing something either planned or unplanned. Whether it’s an impromptu game of Ultimate Frisbee, participating in SGA events such as Friday Night Live, or heading to a basketball game—there are always things to do on campus.”
Life on campus is eclectic in nature and something you have to experience to understand. It consists of all-nighters, dorm pranks, tennis golf and late-night pilgrimages to Taco Bell. There are talks with resident directors, faculty members who swallow all pride during guest appearances at Mr. MVNU, and a shockingly realistic Napoleon Dynamite impression by the university president. In some cases it means meeting a spouse, making life-changing decisions during a chapel service, or going on a cross-cultural experience that will transform your perspective forever.
Year after year, we see students who are a bit apprehensive about having a
roommate and living on a floor with 40 other people. Yet four years later, these individuals who were strangers are standing in each other’s wedding photos, attending graduate school together and supporting one another through life’s trials.
The uniqueness of living on campus is attributed to the broad range of clubs, activities and opportunities that exist, combined with the myriad of personalities, interests and backgrounds of our campus community. There is literally so much going on that no one could possibly experience it all in four years. This could be the reason that a dedicated few stick around for that fifth year. Sometimes families and students ask me if it’s worth it to live on campus. My response is that they will have their entire lifetime to live off campus. This is an opportunity to be a part of something special, and the time goes by so fast. Ask MVNU alumni and they will tell you just how quickly it passes.
As I was packing up to go home for the summer that year, I decided rather than throwing away my t-shirt, that it had sentimental value and thus deserved a reprieve. After seven long months in the sun, rain and snow, I took it to the laundry room and washed it with a healthy amount of what was likely the cheapest detergent available. Years later, I still have the shirt and wear it often. When I meet up with friends from college, we remember those stories and the hundreds of others. It’s those experiences and relationships that matter. That’s why we have the clubs, events, concerts and activities—because long after the intramural t-shirt has transitioned to a dusting rag, those memories and relationships remain.
AGS
Diary of an Adult Student
By Carrie A. Crouch, Director of Communications
Assisted by Tammy Adams, Assistant Director of Enrollment Management
Three women. Three learners. One decision—to attend MVNU. One of author John Maxwell’s favorite sayings is, “Though you cannot go back and make a brand new start, my friend, anyone can start from now and make a brand new end.” Take a glimpse into the lives of these three Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) students…
5:30 p.m., Tuesday night, Polaris
Dear Diary,
Eating dinner each week with my cohort has helped me to make some lifelong friends that I will always cherish, as well as crucial professional connections. The support I receive from my fellow students is incredible and the camaraderie is inspiring. The teachers are excellent and their real-world experience has been essential to my understanding of the coursework. It hasn’t always been a neatly paved road, but with a learning environment based on Christian principles, I have overcome the adversity to achieve my educational goals. It’s been comforting to pray at the beginning of each class. I find that my performance is enhanced when it is God-centered.
— Carrie Walker, Polaris
9:45 p.m., Saturday, at home
Dear Diary,
As a married, working mom of four girls, I never thought I’d have the time, energy, or desire to go back to college. But when circumstances at work changed and it became obvious I’d need a bachelor’s degree, I made that huge leap of faith and enrolled at MVNU.
I was very worried about how the family and I would deal with this extra time commitment I was making. But this wasn’t just something I was doing, it was something our family was doing.
It has been a comfort to know the other students in my cohort are in the same boat. All of us have made sacrifices to balance work, school and family. It has helped to know that someone is always there—to listen, sympathize and help put things back into perspective.
— Rachael Gilroy,
Lima
2:30 p.m., Saturday, MVNU Commencement
Dear Diary,
In reflecting on my experiences at MVNU, I can remember sitting on my couch two years ago crying, begging God to show me what to do next with my life. I was tired of feeling like I wanted more. Suddenly, a TV commercial for the AGS program appeared. I filled out the application immediately; it was the answer to my prayers. Now that almost 22 months have passed, I can honestly say it was the best decision I have ever made.
— Carrie Walker
For more information on Adult and Graduate Studies at MVNU, visit http://ags.mvnu.edu or call 1-800-839-2355.
The command center of the MVNU Crisis Response Team (CRT) isn’t much to look at.
It’s more of a cabinet, really—a few shelves stocked with flashlights, orange vests, a spare telephone, some radios, sticks of deodorant and toothbrushes.
But don’t think that the CRT isn’t prepared. Their network of resources stretches across the campus and greater Mount Vernon community.
In other words, they’re ready.
“So many things can happen during an emergency, we can’t be fully prepared for every possible scenario. But we are prepared to respond quickly. People are in place and we’re ready to communicate,” said Dr. Peggy Oldham, the associate vice
Safety on Campus
First response: Campus safety high priority
By Nathan Washatka, Communications Student Assistant
president for Student Development. Oldham has led the Crisis Response Team for the past three years and has overseen the development of policies and procedures designed to respond to campus emergencies. Under her leadership, the CRT has met with local safety authorities, learned from the experiences of other campuses, and provided training for MVNU personnel.
Safety has become a top concern at many universities across the country, and MVNU is no exception. Whether it was the tornado that destroyed half the campus of Union University (Tenn.) earlier this year or the shootings at Virginia Tech University and Northern Illinois University, recent tragedies have reminded the academic world that it’s not immune to very un-academic problems.
So what does MVNU do to keep people safe? The answer starts with Oldham and MVNU’s CRT, which comprises dozens of faculty and staff. There is a defined chain of command, with
A, B and C Teams in place to ensure that the campus will be ready to respond to an emergency even if certain members of the CRT are absent. The University’s Crisis Response Plan is outlined online at www.mvnu.edu/crisis , and the CRT regularly participates in “tabletop exercises,” or drills that simulate emergencies ranging from tornados to bomb threats.
“The CRT began in 1995 after a gas explosion seriously injured a student,” Oldham said. “People might not have understood why a crisis response team was necessary in the mid-1990s, but enough tragic events have happened in the last six or seven years that people understand why it’s necessary.”
“And parents expect it,” she added.
While the CRT would play a fundamental role in the event of a major emergency, other organizations and individuals on campus
“One of the biggest dangers is complacency on the part of the students. Students have an active role in protecting the campus,” Taylor said.
take the lead in keeping MVNU safe on a day-to-day basis. Foremost among these, of course, is campus safety.
“Our first role is to protect students, to keep out people who shouldn’t be here,” said Denny Taylor, the director of Facilities Management and Campus Safety. To that end, Taylor and his crew have redoubled their efforts to monitor who is entering and leaving campus: among other initiatives, they keep officers on patrol 24 hours a day, they’re planning to add security cameras at key points across campus, and they’re launching an educational campaign this fall aimed at informing students on how to stay safe.
“One of the biggest dangers is complacency on the part of the students. Students have an active role in protecting the campus,” Taylor said.
Mount Vernon is a relatively small community, but that doesn’t mean MVNU will never face an emergency. “We’re not in a bubble,” said Eric Browning, director of Counseling and Wellness. Browning is a member of the CRT B Team and, along with Campus Ministries, he would help provide counseling services for members of the MVNU community following a traumatic event. While eager to dispel the misconception that small campuses are safer than big campuses, Browning said that small communities do have their advantages, especially with regard to preventing and preparing
for emergencies. “People don’t slip through the cracks as often in smaller communities. It still happens, but not much occurs on a small campus that doesn’t get noticed.”
When it comes to addressing the emotional and psychological needs of students on campus—something that could help prevent troubled students from harming themselves or their classmates— Browning said education and communication are vital.
“We consult with faculty, staff and student leaders about whom they should talk to if they sense someone is having problems. We train Spiritual Life Assistants and Resident Assistants what to do with students who threaten suicide,” he said.
Proving that small communities do have their advantages, MVNU maintains a working relationship with emergency services in Mount Vernon. Taylor said members of the Mount Vernon Fire Department have visited campus to familiarize themselves with the different buildings. The school also has a system in place that notifies local emergency dispatchers exactly where on campus a 9-1-1 call originates.
Keeping a campus safe is obviously not an easy task. Despite the measures Oldham and others have put into place, the MVNU community can’t be ready for every possible emergency. That doesn’t mean the University isn’t a safe place
though—it just goes to show that tragedies and emergencies are, by definition, unpredictable.
“I never feel totally prepared,” Browning said. “We can make up scenarios and get to a certain level of preparedness. But when something happens, you can’t have thought through all possible contingencies.” Taylor agreed. He said, “I think we’re prepared for a major emergency, but there’s always a process of ongoing training. That’s true of any organization. There are always more scenarios we can practice, always more training we can undergo—and that’s what we’re doing.”
Some things you should know:
• MVNU has a Crisis Response Team that meets monthly.
• A Crisis Response Plan and Crisis Communication Plan are in place. They can be viewed online at www.mvnu.edu/crisis
• Students can sign up for the Emergency Text Message notification system.
• Students should go to my.mvnu.edu and click in the left column on Campus Emergency Notification, then follow the steps to input their cell phone information.
• When students call 9-1-1 from a campus phone, emergency responders are able to pinpoint their general call location to a campus building.
• MVNU has long-standing, positive relationships with local authorities.
• Local authorities visit campus often, to:
• Conduct regular fire drills, test fire alarms.
• Conduct fire training with all residence staff, including actual use of extinguishers and exiting from a smoke-filled building.
• Become familiar with campus and residence hall layouts.
• MVNU works hard to maintain awareness of all local, state, regional and national safety and security issues.
Where to find information:
Your first and best point of contact for finding information during a campus emergency is on the Web site (see below). This is where the most accurate, up-to-date information will be posted. Chances are, however, that servers may be overloaded with people hitting the site. Please be patient as we work to maintain the site.
The Emergency Hotline (see below) is also available and will have the most up-to-date information possible. Be aware that the staff members manning these phone lines will not be allowed to release specific details or names of people involved in an emergency situation for legal reasons. Please exercise patience.
You may also consider tuning in to campus radio station WNZR 90.9 FM (or listen online).
MVNU will attempt to make contact by phone with all parents should a campus-wide emergency occur.
Key Contacts:
www.mvnu.edu
Watch for special red emergency banner in the event of a crisis
www.mvnu.edu/crisis Includes Crisis Response Plans, members of the team, etc.
Emergency Hotline (740) 397-9000, ext. 5000 (activated only during an emergency)
MVNU Counseling Center (740) 397-9000, ext. 4610
Parent Helpline 1-866-462-MVNU, option #4
Special reminder:
Parents—you need to check your homeowner’s insurance policy to be sure your student’s belongings are covered for any damage that may occur in residence halls or apartments. They are not covered on MVNU’s plan.
Mount Vernon NOW
Get to Know Scott Peterson
By Carrie A. Crouch, Director of Communications
From rooting on the Dallas Cowboys to being a book worm, new Chaplain Scott Peterson brings a fresh persona to spiritual leadership at Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
Peterson is responsible for developing, directing and supporting MVNU’s spiritual formation efforts. This includes:
• Leading Campus Ministries staff
• Speaking in chapel and planning for chapel guest speakers
• Providing pastoral care and guidance to the campus
• Counseling students and others in crisis/bereavement
• Partnering with Academic Affairs to enhance students’ character development
He brings 18 years of pastoral experience at many levels. Dr. Fred Fullerton, consultant to the University in the chaplain’s search, stated, “Scott is a positive, forward-looking, relationally oriented leader. He can step into the university chaplain assignment with ease and grace and establish himself as a person of relevant influence.”
Southern Beginnings
As a boy in Dallas, Texas, Peterson dreamt of being a quarterback for the Cowboys. I wanted to be Roger Staubach, but it never quite worked out,” he said, laughing. “My father is from Arkansas and I grew up going to their games. I suppose I’ll have to make some adjustments in Buckeye country.”
Grounded in Christian values, Peterson headed to Southern Nazarene University in 1985 (then Bethany) and graduated in 1990. Few may know that he took a year in between to attend the University of Texas at Arlington on a singing scholarship. When he returned to SNU, he enjoyed traveling with music groups.
A Heart for Ministry
SNU faculty and staff helped shape Peterson’s view of serving God and others. With a history undergraduate degree, he earned a master’s in theological studies from Trevecca and spent 11 years as a youth pastor. At Olathe, Kan., College Church, he transitioned to associate pastor for one year before heading to the West Coast.
“Keith Newman, MVNU’s vice president of University Relations, was a big factor in my eventual landing in California,” said Peterson. “He was the senior pastor at Mission Valley and, when he left for Mount Vernon, recommended me to the congregation.” He has served as senior pastor there for the last five years.
A New Environment
“One of the first things I want to do at MVNU is to understand university culture,” Peterson explained. “While I’ve worked near universities and known many faculty members, I’ve never worked on a campus.”
As he feels his way through this new landscape, he looks forward to both the big and small things. “Brennan Manning is scheduled to be on campus this fall, and I’m a big fan,” he said. “Long-term, part of both my and Dr. Martin’s dream is to be at the forefront of chaplaincy and student ministry for the entire country. We want to see MVNU on the cutting edge.”
While it will take creativity and innovation to accomplish this, Peterson’s personal goal is to be known for kindness and caring. “I want people to see me as a person after God’s heart,” he commented. “A unique strength I feel I bring to the chaplaincy is a sense of humor. I tend not to take myself or the world too seriously. Work has to be enjoyable.”
Party of Four
Peterson brings with him his wife Katie and sons Cody (14) and Zachary (11). “Following God’s call in my life has been an adventure for my entire family,” he said. “We’ve can look back and see very clearly God’s hand at work.” He added that Job 42—seeing God act and move in your life and in that of others—has been especially significant to him lately.
Reading is a big part of Peterson’s life. “There’s not much I don’t like to read. I just finished Good Earth,” he said. “Reading a variety of books provides me with a broader view of the world. Some I’ve really enjoyed include Into Thin Air by John Krakauer and The Shack by William P. Young.”
“We're excited to be a part of the MVNU community,” he concluded. “It’s a school with a great history and bright future. We believe that God has great things in store for all of us as we journey together.”
Visit MVNU’s Chaplain’s blog at mvnuchaplain.wordpress.com.
Sessink joins MVNU as VP for Student Development
By Carrie A. Crouch, Director of Communications
Growing up in a family of six kids, Lanette Sessink truly understands how to keep the peace, comfort the hurting and challenge herself. That’s part of what makes her a perfect fit for MVNU’s new vice president for Student Development.
“I’m very close to my family. While it wasn’t the deciding factor in coming to Mount Vernon, I love that I’m now closer to home in Michigan,” said Sessink. “It’s where I go when I need hugs and support.” An Olivet Nazarene University graduate, she also holds a master’s degree from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich.
Some of her responsibilities at MVNU include leading staff and students; creating and implementing student development programs focused on academic achievement, social character, spiritual growth, leadership skills and community responsibility; embracing and facilitating opportunities to engage the campus in celebrating diversity; and coordinating campus crisis response efforts.
All of her previous experience will aid Sessink in her work with students, athletics and academics. “I worked for Chrysler Corporation for ten years, and a lot of my administrative skills were honed while working there,” she explained, “but I missed being around students and higher ed.”
A call from MidAmerica Nazarene University’s athletic director opened doors to be the head volleyball coach and to teach. “I admit I had a negative attitude about applying for the position at first because I knew absolutely nobody at MNU,” said Sessink. “But after nine interviews for the job, I felt a peace about accepting it.”
She most recently served as chair of health and exercise, associate athletic director and associate professor. During her tenure at MNU, she worked closely with Student Development and Athletics in a number of capacities, including Student Life Council, Judicial Council, resident assistant training, chapel speaker, coach and implementer of a Character Banquet for athletics.
“Sessink’s strong communication skills, positive high energy and work in athletic administration will be of great benefit in this leadership position,” said search consultant Dr. Gordon Golsan. “She is committed to the success of each student and her experience will enhance the student environment at MVNU.”
“My favorite saying is, ‘It’s all about the students,’” said Sessink. “I am very excited to get to know the people at Mount Vernon. I want to share in their goals and assist in implementing them, while sharing some dreams of my own.” She may greatly assist the University in the master planning process for a future athletic facility, an exercise she’s recently come through at MNU.
“I have worked hard in helping to build bridges between academics, athletics and student development. I’ve been on all three sides,” she shared. “I want to help make students’ four years at MVNU the best experience possible.”
During the search and interview process, Brooke Robinson, Student Government Association representative, commented, “Ms. Sessink was incredibly interested in students and being involved with them. She met with about 15 students on her own in the evening and asked many hard-hitting questions about the University, our perceptions and what we wanted to see. I greatly respect her interest in student life here at MVNU.”
Perhaps Sessink isn’t that far from her childhood dream of being a nurse. “I want to be known for having compassion for students,” she concluded. “I love them. Students come by my office just to get a hug or just to talk or cry. That’s what I love about my job, and I never want to give that up.”
Who Knew?
10 things you didn’t know about Lanette Sessink
• High school volleyball state champion.
• Biked across America in 1988.
• Is finishing her Ed.D. dissertation at Saint Louis University.
• Favorite sports to watch: football, college basketball. Sessink has always been a huge Michigan fan, but has a healthy dose of respect for the Buckeyes.
• If she could have a superpower: slowing down time to cherish every moment.
• Favorite Bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Philippians 4:13
• Named to Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers in 2004.
• Loves to read.
• Coordinated volunteer trip to Neosho Church of the Nazarene during Kansas flood.
• Served on Work & Witness trips to six other countries.
Parsons named SID of the Year
NAIA story
Dave Parsons (’94, ’06 MSM), MVNU Sports Information director, received the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) 2008 Clarence “Ike” Pearson Award for SID of the Year.
“Dave not only carries out the expected tasks of his position, but he goes above and beyond his duties.”
“I am extremely humbled to receive this award and join the list of outstanding former recipients, many of whom I consider mentors and personal friends,” said Parsons. “This is a tribute to the fine coaches and student-athletes who make up the successful MVNU teams who make my job so rewarding. It is also a tribute to my wife, Carla, and two daughters, Ashley and Kylie, who are so supportive of the work I do and the crazy hours I keep.”
Parsons is in his 10th season as MVNU’s SID. Overall, he has performed in some sports information capacity since 1990 at MVNU. He is an active member of NAIA’s Sports Information Directors Association (NAIA-SIDA) and the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) and has served on various committees. He is currently NAIASIDA president.
He has served as tournament director for events such as the women’s basketball Wazie Shootout, the MVNU Volleyball Invitational and the NCCAA National Volleyball Tournament. His professional accolades include American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Grant Burger Media Award regional finalist in 2007; six CoSIDA writing contest awards, including three Best in District honors; three CoSIDA publication contest awards, including one Best Cover award; and numerous NAIA-SIDA contest awards.
“Dave not only carries out the expected tasks of his position, but he goes above and beyond his duties,” said MVNU Athletics Director Scott Flemming. “MVNU has had numerous student-athletes win the top awards that the NAIA presents. Although these young men and women were deserving of these awards, they would never have happened without Dave’s diligent work in initiating the nomination and gathering all the materials.”
Since 1977, the Pearson Award has been SIDA’s highest honor, recognizing accomplishments and service performed over a career. The honor is named
Parsons is shown with wife Carla ('98 Whitaker) and daughters Ashley and Kylie.
Cougars Capture Sixth NCCAA National Title
By Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director
MVNU’s baseball team capped off an impressive run in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) National Tournament to capture the program’s unprecedented sixth NCCAA national title downing Indiana Wesleyan University 8-3 in the championship game.
Season Highlights (for full recap, visit cougars.mvnu.edu)
• The Cougars finished the season with a 39-21 overall record— tying the school mark for most games played in a season (60).
• MVNU advanced to the championship game of the NAIA Region IX Tournament for the ninth straight year.
• Senior third-baseman Richey Burgos became the program’s career leader in hits (281), at bats (701), walks (137), and games played (209), while also finishing second in batting average (.401), home runs (35) and RBI (206). He became the 20th former Cougar to sign a professional contract when he inked a deal with the Chillicothe Paints of the Frontier League.
• Senior left-handed pitcher Levi Curry, who notched two wins in the NCCAA National Tournament, posted a 10-3 record on the mound with a 3.98 ERA and three shutouts to finish 17-7 overall in just two years at MVNU.
• Senior shortstop Ross Yoder finished his two-year career with the Cougars having batted .394 with 19 home runs, 86 RBI, and 131 runs scored. He led all NAIA players in 2008 in assists per game as he recorded a school-record 232 assists.
• Junior second baseman/pitcher Josh Estep, who was the Most Valuable Player of the NCCAA National Tournament, finished the year hitting .384 while also posting a 6-1 record on the mound.
• Sophomore first baseman Matt Parks registered a schoolrecord 460 putouts.
• As a team, the Cougars turned a school-record 72 double plays.
Falkenberg earns NAIA’s Liston Award
By Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director
Ben Falkenberg, a 5-foot-11 guard on the MVNU’s men’s basketball team, was the recipient of the prestigious Emil S. Liston Award given annually by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
The award recognizes a male and female junior basketball player for their excellence in playing ability, scholarship and character. Given since 1950, the award honors the NAIA’s first executive director Emil S. Liston, founder of the National Association of Intercollegiate Basketball.
A senior from Wadsworth, Ohio, Falkenberg was the fastest player in school history to score 1,000 points in just 53 games. He stands just 3 points shy of becoming the fifth player in school history to score 2,000 points as he already ranks fifth in number of points with 1,997. He also ranks third in career 3-pointers made (354), has handed out 274 career assists and has shot 89.2 percent from the free-throw line for his career (331-for-371). MVNU has posted a 75-24 record during his three seasons with the Cougars and has advanced to the NAIA Division II national tournament each year.
Falkenberg has compiled an impressive 3.84 grade point average as a biology major. He has traveled on mission trips to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, and has assisted with Vacation Bible School at his home church. He has also worked various basketball camps and free clinics and has provided individual basketball instruction for players in the Wadsworth area.
As the winner, Falkenberg will receive a $1,000 scholarship from Daktronics. He becomes the third MVNU player to receive the award, joining former Cougar standouts Alan Bock (2005) and Tom Clark (1986).
Featured
Successful first year for nursing program
The School of Nursing and Health Sciences completed its first full year of operations at MVNU with a bang! The Lord has blessed with so many accomplishments in such a short period of time. The Nursing Department continues its efforts toward full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing. During the conditional approval period, progress reports must be submitted to the Board for approval every six months. The Department received two favorable responses from reports submitted during the 2007-08 academic year. The School will host a site visit for full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education in April 2009.
Community-minded
Our first group of nursing students began their clinical practicum this spring. Both students and faculty were very excited. Initial clinical sites were in assisted living facilities, followed by long-term care, and finally acute care hospital experiences. The students made an excellent impression on the community with their knowledge, skill and professional behaviors. Comments such as “You’ve promised us a great nurse and you have delivered!” were common from the health care agencies. Staff nurses and patients complimented the faculty on the wonderful work and attitude of our students. They truly took Christ to the many lives they touched!
Faculty and facilities
Our Clinical Learning Laboratory on campus is under renovation! The new lab will be fully operational by fall 2008 (see rendering below). With the help of Elaine Benedict, Clinical Learning Laboratory manger, hi-fidelity simulation was successfully incorporated into our curriculum. Benedict continues to attend workshops and training sessions to enable her to bring state-of-the-art clinical learning to our students.
Two faculty, Esther Rudolph and Virginia Hallenbeck received a grant funded traineeship from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to attend a conference on geriatric nursing. The traineeships are funded by the John Hartford Institute. In addition, Professor Hallenbeck completed a course in genetics to further the School’s imitative toward inclusion of genetic content across the curriculum.
New program for RNs
The new baccalaureate completion program for registered nurses admitted the first students in February 2008. This flexible program for working adults will provide an avenue for registered nurses to expand their practice and prepare for the future challenges in health care. For more information, visit ags.mvnu.edu.
External support
The community continues to support the School’s work in many generous ways! Six of our students received scholarships from the local AMVETS (shown above, right) and the School received four grants last year. Two were designated to assist with the development of the Clinical Learning Laboratory and two funded faculty traineeships.
School of Nursing and Health Sciences mission:
Educating nurse leaders to model Christ in meeting the health care needs of the community through the ministry of nursing.
Rebecca Wagner received certification as a nurse educator through the National League for Nurses. The certification recognizes excellence in nursing education. In addition, she was selected as a podium speaker at Indiana Wesleyan’s Nursing Innovations in Faith-Based Education conference in June.
Dr. Teresa Wood received an invitation to present at the University of Cincinnati’s Scholarship in Teaching and Learning conference for her work in program development and outcome measures. She will present her paper on the Scholarship of Program Development. The paper explores the influence of nursing’s epistemological traditions on MVNU’s philosophical statement.
So, you can see we’ve had a busy year. Thank you to all who have been praying to make our program a success. We’re looking forward to another exciting year preparing student nurses for an exciting career in nursing!
MVNU receives grant funds from Weyerhaeuser for the nursing program.
Campus Highlights
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
An MBA with European flare
Fourteen students and faculty traveled to Europe as part of the Young Executive MBA (YEMBA) program. The group spent four days in London where they visited the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, as well as the world-famous Harrods department store. The group then took the Eurostar through the Chunnel to Paris where they spent five days exploring the city’s many historical treasures, including the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triumph. A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a trip down the Seine river valley to Giverny for a visit to Monet’s famed lily pond.
LinkedIn professional networking site
LinkedIn is a business and professional networking website that is available at no cost to the user. Simply go to www.linkedin.com and register as a user. There is an existing group called “Mount Vernon Nazarene University Alumni, School of Business” available to those interested in networking, seeking employment and/ or collaborations. The intent is to link graduates of all business programs, whether traditional undergraduates, adult or graduate majors in all MVNU business programs, as well as MVNU alumni who selected other majors but now serve in some area of business.
SCHOOL OF NATURAL AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
based company that develops and distributes augmentative/ alternative communication (AAC) devices for individuals who are unable to use their natural voices.
“One of our fastest-growing user groups is autistic children. They can express their needs, reducing frustration for the child and parents,” Miller explained. “Another large audience is injured military veterans. They prefer the PDA organizer device.”
To improve the existing software, Miller employed MVNU student interns. Together, they are bringing customer-requested enhancements to the software program, including increased speed, new voices, additional languages (six are offered currently) and greater usability.
adaptable. They teach you ‘how to learn,’” he said.
It’s personally gratifying to Miller to know his work is benefiting others. “This project is a very practical application of computer programming skills that helps people directly,” he said.
Sociology program updated
The YEMBA program allows students to complete their degree in 11 months while attending class two mornings a week. An international trip is built in to the program as a culminating experience. Last year the group travelled to South Korea, and Kenya is planned for next year. For more information on this one-year MBA program, please contact Scott Boyer at (740) 397-9000, ext. 6006.
Miller leads student team in developing speech technology
www.mvnu.edu/news
Jared Miller (‘07) is working to improve upon and create new avenues for life-changing technology. He is employed by Saltillo Corporation, an Ohio-
“So far, we’ve been fixing some bugs in the program, attempting to help it run more efficiently,” said intern and MVNU junior Joe Kalb. “The software for this project is just massive,” explained 2008 computer science grad Rob Read. “It’s a new challenge for us, but it’s been an excellent learning experience.” Ashleigh Stelter, a 2008 math graduate, is the third intern.
As an alumnus, Miller is familiar with the interns’ knowledge and skill level. “The program provides a really good foundation so that you can branch out into other things. Technical college grads tend to have a specialty in one area, but MVNU makes you
This fall, significant changes to MVNU’s sociology curriculum will result in a more generalized major that students can tailor to their specific interests. Students will now take five core courses that focus on perspectives and methods of sociology, and emphasize research and integration components. In addition, students take an additional 27 credits of their choosing, including new course options such as Sociology of Early Christianity, Medical Sociology, Sociology of Deviance or Sociology of the Family.
This new approach allows flexibility in advising sociology majors on an individual basis, in order to take advantage of the breadth of the discipline and to prepare students for future aspirations. Many elect to pursue a second major that uniquely parallels their passions, graduate school interests and future plans. To learn more, contact Department Chair Colleen Bryan (cbryan@ mvnu.edu) or Professor Dr. David Caddell (dcaddell@mvnu.edu).
Forensic science track available for chemistry majors
Students interested in forensic science careers may now choose a major that will prepare them for entry-level positions or specialized graduate study in this growing field. The projected need for forensic scientists is expected to increase 36 percent nationwide by 2014. The new forensic science track is an option within the chemistry major with related courses in criminal justice and biology, which are expected for graduates entering this field. An internship experience is also an important part of this track to provide appropriate professional training. For more information, contact Department Chair Dr. Joseph Lechner at jlechner@mvnu.edu.
SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AND PHILOSOPHY
Experience Israel with MVNU
Ephesus. Galatia. Athens. Constantinople. Jerusalem. Egypt.
To students, these aren’t just names in the pages of the Bible or history books. They are
stopping points in academic trips which students have the opportunity to take during MVNU’s January term. In recent trips, they’ve drunk water from Paul’s well in Tarsus, trekked along Asia Minor to Colossae and southern Galatia, visited Antioch where the early believers were first called Christians, walked through the remains of the Seven Churches of John’s Revelation account, saw the prison in Philippi where Paul was freed by an earthquake, and stood on Mars’ Hill in Athens where he proclaimed the Gospel of the Unknown God.
We believe in hands-on learning. Biblical literature, theology and church history come alive for
students when they see them with their own eyes and relate them to studies and devotional times. And you can travel with them! If you’d like to join the Israel trip, with an optional extension trip to Egypt planned for January 2009, or come along to Turkey and Greece in January 2010, or sponsor a student, please contact Dr. Rick Williamson at rick.williamson@ mvnu.edu or call (740) 397-9000, ext. 3616.
Intercultural immersion: Semester in Brazil
www.mvnu.edu/blogs
Immersion in the culture and language of another country for a full semester is an essential part of any Intercultural Studies (ICS) program. This spring, nine ICS majors traveled to Campinas, Brazil, with Dr. John Hall. They were Leah Barker, Scott Brubaker, Laura Erskine, Deirdre Mc Cord, Chase Penix, Laura Reindel, Miranda Stull, Jamie Schmelzenbach and Andrea Woods.
“Even though we have been home for a couple of months, the many friends and the countless experiences that graced our lives in Brazil have not been forgotten,” said Hall. “We have been changed in many ways.”
Students were involved in a number of practical ministries, mostly at the Campinas Central Church of the Nazarene, a church of over 8,000 members. These included playing in the orchestra, working with the teens and youth, and teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) in a before- and afterschool program for the children of a shantytown.
Several students caught buses at dawn to spend long days working in Cidade dos Meninos (Children’s Town). This place provides home, school, church and daily life for about 300 at-risk children, some of them former street children, who now have hope and a future because of this ministry.
“This has been an amazing experience that I will benefit from for the rest of my life. It has also been [a] confirmation of my call,” wrote Andrea Woods.
“I know that God made me for this and I love it. The benefits of this life and work far outweigh the pain of separation. I will return one day.”
Future immersion experiences are being planned with many possibilities for other academic programs.
Jared Miller ('07) leads the way in developing speech assistive technology.
Brazil semester-abroad student Miranda Stull with some new friends.
The Grapevine
1970 s 1980 s
Denise (Pittman ’79) McPheron is the administrative assistant to the superintendent of Christian Academy Schools in Sidney, Ohio. Bruce McPheron (’79) is a lab technician for Emerson Climate Technologies in Sidney. They celebrated their 30th anniversary on Aug. 19, 2008. drmcpheron@yahoo.com
Brian White (’79) was honored for his No. 1 Country Song “Watching You,” recorded by Rodney Atkins. At the top of the charts for five weeks, it was named Country Music’s Most Played Song of 2007, SESAC’s Song of the Year, and was nominated for the Academy of Country Music’s Song of the Year. White also received a Dove Award nomination for his song “James White,” recorded by Earl Scruggs. Brian writes for Brentwood Benson Music/Universal Music and makes his home in Nashville, Tenn. bwtunes@hotmail.com
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Greg Gardner (’83) is the senior pastor at the Circleville First Church of Christ in Christian Union in Circleville, Ohio. He has been in pastoral ministry for 16 years. He previously spent nine years as an instructor, coach and athletic director at Ohio Christian University. His wife Rebecca is a Circleville Elementary School teacher. They have four children: Jessica, Jordan, Corbin and Casey Jewell. ggardner@rrohio.com
Bruce Helmbrecht (’83) married Beth-Marie Rowe Barnett on May 17, 2008, at the church where BethMarie pastors. Bruce is employed with Farmers Insurance and his daughter, Camilla, is 15 years old. helmbrechtbd@aim.com
Jeannie (Brown ’85) Rogers recently received a master’s degree from Bowling Green State University in teaching and curriculum. She and husband Alan have a daughter and son in college, a son in junior high and a son in elementary school. Jeannie continues to teach reading for Willard City Schools. ajrogers93@verizon.net
Larry (’88) Lain just completed a Master of Music in choral conducting at Syracuse University in May 2008, and serves as associate pastor at Coshocton Church of the Nazarene. He is married to Verna (Ware ’88) and they have six children. coshnaz@coshocton.com
1990 s
Ann (Mullet ’90) and Mark Dettmer (’97) announce the birth of Kaiden Mark on Feb. 23, 2008. He joins siblings Brock (7), Caleb (4) and Kylee (6). Mark just finished his eighth year as senior pastor at Mansfield First Church of the Nazarene and Ann substitute teaches for Clearfork and Lucas School Districts. Mkdtmr@aol.com
Brenda (Galliher ’90) McClean received her State of California Notary Public commission and has started a business called “As Your Servant” Mobile Notary Services. She remains very active in her church, including singing on a worship team and in the choir, occasionally playing percussion and serving on the tech team. Her husband, Jammy, is an ERT at the local hospital. They have two children, Brooklynn (12) and CJ (4), and reside in Vacaville, Calif. bkmclean@hotmail.com
Kelly (Campbell ’90) Pack was recently named the director of behavioral health at Rehabilitation Services of North Central Ohio. She received her MSW from The Ohio State University in 1995. She and her husband Brian reside in Lexington, Ohio, with their four children: Micah (15), Noah (8), Isaiah (6) and Rebekah (4). pack.kelly@gmail.com
Jennifer Milne (’93) received her master’s degree in education in January 2008. She teaches alternative education and is the girls’ head basketball coach at Rochester High School in Rochester, Pa. jennifer.milne2@verizon.net
Heidi Shaw (’93) married Douglas Calvert on July 26, 2008, in Gatlinburg, Tenn. bigheid@aol.com
Kurt (’94) and Kayla (Tink ’94) Bosworth returned from Ethiopia with two adopted children in April 2008. Senite (12) and Kaleb (4) join their four siblings: Koryn (8), Ayden (5), Bryce (5) and Brooklynn (3). Kurt is a researcher for Battelle and a worship leader for Hilliard Church of the Nazarene. Kayla is a stay-at-
Reader Response
home mom. Their adoption/family blog is kurtandkayla.blogspot.com. kkbosworth@yahoo.com
Doug (’95) and Jennifer (Myers ’94) Graham recently adopted daughter Dakota “Cody” Mae, born March 30, 2008, in California. Proud grandparents are Bob and Willadene Graham (Cincinnati, Ohio) and Bob and Rhea Myers (Cedarville, Ohio). The family resides in Cedarville, Ohio. dr27graham@sbcglobal.net
Timothy Mark Salo (’94 MMin) received his Ph.D. in theology and philosophy from Drew University in New Jersey on May 7, 2008. His dissertation title in historical theology and on Pietism was An Orthodox Lutheran View of Ecclesiology: A Doctrinal and Practical Exchange Between Valentin Ernst Loescher and Joachim Lange.
Todd Feasel (’95) is the program director for Cornerstone of Recovery in Dublin, Ohio. His wife Carletta (Cumston ’99) is full-time mom to their three children, Julia (10), Jared (7) and Jason (5). tbfeasel@aol.com, feselcarletta@aol.com
Stephen Starr (’96) and wife Jenny celebrated the birth of their second child, Abigail Brooke, on May 21, 2008. sstarr@ohiohealth.com
Nathan (’96) and Christina (Gray ’98) Williams recently relocated to Cambridge, Ohio, where Nathan works as a district manager for American General Finance. They welcomed fifth child, Claire Evaline, on Feb. 12, 2008. She joins siblings Gerrad (9), Grayson (7), Kathryn (4) and Braden (2). ncg2williams@aol.com
Reggie (’97) and Jill (’98 Loftin) Hetsler welcomed Andrew Chase on March 24, 2008. He joins big sister Madyson (6) and brother Kaden (2). regandjill@aol.com
Andy (’97) and Barb (Hathaway ’97) Lauer recently moved to Toledo, Ohio, to start Emmaus Road Church near the University of Toledo. They’ve been
married for 12 years and have three children: Oscar (5), Edie (4) and Naomi (1). andybarblauer@gmail.com
Joanne (Mabee ’97) and Kert Richardson announce the birth of Makayla Faith on Sept. 22, 2007. She was welcomed by brother Ethan (3). Kert is a computer consultant, and Joanne is a stay-at-home mom and Pampered Chef consultant. They recently moved to Webster, N.Y. joanne_richardson1@yahoo.com
is associate pastor at Beavercreek Church of the Nazarene and Jenelle works part-time as a pediatric physical therapist. They reside in Beavercreek, Ohio. jrobertson@bcnaz. com, jenellerobertson@gmail.com
Justin (’00) and Kelly (Walters ’01) Shetler welcomed Ainsley Collette on April 18, 2008. She joins big brother Ethan (2). Kelly teaches seventh-grade math at Perrysville Junior High School in Loudonville, Ohio, and Justin teaches eighth-grade math at Clearview Middle School in Lorain. The family resides in Wooster. Iloveicecream34@hotmail.com
Entries with a camera icon ( ) have a photo available online.
To view these photos, visit grapevine.mvnu.edu
David (’00) and Dana (Basham ’01) Hutsko celebrated the birth of Allison on Aug. 1, 2007. She was welcomed by siblings Alexandra (5), AJ (3) and Aiden (2). David is Teaching and Preaching pastor at Warren Woods Church of the Nazarene and Dana teaches preschool and serves as the church’s Early Childhood director. dhutsko@wwnazarene.org
Matt (’01) and Jai (Holland ’00) Keller welcomed Addie Jalyn on June 9, 2008. Matt and Jai are both principals with Delaware and Imagine Schools. jmkellerus@yahoo.com
Melissa Miller (’00) works as the Midwest regional coordinator for Mu Kappa, a ministry of Barnabas International that helps missionary kids (MKs) readjust to life in the United States. m_d_miller2000@yahoo.com
Michael (’01) and Aimee (Singer ’00) Morrison reside in Dayton, Ohio, with their four children: Grace (6), Gabe (4), Rachael (3) and Eleasha (1). Michael is an administrative assistant at a memorial company in Xenia, Ohio, and Aimee is a stay-at-home mom. mmorrison6670@sbcglobal.net
Jason (’00) and Jenelle (Garber ’01) Robertson welcomed Colton Frederick on January 15, 2008. He joins big brother Zachary (2). Jason
Matt Walls (’00) and Heather Robinson (’01) were married on July 21, 2007, at New Philadelphia, Ohio, Church of the Nazarene. They reside in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Matt is a marketing analyst at Cardinal Health and Heather is a fourth-grade teacher for Licking Heights Local Schools. heatherrob1978@msn.com
Jon Burke (’01) and wife Kelly celebrated the birth of Hayley Grace on May 13, 2007. The family resides in Mount Vernon, Ohio. jk11052@hotmail.com
Nicole (Bost ’01) announce the birth of Anne on March 25, 2008. She joins big sisters Hannah (13) and Grace (2). ncaddell@cinci.rr.com
Shawn Miller (’01) married Mareka Mason on May 24, 2008. Shawn is an IT recruiter for Pomeroy IT Solutions. smiller_4@hotmail.com
Steve (’02) and Chafin ’02) Baney Simon Randall on April 23, 2008. Steve serves as worship/associate pastor at Faith United Methodist Church and Adrian is a counselor at Family Life Counseling in Mansfield, Ohio. Both are graduates of Ashland Theological Seminary. The family resides in Ashland, Ohio. adrianbaney@hotmail.com
Please feel free to submit photos of weddings, babies, etc. to Mount Vernon NOW, 800 Martinsburg Rd., Mount Vernon, OH 43050, or by e-mail to alumni@mvnu.edu, or online at grapevine.mvnu.edu.
NOTICE: Due to space limitations, we will no longer publish baby weights and measurements. Thank you for understanding.
2000 s
Elizabeth (Sabey ’02) Enderton graduated from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine on June 7, 2008. She has now completed an osteopathic internship at University Hospitals in Richmond Heights, Ohio. esabey@yahoo.com
Melissa (Shively ’02) and Kevin Hagstrom announce the birth of Mason Lloyd on Feb. 5, 2008. He was welcomed by brother Dylan (3). The family resides in Englewood, Ohio, where Kevin is an accountant and Melissa is a stay-at-home mom. krhagstrom@verizon.net
Amy (Scott ’02) and Wendell Lee welcomed Roman Scott on April 4, 2008. anscott@hotmail.com
Andrea (Stumpf ’02) and Eric Milnar welcomed Maveric William Andrew on Jan. 5, 2008. He joins brother Elija (2). The family resides in Chesterland, Ohio, where Andrea is the director of youth ministry at Christ Presbyterian Church. ammilnar@yahoo.com
Matt (’03) and Lesli (Hall ’04) Anderson celebrated the birth of first child Gavin Matthew on May 28, 2008. The family resides in Westerville, Ohio. lmanderson04@yahoo.com
Keri Harris (’03) married Aaron Kitchen on March 28, 2008, in Grayson, Ky. Keri is a family preservation therapist for a mental health agency and is working toward a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Aaron is a financial advisor with Wachovia Securities. Keri also remains a volunteer youth pastor at her church, where she and Aaron met as children. View wedding photos at www.radiance-photography. com. keriah@yahoo.com
Jessica Pope ('03) married John Franz of Kansas City, Kan., on March 15, 2008. John is a graduate of Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kan. The couple resides in Kansas City. jessicalfranz@yahoo.com
Kelli Shearron (’03) married Matt Blinn on April 28, 2007, in Columbus, Ohio. The couple resides in Bowling Green, Ohio, where Matt is a videographer at WBGH-PBS and Kelli is an assistant in the Office of the President at Bowling Green State University. kellisblinn@gmail.com
Rob Norman (’04) and wife Amber welcomed first child, Aryn Elizabeth, on June 29, 2008. Rob is entering his third year of medical school at Ohio University. m157906@ohio.edu
Ryan Smith (’04) received his Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Nazarene Theological Seminary in May 2008. He resides in Pasadena, Calif.
Nate Owens (’05) married Hope Tallent on June 7, 2008, in Kansas City, Mo. Nate’s father, Randy Owens, presided over the ceremony. The couple lives in Lenexa, Kan., and they both work at Nazarene Headquarters.
Amy Allen (’06) was honored with the title of Miss Southern Ohio 2008 on April 5, one of the local titles in the Miss America Scholarship Program. She competed for the title of Miss Ohio in June 2008 in Mansfield, Ohio, and recently won first runner-up in the Miss Black Ohio pageant. mvnucheer@yahoo.com
Kristina Brayton (’06) is working with Impact Ministries International in Comyaugua, Honduras. She is living in the ministry’s orphanage, helping to care for and teach the children. She also takes photos and updates the children’s profiles for sponsorship and ministry presentations.
Adam Hodges (’06) is the assistant general manager for Marriott’s Fairfield Inn in Gainesville, Fla. spuraddict2005@yahoo.com
Benjamin Powers (’06) and wife Emily welcomed their first child, Evelyn Grace, on March 23, 2008. The family resides in Cardington, Ohio. rev_ben_powers@yahoo.com
Mindy Bogard (’07) is teaching second grade at Emmanuel Christian Academy in Springfield, Ohio. mindylbo@hotmail.com
IN MEMORY
Eileen Bennett, 83, went home to be with her Lord on July 18, 2008. She retired in 1991 after 23 years of employment in MVNU’s library. She was a member of Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene. She is survived by husband William, two sons, two daughters, 14 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Russell (Rusty) Bellomy, 71, died tragically in a motorcycle accident on July 18, 2008. He served as a member of MVNU Board of Trustees and Ashland, Ky., First Church of the Nazarene. He dedicated much of his life to Work & Witness, participating in 31 trips around the world. He was a retiree of AK Steel (39 years). Bellomy is survived by wife Nancy, son, two daughters, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Please pray for his grandson, who was also involved in the accident and has a long recovery ahead.
Dr. Larry Fairbanks, 58, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 31. Fairbanks served as district superintendent of the Northwest Ohio District Church of the Nazarene and was an MVNU Board of Trustees member. He previously pastored in Kentucky, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maine, Tennessee and Ohio. He is survived by wife Kathy, son, daughter, brother LeBron (former MVNU President), sister and two grandchildren.
Dr. William Griffin, 84, transitioned to his heavenly home on Monday, Aug. 4. As an ordained minister with the Church of the Nazarene, her served in the pastorate for 40 years. He served as assistant to the president at MVNU from 1990-97 and was the ambassador-at-large for the university since that time. He was a member of Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by wife Margaret, two daughters, son, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Alumni On the Road
Tom West, Alumni Relations director, is coming to YOU this fall. Join MVNU at one of many “On the Road” events across the country. Get caught up on campus news, learn of alumni happenings and visit with friends and family. For out-of-state gatherings, see alumni.mvnu.edu for additional details. See upcoming campus event calendar on back cover for other items of interest.
SEPTEMBER
30 Gahanna Network Lunch, Hickory House, noon
OCTOBER
2 Cincinnati Network Lunch, Max ‘n’ Erma’s (Union Center), noon
14 Cleveland Network Lunch, Longhorn Steakhouse (Independence Ave.), noon
16 Columbus Network Lunch, Smokey Bones (Polaris), noon
Dayton/Beavercreek Network Lunch, Red Robin (Fairfield Commons), noon
Newark Network Lunch, Olive Garden (Heath), noon
Charleston, W.Va., Network
Upcoming Events
Be a part of life at MVNU! Join us for these special events. All events are free unless marked with an asterisk. For additional details, visit calendar.mvnu.edu or mvnu.edu/news.
Oct. 5 Art Exhibit, Brooke Hunter-Lobardi, printmaking/mixed media, opening reception 2-4 p.m.
Oct. 10 MVNU’s 40th Birthday Chapel Celebration, Chapel, 10:20 a.m.
Oct. 11 Cougar Sports Associates’ Champions Banquet,* Dining Commons, 6:30 p.m., cougars.mvnu.edu
Oct. 13 MVNYou Visit Day, go to admissions.mvnu.edu
Oct. 14 Lecture/Artist Series: Film “Forgiving Dr. Mengle,” Thorne, 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 14 Wind Ensemble and Central Ohio Brass Band, Chapel, 8 p.m.
Oct. 22-24 Fall Revival, Rev. Randy Beckum (speaker), “1000 Generations” (music), Chapel, 10:20 a.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Oct. 27
Lecture/Artist Series: Joel Klepac, “Beauty and Reconciliation, Thorne, 7:30 p.m.
Alumni & Friends Cruise
(Sperling
(Click on “MVNU Alumni Family and Friends Cruise 2009,” password MVNU.)
Oct. 14 “Forgiving Dr. Mengele” Oct. 22-24 Fall Revival
Nov. 3
Nov. 19-21 Brennan Manning
Instrumental ensembles concert, Chapel, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 6-7 Fall Play,* “Our Town,” Thorne, 8 p.m.
Nov. 13-15
Homecoming* (see inside or visit homecoming.mvnu.edu)
Nov. 15 Fall Play,* “Our Town,” Thorne, 2 p.m.
Nov. 19-21
Estep Prayer Lecture Series, Brennan Manning, Chapel, 10:20 a.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Dec. 1 Jazz Band concert, Prince Student Union, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 4 Goliards concert, Thorne, 8 p.m.
Dec. 7 Handel’s Messiah, Chapel, 7 p.m.
Dec. 13 Winter Commencement, Chapel, 10:30 a.m.
Jan. 10 Slam Dunks & Slices, go to admissions.mvnu.edu
Jan. 19 MVNYou Visit Day, go to admissions.mvnu.edu
2009
Jan. 23-24 Church Finance Workshop,* visit churchrelations.mvnu.edu
Jan. 31 Slam Dunks & Slices, go to admissions.mvnu.edu