Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement MaryKathryne.Wadford@newberry.edu
PLEASE SEND INFORMATION CHANGES & CORRESPONDENCE TO Office of Alumni Relations
Newberry College 2100 College Street Newberry, SC 29108 Alumni.Relations@newberry.edu
Dimensions magazine is provided to you as a service of Newberry College. Please consider making a gift to support this and other services newberry.edu/giving/givenow.
Reflection on Dr. Scherrens’ Legacy
a word from the Chair
As I’ve reflected on Dr. Scherrens’ legacy, I find it exists not only in what he accomplished at Newberry College, but in what he left within each of us who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
I’ll always remember the first time we met—our connection was instant. We shared similar experiences in college administration and a deep commitment to student-centered leadership. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to serve with him. As a trustee since 2017, I witnessed again and again the joy in his eyes when he spoke about Newberry’s growth, its promise, and its people. What I will cherish most is how he helped shape me - and our board of trustees - to believe more deeply in the potential of my alma mater, because his passion made it impossible not to.
For our college, Dr. Scherrens’ legacy began when he answered the call to lead Newberry. He and Sandy brought more than experience - they brought heart, vision, and an unwavering belief in what Newberry could become. From their earliest moments on campus, sitting together by the fountain in front of Holland Hall, they felt a sense of calling that became a shared commitment to transformation. With clarity of purpose and steadfast leadership, Dr. Scherrens led Newberry through one of its most dynamic eras. His vision is visible across our campus - in the buildings, the academic programs, the athletic expansion, and in the record enrollment that speaks volumes about his ability to turn belief into reality.
But his greatest legacy cannot be measured in bricks and numbers alone. It lives in the spirit he instilled across our campus - the belief that a small college in rural South Carolina can dream big, achieve more, and serve students in life-changing ways. Dr. Scherrens made us believe in ourselves. He inspired faculty, staff, trustees, and students to see not only what was, but what could be. And with Sandy by his side - particularly in her transformative work in enrollment - they helped open Newberry’s doors wider than ever before to students whose futures will be forever shaped by our college.
As we remember and celebrate Dr. Scherrens, let us honor his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately began. This is a moment for each of us - alumni, friends, and partners - to ask how we might answer the call. Whether you mentor a student, support a program, or make a gift that opens doors for future Wolves, your time, talents, and treasures will carry forward the vision that Dr. Scherrens brought to life. Let us match his belief in Newberry with our own, ensuring that the momentum he built will not only be remembered - but multiplied for decades to come.
Dr. Lenna Corley Young ’77 Chair, Newberry College Board of Trustees
Messages from the Newberry College Alumni Association Board of Managers
Matt Fogle ‘09, President
I was sad at the passing of Dr. Scherrens, who I knew as a devoted family man and who I saw do so many great things at our college. During his tenure "Morrie" ushered Newberry College through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. His visionary leadership expanded academic programs, improved student outcomes, and enhanced campus facilities. Dr. Scherrens’ inclusive and student-centered approach has left a lasting legacy, positioning Newberry College for continued excellence and impact. I was always impressed by his warm and welcoming spirit. In the meetings and interactions we had together I knew he was always looking to improve outcomes for the good of others - I was inspired by his selflessness. He will be missed, but well remembered.
Please make sure your information is up-to-date (mailing address, email address, phone number, etc.) at newberry.edu/update. This is the best way to stay connected and experience all the benefits of being a Newberry College alum.
Jessica B. Shealy ‘12, Past President
President Maurice Scherrens is a visionary leader whose steady guidance and deep commitment to Newberry College have left a lasting impact. I had the privilege of working alongside him both on the Alumni Association Board of Managers and the Board of Trustees, where his collaborative spirit and strategic insight helped refocus our efforts and chart a course toward a stronger, more united future for our college community.
Forever A Wolf
The Incredible, Lasting Legacy of President Dr. Maurice Scherrens
By Sean Johnson, Director of Athletics
(adapted from the April 25, 2025 edition of Newberry Observer)
Newberry College and Newberry College Athletics suffered a terrible loss with the passing of our president, Dr. Maurice Scherrens.
Dr. Scherrens became president of Newberry College in 2012. Over the next thirteen years, he led the College through a transformative era. Under his leadership, the College added graduate programs, grew enrollment by nearly 60%, and expanded campus
infrastructure with the first new buildings since the 1970s— including academic spaces, residence halls, and athletic facilities. Most importantly, he cultivated a culture that placed students at the heart of every decision.
He loved everything about Newberry College and took great pride in growing opportunities for student-athletes and celebrating the triumphs of our student-athletes and coaches. During his time as President, the Wolves won numerous championships and added several sports, including men's and women's lacrosse, women's wrestling and acrobatics and tumbling, men's and women's track and field, women's field hockey, and triathlon.
Earlier this month, the College followed through on another sport he championed; men's volleyball, which will become a varsity sport next year. Adding those sports created new opportunities for students to attend Newberry College, increasing student-athlete enrollment from 580 to 800.
Many of the facilities that are making a difference in the lives of Newberry College student-athletes were constructed or renovated during Dr. Scherrens' tenure. The Melvin and Dollie Younts Athletic Performance Center and Founders Federal Credit Union Fieldhouse in particular were two of the most impactful additions to Newberry College Athletics in the last 40 years.
Academic achievement has also been a hallmark of the department under the stewardship of Dr. Scherrens. Most recently, 13 of the 14 inductees to the 2025 Bachman Honor Society were studentathletes. Twenty-four student-athletes earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-American honors since 2012.
Dr. Scherrens made a profound and lasting impact on Newberry College Athletics. Through his memory and the advancements made possible by his commitment to student-athletes, Newberry College will continue to be a top contender in both competition and academic achievement.
Welcome Center Renamed in Honor of Dr. Maurice W. Scherrens
Newberry College is proud to announce the renaming of its Welcome Center to the Scherrens Welcome Center, in honor of Dr. Maurice “Morrie” W. Scherrens. This dedication recognizes more than a decade of transformative leadership and service that Dr. Scherrens and his wife, Dr. Sandy Scherrens, gave to the College community.
Located at 2104 Luther Street, the Welcome Center serves as the front door to Newberry College—often the first stop for prospective students and their families. It is a fitting tribute to a leader who warmly welcomed all and tirelessly championed student success, institutional growth, and the spirit of Newberry.
The naming of the Scherrens Welcome Center ensures that Dr. Scherrens’ legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations to come, reflecting the impact he made through his vision, compassion, and commitment to excellence.
Barbara “Bobbie” Sides ’80 Scholarship Fund
Any discussion about the tenure of Dr. Maurice Scherrens would be incomplete without also discussing the impact and legacy of Barbara “Bobbie” Sides ’80, who passed away on December 20, 2024 at the age of 82. As the College’s longtime chief of staff, she was a trusted advisor and friend to Dr. Scherrens, as well as faculty, staff, and members of the Board of Trustees. She touched countless lives with her kindness, generosity, infectious spirit, and subtle yet delightful sense of humor.
Bobbie's connection to Newberry College was a cornerstone of her life. She fell in love with its character and charm, earning her secondary education there. Recognizing its potential, she dedicated 50 years to strengthening its foundation, ensuring its legacy would thrive for generations to come. In doing so, she unknowingly created a legacy of her own - a legacy built on love, service, and unwavering commitment to a place she held dear. Her unwavering devotion to her family and to the College left an indelible mark.
Her family established a scholarship fund in her memory, ensuring that her legacy will endure for years to come. Contributions to her scholarship fund can be made online at newberry.edu/give or by check with “Bobbie Sides scholarship” in the memo line, made payable to Newberry College, 2100 College St. Newberry, SC 29108. Gifts can also be made over the phone at 803.321.5363.
Help Build the Next Chapter of Newberry College
While small colleges across the country are closing their doors, Newberry College is thriving — with five consecutive years of record-breaking enrollment, expanding academic programs, new facilities, and growing regional impact.
Now, we’re calling on our alumni, community, and friends to help ensure that this momentum isn’t just a moment; it’s a legacy.
WHY NOW?
Newberry College is not standing still. We’re:
• Growing strategic academic programs with strong return on investment
• Expanding online and hybrid learning
• Attracting record numbers of students
• Supporting displaced students from closing colleges
• Investing in new buildings, facilities, and athletic programs
• Contributing over $100 million annually to the local economy
But sustaining this success — and staying competitive in a rapidly changing higher ed environment — requires flexible, visionary investment.
YOUR IMPACT
• Keep Newberry affordable and accessible
• Attract and retain top faculty and students
• Ensure institutional agility in an uncertain environment
• Strengthen our standing among private liberal arts colleges
• Invest in a bold, resilient, student-centered future
Permanent legacy. Provides long-term financial aid to Newberry students — many of whom are first-generation or under-resourced. To learn more and see the endowed scholarship listing go to newberry.edu/giving/donors.
Join us in laying the foundation for the next chapter for Newberry College. newberry.edu/giving/newberrys-next-chapter.
Timeline of Major Achievements at Newberry: Dr. Morrie Scherrens (2012–2025)
• Appointed President of Newberry College on August 13.
• Broke ground on the Speers Street School Revitalization Complex
Opened the Smith Road Soccer and Softball Complexes, marking the first new athletic facilities since the 1970s.
• Welcomed the world to Newberry College during the total solar eclipse. Setzler Field was a NASA-designated viewing site.
Opened the Center of Teacher Education at the former Speers Street Elementary School
• Launched the online Bachelor of Science in respiratory therapy degree program, the only such program in South Carolina.
Established the men's lacrosse program, which grew into a nationally ranked team.
Debut of Esports team.
Opened the College’s eighth residence hall, Pearson Hall. Broke ground on the Melvin and Dollie Younts Athletic Performance Center.
Led the College through the COVID-19 pandemic
Opened the Melvin and Dollie Younts Athletic Performance Center, enhancing training facilities for student-athletes.
Celebrated the first graduates of the Master of Science in Organizational Development & Leadership program.
• Broke ground on three new buildings, including academic and residential facilities, as part of the "Scaling the Summit" capital campaign.
• Announced partnership with Newberry Health to open a community clinic adjoining the Darby Nursing & Health Science Center.
Welcomed the largest incoming class in school history, increasing enrollment to over 1,300 students, increasing student enrollment by nearly 60% from 2012.
2020 2021 2022 2023
Announced the launch of the College’s first master’s program in a century – the Master of Science in Organizational Development & Leadership.
• Unveiled the AMC Turf Practice Field, expanding athletic training spaces.
• Launched third online master’s degree program, the Master of Arts in criminal justice.
Announced historic new partnership with the South Carolina National Guard, which includes a $1,000 scholarship, acceptance of all tuition assistance from the South Carolina Army National Guard, and an on-campus liaison for students who are members of the guard.
• Opened the College’s ninth residence hall, Midlands Hall, a 100-bed residence hall for sophomore students.
2024
• Opened the Darby Nursing & Health Science Center, an 11,000-square-foot facility providing enhanced equipment and learning opportunities for the College’s nursing and health science programs.
• Opened the Founders Federal Credit Union Fieldhouse, further enhancing athletic infrastructure.
Launched partnership agreements with Piedmont Technical College to streamline degree completion for early education and graphic design transfer students.
Renovated MacLean Gym and upgraded locker rooms and training facilities for various sports programs.
• Baseball team won both the SAC regular-season and tournament titles, hosting the NCAA regional tournament.
• College reached its highest U.S. News & World Report rankings – #10 Best College - Regional South; #3 Best Value – Regional South; #4 in Social Mobility – Regional South; and #2 Best College for Veterans –Regional South.
2025
• Introduced men's volleyball as a varsity sport, expanding athletic opportunities.
• Launched the College’s fourth online master’s degree program, the Master of Education in teaching, learning, and curriculum.
One of the main reasons I took the Men’s Lacrosse position at Newberry was because of Morrie. His vision and commitment to the growth of Newberry were something I wanted to be a part of. He always maintained an open-door policy and was willing to help in any way he could. Morrie wanted the best for everyone, believed in us, and always had our back.
Thank you for all your support, which has helped me grow both as a coach and as a person. I will continue to fulfill my promise to bring this program to the top and earn that championship ring.
Dr. Scherrens made it a priority to meet with all the coaches throughout the year, particularly at the end of the season, to reflect on how things went and what could be improved. He always said, “Don’t come with a million questions on things to fix—come with just three.”
Coach Cotter’s Three Questions:
1. How are you doing, Dr. Scherrens?
2. Usually something lacrosse-related for the program.
3. And question three was always: Can I ask three more questions?
He always laughed when I brought this up in our meetings, and I’ll always remember how much he appreciated the humor.
Nick Cotter
Stories of Impact from the Newberry College Community
Dr. Scherrens was such a kindhearted soul. He always took time to listen to me, and I knew he was genuinely listening to me. He was a very authentic leader and cared deeply about students and their success no matter their background.
I saw him in Wednesday Chapels a lot by himself (when he was extremely busy) I know he had a strong and deep commitment to God. One thing that always stood out to me was that he always gave credit to others for good outcomes when the majority of the time the positive outcomes were because of him and him alone.
He was a personable President and humble, which is hard to find.He was always very respectful of my husband Kurt and I and appreciative of the commitment we had toward Newberry College and to him. My heart goes out to Sandy and his family during this time.
I was very blessed since President Scherrens arrived on campus at Newberry College in 2012 to witness and experience his generosity and well-being for the students, faculty, and staff. An example of this was when my son Chris was making his final decision to attend Newberry College or the University of South Carolina (USC). He had already verbally committed to attending USC with a friend from high school. However, he still took a tour of Newberry College where President Scherrens graciously met with him. His words of encouragement and genuine interest in my son changed his mind, and Chris enrolled at Newberry College in the fall of 2013. I later asked him why he decided to attend Newberry, and he told me, “Dad, they really care about me here”. I attributed this to President Scherrens and always told him that Chris was his first recruit. A picture of Chris and President Scherrens at graduation is proudly displayed in my home.
I have many more examples of his generosity that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am truly going to miss President Maurice Scherrens (Morrie), a man that did so much for Newberry College. His love, commitment, dedication, and vision will always be remembered. He was not only a great president but a true dear friend that I am going to miss. My continued prayers to Sandy and the rest of the Scherrens family.
-Keith Ringer, Class of 1984
He was “there.”
President Scherrens was “there.” He was “there” for play performances, for special events, for meetings, and for those that labored at the college. He was “there” for the students and their families. (Often/always with Sandy by his side.)
There’s not much more that could have been asked of him. His absence will be felt, and his presence will be missed.
-Matthew Fuller
-Tiffany Ragin
My first encounter with President Scherrens was at the Presidential Scholarship Competition in January of 2024. After receiving the award, he relayed to me that he was offered a higher-paying position at Coastal Carolina University- a university less than 20 minutes from my home, but he chose Newberry College because he felt a need for a genuine presence here at Newberry College. It was only then that I knew where to attend school as I had other scholarship offers as well. Thanks to President Scherrens and the Newberry College Family, I am loving college life.
I did not have too many personal encounters with President Scherrens, but I do know that his messages at convocations and his ability to bring us together as a family is what I will always be grateful for. So many of my beginnings and much of my journey stems from my time at Newberry. It has shaped my path to be exactly where I need to be. I appreciate what Newberry and President Scherrens has given us all.
-Tamara Stemmer, Class of 2020
In May 2017, Dr. Scherrens hired me to become the Director of Athletic Bands at Newberry College. During my interview, he challenged and inspired me to grow the marching band (in what was considered unreachable numbers at the time) to a level that would bring joy and honor to our campus and community. While his charge was firm and clear, he also promised me his support and encouragement throughout the process and journey. During the next 8 years, we met twice a year where he would ask how things were going and HOW COULD HE HELP. Not once did he not support or provide the Scarlet Spirit with what we need to achieve our goals set out in 2017! His love for Newberry College and the students was evident to me by his unwavering support and dedication. He attended many of our concerts in the Department of Music, many athletic games where the marching band performed, and always came by to say thanks to our students. He also made it a priority to greet and welcome our prospective marching band members each year at our Join the Band Day event. He always made our music students feel respected and appreciated!! I could not have worked for a better person, more supportive president, or devoted man than Dr. Scherrens. I will miss him dearly and wish I would have had the opportunity to tell him this face to face just one more time!
Rest in Peace my friend!
-David Santiago
I remember my first week as a freshman at Newberry. We all had to gather in the chapel area for a talk that President Scherrens was giving and, in his talk, he told the entire class he had an “Open Door Policy “to any student who wanted to stop in and connect more personally. Well, me being as ambitious as I was at that time, later that afternoon to his surprise, I actually took to heart and took action on walking into his office with the goal of just introducing myself. I will never forget what he told me initially, “Um, are you in trouble, how can I help you? “I chuckled and looked him in the eyes and said “No! I’m not in trouble, you told all of us you had an opendoor policy, and I wanted to introduce myself. “He looked at me with that slight smile of his and the look of someone who was proud & impressed. He knew that he was talking to a serious student… President Scherrens would always say at the end of his speeches “If not you then who? And if not now, when? “. I can still hear him saying those words. He believed in me, in us, and Newberry College. He will be deeply missed and loved.
- Nathaniel J Carrasco, Class of 2022
Dr. Scherrens was the man who gave second (and sometimes third and fourth) chances. Under many circumstances over the years, I witnessed him embody the words of Jesus to forgive seventy times seven. He was always willing to see the best in people.
-Christina Wendland
I graduated from Newberry College during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, and I remember Dr. Maurice S. very well. His smile was very contagious, and his optimistic attitude, generosity, and enthusiasm was very apparent. RIP President Maurice S. -Peyton Harmon, Class of 2020
Dr. Scherrens had a warm presence, genuine smile, and an impeccable memory of remembering names. His impact was immense, and he will be missed.
-Blake DuBose, Class of 2005
I pray for peace that surpasses all understanding for the family. I will definitely miss Dr. Scherrens here at the college!
-Helen Renee Arnold
My husband and I attended an alumni event at Thirst Fellows in Columbia last year. We mingled with some folks and then sat down at a table. Shortly after sitting, a man and his wife approached us and asked if they could sit with us. It was Dr. Scherrens and his wife. They made conversation easy especially as they talked about the growth of the College. He was so proud of his wife as he gave her credit for the growth. He also raved about the nursing program at Newberry. Dr. Scherrens accomplished so much in his years at Newberry! He will be sorely missed by many.
-Tamara Douglas, Class of 1981
I knew in August of 2014, when Dr. Scherrens issued out the challenge for me to do the ALS Ice Bucket challenge, it was going to be a special relationship, and it truly was! RIP
-Dr. Peggy Winder, Class of 1986
I remember very vividly when I had my first interaction with president Scherrens. My fraternities had an event called “soak a sigma” where we were fundraising by dumping large buckets of cold water and ice water on our heads. Dr. Scherrens came out in his business attire and decided to get wet with us and it was an overall pleasant experience with him just to see a smile on his face.
get an education but also make sure they enjoyed their time at Newberry College. It is our responsibility as board members to carry out the mission he had for this school. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Dr. Scherrens. Job well done.
I was presenting at one of our admissions events and President Scherrens joined Sandy during this presentation. The presentation was for the prospective students' parents.
Sandy let me know after the presentation that President Scherrens leaned over while I was presenting and said, "She's very good."
I left that day feeling so proud of myself because he took the time out that day to not only spend time and converse with our prospective students' families but watch me do what I love.
-Myasia Byrd, Class of 2022
Anna Walters Peake ’18 and her husband, Douglas, welcomed their daughter Phoebe, on April 2, 2024.
Births
Danton Hyman ’19 and his wife Taylor, welcomed baby boy Callaway on June 13, 2024.
Ashton (Koon) James ’12 & Shaw James ’13 welcomed a daughter, Lydie, on Jan. 4, 2024.
Erica (Teal) Buff ’16 and her husband, Sean, welcomed a son, Brayden, on March 25, 2024.
Degrees
Robin Mazyck Sundaramoorthy ’95 earned her doctorate from the University of Maryland in 2024. Her dissertation explores efforts by the Federal Communications Commission to increase minority broadcast ownership. As a journalism and media historian, her work focuses on silences, gaps, and omissions. She now serves as an adjunct professor in the Merrill College of Journalism, after having spent 20 years in TV news, most recently as Washington, D.C., bureau chief for CBN News.
Carla Boozer '96 earned her MBA with specializations in business analytics and human resource management from the University of South Carolina at Aiken in August 2024. She was also inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honor society.
Tabi (Dorsey) Tye ’18 earned her Doctor of Nursing degree from Rush University in April 2024.
Sara Payton James ’15 welcomed daughter, Hallie Mae, on May 20, 2024.
Dr. Emily (Franklin) Goodwin ’15 and her husband, Chase, welcomed a child, Parker, on Dec. 28, 2023.
Megan (Packer) Acciani ’12 and her husband, Matthew, welcomed their second child, Sawyer Maeve, in February 2024.
The Rev. Kevin Strickland ’04 earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology in May 2024.
NewberryWeddings
Chelsea Ellisor ’16 married Ryan Whitlock at The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer on March 15, 2025.
Gavan Rikard ’18 & Brooke Ball ’20 April 19, 2024
Alexis Higbe ’23 & Dillon Morris
April 27, 2024
Connor Roudabush ’17 & Sarahna Herndon
June 8, 2024
Laura Beth Shealy ’16 & Pierce Spangler June 22, 2024
Meagan Bedenbaugh ’21 & Stephen Rumfelt Oct. 19, 2024
Whitney (Metz) Mitchell ’09 earned her doctorate in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University in December 2024.
Jordan Barnes ’21 & Chansel Minick Nov. 9, 2024
Alexis Bryant ’18 & Tyler Fuhr ’20 Nov. 2, 2024
Dylan Francis ’20 & Kendall Allen Nov. 9, 2024
Madison Bickley ’23 & Dayton Knight July 6, 2024
Katrina Smith ’98 & Kedrin Wright July 12, 2024
Mark Richardson ’20 & Margaret Anderson Nov. 2, 2024
Darius Starks ’16 & Rheyanah Clayton Jan. 25, 2025
Awards & Honors
Dr. Allison (Hunter) Buchanan ’00 earned the 2024 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. She serves as professor and associate chair in the Department of Oral Biology & Diagnostic Sciences.
Corey Bedenbaugh '12 was named Lexington Three's Teacher of the Year and the South Carolina Teacher of the Year for 2026. He teaches eighthgrade South Carolina history at Batesburg-Leesville Middle in BatesburgLeesville, South Carolina.
Myasia Byrd '22 received the Lt. Colonel John Powell & Melisa Bates Road Warrior Award from the Carolinas Association of Collegiate Registrars & Admissions Officers.
Careers
Avery B. Wilkerson Jr. ’78 retired Sept. 15, 2024, from the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission after 16 years of service as a commissioner.
The Rev. Lewis Groce ’84 was appointed executive director of Peavine Care Center food pantry, based in Crossville, Tennessee, in June 2024.
Rev. Katrina Foster ’90 was elected as Bishop of the ELCA Metropolitan New York Synod in May 2025.
Dr. Malinda B. Cobb ’95 started as interim superintendent of schools for Richmond County, Georgia, on Jan. 1, 2025.
Beth Tarver ’98 celebrated 26 years with the South Carolina Dept of Social Services in November 2024.
Blake Mayes ’00 is the Director of Safety at Gillam & Associates.
Tony Thrift ’01 started a new job as a sales associate for JC Warren Real Estate in Warren, Pennsylvania, in September 2024.
Matt DeWitt ’02 became city manager of Camden, South Carolina, in July 2024.
Angela Sease Reid ’02 has joined Newberry College as the Alumni Relations Manager.
Dr. Megan Carrero ’03 was appointed principal of Lakeside Middle, in Lexington, South Carolina, in June 2024.
Lt. Col. Valerie Knight ’03 retired Nov. 22, 2024, after 21 years in the U.S. Army, most recently as secretary of the general staff for the 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives Command.
Charlie Goens ’08 started a new job as director of parks & recreation for Radford, Virginia, effective March 17, 2025.
Najla Bubtana ’09 started a new job in November 2024 as a mediator with Upchurch Watson White & Max in Miami.
Seabron LeCompte ’09 started a new job as digital marketing specialist for MIND Education.
Bret Story ’10 was appointed head football coach for East Gaston High in March 2024.
Josh Williams ’11 started a new job as an assistant football coach at Ashley Ridge High in Summerville, South Carolina, in July 2024.
Kyle Farmer ’12 was appointed head baseball coach at Bryan County High School in Pembroke, Georgia, in June 2024.
Jessica Beam Shealy ’12 has been named Principal at Newberry Elementary School beginning July 1, 2025.
Drew Clawson ’15 joined the government solutions team at Maynard Nexsen in December 2024.
Kelly Duncan ’16 rejoined The Newberry Observer as the News Editor. She previously was a staff writer for the community newspaper from 2016-2020.
Landon Martin ’16 started a new job as offensive line coach for Charleston Southern University football in January 2025.
Chris “CJ” Frazier ’17 started a new job as head football coach at Windsor Forest High, in Savannah, Georgia, in July 2024.
Edmond Robinson ’17 signed with the New York Jets in June 2024.
Cole Watson ’17 returned to his alma mater as offensive coordinator for Newberry Wolves football in January 2025.
Brooks Allen ’18 started a new job in November 2024 as warehouse manager for Komatsu in Newberry, South Carolina.
Devin Blackwell ’18 has joined Newberry College as the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs for Community, Conduct and Standards.
Karly (Mims) Martin ’18 started a new job as a nurse practitioner at Lexington Family Practice Forest Acres in Columbia, South Carolina.
Carly Rogers ’19 became head coach of Erskine College’s cheerleading and dance programs in July 2024.
Peyton Spangler ’19 was named head baseball coach for Clinton High in June 2024.
Brentley Allen ’21 signed with the Carolina Cobras, a National Arena League football team based in Greensboro, North Carolina.
David Vereen ’21 signed as a defensive back with the Montreal Alouettes in July 2024.
Deshun Kitchings ’22 has been appointed as an assistant football coach focusing on tight ends and H-backs. He takes over from Dre Harris ’21, who is pursuing a professional football career in Germany.
Braylin Marine ’22 signed with the Ottawa Titans (Frontier League) baseball team for the 2025 season. He got his professional start with the league-champion Yolo High Wheelers. Over 84 games, he hit .383 with 21 doubles, nine home runs, and knocked in 68 runs, all while stealing 23 bases and registering a .976 OPS.
Sumner Moorer ’22 started a new job as anchor and managing editor at WBKB-TV in Alpena, Michigan, on Feb. 27, 2025. She launched her career in the Greenville / Spartanburg market after graduation, most recently as a producer for FOX Carolina, covering, among other things, the historical toll Hurricane Helene took on western North Carolina and the effects of rapid growth in the Upstate.
Giulia Bongiorno ’23 signed with Brixia Basket, a professional women’s basketball club in Italy, in June 2023.
If you had a baby, changed jobs, retired, earned a degree or an award, got married, or had another major life update in the last year, please let us know at newberry.edu/alumni/ alumni-updates.
Former Faculty & Staff
Dr. Victor E. Terrana
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics June 4, 2024
Dr. T. Otis Walker III
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics & Physics Aug. 8, 2024
Dr. Michael J. O'Shea
Professor and Chair of English Oct. 6, 2024
Dr. Nancy Susan Bakaitis
Vice President for Academic Affairs Nov. 21, 2024
Barbara H. “Bobbie” Sides ’80 Dec. 20, 2024
Dr. Druie Cavender
Instructor of Biology Feb. 4, 2025
1940s
Carrie McSwain Pritchard ’42 Sept. 28, 2024
Jean Carroll Roberts ’45
Jan. 6, 2025
The Rev. George B. Corley ’46
June 2, 2024
Mary Kester Elliott ’46
July 25, 2024
Inez J. O'Hara ’46 Nov. 3, 2024
Anne Haselden Gregg ’47 Aug. 4, 2024
Thomas P. Buzhardt Sr. ’48 Oct. 22, 2024
1950s
Lula Goree "Lou” Collier ’50 May 21, 2024
Doris (Dominick) Sandberg ’52 Aug. 7, 2024
Barbara (Brown) Osman ’53 Feb. 20, 2025
Verna Kohn Cavanaugh ‘53
Feb. 25, 2025
Faith Bunger Connelly ’54
April 16, 2024
Dr. Patrick H. Dennis Sr. ’54
Aug. 14, 2024
Vera Thompson Elliott ’54
Jan. 1, 2025
Miriam Beatrice Shealy Logan ’54
Oct. 24, 2024
Dr. W. Kenneth Morgan Sr. ’55
Jan. 7, 2025
Jenny Erickson McGaha ’56
May 4, 2024
Warner M. Jones ’57
April 26, 2024
Charles D. Howell ’58
May 1, 2024
Paul D. Hinds ’59
May 25, 2024
1960s
Glenn E. Griffiths ’61
July 7, 2024
Brice Howard Moseley Sr. ’62
May 29, 2024
Julie Derrick Allen ’63
Oct. 25, 2024
John M. Weathers Jr. ’63
Jan. 19, 2025
Jimmy Ray Pruitt ‘63
May 23, 2025
Peter W. Jenke ’64
Dec. 16, 2023
Fannie Lorine Speck ’64
May 2, 2024
Walter H. Brown ’65
July 15, 2024
William C. George ’65
Aug. 20, 2024
Donna Brummett ’66
Dec. 8, 2024
H. Charles “Charlie” Parker ’66
May 12, 2024
Lambert Scott Riser ’66
Dec. 14, 2024
S. Christine “Christy” Wilkerson ’66
July 30, 2024
Beverly Eakin Wilson ’66
Sept. 25, 2024
Cynthia “Rickie” Daniels ’67 Sept. 13, 2024
James C. “Jim” Floyd, Jr. ’67 Nov. 17, 2024
John Wesley Long ’67 July 9, 2024
Travis L. Bianchi ’68 Jan. 26, 2025
B. Gail Merrell ’68 June 10, 2024
Richard E. Herrington ’69 April 23, 2024 (active BOT)
James C. “Jim” Inabinet Jr. ’69 Jan. 23, 2024
William P. “Billy” Walker Jr. ’69 Feb. 15, 2025
1970s
Timothy G. “Tim” Driggers ’70 Nov. 27, 2024
Ruth Price Hewitt ’70 May 18, 2024
Anne B. Landers ’71 Dec. 3, 2024
Sandra (Senn) Horne ’72 Nov. 13, 2024
James R. “Jim” Burr ’73 Feb. 1, 2025
Ronald S. Garner ’74 Jan. 31, 2025
Richard W. Travis Sr. ’74 Aug. 8, 2024
Joseph W. McGowan, III ‘74 May 31, 2025
1980s
Jeffery B. Chestnut ’82 April 22, 2024
Tammy R. Shealy ’86 Sept. 16, 2024
Audra Livingston Guy ’89 Feb. 15, 2025
1990s
John H. Rodgers Jr. ’90 Oct. 14, 2024
David E. Keyes ’91 July 24, 2024
The Rev. Terry Brent Walsworth ’91 Sept. 3, 2024
2000s
Desiree Carroll Jackson ’02 Jan. 14, 2025
Rebecca K. Pointe ’03 Feb. 17, 2025
2010s
Griffin C. Gunter ’13 Dec. 4, 2024
Justin M. Walker ’16 Dec. 13, 2023 If we missed the name of a graduate or former employee who passed away in the last year, please let us know. Send a copy of their obituary to Alumni.Relations@newberry.edu, or by mail to: Newberry College, Office of Institutional Advancement, 2100 College St., Newberry, SC 29108
Completing Morrie’s Dream: Finish What He Started
President Morrie Scherrens didn’t just lead Newberry College; he believed in it with his whole heart. One of his most powerful visions was a stadium that matched the excellence of our student-athletes and brought the Newberry community together.
That dream is almost complete.
We’ve launched “Completing Morrie’s Dream,” a campaign to raise $4.5 million by December 31, 2025, to finish the stadium project Morrie began. This final phase will add seating, fan amenities, and facilities that reflect our growing athletics program and school pride.
When you give, you’re not just funding bricks and bleachers — you’re helping make dreams come true. You’re honoring a legacy of leadership, investing in student opportunity, and building a space that will echo with school pride for generations.
This campaign is more than a construction project — it’s a promise. To Morrie. To our students. To the future of Newberry College.
With your support, we’ll create a lasting home for Wolves Athletics and a space that generations of alumni, fans, and families can call their own.
newberry.edu/giving/completing-morries-dream
Join us. Make your gift today and help us complete Morrie’s Dream.
