1892: North Greenville University Magazine Summer 2024 Edition

TIME FOR A NEW CHAPTER

ROOTED IN OUR MISSION. BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE.

“1892” is published twice annually by North Greenville University, a private Christian liberal arts university often recognized as one of the most notable in the Southeast. Whether learning at our campuses in Tigerville, SC, and Greer, SC, or online from anywhere in the world, NGU students become equipped to serve as transformational leaders for church and society.

EDITOR Billy Cannada (’11)

CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr.

LaVerne Howell

Marty O’Gwynn

ADVISORS

Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr.

Rich Grimm

Marty O’Gwynn

Chad Peters

PHOTOGRAPHER Steven Guersch To share your feedback, story ideas, or updated contact

Have you noticed the trend in pop culture to build on –or retell – existing stories, whether movie sequels, television spin-offs, song covers or book series? There is nothing new under the sun, as Solomon pointed out in Ecclesiastes 1:9. Life circles round and round. But when we focus on the reality that Christ Makes the Difference, we see new chapters being written everywhere. Life on a timeline may seem repetitive, but life under God’s control can be a daily demonstration of His mercies being new every morning.

NGU’s spring semester has been a new chapter in many aspects, as you will find in this issue of 1892. We have dedicated a major campus facility that benefits the entire community. We have celebrated a group of graduates who move forward from a college experience that started with a global pandemic and concluded amidst growing global conflicts. We have sought to blaze a new trail with a new athletics mascot, while embracing the rich history of our university. These are just a few of the storylines in North Greenville’s new chapter.

One of the highlights of our work to create the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center was discovering amazing details about the life and work of Dr. Murphree C. Donnan, North Greenville’s last school principal and first college president. For nearly 70 years, his name was affixed to our administration building. Now, his story is, quite literally, imprinted on the walls of the fully renovated structure. And it is an amazing story of determined perseverance and trust in God’s providence. Over his 34year tenure as our senior administrator, Dr. Donnan consistently demonstrated great enthusiasm about the potential of all students to excel in using their Godgiven talents. He was excited about the new chapters that could be written by North Greenville graduates. He invested his life in providing the resources for those chapters to be written.

If you are an NGU alum, I encourage you to think of those faculty, staff or fellow students who helped you write your story, as they sought to provide you with the resources to fulfill your potential. I pray that your story is still being written today, guided by God’s Word and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Our mission is to equip graduates to be transformational leaders for church and society. For NGU, our graduates are, as Paul described Corinthian Christians, “our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone.”

The Spring 2024 chapter for NGU has been a great one. By God’s grace, the story is not a sequel, but a fresh demonstration of God’s power. Let’s keep writing together, prompted by His hand and for His glory.

Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr.

President

North Greenville University

Imitating God by Being Creative and Productive

A New Chapter in a Great Story

Building on a foundation and mission established by former North Greenville leaders, officials dedicated the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center on April 12.

The state-of-the-art facility will serve as the home of the university’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

“This is a place that has been filled with joy, gratitude and opportunity for 132 years now,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We are celebrating that heritage and legacy of bringing Christ-first education to students whom we have launched into the world to be transformational leaders for church and society.”

“This building provides all sorts of opportunities for us to thrive as a community and in academics for the glory of God.”

First dedicated in 1957, the facility formerly known as the Donnan Administration Building now features four high-tech classrooms, a multipurpose space, and 18 faculty offices for the College of Business and Entrepreneurship. The college is NGU’s largest academic unit, with more than 500 enrolled students in its bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

“This has been a herculean undertaking, but more important than the building is the mission,” said Dr. John Duncan, COBE dean. “There is a purpose to business that we try to help our students understand. That purpose is to create goods and services that lead to human flourishing. It’s about imitating our

Creator by being creative and productive. We can love our neighbors through productivity, trade, and commerce. We want to train our students to be innovative thinkers and entrepreneurial problem solvers.”

The center carries the name of Robert W. Plaster, who founded more than 500 individual corporations across several industries. The Robert W. Plaster Foundation now carries on Plaster’s vision, helping academic institutions provide affordable college education to students in need of opportunity.

“For our first project in the state of South Carolina, this is really nice,” said Jason Hannasch, executive director of the Robert W. Plaster Foundation. “All of this

is physical evidence of God’s blessings. We are blessed to live and work in a nation where free enterprise is promoted, and where people can come together to create opportunities for students, now and in the future, to be equipped for success. Congratulations to the faculty and students. This is all for you, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish with it.”

Inside, the building now features the Murphree C. Donnan Student Commons, named for the Greer, SC, native who was the college’s first president. The commons offers collaboration and meeting spaces for students and houses a historic mosaic that is original to the 1955 structure. The mural contains 100,000 pieces of tile and glass, telling a story of the school’s

Cutting the ribbon are, from left, Mick Daniel, VP for Campus Enhancement Services; Rich Grimm, Executive Vice President, Dr. John Duncan, COBE Dean; Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., President; Don Wilson, NGU Trustee and Campaign Chair; Jason Hannasch, Plaster Foundation Executive Director; Jacob Auton (’24), Student Body President; and Dr. Brian Spearman, NGU Trustee.

The Murphree C. Donnan Student Commons includes a biographical display on the life and leadership of North Greenville’s first president.

history. During Donnan’s tenure, North Greenville grew from 12 acres to a college campus of nearly 800 acres, a student enrollment of more than 500, and about 30 faculty.

The building also includes the Donald E. Ward Executive Suite, located on the north side of the upper level of the Plaster Center. The suite includes offices for NGU’s president, executive vice president, provost/dean of the university faculty, chief financial officer, and university general counsel. The suite is named for Donald E. Ward, a 1958 graduate of North Greenville, who was a longtime supporter of the school and former board member. His daughter,

Kay Ward Powers, a 1975 graduate of North Greenville, delivered remarks at the dedication.

“He often said he would have never become the man he was had it not been for North Greenville,” Powers said. “He deeply valued education and always pushed us to do our best and be our best. His appreciation and love for this school became part of his legacy and a tradition in our family. We are deeply grateful to God for what he is doing at this exceptional university.”

The Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center renovation was designed by Greenville’s Equip Studio and was managed by Jones Lang Lasalle

Americas. Hood Construction provided general contractor services for the project.

NGU Student Body President Jacob Auton said the new facility, which opened early in the spring semester, provides a valuable resource for students on the Tigerville campus.

“I’ve had a class in here. I’ve seen students develop flourishing relationships inside this building. I’ve seen students striving for academic excellence. This building provides all sorts of opportunities for us to thrive as a community and in academics for the glory of God,” Auton said. “I cannot wait to see how the Lord will use this light on a hill for his glory in the years to come.” ◆

Martha Candler Boling (’57), left, and Donna Hinds Joyner (’74), Dr. Donnan’s granddaughter, visit at the dedication open house.

HONORING HISTORY

BLAZING NEW TRAILS

The oldest college in the foothills of Greenville County will welcome a new athletics mascot this summer.

North Greenville University revealed the Trailblazer mascot to a packed Todd Dining Hall during the late-night student breakfast on April 29. The event, designed to offer a festive atmosphere for the start of final examination week, included the surprise announcement, as well as a video introduction of the mascot graphics, which can be seen by following the QR code below.

Depicted by a red fox, the mascot change will be effective June 15. The name was selected as a nod to the foothills heritage of the institution, while acknowledging the university’s mission of equipping graduates to be “transformational leaders for church and society.” Tigerville, the site of the traditional campus, is near the historic Tugaloo Trail and the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

sought to serve students as they journey toward fulfilling God’s calling for their lives,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “Many of our graduates have gone on to blaze paths of excellence in ministry, education, business, the arts, and other fields. As the Trailblazers, we are both embracing our history and pointing to tomorrow. This distinctive mascot is historical, contemporary, and aspirational for our athletic teams, and the entire NGU community.”

The announcement of the new mascot is the culmination of a process that spanned several years. A task force led by athletics and comprised of members from across campus, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, NGU board and administration assessed the institution’s current and former mascots, and a unanimous recommendation was made to engage a consultant to assist with the identification and development of a new mascot.

Rickabaugh Graphics, a nationally recognized firm which has developed branding artwork for NCAA, NFL, and NBA teams, was selected. Founded in 1986, the company has a collegiate client list highlighted by The Ohio State University, the University of

Iowa, the University of Wisconsin, the University of Texas, Indiana University, North Carolina State University, and Baylor University. The company worked with a crosscampus NGU team to develop the Trailblazers logo and brand identity graphics.

“‘Trailblazers’ is a fitting name for our student-athletes, as well as the broader NGU community,” said NGU Executive Vice President Rich Grimm, who facilitated the NGU team’s work with Rickabaugh Graphics. “Trailblazers are innovators, leaders, pioneers, and adventurers. Like our students and student-athletes, they negotiate a path forward through the unknown and establish a trail for others to follow.”

The committee selected the red fox, which is native to the area, according to Grimm, “because the animal displays qualities that also embody a Trailblazer. The red fox is clever, resourceful, wise, fast, tenacious, and brave, and it adapts to its ever-changing environment while continually expanding its territory.”

Rickabaugh Graphics’ explanation of the logo design notes that it includes “rich symbolism that is very appropriate for NGU. The overall shield shape represents both the strength and unity on campus. The top crest of the shield is a nod to the local geography of the Blue Ridge Mountains. And finally, the red fox is focused on the North Star which has long been a guiding light for explorers. This light symbolizes both ‘reaching for the stars’ and ‘setting one’s sights high,’ and of course underscores the fact that NGU has long been referred to as ‘a light on the hill.’”

“From an athletics perspective, I believe our student-athletes and alumni will quickly embrace our new mascot,” said Jan McDonald, NGU’s director of athletics. “The Trailblazers reflect our area, and having a red fox as our mascot will represent NGU and our geographic area well. This is an exciting moment for the university. The committee and Rickabaugh Graphics did an outstanding job in this major undertaking. We truly are blazing

President Fant, right, and Brett Plyler, coordinator for student ministries, reveal NGU Trailblazers t-shirts at the Late Night Breakfast.

“Trailblazers are innovators, leaders, pioneers, and adventurers.”

trails of success as we equip our student-athletes for lives of leadership and service.”

“I am excited about the direction that North Greenville is going,” said 2023 student-athlete alumnus Lance Calcutt, who completed a master’s degree in organizational leadership from the university this spring. “A Trailblazer is a true embodiment of our university, representing our ability to be frontrunners in our future careers, church, and society. My time at NGU has given me a deep love for my alma mater, and I am proud to now call myself a Trailblazer. Even as my time here comes to an end, I am so excited for what the future holds at North Greenville University.”

Five distinct mascots have represented North Greenville in its history. NGU has embraced the “Crusaders” since 2001.The earliest recorded mascot was the “Moonshiners,’’ used in a 1924 Greenville News article about the school’s football team. In 1950, North Greenville Junior College students voted to employ the “Black Widow Spiders” as the mascot, yielding the long-standing black and red school colors. Three years later, the mascot was changed to the “Mountaineers” or “Mounties,” which was employed for 48 years. From 1958-69, the college’s women’s basketball team was called the “Lassies.”

Lamont Sullivan, NGU senior associate vice president for alumni engagement and athletics development, who wore the “Mounties” name as a member of North Greenville’s football team in the 1990s, said the Trailblazer name will create a positive new legacy.

“This iconic term perfectly aligns with our school’s values and mission and I cannot wait to see our students and alumni continue to blaze new trails in their lives and careers,” said Sullivan. “We are excited about new students and friends joining our NGU Trailblazers community and being part of our legacy of excellence.”

Following the mascot announcement, students received NGU Trailblazer t-shirts and other branded items to mark the moment. University officials said apparel and other gear with the new mascot name and logo are being developed and will be available this summer through the NGU Campus Store and other outlets. ◆

The North Greenville University mascot committee included L-R: Rich Grimm, Lamont Sullivan, Brittany Hendrix, Lance Calcutt, Kelly Hodge, Jeff Williams, and Dustin Fuls.

Grads Challenged To Ponder Their Legacies

Implored to live a life in service to the Lord, 301 North Greenville University students had their degrees conferred during Spring Commencement on Friday, May 3, at Melvin and Dollie Younts Stadium.

Dr. Walter Johnson, founding dean of NGU’s College of Christian Studies, delivered the keynote address at the ceremony capping the academic year.

Johnson has served at North Greenville for 32 years and retired from his role at the end of May.

Following a welcome by NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., William C. Tyler, chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees, delivered the invocation.

Graduating seniors Graham Ford and Giorgiana Hunte read passages from Jeremiah 29:11-13 and Matthew 5:14-16 before the Commencement address to graduates and guests.

Johnson opened his remarks by reading 2 Timothy 4:7, which says, “I

have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”

“When Paul wrote this, he was looking retrospectively. What I want us to do is look forward at our own lives,” Johnson said. “Look at this verse prospectively. Look at it in the future.”

The Greenville native recalled a question his second-grade teacher asked when he visited her in the hospital 30 years after she had taught him.

“‘Was I a good teacher?’ That’s the question that an 85-year-old sitting on the side of a hospital bed is going to ask,” he said. “Two things came to mind. The first is, ‘That is a very important question.’ The second thought was, ‘Now is not the time to have asked that question.’ The time to have asked that question was every day that you walked into that classroom.”

Johnson told graduates they are going to be wondering the same things about their lives.

“One day, when you’re 85 years old and you’re sitting in a hospital room,

you’re going to want to know if you did a good job. Were you a good husband or a good wife? Were you a good employer or employee? Were you a good father or a good mother? Whatever place God puts you in to serve, on that day, you’re going to want to know, did you do a good job?”

The assurance of a life well-lived, Johnson said, comes from serving the Lord each day. He recalled another interaction he had with a former teacher – this time his high school chemistry teacher, who had spent decades on mission performing dental work for those in need overseas.

“This is how you live your life, by getting up every day and praying, ‘God help me today to please you.’ When you do that, you’ll come to that day, and you’ll have a joy in your heart that you will be thankful for,” he said.

“Resolve in your heart right now – I am going to give God my best every moment of every day.”

Retiring from his role after more than three decades as a professor and academic administrator at NGU, Johnson was surprised with the awarding of an Honorary Doctor of Divine Letters “in recognition for his classroom excellence, his dedication to serving our community, and his commitment to kingdom work that has been his lifelong passion.”

“Dr. Johnson is known as a mentor all across the state,” said President Fant. “He has taught probably as many, if not more, students than anybody who has ever taught at the university. He has been deeply influential for so many.”

Johnson said he was thankful for his tenure of service in Tigerville.

“North Greenville University is the place to be,” Johnson said. “It has been a great ride. I’m thankful for it. And if I had the opportunity, I’d do it all over again. It has been a blessing.”

Following the conferring of degrees, Dr. Brian Autry led attendees in a Blessing of the Graduates and graduating seniors Jaylan Brinson and Caden Brannen led the singing of the Alma Mater. Dr. Kayla Black, director of the Honors Program at NGU, delivered the benediction.

Spring Commencement concluded with a celebratory fireworks display. ◆

Marler, Donehew, Glenn, Ashmore Inducted To Hall of Fame

NGU added four new members to the North Greenville Athletics Hall of Fame and Hall of Legends during an induction ceremony April 6. Inductees include Jack Marler ’62, Karen Donehew ’20, Gary Glenn and Russell Ashmore

Marler was a standout baseball and basketball player for North Greenville Junior College. He was named to the AllAmerican baseball team for the National Junior College Athletic Association and was a first-team All-Conference selection. Donehew finished her basketball career as NGU’s all-time leading scorer with 1,889 points. She also set the school record for points scored in a single game with 40.

Glenn is a dedicated supporter for NGU athletics. He and his wife, Betty Jo, played

a pivotal role in funding the Jan McDonald softball field, which was completed in 2016. Glenn was a member of NGU’s Board of Trustees from 2015-2019.

Ashmore was a longtime NGU trustee and benefactor. He was primarily responsible for the construction of the baseball field in the 1980s, which was named Ashmore

Field to honor the family’s support. The expanded baseball facility is now known as Ashmore Park.

After taking home its first Conference Carolinas title, the women’s golf team capped a historic year with a 12th place finish at the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional. It was the program’s first trip to the postseason. Nicole Kramer was named the Conference Carolinas Player of the Year, while Bud Tate was voted the Coach of the Year. Brenna Miller was named second-team All-Conference. Kramer led Conference Carolinas with a stroke average of 76.9, playing in 25 rounds this season.

SOFTBALL

NGU softball racked up the accolades after an impressive 36-20 season. Emily Blackwell, Karley Green, and Maddie Stone

earned recognition on the All-Conference Carolinas team, with Blackwell being named Freshman of the Year.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

The North Greenville women’s basketball team finished 17-10 on the year. Geassy Germano and Amaijah Smith were named to the All-Conference Carolinas third team.

BASEBALL

NGU baseball entered regional play in the hunt for a third-straight trip to the College World Series. NGU came up just shy of winning the Conference Carolinas tournament, and entered the NCAA Division II tournament with a 41-12 record.

LACROSSE

Five men’s lacrosse players earned spots on the All-Conference Carolinas teams. Four of those five were named to the first team, including Christian Cechini, Cole Jenkins, Tyler Pellegrino, and Cam Webb. Tristan Brown earned a secondteam nod as a long-stick midfielder. Danielle LaPlume was a second team All-Conference selection for the women’s lacrosse team.

VOLLEYBALL

Abigail Durham was named to the All-Region first team by the American Volleyball Coaches Association after her team finished 23-7 on the year. The senior averaged 4.45 kills per set and was named the Conference Carolinas Offensive Player of the Year for the third straight year. Durham was one of four Conference Carolinas student-athletes to receive an honorable mention in the AVCA Division II All-American teams. The North Greenville men’s volleyball team finished 15-9. Diego Rosich earned a first-team All-Conference nod, while Michael de la Cruz and Logan Taylor were named to the second and third teams respectively.

PICTURED L-R: NGU Athletic Director Jan McDonald, Mark Ashmore, Dianne Ashmore, President Fant, Karen Donehew, and Jack Marler

Carlos Littlejohn ’22

Learning to be a Servant of All

“Robert Greenleaf came up with the phrase ‘servant leader.’ That has been my calling – to be a servant first.”

Those are the reflections of Dr. Carlos Littlejohn, principal of Laurens Elementary School and 2022 graduate of North Greenville University’s Doctor of Education program.

“You wear many hats as an administrator,” he said. “You have to be a lot of things to a lot of people. But the role of servant is the most important.”

With more than two decades of experience in education, Littlejohn credits his upbringing for giving him that focus.

“We didn’t have much growing up, but my mother gave us everything we needed,” Littlejohn said. “I know I am a reflection of her, and that has always motivated me.”

Raised in Spartanburg, Littlejohn grew up with academic drive.

“I knew I wanted to be a doctor someday,” he said. “I just didn’t know what I would be a doctor of.”

In high school, Littlejohn joined Upward Bound, a program for first-generation college students.

“Having that college exposure through Upward Bound, I knew I wanted to continue my education.”

Upon graduation in 1996, Littlejohn attended Winthrop University.

“One of the things that I noticed was that I was the only black male in those

classes,” he said. “Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, I didn’t have a black male teacher. The first black male teacher I had was in graduate school.”

“I was an anomaly, but I knew I could change that course for somebody else,” Littlejohn said.

Through serving as a counselor in Upward Bound, working in the childcare program at the YMCA, and serving as a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, Littlejohn’s calling became clear.

“I was around kids all the time. I was a biology major, but I loved what I was doing with kids,” he said. “That’s when I shifted from biology to elementary education.”

Littlejohn began teaching and remained in school to continue his education. He had already accumulated credits toward his doctorate when he discovered North Greenville University.

“When I start a program, I need to know the entire layout and how long it’s going to take. When I didn’t get that from other schools, I decided to make a change,” he said. “I was doing some research and ended up landing on North Greenville. NGU was so transparent and helpful throughout the process, which ultimately helped me reach my goals.”

Having accomplished his childhood

Lachuné Boyd ’16 Using Music to Serve Others

goal of attaining a doctorate, Littlejohn now imparts the wisdom he gained from his mother.

“Every field trip my students go on, I get on the bus and make the same speech. I tell them, ‘You’re a reflection of Laurens Elementary School, you’re a reflection of your parents, and you’re a reflection of me, so act accordingly.’ Those small things go a long way with me because that’s what was expected of me.”

Littlejohn said he relates to the children at his school and emphasized that the calling of a teacher is not simple.

“As an educator, you’re going to be more than just a teacher,” he said. “You’re going to be a nurse, a psychologist, a lawyer – this generation of children brings a lot to school that sometimes supersedes academics. Sometimes, when children go home, academics are not on their minds. You have to understand that and be there for them.”

Although his leadership role has taken him out of the classroom, Littlejohn still takes time for his passion.

“Even principals are called to teach. I’ll hop in a kindergarten class and teach 4and 5-year-olds. I’ll relieve the fifth-grade teachers from time to time,” Littlejohn said. “The calling that you have matters. The example that you set matters.”

Lachuné Boyd has been impressing audiences with her talent since she was a kid.

“Growing up, singing was just something we all did,” the Darlington, SC, native said.

Performing in church and with her family, Boyd recognized her gift and decided to pursue music professionally after high school.

“Everybody in my family still sings today,” she said. “I always knew it was something I was going to do.”

Attending North Greenville University, Boyd graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music in 2016.

Lance Calcutt ’24

Getting Involved Yields Growth

“Some of the greatest advice I got in high school was to go get involved – no matter where you end up.”

Those are the words of Lance Calcutt, a Walterboro, SC, native who earned his Master of Organizational Leadership degree from NGU this spring.

Now, with plans to join the United States Air Force and begin medical school at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, Calcutt reflected on his time at NGU.

“When I got here, I fell in love with this place,” he said. “Our core values sum up what we’re about. If you want to surround yourself with faculty, staff, students, and leadership who care about you and want to see you succeed, this is the right place.”

Calcutt always had an idea of what his calling might be, but through his coursework, that calling was confirmed.

“I come from a household of physicians. Both my parents are physicians and my sister just graduated from North Greenville’s PA school. For a while, it wasn’t something I wanted to do, but the more I dug into my biology courses, the more I became fascinated by God’s

“While I was at North Greenville, I really enjoyed the idea of studying music in a context where you get to think about theology or music in a philosophical sense,” she said. “(When I graduated), I was looking for a place that was going to pose more questions in that arena, and that’s when I started raising my antennas about going to seminary.”

Boyd continued her education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, pursuing a master’s degree in music education.

“Learning how to be a musician and glorify God with my talents was always important for me,” she said.

greatest creation – the human body. I started feeling called to medicine and more specifically, surgery,” he said.

Military service also was a priority for Calcutt.

“I’ve always thought it would be cool to serve my country. I just didn’t know in what capacity I could do so because I also wanted to pursue medicine,” he said.

Calcutt managed to find a scholarship program within the Air Force that would allow him to serve his country as a physician while pursuing his career.

Hard work has always been the formula for success for Calcutt, who joined North Greenville’s football team as a walk-on punter and worked his way to an allconference selection during his final year of eligibility. His time on the field and working as a graduate assistant have helped him develop the leadership skills he will need for his path ahead.

“Being in a position of leadership is tough sometimes,” he said. “Tensions can run high, and you can have a lot of different opinions. You have to learn how to truly care for people and love them.”

Calcutt’s advice to North Greenville students is the same advice he got as a high school senior: get involved.

“The best parts of college are not found sitting in your room. You have to branch

Boyd said her musical inspirations include John Coltrane and Leslie Odom, Jr.

“I once saw a clip of a performer singing the Lord’s Prayer in the National Cathedral. In the front row, you could see the presidents and others who were present. People were so moved. I just thought, ‘Wow, what she’s doing is really bringing some sense of consolation to them.’ I just always wanted to be close to that experience where I’m offering something beautiful to people,” she continued.

The profession has landed Boyd on some big stages, including America’s Got Talent. Boyd made it to the semifinals of

out. Walking into the cafeteria at North Greenville, I can always find someone to sit with that I know. But it’s also important to find people you don’t know and make a new friend. That’s the beauty of North Greenville’s community and it’s why I love it so much,” he said.

Calcutt said NGU served as the perfect springboard for his career.

“Whether you want to become the next politician or physician, North Greenville is going to prepare you for the next step in your life,” he said.

the hit NBC show in 2023.

“They were so nice,” Boyd said of the America’s Got Talent judges. “It was such a great experience.”

Now a vocal coach, Boyd said she is enjoying her career and how it puts her in a position to help others.

“Musicians run off adrenaline, but voice teaching fuels me in a way that helps me have even more creativity,” she said. “It continuously reaffirms that message that what I’m doing is meaningful and good. I’m not going to always be singing in a church, but I always want it to be a service to others.”

Greg Mathis ’12

A Growing Desire for Ministry

“I think what makes us uncomfortable is that God might bury the worker before the work is finished,” reflected Greg Mathis, a 2012 North Greenville University graduate and pastor of Trenton Baptist Church in Trenton, Kentucky.

“We want to be the guy who accomplished the work instead of the obedient servant who moves the ball down the field seven or eight yards. But there’s freedom in submitting yourself to God’s providential hand – understanding that he is the ultimate mover.”

A native of Boonville, North Carolina, Mathis felt a pull toward ministry at an early age, citing the influence of his grandfather.

“While we often use the terminology of ‘calling,’ the New Testament speaks of desire concerning the pastorate (1 Timothy 3:1),” Mathis said. “I just had a growing desire, put there by God, and it developed to a place where I couldn’t see myself being happy doing anything else.”

Following that desire, Mathis found himself attending NGU on an academic scholarship.

“North Greenville invested in me, and I’m a product of that investment,” he said. “If I have any abilities as a thinker or as a student of the Bible, it’s attributable to the influence the professors at North Greenville had on my life.”

During his time in Tigerville, Mathis began serving at Abner Creek Baptist Church in Greer.

“I served there for about half of my time at North Greenville, and I was able to see practiced many of the things I was being taught. Expository preaching, concern for meaningful church membership – I saw those things lived out,” he said.

He married Whitney Snow Mathis (’09) after graduation, and the couple felt they would soon serve the Lord in Peru.

“During a transition season of our life, we thought we needed to give God a blank check and the opportunity to direct us. For those couple of years, it seemed like he was doing that,” Mathis said. “We made a strategic move back to Greenville to be part of The Church at Cherrydale (now Christ Fellowship Cherrydale) and ready ourselves to be sent to Peru. Everything was a green light. We just had to get on the other side of the birth of our second son.”

The family milestone came with significant uncertainty, however, as the couple’s son was born with a condition that required a high level of medical care.

“The surgeon we had was a like-minded believer. He devoted months out of his year to perform services at a Christian hospital in Kenya,” Mathis said. “I remember him looking at us saying, ‘I understand your call and your desire. You just can’t go right now.’ We had a lot of questions about what this meant. Had all the promptings been wrong? Had we discerned them wrongly?”

Wrestling with these questions and what might be next, Mathis said the Lord began to provide answers.

“I think we can over-spiritualize the call of God sometimes. If a plane is heading toward an ultimate destination, air traffic control might vector that plane to a pre-set location on the way but then change its trajectory. We believe what the Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 4 – that the will of God for us is our sanctification. I don’t think the point is my vocational role, which church I’m serving, or what title I have. Overall, God’s call is for us to be sanctified and to submit to whatever means he might use to do that.”

After a season of seeking where the Lord was leading the family’s ministry, Greg and Whitney were called to Trenton, Kentucky.

“I live in a town of 377 people,” he said. “This is a place where you are known. It’s possible to influence people at a certain size church, but only to be known from a distance. In a place like Trenton, you’re going to see folks at one of our two restaurants. Churches like the one the Lord called me to are durable and necessary. These churches enable us, as Southern Baptists, to do the things we talk about in terms of church planting and other ministries.”

Although his ministry has taken him nearly 400 miles away from Tigerville, Mathis said he is still influenced by his time at North Greenville.

“1892 has a big significance in my life. Here I am in a town that built its sanctuary in 1892, working on a dissertation on Charles Spurgeon, who died in 1892, and a graduate of an institution that was founded in 1892. That year ties a lot together for me,” he said.

“I went to North Greenville knowing I wanted to pursue ministry,” Mathis said. “I took every class that Dr. Walter Johnson offered. The professors at North Greenville took my vague notions of the Bible and my Christian worldview, and they turned them into something coherent, durable, and applicable to the local church.”

Paul Conner ’11

Hooked on Journalism

The life of a White House pool reporter is not always as exciting as it sounds.

“I remember one time, I was sitting in the White House after midnight waiting on President Obama to walk in a door” said Paul Conner, a 2011 graduate of NGU.

“It had been a long day, and I was wiped out. I was trying to get a little sleep in the most uncomfortable chair. After a while, the plane landed. He walked in the door and said nothing to the press,” Conner said with a laugh. “Even in situations like that, you get to see Marine One land on the south lawn and be reminded of where you are and what you’re doing.”

Now a seasoned journalist and editor with more than 15 years of experience in the field, Conner fondly looks back on those opportunities.

“It was an amazing experience. Sometimes you were covering something completely mundane, but other times it was exciting,” he said. “Ultimately, you’re just trying to let people know what’s going on while driving interest and debate on important issues.”

Conner knew he wanted to pursue a career in journalism before he made his college decision.

“I got hooked on it in high school, and I knew that I could learn more about it and gain more experience while I was at North Greenville,” he said. “Sports writing was a great place to start, but I never thought I had to be a sports journalist. In fact, I wanted to go beyond that.”

During his junior year at North Greenville, Conner spent a semester in Washington, D.C., through a Council for Christian Colleges and Universities program, completing coursework and interning at a brand-new media outlet.

“The Daily Caller had only been around for a short time when I started interning,” Conner said. “It was a start-up mentality with lots of young, hungry reporters and editors. It was a totally fun newsroom to work in and great to be a part of building something.”

Conner served at The Daily Caller for more than seven years, holding positions of deputy editor, managing editor, and executive editor. He now serves as a senior editor at Fox News Media.

“North Greenville gave me a great base for everything I’ve been able to do,” he said. “Thinking critically, asking basic questions, getting good at talking to people – those were skills I learned in the classroom and during my internships that prepared me for what I’m doing today.”

Grace Myers ’22 Support at Every Turn

A summa cum laude graduate of North Greenville University and the 2022 South Carolina Public Relations Student of the Year, Grace Myers has always had a drive to succeed.

But that success did not come easy.

“There were times when I wondered if college was for me,” Myers recalled. “Being an individual with a disability and adapting to life on a college campus, there were so many challenges that came along with that. I knew I had the academic ability. I just didn’t know if it was going to be physically possible.”

Myers did not let her disability get in the way of pursuing a career in communication, choosing to attend NGU as a broadcast media major.

The college transition came with its challenges, but Myers found help.

“The professors at NGU took time to listen to me and encouraged me to stick with it,” Myers said. “They had faith in me and kept me going through that first semester.”

After spending time with her advisor, Myers shifted away from broadcast media and into the communications field.

“From the moment I met Ansley Welchel, she made me feel seen,” she said. “She wanted to get to know me, and she had this contagious energy that I knew I wanted to bring into my career.”

Taking on roles as a student PR coordinator for NGU’s School of Communication, and managing editor for “The Vision Online,” Myers began to carve out a path to her eventual career.

“When things got tough, my parents and professors were always there to help,” she said. “They were supportive every step of the way.”

In 2022, the year of her graduation, Myers was recognized by the South Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America as the organization’s Public Relations Student of the Year. She became the first NGU student to receive the honor.

Myers completed internships with the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce and Jeff Dezen Public Relations, eventually landing a full-time role as a social media coordinator with Infinity Marketing.

“Whenever I got turned down, my friends and family would tell me that God has the perfect job for me. You hear that and shrug it off because it can be frustrating. It’s easy to get stuck in that cycle of doubt,” Myers said. “Now that I’ve actually made it through to the other side and can see how much I’m learning at my job and enjoying it, I know that God did have a plan.”

New Role, Same Goal: Vandiver Serving as AVP for CMSE

Dr. Dallas Vandiver might have a new title at North Greenville University, but his calling remains the same.

Having served as an assistant professor of Christian Studies for the past three years, Vandiver is now helping to lead Campus Ministries and Student Engagement as associate vice president.

“In many ways, my role hasn’t changed much. As a professor, my aim is to make disciples of my students – to help them know Jesus, love him, and be equipped to help others do the same,” Vandiver said. “Working in CMSE, I’m now working to give oversight and strategy to the university’s discipleship efforts to help every student hear the gospel. I believe God has called me to make disciples for his glory, and that’s what we’re doing in CMSE.”

A graduate of Mississippi State University, Vandiver has a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a PhD degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

“It is a rarity that you find someone that has grown up around

collegiate ministry, has served in traveling ministry teams, has personal musical talent, has a call to teach and preach, has received terminal credentials in theology, and is willing to serve in both academic and operational needs for a university,” said CMSE Vice President Dr. Jared Thomas. Dr. Vandiver brings a unique set of lived experiences and academic training to this position which will allow him to speak to both the interpersonal ministry and academic needs of the CMSE initiatives.

Vandiver will help provide oversight and direction for all student ministry endeavors at NGU, including Chapel, Fount and the university’s Student Leadership Team.

“The CMSE office helps create the culture at NGU. We are nothing less, as a university, than an academic discipleship center,” Vandiver said. “So, how can we help the students be in a spiritual frame of mind to benefit from the academics and pursue others with a love for Jesus? The habits and rhythms of our weekly schedule need to be strategically oriented to help students learn what it looks like to follow Jesus and ultimately be sent out to love their neighbors and be transformational leaders for church and society. I’m excited to be involved in what is already a strong ministry.”

Vandiver and his wife, Emily, have three girls: Ruby, 11, Betsy, 9, and Charlotte, 7.

Noted Adviser Bahnsen Discusses Importance of Work as Part of God’s Design

“Work matters because God made us to be workers and producers.”

Those thoughts from financial advisor David L. Bahnsen are the premise of his new book, “Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life,” and were at the core of his messages to North Greenville University students, faculty and staff in February.

“David Bahnsen is one of the most interesting thinkers on faith and work in the United States,” said NGU Provost Dr. Hunter Baker. “I am amazed at his level of energy and his ability to remain fully plugged into markets and fully intellectually engaged as a Christian at the same time. His visit was tremendously stimulating for NGU.”

Bahnsen took part in three speaking engagements on NGU’s Tigerville campus, fielding questions from students and professors and articulating a biblical theology for Christians in the workplace.

“Our work ultimately does help us provide for our families, donate to churches, and give us status amongst men, but those are not the fundamental reasons why work matters,” he said.

“God created us in his image,” Bahnsen continued. “God, as the creator of the world, who made all things from nothing, has asked us to create things from what he gave us. Work is not merely a means. It is an end.”

Bahnsen is the founder, managing partner, and chief investment officer of The Bahnsen Group, a national private wealth management firm managing more than $5 billion in client assets.

He is a frequent guest on CNBC, Bloomberg, Fox News, and Fox Business and is a regular contributor to National Review.

Bahnsen is consistently named one of the top financial advisors in America by Barron’s, Forbes, and the Financial Times. He is a regular lecturer for the Acton Institute and the Center for Cultural Leadership.

“The embedded leverage, impact, and influence that we can have in the marketplace is exponentially greater than in the political sphere,” he said. “That doesn’t make the political sphere irrelevant, but we are missing opportunities as Christians if we do not engage the marketplace.

“We do not work merely digging a hole in the ground for no reason,” he added.

“God cares about the subject of the work, and he cares about the object of the work.

The subject and the object are always and forever personified. They are human beings. They are image bearers.”

Bahnsen is the author of several best-selling books, including “Crisis of Responsibility: Our Cultural Addiction to Blame and How You Can Cure It,” “The Case for Dividend Growth: Investing in a Post-Crisis World,” and “There’s No Free Lunch: 250 Economic Truths.”

NGU Teams Serve at Home and Abroad

NGU sent multiple student mission teams to domestic and international locations during the 2023-24 school year.

These teams have traveled to New York and Utah, and to the countries of Nicaragua, Ecuador, Kosovo, and England. A Spring Break trip scheduled for the country of Jordan was canceled due to instability in that region.

NGU students, faculty, and staff participated in a wide variety of outreach and evangelistic ministries on these trips, including constructing homes and hygiene facilities, leading community Backyard Bible Clubs and Vacation Bible Schools, street evangelism, discipleship and mentoring programs, and church planting.

The North Greenville University Center for Global Engagement, along with the College of Christian Studies Intercultural Studies degree program, sponsors these trips annually. The opportunities are offered to the entire student body during the annual Global Impact Week on campus each September. The 2024 Global Impact Week will be September 9-11.

NGU also works closely with the North American Mission Board and the International Mission Board to plug students into NAMB and IMB projects during the summer. Many NGU students will be serving in North America and around the world this summer through these partnerships.

PICTURED L-R:

NGU Honors Faculty and Staff Retirees

Six NGU faculty and staff members were recognized for their years of service during a special retirement celebration in April.

Dr. Walter Johnson, Dr. Brent Coppenbarger, Lee Mitchell, Tim Hawkins, Janet Hoffman, and Jan McDonald represent a combined 138 years of service to the university.

Johnson spent 32 years at NGU and was the founding dean of the College of Christian Studies. He played a foundational role in the renaissance at NGU over the last three decades and has left a lasting impact on those in ministry around the globe.

“His legacy at the university – and in Baptist life around the world – is incredibly deep and lasting,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We’ve been so blessed to have him with us.”

Coppenbarger, a professor of music, is leaving NGU with nearly 30 years of service.

“He’s been our coordinator of woodwinds for 23 years and before that, he spent six years as an adjunct,” President Fant said. “With almost 30 years of service at the university, he’s mentored so many students and has appeared and will continue to appear in musical ensembles and productions.”

Lee Mitchell has been serving the university as a department instructor for physical sciences.

“Lee Mitchell has been teaching earth science and is an expert in hydrology. He has always used his experience in kingdom service and edification,” President Fant said. “He’s such an encouraging guy, and I appreciate all that he’s done. He’s been a gift from God for our science faculty.”

Tim Hawkins has served in Campus Enhancement Services for more than 20 years.

“He’s a go-to guy and has done so many things to help our CES staff. He’s been very important to us and we appreciate the work he’s done,” President Fant said.

Janet Hoffman has completed 16 years of service and is retiring as the administrative assistant to Business Affairs.

“She’s done so many things for the university and always had a smile on her face. She interacted with a lot of students and was always such a friendly face for the students and took care of them well,” said President Fant.

McDonald served a total of 41 years at NGU and more than three decades as athletic director. She announced her retirement earlier this year.

“Jan McDonald has invested her entire career at North Greenville, and it is a career marked by care and concern for our students and dedication to helping them prepare for life beyond college,” President Fant said. “We appreciate the work Coach McDonald has done and the work athletics does for our students.”

Dr. Walter Johnson, Lee Mitchell, Dr. Brent Coppenbarger, Tim Hawkins, Janet Hoffman, Jan McDonald, and President Gene C. Fant, Jr.

Scholars Explore Technology, Gender Identity During Christian Worldview Week

Technology, gender identity and what it means to be human.

Those were the topics covered at North Greenville University’s annual Christian Worldview Week in March, as Dr. Katie McCoy and Jason Thacker presented talks on “Thinking Christianly about Human Nature.”

McCoy serves as director of Women’s Ministry for Texas Baptists. She has a PhD degree in systematic theology and is the author of “To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity and How Christians Can Respond” and co-author of the volume dedicated to the doctrine of humanity in the “Theology for the People of God” series.

“Your generation is living at a time when Christianity has fallen deeply out of favor with broader culture,” McCoy told North Greenville University students during her lecture. “You are living at a time where there is widespread gender confusion and epidemic levels of anxiety and depression.”

“Facts have been replaced by feelings, evidence has been replaced by emotion, and biology has been replaced by beliefs,” she continued.

McCoy said despite the many

challenges facing the current and future generations, there is hope for believers who hold a Christian worldview.

“If you are in Christ, you are his ambassador,” McCoy said. “You are not just a passive recipient of what he’s done for you. You are a part of the kingdom of God so that you can advance the kingdom of God. You have a purpose and a reason for being alive.”

Thacker, who serves as assistant professor of philosophy and ethics at Boyce College and directs the Research Institute for the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, delivered two lectures on technology and how Christians can keep smart phones and artificial intelligence in their proper place.

“Technology isn’t necessarily good. It also isn’t necessarily bad. But, it’s definitely not neutral. Nothing is neutral. Everything is shaping our worldview and perspective,” said Thacker. “AI isn’t some abstract reality that’s fun to think about. It is everywhere and it is shaping your world whether you realize it or not.”

Thacker spoke about some of the dangers of AI and technology, but said rejecting helpful tools is not a solution.

“I can’t give you five tips and tricks to right your relationship with technology and artificial intelligence so you can move on to better and more important things,” Thacker said. “Just as the bad habits didn’t form overnight, the good ones won’t either. It’s going to take time.”

“Slow down and think biblically about the things you see,” he continued. “Don’t be informed by your feelings, but be informed by the truth itself. It’s not that you are so unique that God loved you. It’s that God loved you, and that’s what makes you unique. He created you in his image and for a purpose. There’s a utilitarian ethic in our society that tells us that our value, our dignity, and our worth is based on the things we do and contribute. When you no longer do and contribute, you are no longer valuable. The Christian ethic flips that on its head. It says you are unique and valuable because God created you as a human being in his very image.”

Inaugural Challenge Coin Ceremony

Honors Criminal Justice Graduates

North Greenville University marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of its Criminal Justice and Legal Studies students with the inaugural Challenge Coin Ceremony on May 2.

PICTURED L-R: Christopher Jackson, Brooke Cushman, RiLee Meeks, Nathan Suggs, Cobey Cruell, and Cheyenne Norton

New Politics, Philosophy and Economics Degree Begins This Fall

NGU’s new Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics degree program is designed to equip highachieving students in essential areas of civic leadership.

“This degree balances depth and breadth in a way that is unique among majors,” said Dr. Paul Thompson, Jr., Dean of NGU’s College of Humanities and Sciences.

Studying fundamental societal issues, PPE students will become well-versed in multiple disciplines and gain soft skills in ethical and prudential decision-making, clear and precise writing, analytical and critical thinking, and empirical understanding.

“The students that choose this program are going to be very important utility players who are going to excel in many different areas,” said Dr. Nicholas

Higgins, department chair of Political Science, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies.

“This program combines the excellence we have in economics and business, Christian studies, and political science into one coherent and clear path for students to follow what the Lord has called them to do. This program is for the ambitious

Students receiving recognition included Cobey Cruell, Brooke Cushman, Christopher Jackson, Cheyenne Norton, Nathan Suggs, and RiLee Meeks.

Following a welcome from Campus Safety and Security Chief Jeff Smith and an invocation from Major Stephen Carlson, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis delivered the keynote address to the honorees.

“It was great to honor to present our graduates with a challenge coin to recognize their achievements,” Smith said. “The challenge coin carries significant symbolism and instills a sense of pride and camaraderie among members.”

The tradition of awarding challenge coins, a practice dating back to ancient Roman soldiers, was a significant part of the inaugural Challenge Coin Ceremony. This tradition gained prominence during World War I and World War II, when coins served as a means of identifying downed American airmen to friendly forces in France.

Commanders used them as tokens of recognition and appreciation for a service member’s outstanding performance in an assignment or responsibility. Law enforcement agencies follow this tradition. Challenge coins are exchanged as tokens of professionalism and pride to recognize those who stand on the “thin blue line.”

Staci Rollins, assistant professor of criminal justice and legal studies, presented the coins to the graduates, symbolizing their time and achievements with the department.

“We are proud of each of our graduating seniors and look forward to seeing how they make a difference in the field,” she said.

student who wishes to think deeply and understand significant areas of social influence,” he said.

Higgins said the roots of the PPE degree trace back to Oxford University in the 1920s, citing that politics, philosophy and economics were seen as the three legs of societal leadership.

“This is training to make a complete leader,” he said. “This program was designed as a way to train potential leaders with the skills that are necessary to think independently and biblically in key areas of economics, policy, and civic leadership.”

In addition to preparing students for leadership in church and society, Thompson said the degree will equip students with the skills needed to pursue graduate degrees such as a Juris Doctor, Master of Business Administration, and the Master of Divinity.

“Many students who do this program are already going to be inclined to go to graduate school, and they are going to be perfectly set up to pursue many different paths,” Thompson said.

NGU is the only university in South Carolina to offer the politics, philosophy, and economics degree, and is one of only two biblically faithful schools in the Southeast with the degree opportunity.

For more information about the new program, visit go.ngu.edu/ppe.

AlumniEngagement

Welcome, Trailblazers!

I’m thrilled to announce that North Greenville University’s mascot has been officially changed to the Trailblazers. This new identity symbolizes our shared spirit of courage, innovation, and resilience. In this issue of 1892, you’ll discover inspiring stories and updates on the achievements of various trailblazers within our university community, as well as alums and friends who are making their mark globally.

In 2021, we received the news that the historic Donnan Administration Building would be renovated and become the home for our College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This building, constructed in 1955, once housed the college library, business office, multiple classrooms, and the executive offices for the university. For many of us who have called these Tigerville hills our home, this space is filled with fond memories and special moments.

The mural at the entrance into the building is a treasure trove of our alma mater’s history. Composed of a thousand individual tile pieces, this mosaic is a visual narrative of North Greenville’s journey. As an alum, I’ve earned two degrees from North Greenville, but I must admit that I could not explain the mural’s meaning if asked to do so. Understanding the mural’s significance is not just a matter of curiosity, but it’s also a way to deepen our connection to our university’s rich history and values.

Fellow alums, I encourage you to learn and understand the meaning of the mural. It’s not just who we are but also the story of North Greenville and our more than 25,000 alums worldwide. The mural tells the story of a “Trailblazer” who began a journey from a childhood home, eventually settling at the foothills of the mountains in the “Dark Corner” of Upstate South Carolina. The “Trailblazer” sought a path towards education, which included many disciplines built on a biblical foundation and essential academic preparation, including fine arts and athletics.

After completing an educational journey, the “Trailblazer’s” experience positioned him to leave the foothills of the mountains and begin a new journey that led to a career and a family. Since 1892, thousands of “Trailblazers” have journeyed to the same foothills of the mountains, completed their educational journey, and are now blazing new trails worldwide.

Trailblazer, the Office of Alumni Engagement is ready to support and highlight your trailblazing work. We would love to share your success stories. We welcome your support of current students. We encourage you to join the alumni association and support university events. Let’s continue to blaze a trail for others to follow through this once unsettled country and see the path the next group of Trailblazers will create as they conclude their time at NGU.

Lamont Sullivan (’98, MA ’13) Senior Associate Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Athletic Development

AlumniNotes

In Memoriam

Margie Allison Collins (’51) on Feb. 24, 2024

Ted Garner (’53) on June 2, 2023

Rev. Russell Lee Wimmer (’58) on Feb. 10, 2024

Donald F. Corbin (’59) on Jan. 23, 2024

Ada Ruth Emory (’59) on Nov. 30, 2023

Jimmy “Dean” Zissette (’60) on Dec. 23, 2023

William “Billy” Harold Hoole, Jr. (’61) on May 6, 2023

Beulah Theresa (Webb) Pope (’62) on June 19, 2023

Margaret Cherry Alsbrooks Winegard (’62) on July 4, 2023

Rev. Wendell Rhodes (’63) on April 17, 2024

Grover Olivio Timmons (’64) on Feb. 14, 2024

Linda Fulmer Yarborough (’65) on March 6, 2024

Lynn Jordan Orr (’66) on Nov. 7, 2023

James David Brookshire, Sr. (’69) on May 28, 2023

Janice Gail Posey Redding (’70) on Nov. 27, 2023

Kaye Coleman Shaver (’70) on Oct. 13, 2023

William Carl Mobley, Jr. (’71) on March 6, 2024

Kathy Jean Crosby (’78) on Sept. 24, 2023

Alan Myers (’84) on Aug. 13, 2023

Jim Ed Looper (’87) on Sept. 30, 2023

Reba Wells (’94) on Jan. 31, 2024

Jeremy Lee Barnette (’01, MME ’16) on Nov. 29, 2023

Noelle Wade Sharpe (’03) on Oct. 26, 2023

John Hendricks Corder (’07) on Jan. 10, 2024

Melvin Brown (’09) on Oct. 5, 2023

Justin Conrad Butler (’16) on May 8, 2023

Hunter Martin (’20) on Aug. 29, 2023

Dr. Chad Owen Brand (former professor) on Oct. 2, 2023

Monnie L. Broome (chair, NGU Advisory Council) on Dec. 30, 2023

Rev. Ryan Bellman Eklund (former interim president) on Sept. 18, 2023

Larry Ralph Gibson (former trustee) on Sept. 22, 2023

Rev. Dr. James Jordan, Jr. (former North Greenville president) on Feb. 16, 2024

Rev. Dr. Joe Frank Peek (former trustee) on Oct. 15, 2023

Weddings

Olivia Klefsaas (’22) to Karsten Shields (’24) on July 31, 2023

Lori Lynne Hurst (MME ’23) to Jeffrey Neil Robinson on June 3, 2023

Babies

Jennifer Bramel Schaaf (’15, MME ’19) welcomed Ellie Grace Schaaf on June 26, 2023. Ellie weighed 7 lb, 10 oz. Rebecca Floyd (’17) and Stuart Floyd (’16) welcomed Riley Bell Floyd on December 4, 2023.

Alumni Notes

1982

Paige Taylor completed the Frances route of the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage across Spain, also known as the Way of St. James, last fall. She started

in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France, and arrived in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, walking over 450 miles in 35 days. After a cancer diagnosis, surgery and radiation, 60 days later she boarded a plane, as a solo traveler, and set out for what turned out to be the adventure of a lifetime while thanking God for healing and giving her the strength to complete the journey Paige posted her journey on Instagram - instagram.com/ quiltedblooms

1983

1999

Camilla Gibson Pitman received the Quill Award at the International Institute of Municipal Clerks annual conference in Minneapolis. The Quill Award is the highest award for their organization. Pitman also received the President’s Award.

1993

Tony Moore is the linebacker coach at South Florence High School. He and his son Noah celebrated a state championship last year.

1997

Mike Antonio Smith was inducted into the Blacksburg High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Mike, known as Big Mike, played football, basketball, and track. He was known for his versatility during his four years as a starter on the Blacksburg High football team. He played defensive back, quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, safety, and kicker. He scored 35 touchdowns, kicked 49 extra points and had a field goal while helping Blacksburg win its first regional championship in six years. He was selected to the All-Region, All-Area and All-State football teams and played in the North South All-Star game. He is a self-employed barber and is well-known for mentoring youth in Blacksburg.

Brian Lark has just released his new book on land investing called, “The 5-Point Land Buying Checklist,” now available on amazon.com for Kindle download and softcover formats. Bryan is the owner of Zeteo Investments and ZeteoLand.com, a real estate and vacant land investment company. He is married to Rachel, and they currently reside in Mississippi with their three children, Cross, Kip, and Mally. Giada Parris is principal of Woodruff Elementary School in Spartanburg District Four in Spartanburg, SC. Parris has served her entire career in District Four. She recently served as assistant principal for Woodruff Primary School for three years. Parris earned both the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education and the Master of Education in Education Administration from Converse College.

2003

Carolyn Versele was recognized by BestAgents.us as a 2023 Top Agent. Carolyn is a realtor with Red Barn Realty in Woodstock, GA.

2004

Beau Trauger is vice president and commercial insurance broker for Owens Insurance Agency in Greer. He brings more than 16 years of experience in financial services and insurance, most recently serving as vice president in the Greenville office of a major regional insurance services company.

AlumniNotes

2005

Ed Gidewall is the Senior Pastor at Connie Maxwell Baptist Church in Greenwood, SC. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX. He most recently served as the Pastor for High School/College & Young Adults at Second Baptist Church in Lancaster, SC, since June 2020. No stranger to Greenwood, he previously served as the Interim Senior Pastor at Emerald Baptist Church in Greenwood and Minister to Students at Harris Baptist Church in Greenwood.

2006

Laura Blanton is a financial advisor for Raymond James & Associates in Greenville, SC. Blanton leads Blanton Wealth Management of Raymond James and provides personalized wealth management services for clients including corporate executives, families, and individuals living in or planning for retirement. Blanton was previously at Wells Fargo, where she managed $252 million in client assets. She started her career in 2002 with AG Edwards, which later became Wells Fargo Advisors. She became a financial advisor with the company in 2014. She has earned numerous accolades, including being named to three Forbes lists in 2023: Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, Top Women Advisors Best-in-State, and Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors.

Eric Leagones is teaching physical education and coaching running backs at Thomas Sumter Academy. He is also the director of the new soccer program. Eric is a former NGU alumni board member.

2007

Joshua “Lance” Stockton is the assistant principal at Silver Bluff High School. His career in education began in 2011 as director of bands for Berea High

School where he was named SCMEA’s Outstanding Young Music Educator for the 20112012 school year. Stockton went on to serve as Director of Bands for Hartsville High School and Greenwood High School before transitioning into administration as an assistant principal for South Florence High School in 2017. Stockton relocated to Aiken County later in 2017 where he joined ACPSD as the visual and performing arts coordinator. He presently serves as director of bands and visual and performing arts department head at Silver Bluff High School. During his four years at Silver Bluff, Stockton has led the Silver Spirit Marching Band to two South Carolina Band Directors Association (SCBDA) silver medals and was recently named the school’s Teacher of the Year.

2009

Darrin Goss, Sr. (MBA ’09), president and CEO of Coastal Community Foundation, was the keynote speaker for the MLK Business and Professional Breakfast Summit for the annual MLK Celebration in Charleston, SC.

2010

Barry Ledford is the principal at Catawba Ridge High School in the Fort Mill School District in South Carolina. He previously served as the assistant principal.

ministry, worship, administration, and more for recent college graduates or people who are called to minister to youth. He encourages NGU alums to apply for these openings.

Hunter Riddle was inducted into the Emerald High School 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame in Greenwood, SC. Riddle was a standout soccer player at Emerald from 2006-10. He earned AllLakelands Team and All-Region honors as a sophomore, and All-Lakelands and All-State honors after his junior and senior seasons. He was selected for the 2009 NSCAA All-American Soccer Team and played in the North/South AllStar Game. Riddle played for NGU for two seasons before transferring to Winthrop University, where he was part of the 2012 team that won the Big South Conference championship and advanced to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. Riddle played in the USL Professional Development League for two seasons with the Palmetto FC Bantams and the SC United Bantams. He coached the Emerald varsity team for two seasons. He is self-employed and lives in Greenville.

2012

Corey Spearman is the director of sales and marketing for I Bleed Orange LLC and I Bleed Orange Sports Network.

2015

Jennifer Bramel Schaaf (MME ’19) is band director at West Oak Middle School in Westminster, SC. Grant Schricker is an estate planning attorney at the Heyl Royster Law Firm in his hometown of Peoria, IL.

2016

Suzanna Edwards is a program assistant at USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. She received her M.A. in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership from Wheaton College in 2021.

Micheal Pardue (MCM ’10) will be nominated for SBC second vice president by North Carolina pastor J. Allen Murray at the 2024 SBC Annual Meeting in June. Micheal is the pastor of First Baptist Church Icard in Connelly Springs, NC.

2011

Jack Merckle is part of a youth ministry organization called Crossroads Farm. They have locations in Michigan, Ohio, and Montana. The organization consistently has job openings in

AnnaLeis Caldwell is a former collegiate golfer and current program director at First Tee – Clearwater. Caldwell previously worked for First Tee – Upstate SC, and was the first director of women’s golf at Champion Hills Golf Course in North Carolina.

Joey Elledge wrote a portion of a new book with the Society of American Baseball Researchers (SABR) on the sports marketing history of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The book was released in April 2024.

Christal Joy Potter has written a book, “Treasured: A collection of songs, journals and declarations to unveil your beauty and purpose in Christ Jesus.” It is a faithbased devotional designed to help readers uncover their true potential and worth through the Lord and begin their journey of spiritual healing. Published by Covenant Books of Murrells Inlet, SC, the book draws upon her own experiences in struggling with the insecurities brought on by carrying the burden of secret shame and believing lies of the enemy concerning her identity, worth, and future, and it reveals how a relationship with the Lord and His Scripture provides the one true path of healing, purpose, and redemption. Readers can purchase the book at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon or Barnes and Noble. covenantbooks.com/ books/?book=treasured

Stephen Roberts received a promotion from Treasury Analyst to Senior Treasury Analyst after two years of work at Regional Management Corporation.

2017

Carlee Colvard Hoopes is the marketing coordinator on the Communications Team at Connie Maxwell Children’s Home in Greenwood, SC.

AlumniNotes

2018

Morgan Reece (MBA ’20) completed her MBA in Human Resources. After accumulating business and nonprofit experience, she is working with the Forsyth County Government in Georgia as the Employee Engagement Coordinator, serving as the key representative for onboarding, orientation, grievances, and employee appreciation. She has received a Certificate of Completion from SHRM and is waiting for her exam date to be fully certified. She also is seeking an additional certification as an Employee Engagement Specialist.

2019

Zachary Chastain was promoted to an account manager role with Global Rescue after less than two years as an entry-level business development associate. Global Rescue is a membership-based field rescue and evacuation company based in Lebanon New Hampshire. Chastain works with various Tour Operators, Lodges and Groups to help protect their travelers anywhere in the world.

Championship. In March of 2019 at the Florida Relays, he was a member of the 4x800 meter relay team who finished with a time of 7:58.79 to set the current school record in that event.

2020

Jeremiah Bogan is the director of player personnel for University of Connecticut football. He joined the Huskies after spending the 2023 season at LSU as the assistant director of player personnel, overseeing the transfer portal as well as advanced scouting and evaluating high school prospects.

Kimberly Gautier Payne and her husband Brandon Payne (’17) have recently moved to Columbia, SC. Kimberly is working for the Bair Foundation, a Christian nonprofit foster care organization, as a lead clinical staff. Brandon is on the tracking team in the counterterrorism unit with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

2022

Kayleigh Joy Brown is a digital specialist for the Division of Enrollment and Student Affairs at Augusta University, Summerville Campus.

Dr. Andre Dukes (EdD ’20) is the Cherokee County executive director of academics. Dukes has served as principal at Southside High in the Greenville County School District since June 2017. Dukes is finishing his sixth year at Southside High.

Bryson Capps is an account manager with shiftNOW, a software company based in Charleston, SC. The company’s software connects hospitality businesses to an experienced temporary workforce.

Trey Stewart is Head Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Coach at Southern Wesleyan University. He also is the assistant coach for the Warriors’ Track and Field programs. Stewart joined the Warriors in 2021 as an assistant coach. He worked directly with both the distance and crosscountry runners during that time. Under his guidance, the Warriors saw three male athletes and two female athletes receive All-Conference recognition. Prior to Southern Wesleyan, Stewart worked as the assistant coach for Cross Country and Track and Field at Shannon Forest Christian School from 2019 to the spring of 2020. He also served as a volunteer track coach for the City of Greenville in 2018, assisting in organizing practices and sharing knowledge on the sport of Track & Field. While at NGU, he was a two-time AllConference Third Team finisher in the 800 meters at the Conference

Gretta Maguire is currently in Taiwan teaching for 11 months on a Fulbright Scholarship. She also has completed a master’s degree at Middle Tennessee State University and will begin a doctoral program this fall.

Sara Mackenzie Stewart was named the Greenville County School District Emerging Teacher of the Year for 2023-24.

Breanna (Bree) Stoddard Winton was accepted to the Doctor of Social Work program at the University of Kentucky. She currently is a school social worker in New Orleans and social work adjunct professor at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

2021

Lauren Dibble is a digital media coordinator at First Baptist Simpsonville/ Upstate Church in Simpsonville, SC. She manages the social media accounts for all six of their campuses and works closely with each team on the staff to promote events and highlight each ministry represented.

Kasie Thomas was named Sports Anchor of the Year by the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters. She works with WLBT in Jackson, MS.

Abigail Tyson was named Rookie of the Year for 2023-24 by the Dorchester County School District.

2023

Rodney Evans has joined The Insurance Source in Greer as an administrative assistant. He will soon begin a master’s degree. The Insurance Source is an independent brokerage specializing in health, life, disability, and dental insurance.

John Michael Faile signed a contract with the Cincinnati Reds organization.

Larry McCullough had an original organ composition used in the Netflix movie “The Burial.” His music and his singing group were featured in a PBS documentary commercial.

Kylie Nelson is an account executive with the Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty Soccer Club. She is responsible for selling new season tickets, group tickets, themed single-game packages, and season renewals for the Triumph and Liberty.

Abigail Dover Thomas directed “On Golden Pond” at the Hendersonville Theatre in Hendersonville, NC, in April 2024. Her past directing work includes “The Handmaid’s Tale” at Glow Lyric Theatre and she is looking forward to her upcoming project at Mill Town Players, “Barefoot in the Park.”

Jalen Vasquez was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 20th round of the 2023 draft. Vasquez began his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina and transferred to NGU for his 2023 season. The 6-foot shortstop posted a .331 batting average and .444 slugging percentage. He hit 12 home runs, 12 doubles and two triples while driving in 40 runs and scoring 48 runs. He was named to the 2023 All-Conference Carolinas and NCBWA All-Southeast Region teams. As a high school senior, Vasquez was named the 2020 Summerville Communications Baseball Player of the Year.

CampusNotes

NGU Online Programs

Dr. Tracy Kramer, who has held various leadership positions at North Greenville University for the past 18 years, has been named dean of online programs at the university. Kramer previously served as the associate dean for graduate programs and Title IX coordinator. She also served as the interim dean for online programs, aligning NGU’s online offerings with traditional programs.

CampusNotes

“In the past, online and traditional programs were completely separate,” Kramer said. “Now, we’re focusing on creating more fluidity between the two. We want traditional students to be able to take online classes.”

Kramer said the process has resulted in stronger programs across the board and more opportunities for students.

“We’ve taken each online program and evaluated it through the curriculum committee to make sure the programs are aligned with what is offered in the traditional format,” she said.

The need for more online options arose in 2020, and the trend has continued in higher education.

“During the pandemic, online education became something students expected and were more capable of handling,” Kramer said. “We’re never going to be a fully online campus, and that’s not our goal. But, there are times when it is better for a student to be able to take a class online.”

“Our idea is to provide an online option for people that not only provides them with the educational rigor that they need, but also incorporates faith in all

aspects of the curriculum,” she said.

To explore online opportunities at NGU, visit go.ngu.edu/online.

Institute for Transformational Leadership

Dr. Nathan Finn, the institute’s executive director, will be nominated for a third term as Southern Baptist Convention recording secretary by Dr. Tony Wolfe, executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, at the 2024 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Indianapolis in June.

Dr. James D. Jordan, Jr., North Greenville’s fifth president, died, February 17, 2024. He was 90 years old.

Born April 20, 1933, in Charleston, South Carolina, Dr. Jordan served as president of North Greenville College from 1981 to 1987.

A noted educator and minister, Dr. Jordan completed a bachelor’s degree in history from Furman University in 1955, graduating summa cum laude. He earned a Fulbright Scholarship and studied at the University of Strasbourg in France for a year before returning to the United States to pursue a Bachelor of Divinity degree at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was ordained to the gospel ministry by Ashley River Baptist Church in 1956 and served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Newton, North Carolina, while completing his seminary degree.

Dr. Jordan broadened his academic interests as a graduate student in church history at Duke University from 1960 to 1963 and earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Duke in 1966.

“Dr. Jordan was a highly respected educator who deployed his gifts as an academician, pastor and administrator to further the work of North Greenville,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “One of the testaments to his leadership in Tigerville is that people he employed for our institution four decades ago are still actively serving at the university today. He built a legacy of utilizing his God-given talents and doing so with a sincere concern for others.”

Dr. Jordan joined the faculty of Oxford College of Emory University in 1963 and became an associate professor of religion at Mars Hill College in 1964. He was named associate professor of history at Georgia Southern College in 1969 before being promoted to head of the college’s department of history and geography in 1972, and to the rank of professor in 1974.

He returned to his native state in the summer of 1981 and was president of NGC for six years before moving to the presidency of Shorter College in Rome, Georgia, in 1987. He served as the Georgia Baptist Convention institution for six years. During his tenure as a Baptist higher education administrator, he was an active member of the Association of Southern Baptist Colleges and Schools. He also served on several visiting committees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges regional accrediting agency.

“Dr. Jordan was an outstanding success in engaging alumni and friends of the college and planting seeds for the future,” said Dr. Fred Payne, the college’s chief advancement officer during the Jordan presidency. “We were able to complete North Greenville’s first multi-million-dollar capital campaign, ‘Opportunity for Excellence,’ raising significant support for scholarships, housing, and other needs. Dr. Jordan and his wife were an exemplary ‘First Couple,’ smart, caring, and organized in leading the school.”

In ministerial service, Dr. Jordan was a pastor or interim pastor for churches in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. He frequently preached across the region and was a sought-after inspirational speaker. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and growing roses.

Dr. Jordan is survived by his wife of 68 years, Barbara Watts Jordan; two children, Jean Jordan Misiewicz (Victor), and James “Jay” Jordan (Jackie); and two siblings, Eunice Jordan Leaird and John Lawrence “Larry” Jordan (Dorn).

NGU’s ‘Light on a Hill’ Campaign

Students, alumni, and friends of NGU can leave their mark at the new Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center by participating in the university’s “Light on a Hill” campaign. The campaign invites participants to purchase commemorative bricks that will be included in grand entry leading into the Plaster Center. Each brick will be engraved with names or messages.

“We’ve seen an incredible response to the Light on a Hill campaign,” said Lamont Sullivan, Senior Associate Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Athletic Development. “This effort is helping us achieve something truly remarkable, while celebrating NGU’s history and our future.”

The 4-inch-by-8-inch bricks are $150 for alumni and friends, and $100 for 2023-24 NGU graduates and current students. To learn more, or to purchase bricks in the Light on a Hill campaign, visit go.ngu.edu/ mark-the-way.

“North Greenville University played a vital role in shaping my life and ministry. The professors who helped to equip me, the administration that cared for me, and the entire community that cheered me on gave me the encouragement and support I needed to fulfill the Lord’s calling in my life. That continued atmosphere on campus is why I continue to support the school and recommend it to all prospective students. NGU is a university where lives are transformed and kingdom impact is made.”

for CHU R CH and SOCIE T Y

North Greenville University exists to glorify God by cultivating graduates who are equipped to serve as transformational leaders for church and society. Everything we do at NGU—every program, every course, every event—is designed to fulfill our mission.

When you choose NGU, you’re choosing more than an academically minded environment. You’re stepping into a community that will join you as you seek His purpose for your life.

Tigerville, South Carolina Greer, South Carolina Pine Mountain, Georgia

Joshua Powell ’98

Lead Pastor Taylors First Baptist Church Taylors, South Carolina