WELCOME BACK
COACH BRADDS EVAN BRADDS (‘17) RETURNS TO LEAD BELMONT MEN’S BASKETBALL - P14
A Word from the President FRIENDS,
BELMONT MAGAZINE
Spring is always one of the most energizing seasons at Belmont. It’s a time when the creativity, curiosity and dedication of our community are especially visible across campus.
Belmont Magazine is published semiannually by University Marketing and Communications for nearly 50,000 alumni and friends of Belmont University.
In the pages that follow, you’ll read stories of students and alumni stepping into meaningful, real-world experiences –– from Evan Bradds’ full-circle return to Belmont Men’s Basketball to new Dolly U collaborations tied directly to the entertainment industry, a studentled theatre production touring local schools and championship performances in athletics and the arts. This spring also marked our second annual SPARK Symposium, a growing campus tradition where students from all 12 colleges presented original research, performances and creative work that reflect both intellectual curiosity and a commitment to serving others through their gifts. These milestones are made possible through an intentional framework for formation that is taking hold across Belmont’s campus. Through the work of the Formation Collaborative and partnerships throughout the University, students are encouraged to connect learning with purpose, leadership and community engagement. This year, Belmont also expanded initiatives focused on faithinspired storytelling, equipping emerging filmmakers, artists and creatives to create work marked by hope, authenticity and care for the communities their stories reach. This semester also marked an important moment for the University. Through Hope Transforms — our most ambitious campaign to date — alumni, families and friends continue investing in opportunities that will shape Belmont’s future for generations to come. This year’s Bruins for Life giving day alone raised more than $1.2 million in support of student scholarships and experiences, a powerful reflection of what can happen when a community rallies around a shared mission. Thank you for being part of the Belmont community and for the many ways you continue to encourage and support our students. I hope these stories offer a meaningful glimpse into the people, partnerships and experiences shaping Belmont today. Cheers,
MANAGING EDITOR
Haley Charlton (B.S. ’16, M.S. ’23) DESIGNERS
Zach Bowen Deborah Brewington Caitlin Cooney (B.F.A. ‘22) Mary Puls (B.F.A. ’20) Teresa VanderMolen UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janelle Mali Hagan (Student, B.A. ‘25) Sam Simpkins Matt Willoughby (B.S. ‘28) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Haley Charlton (B.S. ’16, M.S. ‘23) Julia Copeland (B.S. ’16, M.S. ‘23) Laurel Crain (B.S. ‘26) Benjamin DeVerter (B.F.A. ‘25) Emily Fackler (M.F.A. ‘27) Clara LoCricchio Jasmine Simmons ADDRESS UPDATES
For address updates, email AdvancementServices@belmont.edu. CONTACT BELMONT MAGAZINE STAFF
Email: communication@belmont.edu Mail: Belmont Magazine Belmont University Freeman Hall Third Floor 1900 Belmont Blvd. Nashville, TN 37212
Greg
Belmont University is a Christ-centered community. In recognition of God’s design for humanity and rooted in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Belmont University does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other classification protected by law in its policies, programs, activities, or practices. This policy applies to all recruitment, admissions, financial aid, educational, employment, or other Universityadministered policies, programs, activities, or practices.
Season three of “The Hope People” continues this summer with five new episodes hosted by President Greg Jones. Through conversations with athletes, artists, leaders and innovators, the podcast explores the experiences that shape identity, purpose and the ways people continue moving forward with hope through life’s challenges and opportunities. Find “The Hope People” wherever you get your podcasts! A WO RD F R O M T H E P R ES ID ENT
Belmont University has appointed the Chief Human Resources Officer/Deputy Title IX Coordinator to serve as coordinator of non-discrimination compliance for staff and faculty. The Director of Institutional Compliance/ Title IX Coordinator serves as coordinator of compliance for Title IX (sex discrimination) issues and questions for students. To read the full Nondiscrimination Statement and view contact information for Title IX concerns, visit belmont.edu/nondiscrimination.
Campus News BELMONT ON MISSION: SPRING BREAK 2026 During spring break, students traveled to Honduras, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and India to serve alongside long-standing global partners. Rather than leading efforts, students joined ongoing work –– an approach rooted in cultural humility and collaboration.
AMERICAN IDOL COMES TO CAMPUS When American Idol filmed at Belmont last fall, the partnership was a natural fit. Hosted in the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, auditions and “Hollywood Week” for Season 24 built on years of Belmont students and alumni contributing to the show behind the scenes and on stage. Sophomore James Shepard spent two weeks on the production floor as an assistant, preparing audition entrances and setting up dressing rooms for the judges. Already a member of the Fisher Center team, Shepard embraced the fast-paced nature of the production, seeing it as an exercise in learning to show up ready for anything.
In Honduras, pharmacy, physical therapy and occupational therapy students provided necessary care to more than 400 patients through community and mobile clinics. In the Dominican Republic, students partnered with Casas por Cristo to build a home for a local family in under four days. In Guatemala, student teams delivered health screenings, water filters and patient education, while in Costa Rica, students focused on relationship-building with local families and churches. “Mission is not about coming in with all the answers,” said Shelby Garner, executive director of global health innovation for Belmont Global, “but about showing up with humility, compassion and a heart ready to learn.”
Alumnus Adam Davis returned to campus as supervising digital producer, making a full-circle moment for someone who once auditioned for the show himself. “Belmont really did take me from that dirt road to anywhere, and now to the best job I could have ever dreamed of having at ‘American Idol,’” he reflected.
BELMONT NAMES CLASS OF 2026 HONORARY DOCTORATES At spring commencement, Belmont awarded honorary doctorates to Brad Paisley (‘95), Kimberly WilliamsPaisley and Dick Miller, recognizing their contributions to Belmont and their broader impact across their fields. President Greg Jones presided over four ceremonies honoring more than 1,950 degree candidates.
A NEW TRADITION: MISS BELMONT UNIVERSITY
Paisley, a 1995 music business alumnus, is a three-time Grammy Award winner with 24 No. 1 hits. In 2012, he established the Brad Paisley Endowed Scholarship, which has supported more than 70 students in the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business. Williams-Paisley, a Belmont trustee since 2022, worked with Brad to co-found The Store, a free nonprofit grocery that launched on Belmont’s campus and has provided more than 1.5 million meals since 2020. Miller, chairman emeritus of Earl Swensson Associates, spent more than 50 years shaping landmark Nashville projects, including the AT&T building and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. His firm has played a significant role in shaping the evolution of Belmont’s campus.
Ellison Sawyer was named Miss Belmont University this Spring and will represent Belmont at the Miss Tennessee Scholarship Competition.
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Campus News STUDENTS LEAD GLOBAL MEDICINE SYMPOSIUM Before she ever stepped into the Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine, second-year medical student Marcelina Puc envisioned a global medicine symposium. Two years later, she and co-organizer Claire Buck have turned that idea into a full-scale campus event. The Global Medicine Symposium, themed “Global Resilience in Medicine: Grow, Adapt, Transform,” drew nearly 60 students from across medicine, nursing, pharmacy and physical therapy. Through keynote speakers, panel discussions and a student poster session, participants explored topics ranging from global surgery and infectious disease to international research collaboration. For Puc and Buck, the goal was to reconnect peers with the purpose behind their calling to medicine. “You can’t get the full magic of medicine inside a classroom,” Puc said. Supported in part by a Belmont leadership grant, the symposium highlights what’s possible when students lead with vision, humility and the boldness to build something from scratch.
BELMONT LAUNCHES NEW ACADEMICS PROGRAMS Belmont is expanding its academic offerings with six new offerings spanning health care, communication, faith and learning design, creating new pathways for students and professionals at every stage of their careers. In health care, three new initiatives are now available: the Master of Science – Entry to the Practice of Nursing (MEPN), designed for career changers with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree; the Health Care Exploration for Aspiring Leaders (HEALs) program, which offers undergraduates conditional admission to Belmont’s graduate health programs while building collaborative leadership skills; and the Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy (OMPT) Fellowship, a 24-month advanced training program for licensed physical therapists seeking specialized credentials. For learners who need flexible, online options, three additional programs expand access: the Master of Science in Strategic Communication and Leadership (MSCL), built for mid-career communicators stepping into strategic leadership; the Master of Arts in Christian Faith and Life (MACFL), connecting theology with professional practice across business, health care and the arts; and the Master of Science in Instructional Design & Innovation (MSIDI), preparing educators and learning professionals to design meaningful, technology-forward learning experiences. 2
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Invited physicians pose with symposium organizer and second year medical student Marcelina Puc.
STUDENTS INVEST $100K IN THE FUTURE OF NASHVILLE Belmont students learned to put philanthropy into practice this semester, awarding $100,000 in grants to two Nashville nonprofits through the inaugural Generous Life Course. The philanthropic fund was made possible through a commitment from Nashville-based investment firm Anchor Investments. The year-long experiential learning initiative is housed within the Global Honors Program and delivered through the Belmont Innovation Labs.
Interfaith Dental and Preston Taylor Ministries each received $50,000. Interfaith Dental expands access to oral health care for underserved populations, while Preston Taylor Ministries supports youth and families through mentorship, education and community programming. Students from a wide range of majors participated, evaluating organizations based on community impact.
Through a student-led process, participants developed a formal requestfor-proposal system, reviewed submissions, conducted finalist interviews and selected the recipients.
STUDENT DOCUMENTARY REACHES GLOBAL AUDIENCE Ethan Whitfield transferred to Belmont last fall and expected a quiet first semester. Instead, he landed his first paid film gig and a documentary now on display in London. A junior film student, Whitfield directed, shot and edited “Shaping Healing Spaces Together,” a short film chronicling an interdisciplinary collaboration between Belmont’s nursing and architecture programs. The documentary debuted at the Florence Nightingale Museum as part of the “Healing Spaces: Healthcare Design Past, Present and Future” exhibit, where it now plays for visitors worldwide. The project, coordinated by Dr. Fernando Lima (Architecture) and Dr. Kathryn Dambrino (Nursing), highlights how students co-design real-world health care environments — such as a newborn sleep safety project (pictured right). For Whitfield, the experience was a career accelerant. Shortly after wrapping the documentary, he accepted a role producing a weekly mini-docuseries for a startup tech company. B ELMON T MAGAZ IN E
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Campus News ‘REQUIEM FOR COLOR’ EARNS THREE MIDSOUTH EMMY AWARDS Dr. Jeffery Ames’ “Requiem for Color: A Journey Through Lament and Joy” earned three MidSouth Emmy awards in the categories for Entertainment, Musical Composition/Arrangement and Audio Recording, Mixing and Design. The production blends musical genres while exploring the experiences of Black people and their descendants. A decade-long labor of love, the masterwork features a powerhouse orchestra of Belmont students and professional musicians, a combined choir from Belmont and Tennessee State University, as well as soloists, dancers and orators. Dr. Doyuen Ko and his audio engineering class led the project’s audio recording, contributing to its broadcast-quality sound and future album release. “I am grateful that my students and I were able to deliver a professional-quality audio recording,” said Ko, professor of audio engineering technology. “It truly demonstrates what we can achieve through interdisciplinary collaboration on the Belmont campus.”
SPEECH AND DEBATE EXTENDS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP STREAK Belmont Speech and Debate continued its record of excellence this year, capturing its eighth consecutive state title with a sweep of all three major team categories at the Tennessee Intercollegiate Forensics Association (TIFA) championship. The team earned first-place finishes in Debate, Individual Events and Overall, entering a record 86 individual and team competitions. Belmont’s novice debaters also made TIFA history, “busting” their brackets by eliminating all other competitors by the quarterfinals. “It’s beautiful to see this team get so close while representing such different perspectives,” said sophomore Adam Everhart. “In learning to be an advocate, you are given the chance to learn from and lift up others’ voices with purpose.” The team’s continued success reflects both the students’ hard work and the strong sense of community that defines Belmont Speech and Debate. 4
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EQUITY TRADING CLUB FINISHES FIRST IN STATEWIDE INVESTMENT CHALLENGE Belmont’s equity trading club secured a first-place finish in the 2026 Tennessee Valley Authority Investment Challenge, effectively stewarding a student-managed, real-money investment portfolio to an overall 15.42% return, outperforming the benchmark by more than 14%. The performance secured a $13,666 Performance Award and recognition at the equity trading club’s annual conference in Nashville, highlighting the team’s disciplined approach to portfolio management. As one of the nation’s largest experiential finance programs, TVA’s Investment Challenge prepares students for careers in finance by providing them with valuable, hands-on portfolio management practice. By applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios with real stakes in live markets, Belmont students demonstrated the research, strategy and adaptability needed to succeed at the highest level. “This win is a testament to the analytical rigor and collaborative spirit of our students,” said faculty advisor John Gonas. “They aren’t just studying the markets; they are successfully navigating them.”
ALUMNUS AND DAUGHTER MAKE GRAMMY HISTORY From his early roots as a solo hip-hop act through his career as a music educator, Belmont alumnus FYÜTCH’s (music business, ’11) musical journey has been defined by creativity, positivity and resilience. Most recently, FYÜTCH and his eight-year-old daughter Aura V made history at the Grammy Awards, winning Best Children’s Album for “Harmony” and making Aura V the youngest Grammy winner ever. The genre-blending project explores social justice, identity and community through a children’s lens, though it has been praised for its musical depth by listeners and critics of all ages. As a Belmont student, FYÜTCH took first place in Curb College’s Pop Showcase, released his first solo work and made connections he still values today. “That’s where I really found my music community,” he said. “People I went to school with back then are executives now. It’s the friends you learn and grow with that propel you forward.”
FYÜTCH and Aura V at a visit to campus this spring.
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ALUMNI NEWS Belmont hosted its inaugural “Alumni By Choice” ceremony, honoring devoted members of the Belmont community who have shaped the character and culture of the University. Pictured (L-R): Top: Dr. Richard Shadinger, Coach Rick Byrd, Greg Pillon, Ryan Holt, Katherine Cornelius, Jamie Zeller. Bottom: Sam Simpkins, “Miss Tonya” Granberry, Dr. Jimmy Davis, Dr. Madeline Bridges, Sandra Dudley, Dr. Annette Sisson and Dr. Mike Pinter. Dr. David Bridges (1946-2026) was also honored.
MARKI YACCINO CONTRIBUTES TO
OSCAR-WINNING DOCUMENTARY Alumna Marki Yaccino (media production, ‘17) worked on Oscar-winning production “All the Empty Rooms,” a documentary exploring the empty bedrooms of children lost to school gun violence. Yaccino traces her path in documentary filmmaking back to Belmont New York City, where she first discovered the power of storytelling through real-world experiences. Now, Yaccino is developing a feature film project titled “Molting,” a family drama written and directed by fellow alumna Kendra Baude and co-produced by Yaccino and alumna Ryan Byrd. “Belmont made it very clear that the people you meet are going to be the people that you want to lean on in your career,” she said. “I definitely see that happening today.” Left to right: Ryan Byrd, Kendra Baude and Marki Yaccino
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DREW HANLEN CHALLENGES
STUDENTS TO DREAM BIGGER Entrepreneurship alumnus and renowned NBA skills coach Drew Hanlen (‘12) returned to Belmont in January to share practical insight on motivation, goal setting and resilience. Drawing from his experience working with top professional athletes, Hanlen encouraged students to think beyond perceived limits and approach their goals with discipline and belief. His message resonated across majors, with students engaging in a Q&A on confidence, growth and navigating setbacks. Hanlen closed with this challenge: “I want you to leave here and ask yourself, ‘What is the next level, and do I actually believe I can get there?’”
POWERHOUSE VOCALIST KELSIE WATTS
J O I N S ‘ M O U L I N R O U G E ’ O N B R O A D W AY Commercial voice alumna Kelsie Watts (‘15) continues her rise on Broadway, recently transitioning from playing Jane Seymour in the musical “SIX” to taking on the role of Satine in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” At Belmont, Watts performed with pop-rock ensemble Phoenix and adapted her classical singing style for commercial work, skills that now translate to the high demands of Broadway. In addition to performing eight shows per week, Watts continues to write and record original music. Her latest single, “Made for Your Love,” precedes a full album currently in production. “There’s no one way to do what I’m doing,” Watts said. “I’m on Broadway, and I had never done theatre. When the opportunities came, I was ready.”
SCOTT DARRAH
REDEFINES NURSE LEADERSHIP Scott Darrah (BSN, ‘09) took a nontraditional path to Belmont, transferring in his mid-20s while working 50 hours weekly in retail, and has now built an equally unconventional nursing career. A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) for seven inpatient medicine units at the University of Virginia Health System, Darrah works at the systems level improving outcomes for entire patient populations rather than individuals at the bedside. “I realized that as a clinical nurse specialist, I could change the way the system works,” Darrah said. “I can make the entire health system my patient.” His CNS team earned national recognition for advancing the clinical nurse specialist role to that of a fully practicing licensed independent practitioner, a model reshaping how health systems leverage advanced practice nurses. Darrah credits Belmont’s hands-on approach and faculty mentorship for laying the groundwork for this big-picture thinking. “All of this is possible with the foundation and rigor of Belmont’s educational approach,” he said. B ELMON T MAGAZ IN E
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Pictured (L-R): Belmont Law’s founding dean Jeff Kinsler, Gonzales and Farringer
Belmont Law’s Next Chapter JUDGE ALBERTO GONZALES STEPS DOWN AS DEAN AFTER 12 YEARS, DEBORAH FARRINGER NAMED AS SUCCESSOR AND FIRST FEMALE DEAN After 12 years of transformative leadership, Belmont Law Dean Alberto Gonzales announced he will be stepping down July 31. Gonzales joined Belmont following a distinguished career in public service, and he channeled that experience into building one of the nation’s most dynamic and innovative law programs. Belmont Law consistently graduates the highest number of Tennessee Bar Exam test-takers, has led the state in bar pass rates for consecutive years and this year ranked 10th in the nation for bar exam passage. University Provost Dr. David Gregory noted, “Dean Gonzales’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing Belmont’s College of Law as a premier institution known for producing practice-ready lawyers equipped with purpose, integrity and excellence. He has set a standard of excellence that extends far beyond the classroom, mentoring future legal professionals and fostering a culture where students are empowered to lead with character and competence.” 8
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Gonzales has cultivated a supportive, collaborative environment that stands in stark contrast to the adversarial culture often associated with legal education. Students and alumni consistently credit this approach with empowering them to excel both on the bar exam and in their careers. Now, Belmont Law turns the page as the College prepares to welcome its first female dean, current Law Associate Dean Deborah Farringer. “Belmont Law prides itself on graduating practice-ready attorneys who make an instant impact in their legal community,” Farringer said. “That reputation has been earned by the work ethic and drive of our students to be curious, engage in their studies, participate in experiential learning and pro bono opportunities, and do all they can to know the law. Maintaining this culture is essential to the success of the law school.”
TURNING THE PAGE DEBORAH R. FARRINGER As one chapter closes, Farringer begins the next, building on a strong foundation with a clear vision for what’s ahead. • Third to lead Belmont’s College of Law — and its first female dean • A Belmont Law faculty member since 2013, including five years as associate dean • Former director of Health Law Studies, leading the program to a No. 55 national specialty ranking • An avid runner, with more than a dozen half marathons and four full marathons — most recently the 2025 Music City Marathon
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I can truly say I never had any intention to be here this long, but I discovered that when you find a home, it’s hard to leave a family.” — JUDGE ALBERTO GONZALES
ENDNOTES TO AN INCREDIBLE CHAPTER JUDGE ALBERTO GONZALES Gonzales leaves behind a legacy defined by leadership, service and a young program’s rise. TOP
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Dean and Doyle Rogers Distinguished Chair
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I welcome the opportunity to show what Belmont Law students and graduates have to offer to professors, attorneys, judges and other professionals across the country and around the globe.”
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U.S. Attorney General
Counsel to the President • Associate Justice of the Texas Supreme Court • Texas Secretary of State
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HANDS-ON COURSES, STUDENT-LED PRODUCTIONS AND REAL-WORLD PROJECTS DEFINE THE NEXT CHAPTER OF DOLLY U Since launching last year, Dolly U has broadened how Belmont students connect creativity with real-world experience. The initiative with Dolly Parton and CTK Enterprises now reaches across campus, offering deeper access to the ideas and industries shaping modern entertainment. This spring, Dolly U courses spanned three colleges, connecting students to projects tied to Parton’s growing creative ecosystem. In one class, students developed marketing strategies for the Broadway-bound “Dolly: A True Original Musical” soundtrack. In another, they designed customer experience strategies for Dolly’s forthcoming SongTeller Hotel and Life of Many Colors Museum. Across disciplines, the curriculum centers on a shared goal: pairing creative instinct with strategic execution. “Dolly’s career is a masterclass in character, creativity and innovation,” said Sarah Cates, vice president for imagination, strategic initiatives and partnerships. “These courses don’t just teach about excellence; they invite students to be part of creating it.” That approach was especially visible in the evolution of “Billy the Kid Makes It Big.” Based on one of Dolly’s children’s books, students in the Theatre & Dance continued on next page
FISHER CENTER EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION
The world premiere of “Dolly: A True Original Musical” drew more than 77,000 attendees from all 50 states and earned the venue the PACnet ’26 Spotlight Event of the Year Award, cementing the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts as a national stage for major new works.
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Billy the Kid Makes It Big
“From script development to touring logistics, they’re learning by doing.” — Dr. Carla Lahey, assistant professor of theatre and director of Rep Co
CELEBRATING A HISTORIC MILESTONE BELMONT U
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DOLLYU COURSES Entertainment Marketing & Promotion Partnership Marketing in Music Shaping the Story: Strategic Communication for an Emerging Dolly Initiative Dollyology: Branding, Leadership and Strategic Communication in the Dollyverse
Following the sold-out run of “Dolly: A True Original Musical” on campus, President Greg Jones presented Dolly Parton with a commemorative gift celebrating both the production’s remarkable achievement and Dolly U’s inaugural year on campus. The custom ceramic bowl, featuring a butterfly motif and sculpted by Audry Deal-McEver, symbolizes transformation and the creative spirit central to Dolly’s partnership with Belmont.
Dolly Parton: Songteller Customer Relationship Management and Experience Strategy
Repertory Company developed the story into a fully realized stage production. Without a prewritten script, students built the show from the ground up –– writing dialogue, composing music and designing sets. The result was a traveling, student-led production that brought live theatre to elementary schools across Middle Tennessee while modeling the full lifecycle of a professional show. The production also debuted at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in conjunction with their Dolly Parton exhibit, further connecting student work to Nashville’s broader creative community. “Knowing this may be the first live performance a child has ever seen brings a real sense of responsibility,” said theatre performance major Danny Mantel. “I hope kids walk away believing they have a gift worth holding onto and people who will help them believe in it.” The year came full circle this spring as students brought “9 to 5” to the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts stage — the same venue where Parton premiered her newest musical just last summer. The production served as a fitting capstone to a year of Dolly U, reinforcing the connection between inspiration, education and performance.
9 to 5
Together, these experiences define Dolly U today: a living lab where storytelling becomes strategy and students step into the role of creators, collaborators and leaders.
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O’More Shines INCLUSIVE FASHION PARTNERSHIP REFLECTS COLLEGE'S COMMITMENT TO PURPOSE-DRIVEN DESIGN O'More College of Architecture & Design approaches design as more than technical skill, students are empowered to lead with empathy, purpose and service. This spring, two milestones brought that philosophy to life. At the annual fashion show in April, junior fashion students showcased custom costumes designed for Move Inclusive Dance, a Franklin-based nonprofit offering dance classes for individuals with disabilities. Students spent the semester observing choreography, taking measurements and creating garments tailored to each dancer's specific needs, learning to design with people, not just for them. "When students look through the eyes of somebody whose needs aren't necessarily designed for, they're learning an empathetic side of design that they can apply for the rest of their careers," said Andie Day, assistant professor of fashion. Several Move Inclusive dancers joined their designers on the runway, bringing the collaboration full circle. The partnership reflects O'More's ongoing commitment to community-centered design, with plans to expand adaptive design research through a new integrated studio course next spring. The evening also featured eight graduating seniors presenting capstone collections, conceptually driven work inspired by sources ranging from medieval literature to circus theatrics, positioning student designers to enter the industry with both technical excellence and creative vision. 12
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ARCHITECTURE PROGRAM RECEIVES HISTORIC ACCREDITATION That same commitment to purpose-driven work earned recognition at the program level when O’More’s Bachelor of Architecture became Middle Tennessee's only NAABaccredited program. The rigorous accreditation process evaluated curriculum, faculty, facilities and student achievement, positioning graduates to pursue licensure in all 54 U.S. jurisdictions. "What ultimately defines our program is not just what we do, but who our students become," said Dr. Fernando Lima, chair of architecture. "We are shaping purpose-driven individuals who can integrate technical excellence with empathy, leadership and a deep sense of responsibility to others; designers who see their work as a calling to serve and transform the world."
INTERIOR DESIGN ALUMNA SHAPES NASHVILLE AIRPORT EXPANSION Taylor Gustafson (interior design, ’21) is contributing to the ongoing expansion of Nashville International Airport as an interior designer at Fentress Studios, applying skills developed at O’More to a large-scale public project used by millions of travelers each year. Her projects include Concourse D, which opened in July 2025, and Concourse A, currently under construction. “Belmont faculty really sparked deeper thinking for me," Gustafson said. "They helped me understand different ways to design, and I've taken that into my career."
"We are shaping purpose-driven individuals who can integrate technical excellence with empathy, leadership and a deep sense of responsibility to others." — Dr. Fernando Lima Chair of Architecture
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WELCOME BACK, BRADDS Evan Bradds (‘17) has coached alongside NBA champions, developed top draft prospects and spent this past season on the bench at Duke, the No. 1 overall seed in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. In March, that path led him back to his alma mater. Bradds returned to Belmont as the 11th head men’s basketball coach in program history, a full-circle moment for one of the most decorated players to wear a Bruins jersey. “Becoming the next head coach at Belmont — a university and program that has played such a huge role in my life — is truly surreal,” Bradds said. “Belmont is a special place.” As a Bruin, Bradds became one of the most efficient scorers in college basketball history, finishing with a .667 career field goal percentage –– sixth all-time in NCAA Division I –– and the program record of 1,921 points. He was a two-time OVC Player of the Year, two-time AP Honorable Mention All-American and graduated with honors in finance. What followed was a decade-long rise through the coaching ranks: five seasons with the Boston Celtics, three with the Utah Jazz and a year coordinating Duke’s offense. His return comes at a moment of sustained momentum for Belmont basketball.
Award-Winning Athletics FROM LEADERSHIP TO PERFORMANCE, BELMONT BRUINS CONTINUE TO BUILD ON A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE. 14
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BRUINS CLAIM THE COURT... The Bruins are coming off one of their strongest seasons in recent memory, finishing 26-5 and claiming the Missouri Valley Conference regular season championship, the program’s 13th in 21 seasons. Ranked among the nation’s best throughout the year, Belmont led the country in effective field goal percentage and posted top-50 metrics across the key categories. Tyler Lundblade earned MVC Player of the Year honors, while then-head coach Casey Alexander was named MVC Coach of the Year. Though the postseason ended in the MVC Tournament quarterfinals, the season reflected a program operating at a high level, and one poised for its next chapter under Bradds’ leadership.
...AND THE FIELD... Belmont softball delivered a historic season this spring, capturing both its first-ever Missouri Valley Conference regular season championship and second straight MVC Tournament title with an 8-1 victory over Murray State Racers. Senior Maya Johnson was named MVC Tournament MVP, while teammates Madison Dolecki, Nicole Hughes and Rylee Spindler earned All-Tournament Team honors. Johnson’s standout year also included being selected third overall in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League draft, receiving her “Golden Ticket” from Olympic medalist Jessica Mendoza. Her dominant season came after overcoming a lupus flare-up that required chemotherapy treatments in the fall and returning to pitch a perfect game just 21 days after her final infusion. Named Softball America’s Pitcher of the Year, Johnson’s story was featured nationally on ESPN.
READ MORE ABOUT MAYA ON ESPN.COM
...AND BEYOND Tuti Jones capped a record-setting Belmont career as both a standout athlete and a committed servant-leader. She volunteered with organizations like Harvest Hands, Second Harvest Food Bank and Dream Streets Mobile Food, while earning the 202526 Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. On the court, Jones finished with 1,766 points, 729 rebounds, 520 assists and a schoolrecord 449 steals — becoming the only Bruin in the NCAA era to reach 1,500 points, 500 assists and 700 rebounds. Her next chapter will be as assistant women’s basketball coach at Jacksonville State University.
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SPARK Ignites Campus-Wide Celebration of Student Achievement NEW CAMPUS TRADITION CELEBRATES UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE RESEARCH, CREATIVITY AND PERFORMANCE This spring, students across campus gathered for the second annual SPARK Symposium, dedicating a full day to presenting and experiencing original work spanning Scholarship, Performance, Art, Research and Knowledg, the five pillars behind the SPARK acronym. The event drew presenters from all 12 of Belmont’s colleges, with students stepping up to poster boards, stages, gallery walls and lecterns to share work they’d spent a semester — and in some cases, multiple semesters — developing. Across disciplines, students approached research in markedly different ways, but with a shared commitment to inquiry and impact.
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“IF YO U LEA R N SO M ET HIN G , T HAT ’ S G R EAT, BUT IF EVERYO N E LEA R N S IT, TH E N EVERYO N E CA N BEN EFIT FRO M IT. BEIN G A BLE TO SHA R E M Y R ESEA RCH I S EQUALLY A S IM P O RTA N T A S D O IN G T HE R ESEA RCH ITSELF.” — ELLIS STA F FO R D
Ellis Stafford (‘26)
BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Senior Ellis Stafford came to SPARK with three presentations, and nearly two years of research behind one of them. For the past four semesters, he has investigated whether curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can work alongside chemotherapy drug cisplatin to more effectively treat osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. The goal: reduce the nerve damage caused by cisplatin while maintaining effectiveness. Stafford’s findings show the combination treatment produces more tumor suppression than cisplatin alone, and his team is now working toward a publishable manuscript. His additional presentations included a murder mystery-style toxicology experience and a psychology study on cognitive distraction and flavor perception. “If you learn something, that’s great, but if everyone learns it, then everyone can benefit from it,” Stafford said. “Being able to share my research is equally as important as doing the research itself.”
Conner Boggs (‘27) THEATRE EDUCATION
Junior Conner Boggs also presented three times, demonstrating how theatre education functions as research in its own right. His Honors project centered on a semester-long partnership with Nashville Children’s Theatre, where he supported educational programming during a period of staff transition. His second presentation explored how artificial intelligence can support theatre education without replacing creativity, arguing it works best as a prompt generator for young writers. His third examined how COVID-19 pushed theatre back to its roots, forcing artists to rely more fully on human connection. “You don’t need something incredibly big to make a lasting impact,” Boggs said. The Nashville Children’s Theatre has invited him to continue as a paid intern this fall.
Leah Mella (‘29) FASHION DESIGN
Freshman Leah Mella gave three distinct presentations: an awardwinning essay on Victorian mourning culture that earned the Annette Sisson Award, a science poster on bacterial cellulose fabric and a miniature half-scale dress constructed in her Flat Pattern I course. “Building confidence in presenting and public speaking is such a crucial skill in almost any career,” Mella said. “SPARK gave me several chances to practice that.”
Laurel Crain (‘26)
COMMUNICATIONS STUDIES
From left: Laurel Crain, Leah Mella, Ellis Stafford, Conner Boggs
Senior Laurel Crain’s presentation didn’t involve a poster or slide deck –– it took place on stage. She performed an original choreographed work exploring the feeling of time slipping away, drawing on her four years at Belmont and the transition toward graduation. “Research can be embodied and artistic,” Crain said. “Performances allow us to communicate ideas and emotions that a poster sometimes can’t.” B ELMON T MAGAZ IN E
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How to be a lifelong student with Destin Sandlin A E R O S PAC E E N G I N E E R AND YOUTUBE CREATOR URGES STUDENTS TO EMBRACE CURIOSITY Destin Sandlin, aerospace engineer and creator of the YouTube channel “Smarter Every Day,” delivered the SPARK keynote, using deceptively simple experiments to illustrate the difference between knowing something and truly understanding it. He challenged students to stay curious beyond the classroom, to seek discomfort and resist the pull of easy answers. “To be a lifelong student, this is what I’d recommend: be curious, and not curious just to make a grade. Anyone can use ChatGPT to get the points. But when you leave this place, you’ll take your understanding with you. When you understand something, you own it.” Though his career keeps hims busy managing an active YouTube channel that reaches more than 11.9 million YouTube followers, Sandlin graciously spent the day at Belmont speaking and spending time with faculty and students throughout SPARK.
Destin Sandlin gives keynote in MPAC.
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a day at the symposium S PA R K S H OW C A S E D T H E INCREDIBLE RANGE OF WHAT BELMONT STUDENTS CREATE, DISCOVER AND PERFORM.
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breaking ground NEW FACILITIES TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF MUSIC, BUSINESS AND CREATIVE INNOVATION
THE CORD AT THE HISTORIC POWERHOUSE — A SPACE FOR CREATING OPPORTUNITIES AND REALIZING DREAMS In April, campus gathered to break ground on The CORD at the Historic Powerhouse. Slated for completion in 2027, the project brings Belmont’s “traditioned innovation” to life at the heart of campus. Made possible by a $10 million lead gift from Trustee Cordia Harrington, with support from Trustee Andrea Waitt Carlton and the AWC Family Foundation, The CORD reflects both philanthropy and purpose. An acronym for Create Opportunities and Realize Dreams, the name also nods to Harrington’s childhood nickname. “While it’s personally meaningful to me to have this name, the acronym is deeply profound,” Harrington said. “Every day we have the chance to create opportunities for others so that they can realize their dreams.” The renovation will transform the University’s historic powerhouse building into a three-story hub for interdisciplinary creativity, featuring a student performance venue, digital media lab, collaborative workspaces, food outlet and exterior patio connecting to the main lawn.
Pictured below: Cordia Harrington speaks with O’More Dean Rick Archer.
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BRE A K IN G G R O U N D
MUSIC ROW PHASE TWO — KEEPING MUSIC ON MUSIC ROW Less than a mile away, Belmont broke ground on phase two of its Music Row expansion at 15 Music Circle South. “This building puts education inside the industry it serves. It’s where the line between classroom and career begins to disappear, and where the next generation of creators and leaders will help shape the future of entertainment,” said Brittany Schaffer, dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business. The building will sit at the intersection of academic rigor and industry access, housing a flexible event space, podcast and content studios, audio engineering labs, classrooms and rehearsal space, all designed to collapse the distance between where students learn and where careers are made. It will also house the Center for Mental Health in Entertainment, made possible through support from the Country Music Association, providing dedicated mental health resources across music, film, television and sports. Together, these projects reflect Belmont’s forward momentum, investing in spaces that foster connection, creativity and opportunity for the next generation of leaders and creators.
Pictured top: Rev. Susan Pendleton Jones, President Greg Jones, Mike Curb, Linda Curb, Curb College Dean Brittany Schaffer and Belmont Board Chair Milton Johnson breaking ground on Phase Two of Music Row expansion project; Pictured left: Mike Curb speaks at groundbreaking. B ELMON T MAGAZ IN E
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The Milestones Behind the Mission Celebrating the programs, traditions and student-led initiatives that continue to shape Belmont.
25 Years of Showcase Series For 25 years, the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business has been putting students at the center of live production through its flagship Showcase Series, a hands-on experience where the classroom becomes a concert stage.
competition. As part of the anniversary celebration, industry partners including the Country Music Association, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival and Nashville Soccer Club each selected a Showcase artist to perform at their upcoming events.
What began as a handful of students coordinating schedules and artists has grown into a full-scale production operation. Today, more than 100 students manage every aspect of each show, from audio engineering and lighting design to live video, logistics and marketing –– producing professionalcaliber events for real audiences from the ground up.
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, was honored as the 2026 recipient of the Robert E. Mulloy Award of Excellence, recognizing her leadership and impact across the industry.
This spring, the series celebrated its 25th Best of the Best Showcase, the annual finale featuring nine top artists selected from the yearlong 22
C E L E B R AT IN G M IL E STO NES BE H IND TH E M ISS IO N
Caroline Rupard, adjunct instructor and director of strategic partnerships, sees this history as just the beginning. “Now that generations of showcase series alumni are pouring back into the program, it will only grow in impact and industry standing,” she said.
10 Years of
House Of
This year marks the 10th anniversary of House Of, Belmont’s student-run boutique on Belmont Boulevard, powered by the Thomas F. Cone Center for Entrepreneurship. What began as a hands-on learning experiment has grown into a fully operational retail business run entirely by students. From managing inventory and marketing to overseeing finances and merchandising, students take ownership of every aspect of the store, applying classroom concepts in real time. A decade in, House Of has become a defining part of many students’ Belmont experience, and a résumé line most graduates don’t get until after they’ve already left campus. “The resources and support from Belmont make anything and everything a valuable experience in the store. If you succeed it’s great, and if you fail, you learn from it,” said student manager Ashley Wolfe.
30 Years of
Belmont RUF
Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) at Belmont marked 30 years of Gospel-centered community this spring, a milestone shaped by decades of relationshipbuilding and student formation. Led since 1995 by campus minister Kevin Twit and his wife Wendy, Belmont RUF has built a reputation for deep, lasting relationships with students navigating college life. “Students once came primarily for the things they wanted to study, but now many come seeking a caring community and the experience they hope to have,” said Twit. Belmont RUF is also home to Indelible Grace Music, a student-driven worship project now sung by chapters around the world. Top row: The student-run House Of boutique on Belmont Boulevard. Middle: Students perform at the Best of the Best showcase. Bottom row: Photos from Belmont RUF’s outings over the years.
A special anniversary weekend in March celebrated three decades of faith, formation and song, and the community that continues to grow from it.
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building a community of
storytellers
CAC grantee Joel Schoon-Tanis painting in signature whimsical style at the Creative Summit.
CAMPUS INITIATIVES EQUIP STUDENTS TO CREATE WORK THAT SHAPES CULTURE FOR GOOD
Belmont’s commitment to faith-inspired Powerhouse and provides funding for ongoing The focus on authentic storytelling continued storytelling took shape this year through three program operations. with “The Future Stories Forum,” a Gen Z significant initiatives, each designed to equip “Given Belmont’s Christ-centered mission and convening developed in partnership with emerging storytellers to create work marked by its commitment to being a source of hope in YoungLife’s RELATE project and hosted by the hope, authenticity and purpose. the world, we feel there is no better partner CAC. Rather than offering prescriptive answers, A $3.5 million investment from the Andrea Waitt to champion film and television content that the gathering created space for intergenerational Carlton Family Foundation launched the AWC positively influences our culture,” said Andrea listening. One clear insight: Gen Z is spiritually curious and morally serious, resonating with Initiative for Hope-Inspired Storytelling, an effort Waitt Carlton. grounded in the belief that film, television and Belmont’s commitment to faith-informed stories that are honest and make room for doubt, animation are among the most influential forces creativity extends beyond film and television. suffering and complexity. shaping culture today. The Creative Arts Collective for Christian Life “The Christian story is most compelling when it The gift established an endowed Chair of Faith, & Faith (CAC) hosted “The Creative Summit: is carried through relationship, belonging and Hope & Culture in Cinematic Arts — matched Exploring Faith, Vocation & Imagination,” hope,” organizers reflected. through the Johnson Academic Challenge — with inaugural chair Rick Rekedal leading teaching and industry partnerships. It also supports a digital production lab in the CORD at the Historic
gathering artists, creatives and educators for keynote sessions, workshops and performances focused on integrating faith with creative work.
24 BUI L D IN G A CO M M U N ITY O F STO RYTE LLERS
Together, these initiatives reflect a unified goal at Belmont of equipping the next generation of storytellers to create work that shapes culture for good.
Zoom Out: These initiatives reshape the creative ecosystem at Belmont, signaling to students that storytelling and creativity aren’t confined to specific majors, but woven throughout their education. Some alumni, staff and faculty have secured CAC funding for their projects, demonstrating pathways from classroom to career. When university leadership gathers to better understand Gen Z, those insights inform how Belmont serves students, creating an environment where emerging storytellers feel seen, supported and equipped to do meaningful work.
From keynote sessions to creative workshops, Belmont’s storytelling initiatives brought together diverse voices committed to shaping culture.
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MOMENTUM
that matters MAJOR GIFTS AND COLLECTIVE GIVING HELP FUEL BELMONT’S FUTURE
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MOM E N T U M T H AT M ATTERS
Last October, Belmont launched the public phase of Hope Transforms, the most ambitious giving campaign in the University’s history. With a goal to raise $700 million by 2030, Hope Transforms is expanding what’s possible: opening more doors for students, fueling innovation and equipping Belmont to lead with purpose in the years ahead. This year, a series of significant investments moved that vision forward.
The Inmans Invest in the Future of Nursing Gordon and Shaun Inman deepened their decades-long commitment to Belmont with a $1 million gift to the College of Nursing, supporting both the new Gordon and Shaun Inman Endowed Scholarship and the Nursing, B.S.N.: Community College Bridge Program. Together, these funds remove financial barriers and create clearer pathways for aspiring nurses to enter and advance in the profession.
Belmont finished the fiscal year having raised $345 million toward its $700 million goal — a strong signal of the campaign’s momentum.
$700
MIL L ION GOAL
“Nursing has always held a special place in our hearts,” the couple said. “We have watched this College grow into a leader in nursing education, shaping the next generation of Tennessee’s nurses, and we are proud to invest in that mission. Tennessee needs skilled, compassionate nurses now more than ever, and we hope this gift opens doors for students who are ready to answer that call.”
$345
“WE HAVE WATCHED THIS COLLEGE GROW INTO A LEADER IN NURSING EDUCATION, SHAPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TENNESSEE’S NURSES, AND WE ARE PROUD TO INVEST IN THAT MISSION.”
M I L L ION
— Gordon and Shaun Inman
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A Record-Breaking Day of Giving The generosity of Belmont’s community Over the years, Bruins for Life has become continues to move the University forward. a meaningful entry point for the Belmont That spirit was on full display during Bruins community; it’s a reminder that every gift, for Life, Belmont’s annual giving day, which at every level, plays a role in what comes became the most successful in University next. history, raising more than $1.24 million “The dollars raised on Giving Day will and surpassing its $1 million goal. support Belmont students as they seek to Students, alumni, faculty and friends came excel in their fields of study and live faithful, together to support student opportunities, purposeful lives,” said Director of Annual reinforcing a shared commitment to Giving Anna Diggs. “Scholarships remain Belmont’s mission. one of the most impactful areas of support, helping ensure students can thrive regardless of financial need.”
$1.24 Million. One Day. A record-setting Bruins for Life brought the Belmont community together to invest in student opportunity.
$1, 241, 243 RAISED
1, 914 GIFTS
1,450+ $500K+
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MOM E N T U M T H AT M ATTERS
FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
Helen Kennedy Leaves Legacy Gift Another transformative gift reflects a lifetime commitment to Belmont. The estate of Helen Jarrett Kennedy, a member of the University’s first graduating class, contributed $9.2 million to support scholarships, the Edward C. Kennedy Center for Business Ethics and key capital initiatives across campus. Kennedy’s relationship with Belmont spanned decades, from her early days as a student employee in the library to her service as a trustee and dedicated advocate for the University’s mission. Alongside her husband, Ed, she helped shape Belmont’s campus and programs through sustained generosity and leadership. Through her final gift, Kennedy’s legacy continues to expand opportunities for students while reinforcing Belmont’s commitment to ethical leadership, academic excellence and service.
As Hope Transforms continues, each investment — whether transformational or collective — moves Belmont forward, creating new opportunities for students to learn, lead and live with purpose. Join the momentum. Learn more about ways to give.
HO PET RA N S FO R MS . B EL MO N T.ED U/ WAYS -TO - GIVE
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