Point Magazine | Fall 2025

FALL 2025

M A G A Z I N E

Meet the President

Dr. Stacy Bartlett ’05 takes the helm page 14

+ STUDENTS’ SUMMER ADVENTURES | MENTORING WOMEN IN STEM

P OI N T MAG A ZI N E | FAL L 2 02 5 1

FUTURE SKYHAWKS. FUTURE LEADERS.

10

Contents FEATURES

10

At Point University, we’re not just training up future graduates — we’re equipping future leaders.

From Bible scholars to physical therapists, our desire is to see our students be leaders for Christ in the marketplace. A gift to Point is an investment in the leaders of tomorrow. Consider a gift today!

Mentoring Matters Dr. Dedra Woolfolk and Dr. Allison Kemper share the importance of mentoring relationships for women entering STEM fields.

14 Meet the President

point.edu/give

Get to know Point’s eighth president and learn about her vision for the University.

18 Summer Stories From first-year students to recent grads, our Point family was busy this summer!

Learn about what they’ve been up to.

DEPA RTMEN TS 4 From the President 5 University News 22 Backstory ragan barnes johnson ’21

On the Cover: On July 1, Dr. Stacy A. Bartlett ’05 took office

as the eighth president of Point University. An inaugural convocation was held on August 21 to formally mark the beginning of her presidency. To see photos from that event and others, visit point.edu/photos.

COVER PHOTO BY RAGAN BARNES JOHNSON ’21

Calling all alumni!

Whether your diploma says Atlanta Christian College or Point University, we want to connect with you! Please scan the QR code below or visit us at point.edu/alumni to update your contact information and subscribe to The Cross & Crown, our alumni newsletter. Let us know your news, and we’ll share it with your fellow alumni in the next edition. On our website, you’ll also find upcoming alumni events and other ways to get involved at Point.

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 3

FROM THE PRESIDENT

UNIVERSITY NEWS Point Magazine Volume 64, Number 1 Fall 2025

SNAPSHOT

E DITO R/DE S IGNER

In the spring, Point welcomed more than 500 students from across Troup County to the Scott Fine Arts Center for a performance of the opera A Muskrat Lullaby. To find out about fine arts and other events, visit point. edu/events.

Sarah Huxford Camp ASS ISTANT E D ITOR

Amber Bowman CO NT RIB UTO R S

Ragan Barnes Johnson ’21

W

hat a busy summer and early fall we’ve had at Point University! Although our campus is quieter in the summer months, we have not slowed down in pursuing our mission of educating students for Christ-centered leadership and service. Online students have been busy learning all summer, and our faculty and staff have been actively preparing for another academic year. Now, our West Point campus is full of life again, as residential students return to the classroom, chapel, athletic field and performing arts stage.

Of course, it’s been an exciting summer for me, too, as I have moved into the role of president. I am so honored and humbled by this opportunity, and I am looking forward to all of the ways God will continue to move through Point University — not just this year, but for many years to come.

One of my favorite things about serving at Point is seeing students, faculty and staff impact the world for Christ. In this issue, you’ll learn about the importance of mentoring relationships between faculty and students, specifically in our Department of Math and Science. You’ll also get the chance to read about the summer adventures of some of our students and how God is working in their lives.

As you’ll see on the back cover, this fall’s Homecoming celebration is scheduled for the weekend of October 24-26. Alumni, I hope to be able to connect with many of you that weekend! Visit point.edu/homecoming for full details and to register.

I firmly believe that in today’s world, Point’s mission is more important than ever.

Thank you for your partnership with us. I hope you’ll join me in continuing to support and pray for the University and our students, faculty and staff.

In Christ,

Point Magazine exists to tell Point University’s stories. It is intended to serve as a vehicle for connecting the University’s alumni and friends. For the first 49 volumes of its existence, Point Magazine was known as The Gold & Blue. The magazine is published by the Communications Office, which retains the right to determine the editorial content and presentation of information contained herein. Articles or opinion pieces contributed by guest writers do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of Point University and its board of trustees. Point Magazine welcomes reader responses to its content.

CONTACT US: Point University Attn: Point Magazine 507 West 10th Street West Point, GA 31833 706-385-1000 editor@point.edu

4 POI N T M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

ragan barnes johnson ’21

Dr. Stacy A. Bartlett ’05 President

Point University’s mission is to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world.

Point University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 300334097, at http://www.sacscoc.org, or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Point University.

ragan barnes johnson ’21

© 2025 Point University

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 5

UNIVERSITY NEWS

UNIVERSITY NEWS POINT INNOVATES WITH NEW MAJORS

Point Welcomes Chief Enrollment Officer Dr. Joshua Boyd is a familiar face at Point, having previously served as a professor and director of the Marching Skyhawks band. But as of June, he’s back in a new role as chief enrollment officer.

What is something that makes you smile, whether in your work or personal life?

Seeing the people on my team grow into strong leaders in their own lives is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I genuinely believe that when we strive to become the best version of ourselves, it becomes contagious.

If you could give one piece of advice to a student considering Point, what would it be?

If you come to college only seeking a degree, that’s all you’ll find. With that in mind, I want to challenge you to come looking for more.

lifeway publishing; ragan barnes johnson ’21

What’s a book or movie you could read or watch repeatedly?

The John Maxwell Leadership Bible is a daily staple for me. What many people don’t realize is that Dr. Maxwell wrote all of his leadership books based on Christian principles. This Bible combines Scripture with insights from his leadership teachings.

What’s your favorite spot on campus, and why?

I’m a musician at heart! I play the trumpet professionally, and I’m also a bit of a closet vocalist. So don’t be surprised if you catch me lingering in the hallway of the Scott Fine Arts Center, soaking in the sounds of students rehearsing or performing.

biblical history center; point university archives; ragan barnes johnson ’21

What drew you back to Point and this role?

Point University has always felt like home to me. My sister earned her degree here. My brother-in-law completed his master’s degree here. And my father, Dr. Mark Boyd, has spent nearly two decades serving in various teaching and leadership roles at Point. For our family, Point University is part of our story.

In May, Point announced the addition of four new major programs and one new minor program to provide students with expertise in high-growth fields. New offerings include majors in certified financial planning, cybersecurity, healthcare administration and supply chain management, as well as a minor in cybersecurity.

“These new programs will not only benefit our existing students, but they will also be attractive to new students who might not have considered Point before,” said Dr. Todd Weaver, then dean of the Stith College of Business. “I’m excited to begin this partnership, and I’m hopeful that we will continue adding new programs in the years to come.”

The new programs are available now through a partnership with the Lower Cost Models Consortium (LCMC) and Rize Education. The LCMC is a strategic partnership of private colleges and universities across the country collaborating with Rize to provide access to a cutting-edge curriculum that prepares students for successful careers.

“I am proud of our partnership with the LCMC and Rize Education,” said Dr. Jon Ernstberger, chief academic officer. “Through this partnership, we are able to offer our students high-demand, high-quality academic programs at a fraction of the cost.”

9,963 NUMBER OF COURSES TAKEN BY DUALCREDIT ENROLLMENT STUDENTS AT POINT IN THE LAST THREE YEARS — A SAVINGS FOR FAMILIES OF MORE THAN $12 MILLION IN TUITION!

Thoughts on Retirement

Point Announces Partnership with Biblical History Center Point has a new partnership with the Biblical History Center in LaGrange, Georgia. The goal of the partnership is to enhance the academic, spiritual and vocational experience of Point students through experiential biblical education and cooperative initiatives.

All residential students will be granted free admission to self-guided tours of the Center, and the Biblical History Center will coordinate with faculty members to develop internship opportunities for students in the areas of museum education, biblical history, nonprofit operations, communications and programming. Additionally, both institutions plan to coordinate on academic initiatives, including field trips, immersive classroom experiences, guest lectures and special programs.

“We are so excited and thankful for this partnership with the Biblical History Center,” said Dr. Rachel Nabulsi, associate professor of biblical studies. “The exhibits of daily life during the Old and New Testament periods are extremely informative. In addition, the Center holds artifacts on loan from the Israeli Antiquities Authority, the only museum in the Southeast to hold such a collection. I hope every Point student will be able to take advantage of this opportunity to learn about life in the biblical world.”

The Biblical History Center focuses on life in the ancient world through functional, large-scale archaeological replicas, biblical meal presentations, lectures and other interactive experiences. To learn more about the Biblical History Center, visit biblicalhistorycenter.com.

News Feed Dr. Greg Moffatt, longtime professor of psychology at Point, has been reappointed for a second term to the Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists for the State of Georgia. The board licenses mental health professionals who work throughout the state.

6 POI N T M AGAZINE | FALL 20 25

News Feed On July 1, Point merged its College of Education and College of Social and Behavioral Sciences into a new college, the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. The new college will be led by Dr. Susan Ryan, previously the dean of the College of Education.

Bethany Broderick, assistant professor of marketing, recently released a new book, Perfected, which explores the question, “Am I good enough?” through a biblical lens. To read a Q&A with her, visit point.edu/news.

Lauren McGuire, operator of Chick-fil-A Poplar Road in Newnan, Georgia, has joined the University’s board of trustees. “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Point University,” said McGuire. “As a Christian business owner, I firmly believe in Point’s mission to educate Christ-centered leaders in the marketplace and throughout the world.”

The annual Skyhawk Golf Classic benefit tournament will be held on Friday, October 3 at the Point University Golf Club in Lanett, Alabama.

Find out more and register to play at point.edu/ golfclassic.

Nigel Lawrence was appointed head football coach at Point. “This is a chance to build young men of character, compete with excellence, and uphold the values that make this university special,” Lawrence said.

Visit skyhawkathletics. com for more news on this fall’s athletic teams.

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 7

UNIVERSITY NEWS

UNIVERSITY NEWS

8 POI N T M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

ragan barnes johnson ’21

The University honored its newest graduates during a commencement ceremony held in May at the Convention and Trade Center in Columbus, Georgia. Four hundred ten students earned associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Approximately 200 of those students graduated debt-free thanks to the Elevate program, Point’s initiative that allows businesses and nonprofit organizations to provide their employees with a college education.

During the ceremony, members of the Class of 1975 were also recognized on the 50th anniversary of their own graduation.

This spring’s commencement speaker was Dean Collins ’79, who retired from the presidency in June.

In his commencement address, Collins gave graduates five instructions. First, he reminded them to pay attention to the people God places in their lives. “Your relationships and your education go together,” said Collins. “They are gifts that God gives so that you can bless others.”

Second, he told graduates that their career is not their next job, but a journey. “Someday, you will look back and see how God wove a beautiful tapestry out of all your different experiences,” he said.

Collins’ third point was to keep learning, followed by a reminder to never underestimate the power of small beginnings. “No matter where your path starts, your beginning matters,” he said. “Be faithful in it, and don’t look down on the things you’re asked to do.”

Finally, Collins instructed the class of 2025 to never aim too low. “God is not just involved in your life. He has invited you to participate in his grand plan to renew and restore all things,” said Collins.

Each year, the University recognizes an outstanding graduate from both the residential and online bachelor’s degree programs with the Hathcock Award, the highest honor given to a graduating Point student.

Named for the University’s founder, the award is given based on academic achievement, character and servant leadership. This spring’s Hathcock Award recipients were Ava Clay, a communication major from Columbus, Georgia, and Vernon Smith, a criminal justice major from Hamilton, Georgia.

The University also presented the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award, given annually to an exceptional faculty member for demonstrating strong academic skills in the classroom and providing leadership and support in other areas of campus life. This year’s recipient was Dr. Nathan Jones ’07, associate professor of biblical studies.

Family and friends of graduates who were unable to attend in person may access the recorded commencement ceremony on the University’s YouTube page; visit point.edu/commencement for more details.

ragan barnes johnson ’21

Point Welcomes More Than 400 New Alumni

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 9

UNIVERSITY NEWS

MENTORING Dr. Chantel Oney has been named Point’s new vice president of advancement. Oney served in various capacities at Baptist University of Florida from 2014 until this summer — most recently as vice president of development, strategic partnerships, and alumni relations, and as the dean of the Spangenberg School of Business.

“Chantel is a great fit for Point University,” said President Stacy Bartlett ’05. “She is a passionate person of faith who leads with humility and wisdom. She has a deep love for students and years of experience working in Christian higher education. I’m confident she will be vital in helping Point better fulfill our mission.”

Oney earned a bachelor’s degree in business leadership from Baptist University of Florida, along with a master of business administration and doctor of business administration from Saint Leo University. Her research interests are in the areas of leadership, employee performance and workplace spirituality.

“I love Christian higher education, and I am looking forward to building on an 88-year legacy that points students to their purpose, inspiring them to be on mission with God, regardless of their vocation,” said Oney. “I am delighted to be a part of the Point family because I have the unique opportunity to make an impact in the lives of students who will in turn make a lasting impact in the world.”

Oney and her husband, James, have been married for 22 years and reside in Fayetteville, Georgia, with their four sons, Caleb (a firstyear student at Point), Israel, Joel and Timothy.

10 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

HOW CHRISTIAN WOMEN CAN MENTOR THE NEXT GENERATION IN STEM

BY AMBER BOWMAN

W

hat happens when the career God has called you to comes with unexpected challenges? For many women entering the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics ­— also known as STEM — pursuing the careers God has gifted them for means entering a field with few female colleagues.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that STEM fields are the nation’s fastest-growing sectors. Despite this growth, in 2023, women only made up 28 percent of the STEM workforce, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. For young women entering the field, finding female mentors can be a challenge. Women who have already walked the road they’re on can serve as strong encouragers, mentors and guides — and that process begins at the college level.

Proverbs 13:20 teaches us, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for the companion of fools suffers harm.” This verse serves as a reminder to Christians in every generation to seek out mentors and friends with wisdom who can pass along knowledge.

Seeking out wisdom is exactly what Nashanthea Roland ’19 did during her first year at Point.

Roland ultimately graduated with a bachelor of science in preprofessional biology, but long before graduation, she was an eager science student seeking to connect with her new biology professor, Dr. Dedra Woolfolk, who now serves as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

“It was really interesting to me to see a professional Black woman teaching such a large

ragan barnes johnson ’21

Oney Named VP of Advancement

MATTERS

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 11

12 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

Dr. Alexis Schock ’18

I didn’t want to be a physician, but a researcher.

That made a really big impact. She really paid attention to who I was and what I actually liked and knew me better than I thought.”

That internship was the Neuroimmunology Research Internship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where Roland would go on to graduate with her Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biology. She is now a high school science teacher at Callaway High School in LaGrange, Georgia, where she invests in the future of students, just like Woolfolk taught her.

Like any relationship, mentorship is not possible without the full commitment and cooperation of both individuals. “Mentorship is a collaborative learning experience,” says Woolfolk. “It’s a relationship between the mentor and mentee, and I’ve found that the mentee is actually responsible for setting their goals and how they want to develop. The mentor is just there to listen, ask questions, provide any constructive feedback, and help them think through their next steps for achieving whatever their goals are.”

“It’s funny to me, after I got to know her, that she was confident enough to come into my office and say, ‘I’d like to do this mentorship thing,’” says Kemper. “But she did, and we met once a week for about two years.”

For Schock, Kemper was an essential guide through the process of applying and being accepted into graduate school for physical therapy. “The process to apply to PT school is not easy,” says Schock. “She helped me through the application site and then had me make a template of expectations for different schools in Georgia, which really helped guide me.”

Kemper’s mentorship went beyond encouragement to practical advice to help Schock stand out in a crowded field of applicants. The University of South Florida, where Schock was applying, does not conduct interviews for their physical therapy program, which only accepts 50 of its usual 10,000 applicants. Kemper encouraged Schock to attend an in-person, one-on-one tour so the program coordinators could match her face to her name.

“She would guide me on what to look for and what questions were important to ask that would get my name starred,” says Schock.

Kemper’s advice was accurate. Not only was Schock accepted to the University of South Florida, but she was also accepted to the two other programs she applied to. “It was all because she helped ingrain in me those little things that were practical that worked,” says Schock. Now, Schock works for PT Solutions in Austin, Texas, where she completed an orthopedic residency for a year before being brought on as the clinic manager.

For Kemper, mentorship is central to her role as a professor. “As teachers and profes-

T

he most successful mentorship relationships are driven by confident mentees seeking out wisdom from their mentors, even if that confidence is sometimes unexpected.

During her second year at Point, Alexis Schock ’18 approached her anatomy and physiology professor, Dr. Allison Kemper, about a potential mentorship. “It was very unlike me back then,” says Schock. “But I just kind of walked up to her and ended up asking her to be my mentor. She took me under her wing and it blossomed from there.”

photo courtesy of alexis schock ’18

Dr. Nashanthea Roland ’19

ragan barnes johnson ’21

course,” says Roland. “Knowing that I was going to be able to see her throughout my degree was very reassuring.”

After a brief meeting with Woolfolk, Roland decided to seek her out as a mentor. “I just told her, ‘You know, I would like a mentor while I’m here. Would you be okay with doing that?’ And then I think we started to meet once a month from there, just so I could have somebody with me throughout the journey who has made it to where I wanted to be,” says Roland.

Mentorship relationships can take on many different shapes, ranging in formality, but one aspect must always be included: mutual respect. “The most important thing [in a mentorship relationship] is mutual respect and trust,” says Woolfolk. “It’s got to be there between the mentor and mentee. They need to be able to have open communication, and you want to value each other’s opinion.”

There is no shortage of respect between Roland and Woolfolk, even years after their first meeting. Woolfolk says, “I recognized very early on that she was an exceptional academic student. She pretty much aced every assignment in every course that she took with me. She was a Gates Millennial Scholar, and I wasn’t surprised. But she still had a humble spirit about her, not boastful about her accomplishments. I found her to be really mature and just a no-nonsense type of student with a very pleasant personality.”

When Roland came to Point, she initially planned to go to medical school and become a physician. But as she progressed in her education, she began to feel uncertain about the path she was on. “I felt like the path that I thought I wanted was slowly slipping away from me, and I didn’t know how to handle that,” says Roland.

When she shared her uncertainty with Woolfolk, her mentor made a suggestion that would change her life. “I was talking to her about it one day, and she said, ‘Well, that’s not the end of the world.’ And then she asked me if I had ever considered research,” says Roland.

“She had an opportunity to participate in a summer research program,” says Woolfolk.

“I just encouraged her to give research a try, because she wasn’t sure about the medical school situation, and it turns out that was integral to her decision.”

“To this day, I thank her for being honest with me about that and telling me to just try it,” says Roland. “During that internship was when I realized I like research, and that maybe

sors, I believe a big part of our job is believing our students into a future they can’t see for themselves,” she says. “A lot of times, we get students who no one has laid out a picture of their future for them. So I can believe in them corporately in front of the classroom, but I can also believe in them individually and say, ‘Here are the strengths I see in you.’”

Mentors can wear many hats, from coach to cheerleader, but according to Kemper, they have another crucial role to play in the lives of their mentees, as that of truth-teller. “I think that people need to hear truths,” she says.

“Alexis and I had some hard conversations sometimes, and I’m sure there were times she didn’t want to meet with me, after exams and things like that. But I think that all of us need to hear hard truths about ourselves, about our future, about how we’re planning or not planning our goals.”

Kemper’s goal as a mentor is to break the instinct many of us have of turning to our peers for advice. “I like to use this example that it’s like if a bunch of three-year-olds were in a building and the building catches fire,” said Kemper. “Who are they going to for help?

And I love to tell my students, especially my juniors and seniors, ‘Hey, the building’s on fire.

Don’t be running around asking your friends where the exit is. Find people who are older than you to help you exit.’”

For women in STEM, mentorship is deeply valuable and formative, but it’s not exclusively beneficial for those underrepresented in their career fields. Mentorship is for all people.

Seeking out wisdom is also a life-long pursuit.

In every new stage and season of life, there is more knowledge and wisdom to be acquired to live lives that reflect the gospel. As Kemper and Woolfolk remind us, there is always someone ahead of us we can learn from, and the wisdom and guidance of those individuals may just change the course of our lives as they offer a listening ear and inspire in us the confidence to walk out the callings God has given us. As we are shaped by our mentors, we can then become the mentors the next generation longs for.

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 13

MEET THE

President

Dr. Stacy A. Bartlett '05 took office as president on July 1 and was formally inaugurated during convocation in August. We caught up with her to learn more about her background and her vision for Point University.

INTERVIEW BY AMBER BOWMAN | PHOTOS BY RAGAN BARNES JOHNSON '21

14 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 15

What appealed to you about the opportunity to lead this University?

For me, it wasn’t necessarily about an appeal to lead our institution. While I am excited about the future of Point University and the ability to work hand in hand with others to accomplish the mission of the institution, the opportunity to lead this institution was about more. I believe God called me to this work, and while I would have never known that during the days I walked the hallways of then-Atlanta Christian College, I can look back now and see how He used my education, experiences, the people I met, and opportunities for development to lead me to this moment.

Where did you grow up, and what experiences did you have in childhood that fostered your love of education?

I grew up on the south side of Atlanta, where I was heavily involved in church and school. I always enjoyed school and learning as much as possible about a variety of topics. My love for reading started early, and I have continued to foster that over the years.

I am a first-generation college student, having received the Pell Grant and a number of scholarships to make my private college education affordable. It became clear to me that education opens doors and creates opportunities. I’m grateful for those who have been willing to invest in me and for the funding that made my education at Atlanta Christian College possible.

What was your first job out of college, and what did you learn from it?

I needed a job pretty quickly while I figured out what I was going to do before attending graduate school.

There was a job opening in the Admission Office at Atlanta Christian College. I knew I enjoyed meeting new people, so I applied and was offered the job as an admission counselor.

Tell us about your higher education career.

I’ve had an opportunity to grow in a variety of ways during my work at Point. From starting in the

16 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

Admission Office to learning more about enrollment and retention, I have been given opportunities that helped me learn more about higher education in a variety of departments. I’ve mainly worked in the enrollment areas — admission, financial aid, registrar, et cetera — and fundraising. During my doctoral program, I was privileged to be able to intern with our regional accreditor, SACSCOC, to learn more about their training and development for committee members — those visiting other campuses who conduct peer evaluations. Finally, I have been able to teach in an adjunct capacity at Point and at Mercer University for a graduate program in their School of Education. All of these experiences shaped my higher education career to lead to this moment.

What do you most appreciate about Point?

That’s easy — the people! I most appreciate the students, faculty and staff who make our institution what it is. Without students, we would not exist. Our willingness to join together as faculty and staff to complete our mission to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world is vital to who we are as an institution. I’ve watched countless faculty and staff give of their time and resources to serve our students, and it makes me very proud to be able to be a part of a community of people who genuinely love our students and care deeply about what God has called them to do with their lives.

What has been your focus during the first months of your presidency?

We’ve been in a very busy season as we prepared for the incoming fall class. I have been pursuing quite a few priorities this summer, but I would say that I’ve tried to ensure that our top priorities remain our top priorities. The spiritual formation of our students is our number-one priority as we pursue our mission. We have quite a few new things coming in that area so that we are best equipped to come alongside students in their journeys of education and faith. I’ve spent a lot of time with our senior support team, as we have a few new members who have joined us. How well we work together leading this institution is very important to our success. I’m grateful to the team for their willingness to work together to serve our institution. We launched our first Fall Kickoff event with faculty and staff a couple of weeks before classes started. We started with a meal together, shared our celebrations of the great things God is doing at Point, and then laid out the vision for our institution. There has been a big push to recognize that all of us as faculty and staff work together to accomplish our mission, and it takes every single one of us to do it!

What do you see as the areas of greatest opportunity to move Point forward?

God is doing amazing things at Point University! We’ve experienced enrollment growth in a variety of areas, have seen innovation and creativity, and have adjusted quickly to the changing higher education market. God has certainly proven to be faithful in the ways that he sustained this institution. I believe we have areas of great opportunity in reaching more students who are called into ministry, investing in the growth of our residential program, creating more business partnerships, and continuing our effort to serve our students well. We’re working hard to pursue both quality and excellence in the years to come.

What can our community expect from you next?

My vision for the coming years is three-fold. First is appreciation. I’m committed to valuing every faculty member,

staff member and student. Second is full transparency with where we’re heading and what we need to accomplish. Finally, my commitment is to our mission above all else — providing Christ-centered education to every student so that they can impact the culture for Christ.

What is one of the greatest lessons that you have learned from your mentors that you can share with our readers?

I’ve learned so much from mentors over the years, and while I cannot provide an exhaustive list, I can say that many of those lessons included how to work hard, how to demonstrate care and concern for others, how to lead on difficult days, how to show up for people, and how to be committed and courageous. Mentors have shown me that leaders are human — we get tired, worn out, and sometimes need a break. I’ve also watched mentors model how faith is the foundation for leadership. I certainly do not have all it takes to always make the right decisions in leading this institution, but I know a God who does. In many ways, that is a relief, because it doesn’t depend on me. Our God is the one who established this institution, and he is the one who sustains it.

Perhaps more than anything else, though, one of my favorite mentors, former President Collins, embodied this quote by Robert Greenleaf: “The first and most important choice a leader makes is the choice to serve, without which one’s capacity to lead is severely limited.”

Leadership begins as a willingness to follow a call to serve.

Want to read Dr. Bartlett’s bio? Scan the code at left or visit point.edu/president.

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 17

For many Point students, summer break means more than just beach trips and pool

days. Online and graduate students are working hard in classes throughout the summer months.

Meanwhile, many residential students have found interesting ways to learn and grow while taking a break from their studies. Read on for some of their stories!

Mizya Blackmon ’26

SECONDARY EDUCATION (HISTORY) MAJOR LAGRANGE, GEORGIA

stories

H OW STUD E N TS TUR NED BREAK INTO BREAKTHROUGH

This summer, I worked at the Troup County Archives for my senior internship. At the archives, I assisted in renaming files and organized records for the local bank and police department. Through this experience, I am learning the importance of reviewing every detail and ensuring that each file is properly labeled and accessible for future use. This, in turn, enables the public to access accurate information, which can include — but is not limited to — marriage certificates, police reports and many other records.

Point has provided me with many skills that have prepared me for this internship, such as improving my communication skills through serving as an RA and developing teamwork abilities as a member of the cheer team.

My professors have also shown me how to interact effectively and what to expect in my career field. I am forever thankful for the opportunities Point has blessed me with, and I am excited for what the future holds.

Aidan Carey ’29

BIBLICAL STUDIES MAJOR LANETT, ALABAMA

Casas Por Cristo mission trips to Guatemala have been the inspiration for my desire to work with international missions.

My trip to Guatemala was when God decided to call me into ministry. The Holy Spirit was able to work in a spiritual and practical way through me while I was in Guatemala, and it has greatly affected my decisions for my future. It was a cool trip out of the country where I could build a house for another family. I’m majoring in biblical studies to enhance my knowledge of the Bible and use that wisdom for God’s kingdom. While getting ready for Point, I am

18 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

getting a taste of what ministry is going to be like. I can learn and grow because of the responsibilities that I’ve been given. I am very excited to begin classes and gain more knowledge about the Bible as I go through the college experience at Point.

Rebekah Dell ’25 MUSIC MAJOR GAY, GEORGIA

Since May, I have been preparing for graduate studies, prepping for tests and furthering my overall knowledge, especially in classical vocal repertoire and lyric diction, as I am starting a master’s degree in vocal performance.

During July, I was on staff at the Csehy Summer School of Music as a counselor, where I performed various tasks that revolved around the physical, spiritual and emotional well-being of the campers. I also had the unique opportunity to participate in multiple ensembles with the campers and learn from professional musicians.

Through this experience, the Lord has been teaching me a lot, particularly patience when dealing with difficult situations or individuals. James 1:2-4 has been a great encouragement to me and a reminder of why it is good for us to go through difficult things, because “trials produce steadfastness.” Similarly, my time at Point challenged me to get out of my comfort zone. My professors, particularly Dr. Toni Anderson and Prof. Andrew Harry, taught me the value of hard work and provided me with opportunities outside the classroom for musical involvement. They truly prepared me to pursue a master’s degree and gave me the push I needed to become a better musician and a better person. Their involvement and care in my life changed me.

I want to impact people through my music-making and teaching in a similar way.

Emyya Grier ’27

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MAJOR CONYERS, GEORGIA

This year, I had the opportunity to be part of Point’s summer PR teams for the second time, and it was such an amazing experience. Getting the chance to go to POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 19

different camps and even a CIY, meeting new people, connecting with students, and showing them what the Point University community is like by being present with them throughout the week was really special. I loved being able to serve God in that way and to walk alongside students as they grew in their faith. It’s something I would love to continue to do every summer, because it pushes me to grow while also letting me pour into others.

One of the biggest things I’ve learned through this experience is that my testimony actually has the power to encourage people. For a long time, I thought I was the only one who had gone through the things I’ve been through, but sharing my life story with students and seeing how it helped them feel seen and understood was eye-opening. It showed me that God can use even my struggles to bring hope to someone else. Sometimes it wasn’t even about saying the perfect thing, it was simply being a listening ear, reminding students that if nobody else understands them, I do. That part meant the world to me.

Point has played a huge role in preparing me for opportunities like this. Being here has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone in ways I never thought I would. I’ve always been more to myself, not much of a speaker, and really just comfortable in my own little space. But Point has helped me get uncomfortable in the best way, encouraging me to grow, to use my voice and to realize that God can work through me, even when I don’t feel equipped.

I’m starting to see my worth more clearly, and I’m learning that I have the ability to encourage, help, and walk alongside people in their faith journeys. That’s something I wouldn’t have discovered if I hadn’t been put here.

Abigail Hardwick ’25 COMMUNICATION MAJOR MIDLAND, GEORGIA

I had the privilege of serving with Christian Missionary Fellowship (CMF) this summer through their Reach Internship program.

I traveled with my team to Montevideo, Uruguay, where we served at the college campus ministry, La Ruta. La Ruta offers a Christian community for students and young adults in the city, welcoming and accepting every individual for who they are, wherever they are in their faith jour-

20 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

ney. I had a blast hosting events, building relationships with students and helping the host missionaries.

I was abundantly prepared for this internship because of Point University. The exegetical Scripture interpretation skills I was taught prepared me well to lead students who had no previous foundation for the Bible. I got to lead a women’s Bible study with my teammate where we went through the book of Philippians. I was asked many great theological questions about the Bible and the character of God that I felt confident answering. My communication major helped me to plan and market events and communicate in a healthy way with my team and students.

I remember seeing the CMF table at the job fair my freshman year. I thought, “I don’t think I could ever do that internship.” I filled out an application two years later.

This would not have been possible without the guidance of my professors and mentors at Point. Dr. Jim Donovan consistently told me in preaching class that I should consider the Reach internship. I had many conversations with Prof. Sarah Huxford Camp about going international that left me believing in myself. Prof. Wye Huxford prayed for me in expository preaching class about guidance and an open door for the journey. I am beyond grateful for every one of my professors and the Point staff who prayed for me and helped me walk confidently into this summer.

Rafael Perez ’26

Lisa Kelm ’28

Maria Camila Vanegas Roa ’25

Since I’m an international student, I don’t have many options for making money during the summer. My only options are to go back to Germany or to work on campus. This year, I decided to stay and work on campus for the admission and student billing offices.

I have never been very sociable or good at small talk with strangers. However, in my job as a student ambassador, I had to be social, open-minded and communicative.

It was definitely not easy at first, especially since English is not my first language. The more tours I gave, though, the better I got and the more comfortable I became. I am very grateful for this experience and for everything I learned and experienced this summer. I made many valuable connections with faculty members, new students and coaches that I would not have been able to make otherwise. Working in the student billing office taught me to stay calm, even in stressful situations. Sometimes people get very emotional, especially when it comes to money.

It’s important to stay calm and try to understand their situation in order to help them.

I made many good memories this summer that I will always cherish. Thank you, Point University, and go Skyhawks!

I did my practicum at First Baptist Church in Raleigh, Mississippi. I worked with young children in the classroom, helping with small group activities, lessons and daily routines. It was a great hands-on experience where I got to use what I’ve learned in my classes.

This practicum has taught me that being flexible, patient and a good communicator are very important when working with kids. I’ve gotten better at connecting with children, helping them through their daily activities and understanding what they need at different ages. Point has really prepared me for this experience. My classes and professors gave me the knowledge and confidence to do this work, and I’m thankful for everything I’ve learned so far.

EXERCISE SCIENCE MAJOR LEIFERDE, GERMANY

MANAGEMENT MAJOR SANTO DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

It's been amazing being here full time and not going home at all. Working for Sage, Point’s dining services vendor, this summer has taught me a lot of responsibility, grit, leadership and how important it is to have a job and do what you love.

Also, I’ve been working out and getting myself ready to get into my senior year and be in the best shape possible. I’ve learned through this experience that having a job and going to the baseball field every day is a challenge, but when you do something with passion and dedication, it turns out to be easy. I feel grateful for Point, because if it wasn’t for me choosing to come here, none of this could be happening right now. Now that I am going to become a senior, I would love to make this upcoming year memorable and unforgettable for me.

CHILD AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT MAJOR BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA

Joe Robinson ’28

BIBLICAL STUDIES MAJOR FAYETTEVILLE, GEORGIA

unqualified. But then I remembered that all throughout the Bible, God called so many people that were unqualified and made them qualified. So I was comforted through the text.

I learned this summer that it is not from my own strength or my own set of skills that I am able to do what I do. It is through the grace and the mercy of God that I am able to live on and spread the gospel. For the role that I had this summer, Point definitely helped me out a lot. I took a class called Intro to Preaching, which helped me learn how to write sermons, how to study for them, and, overall, just how to preach. And through numerous other classes, my experience at Point has helped me not only succeed in this role this summer, but also grow closer to God and become a better man.

Caleb Wade ’26

BIBLICAL STUDIES AND PREACHING MINISTRY MAJOR MOUNT AIRY, GEORGIA

This summer, I had the honor of serving at First Christian Church of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, as the adult intern. I have had the opportunity to teach and preach to the youth ministry as well as the adult ministry. It’s been super cool to experience what it is like to be a full-time minister for the summer, and I’ve learned so much about the specifics of what my future will look like as a pastor. Through this experience, I have learned that ministry comes in multiple different forms.

I have learned that I might not always feel prepared for situations, but can have faith knowing that God has equipped me for them.

Point University has helped me prepare for this opportunity by giving me the tools I need through amazing mentors who are always there to help, educate and provide in-depth studies of the Bible. Through the unique experiences of each of the professors I have had the opportunity to learn from, I have been molded into the man and preacher I am today. I am thankful and cannot wait to learn more from each of them this last year I have at Point.

I had the opportunity to work at WinShape Camps this summer. I originally applied for a counselor role. However, my interview went well, and they asked me to come be one of their speakers. At first, I was scared, because I felt POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2025 21

BACKSTORY

AT POINT UNIVERSITY JANUARY 22-23, 2026

W

e all know that technology has These cards helped to make finding the changed dramatically since right item on the shelf easier, using the the photo above was taken at library classification system.” our historic East Point campus in the Solomon explained how that process 1950s. In some ways, that world can advanced specifically for libraries: seem unrecognizable from our own.

“Once computers became interconnected, People rarely access information from the network of computers would lead to the local newspaper or radio station the creation of the Online Public Access anymore. Search engines, social media Catalog (OPAC), allowing item inforand now AI are often the first places mation to be found from any computer individuals turn to seek out information. on the network. Further technological These technological changes have advances would involve the digitization also transformed how people — and of the materials, allowing the digital catcollege students, in particular — study alog records to link directly to the digital and conduct research. “In the early days, item for instant access.” research involved being physically in These advancements have had a posthe library, locating items using a sysitive impact on both libraries and stutem of cards, known as a card catalog,” dents in terms of time and accessibility. said Adam Solomon, library director.

“As personal computers became more “There would have been a card for each affordable and with advances of phones resource, with title, author, key subjects into smartphones, these digital devices and other such pertinent information could function as a handheld computer,” said Solomon. “Instead of writing needed when conducting research.

22 POI NT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 25

notes on paper, the ability to take notes digitally on these devices has allowed note-taking to be easier and faster, freeing up more time for studying.”

Because of the digitization of catalogs, libraries are now able to house thousands more resources for students than they could have in the 1950s. But just like then, library staff still serve to assist students in navigating the catalogue of information and finding exactly what they need. “One thing that has not changed over all these years is that the library continues to be a quiet place of study and a place for collaboration,” said Solomon. “Whether researchers are in the library or working online, the future is here, with scholarly resources being just a click away.”

Have a photo from your college years you want to share with us? Email the photo and your story to editor@point.edu.

point university archives

Pursue is a dynamic two-day event in partnership with CIY for high school students who have made the decision to pursue ministry. This event will give students the chance to see what life is like on campus and prepare for a career in ministry.

Students will also receive practical guidance and tools to take their next steps toward studying ministry and fulfilling their calling!

Scan the code for more information!

507 WEST 10TH STREET | WEST POINT, GA 31833

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID LaGrange, GA Permit No. 343

FRIDAY | ALUMNI HALL

OF FAME CEREMONY • MEN 'S & WOMEN 'S BASKETBALL GAMES • MEET & GREET

SATURDAY | ALUMNI

BRUNCH • BRICK INSTALL ATION CEREMONY • FOOTBALL VS . RIO GR ANDE • MEN 'S & WOMEN 'S SOCCER GAMES • GR AND OL' SING -ALONG

SUNDAY | SERVICE

AT SPRING ROAD CHRISTIAN CHURCH

REGISTER NOW AT POINT.EDU/HOMECOMING