Issuu

FALL 2026

M A G A Z I N E

More than a Scoreboard

Coach Randy Douglas and the women’s soccer legacy he’s building page 14

+ MEET THE CLASS OF 2026 | LESSONS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE

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YOUR GIFT. THEIR FUTURE.

Contents FEATURES

Scholarships open the door to a life-changing education at Point University.

Meet the Graduates

Your generosity removes financial barriers and empowers students to grow in faith, knowledge and purpose.

Get to know the Class of 2026.

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More Than a Scoreboard How Randy Douglas built a legacy of stewardship through Point soccer.

Point University has been a part of our lives since 1972. During that time, we have seen the mission of the University fulfilled in the lives of a multitude of students who are serving God in a variety of ways. It is our pleasure to try to help more students financially, so they can make a positive impact on God’s kingdom.

Lessons from the Other Side of the World Luke Johnson ’26 on what he learned from mission trips to Kenya and Japan.

Donor Honor Roll Point thanks the individuals and organizations that make our mission possible.

Dr. Ralph and Evelyn Swearngin ’75 Donors

DEPA RTMEN TS 4 From the President Your gift helps students access a Christ-centered education that prepares them for a life of purpose.

CHANGE LIVES

Scholarships reduce debt and open doors for students to focus on learning, leadership and service.

Your generosity today creates a lasting impact for generations of Skyhawks to come.

GIVE TODAY. CHANGE TOMORROW. Your gift to student scholarships makes all the difference.

point.edu/give

5 University News

LEAVE A LEGACY

30 Backstory On the Cover: Women’s soccer has grown and thrived at Point ragan barnes johnson ’21

MAKE AN IMPACT

over the last 25 years, thanks in no small part to Randy Douglas’s leadership. Turn to page 14 to learn more about the program he has built, and more importantly, his legacy of genuine care for his student-athletes. He is pictured on the cover with goalkeeper Seline Flores ’27, a psychology major from Hazlehurst, Georgia.

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.

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

UNIVERSITY NEWS Point Magazine Volume 65, Number 1 Fall 2026 E DITO R/DE S IGNER

SNAPSHOT

Sarah Huxford Camp

In August, incoming residential students joined with orientation leaders and staff for Skyhawk Days — several days of fun and informative sessions to welcome them to West Point. To see more photos from this and other fall events, visit point.edu/photos.

ASS ISTANT E D ITOR

Amber Bowman CO NT RIB UTO R S

Ragan Barnes Johnson ’21

s I reflect on my first year as president, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve this University and excitement for what God continues to do through our community. One year in, I am more convinced than ever of the importance of our mission: preparing students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world. That mission is more than words on a page; it bears fruit in the lives of our graduates, whose stories reflect the knowledge and faith they have gained during their time at Point. You can read a few of their stories in this issue!

A new academic year has begun, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. The spiritual formation of our students remains at the heart of all we do. We want our graduates to leave prepared not only for successful careers and ministries, but also for lives marked by faith, wisdom and a desire to serve. I am especially thankful for our faculty and staff who faithfully pour into our students and share in this mission. Their work — which sometimes goes unseen — is essential to the education and formation of every student who walks through our doors. In this issue, you’ll read about a longtime coach whose faithfulness is building quite a legacy. All of us at Point are also deeply grateful for our donors, whose generous support makes it possible for us to continue investing in our students and pursuing our mission. Your partnership is a tangible expression of your belief in the work God is doing here. Our donor honor roll, near the end of this issue, is just one way of celebrating your impact. Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we will continue pressing forward in our calling to prepare students to make a lasting difference wherever God leads them. 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

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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

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

UNIVERSITY NEWS GOLFER NAMED SCHOLAR-ATHLETE

Behind Every Great Campus Walter Graben helps keep the Point University campus safe, functional and welcoming — one repair, one project and one act of service at a time.

point university news; ragan barnes johnson ’21

Do you have a favorite place or building on Point’s campus? The LAC here, I think, is my favorite building because of the association with when I was in management with West Point Pepperell. Seeing the transition of what it was when it was the corporate office for West Point Pepperell to what it was transformed into for the academic center here — there’s a lot of history here that’s really cool from my past employment. You and your team keep campus running every day. What are you most proud of? I think any of the special projects that we do, like the Hall of Fame wall in the gym, that, you know, I had to work with outside contractors on with that. Just the great team that I’ve got. They do a tremendous job. What do you enjoy most about your job? Being around students. They make me feel young. Being around them, and obviously the platform of the Christian-based academics, you think about where you need to be and get closer to God.

skyhawk athletics; point university news; ragan barnes johnson ’21

What’s a typical day in your job that people never get to see? People don’t see the little things. Like, the trash that’s left lying around — I mean, they see it, but they don’t see it. But as far as what we do on a dayto-day basis that people necessarily might not see, like communicate with the student and kind of build a rapport . . . When the air conditioning goes down, we’re making phone calls trying to get people left and right in here to fix those issues. Lawn care, unfortunately, it gets noticed when it’s not done. Just trying to keep the place overall beautiful, there’s a lot of hard work involved in that that they might not necessarily see.

Skyhawk Golfer Jacob Joseph ’26 added another honor to his senior season this summer after being named the Southern States Athletic Conference Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Joseph, who earned a bachelor’s degree in financial management in May, posted a 3.65 GPA to round out his senior year. The award adds to a growing list of accolades for Joseph this spring. He was included on the NAIA Men’s Golf Second Team All-America list and earned recognition on the NAIA Ping AllSouth Region Team. Joseph also captured the SSAC individual championship in April, securing a berth to the NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship in Silvis, Illinois. He shot seven under par in the final round of the conference tournament to force a playoff before winning on a sudden-death hole. Point later received an at-large bid to the national championship while ranked 18th in the country. The Skyhawks finished among the leaders in several statistical categories, including sixth in par-3 scoring and tied for eighth in par-4 scoring. Learn more at skyhawkathletics.com.

400+ PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES AND SPECIALIZATIONS AVAILABLE TO POINT ALUMNI AND FRIENDS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH COURSERA. FLIP TO THE INSIDE BACK COVER TO LEARN MORE!

Thoughts on Retirement

Faculty, Staff and Students Serve the Community Through Impact Day On a sunny Thursday in April, anyone driving around the Greater Valley Area would have noticed the sea of navy blue T-shirts fanning out across the community. This phenomenon could mean only one thing: Point University Impact Day. On Impact Day, classes are canceled so that students, faculty and staff can participate in service projects around the community. This year, volunteers were divided among 17 unique projects, partnering with local businesses, churches and other nonprofits to serve a variety of needs, ranging from landscaping work to cleaning and painting. “We’re so excited to give back to our community,” said volleyball player and criminal justice major Jordyn Thompson ’28. “They do so much for us. They come out and support our athletes and fine arts students, so it’s important for us to let them know we appreciate them and support them right back.” The day began with a University-wide chapel service, where Dr. Joshua Rice, professor of biblical studies, encouraged students to think about living like Jesus did. “Impact Day is so important,” said communication major Marjorie Rodriguez ’26. “In chapel this morning, we talked about being the hands and feet of God, and that shows in everything we’re doing in our community today.” Impact Day is held annually during the spring semester.

News Feed Last spring, Point education students hosted local students from LaGrange High School and Chambers County High School’s Teacher As Profession Programs. The students participated in activities developed by Point students to teach them about the University’s education program.

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News Feed Omega Nu Lambda, a national honor society exclusive to online students, has named a group of students to Point’s Delta chapter of the society. Criteria for membership include completing 15 hours of online studies with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better.

Point soccer player Clemens Budde ’29, of Warstein, Germany, competed in a 100-mile ultra marathon in Flovilla, Georgia, this spring. Read a Q&A with him about his training and race day at point.edu/news.

Jay Rice has been named dean of the College of Biblical Studies and Ministry. Rice has served as full-time pastor in various Christian churches from Virginia to Arizona for nearly 30 years. “I’m excited to step into this new space to help even more young leaders achieve their God-given potential,” said Rice. “I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store!”

Point will participate in a Yes We Must Coalition project to increase access and success in higher education for currently and formerly incarcerated students. Learn more at yeswemustcoalition.org.

In May, Point’s Center for Compelling Preaching hosted its first Compelling Preaching Conference at Trinity Anglican Church in Atlanta. Attendees heard from guest speakers Dr. O.J. Heyward of Renaissance Church of Christ and Kris McDaniel of Trinity Anglican Church. POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2026 7

UNIVERSITY NEWS

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ragan barnes johnson ’21

The University welcomed its newest alumni during a commencement ceremony held in May at the Convention and Trade Center in Columbus, Georgia. Four hundred twenty-one students earned associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The University also recognized members of the Class of 1976, who were celebrating their 50-year reunion. This spring’s commencement speaker was Wye Huxford ’73, who retired from the institution this summer after 50 years of teaching. During the ceremony, Huxford was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his service to the University. In his commencement address, Huxford encouraged graduates to know and remember that they had been shaped by the gospel of Jesus Christ. “Point University’s mission to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world calls on each of us to know who Jesus is and what difference he makes,” said Huxford. In standing firm on this hope, Huxford urged graduates to not be swayed by the winds of the world. “My hope is that you will, along with me, declare to the powers and principalities of our world, no matter who they are or where they are, ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God to salvation,’” said Huxford. Finally, Huxford commissioned the Class of 2026, saying, “May God bless you as, together, we throw caution to the wind and muster the courage to learn to stand firm on Jesus.” 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 Caraline Jackson, a biblical studies major from Luthersville, Georgia, and Aubry Stephens-Baker, a child development major from Opelika, Alabama. The University also presented the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award to one 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. Zechariah Eberhart ’10, assistant 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.

mary beth gardner; ragan barnes johnson ’21

Point Honors More Than 400 New Alumni

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“Point really allowed me to develop myself, so that I could then develop people.”

Meet the

Graduates

Alyssa Phillips ’26

B.S. IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION | ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Commencement marks the beginning of a new chapter — not just for graduates, but also for their families. For Point’s newest alumni, that new chapter is already taking shape in meaningful ways. Shaped by faith and prepared to serve, these graduates are taking the lessons from their time at Point into their communities, workplaces, churches and beyond. On the next few pages, you’ll meet a few members of the Class of 2026 and learn where their Point journeys are taking them.

ragan barnes johnson ’21

BY AMBER BOWMAN

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Phillips pictured with Rusty Hassell ’09, vice president of strategic initiatives, at commencement in May.

Alyssa Phillips ’26 completed her degree through Elevate, Point University’s employer-paid education program. In addition to working full-time, Phillips is also the owner of Kincaid Coffee, a mobile espresso bar operating at events throughout North Georgia. Phillips’ time at Point taught her the importance of focusing her priorities in order to lead most effectively. Working full time, running a business and earning a degree all at once is no small undertaking. For Phillips, earning her degree from Point required her to learn a new type of discipline. “I started doing school work at 5 a.m. or on my lunch break so that I would still have time after work for my own administrative tasks, any necessary work events and commitments to my friends,” says Phillips. “It’s challenging at times, but when we realize and learn what is actually important to us, our priorities will align, and we will stop wasting time being stagnant in being stressed about the load we have.” The discipline Phillips learned during her time at Point has helped prepare her to be a better leader. “Being pushed and stretched by professors or classmates who were relying

on me really made me develop quickly into a person I wanted to be proud of when I looked back in a few years,” says Phillips. “And so I would say Point really allowed me to develop myself, so that I could then develop people.” Beyond the development of her character, Phillips was also prepared practically in order to run her business more effectively. “The most helpful thing was the business simulation I did in the business courses,” says Phillips. “It helped me understand supply and demand and investments in different areas and how they will directly impact sales.” As Phillips looks ahead to the future, she is hoping to continue growing both her business and herself into a great leader. “What’s next for Kincaid’s is growing the private catering side of the business, weddings, parties, corporate events and business meetings,” she says. “I also hope to just continue becoming more disciplined and intentional with my time and priorities.”

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“Our shared MBA journey has fundamentally reshaped our future by creating a partnership of purpose.”

Claire Cordell ’26

“I am excited to have a fulfilling For volleyball player and exercise science major Claire Cordell, Point’s residential procareer where I gram has been foundational in providing community, support and preparation for her career. can help others “While at Point, I made my closest friends, and my teammates are lifelong sisters to me,” says and show the love Cordell. “I loved the Christ-filled community of the school, and I felt so much spiritual support throughout my entire experience.” of Christ.” Cordell’s time at Point helped her recog-

B.S. IN EXERCISE SCIENCE | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Maduka ’26 and Destinee Coleman ’26

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learn from one another and have other topics to talk about that pushed our mental limits and challenged our faith.” That new connection helped to strengthen their relationship even more. Life continues on no matter the goals you’ve set, so the couple sometimes had to be creative to get their work done. “There were times we traveled together while having assignments due, including an eight-hour flight to Iceland, where we got engaged,” says Destinee. “We just busted out our laptops and got to work!” Maduka found Point’s academic programs to be incredibly valuable in both his work and in his marriage. “Point University served as the bridge that connected my technical background from Google and Amazon to a style of leadership rooted in purpose,” he says. “Our shared MBA journey has fundamentally reshaped our future by creating a partnership of purpose.” Destinee is confident that the GAP Scholarship has altered her life’s course. “Without the GAP Scholarship, I am pretty certain I would not have been able to pursue my master’s,” she says. “This scholarship has opened so many doors for people who want to grow to the next level but may not be able to afford it, and I couldn’t have chosen a better institution to study from.”

Between having great relationships with her professors and being a student-athlete, Cordell feels prepared for the work ahead of her. “As an athlete, the professors make it feel like you have a coach and a cheerleader all in one,” says Cordell. “The work can be challenging, but they support you every step of the way. Being a student-athlete at the collegiate level taught me discipline and time management skills that will carry on into my rigorous nursing program.” Additionally, Cordell hopes to influence people, not only physically, but spiritually, as well. “I am excited to have a fulfilling career where I can help others and show the love of Christ through my actions,” says Cordell.

Claire Cordell, right, pictured celebrating at graduation with her volleyball teammate and fellow graduate Kristina Faison ’26.

ragan barnes johnson ’21

Not many couples can say they graduated together, but Maduka and Destinee Coleman have the unique circumstance of earning their MBAs through the same program at the same time. Destinee’s employer is a partner in Point’s donor-funded GAP Scholarship, which enables partners’ employees to earn their degrees debtfree. When the opportunity presented itself, Destinee knew she could not miss out. “I always knew I wanted to attend graduate school and earn a master’s degree,” says Destinee. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue, but when the opportunity presented itself and it was affordable, I immediately knew I should be a part of it.” Destinee and Maduka were not yet engaged when they began the program, but Destinee was confident it would be a good fit for both of them. “We love to do everything together, so inviting him along was a no-brainer,” she says. Similar to Destinee, earning a graduate degree had always been a goal for Maduka. “The financial aspect always felt like an insurmountable hurdle,” he says. “When Destinee’s employer announced a partnership program with Point, it felt like the stars had aligned.” Together, the couple fully embraced the chance to invest in their future as a team. “We were able to see one another as students,” Destinee says. “It was such a beautiful thing to

mary beth gardner

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (TIMES TWO!) | RIVERDALE, GEORGIA

nize both her passion and purpose. In the fall, Cordell will begin an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing program at Union University. “Getting an exercise science degree at Point helped set the foundational knowledge of the human body that is extremely important to understand in nursing school,” says Cordell. “The science classes specifically helped me realize my passion for health and wellness so that I can make a difference in the world.” Cordell’s passion for science and nursing grew out of the influence of her professors at Point. “Dr. Aquino and Dr. Kemper both helped me see my potential in the healthcare field,” says Cordell. “They did a great job assisting me in the application process for nursing programs and encouraged me throughout the exercise science degree program.”

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MORE THAN A

SCOREBOARD HOW RANDY DOUGLAS BUILT A LEGACY OF STEWARDSHIP BY AMBER BOWMAN WITH REPORTING BY ISABELLA FRULLANEY (’24-’26)

ragan barnes johnson ’21

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n Luke 16, Jesus tells his disciples a parable about a shrewd manager who is praised for his service. Jesus concludes the parable in verse ten by saying, “Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much, and whoever is unrighteous in very little is also unrighteous in much.” Scripture teaches that the Lord gives us small opportunities to prove our obedience and faithfulness before entrusting us with more. Those who are good stewards are faithful, no matter where they are or what the circumstances. In time, they are entrusted with more and more influence and responsibility. This way of humble and obedient stewardship is embodied in Point University’s head women’s soccer coach, Randy Douglas. To understand Douglas’s place in Point’s sports culture, one must zoom out a little to the early 2000s, when he first stepped into the role that would eventually define his career. Douglas joined Atlanta Christian College in August 2000 as the head men’s soccer coach after five years of coaching at Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee. “I was really planning on staying at Bryan a little bit longer,” Douglas says. “But when this came up, I felt like it was worth my time to go down and investigate.” After visiting ACC’s campus and hearing about the vision to grow the College’s athletics program, Douglas accepted the job. During the interview process, it had been mentioned to Douglas that the College hoped to eventually launch a women’s soccer program alongside the men’s program. “I thought ‘eventually’ meant three, four or five years down the road,” says Douglas. “But after about two weeks of classes in August, my athletic director came to me and said, ‘Hey, we’ve got a lot of girls on campus who want to play now.

We’re thinking maybe we can do this as a club team this first year.’” After a three-game club season in fall 2000, the women’s soccer program launched in fall 2001 with a 12-game season. “This kind of coincided with what was happening nationally with women’s soccer after the 1999 World Cup,” says Douglas. “Women’s soccer really started to explode, and there were a lot of programs getting started between 2001 and 2004. By our second season, a lot of Christian colleges in our south region were adding women’s soccer.” While building the women’s program, Douglas would continue on as the head men’s soccer coach for twelve years, until a head men’s coach was hired in 2013. As the women’s program grew alongside other women’s soccer programs at competitor schools, recruiting talent became much more challenging. After a few difficult years, things began to turn around. “I would say 2010 was a turning point in the program’s history, because ever since then, you can really see the progress we’ve continued to make,” says Douglas. While Douglas is proud of the program’s success, for him, coaching is about far more than championships. Douglas frames his coaching in terms of stewardship and caring well for what has been entrusted to him. “This is more about stewardship than ownership,” he says. “You’re here for a while. You take care of it. You do the best you can. Hopefully, when you’re done, you’ve left it in good hands, and you’ve left whoever takes over next not just a good foundation, but a good program.” Douglas is thoughtful about his recruitment process, with the goal of building a team of both talent and character. “In preseason, we try to set the tone: Yes, we’re going to work POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2026 15

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photo courtesy of randy douglas

hard. Yes, we have expectations,” says Douglas. “But we’re also going to have fun and make it enjoyable. At the same time, if they’re keeping score, we’re going to try to win.” For all the structure and seriousness behind his coaching, Douglas is, to put it simply, fun. Not silly, not unserious, just genuinely enjoyable to be around. He has a way of walking onto the training field that makes players relax their shoulders a bit. He remembers small details about people: the class someone is struggling with, the birthday of a player’s younger sibling, the injury a freshman once tried to hide because she didn’t want to miss minutes. Those little nods of recognition accumulate over years into something players describe as “family,” not in the forced, trendy way teams sometimes use the word, but in the real way that makes former teammates stay in touch long after graduation. “I never view myself as someone’s dad or grandfather,” says Douglas. “I view myself as a steward. We’re more shepherding than anything else, but when players come in, we try to treat everybody with respect from the moment they walk in the door as a recruit. It’s a very welcoming atmosphere. So we try to foster strong team chemistry built on respect, like a family.” Like any family, sometimes Douglas and his teams encounter uniquely challenging circumstances. But no matter those circumstances, he is committed to making decisions first and foremost as a follower of Christ. In 2011, Kristabelle Rangel ’17, an incoming first-year women’s soccer player, discovered two weeks before the beginning of preseason that she was pregnant. Terrified and overwhelmed, she approached Douglas with the

point university archives

Coach Douglas on the sidelines in 2001.

news. “I was really scared,” says Rangel. “I didn’t know what I was going to do. But he kind of took me in. He accepted it and said, ‘I want you to be the manager.’” Without any other support outside her coach and her team, Rangel continued on with her freshman year. “This goes beyond soccer,” says Rangel. “It was more about him being that person for me. I just needed one person, and it was him.” After her son was born, Rangel considered her future, unsure whether or not she would return to Point and finish her degree. That was when Douglas stepped in. “He offered me a scholarship to return,” says Rangel. “It was three hours away, and I was like, ‘I don’t know how I’m going to do this. It’s really hard.’ He said, ‘We’ll figure it out.’” Douglas helped arrange Rangel’s living situation, and because of his help, Rangel promised herself to work hard to get back into playing shape. After red-shirting for one semester after her return, Rangel was again playing soccer at Point. “My son was traveling with us,” says Rangel. “I had the men’s and women’s soccer teams helping take care of him. We had a whole playpen on the soccer field during practices for my son. It was crazy.” What most people would consider incredibly difficult circumstances, Rangel looks back on with fondness. “At first I look back and think, ‘Oh wow, it was so hard.’ But during the time, you just do it. I don’t think I would have been able to do it without all of them. To me, it wasn’t as bad as what it could have been. I would do it all over again.” Today, Rangel works for a defense technology company in Huntington Beach, California, and she attributes her circumstances to Douglas and his influence and support during her time at Point. “I look at myself now, and I know I would not have any of this without him,” says Rangel. “Every single day I’m grateful for him.” From her role as an employee, a mother and a teammate, Rangel credits Douglas for all of it. “I still have a soccer team with my company. We play 7v7 in Newport Beach and do all these awesome things. So yeah, I’m still carrying all of that with me. And he made all that happen. Without him, I would not be where I’m at.” Douglas’s commitment to seeing Rangel persevere and succeed despite unexpected circumstances was not out of character. In fact, it is a theme. “I can’t imagine how many more women he’s impacted,” Rangel says. “He helped a lot of women who didn’t really have

much going on and built something for them. He’s really built something that lasted.” Amber Brenton ’13 similarly attributes her life’s circumstances to Douglas. Now a successful content creator and comedian, Brenton never anticipated the direction her life would go in after attending Point. “Coach took a chance on me,” says Brenton. “He took me out of the small town of Cairo, Georgia. I didn’t have much. I was able to experience life and have been places I never thought I would go because of playing for Coach Douglas. He showed me I can have more in life.” During the first game of Brenton’s senior year, she broke her ankle. Douglas went out of his way to check on Brenton and keep her included as part of the team. When Brenton found out her ankle would need surgery, she discovered that her health insurance had expired. “Coach did everything he could to make sure I had a successful surgery,” says Brenton. Douglas’s emphasis on relationships had a deep impact on Brenton. “The summer of my sophomore year, I was home for the summer,” says Brenton. “He was in my hometown, recruiting in the area, and he called to ask to take me to lunch.” At first, Brenton was hesitant. “I didn’t want to ask him to pick me up because I lived in the projects, so I thought he would be scared to come to my neighborhood,” says Brenton. “I was going to walk to meet him at the restaurant, but he didn’t let me walk — he picked me right on up. That moment was special to me because Coach took the time to bond with me.” For Casidhe Boley ’25, Douglas’s coaching style continues to impact her leadership in her role as an admission counselor at Point University. “Coach Douglas never felt the need to be overly dramatic or emotional to get his message across,” says Boley. “Watching him lead with confidence and composure taught me a lot about leadership.” One of Douglas’s pregame reminders to his athletes continues to encourage and challenge Boley. “One thing I will always remember is his message before games against strong opponents,” says Boley. “He would tell us, ‘This will either be a really good game or a really bad game — we decide the outcome.’ That simple statement changed the way I viewed challenges. It reminded me that preparation, effort and mindset matter more than reputation or expectations.” Like Rangel and Brenton, Boley remembers Douglas as a coach who was far more concerned with what kind of people they became

than how many games they won. “His legacy is the countless student-athletes he helped shape into better people,” says Boley. “He built a program founded on character, discipline and excellence, and those values will continue to impact former players long after their playing careers are over.” Douglas is aware that his role as a coach goes beyond technical soccer skills. His focus is on shaping young women who embody the gospel of Jesus. “I hope they understand responsibility,” says Douglas. “Scripture teaches us that every generation has a responsibility to pass things on. The gospel has been handed down for generations. Every generation shares that responsibility. I view this team as a ministry. We invest in these young women, and in turn, I hope they take what they learned and ask: ‘How can I help?’ Whether it’s in their community, a youth soccer team, their church or their family. I hope they look for ways to give back.” It’s hard to talk about legacies while someone is still coaching, but it’s equally hard not to wonder what Douglas’s will look like. It may not be defined by national headlines or high-budget facilities, but it will be measured in the slightly quieter ways: players who learned to trust themselves, teams that consistently showed up with discipline and belief, and a coaching presence that became a stabilizing force year after year. If the mark of a good coach is the number of people who carry pieces of his guidance into the rest of their lives, then Douglas’s influence is already enormous.

Coach Douglas during a recent soccer match.

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Lessons from the Other Side of the World

Monday, May 11

As I sit here in the airport during our layover in Amsterdam, I have some time to reflect. It’s so weird to me that I graduated only two days ago, and now I am halfway around the world. After this layover, it will be another eight-hour flight to Nairobi, where we will be spending the majority of this trip. We were told to have as few expectations for this trip as possible, and that whatever parts of a plan we do have are probably not set in stone. The sermon at the church I was visiting yesterday morning was talking about making disciples by being a disciple. A primary Scripture used in that sermon was the end of Matthew 28, the Great Commission. Ever since that message, I have been praying that I will be a good reflection of Christ on these trips, and that it will continue after I return.

Luke Johnson ’26 was on a mission this summer, traveling to Kenya and Japan on back-to-back trips to develop important skills for future missionary work outside the United States. Read along with his travel journal to find out what he learned!

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photo courtesy of luke johnson ’26

Tuesday, May 12

To say that this first day in Africa was mind-blowing would be an understatement. We arrived in Nairobi last night, where we were greeted by a man from the ministry that we will be working with for the next few days. We got to the compound, ate some soup, and finally went to bed around 1:30 in the morning. The ministry, Missions of Hope International (MOHI), is an incredible example of a little faith making a huge impact. It all started when a young woman named Mary came to university in Nairobi. After giving her life to Christ in her first year, she was introduced to the ministry of caring for people in Nairobi’s slums. Given the fact that she was from one of the poorest villages in Kenya, Mary was shocked to find that there were people far worse off than her, and she felt the Holy Spirit telling her to do something about it. Using her husband’s salary, Mary rented a shack in the slums and began her first school. Many trials of faith and last minute provisions from the Lord later, the scope of this ministry and the change God has brought through it is hard to comprehend. The difference being made is desperately needed. Some of their social workers took us in small groups to do home visits in the slums, where I saw a level of poverty I never even knew was possible. Just walking to the home we visited required looking for solid places to step. The streets were filled with trash and discarded, torn-up clothing mixed into a soup of mud, sewage runoff, and solid human waste — because the only bathroom in the area costs

money to use, and most families there have to try to live on less than $2 per day. When we got to the house, the picture wasn’t much better. The home itself was a six-by-six-foot shack made of burned aluminum siding, with a muddy mat along part of the floor for sleeping. It belongs to a mother and two children, and the mom washed clothes to keep enough income to stay alive. Today was a day that made me think, grew my perspective, and stressed me past my comfort zone. I am excited for whatever tomorrow holds.

Wednesday, May 13

Today was packed from beginning to end. We went to two different MOHI schools. At each school, we were running a session for their tenth-grade students. We essentially ran a mini version of a Tuesday night gathering at Feast (Point’s student ministry) for high-school students. After the message, we broke out into discussion groups, with each person on our trip leading a group in conversation with discussion-prompting questions. After that, a member of our team would go up and speak to the students collectively again, giving a small part of their testimony. From there, we went into a time of praise and worship. The passage that everything centered on was Ephesians 2:10, that we are God’s handiwork, created to do good works on behalf of the kingdom of God.

Thursday, May 14

Today was our final day with MOHI. We had one last session today with a group of tenthgrade students at their school called Baba Dogo, followed by home visits with the social workers again. This time, the home was one of the boys from my small group this morning. It has been crazy to me the contentment that they have despite having so little by American standards. Another thing that hasn’t stopped surprising me is the level of hospitality and generosity. Many of the students in my group regularly volunteer at a children’s home in their community. None of them seem to see themselves as needy, and I find that inspiring. When we finally parted ways, we were taken to another missionary compound in another part of Nairobi. When we arrived, we were welPOIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2026 19

comed by CMF missionary BJ and his family. We found out that it was not their compound, but actually belonged to an organization called Scripture Mission, a group of Norwegian missionaries who run a school with an amazing mission of their own. After dinner, our group sat down with BJ for a discovery Bible study (DBS), where we read from 2 Corinthians 5. In this, we discussed primarily how our identity as a new creation in Christ comes with a new job as His ambassadors. BJ said that we will take the first half of the day off tomorrow: “I want you to take time to reflect tomorrow morning. Don’t just think about the mission trip; think about your life in the context of what we just read.” I’m looking forward to having a chance to sit and process the last few days, or really months. God has done a lot in this time, and it will be good to have a chance to sit and think about it.

Friday, May 15

I think I’m starting to adjust to living on Kenya time. Even long car rides feel like nothing at all. Today, we left the compound and drove out to a town known as Ngatataek in the land of the Maasai tribe. As soon as we got here, we got to work replacing the windows in the church building, which

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that the reason Mama Alex was so confused when I offered to help was because men do not cook in Maasai culture. Someone at dinner said that the food tasted like it was made by a Kenyan, which was such a joy to hear. We quickly learned on our trip to the market that if you are a guest of someone, you are a friend of the tribe. After dinner, we asked if we could have a Q&A session with the elder of the camp where we were staying. They said that they would ask, and even found a translator for us. We sat with the elders and translators for well over an hour, listening intently to their stories. They told us all about Maasai culture and key events from their lives. photo courtesy of luke johnson ’26

Saturday, May 16

is also our lodging for the night. It is a cinder block building, whose windows were slits cut into the concrete. The women in our group went with a group of the village children to their school, while the men from our group joined the men in the village who were already working on the windows. We finished our side of the building quickly, so we went into the town market with a woman known as Mama Alex and helped her carry the supplies back for dinner. When we got back to camp, she told us we could go on and grab some buckets for our showers while she got to work on dinner and the evening chai, but I insisted that we could help with that, as well. She seemed a little confused by this at first, but quickly appreciated the help. My normal job serving at Feast, Point’s student ministry, is cooking dinner for the many students who frequent our weekly worship and devotional nights. I enjoy cooking and love to learn about international dishes, so this was a golden opportunity. We made Kenyan beef stew, boiled greens, and ugali, the best description for which I can think of is like a bland cornbread made in a large pot. I learned later

photo courtesy of luke johnson ’26

This morning was just what I needed. We started the day with another DBS, which was a great way to begin the morning. It really made me think about my future. As I think about pursuing long-term mission work with Globalscope collegiate ministries and get closer to that becoming a reality, I’m also realizing just how daunting that is. The biggest part that bothers me is the distance from my family, and I think I’ve been suppressing that, telling myself that it’s not worth letting it bother me. I’m now realizing that both things can be true at the same time. I can be serving God, be exactly where He wants me to be, but still wrestle with my own emotions, even homesickness. Thankfully, this week puts me in great company to ask for advice on how to deal with the challenges of being a missionary.

Sunday, May 17

The day started off strong. Most of us woke up at various points throughout the night to rats and bats scurrying around our bunk area, and we walked out this morning to be greeted by bugs that I cannot pronounce the name for, but we have given them the English name of “dragon caterpillars.” We ended up having all

three of the men from our group speak to the congregation through a translator. Mine was a message of encouragement. I began with Leviticus 19:34, thanking them for their hospitality and living out this Scripture by treating us foreigners as native-born Maasai. That encouragement came with a challenge as my message shifted to Matthew 28:19, encouraging them to keep welcoming people but also reach out to others, Maasai or not. The message was well received, and the pastor told me he would love for me to come back and speak at the church again. Church with the Maasai was no doubt my favorite part of this trip.

Monday, May 18

The original plan for today was to drive to visit a new Globalscope campus ministry called Ukarimu. Sadly, protests today over high fuel prices turned into full-scale riots, making travel too dangerous. So today became a day of listening to the story and advice of the various missionaries that we have met over the course of our trip. Their stories were both interesting and inspiring. They also gave us insight POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2026 21

Sunday, May 24

I’m finally settling in after my first full day in Japan. It was a long few days of travel before that. We left Kenya on the 19th, and I arrived

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On the train, he explained the importance of knowing the culture of the people that you are trying to reach. His practical approach was to have us all download translation lenses to our phones and look at the advertisements around us on the train car.

Monday, May 25

Today we went to Nagoya Castle, as well as some prominent temples and shrines. During our travels, James told us about how Christianity used to be illegal in Japan and has had a complicated history since then. Many people still hold Christianity in a negative view. Culturally, Christianity radically messes with family dynamics, especially if the family members of a new Christian expect to be venerated at a shrine or temple after they die. The religious sites were unsettling to watch. While many Japanese do not claim to be religious, so many people are still going and engaging in idol worship out of culture, not grasping the gravity of what they are doing. Statistically speaking, Christianity is so rare here that I would need to be in a room of at least 400 people for there to be even one other Christian. Most of Japan’s Christian population is in Tokyo or Osaka. In a city like Nagoya, the group size would need to be closer to 1,000 people in order to find another believer.

Friday, May 29

photo courtesy of luke johnson ’26

mission trips. Following/serving the Lord in this way is really eye-opening, and I want to share that with as many people as I can. I will definitely be encouraging Point to make sure that this trip happens again, and hopefully bring even more students next time. While this trip has been somewhat transformational for me, I can’t just let what I’ve seen stay here. I need to bring the change back with me. I feel that in America, we tend to live in a personal bubble, both culturally and spiritually. This trip has been a great example that while we do have an individual faith and relationship with Christ, there is also such a thing as a communal faith, which is actually incredibly necessary for our Christian walk.

around midnight last night. Along the way, I ran into a Kenyan man during a layover in Canada. He was familiar with MOHI and appreciative of the work that they do. This week, I will be spending time with Reaching Japan Ministries pastor James Miyashita. We were told up front that this trip was going to be 90 percent educational on how to go about ministry in foreign cultures, specifically focusing on Japan and giving us a crash course on what missionary life might look like. On the way to the church plant this morning, James explained that the church is in a bit of a transitional period. It is difficult to find places that are willing to rent space for Christian religious services, and the few that will rent do not usually allow it to be advertised, so the way people learn about the church is mostly by word-of-mouth. Thankfully, they have finally found people who are willing to work with them, and they are in the process of preparing to move locations. They are currently meeting in a small room at a community center. As we were setting up the room, an alarm went off on James’s phone at 9:38. He asked if one of us could open a Bible to Matthew 9:38, and had all of us pray that the Lord would send workers to spread the gospel in Japan. Once the room was set up, James explained to us what the idea of his message for that morning would be: the trustworthiness of Christ. He explained that the Japanese people will not give real consideration to anything they cannot or do not trust. Trustworthiness is extremely important to establish so that people will begin to think about the teachings of Christ and the meaning of a relationship with Him. James went on to explain that Japanese gods, of which there are easily over 800, are not all-knowing. People need to be introduced to the idea of an all-knowing God, the idea that a life surrendered to Him is worth it, and the idea that you can have a life with God right now, not just eternal life with Him when you die. The church service was unsurprisingly conducted entirely in Japanese, including all of the worship songs. Even so, it was an honor to be a part of it. After the service, we had lunch and caught a train to central downtown Nagoya. James wasted no time on our first lesson.

photo courtesy of luke johnson ’26

on sharing about our time here. As more than one of us is planning a future in missions, and I prepare to leave for another mission trip two days after we get back, BJ gave us all the important reminder that we are not bringing God anywhere. Wherever we go to serve Him, He is already working, and we’re just joining in. I need to encourage other people to go on

The past week has been very educational. Each day, James has had some kind of challenge or visit to one or more sites that either taught us another aspect of the culture or mission work. Some of the main things that I learned or relearned about ministry were the importance of community and the importance of knowing the people that you are trying to reach. In an environment where it is almost impossible to find a Christian, it is especially hard in terms of community. That is why James recommends going with a team. He and his wife started from scratch by themselves, and the lack of godly community made things very difficult for them. I was reminded on this trip of how relational ministry needs to be and how much patience that often requires. I was reminded how important it is to keep a big-picture, eternity-centered mindset. Perhaps the greatest thing that I learned about ministry while in Japan was that my perspective on understanding other cultures was slightly off. I already knew that being effective in ministry would require me to understand

how people act and think, but this trip taught me the importance of understanding the “why” behind it. To understand the heart of a person, I need to understand why they are the way they are. This just scratches the surface of everything that I have learned on these trips. As I return to the United States, I will begin my application process for Globalscope and return to work for Point’s student ministry, Feast, as I undergo the process of training and fundraising for the mission field. I am still a little unsettled by all of the unknowns, but I will be taking things one step at a time. I am so excited to return in the fall and jump right in on what God is doing in West Point. Big things are around the bend, and I can’t wait to see what the Lord does, both at home and abroad.

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“Our students are the heart of everything we do, and I believe they are exactly the reason you choose to give.”

Look what the Lord has done! Because of your faithful generosity, Point University’s mission to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world continues to flourish. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus, not only by believing in our mission, but also by investing in the students God has entrusted to us. Your gifts equip them to advance the gospel and proclaim the hope of Christ to the nations. Our students are the heart of everything we do, and I believe they are exactly the reason you choose to give. For nearly 90 years, Point University has remained committed and unapologetic in its calling to prepare men and women to serve Christ boldly where He leads them. Together, we truly accomplish more than we ever could alone. So, if you are a longtime supporter or new to the Point giving family, on behalf of the University’s president, faculty, staff and students, I say thank you for continuing to invest in one of life’s greatest endeavors — equipping students to live and lead with boldness and conviction as they share Jesus passionately and faithfully. As we begin a new academic year, we look forward with anticipation to all that God will do. I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s commendation to the church of Philippi: “I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:3-6). —Dr. Chantel Oney Vice President for Advancement

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Stephen and Sarah Huxford Camp Dr. Joe and Carlene Capebianco Warren '99 and Dr. Holly Ritchie Carey '01 Dr. Georges Carillet '68 Drs. Byron and Katie Cartwright Nick Chafin Charter Foundation, Inc. Fred and Renee Chastain Bud and Judy Chastain '98 Eddie and Sally Clark Steve '83 and Becky Reid Clark '83 Margaret Clay Dean '79 and Penny Collins James Cook Randy '80 and Sue Ann Cordell Phillip Crenshaw '13 Gordon '75 and Elaine Amos Dampier '76 Chad '00 and Dr. Bethany Huxford Davis ('00-'01) Jessie Davis '10 Tiffany Davis '20 Chuck '79 and Cynthia Dodd Cynthia Dollar '84 Suzanne Dowell Marilyn Buchanan Doyal '64 Rebecca Durrance '10 Dr. DJ Dycus John Edge Kimberly Edmondson Brian and Sandra Faidley '83 Drs. Eddie and Billye Joyce Fine Frank '68 and Joyce Forehand Doug Forehand '94 and Nona Kim Colby '18 and Savannah Freeman Paul and Betty Goodart '66 Tommy and Beth Huxford Graham Becky Gregory '80 Scott '81 and Lindy Huxford Gregory '88 Carlton Griffin '02 Billy and Dell Stephens Hagood '71 Maurice Hansford Matthew Harbin '08 Charles and Judy Hardage Buddy Harris '79 Chuck and Tammy Hassell Rusty '09 and Taylor Hassell Mathew '17 and Madison Raynor Hayes '15 Carl Henry '81 Dennis and Patti Hindman '81 David Hodge '82 Tripp Hodges '88 Dr. Steve '69 and Kathy Hooks ('68-'70) Dr. Greg '77 and Phyllis McKinney Hoover '78 Richard and Sheila Horton

Randy and Carol Howell Jim Irby Jimmie '85 and Cindy Jacobs Addison Jones Dr. Nathan '07 and Jenn Jones Wilder Jones Mike and Naomi Kouns Edwina Fuller Lamm '78 Elizabeth Walker Lanier Dr. Roy and Joy Lawson Mark Lee Legacy Christian Church, Senoia Elizabeth Lester Aaron '13 and Britney Lewis Al and Jodi Manning Rhonda McClure Bob McGuire '78 Hank '79, '80 and Becky Noblitt Melton ('74-'79) Dr. Gregory '88 and Stacey Moffatt '05 Garrett Motes '16 and Natalie Brown-Motes '17, '20 Ryan Mullins '08 James and Kristin Westbrook Niemeyer Clint '08 and Brooke Nolder Kim Okojie '15 Rev. James and Dr. Chantel Oney Stan '13 and Carol Erica Pitts Parker '11 Penn Cleaning and Solutions Dr. Clay '80 and Sandra Sechrest Perkins '79 Dr. Mark '73 and Cathy Spainhour Pierce '73 Douglas and Judy Piette Joseph '10 and Kelly Piette Albert and Jennifer Porth Rob '79 and Jo Ann Farris Raynor ('74-'75) Jordan and Kami Burns Reed Dennis and Mary Crowe Reid '80 Rafael '10 and Bethany Ziegler Rivera '09 Lucille Robinson '06 Ruth Root Billy '78 and Marcella Rowe Russellville Christian Church Mike and Dr. Susan Ryan Matthew and Tara Collins Samples '00 Bill and Martha Scott Melissa Sharp '02 James Shelton '02 Bonita Shelton '10 Bruce and Rosemarie Shields Daniel and Beth Jarvis Silliman '04 David '77 and Dr. Faith Mims Simpson '76

Tiffany Jackson Rev. Chuck and Dr. Toni Anderson Dr. Chantel Oney Lee Hyatt Gaines Lanier Elizabeth Lester Point University Advancement Team Rev. Chuck and Dr. Toni Anderson Rob '79 and Jo Ann Farris Raynor ('74-'75) Dr. Jason '03 and Paige Raynor Dees '03

ragan barnes johnson ’21

IN HONOR OF

Adam Solomon Tim '94 and Amy Stephens Carl and Pat Swearingen Dr. Ralph and Evelyn Swearngin '75 Eleanor Talley Jay and Kelley Taylor Mary Taylor Melanie Terrell '85 Mike '85 and Cindy Thompson Steven '19 and Daelee Parman Tracy '18 Michael and Mary Susan Underwood Dr. Stephen '07 and Katie Waers Mike '77 and Kathy Donovan Waers '77 Penny McPherson Walker '74 Larry and Carol Walls Neil and Lynn Weathington Bill and Betsy Weaver Dr. Todd and Donna Weaver Ronnie Weldon Mary Frances Wellborn Jason '11 and Sarah Westbrook Joey '76 and Cindy Baggett Westbrook ('72-'74) Dr. Glenda Westbury Rev. Karrien Williams '15 David Wilson '72 Brudy and Cathy Huxford Wood Taylor and Tiffany Wood Nathan Wright '10 Phillip '84 and Daphine White Wynne '85 Justin Yerby '20

David '77 and Dr. Faith Mims Simpson '76 Rhonda McClure Robert Riddle Joey '76 and Cindy Baggett Westbrook ('72-'74) James and Kristin Westbrook Niemeyer

Dr. Dedra Woolfolk Rev. Chuck and Dr. Toni Anderson

Delores J. Markey Cynthia Dollar '84

IN MEMORY OF

Father of Dr. Rachel Nabulsi Wye Huxford '73

Lanny Bledsoe Elizabeth Walker Lanier Elizabeth Lester Susan Brussalis Anne Lewis Jennie C. Cowart Dean '79 and Penny Collins Elizabeth Lester Irene Daniel Delta Lewis J.H. Davis Dr. Scarlet Jernigan

Len and Marty Reid Suzanne Dowell Margaret S. Rollison Elizabeth Walker Lanier Elizabeth Lester George & Mildred Shirley Robin Gay Jalen Smith Taylor and Tiffany Wood Margaret S. Smith Elizabeth Lester

Rev. James W. Dyer Bryce and Paula Crawford Sara Jean P. Ector Elizabeth Walker Lanier Vivian Harrell Elizabeth Lester Vicki Kindt Huxford '73 Scott '81 and Lindy Huxford Gregory '88 Larry and Carol Walls Penny McPherson Walker '74

POIN T MAG AZIN E | FALL 2026 29

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30 POINT M AGAZINE | FA LL 20 26

stressing over a big, expensive wedding when our personalities just don’t match that,” said Guy. “We had a very intimate ceremony in front of our parents and siblings, and then enjoyed a good day of games, good food and good company, like we have done all along.” The couple are both grateful for Point’s influence on their relationship. “We both came to Point knowing that it was a small Christian college, but we didn’t fully know how that would shape our lives until we experienced it,” said Jeff. “We both met teammates that became family, and we fell in love with the West Point community and what it has to offer,” said Macey. “We both felt very equipped for a Christ-centered relationship through what we learned at Point in the classroom, on the field and at chapel. Point gave us an opportunity to grow closer to God separately and together.” The Knapps live in Atlanta, where Jeff works as a firefighter/AEMT with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department and Macey works for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation headquarters as a forensic lab technician . . . and they ended up in this magazine after all. Want to tell us the backstory of an interesting Point photo? Email the photo and your story to editor@point.edu.

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ragan barnes johnson ’21

confirmed they were still coming.” orking at a small university, staff members often wear “I complained for weeks about these many hats. For Ragan Barnes pictures to really solidify the surprise,” Johnson ’21, this spring, one of those said Jeff. hats became “Secret Proposal Organizer.” Before arriving at the lake, Johnson Johnson is Point’s communications and Jeff solidified their plan. Johnson coordinator and a professional photogwould take a few staged photos, and rapher. In May, alumnus Jeff Knapp ’24 when the time was right, she would give reached out to her with a unique assign- Jeff the signal: a single nod. Then he was ment: help him plan a surprise proposal clear to get down on one knee and pop for his girlfriend, fellow alumna Macey the question. Guy Knapp ’24. “The proposal was perfect!” said “I am not much of a romantic, so I Macey. “One of our favorite dates was knew Macey would be suspicious if I to kayak to a small island on West Point asked her to get dressed nice and meet Lake and play card games. It really felt me at West Point Lake,” said Jeff. Inlike a full circle getting engaged there stead, he got creative. The couple knew after growing together there so much.” Johnson from attending Valley Baptist Johnson’s commitment to the fake Church together, so he decided to create magazine article fully convinced Guy a cover story. Together, they decided that nothing suspicious was going on to convince Macey that Johnson was behind the scenes. “Ragan made the working on an article for Point Magawhole thing possible,” said Macey. “It zine about couples who had met at the would have been hard for Jeffrey to put University, and that she needed to take something together without her help. photos of a few of those couples. She scheduled it, photographed it and “I designed a flyer, sent it to Macey, made the whole idea a reality. Withand she was excited to participate in out her commitment to the bit, Jeffrey the photo shoot,” said Johnson. “In the would still be coming up with an idea on weeks leading up to the day, we talked how to propose.” outfits, and I even suggested a white In July, the couple agreed to elope at dress for the photos. To make the story Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising believable, I texted her updates about Fawn, Georgia. “We weren’t really inthe other ‘participating couples’ and terested in spending a lot of money and

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