Reinhardt Magazine Fall 2021

FALL 2021 | REINHARDT.EDU

Widening the Fields of Endeavor with our 21st President MARK A. ROBERTS, PH.D.

Turned from the blurred dirge of the mountain’s range beauty parades in specific things…

Mark A. Roberts A version of “Of Local Habitation” is published in Southern Poetry Anthology (Vol. III): Contemporary Appalachia, Texas Review Press.

Will Wright, Series Editor.

Photo: The Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University Campus.

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Campus News and Happenings An Evening of Honors Commencement Ceremonies Sustaining a Learning Community Junior Achievement Partnership First Generation Student Funk Heritage Grant Student Works

RIZE & ACADEUM Reinhardt extends its “village” PAGES 20-21

VOLUME 27 | ISSUE 1 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND EDITORS Jordan Cochran, B.A., RU ’18 Mike DeVader, M.Ed. Josh Garner, M.Div. Laura Long, M.B.A. Kathy Lyles, B.A. Luke Madden, M.F.A., RU ’18, ’20 Walter May, Ph.D. Bill Popp, M.S. Irma Santoro, Ph.D. Tish Szymurski, Ed.D. Tom Yannuzzi, Ph.D. Ken Wheeler, Ph.D.

20 RU Academics

Nursing Students on the Frontline Reinhardt Legacy Series: Jordan: First Black Student Sharp: Founder of Reinhardt Tilly: Civil Rights Activist

26 RU Faculty

DESIGN Lure Design

Newly Published

THE FUTURE OF SCIENCE

34 RU Alumni Alumni Success Alumnus receives Cullum Geographical Medal

38 In Memory

A Legacy of Benevolence 36 RU Giving

Reinhardt’s benevolence is made possible through the generosity of giving and scholarships

The magazine of Reinhardt University

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Two National Science Foundation (NSF) grant programs will provide student scholarships and STEM programing.

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SPORTS ON THE COVER

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jordan Cochran Elisa Long Greg Spell/ G-RoxPhotos.com Southeastern (Fla.) Athletics Life University Sports Information Mileshko UNIVERSITY LEADERSHIP TEAM President Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D. Vice Presidents & President’s Cabinet Walter May, Ph.D. Dean of Students John D. Miles, Ph.D. Academic Affairs Stephanie Owens, M.ACC. Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer

INTRODUCING MARK A. ROBERTS, PH.D.

Reinhardt’s 21st President with his wife, Kelley, on their farm in Waleska .

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GET CONNECTED

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L et t e r f r o m t h e P r e s i d e n t

Dear Reinhardt Family,

When Reinhardt was established in the late 19th century, Joel Chandler Harris proclaimed that our institution would “widen the fields of endeavor,” for the region and for those who attended our school. The stories that are collected in this issue of Reinhardt magazine are proof of Mr. Harris’s prediction.

As you read, you will be bolstered, as I am, by the accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and board members. Books were published, awards won, titles earned. Indeed, these are the Captains of Reinhardt, the leaders in their fields. Animating our values, they acted on their faith with boldness, they learned continuously in humility, and they confidently led by example. Every day, throughout this unusually challenging year, the members who make up Reinhardt University made manifest what it means to thrive in the fullness of light.

Additionally, through efforts of faculty, staff and administration, Reinhardt moved forward on important initiatives and earned athletic accolades. We broadened learning opportunities for students through innovative consortia; expanded our reach across Metro Atlanta through

strategic partnerships; widened our influence by establishing two new endowed scholarships that will directly impact students in our region; and claimed 11 AAC Championships and 1 NAIA National Championship.

It is gratifying to read about the victories we claimed, how we “widened the fields of endeavor” – on campus, in the classroom, on the field and in the community. It reminds me – as I hope it reminds you – of what a blessing it is to be a Reinhardt Eagle and to contribute meaningfully to this community of learners.

Onward in the Real Work.

Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D. President

“It is gratifying to read about the victories we claimed, how we ‘widened the fields of endeavor’ – on campus, in the classroom, on the field, and in the community.”

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NEWLY CROWNED

Havyn Wilson and Kevin Ross Reinhardt’s 2020-21 Homecoming King and Queen.

THE UNITY PROJECT

First-Year Seminar students, celebrated all that makes us unique, different, similar and connected as a united Reinhardt community.

SPRING DAY Carnival rides, cartoonists, dancing, great food and a few good rounds of tug-of-war made Spring Day better than ever!

KEEPING RU BEAUTIFUL

Campus Beautification is a strong University tradition. Community members gather to plant trees and flowers, remove debris and continually restore the campus, in all its glory.

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EXECUTIVE COMMAND AND LEADERSHIP GRADUATES Lieutenant William Ballard, Captain Erik Britt, Lieutenant James Cox, Lieutenant Todd Shinall, Lieutenant Christopher Straus, Corporal Tommy Thompkins and Sergeant Mike Wells were recognized as the first Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office graduates from Reinhardt Public Safety Institute’s Executive Command and Leadership Program.

Campu s News an d Happenin gs PA N D E M I C P E R S E V E R A N C E

Adam Powell, Campus Counselor, and members of the Student Health Center served the campus with tireless care throughout the pandemic, tracking virus cases, creating quarantine areas, delivering meals and counseling students.

Performing Arts majors tapped their inner creativity amid the pandemic, practicing outdoors, and performing in smaller, well ventilated spaces.

BETTER TOGETHER Coming together because we are better together, St. Paul AME Church, Oak Leaf Church, Chickfil-A Canton, Reinhart University and Generations Church hosted the Better Together March in Canton. The event unified Cherokee County, lifting the standard of dignity for those with the greatest needs in our community.

Campus looked different this year to accommodate pandemic challenges.

Classrooms were reimagined, desks were newly spaced and some classes opted for hybrid lessons. Outdoor seating also became popular! Reinhardt Eagles found new ways and new places to remain safe and healthy.

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Celebrating Achievement Throughout its long-standing history, Reinhardt University has proudly recognized students’ impressive academic success with many meaningful traditions.

An Evening of Honors offers a moment for juniors and seniors to reflect on their diligent work as they celebrate with their families and the RU community.

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he 2021 Evening of Academic Program Honors ceremony Awards were given marked an entire year to two seniors from since Eagles gathered, each degree program, not through screens, to selected by faculty, be recognized for their and an honoree was academic achievements. selected from each At long last, Reinhardt of Reinhardt’s seven University gathered and schools to receive celebrated together the School Student Families and friends gathered to celebrate their in person.

Achievement Awards.

Eagles in person after a The Brown Athletic “Indeed, because year of social distancing and limited events.

Center hosted two of you, Reinhardt’s ceremonies this year best of the best have to spotlight student excelled in your achievement among the Class of 2020 and 2021 studies despite the obstacles of online classes, graduates in a COVID-safe manner. Held each hybrid classes, strangely socially distanced spring near the close of the academic year, the classrooms; despite disruptions caused by ceremony features scholarship and service awards. isolations and quarantines, COVID testing, The juniors and seniors in attendance received potential vaccinations,” said President Mark A. the Hugh Peterson Jr. Academic Award, requiring Roberts, Ph.D. “Your achievements to me seem a minimum 3.6-3.89 GPA, or recognition as ever keener and ever brighter because of all of an Academic Scholar with a 3.9 GPA or higher. these obstacles.”

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Campu s News an d Happenin gs

The No Greater Love Award recognizes a student who shows care for others and is ready to help. It has been awarded since 1998 to a student who has expressed a spirit of caring through extraordinary and exemplary community service and love of fellow humans. This award was created in memory of Ernest “Chip” Koella IV, grandson of longtime Reinhardt supporters the late Steve and the late Virginia Tumlin, whose final act reflected John 15:13 as he laid down his life while attempting to save the life of a stranger.

Kaylee Jones Business Major

Kaylee Jones ’21 was honored with the award for her heart and her service to others, especially during her time at Reinhardt. The business major was an integral member of the Campus Ministries Leadership Team, planning weekly events, student retreats and mission trips. “Kaylee has a unique desire to see people grow in their faith, to love God with all of their being and to love others as they love themselves. She spent countless hours behind the scenes to make sure the students and staff of this university fully experience the wonders of God’s great love,” said Josh Garner, Coordinator of Spiritual Life and Service.

AN E VE N I N G O F H O N O R S

N O G R E AT E R L O V E AWA R D

E N G AG E D L E A R N E R AWA R D

The Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning (CITEL) recognizes a student each year with at least a 3.5 GPA, who exhibits campus leadership, participates in CITEL scholarly programs and is engaged in at least three High Impact Practices.

Nataleigh Long Digital Arts Major

Nataleigh Long, digital arts major, received many faculty nominations and was honored with the CITEL Engaged Learner Award. Long was a Captain with the Office of Admission, leading tours for prospective students, and studied abroad in Ireland. She invests much time developing her skills as an artist. “We are proud of Nataleigh and have benefited greatly from her contributions as an extraordinary intern with CITEL. She is a gifted digital artist, a watercolorist who focuses on botanical studies and an enthusiastic international traveler. She has a bright future!” shared Mason Conkin, Director of CITEL.

See more of Nataleigh’s art on page 19.

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Eagles Take Flight 13 4T H A N D 13 5T H COM M E NC E M E N T C E R E MON I E S

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he graduates of 2020 and 2021 deeply understand and personify flexibility, perseverance and grit.

These graduating Eagles flew through unparalleled times – quarantines, isolations, sudden changes, online courses, modified performances, delayed athletic schedules, jumping into the workforce and the daily unknown – all without the chance to stop and celebrate their time at Reinhardt University.

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Finally, the Eagles who persevered through circumstances unlike any other received the opportunity to cross the graduation stage, hold their diploma in their hands and move their tassels from one side of their mortarboard to the other, all while surrounded by fellow classmates and loved ones.

Reinhardt proudly hosted the 134th and 135th Commencement Ceremonies on May 7, 2021 to honor all graduates of the past year. Participating graduates and faculty donned a symbolic Reinhardt “Eagle’s Mile” Medallion, a special gift from President Mark

President Roberts honors each student with their diploma at Commencement.

Campu s News an d Happenin gs HONORARY DEGREE

A. Roberts and a commemoration of their shared experiences during unprecedented times.

Rev. Brian Smith of the Waleska United Methodist Church delivered an inspirational message to graduates, guided by the love of God and meaningful personal references to thought-provoking creativity and art.

“My first prayer is you might always remember that simple and yet surprising and profound proclamation that you are among those who are loved by God. No matter who you are, where you’ve been, what you’ve been through or what people may have said or will say to you, you are deeply loved, and you have a dignity that no one can take away.

“My second prayer for you is that you, too, might be about the work of painting and creating a beautiful and surprising world that is rooted in mercy and love and grace…may you see to make a difference in the lives of others.

Be a peacemaker and a hope giver.”

Keynote speaker, Dr. Randall E. Trammell ’03, ’09, Founder and CEO, Georgia Center for Civic Engagement, followed with encouragement for his soon-to-be fellow Reinhardt alumni with three points: to find your purpose and be the best version of yourself, that it’s okay to change directions, and to leave the world a better place than you found it.

“I share a few thoughts I have learned along my journey…not as one who has arrived but rather a fellow sojourner who’s had a bit of a head start,” said Trammell. “Let me assure you: If you can find your true calling in life, you will live with passion, make the world a better place, be richer than you could imagine and feel as though the very face of God himself is smiling on you. That may happen next week, next year or in the years ahead, but the search will be worth it, and your life will never be the same again. So, for now, your purpose is to find your purpose.”

Honoring a Leader Reinhardt University bestowed C. Ken White with an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters during the 134th Commencement ceremony.

This honor recognizes White’s extraordinary kindness, professional achievements, service to the community and generosity to the University.

White graduated from Reinhardt College in 1961. He has since enjoyed a successful and varied career, first as an accountant, and then as an entrepreneur, launching two carpet manufacturing businesses. As an innovative community leader, White has served on the board of three banks, two of which were startups. He has also been a member of numerous non-profit boards, ensuring that our communities thrive through education, the arts and needed social safety nets. Today, he continues to be a minority owner in ventures across several industries.

The nomination and voting among faculty to honor White with this recognition proved a unanimous one.

“Being nominated by Reinhardt’s faculty is a cherished honor and very meaningful to me. I am elated and humbled by their

recognition and trust in me to play such a significant role at Reinhardt, a role that I respect and hold dear.”

In 1983, James Brown, whose gifts built the James and Sis Brown Gymnasium, invited White to serve on the Board of Trustees at Reinhardt. Now in his 38th year as a member and third year as Chairman of Reinhardt’s Board, White says that service to his alma mater ignited his philanthropic interests in creating a campus that served all students, where all students thrive.

Throughout his duration on the board, White donated more than two million dollars to Reinhardt, significant funding for the institution that also supported, in part, the renovation of the Cauble School of Nursing & Health Sciences in Jasper.

“I want to help make Reinhardt a premier private university that is known for its challenging academic programs and its support of students who can learn in a positive, character-building environment.”

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LEADERSHIP

A Network of Student Support

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he Reinhardt learning community is a vast, dedicated network of faculty, students, alumni, community partners and university leaders – all stalwart investors in the success, welfare and future of our Eagles.

Student Athlete Support Board of Trustee members Dr. Austin Flint and Fred Weir exemplify this dedication through their involvement with Reinhardt’s cross country and track and field teams.

Flint provided trails for Reinhardt’s cross-country team on his farm – which also serves as an internship site for Reinhardt students – and on campus.

“Physically, the soft-surfaces – the dirt and grass trails – allow our athletes’ bodies the ability to absorb the pounding that 50-80 miles a week of running produces,” said Coach Jordan Turner. “From a coaching standpoint, the peace of mind that I have for our students to be running in a safer area of our community, rather than the public roads, is of great comfort. It’s no surprise the performance of our athletes and teams have improved since we were afforded the opportunity to have these wonderful trails made available to our students.”

Along with improved performance from opportune running conditions, Weir donated the latest in high performance technology – Nike Tempo Next% – to the entire cross-country and track team. Through the track season, 10 athletes set lifetime bests in 21 different events from the mile to 10,000 meters – the most combined lifetime bests the distance teams made during Turner’s time at Reinhardt.

The shoes provided significant

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Sustaining A Learning Community THROUGH LEADERSHIP, CAMPUS SAFETY AND HEALTH SERVICES

Trustee Fred Weir (second from left) hits the Flint trails with Reinhardt student athletes.

physiological and psychological advantages.

“I can say without reservation that this gift from a valued friend and training partner made our athletes better this year,” said Turner.

Both Flint and Weir continue to support Reinhardt’s student athletes, from internships to hosting team dinners.

“They both want our young people to succeed academically, socially and mentally, and foster many opportunities

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

to do that with their time, gifts and friendships. Their support has helped our student athletes, and myself, more than I can express in words. I’m forever thankful for two great friends and what they mean to Reinhardt,” Turner said.

President’s Advisory Council The President’s Advisory Council equals in dedication and support. The council, led by Angie Ulm ’90, played a key role in monitoring COVID-19 cases on campus and throughout the pandemic, supporting important decisions about teaching and learning, while keeping students safe.

“Reinhardt exceled in coming together as a community and helping

each other as the Reinhardt family always seems to do. We heard stories of quarantined students being delivered meals by many volunteers across campus. The coordination of those efforts was impressive. Faculty, staff and students all found a way to continue moving forward with the educational process – together,” said Ulm. Stacey Williams ’12, ’14 served as co-chair of the council, and enthusiastically assumes Ulm’s position in the new academic year. Williams also witnessed enduring commitment of the entire campus, from meal delivery to virtual education.

“The greatest accomplishment was Reinhardt’s ability to go from in-person

SAFETY

educational programming, reporting systems and victim services that work together to keep our students safe while at the same time reassuring survivors that they have a voice, their voice matters, and we are listening,” said Dr. Walter May, Dean of Students.

Keeping Campus Safe

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ampus safety remains paramount for Reinhardt, and the Office of Student Affairs leads significant university efforts to educate our students and campus community.

Violence Against Women Grant Ongoing prevention education, campus resources and creative partnerships equip students to thrive – safely – throughout their college experience.

To expand prevention and education efforts, with topics such as domestic violence and sexual assault, Student Affairs earned a $288,336 grant from The Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women (OVW). The grant will fund programming for the next three years that educates and serves to protect Reinhardt Eagles during their time on campus. A coordinated community response team (CCRT) will enhance training for campus law enforcement and staff members who respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking

sessions to virtual classrooms in a very short amount of time,” said Williams.

“The University adapted quickly and efficiently to sustain an excellent educational experience. My daughter is an athlete, and I experienced firsthand outstanding work of Athletics. With new and constantly changing protocols, I could not have been prouder of Coach Bill Popp and his team – and their extraordinary efforts to keep athletic programs moving forward.”

Extraordinary and ceaseless dedication from our entire Reinhardt family continues to propel our university forward and shape Reinhardt, where all students thrive.

incidents (DVDVSAS). Stronger internal and external partnerships will provide more resources to students, expand ongoing prevention education efforts to raise awareness of these kinds of incidents on campus and reinforce Reinhardt’s security infrastructure.

The funds will also support a full-time project director to oversee training and educational campaigns for the campus community. The CCRT will assist and support the director to inform, assess, design and implement Reinhardt’s prevention, education and responses to DVDVSAS. “One incident, reported or unreported, is too many. This grant will help the University build on its

LiveSAFE Partners Cherokee County Sheriff Frank Reynolds, Cherokee County District Attorney of the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit Shannon Wallace, and Executive Director of LiveSAFE Resources Tracey Atwater will serve as community partners as Reinhardt grows its campus resources.

“As the District Attorney for Cherokee County, I am pleased to see that Reinhardt University has taken a proactive approach to reducing the prevalence of sex-related crimes on campus. Education and awareness are key to helping to prevent these types of crimes in college environments,” said Wallace. “I look forward to working in partnership with Reinhardt University.”

“LiveSAFE Resources looks forward to partnering with Reinhardt University to educate students and Continued, page 14 REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 13

Around Reinhardt

faculty and enhance awareness around intimate partner violence and stalking,” said Atwater. “We look forward to bringing our expertise to help reduce the incidences of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking on campus and throughout the Reinhardt community.”

CPN Seal Earned In January 2021, Reinhardt earned the EVERFI Campus Prevention Network (CPN) Seal of Prevention, signifying the proactive nature of education on topics such as drugs, alcohol and safety. The CPN Seal represents the

HEALTH SERVICES

Tackling the Pandemic as a Team

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einhardt’s health care professionals exemplify deep commitment, positive attitudes and boundless energy – quite extraordinary, especially during a historic year of the unknown.

Former Campus Nurse Kristy Hough and Head Athletic Trainer Ashley Wolary proved themselves indispensable, helping to maintain the health and safety of Reinhardt faculty, staff and students. Together, day and night, they managed COVID-19 cases on campus, assuming responsibility for student care, contact tracing, quarantines and isolations.

“The biggest impact for me was not being able to spend much time with the athletes,” said Wolary. With few face-toface connections and many late nights of updating information and managing enormous data files, the caregivers had to find ways to care for themselves.

Hough turned to several colleagues for support, sharing, “I learned how completely selfless people are at 14 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

highest standard for online prevention education. It demands a rigorous set of criteria to ensure a measurable impact across the critical health and safety areas of sexual assault, alcohol and drug misuse, mental health, and diversity and inclusion.

“Alcohol, drugs, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking are problems on every campus and in every community. While Reinhardt is not immune from these issues, we truly believe that with appropriate and proactive prevention strategies we can work toward creating a safe and healthy community,” said May.

Reinhardt through this experience.”

Though met with indescribable challenges, Hough and Wolary found great rewards within their roles, slowing the spread of the virus. They both became essential members of the COVID-19 Task Force, a large team of Reinhardt deans, directors and staff, organized and led by President Roberts.

From the onset of COVID-19, this team met several times a week to review data and make informed, time-sensitive institutional health and safety decisions – remaining critical to sustaining the University throughout the pandemic.

Hough’s and Wolary’s input informed such decisions.

For Hough, “The most rewarding experience was being invited to COVID meetings with those I look up to the most. I felt so honored to be collaborating with the most brilliant people I know. During sessions, everyone had a chance to voice their opinions; there was a sense of belonging and mutual respect. It has been truly amazing to experience the passion and love expressed by all, and how well we worked together to get through something no one has been through before.”

The pandemic profoundly impacted our lives, with some elements changed

Prevention Education Reinhardt requires students to participate in online training programs before arriving on campus.

The Student Health Center continues the investment in prevention education throughout the year with resources and events like the Student Health Fair.

“We want the campus experience at Reinhardt to be a positive learning experience in and out of the classroom,” said May. “These programs help us build a strong community and help students navigate their college experiences.”

Former Campus Nurse Kristy Hough demonstrates the proper way to wear a face mask.

forever – many perhaps for the better.

Reinhardt University faces the future with strong momentum – from a year of postponements and cancelations to a time of great discoveries, innovations and bold new ways to move forward.

“I learned so much from this experience,” said Wolary, “and I think we’ve all become better communicators and practitioners because of it.” She found solace in Reinhardt’s ability to keep its doors open without having to send students home, especially during the initial onset of the pandemic.

“We emerged from this experience while still playing sports and remaining in our classrooms which is so rewarding,” shared Wolary. “As an institution we persevered together. We made it happen!”

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

Aligning a Vision for Reinhardt’s Future A dynamic movement that began in Georgia, 3DE re-engineers education to create engaging learning environments that reflect the world in which we live and empowers students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to unlock greater economic opportunity. The vision of 3DE aligns with Reinhardt’s mission and values in creating an environment where every student thrives.

3DE

was developed through a shared vision from leaders in education, business and Junior Achievement (JA). This collective of passionate and innovative individuals united around the belief that equitable access to high quality education is the lever to economic mobility. With 90 percent of students in public schools, the focus was to develop public-private partnerships to systemically reengineer education to better reflect the real world and prepare students for life beyond the classroom walls.

Launched in 2015, this joint venture between Fulton County Schools, JA of Georgia and the broader Atlanta community led to the pilot of a new school model that quickly captured the attention of leaders in education, civic and corporate sectors.

Recognizing the profound potential of our students and the long-term socioeconomic health of our country, Junior Achievement USA made two pivotal decisions in the summer of 2018. The first was to develop a new brand that properly reflected the core elements driving systemic transformation of our schools and students. Second, they created a new national organization to allow the model to scale with

fidelity. This work led to the advent of what is now known as 3DE. 3DE currently has 28 schools across six states and Washington, D.C., with plans to expand to 55 schools by 2024. With the long-term goal of 2,500 locations, 3DE will equate to 10 percent of all public high schools in America.

Reinhardt is proud to be part of this new model.

“When I first learned of 3DE’s innovative work being forged to transform educational opportunities for public high school students, I knew then that Reinhardt had to get involved in some way,” said President Mark Roberts, Ph.D. “Thanks to the great partnership-

building led by Dr. Tish Szymurski, Reinhardt’s admissions team has engaged with such intelligent and motivated students who participate in the 3DE program. This initiative is not just about spreading the good word about Reinhardt, it is also about connecting with our region and contributing to the constructive and innovative teaching being performed by 3DE. We are so excited to be a part of these educational solutions because it fits Reinhardt’s ethos and commitment to continuous educational improvement.”

Reinhardt began partnering with 3DE in Fall 2020, serving as a client for the Senior Capstone Consultancy project, and supporting three groups of high school seniors at Norcross High School. These seniors became “consultants” to the Office of Admissions. Dr. Tish Szymurski, Vice President for Enrollment Management, Marketing & Communications, led the initiative and designed the consultancy project with Reinhardt and 3DE staff to inform strategic recruitment: increasing awareness and visibility of Reinhardt University in Gwinnett; reaching Hispanic populations Continued, page 16

Reinhardt, 3DE and Norcross High School unite to deliver valuable student-led high school consultancies.

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within communities; and developing a Reinhardt recruitment event in Gwinnett. Hayley Cooper, Valencia Flores, Jennifer Prine and Heather Tilden, Reinhardt’s dedicated leaders of recruitment and marketing for the Office of Admissions, coached the students through their projects.

The results proved extraordinary, with our Norcross High School consultants delivering key takeaways for immediate application: recruitment strategies, community opportunities and increased visibility for the university. Who better to direct admissions than high school seniors? In addition, these Norcross students further engaged as Reinhardt “ambassadors” at recruitment events, both virtually and on campus.

“Collaborating with 3DE students has been so rewarding,” said Heather Tilden, Associate Director of Admissions - Marketing & Communications. “These students bring forth diverse and real-world ideas that we have been able to implement into our event planning and admissions strategies. Watching the development of the students from the beginning of a project to its completion is without a doubt what I enjoy most about this partnership.”

With the success of Junior Achievement BizTown, and now 3DE, Reinhardt has been invited to facilitate three additional consultancies – again with Norcross High School, as well as a unique opportunity with 11th graders at Northview High School in John’s Creek. The 11th grade students will dive into a Reinhardt-focused case study with the topic of “planning strategically.” Specifically, students will examine the use of data and test scores in math and English course placements for college freshmen.

Mallory Newsome, Admissions Counselor, helps lead these collaboratives.

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Reinhardt launches Storefront at JA-Gwinnett Imagine: You are a 6th grader.

You step into a colorful, bustling town of shops, restaurants and local businesses. Your pocket is filled with money (limited budget, of course). You are eager to spend and investigate the possibilities.

What’s next?

This is Junior Achievement (JA) of Georgia’s innovative approach for middle- and high-school students to engage in a simulated economy – a fun, interactive, immersive opportunity called JA BizTown.

BizTown is experienced as a physical town, built with storefronts of familiar Georgia companies, where we, as consumers, spend our money and fuel our businesses. Young students enter BizTown with varied career interests, financial profiles and imaginary funds. Community volunteers guide students on goalsetting, financial literacy and the experiences of being a consumer.

The businesses vary accordingly in four state-wide JA Discovery Centers, representing different industries like Chick-fil-A (food), Atlanta Braves (entertainment) and Gas South (utilities). Now representing education in Gwinnett is Reinhardt University! At the Reinhardt storefront, students can purchase items at the simulated bookstore and apply to the

university at Admissions House.

Students, volunteers, and employers from across metroAtlanta will experience Reinhardt in a real way.

“A few years ago, when Dr. Tish Szymurski invited me to meet with JA leaders at BizTown, I immediately envisioned and hoped that Reinhardt University would be represented in this unique, simulated business environment,” shared President Mark Roberts, Ph.D. Our partnership exposes Reinhardt to 32,000+ students from Gwinnett County Public Schools, private and charter schools, and outlying educational systems. An additional 2,500+ teachers, over 5,000 volunteers – representing employers, parents and community groups – and 22,500+ families receive additional materials that highlight BizTown partners — including Reinhardt!

Along with a Gwinnett presence, Reinhardt continues its JA partnership with volunteer service.

Over the past two years, Dr. Walter May, Dean of Students, integrated JA as a service-learning site for the freshmen First Year Seminar (FYS).

During FYS, Reinhardt freshmen volunteered to facilitate the JA experience with younger students.

“Engagement with Junior Achievement, and now 3DE, offers tremendous honor and opportunity for Reinhardt University,” said Szymurski.

“3DE students provide deep insights and creative, innovative paths to our future – theirs and ours. RU’s vision is keenly aligned with 3DE’s – to systemically re-engineer education to better reflect the real world and

prepare students for life beyond the classroom walls. It is in our collective best interest to work together, and I am excited about our relationship with 3DE. We can’t do it alone – our concerted best interest is our united best future.”

“3DE is a fully immersive model that transforms the student journey through all four years of high school,”

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

The Eventful Journey of a Proud

First-Generation Student “Junior Achievement is a wonderful partner,” shared Dr. May. Like Reinhardt, JA’s curriculum focuses on high impact learning and active engagement.

Reinhardt students, as volunteers, apply the concepts they learn in FYS to the JA experience. During Fall 2019, Reinhardt FYS students broke records with over 3,500 hours of JA volunteer service!”

“Dr. May and Reinhardt’s tireless student development staff provided a transformative servicelearning opportunity to nearly every first-time RU student,” shared Dr. Roberts. “We are so appreciative of our partnership with Junior Achievement to deeply educate students about the value of service.”

Reinhardt’s JA BizTown Storefront launches in Fall 2021 for three years – a celebration of student opportunity and achievement at all levels – from middle school to Reinhardt!

To read more about JA Discovery Centers, visit www.georgia.ja.org

said John Hancock, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Georgia.

“Its success is directly linked to involvement from organizations like Reinhardt who not only bring real-world business connectivity to our students, but also expose them to the high quality post-secondary education options that exist right in their own communities.”

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proud first-generation college student, J’aLai Price ’21 studied musical theatre at Reinhardt. After spending much of her education in homeschool, Price searched for a small, more personal college, leading her to Reinhardt University.

“I know there are many small schools out there, but what made Reinhardt different was the people on campus,” said Price. “It felt like each person cared about me, and after I was accepted, the university lived up to its message. I wasn’t just a number, and I had – and still have – a support system around me who push me to accomplish each and every one of my goals.”

First-generation students – those first to attend college in their families – navigate new territory with their families.

“Going into an environment my parents and I knew nothing about was a challenge itself,” Price said.

Financial aid is often the first step and most significant learning curve in college exploration for many, which Price and her family experienced firsthand.

Once Price and her sister entered high school, her parents began to approach the financial aspects of college.

“They never filled out a FAFSA, or even knew what a FAFSA was.

Therefore, among other difficult obstacles, the preparation and application process were one of the biggest challenges because it was something new that we all had to quickly figure out and learn how to do.”

After meeting with Reinhardt’s financial aid office, Price and her family felt more prepared, knowledgeable and comfortable with navigating the world of higher education.

“Although it was a challenge, my financial aid counselor helped me and my family every step of the way and is one of the reasons why now, when my sister begins her college career, she and my parents will be far more equipped than we ever were four years ago.”

Price – who earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre – embraced the journey of a first-generation student with stride. She became deeply engaged in campus activities, actively participated in the honors program and earned the privilege of speaking at her commencement ceremony.

“For many of us obtaining our degrees today, we are first-generation students. For some of us, this is only our first point to our educational finish line.

In March 2020, our campus and the world changed forever. Classes moved online and we were forced to proceed.

Through the storm, each and every one of us grabbed hold of a miracle – someone or something – that helped us to stay focused and accomplish the vision we set out for ourselves,” Price said to her fellow graduates. “Reinhardt let me know I made no mistake in choosing where to pursue my degree.

God made the way, and I walked the path. I encourage you to walk the path and embark on this journey to better yourself and your community.”

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 17

Director Jeff Bishop points out a new exhibit to President Roberts.

NEH Grant Funds Trail of Tears Project at the Funk Heritage Center

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he Funk Heritage Center will kick off Summer 2022 with 72 educators from around the United States, as it hosts an educational program funded by an award-winning grant.

Of $30 million granted to 238 humanities projects across the country from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), the Funk Heritage Center won a $189,004 Landmarks of American History grant to fund educational seminars.

“This NEH grant is a big feather in our cap for the Funk Heritage Center and Reinhardt,” said Director of the Funk Heritage Center, Jeff Bishop.

The grant will fund the project known as “The Trail of Tears: Context and Perspectives.” Reinhardt faculty, along with nationally known Cherokee scholars, plan to host two one-week workshops, providing teachers with resources on how to tell the story of the Cherokee Removal and the Trail of Tears.

“School teachers from all over the country will have the opportunity to visit important sites involved in the Cherokee Removal” and utilize “resources at the Funk Heritage Center,” said Bishop. “We are thankful for the opportunity to host this important event.”

The Center received the highly competitive grant — received by only two Georgia higher education institutions — through the diligence of Bishop; President Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D.; Dr. Wayne Glowka, retired Dean of the School of Arts & Humanities; and Myra Hopper, Federal Grants Manager at Reinhardt, and others.

“Securing the NEH Landmarks of American History grant advances Reinhardt’s academic reputation, educational mission and engaging vision,” said Dr. Roberts. “I am honored to lead a university that values, preserves and shares its unique, historical place.”

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STUDENT WORKS

Around Reinhardt

My Journey to the Moon –Max Rampley Long after Neil Armstrong fled this misty blue, I donned a red ball cap and leapt from the front stoop.

The space race had begun.

Not every child was prepared to achieve excellence, but I had all the equipment I needed.

Barefoot and shirtless, I drew a schematic in the dirt, recruiting my cousins and neighborhood pals as my flight crew.

Atop our Cozy Coupe fuselage was my cousin’s Fisher-Price Kitchen. Once we duct-taped my dad’s ladder to the top of the kitchen, our lunar prize was sky high. Before my ascent, I offered a nod to my faithful crew.

Left foot on the Cozy Coupe, right foot on our Fisher-Price Kitchen and seven feet in the air, I felt weightless as I climbed the last leg of our mission.

While working towards the moon, the ladder lost its footing.

I descended to Earth far too soon, far too quickly.

My head clattered off the cold ground and I woke up in my room with a frozen pack of peas on my knocked skull, staring at my ceiling’s stars, glowing in the dark.

IRON MAN Matt Corrales

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

Rumspringa –Brianna Arnold I miss that type of nostalgic satisfaction...

Feeling full after that cornbread and buttermilk combo, and using that homemade lavender lard soap when I bathe.

Being baptized in vinegar, and watching the aftermath of the riots.

Feeling those Hot Easter Sundays.

Young, beautiful black boys selling water.

Purple onions thrown under the bed.

Weddings at New Springfield Baptist Church.

Holding my great-grandma’s hands.

Glass cases filled with African figurines.

Having prayers that end with both Amen and Asè.

And finally the way life still surprises me.

Yes...I miss that type of nostalgic satisfaction.

RETRO PHONE Catherine Shope

OPIUM POPPY and VERDIGRIS AGARIC Nataleigh Long

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R U Ac a d e m i c s

Reinhardt Students Benefit from National Innovation “It takes a village” to serve hundreds of independent, curious college students and their varied interests, with a vast, diversified curriculum. To expand its provisions and serve growing student populations, Reinhardt extends its “village” with innovative partners like RIZE and Acadeum. These two consortiums unite like-minded institutions and provide students a broad range of offerings and new educational opportunities. Participation in these two highly innovative relationships enables Reinhardt to introduce courses from partner institutions that supplement current campus offerings – not replace them – and maximize efficiencies for faculty, classroom space and technology.

RIZE RIZE courses are taught by the “best of the best” faculty at top-tier universities and informed by input from Fortune-500 firms. Within these partnerships, institutions share courses, degree majors and minors, concentrations, and specialized certificates. Taken online, Reinhardt students earn their degrees with an added opportunity to add RIZE courses, explore topics of interest and fulfill requirements from over 95 schools.

It all began in 2017, when 19 independent colleges and universities united to create the Lower Cost Models for Independent Colleges (LCMC) Consortium. These institutional presidents knew that colleges and universities benefit from collaboration. In response to pressures like soaring operational expenses, 20 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

shrinking government support and higher attendance costs facing higher education, they formed a consortium.

The goal of LCMC is to create

innovative, collaborative solutions to expand educational opportunities for students while streamlining and lowering institutional costs. The first two programs grew out of pilot initiatives – a Certification in Financial Planning, and an Applied Computer Science curriculum – developed in partnership with Google.

In 2019, RIZE Education became the operational arm of LCMC at Adrian College in Michigan, expanding to 21 programs. Reinhardt students now benefit greatly from RIZE, as RIZE continues to grow. In Spring 2021, Reinhardt’s McCamish School of Business piloted three courses from different RIZE programs in areas experiencing significant career growth: Introduction to Esports Management, Social Media Marketing, and Forecasting & Logistics.

One Reinhardt student who participated in RIZE courses exclaimed, “This is one of the most positive experiences I have had with any online program,” and another saying, “The platform allows me to take more classes, from professors and with students all over the world. It is a great experience.

RIZE courses compliment my courses on campus and expose me to topics in new fields, while still earning my degree from Reinhardt.”

New courses add to the Summer and Fall 2021 schedules including Email Marketing, Introduction to Games and a Computer Science Minor in Reinhardt’s School of Mathematics and Sciences.

RIZE continues to grow educational opportunities for students with more than 95 institutional partners – and Reinhardt shares in its growth and success as a partner institution, where all students thrive.

Acadeum Like RIZE, Acadeum forges collaborative strategies for higher education with a

SPECI A L A DMISSIONS SECTION

course-sharing platform. It helps colleges and universities establish course-sharing partnerships with like-minded institutions to enhance student success, support academic strategies and boost degree completion.

Reinhardt is part of the Acadeum network, affording student opportunities as they complete their degrees. Founded in 2016, the organization brings online courses to colleges and universities so they can save on associated start-up costs, and help start new online courses and programs – availing more options for students toward degree completion. Popular foundational courses cover general education subjects like psychology and algebra.

Acadeum has more than 150 consortia, serving thousands of students across 250 schools. The network – this “village” – is vast and significant in higher education today, and Reinhardt is a part of it.

Jennifer Prine, Director of Admissions for Reinhardt, shares, “Our partnerships and involvement in these networks are significant for Reinhardt students. They present innovative opportunities to enhance and support a student’s Reinhardt experience by providing exposure to new topics, interaction with classroom peers from other states – and countries, and experience with different schools.

They exemplify and further the spirit of collaboration, especially as we seek to expose our students – every day, in every way – to new ways of thinking and doing.”

RIZE and Acadeum play significant roles in the Reinhardt “village,” extending opportunities and innovative approaches to higher education, with significant benefits for students, faculty and the entire Reinhardt community.

Nursing Students Join the Frontline “Hands-on learning” developed a whole new meaning as student nurses entered Reinhardt’s Cauble School of Nursing & Health Services amid the pandemic.

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einhardt University’s Cauble School found sources of innovation when virtual learning became the “new normal,” with 6 feet of space and face masks separating us all. Faculty – who assumed part-time positions in emergency rooms and intensive care units – alternated in-person classes and found professional opportunities for students in the field.

“The pandemic made everything even more crazy than nursing school already is,” said Brooke Breindl ’22.

“Since everyone was trying to prevent the spread, our class meetings and clinicals changed in a second to keep everyone safe. It was definitely stressful for us, just like this pandemic has been for everyone.”

The added stressors thrust Breindl beyond her already-expert care, as she faced unprecedented times.

“The virus definitely added pressure going into the healthcare field because each worker carries a lot of responsibility, but it also motivated me to do my absolute best to care for others who were suffering and make them feel comfortable.”

While faculty assumed critical roles in hospitals, student nurses were experiencing “real life” in their chosen field. Student nurses gained remarkable exposure to their profession as they administered COVID-19 vaccinations and spent time at Reinhardt’s Student Health Center. During spring break, they helped administer approximately

220 vaccines with the Pickens County Health Department.

Kordell Palmer ’22 was one of these student volunteers.

Palmer described his student experience as a blessing. Through his church, Palmer was taught to find the positive in every situation – and his ability to do so often had an uplifting impact on his patients.

“Getting to make a nurse-topatient connection is very different right now,” said Palmer. “I got to help one patient figure out FaceTime on his phone, and as soon as we got his daughter on the call, the patient lit up like a light bulb! The patient’s mood was changed for the rest of my shift. The patient told me ‘thank you’ at least 20 times before I left for the day. Something so simple as showing him what app on his phone to use made the man’s day immensely better.”

From connecting patients with their families to finding deep inner strength, they were able to thrive as positive forces on health-care’s front line. Through the intense challenges and unknown variables, Reinhardt’s student nurses continued to lean into their experience to gain as much knowledge and skill as possible, pursuing the real work of health-care professionals.

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R U Ac a d e m i c s

The Future of Science

With National Science Foundation grants, Reinhardt plays a critical role in STEM education

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o solve the problems of today and overcome the challenges of tomorrow, innovative scientists, mathematicians and engineers serve a critical global need. Ready to address these trials stands Reinhardt, with two National Science Foundation (NSF) grant programs providing student scholarships and programing with an applied, interdisciplinary approach to education, known as STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

The number of STEM educators and workforce professionals in many states, including Georgia, face staggering deficits, and education is key to overcoming these shortfalls.

With the help of a nearly $1 million grant from the NSF, Reinhardt University plays a critical role in STEM education. Over five years, Reinhardt is expected to receive $930,000 to fund student scholarships, teacher stipends, research and a STEM summer camp.

The second NSF grant of nearly $650,000 will focus on preparing undergraduate students majoring in biology for graduate school or to contribute directly to the STEM workforce.

“I am excited about Reinhardt’s two NSF-sponsored grants to tackle these major concerns - the ‘Noyce STEM Teacher Education and Development’ Program and ‘S-STEM Supporting Pathways to Success for Biology Scholars’. The Noyce STEM

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Teacher grant innovatively prepares 14 highly qualified educators, and the S-STEM Pathways grant supports the preparation of 14 scientists, all for the STEM workforce,” shared Dr. Irma Santoro, Interim Dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences.

The Noyce Stem Teacher program supports Reinhardt students and Cherokee and Pickens County School District teachers. It also opens scholarship opportunities for students with an associate degree in a related field from Chattahoochee Technical College who enroll at Reinhardt for their bachelor’s degree. The program is designed to develop high school math and science teachers and help student scholars gain teaching experience working side-by-side with certified teachers and professors.

“These two grant programs address the needs of developing innovative and creative STEM educators and preparing college educated professionals for the STEM workforce.”

DR. IRMA SANTORO, PH.D. Interim Dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences

Chas Pierce graduated from Reinhardt in 2018 having majored in general biology and secondary biology education. “It was obvious that the program’s main objective was to develop teachers who would inspire their students,” said Pierce. “Reinhardt invested in each student and challenged them to become the best educators they could be.”

Future mathematics and science educators like Pierce can now study at Reinhardt with financial support. With high demand for STEM educators, Reinhardt supports students to complete their degrees. Noyce scholars receive funding up to $20,000 per year during their last two years at Reinhardt. Now with appreciation and experience as an educator, Pierce shares, “Reinhardt recognized the best in me. Professors helped me to identify my strengths and find my own identity as an educator.”

Scholarships are distributed to eligible Reinhardt juniors and seniors who major in STEM biology or math and secondary education. Sharing their knowledge and experience, graduates then teach for at least two years at a Title I public school in Cherokee, Pickens or surrounding counties.

The S-STEM Pathways program supports high achieving biology majors at Reinhardt with demonstrated financial need. It provides 4-year academic scholarships and programing to support student retention in the sciences with ongoing research experiences throughout their four years at Reinhardt, informing their identity as scientists.

Salvador Castillo, a biology major planning to graduate in 2023, shares, “As an S-STEM scholar, I’ve learned so much from Dr. Felix and Professor Ray. I’m particularly excited about our research with salamanders and their microbiomes. I wouldn’t have been able to do without the S-STEM program.”

R EINH A R DT LEGACY SER IES On the following three pages meet James T. Jordan, Mary Jane Reinhardt Sharp and Dorothy Rogers Tilly, important figures in the history of Reinhardt University.

James T. “Jay” Jordan: Reinhardt’s First African-American student

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any young people entering college for the first time are anxious. In 1966, though, Jay Jordan had more reason than most to be worried about becoming a college freshman –he was about to be an African-American student at a college that had never had a black student. Amidst the civil rights movement, with growing pressure on Reinhardt from the federal government, Reinhardt’s president, Rowland Burgess, approached the principal of the black school in nearby Canton. Who would be a good student to come to Reinhardt?

Principal Bell recommended Jay Jordan.

Jordan grew up in Canton with a father who worked as a cotton mill employee and Baptist minister, and a mother who did domestic work.

His final two years of high school he attended a private black school in North Carolina, Palmer Memorial Institute, because his parents worried that he could not get the preparation locally he needed to go to college. Jay initially applied solely to historically black colleges, yet after talking to Principal Bell, his parents and President Burgess, Jay enrolled at Reinhardt.

A half century later Jay remembered vividly what happened when he came

to campus to take classes. “The first person that I met was Mima Carruthers.” At the snack bar on campus, where many students hung out between classes, “Mima came up to me, and she says, ‘Hi,’ and I said, ‘Hi.’ She said, ‘Do you mind if I join you?’ and I said, ‘No.’” Jay and Mima began talking and were soon laughing together. A crack formed in the wall of social segregation.

Jordan started playing flag football and basketball. He joined other campus organizations that invited him, including a literary society and a fraternity. Jay lived at home, but after he became friends with several people living in the dormitories, “we’d talk, I’d come over at night, and we’d study together.” Jay discovered common interests in music: “They would tell me, ‘I got this new record, so and so, this new album.’ We’d sit over there and play music and stuff all night and study.”

Jay Jordan has happy memories of his time at Reinhardt. We should never forget, though, that what he did was no small thing. “To tell you the truth,” Jordan later recalled, “I was scared.”

Yes, and also brave. And persistent.

Being first is rarely easy. Jordan

persevered, got the education he came for and changed Reinhardt in the process.

Jay Jordan’s willingness to enroll at an all-white campus was a pivotal moment in the history of Reinhardt University. He reshaped Reinhardt, its historical trajectory and the student experience. A racially segregated college became integrated, and Jordan opened the door to more black students in subsequent years. White students did not just have black classmates; they sang in interracial choirs, read editorials by black students in the campus newspaper, got in trouble together and ate together. These activities reshaped campus life and the relationships of the student body, with lasting effects. Reinhardt became a school that increasingly valued racial diversity and the benefits of learning with students from a wide variety of backgrounds.

After he graduated from college, Jordan enlisted in the United States Navy, became a naval officer and commanded ships in a career spent on the oceans of the world. Reinhardt University is grateful to have been part of his life path and for the huge contribution Jordan made by turning Reinhardt into a better place because he enrolled.

Drawn and adapted from the award-winning article “Black Student Experiences in the Racial Integration of Reinhardt College, 1966-1972,” co-authored by Reinhardt University professor Kenneth H. Wheeler and several of his students in the Georgia Historical Quarterly (2019).

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 23

R U Ac a d e m i c s R EINH A R DT LEGACY SER IES

Mary Jane Reinhardt Sharp: A Founder of Reinhardt University

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ometimes in life things are not as they first appear. We have only one account of the meeting that led to the founding of Reinhardt University. It comes from Ramsey C. Sharp, who explained that as a boy in 1883, his uncle, Augustus Reinhardt, came to Waleska from Atlanta, as an attorney and real estate investor. Ramsey’s father, John J. A. Sharp, wanted to build a better school than currently existed.

Augustus Reinhardt was interested, and Ramsey “listened with eagerness while they discussed and planned...they talked until late in the night and planned to go to work at once.” John Sharp began construction, while Augustus Reinhardt approached the Methodist conference about supplying a teacher, whose salary he would guarantee.

Ramsey Sharp’s tale can give the impression that it was just John Sharp and Augustus Reinhardt sitting at the table, oil lamps being lit as night descended, with young Ramsey listening in. And for a long time, they were the only people recognized as founders. But what if the “they” included more people around the table that night? Augustus Reinhardt’s sister Mary Jane’s marriage to John Sharp in 1868 connected the two men, as brothers-in-law. Mary Jane was two years older than Augustus. They grew up together with their parents Lewis and Jane Reinhardt and several siblings.

Where does one think Mary Jane would have been, with her little brother visiting from Atlanta? Almost certainly she was there at the house, eager to talk with her brother.

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Other evidence also leads us to think Mary Jane cared about the topic that night. It was not only that she had six children of her own and nieces and nephews in the neighborhood who were rapidly coming to the end of the curriculum offered at limited one-room schoolhouses. In 1880, when the census taker appeared at the Sharp farm in Waleska, he listed 39-year-old Mary Jane’s occupation as “teaching school.” Mary Jane worked as a schoolteacher; she cared about education, which is not surprising. The Reinhardt family she had been born into had a generations-long commitment to education, having played a key role in sustaining the Lincolnton Female Academy in North Carolina decades earlier. The records of the Academy in the 1820s and early 1830s show that three of Mary Jane and Augustus’s great-uncles – David, Michael and Charles Emmanuel – all helped direct or had contracts with the Academy. One Mrs. Reinhardt worked there as a tutress. The children at the Lincolnton Female Academy with the last name of Reinhardt included Emiline, Jane, Amelia, Harriet C., Adeline, Rosanna and Catherine.

These students were presumably the cousins of Lewis Reinhardt, or his sisters. So, the immediate and extended family of Mary Jane and Augustus contained numerous people who could have told the tale of how the family was instrumental in creating a school when one was necessary. We have no direct evidence that Mary Jane was at the table in 1883, planning for the school that became Reinhardt University, named after her father. But where

else would she have been on such an important night?

The school built in Waleska was a family enterprise. Mary Jane’s husband, her brother Augustus and her brotherin-law Joseph M. Sharp were all trustees.

In 1887, Mary Jane served as one of the three judges of a public debate among the students over the question of “whether the teacher exercises a greater influence in shaping the moral destiny of man than the parent.” In the earliest catalog we have, for the 1893-1894 school year, the most prominent name among the most advanced students was Sharp – three of the four alumni of the college were Sharps, as were three of the eight seniors and two of the three juniors. Other Sharp children were in classes, along with more of Mary Jane’s nieces and nephews with the last names of Blanton and Rhyne. People today sometimes refer to the “Reinhardt family,” but it is not nearly so literally true as in its origins.

Being at a meeting, though, does not make someone a founder. In a time when society expected men to take initiative, it was John Sharp and Augustus Reinhardt who organized the builders and negotiated with the Methodists. Yet Augustus Reinhardt lost his real estate fortune during the economic panic of 1893; John Sharp died in 1896. The school building they created survived, but years later Mary Jane Reinhardt Sharp, the former schoolteacher, donated her family farm so that a school she loved and that her son Ramsey had become president of would have a campus dedicated to education. A momentous gift, it helped turn a school into a college. The core of Reinhardt’s campus was once the Sharp farm. Mary Jane, almost certainly at the key meeting that spurred the creation of a school in Waleska, and donor of her farm that significantly expanded the campus, was more than the wife and sister of the founders. Mary Jane Reinhardt Sharp was a founder of Reinhardt University.

Dorothy Rogers Tilly: Reinhardt Graduate and Civil Rights Activist

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Reinhardt education can lead in unexpected directions. In 1899, when Dorothy Rogers graduated from Reinhardt with honors, she completed her baccalaureate degree, married and birthed a son. Once her boy was beyond his early years, though, Dorothy was a well-educated woman with energy and time on her hands. What would she do?

Dorothy initially became involved in the Women’s Missionary Society of the Methodist Church and in 1918 began running its Children’s Work for North Georgia program. During the 1930s, she expanded her engagement with social causes, joining first the Commission on Interracial Cooperation and later the Association of Southern Women for the Prevention of Lynching. Still highly involved with Methodism, Dorothy’s work for civil rights led her to organize Georgia churchwomen in boycotts of businesses owned

by Ku Klux Klan members and she fought against poll taxes across the South.

Because of work Tilly did in Washington, D.C. in the 1930s she became friends with Eleanor Roosevelt.

Roosevelt wrote that she admired Tilly’s courage because “I was told that whenever a lynching occurred, she went alone or with a friend, as soon as she heard of it, to investigate the circumstances.” Perhaps a recommendation from Eleanor Roosevelt led to the White House invitation in 1946 for Tilly to join President Harry S. Truman’s Committee on Civil Rights. The committee produced a famous and influential report, “To Secure These Rights,” which called for an immediate end to racial segregation.

Tilly and her work aroused opposition. The Ku Klux Klan threatened to bomb her home, and she received many harassing calls.

Tilly, undaunted, talked back to her callers, but eventually she placed a record player by her telephone stand. When a caller could not be engaged in reasonable conversation, she dropped the needle on a recording of the Lord’s Prayer, which played into the phone’s mouthpiece as Dorothy walked away.

In 1949, Tilly founded a new organization in Georgia, one she ran almost singlehandedly, called the Fellowship of the Concerned (FOC). The FOC, with thousands of members, launched a variety of initiatives and hosted interracial conferences, foreseeing a racially integrated future that many people could still scarcely imagine. The late 1950s and 1960s brought mass-action protest to the fore in the search for racial equality. In 1963, the year Tilly turned 80, President John F. Kennedy appointed her to the National Women’s Committee for Civil Rights. Tilly, ever vigorous, carried on with the Fellowship of the Concerned almost until her death in 1970.

Overall, the life of Dorothy Tilly shows how she fused her education and church involvement into a persistent commitment to tackle a massive social problem. Tilly connected Christian social work and social reform of the early 20th century to the beginnings of the modern civil rights movement.

She is a powerful example of the importance of women’s roles in changing social views, and her involvement in Methodist women’s groups was central to her ideas about how to bring dignity to and improve people’s lives. Reinhardt had an ethos supportive of that work of Christian uplift.

Tilly was an inspirational person, and her life gives us clues about the kind of training and mentality that some Reinhardt graduates of that time carried with them as they left Waleska for the wider world. Where will your Reinhardt education take you?

Tilly, seen here with her friend, Eleanor Roosevelt.

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R U Fa c u l t y

By Erika Neldner

Newly Published Returning Home

“I have over the years written eight novels, all in various stages of completion. It is fitting that my original attempt 40 years later is my uring his freshman year of debut novel. The other novels are very college, Bill Walsh aspired close to being completed at the same to be a writer. He time. I think I have been embarked on a journey writing one novel for 40 years that became, as he – they are simply broken up describes, “the world’s into eight dinner entrees. I’ve worst novel.” It was a never been able to write one story that continued to book to completion without unfold until he decided moving on to the next book, to put it away. then returning to work on Fast forward to each, little by little.”

“Thomas Wolfe 2021, and today Walsh The story tells of Robert wrote in ‘Look presents his debut English returning to his Homeward, Angel,’ hometown of Lakewood – 11 novel, “Lakewood.”

‘You can never “At some point, I years after his twin sister return home.’ abandoned the novel passed away – to housesit for My novel is an and placed it in a his college history professor. attempt to drawer. Even though The setting reflects Walsh’s disprove Wolfe.” it was out of sight, the own hometown of Lakewood main character, the and uses cameo characters love interest and the plot never left to celebrate to people he cared for my mind,” said Walsh, Reinhardt’s throughout his childhood. Even the house replicated a family friend’s 19th director of the M.F.A. program and century Victorian home. assistant professor of English.

“When I sat down to rewrite the With the pandemic of 2020 - 2021 also came the time for Walsh to novel, I decided to pay homage to my revisit the story of 18-year-old Robert hometown by creating all the nuances of Lakewood in the summer of 1973, English, finding his earlier work to paint a picturesque town. When buried under a stack of papers. The I decided to use real names, it was novel is now in the process of being cathartic as it opened like a flower. It published by TouchPoint Press.

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was liberating to pay homage to people I very much cared about.”

“In the novel, Lakewood as a real town is important to me personally, so I have recreated the town of 1973 that I knew, including things like the Hotel Victoria and the Bucket of Blood, the old post office that used to be on the corner, the pharmacy, the Beechwood Restaurant, Betty’s Coffee Shop. My research has been exhaustive and absolutely precise.”

Walsh’s work often touches on topics such as “the loss of place, the feeling of exile, the remembrance of place and people.”

“Thomas Wolfe wrote in ‘Look Homeward, Angel,’ ‘You can never return home.’ My novel is an attempt to disprove Wolfe.”

Walsh authored several other books, including “Fly Fishing in Times Square,” an award-winning collection of poetry. He serves as director of Reinhardt’s Master of Fine Arts in the creative writing program, assistant professor of English and as editor of the James Dickey Review. Walsh’s work also appears in journals such as the Georgia Review, The Kenyon Review, Five Points and Literary Matters. He is nominated for “Georgia Author of the Year” and will be included in the Georgia Encyclopedia of Writers.

The World Around Us

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n avid scholar of local history, Dr. Kenneth Wheeler spent the past several years writing his latest publication on Georgia’s Etowah Valley.

“Modern Cronies: Southern Industrialism from Gold Rush to Convict Labor, 1829-1894” details Below: the ways in which theMartinez southern explores ancient Gold Rush shaped the development Ephesus, whose of the southeastern United matron was States.

This area surrounding goddess Waleska Artemis.– the Etowah Valley – runs from near Dahlonega to Rome, Georgia.

Inspiration for the book, published through the University of Georgia Press, developed over time through courses Wheeler taught.

“At Reinhardt, I had students with questions and stories about the Waleska area and northern Georgia.

Over time I became more deeply involved with the Cherokee County

Historical Society, and I began teaching a course – The History of Georgia – which raised new “The result, I hope, questions for is a new look at the me. The project cascaded from development of there.” northern Georgia “Modern in the 19th century Cronies” explains from the Gold Rush and Cherokee the network Removal through the of people who created the Civil War...” extractive and industrial enterprises, how they worked together and learned from one another, and how they nurtured young talent.

Wheeler, professor of history, shows how the antebellum South, sometimes seen as an agricultural world without industry, played an important role in the Industrial Revolution.

“The Etowah Valley had significant industrial development, from stamping machines that pounded gold ore, to the

Live Your Purpose

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r. Tony Daniel reached a point in his life and realized something significant: the successes he achieved did not fulfill him. This realization took Daniel on an intentional journey of discovering self and success.

“Succeeding on Purpose: Strategizing Your Success Through Finding and Living Your Purpose” – Daniel’s first book publication – leads readers on a path of self-discovery.

“In the book, I discuss the concept of ‘purpose’ and the benefits of finding it,” said Daniel. “I then provide a systematic process to help readers find their purpose. The importance of this book is to help readers understand and realize that their success is based on purpose and applying it to the world. I help the reader move from the paradigm of success to the realization of significance.”

Daniel, coordinator of Reinhardt’s Master of Business Administration program and associate professor of management and business, based the book’s foundation on his personal experiences. Where others viewed his life as abundantly successful, Daniel questioned his own place in the world. This curiosity sparked a journey toward defining

Western & Atlantic Railroad, which bisected the Etowah Valley and created the cities of Chattanooga and Atlanta, to the iron industry along the Etowah River, which was hugely important,” said Wheeler.

Wheeler used archival resources from Chattanooga Public Library, Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. He also relied on various local resources, including private papers and sources from Reinhardt’s archival collections.

“The result, I hope, is a new look at the development of northern Georgia in the 19th century from the Gold Rush and Cherokee Removal through the Civil War, and into the decades that followed.”

Wheeler has always found interest in local history, which he describes as “the world around us.” He continues to broaden our scope with rich historical details that inform who we are and how we became this world around us.

his purpose and a deep desire to help others with practical methods of discovery.

“The deeper I looked, the more insight I found. Through this research, I talked with so many people that were working to exist without thinking they were making a difference or “On the path of that they were doing what they self-discovery, were supposed to do. They had the reader moves no concept of how to apply from the paradigm their strengths to find and live of success to the their purpose each day. I felt realization of that I needed to tell this story, significance.” that when we live through purpose, we are most effective to the world.”

Unlike other books that touch on the subject, Daniel goes beyond the theme of “purpose.” He outlines the process for others to find and reach their own destiny – a practical application for a personal journey.

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 27

R U Cove r

O N LY G O O D N E S S T H E Y S E E S W E E P I N G Only goodness they see sweeping diligently the decayed leaves from the uneven sidewalk My girls five and three with brooms too long and bulky for their tiny hands, awkwardly Jumping brown leaves onto the brown winter grass then scraping more onto the walk They so wish to clean. Only goodness they see. Like my fresh minded students Who clumsily sweep Plato from his white pages to their jubilant spring minds Only to shove them back to the page, shelving them for the party of dust and lost hair Taking the rightful place of their commercial eyes upon the lines of wisdom that roll Like tears down the cheek of my children after I chastise them for a poor job done They look awkwardly at me as I demand the broom but they insist on doing it themselves.

Only goodness they see when decay litters the ground. What do they see that I cannot?

Mark A. Roberts

Onward in the

real

work 28 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

Introducing President Mark A. Roberts

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 29

R U Cove r

M

Where do we go from here?

ore and more in our fast-paced lives, carving out time to reflect on our current situation – as an individual, as a community, as a country – is rare. Perhaps a momentous event takes place every so often, reminding us: We’re living through history.

Reinhardt’s administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors and friends are optimistic about the university’s path forward. Undoubtedly, a hope-filled future starts with intentional leadership. For this reason, in the 21st year of the 21st century, Reinhardt’s Board of Trustees officially named Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D., the university’s 21st president.

After a leadership transition in early 2020, Roberts was called upon to serve as interim president at the dawn of the pandemic. He continued with diligence until his official appointment in April 2021. To mitigate the risk of COVID-19 on campus, Roberts established a collaborative environment with Reinhardt’s key faculty, administrators and staff to guide the university forward with persistence and in unity.

In many ways, this tumultuous time has been the perfect scenario for Roberts to step into his new role. He understands the importance of seeing the obstacles before us, finding the path ahead and rising to meet it. Most of all, he instills in our community the courage to step out into the unknown.

30 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

In short, Roberts embodies what it means to “Be. Rise. Soar.” because he knows that learning requires change.

“We thrive in a changing world by having faith in the things we cannot see but hope for,” said Roberts. “Like the captain of a ship, we have to keep our eye on the North Star, a standard reference point by which we navigate.

For Reinhardt, our North Star is our mission to educate the whole person and our vision to create an educational experience to help students thrive.”

AS WE THRIVE, WE MUST ALWAYS REMEMBER OUR ROOTS.

Roberts was born and raised on his family’s farm in Maryville, Tennessee, a small town in Blount County. A creative at heart, Roberts has been a poet, writer and musician since childhood. In the early 1990s, he lived in Nashville, writing, recording and performing music with the regionally successful band Idaho Beach House.

Throughout this time, he continued to write and publish poetry.

As a student, Roberts earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English Literature from Middle Tennessee State University. Soon after, he began his more than 25 year career in higher education with a position Continued, page 32

O F L O C A L H A B I TAT I O N A thousand species of vegetation merge to make a mountain side On faith, I believe oaks thrive, white, red, and poison, spruce and pine— pines of varies kinds, hackberry and black gum, though seldom a white birch, the alders are plenty— their singular fullness hazed: A thousand species of vegetation merge

Dr. Roberts has served Reinhardt since 2013 as Academic Dean, Provost and Executive Vice President.

But in the local habit of the yard, closer, I mark veins of yellow and red maple leaves in flight or downed, pungent walnuts rot below bare walnut trees, a lone hybrid chestnut, and the boy in alfalfa dressed in green Turned from the blurred dirge of the mountain’s range beauty parades in specific things: one experienced, gray hair out of line tickles my ear, the smirk you strike near poke berries, I notice, is particularly fine We pluck together— me from the head, you from the vine I long for moments of faith and more abundant pageantry I ease into the curved back of the Adirondack, mourn sour September apples I let fall from the green trees and adjust to the chill of a late October breeze Mark A. Roberts A version of “Of Local Habitation” is published in Southern Poetry Anthology (Vol. III): Contemporary Appalachia, Texas Review Press.

Will Wright, Series Editor.

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 31

SPECI A L A DMISSIONS SECTION

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to teach English on the U.S.S. Doyle deployed to the Persian Gulf. Upon returning from this semester at sea, he taught at Tennessee State University, an HBCU, then Virginia Intermont College. During his time at Virginia Intermont, Roberts earned his Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities from Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio, an independent institution founded on the Oxford model of one-on-one tutorial education.

The next chapter of Roberts’ journey started when he arrived at Reinhardt University in 2013, where he made an immediate impact on campus and in the surrounding community. He and his wife Kelley, a part-time math and computer science professor and the new first lady, now live in Waleska with the first dog, Wilson. Together, they have four adult children – Taylor, Raynah ’21, Zoe ’19, and Jayden – along with one granddaughter, Nara. Throughout his accomplished higher education tenure, Roberts has served in positions ranging from Writing Center Director, to Professor, Academic Dean, Provost, Executive Vice President and now, President.

Since his arrival at Reinhardt, Roberts has promoted engagement within the learning community, deepened academic quality and reputation, and increased diversity in academic and student leadership.

Roberts has played an essential role in creating and establishing new academic programs, spearheaded efforts to impact student persistence and retention, and successfully fulfilled requirements for five-year and 10 year SACSCOC accreditation reaffirmation.

Thanks to Roberts’ leadership, Reinhardt University continues to strive toward higher aspirations – earning new grants, establishing new scholarships, cultivating new relationships with donors and persistently adding improved resources to bolster student success.

Along with Reinhardt’s other leaders, Roberts helped to navigate the uncharted waters of the pandemic, all the while preserving an environment where the entire university could continue to overcome obstacles, grow and thrive. The Reinhardt Family rises to meet any challenge. And, Roberts is a perfectly suited leader to fully support and strategically enhance our identity as a resilient, unified university community.

NEVERTHELESS, THE QUESTION REMAINS: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Simply put, we press onward. Onward in the real work, as Roberts says. But, what is “the real work”?

“Reinhardt’s future is to grow more deeply into its identity as a premier private faith-based university that 32 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

“We thrive in a changing world by having faith in the things we cannot see but hope for.”

– Mark A. Roberts, recalling the Apostle Paul

provides a higher educational experience grounded in academic excellence and leadership programming that leads to the personal transformation of its students.

We are a diverse learning community, representing all manner of ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, races and opinions. If we are to serve our mission ‘to educate the whole person,’ we must exercise intellectual humility and cognitive flexibility in order to achieve something greater together,” he said.

Roberts is ready to guide Reinhardt forward, uniting our community and daily striving to fulfill the university’s mission.

“Onward in the Real Work” is a phrase Roberts sometimes uses as a salutation. He borrows this phrase from two poets: the Christian, farmer poet Wendell Berry and the Zen poet Gary Snyder. For Snyder, this means doing first the work that takes place inside the human heart. We do this work not only for the present moment, but for the millions of years that came before and that will come after. For Berry, the phrase means the work that begins when “we no longer know what to do.” In other words, when we are a bit baffled, we know we are in the throes of learning something new and thus that learning will be nothing less than transformative. Roberts defines it this way: The real work is “work performed in service of higher learning, work performed in service to improve the lives of individuals and communities, work performed to fulfill a noble mission – that’s the Real Work.”

This is the mystery and the beauty of the future. We can never know exactly what it brings, but we soar ahead in hope and unity.

“If we can’t imagine a better future, we will never have it.”

Let the Real Work begin.

Kelley & Mark share a passion for poetry, writing and music.

BELOW RIGHT:

The Roberts Family, from left to right: Raynah (24) ’21 RU graduate, Zoe (22) ’19 RU graduate, Taylor (30), and Jayden (20) .

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 33

RU Alumni

Dreams Made Possible

Leadership (OML) program in 2014 on the recommendation of Reinhardt alum and Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Finance Director Stacey Williams.

After high school, Jamie Gianfala “I looked to Stacey Williams as a ’16 pursued his dream of becoming a mentor. He was an adult learner when police officer. He soon realized that his he attended Reinhardt. He, like me, goals to rise in rank could only be met had a family, full-time job and other by furthering his education. competing priorities. Like Stacey, I “I had early success in my career. I enjoyed my experience in the OML was able to obtain different positions program and applied this knowledge in very quickly,” said Gianfala. “I then both my professional and personal life.” had the opportunity to achieve rank in Graduating two years later with the department. I would, from time to honors – magna cum laude – Gianfala time, take a class but never prioritize continued to further his education with my education. I was transferred from his master’s degree in Public Safety shift to shift as I moved up in the Administration. He believes his diligence organization, and as I gained more during his undergraduate degree significant experience, I would always continues to reward him each day. make the excuse that I would get my “Reinhardt has given me education – later.” opportunities that I would not have In October 2020, Gianfala became had elsewhere. I tell others go to Deputy Chief Marshal of Cherokee Reinhardt; sacrifice today – enjoy the County, a promotion that all began rewards every day.” with returning to school, this time as an Gianfala describes Reinhardt as adult learner. being about “family and connections,” Education was a priority for sharing that the friends he made another Reinhardt alum, Roger became family. He also discovered his Garrison. During his time as sheriff, career connections were far-reaching. he encouraged Gianfala to advance “I find so many people in the as a police officer, noting that to move business world connected to forward, his education needed to match Reinhardt University. When I speak his experience. This helpful guidance in the community and share that I led him to Reinhardt. am a Reinhardt graduate, that means Gianfala enrolled in the something. They know that I am part Organizational Management & of something special, that I exemplify the personal and professional competencies that all organizations seek and expect.”

Madison, Gianfala’s daughter, followed in his footsteps. After playing softball for the university and graduating in 2018, she now teaches in Cherokee County.

Gianfala’s career came Jamie Gianfala celebrates with his family. full circle, as he now serves as an adjunct 34 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

instructor for Reinhardt’s Master of Public Administration Executive Command and Leadership program.

He received recognition as a Reinhardt University “10 Under 10” Alumni.

“I love Reinhardt. My experience was wonderful. I have been blessed in my job. My only regret is that I did not go to Reinhardt straight out of high school. There are more obstacles for the adult learner, but – no matter your age or when you return – Reinhardt understands that, and it shows.”

Involved Citizen Turned Evolved Citizen Eight years ago, Jamie Landers Foster ’12 graduated from Reinhardt University, business degree in hand, not knowing which path to follow – the choices were many.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do,” said Foster. “I can tell you, however, that I spent time as a sandwichmaker, a title-pawn lender and even a marketing director.”

Foster began her time at Greater Community Bank in 2016 as executive assistant to the president and CEO before becoming marketing director two years later, then serving as branch manager. Foster is now the Executive Administrator of The Montessori School of Rome. When Foster first graduated, however, she had little direction with her career.

During her four years on campus, Foster’s involvement prepared her for the future in ways she didn’t realize at the time. She credits a large portion of her success to her student life. Living on campus and away from home for the firsttime motivated Foster to build critical life skills like decision-making, prioritizing and goal-setting – skills that she now uses every day.

“At the time, my successes were smaller and more short-term. Today

To learn more about events, alumni gifts and more, visit reinhardt.edu/alumni

L I F E T I M E AC H I E V E M E N T S

my successes are much broader, but the concepts behind them remain the same,” Foster continued. “From winning an essay contest to earning a life-changing promotion, the skills I developed at Reinhardt continue to guide me in setting – and achieving – my goals.”

Foster chose Reinhardt University after receiving a choir scholarship, beginning her diversified experience on campus.

She performed in choir and served as a peer tutor in the McCamish School of Business and Sport Studies where she entered academic competitions. Foster won first place two consecutive years in the McCamish School of Business Ethics Essay Competition and the “Year Of” speech competition.

Foster’s varied interests now carry into her active roles within the community.

She volunteers with Rome Little Theatre and is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Rome. As an active alumna, she serves on Reinhardt’s Alumni Board of Governors.

She earned titles of Reinhardt’s Jamie Landers “10 Under 10” Foster ’12 Alumni, Rome Life Magazine’s Top 20 Under 20, and most recently participated in Leadership Rome XXXVIII. Foster encourages current Reinhardt Eagles to utilize their college experience by engaging with people and taking in new opportunities.

“It is important to understand that it’s okay to explore several courses of study before selecting a major; it’s okay to establish a larger network of friends and acquaintances than those you are surrounded by each day; it’s okay to manage a full course-load, but it’s also okay to make time for extracurriculars; and finally – it’s okay to have no idea what to expect – as 2020 has proven to us all – but it’s imperative that you remain academically agile and forward-thinking.”

The Apex of Discovery

A

s a scholar in geography and geographical information science, alumnus Dr. Jerome “Jerry” Dobson ’65 is an innovator in his field. The writer and speaker continued to distinguish himself in 2020, becoming the 55th recipient of the Cullum Geographical Medal from The American Geographical Society.

The Cullum Geographical Medal was the first medal awarded by The American Geographical Society, established in 1896. The prestigious recognition is awarded to “those who distinguish themselves by geographical discoveries, or in the advancement of geographical science.” The likes of Neil Armstrong and Rachel Carson also earned this honor.

“Dr. Jerry Dobson, valued Trustee and Reinhardt alumnus, is quite simply a treasure,” said President Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D. “His forays and boundary-crossings — both intellectually and geographically — illustrate what we hope for all Reinhardt graduates: that a spirit of intellectual curiosity will drive them to solve real-world problems and articulate for us both the hopes and cautions associated with human endeavors.”

Dobson considers receiving the Cullum Geographical Medal the highest point of his 45-year career.

“How can I say thank you enough to express my true feelings? How can I assess what this piece of gold means to me or I to it? The gift of Cullum is gratitude and humility. Humility may sound odd for such a high praise, but that’s what medals do – they cause recipients and others to think deeply about great people and the deeds they do.”

In addition, Dobson holds two lifetime achievement awards from professional societies and served as a research and development staff member at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and later as a senior scientist at the U.S. Department of State in the Office of the Geographer and Global Issues. His published works include more than 200 professional articles, editorials and reports.

Since graduating from Reinhardt in 1965, Dobson was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 2013. He joined the Board of Trustees in 2016 and still considers Reinhardt to be the best educational experience he ever had. Dobson describes his field saying that “geography is to space what history is to time,” and desires for geography to be reignited in education and acknowledged in discipline, even at Reinhardt.

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 35

R U G ivi n g

A

of Benevolence Since its humble beginnings in 1883, Reinhardt University was seen as “the learning school of North Georgia.” As one 19th century Atlanta writer noted, Reinhardt represented “the dawn of hope, the illumination that belongs to knowledge, the uplifting of the spirit and the widening of the fields of endeavor.” Reinhardt, to put it simply, transformed lives.

T

oday, Reinhardt continues this tradition of hope by meeting each student where they are and providing a unique educational experience that develops each student academically, professionally and personally.

Reinhardt, however, unlike many other private colleges, was grounded in the idea that its unique and transformational education should be accessible to every person. That same 19th century writer continued, “From the first, the college has been carried on in the spirit of the broadest benevolence.”

Much of Reinhardt’s benevolence is possible because of the many generous partners that endow scholarships or provide scholarship funds on an annual basis. In the past year alone, Reinhardt offered over $14 million in scholarships to help students realize their dream of a college degree. Over $1 million of these funds came from the endowed and annual scholarships gifted by donors, a significant contribution toward the future of our students, the communities they serve and the world we all share.

36 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

Endowed Scholarships Endowed scholarships require donors to gift at least $25,000 to Reinhardt. The funds, in turn, are invested, and a fraction of their annual worth is used to provide scholarship funds in perpetuity.

For example, a 5% draw from a $25,000 endowed scholarship would provide $1,250 annually to support students in their quest to earn a Reinhardt degree.

Two of Reinhardt’s newest endowed scholarships are the Dorothy Rogers Tilly Stronger Together North Georgia and Dorothy Rogers Tilly Stronger Together Metro Atlanta Scholarships (see story about Dorothy Rogers Tilly on page 25). The Tilly Stronger Together Scholarships are mutually funded initiatives that will, in perpetuity, provide financial support for students coming from the North Georgia and Metro Atlanta areas.

Contributing donors to the Stronger Together Scholarships make a 3-year commitment to building the endowment.

The Tilly Stronger Together Scholarships were initiated in 2021 by two generous gifts. The Tilly Stronger Together Metro Atlanta was established by an anonymous donation of $75,000, and the Tilly Stronger Together North Georgia was established with a most generous gift of $100,000 from a committed friend and supporter of the University, the Brown-Whitworth Foundation. The Foundation has committed to gifting $100,000 a year for the next two years; bringing their total contribution to the mutually funded scholarship to $300,000.

Lynn Whitworth notes: “It truly is my family’s privilege to help initiate the Tilly Stronger Together North Georgia Scholarship Campaign.

My parents, James and Sis Brown, wholeheartedly believed that education is transformational.

Throughout his life, my father worked tirelessly to enhance educational opportunities for all. They invested particularly in North Georgia, the community that gave them so very much. Now, it is our family’s pleasure to honor my parents’ legacy in

L E T T E R F R O M D R . TO M YA N N U Z Z I | A DVA N C E M E N T

education, through the Tilly Stronger Together Endowment.”

With a goal to bring each endowment to $1 million by 2025, Reinhardt is relying on other partners throughout the North Georgia and Metro Atlanta regions to become contributing donors to the Dorothy Rogers Tilly Stronger Together Scholarships. Meeting this goal will allow Reinhardt to grant approximately $100,000 a year to deserving students in perpetuity, maintaining the tradition of benevolence for which it is known.

Annual Scholarships Annual scholarship funds are renewed annually and do not require a minimum gift or the funds to be invested. As long as funds are replenished by the donor, they can be used each year. While a portion of these funds come from individual donors, the majority are supported by foundation partners such as the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation and the William I. H. and Lula E. Pitts Foundation.

As noted on the Foundation’s website, “Mrs. Whitehead was an ardent supporter of education.” Even after her passing in 1953, she continues to give generously to many educational institutions through her foundation.

Last year, the Foundation provided funds to support the financial needs of 80 young women, 98% of whom are from Georgia. This cohort of Lettie Pate Whitehead scholars represents more than 20 different majors. They carry an average GPA of 3.38 and received on average approximately $3,363 in financial support, which is significant since 76% are Pell eligible.

The William I. H. and Lula E. Pitts Foundation was established in 1941 to support charities in Georgia, including institutions of higher education, affiliated with the Methodist Church.

Last year, the Foundation granted funds

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he moment I stepped on Reinhardt’s campus, I could feel the purpose, compassion and — as the scholarship article points out — benevolence that is so deeply rooted in its history. I have had the privilege to speak with extraordinary alumni, graduates as far back as 1948, and some from distant lands like Turkey. One theme runs through every story — Reinhardt University significantly influenced the trajectory of their lives.

Throughout its history, Reinhardt offered all students, no matter where they were on their life journeys, a special place to question, to learn, to grow and to thrive – personally, professionally and spiritually.

Equally as significant, Reinhardt offered students the financial means through which they could access education.

Throughout its 118 years, Reinhardt – founded on the belief that education was the means through which we create a just, equitable, and civil life – has been committed to providing all students access to and support in completing a college degree.

Thank you — all of you who support us with time, talents and treasures. I have seen some amazing things, but none more striking than the degree to which

to support 43 students with an average scholarship of approximately $3,500.

These are just two of the generous partners Reinhardt relies upon to make dreams become a reality. Other Foundations that support Reinhardt’s mission to provide a transformational education experience include the

Reinhardt faculty, staff, alumni, community partners, foundations and individual donors support our students. Everyone is committed to making the Reinhardt experience the best it can be.

As the world re-opens, the needs of our students will continue. In fact, we expect that these needs will increase given the additional resources needed to support students’ social, physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Please don’t forget how very important you are in our ability to best serve our students.

I am so very honored to be a member of such an incredible community. I look forward to continuing the wonderful conversations already begun, and engaging in many more with those Reinhardt family and friends I have yet to meet.

Please never hesitate to contact me at tjy@reinhardt. edu or 770-720-5545 if there is anything I or the Office of Advancement and Community Engagement can do to better serve you.

Kindest Regards, Thomas J. Yannuzzi, Ph.D. (He/Him/His) VP for Advancement & Community Engagement

Evelyn and Frank Gordy Foundation, the Greene-Sawtell Foundation, and the Stuart and Eulene Murray Foundation.

County-Based Scholarship Programs In addition to endowed and annual

Continued, page 38 REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 37

R U G ivi n g

scholarship programs, Reinhardt also collaborates with surrounding counties to implement countybased scholarships. County-based scholarships support all students attending Reinhardt University from the participating county.

Currently, two county programs exist, the Cherokee Scholars and the Pickens Scholars Programs.

Both programs provide eligible students the opportunity to receive up to $8,000 toward tuition and housing costs during their four years at Reinhardt University. Funds to support the programs are raised by annual fundraising activities conducted in collaboration with the participating county. Reinhardt University hosts the annual Born to Run 5K to support the Cherokee County Scholars program, and the Shamrock Stroll 5K to support the Pickens Scholars Program. More information about both of these events can be found on the Reinhardt University Advancement page (reinhardt.edu/give/).

Since its inception in 1988, the Cherokee County program has raised over $5.2 million to support students from Cherokee County in the pursuit of a college degree. Having been established only 4 years ago, the Pickens Scholars fund has already raised approximately $110,000 to support students from Pickens County attending Reinhardt.

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hroughout its history, Reinhardt University recognized the need to support students in their quest to thrive.

Today, on average, the typical Reinhardt student needs approximately 40% of their college cost to be covered for them to realize their dream of a Reinhardt degree. Reinhardt University, in collaboration with its many caring and generous partners, remains committed to fulfilling this need and carrying on “in the spirit of the broadest benevolence.”

38 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

IN LOVING MEMORY OF FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES OF THE REINHARDT UNIVERSITY FAMILY

Laney Barnett Honor/Memorial

June Lewis Goss Friend

Claire Stringer Rivera Funk Heritage Friend

Anne V. Barton ’65 Alumni

Daniel D. Griffin ’69 Alumni

Don K. Russell Pickens Scholars Friend

Maurice Brosio Honor/Memorial

Tom Hopson Honor/Memorial

Pat Harbin Satterfield Honor/Memorial

Hoyt M. Brown Honor/Memorial

Robert P. Hunter, Jr. Former Trustee

David W. Schwenk Friend

Ronnie G. Burgess ’70 Alumni

Diane Jones Honor/Memorial

John N. Seay Friend

Michael Caldwell Honor/Memorial

James E. Jordan, Jr. ’78 Alumni

Jeffrey L. Shultz ’79 Alumni

Robert T. Carmichael ’64 Alumni

Cheul W. Kang ’56 Alumni

Norman Sosebee Friend

Sarah Sue Cleghorn Friend

Inez A. Kennemore Alumni

Don F. Stevens Friend

David L. Cline Friend

Marilyn Vines Knight ’56 Alumni

Dr. Richard “Dick” Summers Faculty

Alvia Cook Friend

Jack J. Liptak FPAC Member

Brent Trembley Honor/Memorial

Jeanne Marie Cox Honor/Memorial

Kyle Marsh Honor/Memorial

David Vaughan Friend

Gail Cromey Honor/Memorial

Guy F. Mathis Honor/Memorial

Wiley W. Virden Friend

Deborah J. Curtis Alumni

David Matson Honor/Memorial

Bernice D. Weaver ’46 Alumni

Paula C. DaSantos ’94 Alumni

J. Sanford McDonald ’48 Alumni

Joyce Eubanks Wheeler ’55 Alumni

Julia Rosalyn Davis Alumni

Flora Ella McIntire FPAC Member

Charles E. Wiggins, Jr. ’60 Alumni

Karen Domb FPAC Member

Gilbert Miller FPAC Member

Eben J. Williams FPAC Member

David Duncan Honor/Memorial

Stephen C. Morse Former Employee

Sara Kendrick Wood ’56 Alumni

Russell H. Earnest ’72 Alumni

Edith D. Morton ’47 Alumni

Elree Bridges Worley ’48 Alumni

Glenn L. Ethridge Friend

Vickie Mulkey Honor/Memorial

Jerry T. Wright ’56 Alumni

Robert J. Eubanks Alumni

Dot Oscher Honor/Memorial

George Richard Wright ’99 Alumni

Russell L. Flynn Friend

Garland F. Pinholster ’96H Alumni Honorary

Edna Roquemore Young Alumni

Ben Gilleland Friend

Barbara Mitchell Poole ’71 Alumni

James Robert Young Cherokee Scholars Friend

Susan H. Gordy Friend

Carol Richards FPAC Member

Rebekah A. Young ’66 Alumni

RU Sports

GO EAGLES | Follow us on

The Dynasty Wrestling Earns in Waleska Continues

FIRST INDIVIDUAL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP After securing a 15-4 major decision over Giovanni Bonilla of Grand View from Iowa, at 157 pounds, topseeded Nolan Saxton wrote his name in the record books by becoming the first Eagle in wrestling history to earn an individual national championship.

N

olan Saxton, a Lakeview, Michigan native, was one of three Reinhardt wrestlers who took home National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-American status after helping the Eagles to a sixth place finish out of 52 schools in the 2021 NAIA Wrestling National Championships, hosted

by Visit Wichita.

“It was an amazing experience to represent Reinhardt and win a national title,” Saxton said. “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to compete this year and am so glad I was able to share this with my family, teammates and coaches.”

“Getting our first national champion in Nolan Saxton and our first four-time All-American in Antonio Stewart was great for them and the Reinhardt University wrestling program,” head coach Jeff Bedard said.

“I’m very proud of our team and especially proud of Nolan, Antonio Stewart and Trent Leon for earning AllAmerican honors again.”

The senior punched his ticket to the Championship final after taking care of business in the national semifinals with a 5-3 decision over Wilder Wichman of Thomas More from Kentucky.

Both Stewart and Leon earned All-American honors.

The wrestling program continues to make historic steps each year, and the Eagles look to keep building toward their quest for a team national championship in 2022.

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 39

RU Sports CHAMPIONSHIPS

Reinhardt regular season and conference championships in 2020-21 Football Regular season

The Dynasty in Waleska Continues Reinhardt men’s lacrosse finished the season 17-0 for the first time in program history and claimed its fourth consecutive National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) red banner.

Men’s Lacrosse Regular season and postseason Men’s Soccer Regular season and postseason Wrestling Postseason Women’s Lacrosse Regular season and postseason Women’s Soccer Postseason

Women’s Soccer photo courtesy of Southeastern (Fla.) Athletic Communications

Women’s Volleyball Regular season and postseason

A NATIONAL LEVEL Men’s Lacrosse 2021 NAIA National Invitational Champions (4th-consecutive title) Men’s Wrestling At 157 pounds, topseeded Nolan Saxton wrote his name in the record books by becoming the first Eagle in wrestling history to earn an individual national championship.

40 | REINHARDT | FALL 2021

fter a season without playing due to COVID-19, the Eagles seemed to be on a mission to prove their team was still the standard in NAIA men’s lacrosse, and they were successful.

“I couldn’t be prouder of a group of young men,” Head Coach John Snow said.

“They’ve been committed to being the best team in the country since day one, and it takes a lot of hard work and determination. They brought that intensity every

single day. The first two games of the tournament we did not play our best, so I challenged them before the game to play how I know they can play – and they delivered. We came out fast and extremely disciplined and executed our game plan to perfection. We have an extremely talented group and they all stepped up on the biggest stage. Four national championships in a row are almost unheard of – these guys amaze me every day.”

The Eagles wrapped up their 2021 season with a victory against Indiana Tech’s Warriors at the NAIA Men’s Lacrosse National Invitational Final on May 8.

In the opening quarter, Reinhardt scored just over three minutes into the game.

The Eagles continued to score throughout the next 10 minutes after breaking through the defensive line resulting in a 6-0 run to finish the period. The second period was low scoring, but Conner Mills

GO EAGLES | Learn more about our teams at reinhardteagles.com

and Gavin Banks each scored once apiece. At the end of the second period, the Eagles maintained a comfortable lead over the Warriors at 10-1. As the game progressed, the Warriors continued to trail the Eagles, but they put together their best stretch of lacrosse by scoring three times in-a-row, bringing the score up to 11-4. The Eagles netted two more shots in just 11 seconds to head into the final 15 minutes up by nine at 13-4.

In the final period both teams continued to score, trading goals with each team scoring four more times.

Reinhardt held an 11-goal lead on multiple occasions.

Gavin Banks – the NAIA Player of the Year – boasted a game-best five goals and two assists, while Connor Mills, who was named the Invitational MVP, netted four shots and added five assists in the victory.

Additionally, Kyle Banks and Dillan Bousquet collected three goals each.

First Team NAIA AllAmerican goalie Matt Webb was again superb in the crease with 13 saves in nearly 60 minutes of action.

“I’m so proud to have been able to coach this group. Undefeated and four-time defending national champions – Doesn’t get any sweeter than that – #WeAre_ RU,” said Coach Snow.

Following the triumph, Coach Snow was named NAIA Coach of the Year once again.

They dynasty continues as it looks for five-consecutive championships in 2022.

Wolary Selected as Athletic Trainer of the Year After continuing to lead Reinhardt sports medicine and mentor its young training staff in a top-notch department, Ashley Wolary was chosen as the 2020-21 Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Athletic Trainer of the Year, the league recently

Coach Popp as AD of the Year.

He has been a tremendous mentor for me this year.”

Wolary joined the Eagle Athletics leadership team and, during COVID-19, was instrumental on Reinhardt’s campus as a member of the front-

announced.

line COVID response team. She also

The award was voted and selected by

served in a similar roll with the AAC

the athletic directors of the AAC.

COVID team.

“I am very appreciative of the

“Ashley has been instrumental in the

recognition by the conference,” Wolary

success of the department and of our

said. “I have learned so much this

students on the field as well as off the

year from all the athletic directors, the

field,” Vice President for Athletics and

commissioner and the other athletic

Athletic Director Bill Popp said. “She is a

trainers that I served with. I couldn’t have

person of strong character and has great

done what I did this year without my staff

judgment in the face of adversity, and is

– they are the superheroes in my mind.

trusted with the care of a large student-

I am honored to share the accolades with

athlete population.”

Popp Claims AAC Athletic Director of the Year After overseeing Reinhardt

All of this was accomplished

Athletics’ climb to a second

during a pandemic with COVID-19.

Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy for Eagle excellence on the field, Vice President for Athletics and Athletic Director Bill Popp was named the 2020-21 AAC

“I mentioned a similar notion when we won the Duard Walker Trophy,” Popp said. “While I physically receive the award, it is about our entire department, students and staff coming together to

Athletic Director of the Year.

create a positive experience for our student-

This is the fourth time in Popp’s career

athletes on and off the courts and fields.

that he has earned such recognition from

“No one person stands alone, especially

the conference (2017-18, 2015-16, 2012-13).

with the difficulties we faced from the

During the 2020-21 school year, Reinhardt

pandemic and we all did the best work

accumulated 162 AAC All-Academic

we could with the best of our abilities

student-athletes, 79 All-Conference players,

this year…I can’t begin to thank everyone

14 national championship appearances,

properly for that work.”

11 regular season or conference

During the 2020-21 academic year, Popp

championships, eight AAC Player of the

has held several leadership positions within

Year recipients and three conference Coach

the AAC and the NAIA. Among those

of the Year selections.

varying roles, he served as the chair for the

Men’s lacrosse also finished the season

NAIA’s National Administrative Council and

17-0 for the first time in program history

is an NAIA-ADA board member.

after dismantling No. 2 Indiana Tech in

Popp also oversaw Reinhardt hosting

the 2021 NAIA Men’s Lacrosse National

three NAIA opening rounds on

Invitational Final, 17-8, on May 8 to claim its

campus for football, women’s volleyball

fourth-consecutive NAIA title.

and softball.

REINHARDT | FALL 2021 | 41

RU Sports

Dreams Come True for Reinhardt’s Ancient Eagle

Debbie Blount makes RU history on the golf course

D

ebbie Blount spent much of her life dreaming about college.

Her goal of earning a degree never left her and, at nearly 63 years old, Blount chose Reinhardt University to fulfill her dream.

“Reinhardt College – as it was known back in the day – was suggested to me by my high school guidance counselor in 1975, but I went to X-ray school instead.

I looked into attending local colleges many times over the past 20 years, but the time was never right.”

Blount’s marriage and caregiving for her elderly parents were priority, along with teaching skiing in Colorado and summers on the golf course with her husband. When her husband passed away nearly three and a half years 42 | REINHARDT | FALL 2020

ago, and her father a few months later, Blount contemplated her future.

“The idea of college kept popping up in my head and I decided it was time to fulfill my dream of earning a college degree,” said Blount. “I was really scared of failure, though.”

While golfing in Sandy Springs, Blount met Reinhardt student athlete and caddy Jack Haller, and inquired about Reinhardt’s golf program.

“I had somewhat lost my passion for golf when my husband passed away.

I wanted to reignite that fire and take my game to higher levels. The answer seemed to be college golf.”

As she researched her options and contacted Reinhardt’s golf coach, Blount’s excitement grew. She is

now the oldest student athlete on Reinhardt’s women’s golf team.

Additionally, her initial fear of academic failure was of little concern after making the President’s List – an accomplishment that requires a 4.0 GPA. Blount’s 94-year-old mother was very proud!

The self-described “Ancient Eagle” searched for a special place to earn a degree and play golf. She found this supportive community in Reinhardt’s faculty and with her teammates.

“My teammates have been so welcoming, and I love my time with them. We laugh a lot, and I love being part of a team! They have taught me cool things to do on my phone and computer. My professors have been so supportive and tolerant of the ‘old lady who asks so many questions.’ I love having academic goals and enjoy the homework. This probably sounds weird to some of my young classmates, but I love studying and having something meaningful to do.”

Blount’s family is part of Reinhardt’s rich history. Her mother-in-law served as a “dorm mother” in the early 1970s, around the time Blount’s guidance counselor recommended the college as a potential next step. Now Blount experiences the sense of “home” for herself.

“I have come home to a place where I believe I was always supposed to be, and I love that feeling. I get choked up when I walk around our beautiful campus. I love the supportive nature of Reinhardt.”

When asked to share advice for other Eagles, Blount encourages students to make their dreams happen.

“Embrace the wonderful opportunity to earn a college degree, view studying as important, and never be afraid to follow your dream. It may not happen on your schedule, but if you can dream it, you can do it. Find your passion.

One step at a time, one day at a time, one hurdle at a time – it will happen.”

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• B.A., Organizational Management & Leadership • • • •

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Reinhardt’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) is now offered fully online. Faculty, program models and key take-aways from the on-ground degree remain, while virtual delivery affords new opportunities for Reinhardt’s growth and competitive advantage.

Reinhardt’s online MBA cohorts start in August and January.

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