Reinhardt Magazine Fall 2017

FALL 2017 | REINHARDT.EDU

INSIDE

SABBATICALS For the Good of the University

LAKE MULLENIX MEN’S LACROSSE Below the Surface

First-Ever National Championship

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1951 Burgess Administration Building

The Burgess Administration Building, first opened in 1951, was rededicated this past fall when portraits of Dr. and Mrs. Burgess were hung in the entry lobby of the building. Burgess is home to many offices on campus, including the Office of the President.

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T H I S I S S U E | Fa l l 2 017 F A C U LT Y P R O F I L E S

6 Around Reinhardt

Campus News and Happenings ADay for Reinhardt Pickens County Commencement and Honors

The magazine of Reinhardt University VOLUME 23 | ISSUE 1

14 RU Future

EDITOR Erika Neldner

Award-winning singer Victoria Hill

18 RU Faculty Susan Naylor | 16

27 RU Growth

Library Renovations

30 A Project Below the Surface

Restoring Lake Mullenix Ecosystem

32 RU Math & Science 38 RU Distinguished Alumni

Dr. Jacob Harney | 36

40 SPORTS

RU ALUMNI PROFILE Michael Coleman ’16 PAGE 28

46

RU Remembers Coach Q

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RU Giving

DESIGN Lure Design CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Brown Cherokee County Historical Society Jason Hanes Mary Leidig Kina Mallard Erika Neldner Tim Norton Huitt Rabel DeVante Wynn PHOTOGRAPHERS Lifetouch Tom Mileshko Jeff Reed ’16 Greg Spell UNIVERSITY LEADERSHIP TEAM President Kina S. Mallard, Ph.D. Provost Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D. Vice President for Enrollment Management Julie C. Fleming

On the Cover In this issue, we highlight two Reinhardt University professors, Rev. Dr. Curt G. Lindquist and Dr. Kenneth H. Wheeler (shown here), whose sabbatical leaves provided perfect opportunities for personal renewal, reflection, research and writing.

In our cover story, Lindquist and Wheeler reflect on what it will mean as they return to the classroom this fall.

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Campus Pastor Rev. Jamie Hudgins Chief Marketing Officer Mary Leidig Dean of Students Mel C. Norwood II, Ph.D. Vice President for Advancement and Marketing Timothy A. Norton Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Owens Director of Athletics William C. Popp

GET CONNECTED

Keep up with all that’s happening with the Reinhardt weekly online newsletter: Reinhardt Recap.

Visit reinhardt.edu/recap to read and/or register for a weekly email update.

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ReinhardtUniversity ReinhardtAlumni ReinhardtAthletics ReinhardtAdmissions

@Reinhardt_Univ @RU_Eagles @RU_Admissions

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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,

I begin with a thank you for the support each of you gives to our University. Your words of encouragement, creative ideas and financial gifts help us fulfill our vision, “To create a unique Reinhardt Experience where each student thrives.” Because of your good work and love for this place, Reinhardt continues to thrive.

Partnerships A prosperous Reinhardt future depends on mutually beneficial partnerships with public and private entities. The University is working on numerous partnerships in the areas of technology, training, job-sharing, entrepreneurship and program development. I am highlighting two initiatives that are possible because of community partners: the renovation of the Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center and the launch of our Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Students attending Reinhardt this fall will find the Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center transformed into a synergistic student success learning commons complete with an innovative classroom, computer lab and collaboration rooms for group projects.

The renovation includes a community room for Waleska and Reinhardt gatherings, a children’s area to serve as a learning laboratory for our elementary education majors, rooms for after-school tutoring and upgraded technology for student and citizen use. You can read more about this partnership with Cherokee County, Sequoyah Regional Library System and the City of Waleska on page 27.

We are also grateful for the many partners that have joined us in the exciting launch of our inaugural nursing class. Chattahoochee Tech has worked with us to lease space for our nursing program at its Appalachian Campus until we build our Health Sciences building. Northside and Piedmont Hospitals have provided gifts for start-up costs, and Northside Medical Associates has given more than $100,000 toward nursing scholarships.

We are excited about the first-year students who will begin their nursing studies this fall at

Reinhardt and the more than 20 transfers who will join us in the spring to complete their BSN degrees.

Progress The University continues to make progress on our Strategic Plan and Campus Development. In 2016-2017, we experienced a significant increase in fundraising, we launched a wrestling program, 11 of our athletic teams competed in nationals with men’s lacrosse becoming our first-ever National Champions and we started an online Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Our Arts Around the Lake project is a focal point of campus. Students, alumni and members of the community enjoy fishing and walking around the lake. This beautiful addition is a destination for prom, graduation and special occasion pictures.

In 2015-2016, Reinhardt awarded its first sabbaticals to Professors Ken Wheeler and Curt Lindquist. You can read about their sabbatical projects here in our Fall 2017 edition cover story.

Reinhardt is also raising our academic standards as we continue to provide an authentic education that challenges with care. This year, two graduating seniors were accepted to medical school, several recent entrepreneur graduates have started their own businesses and others are attending graduate school. More than 96 percent of our graduates have jobs in their fields or are in graduate school within six months of graduation.

As President of Reinhardt, I am honored to work with our Advancement Team, sharing the Reinhardt story and asking for financial support for the transformative education we offer.

You Will Be… A thinker Inspired A major player On the path to your dreams Your own success story On your way to great things Students who choose Reinhardt will be in a place where they feel like they belong.

They will be surrounded by people who care about them as a person. They will be pointed down the right path and prepared to succeed. And when they’re done, they will be on their way to becoming exactly who they want to be. reinhardt.edu/ youwillbe

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Around Reinhardt

“La Périchole” comes to Reinhardt

Reinhardt University Opera performed “La Périchole” with special guest Dr. Kina S. Mallard in April in Flint Hall at Falany Performing Arts Center. Performing Arts students Laura Avery, left, and Anna Johnson are pictured during the performance.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCE Dr. Mallard

RUOUTDOORS Dustin Nelson and Tori Windmiller had a blast on the spring break trip with the Office of Student Activities to Skidaway Island.

Dr. Mallard played the role of “old prisoner” in the opera. Her character was a political rival imprisoned by the Viceroy.

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Justin Hawkins joined in on the fun, making s’mores at the President’s House at Dr. Mallard’s annual S’mores with Sophomores event.

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

Communication instructor Stephanie Marchant and her COM 312 class participated in a public relations campaign with the Georgia Breast Cancer Coalition Fund with the goal of eradicating breast cancer by 2020. They also met with Georgia legislators at the State Capitol in Atlanta.

Spring Day 2017 was a great day for students, faculty and staff to have fun and relieve stress right before spring semester finals. Jonathan See, Registrar Janet Rodning, Ashley See and Ben Porter pose for a photo in the iconic big red chair.

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French horn musician Trevor Denmon performed with the Reinhardt University Wind Ensemble toward the end of spring semester.

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The 24th Annual United Methodist Church Golf Outing at Bent Tree was a huge success with money raised for United Methodist Scholarships for students, while having a great time on a beautiful spring day.

Peggy Collins Feehery was the go-to for career advice at Reinhardt University. The Career Services Center director retired from the University at the end of spring semester. She was honored with other retirees at a reception held in the Hoke O’Kelley Auditorium. Collins Feehery is pictured with Provost Dr. Mark Roberts.

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A Life Changer

Make a difference in someone’s life “... it was a great opportunity to be with a new bachelor’s degree in Nursing. surrounded by successful women in various fields.”

Enroll Now. Brittany Cunningham | Freshman

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Learn more at nursing.reinhardt.edu.

Around Reinhardt

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

ADay for Reinhardt Pickens County W

ith Pickens County being a stone’s throw from Reinhardt University, it was only natural to expand a long-running and successful scholarship program into the adjacent county.

And who else better to chair the very first committee of ADay for Reinhardt Pickens County than a lifelong Pickens County resident who also sees the value of a Reinhardt University education?

Growing up in Pickens County, Amberle Godfrey knew about Reinhardt. The 525-acre campus was a mere 20 minutes from her hometown, and students from the only high school in the county came to Reinhardt.

But Godfrey’s path did not lead her from high school straight to college – instead she found herself in the working world and raising her three now-adult sons.

“I know what it’s like not to have an education. You hit that glass ceiling with your job, pay scale and how you view yourself in society,” she said.

Godfrey’s professional experience has been in the financial industry, handling bookkeeping and payroll. She also worked in the Pickens County school system as a coordinator for parent and community involvement. And, she has served as Chair of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce.

So it was only fitting that when she had the opportunity to further her education that her degree selection was Bachelor of Business Administration.

JOIN THE BOARD

“I know what it’s like not to have an education. You hit that glass ceiling with your job, pay scale and how you view yourself in society.”

Amberle Godfrey | Chair | ADay for Reinhardt Pickens County

Godfrey said she is taking her time and enjoying the learning process. She is not on any particular timeframe to earn her degree and wants to absorb as much knowledge as possible.

“My favorite part about going to college is the process of learning.

Usually when people go to college they are in such a rush to get their degree,” she said. “I enjoy learning how to learn and be a deeper thinker.” Her favorite class so far has been Dramatic Literature with Michelle Harlow.

Leading the way for ADay for Reinhardt expansion Leading the effort for a new scholarship program in Pickens County was an easy decision for Godfrey. She calls herself “engrained” in her community and wants to make sure Pickens County residents know about Reinhardt.

“I would like Pickens County students to realize what a gem they have in Reinhardt,” she said. “It’s a large campus and it offers everything a

four-year university offers, but it’s also where you feel like you are part of the community, even for non-traditional students.

“They don’t have to go far away from home to get a great education.”

OTHERS WHO HAVE CHOSEN TO SUPPORT ADAY FOR REINHARDT PICKENS COUNTY AS BOARD MEMBERS ARE: Mallory Childers ’10, Pickens County teacher Andrew Diemer, owner of Day’s Chevrolet Angie Jones ’94, Pickens County president of Renasant Bank Melissa Jordan, marketing officer for Community Bank of Pickens County Dr. Crystal Landrum, of Landrum & Landrum Parish Lowrie, of Parish Lowrie Insurance and Financial Services Mark Mitton, vice president of consumer lending/IT for Community Bank of Pickens County Gerry Nechvatal, of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce Chris Wallace, principal of Pickens County High School Allen Wigington, magistrate judge in Pickens County

Dale Morrissey, director of development and external relations for the University, and Amberle Godfrey, chair of the ADay for Reinhardt Pickens County Committee, are seeking board members in the Pickens County area.

Once established and funded, the scholarship program will provide financial assistance for Pickens County residents attending Reinhardt University.

TO GET INVOLVED: Contact Dale Morrissey at DSM1@reinhardt.edu or call (770) 720-5506.

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Around Reinhardt

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pirits were high May 5 as Reinhardt University graduated its largest class in history under drizzly skies. “Thank you for weathering the weather,” said President Kina S. Mallard. “This just proves we are Methodist. We are being sprinkled.” The keynote speaker kept her remarks brief, which yielded applause from the graduates who were eager to be honored for their hard work. “Congratulations, and I am proud to be a part of this with you and may God be with you,” said Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, president of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Also during the ceremony, Dr. Mallard awarded an honorary doctorate to Garland Reynolds, the architectural visionary behind most of the buildings in Reinhardt’s University in a Park.

Dr. Belle S. Wheelan

Reinhardt graduated its LARGEST class in history MORE THAN

GRADUATES

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Campu s News an d Happenin gs

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Performing Arts graduate Sarah Williams performed “Live Out Loud” from “A Little Princess” during the 2017 Commencement ceremony.

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ABOVE, RIGHT: Student Reflections Speaker Michael Dubuc ’17 spoke to his fellow Class of 2017 graduates about how each individual is part of a greater world much like individual cells make up the human body and other organisms. Dubuc earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology. He will be attending Lake Erie College of Dentistry.

LEFT: Garland Reynolds, pictured with President Dr. Kina S. Mallard, received an honorary doctorate from Reinhardt University for his continued support. Reynolds is the architectural visionary behind Reinhardt’s campus.

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Around Reinhardt EVENING OF HONORS

Students of the Year Sarah Williams and Gordon Thigpen embody what being an exceptional student is all about.

Reinhardt faculty selects students of the year from each school During the Evening of Honors, an

Each was bestowed Reinhardt University’s Student of the Year Award at the Evening of Honors held March 27 in Flint Hall at Falany Performing Arts Center.

annual spring event honoring student and faculty accomplishments over the past academic year, each school at Reinhardt selected its own student to be feted.

Twenty-eight seniors were recognized with the Reinhardt University Academic Scholars award 3.9 or higher. Fourteen juniors were awarded this same recognition.

Hugh Peterson Jr. Academic Scholars, awarded to juniors and seniors achieving a GPA of 3.6 to 3.89, were named.

An honoree from each of the University’s Schools was selected by the faculty as Student of the Year including: SCHOOL OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES

Brent Adam Blackwell of Canton, Ga MCCAMISH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS PRICE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Ashley Elizabeth See of Canton, Ga. SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCES

John Michael Bowling of Canton, Ga. SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS

Natalie Haley Beaty of Canton, Ga.

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Blake Adkin Marbut of Winder, Ga.

AWA

Thigpen was known at Reinhardt for excelling academically and giving his all every day.

“Receiving the award itself was pretty cool, but the real honor was the fact that the faculty voted on it. Having faculty members that I may have taken one class with come up to me afterward and sincerely congratulate me was pretty special,” Thigpen said.

Dr. Wayne Glowka, dean of the School of Arts & Humanities, said Thigpen represents everything to which students should aspire.

“Without a doubt, Gordon Thigpen is the best writer I have ever had in any of my classes in over 37 years of college and university teaching. He puts forth his best effort in everything he does and humbly believes that he can always do better,” Glowka said. “I have been privileged to teach such a fine student.”

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in recognition of a cumulative GPA of

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The high honor is awarded to only two students each year in recognition of “leadership, honesty, community service and service to the University” and whose cumulative gradepoint average exceeds 3.6.

“We are proud of you for representing Reinhardt University with honor,” Provost Dr. Mark Roberts said in his introductory remarks. “I encourage you to hold your honor in humility and to work diligently to use your knowledge, skill and talent to bring humanity into a local and universal fellowship so that your accomplishments may glorify the God of Heaven and Earth.”

“I am very honored, and I was very surprised,” Williams said. “I hope to represent Reinhardt and the Student of the Year Award well in everything I do.

I want to be a representation as to why you should go to Reinhardt. Who I am and what I achieve are because of the education and the wonderful people I met at Reinhardt.”

“Sarah Williams is an intelligent, talented and highly driven young lady,” said David Nisbet, coordinator of Reinhardt’s Music Theatre program.

“Her approach to all projects is one of full investment. She is fearless when creating a role and a joy to teach and direct. Sarah embodies what a student of the year should be.”

Campu s News an d Happenin gs

ACADEMIC PROGRAM AWARDS Each academic program awarded select seniors whose cumulative GPA was greater than 3.3 and whose work as a student has been exceptional.

These include:

OPENING UP DOORS

Art Katelyn Elaine Hale Chelsea Dawn Schofield

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Biology Amanda Lynn Bodine Madeline Carol Gray Business Nicolas Duarte Katie Mae Goodrich Zachary Graham McCown Elisha Anne Roland Taylor Lynn Braselton Russell Anthony Goemaere Allison Leigh Hale Sydney Brianne Flowers Phillip Darin Downey Fabrice Michel Sainton Communication Arts Dulce Danira Galindo McKenna Rae Haag Criminal Justice Robert William Bryan Mathew Dean Dawkins Education Shelby Lynn Pearl Katie Anne Purcell Michelle Whitney Lemons Joseph Thomas Wheeler Ashley Elizabeth See Alexander Louis Arth English John Gordon Thigpen Kaylee Brooke Rinesmith

Healthcare Administration Jessa Hawthorne Brookshire Cierra Branee’ Edmonson History Kyle Jacob Walker Cole Storey Gregory Interdisciplinary Studies Ivonne Lizbeth RamirezPerez Thomas Grant Patrick Math Stephanie Catherine Grove Ansley Michael Avera Performing Arts Brittany Nicole Gaddy Joshua Adam Vavases Courtney Ann Boggs Marianella Victoria Lopez Stephanie Morgan Kinney Jonathan Cristopher See Anna Helene Johnson Joshua Reed Baldwin Sara Elizabeth Williams Psychology Cassie Clarissa Strickland Religion Brent Adam Blackwell Sociology Aleah Jeanett Cooper

Darrell “Juice” Arnold, a 2017 McCamish School of Business graduate from Chattanooga, Tenn., was awarded the “No Greater Love” award in recognition of “selfless giving to others” as inspired by the writing of St. John, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

“Juice is a leader in the classroom, on the football field, in DREAMS and in his various other campus involvement roles; his love for Reinhardt University shines through his active involvement and his enthusiastic ‘RU for Life’ attitude,” said President Mallard. “I can think of no better selection for the No Greater Love Award than Darrell ‘Juice’ Arnold.”

for students to grow and lead he Rev. Jamie Hudgins is a new face to Reinhardt University – brought in to help spiritually guide students in coming years.

“My role is to help students achieve the greatest success in their life, not only in general academics, but to help them achieve spiritual well-being, faith development and becoming the disciple God has called them to become,” he said.

Hudgins was appointed by the North Georgia United Methodist Conference and started in the Office of Student Activities in July.

Saying it’s too early to have a plan, Hudgins wanted to get on campus and interact with students before developing an action plan for his office.

He has a passion for high energy worship music and believes it’s a great way to praise God in a contemporary fashion.

“I came up so I could see the last Common Ground service of the semester,” he said. “In that age range, music is a huge piece of life. College ministry is really gravitating toward music.”

A musician himself, Hudgins enjoys The Newsboys’ “God’s Not Dead,” and “Happy Day,” written

by Tim Hughes.

Students can expect music to play a big role in student ministries in the fall.

Hudgins plays both electric and acoustic guitar, bass, some keyboards and drums. “I sing, as well,” he said.

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FAITH

Overall, Hudgins said he wants to make sure students have an array of opportunities to serve and to lead.

“I think opportunities to let the students find ways to serve in the midst of the academic training period is an incredibly valuable tool,” he said. “I want to help students find ways to grow and lead in different ways.”

“John Wesley talked about the whole world being his parish. The more opportunities we can allow these students to have will help them open their minds so they can view the whole world as their parish as well,” he added.

Hudgins is an Elder in Full Connection with the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has served in pastoral ministry for about 12 years, most recently at Highlands UMC in Gainesville.

“I’m incredibly excited to get started and see where it goes.”

“My role is to help students achieve the greatest success in their life.”

Rev. Jamie Hudgins

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R U Fu t u r e

By Erika Neldner

AT A G L A N C E

MAJOR Vocal Performance HONORS Victoria Hill won first place in the High School Women division of the National Association of Teachers of Singing summer workshop in July. Hill also earned first-place earlier this year in the prestigious Schmidt Vocal Competition in Palm Beach, Fla. NICKNAME “Grandma.” She enjoys crocheting and engineers her own patterns including a hoodie she recently made.

DREAM ROLE “Marguerite” in the opera “Faust.”

LIFE GOALS Earn her doctorate and teach at a collegiate level.

Audition and earn a role in productions, traveling in Germany and Italy.

FUNNY FACT She calls herself clumsy.

She burned her hair off playing “Meg” in “Little Women,” which actually happens to the character.

YOUTUBE Search Victoria Hill to hear her perform.

Victoria Hill won the title of Miss Cobb County, and she will compete in the Miss Georgia pageant next summer.

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Victoria Hill comes to Reinhardt this fall unlike most new college students. The Canton, Georgia, native has spent the last year as a dual enrollment student, performing on the Flint Hall stage and nurturing her God-given vocal talent – a talent that has resulted in a national singing title.

Her story of performance success started in the shadows of shyness and a challenge to overcome dyslexia. But thanks to Reinhardt faculty member Dr. Reverie Berger, that has resulted in a move into the spotlight. Coming from a family of singers (she’s the eldest of five), Hill remembers crying and refusing to sing when her parents encouraged her.

“I was so shy. I would sit at the piano, and my parents would tell me I should sing.

And I would cry,” the 19-year-old incoming sophomore said. At 14, she began vocal lessons with Dr. Berger.

“The reason why I am doing vocal performance is because of Dr. Berger,” Hill said. “I’ve always loved cooking and playing the piano, ballet, and I love science, anatomy and physiology, and math. But I could not find that one thing that ignited my passion. When I started studying under Dr. Berger, the Lord opened up huge doors for me. She gave me a passion for singing classical music.

“I now know what I want to do for the rest of my life, thanks to her,” Hill excitedly said.

“While she was gifted with a lovely talent and a natural stage presence, she has worked tirelessly over the years to develop both,” Berger said. “Not only does she dedicate herself to her practicing, but she also takes advantage of every opportunity to compete and to perform

that she can find, truly learning from each one, win or loss. It is this desire to push herself and grow that will allow her to succeed in her career. I’m excited to see what the future holds for her.”

For the last five years, Hill has been coming to Reinhardt to Berger’s studio in the Ken White Music Center and performing ballet recitals on the stage of what is now known as Flint Hall.

She feels at home here.

Even though she found a home at Reinhardt, she auditioned at other universities to see what doors may open for her. What she found is that Reinhardt’s performing arts school is different from everywhere else. It’s a cohesive, encouraging family.

“At a lot of universities, their music department teachers were not working together, and at Reinhardt, while you study under one particular instructor, you have the opportunity to learn from other faculty. That made the decision for me,” she said. “I have studied under Drs. Cory and Anne Schantz learning opera, and I have learned so much from Brian Osborne and David Nisbet.

“They are all amazing. They want everyone’s students to do well, and it’s great for students to be able to learn and absorb information from these great leaders. They each have something great to offer all of us,” she said.

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Spotlight INTO THE

National award-winning singer Victoria Hill finds a home at RU.

R U Fa c u l t y

By Erika Neldner

Susan Naylor performed with her sister, Hollene Embry, during her final performance as a Reinhardt University associate professor of music.

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CONGRATULATIONS The Reinhardt University community, both past and present, thank you for your years of dedication to music education.

Susan Naylor wowed the audience as she gave her final performance as a Reinhardt University professor of music.

Naylor retired after 42 years of service to the University at the end of the 2016-17 school year.

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t is difficult to summarize the myriad of contributions Susan has made to lives of Reinhardt students over the years,” said Dr. Fredrick Tarrant, dean of the School of Performing Arts.

“During her 42 years of service, she has nurtured and shaped the artistic abilities of countless students, both as an instructor of piano and of other academic music classes,” Tarrant added. “She has a rare gift to recognize raw talent in inexperienced pianists, helping them to emerge as polished musicians during their studies with her. Perhaps the most moving moment of her final faculty recital was the recognition of all her former and current students in the audience: half the people in Flint Hall stood up.”

Naylor wanted the concert to be full of special moments, and she did not disappoint. She performed duets with her sisters, something they had not done since their childhood. Even more special is the dedication of her performance to her 102-year-old mother, Sara Embry.

“All the music had a special meaning to me through the playing of my favorite piece (Chopin “Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48, No. 2”) and the variety of the selections including the hymn transcription (“My Tribute” for her mother), a jazz piece, the beauty

of Debussy and the challenge of a Bach Fugue originally written for organ,” she said.

The surprise ending had the audience erupting in applause as Naylor entered the stage dressed as a rapper with her entourage. The performance is one no one will forget.

“Susan is a professor of grace and humor, and she will be missed as she begins her journey into retirement.

It is truly the end of an era in the Reinhardt School of Performing Arts,” Tarrant said.

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“Susan was a vital presence during the transition of Reinhardt College to a four-year University, and she also played an important role in the planning of the Falany Performing Arts Center.”

Dr. Fredrick Tarrant

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R U Fa c u l t y EVENING OF HONORS

An Evening of Honors culminates the academic year by honoring students and faculty for their outstanding work during fall and springs semesters. Their faculty colleagues cast votes for the awards, and winners were celebrated March 27 in Flint Hall at Falany Performing Arts Center.

UNITED METHODIST EXEMPLARY TEACHING AWARD Dr. Martha Shaw, professor of music, was bestowed the United Methodist Exemplary Teaching Award. It goes to a Reinhardt University faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching; civility and concern for students and colleagues; commitment to values-centered education; and service to students, the institution and the community.

JANE ENGLAND TEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARD The Jane England Teaching Excellence Award went to Dr. Cheryl Brown, professor of sociology. The Jane England award is dedicated to the identification of a full-time Reinhardt University faculty member who has completed a meritorious service activity to the University in an area of Teaching and Advising, Service to the University and Community, or Professional Development.

FACULTY RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP AWARD Dr. Karen L. Owen, associate professor of political science, earned the Faculty Research & Scholarship Award. Each academic year, the school deans identify a Reinhardt faculty member who has contributed significantly to their academic discipline. The contribution is usually scholarship published by a peer-reviewed journal or an academic publishing house. Such work distinguishes the faculty members in his or her field and brings a strong academic reputation to Reinhardt University.

FACULTY ARTISTIC AWARD The Faculty Artistic Award was bestowed to Brian S. Osborne, associate professor of music. Reinhardt University’s community of performing and fine artists contributes to the enrichment of our campus culture through musical performances, theatrical productions, literary readings and art exhibitions. The Faculty Artistic Award is given each year to a deserving faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in artistic performance or production both on campus and in his or her field of expertise.

Osborne is pictured with alumna Marianella Lopez ’17.

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HALL RECEIVES TWO HONORS Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award Dr. Dana Hall, assistant professor of business and coordinator of Reinhardt University’s MBA program, was honored with the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award.

The annual Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award is given through the Georgia Independent College Association and sponsored by Vulcan Materials Company’s Southeast Division.

“Receiving this award is such an honor,” Hall said. “The biggest joy I get from teaching is being part of our students’ personal and academic development, and I’m so grateful to have that opportunity at Reinhardt University.”

Oxford University Press Review In addition, Hall was asked to review the first edition of the “Engineering Communication Manual” textbook.

“A request to review a textbook published by Oxford University Press, one of the most revered and prestigious names in higher education, is indeed an honor. The Oxford University Press, a department of Oxford University, is the largest university press in the world and is the second oldest, founded in 1586,” Hall said. “I was particularly intrigued to review a text about Engineering Communication, with the core premise that while professionals are educated to be expert in a specific area, they may not be able to effectively communicate.”

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“The biggest joy I get from teaching is being part of our students’ personal and academic development.”

– Dr. Dana Hall

r. Jonathan Good, associate

leave for the Fall

professor of history, has

2017 semester,

become a go-to for book reviews

will travel to

related to late medieval England.

the Middle East in October

He was commissioned to review

researching the connections

“The Lion, the Lily, and the

between St. George and the

Leopard: The Crown and Nobility

Islamic figure of al-Khidr as a look

of Scotland, France, and England

into Christian-Muslim relations.

and the Struggle for Power,” by

His wife, Dr. Anne Good,

Melissa Pollock. The recent review is

associate professor of history, was

among a plethora he has completed

selected for sabbatical leave next

over the last several years.

spring and will be revising her

Good’s other recent published

dissertation “Primitive Man and

works include reviews of Matthew

the Enlightened Observer: Peter

Ward’s “The Livery Collar in Late

Kolb among the Khoikhoi.”

Medieval England and Wales” and Malcolm Vale’s “Henry V.” Continuing his scholarly works,

Read more about sabbaticals on

Good, who was granted sabbatical

pages 20-25.

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R U Fea t u r e

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Renew Restore and

Reinhardt Professors reflect on University’s first sabbaticals

BY TIMOTHY A. NORTON

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R U Feat u r e

Unplugging.

Re-energizing.

Re-invigorating.

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hese verbs, paired with these attributes – a clearer mind, fresh perspective and new energy – describe the experiences of two Reinhardt professors who will return to the classroom and their research this fall following a sabbatical1 this past spring.

The Rev. Dr. Curt Lindquist, professor of religion and philosophy, and Dr. Ken Wheeler, professor of history, both longtime faculty members, return to campus this fall having been, according to Wheeler, “made more interesting and compelling.”

Sabbatical leave is new to Reinhardt University, and Lindquist and Wheeler both expressed grateful appreciation to the administration, more specifically to President

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Kina Mallard and Provost Mark Roberts. “I am extremely grateful to Dr. Mallard and Dr. Roberts for granting the sabbatical. This has been a wonderful and very, very, very full experience,” said Lindquist.

More than appreciating the time away for study, travel, writing and reflection, these professors are grateful for what their experiences will mean for the students and the larger University community.

As Wheeler put it, “Professors returning from sabbatical leave are expected to share something from their experiences and discoveries with the campus, and I look forward to many opportunities to contribute to the ongoing intellectual life of Reinhardt.”

Renew and Re s to re

Lindquist travels the world

D

r. Lindquist’s travels have taken him around the world.

From Southeast Asia – Taiwan and Myanmar – and India, to Egypt, Israel and Spain, where his travels included the walk on the medieval Christian pilgrimage trail, the Camino de Santiago2, Lindquist’s experiences have made a lasting impact on him personally.

His sabbatical has focused on “improving the general education course, Moral Responsibility.” In his role in religion and philosophy, he is “looking at the various major religious communities” to better understand how they address various issues he describes in metaphorically cute terms “sex, sweat, shrubs, strangers and sickness.”

“My intuition that most people try to be reasonable has been confirmed.”

– Dr. Lindquist The most meaningful part of his leave has been the ability to “immerse myself in local cultures and talk to local people.

My intuition that most people try to be reasonable has been confirmed.”

While journeying, Lindquist’s blog – sabbatical2017blog.com – has kept students, colleagues and anyone

else interested in his journeys up to date on his location and his personal experiences. Most of all, Lindquist says, “I have hoped to convey some of the lived religious feelings and customs of the people I’ve met.”

One of his many excursions included a drive to the far northern and eastern border of Israel to a high place overlooking the valley that is a checkpoint for United Nations troops monitoring the Syrian border. Seeing the desperation of those persons caught in the middle of the Syrian-Israeli conflict, Lindquist wrote: “I had multiple feelings. I felt extremely sad for the Syrians who are going through hell right now (at Tantur3 is a man who wants to become a Syrian Catholic priest). I felt extremely sad for the plight of all the people still affected by the Israeli-Syrian situation and the whole situation in and surrounding Israel. Obviously, Israelis and Syrians are affected but also the Palestinians, who are sometimes forgotten.

At the Aida Palestinian Refugee, I saw people coming back after marching to show support from some of the Palestine prisoners participating in a hunger strike.

There is so much to make one feel sad in this whole region. Particularly, when the ones who suffer the most are often those that are innocent like the young or the elderly. Sad. Sad. Sad. [Upon my return to the classroom] I’ll certainly want to convey to my students that conflict and violence still continue.”

•

Mary and Curt Lindquist

READ MORE ABOUT REV. DR. CURT LINDQUIST'S TRAVELS AT sabbatical2017blog.com

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 23

R U Feat u r e

Wheeler focuses on the Etowah Valley, Cherokee County

24 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

Source: Cherokee County Historical Society.

G

ranted leave to work on a new book, tentatively titled “Creation and Destruction in Cherokee County,” Dr. Wheeler’s forthcoming book is a study of the Etowah Valley (of which Reinhardt is a part) from the Southern gold rush and Cherokee Removal during the 1830s through the Civil War. Of his work during sabbatical, Wheeler says, “Northern Georgia attracted so many talented people during that time – they tragically wrecked the Cherokee Nation and altered the landscape permanently, and they also built significant railroads, towns, schools and iron furnaces.” In the 1860s, though, these creations were destroyed during the Civil War, and much of the talent moved elsewhere, especially to Atlanta and the new city of Birmingham.”

“I think historians have not understood the lasting significance of the Southern gold rush – the largest gold rush in American history at that time – and so we have not grasped how important this area was in the development of a modern South.”

Wheeler has also completed another article focused on Reinhardt’s hometown, Waleska.

“Waleska, as it turns out, is a religiously strange place,” writes Wheeler. “From the 1850s to the 1930s, the only nonMethodist congregation in town was a Universalist church. The Universalists are distinct because they are a branch of Christianity that believes in universal salvation.” The Universalists were mostly a New England denomination, and rare

“The uninterrupted time...will make my book more insightful – that is my hope...”

– Dr. Wheeler in the South, which makes the Waleska congregation stand out.”

“What I discovered is that the extended family at the center of the Waleska church wound up producing four Universalist ministers who worked across the Deep South – from Georgia and Florida to Texas – for the better part of a century, and I think I’ve learned a

few things about the people who were attracted to Southern Universalism.”

On a personal note, Wheeler said, “A historian I admire, Jacques Barzun, said ‘the essence of thought is continuity.’ He was saying it is very difficult to think well when we are interrupted all the time, and of course being on campus is a series of mostly happy interruptions, as one teaches classes and attends meetings and talks with students and colleagues and grades papers and prepares for the next class. The opportunities for sustained thought are quite limited. So the most meaningful thing about my sabbatical leave has been the uninterrupted time, which offers a chance for deeper reflection and maybe even some good thoughts that will make my book more insightful; that is my hope, anyway!”

•

Get t ing Their Groove Back

Sabbatical:

A formula for more compelling, innovative and engaged teaching and learning

Lindquist and Wheeler return this fall better prepared to engage more deeply and to create a more vibrant learning community at Reinhardt.

The direct beneficiaries of Lindquist and Wheeler’s sabbatical experiences

will be the students they teach.

No doubt, the entire Reinhardt University community will be better, stronger and more prepared to lead and serve because of their experiences over the period of their time away.

“I would argue that sabbatical leave makes professors more interesting and compelling – sabbatical leave, even when one is working hard throughout the time, is inherently rejuvenating and enriching. I hope my enthusiasm for learning, my intellectual devotion, will be evident in the classroom.”

– Ken Wheeler

1

Sabbatical has its origins in Latin: sabbaticus; Greek:

sabbatikos; Hebrew: Shabbat, English: sabbath literally a “ceasing”) is a rest from work, or a break, often lasting up to one year. The concept has its origins in Jewish and Christian sacred texts, among others.

2

The Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) is a large

network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe and coming together at the tomb of St. James (Santiago in Spanish) in Santiago de Compostela in north-west Spain.

See santiago-compostela.net.

3

Tantur Ecumenical Institute, founded in 1972, is an interna-

tional ecumenical institute for advanced theological research in Jerusalem owned by the University of Notre Dame.

“I hope my sabbatical experience makes some of the issues I discuss more real and urgent for my students. I hope it helps them realize that good people in various religious traditions do their best to live responsibly.”

– Curt Lindquist

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 25

FALL FAMILY WEEKEND 2017

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 • RESPYs • Family Karaoke reinhardt.edu/fallfamilyweekend

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 • 5K for ADay • Football • Tailgate • Soccer • Sharp Reception • Laser Tag

You Will Be HOME. HOMECOMING 2017

reinhardt.edu/homecoming

26 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

OCTOBER 6-7

R U G r ow t h

Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center undergoes renovation INCLUDES INNOVATIVE LEARNING SPACE, TECHNOLOGY L AB AND NEW COMMUNIT Y ROOM

THE

RIBBON CUTTING

S

ummer at Reinhardt brought construction crews and

The new 14,411-square-foot student success learning commons is underway.

R

einhardt University will unveil a new and improved Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center this fall thanks to a wonderful partnership between the University, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, the Sequoyah Regional Library System and the City of Waleska.

The county Board of Commissioners earlier this year approved granting Reinhardt University a $1 million gift from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds (SPLOST).

SPLOST funds are 1 percent of the county’s overall sales tax.

“We are quite fortunate to be in a community where partnerships

are welcomed, and everyone works together for a common good,” said Dr. Kina S. Mallard, Reinhardt President.

“With the help of Cherokee County, Mayor Doris Jones and the City of Waleska, and the Sequoyah Regional Library System, we are creating a multi-use space for the Reinhardt family and community.”

“The Board of Trustees at Reinhardt University is grateful and thankful for the partnership with Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, City of Waleska and the Sequoyah Regional Library System,” said Billy Hasty, chairman of the Reinhardt Board of Trustees. “I would like to thank everyone involved in making this possible. This effort will expand resources for our students at Reinhardt and also continue to serve our neighbors in Waleska.”

As part of the partnership, the Sequoyah Regional Library System will extend borrowing privileges to the University library, including book requests from its library branches.

The renovated facility encompasses the top floor of the library. Plans call for a new community room, technology lab, computer lab, innovative learning space and classrooms.

“It is a pleasure to be able to use the voter-approved SPLOST dollars to improve the existing library on Reinhardt’s campus as it is a win-win for all parties involved,” said Cherokee County Manager Jerry Cooper. “It allows the County to save several million dollars while also better serving our Waleska residents and the University community.”

•

equipment as the top floor of Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center is transformed.

A ribbon cutting for the new space will be held Oct. 10 on Reinhardt’s campus in Waleska.

The 14,411-square-foot renovated space encourages an innovative learning space, classrooms, technology lab and a new community room. The total square footage also includes a portion of the first level of the building.

“I am very excited about the new learning spaces that will be available in the library. The open learning commons area will provide access to computers like students have had in the past; however, students now will have more small group collaboration spaces available both for study and for working together on group projects,” said Joel Langford, director of library services for Reinhardt.

“The technology lab will provide an enclosed teaching and learning space for students and faculty.

“Also, having a large meeting room will enhance programming opportunities for both the University and Waleska communities. I think that students will find the renovated library to be a place that is both conducive to learning and aesthetically pleasing,” he added.

In addition, the University plans to continue working with the County and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development to create an environment for innovation and entrepreneurism with a place for business accelerator programming.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 27

RU Alumni

By Erika Neldner

SPREADING THE GOSPEL AND DOING GOOD A fter finding his faith and a path for his

future at Reinhardt University, Michael

Coleman is living day by day spreading the Gospel and a whole lot of good through ministry in Charlotte, North Carolina.

As a member of the Urban Eagles through Missionary Athletes International, the 2016 RU graduate is doing the work he says God has called him to do. While serving in China for three months, he was trying to figure out what to do next. The college soccer player wanted to reach at-risk youth and use soccer as the vehicle.

“My plan was to go get a part-time job and during my time off, just play soccer with kids in Atlanta and share Christ with them,” Coleman said.

He began internet searches thinking he had heard of an organization that already had a program in place, and Charlotte Eagles kept coming up time and again. So he reached out to RU Men’s Soccer Coach Joey Johnson, someone Coleman called a man of Christ and someone who had ties to the Charlotte Eagles.

28 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

“When I signed on to be the men’s soccer coach at Reinhardt, the first thing that I did was to go to lunch with the captain of the team, Michael Coleman. It was clear after just those two hours with him that Michael possessed natural leadership qualities.

As time passed, his honesty, work ethic and servant’s heart constructed a solid platform for influence for the season we shared together,” Johnson said.

Johnson connected with the person in charge at Missionary Athletes International, and in less than a week, Coleman was on a bus headed to North Carolina.

He joined with his boss, Ben, who had been living in the low-income community of about 4,000 for a few years, and got set up in their home.

The domestic missionaries live in the communities they are reaching, Coleman said, adding it is much like Jesus did – living amongst and ministering to the people.

“It has been a great journey for me to witness the personal growth in this young man’s life in recent years, and I know he is having a positive impact on the lives of others through his work with the Urban Eagles,” Johnson said.

Currently, Coleman coaches a 10-and-under soccer team with 13 boys on the team.

“We do everything from small group Bible studies together to tutoring and educational assistance,” he said. “We are also there for crisis assistance if something comes up in the home.”

He helps out in other areas where he can. Urban Eagles has middle and high school teams, including 50 young men.

“Forty-three of them are fatherless,” Coleman said, adding how important it is for Urban Eagles leaders to be good male role models for the boys and young men in the community.

It was not that long ago that Coleman was searching for a faithful atmosphere and a strong and faithful role model.

Both of those he found at Reinhardt.

“I was not a believer when I first came to Reinhardt. I met the Lord while I was at Reinhardt,” Coleman said.

He said he was lost and was dealing with many issues. It was walking back from soccer practice one day that he was overcome with emotion and clarity.

“I believe it was the Holy Spirit that flooded me,” Coleman said. “I went back to my room and was bawling. I asked the Lord to forgive me, and I said, ‘I don’t want to do anything without you, Lord.’”

“My life did a 180 at Reinhardt.

Things changed on the soccer field.

I ended up becoming the captain my senior year. We led the team to the school’s first-ever regular season championship,” Coleman said.

A graduate of the McCamish School of Business with a degree in business administration, Coleman said his original plans were to get into the business world and “live for myself.”

That quickly changed and now he is focused on spreading the Gospel and making a difference in the young men’s lives.

•

THE ROAD #AFTERREINHARDT

ALUMNI PROFILE

Michael Coleman

’16

Degree: Business Administration, McCamish School of Business Job: Ministering to children through soccer as a coach with Urban Eagles Former: Captain, Reinhardt Men's Soccer Team To learn more about Coleman or the Urban Eagles, visit maisoccer.com/Missionary.

The Road #AfterReinhardt

Reinhardt University is proud of its alumni, and we continue to follow their accomplishments long after graduation. Over the summer, we launched The Road #AfterReinhardt social media campaign that also is shared on our website and in our digital newsletter.

Do you have a story to tell? Email MBL@Reinhardt.edu

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 29

R U Fea t u r e

PROJECT LEADERS Johnathon “Big John” Hill, Kendall Byrd and Steve Dietz

30 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

A PROJECT

THE SURFACE Lake Mullenix – known on campus as a great place to walk, relax and enjoy Mother Nature’s beauty. But hidden beneath the surface is a different world, one several students and Steve Dietz are diligently working to make healthy.

\\\\\\\\\\\\ B Y E R I K A N E L D N E R ////////////

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 31

R U Fea t u r e

he beautification of Lake Mullenix has been part of the Arts Around the Lake, but the lesser-known project is what lies beneath the surface of the water.

Johnathon “Big John” Hill and Kendall Byrd are the students driving the work behind the overall project with other members of the Reinhardt Eagles wrestling team.

Dietz, spouse of President Dr. Kina S. Mallard, said he wanted to know what was going on with the parts of the lake that could not be seen, and no one knew exactly how deep the lake actually was.

“With the University’s focus on beautification of the lake, I became deeply interested in the ecosystem of the lake itself,” said Dietz.

In November 2016, Dietz worked with a company to evaluate the ecosystem and map the lake to determine depth and topography – all at no expense to the University.

“I learned more about fish than I ever have in my life. They came back and basically said it’s not that you don’t have fish; you have too many fish, and they are starving.”

The report included many recommendations that Dietz took to members of the science department faculty, Dr. Zach Felix and Dr. Keith Ray. They voiced their opinions of the findings, which were included in the development of an action plan.

During the study process, fish were measured, weighed and counted. Fourand 5-year-old bass were supposed to be weighing somewhere between 5 and 7 pounds: They weighed a mere 8 ounces.

“Their growth was stunted because they have nothing to eat,” Dietz said.

That’s where Hill, Byrd and the wrestling team come in.

Hill, a Pickens County native, grew up fishing lakes in North Georgia, including Allatoona and Lanier, among others. The avid bass fisherman competes in tournaments and fishes 32 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

A PROJECT BELOW THE SURFACE

L AKE M U LLE NIX

REPORT Fish over-population and growth stunted from lack of food.

SOLUTION

Restore the ecosystem by relocating 70 pounds of fish.

Implement Root Wad Kits for baitfish to survive.

Control underwater grass growth.

every spare moment he can.

“We are here about every other day,” Hill said, adding that he and Byrd

met on the wrestling team and found another common interest in fishing.

“If we are not here, we are fishing somewhere else,” Byrd said.

It was fishing from the banks of Lake Mullenix where Hill met Dietz.

“I’m always out here. I ran into Mr. Dietz one day, and he sparked the conversation about what was going on and what was happening. He told me what he was thinking about doing and asked me what I thought,” Hill said.

The goal became removing 70 pounds of fish from Lake Mullenix and relocating them.

Nearing the end of spring semester, they were more than halfway there.

TEACH A MAN TO FISH

J

Another component includes building underwater structures to protect the baitfish, allowing them to spawn before the offspring is gobbled up by the hungry larger fish.

“The stuff they want to build is the stuff we already build and put in Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona. They call them Root Wad Kits. You put them in strategic places. You put them in that deep spot where the water goes shallowto-deep because that’s where they will spawn and return later,” Hill said.

“Right now there is nowhere for the baitfish to hide.”

They build the underwater obstructions with PVC so they last

longer. Christmas trees, Hill said, simply dissolve or turn to mush over time.

Just a few months into the project, 20 grass-eating carp have been added to control the underwater grass growth, and the ecosystem now is home to more frogs, water turtles, snapping turtles and non-venomous snakes.

“A flock of Canadian geese arrived and are being controlled by Bentley, the ‘First Dog,’” Dietz said, smiling.

Dietz said solar-powered automatic feeders have been installed to help keep the fish growing and healthy. In addition, he has hired a local company, Water Doc, to control algae. The mapping, analysis, feeder, lime, and all maintenance and upkeep are financial items Dietz is funding.

“Several other significant improvements are coming soon,” Dietz said.

In the end, all involved want the campus lake to continue to be an appealing community place for making memories.

•

ohnathon Hill loves to bass fish, and he has a heart for helping.

The Sport Studies major plans to pursue a Master of Education from Reinhardt after graduating. He also is working toward a business minor.

“You don’t really see big males in the elementary schools, and I’m hoping to go in and be a good role model and help some kids.”

Hill isn’t a traditional student.

After serving seven years in the U.S. Army, he decided to focus on his dreams of coaching sports and teaching children.

When the lake project arose, Hill saw a different view than just improving the ecosystem. He sees it as a way to get children involved in the outdoors.

“You can bring kids out here and get them into fishing,” he said. “It teaches them how to be patient.”

Fishing also teaches children discipline and a skill they can take with them through their lives.

And the overall project is one both Hill and Steve Dietz hope generations will enjoy.

“It’s to create a better fishery for everyone for years to come,” Hill said. “We are paying it back for the future. It’s already a great lake, but a few things we can do can put it on a different level.”

“We welcome students or anyone in the community to fish,” Dietz said.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 33

R U M at h e m at i c s & S c i e n ce s

STUDENT

TURNED TEACHER Teaching assistant positions are popular across science departments at universities, and Reinhardt is offering its education students in science a chance to get their feet wet in a real classroom setting.

“This year, we started providing teaching assistant opportunities for junior and senior undergraduates to help them teach intro to biology laboratories.”

DR . JACOB H A R N E Y, DE A N , S C H O O L O F M AT H E M AT I C S AND SCIENCES

“This is designed especially for biology education majors. It gives them the opportunity to earn credit in the classroom teaching with a designated instructor having oversight.

“But they are the chief instructors for the class,” Harney added.

As a teaching assistant, the student-turned-teacher learns from their peers while they teach. Harney says it’s a great way to get more comfortable in the classroom and to develop a teaching style since the students are about the same age and can give realistic feedback. And having teaching assistants frees up faculty to give their upper level lab classes more focus.

34 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

Giving students more tools for greater futures

By Erika Neldner

T

he School of Mathematics and Sciences is giving its students a strong foundation for bright futures as it shifts curriculum and looks to offer more. When Dr. Jacob Harney came to Reinhardt University, he saw a need for students to learn in a hands-on laboratory setting, allowing students to put their lecture knowledge to work from original observation to hypothesis, experimentation and conclusion.

“At universities, you have lecture time and then pull out an equal amount of lab time,” said Harney, dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences.

“Here, it was two hours, three days a week. There was no real opportunity to do anything more than a two-hour window of labs.”

The labs allow students to get handson experience with the topic of study, something lectures do not allow.

“Students don’t learn well from long lectures,” Harney said. “We needed a student-centered lab with students doing the experiments and students having time to carry it all out, getting the results and having to write it all up.”

A neurobiologist by degree, Harney came to Reinhardt from a research institution in Connecticut and has had several published studies. He knows how beneficial lab time is for students.

Last year, the courses were renumbered, and now the University is evaluating the courses within each discipline and the order of when students take those courses.

“They need to be prepared well

ahead of time for entrance exams. The MCAT this year has now increased the psychology component; it’s increased the focus on biochemistry. We look at the curriculum and say ‘where along the lines should these students be taking these to prepare them to take that exam at the end of their junior year?’ You have to be mindful of these types of things.”

Strengthening all the science programs is at the forefront of Harney’s goals, which include adding new programs.

“Having looked at the marketplace, we are identifying places for growth.

The areas we have looked at most closely, with the exception of nursing, which I was involved in when I got here, are computer science and cybersecurity. The data indicates there is a great need for them in the Atlanta and metro area, and it’s going to be greatly in need moving forward,” Harney noted.

The search for faculty to teach cybersecurity is a top priority. The curriculum has been developed for the

Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity and is in the midst of SACSCOC review.

“Thirteen new courses will be offered over the course of the entire degree,” Harney said.

The School of Mathematics and Sciences also will be adding a chemistry minor, and a search for a full-time, tenure-track chemist is scheduled to start this fall.

In addition, the School is pursuing more internship opportunities across both the natural and social sciences.

The goal is to provide more high impact practice opportunities for undergraduates, and the biology program has begun with the addition of a 200-level internship opportunity course.

“Now it’s about finding and making those connections (in the community),” he said. “Each individual faculty member is kind of requested to look in their immediate area and determine what would be appropriate opportunities in their specific areas.”

Fulfilling the University mission of educating the whole student and providing them with the best opportunities possible stands strong in the School of Mathematics and Sciences. Part of Harney’s mission is opening up doors for students so they can gain the best experiences possible inside and outside the classroom at Reinhardt.

•

YO U R H E LP I S N E E D E D

A

s Reinhardt’s School of Mathematics and Sciences prepares to offer more internship opportunities for the department’s students, more connections are needed. Dr. Jacob Harney, dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences, and his team are seeking businesses and professionals in the North Georgia and metro-Atlanta area who can afford students the opportunity for internships. “We are seeking professionals who can provide our students with a professional setting and a great learning environment,” Harney said. “Our students are some of the best of the best. They are dedicated, organized and truly want to learn.”

Interested in becoming internship sponsors in the fields of math and science?

Contact Dr. Jacob Harney for more information at (770) 720-9102 or JPH@Reinhardt.edu

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 35

R U M at h e m at i c s & S c i e n ce s

Dual Roles

Dr. Jacob Harney also serves as interim dean of the McCamish School of Business.

36 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

By Erika Neldner

A CHANGE IN FOCUS

F

or anyone walking across campus any day of the week, the sight of Dr. Jacob Harney’s Stetsonstyle hat and suit are unmistakable. His look is easily recognizable, but his hobbies aren’t necessarily reflective of his studies.

While passionate about science, the neurobiologist and dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences has a love for the guitar, reading, sports, Jeopardy and yard work.

“I putz around on the guitar,” Harney humbly said.

Driven professionally by science, Harney enjoys the artistic side of life.

He continues to teach himself how to play the guitar, and he loves to read.

His main focus is reproductive physiology. But it wasn’t until the end of his undergraduate studies in the mid-1980s that he would find his true professional passion.

He started out as an animal science major with a goal of becoming a veterinarian.

“Junior year in undergrad at the University of Connecticut, I took a course in reproductive physiology and became fascinated with it,” he said.

In his senior year in college, Harney was allowed to take a graduate course and a passion was ignited. Harney continued his studies in reproductive

physiology in Fuller Bazer’s University of Florida Lab and moved on to earn his Ph.D. He then pursued a postdoctoral opportunity at the University of Maryland at Baltimore School of Medicine.

“We studied brain aging, and we used the reproductive system as a model to understand aging of the brain. Female reproduction is the one system that shuts down long before you have pathological aging.

It’s a good model for studying the transition from young to middle to old age. That’s what got me into neuroscience,” he said.

His focus of study shifted after accepting a position at the University of Harford and after the birth of his son.

“At the end of my first year at Hartford, my son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 14 months of age. I turned my research focus to brain energy and metabolism and understanding how diet impacts cognitive function. I was interested in the effects of ketones and how diabetes was going to impact his ability to learn.

It changed my career as far as my area of interests,” Harney said.

For 17 more years, Harney’s career stayed at the University of Hartford, and his research continued. But it

was serendipity that pushed his move to Reinhardt University in 2015. His mother-in-law decided to move to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain community in the northern most part of Cherokee County and just down the road from Reinhardt.

“I drove my wife to visit and we drove past Reinhardt. I actually came in the biology department and met (associate professor of biology) Irma Santoro. I said, ‘This is a really cool place.’”

“Fast forward two years from that visit, and I see an ad for a dean of math and sciences at Reinhardt,” he said.

His wife was supportive of the move, and he said it was time to leave Hartford – the winters were brutal and he was ready for a change.

“It was an opportunity for me to bring my experience at a larger university to a smaller university. It was the right time for me to do it,” Harney said.

The Connecticut native has found his home here. He enjoys the North Georgia Mountains and also the growing and thriving private university he found at Reinhardt. Milder weather has afforded him opportunities to work outdoors and watch his garden grow, while he nurtures Reinhardt’s math and sciences programs.

•

“It was an opportunity for me to bring my experience at a larger university to a smaller university. It was the right time for me to do it.”

– Dr. Harney REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 37

R U D i st i n g u i s h e d A l u m n i

By Erika Neldner

AT A G L A N C E

EDUCATION Dr. Beth Bowser was born in Atlanta and grew up in Canton. After graduating from Reinhardt, she continued on at Tennessee Wesleyan College and then to Candler School of Theology at Emory University. She earned her doctorate of education from the University of Akron (Ohio).

MINISTRY Dr. Bowser has spent more than 45 years in the ministry through the United Methodist Church. She serves or has served on the East Ohio Conference of the UMC Council on Ministries staff and as a writer and curriculum field representative/ consultant for The United Methodist Publishing House.

HIGHER EDUCATION Her higher education experience is plentiful, serving almost 20 years in various positions at Mount Union University, the Institute for College and University Teaching and the Associated Colleges of the South.

Dr. Bowser, owner of Glass Treasures since 1982, enjoys creating stained glass and kiln-formed glass art.

In 2008, she created the stained glass eagle window, which hangs in the Bannister Glasshouse.

38 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

Dr. Beth Bowser has led a life of education and service since she graduated from Reinhardt in 1968 – dedication and accomplishments that have earned her the 2017 Distinguished Alumna of the Year Award.

“B

eing named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year is a great honor and one that was totally unexpected,” Bowser said.

Dr. Bowser was honored at the Spring Alumni Day luncheon held in the Bannister Glasshouse March 25.

Dr. Janice Fuller, president-elect of the Alumni Board of Governors, in her introduction said, “While a student at Reinhardt, Beth served as an editor on the ‘Cherokee Phoenix’ staff, was a member of Phi Theta Kappa national honor fraternity and was chosen to be in the prestigious Who’s Who in American Junior Colleges.

Even though Beth physically left the campus of Reinhardt, Reinhardt has always remained a part of her life.”

Dr. Bowser came to Reinhardt in 1966 and has been an active member of the Alumni Board of Governors for 18 years. She was president from 20092011. She currently lends her knowledge and expertise as a member of the Reinhardt Women’s Leadership Program advisory board.

“Reinhardt is a growing and vibrant campus,” she said. “But even with its growth in so many areas, it still retains a simple beauty and an inviting atmosphere.

Reinhardt remains a caring community and a great place to pursue an education.”

Dr. Bowser’s mark can be found on campus in artistic form. The stained glass eagle that adorns Bannister Glasshouse was something she created and donated to the University in 2008. Her creative work also can be seen in a garden bench, handcrafted of glass and concrete, in the garden between the Glasshouse and Hill Freeman Library. She says paying it forward is a way she can pay back what she received at Reinhardt, from scholarships and work-study opportunities to a lifetime of memories.

“I share my time, energy and resources, doing whatever I can to contribute to the continuation of Reinhardt’s legacy and ensuring that other young men and women have the opportunity to experience this special place,” she said. “To all of the other alumni and friends of Reinhardt who are sharing their time, energy and resources on behalf of Reinhardt, I applaud you and say thank you for what you are doing. It really does take all of us to keep this place and its legacy moving forward.”

•

Honoring John Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist Church.

J O H N W E S L E Y C L E R GY AWA R D

The Rev. David Melton has been involved with Reinhardt University’s United Methodist Golf Outing for almost all of its 24 years.

The current committee chairman’s dedication and commitment to furthering higher education have earned him the 2016-2017 John Wesley Clergy Award.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be recognized with this award,” said Melton, of Dunwoody United Methodist Church. “All the folks I have been working with at Reinhardt and the committee members have been wonderful.”

The 24th Annual United Methodist Golf Outing, held May 17 at Bent Tree Golf Course, raised a record-breaking $32,000 for student scholarships at Reinhardt University.

“We are fortunate to have great friends at Reinhardt like Rev. David Melton, 2016-2017 John Wesley Clergy Award winner,” said Tim Norton, vice president for advancement and marketing

J O H N W E S L E Y L A I T Y AWA R D

Tom Carter attended Reinhardt from 1960-1961, but his heart never left the Waleska campus. His love for Reinhardt was passed down to his children, Meredith and Chip, who also attended Reinhardt.

Carter has served on the Reinhardt University Board of Trustees since 2004 and his dedication also was celebrated in 2007 when he was given the Alumni Loyalty Award.

Carter said Reinhardt holds a special place in his heart and he has enjoyed watching it grow and improve through the years.

“We are honored to have alumni like Mr. Carter. His heart is with

at Reinhardt. “Not only has David served his church, Dunwoody United Methodist Church, for 22 years, he has served Reinhardt University with his strong support for our annual United Methodist Scholarship Golf Outing.

Reinhardt students are the beneficiaries of David’s long, strong support, and we are ever grateful for his work on behalf of the University.”

Melton is a Deacon in Full Connection in the North Georgia Conference of The United Methodist

Wesley Awards Church. Currently, he serves as the minister to the congregation, overseeing the areas of adult education, evangelism, and assimilation and member involvement. Before joining the staff at Dunwoody, Melton served at St. James UMC, Atlanta; St. Luke’s UMC, Windermere, Florida; West End UMC, Nashville, Tennessee; Pfeiffer College, Assistant Director of Admissions, Misenheimer, North Carolina; and Lake Junaluska Assembly, Lake Junaluska, North Carolina.

Rev. Melton is a 1976 graduate of Pfeiffer College where he was president of his class and a 1982 Master of Arts graduate of Scarritt College. David also has served on numerous committees, boards and agencies of The United Methodist Church, locally and nationally. He serves as an elected member of the Pfeiffer University Alumni Board and served as co-president, with his wife, Joy. Last year, he was named Outstanding Alumnus.

Reinhardt and we appreciate his love and commitment to the University,” said Tim Norton, vice president for advancement and marketing.

Carter, a Loganville native, has been a dedicated Methodist all of his life. He served in many leadership positions including Staff Parish Relations chair, Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday school teacher, trustee and usher team leader at Grayson UMC. Professionally, Carter taught at Griffin High School, but for most of his adult life he worked in the automobile industry as a licensed Ford-Lincoln-Mercury dealer. He is semi-retired but remains active in the community.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 39

RU Sports

Reinhardt basketball teams shine in 2016-17 season Reinhardt’s 2016-17 basketball seasons were among two of the best in the history of both the men’s and women’s programs, with both sides earning a bid to the respective National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Championship tournaments.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

On the women’s side, the Lady Eagles finished with a record of 27-6 and were co-champions of the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) regular season. The Lady Eagles became the first AAC team to earn an at-large bid to the NAIA national tournament.

Rebecca Cheeks finished a remarkable freshman season, earning AAC Freshman of the Year honors and became the program’s first NAIA Women’s Basketball All-American since Josephine Reed in 2007 when she received honorable mention status.

The Ranger, Georgia, native scored 16.1 points per game and finished the season ranked 13th nationally in

Rebecca Cheeks

rebounds per game with an average of 10.2 per contest.

“Rebecca is an outstanding player who really was one of our catalysts this season,” said RU head women’s basketball coach Lindsey Huffman.

“For a freshman to come in and compete at the level she did for the entire season is truly remarkable.”

As for Huffman, the Cherokee County native was named AAC Coach

Russo becomes first Eagle to go to national wrestling meet R

einhardt’s wrestling program had an outstanding maiden season, with freshman Tucker Russo becoming the school’s firstever participant in an NAIA wrestling national championship meet.

Russo earned a bid to the national championship as a wild card entry from a national panel that determined his 40 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

performance was worthy of continuing into postseason action.

At the national meet, Russo picked up a victory in the first round by a 10-4 score. He would be pitted in the

Justin Bridges

of the Year for the first time in her career. Huffman led Reinhardt to the best winning percentage in program history (.818) and also a school record for wins in a season.

MEN’S BASKETBALL

On the men’s side, the Eagles earned a bid to the NAIA national tournament by virtue of finishing second in the

next round against the eventual NAIA national champion at 157 pounds, Brandon Weber of Montana StateNorthern. Tucker would be pinned in the second round, bringing his national championship appearance to an end.

“Tucker is an excellent wrestler who fights for every point,” said RU head coach Jeff Bedard. “We’re trying to build a team of people who will go the extra mile day in and day out to be in a position to keep fighting in those tough matches. Tucker is one of those guys who does that.”

The first season of Reinhardt wrestling saw the Eagles pick up their first official win as a team against Allen Dec. 3, 2016, by a 40-10 score. After a

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MAKING THE GRADE

AAC regular season standings to eventual national champion Union College in Kentucky. Reinhardt also reached the finals of the AAC Championship for the first time in head coach Jason Gillespie’s tenure.

The Eagles won more than 20 games in a season for the first time since the 2003-04 campaign when that team won 21. The 2016-17 edition of the Eagles went 22-10 overall, marking the fourth time in a row that the program has had a winning record.

Senior Justin Bridges earned NAIA Honorable Mention AllAmerican status, giving the Eagles an All-American for the first time since Carl Williams in 2007. A First Team All-AAC honoree, Bridges scored 12.9 points per game for the Eagles and dished out a team-high 100 assists.

“Justin is a really good kid and a very selfless basketball player,” said Gillespie. “He’s very talented and has the passion to keep pursuing his basketball dreams overseas. I’m certain he’s going to keep developing into a solid professional if that’s the path he chooses to continue to go down.”

•

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced that 18 of Reinhardt University’s teams have earned distinction as Scholar-Teams for the 2016-17 academic year.

“Success on the field of play is vital,” said RU athletic director, Bill Popp. “But the greatest accomplishment of our student-athletes is for them to succeed in the classroom.”

3.26 overall GPA FOR ALL ATHLETICS

120 57

Academic all-conference members in the AAC and the Mid-South Conference (RU’s football home).

NAIA Scholar-Athletes

Reinhardt’s 18 honors place it in the top tier of all

Four Academic All-

NAIA schools with only two

Americans – including

schools earning more than

Softball Academic

18 Scholar-Team honors, St.

All-American of the

Ambrose (Iowa) and Concordia

Year, Taylor Weeks

(Nebraska).

– as awarded by

A year removed from

the College Sports

winning 12 different conference

Information Directors

championships, Reinhardt

of America (CoSIDA)

University Athletics built on that success winning nine different conference

Reinhardt’s women’s soccer program

championships this past

had the highest team GPA at RU and the

season. There were also

highest among all NAIA women’s soccer

eight different teams who

teams with a 3.67 GPA.

reached NAIA postseason play, including men’s lacrosse

30-18 win over local rival Shorter, the Eagles traveled to Laurinburg, North Carolina, and defeated St. Andrews, 38-9. RU’s final win of the opening season came over in-state foe Truett McConnell, 24-23, in the closest match of the beginning season.

Before the start of “duels” season, the Eagles participated in numerous “Open” matches where wrestlers competed in tournaments broken down by weight class. At the Georgia Open in Franklin Springs, Georgia, Nov. 12, the Eagles won three weight classes.

Jonathan Ragsdale won at 125 pounds, Dyllan Greene was tops at 149 pounds and Nicholas Distasio earned the victory at the 165-pound weight class.

•

who won the University’s

Reinhardt University’s baseball team

first national championship in

posted a GPA of 3.33, while the football

school history.

team posted a GPA of 3.13. Both were ranked

“I couldn’t be more proud

fourth nationally among all NAIA programs.

of the hard work of our student-athletes,” Popp said.

“Our coaches have really

FIFTH IN THE CLASSROOM

pushed to make success in

Reinhardt’s men’s lacrosse team was best

the classroom a top priority.

in the nation on the field and fifth in the

We’ve had great help from the

classroom, posting a GPA of 3.02.

professors and advisors on campus to keep our studentathletes on the right track.

To see these numbers just makes our success this year in competitions that much sweeter.”

TOP

5

Reinhardt’s softball program finished in the top five nationally with a team GPA of 3.56.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 41

RU Sports

CHAMPIONS! MEN’S LACROSSE WINS REINHARDT’S FIRST NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN SCHOOL HISTORY 42 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

J

eff Mathis was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament as Reinhardt University won its first-ever national championship in any sport with a 10-5 victory over Keiser University in the 2017 NAIA Men’s Lacrosse National Invitational.

“This is all we’ve talked about from day one. I’m so proud of these guys.

The effort they put in during the off season, from 6 a.m. workouts to everything they’ve done. I’m proud for the school. I’m proud that we were able to bring that first national championship home to Reinhardt,”

said RU head coach and 2017 NAIA National Coach of the Year John Snow.

A record-setting season for the Eagles could only be capped with a national championship to be a success.

After Keiser briefly tied the game, 3-3, just over midway through the second quarter, the Eagles went on a 7-0 run for the next 31 minutes to put the game away. The run started with Cole Hennings and Mathis scoring goals to close the first half, giving RU a 5-3 lead at the break. The Eagles would keep Keiser off the scoreboard in the third quarter as Austin Ambrose

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

made a pair of saves and Connor Mills and Artie Lewis each scored in the period as the Eagles led 7-3 after three.

Reinhardt salted the game away quickly in the fourth quarter. After nearly five minutes on offense, Lewis scored his second goal, assisted by Chad Huffman, to give Reinhardt an 8-3 lead. Reinhardt would milk more clock, with Mills scoring with only a little more than half the quarter to go to make it 9-3. Then with four minutes and 12 seconds to go, the final goal of the season went to Bennett Jarrett, with Mathis dishing out the assist, as the Eagles led 10-3.

The message before the run started was similar to the message that has been delivered all season, says coach Snow.

“We got together and regrouped and just talked about playing Reinhardt lacrosse. Our senior leadership is fantastic. We just settled down and played our game,” Snow said.

Ambrose played one of the best games of his career on one of the biggest stages. The senior made 12 saves, including five in the first quarter as RU held the Seahawks scoreless for the period. “I’m so used to him doing that, but he’s unbelievable,” said Snow.

For Snow to see Mathis given the tournament’s MVP award was a great highlight of the tournament. “Jeff’s meant everything to this program,” Snow said. “That freshman class that he came in with has won over 70 games in four years. Jeff’s just a great kid who works hard every day. I’m proud of him and happy for him.”

Balanced scoring helped Reinhardt to the national championship as Lewis, Hennings, Mills and Mathis each scored two goals. Kevon James added three assists to lead all players.

Defensemen Trey Whittemore and Tony Herrington were named to the all-tournament team, as were long stick midfielder Brent Johnson, James and faceoff specialist

Grant Sufferling. After going 19-of-28 on faceoffs in each of the first two games of the tournament, Sufferling was 13-of-18 in the championship game.

“I think it’s a culmination of a project that we dreamt about that we’ve made a reality,” said RU director of athletics Bill Popp. “We’ve been knocking on the door in a lot of sports from softball to football, and now for men’s lacrosse to kick that door down is really special.

“We brought John Snow in here a few years ago to right the ship with our men’s lacrosse program and really get it going, and he’s done just a fantastic job. He’s a very deserving national coach of the year and for this men’s lacrosse team with so many local kids to bring us our first national championship just makes it that much more special.”

John Snow NAIA NATIONAL COACH OF THE YEAR

•

GOODHIND NAMED EAGLES’

VOLLEYBALL COACH R

einhardt’s volleyball program

high character who compete annually

is on the rise with a new coach,

for conference championships.”

Brian Goodhind, at the helm.

Goodhind was head coach at

“I believe that Brian is going to be

Webber International University

an incredible fit for our program,”

(WIB) for six seasons, with a

said Reinhardt director of athletics

two-year stint as an assistant coach

Bill Popp. “He is a proven winner

prior to becoming head coach. In

with a passion for volleyball that is

2016, Goodhind led WIB to a 28-3

perhaps only matched by his passion

record, an undefeated 14-0 mark in

for Jesus Christ. He is going to

The Sun Conference, and an NAIA

bring a tremendous change to our

National Tournament Opening

volleyball culture that can only be

Round appearance.

viewed as positive.”

Goodhind was named TSC and

“I’d like to thank Coach Popp

AVCA Southeast Region Coach of

and the hiring committee for this

the Year, while two players earned

opportunity,” Goodhind said. “I intend

AVCA NAIA All-American honors

to hit the ground running with the

and three players were AVCA All-

ultimate goal of building women of

Southeast Region.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 43

RU Sports

SOFTBALL

Reinhardt’s softball program continued its tradition of excellence by winning the Appalachian Athletic Conference regular season championship.

BILL POPP UNDER ARMOUR ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

R

einhardt University Director of Athletics Bill Popp was named the Under Armour AD of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA). He was one of 28 recipients recognized across seven divisions of collegiate athletics.

“What an honor to be recognized as Athletic Director of the Year by a great organization like NACDA,” said Popp.

“Though the award has my name on it, the effort and attitude to earn this award belongs to our student-athletes for their hard work on and off the courts and fields, to my coaches and trainers, and the University administration for their tremendous support of the mission of the athletic department.”

“Once again, we are proud to honor the 28 directors of athletics, from all levels of NACDA’s membership, as the Under Armour Athletics Director of the Year Class of 2016-17,” said NACDA Executive Director Bob Vecchione. “This award was created by the leadership of NACDA in 1998 to honor those athletics directors who have done an outstanding job in the eyes of their peers.”

Popp is in his 13th year as Director of Athletics for Reinhardt University. A twotime Appalachian Athletic Conference Athletic Director of the Year (most recently in 2015-16), Popp has overseen unprecedented 44 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

success and growth in the University’s athletic department.

In 2015-2016, teams at Reinhardt combined to win 12 AAC championships. The department posted a winning percentage of .622, with seven different teams reaching NAIA postseason play. More impressive was the work in the classroom as Reinhardt’s student-athletes posted a GPA of 3.28 for the 2015-2016 academic year. Reinhardt had 102 student-athletes receive Academic All Conference recognition from either the AAC or the Mid-South Conference.

Under the guidance of Popp, Reinhardt has added 11 sports to its athletic program.

Reinhardt has also been on the forefront of the transition of men’s and women’s lacrosse to an NAIA Championship sport, with both teams receiving Top 10 rankings in the 2017 preseason coaches’ poll.

Popp serves on the NAIA National Administrative Council and is a member of the NAIA’s ADA Board of Directors.

He also serves as vice president of the AAC. He is a graduate of Kennesaw State University. He resides in Canton, Georgia, with his wife, Jennifer, and son, Noah.

•

The title marked the eighth year in a row that the Lady Eagles have won at least a share of an AAC championship, whether via regular season finish or tournament victory. Taylor Braselton was AAC Player of the Year. The shortstop from Euharlee, Georgia, set a Reinhardt record with 89 hits in the regular season.

Her award marked the third year in a row that the RU program has won the softball AAC Player of the Year award.

“Our conference continues to get better and better,” said head softball coach Jade Geuther. “This year proved more than any that you can’t just show up on the field and expect to win. I’m very proud of how the team has responded to adversity and proud of how we keep battling until the final out.”

The Lady Eagles moved to the NAIA National Championship Opening Round, from which they were eliminated.

SPORTING SUCCESS | The spring season saw continuation of Reinhardt’s success from the fall and winter sport campaigns.

BASEBALL Reinhardt’s baseball team tied the school record for wins in a season with 34 entering the final weekend of the 2017 regular season.

The Eagles were ranked as high as No. 24 in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll during the season and were still receiving votes entering the final week of the campaign.

Reinhardt qualified for the AAC Championship in Kingsport, Tennessee. The Eagles fell to Tennessee Wesleyan 6-5 to close out the season.

Spring

season TR ACK & FIE LD Reinhardt’s men’s outdoor track & field program won the AAC Championship with an astonishing 194 points at the conference meet, setting a conference record in the process.

Samuel McDade was the top point scorer at the meet with 42 points, while freshman Dalton Gasaway was named AAC Rookie of the Year following his performance.

“I knew going in that if we could find a way to get to 194 points, we would have a really good chance to win the meet,” said RU head track & field coach Jordan Turner. “We talked a lot in the week leading up to the meet

about doing our best and competing at the highest level. We knew that would make things comfortable for us, but I’m still amazed at how well we really competed when the chips were down.”

Gordon Dudley qualified for the NAIA National Championships with his javelin throw of 55.85 meters at the AAC Championship.

In the week before the AAC Championship, L.J. Stegall, Dez Cook, Gasaway and James Richardson qualified for the NAIA National Championships with a time of 41.47 in the 4x100 Meter Relay.

TENNIS

Reinhardt’s men’s tennis team finished the 2017 regular season ranked No. 15 in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll, while the RU women ranked No. 24 in the final coaches’ poll of the regular season.

The men’s squad won the AAC regular season championship and entered the AAC Tournament as the top-seeded team. The women finished in second place in the regular season AAC standings.

Fabio Pereira was named AAC Men’s Tennis Player of the Year for 2017. The junior went 14-0 with teammate Emory Deloach at RU’s top doubles position, with the duo also earning AAC All-Conference honors. Jennifer Pourchier was named AAC Men’s Tennis Coach of the Year. On the women’s side, Paula Puentes, Yamit Vodavoz and Chiara Rebecchi were each named to the AAC All Conference team, with Rebecchi also earning AAC Women’s Tennis Freshman of the Year recognition.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 45

RU Remembers

By Erika Neldner

An Eagle Forever COAC H Q U E N T I N MO S E S ’ L E G AC Y L I V E S O N AT R E I N H A R D T

W

HAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN A TIME of new roles and gearing up for spring training turned into a time of mourning after coach Quentin Moses, 33, was killed in an early morning house fire.

The Reinhardt University community and Moses’ family gathered in the James & Sis Brown Athletic Center gymnasium Feb. 15 to honor Coach Q, as he was affectionately known.

Reinhardt football players, past and present, walked in two-by-two placing white carnations in vases next to photos of Moses. They took their seats, surrounding Moses’ family in attendance, which included his mother, sister, nieces and nephews, and several of the many godchildren Moses had dedicated his life to over the years.

Tears flowed from the eyes of those in attendance, and sobs could be heard among the brief moments of silence. Those sitting or standing next to each other would offer a hand to hold as a source of comfort or give a shoulder to rest a weary head. Players and friends embraced each other as they remembered the man they could always count on to shed positive light on any situation.

“Q meant a lot to our players and he meant a lot to our staff. And we will remember Coach Moses for all the positive that he did,” head football coach James Miller said, fighting back tears. “We’ll remember his infectious smile and his consistent belief in second chances.”

Reinhardt President Dr. Kina S. Mallard and Athletic Director Bill Popp both addressed the parishioners with heavy hearts but with encouraging words about Coach Q.

President Mallard called Coach Moses a man with a big heart, an accomplished athlete and an excellent grill master. She talked about his strong faith and his love for his family, friends and players.

“I met Coach Moses in August of 2015 when I met many of you players for the first time. As the new president, I was asked to say a few words at your team meeting,” Mallard said. “Some of you will remember the verse I used that day, Psalm 61, ‘from the end of Earth,’ from Reinhardt University, ‘I call to you when my heart is overwhelmed and weak, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.’ Each player was given a rock that day. We talked about clinging to the rock who would see you through any trouble, doubt or frustration or disappointment or pain. Players, you’re going to need to cling to that rock. You are going to need to cling to

Surrounded by his family, Rodderick Jones addressed the Reinhardt Eagles during the service.

R E I N HAR DT U N IVE R S IT Y HA S S ET U P A SCH O L AR S H I P I N H O N O R O F COACH Q The Quentin O. Moses Scholarship will benefit student-athletes at Reinhardt University.

Contributions can be made to that scholarship and mailed to the Office of Advancement, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska, Georgia 30183.

46 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

A NN UA L MEMOR I A L SE RV ICE

Honoring 63 alumni, faculty, friends, staff and trustees.

No. 94

Reinhardt Head Football Coach James Miller is honoring Coach Q by establishing that the best defensive lineman of the week, each week starting next football season, will wear No. 94, the number Moses wore at the University of Georgia.

The Reinhardt University family gathered Tuesday, April 25, to remember those in the University community who have gone from this Earth in the past year. The service of remembrance and hope, led by the Rev. Timothy J. Emmett, pastor of Waleska United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Dr. C.R. Hill Jr., spiritual health and education advisor, was attended by more than 50 and was held at the new Cascading Ponds Patio at Lake Mullenix.

your God when you don’t know what to do. As you find your heart overwhelmed and weakened with grief, it is our hurt, our grief that remind us what a special friend Coach Quentin Moses was.”

Popp took the podium, taking a few minutes to gather himself, experiencing emotions he was not expecting to overtake him when it was his time to speak about Moses.

“I didn’t think it would be this hard when I got up here,” Popp said. “Like many of us in this room, I knew Quentin Moses long before he knew me. As an avid sports fan and card collector, he was a hero on the gridiron and in my sports card collection.”

Popp took his Quentin Moses cards from his collection and handed them to Moses’ family during the service.

As darkness fell over the gym and light from candles began to shine, players could be seen arm in arm, connected in community grieving and honoring Coach Moses at the same time.

The service ended with a welcomed yet unexpected message from Moses’ godson, Rodderick Jones.

The young boy took to the podium with family surrounding him for support. He said Q’s death devastated him and called the pain “unbearable.”

But he pulled together strength to address the Reinhardt Eagles.

“He loved his job at Reinhardt. He loved each and every one of his players and coaches. All he wanted you to do is be great and successful. Quentin touched many lives throughout his wonderful life, and now he gets to rest in peace.”

•

Erwin H. Aderhold

Robert K. Kastl

Paul Henry Anderson

Bill Kennedy

Dr. Julian Andrew (Andy) Archer

Robert E. Leonard

Randall C. Bagwell

Clifford G. Long

Betty A. Barge Fred F. Boling

Margaret Valero McPherson

Robert E. Bridges

Roger O. Miller

Christopher Chandler

Wayne L. Mooneyhan

Curtis A. Chapman

Quentin Omario Moses

Brian Collett

Rickey J. Nealey

Michael Collins

Judson Padgett Nelson

Billie Davis

James W. Norton

Margaret T. Dobson

Janeal Orr

Richard J. Dowis

Joan Padgett

Jimmie Foxx Duncan

Walt Pendley

Carl C. Edge

Virginia C. Prather

Larry H. Eubanks

Geraldine Katzen Radell

James Chester Gibson

Rebecca Wood Ray

Donnie Haney

William Odell Riley

Evelyn L. Hayes

Virginia L. Robb

Fred K. Hemphill

Judson Roberts

Jackie Hill

Garry W. Smith

Wilson A. Hix

Lovedia S. Snow

Elaine Hubbard

Bill D. Snyder

Marjorie H. Hubbard

Houston P. Spencer

J.R. Huddlestun

Hugh S. Spruill

Kathryn Hutsenpiller

Charles Teague

Lanier R. Ingram

Eugenia Tucker

Richard R. Jaeger

William Marcus Wallace

Allen O. Jernigan

Hayden Whitaker

Roy W. Johnson

Reuben O. Wilson

Harriett A. Lindsey

Edith Singletary Jolly

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 47

R U G ivi n g

A legacy supporting the arts L

ongtime Reinhardt supporters Austin and Bea Flint made a transformational $1 million gift this year, which named the performing hall in the Falany Performing Arts Center “Flint Hall.” The Flints’ generosity provides a major lead gift for the planned theater building and an endowed music scholarship.

48 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017

For information on enrolling in the nursing program, call (770) 720.5526 or see Reinhardt.edu/nursing.

A gift for future Life Changers

R

ecognizing the ever-growing need for nurses to staff its new hospital in Cherokee County and elsewhere, Northside Hospital Cherokee (NHC) and the Northside Hospital Health System has given $500,000 to help Reinhardt University launch its School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

“Northside is honored to assist Reinhardt University as they launch the School of Nursing and Health Sciences,” said NHC CEO Billy Hayes. “As our North Georgia communities continue to grow, the need for health care professionals, especially well-qualified, highly educated nurses, is accelerating at a pace that is hard to imagine.”

Reinhardt’s nursing program has received initial approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing (GBN) and the University’s regional accrediting agency, SACSCOC, on its plans to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

“I’ve had the opportunity to be involved with both Reinhardt University and Northside Hospital,” said Billy Hasty, chair of Reinhardt’s Board of Trustees and a board

member of Northside Hospital Healthcare System. “With the assistance of Billy Hayes, Dr. Kina Mallard and many others, we have been able to bring together the educational goals and the nursing employment needs of these two outstanding organizations.”

Reinhardt’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program will be housed on its Waleska campus and will utilize labs and classrooms of Chattahoochee Technical College’s Appalachian campus location just 15 minutes north of Waleska.

“For many years, Northside Hospital Cherokee has served Cherokee County and the larger community in our area with high quality health care, and we are grateful to have garnered this kind of support from Northside,” said Reinhardt President Dr. Kina S. Mallard.

•

MCFATHER DONATES $75,000 FOR NEW THEATER STUDIO Joan McFather, a longtime supporter of the arts, member of the Falany Performing Arts Center Advisory Board and a member of the Board of Trustees at Reinhardt University, has given $75,000 to fund the Joan McFather Studio in the theater building on the University campus in Waleska.

The nearly 1,100-squarefoot McFather Studio will be used as a flexible space during performances and for rehearsals when the theater is in use.

“Joan McFather’s leadership and involvement at Reinhardt – from serving on the Falany Center's advisory board to volunteering for many performances and, now as a member of the University’s Board of Trustees – is such a treasure to all of us who lead this great University,” said President Dr. Kina S. Mallard.

The $6.6 million theater project includes a 300-seat black box theater, portico,

Pictured in the Women’s Center Atrium at the new Northside Hospital Cherokee are, from left: Mary Jane O’Dell, education coordinator for Northside Hospital Cherokee, Billy Hasty, chair of the Reinhardt University Board of Trustees and a member of the Board of Directors of Northside Hospital Healthcare System, Billy Hayes, CEO of Northside Hospital Cherokee, Dr. Kina S. Mallard, president of Reinhardt University, and Dr. Glynis Blackard, dean of Reinhardt’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

grand lobby, box office, north and south loggias, green room, performance studio, paint shop, scene shop, wardrobe shop, media classroom and offices.

REINHARDT | FALL 2017 | 49

R U G ivi n g

A Reinhardt legacy gifts the University for facility renovations

R

einhardt University holds a special place in the hearts of the Gordy family – a tie that dates back to the 1920s when W. Frank Gordy Sr. and the woman who would later become his wife, Evelyn Jackson, attended Reinhardt Academy.

The Gordy’s daughter, Nancy Simms, CEO of The Varsity – the nearly 90-year-old Atlanta landmark her father founded – together with her husband, Steve, are once again showing her family’s love for Reinhardt with a $500,000 gift to renovate and expand the existing W. Frank and Evelyn J. Gordy Center.

“Steve and I are thrilled to continue our support for Reinhardt University, a place that means so much to our family,” said Simms. “My parents would be particularly glad to see how Reinhardt is growing and that it continues to make possible an education in such a wonderful Christian environment.”

The Gordy family has given more than $9 million to the University over the years, and Nancy Simms volunteers her time serving on Reinhardt University’s Board of Trustees.

With the recent gift, Reinhardt plans to renovate and expand “The Gordy,” as it is commonly known on campus, beginning in summer 2018 including the addition of about 10,200 square feet of new space and renovations to the other 6,600 square feet of current space. The cost of the project is anticipated to be $3.8 million and will include additional dining space for students, upgrades to mechanical systems and accessible meeting space. A new two-story lobby will encapsulate the historic front of the current building, honoring the enduring legacy of the Gordy family.

“We are thrilled to continue our support for Reinhardt University, a place that means so much to our family.”

– Nancy Simms

– Timothy A. Norton Nancy and Steve Simms

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT MAKING A GIFT to Reinhardt University in support of the renovation and expansion of Gordy Dining Center, contact the Advancement Office at (770) 720-5621 or advancement@reinhardt.edu.

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You Will Be

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7300 Reinhardt Circle | Waleska GA 30183 ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED

THE APPALACHIAN VILLAGE AT FUNK HERITAGE CENTER The Funk Heritage Center at Reinhardt University is a National Parks Service Trail of Tears Interpretive Site. Its newest exhibit highlights life along the Etowah River and incorporates artifacts found when the Walmart on Riverstone Parkway in Canton was under construction in the 1990s. Individual, groups and school classes are welcome.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit Reinhardt.edu/FunkHeritage 52 | REINHARDT | FALL 2017