Samford Legacy League 2024-25 Spring Newsletter by Samford University

LEGACY LEAGUE

Happenings | Spring 2025

Celebrate Good Times! Come On!

by Cynthia Walker Watts-Barrineau

The Legacy League’s annual Scholarship Celebration gives us many reasons to celebrate – so “come on” and join us on Thursday, April 24! Entertainment at the 2025 Celebration will be provided by our own Jon Michael Ogletree, a Birmingham native, Samford alumnus and gifted musician. In addition to Jon Michael’s exceptional concert, guests will enjoy feasting on a delicious, beautifully served dinner, applauding the amount of scholarship funds raised and hearing heart-warming stories about our Legacy League students.

Standing 3’8” high, Jon Michael may be the shortest professional pianist in the world, but he is tall on talent! Popular on YouTube and other social media platforms, he shares the hope of Jesus online and in person as a pianist and motivational speaker. His music is enjoyed in over 150 countries monthly, and he has selfproduced, arranged and released 11 albums. Jon Michael has performed to

Scholarship Celebration Committee

Front: Julie Taylor, Shea Williams, Kerry Gossett (co-chair), Paula Gossett (co-chair), Beth Gowing; back: Karen Carlisle, Lori Henry, Tricia Naro, Sharon Smith, Sharon Cahoon, Jan Cobb, Nancy Golden; not pictured: Brandy Beaumont, Cindy Bembry, Jennifer Brandon, Karon Bowdre, Rhonda Cantelow, Lindsey Reed Curl, Maureen Hallman

had studied piano from ages four to 13 at the Samford Music Preparatory Department (now Samford’s Academy of the Arts).

Thursday, April 24

Covenant Presbyterian Church

5:30 p.m. Doors Open

6 p.m. Seated Dinner

7:45 p.m. Concert

$85 per person

Tables of 8 are also available.

For reservations and more information, go to samford.edu/legacyleague.

sell-out crowds and is often in demand as a cruise ship entertainer. His speaking topics include Overcoming Adversity, Problem Solving and Improving Attitude; he incorporates playing the piano in his talks. His clients include Chick-fil-A, Auburn and Samford, as well as other schools, businesses and churches. His testimony is powerful.

Jon Michael earned two degrees from Samford, graduating in 2007 with a bachelor’s in accounting and his MAcc in 2008. He was familiar with Samford’s campus when he began as a freshman as he

During college Jon Michael interned with BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama, which later led to him becoming CFO of their federal government contract subsidiary company. He enjoys being back on campus teaching Personal Finance as an adjunct professor in the Brock School of Business.

The 2025 Scholarship Celebration will be a night to remember, so invite your family and friends to join us! Individual and table reservations are priced lower than in past years to make the event more affordable. Like always, proceeds will provide scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. 

Jon Michael Ogletree

Lynn Parrish, Cathy Cook and Kathryn and Byron Woodruff enjoy a delicious seated dinner at last year’s Scholarship Celebration.

Christmas Home Tour - It Just Means More!

by Kathryn Woodruff

Why is the Christmas Home Tour (CHT) so important? Is it because guests are inspired by beautifully decorated homes and their desirable amenities? For example, this year’s homes included enviable outdoor living areas (some with retractable screens), conversation-starting artwork, hammered sinks and a domedceiling bathroom. Or maybe it’s because guests appreciate delicious goodies, beautiful music and a chance to shop?

Let’s consider the big picture. It’s fun to look back to our humble beginnings in 2011, when we sold 212 tickets and raised just under $2,700, and compare that to this year’s 888 tickets sold, producing revenue over $36,000. And then add in more than $26,000 in sponsorships (an aspect of the tour that didn’t exist in 2011). In all, the CHT’s 14 years of cumulative impact on our scholarship endowment is nearly $500,000!

The CHT now receives tremendous exposure annually in local publications such as Over The Mountain Journal, Vestavia Hills Magazine, Mountain Brook Magazine and Homewood Life. We’ve even had other publications ask to promote our tour. The tour connects people to the university and raises awareness of Legacy League’s mission.

All of this then leads to financial support from businesses and people who would otherwise have no connection; opens doors to potential new members and/or corporate and individual sponsors; and increases volunteer engagement. All these expand the immeasurable impact of the CHT even more!

Of course, the tour would be impossible without our fabulous homeowners and their lovely homes. Our 2024 homeowners were: Amy & Matt Kelly, Mary Catherine & Scott Laney, Nancy & Ron Rowell, Marianne & Patrick Strong and Julie & Beck Taylor. We are tremendously grateful for Presenting Sponsor ARC Realty and all our other generous sponsors! Finally, we are thankful for our hard-working committee, chaired by Jan Service, and all the additional volunteers who served by baking and packaging treats, greeting guests, spreading publicity, playing music, inviting friends and everything else involved!

Above all, let’s not forget why we hold this event in the first place. We want to help change the lives of students who have faced tremendous obstacles. Hey, let’s do this again next year! 

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PREMIUM SPONSORS

FRIENDS

Brookdale University Park Senior Living Holt AV/Video

Leon Loard Oil Portraits

O.Henry’s Coffee & Company

Thompson’s Frame Factory

Tricia & Philip Naro

Please thank and support our sponsors!

2024 Christmas Home Tour Committee

Front: Lindsey Reed Curl, Claire Gwaltney, Sheila Smith (vice chair), Marie Cimbora, Julie Taylor, Tereasa Rima, Jan Service (chair), Karen Carlisle, Amy Duffey; back: Betsy Elsner, Sharon Smith, Cathy Cook, Amy Fenton Lee, Jan Cobb, Cindy Bembry, Julie Gunter, Danna Duncan; not pictured: Brandy Beaumont, P.A. Carmichael, Maureen Hallman, Cindy Hardy, Barbra Summers, Shea Williams

Lead and assistant lead hosts are excited about their home tour duties.

Brandy Beaumont, Tereasa Rima, Danna Duncan and Amy Duffey package holiday treats to serve at the Samford President’s Home.

From Agnostic to Christian: Carolyn Weber Shares Riveting Story of Conversion at Oxford

by Frances King Abrams

“God speaks to us in our love language,” said author/ professor Dr. Carolyn (“Caro”) Weber during the Scholarship Luncheon on Feb. 13. Caro’s love of literature, fueled by her mother’s encouragement and an insatiable appetite for reading, eventually led her to Oxford University on a Canadian Commonwealth scholarship.

Caro didn't expect to fi nd a new love at Oxford: Jesus Christ. Quoting from Francis Thompson’s poem The Hound of Heaven, she chronicled her arduous journey from agnosticism to Christianity. “He relentlessly pursues us.”

Family hardships led to cynicism, convincing Caro she could not believe in an eternal God. Yet at Oxford she met Christians from all over the world and began thinking about life’s meaning. Those

Scholarship Luncheon Committee

Front: Sarah Rich, Julie Taylor, Jane George, Dianne Booth, Jan Cobb; back: Inga Clum (chair), Carol Rutledge, Cynthia Brast-Eldredge (vice chair), Ashley Seligson, Sharon Smith, Lindsey Reed Curl; not pictured: Brandy Beaumont, Cindy Bembry, Mary Berryman, Karen Carlisle, Maureen Hallman, Belinda Stroud, Shea Williams

PREMIUM SPONSORS

It’s All Fun and Games

When the Junior Board Hosts

by Sadie Goodman

Under the leadership of president Meg Donovan the Legacy League junior board is having a banner year. Little Professor in our beloved Homewood community provided the perfect, fun ambiance for the fi rst fall event — Trivia Night. Junior members and guests gathered to play, snack and visit while learning more about the Legacy League’s ministry and mission.

As students passed the halfway mark in their fall studies, the junior board hosted Legacy League Night at Urban Cookhouse in November. This event was followed by the Holiday Fundraiser, which included poinsettias, Cookie Fix cookie dough, candles by Butt Naked Candles, hand-painted ornaments by Porter Rivers Art and a new product, soap by Nanny Goat Farms. Thanks to all who ordered these items and helped support our scholarship fund!

The January Fellowship Supper, primarily hosted by the junior board, provided comfort on a freezing winter night with a roaring fi re and marshmallow skewers, as well as Mexican fare for a create-your-own nachos/taco bar. After a nice winter break, students enjoyed a cozy evening and received goody bags, leftovers, warm words of encouragement and prayers. Serendipitously, a Samford basketball game was on television by the crackling logs! What a joy to provide a homey night in for students during the busy Step Sing season. Desiring to do something “sweet” for scholarship recipients in February, the junior board gave them each a Valentine, complete with a Cookie Fix token.

At press time, the junior board’s Spring Fundraiser Committee was fi nalizing plans for their March 18 event: “Tips for Tiles: An

big staying power

Intro to Mahjong” at the Samford President’s Home. The program was planned to include instruction and play, helping attendees learn the basic rules of this thrilling tile game. Sponsored by Warren Averett, the spring fundraiser provides a way to bring our community together and share our important mission of raising funds for scholarships for our Legacy League students. Mahjong saw its fi

in America in the 1940s and has taken the country by storm in the past few years. Many regular players credit this game with higher brain function as they age, as it is mentally challenging and very rewarding. We are deeply grateful for the excitement and support shown by members of all ages in Legacy League and in our community. The junior board looks forward to continually contributing and making an impact in the days and years to come. 

rst

Steven and Sarah Grace Givhan (chair), Sarah Anne Elliot and Robert Donovan enjoy the friendly competition at Trivia Night.

Junior members are all set for supporters to drive through and pick up their orders at the Holiday Fundraiser.

Spring Fundraiser Committee

Lillian Wesley (vice chair), Caroline Carlisle (chair), Libby Faucett, EmmaJayne Albritton, Lane Henderson; not pictured: Meg Donovan, Sadie Goodman, Sharon Smith, Mary Snyder, Julie Taylor

At the Urban Cookhouse restaurant fundraiser, volunteers fellowship as they prepare to pack goody bags for our LL students.

Volunteer Spotlight Cynthia Watts-Barrineau: How can I make a difference today?

by Jo Klepper

Cynthia claims Birmingham as her hometown and attended Samford, majoring in English. She has been involved with Legacy League for many years, always striving to help other people. Cynthia now lives in South Carolina but continues to attend Legacy League events and participate in any way possible. She enjoys serving as a greeter and helping with event setup when she's in town.

Q:

How did you ﬁrst get involved with the Legacy League?

A: My mother gave me a Life Membership when my daughter was born in 1976. Mother was an officer and very involved in the then Samford Auxiliary. Before moving to Birmingham in 2012, I was only able to attend occasionally. But after moving, Jeanna Westmoreland said, "We will take over your life,” and I served in different roles on the board and attended most events.

After my mother died, I was able to establish the Walker Ministry Scholarship in honor and memory of my 24 family members who attended Samford/Howard College, most to pursue ministry.

How have you been impacted by volunteering with the Legacy League?

A: Everything Legacy League does supports our scholarship recipients. Volunteering helps me meet my mantra: "How can I make a difference today?” Doing anything that results in fundraising for our students, I'm in.

What highlights can you share from your recent areas of involvement with the Legacy League?

A: Seeing dear friends at our events is a highlight for me. The quality of the events and speakers is defi nitely worth the miles driven from South Carolina. Serving as a home host during the Christmas Home Tour in December reminded me how many people enjoy that event. Volunteering for anything that benefits our scholarship recipients is important. 

Where Are They Now?

Kaitlyn

Thibodeaux Lindvall:

by Sheri H. Ransome

Kaitlyn Thibodeaux was just 10 years old when her dad underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor, leaving him without peripheral vision and legally blind. “This impacted my family’s fi nancial situation as my mom had to take on a job while my dad found things he could do from home to help support our family.” Several years later as Kaitlyn prepared for college, a friend suggested Samford. Upon arriving for a campus visit, she felt such peace and a sense of home. Her dream of attending Samford was only made possible through the blessing of a Legacy League scholarship.

Kaitlyn pursued her purpose-driven preparation in Samford’s Moffett and Sanders School of Nursing and currently serves as a nurse at Grandview Medical Center, caring for patients in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. “I am so grateful to my nursing professors for not only teaching me valuable nursing skills, but for teaching me how to be the hands and feet of Jesus. It is what makes Samford so special.”

Kaitlyn cherishes the support she received as a Legacy League scholarship recipient. “There was nothing better than coming

Keeping Christ in the center of my life!

together for Fellowship Suppers, receiving homecooked meals and lots of love from the Legacy League members who all felt like family to me.” These experiences are especially meaningful for Kaitlyn as her siblings, Grant and Mandy, are current Legacy League scholarship recipients.

Andrew and Kaitlyn Lindvall

While at Samford, Kaitlyn met her husband, Andrew Lindvall ‘22, and they married after graduation, settling into their home in Hoover with their golden retriever puppy, Millie. Looking back on her days as a student, Kaitlyn shared “Samford prepared me to go into my job and into my future with the mindset of putting others fi rst and keeping Christ in the center of my life!” 

VOLUNTEERS in Action

Jane George, Cindy Anderson and Belinda Stroud serve at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.

Excited volunteers meet at Vestavia Country Club to decorate for the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.

Grateful for the opportunity to gather on Samford’s campus, members and guests visit at the Homecoming Tailgate.

Sharon Fussell, Ginny Scott and Cindy Hardy arrive early to greet guests and explore the Involvement Fair at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.

Students receive goody bags at the conclusion of the October Fellowship Supper.

Barbra Summers, Cathy Cook, Cynthia Brast-Eldredge, Amy Fenton Lee, Inga Clum and Beth Simpson help things run smoothly at the Kelly home.

Along with their families, junior members Meg Donovan, Nellie Whatley and Allison Strickland enjoy Legacy League Night at Taco Mama.

At the conclusion of a fellowship supper, Eliza Hudson gets caught in a "Jan-wich" before handing out goody bags to students.

Before the November meeting, Sheila Smith and Jan Service (in red aprons) visit with Vanetta Newton and promote the Christmas Home Tour.

While hosting the December Fellowship Supper, volunteers prepare to serve students a scrumptious meal and celebrate the season.

The Laney home host team is ready to greet morning guests for the home tour.

The Strong home hosts prepare for the second shift of the Christmas Home Tour.

Betsy Elsner, Frances Abrams, Claire Gwaltney, Sheila Smith and Kathryn Woodruff address invitations to the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.

Along with SAM the Bulldog, Legacy League members cheer on the men’s basketball team to victory over Wofford.

Cindy Anderson, Jane Stroud, Marigny Watson and Jan Service (chair) welcome tour guests at the Samford President's Home.

JoAnn Smith, Gloria Witt and Patsy Smithey enjoy fellowship and refreshments before the November meeting begins.

During a fellowship supper Katharine Faucett, Karen Carlisle and Jan Cobb help celebrate students with upcoming birthdays.

Caleb and Emily Cranton, Nellie Whatley (chair) and Sarah Chase Rabiee (vice chair) serve at the pickup location for the junior board's Holiday Fundraiser.

Legacy League students, volunteers and staff members visit during the January Fellowship Supper hosted at Sharon and Hartwell Smith's home.

New Harriet Williams Scholarship Announced at Luncheon

by Sharon Smith

When Harriet Williams attended her first Legacy League membership meeting in 2014, she had no idea of the role she’d later play in the organization’s mission. She was struck that spring day by the contrast between her daughter’s college experience and the challenges Legacy League scholarship recipients have faced. Compelled by the mission, she immediately joined the organization and jumped in as an active volunteer. Over the last 11 years, Harriet has served in a variety of leadership roles on the board, including vice president for programs, Scholarship Luncheon chair and president. Her dedicated service has been impactful on the organization and very meaningful to her.

Last fall Harriet and her husband, Jim, made the generous decision to create a new Legacy League scholarship. The new Harriet Williams Legacy League Scholarship, announced at the 2025 Scholarship Luncheon, will continue Harriet’s impact for years to come. Like all Legacy League scholarships, it will help provide the unique benefits of a Samford education to students with significant financial need and challenging life circumstances.

Harriet graduated with a B.S. from the University of Alabama and her master’s from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

New “Wings for Shelter” Scholarship Will Provide Hope and Help

by Sharon Smith

"He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." –Psalm 91:4

The words of Psalm 91 have long been a source of comfort and encouragement to the couple who recently established the Wings for Shelter Legacy League Scholarship. Having been involved in the organization for several years, they have seen how the Lord is using it to care for students with challenging circumstances. Inspired by their faith and commitment to the Legacy League’s ministry, they created this scholarship to provide refuge in the storms of students’ lives. Through their generous gift, they aim to support Samford's enduring mission and ensure its positive impact on future generations, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and generosity. 

Her career in nutrition and dietetics spanned four decades, with nearly 30 years at the Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH). Upon her retirement from the JCDH, she worked part-time at Medical West and taught as an adjunct professor at both Samford University and Jefferson State Community College.

Harriet’s husband and their daughter, Mary Beth, share her commitment to and affection for Samford. As PARCA’s founding executive director, Jim had an office on Samford’s campus for more than two decades. Mary Beth is a 2017 graduate of Samford’s nurse anesthesia program. The Williamses, along with Mary Beth’s husband, Joe, enjoyed celebrating the new scholarship when it was announced on February 13. 

LEAVING A LEGACY THROUGH THE LEGACY LEAGUE

Do you want to do something significant that will outlive you or find a meaningful way to honor or remember someone you love? You can be the tool God uses to change the lives of young people who have faced monumental challenges.

Establishing an endowed scholarship enables you to share the blessings the Lord has bestowed on you and be a blessing to others. It is a meaningful and permanent way to help students with significant financial need to experience the unique benefits of a Samford University education. And it may be easier than you think. A new scholarship may be created for a contribution of $25,000, payable in a variety of ways:

• by an outright gift of cash or stock

• through a five-year pledge

• via a deferred or planned gift – will, charitable trust, insurance policy or retirement plan assets

For more information on how you can leave a legacy and change lives through a Legacy League scholarship, contact Sharon Smith at 205-726-2247. 

Sharon Smith and Julie Taylor recognize Harriet and Jim Williams for establishing the Harriet Williams Legacy League Scholarship.

2024 Lolla Wurtele Wright Award Presented to Penny Kimrey

At the September Membership Kickoff Luncheon, Executive Director Julie Taylor announced our 2024 Lolla Wurtele Wright Award recipient — Penny Kimrey. Like Mrs. Lolla Wright, for whom the award is named, Penny consistently demonstrates a love for students. She knows the value of a Samford University education as her two daughters are both alumnae. She has served faithfully to help other students have this same experience.

In presenting the award, Executive Director Julie Taylor said, “This year’s honoree served as president of our organization during a period of significant change. Jeanna Westmoreland shared, ‘During her tenure, we changed the name of the organization from Samford Auxiliary to

by Dana Daniel Blake

Legacy League, designed the crest, hired Sharon Smith, and started the Christmas Home Tour. Penny’s careful and thoughtful leadership and her passion for providing scholarship assistance to those who need it the most helped to move the work of the organization to greater heights while recognizing and embracing the firm foundation and rich heritage provided by the Auxiliary.’” Many thanks to Penny for all she has done for Samford University Legacy League!

The Lolla Wright Award was created in 2007 to honor Lolla Wright, who was first lady and executive director of the Samford Auxiliary for 25 years. Alongside her husband, Samford President Leslie S. Wright, Mrs. Wright faithfully served Samford’s athletics, student organizations and faculty groups and was known for her passion for students and their happiness.

Meet Our New Staff Member

by Kim Settle

Brandy Beaumont Student Care Coordinator

Brandy joined the staff in October as our student care coordinator, a new part-time role. A former neonatal ICU nurse, Brandy has a master’s in education and post-master’s certificate in educational therapy. She and her family moved to Birmingham 18 months ago when her husband, Lance, became dean of Samford’s School of the Arts. Their daughters attend Brandy’s alma mater, Texas Christian University, and their son is a high school sophomore. Brandy loves hiking and trying new coffee shops. Welcome, Brandy! 

The award is presented each year to an outstanding Legacy League member. 

The 2024-25 cohort of Legacy League scholarship recipients enjoys supper and time together at the Samford President's Home.

Executive Director Julie Taylor presents the Wright Award to Penny Kimrey at the Membership Kickoff Luncheon.

Penny Kimrey, Elouise Williams and Jeanna Westmoreland support the mission of Legacy League at the 2013 Sunset 5K for Scholarships.

MEMBER UPDATE

July 1, 2024- January 31, 2025

Challenge Couples –

new level in 2024-25

Special thanks to our inaugural group:

Pat Spain Blanton & Jim* Blanton

Karen & Todd* Carlisle

Jo Wayne & Chalmers* Chism

Marie* & Dave* Cimbora

Jan & Mike* Cobb

Florence & Tim* Crocker

Betsy & Rob Elsner

Katharine & Brett* Faucett

Alta Faye & Gary Fenton

Kasey & Jack* Fiscus

Marynell & Bill* Ford

Paula & Kerry Gossett

Marilyn & Jim* Henry

Andi & Steve* Hill

Betsy & Jimmy* Holloway

Ann & Ron* Layne

Dina* & Alan* Long

Diane & Mike* Payne

Joan & Wray* Pearce

Beverly & Dennis* Sansom

Jan & Bill* Service

Sharon & Hartwell* Smith

Julie & Beck Taylor

*new Challenge member

New Challenge

Brandy Beaumont

Challenge Upgrade

Cindy Anderson

Allison Boone

Becky Bryant

Wendy Cook

Sandra Holley

Belinda Stroud

Lori Sullivan

New Life

Julie Jenkins

Melinda Landers

Life Upgrade

Jennifer Brandon

Elizabeth Howard

Kay McLean

Gena Vinyard

Deborah Westerfield

New Annual

EmmaJayne Albritton

Mandy Beason

Charlotte Bonsack

Sharon Cahoon

Christine Carr

Tracy Copeland

Kaity Fairburn

Amanda Gilliland

Ashbelle Henry

Carolyn Hilgers

Anna Kate Hindman

Judy Hoff

Paula Hovater

Lisa Imbragulio

Tracy King

Noah Letcher

Allyson Maddox

Lyn Marcum

Johanna Miller

Linda Needham

Dee Park

Amy Pattillo

Angela Phillips

Lisa Pruitt

Sarah Chase Rabiee

Susan Ramsay

Leigh Anne Reese

Shannon Schultz

Kim Settle

Lisa Simpson

Bonnie Verlander

Nancy Vogelsang

Katie Watkins

Gloria Witt

Gwen Wolbach

Dee Wyse

SCHOLARSHIP DONORS

July 1, 2024- January 31, 2025

Ann Keeney Layne Scholarship

Laurin & Bryan White

Anne Williams Bishop Scholarship

Sarah Moseley

Big Oak Ranch Scholarship

Gail & Mike Hathorne

Brandon David Booker

Memorial Scholarship

Caroline & David Booker

Caitlin Creed Samford Scholarship

Kathy & Brad Creed

Gail & Mike Hathorne

Lynda Jentsch & Bart Grooms

Cowley MK Endowed Scholarship

Anonymous Donor

Rhonda & Lawrence Cole

Beverly & Dennis Sansom

James Sledd

Education Centennial Scholarship

Marla Corts

Charolette & Tommy Hamby

Elliott Family Scholarship

Chizuru & Jeff Elliott

Elouise Wilkins Williams Scholarship

Marla Corts

Glenn and Frances Slye Scholarship

Brenda & Doral Atkins

Barbara & Vernon Boyett

Audrey & Timothy Cartwright

Brenda & Joe Douglas

Laurie Dove

Dale Duffey

Rebecca & C. Edward Earle

Jean Guthrie

Howell Holland

Patricia Johnson

Jennifer & Miller Parnell

Crystal & Terry Pennington

Bill Reynolds

Patti Rogers

Amanda & Joseph Sabelhaus

Debra Sampler

Glenn Slye**

Harriet Williams Scholarship

Harriet & Jim Williams

Gloria & Lowell Womack

Herman and Ruth Haas Scholarship

Leslie & Chris Corts

Marla Corts

Jeanna K. Westmoreland Scholarship

Sara Bryan

Julie Taylor Scholarship

Bonny & Larry Dearing

Julie & Mark Edwards

Julie & Beck Taylor

Legacy League Scholarship

Anonymous Donor*

Catherine & Douglas Abbott

Frances & Howard Abrams

Judy Adams

Carey & James Albritton

Christy & Dustin Allen

Faye & Jere Allen

Robbin & Anthony Allen

Joyce & James Altsman

Sara & Thomas Anderson

Mary Ellen & David Andrews

Linda Lowry & Ross Askins

Brenda & Doral Atkins

Wade Baker

Baptist Foundation of Alabama

Gail & Dan Batchelor

Mandy Beason

Katie Belcher

Karen & John Bergquist

Mary Berryman

Cherry Billings

Anne & Brad Bishop

Katherine & Billy Bishop

Naomi & Allen Blackwell

Dana & Bob Blake

Pat Spain Blanton & Jim Blanton

Molly Bee & Thomas Bloetscher

Emily & Bob Blount

Teresa & Charles Boackle

Karen & Sam Boatright

Margaret & Hamp Boles

Renee & Mike Booker

Allison Boone

Phyllis & Tom Boone

Dianne Booth

Julie & Charles "Poker" Boyd

Dollie & Forrest Brice

Christie & Edward Brown

Sonja & Bennie Bumpers

Carol Butler

Mary & Chris Byrd

Forrest Ann & David Cahoon

Annie Capps

Karen & Todd Carlisle

Val Carrier

Dorothy Carroll

Marie & Dave Cimbora

Linda & John Clark

Kathy & Michael Clay

Inga & Jason Clum

Jan & Mike Cobb

Charlotte Coleman

Cathy Cook

Wendy & Clay Cook

Cendy & James Cooper

Myra Courtney

Marlene & Jonathan Cox

Florence & Tim Crocker

Phyllis & Larry Crocker

Mary Ella & Max Croft

Julie & Drew Cundiff

Martha Darden

Julia & Tim Davis

Julie & Art Davis

Lisa Davis

Enid & Bill Dean

Joy & William Denton

Glenda & Joe Dickerson

Lynn Dill

Bobbie & Earl Dove

Dorenda & Stephen Doyle

Danna & Bert Duncan

Fran & Clarence Duncan

Judy & Jack Duncan

Teresa & Greg Durrett

Diane Eggert

Cynthia & Ernie Eldredge

Chizuru & Jeff Elliott

Betsy & Robert Elsner

Katharine & Brett Faucett

Alta Faye & Gary Fenton

Beverly & David Ficken

Rosemary Fisk & Howard

Walthall

Judy & Jeffrey Flannery

Janice & LaWayne Fleming

Marynell & Bill Ford

Sharon Fussell

Cynthia Gammill

Gail & Paul Garner

Gina & Brian George

Jane George

Virginia & Bob Glaze

Linda & John Godfrey

Nancy & Jonathan Golden

Sadie & John Goodman

Susan & Evan Gordon

Beth & Bob Gowing

Dotty Green

Vickie & Rick Griffith

Tiffany & Steven Grimes

Maurene Guffin

Claire Gwaltney

Brenda & Morris Hackney

Sheree & Tim Hall

Marilyn & Reginal Hallman

Charolette & Tommy Hamby

Allison & Bryan Hancock

Mary Hancock

Anna Kathryn & Mike Hardin

Cindy Hardy

Amy & David Harris

Gail & Mike Hathorne

Starla & David Hauseman

Lori & Louie Henry

Carolyn Herr

Emily Hightower

Carolyn & Jim Hilgers

Andi & Steve Hill

Eliza & Blake Hudson

Paula & George Hudson

Susan & Richard Hutchens

Alisa Hyde

Lisa & Van Imbragulio

Carol & Hal Jacks

Gay Johnson

Mary Johnson

Cynthia & Jerry Jones

Jenelle & Dewey Jones

Donna & James Jowers

Evelyn Kennamer

Tania & Wayne Kennamer

Lindsay & David Kessler

Patty Kirkley

Charlotte & Frank Langner

Cheryl & Ray Lea

Jane & Wayne Lewis

Carolyn Markham

Catharine & Wriston Marshburn

BJ McKay-Kossow

Sheri & Rory McKean

Ellen McLaughlin

Claudia & Brett Metcalf

Stacy & James Mintz

Kelly & Michael Monk

Kelly & Arnold Mooney

Moulton Family Charitable Trust

Andrea Mullins

Diane Muma

Patricia & Philip Naro

Patricia & James Netherton

Becky & Peter Neuberger

Katherine Newman

JoAnna & Robert Newton

Polly O'Neal

Frances Owens

Marilyn Palmer

Wayne Pate

Barbara Patton

Diane & Mike Payne

Daisy Perrigin

Jane & Mike Puckett

Kathryn & Chris Pursell

Jan & Richard Queen

Julie & Joe Raines

Leslie Ramsay

Susan & Rod Ramsay

Regions Financial Corporation

Ann & William Rice

Sarah & Matt Rich

Robbie & Ronald Roberts

Tracey Roberts

Nancy & Ronald Rowell

Carol Rutledge

Kathryn Woodru , Editor

Contributors: Frances King Abrams, Dana Daniel Blake, Kaity Fairburn, Sadie Goodman, Maureen Hallman, Lori Hill, Jo Klepper, Sheri H. Ransome, Kim Settle, Sharon Smith, Julie Taylor, Cynthia Watts-Barrineau, Shea Williams

Creative Services: Laura Hannah, Sarah Waller

Photography: Sarah Cook, Deidre Lackey, Marianne Strong and LL sta

For those sharp-eyed readers who wondered if something happened to the story on page 5 of the Fall 2024 issue, we apologize for the abbreviated title and missing byline. The correct title should have been “Scholarship Celebration Hits All the Right Notes,” and the writer was Kathryn Woodruff. —LL staff

Patti Salmon

Mandy & Lew Sample

Beverly & Dennis Sansom

Gale & Tom Sawyer

Kay & Jim Schinker

Ginny Scott

Jan & Bill Service

Kim Settle

Karen Shallenberg

Jenny Smith

Sharon & Hartwell Smith

Sheila & Rowan Smith

Patsy & Jimmy Smithey

Rose & Norman Snell

Katherine Spencer

Kathy & Dale Spruiell

Lynn & Stan Stepleton

Belinda & Stephen Stroud

Jane & Philip Stroud

Beth & Rick Stukes

Lori & Don Sullivan

Wilma & Doug Sweeney

Tina & Ed Swords

Taco Mama

Harriett & Foster Tate

Julie & Beck Taylor

The Hackney Foundation

Joyce & Jerry Thompson

Pam & Raymond Thompson

Rachel Tichy

Joan Todd

Nancy & Randy Tribble

Urban Cookhouse LLC

Paula Verdu

Brenda Walker

Lynn & Ronnie Watkins

Jeanne & Bill Wear

Lauren & Jeff Weathers

Andrea & Paul Wells

Martha Whitson

Harriet & Jim Williams

Kathy & Harold Williamson

Anita & Doug Wilson

Gwen & Steve Wolbach

Kathryn & Byron Woodruff

Mary Worthington

Mary Margaret & John Yeilding

Marla Haas Corts Scholarship

Marla Corts

Christian Wachter

Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing Centennial Endowed Scholarship

Naomi & Allen Blackwell

Mothers' Fund Scholarship

Karon & Birch Bowdre

Ruth E. Merz Scholarship Anonymous Donor

Samford's 175th Anniversary Legacy League Scholarship

Lynn Dill

Wings for Shelter Legacy League Scholarship

Anonymous Donor

*represents multiple donors **deceased

Samford University

800 Lakeshore Drive Birmingham, AL 35229

God’s Goodness Makes a Way

by Julie Taylor

Thinkwith me back to our Membership Kickoff Luncheon in September. Do you remember Dr. Timothy George’s exhortation from 1 Corinthians 4:7? “For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” Dr. George’s words encouraged us to serve through Legacy League this year with hearts that acknowledge that every good thing comes from God and not from ourselves.

Now, nearly six months later, we can celebrate that God’s goodness has indeed made a way for hundreds of us to give time and treasure back to the Lord through Legacy League. In turn, giving through Legacy League continues to not only make a way for current students to follow their God-given callings to Samford University, but also for many more future students, too.

Cedric, a senior Legacy League scholarship recipient, tells his story of praying to the Lord for help as he applied to Samford. In Cedric’s words, he was “trusting and believing in God that He would make a way, and He did.” He goes on to tell of God’s provision: “The Legacy League and my teachers have (been) great resources. Now I have a village I can lean on – people I can ask for help.” Praise God that He not

only made a way for Cedric to attend Samford but has also used Samford faculty members and the Legacy League to help Cedric stay on his way.

This year, like Cedric’s prayer for help, numerous prayers for students, members and Samford University have been offered and answered. Did you know that prayer requests are shared regularly via email with our Member Care Committee, who faithfully prays and encourages those in challenging seasons? Then, the collective prayers prompted by email are followed by handwritten notes from our Member Care chair, Kathy Clay, and other volunteers. So far this year, this committee has sweetly ministered to over 60 members and several students. We have prayed for very personal and deeply felt needs including elective and emergency surgeries, accidents and illnesses, financial shortcomings, death or disability of a loved one, cancer diagnoses and treatment.

Well beyond our faithfulness to pray (even beyond Kathy’s faithfulness to write notes!), God has been faithful to answer our prayers time and time again. So, let us take every opportunity to return our thanks and praise to God.

Our greatest opportunity to collectively

return thanks and praise to God is at our end-of-year Scholarship Celebration. Please mark your calendar for Thursday, April 24, and join us for an elegant dinner and concert by Jon Michael Ogletree. This event will be a special evening of celebrating God’s goodness and how He has made a way through Legacy League.

I am excited to share that the cost to attend this year’s Celebration has been reduced by $40 per person from last year. Perhaps, this reduced cost will be God’s way of making a way for you to come to this event for the first time. Maybe, the chance to celebrate the Lord’s goodness will compel you to invite a friend or family member to join you. I am encouraged that members are already making a way for others to attend through sponsorships, the purchase of an entire table or simply offering to assist with transportation. God continues to make a way through Legacy League. I look forward to joining you to celebrate His goodness!

“And on that day you will say, ‘Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name. Make known His deeds among the peoples; make them remember that His name is exalted.’Praise the Lord in song, for He has done glorious things; let this be known throughout the earth.”