Dr. Darville to Retire After 34 years

15 Shorter Welcomes Theatre Professor

Story: Rachael Minard Photo: Submitted by Drew Davidson

Drew Davidson has come a long way to become an Assistant Professor of Theatre here at Shorter University. “It was a 100% God thing. This move was divinely orchestrated. I believe God specifically created this position for me.” Davidson has immense experience in theatre and improv. He has had a heart for comedy since performing in his first improv show in seventh grade.

Davidson graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and received a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from the University of Mississippi. During graduate school, Davidson was inducted into the Graduate Student Hall of Fame for Outstanding Research.

When Davidson is away from Shorter, he runs an Online Dialect Studio where he teaches aspiring actors how to speak with different accents. He has also created improv groups, curriculum at three universities, and led workshops involving improv techniques. Also, for the third year, Davidson will host a Shakespeare Festival that he and his wife began in Kentucky. In addition to his accomplishments in the area of theatre, Davidson is certified in Single Sword and Hand to Hand combat by the Society of American Fight Directors and Dueling Arts International.

Davidson gives all glory to God for bringing him to Shorter and is excited for his next chapter here, stating ,“This truly was a God thing.”

Story: Laura Beth Dawson Photos: Dr. Dawn Tolbert W alking across the stage in recognition of academic achievement is a goal many students try to accomplish. On Awards Day, 28 seniors saw their hard work and determination pay off when they were awarded the top honor from their respective departments. Senior McKenna Massengale, a middle grades education major, was thrilled to represent the School of Education during the ceremony. “It was really special to get this award as I have worked very hard this semester during student teaching. I am so passionate about teaching middle schoolers and felt honored to receive this specific award. I am so thankful for my professors at the School of Education who have poured into me and helped me to become a teacher.” Allie Perry, a senior nursing major, credited her academic success to God and the wonderful professors who invested in her education. “I’m just in awe of how God has sustained me through nursing school, and I give the glory to Him. My professors challenged me to bring my very best each day.” In addition to recognizing student excellence, faculty and staff were also recognized for their service to the University. Dr. Charles Carter, Associate Professor of History, received the President’s Award, while Dr. William Gary Cole, Assistant Professor of Education, received the Vulcan Award. Students chose Dr. Brent Baskin, Associate Professor of Christian Studies and Youth Ministry received the Argo Award, an honor chosen directly by students. Awards Day was a time for those who are members of the Shorter family to reflect on another successful academic year on the Hill. The entire campus came together to recognize students, staff, and faculty who had outstanding performances this school year.