2021 SNU MAGAZINE Winter Edition

s f o e i r o t S e c n a r e v e s r Pe

W I N T E R 2021

THERE ARE A LOT OF LEADERS IN YOUR FIELD. DO YOU WANT TO STAND OUT? SNU.EDU/TELL-ME-MORE SNU.EDU/LEARN-MORE HERE TO LEAD. READY TO SERVE.

SNU MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY WINTER 2021

PRESIDENT Dr. Keith Newman, MA '94 VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY RELATIONS Dr. Brent LaVigne, '04 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Todd Brant, '94 ALUMNI RELATIONS Marcia Mosshart, '77 DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT SERVICES Annette McElroy GRAPHIC DESIGNER Patrick Marston, '08 PHOTOGRAPHERS/ VIDEOGRAPHERS Todd Brant, '94; Lizzette Casas, '20; Kristin Hardy, '20; Hailee Thompson, ’21; Ian Weston, ‘15 CONTRIBUTORS Cheryl Crouch, '91; Margaret Farmer; Cyndi Lamb, '74; Emma Wright, ‘20 TELEPHONE: 405-491-6312 WEBSITE: snu.edu/alumni EMAIL: alumni@snu.edu TO UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS Annette McElroy 405-491-6606 or snu.edu/alumni KEY NUMBERS Alumni Relations 405-491-6312 University Relations 405-491-6311 Trad. Undergrad Admissions 405-491-6324 Professional & Graduate Studies 405-491-6332 Campus Main Number 405-789-6400 SNU MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED

by Southern Nazarene University The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editors or the official policies of SNU. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Office of Alumni Relations SNU 1899 MAGAZINE 6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008

View all issues of SNU Magazine online at snu.edu/alumni SNU President Keith Newman with Julissa Camacho ('20), B.S. in Organizational Leadership

TABLE OF C ONTENT S

HI G HLI G HT S

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Pomp and Perseverance

How a father-daughter legacy has impacted SNU Commencement

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When the Finish Line Becomes the Starting Line Alum follows his calling to the IronMan World Championship

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C ONT E NT S

4. From the President 28. Alumni News and Updates D ET E R M I N A T I O N

6. For Such a Time as This 12. Step Up, Speak Up, and Move Forward

Shaping the world through STEM

26. Thank You to Our Front Line Alums

DEDIC ATION

8. Pomp and Perseverance 22. Perseverance, Persistence, and Profit

SNU graduate builds businesses on servant leadership

24. Veteran Plants Seeds of Success Alum applies lessons from deployment to leadership in rural Oklahoma

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E N DU R A N C E

For Such a Time as This Alum perseveres in service at Johns Hopkins Hospital

16. When the Finish Line Becomes the Starting Line 20. Profiles of Perseverance Pastoring in the pandemic

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Fr o m t h e P r e sid ent

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Grit Grit. Perseverance. Endurance. Finish.

Pursuing a university degree comes with a host of obstacles; seen and unseen. From a prospective student's earliest campus visit throughout their time at SNU, we discuss the importance of staying focused, being an overcomer, completing the task, and earning that degree. We remind students that degrees are not purchased or gifted, they are granted because of the investment made in meeting the established requirements, investing hours and hours of learning, and securing the skills needed to compete in a graduate's chosen field.

Along the way, there are a host of individuals pouring into and preparing, doing their part to cheer and encourage along the way. Ultimately, though, it is about individual perseverance… early morning labs and late-night library sessions, crafting another paper, and passing that exam.

For decades, SNU has surrounded women and men with the best in academics and a purposefully different community designed to help them reach down deep inside and claim the grit that allows them to finish this portion of the race in life.

At SNU, we continue to point our students in the direction of Jesus, reminding them of His promises of help as they seek their degree. The Apostle Paul knew a little something about perseverance, and the process. He writes…

And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:2-5

Do you see the process?

"WE CONTINUE TO POINT OUR STUDENTS IN THE DIRECTION OF JESUS..."

Suffering (not something anyone wants to sign up for), then perseverance (a choice to stick with it). Character gets developed, and hope is the result. Our consistent message: Don't skip the process. It will be worth it. Hope is on the horizon!

Years ago, diplomas were referred to as "sheepskins." Historians suggest that the reference dates to the Middle Ages when traveling scholars carried their "credentials" around with them. Sheepskins could be rolled and unrolled countless times, giving their diplomas more of an enduring quality. While not necessary today, with Registrar offices able to confirm a degree for potential employees, diplomas serve as a powerful reminder of what it means to endure, to persevere, to finish.

Thanks for your continued partnership with SNU in this process to produce more Christlike disciples through higher education. Our world needs more candles in the darkness, and with God's help, we will continue to graduate men and women making a difference as they serve!

Keith Newman President

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D ET E R M I N A T I O N

For Such a Time as This

BY CYNDI LAMB ('74)

WE’VE HEARD THE STORIES and seen the reports.

Critically ill Covid-19 patients struggling for days and weeks - alone - in their hospital room.

Their only contact with loved ones is a phone call or FaceTime. At the other extreme are the parents who have literally moved into a 12x12 hospital room to quarantine with a child. For days never leaving the space for a meal, a walk or even a shower. Observing this kind of grit and devotion among her patients and their families has inspired Emily Stewart to persevere in her work as a Physician’s Assistant in the Cardiovascular Surgical Intensive Care Unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.

After graduating from SNU (2005) and Oklahoma University’s PA program, Stewart was accepted into the critical care residency program at Hopkins - thinking she’d head back to Oklahoma when done. But 11 years later, Stewart is still at work in one of our nation’s leading hospitals in the midst of a worldwide pandemic.

And more than once she’s felt she was where God would have her be “for such a time as this.”

Last March as the outbreak began, Stewart experienced a collaboration and camaraderie among her co-workers like she’d never known before. “All of us - from the most seasoned surgeon to the folks at the intake desk - united to fight the virus.

We were hopeful and determined.”

Gradually over the next six months cases began to decrease and by early September there was a sense among the team that they’d beaten this thing! In November, while taking a much needed break, numbers began to rise again. Stewart cut her trip short and returned to work early. Since then, the upward trend has continued. But while numbers have gone up, spirits have declined.

Because of the long hours and the intense working environment, the initial optimism of last spring has all but disappeared. Stewart finds herself tired, discouraged, tense and overwhelmed.

Despite it all, she persists.

"We were hopeful and determined."

Stewart believes two things are helping her to persevere. “First, my relationship with God has sustained me. I have a safe place with him as he has both pushed me and cheered me on. God has provided the needed phone call, text, or care package - just at the right time. I have felt his guidance at work as I’ve asked for wisdom. He’s often given me the right thing to say…or not to say. I even believe he’s helped me with my facial expressions…because even when I say nothing my countenance can speak volumes.”

Emily administering care to a patient at Johns Hopkins Hospital

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Emily standing in front of the original portion of Johns Hopkins Hospital

God has provided the needed phone call, text, or care package just at the right time.

Secondly, Stewart gives credit to her Life Coach. This trusted companion has helped her to deal with her many emotions. Realizing God is okay with her emotions - her sorrow and her anger - has been transformative. She knew she was making headway when she allowed herself to cry on a Marco Polo (video messaging app) with her family. “They were so thankful I let them in and opened up myself to be supported.”

With the distribution of the vaccine, Stewart believes we are on the downside of this pandemic.

She’s convinced that with God’s help, her friends and family, and her coach, she will be able to persevere until the end. And meanwhile…she wouldn’t say no to a few more care packages along the way! 

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DEDIC AT ION

Dr. Forest Ladd and Dr. Gwen (Ladd) Hackler at 1995 Spring Commencement

Dr. Gwen Hackler, Mace Bearer in 2012 Spring Commencement

1947 BPC University Marshals (First year for more than one Marshal) Colleen (Karns) Cornwell Mary Ellen (Herren) Tamari Forrest E. Ladd, Jr. Jean (Karns) Ladd

University Marshals at 2015 Spring Commencement

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POMP AND PERSEVERANCE

BY C HER YL CR OUCH ('91)

GRADUATION MEANS CELEBRATION and pageantry. For Drs. Forrest Ladd and Gwen Ladd Hackler, graduation also means organization, details, and hours of planning. This father and daughter, between the two of them, have served for over fifty years as SNU’s University Marshal. While the Marshal is best known as the person who leads the procession at graduation, there is more to marshaling than being first in line. This honor, bestowed upon senior fellows of academic excellence, carries with it many duties related to the graduation ceremony (and the occasional live ferret.)

Dr. Forrest Ladd became the University Marshal in 1966 and served until 1986. His daughter, Dr. Gwen Ladd Hackler, served as University Marshal from 1986 to May of 2020. During those five decades, as academic deans and university presidents came and went, these Marshals provided continuity. When necessary, they also helped navigate changes to commencement.

They have added needed personnel such as faculty marshals, a mace bearer, and an increased number of student marshals.

They have served in many venues, from

churches and high school auditoriums to the Sawyer Center on the campus of SNU. In recent years, Dr. Hackler has helped transition commencement to accommodate multiple ceremonies and the conferring of graduate degrees.

In addition to changes, throughout their tenures they have dealt with a variety of challenges. Diplomas used to be presented in alphabetical order, and Dr. Ladd confessed getting groups of friends or dating couples to separate and line up alphabetically took Herculean efforts. Faculty brought its share of challenges, too. One faculty processional “wobbled” so much Dr. Ladd brought in an ex-military man to help them walk in a straight line. During his and Dr. Hackler’s years, tornado warnings have sent students scurrying to central halls and ice storms have delayed ceremonies. And even though University Marshals watch with diligence, pranksters occasionally prevail. One year, students sprayed silly string, ruining the carpet. Another year a student pulled a live ferret from his robe and led it, on a leash, across the stage as he received his diploma.

THIS FATHER AND DAUGHTER, BETWEEN THE TWO OF THEM, HAVE SERVED FOR OVER FIFTY YEARS AS SNU’S UNIVERSITY MARSHAL.

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GRADUATION IS ESPECIALLY MEANINGFUL FOR DRS. LADD AND HACKLER SINCE MANY OF THE CAPPED AND GOWNED STUDENTS ARE INDIVIDUALS THEY HAVE TAUGHT.

Such shenanigans are not the norm, however. For Dr. Hackler, the formality of the ceremony shows respect not only for the perseverance of the graduates, but also for those who helped them achieve this milestone. Those helpers include supportive friends and family as well as members of SNU’s staff and faculty. In fact, graduation is especially meaningful for Drs. Ladd and Hackler since many of the capped and gowned students are individuals they have taught.

With sparkling eyes and animated voices, both father and daughter described celebrating with students who have persevered despite challenges. Dr. Hackler said, “I’ve often wished we could pull any 12 students from the line and share their stories.” Some have pushed through, despite learning differences or illness. Others have balanced schoolwork with spouses and children or with demanding jobs. Quite a few are first-generation college students,

Dr. Hackler announcing graduates as they walk across the stage

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pioneering new ground and awakening dreams in younger siblings. This group holds a special place in Dr. Ladd’s heart, for he himself was a first-generation college student. In contrast, Dr. Hackler said that, because of her father’s accomplishments, she grew up assuming she would get a doctoral degree.

Dr. Hackler explained that, while graduation is like a final propulsion push “before the rocket blasts off” to the next stage of life, the ceremony also serves as a beautiful ending to this piece of each student’s story. It is a piece of the story in which she and her father feel blessed to have played a part.

After years in the classroom investing in students, and many hours behind the scenes coordinating commencement, Dr. Ladd points out, “You only have time to say, ‘Congratulations’ as each student crosses the stage – but what a lot of meaning is packed into that word!” 

Dr. Ladd participating in the inauguration of Dr. Keith Newman

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Father and daughter enjoy time together at home

CELEBRATING 2021 ALUMS! M AY 8 TH

snu.edu/commencement

D ET E R M I N A T I O N

STEP UP, SPEAK UP, AND MOVE FORWARD

BY EMMA W R I GHT ('2 0)

SHARICA (RICA) ROBINSON, a member of Southern Nazarene University’s first cohort in the Doctor of Education program, has persevered throughout her life against enormous odds to become a passionate and successful professional in the STEM field (science, technology, engineering and math). As an African American woman, Robinson’s success in the field is both a professional and personal achievement, providing representation in a field historically dominated by men, and few minorities.

Growing up in Oklahoma City, Robinson’s tenacious journey began early, saying, “As a young African American focusing on success, perseverance is the definition of my life: having a determination to be successful despite the obstacles that society sets up for us to fail.” Driven by this idea, she participated in a multitude of extracurricular activities and found herself the class president and valedictorian of Southeast High School.

Succeeding both in her community and academically, Robinson was awarded the prestigious Clara Luper Scholarship through Oklahoma City University : “As a Clara Luper scholar, it was an amazing opportunity for me. I was a first-generation college student from a single-family household, and as a young African American woman… it provided me the opportunity to go to college with a full-ride.”

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Robinson engaged in conversation during doctoral class

Sharica receives MVP award from Microsoft for outstanding community impact

During her time at OCU, Robinson’s drive for success blossomed, finding leadership roles in the Black Student Association (BSA) and Sisterhood of African American Students (SAAS) while obtaining her Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Health Sciences in three years, graduating early.

Longing to serve and educate her community, Robinson explained that the challenges she faced in STEM continue to shape her career path: “STEM is one of those workforces where you’ve gotta come in willing to push your way through with a backbone. It’s not set up for us, and I learned that early on going to college as a first-generation college student, not knowing who to call or what to do… just trying to figure it out on your own. That’s where my heart is: being a mentor, being that person that individuals in my shoes can go to on a regular basis for whatever is needed.”

"I COORDINATED ALL OF THE STEM EFFORTS FOR THE GIRL SCOUTS COUNCIL.”

After graduation, she taught and coached at both the high school and elementary level before she was given the opportunity to enter into a grant-funded position as the STEM Coordinator for the Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma in Oklahoma City.

“I coordinated all of the STEM efforts for the Girl Scouts council… and made sure all of the girls understood what STEM was through workshops, events, and training.”

One of the activities she coordinated was putting together a small fair to promote and encourage STEM activities throughout the troops. This movement expanded past the Girl Scouts, trickling out into the community through an event called Geekapalooza, “a STEM fair that brought together a bunch of different STEM organizations that provided hands-on activities [for the community].”

Robinson’s passion for STEM expands beyond her career: she longs to share her passion by educating and engaging with underrepresented and disadvantaged communities as a means of shaping the future of STEM. Her time at the Girl Scouts fueled this calling, continuing her education to obtain her Master of Arts in Leadership Education at SNU preparing to participate in STEM leadership one day.

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After obtaining her MAEL in 2016, she and her husband decided to pursue their doctorates in leadership, and were accepted by SNU’s education department into the first Ed.D in Administration and Leadership cohort, expecting to earn their degrees at the end of 2021.

Robinson chose a topic for her dissertation that is incredibly personal to her, defining her life and identity: “Understanding the intersectionality of African American women in STEM leadership.” She chose this topic as a means of “shedding light to African American Women in STEM… to not only tell their stories but also to help others understand what African American women go through to get where they are.”

“I hope that being able to tell the stories of these individuals will shed some light on their experiences and what we can do to overcome and eventually shift the trajectory of STEM—STEM in both leadership and in all capacities,” stated Robinson.

“When are we going to see more women [in STEM]? When are we

"WHEN ARE WE GOING TO HAVE THE CONFIDENCE AS A SOCIETY TO ENCOURAGE THESE WOMEN AND PROVIDE THE SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE TO SUCCEED?”

going to have the confidence as a society to encourage these women and provide the support and guidance to succeed?”

In many ways, her dissertation is a summation of her motivation and attitude towards life. Seeking to uplift people of marginalized identities, Robinson’s remarkable passion continues to tangibly inspire communities and provide paths to success in the STEM field. Ultimately, Robinson and her husband dream big together, longing to create a school where they could provide the resources and education for students of color to overcome systemic inequalities and thrive in the workforce.

Perseverance and tenacity have defined Robinson’s life and shaped the lives of the people she interacts with each and every day. “Whatever society has set up for you,” Robinson explained, “you can’t let those boundaries stop you, which is why I think the definition of my life is perseverance: no matter what comes your way, you’ve gotta continue to step up, speak up, and move forward.” 

Robinson teaches a class regarding Microsoft products

Carlos and Sharica Robinson at 2016 Commencement 14

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your impact

HIS VISION Francisco Berrones is a senior from Houston.

Without donor support through the SNU Fund, he would not have been able to study psychology at SNU and envision a different kind of future.

"With college being as expensive have enough money ba as it is I barely to attend. Scholarships are the only reason that I am still here.

I am very grateful to everyone who has given."

Because of donor support, Frankie met Dr. Scott Drabenstot, who became his mentor. men

"He helped me grow so much as a scholar. He has helped me see that graduate school is obtainable."

What's next for Frankie? Graduate school to pursue a Masters in Counseling.

After that? "Making an impact to those who may need help in life."

Your gift to the SNU Fund is a way to make your mark on today's SNU students, so they can make an impact tomorrow.

Thank you for giving.

snu.edu/giving

E N DU R A N C E

WHEN THE FINISH LINE BECOMES THE STARTING LINE

BY EM MA W R IGH T ('2 0) 17 HOURS, 140.6 MILES, 1 FINISH LINE. This is the challenge of the IronMan World Championship held in Kona, Hawaii each year; the olympic-level competition in the world of triathlons. This is the race that Southern Nazarene University alumnus Rian Smoak (‘96) completed in 2017, inspiring him to share the gift of perseverance with his community.

Bryce Wooten and Rian Smoak

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Competing in cycling portion of Ironman Boulder Triathlon

From an early age, Smoak was drawn to athletic activities, preferring to go for a run, swim or bike as a kid. It was around this time when he discovered triathlons: “It was a Saturday in December of 1986, and ABC had a show called the ‘Wide World of Sports.’ I remember seeing the IronMan World Championships on TV, and I just sat down on the couch mezmorized… I remember thinking ‘I wanna do that one day,’ and that’s when the seed was planted.”

After graduating from SNU, getting married and starting a family, Smoak finally decided, in the early 2010’s, to begin training for triathlons. After struggling on his own to persevere, Smoak began to train with a friend, and it was through this community of athletes that he was able to continue working toward his goal, and help others, as well. In 2014, Smoak began a non-profit business aimed at creating a community of triathletes that would “see a need, fix a need,” naming it TriDAT (Do Amazing Things).

THE FINISH LINE BECAME THE NEW STARTING LINE

Feeling as if God was calling him to “do more” with TriDAT but not quite knowing what that looked like, Smoak got the opportunity of a lifetime: after participating in marathons and triathlons for 6 or 7 years, he was invited to the IronMan World Championship in Hawaii in 2017, living out his childhood dream some 30 years after that first seed was planted.

Throughout the race, Smoak’s posture was consistently one of gratitude. It was this attitude that provided him with a profound moment of clarity: “Coming down to the finish line… I walked off, and something just told me that I needed to stop and look back… I looked at the finish line, and God just placed the answer right in front of me: I want to give someone the opportunity to cross that finish line and feel that jubilation of the hard work and perseverance paying off, listening to the crowd cheer.

I knew then, that that’s what TriDAT was meant to be. The finish line became the new starting line.”

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With this newfound clarity, Smoak sought out one of his son’s friends, Bryce Wooten, to run with him. Wooten is confined to a wheelchair due to Cerebral Palsy, yet eagerly responded to Smoak’s enthusiasm, training together to run in marathons with the ultimate goal to participate in the IronMan World Championship in Hawaii. As Wooten grew in confidence, Smoak continued to grow as a triathlete. In June of 2019, the duo was given the opportunity to complete their goal and participate in the IronMan World Championship together.

“There are only a few teams in the world that have completed an event like that,” said Smoak.

“We had 17 hours to finish… and it took every ounce of perseverance from both of us to finish.

It took us 16 hours and 23 minutes of non-stop movement… At some points, I thought to myself, ‘What am I doing? Why am I doing this?’ But I so badly wanted his mom to see her son cross that finish line… And Bryce finally got that moment on the red carpet once we crossed that finish line.”

At the finish line was Smoak’s wife and Wooten’s

Smoak and Wooten prepping for kayaking portion of Redman Triathlon in OKC

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THERE ARE ONLY A FEW TEAMS IN THE WORLD THAT HAVE COMPLETED AN EVENT LIKE THAT.

Hitting their stride at the Ironman Boulder Triathlon in 2019

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mom, placing the medals over their heads. “It was one of those moments where God quieted the noise and helped me focus on Bryce and his mom’s moment together.”

Being transformed by one another, both physically and personally, their friendship blossomed into one of contagious perseverance, and challenging one another to give back to the community.

Beginning with a chapel service at SNU, the duo slowly began sharing their story with the public, opening the door for Wooten to grow in confidence and become a nationally certified public speaker, the president of the Oklahoma chapter of Toastmasters, and participate in public speaking competitions.

Through Smoak and Wooten’s stories of perseverance, an entire community has been moved. It is Smoak’s dream that Wooten will become the spokesperson for TriDAT, telling his story all over the world, while Smoak continues his job in international healthcare sales. Smoak adamantly expressed that, while he is proud of his accomplishments, it is Bryce’s story of perseverance and transformation that embodies the ideals of TriDAT. While Rian Smoak acknowledges that his time as a triathlete is coming closer to an end as he gets older, he still continues to inspire others with his contagious perseverance and posture of gratitude as he and Bryce compete together. 

LISTEN TO A PODCAST ABOUT RIAN SMOAK

Be Love: Episode 15

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E N DU R A N C E

Profiles of Perseverance Pastoring in a Pandemic

PASTORAL MINISTRY IS HARD - it got really hard in 2020 – really, really hard. But - pure joy? Really? A glimpse into the hearts of three pastors shows us how we can…Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

A Prisoner of Hope (ZECHARIAH 9:12) “That was the worst sermon ever,” said Pastor Ismael Flores (’00), as he walked off the stage after the first virtual Sunday service at South Austin (TX) Church of the Nazarene. That was March of 2020 and the SNU alum was navigating the uncharted, unprecedented shutdown of in-person worship.

Pastor Flores relates that it took him about three weeks to feel some level of comfort in preaching to only a camera.

But with the dedication of a volunteer tech crew, they persevered. As with all congregations, there were challenges early on related to connectivity and finances, but “as our people became more familiar with online worship, and by offering several ways to give, our

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church community has continued their excellent support of the ministry of Iglesia Sur Austin,” he said.

As a result of live streaming their services, Pastor Flores saw an exciting trend of viewers joining online for services from across their state, the nation and several Central and South American countries. But, how to connect? How do you disciple this new ‘online’ church? There were faith-building times as their teens worshiped together on Zoom, and times of great sadness as many in their children’s ministry suffered from the lack of a hug from their workers and being with friends.

u disciple "How do yo ‘online’ this new church?"

Pastor Ismael Flores ('00)

Through it all, Pastor Flores testifies to the great faithfulness of God as He has worked in their midst. “Like the prophet Zechariah, I am a ‘prisoner of hope’ because the hope of Jesus in these strange and difficult times gives me the strength to persevere.”

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See, I am Doing A New Thing For Pastor B.J. Keeter (’04) the past year has been a season of new things and new ways of doing the old, familiar things. “I know that I spent more time in the sound booth in March of 2020 than I had in the previous 20 years combined!” he said. But Pastor B.J. is quick to add that the blessing of serving an authentic Christian community, as he describes Van Buren (AR) First Nazarene, is how the people genuinely love one another. This, he said, has been crucial to successfully navigating the seemingly constant changes and challenges. “Perhaps, before this new context, we would have struggled with change – and maybe some are hoping

Let us not become weary in doing good

(GALATIANS 6:9) “How do I adequately explain what Renovation Community (Ft. Worth, TX) really is? We’re: part emergency housing shelter, part homeless ministry, part food/clothing/furniture pantry, ‘incubator’ for new ethnic churches, community center, summer day camp and feeding program, summer mission trip destination (before Covid-19), and church,” said Pastor Chris Branigan (’07) of his unique ministry. “The pandemic has had devastating consequences for many we serve. When you’re already living paycheck-to-paycheck, the slightest wage disruption can cause a crisis.”

When Pastor Chris arrived in 2013, the former Wedgwood Nazarene was still operating as Grace Tabernacle, but

(ISAIAH 43:19) to eventually ‘return to normal’, but I feel many are looking forward to new and better ways of making disciples of Jesus Christ.”

He added, “It’s God’s Kingdom and God’s church. I do well when I keep this reminder before me. Though we may have needed a little push to take on these new challenges, God is working in many new ways because we have responded missionally. When I am feeling the heaviness and stress of difficult days, I am reminded that I am merely the servant and not the master – and our heavenly Father really is good, and the gospel really is good news!”

Pastor Chris Branigan ('07) & Family

changes in the area and the expense of maintaining a very large building had overwhelmed the tiny congregation.

It closed and restarted as Renovation Community to minister to the needs of the neighborhood. Pastor Chris says of the current ministry model, “On paper,

Pastor B.J. ('04) & Rachel (Bervig) ('04) Keeter

I have “A blessing e have at w found is th flexible, be learned to ount what and to c ters.” really mat

d in intereste “I’m not ustainable’ making ‘s isions. I’m dec d in intereste nt’ bedie making ‘ocisions'. de

it’s not sustainable…and yet, God continues to sustain us!” He continued, “I’m not interested in making ‘sustainable’ decisions. I’m interested in making ‘obedient’ decisions and, as we obey God, God sustains us. He’s a better Sustainer than you or I could imagine.”

So, where is the pure joy James is talking about?

Pastor Flores says, “One of the best calls I received was from a lady who, in response to our sermon series on the book of Acts, said, ‘Pastor, I have been reading my Bible and I get it!’” Pastor Keeter reflected, “A blessing I have found is that we have learned to be flexible, and to count what really matters.” And Pastor Chris Branigan summed it up this way: “And what of our church and my family? Who looks out for us if we’re so busy looking out for others? God. God looks out for us. He knows our every need and gladly makes provision for His plans in our lives.”

Three pastors of the many thousands who faithfully serve Christ, and us, around the globe - and count it pure joy as they face trials and persevere to share the Gospel. Let’s pray for them, love them, and share in their joy!  SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021 21

DEDIC ATION

PERSEVERANCE, PERSISTENCE, AND PROFIT

BY EMMA W R I GHT ('2 0) ROCKY WILKERSON GRADUATED from Southern Nazarene University in 2012 with a degree in organizational leadership and a hunger for success.

Beginning in 2015 with a small business consisting of one office and two employees, Rocky is now nationally recognized as the founder of 2020’s third fastest growing company in Oklahoma and one of Inc. 5000’s fastest growing companies.

While Wilkerson has found success after obtaining both a bachelor’s and, in 2015, master’s degree from SNU, he admits that school was challenging for him, having to persevere through an extended schooling process, saying, “My mom has always been educationally focused, but for me, I was a little late to that game… But I ended up at SNU because of Character, Culture, Christ.”

Persisting through his undergraduate degree, Wilkerson anticipated immediate success after graduation: “I got my bachelor’s degree, moved to Tulsa, and thought I was going to conquer the world with a bachelor’s degree. Little did I know that you usually start off only making $35-40,000 a year with a bachelor’s degree!”

With a sales personality, prior sales experience and a drive to create something on his own, Wilkerson entered SNU Tulsa's MBA program where he began developing his business model. “The master’s program, for me, gave me the financial and accounting knowledge to be comfortable within the business,” Wilkerson explained.

“With my bachelor’s degree, I had the organizational leadership, but I didn’t have the financial component to run

SNU Tulsa Campus

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SNU.EDU/ALUMNI

"...PERSISTENCE AND PERSEVERANCE FOR ME IS HAVING A PLAN AND EXECUTING A PLAN - PUTTING ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER.” the business. The financial component came with the master’s program which set me up to be confident in my role.”

In 2015, Wilkerson began the staffing company, Certified Source.

By 2016, the business hit a milestone only 2 in 10,000 businesses achieve: growing a company's revenue to $1 million within the first year. The business continued to boom, expanding to two locations and 160 employees in 2016, and to now having five different locations and 700 employees in 2021.

As he continued to pursue excellence as a business leader, he began to use his successful business model in other projects, creating Performance Personnel Partners and Total Clean USA in 2019 and 2020. Both businesses have exceeded revenue projections and continue to grow much like Certified Source, a testament to Wilkerson’s dedication to growth and thoughtfulness in his leadership and business model.

His advice to young business leaders is to persevere and persist, reminiscing on his early career, saying, “Starting any new business is not an easy thing to do,

so persistence and perseverance for me is having a plan and executing a plan putting one foot in front of the other.”

Not only has Wilkerson’s hard work and perseverance shown in his business success, but at the foundation of it all is his relationship to God: “If you keep God first and have faith, things are going to work out… Any and all decisions that I make, God is on the top of my mind when I make it.” Rocky Wilkerson’s commitment to perseverance and growth applies not only to business, but also to his faith and service to his community. 

Certified Source Tulsa Staff

Certified Source Office area Learn More about Certified Source Staffing Professionals at certifiedsource.com SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021 23

DEDIC ATION

Veteran Plants Seeds of Success in Rural Oklahoma

BY E MMA W R I GHT ('2 0) There are a multitude of different ways to go about finding one’s vocation.

For Ethan Feuerborn, enlisting in the Marine Corps after high school is what drove him to eventually get a degree at Southern Nazarene University (SNU) and find his vocation teaching and coaching in rural Oklahoma.

IT WAS HIS TIME IN AFGHANISTAN THAT CONTINUES TO INFLUENCE HIS SERVICE TO HIS COMMUNITY.

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Graduating in 2006 from Washington High School, a small rural school in Oklahoma, Feuerborn decided to enlist in the Marine Corps, following the legacy of his brother, father and grandfathers who participated in various military positions throughout their lives. From 2006 to 2010, Feuerborn was deployed twice, ending up in Afghanistan for his second deployment.

It was his time in Afghanistan that continues to influence his service to his community. Stationed in a small farming town, Feuerborn participated in the “largest heliborne operation since the Vietnam War” that aimed to build relationships with the local Afghan people and assist in building their infrastructure in hopes of convincing them to switch from growing poppies to wheat.

SNU.EDU/ALUMNI

Courtney (wife) and Ethan at SNU Football Field

Marine Ethan Feuerborn serving in Afghanistan Learning how to connect with civilians interculturally was crucial to the operation, providing valuable experience for Feuerborn: “When we were there, we opened up the health center for the first time in decades. We opened up the school for the first time in decades… Whenever we started the school, we had people who were 50 and 60 years old enroll in first grade because knowledge is power there. They think if they learn how to read and write, they can become powerful because that’s what they’ve been exposed to.”

“I CAN HELP THE COUNTRY BY MAKING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS.” Teaching both adults and children, Feuerborn reminisced on his time in Afghanistan as incredibly meaningful, saying, “Some of the best people on the planet are the Afghan locals—they would do anything for you.” Feuerborn took this experience of hospitality and intercultural connection and translated it to his current career.

After coaching at Washington for two years upon returning from Afghanistan, he found himself thinking, “Man, if some of these kids are going to be recruited to go to college, I think I can go to college and play football, too!” After deciding Coaching at Choctaw High School

to attend college, Feuerborn decided to walk on at the University of Oklahoma, playing football during the spring and summer only to be cut at the end of July. Realizing that playing football was crucial to his college experience, he emailed coaches from across the state and was given the opportunity to play for SNU’s football program.

Through hard work and dedication to both his studies and athletics, Feuerborn graduated from SNU in two and a half years with a history degree and a passion for coaching.

Jumping around from collegiate to high school coaching, even coaching at SNU for a few years, Feuerborn finally found his place as head coach of the Little Axe High School football team. There, he coaches football and teaches social studies, finding his service in the military particularly helpful in the diverse community of Little Axe. “While I may not be able to deploy and be in the Marines anymore,” Feuerborn explained, “I can help the country by making the next generation of leaders.” Planting seeds of success in Little Axe is Feuerborn’s goal, helping students deal with homelessness, hunger and poverty: “We take [students] to the food pantry, wash their clothes at the school… kids need to feel secure and loved, and they need to feel a sense of optimism and empowerment. There’s nowhere else that I’d rather be than here.”

Feuerborn’s service to the country has shaped him to serve his community, near and far, teaching his students about the Three E’s: employ, enlist, or enroll. Taking a non-traditional career path has led him to finding his passion for teaching and speaking life into the younger generation, using his positive attitude and tenacity to encourage those around him to strive for success.  SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021 25

You have...

Nurse Manager Pup Thomas ('94) Pharmacist Steven Howell ('93)

Surgical Nurse Ali Chaudahry ('15)

Elem. Teacher Madison Shellenberg ('15) Elem. Teacher Serena Del Campo ('15)

ER Nurse Jessica Sword ('05)

Served

Middle School Teacher Angie Whitsett ('82)

Middle School Principal Trey Keoppel ('06) Middle School Teacher Aaron Toler ('05)

Father/Son EMT Firefighters Fred Beckwith ('71) & Dan Beckwith ('96)

Sacrificed

Hospice Nurse Janie Bates ('79)

Stayed the course

Firefighter Nathan Crownover ('12)

Elem. Teacher Bethany Fair ('20)

Hospital Chaplain Estela Reza ('10)

Mark 9:35 Hospital Chaplain Steve Morgan ('76) Dentist Tamara Berg ('91)

Advanced EMT Dan Beckwith ('96)

School Superintendent Deann Lee ('89)

Put others first

Cardiac Nurse Debbie Burkhead ('82)

Doctor Jeff Jankowski ('94)

Doctor Rob Wycoff ('84)

SNU Health Clinic Team

Elem. Teacher Malori Minjares '20

YOU have honored your alma mater by LIVING LAST.

Sharing your commitment We’re proud to join you in supporting Southern Nazarene University. In fact, we’re dedicated to the success of all our local heroes who are making a difference. Working together, we can create a plan for positive change.

Let’s connect

Chris Chandler Sr. Investment Strategist 405-280-7810 chris.d.chandler@wellsfargo.com

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Al umn i Ne ws & Update s

PROFESSIONAL UPDATES CARRIE SLATTONHODGES (‘89) was recently appointed

by Gov. Kevin Stitt of OK to be the Commissioner of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

CALVIN C. POHAWPATCHOKO, JR. (‘80) recently earned his Ph.D in Technology, Media and Society from ATLAS Institute in School of Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO. LESLIE (STORY) DAVIS (’10) was recently voted Oklahoma City Public Schools 2020 teacher of the year.

Leslie currently teaches at Cleveland Elem.

LESLIE JONES (MA ’15) was recently appointed principal at St. Agatha School in Southeast Portland, OR. KENEDY (ORTON) DAWSON (‘18) recently joined the staff of COVID Care Force to help in the fight against Covid-19 among Native American communities.

She joins two other SNU Alums, Gary Morsch (‘74) and Lindsey (Moore) Marshall (‘01) in this non-profit organization.

JOSHUA R. WHITTINGTON (‘14) recently appointed as Sr. Vice President in Commercial Lending for the Chickasaw Community Bank

BETHANY (WETMORE) STANLEY (‘97) recently appointed as Associate District Judge for Cleveland Country by Oklahoma Governor, Kevin Stitt LARRY SNOWBARGER (‘81) recently promoted to Healthcare Practice Sales Leader for the North America Region with Honeywell Building Technologies.

GORAN MEDVED (‘96) served as Editor in Chief for an exciting new translation of the Bible in Croatia. The 8 year project has given this country a first of it’s kind, Contemporary Croatian Translation Bible using today’s language, easy to read and understand.

DR. KIRK JACKSON (‘02) Oklahoma Wesleyan University is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Kirk Jackson to the position of Vice President of Business Affairs. He will also serve as a director in OKWU’s Chesapeake Energy School of Business.

GREG HALL (‘93) recently joined HanesBrands as Chief Consumer Officer ANDREW MARSTON (‘20) was recently named Lead Pastor/ Church Planter for The Bridge A Church of the Nazarene in Magnolia, AR. A full church launch is planned for Fall of 2021.

MARRIAGES

KENZIE SNOWBARGER (‘17) married Davis Clay on Nov. 22, 2020.

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ASHLEY STROUSE (‘22) married Marshall Marmon on Dec. 5, 2020.

AUBREY CLOWERS (‘17) married Davis Boatright on Dec. 19, 2020.

AJ NELUMS ('21) married SYDNI TOILOLO ('18) on Feb. 12, 2021.

SNU.EDU/ALUMNI

FAMILY ADDITIONS

ROY EMERSON FRANKLIN (son) BORN: Feb. 28, 2020 PARENTS: Josh (‘09) & Elizabeth Carroll (‘09) Franklin

STEEL RYAN PASQUE (son) BORN: Dec. 12, 2020 PARENTS: Colin (‘17) & Carissa Pasque

ZOE KATE MYERS (daughter) BORN: Jan. 5, 2021 PARENTS: Casey (‘15) & Kate Miller (‘17) Myers

SHEPARD THOMAS MASON (son) BORN: Sept. 17, 2020 PARENTS: Jonathan (‘15) & Callie Cox Mason (‘15, MBA ’18)

NOAH MICHAEL LOUT (son) BORN: Dec. 14, 2020 PARENTS: Aaron & Kenzie Redwine (‘13) Lout

BROOKS THOMAS BROSIUS (son) BORN: Jan. 17, 2021 PARENTS: Robby (‘02) & Christy Brosius

MICAH JACK TROYER (son) BORN: Oct. 13, 2020 PARENTS: Austin (‘14) & Katie Smith (‘16) Troyer

JACK RHODEN ALLEN (son) BORN: Dec. 21, 2020 PARENTS: Zachary (‘16) & Briana Mullens (‘16) Allen

PHOENIX BROOKS FREES (son) BORN: Jan. 22, 2021 PARENTS: Joel (‘14) & Corbyn Holliday (‘16) Frees

Stay Connected

WILLIAM GORDON STANGELAND (son) BORN: Dec. 8, 2020 Parents: Neil (‘12) & Amy Longnecker (‘13) Stangeland

THEODORE JAMES HUBBS (son) Born Feb. 18, 2021 Parents- Jake ('16) & Katie Cosper ('16) Hubbs

Update SNU alums about milestones in your life — weddings, births, promotions, retirements, honors and awards. Send your updates to: » alumni@snu.edu » 405-491-6312 » snu.edu/alumni SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021 29

A l umn i Ne ws & Update s

IN MEMORY

30

WANDA ARMSTRONG (‘62) First female physical education graduate Mar. 17, 1940 - Sep. 25, 2020 Borger, TX

COL. CHARLES RAY JONES (‘55) Jun. 29, 1930 - Nov. 15, 2018 Alexandria, VA

CARL R. SNYDER (‘51) Jun. 11, 1924 - Sep. 30, 2020 Lenexa, KS

BOBBIE WOOTEN STEELE SUMNER (‘56) May 1, 1934 – Oct. 24, 2019 Ashland City, TN

JOHN D. NOBLES (‘74) Feb.14, 1951 - Oct. 8, 2020 Woodstock, GA

DANE W. OFFUTT (‘74) Jun. 26,2020 - Feb.10, 2020 Lawrence, KS

MARTHA ROSE HALL (‘49) Dec. 2, 1927 - Oct. 9, 2020 Oklahoma City, OK

DAVID S. JONES (‘75) Mar. 3, 1953 - Apr. 1, 2020 Indianapolis, IN

DR. FRANCIS D. OAKES (‘52) Aug. 25, 1931 - Oct. 10, 2020 Oklahoma City, OK

WILLIAM C. IRWIN (‘64) Jul. 18,1943 - Jun. 21, 2020 Midlothian, VA

GERTRUDE STILLWELL WHITE (‘64) Jul. 7, 1942 - Oct. 26, 2020 Oklahoma City, OK

SHARON SCHMITZ/VAUGHN KIMERY (‘75) Jan. 19, 1953 - Sep. 11, 2020 Bethany, OK

DIANE MARTIN COSPER (‘86) June 28, 1964 - Oct. 29, 2020 Overland Park, KS

MADELYN BARNARD Apr. 21, 1933 - Sep. 14, 2020 Southlake, TX

DEBORAH HARMON GANDY (‘73) May 13, 1951 - Oct. 31, 2020 Bethany, OK

DANIEL ELIJAH BROWN (‘15) Mar. 15, 1956 - Sep. 17, 2020 Bethany, OK

DR. RALPH WEST (‘50) Aug. 27, 1928 - Nov. 6, 2020 Bethany, OK

BLAKE HARBUCK (‘90) Aug. 6,1968 - Sep. 20, 2020 Lufkin, TX

WILMA MONTGOMERY SNOWBARGER (‘56) Apr. 8, 1934 - Nov. 26, 2020 Oklahoma City, OK

BONNIE MALCOM KNUDSON (‘65) Apr. 9, 1923 - Sep. 23, 2020 Crystal River, FL

J. MICHAEL MCAULIFFE (‘00) Dec. 28, 1956 - Nov. 29, 2020 Oklahoma City, OK

SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021

SNU.EDU/ALUMNI

DONNA EDGE VISER (‘58) Apr. 2, 1936 - Dec. 1, 2020 Andover, KS REV. BOB C. VISER JR. (‘57) Jun. 11, 1930 - Dec. 15, 2020 Andover, KS

ROSALIE HATFIELD (‘57) Dec.4, 1933 - Dec. 2, 2020 Council Bluffs, IA

CARLTON K. EASLEY (‘61) Dec. 25, 1937 - Dec. 4, 2020 Oregon, IL

DEBORAH KIM SILVERNAIL (‘90) May 17, 1969 - Dec. 5, 2020 Rogers, AR

CHARLES RICHARD “DICK” SPEAR (‘73) Feb. 3, 1947 - Dec. 9, 2020 Yukon, OK

REV. HARRY MILLER (‘72) Oct. 27, 1934 - Jan. 1, 2021 Oklahoma City, OK

PROF. HOWARD G. OLIVER (‘57) Oct. 7, 1935 - Jan. 4, 2021 Aurora, CO

JERRY E. BRITT (‘67) Aug. 7, 1943 - Jan.7, 2021 Piedmont, OK

JOHN H. THOMPSON (‘71) Jan. 22, 1949 - Jan. 9, 2021 Dallas, TX

REV. RICHARD “DICK” BOND (‘65) Sep. 3, 1943 - Jan. 9, 2021 Edmond, OK

MARLENE RIGGS GASSETT (‘67) Dec. 2, 1933 - Jan. 17, 2021 Bethany, OK

MICHAEL WYNN BURTON (‘86) Aug. 1, 1963 - Jan. 18, 2021 Bedford, TX

REV. JACK WELLER (‘62) Apr. 3, 1928 - Jan. 27, 2021 Nampa, ID

BOBBY RAY HOOVER (‘58) Mar. 19, 1935 - Jan. 27, 2021 Ovilla, TX

EUNICE CHAMBERS CHESHIRE (‘51) Nov. 11, 1927 - Jan. 28, 2021 Yukon, OK

DR. J.J. WHEELBARGER (‘63) Feb. 15, 1937 - Feb. 4, 2021 Portland, TN

BOBBIE JO CARROLL HUDSON (‘52) May 3, 1931- Feb. 7, 2021 Lampasas, TX

LISA LYNETTE KRAMER (‘99) Oct. 29, 1961 - Feb. 8, 2021 Kingfisher, OK

BILL M. CAMPBELL (‘59) Oct. 12, 1933- Feb. 13, 2021 Oklahoma City, OK

HAROLD W. DOZIER (‘71) Mar. 27, 1937 - Feb. 13, 2021 Oklahoma City, OK

Robin R. Scott, Jr. (‘83) Nov. 6, 1960 - Feb. 15, 2021 College Station, TX

SNU MAGAZINE | WINTER 2021 31

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