Arches Spring 2022 Tennessee Wesleyan University Magazine Arches Spring 2022 Tennessee Wesleyan University Magazine 11 YEARS OF Leadership Excellence11 YEARS OF Leadership Excellence
2 | ARCHES President Dr. Harley Knowles Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Grant Willhite Assistant Vice President for Marketing Communications& Katherine Davis University Writer JJ Hulet Graphic Designer Harley Stickney Recruitment & Digital Content Creator Cody Bandy Contributing Writer Photography Leslie HarleyWillBenTommyChrisMonicaArnoldBelcherBerryBotelloFinchFrittsStickney Vice President for Advancement & Alumni Affairs Blake McCaslin Director of Development Kelly Brugh Contributing Writer Director of Alumni and Donor Relations Abby Williams Contributing Writer Advancement Coordinator Tracey Hennessee Student Contributing Writer Fabio Jorge Correa Garcia CONTRIBUTORS CONTENTS 04 University Updates 06 Faculty Testimonial - Mark Shoop 07 Alumni Testimonial - Baylor Ingram 08 Advancement News and Updates 10 Student Life Story - Fabio Jorge Correa Garcia 11 Board of Trustees Testimony - Jim Winer 12 Academic Updates 14 Staff Testimonial - Lacey Weese 15 Community Testimonial - Erica Peden 16 11 Years of Leadership Excellence - Dr. Harley Knowles 20 Athletic Updates 22 Commencement in Photos 24 A Letter from Dr. Knowles 26 Homecoming Recap 28 Class Notes 31 Board of Trustees & Alumni Association Arches Spring 2022 Tennessee Wesleyan University Magazine
Servant leadership has long been a phrase used in the Christian community to define the type of leadership that Jesus exemplified. It’s not uncommon for Christian organizations to adopt this term and encourage their community to find ways to be servant-leaders in their daily activities. Tennessee Wesleyan is no different, and this phrase became a rallying message for Bulldogs throughout the past decade. It is natural, normal, and it is ingrained in the very ethos of everyone connected to TWU.
While this practice is deeply rooted in our TWU community, it’s rare to find a leader who can step into a university in a time of need and immediately embody that ethos. 11 years ago, TWU found itself in need of a leader who could restore our spirit and carry us into our next chapter.
Change never comes easy in an organization like TWU, especially when you’ve experienced a time of consistent and caring leadership. It’s safe to say the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and University friends will miss Dr. Knowles. But because of him, we can look forward to the future with hope and excitement. He has prepared us for the next chapter, and we are ready for what’s in store.
SPRING 2022 | 3 Servant Leadership AT TWU
Enter Dr. Harley Knowles. During his tenure, Dr. Knowles led the University to times of financial stability, enrollment growth, the establishment of new programs, and countless facility upgrades. These accomplishments are all worthy of a sound legacy, but Dr. Knowles will always be remembered for the way he cared for people. Simply stepping foot on TWU’s campus meant you were important to Dr. Knowles. Whether here for a meeting, a campus tour, or an athletic event – President Knowles will greet you warmly and invite you to be a part of our family. His involvement in the community and his dedication to the Bulldog family are unmatched. Often saying, “no one suffers alone and no one celebrates alone,” Dr. Knowles is intentional about making sure that every Bulldog is seen and heard. The Tennessee Wesleyan community is better because of his contributions, and all of us are grateful for his leadership and encouragement.
This special issue of Arches will take us on a journey of reflection and celebration as we look back on the past 11 years. Join the entire TWU community as we say thank you, Dr. Knowles, for the way you have led us, pushed us, and cared for us.
News broke in November 2021 of Dr. Harley Knowles’ departure from TWU in June 2022. A search committee was immediately assembled to seek out the next leader for TWU. A committee of 24 individuals, representing the TWU Board of Trustees, the community, faculty, staff, and a student representative, have been tasked with finding the next TWU president. Jim Winer, a TWU trustee, leads the group, which included in the early stages of the search process a survey to all TWU faculty and staff, seeking their input on the state of TWU and their hopes in the new president. The committee has advertised the position in early 2022, hoping to have a board vote on candidates in time for a smooth transition and for the incoming President to get to know President Knowles and his great team.
“We are proud to be in the top tier again in the regional U.S. News rankings this year,” said TWU President Dr. Harley Knowles. “Our high standing is a credit to all of the University staff, faculty, and students and their collective commitment to excellence.”
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The 2022 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings were released in September, with Tennessee Wesleyan University landing on three of the ranking lists: #17 Top Performers on Social Mobility #19 Regional Colleges South #23 Best Value Schools
CONTINUING TO BATTLE COVID-19
U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT
The University has continued to wade the changing waters of COVID-19. With a continued focus on the balance between student safety and a robust academic experience, TWU has remained free from a major outbreak or shutdown since the initial shutdown in March 2020. Among other guidelines, the primary ways in which the University has combatted the spread of the coronavirus include:
SACSCOC REAFFIRMATION WITH ZERO RECOMMENDATIONS In late 2021, the Board of Trustees of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) voted to affirm Tennessee Wesleyan University’s 10-year Accreditation Certificate. The committee in charge of TWU’s reaccreditation issued zero recommendations, a rare feat for any university. “Tennessee Wesleyan University’s 10-year reaffirmation approval from SACSCOC signifies that the institution is of educational quality and effectiveness,” said Dr. Stephanie Smallen, TWU’s VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Research. “The process of reaffirmation is extremely rigorous, involving countless hours of planning, writing, and preparation. To have a successful reaffirmation represented so much more than a process, but rather recognition by our peers for all the years of hard work and dedication to excellence. To have no recommendations after the virtual on-site committee visit positioned the University amongst the elite, as this is a rare outcome.”
Updates
Dr. Goodfriend is the retired CEO of the national chain Goody’s Family Clothing.
•Closely watching and adopting CDC guidelines, with emphasis on current local numbers
•Strongly encouraging students, faculty, and staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccination
HARDAWAY HALL ACQUIRED AND DEDICATED In 2021, TWU acquired the property located at 202 Green Street, adjacent to campus and across the street from the downtown CVS Pharmacy. The building has been renovated and was dedicated at Homecoming as Hardaway Hall, in honor of the Hardaway family and their many years of service to Tennessee Wesleyan University. The building now houses a pair of programs that embody the Hardaway’s commitment to serving their community. The Love Thy Neighbor Project, Upward Bound, and Facilities now work from Hardaway Hall. The Love Thy Neighbor Project runs their full operation out of the bottom floor, including the food pantry made available to students and the community, and home base for the mobile food pantries run each month. Upward Bound is a federally-funded program which aims to serve potential first-generation college students during their high school years, helping them reach their goal of a college degree.
The TWU Board of Trustees has a new chairman as of the 2021-2022 academic year. Dr. Robert Goodfriend is leading the board into one of its most challenging tasks, finding a new president for the University.
Dr. Goodfriend’s generosity was instrumental in the development of the Goodfriend School of Business in 2016. The Goodfriend School of Business is home to TWU’s undergraduate business program, the management excellence degree completion program, and Master of Business Administration program.
•Masking and social distancing in indoor spaces, including labs and classrooms
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GOODFRIEND NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
“I hope you enjoy your time after TWU and whatever other pursuits you may choose. I will always be reminded of you whenever I ride the elevator in Fisher Hall!” (The elevator is named ‘The Harley’. It had not been functional for a dozen years, but Dr. Knowles found the money to pay for it to be repaired.)
“To quote Dr. Willhite: ‘Thanks for all you do for TWU!’”
WITH Gratitude
·Bachelor’s Degree Completion Program ·Designed for the working adult ·Concentrations in Administration of Justice and Behavioral Sciences PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE Deb Wallace Leads Criminal Justice Online Program tnwesleyan.edu/PLCJ
6 | ARCHES When Dr. Knowles sent out an email announcing that he would be retiring from Tennessee Wesleyan University at the end of the current academic year, I was initially stunned, probably as many people were. In the back of my mind, I knew he would leave us at some point, after all he has been here for 11 years. But when it became official, it was just a little shocking. Not long after taking in the news I sent Harley a response: “In 23 years, you are my fourth permanent president. You have accomplished more for this institution than the other three put together. I have not always agreed with some of your decisions, but I always felt free to speak with you about your decisions, and that is what I appreciate the most about you.
Dr. Mark Shoop Professor of Biology, Associate Dean of Sciences and Mathematics
Harley - I know you have plans after TWU. Good luck in your future and please come back to check in on us.
SPRING 2022 | 7 For the last decade, most incoming students at Tennessee Wesleyan University have met Dr. Knowles when he is at the base of the steps of Old College during campus tours. There, he is eager to meet and welcome future Bulldogs and ask about their interests and plans. While my relationship with Dr. Knowles began in this way, I can thankfully say that over time it also developed into a great mentorship. In fact, when I was severely lost and jumping from major to major, I would swing by his office and would hear his new grand idea for my future. Often, these grand ideas would be supported by practical advice and guidance on a particular subject. This improved my academic journey in more ways than I can count, and I can also confidently say that my life journey has greatly improved because of Dr. Knowles. We share a common love for the Lord, the great outdoors, and, oddly enough, Maine. What makes Tennessee Wesleyan University and Dr. Knowles even more special, though, is that I know that my story is not a rare one—many other Bulldogs have been shaped, encouraged, and empowered by what began as a greeting on the steps of Old College. Because of that, we say thank you, Dr. Knowles! The Bulldogs wish you the happiest retirement! WITH Gratitude TWU Alumnus Honors Program WE'RE LAUNCHING A NEW THIS FALL SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Athens native Lem McSpadden’s parents owned McSpadden Furniture Company, located in the current Miller Hall, home to TWU’s Dental Hygiene program and residence hall. Lem was greatly influenced by his Aunt, Elda McSpadden Walker, a 1933 Tennessee Wesleyan graduate. Lem and his wife, Donna, endowed a scholarship in her memory for students in the Dental Hygiene program.
ELDA MCSPADDEN WALKER
Over the last two years, TWU has been blessed with estate gifts from The Christensen Family Revocable Trust, the H. Kathleen Walker Estate, Beulah Roberts Trust, and Bettie Bragg Estate. The impact of these estates will help TWU further our mission of providing students with the highest quality educational experience for many years to come. Support for Tennessee Wesleyan University comes in many forms and sizes, from small gifts to large estates. Estate gifts range from $1,000 to larger sums, but one thing remains true, a gift of any size makes a life-changing impact on the students of TWU, both our current Bulldogs and generations of future Bulldogs. One of the most flexible giving tools is the designation of a bequest in your last will and testament. A bequest can be specific, naming an exact dollar amount or item(s) you wish to leave to the University. A residual bequest can be less specific and include a percentage of your estate after any expenses and other specific bequest items are fulfilled. Finally, a bequest could be contingent upon other circumstances, such as another beneficiary predeceasing you. Working with your attorney, the bequest could include gifts of cash, securities or real estate, or any combination of the above. We encourage our alumni to reflect on their time at TWU, the memories that were made, and friendships that have lasted decades. Those same memories are being made today with our current students and will continue to be made for future generations. The Advancement Office would be honored to discuss opportunities if an estate bequest would help achieve your philanthropic goals.
ADVANCEMENT Updates
SCHOLARSHIP
Longtime friend and neighbor, Jeri Arledge, created the Grace Keith Annual Scholarship to memorialize their years of friendship. Grace coached at Hixson High School (1959-1972) and UTC (1974-1976) and accumulated many accolades, including the first female inducted in the TWU Athletic Hall of Fame (1985), UTC Hall of Fame (2015), Greater Chattanooga Sports Hall of Fame Betty Probasco Lifetime Achievement Award and won Senior Olympic medals in basketball, volleyball and softball.
GRACE KEITH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP
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LAWRENCE CONCERT SERIES
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The Organic Chemistry Lab in Fisher Hall is receiving a much-needed renovation, thanks to the support of the Ted and Drama Russell Family Foundation. Their gift is providing new countertops and components, and the total renovation will include new sinks, fresh paint, new flooring and other improvements.
L. CECIL ROBERTS AND BEULAH W. ROBERTS SCHOLARSHIP
DRS. WILLIAM AND NANCY FISHER
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
Dr. Dale Lawrence’s gift in memory of his aunt, Edythe Vyvian Smalley, a student at the Athens School of the University of Chattanooga (now TWU), established a concert series to honor her young life cut short by the 1919 influenza epidemic. Dr. Lawrence’s career was inspired by her and he became a noted epidemiologist working for the CDC and NIH.
Dr. Nancy Fisher, an English professor at TWU from 1991-2010, and her husband, William, included a provision in their estate plan to endow a scholarship for students majoring in English, with preference to students pursuing journalism.
DR. DANNY FISHER FUND
The Dr. Danny Fisher Memorial Fund was established by family and friends of the late Dan Fisher to assist students majoring in Business Administration. Dr. Fisher spent his career working in business and industry and later teaching business students at TWU. The fund will be used to meet the cost of attendance needs for a deserving student annually in Business Administration, with preference to international or entrepreneurial student needs.
THE TED AND DRAMA RUSSELL FAMILY FOUNDATION
BULLDOG INVESTMENT CLUB
The Bulldog Investment Club is a student-led organization, under the careful direction of business faculty, learning investing principles through actual funds contributed by Ric and BJ Galberaith. Students make investments and watch how the market impacts them in real time. Their investments have seen significant growth.
The Roberts Scholarship fund was established to provide financial support to students from Loudon County and southeast Tennessee pursuing a degree in Dental Hygiene. Originally established at Hiwassee College, this fund was transferred to TWU in Fall 2021 and will continue to benefit students.
I realize that these are the things I could not find just Becauseanywhere.ofthese
Finally, I received the news that I could study at TWU from Brazil until travel restrictions were lifted! I remember celebrating alongside my family and friends in Brazil and, most importantly, the life-long friends I have made in Athens. If it were not for them, I would have given up. So, for one semester, I studied from home but stayed engaged with my Wesleyan family in every way possible. I planned and presented a project with a fellow marketing student from around 4,500 miles away, virtually attended the wedding of a Wesleyan student, kept in touch with professors, and daily looked forward to returning to Then,Athens.after a three-month trip home turned into a nine-month trip, I finally returned back to my second home and have since reflected and thanked God that He has sent me to a place that has helped me achieve my goals while also allowing me to receive the deepest desires of my heart—belonging, community, and development.
things, even when I am no longer a student, church member, teammate, or resident assistant in Athens, I will always be a Bulldog. Even when I leave Wesleyan with my degree in hand, no matter where life takes me, I will always have a home in Athens, Tennessee, because of Tennessee Wesleyan University.
A Journey by Fabio Jorge Correa GarciaBack Home
My journey toward Tennessee Wesleyan began in 2015 when I set goals for myself to play tennis in the United States, earn a bachelor’s degree, and immerse myself in a new culture. I never dreamed, however, that during my first semester here in 2018, I would also gain teammates, peers, and professors that I consider to be family, making Athens, Tennessee, my home away from home in São Paulo, Brazil. I realize and am thankful that this is all possible because TWU is a close-knit community that truly cares about me not only as a student, an athlete, and a future professional, but also as a person. This made my journey to Wesleyan and my freshman year extremely fulfilling. During my sophomore year, however, everything that I enjoyed as a Wesleyan student, including studying in the library, practicing on the tennis court, and gathering for weekly FCA meetings quickly stopped in a necessary effort to keep everyone safe. Upon switching to online classes in March of 2020, I decided to go back to be with my family in Brazil for what I thought would be a three-month stay. In fact, I remember thinking that COVID-19 would come and go fast enough for me to once again return to normal life in Athens. I certainly did not realize that a new “normal” was being determined for everyone worldwide and that I would soon be met with unbelievable difficulties that would make continuing my education, reaching my goals, and being with my community at Tennessee Wesleyan seem Thisimpossible.isbecause due to the high numbers of positive cases, people were prohibited from traveling specifically from Brazil to America, and remote learning was not an option for me or any other international student because of regulations put in place by SEVIS. So, I quickly began working around the clock to find a way to make it back to my American home, but it seemed that every attempt, every endeavor, and every bit of hope that I had was failing. I even considered transferring my credits to a university in Brazil. The thought of that, however, made me feel like I was losing a part of myself because Wesleyan means more than college credit—it also means unity, family, and support. I was determined never to give up on that.
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Jim Winer Board Member & Former Chairperson
more than 10 years of his tenure, we witnessed a wonderful cultural, academic, administrative, and physical transformation. The faculty and staff began proposing and developing initiatives and new programs. Despite the challenging higher education environment, the financial management and finances began to improve. Investments in institutional growth were made from the endowment, and the endowment has doubled since Harley’s arrival. Giving began to improve.
Harley has always been the first to highlight the accomplishments of others and to thank people for their contributions. At the end of 2021, SACSCOC finalized the 10-year reaffirmation with no findings. That is a rare accomplishment in higher education and a fitting testimony to Harley and the great team at TWU. Great leaders attract great people. Leadership matters, and Harley has been a humble and highly effective leader that we are forever thankful for. He is a friend who has positioned Tennessee Wesleyan for continued growth and ever greater success in the future.
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The confidence of the trustees was clear and expressed in so many significant ways. Bill Kilbride donated the Kilbride Nature Sanctuary. Claire Tucker made the acquisition of Reece Hall a reality. Bobby Goodfriend made significant contributions to the business school, which now carries his name, the Goodfriend School of Business. Allen Carter contributed to athletics, and the baseball stadium now carries the name of his company, Athens Insurance Stadium. Carl Colloms gave the lead gift that brought the dream of having a campus center to reality.
WITH Gratitude
I first met Harley 11 years ago at the Knoxville Airport for the first round of interviews to hire the next Tennessee Wesleyan President. I was instantly struck by his personality. He was comfortable, warm, upbeat, engaging, thoughtful, and energetic. The campus needed his healing personality. Harley balanced the internal and external responsibilities that the position demands with humility and Overhumor.the
Student support initiatives have improved retention.
Tennessee Wesleyan University academics continues to provide the highest quality educational experience to our students, preparing them to lead and serve in our world. Despite the challenges of the past year, we continue to seek new and innovative ways to serve the students of our region. I am excited to share with you a few recent academic initiatives at TWU. Dr. Grant Willhite Vice President for Academic Affairs
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM IS ROLLING
12 | ARCHES staged over several years and will allow for the gradual increase in the number of students the program can serve. A transformative gift from Simmons Bank funded the wrapping of the Dental Hygiene Mobile Unit. This clinic on wheels allows TWU Dental Hygiene students to serve clients outside of the main clinic, such as local schools and other nonprofit agencies.
NEW MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
The TWU Dental Hygiene program was awarded a significant grant from the Johnson Family Foundation, allowing the program to expand the number of operatories in the clinic and access for disabled clients. The grant is
In January 2022, the TWU-Fort Sanders Nursing Department welcomed the first cohort in the new Master of Science in Nursing program. This program is offered entirely online and contains two tracks in nursing administration and nursing education. Pathways have been developed for bachelor’s prepared nurses and RN-BSN online students. The tracks are also available to master’s prepared nurses as certificate programs. TWU is proud to expand on our strong tradition of preparing the best nurses in the region.
ACADEMIC Updates
MBA PROGRAM EXPANDS In 2021, the TWU Master of Business Administration program in the Goodfriend School of Business expanded its footprint with the addition of a Marketing concentration. With courses focused on advertising, consumer decision making, and eCommerce, this program adds a new, high-demand dimension to the TWU MBA. With the addition of the Marketing emphasis, a general track was also developed which allows MBA students the ability to choose courses from any emphasis in the MBA program.
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Several years ago, TWU worked closely with McMinn County high schools to offer dual enrollment eligible courses at times that would allow local students to take University courses on TWU’s campus. This program has been successful with dual enrollment students performing exceptionally in TWU classes and with a number of local high school students taking multiple courses on the TWU campus. These on-campus dual enrollment students have access to student activities and student support services, giving them a true early college experience. This year, TWU has partnered with Lenoir City High School to pilot dual enrollment options in their CTE program. The first course was rolled out spring of 2022 in the Criminal Justice track. Other area school systems have also approached TWU about similar programs at their high schools. Likely areas of programming include business, criminal justice, education, health sciences, and digital design.
DUAL ENROLLMENT AT TWU
THE BULLDOG CONNECTION
NEW DIGITAL MARKETING MAJOR
The Bulldog Connection program entered the second year of implementation in 2021. This innovative program ensures that all four-year TWU students are engaging in a minimum number of high impact practices (first year experience, undergraduate research, diversity/ global learning, service learning, internships, etc.). These experiences are linked to tangible products intended to support student efforts to gain employment or enter graduate or professional school following graduation. Students also engage in intentional, guided reflection in each of these high impact practices to ensure that students connect the TWU experience to their career goals. Freshman students engage in intentional discussion about the value of the TWU experience (liberal arts and high impact practices). Sophomore students began this year in cultural diversity general education courses to connect the course content to their future career goals. In the next two years of implementation, students will engage in major embedded high impact practice courses and their senior capstone courses. Read how our young alum are connecting their TWU experience to their career in our monthly Bulldog To... feature series.
The 2021-22 academic year saw the approval of a new interdisciplinary major in Digital Marketing. Students in Business Administration or Communications Studies may now choose to gain experience in e-marketing, graphic design, web design, and social media communication.
Over the years, Tennessee Wesleyan has blossomed under the care of Dr. Knowles, but even more so, the employees have blossomed. Dr. Knowles has a way of finding the very best in people, pushing employees to go further than they ever thought they could go. I remember a conversation with him several years ago where he told me he trusted me to run a department, that Tennessee Wesleyan needed me, and I was scared. But the good thing about having a President like Dr. Knowles is that he helps you grow, shows grace and compassion when you need it, and is fully supportive in every way. What I admire most about him is that even in the face of conflict, he stops and listens to all details before he makes any decisions. He wants staff input in the big decisions and in the small decisions because he knows that every decision matters. Bottom line, he supports his staff. And for that, we can never thank him enough.
Lacey Williams Weese, ‘08 Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services
“Dr. Knowles has a way of finding the very best in people, pushing employees to go further than they ever thought they could go.”
14 | ARCHES Loyal. Trustworthy. Energetic. Faithful. Fun. These are all words that define the Ultimate Bulldog, Dr. Harley Knowles. I have had the pleasure of being on staff at TWU prior to Dr. Knowles’ first day, and let me tell you: he truly has breathed life back into this University. I remember back when he was a candidate for President, he stood in front of the staff and truly listened as we poured our hearts out about what this school means to us. And he got it. He truly understood what makes TWU so special, why we care so deeply about each other, and he quickly learned to love this school as much as we do.
But not only is he President Knowles, he is also a friend to all. Sitting in the dining hall, he listens to stories of our kids, our vacation plans, our “games” and even shares a few stories of his cat as well! When I first came back to work after a death in my immediate family, he sought me out on orientation day just to see how I was doing and tell me that he was glad I was back. That is just the kind of man that he is.
I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Harley Knowles, but I will leave it at this: We will follow you anywhere. Thanks for all that you do for so many. We love you, Our Fearless Leader! Gratitude
WITH
WITH Gratitude
Originally from Kentucky, Nora Cuntz dreamed of being a nurse and enrolled in the Fort Sanders nursing program in Knoxville. Nora attended school while raising a family - giving birth to her first child, Terea, during her senior year. Nora graduated in 1957 and served as a nurse for 37 years in hospital operating rooms and industrial nursing settings.
As a sophomore in 2011, a lot of excitement surrounded the campus as Dr. Knowles arrived at TWU. He quickly learned the names of students and genuinely listened when you spoke with him. As a natural leader, he has a unique way of inspiring others to make change happen. It all starts with a conversation. After graduation, I have continued working with Dr. Knowles on several projects, one of which includes serving on the McMinn Regional Humane Society’s Board of Directors together. A few years ago, we quickly realized our shared passion for animal welfare and actively making positive change happen within our animal shelter. As an animal advocate, Dr. Knowles uses his passion and skills to elevate others to a whole new level. With his help, among a slew of others, the McMinn Regional Humane Society is expected to acquire a fully renovated animal shelter within the year. Our board is grateful to have him on our team as a difference maker. Dr. Knowles is an exceptionally inspiring leader when it comes to making effective change and advancements for our university. Honestly, I never expected to have a friendship or working relationship with him so many years later. To me, that is what Tennessee Wesleyan is all about – forming lasting relationships and believing you can change the world. Dr. Knowles not only believes in us to do those things, but he continues to show us how to do it within our local community 11 years later.
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Erica Allen Peden, ‘14 TWU Alumna & Community Member
Terea established the Nora Cuntz Nursing Scholarship in December 2020 to honor her mother and her nursing career. “Our hearts are filled with joy,” said Terea. “This has allowed us to convey how proud and grateful we are for all of her years of hard work and dedication to providing for our family.” This scholarship allows a current Fort Sanders Nursing Department student the opportunity to receive a quality education, which Nora believed was the foundation for a rewarding career. Prior to her passing in August 2021, Nora received news of the scholarship as a touching Christmas gift from her daughter.
NORA CUNTZ NURSING SCHOLARSHIP
16 | ARCHESTIMELINE OF 2011 Dr. Knowles hired as President of Tennessee Wesleyan College 2012 Baseball team wins school’s first national championship at the NAIA World Series 2014 First master’s program added, the Master of Business Administration, which in 2016 helped launch the Goodfriend School of Business 2016 WesleyanbecomesWesleyanTennesseeCollegeTennesseeUniversity 2018 Proud Heritage, Strong Future recordconcludescampaignwitha$22million in gifts and pledges Dr. Harley Knowles 2018 Colloms Campus Center, largest building campaign under Dr. Knowles’ Restaurant,EventSuccessStudentcompleted,leadership,housingLife,MosherCenter,JohnsonCenter,Burkett’sandmore.
SPRING 2022 | 17 2019 Record enrollment and retention 2019 Allied Health growth accelerated through creation of Master of Occupational Therapy and acquisition of Dental Hygiene program following Hiwassee College closure. 2020 Second consecutive year of record enrollment and retention 2020 Following initial shutdown, campus navigates COVID-19 with no major breakouts or shutdowns. 2021 SACSCOC grants 10-year accreditation with featrecommendations,zeroarareinhighereducation.
ENROLLMENT & RETENTION TWU experienced unprecedented student growth during the last 11 years, culminating in record enrollment both in 2019, and more impressively, in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Freshman retention rates also reached record highs in 2019 and 2020, with 70% and 77%, respectively. Record enrollment in 2019 and again in 2020 Record freshman retention in 2019 at Another70%record freshman retention in 2020 at 77% FINANCES Perhaps the least known element of growth under Dr. Knowles’ leadership is the University’s finances. Since 2009, TWU has reduced their debt by $1.8 million. Three years have brought record fundraising, and the Proud Heritage, Strong Future campaign was the largest in TWU history, raising $22 million in gifts and pledges. $1.8 million reduction in debt Endowment doubled Net asset growth of 67% since Largest2010campaign in University history raised $22 million in gifts and pledges
STUDENT SERVICES Thanks in part to the Title III Grant, student support has been another emphasis in recent years, beginning with the creation of the Mosher Success Center, which houses Student Success Coaches, Career Development, New Student Programs, and Freshman Advising. The Title III Grant also brought an emphasis in instructional design, vital for the growth of online and hybrid courses.TitleIIIGrant provides numerous new services, including: Mosher Success Center Success InstructionalFreshmanRetentionCoachesCoordinatorAdvisingTechnology support
Dr. Harley Knowles took over as chief officer at Tennessee Wesleyan University in fall 2011. From the beginning, he established himself as a President highly focused on service toward students, faculty, and staff. With a humble heart, a servant’s mindset, and a tireless commitment to making the best possible experience for each student, Dr. Knowles set out to build a bigger, stronger, healthier Tennessee Wesleyan.
UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH UNDER DR. KNOWLES
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Faculty Fellowships
Kilbride
Colloms
Master
track
acquisition and NursingrenovationSimulation Lab Wallace
Record enrollments Record fundraising campaign SACSCOC Accreditation with zero recommendations
acquisition
Miller
Thunder
ACADEMICS
in baseball and
agreements
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With an eye toward higher education trends and building upon TWU’s strengths, the University has added numerous programs under Dr. Knowles’ tenure, including the school’s inaugural master’s program, the MBA, and three more graduate degrees. Additionally, numerous undergraduate programs were added, as well as the University’s leap into the online and adult studies areas, through RN to BSN, Management Excellence (ME), Professional Leadership in Criminal Justice, and more. of MasterMBAAdministrationBusiness4+1ofOccupational Therapy of Arts in Teaching Master of Science in Nursing
renovations Hardaway Hall acquisition and renovation NEXT
More students and more programs mean the need for more facilities to provide the best possible experience for students. Dr. Knowles mobilized donors, trustees, community members, and more to acquire, build, renovate, and convert facilities, and even to expand the borders ofReececampus.Hall acquired and Conversionsrenovated of Willson House, Blakeslee Hall Baseball stadium wall, batting cage and synthetic turf Nature Sanctuary and additions Fitness Center Campus Center Hall Square LEVEL Under the leadership of Dr. Knowles, the TWU family has taken leaps forward in a variety of areas, from athletics to infrastructure. College became University, the first national championships were won, upgraded bandwith to become a gigabite campus, and a stable future of accreditation, as SACSCOC awarded 10year certificate with zero recommendations.TransitiontoTennesseeWesleyanUniversityNationalChampionships men’s event
Sixteen new undergraduate majors, minors, and emphases Degree completion programs: Management Excellence, RN to BSN, Professional Leadership in Criminal EngineeringJusticeScience with UTK and Tennessee Tech FACILITIES
Master
BASEBALL OPENS PLAY ON NEW FIELD, DOMINATES AAC The 2021 season saw the baseball team play on a new playing surface at Athens Insurance Stadium. Thanks to numerous generous donations, the program was able to replace the natural grass on Jack Bowling Field with artificial turf before the beginning of the season. The Bulldogs finished the season with a 53-6 overall record and won both the Appalachian Athletic Conference Regular Season and AAC Tournament Championships.
20 | ARCHES ATHLETIC UPDATES
The Esports program had its first-ever competition in September 2021. The team competed in three different National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) Starleagues: Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, Overwatch, and Rocket League. The program won its first-ever match on September 13.
THREE FORMER PITCHERS EARN MLB PROMOTIONS
ESPORTS COMPETES FOR FIRST-TIME EVER AS VARSITY SPORT
BASEBALL SEES PROGRAM’S FIRST NAIA NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR; THREE NAMED NAIA ABCA/RAWLINGS ALLAMERICANS Gary Mattis Jr., Kobe Foster, and Zach Hogueisson were named NAIA ABCA/Rawlings All-Americans after the 2021 season. Mattis Jr. was named the NAIA National Player of the Year, becoming the first player in program history to win the award. Mattis Jr. was also awarded the 2021 ABCA/Rawlings NAIA Gold Glove at the shortstop position, becoming the second player in program history to earn a Gold Glove honor.
Three former Bulldog pitchers, Cole Bellair (Minnesota Twins), Tayler Saucedo (Toronto Blue Jays), and Ryan Hartman (Houston Astros) made their Major League Baseball debuts in June. TWU EARNS MULTIPLE NAIA ACADEMIC AWARDS On the NAIA National Awards Day in September, the association announced the NAIA Scholar Teams and Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes. Eight teams from Tennessee Wesleyan earned the distinction of NAIA Scholar Teams, and 65 student-athletes were honored as Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes.
Tennessee Wesleyan University announced men’s volleyball as the school’s 22nd varsity sport on September 23, 2021. Considered one of the fastest growing sports, the men’s volleyball program will begin competition in Spring 2023. The team will compete as a part of the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
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MEN’S VOLLEYBALL ADDED AS NEW VARSITY SPORT
Ty Patterson and Bryant Bernard both scored their 1,000th career point in 2021. Patterson and Bernard were the 38th and 39th players, respectively, to reach the scoring milestone.
TWO MEN’S BASKETBALL STUDENTATHLETES JOIN MEN’S BASKETBALL’S 1,000 CAREER POINTS CLUB
RICE WINS 300TH CAREER GAME AS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH Head Coach Jeff Rice (’94) picked up his 300th career win as the head women’s basketball coach in November. Rice is only the second coach in program history to win 300 games and third between both basketball programs to reach the 300-win mark. The five-time AAC Coach of the Year and TWU Hall of Famer also recorded 350 wins during his time as the head coach of the softball program, making Rice the only coach in school history to record 300 wins with two sports.
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL GETS A NEW HEAD COACH Women’s volleyball began the new year by announcing Kylie Whaley as the new head coach of the program. “Throughout the interview process, it was clear in Kylie’s passion for the sport and the studentathlete that she was the right choice to be the leader of our women’s volleyball program,” said Director of Athletics, Donny Mayfield. Whaley graduated from Milligan University in 2014 and was a four-year member of the volleyball program; upon graduating, Whaley coached at Jefferson County High School where she was named Coach of the Year after her first season. For the last five years, Whaley served as an assistant coach for Milligan University. Whaley is excited to join the Bulldogs and has already set a foundation for the program.
The feat marks the first time the Bulldogs have had two student-athletes score their 1,000th career point in the same season since 2013.
CLASS OF 2021
Congratulations
A doubling of the endowment over the last decade thanks to expert guidance from trustees and incredible generosity of friends and donors.
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While I am forever grateful for all the notes and emails, I am also very humbled. As you know, much of the progress and growth at the University over the last decade is attributable to many of my colleagues whose talent, tenacity, and passion for TWU were vital in all the successes we have enjoyed.
When I reflect on the last decade, here are just some of the most memorable milestones as we worked to create a transformational learning experience that prepares students to lead and serve in our world: Academic leadership at many levels of the University that have developed 16 new majors and minors, as well as four graduate programs to diversify our offerings to better serve the needs of the region.
A stellar 10-year accreditation review last year which resulted in no follow-up reports.
A LETTER from the PRESIDENT
Dear TWU Family and Friends, I shared with the campus community in November my intention to retire at the end of June 2022. Since making that announcement, I have been overwhelmed with gracious comments and expressions of appreciation.
The opening of the Colloms Campus Center that was made possible by unmatched generosity of many of our alumni and community members, not to mention its namesake Judge Carl Colloms.
Substantial renovation or upgrade to nearly every academic, residential, and athletic facility on Technologicalcampus.
The purchase of several new facilities that allowed us to expand and better serve our students, such as Reece Hall, Hardaway Hall, and the Watson House. The merger of Hiwassee College’s Dental Hygiene program and the creation of the new academic facility, Miller Hall, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of Mitch Miller, a local entrepreneur.
The recent record enrollment and our TWU athletic conference domination year after year, culminating in three national championships, numerous other championships, and record performances on and off the field.
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With the greatest of appreciation for our intrepid colleagues at TWU, Dr. Harley Knowles President
The development of the Goodfriend School of Business and many innovative initiatives that have evolved from the faculty there, such as the Entrepreneur Center called the LITEhouse, the evening program for working adults, and the highly successful MBA and its many specialties.
I am grateful to my colleagues for their vision, leadership, and patience as we worked on many of these improvements in an effort to improve the overall student experience and prepare them to lead and serve. TWU is ready for another dynamic 10 years of growth and improvement. With God’s blessings and lots of hard work, many great things are ahead for generations of students. Thank you for your wonderful support and generosity which have touched me deeply. I look forward to much great success in the future!
upgrades which have resulted in the newest instructional equipment throughout the campus, gig speed internet, and an efficient administrative platform. Significant enhancements to students support services, such as the new outdoor recreation program, Mosher Success Center, as well as enhanced dining and residence halls and outdoor venues.
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In the fall of 2021, for the first time since the pandemic began, TWU was thrilled to welcome alumni, friends, and families back to campus for Homecoming, where we celebrated the fact that there is truly “No Place Like Home” at TWU. We gathered safely and excitedly for many events, including the first event on Friday—the Golden Anniversary Induction and Dinner, where the classes of 1970 and 1971, as well as the classes of 1960 and 1961, were honored. On Friday night, we gathered on Wallace Square for the Greek Reunion, where friends, brothers, and sisters reconnected and reminisced.
This Homecoming also allowed us to celebrate TWU’s first affinity group as we gathered for the Black Affinity Network Meet and Greet and the Black Affinity Network Social Mixer.
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOMECOMING
Later, at the Alumni Awards Dinner, we were delighted to celebrate our 2020 and 2021 winners of the J. Neal Ensminger Distinguished Alumnus Award: Dr. Josh Yother (’96) and Angel Hardaway (’06), the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award: Erica Allen Peden (’14) and Dr. Katie Morgan-Harper (’10), and the Robbie J. Ensminger Friend of Wesleyan Award: Debbie Hahn and Ginny Elliott. On Sunday, we ended the celebrations with brunch, TWU Day at Trinity United Methodist Church, and the 60th Anniversary of TWU’s Gamma Psi Chapter of Sigma Kappa.
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The celebration of our Alma Mater continued with the Alumni and Student Choir Concert, the “There’s No Place Like Homecoming” Picnic, the Cheerleading and Dance Performance, the Hardaway Hall Dedication, and the Alumni Basketball and Lacrosse Games.
We want to thank every attendee who made this Homecoming so special as we remembered the importance of reconnection and celebration, and what it means to be a Bulldog! Stay tuned for information on Homecoming 2022, and for the most recent updates, remember to follow our Facebook page, Tennessee Wesleyan University Alumni Association!
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Jamie Lones (’15) now serves as the Vice President of Manufacturing for NGK Metals Corporations. He is proud to have a family of Bulldogs, as his daughters graduated from TWU, his son Noah plans to attend in the fall of 2022, and his wife, Stefanie, works as the Associate Director of Financial Aid here at TWU. Let us and your fellow alumni know when an exciting life event happens! If you get engaged, married, promoted at work, or win a special award, we want to know about it. Email your news to atnwesleyan.edualumni@andincludephotoifyou’dlike!
SPRING 2022 | 29 central California, where she is a practicing dental Jodiehygienist.Jarvis Caldwell (’18) married Hunter Caldwell on December 5, 2020. Olivia Johnson (’21) was accepted into the Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program at LMU. Zack Dolberry (’10) was spotlighted by Hamilton County Schools for his outstanding work during the Rachelpandemic.McDonald (’19) was selected as Teacher of the Year at Hazelwood Elementary School. Daelyn Waldroup (’18) was selected as Teacher of the Year for Athens City Schools for Kindergarten through 4th Laurengrade.Morris (’16) graduated from ETSU’s Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program in December of 2020. Melissa Black (’18) was recently accepted to LMU’s Family Nurse Practitioner KaitlynProgram.Sims (’16) has begun her Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Cincinnati, and she has been published twice in ACS Journals. Autumn Lowry (’09) earned a promotion with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs as the Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator for Suicide DestinyPrevention.Ditmore (’20) accepted a job at Erlanger Children’s Hospital in the Neonatal ICU.
4 Ashley Snyder Guinn (’07) and husband welcomed their third child, Elliott James, to the world in October of 2021. They are living in Louisville, Kentucky. Heather Honeycutt Glenfield (’10) and husband Nathan are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Laurel Grace, born September 18, Rebecca2021. Isbill (’19) and husband, Jordan, welcomed Caleb into the world on November 2, 2020, and twins Brynlee and Everlee into the world on August 22, 2021. Mandy Williams (’21) works as a chiropractic therapy assistant at Marsh Chiropractic and Wellness LakenCenter.Koontz (’14) is a third year Chief Resident Physician at Lewis-Gale Medical Center in Blacksburg, Virginia. Starting in July of this year, she will serve in active duty in the U.S. Navy. Sydney Varajon (‘14) earned her Ph.D. in English with a specialization in Folklore from Ohio State University. Todd Cox (’18) now serves as a Specialist with the State of Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury. He also married Sarah (’20) on May 29, 2021.
Allison Allisonofficiated2021.MatthewKliethermesMcCutchen(’13)marriedinOctoberofSydneyVarajon(‘14)theceremony.andMatthewlivein
30 | ARCHES FT. SANDERS NURSING DEPARTMENT tnwesleyan.edu/nursing Preparing the next generation of nursing leaders and professors. Master of Science in Nursing, 100% online TWNursing TW_Nursing
Alumni Association Board of Directors Executive Board Brooke Satkowiak, ‘03, President Karen Raby, ’13, President Elect Dana Ferguson, ’13 ‘17, Secretary Executive Committee Robert Goodfriend, Chair Hugh Queener, Vice Chair Jim Winer, Student Life Chair Stephen Byrum, Academic Affairs Chair Charles “Butch” Peccolo, Finance Chair Rick Lay, Student Recruitment, Marketing & Church Relations Chair Larry Wallace, Secretary and Nominating Committee Chair Mark White, Facilities Chair Allen Carter, Advancement Chair Keith Altshuler, Fort Sanders Representative Carl Colloms, Member-at-Large William “Bill” Kilbride, Member-at-Large Jerri Bryant, Member-at-Large Members Chris StephenBlackW. Brumit Jerri DennyJohnVantAlanRobertH.JefferyCarlAllenStephenSusanBryantButtramByrumCarterCollomsCunninghamPaulGaffneyGoodfriend,ChairGuyHardaway(Honorary)HoldenHumphries William Kilbride Rick RegeniaLay Mayfield Marilyn Miller Randy Mullins Lynn ClaireRufusJ.JasonStellaHughLorenCharlesNicholasPeccoloPlemmonsQueenerRobertsRobertsonLeeStewartTriplettTucker Members Josh Bragg, ‘14 Denise Callais, ‘85 Todd Cox, ‘18 Judi Davis, ‘71 Abriel Hardaway, ‘13 Karen Morrow, ‘15, ‘17 Jordan Nelson, ‘12 Lacey Stewart, ‘06 Katy Tilley, ‘14 Ric Wilson, ‘79 SPRING 2022 | 31 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Larry Wallace Ken ShirleyJimMintieMarkWilliamWebbP.WebbWhite(Honorary)WillsonWinerWoodcock
204 E College Street Athens, Tennessee 37303 FAL L-OW ME TO HOMECOMING OCTOBER 7-9, 2022
