Treveccan | Fall 2024

Treveccan THE MAGAZINE OF TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY

Story OUR

TO TELL

“The universe is m a d e o f s t o r i e s, n o t o f a t o m s.”

Poet Muriel Rukeyser For Christians, stories are a central part of existence. They inspire us to do good and to be better than we would be if left to our own thoughts and ideas about the world.

Stories mold our experiences, stir our imaginations and connect our lives to the eternal God. They also tether us to earlier generations. Stories keep our hearts and minds focused on things that matter—things that are so important we could not live without them.

Stories are our way of becoming the people we should be, the people we must be if we follow Jesus.

Stories create our identity. They allow us to discover our place in the world as we are reminded of our calling, potential and capability. They help us figure out who we are.

Who we are, in fact, is this: characters in a story we did not write, transformed into a people we could never be without the God who has authored it all.

At Trevecca, ours is a beautiful story, filled with the wonders of God and the dreams He has placed in our heart. It’s a story of conversion and sanctification; of unlikely heroes and great testimonies. It’s a story of how God’s grace and power can shape human lives. It’s the story of how God uses ordinary people to change the world.

It’s a story almost 125 years in the making. It’s our story to tell.

Special thanks to Trevecca religion professor Steve Hoskins for helping to shape these thoughts.

Contents

Fall 2024

EMBRACING OPPORTUNITY 4 Class of 2024 graduate Claudia Nunez Oviedo made the most of her Trevecca experience A PIONEER AT TREVECCA AND BEYOND Bernard Turner has earned a reputation as a Nashville trailblazer, starting with his doctoral degree at Trevecca

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FROM THE HILL A roundup of campus news and notes

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TROJANS SPORTING A NEW IDENTITY 9 With a new conference and an updated visual brand, Trevecca Athletics has another game-changing goal in its sights FROM CAMPUS TO COURTROOM A Trevecca graduate made local history in her rise to become a circuit court judge

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TRENDING TREVECCANS

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PRESIDENTIAL PERSPECTIVE Dan Boone reflects on Trevecca’s culture as he embarks on his 20th year as president

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REDISCOVERING HOME A professor’s African sabbatical

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TREVECCA SOCIETY RECOGNITION

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FINANCIAL REPORT

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ADAMS LEAGUE OF LOYAL DONORS RECOGNITION

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MOMENTS AND MEMORIES Reminiscing with former professors John Chilton and Toby Williams

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TREVECCA LEGACY PARTNERS RECOGNITION

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FRIENDS REMEMBERED

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WITH DISTINCTION 2024 alumni award winners

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President's Report

Treveccan VOL. 94 NO. 2 FALL 2024 PRESIDENT Dan Boone (’74)

VP FOR UNIVERSITY ENGAGEMENT Peggy Cooning (’20)

ASSOCIATE VP OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Mollie Yoder

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ENGAGEMENT OFFICER Jennifer Showalter (’97)

EDITORIAL DIRECTORS Brian Bennett, Corrie C. Fritts

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Emily Goodson (’22, ’24), Carla Miles

PROJECT MANAGER Mackenzie Hider

WRITERS Teron Fairchild, Rebekah Warren (’18)

PHOTOGRAPHERS Hannah Somboon (’19), Alayna Simons

CONTRIBUTORS Anne Twining (’74)

CONTACT INFORMATION Treveccan 333 Murfreesboro Pike Nashville, TN 37210 treveccan@trevecca.edu

OFFICE OF GRADUATE AND ADULT EDUCATION grae@trevecca.edu

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS admissions@trevecca.edu

OFFICE OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT alumni@trevecca.edu

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@trevecca

 /treveccanazarene

/school/trevecca

trevecca.edu

EM B R A C I N G

opportunity Class of 2024 president and graduate Claudia N u n e z Ov ie d o wa s inspired to make the most of her Trevecca experience.

Claud ia Nu nez O v iedo had a remarkable journey at Trevecca leading up to her graduation last spring. The transition to life in the U.S. certainly wasn’t an easy one for the Honduras native, but given the outcome, it’s clear she made the best possible decision.

“I knew nothing about Nashville or Trevecca, so everything was completely new. And then I realized what an amazing place it is to live,” she said.

With a double major in business management and marketing and a minor in entrepreneurship, she was a part of the largest group of Hondurans to attend Trevecca at that time. “I thought there would be no Hondurans at Trevecca,” she said. “And when I arrived, I was shocked at the number. I guess our group opened the door for all the Honduran students that we have now.”

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Trevecca has built relationships with several high schools in Honduras throughout the last four years. As a result, the population of Honduran students grew from 25 in fall 2020 to 78 in fall 2023.

Coming from a family of engineers, Nunez Oviedo knew she wanted a double major because she desired to work as hard as they did. “I was that kid who said, ‘I want to be the CEO of my own company.’ Since I was young, I knew exactly what I wanted,” she said.

As a Trevecca student, she began working with the International Student Council, and eventually wondered if a broader role might be possible. That’s when she considered running for senior class president.

“I was thinking about how I could help represent our international population,” she said. “I started asking my mentors and professors, and they all said, ‘Go for it.’”

" B e i n g w i l l i n g a n d r e a d y t o t a k e a d va n t a g e o f e v e r y o p p o r t u n i t y h a s l e d t o h u g e b l e s s i n g s i n m y l i f e ."

Her main focus as president was to offer all seniors resources to feel prepared for life after college. She arranged meetings for Trevecca students with local employers to make potential career connections so the students could be exposed to future job opportunities.

She went to about three meetings per week, in addition to planning events like the Homecoming Gala throughout the school year. She did all of this while playing soccer as well.

In t he process of pursuing t wo majors and a minor in the business department, Nunez Oviedo also took advantage of opportunities for her own career growth. She participated in an annual elevator pitch competition hosted by the marketing department, attended networking events and even worked as a receptionist in the Skinner School of Business.

She was impacted by Trevecca’s faculty and staff, including administrative team members Pam Costa and Joan Bishop. “They were like my moms on campus,” she said. “They really helped me through everything.” She also had instructors whom she credits with making her educational experience a fulfilling one, including Greg Runyan, Roy Philip, Dawn Olson and, perhaps most of all, Jonathan Burch.

Burch, an associate professor of business management, was a speaker at commencement. Nunez Oviedo was chosen to be a student speaker, due to her many successes as a Trevecca

student, including receiving the Stella Simpson Leadership Award.

This made the special occasion even more meaningful, she said. The two had shared many deep conversations over the years, and he always served as a source of encouragement. “I felt like I could conquer the world after talking to him,” she said.

It was also from Trevecca’s faculty that Nunez Oviedo believes she learned the most important aspect of her daily routine. “Always having a heart for God is number one,” she shared. "I loved that our professors held devotions before starting class.

God was our priority. Now when I start my day, I always get to work 10 minutes early so I have quiet time to spend with God.” After graduation, Nunez Oviedo began working outside of Kansas City, Kansas, as a supply chain specialist at Kiewit, a construction and engineering organization. She often talks to vendors, and thrives on the part of the job that involves building and maintaining relationships. She says her time at Trevecca prepared her for this.

“College is really what you make it,” she said. “If you set your goals, if you have your heart and mind set on something, you can really achieve anything. Being willing and ready to take advantage of every opportunity has led to huge blessings in my life.”

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A Pioneer at Trevecca and Beyond Bernard Turner, the first African American man to earn an Ed.D. from Trevecca, has worked in Nashville for 35 years as a grant writer and local university leader.

When it comes to achieving firsts, Bernard Turner is a

Nashville trailblazer in the fields of both grant writing and higher education.

He was also a trailblazer at Trevecca, as the school’s first African American male to earn a Doctor of Education in leadership (Ed.D.) in 2003. He went on to establish himself as an unparalleled grant writer for Vanderbilt University's School of Nursing and Medical Center and Meharry Medical College before being chosen as the founding director of the nation’s first undergraduate program in social entrepreneurship at Belmont University in 2008.

Turner was honored this fall by the Grant Professionals Association. He is one of three individuals nationwide who received the 2024 Distinguished Fellow Award in recognition of his exceptional commitment as a grant professional, outstanding achievements and enduring impact on the grants profession. He is the eleventh individual and first African American to receive this honor.

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While his career has been marked with impressive accomplishments, perhaps the most remarkable thing about Turner’s journey is the unlikely turn of events that set him on his way.

Turner didn’t intend to work in grant writing. When he moved from his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, to Nashville in 1986, he got a job as a business management consultant for the Nashville Minority Business Development Center. He’d already earned an undergraduate degree in business administration from Findlay College in Ohio and an MBA from the University of Toledo. He also earned a second master’s degree in philanthropy and development from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

But just a few years into his work at the center, the organization’s federal funding wasn’t renewed. Turner found himself out of a job.

He indeed did become good at it, writ- “The program was well worth it,” Turner ing the initial grant that would establish continues. “It strengthened my writing an HIV/AIDs initiative for United Way and also my ability to complete research. of Middle Tennessee and bring in more But most of all, it taught me about leadthan $500,000 over the next four years. ership—about how to lead a team and This marked the beginning of his work lead myself.” with several Nashville organizations and schools throughout the next two When he walked across the stage in decades that would secure millions of 2003 to receive his diploma, Turner dollars through his grant writing efforts. became the first African American male to earn his Ed.D. from Trevecca. In the As development director at Vanderbilt’s following two decades, the University Comprehensive Care Center from 1998- would climb to a sixth-place national 1999, for example, he amplified support ranking for African Americans receivfor HIV care, securing a $1.2 million ing doctoral degrees in education and federal grant for primary care services tenth for African Americans receiving that has consistently been renewed since doctoral degrees across all disciplines, 1999. according to Diverse magazine.

Also in 1999, he began working at Meharry Medical College and helped secure a $10 million corporate gift from State Farm. The insurance company partnered with the college to study attitudes about seat belts and child safety seats among African Americans in order to create a plan to increase seat belt use.

An acquaintance told him about an opening with United Way of Middle Tennessee. “They were trying to diversify their staff,” Turner remembers. “I Turner turned toward earning his Ed.D. interviewed for what was described as in 2000. He knew it would lend credia government relations position.” bility and expertise to his current work, and he’d always harbored the dream of When United Way extended him an becoming a college professor. Earning offer, however, there was a twist. It was his doctoral degree could help potentially pave the way for this, he thought. a role as a grant writing specialist.

After finishing his Ed.D., Turner returned to Meharry and was promoted to associate vice president of corporate and foundation relations. There, he was part of a team that garnered a $9 million grant to start a health policy center in collaboration with Vanderbilt's College of Arts and Sciences.

His dream of working in higher education became a reality in 2008, when Belmont University hired him with a new idea. They wanted to start an undergraduate social entrepreneurship degree program—the first of its kind in the nation—and they chose Turner to lead the way.

Trevecca’s Ed.D. program was challeng- Since establishing that program in 2008, ing from the start, and during his first he’s served both as the program director semester he considered quitting. But and as an associate professor, helping a then two classmates approached him total of almost 200 students to date earn His future boss replied, “You know how separately and said, “We’ve got to sup- this interdisciplinary degree that comto write business plans, and we think port each other.” The camaraderie made bines courses in social entrepreneurship, all the difference. The three of them financial management, sociology, busiyou can be good at this.” committed to interacting and working ness ethics, entrepreneurship and grant together as a support system. writing, to name a few.

“That’s how I got into grant writing,” Turner explains with a laugh.

“After that, I didn’t have any doubts,” “It’s been really impactful,” Turner Turner says. shares. “We’re concerned about social problems and having an impact on people’s lives. I’m proud of that.”

“I told them: ‘You’ve changed the job description. I don’t know anything about grant writing,’” Turner recalls.

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from the hill

A ROUNDUP OF CAMPUS NEWS & NOTES

Trevecca experienced RECORD ENROLLMENT for the 2024-25 academic year, welcoming the largest group of incoming students in school history. Included among the 1,600+ new students arriving in the Trevecca community were 530 new traditional undergraduate students, 475 graduate and adult students and 160 high school students participating in dual enrollment.

On the WALL STREET JOURNAL’S 2025 BEST COLLEGES list released this fall, Trevecca’s ranking is the: •

Highest among all Christians school in Middle Tennessee

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Highest among all Nazarene schools in the U.S.

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Second highest overall in Middle Tennessee

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Fifth highest in Tennessee

This fall Trevecca introduced a new

DUAL ENROLLMENT PROGRAM in

partnership with CampusEDU, an innovative, faith-based learning platform. Through videobased curriculum, the program allows high school students to earn college credits, accelerate their academic progress and save money on college tuition. Scan at right for details and course previews.

The School of Leadership and Interdisciplinary Studies recently accepted an invitation to join the prestigious CARNEGIE PROJECT ON THE EDUCATION DOCTORATE (CPED), an international network of more than 135 graduate schools of education. Membership in this organization provides opportunities to share with and learn from some of the nation’s leading Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) programs.

Four new master’s degrees will be introduced in early 2025 as part of Trevecca’s new

Trevecca welcomed KATHLEEN FLACH as director of the PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT (PA) PROGRAM this summer. A

nationally certified physician assistant, Flach brings to the role more than a decade of academic experience in PA studies and nearly two decades of practice as a healthcare provider.

Trevecca’s undergraduate NURSING PROGRAM has expanded with the introduction of a SPRING START DATE beginning in 2025. The additional entry point will help address Tennessee’s nursing shortage by creating opportunities for more transfers and other prospective students to enter the program.

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE STUDIES

program. Designed especially for international students with an F-1 visa, the hybrid program has an on-campus residency requirement, and includes these new Master of Science degrees:

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•

Computer science management

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Data analytics management

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Information technology management

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Instructional design & technology management

Nursing students will also receive hands-on, state-of-the-art training in the new

ADVANCED CLINICAL LEARNING CENTER at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital

West. The shared educational space, which opened in September, features innovative patient manikins, learning spaces and surgery simulation labs with viewing windows and adjacent debrief rooms.

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omentum. It’s a curious thing. It can’t be harnessed or manufactured, but if held long enough, it can change the outcome of a game and rally an entire squad to victory. Its existence—and its impact—are undeniable.

This mysterious force isn’t always limited to the field or the court. For a number of months, Trevecca Athletics as a whole has been riding a significant wave of momentum, and it’s still building.

The first indicators could be seen prior to the 2023-2024 athletic season, beginning with two key leadership hires in basketball. Coaches Karen Booker and Kevin Carroll, hired within months of one another, each began reinvigorating their respective programs with new energy from the day they arrived on campus.

The momentum grew and continued throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. In fall 2023, Trevecca reached an agreement to join the competitive Gulf South Conference, a move that would establish and renew sports rivalries within the state and throughout the Southeast. In the spring, Trevecca’s new STUNT team reached the national finals in its first year of competition. Then the resurging softball team came within one victory of reaching the Division II NCAA World Series.

The movement didn’t stop there. Over the summer of 2024, the Trojans introduced a full visual rebrand and licensing/apparel agreements with Nike and BSN Sports, giving the Trojans new

logos and a fresh new look for uniforms, fan wear and accessories leading up to Trevecca’s inaugural season in the Gulf South Conference.

As the University’s student-athlete enrollment total approached 400 for the first time in school history, the athletic department also expanded its staff, promoting Brady Ray from compliance director to a newly-created assistant athletic director position. On top of that, heading into the fall semester, Trevecca announced a 10-year agreement to have basketball and baseball games broadcast locally on WNSR SportsRadio (560 AM and 95.9 FM) and WNTC (790 AM and 103.9 FM).

How much farther the wave of momentum will extend remains to be seen as the winter and spring sports seasons approach, but Trevecca Athletics is pushing toward another major goal: the construction of a new gymnasium facility.

Architectural plans have been laid for the planned building, which would impact the entire campus community in addition to multiple sports programs.

Financing the multimillion dollar project is the next hurdle, and fundraising efforts are underway.

If the community’s support for the new gym can match the growth and excitement of the Trojans’ athletic progress over the past few years, Trevecca could see that project come to fruition in the near future.

YOU CAN HELP! Scan here and designate a contribution directly to the new athletic facility to help move this project closer to the finish line.

TREVECCAN 10 Trevecca Nazarene University - Varsity Competition Facility COMPETITION COURT RENDERING

Moore Gymnasium, Nashville, TN 37210 -

23100.00 -

06-16-2023

Trevecca Nazarene University - Varsity Competition Facility

EXTERIOR RENDERING TREVECCA’S VISION: THE IMPORTANCE OF A NEW ATHLETIC FACILITY Moore Gymnasium, Nashville, TN 37210 -

23100.00 -

06-16-2023

Trevecca is poised for a new era in athletics, driven by the vision of athletic director Mark Elliott. With 13 years of experience at Trevecca, Elliott has overseen the transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II, emphasizing the University's core values in sports: Christian. Scholar. Athlete.

This mantra encapsulates Trevecca's commitment to nurturing athletes who excel both academically and spiritually while competing at a high level. "It's the principles we use for recruitment and hiring," Elliott explains. "It's the ethic of our day-to-day existence."

The growth of Trevecca’s athletic programs has been evident, with the number of athletes increasing by more than 50 percent in recent years. This expansion has put a strain on existing facilities, highlighting the urgent need for more space. "If we are going to add more athletes to the University’s enrollment, then we have to have some additional facilities," Elliott says.

Elliott envisions the new gymnasium building as more than just a game and practice space. It will also serve as a central hub for campus life, supporting not only sports but events like concerts and other gatherings. "Most campuses have a facility that’s an ‘icon’ for athletics," he notes. "It’s where we play, compete and center our athletic life."

Elliott stresses that this development is a long-term investment in both the University and in Christian education as a whole. "It’s more than just a building," he says. "It’s the heartbeat of our campus."

He stresses the need for action and partnership to help fulfill the growing need. “We live in a post-modern, post-Christian era. It is certainly different from my generation, but the needs are still the same. If we don't grow, expand and build these new facilities, parents and students will make decisions to go elsewhere.”

Trevecca’s athletic department is set to make a significant impact, balancing growth with a steadfast commitment to excellence and spiritual development. But help from donors is needed to make this vision come to life.

“I don’t know if there’s any better way to invest in Christian education, or a better time to do it,” Elliott said. “Trevecca’s growing, Nashville’s growing and the Athletics Department needs to keep pace. This facility can be a front door to our University, and it’s more than brick and mortar—it’s about the hearts that can be affected for years to come.”

WATCH THE VIDEO Scan to hear Mark Elliott discuss the impact of a new facility for the Department of Athletics and the Trevecca community.

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C OU RT RO OM From Campus to

A T r e v e c c a g r a d u a t e’ s historic rise to become a circuit court judge

In an historic outcome for Nashville's judicial system, “One day he suggested I go to law school,” Williams Stephanie Williams (’00) was elected in August as a said. “I told him I couldn't because I dropped out of judge in the Fourth Circuit Court, becoming the first college and didn’t even have a bachelor's degree, but African American woman to serve in that position. he encouraged me.”

Long before she took office, her unconventional path Williams began searching for an undergraduate proto the bench illustrated her determination and pas- gram that fit her interests and career goals and she sion to fulfill a calling as a servant leader. came across Trevecca’s Bachelor of Arts in management and human relations (now the Bachelor of Arts Upon graduating high school in 1992, Williams in management and leadership). began attending Fisk University and soon became a mother to two children. She made a choice to leave “At that time Trevecca was the only school that had school and focus on her new family. After years of a program that catered to nontraditional students balancing a variety of jobs, she ended up as a law and working adults where you could go to school at clerk at an entertainment law firm, where owner night,” Williams said. “I was able to take one class Richard Manson saw her potential. at a time so I was not overwhelmed, and it was just a really great way for somebody like me to get back on track without going through the traditional hoops of attending school.”

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After finishing all of her coursework in June 2000, she decided to pursue her law degree at the University of Tennessee, commuting from Nashville to Knoxville for two and a half years.

the race to fill the seat and found that she enjoyed campaigning, with every interaction reinforcing her belief in the importance of her work.

“You look at life through a different lens when you can take time to meet people from all different types of communities with different religious, cultural or socioeconomic backgrounds,” Williams said. “I learned the commonality in it all was family. We are all connected to family in one respect or another, Inspired by her own experiences and in witness- and it was a wonderful experience to learn about ing the impact of financial limitations on families what it means to serve and develop families in in court, Williams decided to focus her career on Nashville.” equitable access to legal representation. She obtained grant funds from the state of Tennessee to start a Williams won the primary election within her practice, the Family Justice Center, where her pas- own party last spring, and then ran uncontested in sion could become her full-time work. After several the general election to become the new Fourth years, her career took an exciting turn.

Circuit judge.

Williams’ career as a lawyer began at Manson's entertainment law office, but it changed focus when she realized the negative impact the legal system could have, particularly in family law.

“In 2014, I was able to start a new position as a special master in the Fourth Circuit Court,” Williams said.

“I was appointed under the elected judge, and I was able to work in that court to help implement new systems and learn as an understudy of the judge.”

The unexpected passing of that incumbent judge in 2022 created an opportunity for Williams to step into a new position as an elected official. She entered

She was sworn in on August 25 and began her term on September 1.

At her request, Williams’ investiture ceremony took place on Trevecca’s campus, a tribute to the institution that launched her career and started her on a path to fulfilling her calling.

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T R E N D I N G T R E V E C C A N S HAVE ALUMNI NEWS TO SHARE? To s h a re y o u r p ro f e s s i o n a l updates and accomplishments, b e s u r e t o u s e Tr e v e c c a Connect, our new networking platform created exclusively for the University community.

Visit treveccaconnect.com to register and get started. We look forward to hearing your news!

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Alumni and other members of the Trevecca community are accomplishing great things.

Here are some recent achievements and recognitions of note, listed chronologically by class: CLASS OF 1976 - CLASS OF 1999

Skye Alison (’76) published a book titled “Unleashing Spiritual Ambition.”

Howard Wall (’80) was named counsel for Epstein Becker Green, a healthcare and life sciences legal practice in Nashville.

Dawn Gannon (’93) was named interim executive director of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals in Bloomington, Ill. Matt Litton (’96) coached Thompson Station Middle School to the Tennessee AA state championship in boys basketball.

Casey Willis (’06) was named the CEO of National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Ark. Sarah Allen (’07) was named senior vice president of radiology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.

Woody Burton (’07) was appointed to the Discovery Park of America board of directors in Union City, Tenn.

Bethany Davis (’07) was named chief marketing and communications officer at Educational Media Foundation in Franklin, Tenn.

CLASS OF 2010 - CLASS OF 2019

Michael Eldridge (’97) was appointed U.K. country head and branch manager at State Lee Nachand (’10) was named principal at Mt. Juliet Middle School in Mt. Juliet, Tenn.

Street Corporation in the United Kingdom.

CLASS OF 2000 - CLASS OF 2009

Karen Crouse (’00) was named to the top 50 Women Leaders of Charlotte for 2024 and is an executive vice president at Wells Fargo.

LaDonna Williams (’11) was named interim principal at Westmeade Elementary in Nashville.

Marissa Chandler (’12) was appointed director of the study abroad program and Belmont USA at Belmont University in Nashville.

Stephanie Williams (’00) became the first African American woman elected as a judge in the fourth circuit court in Davidson County, Howard Pride (’13) was named head boys Tenn. basketball coach at East Hamilton High School in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Bernard Turner (’03) received the 2024 Grant Professionals Distinguished Fellow Award Kimberly Pringle (’13) was named director of for his dedication and impact in the grants early learning at Hamilton County Schools in profession in Nashville.

Chattanooga, Tenn.

Amy (Bolton) Wheeler (’04) was named chief financial officer for Dr. P. Phillips Hospital at Orlando Health in Orlando, Fla. Shane Paschall (’05) was named director of schools at Paris Special School District in Paris, Tenn.

Kate Worley (’13, ’22) was named an assistant professor at Neumann University.

Zachary Taylor Rayfield (’15), the senior manager for family support and engagement at the Tennessee Department of Education, was honored by Governor Bill Lee as a recipient of the Governor’s Excellence in Service Awards.

C hris E l liott (’16) publishe d a devotional titled “Beyond the Game.”

Josh Gregory (’19) was named to the Huntsville Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 list in Huntsville, Ala.

Laura Hall (’16) was named principal at Fairview Middle School in Fairview, Maria Robles Morales (’19) was named Tenn. a community engagement specialist at Inspiritus.

Brad Hutson (’16) was named principal at Northeast High School in Clarksville, Jordan Nonte (’19) earned a license as Tenn. a clinical social worker (LCSW).

Karen Longino (’16) was promoted to vice president of publishing at Educational Media Foundation in Franklin, Tenn.

Brit Sikes (’19) was named principal at Una Elementary in Nashville.

Sofia Guerrero (’18) started a new position as the sustainable classroom manager at Urban Green Lab in Nashville.

Michael Daniels (’21) was recognized in Alaska’s Journal of Commerce Top 40 Under 40 for 2024.

Jeffery Norfleet (’18) was named interim president at Shorter College in North Little Rock, Ark. Dylan Green (’19) earned a doctorate in applied mathematics from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire.

CLASS OF 2020 - CLASS OF 2024

Liza Rodriguez Madrid (’21) won the LEO Pride Award from LEO Events in Nashville.

Carter Noblin (’21) was named fine arts coordinator for Wilson County Schools in Tennessee.

Lynnette Taschner (’21) was named director of community resources at the Tennessee Community Resource Network in Knoxville, Tenn.

Frances Canada-McKillip (’22) was named assistant principal at Richview Middle School in Clarksville, Tenn.

Kendriana Price (’22) was promoted to assistant dean for diversity at the Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment in Lexington, Ky. Rebecca Hood (’23) graduated from paramedic school in Texas.

Kayla Payne (’23) was named a contract therapist at Holding Space Counseling in Brentwood, Tenn.

Tyler Perry (’23) was named a pre-K special education teacher at Henry C. Maxwell Elementary School in Antioch, Tenn.

Ben McKee (’24) was hired as a publicist at PLA Media in Nashville.

ATKINSON EARNS NATIONAL ART EDUCATION HONOR

JOHNSON TAPPED TO LEAD ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

HARRELL SELECTED FOR TICUA HALL OF FAME

Trevecca Ed.D. alumna Tina Atkinson (’20) was named t he National Elementary Art Educator for 2024 by the National Art Education Association. She is a teacher at Percy Priest Elementary School in Nashville.

In summer 2024, Trevecca Ed.D. alumnus Bryan Johnson (’10) was selected as the new superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools.

Jeremy Harrell (’06) has been named to the 2024 Hall of Fame class of the Tennessee Independent C o l l e g e s a n d Un i v e r s i t i e s Association (TICUA). Harrell is the founder, president and chief executive officer of The Adoption Project.

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R E P ORT

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When an educational institution that's been around for 123 years is thriving, people are likely to ask, “What makes this place tick?” I can’t speak for every university, but at Trevecca, longevity is not just an issue of survival; it is the result of a particular culture.

This fall I began my twentieth year as Trevecca’s president, and I recently had the chance to talk with our entire employee community about the culture at Trevecca. In that President’s Dinner address, I noted the presence of a distinct attitude among us. This attitude is something we’ve identified as a key differentiator, a factor that distinguishes us from many of our peer institutions.

I call it “Trevecca Scrappy.” It is a can-do spirit in the face of great odds. It is the Apostle Paul’s ‘knocked down but not knocked out’ mentality.

competing for the right to bless future students with our unique style of education and community. It is prioritizing functional beauty over opulence (they call me “extravagance-challenged”). It is using common sense to manage resources. It is placing faith in a Jesus that speaks truth to us. It is taking care of each other.

It is the opposite of silo building and privileged status.

I think “Trevecca Scrappy” is an apt description of the attitude that’s come to define our campus culture. Our team has responded to the gut-punch of COVID with an effort that, in fall 2024, has produced a record-breaking incoming freshman class, a record in overall undergraduate enrollment and a record August start for enrollment in our adult and graduate programs.

As you read through this report, watch and listen for that attitude. We are “Trevecca Scrappy,” and it shows.

It is tackling a problem head-on and sticking with it until the matter is resolved. It is doing something with almost nothing. It is having honest conversations about the elephants in the room. It is fervently

Dan L. Boone (’74) President

THE BOONE ERA This is a snapshot of the growth that’s helped shape Trevecca’s story during Boone’s tenure as he approaches 20 years in office.

$135 million

I N V EST ED I N C A MPUS I MP ROV EME NTS

100+

N EW S CH O LA R SH IP S CREAT E D

$94.3 million

I N D ONOR CO NT R I B UT ION S

$58 million

A D D ED TO T H E UN I V ERS I T Y E N DOWME NT

31%

Increase in population of E THNI CAL LY DI VERS E UN DE RGRADUATE STUDENTS

88%

I NCREAS E I N STUD E NT ENROL L M ENT*

15,000

DEGREES CONFER R E D

$4 million

7

Awarded to Millard Reed School of I NTERCOL L EGI ATE VA R S IT Y Theology & Christian Ministry in S PORTS ADDED GRANT FUNDING FOR SPIRITUAL DE V E LOPM ENT I NI TI ATI VES 35

57

N E W ACADEM I C PROGRAM S L AUNCHED

*Based on peak year for combined traditional, graduate and adult enrollment

Regional and conference TOURNAM ENT CHAM PI ONSHI PS IN ATHL ETI CS

17

REDISCOVERING HO M E A PROFESSOR’S S A B B AT I C A L I N A F R I C A

18 T R E V E C C A N

M

atthew Huddleston, professor of math and science, spent decades dreaming and planning for a trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His spring 2024 sabbatical presented the perfect opportunity.

For eight years, Huddleston grew up in the village of Bomili, where his father, a linguist, worked to translate the Bible into a small tribal language called Bali.

He remembers those years as a time of adventure, away from the comforts of the modern era.

“I grew up on the mission field in the 1980s, living in a mud house with a leaf roof, without electricity or running water,” Huddleston said. “The people in the village had spent about 14 years cutting an airstrip out of the jungle with hand tools so mission planes could land in the area.”

Long after his family returned to the States, Huddleston dreamed of returning to Africa someday. But civil wars in the nineties and early 2000s made that goal seem impossible.

“Major civil wars were being fought in the Congo that swept across the country.

The nation ended up changing its name, and the fighting continued and continued. There’s still some fighting in the eastern part of the country to this day,” Huddleston said.

COURTESY MATTHEW HUDDLESTON

19

As an adult, Huddleston was still determined to revisit the place that had once been home, and when a return trip began to seem possible, he started planning.

Ultimately, he wanted to rediscover the people and places from his past that helped him become the man he is today.

He quickly learned that his first obstacle would be a logistical one. The airstrip that had once been used to fly in mission planes had been overgrown, so he had to get creative. Central to his plans was navigating the Nepoko River, a challenging route rarely traveled by outsiders.

“I had learned from some of the mission pilots who flew in and out of the area that there is a joining of two major rivers. So I started planning to raft my way down that body of water to get back to Bomili,” he said.

Equipped with a pack raft, Huddleston set out on his journey. Despite thorough preparation, it wasn’t long before other obstacles threatened to bring a premature end to his trip.

“The most challenging aspect wasn’t the physical conditions,” Huddleston said. “It was navigating the social and bureaucratic systems. Corruption and logistica l hurdles tested my perseverance every step of the way. You aren’t allowed to go anywhere alone. It was like navigating a communist state, where every move required permission and negotiation.”

Eventually, Huddleston was able to raft down the river. He made it to Bomili, where he was greeted with singing villagers, a worship service and significant change.

MATTHEW HUDDLESTON, PROFESSOR OF SCIENCE AND MATH

20 T R E V E C C A N

“My home village was almost unrecognizable,” Huddleston said. “It was bittersweet, coming back and finding that so much had changed.

Only a few people remained from when I was younger. Most of the adults I’d known had passed away, and all of my childhood friends had been scattered to other villages as rebellions swept across the country.”

There were moments of joy and personal reflection, too. Huddleston was able to visit the creek where his father baptized him at nine years old. He went back to a rubber plantation where he used to go with his friends to make balls for playing soccer. He even made sure his father’s legacy continued by sharing audio recordings of Scripture that his father had worked to translate into the local language from decades earlier.

my dad had helped translate it. That was really cool because it was such a remote area.”

The journey also presented opportunities for scientific exploration. Huddleston collected data on water from the Nepoko River, offering potential insights into the environmental impact of increasing development upstream.

He also trekked through dense jungles to find a hidden waterfall, possibly becoming the first American to visit that location.

He believes some of his field work could inspire discussion in his classes at Trevecca, and he hopes students can benefit from stories about his travels and the intersection of his past and present.

After his adventure, Huddleston returned home grateful for the opportunity to see new sights, share his faith and rediscover a childhood home that had changed drastically.

Eventually, his sabbatical mission in the Congo expanded beyond Bomili. He traveled by road, motorcycle and on foot throughout the region, sharing his faith as he went.

“The whole trip was a testament to my love for exploration and discovery, values that drive “I had a pocket projector with me that both my personal and professional life,” he said. showed ‘The Jesus Film’ in Bali,” Huddleston said. “It tells the story of the Gospels, and

Scan here to read about his thoughts on the intersection of these disciplines.

COURTESY MATTHEW HUDDLESTON

As a Christian and a physicist, Huddleston has explored the relationship between science and faith in his own life and in the classroom.

21

T R E V E C C AS O C I E T Y M E M B E R S July 1, 2023–June 30, 2024

The Trevecca Society is composed of individuals and organizations that commit gift support totaling $1,000 or more in a fiscal year. Members support the University in many ways, including scholarships, facility projects, student mission trips, athletics, academic endeavors and unrestricted gifts.

Pl a t i n u m L e v e l

Gifts of $10,000 or more

James E. Agee, Jr. & Brenda P. Agee Phil & Lanora Arington Dan L. & Denise Boone Jon & Mindy Burch Mary Jo Cagle & Randy Mashburn Brent J. & Kelly D. Falcone David & Ginger Ferraez Donna J. Gray

Robert W. & Margaret H. Walker Howard T. Wall III & Kimberly K. Wall

Morris H. Stocks, Jr. & Cynthia A. Stocks Joel D. & Lisa J. Williams

W. Melvin & Joyce W. Welch

Clark & Brenda Wright

Ed H. Whittington

Anonymous donors

Paul P. & Deborah Winkler Don R. & Betty J. York Donald York, Jr. & Gayle York Anonymous donors

Go l d L e v e l

Si l v e r L e v e l

Gifts of $1,000–4,999

Bob M. & Shirley C. Aldrich Martha Allred William D. & Melanie Amburn

James A. & Denise Hambrick

Gifts of $5,000–9,999

Steven K. & Heather Hill

Ronald L. & Margaret D. Billow

Michelle Hulse

Randy L. & Judy Carden

Ronald K. & Sharon C. Jones Dale & Ruthie B. Killingsworth

Alfred B. Cawthorne II & Beverly A. Cawthorne

Ruth M. Lavender

Val & Liya Dikhtyar

Serena G. Bennett

Chuck & Geri A. Mashburn

John R. Dunn, Jr. & Susan R. Dunn

Luke & Fran Benson

Estate of Mary Joan McClelland

J. C. Elliott, Sr. & Joyce Elliott

Randy & Debbie L. Berkner

Gary B. Morsch

James B. & Reba J. Essary

Mark D. & Deborah L. Berry

Vickie Morsch

Ramon F. & Brenda S. Gonzalez

Barnie & Carla H. Bivens

Matthew L. & Keely R. Mullins

Don Hasty

Joanna H. Blackwell

Wendel L. & Judy C. Nixon

Thomas H. & Jane J. Henderson

Ben B. & Kristin S. Bledsoe

Steve M. & Gail V. Pusey

Rebecca L. King

Vernon L. & Charline P. Bonham

W. Gerald & Kay F.* Quick

Harold McCue

Paul W. & Lisa T. Reed

Brenda J. Patterson

Daniel W. Bradshaw, Sr. & Robbie Bradshaw

Richard & Stephanie Stocks Rosenjack

Greg & Rebekah Pope

Estate of Eleanor M. Sloane

F. Howard & Sandra H. Russell

Donald F. & Elaine Waggoner

22 T R E V E C C A N

Danny D. & Karen Baker Ron L. & Wendy R. Bargatze Stephen H. & Karin L. Bariteau Paul W. Beals Randolph Bell

Kevin F. & Melinda K. Brennan Brian S., Jennifer, Beckett & Sam Brenneman

Harold L. Bridges

Barry & Laura DeYoung

Steve A. & Jan K. Harris

Elaine R. Brooks

David J. & Tina P. Diehl

Will A. Harvey

James W. Brooks, Jr. & Carol T. Brooks

Laura Diehl

Donald B. & B.K. Hastings

J. Walter & Rhonda Brown

Anthony V. Dikhtyar

Blake & Lisa R. Hathcock

Ryan M. & Jamie Brown

Maya V. Dikhtyar

Jim T. & Judy K. Hiatt

David L. & Robin L. Burbrink

Lora H. Donoho

Donald W. & Marquita L. Hicks

David & Sharon Burton

Betty Duncan

Kenneth R. & Norma Higginbotham

Dwain & Beth Butler

Robert N. & Jayne L. Duncan

Jimmy L. & Teresa L. Hodge

Tommy D. Byler

Don & Nancy E. Dunlap

David L. & Chigger J. Bynum

Sarah C. Dunn

Daniel J. Hofmeister, Jr. & Elizabeth Hofmeister

Jim & Dyris K. Cardell

Don W. & Jane A. Dunnington

Erin Carwile

J.D. & Michelle Ehrsam

Gary W. & Rebecca L. Carwile

Thomas K. & Carol H. Elden

John F. Chilton, Jr. & Sara C. Chilton

Mark M. & Roseann Elliott

Jerry D. & Joy O. Clay

Cheryl H. Ellis

Scott D. & Kristi D. Coen

Phillip M. Eyler

Patrick J. Conger

Gary E. & Angela S. Farmer

Elaine Cook

Pamela H. Farmer

Patricia D. Cook

Samuel A. & Candy Flores

Tom L. & Sharon Cook

James L. & Deborah E. Forth

J. Doug Lepter & Peggy J. Cooning

Art & Nanette M. Foster

Tom Cooper

Julie Fuqua

Samuel E. & Elvira Cosby

Sidney E. & Crystal Gholson

Roger W. & Carole G. Costa

John G. & Celeste Gillespie

Gary & Phyllis B. Coulter

Michael S. & Elizabeth R. Golden

Mike Cowart

Ronald W. Goodman, Jr.

Virgel D. & Annice Crisp

Scott & Shannon T. Gordon

Aaron M. & Abby B. Crum

Troy & Christy L. Grant

Helen K. Cummings

Tim M. Green

Keith C. & Valerie L. Dance

Dwight M. Gunter II & Karan B. Gunter

Scott Kendrick & Lynn LassiterKendrick

Charles A. Davis, Jr. & Yvonne Davis

D. Moody & Nina G. Gunter

Bill L. & Shirley Kerns

Lee & Doris Davis

Jonathan & Sherry Hage

Randall L. & Ruth T. Kinnersley

Larry D. & Debbie Dennis

Jerramy Hainline

Kenneth & Yolanda Kits

Ron D. & Judy DeWitt

Dale L. & Suzie B. Harris

Jim D. & Beverly G. Knight

Erik S. & Gina J. Holt Gary L. & Edith A. Holt Laura Honeyman Steve T. & Stephanie R. Hoskins Kathy M. Huggins Harold K. & Teresa E. Hughes Rena H. Irwin Rob B. & Pam J. Irwin Michael D. & Cheryl A. Jackson Scott & Suzanne W. Jenkins Lynn M. & Jacque Jewell Bill D. & Kellye Johnson H. Andral Johnson, Jr. & Beverly C. Johnson Joey B. & Monique Johnson M. Chad & Amy F. Johnson Michael T. & Sarah B. Johnson Talmadge Johnson* Duane Jones & Faye Crawford-Jones

*Deceased

23

T R E V E C C AS O C I E T Y M E M B E R S Tim & Sandy Knight

Thomas & Millie J. Morris

Jim & Clair Silliman

Brad A. & Melissa J. Kochis

Mark V. Morsch

Mike & Kristin Silliman

David M. & Pam Lennon

Jonathan H. & Kathy Mowry

Stephen E. & Julie Silliman

Frank & Elaine Livesay

Delores Murray

Geneva J. Silvernail

Patricia D. Long

Don R. Myers, Jr. & Debbie G. Myers

Clifton T. & Rachel Smith

Ryan W. & Joy B. Longnecker

Ed & Judy Nash

David R. & Becky Smith

Janice E. Lovell

Bill A. Nichols

Jeffrey G. & Lisa H. Smith

Rebecca A. Lovell

Jeffrey & Denise O’Loughlin

Jim & Sharon K. Smith

James H. Lunsford, Jr. & Michelle Lunsford

Bruce E. & Peggy L. Oldham

Larry & Kelli Smith

Danny & Barbara Patterson

Peggy A. Smith

Mark Phillips

Rocky Smith

Stanley T. Pietkiewicz

Thomas S. & Jane Smith

Kyle & Julie B. Poole

David D. & Casey Snodgrass

Wendell L. Poole

Jon E. & Teresa F. Sparks

Brian L. & Heather Powell

Ann Spear

John R. Porter & Karen E. Jones-Porter

Bob A. & Trisha W. Spear

Phillip L. & Shelly H. Potter

Marcella C. Staples

Martha Pulliam

Joseph D. & Pamela D. Storey

Jim G. Quiggins & Streater O. Spencer-Quiggins

Deborah E. Story

Chuck & Jennie Magsig James G. & Christine K. Maguire Rick P. & Cheri Mann Theodore E. & Becky G. Martin Ron W. & Jacqueline J. Maurer Bill N. McDaniel, Sr. & Barbara McDaniel James D. & Susan R. Means Mary Ann Meiners Vincent J. & Linda O. Messina Thomas L. & Jessica L. Middendorf David E. Miller II John R. & Melinda W. Miller Brenda K. Mills Tommy W. & Teresa Mitchell Paul & Karen D. Mock Herb C. & Tammy E. Modesitt Paul R. Montemuro Mariano Monzu & Lorena Lopardo Dennis L. & Wendy B. Moore Jason T. Moore Lewis C. Moore

24 T R E V E C C A N

J. Dwight Ragsdale

Gary W. & Marla M. Streit

John A. & Rachelle L. Reigard

Ira M. Strickland III & Beverly G. Strickland

Philip K. & Connie Rickard

James & Deborah A. Sweat

Jana K. & Anthony Roberts

Jeff W. & Esther C. Swink

Jackie Robertson

Mike & Patricia C. Tardif

Larry E. & Linda F. Rodgers

Michael N. & Tandy M. Taylor

Daniel W. & Kristin L. Rucker

Matthew W. Thrasher

Greg S. & Amy Ruff

Albert L. Truesdale, Jr. & Esther L. Truesdale

Greg P. & Ginny A. Runyan Dale & Steph Schaeffer Carole Schrope Chuck & Peggi Seaman

Brad J. & Rebecca A. Turner William & Gwen Tuttle Frank T. & Doris A. Twohig

Y oung Alumni

G. Neil & Chris J. Tyler

Freddy & Judi Williams

S. Paul Vann, Jr. & Jennie D. Vann

Irmgard L. Williams

Steve Welch & Lena Hegi Welch

Steven C. & Prudence R. Wolf

Timothy L. Welch & Angela S. Chapman-Welch

Lee & Alice L. Woolery

five years

Robert A. & Kristin Young

Hunter A. Elliott

Marvin R. & Joy Wells

Trevecca Society Annual gifts totaling $500-999 from graduates of the past

Anonymous donors

Gloria White

Organization Donors Pl a t i n u m L e v e l Gifts of $10,000 or more

Go l d L e v e l

Gifts of $5,000–9,999

Florida District NMI Garner Creek Retreat Center

Calvin University

Delta Air Lines Foundation

Lee Company Giving Fund

Coastal Community Foundation

National Christian Foundation

Melio

The Columbus Foundation Donald and Zelma Waggoner Foundation

Si l v e r L e v e l

Gifts of $1,000–4,999

Montemuro Law, LLC Mullins Law, PLLC

Forum for Theological Exploration

Axos Clearing

The Nancy M. & Victor S. Johnson, Jr. Foundation, Inc.

GiveClear Foundation

CMG Contractors, Inc.

Nashville Predators Foundation

Hewlett Spencer, LLC

Caterpillar Foundation

Orchard Alliance

Idezi Group, LLC

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee

Pella Tennessee, LLC

Inciite Studios Jones Legacy Group Lilly Endowment, Inc. R.C. Mathews Contractor, LLC Schwab Charitable Fund Shepherd Community

Dreamchasers Earl Swensson Associates Education Development United Fellowship, Inc. Fidelity Charitable

Republic Bank The Signatry Vanguard Charitable WKRN Wesleyan Investment Foundation, Inc.

First Baptist Church of Columbia

a s p e c i a lT h a n k y o u

to the hundreds of Nazarene churches in the Southeastern Field. Through their generous members, nearly $2 million in support is given to Trevecca Nazarene University annually.

25

FINANCIALS 2023-24 Fiscal Year

OPE R AT I NG R EVENU ES

OPERATING EXPENSES

Net Tuition and Fees

Instructional

$41,051,281

61.2%

Auxiliary Enterprises

$10,455,178

4.6% 4.3%

26 T R E V E C C A N

$10,933,494

16.3%

$4,380,715

6.5%

$66,113,393

98.6%

NET INC OME 3%

TOTA L $67,056,654

19.5%

TOTAL 3.4%

Denominational Support

$1,985,318

$13,062,248

Academic Support

Contributions & Grants

$2,261,145

21%

Institutional Support

Investment Income

$2,912,426

$14,067,931 Auxiliary Enterprises

7.9%

Other Sources

$3,088,272

35.3%

Student Services

15.6%

Net Assets Released from Restrictions

$5,303,034

$23,669,005

100%

$943,261

1.4%

EN D OW ME N T G ROW TH ’18-’19

$32,237,000

’19-’20

$31,549,000

’20-’21

$41,289,000

’21-’22

$41,847,000

’22-’23

’23-’24

$64,304,000

$72,103,000

GIFT DESIGNATIONS Current Programs

N ET T UI T ION & F EES

$3,953,861

’18-’19

$44,491,000

’19-’20

’20-’21

’21-’22

$41,426,000

’22-’23

$40,396,000

$$522,619

’23-’24

$41,051,000

In Kind

$46,805,000 $44,294,000

40%

Educational Budget

$1,984,288

20%

Current Scholarships

$1,925,133

20%

Endowed Scholarships

$521,454

5% 5%

Life Gifts

$470,000

TOTAL NET A S SETS (EQUIT Y) ’18-’19 ’19-’20

Facilities

$86,751,000

$205,960

$90,195,000

’20-’21

2%

Annual Fund

$108,535,000

’21-’22 $112,320,000 ’22-’23

5%

$126,230,000

’23-’24 $135,786,000

$149,749

2%

Other Endowed

$38,050

.4%

TOTAL $9,771,113

100%

27

AD A M S L E A G U E

O F L O YA L

The Adams League, named in honor of former president Homer Adams and his wife, Beatrice, recognizes donors who have made a gift of any size to Trevecca for five or more consecutive years. Some League members have given annually to Trevecca for more than 40 years.†

40 or more years

Marvin R. & Joy Wells

Roger W. & Carole G. Costa

Toby W. & Pat Williams

J. Dwight Ragsdale W. Melvin & Joyce W. Welch

35-39 years Harold L. Bridges Helen K. Cummings Steve A. & Jan K. Harris Rena H. Irwin

30-34 years Carol A. Eby Harold McCue Steve M. & Gail V. Pusey

28 T R E V E C C A N

Ed H. Whittington

25-29 years Barnie & Carla H. Bivens Randy L. & Judy Carden Larry D. & Debbie Dennis Don & Nancy E. Dunlap Dennis E. & Marilyn Fink Dennis L. & Wendy B. Moore Bruce E. & Peggy L. Oldham David & Beth Purtee Chuck & Peggi Seaman

20-24 years Joanna H. Blackwell Dan L. & Denise Boone L. Morgan Clements Tom Cooper Gary & Phyllis B. Coulter Keith C. & Valerie L. Dance J. C. Elliott, Sr. & Joyce Elliott Art & Nanette M. Foster Sidney E. & Crystal Gholson Dwayne M. & LeighAnn S. Gunter Dwight M. Gunter II & Karan B. Gunter Jimmy L. & Teresa L. Hodge

William J. Strickland, Sr.

Dennis R. & Karen C. Snodgrass

Jeff W. & Esther C. Swink

John E. & Anne W. Stieber

Michael T. & Sarah B. Johnson

Todd & Rebecca R. Welch

Clark & Brenda Wright

Talmadge Johnson*

† As of June 30, 2024

David & Ginger Ferraez Ronald W. Goodman, Jr. Donna J. Gray Patrick L. & Michelle R. Griggs

DONORS

Jim G. Quiggins & Streater O. Spencer-Quiggins Greg P. & Ginny A. Runyan Jesse C. & Beverly S. Sims David R. & Becky Smith

D. Moody & Nina G. Gunter

Fran E. Spruill

Dale L. & Suzie B. Harris

Deborah E. Story

Steven L. & Becky Headrick

Samuel K. & Sharon L. Stueckle

Rick & Becky F. Hill Steve T. & Stephanie R. Hoskins

Ty J. Tabernik Don E. & Anne Twining

Randall L. & Ruth T. Kinnersley

James W. Brooks, Jr. & Carol T. Brooks

Ronald K. & Karla McCormack

David B. & Sherry L. Caldwell

Jeff & Susan R. McGranahan

Fred Cawthorne III & Stephanie L. Cawthorne

Michael A. & Betsy M. Karounos

John F. Chilton, Jr. & Sara C. Chilton

Dale & Ruthie B. Killingsworth

10-14 years

Hal & Amy L. Conditt

Jim D. & Beverly G. Knight

Bob M. & Shirley C. Aldrich

J. Doug Lepter & Peggy J. Cooning

Jeffrey C. & Ronda J. Lilienthal

Phil & Lanora Arington

Pam Costa

Mitch & Olivia R. Lockhart

Erbin C. & Ruth A. Baumgardner

William D. & Melanie Amburn

Kenneth L. & Jennifer Couchman

Greg D. & Elaine Mason

Randy & Debbie L. Berkner

Phillip & Mary K. Ashworth

Leroy E. & Marilyn J. Cullen

Michael C. & Melinda M. McAdory

Daniel W. Bradshaw, Sr. & Robbie Bradshaw

Stephen H. & Karin L. Bariteau

Charles A. Davis, Jr. & Yvonne Davis

Brent & Marcy McMillian

Bill & Jennifer R. Brown

Mark D. & Deborah L. Berry

Victor & Lafonda R. Davis

Thomas L. & Jessica L. Middendorf

Emma J. Campbell

Mike B. & Susan E. Blankenship

David J. & Tina P. Diehl

Sara J. Molton

Lora H. Donoho

Vernon L. & Charline P. Bonham

Mark Myers & Karen Starr*

John R. Dunn, Jr. & Susan R. Dunn

Shaun P. & Lisa K. Newman

Alfred B. Cawthorne II & Beverly A. Cawthorne

Wendel L. & Judy C. Nixon

Jerry & Joy O. Clay

Brenda J. Patterson

Patricia D. Cook

John K. & Deborah Paul

Aaron M. & Abby B. Crum

Inez J. Phillips J. Elbert & Dianne S. Smith Jim N. & Donna Tokarski

15-19 years James E. Agee, Jr. & Brenda P. Agee

Jim L. & Janice Brackett Elaine R. Brooks

Wes & Roberta A. Eby Don F. & Sharon Elder

Michael D. & Cheryl A. Jackson Marilyn B. Jordan

Frank T. & Doris A. Twohig Kevin M. & Karen M. Ulmet Steve Welch & Lena Hegi Welch Daniel & Lucinda D. Wyland

J. Edward & Brenda T. Campbell

*Deceased

29

A DA M S L E AG U E O F L O YA L D O N O R S

Kevin J. & Meghan L. Simons

Ben B. & Kristin S. Bledsoe

Carolyn Smith

Frank Bostick

Clifton T. & Rachel Smith

Sarah M. Bostick

10-14 years ( c o n t. )

Patricia D. Long

Jim & Sharon K. Smith

Janice E. Lovell

Ray E. & Nellie Smith

Brian S., Jennifer, Beckett & Sam Brenneman

James F. & Carol R. Mahan

Caleb W. Spencer

Rick P. & Cheri Mann

Morris H. Stocks, Jr. & Cynthia A. Stocks

Ron D. & Judy Dewitt Tim W. & Kimberly D. Eades Michael T. & Leslie A. Easley Bill L. & Mary Beth Elkins Mark M. & Roseann Elliott James B. & Reba J. Essary E. LeBron & Anne Fairbanks Pamela H. Farmer Ben & Andrea J. Fowler Curtis & Sheroma Funke Ramon F. & Brenda S. Gonzalez Troy & Christy L. Grant Donald B. & B.K. Hastings Winston J. & Debby F. Hatcliff Blake & Lisa R. Hathcock Jim T. & Judy K. Hiatt Donald W. & Marquita L. Hicks

William N. McDaniel, Sr. & Barbara McDaniel James D. & Susan R. Means

Melvin L. & Rosalind Taylor

David E. Miller II

Michael N. & Tandy M. Taylor

John R. & Melinda W. Miller Gary B. Morsch Vickie Morsch Joe*& Doris S.Moses

Brad F. & Margaret G. Neff

Brian & Tracy L. Walkup

Ernest A. & Brandee P. Norris

James A. & Holly M. Whitby

John D. & Heather Parrish Alice E. Patterson

M. L. & Barbara A. White Timothy & Cindi Whiteside Brian E. & Joan M. Wilson

Audrey S. Poff Wendell L. Poole Brian L. & Heather Powell

Jansen R. & Ruth Ann Holt

Julie D. Rigsby

Jerry R. & Leslie L. Jared

Madeline C. Roberts

Scott & Suzanne W. Jenkins

Larry E. & Linda F. Rodgers

Brian T. & Ashley Johnson

Daniel W. & Kristin L. Rucker

Mark A. & Kelly M. Lindstrom

Doris J. Walden

Delores Murray

Gary L. & Edith A. Holt

Tim & Sandy Knight

Albert L. Truesdale, Jr. & Esther L. Truesdale

Robert W. & Margaret H. Walker

Barbara J. Quick

Stephen C. & Mary Keller

Mike & Patricia C. Tardif

Elizabeth L. Rushing Steve A. & Pam Sexton Queen E. Simmons

5-9 years Martha Allred Lindsay E. Aranha Danny D. & Karen Baker Ron L. & Wendy R. Bargatze Ron V. & Maria Adora Barredo Jonathan D. & Melinda Bartling Brad & Krista W. Bellomy Karen S. Bimber

J. Walter & Rhonda Brown Heather M. Bryant David L. & Robin L. Burbrink Dwain & Beth Butler Tommy Byler David L. & Chigger J. Bynum James R. Cameron Jim & Dyris K. Cardell Nathan L. & Kameron C. Carden Nancy S. Chamberlain J.B. & Katrina L. Chapman Matthew & Kara L. Cole Virgel D. & Annice Crisp Mandy M. Crow Debbie Crowe Hunter D. & Courtney Cummings Huey J. Davis III & Chelsea A. Davis Lee & Doris Davis Don E. & Diann E. Diehl Carl & Nancy L. Driskell Robert N. & Jayne L. Duncan Sarah C. Dunn Don W. & Jane A. Dunnington

*Deceased

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Jessica D. Dykes

Bill D. & Kellye Johnson

Hunter A. Elliott

Eric G. & Casey R. Johnson

Brent J. & Kelly D. Falcone

M. Chad & Amy F. Johnson

Douglas J. & Becky Farley

Ronald K. & Sharon C. Jones

Harper L. Fields

Scott Kendrick & Lynn Lassiter-Kendrick

Samuel A. & Candy Flores Michael & Malinda M. Flynn Katrina J. Ford Jan R. & Eugenia L. Forman James L. & Deborah E. Forth Dana M. Franchetti Jonathan R. & Michelle D. Gaertner Alyssa J. Gage Todd P. & Frances L. Gary Erik R. & Ashley D. Gernand Jim & Teresa L. Geuy John G. & Celeste Gillespie Glen J. & Judy Gosa Tim M. Green Matthew B. & Keri A. Hastings David B. & Cynthia N. Head Jamie L. Hess Kenneth R. & Norma Higginbotham David R. & Jamie A. Hill Andy & Patricia B. Holliday Erik S. & Gina J. Holt Jimmy L. & Shirley Horton Nathaniel J. & Susan C. Hyde Rob B. & Pam J. Irwin Lynn M. & Jacque Jewell

Bill L. & Shirley Kerns Richard D. Knowlen, Jr. Colton R. & Victoria L. Lassiter Phillip D. Ledford Jennifer L. Lemmon Matthew J. Litton Ryan W. & Joy B. Longnecker Rebecca A. Lovell Joshua L. & Meg Marlowe Tom McClain Corlis A. McGee Michael V. & Megan E. McGhee

Jerry P. Pruitt II & Kylie F. Pruitt Jeremy R. & Michelle R. Quick W. Gerald & Kay F.* Quick R.C. Mathews Contractor, LLC

Ming & Anle Wang

Carol K. Reid

Geraldine P. Wight

John A. & Rachelle L. Reigard

Vince & Sharon E. Wilcox

Philip K. & Connie Rickard Liza C. Rodriguez Madrid Greg S. & Amy Ruff Dale W. & Steph Schaeffer Robert Michael & Becky A. Scott

Ann Spear

Pinnacle Financial Partners

Anita W. & Dave Windus Paul P. & Deborah Winkler Joshua C. Winskie & Jennifer A. Kingery Lee & Alice L. Woolery Robert A. & Kristin Young

Bobby & Rondy Smith

Mariano Monzu & Lorena Lopardo

Scott & Rachel A. Parker

Freddy & Judi Williams

Gerron S. & Jennifer D. Showalter

Bill & Sheila G. Sorrells

Brian & Dawn C. Olson

S. Paul Vann, Jr. & Jennie D. Vann

Kevin G. & Chelsie A. Reed

Paul R. Montemuro

Matthew L. & Keely R. Mullins

Steve & Melody K. Underwood

Brady W. Ray

Peggy A. Smith

Jonathan H. & Kathy Mowry

Brad J. & Rebecca A. Turner

Howard T. Wall III & Kimberly K. Wall

Tommy W. & Teresa Mitchell

Emily J. Moore

Jonathan E. & Kara D. Trees

Marcella C. Staples Jack K. Stone Joseph D. & Pamela D. Storey Gary W. & Marla M. Streit Ira M. Strickland III & Beverly G. Strickland James & Deborah A. Sweat

Kendell & Tammy Poole

Brodrick R. & Lauren C. Thomas

Kyle & Julie B. Poole

Matthew W. Thrasher

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Moments and Memories Reminiscing with former professors John Chilton and Toby Williams

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: TOBY WILLIAMS, JOHN CHILTON, STEVE HOSKINS AND DEAN DIEHL

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Beloved alumni and retired history professors John Chilton (’64) and Toby Williams (’59) recently sat down with current faculty members Dean Diehl and Steve Hoskins to recount some of their most meaningful memories as students and professors on the Hill.

What was your first interaction with Trevecca?

Williams: When I was a boy growing up in Jacksonville, Fla., the Trevecca travel groups would visit. Pop Keys would make Trevecca sound like the best place in the world, especially if you wanted a wife. Pop sold this University to more students, probably, than anybody else around.

My first experience on campus was in 1945. My brother, Jack, was here in school. I came to visit him, and saw snow for the first time.

Chilton: I first visited Trevecca in 1951. I was in the Air Force, stationed in Smyrna, and I came to First Church because the pastor was my former pastor from Atlanta.

Several of us piled in a car and drove out to Trevecca.

We turned off Murfreesboro Road and came up a gravel road with the little sign over the top. It was summertime and classes were out. The grass was high. There wasn’t anything here. It looked like an abandoned barracks. I was not impressed.

A guy named Lewis Pennington is the person I credit for my coming to Trevecca years later. He’d come back to Atlanta occasionally, and we’d talk at church. He told me: “You’d make a good teacher. Why don’t you come to Trevecca? You can finish the classes in two years. Then you could get your doctorate right there at Peabody.”

I told him, “Lewis, I’d be 35 years old by then.”

He’d reply, “Well, how old would you be if you don’t do it?”

I can’t tell you how many times he said that to me. I came back to attend Trevecca in 1962.

What was it like to come back to Trevecca as a faculty member and a colleague of your former professors?

Chilton: I never had a class with religion professor Ray Dunning, but after I joined the faculty, his office was across from mine. During the first Gulf War, he caught a lot of flack for something he said that made it into the newspaper.

A lot of nasty things were said about him. I watched his reaction to that. I’ve told people, “I don’t understand a lot about the debate. But I know Ray Dunning and William Greathouse. Whatever they believe is what I believe, because I’ve seen it lived out.”

Williams: When I came back here to teach, M.E. Redford, both of the Phillipses and Homer Adams were still here.

They had all been my teachers when I was a student. You wouldn’t believe how well they treated me. They were just so thrilled that I had made the journey to come back while they were still here.

John Chilton is a professor emeritus of history at Trevecca who was a member of the faculty from 1975 to 1999. He holds undergraduate degrees from Trevecca and Emory University and a master’s, Ed.S. and Ph.D. from George Peabody College at Vanderbilt University.

Arthur “Toby” Williams is a professor emeritus of history at Trevecca who was a member of the faculty from 1970 to 1997. After earning an undergraduate degree from Trevecca in 1959, he attended Nazarene Theological Seminary and then earned advanced degrees from the University of Louisville and Middle Tennessee State University.

Watch the complete roundtable discussion by scanning here 33

PARTNERS E G A C Y L

TREVECCA

Trevecca Legacy Partners are individuals who have included Trevecca in their estate plans or through a life gift, such as a charitable gift annuity. These ultimate gifts help ensure Trevecca will continue to impact the lives of students through a transforming educational experience. If you have included or would like to include Trevecca in your estate plan, please contact Don Hastings at (615) 248-1436 or dbhastings@trevecca.edu.

Bob M. & Shirley C. Aldrich Gregg & Dodi L. Alsbrooks Randy L. Arnold, Jr. Helen Barnett Desmond & Julie A. Barrett Mark & Jodie L. Bergquist Randy & Debbie L. Berkner Mark D. & Deborah L. Berry Dan L. & Denise Boone Larry & Sharon K. Buess Jason A. & Tina L. Caddy Cliff E. Moore, Jr. & Edlira B. Cako-Moore Barbara R. Cash Frances Cash John F. Chilton, Jr. & Sara C. Chilton Patrick J. Conger Patricia D. Cook Thomas L. & Sharon Cook Peggy J. Cooning Roger W. & Carole G. Costa Marline M. Couey Norman R. & Zilpha Cox Royece Cox Josh K. & Katie B. Crowe Helen K. Cummings Charles A. Davis, Jr. & Yvonne Davis Huey J. Davis III & Chelsea A. Davis Erika G. Deardorf Lora H. Donoho Don & Nancy E. Dunlap Don W. & Jane A. Dunnington Dennis E. & Marilyn Fink

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Linda Foster Charlie & Beverly J. Franklin Todd P. Gary Kelly & Michelle E. Gayhart Hilton H. Gillespie John G. & Celeste Gillespie Muthian & Shanti Gladson Ronald W. Goodman, Jr. Joseph T. & Jennie Gore Troy & Christy L. Grant Donna J. Gray Paula J. Gregory David N. & Barbara E. Griffin Joan Halliburton Jerome Hancock, Jr. & Brenda D. Hancock Gary & Karen Harper Carlton F. Harvey Donald B. & B.K. Hastings Matthew B. & Keri A. Hastings Blake & Lisa R. Hathcock Nicolet C. Henderson Jamie L. Hess Tina L. Hoots Mark B. & Penny L. Hosny Bob L. House Troy A. & Jessica A. Jett Michael T. & Sarah B. Johnson Ronald V. Jones & Amy R. Mix-Jones William R. Jones George F. Kersey, Jr. Brad C. Kinnison Ray G. & Dee Klinger

Jim D. & Beverly G. Knight Larry W. & Joy Knight Finley & Lori M. Knowles Scott A. & Krystal R. LaCoy Patricia D. Long Janice E. Lovell James H. Lunsford, Jr. & Michelle Lunsford Ronald K. & Karla McCormack Harold McCue Corlis A. McGee Jeff & Susan R. McGranahan Bradley Meinck & Lee Ann Brown-Meinck Inez Milby Craig P. Moore Jason T. Moore Mary C. Moore-Smith Gary B. Morsch Vickie Morsch Delores Murray Gregory S. & Denise Nash Wendel L. & Judy C. Nixon Bruce E. & Peggy L. Oldham Ignacio Orozco Bravo Kent B. & Kathleen Pelton Steve Pennington Kyle & Julie B. Poole Tracy D. Porter Steve M. & Gail V. Pusey J. Dwight Ragsdale Earl M. & Lillian Rash Seth M. & Katie Reigard Rick & Sharon B. Reynolds Doreen B. Riddle Evangeline Schaper

Sammie C. Schell Carole Schrope Don D. Schrope II & Abigail D. Schrope Chuck & Peggi Seaman Harold I. Smith L. Alan & Carolyn Smith Dennis R. & Karen C. Snodgrass Robert E. & Joyce Snodgrass Caleb R. & Erin M. Soles Jonathan D. & Ruth B. Steenbergen Deborah E. Story Gary W. & Marla M. Streit Jeff W. & Esther C. Swink Shannon G. Talley Barbara A. Tharp Houston E. & Martha G. Thompson Starr Van Hoff James G. Van Hook Howard T. Wall III & Kimberly K Wall Todd & Rebecca R. Welch W. Melvin & Joyce W. Welch Marvin R. & Joy Wells Lindi R. Wells Martsolf & Nathan J. Martsolf Dan K. & Diane Whetstone James A. & Holly M. Whitby Randall P. & Karen R. White Meghan B. Woodham Doreen E. Yager Anonymous donors

Friends Remembered Please join us in honoring the memory of these members of the Trevecca community who passed away in recent months.

Sue Ellen Adkins (alumna) Stanley Ray Caldwell (friend) Gayle J. Carver (former employee) Faye M. Cullen (’61) Billy Doolittle (friend) Larry Dean Foster (’64) Mike Gamble (’79) Ronald Gault (friend) Don Gordon (friend) Nadine Green (former employee) Derek Dustin Hamer (’03) Joshua David Helton (’09) J. Fred Huff (’72) Patricia T. Hutchens (’53) Marilyn Irwin (’64) William Porter King (former faculty member) Denny H. Latham, Jr. (’76) Daniel J. Lennon (friend) Mayburn J. Merchant (friend) Joseph L. Moses (’61) Wallace B. Osborn, Jr. (’69) Clifford R. Patnode (friend) Mathew Shawn Powell (’14) Kay F. Quick (’67) Edward Ray Savage (’59) Mary C. Seabolt (’70) Eleanor M. Sloane (friend) Hugh L. Smith (’63) Jean R. Smith (’53 - Trevecca High School) Karen Starr (friend) Robert Edward Thompson (’68) Janris M. Wells (’52) Ken Lane Zingery (’72)

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Want more of the Treveccan stories you love?

VISIT TREVECCAN ONLINE, THE NEW WEBSITE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS. We believe in the power of connection. That’s why we’ve launched a new website dedicated to sharing even more alumni stories, along with inspiring and useful resources. Our goal is to bring what you love about the printed Treveccan magazine to an online space where you can learn about what’s happening in your alumni community anytime, and from anywhere. You'll continue to receive the printed magazine as well!

Scan here or visit www.treveccan.online to check out the new alumni website.

36 T R E V E C C A N

Connecting with your alma mater and fellow alumni is now just a click away.

DISCOVER TREVECCA CONNECT TREVECCA CONNECT is a social media platform created exclusively for the Trevecca community. It’s a simple, direct way to find former classmates, expand your professional network and establish mentorships. You can also explore job opportunities, learn about upcoming events and join a variety of regional and professional groups.

RECONNECT WITH ALUMNI Find and re-engage with fellow Trevecca alumni. Scroll the feed to see and share photos from other members and explore a flow of content that will keep you up to date on current events as you interact with a large network of alumni, students, employees and Nazarene pastors on the Southeast Field.

INVEST IN OTHERS Meet, employ and mentor Trevecca students, recent graduates or alumni who are changing jobs or looking for expertise. You can establish mentorships between professionals or with students.

EXPAND YOUR NETWORK Leverage your network to connect with others who can help with your goals, and advance your career by interacting with professionals in fields that interest you.

Troy Trevecca

PROMOTE OR FIND JOBS Discover a variety of professional opportunities by sharing jobs and searching for jobs. Post and search on the platform’s job board to fill positions or find your next exciting career opportunity.

ACCESS THE DIRECTORY Explore the list of registered users and communicate directly on the platform. Soon a separate business directory will allow you to publish your business and promote it so you can boost growth and support others in the process.

FIND GROUPS THAT FIT YOU Join groups based on graduating classes, professional fields, interests, location and more. This is a great way to tailor your platform experience and discover the strengths and diversity of what our community has to offer. You can create groups, too!

Registering for Trevecca Connect takes about two minutes, and it’s free! When you register, you can automatically link your new account with your other existing social media accounts so everything you want to explore is at your fingertips.

SCAN HERE or visit treveccaconnect.com to sign up and get connected!

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With Distinction 2024 Alumni Award Winners Each year at Homecoming, the Trevecca Alumni Association honors graduates and others whose careers and lives exemplify the values of the University. Read on to get to know this year’s recipients.

THE MCCLURKAN AWARD

is presented to those whose lives and service reflect Trevecca’s values but who did not graduate from the University.

NYKOLAUS REED Nykolaus Reed, a faculty member in Trevecca’s biology department since 2013, attended Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and later Meharry Medical College for biomedical studies. He went on to pursue Ph.D. research on DNA sequences and conducted his dissertation work at Vanderbilt’s Center for Human Genetics. He initially became a member of the Trevecca community when he taught life science as an adjunct professor while completing a Vanderbilt postdoctoral fellowship.

Reed was awarded Trevecca’s 2022 undergraduate Teaching Excellence Award for his thoughtfulness, passion and ability to share his love and expertise in biology with his students.

He prioritizes teaching scientific literacy and believes it’s crucial to navigating an ever-changing world.

“My goal is to help students find where they can excel and experience joy,” Reed shared. “In my own journey, I was initially determined to become a medical doctor. Then I shadowed some doctors as they completed rounds and I quickly realized that being a medical doctor wasn’t the direction for me. A shift in focus can be scary, but it was the best decision for me. That’s what I want my students to realize.

Your initial direction doesn’t have to be your only direction.”

38 T R E V E C C A N

THE GENERATIONAL IMPACT AWARD is given to a current or former Trevecca employee who has impacted students for more than three decades.

TIM GREEN Over the course of his 34 years at Trevecca, Tim Green has served as the University chaplain, a professor of Old Testament literature and theology and now as dean of the Millard Reed School of Theology & Christian Ministry. He is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene, and prior to arriving at Trevecca, he held pastoral roles in Hendersonville, Tenn.; Cincinnati; and Nashville.

Green has authored numerous books and articles and is a frequent speaker and lecturer throughout the United States and around the world, teaching theology classes in Central and Eastern Europe.

Trevecca has been a place of formation for Green, who sees the community as deeply interwoven with his calling. He finds great joy in sharing his love of Scripture with students and encouraging them as they discover their mission and passions.

“One of my greatest prayers is that each of my students will imagine in meaningful and life-giving ways how the Lord is calling them to engage in the deepest dreams and mission of God for the world,” he said. “I hope that my life embodies the spirit and mind of Jesus Christ, and that my students take away from my classes an authentic picture of Jesus as well as a desire to be transformed into his image.”

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MACKEY LEADERSHIP AWARDs

are presented to Trevecca alumni who have excelled in leadership.

Amy Alexander Amy Alexander graduated from Trevecca’s marriage and family therapy master’s program in 2005. She went on to co-found The Refuge Center, a counseling center in Franklin, Tenn., that emphasizes excellence in care and affordability, alongside fellow graduate Jennifer Thames. Alexander now serves as the center’s executive director.

Since opening in 2005, the Refuge Center has grown to include 30 employees, 20 contract therapists and 20 interns. The center recently moved to a 15,200-square-foot facility that will allow for 40,000 counseling sessions annually. The state-ofthe-art campus includes an outdoor prayer chapel, walking trails, a prayer labyrinth and a playground for children.

As a therapist, Alexander’s clinical focus includes trauma; domestic and sexual violence; grief and loss; and identity work. She is passionate about helping clients thrive, find freedom and live healthy and whole lives.

“Much of the dream of The Refuge Center came during my time in the Trevecca graduate counseling program, where professors and leaders provided a solid foundation of mentorship, wisdom, guidance, vision and support,” she said. “I feel blessed to lead an organization that is making such a systemic impact in our community and beyond. I believe we are just scratching the surface of providing the most excellent, whole-person care available.”

2024 Alumni Award Winners 40 T R E V E C C A N

Darryl Griffin Darryl Griffin’s professional journey exemplifies leadership rooted in faith.

A 2014 alumnus of Trevecca’s Master of Arts in organizational leadership (MOL) program, Griffin’s career has been driven by a commitment to service and responsibility.

As the national associate executive vice president for the American Heart Association based in the Dallas area, Griffin attributes much of his impact to the spiritual discipline of prayer. Cultivating a prayer life where he routinely asks for guidance and the opportunity to help others has shaped his career and allowed him to rise through leadership ranks with a focus on empowering his colleagues.

His Christ-centered approach to leadership emphasizes collaboration and the importance of embracing differing perspectives. Griffin values “positive conflict,” where open dialogue and constructive criticism are embraced to achieve the best outcomes. “Learning how to operate within that space brings out the best in everybody,” he said, adding that this mindset motivates him to lead with influence rather than authority alone.

Griffin says his Trevecca education contributed greatly to his leadership philosophy. “Understanding myself and my emotional intelligence was crucial,” he explained. Trevecca’s MOL program has helped him manage emotional responses and foster effective relationships—essential skills for any leader.

MATTHEW MULLINS Matthew Mullins graduated from Trevecca with a Bachelor of Arts in accounting in 1997. After earning an MBA from Tennessee State University, he worked for 17 years at Momentum, a Nashville healthcare software company, eventually becoming its CFO and executive director.

Mullins decided to switch courses in his career in 2017 and become a lawyer.

He earned his law degree from Belmont University in 2021 and then founded Momentum Law in Mt. Juliet, Tenn., providing estate and business planning services. He also teaches business law as a part-time instructor at Trevecca.

In 2010, Mullins was instrumental in starting the Trevecca Association for Business and Leadership (TABL), an organization that facilitates ongoing opportunities for alumni and friends of the University in the business community to network, connect and learn from local leaders in Middle Tennessee.

Beyond the strong academic foundation he received at Trevecca, Mullins met his wife, Keely, at the University and developed friendships that still enrich his life today. He believes his journey highlights Trevecca’s impact on both the professional and personal lives of students.

“Trevecca has provided me with opportunities to give back to a community that has given me so much,” Mullins said. “It’s been a cornerstone in my life.”

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The T-award, MINISTERIAL

recognizes Trevecca alumni who have devoted their lives to serving and ministering to others. The award is presented each year to one minister and one layperson.

JULIE STEVENS For more than three decades, Julie Stevens has worked in community engagement and pastoral service. She graduated from Trevecca with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1992, but not before starting an outreach ministry during her senior year that would eventually reach as many as 600 children a week in underserved neighborhoods.

She went on to serve as director of campus ministries at Trevecca and also worked in pastoral service at Trevecca Community Church of the Nazarene. After earning a master’s in religion from Trevecca in 2002, she served at churches in Texas, California, Ohio and Kansas while continuing to be involved in community engagement ministries and adjunct teaching roles at three Nazarene universities.

In 2023, after more than 30 years working in children’s ministry, she became lead pastor of Living Hope Church of the Nazarene in Centerville, Ohio.

“All of us have a circle of influence, no matter our age or our job,” she said. “The Lord calls us to engage our world. I believe there’s a holy urgency to get outside the walls of the church. This is needed now more than ever. That’s my hope and prayer as a pastor.”

2024 Alumni Award Winners 42 T R E V E C C A N

The T-award, laypersons

recognizes Trevecca alumni who have devoted their lives to serving and ministering to others. The award is presented each year to one minister and one layperson.

DAN & MELANIE EATON Dan and Melanie Eaton have a heart for addressing the crucial need of affordable housing in Middle Tennessee. They have spent much of their lives focusing on ministry efforts, whether through affordable housing initiatives, helping Nashville’s homeless population, supporting students at Trevecca or serving in the mission field overseas.

Since 2020, Dan has worked as director of housing development at Affordable Housing Resources, a Nashville nonprofit dedicated to building homes and making homeownership a reality for low- and moderate-income buyers.

Melanie works for the same organization as the grant coordinator for rental assistance. Since 2023, she’s secured more than $2 million through grants from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency that has helped renters avoid eviction in the face of rising rent costs.

The couple met at Trevecca as students and married in 1985. Melanie earned her bachelor’s degree in social work that same year, while Dan graduated in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in both accounting and business administration. He went on to earn an MBA with a focus on economic development from Eastern University in St. David’s, Pa. The Eatons’ calling is one they pray brings hope to Nashvillians. “Housing is an integral part of people’s lives,” said Melanie. “We view our work as a fulfillment of what the Lord expects us to do. Our faith is meant to be an active faith. We want to be involved in what God cares about—the homeless and the vulnerable. These populations are near to His heart.”

2024 Alumni Award Winners 43

THE FIRST CHAPTER AWARD

is presented to a recent Trevecca alumnus or alumna who has begun a distinguished professional career.

JAMES AUSTIN JOHNSON James Austin Johnson’s journey from Trevecca to the cast of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) is a testament to his dedication and passion for the performing arts.

Growing up in Nashville, Johnson was immersed in theatre from a young age, making his debut in Trevecca’s production of “The Music Man” as a third grader. His early involvement in church and community theater laid a solid foundation for his future career.

As a student at Trevecca, Johnson initially pursued a path in literature, driven by a desire to become a writer. However, his passion for performance persisted.

Balancing his studies with stand-up gigs, he would perform off campus to hone his comedy skills.

Johnson’s versatility led him to switch his major to mass communication, focusing on film and comedy.

His involvement in various productions became a cornerstone of his artistic development.

After graduating from Trevecca in 2011, Johnson moved to Los Angeles, where he navigated the competitive landscape of comedy and acting. His perseverance paid off with notable roles, including a part in the Coen Brothers’ film “Hail Caesar.” His breakthrough came in 2021, when he became a featured player on SNL and quickly made an impact with his unique comedic style. He was promoted to repertory status on the show in 2023. He also voiced the character Pouchy in the 2024 Pixar animated film “Inside Out 2.”

“I’m grateful for my time at Trevecca,” he said. “There are a lot of positives to going to a smaller private school that doesn’t have your exact major. It draws resourcefulness out of you and forces you to think about ways to be creative.”

2024 Alumni Award Winners 44 T R E V E C C A N

LI F E

Your Year-End Gift Can Change a Student’s

Because of the generosity of alumni and friends like you, students at Trevecca are discerning their calling and pursuing their God-given potential. As the year ends, will you help even more students faithfully step into their future?

How Your Partnership Makes a Difference

At Trevecca, we’re more than just a university—we connect people to their calling. Endowed scholarships make this possible, allowing students to grow academically, spiritually and personally. Here’s how your financial partnership can impact students directly.

$50 provides a month of meals for a commuter student

$500 supports a month of on-campus living for a residential student

Why Now?

Through Dec. 31, 2024, any gift (of $500 or more) you contribute to an endowed scholarship will be doubled thanks to a matching donor. Your support ensures more students can receive an education that transforms.

Please consider making a year-end gift today. Together, let's shape servant leaders who will impact God’s kingdom.

Give today

$1,000 enables an undergraduate student to earn a full credit hour on the way to earning a life-changing college degree

“Trevecca has been a transformative experience for me. It has enriched my academic knowledge, fostered personal growth, deepened my faith and prepared me for the future. I’m grateful for the opportunities I've encountered, and I look forward to seeing how my final semester here shapes my life.”

M a r i a J o s e V e l e z C h av e z Senior biology major

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FALL 2024

Treveccan

The Magazine of Trevecca Nazarene University 333 MURFREESBORO PIKE NASHVILLE, TN 37210

trevecca.edu

dynamic on demand self-paced Dual enrollment reimagined . fully online flexible more affordable Through dual enrollment at Trevecca, high school juniors and seniors can earn college credit in a variety of subjects, explore their interests and ultimately earn a college degree on a shorter timeline and at a lower price tag.

SCAN to Learn More!