ECHOS
Letter from the President
When Truett McConnell Junior College was chartered in 1946, it was borne out of a prayer meeting in the basement of First Baptist Blairsville. The seven who sought the face of God that evening knew the Lord was raising up a Christian college with the explicit purpose of sharing Christ (Mark 16:15) and serving others (Matt. 22:37-40).
Now, eight decades later, a new generation is following in the sacrificial steps of thousands of alumni who have followed such an eternal path.
Just over the course of this academic year, students have ministered to thousands with the unconditional love of Christ. From helping families in Georgia and North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene to packing more than 800 boxes for Operation Christmas Child, students intentionally have poured into those who need hope. Some have chosen to share the Gospel in the nearby resort town of Helen while many other students are preparing to travel in the next few months to countries including Croatia, Germany, Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua.
Since that providential prayer meeting, Truett McConnell University has made the last will and testament of Christ - the Great Commission - our first priority and calling. We recognize that there are only two things that are truly eternal: the Word of God and the souls of men. May this edition of Echos encourage our hearts and minds.
May it challenge us to pray for this generation as they battle for the souls of another generation. May we come alongside them and do likewise, for the glory of our Lord, the only hope for the world. Truth is Immortal.
Dr. Emir Caner
ECHOS: AN ALUMNI PUBLICATION OF TRUETT MCCONNELL UNIVERSITY
Welcome to Echos: Where the name itself embodies the sacred mission of transmitting generations of wisdom and divine truth, as guided by Christian principles. Within these pages, we echo the reverberating resonance of God’s greatness. Throughout the pages, Echos will share testimonies of God’s work in the lives of TMU alumni.
TRUETT
President
Vice President
Dr. Maël Disseau
Vice
Dr. Stacy Hall
Vice
Dr. Jason Graffagnino
Vice
Jenni
ADVANCEMENT TEAM
Associate
Daniel
Director
Brandi
Director
Andrea
Director
Cassandra
Graphic
Digital
Madison
Copywriter
Student
Rebekah
706-865-2134
Email:
Website:
Honoring the Legacy of Mitchell Lee Wiggins
World Championship, where he won a silver medal. Mitchell then went on to play professional basketball for 15 years. In 1992, after his last season with the NBA, he went to play overseas in Greece, where he became a two-time Greek League top scorer and a three-time Greek League All-Star.
He is survived by his wife, Marita Wiggins, and six children.
the U.S. National
of Fame. He
Alumni A ssoci ation
Letter from the Vice President for Advancement
Welcome to another issue of Echos magazine - a magazine devoted to celebrating and connecting TMU Alumni. As an alumnus of this great institution, we hope that you are proud of what God has done and continues to do through your alma mater.
Truett McConnell University continues to be ranked as the #1 Christian College in Georgia by Best Value Schools. We are currently offering more than 50 different undergraduate and graduate degree programs in biology, business, Christian studies, criminal justice, cyber-security, education, forensic science, music, nursing, psychology, and many others. Yet, no matter which degree our students pursue, our faculty ensures that each student is equipped to share the TRUTH.
As one of nearly 11,000 total alumni of our great University, I humbly ask you to do three things:
1) Pray that God will continue to use our University and students for His glory.
2) Come back to campus to reconnect with old friends and to see how God is using your University.
3) Consider joining the TMU Alumni Association.
Membership in the Alumni Association supports the Standing on Truth Fund which helps provide needed student scholarships in addition to assisting with academic programs, facility enhancements, mission trips, and other needs of the University. Because of the generosity of donors and alumni, just like you, 100% of our incoming students receive financial aid and more than $12 million in grants and scholarships are awarded each year to our students.
Thank you for your continued support of TMU. We hope to see you on campus soon!
Dr. Stacy Hall
Pictured L-R (back row): Barry Thompson (’73), Glenn Jones (’73), Michael Tull (’75), Tate Gaines (’17), Hyatt Hendrix (’21), Preston Bowen (’12), Dr. Stacy Hall (VP for Advancement)
Pictured L-R (front row): Margie Webb DeLay (’61), Vicki Doud (’75), Amy Willis Clegg (’91), Maggie Smart (’24), Sarah Newton (’21), Jaye Copeland (’77), Andrea Gray (’88)
Not pictured: Garrett Erath (’14), Brad Scarberry (’16), Maria Kayondo (’19 & ’21)
TRUETT MCCONNELL UNIVERSITY
Truett McConnell University is proud to announce the newly elected 2024-2025 Alumni Executive Committee, who will serve for the next two years. The officers include Tate Gaines (’17) as President, Sarah Newton (’21) as Vice President, Maggie Smart (’24) as Secretary, and Glen Jones (’73) as Treasurer. These dedicated leaders are committed to fostering a stronger connection between TMU and its alumni family.
As a valued member of the TMU alumni community, staying connected has never been easier — or more important. Through Echos, our alumni magazine, we celebrate your stories, milestones, and accomplishments. Additionally, if we have your current email address, you’ll receive our monthly newsletter, Bear Blast, filled with updates about TMU and fellow alumni. We encourage you to share what’s new in your life so we can feature it in upcoming publications.
SAVED CALLED EQUIPPED SENT
We also invite you to return to campus, whether for events like our annual Friends and Family Weekend, a peaceful walk on the front lawn, or a moment of prayer at the cross.
This year, we are thrilled to re-launch the TMU Alumni Association. By joining, you’ll help support the mission of TMU, foster alumni fellowship, and contribute to scholarships and essential programs through the Standing on Truth Fund. Annual memberships are just $25 for individuals and $40 for couples, while lifetime memberships are $375 for individuals and $575 for couples. Please prayerfully consider joining the TMU Alumni Association and help make a lasting impact on the next generation of TMU alumni. To join the TMU Alumni Association or to update your contact information, visit Truett.edu/alumni.
GEORGIA’S
HEARTS ARE ALWAYS ON OUR MINDS
While you’re busy being you, we’re working all day, every day to make Georgia Heart Institute the state’s No. 1 heart and vascular program. With the highest rankings in heart attack care, heart failure treatment and heart surgery, Georgia Heart Institute is also one of only two programs in the state to offer robotic heart surgery. Whether you live in Atlanta or on Lake Lanier, in the country or in town, the future of heart care is here for you today.
A Story of TRUEtt Love
Truett McConnell University (TMU) holds a special place in the heart of Gideon Hendrix (’22). Not only did she earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at TMU, but many of her middle and high school memories were also made on campus. Since her father is faculty, Gideon grew up attending Treats at Truett, the annual Hoedown, and various athletic events. Her first job as a teenager was working in The Outpost, TMU’s campus store.
Gideon became a student at Truett McConnell University in 2016 and began her bachelor’s degree in psychology, where her professors, such as Dr. Natalie Ford, encouraged her to work hard and reach her full potential.
During her time on campus, she felt God calling her to pursue psychology, specifically counseling. “I learned the importance of hard work, integrity, knowing what you believe, and integrating faith into every part of my professional life,” Gideon said. “This significantly impacted my career path and journey.”
The memories she cherishes from her time as a student are precious. She fondly recalls working in The Outpost and concessions as an undergraduate. In 2017, she was fortunate to go on the Anabaptist tour with her father, Dr. Jason Graffagnino. Then, in the summer of 2018, she met her future husband, Hyatt Hendrix, while they were both working in the Nix Student Center. “Our first date was a movie on the front lawn during orientation week,” she said.
Gideon graduated with her bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2019 and immediately began the Clinical Mental Health master’s program at
TMU. She and Hyatt got engaged and married while she completed her master’s degree. During her final year in the program, Gideon started a counseling placement position at the Northeast Georgia Christian Counseling Center, and after graduating with her master’s in 2022, she accepted a full-time position as a counselor.
Gideon and Hyatt put down roots in Habersham County and built their first home in 2023. In 2024, after being called to change positions, she accepted a role at TMU as the Counseling Center Coordinator. “I have a passion for integrating biblical principles into the counseling field. This passion was ignited in my heart during my senior year of college,” she said. “I am so blessed to now have a position where I can actively and directly utilize biblical truths in counseling.”
Looking back on her time as a TMU student, there are few experiences Gideon wouldn’t want to relive. The incredible memories seeing Venice on the Anabaptist tour, working concessions, and walking across the stage to graduate with her bachelor’s and master’s degrees are among the moments she would love to experience again. Most of all, she wouldn’t hesitate to relive the first time she met her husband and the early weeks of their dating on campus.
She is proud of the degrees that have opened amazing opportunities in the counseling field and enabled her to pursue God’s calling on her life, as well as to embrace her roles as a wife and homeowner at a young age. She is thrilled to be back on campus! “Truett McConnell University has been like a second home to me, and I am so blessed to be back on campus!”
Finding Fulfillment and Purpose
“While at TMU, I was plugged into an environment that cultivated relationships like I had never experienced up until that point. It was here that the Biblical principle of ‘Iron Sharpens Iron’ started to become real to me,” begins ’20 grad Josh Johnston
While at TMU, Josh played baseball, and his favorite memories include the long road trips, early morning workouts, and the memories of fighting through and overcoming adversity. He fondly remembers the brotherhood that was formed. The fun times spent in the dorms and apartments, weekend camping trips, and creating memories with friends are among the things he would love to do again.
After he graduated, Josh was still not fully confident in what he wanted to do with his life, so he did what seemed most obvious – he joined Corporate America. After a few years at two different companies, he knew that he needed to figure something else out. He struggled to find fulfillment and purpose. He decided to step outside the norm to start a podcast (Take A Step) and see where it would go. The podcast led to being recognized by a life and business coach who was ready to scale his coaching practice, and Josh was asked to join his team. After a lot of thought and conversations with his wife, he joined the team at The 1% Club to pursue his passion of helping people find their full potential through a biblical worldview. Josh is continuing to build Take A Step to build a community of faith-driven young men who are committed to taking action on their personal and professional growth.
His relationship with Jesus has grown. “I see a difference between believing and following and I try to follow in the way of Jesus more and more every day,” Josh noted. He has learned to take ownership if he wants anything in his life to grow. Nothing changes if he doesn’t first.
Josh loves spending time with his wife, Jaden, and their dog, Cooper. Their first daughter, Emerson Brooks Johnston, was born in September 2024! Josh enjoys running and golf and leads a high school small group at their church.
Overall, he says, “While I was comfortable in a role that provided well for my wife and I, I knew I would never be fulfilled unless I chose to do something different. This choice ultimately allowed me to live out my purpose!”
Building on Lessons Learned
For Tellie Paquette (’23), the biggest thing to have an impact on her life was Spiritual Emphasis Week in 2020. She was a brand-new transfer to TMU and was not sure of where she stood with God. That week, she gave her life to the Lord.
Her favorite memories of TMU are the days where she got to participate in chapel set up, where she had the opportunity to set up not only for chapel, but also for the special events on campus. There, she met some of her best friends and was able to take a breather from nursing. She also greatly enjoyed the nursing school’s “welcome back” breakfasts and the disaster drill.
“If I could relive any of my time at TMU, it would be the two years I was on campus with my sister. It was special having movie nights with her and being able to walk beside each other through school,” Telesila said. Her latest hobby began
Pressing Forward in Faith
As he reflected on his time at TMU, Tanner Clark (’19) recalled faculty feeding a fire to share the Gospel with those around him. He credits Dr. Disseau, Dr. Sanders, and Mr. O’Brein, among others, for helping to change his life forever. These men, among an array of students and staff, charged him to press forward in the faith and challenged him for the future. Through his capstone, he was greatly encouraged and pushed deeper spiritually.
Before graduation in 2019, he took the role of youth pastor at Baldwin Baptist Church and is in his 6th year on staff there. Following graduation, he felt a desire to do more in the Habersham and Banks County area where he served. Three years of prayer and preparation lead him to start the Banks County Christian Learning Center, where he teaches elective classes and shares the Gospel with middle and high school students.
her last semester of college, when a nursing school friend gave her sourdough starter, and she has put it to use, making dozens of loaves and brownies.
After graduating, she went home to New York for the summer to study for the NCLEX and prepare for where the Lord was calling her. The week that she took the NCLEX, she accepted a position at Northeast Georgia Medical Center and made plans to return to Georgia. In October 2024, she celebrated one year of working at NGMC.
She is proud to have achieved her ACLS certification, especially as it was something that she wrote down as part of her professional goals for her capstone. Since leaving TMU, her walk with the Lord has gotten stronger, and she’s been able to build on the knowledge that she gained during her time at Truett McConnell University.
“In my time at TMU, I was able to foster a growing passion for reaching and equipping the next generations to move forward the Gospel message,” he said, “In these three years of the program, the Lord has graciously exceeded my expectation and has grown me spiritually through pouring out my heart and soul for the Gospel to students.”
He is proud to be the first teacher at the Banks County Christian Learning Center and is grateful for the opportunity to see students and their families being positively impacted for the Gospel. Besides the roles of pastor and disciplemaker, he is now a husband and father, which he says are his greatest accomplishments to this date.
“The Lord has graciously given me two of my greatest desires in life,” he said fondly.
Lighting the Way
For Carissa Carson (’21), Truett McConnell University (TMU) was more than an academic experience—it was a spiritual journey that deepened her relationship with Jesus and inspired her to be a light in the lives of others. Now a seventh-grade English Language Arts teacher, Carissa credits her time at TMU with equipping her both professionally and spiritually to impact her students.
“I now strive to pour into my students just like the faculty at Truett did for me,” Carissa shared. “Every time I feel myself becoming aggravated or impatient, I tell myself that my smile and greeting at the door may be the only smile and acknowledgment that student receives all day.”
Carissa fondly recalls the profound influence of her professors, who invested in her life beyond academics. Their example showed her the importance of building rapport and fostering meaningful relationships. Her favorite memories at TMU include worshipping in chapel alongside hundreds of other students and finding encouragement in a community of prayerful peers.
“It was such a refreshing experience to be able to worship alongside other young adults. It was nice to know that I was surrounded by people who wanted to pray for me and with me,” she reflected.
In addition to the spiritual support, Carissa found lifelong friendships in TMU’s education program. Many of those friends now teach in the same school system as Carissa, providing a network of support as they navigate the challenges of the classroom together.
Carissa’s transition from student to teacher began in February of her senior year when she applied for her dream teaching position. The very next day, she was invited to interview. Initially intimidated, she soon found confidence in her preparation and passion for teaching.
Just a few months later, in April, Carissa and her husband discovered they were expecting their first child. While overjoyed at the prospect of motherhood, she worried about how her new role as a teacher and her pregnancy would intersect. With the unwavering support of her professors and God’s provision, Carissa navigated those hectic first months of balancing a new career and family life.
“If I could go back and redo anything from that time, I would lean into God more,” she admitted. “I didn’t understand His plan, but He knew best. He knew that I would grow because of those circumstances.”
F. Stanley
Charles F. Stanley Global Impact Center Grand Opening
Truett McConnell University honored the late Charles Stanley on Tuesday, Oct. 22, dedicating the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Global Impact Center. Distinguished guests, several trustees, University administrators and faculty, and students attended the dedication. Stanley was remembered for his providential purpose, his passionate preaching, and his persistent and powerful prayers.
Stanley was pastor of Atlanta’s First Baptist Church for more than 50 years, the founder of In Touch Ministries, a New York Times best-selling author, and an avid photographer.
Inspired by Psalm 67:2 (TLB), “Send us around the world with the news of Your saving power and Your eternal plan for all mankind,” Stanley proceeded to seek out and employ innovative technologies to send the message of Christ to the ends of the earth. Today, “In Touch” is broadcast on thousands of television, radio, and satellite networks and stations worldwide and translated into 160 languages.
The inauguration of the beautifully designed Global Impact Center included a welcome and introductory remarks by Truett McConnell University President Emir Caner. The center, located on the third floor of the Miller Building, houses a collection of ministry artifacts and an exhibit of Stanley’s photography.
Anthony George, who served as Stanley’s associate pastor for nine years prior to becoming his successor as pastor of Atlanta’s First Baptist Church provided a moving synopsis of Stanley’s life.
George spoke of the challenging life Charles Stanley experienced in his childhood, including the death of his father when he was only 9 months old and his heartbreaking remembrance of the mental and physical toll that his mother’s work took on her as she labored 10 hours a day in unspeakably atrocious conditions for a “pittance of pay.”
The death of his father, the hardships experienced by his mother, and the inferior standard of living caused Stanley to grow up with an unspoken sense of inferiority.
“In spite of her many hardships in life, the constant in Dr. Stanley’s mother was her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ,” George explained. “Dr. Stanley
by J. Gerald Harris, The Christian Index
always attributed to his mother his unshakable dependence on the power of prayer. She consistently took time to pray with him. And when she did, she taught him to kneel as a sign of reverence and surrender before the Lord. Until he died, kneeling was his customary posture when he prayed.”
Paige Patterson, former president of both Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, declared, “This beautiful Global Impact Center is an appropriate exclamation point to Charles Stanley’s legacy.”
Patterson then went on to detail Stanley’s impact. “Charles Stanley left us a legacy of prayer. We say we believe in prayer, but I fear that many have not gotten past the ‘Now, I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep’ kind of petition.”
Patterson also mentioned Stanley’s reliance on the Lord to provide for his needs and those of the ministry. “He was not a money-begging evangelist. You never heard him begging for money. He trusted God to provide all his needs.”
Patterson continued, “Third, He had an impervious courage. I would not hesitate to choose him as my partner in a battle. When he became pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, the church was filled with liberal people. He was under constant pressure. His undaunting courage manifested itself in many ways.”
Patterson concluded by saying, “Perhaps his greatest legacy was his desire to simply please God. Charles Stanley was a man who pleased God, and that is what he desired for all of us.”
TMU President Caner also stressed the importance of prayer, reminding his audience that the University was birthed out of a prayer meeting at First Baptist Church in Blairsville in 1946. “Two years later,” he said, “this building (Miller Hall) was started, but it was 1956 before enough funds were provided for finishing the first two floors.
“We are dependent upon prayer and continuously asking God to SAVE, CALL, EQUIP, and SEND our students out into this world as ambassadors for Christ. The Dr. Charles F. Stanley Global Outreach Center is an answer to our prayers and will help us accomplish our God-given objectives.”
Charles
Friends and Family 2025
Friends and Family 2025 was a resounding success, with multiple soldout events and the largest Preview Day in Truett McConnell University history!
The weekend began on Friday night with the 2025 TMU Athletic’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, honoring the accomplishments of Buffie Burson (‘87), Mickey Cobb (‘62), and Scott Whitlock (‘82).
As a student at Truett McConnell College (TMC), Burson was a member of the women’s basketball program before continuing her athletic career at the University of Montevallo. Her passion for the game led to a successful coaching career, and in 1994, she became the head women’s basketball coach at the University of North Georgia. Burson has since achieved 26 winning seasons, guided the team to 15 national tournament appearances, and reached the Final Four in 2022.
Mickey Cobb served as a student athletic trainer/manager for the men’s basketball team at TMU before completing his bachelor’s degree at Georgia Southern University, where he worked on the athletic training staff. In 1977, Cobb became the head trainer for the Kansas City Royals Major League Baseball team, a position he held for 13 years. He has authored three books and written numerous magazine articles.
Scott Whitlock began his coaching career as the assistant women’s basketball coach and assistant slow-pitch softball coach at Kennesaw State University. Just a year later, he was appointed head coach, leading the team to transition to fastpitch softball with a top 10 national ranking for 12 consecutive years. Whitlock has contributed articles to multiple publications and published his own memoir.
On Saturday morning, nearly thirty couples gathered for TRUEtt Love, a marriage celebration for TMU alumni. The event featured a TMU-focused Newlywed Game, vow renewals at the cross, and was led by Harris and Phyllis Malcom, 1973 graduates who portrayed Mr. and Mrs. Holt in the 2008 film Fireproof. “We had 28 couples at our inaugural TRUEtt LOVE event! It was an incredible time celebrating the gift of marriage that God has given us and sharing our love stories, all of which began right here on this beautiful campus. We laughed, learned, and were encouraged in the Word,” said Danny Hendrix, Associate Vice President for Development and Church Relations. “A dozen couples renewed their vows in a special ceremony at the Cross on the hill.”
The day also featured the largest Prospective Student Day in TMU’s history, with over 115 students and their families in attendance. Prospective students had the opportunity to meet with Admissions, Financial Aid, and professors to learn more about the university.
by Mae Sullens
From 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM, a block party was held for students and visitors, allowing current students to mingle and prospective students to experience campus life. Later, 150 alumni and their families gathered for a luncheon sponsored by Northeast Georgia Health System, featuring special performances from the TMU School of Music and exciting prize giveaways!
In the afternoon, TMU’s School of Theology hosted 300 attendees at a youth evangelism event with guest speaker Eric Helms from Driven to Encourage Ministries. Helms travels across the country to encourage youth.
The day ended with a sold-out concert by Josiah Queen, an independent musician with over 216 million global streams. Queen’s faith-filled lyrics and heartfelt melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, including his breakout hit “The Prodigal.” Recently named one of Amazon’s Breakthrough Artists to Watch for 2024, Josiah continues to inspire fans through sold-out tours and chart-topping tracks. Over 1,560 attended the concert!
“Saturday was an extraordinary day for our TMU family. We had a record turnout of prospective students, a record number of alumni on campus, and record attendance at both the youth evangelism event and Josiah Queen concert,” said Dr. Hall, Vice President for Advancement. “God is doing amazing things at Truett McConnell University, and more and more people are wanting to be a part of it. It’s an exciting time for TMU, and we give God the glory.”
Josiah Queen
Photography: Austin Poffenberger
Working in Worship
The roads were littered with fallen power lines and abandoned cars. Heavy duty work vehicles with license plates from all over the country filled every open lane. These are some of the scenes that greeted us when we arrived in Valdosta Georgia on October 3, 2024. Our mission was to help those who had been impacted by hurricane Helene. I was privileged to be among the fifteen unique individuals from TMU who felt a burden on their hearts to partner with Samaritan’s Purse to do disaster relief.
When we arrived at the neighborhood where we would be serving, the air was humid and solemn. Orange shirts exited the van one by one as an overwhelming hush fell upon us. This once impoverished community was now paralyzed. What should be shaded areas were now sunny with the lack of standing trees. Dogs could be heard barking as children emerged
by Virginia C. Bolick
from broken homes. We introduced ourselves to the first home owners and our team leader Matthew spoke with them about the damage.
For the next three days we would work on tree removal and lawn clean up. Ridding the yards, houses, trampolines and sheds of the invasive wood. The ringing of chainsaws became a hum and the muscle pain was suddenly noticeable. Through the hard labor, we were blessed by an additional team member in the form of a nine year old boy named Skielar. Skielar lives with his grandmother Wanda, who’s yard was the second that we cleaned. Raised in a poorly functioning double-wide trailer, Skielar is without parents and guidance. We were able to give him a purpose for a few days while sharing the love of Christ. When we first met Skielar he was a hostile, dirty child full of frustration. Over a short period of time he opened up his heart and mind to a group of college students who simply showed him kindness.
It was easy to feel as if we weren’t making a difference in the grand scheme of things, but this is a lie from the enemy. Samaritan’s Purse requires no special training, only able bodies to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Disaster relief is just that, using our hands and feet that the Lord gave us to be a witness with our labor. There are no specific words to say to the homeowner who has lost so much, but, restoring some of what they have lost says it all. The non-believer cannot fathom that random strangers would volunteer to clean their yard for free. This in itself is a testament to the love of Christ.
At the end of our last day our team Leader Matthew, a thirty four year old from Wisconsin, became emotional when thanking us for our work. With tears in his eyes he stated “You all have made me a better person.” He proceeded to embrace each of us and tell us genuinely that he loved us.
Catheryn, a volunteer from Valdosta that joined our team put it this way: “To be here is a blessing. I didn’t know what God would do even inside of me but I had to be obedient.” Although we were serving the families in need, the blessing always goes both ways.
The body of Christ is so powerful that only four days spent serving together can change a life forever. I would encourage every child of God to do as His word says and “Go,” whatever that may look like. We are to be bold in our witness and become better people because of it. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” This verse was repeated throughout the trip and reflects the hearts of believers who find rest in Him. Even in the midst of the storm.
Virginia C. Bolick and Skielar
Matthew Logan Guay and James Schnelbach
Matthew and Ethan Walker
Grey Graffagnino, Michael Gilmore, and Gianna Claxton
Skielar
A Journey Beyond the Classroom
For Lauren Bergevine (’23), her time at Truett McConnell University (TMU) prepared her for far more than just a career in nursing. Now an emergency department nurse with Wellstar Health System, Lauren reflects that TMU played a pivotal role in shaping both her professional life and personal growth.
During her time at TMU, Lauren was an active member of the soccer team, where she gained invaluable life lessons that have stayed with her. “I would re-commit and play all four years for Coach Mac and Coach Britt,” she shared. “I’d go through every fitness test again just to experience the thrill of games, travel, and championships!” She fondly remembers the soccer field rivalries, the excitement of latenight games under the lights, and the camaraderie of bonfires on the volleyball court.
Since graduating in 2023, Lauren has realized how crucial it is to have a strong sense of identity. “Without knowing who you are and what you stand for, life becomes much more difficult,” she reflected. Her journey in the medical field has deepened her gratitude for those who came before her—mentors and peers who guided her along the way. She has also learned the importance of surrounding herself with a core group of people to navigate life’s challenges.
Although Lauren’s soccer career ended with her graduation, she continues to lead an active lifestyle, having completed a half marathon and training for a full marathon. Her passion for travel also remains a key part of her life, as she eagerly embraces every opportunity to explore new places.
“It’s not just the lessons learned in the classroom that prepare you for life,” Lauren concluded. “It’s the extracurricular activities, teamwork, and the tough times shared with teammates and roommates that truly shape you for life after college. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to experience all of this, and for the person it has helped me become.”
Lauren Bergevine’s story is a testament to the impact of TMU, both in and out of the classroom, as she continues to build a successful career while staying true to the values and friendships that shaped her during her time at the university.
From TMU Courts to Coaching
Harrison Ramsey (’23), discovered at Truett McConnell University (TMU) that keeping Christ at the center of life goes beyond reading a few Bible verses, praying in public, or being average in your craft or sport. He learned that true Christ-centered living is reflected in how you approach everything—a principle that ultimately shapes where you end up.
This mindset was reinforced in TMU’s classes, where professors invested in students on a deeper level, coaches influenced the life trajectories of student-athletes, and the hope found in Jesus redefined success.
“With that kind of faith, average people can wind up doing extraordinary things,” Harrison said. Harrison’s favorite memories from TMU include basketball practices, games, and road trips. The camaraderie with his teammates and moments spent on the bus to and from games left a lasting impression.
“Basketball has and will continue to play a major role in my life, so most of my memories can be attributed to that and the teammates I had within it,” he shared. One of Harrison’s most cherished memories occurred during his senior year game vs. Milligan University. His growth as a player and teammate was evident when he had his best statistical game ever as part of the Bears roster. TMU dominated, winning 84-75.
Sports and Science
Sarah Wills Newton’s (’21) time at Truett McConnell University (TMU) was filled with unforgettable moments, including a hit in her final atbat, winning a conference championship, and witnessing her roommate’s salvation. After graduating in 2021, she embraced the role of Academic Program Specialist at TMU, quickly excelling in her new position. Within six months, she discovered her natural talent for leadership and teaching.
In December 2021, when the Dean of the School of STEM left, Sarah took on additional responsibilities, managing the day-to-day operations of the dean’s office while also teaching three labs. In the spring of 2022, Sarah was offered the head coaching position for the lacrosse team. Initially hesitant, Sarah soon found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. She fell in love with the sport and loved helping her players build confidence and develop essential life skills. While working at TMU, Sarah also pursued a master’s degree from Auburn University in Crop, Soil, and Environmental Science. She graduated in December, with her passion for gardening and canning, a hobby shared with her father, influencing her final research project.
Reflecting on her journey, Sarah shared, “Before graduation, I never imagined the Lord would keep me at TMU,” Sarah shared. “The journey has had its challenges—adapting to leadership changes, shifting job roles, stepping into coaching, learning a new sport, and embracing married life. But through it all, the Lord has guided me and held me in His hands every step of the way. I am beyond thankful for the opportunities TMU has provided me and what this institution stands for.” Sarah currently serves on the 2024–2025 Alumni Executive Committee.
After graduation, Harrison pursued opportunities to coach basketball at the collegiate level. He began as a graduate assistant coach for women’s basketball at York University in Nebraska and was later promoted to fulltime assistant coach. Alongside coaching, he is completing a master’s degree in organizational leadership and working toward becoming a certified strength and conditioning specialist.
Harrison’s journey is a testament to the impact of keeping Christ at the center and pursuing excellence in all areas of life. His story continues to inspire others as he lives out the values instilled in him at TMU.
Georgia prison inmates receive Christian studies degrees thanks to prison/school partnership
by Henry Durand, The Christian Index
On Friday, Aug. 16, a profound and heartwarming ceremony took place at Phillips State Prison in Buford. Truett McConnell University (TMU) faculty, prison staff, family, and friends gathered to honor 24 offenders who earned their bachelor’s degrees in Christian Studies
This achievement was made possible through a joint program involving the Georgia Department of Corrections, TMU, and the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, which provided funding. The graduates, many of whom are serving life sentences, will now serve as part of the prison system’s chaplaincy program, acting as missionaries to share the gospel within the prison community.
Ken Ellis, Phillips State Prison chaplain and Statewide Chaplaincy Coordinator, described the program as a “game changer.” He said, “My hope is that these men will share knowledge, hope, and love with others who are down and ready to give up. This educational experience can change the lives of future generations.”
For the graduates, the program has been life-changing. One inmate shared his vision: “I want to bring thousands of people to know, love, and submit to the truth of God, but I may only affect a few. However, those few may go on to preach the gospel and remain faithful until the end.” Another reflected on his call to ministry, which began in a prison cell in 2004, two years after finding salvation in Christ.
W. Thomas Hammond Jr., executive director of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, praised the program: “This is a perfect example of how partnerships multiply our effectiveness. Only God knows the eternal
impact these men will have as they live out their faith.”
Over four years, TMU faculty regularly traveled to Phillips State Prison to teach courses, including professors from the Schools of STEM, Humanities, and Theology & Missions. The faculty described the experience as equally impactful for them.
History professor Michael Justus shared, “I have developed friendships that will last long beyond our time together. As one student said, ‘Don’t forget me.’ I never will.” Biology professor Diby Paul added, “My first visit to a prison completely changed my perception of the lives of those incarcerated. Many of my students at the prison are strong believers who trust in God with all their hearts.”
The offenders’ dedication also stood out. “They attended class and studied with more purpose and urgency than the average student,” said theology professor Gary Jarnagin. “Their questions weren’t surface-level but the kind that shake the intellectual soul and drive you to God’s Word.”
Despite their incarceration, these graduates have found spiritual freedom in Christ. Jarnagin noted, “The thought that they could be forgiven, serve God, and find hope where their actions had brought them was humbling and convicting.”
Ellis concluded, “The Word of God has made a great impact on these men’s lives. I have watched their attitudes change and their lives move in a positive direction. They now see hope as a choice for a better future.”
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Accounting
TMU Programs of Study 40+ Undergraduate Programs of Study 15 Graduate Programs of Study
Accounting MBA Track
Accounting MBAAc Track
Master of Accountancy
Business Administration MBA Track
Business Administration MBAAc Track
Business Administration MPA Track
Business Administration - Cybersecurity
Business Administration - Cybersecurity MBA Track
Business Administration - General Business
Business Administration - Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Business Administration - Management and Leadership
Business Administration - Management and Leadership MBA Track
Business Administration - Management and Leadership MPA Track
Business Administration - Marketing
Business Administration - Nonprofit Management
Business Administration - Nonprofit Management MBA Track
Business Administration - Nonprofit Management MPA Track
Business Administration - Sports Management
Business Administration - Supply Chain Management
Minor in Business
Minor in Cybersecurity
Minor in Nonprofit Management
Master of Business Administration
Doctor of Business Administration
Master of Public Administration
Communication
BA in Communication
Minor in Communication
Education
Elementary Education
Middle Grades Education - Language/Social Studies
Middle Grades Education - Math/Science
Music Education
Humanities
English - Creative Writing
English - Literature
History
Humanities
Minor in English
Minor in History
Minor in Biblical Languages
Minor in Greek
Music
Music - General Music
Music - Business Studies
Music - Worship and Church Music
Music Education
Minor in Music
Nursing
Nursing
Public Service
Criminal Justice - General
Criminal Justice - Forensic Science
Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement
Criminal Justice - Leadership and Executive Management
Criminal Justice - Pre-Law
Minor in Criminal Justice
Psychology and Biblical Counseling
General Psychology
Clinical and Counseling Psychology
Development, Marriage and Family
Neuroscience
Social Services
Minor in Psychology
Minor in Neuroscience
Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Sports Psychology
Masters in Global Mental Health Counseling
Masters in Global Mental Health Counseling with Sports Psychology
STEM
Biology
Exercise Science
Forensic Science
Minor in Chemistry
Minor in Biology
Theology and Missions
Christian Studies - Biblical and Theological Studies
Christian Studies - Missions
Christian Studies - Student Ministry
Christian Studies - Women’s Studies
Global Studies
Minor in Biblical Languages
Minor in Greek
Minor in Great Commission Studies
Minor in Christian Studies
Minor in Missions
Masters in Bible and Theology
Masters in Christian Ministry
Masters in Global Studies
Masters in Theology with Thesis
Masters of Divinity
Cari Suttles, ’21
2021 graduate Cari Suttles found her place serving in the hospice field, meeting people in their homes, and helping them manage the symptoms of a terminal illness. In her time since graduation, she worked as a post-op nurse at St. Mary’s in Athens, GA and then as an endoscopy nurse at Piedmont Athens Regional. Now she works as the RN Supervisor at Total Joint Specialist in Athens.
“Had I not had the nursing education that I did, I would not have been equipped to work where the Lord has placed me currently,” she said. Cari misses the times of quiet study in the library, the mountain views each morning, and how slowly time seemed to move in her days here!
Sydnie Smith, ’24
Sydnie Smith, the class of 2024 star of the communication program and women’s basketball team, is now a pre-kindergarten special education teacher at East Jackson Elementary. Additionally, she is the assistant head coach for girls’ basketball at East Jackson High School.
While at TMU, Sydnie was part of the Sports Information Department, and deeply enjoyed playing on the basketball team.
“My journey has been a complete blessing,” she said, “I’ve always wanted to teach, but didn’t think that I could accomplish that task.”
James King, ’19
While James King was a student at Truett McConnell, he threw himself into nearly every music program offered. The camaraderie between students there made his time at TMU a wonderful experience! In 2022, God redirected his life from the hospitality industry and lead him to bivocational ministry and his current classroom.
James is in his third year as a music teacher in the Muscogee County school district. The school had gone through multiple teachers leading up to his arrival, and he seized the opportunity to start a choir program for his students. Though his students had never been involved in a music program before, they excelled!
Sabrina Aguiar, ’23
Instead of playing her senior year of college softball, Sabrina Aguiar decided to finish her degree online and start her career a year early. She started working with the New York Mets in January of 2023 and graduated in May of that year.
Following her graduation, she stepped into her current position, where she is in a player development role for the Boston Red Sox.
Sabrina is proud to have taken the risks and pursued her dreams of working with a Major League Baseball team. While moving to different states alone for internships and jobs was not easy, the struggle has been worth it. “Knowing that the Lord has a plan for my life is what keeps me level-headed as I navigate through this journey,” she wrote.
David Ward, ’16
The way Coach Wade, Yeh, and Fields poured into their players was an amazing experience for David Ward. Experiencing the gracefulness of how they helped students is something that he hopes to mirror in his own life.
The everyday life of walking up the hill to classes – and another hill to the cafeteria – was part of David’s favorite TMU memories. He also enjoyed playing intramural ultimate frisbee and participating in dorm wars. After graduating from TMU, he went on to coach and train at Frohlich Sports Academy in 2020 and is now the Director of Operations there. He received his master’s degree from Cal State University in 2021. During that time, he got married and started a family!
Sara Hardeman, ’20
For Sara Hardeman, her time as a Lady Bear on the TMU softball team impacted her in many ways. Her teammates became lifelong friends, her coaches became family, and a community to lean on as she walked through college life. Though her original senior season was cut short due to the pandemic, Sara returned to TMU to get her master’s degree and was able to finish out her softball career in 2021.
“It was a blessing to be able to have a second opportunity to close out my career…that fifth year of playing softball at TMU was more than I could have asked for,” she said. Sara is married to her high school sweetheart, Dalton (’21), and they recently welcomed their first son, Sully, into the world. Sara served as the Director of Athletic Marketing and Communications at TMU from 2021-2024.
Kelly Young, ’00
For Kelly Young, her time at TMU (then Truett McConnell College) was full of life lessons. After graduating from TMU in 2000, she went on to graduate with her bachelor’s degree from Kennesaw State University.
Though she worked for a large communications company for a while, she decided that it was not for her.
“I ultimately ended up being a stay-at-home mom and it has been the single most rewarding job I’ve ever had,” she reflected, “My main accomplishment since leaving TMC would be being a devoted wife and mother in a world that tells you that those roles don’t matter.”
Jamie Souther, ’10
Water balloon fights in the Courts, winning the flag football championship, hiking at Dick’s Creek, and playing pool in the Student Center are among many of Jamie Souther’s memories from her time at TMU.
Since leaving TMU, Jamie has completed her master’s degree, become a volunteer firefighter in her county, and has recently gotten married!
As she reflected on the lessons she learned from her time at TMU, Jamie noted that she has learned to “always remember to cherish those around you. Make the most out of every day. Trust God and His timing.”
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