Winter 2011
umberland
AN ALUMNI MAGAZINE
Homecoming
'10
UC Alum serves in Kenya
Major General Dowd . .
cumberlands alumnus keeps u s military moving
2010-2011 Alumni Association Board of Directors President
Richard Prewitt, ’80
President-Elect
Susan Rice Bradley, ’98
Past President
David Rhodes, ’80
Secretary
Terry Dixon, Ed.D., ’68
Executive Director Dave Bergman, ’89
Board Member Emeritus Mary Doyle Johnson, ’48 Dick Koeniger, ’67
Term Expiring 2011
Jeffrey W. Davis, ’80 Maureen “Cookie” Henson, ’74 John P. Hollingsworth, Ph.D., ’63 Mike Parsley, ’89 Allen Robbins, ’90
Term Expiring 2012
Jonathan Childers, ’00 Melanie Mackey Evans, ’90 Duane Floro, ’79 Shannon Evans Harrington, ’00 Jimmy Huddleston, ’87
Term Expiring 2013 Tom Broyles, ’80 Kathy Byrd, ’83-’87 Brittney House, ’09 Terry Stigall, ’75 Amy Stroud, ’04
Leadership Commitment Alumni Family and Friends, Whether you are in your favorite living room chair, on a business trip or online, we are pleased that you are reading this 2011 winter edition of Cumberland Today. Your alumni magazine is intended to keep alumni and friends informed of all-things-Cumberland, both on campus and afar. The New Year is well underway and exciting things are already planned for the year ahead. Please see our “Save the Date” schedule of events located on the pages ahead and join us for an event this year. Your Alumni Board of Directors met in December to get the new term of office off and running with strategic planning. The Leadership Commitment of the Board is secure. Rich Prewitt, ’80, alumni president, and Susan Rice Bradley, ’98, alumni president-elect, are poised to offer excellent leadership this year along with executives Dr. Terry Dixon, ’68, secretary, and David Rhodes, ’80, past president. Each of these alumni has served the Alumni Board with distinction and humble service. Their commitment is unquestioned and unwavering as they blaze a wide path back to campus not only for themselves as leaders but also for others to follow. We solicit your Leadership Commitment if you have the right stuff. If, while reading Cumberland Today, you should think of someone among the alumni family who deserves recognition for service or leadership, please contact the Alumni Office or any one of our Alumni Board members. We will be glad to follow up on your recommendation and perhaps even feature that alumnus in a future issue of your alumni magazine. Thank you. Sincerely,
Ex-officio Members
James H. Taylor, Ph.D., ’68, President Sue Wake, ’70, V.P. for Institutional Advancement Daphne Baird, Director of Media Relations Paul P. Steely, ’49, Trustee Liaison Jacob Moak, ’11, SGA President Cumberland Today is published by the Office of Media Relations. Mail contributions, letters and address changes to University of the Cumberlands, Alumni Services, 7075 College Station Dr., Williamsburg, KY 40769, or emailed to alumni@ucumberlands.edu.
Graphic Designer Meghann Holmes
Contributors
Daphne Baird Dave Bergman, ’89 Elaine Croley Robbie Floyd, ’11 Laura Silvers, ’11 Stephanie Quattrociocchi, ’11
University Photographers Daphne Baird Meghann Holmes Robbie Floyd, ’11 Jeff Meadors, ’96 Sports Information
Printed by
Welch Printing Company
Dave Bergman, ’89 Alumni Director
Visit us online: www.ucumberlands.edu/alumni Or email us: alumni@ucumberlands.edu We’d love to hear your comments!
Dear Alumni and Friends of UC, Recently I attended the Madrigal Dinner at University of the Cumberlands. My wife Nina and I celebrated our 30th class reunion from Cumberland, and we would never have thought about attending that event back then, in college. I think this is my third in a row since joining the Alumni Board, and it gets better every time. The food, the music and the camaraderie are magnificent. Dr. Taylor had a few words at the beginning and a little as a closing, and in both talks he implored everybody to drive around campus. Truthfully, I am thinking, what for? I’ve lived in Williamsburg most of my adult life; from my home I could hear the outside activities downtown and on campus. I go to church near campus. I cut through campus on Main St. at least weekly. Why did Nina and I need to drive around? We are experts. In driving around, I gained a much deeper appreciation of Dr. Taylor and his staff. The University of the Cumberlands and my Cumberland College are like leaving Earth and visiting Mars. What Dr. Taylor has done in his leadership role as president of our beloved University is nothing short of remarkable. Everything I ever loved about Cumberland is still right there; there is just so much more. There is absolutely nothing at U of C that isn’t at an all-time high; from enrollment to student services, to degrees and programs to buildings and grounds. But perhaps the need for you is also at an all-time high. For just as many reasons, if not more, we want you back. Please make this the year you come to homecoming, earn another degree, come to a game, or encourage a potential student. Please, we really want you back. Respectfully,
Rich Prewitt, ’80 Alumni President Cumberland Alumni, As president-elect of your Alumni Board of Directors, I want to share a few words about the University and what it means to me. Sounds easy, right? Well, it is more difficult than I originally thought. My immediate thoughts were the great memories; friends I met, cheering at football and basketball games, and most importantly, meeting my husband. But, what does Cumberland mean to me now? Twelve years following graduation, I have a kind, honest and Godly husband. I have a career that I have been working at for twelve years. I have great friends. I belong to a wonderful church that I try to serve. After much consideration, I came to the conclusion that I love my University and want to “pay forward” to others the same experience I had at Cumberland. In my opinion, the years we spend in college are unmatched. It is the time that prepares us for how we will fulfill our futures. It is the time when we discover our interests and talents that will shape us for our future career paths. Most people find their future spouse and that lays the groundwork for children and family. Can you imagine any greater place to spend such a crucial, transitional time in life; the presence of God surrounding you each day as you are learning and maturing? Well, I decided I want the same experience for my family and my loved ones, and as a Christian, I should want that for strangers. After all, I was a stranger at one point, and thanks to the grace of God and the generosity of the late Kentucky Governor Bert T. Combs, ’30, I was given such an opportunity. As an involved alumna, I believe it is my turn to “pay forward” my blessings to future generations. I feel this alumni role is a ministry that needs to be filled through my service on the Alumni Board. I want to personally invite you back to campus. Bring your family and refer a student to Cumberlands. By coming back to campus regularly, you will get to know your University in new ways, and perhaps you will feel the same about giving back as Alumni Board members do. You will not regret the decision to pass along Cumberlands’ blessings to others.
Susan Rice Bradley, ’98 President-Elect, Alumni Board of Directors Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 1
contents COVER STORY Major General Dowd
COVER: Kenneth S. Dowd,’79, was promoted from the rank of brigadier general to major general in 2008. He is pictured receiving his second star from General David Petraeus, who currently serves as the commander of the International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) and commander of the U.S. Forces Afghanistan.
25-27
Photos submitted.
3 4-7
Campus News
8-9
Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees
10-12 13
Student Spotlight Gift Annuities
14-17
UC Alum Serves in Kenya
18-24
Homecoming 2010
25-27
COVER STORY
28-34
Alumni News
35-36
Alumni Spotlight
37
Alumni Hall of Honor Posthumous Inductee
38
Alumnus Receives Honorary Degree
39-40 41
Chelsea Belt, ’11, elegantly represented University of the Cumberlands as the 2010 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival Queen candidate. 2 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
2011 Save the Date!
Tribute Program Where are They Now?
Leadership in a Free and Strong
America
Presented by Forcht Group of Kentucky Center for Excellence in Leadership Featuring: Mike Huckabee , former Arkansas Governor Special Music by Lee Greenwood 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, April, 5, 2011, O. Wayne Rollins Center
Homecomin g
2010
2011 Save The Date Campus Events Alumni, Faculty, Staff, Students and Friends Welcome Wednesday, March 30, 2011: Career Fair for Students, Alumni, and Prospective Employers, Boswell Campus Center, 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 7, 2011: Graduation/Commencement Exercises, O. Wayne Rollins Center, 10:00 a.m. Class of 1961 50th year Golden March
Monday, April 25, 2011: Honors Day Convocation 10:00 a.m., O. Wayne Rollins Center
Saturday, October 29, 2011: Homecoming Football Game 1:30 p.m., James H. Taylor II Stadium Belhaven College vs University of the Cumberlands
Homecoming, Alumni & Student Weekend Friday, Saturday, Sunday October 2830, 2011
Winter Winter2011 2011 • • CumberlandToday CumberlandToday •• 327
campus news
Cumberlands Holds First White Coat Ceremony On Dec. 16, 2010, the first class, or cohort, of students in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program reached an important milestone in their studies that began in January 2010 with the completion of the Correll Science Complex. As the students completed the first year of the program, each received a white lab coat embroidered with his or her name during an impressive ceremony held in Gatliff Chapel For the remainder of the program, these MPAS students will complete eight, supervised, clinical rotations, gaining the hands-on experience vital to the successful training of competent physician assistants. They will meet at the end of each rotation to share experiences and casestudies with their peers. As the first cohort has moved into the clinical phase of the program in January, Cumberlands’ second MPAS cohort will begin studies in the classrooms and simulation laboratories of the Forcht Medical Wing of the science complex in May.
Two Students in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program to Study in California One MPAS student is Gloria Kim,’09, a Cumberlands graduate who initially wanted to become a dentist. However, difficulties and financial concerns for international students to attend American dental and medical schools influenced Kim, who is from South Korea, to follow another path. She felt the MPAS program was the right choice for her. “I love it. The professors really care about you, and you know that they really want to help you succeed,” said Kim. Kim is one of two MPAS students who will travel to Los Angeles for their clinical rotations. She and Kristen Mercier are excited about the opportunity to experience a new and diverse learning environment, but “a tad nervous about ‘getting out of our comfort zone’ in Williamsburg,” said Kim. When asked how the opportunity came about, she replied, “One of our professors, Dr. Peter Geissler, has taught at numerous places around the world.” Geissler helped to arrange for the two to complete in their clinical internships on the West Coast. “He wanted a couple of students to go so that they could work together and rely on each other,” Kim said. “My classmate, Kristin Mercier, is originally from California, so everything seemed to fall into place.” “I think that the MPAS program is going very well,” Kim states about her first year in the program. “We prayed together, studied together and developed relationships that surpassed my expectations.” 4 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
campus news Cumberlands Ranked in Washington Monthly’s Top 20 for Service Washington Monthly 2010 College Guide has ranked University of the Cumberlands in its 50 baccalaureate colleges and universities and in the top 20 for service. Unlike most college rankings, which position institutions according to how they benefit students alone, the Washington Monthly’s Annual College Guide looks at how well colleges and universities serve their communities and the country. According to its editors, the magazine uses public data to examine colleges through three lenses: social mobility, which considers how well an institution provides opportunities for first-generation and low-income students; research; and service. Cumberlands was ranked 13th in the magazine’s service category and 34th overall among the nation’s baccalaureate college and universities. “We are pleased to learn of this latest honor, and we appreciate the Washington Monthly’s recognition of Cumberlands’ contribution to not only our region but also to the country and ultimately, the world,” said Dr. Jim Taylor, Cumberlands’ president. The Washington Monthly, a Washington, D.C.-based magazine founded in 1959, began publishing its annual College Guide in 2005. This is the first year it has included both baccalaureate and graduate schools in its rankings.
Cumberlands ROTC represented at the 2010 Army Ten-Miler Two representatives of University of the Cumberlands ROTC, Major Eddie Simpson, professor of military science, and Todd Olson, ’11, senior cadet, along with representatives of the unit’s parent program at Eastern Kentucky University, participated in the team event of the 2010 Army Ten Miler in Washington, D.C. Each October tens of thousands of runners and spectators come to the capital to enjoy this race classic, which is the nation’s largest ten-mile race. The race starts and finishes at the Pentagon, passing by D.C. landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building. The annual race weekend events also include a youth run, a youth activity fair and a pre-race pasta dinner. The race draws a large number of civilian and military running teams. Out of 26,000 race participants, both Olson and Simpson finished in the top 1600. The team competition is for the lowest total of four runners within the eight-man team. The UC-EKU team placed 15th out of 63 participating ROTC teams, with Olson leading the way with a time of 66 minutes. This was the first time that cadets from Eastern Kentucky University and University of the Cumberlands competed in the event. “With the success of the team, we expect a higher finish for next year’s race,” said Simpson, who is already planning for 2011. Sponsored by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, the Army TenMiler is designed to promote the Army, build esprit de corps, support fitness ROTC team members Senior Cadet Todd Olson and Major goals and enhance community relations. Proceeds from the event support Eddie Simpson of University of the Cumberlands, and Lieutenant Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation, a comprehensive network of support Colonel Richard M. Livingston, of Eastern Kentucky University and leisure services designed to enhance the lives of soldiers and their families. participate in the 2010 Army ten-Miler. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 5
campus news Cumberlands to Present First Doctoral Degrees at May 2011 Commencement December 18, 2010 marked a day in history for the University of the Cumberlands as the members of the first cohort to complete the new Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership program gathered to take their comprehensive exams. Six candidates also presented oral defense of their dissertations. Under the leadership of Dr. Barry Vann, director of the program, and Dr. Michael Eskay, professor of education, these candidates were successful in defending their projects before their committees. The Ed.D. program, which began in the fall of 2008, is designed for working professionals who desire to develop their career potential and those who seek to learn more about today’s educational issues. Additional information about the Ed.D. or any of Cumberlands’ graduate programs is available at 800-434-1609 or 606-539-4390, or on-line at http://www.gradweb.ucumberlands.edu.
Doctoral candidates who defended their dissertations in December: Front: Carolyn West Reaves, ’74 Williamsburg; Back row from left: Matthew Ewers, Louisville; Robbie Adell, Ashville, N.C.; Linda Keck, Harrogate, Tenn.; and Margie Langley, Rocky Face, Ga.; Not pictured: Jason Reeves, Barbourville.
President Taylor Recognized by SACS In 2010, President Jim Taylor, ’68, received the Meritorious Service Award from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), presented at the organization’s annual conference for “Involvement in all aspects of the Commission over the years and for his longevity as a successful president while also rendering voluntary service to the Commission.” “What a joy it is to work with SACSCOC,” said Taylor. “In my view, it’s the best continuing education opportunity available, and I always learn more than I am able to contribute. I’m also very humbled by this honor and equally appreciative.” The Meritorious Service Awards are presented for demonstrated, extraordinary commitment to and understanding of accreditation processes in higher education, to those who are respected by their peers for their integrity and the meritorious quality of their service, and who are recognized as models of competency, creativity, and accomplishment. Nominations for the awards come from the Commission’s 800 member institutions. 6 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
campus news Coming This Spring! Your new 2011 Alumni Directory is on its way. “Thank you, everyone who provided updated information. Your assistance is vital to keeping Cumberlands alumni connected, and we appreciate your taking the time to let us know where you are and what you’re doing,” said Dave Bergman, Alumni Services director. If you ordered a directory, you should receive it by June 2011. If you have not ordered, it’s not too late. The deadline is April 1. Call (877) 464-0063 to reserve your copy. Please contact us if you have any questions. Alumni Services office: (606) 539-4355 or alumni@ucumberlands.edu.
New CD Release:
Virgil and Rayford: Hills and Hollers Don’t miss hearing Rayford Watts,’63, and Virgil Bowlin,’97, during Homecoming 2011, as they sing and play some of the songs that Rayford has written and Virgil has put to music in the past year. To date they have recorded six CD’s. Their latest, “Hills and Hollers; Music from Eastern Kentucky” contains 21 of their “greatest hits.”
Come Witness Cumberlands’ Newest Tradition Class of 1961 • 50th year Golden March
The Class of 1961 was the first graduating class after Cumberland returned to a four-year baccalaureate program following 48 years as a junior college. To honor the 50th anniversary of this historic event, the University has invited the members of this class to participate in the 2011 Commencement exercises on May 7. The 1961 alumni, in caps and gowns, will march in with the 2011 graduates and be recognized, and each will receive a commemorative token of the event. Cumberlands hopes to continue this tradition for future 50th anniversary classes. Come support your fellow alums from the class of 1961 and plan to join your graduating class at Commencement upon your 50th anniversary.
Attention all former Baseball players! Whether you were an Indian, a Patriot or both, you are invited to a Baseball Alumni Reunion April 8-9. Cumberlands will host Lindsey Wilson in conference play on both days, and a reception will provide alumni an opportunity to reminisce. “We are excited about having former baseball players return to campus,” said Brad Shelton, head baseball coach. “We hope for good weather so players from the past can get together again, enjoy a game, see our facilities and have a good time.” For information or to register, call the Office of Alumni Services at 606-539-4355 or the Baseball Office at 606-539-4387 or e-mail dave.bergman@ucumberlands.edu or brad.shelton@ucumberlands.edu.
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 7
UNIVERSITY Athletic Hall of Fame CUMBERLANDS OF THE
Established in 1996 by the Alumni Board of Directors, the Athletic Hall of Fame has inducted ATHLETIC HALL 65 formerOF athletes, coaches and contributing supporters as well as three athletic teams. Each FAME year approximately 600 Cumberlands student athletes dedicate countless hours toward practice, training and competition, all while maintaining their grades as they are, above all, students. The Hall of Fame is one way that Cumberlands recognizes the individuals who have given tirelessly to the athletic program and to the university.
September 2010 Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Anthony Kabara, ’04 Track and Field
Anthony Kabara, ’04, came to the United States from his home in Nairobi, Kenya, to pursue his dream of attaining an education and to run track at Cumberlands. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in 2004, with a major in movement and leisure studies and a minor in business administration. At Cumberlands, Kabara broke eight school records, earned 11 NAIA Championships, and was awarded 18 NAIA All-American awards. In 2000 and 2002, he was named the NAIA Indoor Outstanding Performer. In 2001, he ran the 800M, in 1:45.29, third fastest in the world at that time, and by the end of that year, he was ranked 36th in the world. Kabara continues his regimented training for future world track events and the dream of representing his home country in the Olympics.
From left: Matt Lowers, head wrestling coach; Latoya Irving; Michael Irving,’02; Anthony Kabara,’04; and Dr. James Key, associate professor of exercise and sport science.
Michael Irving,’02 Wrestling
Michael Irving,’02, a two-time, Florida high school state champion, was a member of Cumberlands’ first wrestling team under Coach Jess Wilder. A four-time NAIA All-American at Cumberlands, Irving won the 2000 National Championship in the Heavyweight Division. His 111 career wins and his eleven pins in a single season earned him the ranking of fourth and third, respectively, all-time best at Cumberlands. Following his graduation with a B.S. in religion and public health, Irving was a graduate assistant with the Cumberlands wrestling program in 2003; then he returned to Florida to teach health and physical education at Clewiston High School. In 2006, Irving resigned from teaching to train full-time for the 2008 Olympic team. He was considered a legitimate Olympic hopeful and was ranked 34th in the world in 2008. Irving resides in North Carolina with his wife Latoya, where he teaches health and physical education at Jordan High School. He is also an assistant coach for the Duke University Blue Devils wrestling team. 8 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Five individuals inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame on February 19, 2011.
(Coach Garry Nelson, and members of the UC swim team accepted on behalf of Janek, who lives in Finland and could not attend) Kelley Tragesser Wood,’02, Soccer
Libor Janek, ’01, Swimming
Fred Sagester, ’69, Track & Field
Jason Ellis,’03, Baseball
Harold Hubbard, Honorary Alumnus 2008, Outstanding Service Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 9
student spotlight
More than a Football Player
It was sunny and cool: a perfect combination for any football game. As the game finished with the Cumberland Patriots standing victoriously, a group of tall, strong, muddy offensive lineman quickly shuffled off the field to the 2010 Mid-South Conference Championship trophy presentation on the far side of James Taylor II Memorial Stadium. With grunts of enthusiasm, while sweat and tears ran down their faces, the players celebrated happily for several minutes, hoisting the trophy over their heads and taking multiple pictures as MSC champions. It was the picture-perfect site and the most desirable way for senior Madison McCalmon to end his college football career. However, McCalmon was nowhere to be found in the dozens of excited men. Instead, he was in the background of most pictures, embracing his family and friends tightly and thanking God for the many accomplishments with which he had been blessed. Too few student-athletes in today’s society look beyond their duties on the field and toward their responsibilities off it. As the game of football has become more focused on financial success and individual praise, it is refreshing to find a player like McCalmon, a well-rounded athlete who understands the importance of putting others first. Because of his unselfish efforts, McCalmon has received national recognition. An offensive lineman and a standout student with a 3.97 GPA, McCalmon
received one of the most prestigious awards in college football when he was selected to the 2011 AllState AFCA (American Football Coaches Association) Good Works Team. Based on not only his efforts on the field but also on his service to the community, he was one of only 22 football players chosen this year out of 112 students nominated from all NCAA and NAIA divisions. “This award means a whole lot,” McCalmon said. “I am so excited to be able to represent the school this year.” On campus, McCalmon is a STAR (Student Trained and Read) for an Insights class, a freshman orientation program; director of Cumberlands’ FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes); and an academic peer tutor in the Academic Resource Center (ARC). He is also an active member in the wider Cumberlands’ community, reading to local elementary school students and escorting patients at the nursing home in their annual beauty pageant. Since the summer of 2005, McCalmon has participated in a mission trip to Ecuador and Jamaica each year. In his first year as director of FCA, McCalmon decided to organize a trip for spring break in 2010, and he and a group of fellow classmates traveled to Ecuador. The students rebuilt and repaired churches and spent their spare time interacting with the children of the area. “I’m the kind of person who has to stay busy all the time,” McCalmon said
“Madison is doing great things with the opportunities he has been given....” 10 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
By Stephanie Quattrociocchi, ’11 smiling. “It may sound cliché, but I definitely take more out of the experience than I put into it.” McCalmon finished his Cumberlands football career as part of the most winning team in school history, adding four Mid-South Conference championships to his resume, and he is the second Patriot to be named to the Good Works Team. His former roommate and best friend P.J. Hughes, ’10 was the only NAIA member of last year’s team. “It’s a tremendous honor that Madison received this award, and I couldn’t think of a more deserving individual,” said Hughes. “Madison is doing great things with the opportunities he has been given and will easily make an impact.” The AllState AFCA Good Works Team, which over the past 19 years has been awarded to players all over the country, is given to those not only actively involved and committed to working with a charitable organization or service group and maintaining good academic standards, but who also display sincere concern and reliability, while making a favorable impression on the organization with which they are involved. Each year’s team members travel to New Orleans, to attend the Sugar Bowl, where they are recognized during half-time. While in New Orleans, they also perform several hours of community service to help make life a little better for someone else.
student spotlight
Digging Deeper Kyla Fitz-Gerald, ’12, a history major with a minor in criminal justice, spent a week during the summer of 2010 on St. Eustatius (Statia), an island in the Netherlands Antilles, 20 minutes from St. Maarten by air. The island is so small that one can see the ocean from any point, and the airstrip almost spans the width of it. She worked with SECAR, St. Eustatius Center for Archaeological Research, which conducts a nontraditional field school that allows students hands -on experience with all aspects of an archeological dig. Kyla arrived on the island just as the group began a new project, excavating the S. Hoek house. It was an older home, which had been disassembled leaving the foundation for the group to dig within, and the artifacts found will be used to date the home. “Before we even mapped the site out we were finding surface artifacts, and when we worked on meter by meter units everyone filled their artifact bags by noon,” said Kyla. After lunch each day, the group returned to the SECAR house to clean and catalog their findings. “This made me realize how much I have to learn about pottery and ceramics; it really got me excited about my master’s work,” said Kyla. “I cannot wait to graduate and get into a graduate program.” “This trip was also an amazing cultural experience for me,” said Kyla. “The islanders were so friendly, and always remembered you.” She describes some of her experiences, “I got lost (which IS possible there) on my way to buy stamps one day, and everyone I met was very helpful. I swam in the ocean for the first time, and I hiked the dormant volcano.” Living conditions at the SECAR house were rather primitive, so it really made Kyla appreciate all the little things when she returned home, “Hot water, milk, towels, but mostly air conditioning.” This journey was financially difficult for Kyla, and she is grateful for tuition aid that she receives at Cumberlands, because without it, she says that she could never have taken advantage of such a remarkable learning opportunity. Kyla, the current president of Upsilon, Upsilon, Cumberlands’ chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, national honorary history society, is also actively involved in Mountain Outreach.
“This trip was also an amazing cultural experience for me” Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 11
student spotlight
Tommie Thompson, ’11 and
Jared Stafford, ’11 Sullivan Award Recipients
University of the Cumberlands’ students Tommie Thompson, ’11, and Jared Stafford, ’11, received the prestigious Mary Mildred and Algernon Sydney Sullivan awards during UC’s Founders’ Day ceremony on Jan. 17. The awards were given to the two students in recognition of their academic and spiritual excellence and their dedication to service to others. “It is a very humbling reward and I will always feel very privileged to be a Sullivan Award winner,” said Thompson, winner of the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award. Stafford, recipient of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan award, said of learning about his nomination, “I was informed by e-mail, and I had a hard time believing it. I know the other guys that were nominated and they are great guys and very deserving.” Though surprised, Stafford said “I am just very thankful to those who nominated me and pray that my conduct represents God in a worthy manner.” Equally surprised when learning of her nomination, Thompson said, “I really didn’t understand what it was…but I felt very honored to be nominated, and even more honored when I found out that I received the award.” Thompson, an elementary education major and native of Jellico, Tenn., is a member and scholarship recipient of the Kappa Delta Phi (KDP) educational international honor society and an active participant in UC’s Baptist Campus Ministries (BCM), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and Mountain Outreach. Thompson is also a member of the UC volleyball team and the Student Government Association’s house council. She has participated in mission trips to Africa and plans to teach after graduation. Stafford majors in Political science, with minors in history and French. He currently serves as vice president of the UC Phi Alpha Theta history honor society and is a member of the FCA leadership team. The Morehead native holds weekly prayer meetings with athletes at Whitley Co. Middle School as an FCA representative. He is a member of the Patriots baseball team and plans to pursue a degree in law. Dr. Andrew Hockert, assistant professor of biology and chair of UC’s student awards committee said of Thompson and Stafford, “Their record of service and spiritual leadership is what helped them to win the awards.” The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation, now located in Oxford, Miss., was chartered in New York State in 1930. Its purpose is to promote service to others and service to the broader community, values that were exemplified by Algernon and Mary Mildred Sullivan, the parents of the organization’s founder. In addition to providing support for financial aid to small private colleges, located primarily in the Appalachian region, the Sullivan Foundation also collaborates with 54 southeastern colleges and universities to present awards in memory of Algernon and Mary Mildred Sullivan. 12 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
The Future and You “I love Cumberlands, and I want to make a difference in the lives of students—today and in the future. What can one person do?” Create an Endowment
There is no minimum gift to establish an endowment fund, although, generally, gifts must total $1,000 for a “named” fund. Endowments may have specific guidelines detailing their purpose or they may be unrestricted. These guidelines may contain such information as the use of income; the persons, offices or departments to be involved in administering the endowment; and the preferred form of investment of the fund.
Age
Yearly Rate
Annuity Payment
Charitable Deduction*
65
5.5%
$ 550.00
$ 2,666.30
70
5.8%
580.00
3,503.30
75
6.4%
640.00
4,175.70
80
7.2%
720.00
4,842.50
85
8.1%
810.00
5,571.50
90
9.5%
950.00
6,142.00
*based on minimum age of 65; a gift annuity of $10,000; figures for annual payment and IRS discount rate of 2.8% as of February, 2011
Give an Unrestricted Gift
Unrestricted gifts allow University of the Cumberlands to provide educational opportunities that have earned praise and confidence both within and without the educational community. Did you know that. . . • unrestricted gifts allow President Taylor to address Cumberlands’ most urgent needs? • if 10 people give $100, Cumberlands can provide an emergency scholarship to a student in need? • if 10 people give $50, a Cumberlands student could attend a national conference to present research? • if your company has a matching program, the value of your gift to Cumberlands can be increased? • giving is easy? Go online to www.ucumberlands.edu/give/online.php or send your check to: University of the Cumberlands President’s Office 6191 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769
Remember Cumberlands
You may wish to include Cumberlands in your will or trust, or you might want to create a charitable gift annuity to provide you with lifetime income as you assist deserving students. • With charitable gift annuities: • The rates are significantly greater than bond rates, interest income or certificates of deposits. • Annuity payments are fixed and based on the age(s) of the annuitant(s). • Annuity payments are favorably taxed. • You will receive an income tax charitable contribution deduction. • Appreciated securities given to Cumberlands for a charitable gift annuity are valued on the date of the gift; capital gains taxes are not immediately due as they are when you sell the securities. • A gift annuity is the simplest of all split-interest planned gifts. University of the Cumberlands offers numerous planned giving vehicles guaranteeing income for the remainder of life. Several alumni and friends have established trusts and deferred gift annuities naming a loved one as the income beneficiary. With the low payout rates currently on certificates of deposit (CDs) and the volatility of the stock market, deferred gift annuities are becoming extremely popular for young adults who will not be retiring any time soon but want to plan and secure a steady, fixed income that will begin when they retire. For instance, a 45-year-old can defer a gift annuity for 15 years and receive income at a rate of 9.2 percent. The income tax deduction would be immediate (during working years when his/her tax bracket is higher), and the income would not begin until age 60. As with regular gift annuities, the entire amount of the annuity would be backed by Cumberlands’ assets. If you are considering the establishment of a Charitable Gift Annuity to provide life-long income for yourself and vital support for Cumberlands, please contact Jim Taylor at presoff@ucumberlands.edu. He will gladly answer your questions about all forms of planned gifts for one or two people, including Charitable Gift Annuities, and the importance of making a planned gift now. Remember, as a financial supporter of Cumberlands, you are encouraging today’s students as you also demonstrate your continuing commitment to the University’s mission to educate individuals for lives of responsible service and leadership. Dr. Jim Taylor • 6191 College Station Drive • Williamsburg, KY 40769 • (606) 539-4201 Dr. Taylor: Kindly send me, without obligation, your annuity booklet. Name_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City___________________________________________________ State_ __ ________Zip___________________________________________________ Date of Birth_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 13
Amanda Walton ’02 Miles of Smiles
away from Cumberlands
By Laura Silvers, ’11 Imagine selling your home, resigning from a job that you love and leaving behind all of your family and friends, everything that you hold dear, to go to a place with no running water, no electricity and none of the comforts of home. That is exactly what Amanda Walton, ’02, did in 2010, when she traveled to the Tumaini Miles of Smiles Center, an orphanage and school in Kakunga, a small rural area north of Mombassa, in the Republic of Kenya. Meaning “hope” in Swahili, Tumaini currently serves 180 students, 30 of whom are orphans, but the center is constantly growing. Here, Walton is helping to organize an after school program for the children. She also teaches English, Christian education and physical education. In addition, she makes bricks, visits widows and relieves the overworked Tumaini workers. For the daughter of David and Judy Walton and the older sister of Brandon Walton, ’04, Tumaini is a long way from Knoxville, Tenn., her hometown, and from Cumberlands, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and worked as an admissions counselor until becoming a full-time missionary. She was a standout volleyball player during her college career and served as coach after she graduated. She first journeyed to Tumaini with the International Sports Federation a few years ago and finally embraced a passion for Africa she had held since childhood. More trips followed, and she began to realize more and more that God was calling her to do more than just visit. During one trip, she talked with Rose Bugusu, director of TMSC. “After a two-hour conversation about the needs of the organization, it clicked in my mind that those were the gifts God had given me,” Walton says. TMSC was in desperate need of an organized after school program for the children, and she knew that she could help them get it off the ground and teach the leaders how to make it successful. “After that visit,” Walton explains, “home looked different; as if I did not belong there anymore.” She remembers that God impressed upon her heart, “‘Amanda, it’s time for you to return everything that you have to me, because it is mine anyway. I’m going to take what you surrender and make what is good great.’” Still, the decision to go into full time ministry was difficult. Said Walton, “When I first surrendered fully to doing this, I asked God, ‘Why?’ I felt like I was [already] in a place where I could serve Him and I enjoyed it. His answer was, ‘Right now, you have what you think is best, but I have something better for you.’” Life has changed for Walton since her arrival at TMSC because an 14 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
“I receive more love on a daily basis than I could ever give in a lifetime.”
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 15
extended visit is quite different from a short-term trip. When she left the US, she expected to live in a guesthouse and serve the children and staff of TMSC. Instead, she lives in the home of a Kenyan family. “When you have an opportunity to live among the people you are serving, the needs look a lot different.” She has realized that this family interacts with each other as any strong family would: they share laughs over dinner, sing, play and dance, and discuss the events of the day. “They may not have running water, or plumbing or electricity, but they do have the greatest amenity one could ever ask for…a family that treasures one another,” Walton said. “I quickly became Auntie Amanda and I receive more love on a daily basis than I could ever give in a lifetime.” “Once I arrived, I noticed that goals are still important, but not nearly as important as relationships.” While she has a greater understanding of Kenyan culture and has learned how to make lasting change and advocate for widows and orphans when she returns to the U.S., Walton states that many goals still need to be met and others have changed. Walton hopes to see the continuation of a lunch-time reading program put into place in January, and she is working to build a library for the children at TMSC and members of the community. “It’s amazing to see the kids’ eyes light up as we bring the books in each day at lunch. They can’t seem to get enough of this new world they get to experience as the pages come alive in their minds,” Walton said. “I know that God brought me to Tumaini to be an encouragement to the staff and to provide some small relief to the overwhelming task of looking after orphans,” Walton said. “But, by accepting ‘African time’ I’ve embraced relationship over task. As a result, I’ve been blessed beyond
Teaching is only one of Waltons’ responsibilities at Tumaini
16 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Above: Orphans at Tumaini receive love and care and they are happy and well-adjusted.
measure to catch a glimpse of what it means to praise God in a new way, and what it means to rely on my relationship with Him as my primary source of sustainable life. He is all I need.” She goes on to say, “The greatest blessing has been seeing how alive and active God is in the hearts of the people here. . . . I look out over God’s beautiful creation, and I can hear drums and voices praising God with reckless abandon. They have little by earthly standards, but they are rich beyond belief in that the Lord they are praising is everywhere,” As she plans to return home in March to work on TMSC’s behalf, Walton states, “The Lord has already begun to open doors for me to serve in a bigger way in the US, and I continue to pray about all the possibilities.” Walton aspires to create a long lasting link between members of the Cumberlands family and TMSC. Some UC students and alumni have already traveled to TMSC, but she would like to see others involved in the work. “I can’t help but notice how God has provided a perfect opportunity to enlist the help of Cumberlands alums who are looking for a way to get involved with something much bigger than themselves.” “My heart is for Africa, and I plan to return as much as the Lord will allow. Tumaini has a piece of my heart. I believe in the ‘Hope’ that it stands for, and I can’t imagine going for long without seeing the kids and the staff. They are my Kenyan family for life,” she said. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 17
Homeco
18 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
oming 2010
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 19
homecoming
Hundreds of alumni “cruised back” to campus to attend at least one of the many events of Homecoming 2010. Creech-Boswell Dinner
On Friday, October 1, Homecoming kicked off with the Creech Boswell Dinner, named for two long-serving presidents of Cumberland College, where the members of the Class of 1960 were inducted into the Creech Boswell Club in honor of their 50th graduation anniversary. The club’s outgoing president Marcella Faulkner Mountjoy, ’41 welcomed the attendees, spoke of “the old days” on campus and about all the changes that have taken place. She reminded everyone of early professors, like P.R. Jones, J.T. Vallandingham, Albert Evans and Bess Rose. “These professors taught and exhibited great leadership. Some of them taught through and following WWI, when the great flu epidemic killed thousands,” said Mountjoy. “[They] showed superior scholastic work, truthfulness, honesty, dignity and courage. These were just a part of the great early educational experience offered mountain students from the founding in 1888.”
Outgoing president Marcella Faulkner Mountjoy,’41, inducted George Roberts, ’50, as president for 2010-11.
Peggy Cooper Inks, ’55, and ’61, entertained the attendees with a song she composed about the woes and advantages of growing older, “No Spring Chicken, Anymore.”
Saturday’s Boswell 5k Run welcomed 32 participants: The top three male finishers: time • David Allison 19:16.21 • Zach Jacobs (current student) 19:28.82 • Bruce Hicks (faculty) 22:26.48 Top 3 females: • Emily Kerber (current student) 24:00.71 • Sarah Hobbs (current student) 24:14.72 • Melynda Jamison 25:02.05
age 40-49 20-26 50+ 20-26 20-36 27-34
For the first time, the Carnival was held in Briar Creek Park, close to James Taylor II Memorial Stadium, where beautiful weather, available parking and longer hours resulted in a large crowd of alumni, students, families and community members. 20 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
homecoming In the Homecoming Game, the Patriots again welcomed the Union College Bulldogs for the Battle of the Brass Lantern. With a score of 35-21, Cumberlands kept the coveted trophy for the fourth consecutive year. During Halftime, Chelsea Belt, ’11, was named Homecoming Queen and Allan Cutshall, ’12, Homecoming King. Tim Cutshall, Allan’s father, escorted Chelsea, as Allan, who plays tight end for the Patriots, was unavailable during halftime. Homecoming Queen Chelsea Belt, ’11, and Tim Cutshall, father of Homecoming King Allan Cutshall, ’12
Chelsea Belt,’11, and Allan Cutshall,’12, Homecoming Queen and King
UC Marching Patriots performance
At the Alumni Dinner on Saturday night, “Captain” Dave Bergman welcomed all the “cruisers,” especially those from the honored years of ’60, ’65, ’70, ’75, ’80, ’85, ’90, ’95, ’00, ’05 and ’10. The Captain presented the alumni awards, and new Alumni Board members and officers were inducted. Dr. Betty Siegel,’50, president emerita of Kennesaw State University and endowed chair of the Siegel Institute for Leadership, “Ethics & Character,” spoke about the importance of returning to “our remembrance rock’ and the evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks presentation in front of the Hutton School of Business.
Rev. Michael Cabell,’01, delivered an appropriate message with a “cruise” theme; he spoke about Jonah and his ill-fated voyage.
Homecoming concluded with the Sunday morning worship service in Gatliff Chapel. It has become a tradition at the end of the service for all the attendees to join hands and form a circle around the Chapel for the closing prayer.
Worship leader, Brent Foley,’10
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 21
homecoming Class of ’60
Nancy Baker Cooper, Bill Carlyle, Joyce Merchant Clark
Class of ’65
Alice Fae Butts Willard, Dr. Eric Wake, Zafer Roback, Juanita Brown Sharpe, Alvin Sharpe
Class of ’70
Earl (Bud) Anderson, Libby Sweet Atkinson, Raymond Cox, Donna Sellers Sox, Ted Byrd, Sue Doan Wake, Sue Stubblefield Harris, Wanda Taylor Claypool, Ralph Lipps, Ray Lipps
Class of ’75
Charles Reed, Clara Higgins Reed, Bill Lyttle, Don Miracle
Class of ’80
Kim Washburn Mullins, Donna Gregory Bennett, Patricia Flowers Spears, Nina Hicks Prewitt, Rich Prewitt, Kimberly Jelle Jones, Jeff Davis, David Rhodes, Linda Caverly Roach, Keith Roach, Tom Broyles
Class of ’85
Jennifer Jones Wyatt
Class of ’90
Debbie Welky Wesley, David Wesley, Ray Hammons, Jeff Harris, Melanie Mackey Evans, Kime Malcolm Harris
Class of ’10
Kati Reager, Katie Atwood, Megan Williamson 22 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Cumberlands inducts six new members of the Alumni Hall of Honor
Howard, ’71, and Libby, ’70, Atkinson were inducted into the Hall of Honor for their service in the ministry as Dave Bergman stated, “from Carpenter (Ky.) to Cuba,” including evangelism and church planting and pastorates in the U.S. and Bogotá, Columbia. Howard is now director of missions for the West Union Baptist Association. Harry “Gippy” Graham, ’54, received the Distinguished Alumnus Award. After receiving his associate’s degree from Cumberland College and serving as captain of the basketball team, Graham earned his B.A. at Georgetown and served as their basketball captain as well. He earned his master’s degree at UK and has served as a teacher and coach, as a member of Kentucky’s General Assembly and is now mayor of Frankfort.
David Atwood, BA ’07, Master of Education, ’09, a native of Lilburn, Ga., received the Young Alumnus Award. Atwood, a 7th grade math teacher at Whitley County Middle School, has said, “I love helping students realize and reach their full potential.” His wife Megan, ’07, is director of Appalachian Ministries, a program of Cumberlands’ Baptist Campus Ministries, and his sister, Katy, is a 2010 UC graduate.
Mary Doyle Johnson,’48, and Dick Koeniger,’67, were named board members emeriti, in honor of their long, dedicated service to the Alumni Association throughout the years. Koeniger was unable to attend.
Teddy R. Byrd, ’70, received the Alumni Appreciation Award. Byrd was honored for his strong support of the University. “He has touched this campus from pillar to post,” said Dave Bergman. “He has been a strong supporter of Cumberlands athletics, both as an Indian and as a Patriot.” Byrd and his wife Cookie are lifelong residents of Williamsburg, and he is co-owner of Byrd Glass. Ray Hammonds, ’90, was named Alumnus of the Year. Hammonds, owner of Roller Die and Forming in Louisville, has been a strong supporter of Cumberlands, returning often for campus events. He now serves as a member of Cumberlands Board of Trustees. He and his wife Kelly reside in Louisville with their two daughters. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 23
homecoming Dr. Betty Siegel, ’50, inspired attendees at the Alumni Dinner, stating, “Tonight we testify as to who we are; where do we come from; where are we going; how do we matter; what is the meaning; what is our legacy; and what do we give back?” (pictured with autographed sneaker of 7’2” Dikembe Mutombo, former NBA basketball star)
photo courtesy of Mark White, News Journal
24 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
.
Major General Kenneth S
Photo submitted.
Dowd ’79
Cumberlands Alumnus
. .
keeps U S Military moving
w
hen Kenneth S. Dowd graduated from Cumberland College in the spring of 1979, names like Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq were simply places on the world map to most members of the campus community. Today, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq are more than familiar names to Dowd, now Major General Dowd, who in 2010 assumed command of the First Theater Sustainment Command, which includes all the logistics operations in the Middle East. The
Command is headquartered at Ft. Bragg, N.C., and General Dowd’s family lives close by, but most of his time is spent in the field, largely in Kuwait. Logistics, according to Webster, is “the branch of military science having to do with procuring, maintaining and transporting materiel [military spelling], personnel and facilities.” An important and daunting task under any circumstances, during a war, logistics becomes vital not only to day-to-day operations but also to the ultimate outcome of the conflict.
An old adage says, “An army moves on its stomach,” and while that may be true, the U.S. Army also moves with tanks, planes, weapons and thousands of other items that fall under Dowd’s command—including rations. According to Jennie Dowd, the general’s wife, “Ken has found his niche. He loves what he does, helping young soldiers with what they need and having the ability to supply their needs.” Dowd’s path to his current position could have begun when he arrived on Cumberlands’ campus from his home in Jacksonville, Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 25
“I know you won’t believe this, but 30 years ago, Ken told me he would be a general.”
Florida, with a basketball scholarship. Here, he discovered that he liked the order and regimen he found in the ROTC. It was also here that he forged strong friendships that have lasted, most notably with his roommates Dave Jones, ’79, and Rich Prewitt,’80, the current Alumni Association president. “Ken was fun-loving and care-free out of class, and very serious in class,” says Prewitt. There were actually three of us who ran around together, and even in those days we joked about the future. We had it all figured out. I know you won’t believe this, but 30 years ago, Ken told me he would be a general.” “I knew Ken Dowd as a student at University of the Cumberlands,” said Dr. Michael Colegrove, vice president for Student Affairs. “As I recall, his primary focus was Army ROTC. He was career-oriented as a student, often professing his desire to become a career Army officer.” When Dowd graduated with a B.S. in history and political science, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. From his first tour of duty in Korea, through a continuous succession of increasingly responsible assignments, he has advanced to his current command. During this time, he also earned an M.S. from the Florida Institute of Technology and an M.S. from the University of Pennsylvania. Colegrove stated, “Later on in my career in the US Army Reserve, I became acquainted with Ken’s work in the area of logistics. He rapidly rose through the ranks and was certainly well known as one of the military’s brightest and best.” Throughout his career and his life, Dowd has focused on relationships. His family is vitally important, and although he is unable to spend much physical time with them, he works hard at keeping his family strong. The Dowds are the parents of two teenagers: a son, Cody, who is a freshman at Virginia Tech, and a daughter, Correy, 17, a high school senior who is in the process of choosing a college.
Rich Prewitt, above, and Ken Dowd, left; class photos from the 1979 Cumberland College yearbook
The lifetime friends that Dowd made in college, Jones and his wife Lisa and Prewitt and his wife Nina Hicks Prewitt, ’80, have remained close to the Dowds, and have been supportive of the general and his family.
Maj. Gen. Dowd shows his Cumberlands Pride while he exercises at Ft. Bragg during a recent visit to the U.S.
Photo submitted.
26 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
“These friends are our best support,” says Jennie Dowd. “Rich calls me about once a month, just to see how we are. We believe Cumberland’s small campus environment bred that kind of closeness.” “As we travel through life, our greatest treasures are not possessions, but family and friends,” says Prewitt. “Occasionally in life you come across friends that become family. Ken Dowd was that kind of friend. I love him as much now as I did back 30 years ago when we became friends at Cumberland College.” “In every conversation my husband and I have had about Cumberland, it stands out that it was the smallness of the school that Ken enjoyed most, as well as the basketball and ROTC,” said Mrs. Dowd. “And, he especially liked how the faculty wanted to actively help the students.” Dowd has demonstrated throughout his career the importance of relationships. In an article he wrote entitled “Building ‘Log Nation’ in the U.C. Central Command,” he explained his approach to his position as director of logistics at the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM),
where he served from 2007until he assumed his current command in 2010. “Log Nation” is a term Dowd coined to describe the complexity and shared responsibility required to supply the needs of America’s fighting men and women. In his article, he reflected on his experience in CENTCOM: “…I am overwhelmed and humbled by the sense of teamwork, dedication and pride that I have consistently witnessed across the logistics enterprise. From the Office of the Secretary of Defense right down to the tactical-level truck companies and supply squadrons, the Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Department of Defense civilians have all worked together to document, track and move mountains of critical resources. Along with the dedicated personnel of the Joint Defense Logistics Agency and our service components, [they] all constitute what I like to call “Log Nation.” This recognition of the contributions of others and appreciation of teamwork has been a hallmark of Dowd’s leadership. “His approach to leadership relies on the style that promotes teamwork,” says Colegrove. “He is a consummate professional and has certainly made his mark on the military world. University of the Cumberlands can take great pride in having a part in the professional development of Major General Ken Dowd.”
Maj. Gen. Kenneth Dowd at his promotion from brigadier general in 2008, pictured with Gen. David Petraeus, at left, and his family, including his mother Eleanor Dowd; his wife Jennie Dowd; his children Correy and Cody Dowd; and his father, the late Ron Dowd who passed away in March 2010.
“Ken has found his niche.
He loves what he does....”
Maj. Gen. Dowd meets several sailors during his initial battlefield circulation tour. The 1st TSC is a split-based, forward deployed headquarters, responsible for the U.S. Central Command’s sustainment mission, specifically for Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.
Maj. Gen. Dowd and his aid, Capt. Josh Hartwick, take a walking tour of Camp Patriot, Kuwait, escotred by Lt. Col. Marty Nichols, 53rd IBCT.
Photos submitted.
Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 27
CLASS NOTES
Alumni News Thank you to the many alumni who submit information for the Alumni News section of the Cumberland Today. We enjoy sharing your news. If you have something to submit, please complete and return the form below, or email your news to alumni@ucumberlands.edu. Have photos? Just mail your prints or cd, or email your photos to our alumni office. Send all materials to: University of the Cumberlands, Alumni Office, 7075 College Station Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769 or alumni@ucumberlands.edu.
1940’s Jim Ford, ’48, was recently featured in Georgetown News-Graphic’s “People You Should Know” column. A retired architect, he is a member of the board of directors of the Scott County Habitat for Humanity. He and his wife Doris live in Georgetown. 1950’s Shirley Gaffney Scully, ’59, left, and Wanda Mahoney Siler, ’59, right, at
Please publish this Alumni News in the Cumberland Today magazine. Name: Maiden name:
Class Year:
Here is my news:
Photo submitted
Cumberland Inn on a visit to Williamsburg in September 2010. They were roommates in Roburn Hall in 1958. 1970’s Photo enclosed:
Yes
Please update my records: Current Address:
Email: Telephone: Cell phone:
28 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
No
Maggie Evangeline Murray Campbell Napier , ’72, lives in Manchester with her husband Johnny Napier. She has retired after 30 years of teaching. Neal Raymond Lickliter, ’74, and his wife Ruth Brown live in Indian Trail, N.C. They have three children and six grandchildren. He plans to retire in August from his position as minister of education at Mt. Harmony Baptist Church in Matthew, N.C. Kim Alison Coyle Linn, ’76, and her husband Bobby live in Umatilla, FL. They have three children: Josh, 26; Trista, 26; and Jordan, 20. A Zumba instructor for several years, Kim has great memories
of Cumberland and would love to hear from any friends from “back in the day”. 1980’s Donna Jane Gregory Bennett, ’80, and her husband live in Gordonsville, Tenn., with their two children, Timothy and Philip. Donna has been an RN for the past 30 years. Brenda Daughtery Silvestri, ’80, and her husband Louis live in Lexington with their daughter, Kristin. Brenda is employed at University of Kentucky Department of Surgery, Grants Administration. William Daniel Jones, ’81, lives in Corbin, where he serves as president of the Kentucky Association of Elementary School Principals, 2010-2011, and was named Kentucky’s Elementary School Principal of the Year for 2007-2008. Teri Feeback, ’83, currently teaches at Mercer County 9th Grade Academy in Harrodsburg. Jeffrey Thomas Burdette, ’86, and his wife Twila live in Mt. Vernon with their two children, Thomas and Zoe. He currently serves as vice-chief regional circuit judge of the 23 counties in the Cumberland Region and chief circuit judge of the 28th Circuit, comprised of Lincoln, Pulaski and Rockcastle counties. 1990’s Carol Ann Toppings Christenson, ’92, lives in Charleston, W.V., with her husband, Mike and their three children, John, Hunter, and Carley. A global forecast analyst at Momentive Performance Materials (formerly GE Silicones), she is also a children’s ministry leader at Oakwood Baptist Church. Jeffrey Forsell, ’92, lives in Clearwater, Fla., received master’s degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 1999, and graduated from Florida International University College of Law, in May 2008. Beth Ann Tingle Miller, BS’88, MS’93, lives in Jacksonville. Fla., with her husband Vern and their 16-year-old son, Ryan, where she is a high school math teacher at Mandarin Christian School.
alumni news
Sarah Catherine Sleet, ’94, lives in Finksburg, Md. Currently on staff at Faith Family Church as the director of Children’s Ministry and Women’s Ministry, she served with the International Mission Board from 1997-1999, after teaching in the public school system for three years. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2003. Richie Alan Cheek, ’95, lives in Jeffersontown and serves as senior pastor of Henryville Community Church in Henryville, Ind.
with her husband Scott, ’00. An employee of Hitchcock Fleming & Associates, Inc., she recently was promoted to team leader/ account supervisor of interactive project managers, where she works to ensure consistency in processes and engages in strategic collaboration with clients and internal teams. Philip Ritchie, ’98, and his wife Stephanie live in Holt, Mo., where in the fall of 2010, he became the principal of Northern Hills
Kristin Elaine Stevenson Grogan, ’95, lives in Dayton, Ohio, with her husband Gerry and their two children, Kelly and Sarah, where she is employed by Abbott Laboratories. Rachelle Varble Stebe, ’95, lives in St. Peters, Mo., with her husband Nicholas and their seven-year-old daughter Hannah. Angela Gail Leach Dunn, ’96, lives in Williamsburg with her husband Michael and their three sons, Dakotah, Dalton and Keegan. Angela is employed by the Kentucky Department of Community Based Services. Elizabeth Geneva Baker-McLain, ’96, lives in Round Rock, Texas. A special education teacher with the Killeen Independent School District, she is the mother of two sons, John and Benjamin and one daughter, Geneva. Brian Scott Kelley, ’96, and Devona Marie Abbott Kelly, ’96, live in Monticello with their 4-year-old son Samuel Emery, where they both work for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Somerset; he as a family support specialist and she as a legal secretary. Robert E. Stephens, ’96, lives in Whitley City with his wife Tonya Morgan Stephens and their four children, ages 8, 7, 4 and 1. After graduating from the Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, University of Louisville in 1999, he’s been a practicing attorney in Kentucky since 1999, and has served as an assistant Commonwealth Attorney for Whitley and McCreary counties since 2004. Teresa Lynne McKinney Adams, ’97, and her husband Scotty live in Lancaster. Shelly Mortin, ’98, lives in Canton, Ohio,
Photo by Ray Weikal
Christian Academy. He is the former principal of Blue Grass Baptist School in Lexington. Tammy Lynn Higginbotham Stephens, ’98, and her husband Thomas R. Stephens, Jr. live in Williamsburg with their children, Thomas Clark and Sarah Elizabeth. Tammy has been the coordinator of the Family Resource/ Youth Services Center of the Williamsburg Independent School District for 11 years. 2000’s Heather Turner Miles, ’00, was married on July 19, 2009 and lives in Winchester. Sarah Len Croy Nichter, ’00, and Andrew Nichter, ’97, live in Pewee Valley with their two children four-year-old Caroline and oneyear-old Sadie. Sarah recently became an associate professor at Sullivan University. Sherman Robert Partin, ’01, and Christina Marie Nunn Partin, ’07, were married in 2002 and now live in Middlesboro with their three children, five-year-old Lauren, fouryear-old Logan and one-year-old Collin. Tyrhon Crawford, ’02, and his wife Nikki live in Winter Haven, Fla., with their two sons, five-year-old Tahron and three-yearold Teriq. Tyrhon is the dean of students and head men’s basketball Coach for Polk Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 29
alumni news
ANNIVERSARIES & MARRIAGES
County Schools. In June 2009, he became a licensed/ordained minister and serves as youth pastor at New Bethel AME Church in Lakeland, Fla. His wife, Nikki is a guidance counselor for Polk County Schools.
1950’s
Amanda Wells King, ’03, and David King, ’03, live in Lexington with their five children: Noah, six; Samuel, five; Simon, four; Kaedmon, one; and Clara, seven months.
Eila Jane Carlisle Gessells, ’56, announces her marriage to Richard Thomas Gessells. They said their vows on August 16, 2010. The happy couple lives in Miamisburg, Ohio.
Nina Lois Hall Shotwell, ’03, and David Bradford-Ross Shotwell,’03, live in Louisville, where Nina is employed in the residential department of Louisville Independent Case Management.
1980’s
Dr. Chase Wilson,’04, Family Medicine chief resident at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, under the supervision of Dr. Kenneth Bielak, associate professor and Sports Medicine Fellowship director, volunteered with the Austin East High School (Knoxville, Tenn.) football team in the fall of 2010. The service was part of a program that allowed residents to work with athletic trainers to assess and examine injured football players. He hopes to continue providing this kind of service throughout his career in family medicine. Erica Nicole Adams Bright, ’06, and Jonathan Ray Bright, ’04, married in May of 2004, live in London with their daughter Ava Madison, born in April 2009. Erica is a case manager at the Appalachian Children’s Home in Barbourville, and Jonathan is the media pastor at Hawk Creek Baptist Church in London, where Erica is also a children’s ministry team leader. Toccara Montgomery, BS’06, and MS’09, has been named head coach of the women’s wrestling program at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo. Michael Powers, ’09, completed his degree in business administration online, after 22 years since he last attended Cumberland College. Michael lives in Huntington Beach, Calif. Chris Souder, current graduate student, teaches at Harrodsburg Day Treatment in Harrodsburg.
ENGAGEMENTS, 30 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Ramona Gail Gross Davis, ’83, and Jeff Davis, ’80, announce their marriage of April 3, 2010, in Hawaii. They now live in Corbin, where she is employed by the Corbin School District, and he works for Owens-Corning.
Spring, Texas, announce the birth of their first grandchild born April 5, 2010. J. C. is principal of an elementary school and Kathy teaches high school math in Spring. 1990’s Daniel Keith West, ’93, and his wife Patience live in Dothan, AL., with their two sons, Logan and Grant, and their two daughters, Vivienne and Sophie. They all anxiously await the birth of another daughter. 2000’s Gareth Wilford, ’00, and his wife Laura, ’00, announce the birth of their daughter, Charlotte Wilford, born on March 22, 2010.
2000’s
FOND FAREWELLS
Shannon Evans-Harrington, ’00, announces her marriage to Edmund Harrington in the summer of 2010. They reside in Nebraska.
Pauline Mehlenbacher, former University of the Cumberlands employee, passed away November 13, 2010, at her family’s home in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Ms. Pauline worked in the T. J. Roberts Dining Hall where she was a mom and friend to many students over the years. She is preceded in death by her husband Walter W. Mehlenbacher, one son Herman Mehlenbacher and two sisters, Irene Brewer and Donna Austin. Survivors include one son, Walter L. Mehlenbacher, ’91 one step-son, Rodney George, six grandchildren, one sister, Ellen Lane and several nieces and nephews. Ms. Pauline will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Randy Jay Greer, ’01, lives in Pendleton, S.C., with his wife, Brandi Hall-Greer. Uteaka Denise Hackett Knapp, ’04, was married on June 12, 2010. Her husband is in the United States Navy, and they live on Andrews Air Force Base in Md. with their two-year-old son and six-month-old daughter. Uteaka is currently a stay-at-home mom working on her MBA. Andrea Renee Chandler Hall, ’03, announces her marriage to Mario Hall in 2006. Rocky Joseph Michael Hager, ’07, lives in Lewisport with his wife Lara, patiently waiting on the arrival of their daughter. Sharon Lynn Wilson ,’07, announces her marriage to Waylon Standifer on August 13, 2010. The happy couple lives in Pine Knot. Nathan Michael Smith, ’09, lives in Wilmore with his wife Kaci Hina Smith.
BIRTHS 1970’s J. C. and Kathy Korek Harville, ’79, of
Daniel J. Wilkerson, 31 years of age, current graduate student at University of the Cumberlands passed away at his home November 21, 2010. He was a teacher at PRP High School as well as the school’s wrestling and football coach. Daniel graduated from PRP High School in 1998 and Western Kentucky University in 2004. He is survived by his wife Fawn, his parents, Michael and Delores Wilkerson, one brother, Paul, a sister Mickie Winters, his grandmother, Francis Wilkerson and his loyal dogs, Mattie and Gus.
1930’s Margaret Jean Harrell, ’32, passed away on June 9, 2010. She was 98 years of age. Dr. Robert Edward Lawson, ’35, of Memphis, Tenn., passed away at the age of 93 on November 6, 2008. He was born in Williamsburg and received his MD from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. Sister Dorthie Anne (Marianne) Clifton Hall, ’38, passed away on December 16, 2010, at the Sisters of St. Francis Provincial House in Savannah, Mo. She taught at Federalsburg High School in Maryland and was an instructor at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Mo., before professing her vows with the Sisters of St. Francis, first in 1952 and again on July 5, 1980. Sister Dorthie Anne served as a teacher and principal at St. Joseph Academy in Chillicothe, Mo. She taught English at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and taught from 1978 to 1997
at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kan. She was also a published poet. Survivors include her sister, Morna Smith, of Texas, many nieces and nephews and her sisters in the religious community. 1940’s Ella Joan Evans, ’43, passed away on January 26, 2010. She was married to Dr. Donald Stewart. Donald Reid Ellison, ’47, 83 years of age, Williamsburg, passed away September 27, 2010. He attended Cumberland College, Wayne University and graduated from the University of Alabama in 1952, with a degree in electrical engineering. The owner and operator of Groundhogs, Inc., a construction company in Birmingham, Ala., Ellison was a member of several engineering societies and held professional engineering licenses in Ala., Tenn., and Ky. He was a veteran of WWII and a major in the US Air Force Reserve. A member of University of the Cumberlands’ Board of Trustees, he
Kathy Wilcox Storrie, ’71
alumni news
had taught in Cumberland College’s former school of mining. He is survived by his son, Gary W. Ellison and daughters, Donna West, Marlene Shealy and Marcella Shepherd, all of Birmingham; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Brenda T. Ellison, three children, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren all of Williamsburg. Benjamin H. McKeehan, ’47, Olney Md., passed away July 6, 2010 at 83. He is survived by his wife Virginia Ileene McKeehan; three children, Michael W., Patricia Stromberg and Sharon Henderson; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Pauline Dozier Brown, ’48, 85 years of age, passed away on January 20, 2010. She is survived by her son David Keith Brown of Versailles, daughter Nancy Ellen Martin of Glendale, Wis., and three grandchildren. Velma Jean Turner Clark, ’48, passed away December 22, 2010 at Christian Care Community in Corbin after a long illness.
alumni spotlight Alum’s First Novel Brings Appalachia’s Past to Life Kathy Wilcox Storrie, ’71, is the author of “Fannie & Wilke: For the Love of a Country Girl,” published in 2010, and she was one of the featured authors in Authors’ Row at Homecoming 2010. The romantic tale of Fannie Brock and Wilkerson Lawson is based upon Storrie’s own grandparents’ courtship and ultimate marriage. Set in Kentucky’s Bell County more than 100 years ago, it reveals much about the customs of the region and offers a unique insight into Appalachia culture. “This book will not only teach and entertain but it also will take many people back to a time and place that has been long forgotten or they never knew existed,” says Storrie. Dr. Susan Weaver, director of Cumberlands’ Teaching and Learning program, serves as the coordinator of Author’s Row and had this to say about Storrie’s debut novel, “This memorable book would be one to read aloud, share across generations, and cherish as a reflection of the spirit of a hard working funloving young girl and a determined, industrious young man. I enjoyed it from cover to cover.” Storrie, of Hamilton, Ohio, earned her B.S. from Cumberlands with a major in elementary education and a minor in art education. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 31
alumni news Thelma Ruth Jones Baker Leigh, ’49, 79 years of age, passed away September 14, 2010, in Grants Pass, Ore. A first grade teacher for 40 years, she began her career in Memphis, Tenn., before moving to Oregon, where she taught at Tenmile, Dillard and McGovern elementary schools. She also owned and operated a 40-acre farm in Looking Glass, where for 35 years, she and her three children raised cattle, swine, horses, sheep, dogs, cats and other animals. An active member of Farmer’s Chiquita, a large 4-H livestock club in Looking Glass, she was also a member of the American Association of University Women and served as a crisis counselor for a battered women’s group. After retiring at the age of 62, she learned to play tennis and became a member of the Roseburg Tennis Club and the United States Tennis Association teams, serving as team captain for several years. She is survived by her three children, Cynthia Luce, Christopher Baker and Candace Schlenker, and four grandchildren.
a son, Dewey Brown and his wife Sue; her grandchildren, Tim Brown, Jeff Sharpe, ’90, and his wife Missy, Mike Sharpe, ’93, and his wife Regina, ’99; and three greatgrandchildren, Becky Sharpe, Christian Sharpe and Anabeth Sharpe.
Williamsburg. He had eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly.
William Howard Dykes, ’53, 80 years of age, of Mt. Juliet, Tenn., passed away on December 12, 2010. While attending Cumberland he met his wife, the late Mary Ann McIntyre, ’54. He is survived by daughters, Margie Dykes Smith and Jackie Ellen Dykes Chafin; sister, Ida Elizabeth Wilson; brother, Joseph Lee Dykes; three grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mary Elizabeth Chadwell Johnson, ’61, 82 years of age, from Jacksboro, Tenn., passed away July 25, 2003, at St. Mary’s Medical Center of Campbell County. A teacher for 38 years in Campbell County and Michigan School systems, Mrs. Johnson is survived by her husband of 61 years, Charlie A. Johnson; sons, Roger and Dallas; daughters, Karen and Nancy; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; and one sister, Martha Gibson.
Evelyn W. Jeffers, ’61, 90 years of age, from Crossville, Tenn., passed away in 2006.
Gerald A. Leigh, ’50, 77 years of age, passed away on March 27, 2008, at his home in Somerset. He was born in Eubank. He is survived by one son, Steve A. Leigh, one daughter, Angela M. Smith, one sister, Donna Wilkinson, three grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Robert Glenn Fox, ’58, passed away Saturday, December 11, 2010, in Scottsburg, Ind. The first person in his family to graduate from college, Fox was an educator and school administrator from 1960 to 1995, when he retired from Austin School System. He was also a contractor/builder from 1960 to 1975 and built more than 100 homes. From 1960 to 2010, he was a farmer who raised grain, tobacco, hay and beef cattle. He loved to travel across the United States and Europe, researching and visiting historic sites. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Karen, children, Laura Lynn Nowling, Glenn Edward Fox and Jenny Lou Fox, and seven grandchildren.
Florence V. Smith, ’50, of Sweetwater, Tenn., passed away in 2000.
Clayton Wendell Blanton, ’59, passed away March 29, 2007.
Charles W. Waldroup, ’61, 81 years of age, from Williamsburg, passed away in 2000.
Fazda Risner Jones, ’51, 77 years of age, originally from Pineville, passed away in Casa Grande, Ariz., on December 24, 2010, with her husband and children by her side.
1960’s
Fred Johnson Sandlin, ’62, 70 years of age, passed away September 17, 2010, in Daytona Beach, Fla. He is survived by one son, David, and an aunt, Mary Brough, of Scottsburg, Ind. Mr. Sandlin began his teaching career in Spencerville, Ohio; then moved to Avon Park, Fla., in 1966, where he taught driver’s education and served as head coach of the boys’ basketball team for more than a decade. A businessman in the restaurant and insurance fields, he later became a co-owner of Sunshine Title and Sunshine Leasing Company, which grew to be one of the largest private firms in the state.
1950’s
Priscilla J. Anderson, ’52, 79 years of age, of West Chester, Ohio, passed away on August 31, 2010. After teaching in Kentucky for two years, she was a third-grade teacher for the Northwest Local School District for 37 years and retired in 1989. She is survived by her daughter, Kay Gowsell, two grandchildren, Kevin Gowsell and Sabrina Gowsell, a brother, Richard Lee James and two sisters, Phyllis Rupp, and Nancy Bright. Nola Brown, ’52, 91 years of age, passed away November 2, 2010, in Williamsburg. She is survived by one daughter, Juanita Sharpe ’65, and her husband Alvin, ’65; 32 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
James H. Hampton, ’60, of Barbourville passed away October 2, 2006, of heart failure. He was superintendent of Knox County School System, and he is survived by his wife Joan. Velma J. Ball, ’61, of Pineville passed away in 2000. Randall Byrd, ’61, 77 years of age, Williamsburg, passed away August 27, 2010. An employee of Renfro Supply Company in Williamsburg, he was a veteran of the United States Navy. He is survived by a daughter, Cindy Lovitt, of Ryland Heights, a son Eddie, of Sanford, a brother, Robert, of Williamsburg, two sisters, Georgia Cawood, of Monroe, Mich., and Ruth Peace, of
Dalton E. Jones, ’61, of Lexington passed away in 2008. Jo Ann Pursiful, ’61, passed away several years ago. Fredrick “Freddie” Wayne Robbins, ’61, 67 years of age, passed away December 14, 2007, at his home in Calvin. He is survived by his sister-in-law, JoAnn Robbins, Clarkston, Mich.; nephew Charles E. Robbins, Jonesville, Va.; nieces, Teresa Kirkland and Missy Cordes of Calvin, Lisa Fogus of Corbin, and Jenny Robbins of Clarkston, Mich.
Glenn E. Shepard, ’63, passed away in 2008. Billy Ray Neely, ’64, of Florence, passed
away July 11, 2010, after a short illness with cancer. A retired school teacher with the Boone County School System, he is survived by his wife Carol; son Darren, Florence ; and daughter, Shawnta, Denver, Colo. Thelma L. Terry, ’65, 78 years of age, of the Mountain View community and a resident of Huntsville Manor in Scott County, Tenn., passed away November 28, 2010. A member of the Retired Teachers Association and a member of Eastern Star Sunshine Chapter #279 of Robbins, Ms. Terry was a school teacher for 42 years. Survivors are her niece and caregiver, Lisa Lowe and husband Tim; a sister Wilma Ruth Jeffers and family; and special roommate and friend, Geneva Marcum of Huntsville Manor. Enoch Foutch, ’68, of Bardstown, formerly of Harlan County, passed away on Oct. 12, 2010, from injuries received in an auto accident. Foutch, 64, held additional degrees from University of Kentucky and EKU. He was a teacher, coach and principal at Lynch High School; Photo submitted principal at Harlan Elementary and Middle School, and then Director of Special Education before his retirement. He was also an adjunct instructor of math and physics for Southeast Community College. He was team leader of the sorghum molasses demonstration at the annual Kingdom Come Swappin’ Meetin’, mastered the craft of creating dulcimers and was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, A member of the NRA, he taught hunter education and concealed weapons classes. His many awards include two National Institute for Staff and Organization Development (NISOD) awards and being named a Kentucky Colonel and an Honorary Harlan County Coal Miner. He was a member of the Parkway Baptist Church in Bardstown and Howard Masonic Lodge. He is survived by his wife Karen, his mother Elizabeth Foutch, two daughters, seven grandchildren, two sisters, a brother, and several nieces and nephews. Charlene Lawson Nixon, ’68, 64 years of age, from Amelia, Ohio passed away November
7, 2010. She is survived by her husband, Mark Nixon, three children Michelle Green, Jennifer Anderson and Russell Nixon; one grandchild, Cameron Anderson; two sisters, Sandra Lewis and Terry Wilson and three brothers, J.L., Glenn and Don. Clay Gibson, ’69, Rio Rancho, N.M., passed away July 3, 2010, in a tragic accident in Dove Creek, Col., in which his older son, Zane, also lost his life. He is survived by his wife Nancy and son, Cody. Mrs. Gibson related that Clay was very proud to be an alumnus of University of the Cumberlands, and she requested that the Cumberlands community remembers this family in daily thoughts and prayers. 1970’s Glenna M. Collins, ’70, 62 years of age, passed away August 22, 2010, at her home in Oneida, Tenn., with her family by her side. Mrs. Collins was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Oneida Lodge #695, where she held numerous positions including Worthy Matron. She was a foster mother to more than 40 children, adopted four and received the 2002 Mother of the Year Award. She began her teaching career at Coalfield High School for two years, and then taught at Scott County High School for more than 18 years, until her retirement. She is survived by sons, Kenneth Lee Collins and Christopher Lynn Collins of Columbia, Mo.; her adopted children, Reshonda Harness, Jessica Wentz, Phillip Collins and Crystal Washam; her 14 special grandchildren; sisters, Irene Strunk, and Norma Jean Potter; and brothers, Ernest Crabtree and Shirl Crabtree. Charles Lewis, ’70, passed away June 23, 2010. Charles Thomas Snapp, ’76, 58 years of age, of Effingham, Ill., passed away Sunday, October 17, 2010, at St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital. A captain in the United States Army Reserves, he was a member of the Effingham VFW and American Legion. He worked with Addus Home Health Care. He is survived by his special friend of 20 years, Brenda Mundt; brother, Marion Snapp, Jr. of Paris; sisters, Linda Hyatt of Millersburg, Wanda Gaunce of Carlisle and Mary Francis Walls of Lexington.
alumni news
age, of Pineville passed away September 11, 2010, after an unexpected illness. A native of Clay County, she met her husband of 35 years, Darrell Lowe, ’75, while they were students at Cumberland. After 27 years of teaching, she retired to work with her husband in ministry at the Lighthouse, the church they began. She is survived by her husband Darrel Lowe; a niece, Sherry Reed; brothers Charles Dezarn, Dan Dezarn, Paul Dezarn and Clarence Dezarn; sisters, Nancy Crawford, Bev Roberts, Doris Gross and Charlotte Stewart. 1980’s Ruby M. Wadley Clark, ’80, 51 years of age, of New Smyrna Beach, Fla., passed away October 31, 2010. She was a retired school teacher with Volusia County Schools and a member of Servant’s Quarters Fellowship. Survivors include her devoted husband of 25 years, Jesse Clark; her children, Jonathan, Camilya, James; parents, Ercelle and Jimmy Hives and Ezra Wadley; brothers, Alvin Wadley, ’80, and Ezra K. Wadley; and sister, Dianna Wadley. Keith Boyd Collins, ’80, passed away. Barbara Faith Marass Lawson, ’82, 50 years of age, of Whitley City, passed away September 1, 2010. Faith served in the United States Navy, worked as a social worker at Scott County (Tenn.) Hospital and later at St. Mary’s Hospital in LaFollette, Tenn. She is survived by her mother and stepfather, Barbara and Dillard Strunk; her father, Frank J. Marass, Jr.; her husband, William Saul; two children, Kayla Paige Lawson and Dustin James Lawson; and two grandsons, Carter and Curtis Lawson. 1990’s Renee Lynn Polan, former student attending in 1998, passed away at her home in Norwalk, Ohio. She was 31 years of age. She is survived by her husband James Calhoun; son, Dakota Lee and her daughter, DonnaJo Katherine; three sisters Lorie Ann Polan of Canada, Veronica Lee Knoll of Norwalk and Nancy Marie Houston of Wakeman, Ohio; and two nephews and two nieces.
Gloria Jean Dezarn Lowe, ’77, 57 years of Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 33
alumni news
Alumni Board of Directors:
From left: Dr. John Hollingsworth,’63; Dr. Terry Dixon, ’68, secretary; Bill Lyttle,’75; Susan Rice Bradley,’98, president-elect; Paul Steeley,’49; Melanie Mackey Evans,’87-’90; Amy Stroud,’04; Kathy Byrd, class of ’83-’87; Dave Bergman,’89, director, Alumni Services; and David, Rhodes,’80, past-president. Not pictured: Richard Prewitt,’80, president; Mary Doyle Johnson,’48, member emerita; Maureen “Cookie” Henson,’74; Tom Broyles,’80; Brittney House,’09, president Young Alumni Association; Dick Koeniger,’67, member emeritus; Jeffrey W. Davis,’80; Mike Parsley,’89; Allen Robbins,’90; Jonathan Childers,’00; Duane Floro,’79; Shannon Evans Harrington,’00; Jimmy Huddleston,’87; and Terry Stigall,’75.
Six new boardmembers joined the Alumni Board at Homecoming; five whose term expires in 2013 and one who will fill an unexpired term, expiring in 2012. Amy Stroud, ’04, is currently the community liaison and sales associate for the Center for Rural Development in Somerset. She served as a field representative and district director for former Governor Ernie Fletcher and as the director of Planning/Special Projects in the Governor’s office. A member of Young Chamber Professionals of Lake Cumberland, Young Professionals of East Kentucky and the Board of Directors of Girls Scouts of Kentucky Wilderness Road Council, she is a Fellow of UK’s Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute and is a Certified Entrepreneurial Coach. Kathy West Byrd, ’87, Title Examiner at Cumberland Valley Title Company, London, KY. She is a member of the Tri-Co Republican Women's Club, Friends of the Library and a former Williamsburg City Council Member. She is also involved with the Whitley County Historical Society. Married to Eddie D. Byrd, ’70, for 27 years, she has four children: Adam Sharp (wife Jennifer), Jon Sharp, Teresa Abbott, ’09 (husband Mike Abbott, BA,’97, MA’02) and Carrie Byrd (research librarian at Cumberlands). She has four grandchildren: Avril and Skeet Sharp and Lillie and Grace-Ann Abbott. Tom Broyles, ’80, employed with Bayer Healthcare since 1984 and currently serves as the team leader who manages the company’s Kroger business nationwide. Broyles, who enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and attending athletic events, is 34 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
married to Rhonda Hodges Broyles, ’83. She is the freshman coach and assistant varsity basketball coach at Conner High School and also works for The Cross-mark Co., managing brand positioning at Kroger. They live in Morristown, Tenn., and are the parents of three sons: Derek, Cody and Jeremy. Dr. Duane Floro, ’79, has served as senior pastor at a number of multi-staff churches and currently serves as the ministry evangelism strategist of the Ohio Baptist Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Floro received a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1983 and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007. He and his wife Deana Henson Floro are the parents of four children and grandparent of one granddaughter. Terry Stigall, ’75, served as Cumberlands’ head baseball coach from 1983 until 2001, and was named Coach of the Year three times. He led his team to five KIAC championships, with six second-place positions; saw 82 players named to All-Conference honors and had ten players sign professional contracts. Stigall is a member of the Health, Movement and Leisure Studies Department faculty at Cumberlands, and he resides in Williamsburg with his wife Carol. Stigall is the father of two children, Adam and Alicia.
alumni spotlight
Brittney House, ’09
Young Alumni Association
“YAA” might sound like something heard at a Patriot athletic event, but here at Cumberlands, it is an exclusive organization within the Alumni Association for graduates of ten years or less. There are no financial dues. The only requirements are dedication to Cumberlands and a desire to see it succeed and continue to offer outstanding educational opportunities to future students. Brittney House, ’09, met those requirements long before she was inducted into the Alumni Board and as the first president of the YAA during the Alumni Dinner at Homecoming 2010. As president of UC’s Student Government Association from 2007-09, House increased SGA participation from about 12 members to more than 50 members. She also updated the campus movie rentals, brought back the recycling program, helped to restore the viaduct and bought bike racks that were dispersed around campus. As SGA president, she also served as an ex-officio member of the Alumni Board. Young alumni interested in being a part of this vital group can contact the Alumni Services office at 606-539-4355 or alumni@ucumberlands.edu.
Brittney House,’09.
Dr. Robert Moore, ’70
Dr. Robert Moore, ’70, has built a strong career across three states, Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, as the owner of nine Bell Tone Hearing Centers. An authorized audioprosthologist, he has helped individuals overcome hearing loss since 1976. Moore credits much of his success to the education he acquired at Cumberlands, where he earned a B.A. in history and political science. “Cumberlands was important in shaping my life and attitudes. It gave me the impetus, the courage to succeed,” he said. “It helped me overcome the mindset I came from and showed me what I could accomplish.” A native of Barbourville, Moore came to Cumberlands on a track and cross country scholarship, after an outstanding high school track career. He placed second in the mile at the Kentucky high school championships during his senior year. At Cumberlands, his speed earned him the nickname “Rabbit.” Moore was the first in his family to attend and graduate from college. Of his four siblings, his younger sister, Shirley Blanton also attended Cumberlands. Dr. Robert Moore in his Lafollette, Tenn. lab with a photo of his Cessna Stationaire, which allows him to travel easily among his businesses.
Following his graduation, Moore went on to earn a Master of Ministry degree and a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Southern Baptist Center for Biblical Studies in Marietta, Ga. He also completed the ACA program of the International Hearing Society. In the early 1980’s Moore developed his love of flying when he took flying lessons and completed his first solo flight. However, the expenses of a young family and business intervened until 1998, when he bought his first plane and said, “Now, I’m going to learn to fly this.” Today, with a larger more comfortable plane, Moore commutes among the cities where his businesses are located. He primarily works in the LaFollette, Tenn., and Somerset locations, where he divides his time each week. Moore enjoyed his years at Cumberlands, saying, “I had more fun in college than before or after.” He formed important relationships during his student years. He and Jim Taylor, ’68, now Cumberlands’ president, were both young ministers who served as pastors, Moore in Somerset and Taylor in Monticello, and on the weekends they carpooled to their small churches to save gas money. He also formed a friendship with Gordon Bocock, ’67, who was a senior when Moore was a freshman and who served as a role model for Moore. However, Moore says that the best thing he found at Cumberlands was his wife, Trena Hammons Moore, who was also a student. The Moores, who have homes in Somerset and LaFollette, are the parents of three children: John, 39; Robert, 25; and Rebecca, 23. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 35
alumni spotlight The Lord(’s) Mayor
Michael Bryant,’69
Cumberlands alumnus, Michael (Mike) Bryant, ’69, has returned to his roots in a big way. Although he was born in Cincinnati and grew up in Michigan, his parents were natives of southern Kentucky who both grew up in Pulaski County. The child who often visited Mount Vernon, Kentucky, could never have dreamed that someday he would become its mayor. But, in the 2010 election, Bryant was indeed elected Mt. Vernon’s mayor, and his term began in January. Always active in his community, Bryant has been approached a number of times to seek public office; to run for mayor, county judgeexecutive, or even sheriff. However, this time, when someone suggested a campaign for mayor late in 2009, he said that he would pray about it. As he prayerfully considered such a step, he became more overwhelmingly convinced it was the right thing to do. “Of course, just seeking the office did not mean winning,” he states. What followed was 10 months of campaigning, then two months of transition before assuming office. “It has been an interesting journey,” Bryant says. “Politics is a journey I had not traveled before.” He goes on to say, “But more and more, I can see God’s hand at work. This is clearly not an accident or a coincidence, but true providence. I do not know and may never know all the ‘whys.’” The road to Mt. Vernon’s city hall has taken Bryant on a global journey. After earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in religion with a minor in psychology at Cumberlands, he went on to earn a Master of Theology degree in 1980 and a Doctor of Ministry degree in 1982, both from the International Seminary. During the past 42 years, Bryant has served as a pastor, evangelist, chaplain and certified counselor, and he has spent time on the mission field in the US, Mexico and Guatemala. A sworn deputy sheriff and chaplain with four different sheriffs, he has spoken at more than 120 churches in eight states, Israel, Mexico and Guatemala. Additionally, he worked for the Kentucky Cabinet for Families & Children, from which he retired in 2000 as Family Services Office supervisor. Bryant is truly enjoying his new position. “Mount Vernon, by comparison, is a small town, but I’ve realized that it is like a large business. Just being mayor means managing multiple departments with multiple issues, and it’s a challenge to ‘keep all the plates spinning’ each day,” he says. Serving in more than 80 business, civic and professional organizations through the years, Bryant has held office in many of them and has earned numerous awards for his service and outstanding citizenship. Currently, he is a member of several groups, including Cumberlands’ Church Relations Board. Bryant and his wife Carol Owens Bryant, an alumna of Sue Bennett College and Ohio’s Bowling Green State University, first lived in Mount Vernon from 1970 to 1974, but moved there permanently in 1977. When asked the best thing about living there, he readily replied that it provides the best of small-town living, while being strategically located beside I-75, within an easy drive of larger towns, like Richmond and Lexington. “Here, you don’t have to give up the joy of living in a small town for the convenience of city living,” he said. The Bryants are the parents of four children, all of whom have attended Cumberlands. Melissa Bryant Stewart graduated in 1987and served as SGA president; her husband Jon Stewart graduated in 1985; Michael Bryant II attended from 1987 to 1990, and his wife Rhonda Reid Bryant, is a 1994 graduate; Marla Bryant Hart attended; and Matthew Bryant graduated in 1999. Twelve grandchildren, including twin grandsons, Lincoln and Sawyer, born January 4, 2011, complete their family. When he manages to find any free time, Bryant enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, ATV/horseback riding, canoeing, knife collecting, 18th century & civil war reenacting and martial arts, in which he is a black belt certified instructor. Bryant wants to leave a legacy for future generations in Mount Vernon. “This is a ‘we’ not a ‘me’ thing,” he states emphatically. “Thinking futuristically, my hope is that by building on things my predecessors began, we can make this a better place, a better town and leave some things in place for my successors to build upon.” 36 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Hubert F. White, ’23, Posthumously Inducted into Hall of Honor During the 2011 Founders’ Day and Martin Luther King Memorial convocation, University of the Cumberlands honored outstanding alumnus, Hubert F. White, ’23, who posthumously received the Distinguished Alumni Award and was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Honor. A native of Williamsburg, White attended Cumberland College from 1921 to 1923, where he served as captain of both the football and basketball teams. He graduated with an Associate of Arts degree and enrolled at the University of Kentucky in 1923, where he completed his undergraduate degree in 1925 and graduated from law school in 1927. He practiced law in Harlan and Middlesboro for 55 years and served as the city attorney for Middlesboro for a total of 30 years. Following in the footsteps of his father, a three-term mayor of Williamsburg, White served as mayor of Middlesboro from 1958 to 1962. He was married to the former Fay Cawood for 60 years, and he passed away in 1990. White’s sons, Robert C. White, of Knoxville, Tenn., and Frank M. White of Lexington, Ky., accepted the award on behalf of their father. Robert White expressed the family’s gratitude for the honor given his father and for the educational opportunities the elder White experienced at Cumberlands. “When he left Cumberland, he went on to pursue his studies in other places,” said Robert White of his father. “But, he always maintained that the start he received on this campus was paramount to the success he achieved academically later.”
“He always maintained that the start he received on this campus was paramount to the success he achieved academically later.” Robert White, left, and Frank White, right, accept the Distinguished Alumni Award on behalf of their father, the late Hubert F. White, from Rich Prewitt, center, Alumni Board president. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 37
“I am proud to be a
Dr. Ray Lipps, ’70, Receives Honorary Degree
graduate of University of the Cumberlands, where all the Indians are Patriots.”
During its annual Founders’ Day and Martin Luther King Memorial convocation, Cumberlands honored Ray Lipps ’70, with an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree. “[It is] because of your stellar success, your support and caring for your fellow man, and your commitment to making this world a better place,” said President Jim Taylor. Founder and president of Esquire Galleries, a company that sells art at auctions throughout the U.S., Lipps has been one of Cumberlands’ most dedicated alumni. He has never missed a Homecoming since arriving on campus—44 straight Homecomings—and he has been an avid supporter of the athletic programs, attending hundreds of events including many national tournament games. One of the founders of Cumberlands’ Athletic Hall of Fame, he instituted both the alumni homecoming auction, to support scholarships, and the Athletic Hall of Fame auction. He has also donated much of the framed artwork seen in campus buildings, for a total contribution in excess of $350,000. However, Lipps feels the greatest contribution he has made to Cumberland is the many students he has recruited, and during the ceremony, he introduced “potential future alumni” of Cumberlands in the audience, including a “member of the class of 2033.” A native of London, Ky., Lipps was a student leader at Cumberland College who has continued to be active in many business, political and civic organizations. He served on the Cumberlands Alumni Association Board of Directors for more than 20 years in several leadership roles, including three terms as president. Inducted into Cumberlands’ Hall of Honor in 1991, he received the J. M. Boswell Outstanding Alumni Award in 1999 and in 2007 the University named a classroom in the Hutton School of Business the Ray Lipps Room. “I am proud to be a graduate of University of the Cumberlands where ‘all the Indians are Patriots,’” says Lipps, referring to UC’s former and current mascots. Lipps, and his wife, Patricia Skeen Artman Lipps, residents of Powell, Tennessee, are active members of Powell Presbyterian Church. Two brothers, his twin Ralph, of London, and, Abner, of Frankfort, also graduated from Cumberlands in 1970.
38 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
Honor or Memorialize a Friend or Loved One
What is a Tribute Gift?
Tribute Program
A Tribute Gift shows love and respect for the person being honored or memorialized. It says to others that the world is a better place because of this person. Through a Tribute Gift to UC-Cumberland College, a memory of the past or an honor of the present is tied to the future as it is made to live on and on in the lives of needy students. The size of the gift you send is up to you. Many send the amount they would spend on floral arrangements, candy or other appropriate purchases. Gifts generally range from $15 to $1,000, but the right amount for you is the one your heart tells you to send.
What is an Honor Gift?
An Honor Gift is a gift which shows admiration and respect for a loved one or friend on a significant day in their life such as birthday, anniversary, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, etc.
What is a Memorial Gift?
A Memorial Gift is a gift in memory of a departed loved one or friend. It is a wonderful way to express sympathy and high regard or as a means to remember birthdays, anniversaries, or other special days (Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, etc.) of a deceased loved one.
University of the Cumberlands Tribute Gifts Given by: Name___________________________________________________________
How are Tribute Gifts acknowledged?
For a Memorial Gift the family of the one you wish to memorialize is sent an appropriate card the same day the gift is received by the college. Then the name of the giver and the deceased will be listed in the next issue of the college’s newsletter. For an Honor Gift the person being honored is sent an appropriate card listing the honor giver as well as the occasion for the honor. Then the name of the giver and the name of the honoree will be listed in the next issue of the college’s newsletter. For all Tribute Gifts the amount of the gift is kept confidential, and all gifts are tax deductible as allowed by law.
Address_________________________________________________________ City__________________________________ State_______Zip____________
Gift In Honor Of: Name_____________________________________ Amount $ _____________
Gift In Memory Of: Name_____________________________________ Amount $ _____________ The occasion of my gift is __________________________________________
Please send notification of my gift to: Name___________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________ City__________________________________ State_______Zip____________
Return Coupon To: Dr. Jim Taylor, 6191 College Station Drive, Williamsburg, KY 40769
How will your Tribute Gift help? Your gift will provide a lasting legacy for our needy students as it is used to help provide scholarship and workship assistance, books and supplies, food and housing, and many other supportive services. Listings reflect the Tribute Gifts received September 1, 2010 through February 22, 2011. In preparing this list, every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and completeness. If a mistake was made in the way you are identified, or if your name was omitted, we apologize. You can help set the record straight. Please notify the President’s Office regarding any changes in the way your gift should be recorded in future reports. Thank You. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 39
In Memory Of In Memory Of: Mrs. Ellen Bianco Given By: Mr. W. F. Bianco In Memory Of: Sgt. Kenneth W. Clarke, Son Given By: Mrs. Gwendolyn T. Clarke Perritt In Memory Of: Lt. Col. Theodore W. Clarke, Husband Given By: Mrs. Gwendolyn T. Clarke Perritt In Memory Of: H. Thomas Collins Given By: Mr. & Mrs. Charles C. Arredia Ms. Nancy E. Brookshire Mr. Peter Walbridge Brown Ms. Debbie Caldwell Mr. & Mrs. Harmon R. Collins Mr. Michael L. Craig Ms. Mary Lou Fox Ms. Roberta L. Hawkins Mr. & Mrs. Christopher J. Hensien Mr. & Mrs. L. A. Isaac Mr. Joseph C. Jarvis Ms. Katherine B. Jones Ms. Deborah T. Knight Ms. Patricia D. Levey Ms. Amy A. Marsalis Mr. Robin Baither Miller Mr. Barry Nistel Ms. Mary Beth Schoen Ms. Norm & June Shapiro Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Smith Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Staley Mr. David P. Thomas Ms. Martha G. Wheeler
Dr. & Mrs. Jim Taylor Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Carl Lee Wilder In Memory Of: William H. Jacoway Given By: USMA Class of 1961 In Memory Of: Joe F. Jones Given By: Ms. Judith Ann PenningtonPrice In Memory Of: Professor P. R. Jones Given By: Mr. Bernard Moore In Memory Of: Mr. & Mrs. Jack & Angela Keyes Given By: Mr. Ronald J. Keyes In Memory Of: Ora Manning, Jr. Given By: Dr. & Mrs. John David Broome Ms. Judith Ann Pennington-Price In Memory Of: Annie Moore Given By: Ms. Kyla E. Fitz-Gerald In Memory Of: Nate Pilant Given By: Dr. & Mrs. Waler Blaine Early, III In Memory Of: James H. Taylor, II Given By: Mrs. Alice Bowling Dr. & Mrs. Michael Colegrove Mr. & Mrs. Charles Mayer Dupier, Jr. Mrs. Claudia Kay Manning Ms. Sherry E. Roaden Dr. & Mrs. Eric L. Wake In Memory Of: Therman Taylor Given By: Mrs. June Taylor
In Memory Of: Esther Compton Given By: Dr. C. Sue Phelps
In Memory Of: Jack Trickett Given By: Dr. & Mrs. John David Broome
In Memory Of: Professor Lloyd Creech Given By: Mrs. Virginia O. Linkenhoker
In Memory Of: Gwendolyn Whitaker Given By: Hillcrest Baptist Church Youth Group & Paul & Marshal
In Memory Of: Donald Reid Ellison Given By: Ms. Leona M. Begley Mr. & Mrs. Harry V. Benjamin Mr. & Mrs. Darren Blaine Bryant Mr. & Mrs. John H. Bullard Mrs. Mary M. Collins Kid’s Market & MOM Mr. & Mrs. Clayton A. King Mr. & Mrs. Richard A. McKinney Mr. Steven D. Payne 40 • CumberlandToday • Winter 2011
In Honor Of In Honor Of: Cora Elizabeth Sweet “Libby” Atkinson Given By: Mr. & Mrs. R. William Wedeking In Honor Of: Howard Atkinson Given By: Mr. & Mrs. William Wedeking
In Honor Of: Linda Carter Given By: Ms. Pearlie L. Wingeier In Honor Of: Josephine Cochran Given By: Mrs. Joanne C. Huddleston In Honor Of: Naomi Harp Given By: Chaplain Major & Mrs. Kenneth Earl Harp In Honor Of: Dr. Ray Lipps Given By: Dr. & Mrs. John Robert Heneisen Mr. Jim Hart Mrs. Elaine Lipps Mr. Ralph Lipps Mr. Ralph E. Lynch Mr. Ed Mee In Honor Of: Dr. Jerry Lowrie Given By: Petrey Memorial Baptist Church In Honor Of: Jim & Dinah Taylor Given By: Dr. & Mrs. Michael Colegrove Occasion: Birthdays
FPO “It’s Not Easy Being Green.” So, we need your help.
Provide us with your email address, and we will send you Cumberland Today electronically. Not only will we save thousands of trees by reducing the number of printed magazines we produce but we will also reduce the amount of ink used and prevent many pounds of paper from ending up in landfills. On top of that—we will save money for printing and postage that can be put to better use providing outstanding learning opportunities for Cumberlands’ future alumni! Please visit us at www.ucumberlands.edu/alumni/update and update your contact information. You can let us know what’s been going on in your life—and you can send us your email address. With your help, it will be easier to be “green” here at Cumberlands.
Where are they now? Dr. George G. Ramey
V.P. Business Services, Retired
As many of you alumni are aware, I retired in August 2003, after 35 years as a professor of religion and as a college administrator. Whenever I meet alumni, you frequently ask four questions. I. “ARE YOU ENJOYING RETIREMENT YET?” The answer is “YES.” Each stage of my life has been enjoyable and fun-filled. God has been gracious to my family beyond any dreams of earlier years. Retirement years have been a time of thought and reflection. I have been able to enjoy each moment that God has permitted me to live. My health has remained good so that I have been able to do what I wish to do whenever I wish. Retirement is good! II. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR TIME?” My favorite pastime has been traveling. As many of you will remember, my wife, Patricia, was an elementary math and science teacher. During our travels she constantly teaches me the wonders of nature. I am often speechless when I see the oceans, the deserts, and the mountains. God has made a wonderful world to live in. Dr. George Ramey with wife Patricia Patricia and I have participated in Baptist meetings in Kentucky and around the world; attended Photo submitted national and international meetings of archaeologists and biblical scholars; and participated in two Katrina repair weeks. There have been many opportunities to serve through the church and community organizations. Retirement years at Cumberlands are enjoyable because of all the activities at the University. There are concerts, lectures, dramas and athletic events. There is never a dull moment. III. “WHAT WERE THE CHANGES YOU OBSERVED WHILE AT CUMBERLAND?” Whenever I stop and review those years at University of the Cumberlands (Cumberland College), I remember the many changes through the years. A. STUDENTS AND FACULTY: In 1968, the college had come through the growth cycle of the 1960’s when Cumberland changed from a junior to a senior college. If the 1960’s were the “childhood years, the 1970’s and 1980’s were the teenage years. The decades of the 1990’s and 2000’s were a time of growing into adulthood. The enrollment of on-campus, full-time, day students has not changed in a significant number. There are now graduate students in various programs and on-line students who seldom visit the campus. B. CAMPUS: The appearance of the college campus has changed radically. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in these campus improvements. In 1968, the chemistry wing of the Science Building opened. Today that building has doubled in size. The campus I visited in 1968 had nine major buildings and many temporary structures. My office was in a small frame house. Today, the viaduct has been restored; the five pre-World War I buildings have been renovated;the old city school property renovated and many new permanent structures added. The changes in the appearance of the campus are unbelievable C. ACADEMICS: A professor is pleased when his or her students graduate and are successful in life. I will always remember the superior students who have been successful after graduation, and the students who struggled to survive. There has been an increasing number who have gone on to graduate or enter professional schools. There are so many school teachers, medical doctors, dentists, lawyers, pastors who share the Cumberland story through their lives in many communities around Williamsburg. Several ROTC graduates have served our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan. D. TECHNOLOGY: The changes in technology have come so fast that the faculty scrambles to keep up with the advances. The students are able to find their niche much more easily. With easy access to information by the internet, students develop learning skills faster. Hopefully, the greater amount of information will enable them to make wise choices. During the 1980’s, every student residence was wired with television cable, phone cable, and computer cable. Today that wiring is becoming outdated because of wireless technology. E. COMMUNITY SERVICE: The students and faculty have always had a desire to serve others in addition to academic achievement. The Baptist Campus Ministries (BCM, formerly Baptist Student Union) has provided spiritual nourishment to students and is constantly changing its programs to meet student needs. Over thirty years ago the Appalachian Ministry (originally Love in Action) program was organized by students. A few years later two students began the Mountain Outreach program. The University was one of the first educational institutions to require community service. IV. “WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE OF CUMBERLAND?” The future is bright! We have only just begun. I believe that I have had a small part in the making of Cumberlands. There is much more ahead. Winter 2011 • CumberlandToday • 41
UNIVERSITY of the CUMBERLANDS Office of Alumni Services 7075 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769
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Mike Huckabee “Leadership in a Free and Strong America” April 5, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. O. Wayne Rollins Center Williamsburg, Kentucky Mike Huckabee was governor of Arkansas, 1996-2007, and declared his intention to run on the Republican ticket for the Presidency of the United States in 2007. While gaining much national attention and support, he did not obtain the nomination. He now has his own talk show on Fox News Channel.
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