UMHB Life - Winter 2020

U M H B C E L E B R AT E S 175T H A N N I V E R S A R Y

B I G P I C T U R E |St u d e n t s t a ke a break from studying for finals to g ra b s o m e g r u b at t h e f r e e p a n c a ke s up p e r.

UMHBLIFE W I N T E R 2 02 0 | V O L U M E 4 0, N U M B ER 2 PRESIDENT Randy O’Rear, Ed.D. EDITOR-IN- CHIEF Paula Price Tanner, Ed.D. EDITOR Christi Mays GR APHIC DESIGNER Lauren Mendias PHOTOGR APHERS Blair Dupre ’18 Steven Neaves Randy Yandell ’99 CONTRIBUTOR James Stafford UMHB LIFE IS PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A YEAR BY THE DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS. UMHB Box 8431 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513 1-800-727-UMHB life.umhb.edu

Letters and comments can be sent to: umhblife@umhb.edu

Please send any change of personal information to: Alumni Relations UMHB Box 8427 900 College Street 2 UMHB Belton, Texas 76513LIFE

Or update online: alumni.umhb.edu alumni@umhb.edu

UMHBLIFE W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 | VOLUME 4 0, NUMBER 2

D E P A R T M E N T S

4 | C A M P US L I F E Two honorary alumni named at this year’s Homecoming game.

7 | AT H L E T I C L I F E Cru football finishes season with quaterfinal loss.

24 | A LU M N I L I F E After growing up at a children’s home, David Gillian ‘11 returns to work there as director of development.

F E A T U R E S N O B O N ES A B O U T I T |8 New Master of Science in Occupational Therapy launches this spring.

175 T H I N GS W E LOV E A B O U T U M H B |12 In celebration of our 175 years, we feature 175 people, places, and things we love about UMHB.

O N T H E COV E R | U M H B m a r k s 175 y e a r s o f p r ov i d i n g excellence in Christian higher education with a series of special events for alumni, students, and f r i e n d s o f t h e u n i v e r s i t y. F o r d e t a i l s , v i s i t u m h b.e d u / 175

Photo by Blair Dupre '18

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SPRING 2020 CALENDAR 17 OF EVENTS COLLEGE OF VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

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FEBRUARY

Every Moment Holy Feb. 4, 3:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

JANUARY The Beautiful Jan. 13 - Feb. 7 Reception Jan. 13, 5 PM Art Gallery, Baugh Center for the Visual Arts What is Beauty?

Jan. 21, 4:00 PM Baugh Performance Hall Penny Hogan, soprano & Michelle Schumann, piano Jan. 21, 7:30 PM Fikes Chamber Hall Heather Sorenson, composer Jan. 25, 4:00 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Andrew Peterson Feb. 4, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall Wind Ensemble Feb. 11, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall Paintings by S. Chuck McCarter Feb. 17 - March 6 Reception Feb. 17, 5 PM Art Gallery, Baugh Center for the Visual Arts One Voice Feb. 20 & 21, 7:30 PM Fikes Chamber Hall David Hill, ceramicist Feb. 25, 3:30 PM Fikes Chamber Hall Jazz Ensemble Feb. 28, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

MARCH

Sunil Gadgil, saxophone & Michelle Schumann, piano March 3, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall Michelle Sakhai, visual artist March 17, 4:00 PM Baugh Performance Hall Annual Student Art Competition March 19 - April 8 Awards Presentation March 19, 5:00 PM Art Gallery, Baugh Center for the Visual Arts

APRIL

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Chamber Ensembles April 7, 7:30 PM Fikes Chamber Hall Carousel April 17 & 18, 7:30 PM April 19, 2:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Ticket required: $25 Adult $10 Child & Senior free with CruCard

Senior Art Exhibit April 16 - May 9 Art Gallery, Baugh Center for the Visual Arts

The StepCrew March 24, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Wind Ensemble & Percussion Ensemble April 21, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Concert Choir & Women’s Chorus March 27, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Song & Jazz April 28, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

Attacca String Quartet March 31, 7:30 PM Baugh Performance Hall

TICKETS & INFORMATION

umhb.edu/arts

Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center TICKET OFFICE: 254-295-5999

Ticket Office hours: 12:00 - 4:00 PM Monday through Friday and one hour prior to events.

UMHB NEWS

Students recognized with Christian leadership award

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ach year, two seniors who devote extraordinary time and energy to ministry and community service are recognized with the Gary and Diane Heavin Servant Leadership Award.

This year’s recipients are Gabby Shbeir of Cypress and Sam Bentz of San Antonio.

The award included a $1,000 cash award for each student, a portion of which could be donated to an organization of the recipient’s choice.

Shbeir is a marketing major with a 3.9 grade point average. Each spring break while at UMHB, she has led mission teams to Costa Rica. She is a leader in an after-school ministry in Temple and a college leader at First Baptist Church Temple. She helped lead the Big Event at UMHB and served

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on the executive committee. She also helped charter the UMHB Enactus chapter.

She chose to donate half of her money to the Envia Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works with under-resourced churches in Costa Rica who serve communities in need for the transformation of lives by connecting people and resources.

Bentz is an international business and accounting major with a 4.0 GPA. He is involved in the First Baptist Church Temple college ministry team, is a Mission Emphasis Week codirector, a Baptist Student Ministry lead team member, vice president of the Institute of Management Accountants chapter, and a member of McLane College of Business Student Advisory Board. During his years at

UMHB, he also studied abroad in Ecuador, Lithuania, and North Africa.

Bentz chose to give half of his money to Cafe 1040, an organization which helps mobilize Christian college students to spread the gospel to 3.1 billion people who have little-to-no access to the story of Jesus.

The Gary and Diane Heavin Servant Leadership Award is used to highlight the efforts of students who devote their time and talents to Christian service and to encourage other students to follow their examples. The award is named for Mr. and Mrs. Gary Heavin, who established a generous endowment at UMHB to fund this recognition annually.

Pictured above, recipients of the Gary and Diane Heavin Servant Leadership Award, Gabby Shbeir and Sam Bentz.

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Weekend reunites alumni with fun events Over a thousand alumni and their families reunited on campus for fun activities, traditions, and special events Oct. 25-26 in celebration of Homecoming 2019.

The weekend included traditional activities like special reunions, When I Was Here Lunch, Carnival on King Street, Stunt Night, the pep rally, and Alumni Tailgate. The top-ranked UMHB football team edged out HardinSimmons 15-14 with a winning field goal during the last seconds of the game.

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Two named as Honorary Alumni

Top row, center, Laura ’02 and Oscar ‘00 Bersoza with their kids and their nephew, current freshman Collin Elkins. Right, Alumni Board President Justin Gaidusek ’04 (left) and Director of Alumni Relations and Museum Jeff Sutton ’07 (right) present the 2019 honorary alumni, Janice Torgeson and Randy Mann.

Second row, center, Homecoming Queen and King Emma Spellings and Kristopher Hurst. Right, current students Olivia Marchand and Kaysie Sparks.

Third row, left, Becky Bradley ‘63, Janice Hancock Houston ’60, and Shirley Sommer ’60 at the When I Was Here lunch. Right, members of the College of Education Reunion.

Bottom row, left, Dr. Jodi Pilgrim, Shelby Russell ’19, and Dr. Jody Trotti at the College of Education Reunion. Shelby served as an alumni presenter.

The UMHB Alumni Association named Janice Torgeson and Randy Mann as honorary alumni during this year’s halftime show.

The award is given to individuals who, although not graduates of the university, exhibit love and loyalty to the school as if it was their own alma mater. The award also brings membership in the alumni association, as well as all the privileges that come from being a Crusader Forever.

Jeff Sutton, director of alumni relations and museum, said there couldn’t be two more deserving recipients.

“Janice loves this university, and you can see it in her steadfast loyalty to the vision and mission of UMHB and in her dedicated service to the people on this campus,” Sutton said. He describes her as a “CRU sports superfan and a tireless encourager.”

Mann, who is vice president for athletics, has been a champion for UMHB for more than three decades.

“During his time here, Coach Mann has invested in thousands of student athletes and has equipped them with the skills and pride that come from being a Crusader,” Sutton said. “His love and loyalty for this school and its students is seen in the way he leads.”

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A far cry from humble beginnings UMHB opens new Soccer and Tennis Field House Barry Elkins remembers playing soccer at UMHB in the mid-90s—long before the team had the new $3.5 million Soccer and Tennis Field House, which opened this October.

“Sometimes, we were able to change in the men’s basketball locker room in the old gym, but that was about the closest thing we came to having a place to get ready,” he said.

“Most of the time, we just showed up to the field already dressed.”

Now, as head coach of women’s soccer for the last eight seasons, Elkins is proud of the new space the soccer and tennis teams have to call home.

For the first time in program history, the teams have a dedicated space to watch film together, get dressed for practice and games, and have pep talks and devotionals before stepping

out on the field or court.

“This new field house has accentuated our team chemistry because it gives us a place to be together,” Elkins said. “It’s literally changed everything about how our program operates. We’re overjoyed that we have this new state-of-the-art facility.”

The new 9,763-square-foot field house is located between the soccer fields and tennis courts. It houses more than a hundred lockers for UMHB student-athletes and coaches, as well

as another 50 lockers for visiting teams and officials. It has a state-of-the-art training room, laundry facilities, a multipurpose room, and three family restrooms.

As part of the #BETHEADVANTAGE campaign, former players and friends of the university donated close to $400,000 toward the cost of the building.

Brad Bankhead, head coach of the men’s soccer team, shows visitors the new soccer and tennis field house during the grand opening October 12.

Military Appreciation Day This year’s Military Appreciation Day football game was held Nov. 9. The annual event featured several tributes to members of the American military, including a special mass re-enlistment and enlistment ceremony in which dozens of soldiers renewed their commitment to the Army. Veterans and soldiers, along with their families, were given free admission to the game, as well as free hot dogs and drinks. Pictured here, UMHB President Dr. Randy O’Rear receives a commemorative football from COL Patrick A. Disney, commander of the 1st Cavalry Division Sustainment Brigade “Wagonmasters,” and CSM Janet Thomas, brigade command sergeant major.

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Quarterfinal loss ends Cru football season The 2019 UMHB football team saw its bid for a fourth consecutive trip to the Stagg Bowl and a third National Championship in the last four years end with a 26-7 loss to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III National Championships. That defeat also snapped the program’s 27-game winning streak, dating back to the 2017 Stagg Bowl.

The Cru went into the 2019 season ranked No. 1 in the country and as the favorite to win another American Southwest Conference championship.

The team clinched the ASC championship and capped another undefeated regular season with an easy 77-14 victory over Sul Ross State University, making UMHB the ASC champion for the 15th straight year.

In the first round of the 2019 NCAA Division III National Championships, UMHB posted a 43-14 victory over the University of Redlands, and cruised to a 42-6 win over Huntingdon College in the second round.

The Crusaders finished the season 12-1. The loss was just the third defeat at Crusader Stadium for UMHB in seven seasons in the facility, all of them coming in the postseason and two of them at the hands of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

The Cru football senior class finished with a four-year record of 56-2, and the team was knocked out of the playoffs before the semifinals for the first time since 2015. It was the team’s 13th time in program history to advance to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III National Championships.

This year’s team placed nine players on the D3football.com All-South Region Team. Six of those players earned First-Team honors. Anthony Avila and DoRion Dreighton claimed spots on the All-South Region First Team offense. Joey Longoria, Tevin Jones, Jefferson Fritz, and Keith Gipson were named to the First-Team All-Region defense. Jonel Reed and Steven Sellers were both named to the Second-Team All-Region offense, and Elijah Cross earned a spot on the Second-Team All-Region defense.

Sellers was also named to the College Sports Information Directors of America Division III Academic All-America First Team. The Cru added 18 All-Conference honors, with Avila, Jones, Sellers and Longoria taking ASC Player of the Year honors on top of the All-Conference recognition.

ATHLETIC L I F E

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NEW OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PROGRAM GIVES STUDENTS HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE.

BY CHRISTI MAYS

une 21, 2014, started out just like any ordinary summer day. Tyler Twardowski was enjoying an afternoon on the lake fishing with family when his life was changed forever. The boat he was riding in lost traction, and the 17-year-old was thrown overboard into the propeller. The accident left him with a partial right hand, cuts on his face, and a large chunk of muscle missing on his left arm.

Now, 23 years old, Tyler says he believes he survived the accident for a reason—to help others. Occupational therapists helped him through two and a half years of relearning how to write, eat, and throw a ball after his accident, and Tyler hopes to one day help others do the same. He was one of the first students accepted into the new Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at UMHB that launched this January. He said it feels like his life is coming full circle— from being the patient to learning how to help the patient.

“Since I had to go through all this therapy, I thought, ‘who better to sit across from someone else who has to go through it?’ I can understand the patient because I used to be one,” he said.

The MSOT program is a full-time, 30-month program that teaches occupational therapy students how to address occupational performance deficits due to motor, cognitive, sensory, and psychosocial challenges in patients (or in layman’s terms, how to engage in everyday activities like getting dressed, cooking, and driving). The program’s curriculum is very hands-on in nature, thanks to multiple laboratories, clinical areas, and community-based opportunities. The OT department, which is located inside a new 15,000-square-foot expansion at Hardy Hall, features cutting-edge technology, including a virtual anatomy table that offers a three-dimensional view of a body dissection.

“It’s as if a real cadaver was right there; we don’t have to go to a cadaver lab,” said Dr. Giulianne “Giuli” Krug, who is the founding director of the OT program. “Having this in the classroom allows us to integrate the anatomy piece right into all the courses we’re teaching, and we can bring the images up over and over again throughout the curriculum.”

Another unusual feature in the Hardy Hall expansion is a state-of-the-art driving simulator. Thanks to an $80,000 grant from the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, the simulator teaches students how to evaluate the cognitive and physical skills necessary for driving and how to help patients attain or regain those abilities, whether they have had an accident, stroke, surgery, or any other condition that makes driving difficult.

“We’re really fortunate to have this technology, which is cost-prohibitive for most universities,” Krug said. “We’ve been blessed by the generosity of the Carpenter Foundation and the university’s dedication to providing what’s best for our students.”

Other rooms in the Hardy Hall addition support equally interesting activities. A large second-floor classroom can be used for lectures or quickly converted to a pediatric therapy lab, complete with a swing, a treatment mirror, and a large climbing wall. Another large classroom on the first floor includes an “activities of daily living lab” a functioning apartment with a full-sized kitchen and laundry center. It features various flooring surfaces to help train students on how to teach patients Tyler Twardowski and Ada Bowers, new students in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program, watch Assistant Professor Erik Johnson demonstrate how to use the new virtual anatomy table.

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how to safely navigate changing surfaces.

Also located downstairs is the Hardy Depot, a grab-and-go convenience store and Moe’s Southwest Grill, a restaurant with a commercial kitchen. The OT department is using these spaces for the Cru Work Skills Program as they work with community partners to help people with disabilities receive the additional training they need to enter the workforce.

STUDENT-FOCUSED PROGRAM Krug is excited about the OT faculty team assembled to lead the first cohort this spring. They include Amy Boyd, assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator; Erik Johnson, assistant professor; and Dr. Amanda Frias, assistant professor.

Additional professors will be added as the program grows.

Frias, who earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology at

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UMHB, is thrilled to be back here teaching in the new OT program.

“It’s been exciting having a hand in developing these amazing programs,” she said. “I love being able to contribute to the culture and value of this program. That just isn’t possible in established programs.” Because the class size is smaller than the average for occupational therapy programs, she said, each student can get the attention and mentorship needed. “Ultimately, it is about building those relationships and providing exceptional educational opportunities for our students,” she said.

The program is also designed to allow students time to balance life outside of the classroom and to serve in their community. Unlike many occupational therapy programs that stack their curriculum with 18 to 20 semester hours, Krug is intentionally limiting the number of hours to no more than 14 per semester. Students in other OT programs may graduate in two

Facing page: Dr. Amanda Frias (standing, right) tells student Ada Bowers how to access the results of their client’s driving simulation. This page: Eric Johnson and student Tyler Twardowski show their client how an assistive device can enable him to cut his food with one hand.

years, but the UMHB program is intentionally designed to take two and a half.

“We’re very cognizant of the mental health crisis of college students in our country and the lack of work-life balance that the compressed and accelerated programs are creating,” Krug said.

“It’s not for all students, but our aim is to have a program where our students can engage 100-percent in their education but also have time to feed their spiritual life and be with their families and do their leisure activities. All of those things are important to quality of life. That tends to get lost in a lot of other health profession programs.”

Another point of distinction that sets the UMHB program apart from other OT masters-level programs is that instead of requiring all students to complete a research project, the program allows students to choose from three options: a research project, program development, or product development.

“Students who are not that interested in research, but want to be excellent clinicians, can do their integrative project in an area where they may want to direct their practice,” Krug explained.

“Maybe they’ll develop a program for kids with autism or for adults with brain injuries. Or maybe they’ll decide to do a product development—design something for people who don’t have good use of their arms or need help to pull up their pants, for example.”

During the interview process last summer, the incoming students were excited about these options, she said.

“They seem to be drawn to the way we think about teaching and really helping students be engaged in their education instead expecting them to be passive recipients of knowledge,” she said.

Another key component of the new program is the new interdisciplinary and free-of-charge Cru Community Clinic that opened this semester in the former Baptist Student Ministries building. Not only does the clinic give students real-world experience, but it also helps support the community in giving underserved and under-insured individuals free access to therapy services. The clinic offers counseling, occupational therapy, and physical therapy services.

“We can provide OT and PT services to the person with a stroke, and counseling services to the spouse, who may be burned out, or the patient who is depressed,” she said. “It’s a one-stop shop for those who don’t have the ability to access services elsewhere.”

On a quest to make the OT program a state leader in health science, Krug says five years from now she envisions this program providing not only the best OT education in the state of Texas but also offering additional services to people in the community.

“I see us doing innovative projects that also make a difference to the people who can benefit from OT services,” she said. “I see us at national conferences with students doing presentations.

Students need to learn from the beginning how important that is. I don’t want our students to be complacent; I want them to always be seeking new things that will help their patients get better and better.”

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his year marks the 175th anniversary of the signing of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s charter in 1845. In celebration of 175 years of rich and exciting history, here is a collection of 175 things to cherish about this university.

Explore these 175 people, places, and things in depth when you visit the Musick Alumni Center and Museum at the Parker House. The interactive display will be on display throughout 2020.

“sense of community.”

It is the No. 1 thing they love about this campus.

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Ask students or alumni what they love most about UMHB, and time and time again you will hear them say, the

A sense of belonging… a sense of being home… a sense of finding others with common interests, while having the space and freedom to still be yourself. It’s about finding a place so unique but familiar and comfortable at the same time.

It’s about feeling supported and loved. Finding purpose. Becoming integrated in something important.

Making lifelong friends and memories to last a lifetime.

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“Crusader for life!”

Students

The students are why we are here! The typical student is described as “full of positive energy, has a servant’s heart, and is always willing to encourage his or her peers.”

They love hanging out with friends, getting involved around campus, and being known as “Crusaders for life!”

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Lifelong Friendships

Baptist Heritage

College isn’t only about learning and preparing for future careers; it’s about meeting new people, some of whom become lifelong friends, bridesmaids, groomsmen, godparents, and more.

UMHB has a long and cherished history of men and women who worked together to create a Baptist university before Texas was even a state.

Little did they know that 175 years later their vision would grow into the successful 3,846-student university it is today. UMHB’s mission is still laser-focused on that Baptist heritage of preparing students for leadership, service, and faith-informed discernment in a global society.

Dedicated Faculty Our faculty has a 175-year history of investing in our students, going above and beyond, and genuinely working for their students’ success.

-1866Baylor Female College -1925Baylor College for Women -1934Mary Hardin-Baylor College -1978University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

Judge R.E.B. Baylor From writing our original charter to helping write the first constitution of the state of Texas, Judge Baylor was an essential part of the founding of Baylor in Independence.

In addition to teaching law at the university, he also gave the first $1,000 gift and was on the Board of Trustees.

Gen. Sam Houston

Independence, TX

Gen. Sam Houston was generous in his gifts to the university while it was in Independence. It is believed that all eight of his children were educated there. Two of his daughters helped start the first newspaper for the college.

Independence was a small town located in Washington County near Brenham.

Between Houston and Austin, the town was a prime spot for the college’s first location in 1845. Four areas were considered for the first location of the college. Independence won over Travis, Huntsville, and Grimes Prairie.

Service

The Gates and Arch

Our Location

Giving back and helping out are important to UMHB students.

Each year, hundreds of them participate in the Big Event, formerly known as Reaching Out. Students come together and spend a day doing needed tasks at churches and other service organizations throughout Central Texas.

The pillars and gates near the front of the Belton campus used to support the arch that is now located near Moore Avenue.

The pillars were given by the Art and Expression Class of 1902, and the lacy ironwork gates were given by the Class of 1903.

BELTON WAS AN IDEAL SPOT TO BUILD A COLLEGE

The beautiful hand-forged iron gates were made in 1903

by Robert Naismith, a Scottish-born, long-time Belton blacksmith. The classes gave gifts to beautify the campus after a protest was made that the effects of cattle grazing on the property were making it look, well, ugly.

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-1845Baylor University Female Department

..

The school has had five names over the years:

in 1886, not because of its highway access, but its proximity to the railroad. For generations, ladies arrived in Belton and Temple by train to start their time at Mary Hardin-Baylor.

The University Seal

Alma Mater

The first mention of a university seal is in the charter revision signed on November 18, 1886, that read: “Section 11: The seal used by this corporation shall contain a star in the center surrounded by the words ‘Baylor Female College.’”

In February 1994, the current Alma Mater was sung for the first time. The lyrics were written by students Kori Whatley ‘ 94 and Heath Peloquin ‘ 96, and the music by graduates John Hollan ‘ 89 and Todd Blackhurst ‘ 90.

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BEALL HALL • BURT HALL • COLLEGE VIEW • FARRIS HALL • GARNER HALL Ely-Pepper Hall

Residence Life

J. H. Pepper made a gift of $10,000 in memory of his wife, Rosanna Pepper, which resulted in the construction of the first brick and mortar building for the Cottage Home girls in 1905.

In the 1960s, this building was converted to classroom and office space. Although it was eventually torn down, the floor plan was almost identical to that of Stribling Hall.

When students choose a college, they are choosing much more than just a place to learn. For many, it’s their “home” for at least the next four years.

Home Economics House The last two frame buildings on campus were removed in the 1987-88 school year. The little white Home Economics house had been a place for Home Economics majors to live for a semester and “play house.” They had to plan meals, budget, entertain and manage the household, all while being monitored and tested by a live-in faculty member.

The Campus Boys

Alma Reeves

Before becoming officially co-educational in 1971, males attended Mary Hardin-Baylor as “Campus Boys” who could take classes but not graduate. In exchange for tuition the male students worked on campus.

Alma Reeves Chapel was a part of the Wilson Administration Building. Events like Stunt Night and the Bluebonnet Pageant were held there until it burned down in 1964, but the traditions that started there continue to this day!

The Shack

The Dairy

Campus Boys did work that was deemed unsuitable for the young ladies. They maintained the grounds, unloaded coal from rail cars, milked cows, fed hogs, served as night watchmen, and unstopped drains. They lived on the second floor of a carpenter shop in quarters dubbed "The Shack."

Campus Boys ran the dairy which was established on campus in 1891. At one time, the college made its own ice cream. Apparently, students had it so often that they got tired of it and tried variations of the treat with coffee and peanut butter.

Missions Each year, students hold Missions Emphasis Week to meet missionaries and learn from their experiences, and many students go onto serve in missions around the world.

Chapel Services Since the chartering of the university, mandatory chapel has been held on campus.

Originally, these services were held daily, but today students attend once a week.

Revival

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A student-planned week-long revival has been held annually on UMHB’s campus for more than 20 years.

Fannie Breedlove Davis

Fannie Breedlove Davis was a student and teacher at Baylor in Independence.

She organized the Texas Women’s Missionary Union and helped send the first female missionary to South America.

• GETTYS HALL • HUCKINS QUADRANGLE • JOHNSON HALL • REMSCHEL HALL • STRIBLING HALL Independence Village

Lord Hall

McLane Hall

The Cottage Home Girls

Independence Village is a group of apartments and dormitories: Tyson Hall, James Hall, Grover Hall, Hobby Hall, Ferguson Hall, Provence Hall, Taylor Hall, Tryon Hall, Wilson Hall, and Shannon Commons all share space in the complex.

Lord Hall was completed in 2018 and houses 214 residents. This facility includes a large central lobby, study rooms, and a large common area on the 3rd floor equipped with a kitchen.

McLane Hall was the first dorm built on campus specifically for men. Previous to this, Johnson and Gettys Halls provided men’s housing.

It was completed in the 199091 school year, 20 years after the university became co-ed.

Girls who entered college under the first work-study program for women in Texas had 6 hours of work, 7 days a week in exchange for their room, meals, laundry, medical fee, and tuition.

W. W. Walton Chapel W.W. Walton Chapel was built in 1967 following the fire which destroyed the Wilson Administration Building and Alma Reeves Chapel in 1964.

Baptist Student Ministry

Baylor Female College established the very first student-led Baptist Student Ministry (originally the Baptist Student Union) in the nation in 1920.

Christ in the Garden Statue

Designed by Dan Pogue, the statue was dedicated in 2002 in memory and honor of all who have served Christ on campus.

“I pray that God will hear our prayres and save our Baylor.”

—Mrs. E J Gregary, 1934

Prayers

Over the years as the college has faced both hardships and victories, the response of its alumni, staff, and faculty has overwhelmingly included the discipline of prayer. Letters flowed back and forth in early years from leadership as well as alumni, filled with prayer and requests for prayer.

Spiritual Growth

In the early 1900s, campus-wide prayer meetings were led every evening by students. Today, Bible studies, discipleship programs, mentors, and friends spur students, faculty, and staff alike to dig deeper, love better, and live a life fully submitted to Christ.

Bobby Socks Rebellion

After staging a protest against wearing silk hosiery (which were easily snagged on wooden chairs), students were allowed to wear bobby socks beginning in the fall of 1938.

Elli Moore Townsend Elli Moore Townsend was an alumna, teacher, and tireless fundraiser for Baylor Female College. She started the work-study program for women at Baylor Female College in 1893—the second in the nation and the first in Texas.

Eleanor James Of all the stories written about Mary Hardin-Baylor, the most popular account is Eleanor James’ book, Forth From Her Portals, which covers aspects of the college’s first 100 years.

Bawcom Student Union offers residential dining, a campus store, recreation and gathering spaces, and the McLane Great Hall, which seats up to 700 for lectures and meals.

Chick-Fil-A

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Chick-fil-A opened its Belton restaurant at UMHB in fall 2013, finally giving Crusaders the eatery they’ve requested for years.

Coffee Houses / Starbucks UMHB’s first coffee house opened in the 1960s in a stuffy, small basement room in Burt Hall, called the “Argus-Eyed Zarf.” Other coffee houses and student hangouts have come and gone since then, but today the Starbucks counter in Bawcom Student Union offers the brew of choice for students.

The Presidents’ Homes A number of presidents’ homes have served our leaders well on campus over the years, including this two-story colonial, built in 1908. In 1920 when Wells Science Hall was built, the house was moved to form the nucleus of the college infirmary.

J.W. Williams J.W. Williams was a beloved maintenance supervisor at the college for 34 years.

He was honored in 1980 when they named the J.W. Williams Maintenance Center after him.

The complex was dedicated in 1978 in honor of Nellie Ruth and T.E. Sanderford. Nellie Ruth was a graduate of MHB and served as president of the alumni association.

Wilson Administrative Complex Completed in 1908, this beautiful building was made possible by a gift from Mr. and Mrs. William Reeves, given in honor of their daughter, Alma Reeves Langham. Both Mrs. Reeves and Alma were Baylor Female College students.

Shelton Theater

Once located at the corner of 9th Avenue and King Street beside the Mabee Student Center, the Lucile Capt Amphitheater hosted a multitude of programs.

No one from the 1970s to the 2000s can forget the memories associated with Shelton Theater in the Mabee Student Union—from movie screenings, to formal dinners, to spontaneous Bible studies.

Campus Store The Campus Store in Bawcom Student Union has all the latest UMHB swag, textbooks, and gift items like coffee mugs, bags, blankets, and spirit merchandise.

The Post Office

Amphitheater

FIRSTS

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Bawcom Student Union and McLane Great Hall

Sanderford Administrative Complex

UMHB has a proud history of many “firsts.” Here are just a few of those great moments.

Hoping for a letter or package from home, years ago, girls would congregate at the post office.

Frank & Sue Mayborn Campus Center Originally built in 1957, the Mayborn Campus Center quickly became the hub for student fun and fitness.

Townsend Memorial Library Dedicated in 1962, the library today includes a digital collections area that is a growing resource for students.

The Train Depot

Belton had two train stations: one with the M K & T, whose depot was located one block from the courthouse, and one with the Santa Fe Railroad, which had a depot next to the campus. Young women could travel unchaperoned on trains and be met in Belton and Temple by representatives of the college.

Anne Luther Bagby In 1879 graduate and daughter of President John Hill Luther, Anne became the first woman missionary to Brazil when she and her husband became southern Baptist missionaries to South America in 1881.

Charter Day

Dubbing

Homecoming

Stunt Night

The official university charter was signed

In the spring of 1995, students requested a ceremony to create closer emotional ties to the university. Subsequently, a “dubbing ceremony” became a part of Welcome Week. Each fall, new students are “dubbed” with swords by university administrators who declare them “Crusaders Forever.”

The first Homecoming was held in 1909 for alumnae.

In 1909, George Rosborough, the college’s first athletic director, initiated Stunt Night as a way to help homesick students. This night was about school spirit and pride. Today, this tradition is held in the fall as part of Homecoming.

February 1, 1845.

Circle of Songs Traditionally at Charter Celebration weekend, a group of alumni take time to sing tunes such as “Slinga Da Ink,” and “Old Baylor, Dear Baylor.”

Traditions

Miss Bluebonnet / Miss MHB The pageant was originally a beauty contest and was judged by mailing pictures of the contestants to various celebrities who ranked the girls and sent them back.

Today, pageant contestants represent campus organizations, and judges evaluate their self-confidence, personality, and inner beauty.

“Up With The Purple” was written by student Ivy Jewel Bryan Rountree, class of 1924, who adapted the music and wrote the words. It’s meant to be sung by seniors and alumni only.

Easter Pageant Class Rings are a tradition officially started in the 1930s.

There have been many designs but the most popular and long-standing is the original, a simple gold band.

For many graduates, it later doubled as a wedding band.

Since its inaugural debut in 1939, the performance has continued to grow each year. What started 80 years ago with a meager $25 budget, five scenes, 50 cast members, and only a handful of spectators now has massive audiences of thousands each year.

Crusader Knights

Freshman Initiation

This event, once sponsored as a fundraiser by the senior class, began in 1993.

Men, selected by campus organizations, compete in video-skit presentations and formal dress attire.

The winner is crowned and dubbed “Mr. Crusader Knight.”

In the 1950s and 1960s, freshman initiation was especially prevalent.

It included weeks of hazing and rituals that the sophomores came up with, from the “Slime Line” to the blindfolded trust falls, to the green and white freshmen beanies.

Class Rings

Up With the Purple

Play Day Let’s play! Everyone deserves a break before finals! Classes are cancelled for a day each spring, and students enjoy lawn games, petting zoos, climbing walls, and carnival food.

Robing and Midnight March Two of the oldest campus traditions, with origins tracing back at least to 1902, Robing and Midnight March offer seniors the chance to say thank you and honor their friends.

Welcome Week Held the week before classes begin, this special occasion offers every new student, both freshman and transfer, the very best means of beginning the UMHB experience.

Big Switch & Pancake Supper On the first night of finals, the faculty and staff roll up their sleeves to serve students pancakes.

Fannie Hatchett

Dr. Ruth Tomlin

James P. Smith

Fannie was the first graduate from Baylor Female Department to hold a medical degree. She graduated in 1879.

Dr. Tomlin was the first African-American graduate of UMHB in 1967, and the first African-American member of the Heritage Club.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) James P. Smith became Mary Hardin-Baylor’s first male graduate on Aug. 23, 1968.

Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center

Baugh Center for the Visual Arts The building was named in memory of Eula Mae and John Baugh, Houston philanthropists who were well known for their generous support of higher education and Texas Baptist causes.

Presser Hall Built in 1930 as a result of the Luther Hall fire, Presser Hall is home to the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the Department of Music.

Parker Academic Center Dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Bobby E. Parker, the Parker Academic Center was completed in July 2002.

Wells Hall & York Science Center Wells Hall and York Science Center are conjoined to offer a combined 56,000 square feet of classroom, lab, lecture, and office space. Wells Hall was named for former president Dr. E.H. Wells. The York Science Center, named for 1920s professor C.L. York, was completed in 1996.

Mabee Student Success Center

Hardy Hall Hardy Hall has filled a multitude of needs since it’s completion in 1930. It was meant to serve the students with a dining and parlor space after Luther Hall burned almost exactly one year earlier.

Hardy had guest quarters for visiting family members, spacious formal parlors and office space.

Caring Staff Our staff is dedicated to taking care of our campus and students.

Communicating with parents, supporting faculty, and serving the university is a big job, and they are constantly going above and beyond.

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The Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center is a 40,725-square-foot building that features a 524-seat performance hall with a proscenium stage, fly space, and orchestra pit. The ingenious design of the center includes many multifunctional rooms which allow it to be used as a teaching facility as well as for performances.

Isabelle Rutherford Meyer Nursing Education Center This 76,100-square-foot building houses one of UMHB’s premier academic programs. The center offers a technology-saturated environment that facilitates collaborative learning.

MyWay at UMHB Non-traditional students complete their degrees at their own pace through the MyWay at UMHB degree program that lets them work online any time of day, wherever they are.

2 0 2 0

Davidson The C. J. “Red” Davidson Academic Complex was completed in 1983 and contained the first permanent computer lab, built for the computer classes that started in 1982.

Built in 1972 and renovated in 2015, the Mabee Student Success Center houses many student services, including the post office, CruCard and copy services, counseling and testing, a health center, campus police, university writing center, ROTC, and a student food bank.

Meyer Christian Studies Center The 18,800-square-foot building provides space for classes, meetings, and special events. The second floor holds a library that houses a special collection of books on theology and Baptist life. The center also houses Manning Chapel, which can accommodate over 250 people.

Sharing Stories

Graduate Programs

Over the years, students have found creative ways to share their stories, from sending postcards home to posting on social media.

Students especially love sharing their adventures at #myUMHB.

UMHB offers nine master’s degrees and three doctoral degrees. Currently, there are 485 graduate students—282 in the master’s programs and 203 in the doctoral programs.

Internships

Student Government Association

Through internships, UMHB students have opportunities to gain experience and make connections in fields they are considering for career paths before they even graduate!

As the “voice of the student body,” the SGA takes students’ concerns and presents them to administration.

Study Spaces Every student has a favorite study spot. Maybe it’s a secret corner in a comfy chair on the third floor of Bawcom Student Union, the far wall in the library, or a cozy corner in Mabee.

Student Organizations

FIRSTS

More than 60 organizations provide opportunities for students to get involved and meet others who share their interests.

Dr. Jacob Frazier Diplomas A diploma is so much more than just a piece of paper to one day hang on the office wall. It represents education, new experiences, more job opportunities, and breaking new boundaries.

Leadership Opportunities Because of the smaller student body size, UMHB is the perfect place to allow students to develop leadership skills.

There are many studentled events each year, like Crusader Knights and the Easter Pageant.

Societies

Technology

Historical Phila, founded in 1883, and Royal Academia, founded in 1878, were the oldest social and literary societies on campus. They were rivals, and each touted their own colors, chants, events, and songs. These societies brought socials, concerts, fundraising events, and speakers to campus until they were disbanded in the late 1990s.

Since the 1980s, when the first computer classes were introduced, UMHB has embraced and adopted technology as it emerges.

From the early typewriter to touch screens and virtual reality, UMHB prioritizes keeping its technology cutting-edge across the campus.

Dr. Jacob M. Frazier was Baylor College’s physician and professor of science from 1896-1936.

He implemented preventative measures in the forms of a sewage system, better nutrition, hot and cold baths, a controlled environment, and hygiene disciplines. Thanks to these preventative measures, in 40 years of service he never saw one fatality, even through four epidemics.

Minnie Cadell Miles Dr. Miles was the national president of the Business and Professional Women, who advocated for “equal pay for equal work” for women in the workplace. President John F. Kennedy requested her attendance when he signed the Equal Pay Act into law in 1963.

Squirrels You see these frisky creatures everywhere on campus. The 1976 yearbook even had a tribute to UMHB squirrels. Students love them so much, they created a Twitter account for them.

Mary Gentry Kavenaugh Pressler

Oveta Culp Hobby

Mary Gentry Kavenaugh Pressler was not only the first woman to graduate from Baylor Female Department in 1855 but also the first woman to graduate from any institution in Texas.

Oveta Culp Hobby, a student at Baylor College for Women in 1921, was the first organizer and commanding officer of the Women’s Army Corps.

She expanded the number of Army jobs for women from 54 to 239.

F E A T U R E S

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Nolan Creek

Natatorium

Nolan Creek has always been a source of fun and entertainment for students at UMHB. The creek was a way to cool off in the hotter months and provided a relaxing escape from studying. In the early 1900s, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors had to have special permission to go walking by the creek.

Seniors, however, would go without permission.

Students from 1890 to the 1960s had access to a pool courtesy of “The Nat” or the Belton Natatorium. The pool, where all swimming lessons were held, was fed by an artesian well that was advertised as 99.6 percent pure water.

The frigid water was wonderful in the summer months when air conditioning was non-existent on the campus.

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UMHB in print

Someday We’ll Go to UMHB Trees on campus Ask students what they love about campus, and many of them will tell you how much they adore the big, beautiful trees, especially the sprawling live oak that stretches out toward the pond at Millennium Oaks Park.

The first children’s book about UMHB, written by Dr. Rebecca O’Banion and Dani Beth Crosby, shares the highlights of our university in a fun way.

The Bells Newspaper

The newspaper’s history dates back to 1866. Its first publication, The Violet, was handwritten, with two of General Sam Houston’s daughters serving on the staff.

The Bluebonnet Yearbook

The yearbook was first published in 1904 and was originally spelled as The Blue Bonnet.

UMHBLife Magazine

This publication, which prints three times a year, keeps our alumni abreast of all things going on at UMHB.

Campus Swings

Bicycles and Skateboard Racks

Music Groups

UMHB is a pedestrian campus where part of the experience is walking past new and old friends on your way to classes.

Bikes and skateboards have become popular as the campus has grown; many building entrances offer wooden skate board racks, custom-designed by the Physical Plant staff.

For many years, UMHB has used musical groups as ambassadors and recruiters, as well as for entertainment and ministry. The DoriAnns were the top vocal ensemble until the school went co-ed. They then became the New Edition and, later, One Voice.

We have no idea how many sweethearts have sealed their relationships with a ring on this campus, but we do know that many times, the question was popped on one of the swings. Campus swings are also a place for best friend secrets, after-test relaxing, and late-night sitting.

TIME Advertisement from the ’60s

The full-page ad in 1967, touting the advantages of sending your daughter to MHB, was a first for the college. It was part of the magazine’s program to support higher education through providing advertisements to selected colleges at no cost to the college.

OUR LEADERSHIP The unceasing vision and leadership of each of our presidents paved the way for students to develop their Christian faith while recieving an outstanding education at UMHB.

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Henry Lee Graves

1847-1851 1871-1872 2 0 2 0

Rufus George Columbus Burleson Washington Baines

1851-1861

1861-1863

William Carey Crane

1864-1866

CRU Sports

MEN’S SPORTS BASEBALL • BASKETBALL • FOOTBALL • GOLF • SOCCER • TENNIS • CROSS COUNTRY

WOMEN’S SPORTS BASKETBALL • GOLF • SOCCER • SOFTBALL • TENNIS • VOLLEYBALL • CROSS COUNTRY • ACROBATICS & TUMBLING

Crusader Stadium

King Street

Intramurals

The first game was held at Crusader Stadium on Sept. 21, 2013, and had 9,384 in attendance. UMHB won against Wesley College, 35-7.

King Street is where campus-wide gatherings happen.

Homecoming, Welcome Week, job fairs, student orgs, Purple Gives Gold, and many other organizations, events, and traditions use this ideal gathering spot. Most of the street was converted into a pedestrian plaza in 2012.

Students love intramurals!

From the more traditional sports like flag football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, and softball, to unique games like spikeball, dodgeball, or the Great Bed Race, you’ll find students having a “ball.”

Campus Run Before Crusader Stadium was built, students would meet at Vann Circle and drive their cars in a caravan to Belton Tiger Field, where football games were played.

National Championships

Uniforms Uniforms were a part of the students’ attire in the beginning. Pointedly plain, ladies were required to dress in stark, unadorned clothes to promote unity within the student body.

Eventually, such restrictions fell out of fashion, and today uniforms are only worn by the athletic teams.

SportsPlex

The Lady Crusader golf team won the 2000 NAIA Women's Golf Championship and the 2013 NCAA Division III Women's Golf Championship. The CRU Football team won the NCAA Division III Championship in 2016 and 2018.

The Sportsplex includes the football practice field, tennis courts, soccer practice field, a lighted soccer field, and field houses.

The Quad After Luther Hall burned, the center of campus was no longer Vann Circle. Steam tunnels ran in a rectangle shape from the power house under Burt, Hardy, Stribling and Presser, so it created a middle area of green where students played, studied, and socialized. This green patch remained a central point on campus until the Bawcom Student Union was built in 2012.

CRUnilla This specially formulated, rich vanilla ice cream in a deep shade of purple was made especially for UMHB.

CRU dogs No football game is complete without the famous Cru Dog, made with hamburger, cheese, and caramelized onions on a sweet bun.

Purple Crush The tasty grape drink sponsored Cru Athletics, leading UMHB teams to become known as “The Purple Crush.”

Benjamin Simms Fitzgerald

Horace Clark

William W. Fontaine

William Royall

John Hill Luther

Patrick H. Eager

1866-1867

1851-1866

1872-1875

1875-1878

1878-1891

1891-1894

1867-1871 F E A T U R E S

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Mr. and Mrs. John G. Hardin

Campus Bells

Resilience

In 1933, when the college bordered on bankruptcy, President John C. Hardy and a trustee visited with John G. and Mary Hardin. The Hardin family had become wealthy from the Texas oil boom and had set up a trust, but for Baylor College for Women to benefit from this, it had to be debt-free. The college aggressively worked to meet this expectation. The college was advanced a portion of the Hardin trust, and the financial crisis was averted.

Purple, White, and Gold

The Cornerstone

Donors

The cornerstone for Luther Hall was laid on April 21, 1886. The stone mistakenly got delivered to Echo, Texas, and on the day of the ceremony was quickly rerouted to be delivered just in time.

The endowment for student scholarships began in 1918 and was only $250, given by W.H. McGee. Today, thanks to many donors who love our university, the endowment has exceeded $81 million.

UMHB’s Alumni Association is comprised of over 29,000 alumni who have paved the way to make Mary Hardin-Baylor what it is today. It was organized in 1880 under the name, “The Alumnae and Ex-Students Association.”

Until 1901, the school colors were gold and white. That year, students decided to add the third color—purple—to be more distinctive.

Musick Alumni Center and Museum at the Parker House

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Alumni Board & Young Alumni Board

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Alumni Association

Despite 10 fires, occasional financial straits, changes in the location and name of the college, through coeducation and make-shift buildings, this university has risen again and again, stronger than ever.

In 2013, the Young Alumni Board established a scholarship to help currently enrolled UMHB students attending UMHB-sponsored mission trips or GO Now mission trips to serve around the world.

This former president’s home, built in 1989, was a gift to Bobby E. and Marietta Parker, made possible from a generous donation from JoAn Musick Dillard and the late Dee Musick.

The Luther Bell and the Horton Bell hang in the Luther Memorial. The Horton Bell, 1858, was brought from Independence, Texas. The Luther Bell originally stood on the porch of Ely-Pepper Hall and was used to mark the hours for the Cottage Home girls.

Concrete Tree Bench This concrete bench, shaped like a tangle of tree branches, was a gift from the Class of 1902.

This example of faux bois style is considered a rarity today.

UMHB T-shirts At some point as a student at UMHB you will receive a free t-shirt. Whether it’s Welcome Week, Dubbing Ceremony, or Play Day, UMHB students love their t-shirts!

Eliab H. Wells

William A. Wilson

Ernest G. Townsend

John C. Hardy

Gordon G. Singleton

Albert C. Gettys

1894-1896

1896-1911

1911-1912

1912-1937

1937-1952

1952-1954

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2 0 2 0

Millennium Oaks Park

Crusader Statue

Constructed east of Burt Hall by the combined gifts of the classes of 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001, the park originally boasted a quarter-mile jogging trail, a natural pond, and picnic area.

Luther Hall / Luther Memorial

“The Crusader” statue stands valiantly next to the Frank & Sue Mayborn Campus Center.

It was sculpted by Bruce R. Green and unveiled in February 2005.

Sader Belles

Cheerleaders

The Sader Belles drill team has been a part of UMHB since 1995, and their first uniform was designed by graduate Riki Yarbrough in 1998.

Our first cheerleaders were simply students who could stand in front of the student body and lead the cheers and chants. The first cheer uniform was in 1928. It was a sweater, given to Martha Brown.

Living Flame

Luther Hall was the first building built for the college when it moved to Belton.

Though it burned in 1929, the stones from the building were used to recreate the distinctive arches of the building and were dubbed “Luther Memorial.”

Vann Circle Originally the epicenter of the college, Vann Circle was named for Professor William H. Vann who headed the Department of English from 1920 to 1964.

The Living Flame was presented to the university by Carroll Cooper and Brent and Kent Cooper to honor Martha Smirl Cooper, who was Alumnae President from 1966-1972.

Cru Spirit Dance If you’ve been to a pep rally, you know the drill—the warm up, clap your hands, the chain link, the crank and fire, freestyle, and the alma mater clap.

Letter Sweater Early on, letter sweaters were bought by the students, and patches were earned through a point system. It took about 300 points to earn the letter.

There have never been standardized letter jackets or letter sweaters for UMHB.

CRUnk

Student Spirit

The mascot’s uniform was changed in 2012 to the uniform he wears today.

The character’s true identity is supposed to be kept anonymous.

Since the college’s conception, school spirit has shown up in its songs, chants, competitions, and traditions.

It really is true—our students are forever true to the CRU!

Arthur K. Tyson

Leonard L. Holloway

William G. Tanner

Bobby E. Parker

Jerry G. Bawcom

Randy O’Rear

1954-1966

1966-1968

1968-1971

1971-1991

1991-2009

2009 PRESENT

F E A T U R E S

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ALUMNI NOTES

“

I can see every step where God was preparing me for this.

—David Gillian ’11

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2 0 2 0

DAVID GILLIAN ‘11

Coming Full Circle

After growing up at Texas Baptist Children’s Home, Gillian returns there as director of development David Gillian ‘11 grew up in an extremely violent household.

What he experienced as his “everyday normal” sounds more like a nightmare.

His saving grace was the day his mom dropped him off to live at the Texas Baptist Children’s Home (TBCH) in Round Rock when he was 12 years old. He lived there until he was a senior in high school. Now, years later, Gillian is back at his former “home,” raising money as the director of development to help children who are in situations just like those he faced.

Since that fateful day when he was 12, he said God has been preparing him for this new role.

Because he didn’t leave the home on good terms, it could only be through the grace of God that he was hired to work there, he said.

“I knew God wanted me to come back to the home and serve,” Gillian said. When the opportunity opened for relief house parents, he and his wife, Sara, jumped. “I was nervous, but I knew it was what God wanted me to do, so I came in with that confidence that this is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing,” he said. They were hired at TBCH and worked as house parents for 10 years, watching over eight teenage boys, and eventually three children of their own: Jacob, who

is now 19; Rebecca “Becca,” 15; and Za’kira, 5.

After 10 years, Gillian had it on his heart that he needed to finish his degree, so he completed his associate’s degree at Austin Community College, and then his bachelor’s in social work at UMHB in 2011. Shortly after, he went to work for a prestigious staffing and recruiting firm.

“I started growing in that profession, not realizing that it was God preparing me to be the director of development at the children’s home,” he said. “I can see every step where God was preparing me for this.”

He enjoyed his job at the staffing firm, but one morning while praying asked God if that was all He had in store. Two hours later, he got a call from Debbie Rippstein, who is president of TBCH and also a UMHB graduate.

She told him about the position and asked him to interview. Three years prior, he had told her that this would be his “dream job.”

Even though living through the things he experienced as a child was about as rough as one could imagine, he said it all brought him to where he is today.

“I have had some amazing relationships,” Gillian said. “If it hadn’t happened, I would have never met these kids who are still a part of my life today.”

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IN MEMORIAM 1940s Irmalee N. Ingrham ex ’42 - 43, July 28, 2019, in Midland, TX. Irmalee was married to Wade R. Ingrham in 1943. They were married for 67 years.

In 1943, she joined the war effort as a clerk at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, TX. She was a member of Professional Secretaries International.

Irmalee was a born-again Christian and lived a life that was a testimony of her faith.

1950 s Anna Jean Darby ’50, Aug. 11, 2019, in Chandler, AZ. Jean graduated from UMHB with a bachelor’s in physical education.

After UMHB, she went on to earn her master’s degree in physical education from Baylor University. Jean taught in Orange Grove until her retirement. She was asked to write the book, Alice: A Centennial History, in conjunction with the city of Alice’s centennial celebration. She will be dearly missed.

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2 0 2 0

Helen Marie Kreitz ’50, Sept. 5, 2019, in Temple. Helen graduated from UMHB in 1950.

She went on to teach in the Temple school system for 30 years until she retired. She was a member of the Retired Teachers of Temple. Helen was in a leadership position at her church, St. Mary Catholic Church. Many considered her a part of their families.

Minnie Mae Whyburn ’50, Aug. 7, 2019, in Meadowlakes, TX. Minnie Mae graduated from UMHB in 1950, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She was married to Jack Whyburn. Minnie Mae was a home economics teacher for 27 years at Burnet High School.

She played piano and organ while supporting her husband as he served Baptist churches in the Hill Country.

Bonny Lynn (Hardcastle) Brewer ’51, June 25, 2019, in Vernon, TX. Bonny Lynn graduated from UMHB in 1951 with a degree in elementary education. She was married to Orlin L. Brewer for 33 years.

Bonny was a teacher for the Oklaunion School for a short time and eventually joined the Retired Teachers Association. Bonny worked as a homemaker.

Kenneth Huber July 29, 2019, in Waco, TX. He was the husband of, Betty Payne Huber ’52, a former UMHB trustee. Kenneth was a faithful and dedicated supporter of UMHB. Elinor Ruth (Boyd) Nicholson ’53, July 23, 2019, in Pinetops, NC. Elinor Ruth graduated from UMHB in 1953 and soon began teaching school in Killeen, where she met her husband, John Joseph Nicholson Jr. After serving at Fort Hood, they settled in Pinetops, NC. She continued teaching school until beginning her career with the Department of Social Services, where she served until retirement. Ruth was an active and dedicated member of Pinetops Baptist Church.

Marjorie Mary (Bernhardt) Springer ’59, Aug. 9, 2019, in Temple. She graduated from UMHB in 1959.

She married Walter Springer on April 7, 1945. Marjorie was a teacher in Temple. She also taught at St. Paul Lutheran School in Taylor and Thrall Elementary School in Thrall.

1960 s Judy Anita (Boyd) Colville ’69, May 19, 2019, in Pensacola, FL. Judy earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from UMHB in 1969.

She was married to Paul Colville. She was a social worker for the State of Florida for 32 years.

Judy was a devout Christian and was a member of Burgess Road Baptist Church for more than 35 years. She loved the years she helped teach in the young children’s church.

1970s Margaret Janice (Jones) Ellis ’79, July 26, 2019, in Mineral Wells, TX. She graduated from UMHB in 1979 and went on to teach biology and coach for more than 25 years in Killeen, Cedar Hill, and Mineral Wells High School. Margaret was married to Billy Joe Ellis.

2000 s Anna Marie Enrriques ’83, Sept. 12, 2019, in Robstown, TX. Anna graduated from UMHB in 1983 and went on to become a teacher at Falfurrias High School. Anna was a member of River Hills Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and helped with vacation Bible school and the nursing home ministry.

1990 s Mark Thomas Cox ’98, Aug. 2, 2019, in Waco, TX. Mark went to Tarkio College in Missouri, where he received an athletic scholarship to play soccer. He later transferred to Texas Tech University before graduating from UMHB in 1998. Some of his hobbies were fishing, soccer, and spending time with family. He brought joy and a magnetic optimism to all who knew him.

William Joshua Johnson ’14, July 15, 2019, in Tulsa, OK. Born and raised in Fort Worth, TX, William made Tulsa his home shortly after graduating from UMHB in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science.

He was a valued employee at Blue Cross/Blue Shield, where he enjoyed his work. Joshua was greatly loved by his family and all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Dr. Charles B. Kemble, Aug. 18, 2019, in Universal TX. Charles worked at UMHB in the 1980s. He was married to Peggy Kemble for 60 years.

He was a beloved minister, counselor, educator, organizer, and athlete. He was a true soldier of the Lord Jesus Christ, and God touched the lives of thousands of people through his life and multi-faceted ministry.

1980s Virginia Nava Eitel Marler ’81, Sept. 21, 2019, in Austin, TX. She attended Temple College and graduated from UMHB in 1981.

She married Forrest Marler and was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church.

UMHB LIFE magazine keeps alumni informed about the passing of their classmates by publishing their obituaries in the “In Memoriam” section of the magazine. If you learn of a college friend’s passing, please submit the news by visiting life.umhb.edu

ALUMNI L I F E

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MEMORIAL GIFTS June 3, 2019 - October 1, 2019

Roy Adams Cynthia Moya Melba Baker Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Dr. Lee Baldwin Amy Bawcom Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Betty Sue Craven Beebe Debbie Beaty Amy Bawcom Stacy Dunivent Sandra Kay Fleming Basilia Flores Sharon King Yvette McCoy Monte and Amy O’Connell McGilvray Edna Jo Ramirez Debra Severson Kim Shaw Jasmine Thompson Ike Tryon Debbie James Wade Claudia Bell Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Bea Bennight Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Greg Bond Sr. Jerry Caldwell Denise Bowles Charles and Suzanne Allen Virginia Baker

Melanie Goodart Heart of Texas Beekeepers Association Matt Johnson and Kristen Bowles-Johnson Gary and Doreen Myers Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Laura Pardon Dennis and Doris Payne Trang Prosak Donna Schneiders Edgar and Linda Smith Hal and Patsy Thacker

Virginia Hardwick Davis Janell Huey Hobbs Gary DeSalvo Dr. Rick and Norine Erikson Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Joanna Roland Ted and Allison Weithorn Smith Don Soard Lisa Stewart Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore Adam and Connie Whitish Anna Enrriques Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Charlie and Janice Robinson Clifford Foster Amy Bawcom

Janie Coffia Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Roy Gilliam Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Judy Boyd Colville Alice Marie Bell Michael and Cathy Burkett Cornelio

Diane E. Gryseels Memorial Baptist Church-Temple Dr. Billy Harden Amy Bawcom

Charles Corley Betty Sue Craven Beebe Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Jim Hornsby Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Vince Cortese Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Virginia Hughes Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens

Jim Covington Amy Bawcom

Delroy Johnson Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom

Jimmie Cox Nell Nordstrand Cox

David Keith Ted and Kathy Floca

Wanda Crews Elizabeth Brinkmeyer Reginald and Tera McConnell

Mildred Lancaster Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Reagan Little Kelly and Mindy Slack Boggs continued on page 30

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ALUMNI NOTES

“

UMHB made a huge difference in my personality and my calling and in the way I look at life as a mission field and not just a job or assignment.

KORI YATES ‘94

UMHB is deep in her roots

Yates creates ministry to connect military women around the world.

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s a military wife and former marine, Kori (Whatley) Yates ‘94 knows what it’s like to move.

She also knows how isolating that can feel to women in uniform and military wives. So, five years ago, when the Lord called her to create a ministry for military women by military women, she started Planting Roots.

“Planting Roots allows us to encourage military women and wives to do what God has called them to do in the places they are planted around the world,” said Yates, who has moved at least a dozen times with the military. “We want them to see God’s purpose in all of that.”

The idea behind the organization is that military women can be deeply rooted in Christ, no matter where they live.

“When we move around, all those Bible-believing, Christ-following military women become one of the greatest missionary movements of our time simply because we are obedient where the Lord planted us,” she said.

“That is my passion. That is my heart.”

At first, Planting Roots started with Yates and three or four other women creating small events to bring military

—Kori Yates ’94

women and wives together locally so they could connect and encourage each other. God had bigger ideas, though, and the organization quickly mushroomed. Now, five years later, women around the world connect through engaging media channels and an interactive website where they share stories and conduct online Bible studies. Churches in military communities use the group’s curriculum to teach Bible studies and simulcast their events.

“Wherever our military women are, whether on a ship in the middle of the ocean or in Afghanistan or South Korea, they can access that encouragement and Biblical teaching,” Yates said.

She is proud the Lord led her down this path and says UMHB has a lot to do with it.

“UMHB made a huge difference in my personality and my calling, and in the way I look at life as a mission field and not just as a job or an assignment,” she said. While at UMHB, Yates’ mother passed away, but the school took care of her with scholarships and a job until she graduated.

“From then on, I became a part of UMHB, and it became part of me,” she said. She served in class officer positions, played on the volleyball team, was asked to represent her class in the Miss MHB pageant, and was named Homecoming queen her senior year. But perhaps her biggest accolade was helping write the UMHB alma mater.

Today, Yates lives in Kentucky with her husband, Kyle; daughter, Charley, 14; and son, Evon, 11. Find out more about her ministry at plantingroots.net.

ALUMNI L I F E

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Memorial Gifts continued from page 28 Mabel McGoldrick Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Roberta Kitch McMeens Hillcrest Originals Ura Hudgens Mercer Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Caleb Morgan Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Mary Ann Smith Newnam Betty Sue Craven Beebe Ivan M. Norwine Cynthia Moya Frank O’Banion Edna O’Banion Guy and Stephanie O’Banion Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Bruce and Rhonda Roberts Kathleen Tisdall O’Dania Dennis and Eva Webb McBeth Dr. Bobby Parker Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Jack Parker Jr. Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Arthur Neale Potts Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson George Bartels Mary Jean Boston Chuck and Candy Button Howell and Judy Cearley Barry and Judy Couch Covington Real Estate, Inc. Terri Covington James Cure Gerald and Hilda Dale Robert and Jane Pirtle Dominguez

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First Texas Bank Rebecca Garth Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Green Brady and Maria Green Novalene Green Don and Jan Grobowksy Patton and Elayne Kaufman Christy Eastham Kianes Ken and Carol Law Legend Oaks Neighbors Michael and Teresa Daniels Lockett Griff and Kathy Lord Jeff and Jeannie Ludwick Ludwick, Montgomery, & Stapp PC Max and Mary Lou Marks Bill and Candy McGuire Pat and Cammy McGuire W. R. and Opal McGuire Bill and Ann Messer John and Laura Messer Amy Mitchell Larry and Lynn Neal Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Tom Normand and Helen Pickle Mary Nell Pirtle Don Al and Linda Ringler Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore Dennis and Ann Turk Jerry and Martha Shipp Tyroch Dr. Jim and Andrea Weinblatt

David Roy Potts Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Covington Real Estate, Inc. Gerald and Hilda Dale First Texas Bank Rebecca Garth Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Green Brady and Maria Green Novalene Green Ken and Carol Law Griff and Kathy Lord Bill and Candy McGuire W. R. and Opal McGuire Bill and Ann Messer John and Laura Messer

Dr. Rebecca O’Banion Dr. and Mrs. Randy O’Rear Tom Normand and Helen Pickle Dr. and Mrs. Steve Theodore

Sheila Potts Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson Dr. Jimmy Roberts Amy Bawcom Herlinda Rodriguez Linda Rodriguez Lemon Hannah Fair Sallee Timothy and Pei-Lu Liu Glenn Sanders Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Richard Schiller Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Kathy Jacobs Shanks Betty Sue Craven Beebe Sharon Ginnings Shaw Kelly and Mindy Slack Boggs Bea Stephens Riley and Carolyn Allison Owens Faye Stewart Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom Minnie Mae Sharp Whyburn Virginia Burroughs Carol Clarke Erma J. Polk and Family James and Marcia Remore Jim and Kay Rhodes Sandy Mountain Fellowship Paul Zipperlen Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom

HONORARY GIFTS

OPPORTUNITY

TO MAKE AN HONORARY OR MEMORIAL GIFT,

Dr. Edna Penny Bridges Betty Herrera Martinez

Jeanette Mayfield Kelley Marian Corbin Wood

Gayla Vardeman Corley Betty Sue Craven Beebe

Hannah Lee Timothy and Pei-Lu Liu

Chuck and Alma Cox Cynthia Moya

Kenny McCoy Dick and Kay Smith Archer

UMHB Box 8433 900 College Street Belton, Texas 76513

Teresa Crothers Cynthia Moya

Tami McDowell Cynthia Moya

254-295-4601

Drs. Paul and Eva Dyke Charles and Deborah Melton

Lauren Mendias Cynthia Moya

Barry Elkins Dr. Craig and Megan Hammonds Mike and Melanie Wheatley McCarthy

Ricky and Susan Moya Cynthia Moya

Lauren Allen Gentry Cynthia Moya Dr. Brian and Christy Caraway Guenther Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom

Sylvia Moya Cynthia Moya Bobby Parker Vicki McKay Dr. E. Don and Karen Parker Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson

please contact:

Development

or give online at

giving.umhb.edu.

Lisa Schmidt Cynthia Moya Cindy Selman Cynthia Moya Cathleen Spradlin Cynthia Moya

Joe and Molly Hidrogo Cynthia Moya

Marietta Parker Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom

Drs. Bob and Grace Richardson Whitis Mark and Betty O’Hair Anderson

Bobby and Donna Bolick Johnson Dr. Jerry and Vicky Bawcom

Janey Roush Cynthia Moya

Clint and Debbie Wilkinson Cynthia Moya

CELEBRATING

1 75 years OF UMHB

Join us for a family style dinner to remember our

HISTORIC BEGINNING

Februar y 1, 2020 at seven o’clock in the evening I N M CL A N E G R E AT H A L L a t T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F M A RY HA R D I N - B AY L O R Vi s it U M H B . E D U / 1 7 5 f o r m o re i n f o r m at i o n

Dress to impress in your Hardy best in semi-formal attire

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s a young child, Emma Crosier loved going into her mom’s classroom. She loved the papers. She loved the gradebooks. And like many little girls, she pretended to be a teacher, setting her dolls up for “class.” She remembers always wanting to be a teacher, but when it came time to go to college, she fought it.

“I guess I thought to be a teacher was the safe choice, so I looked at other majors,” she said. It didn’t take long for her love of kids and classrooms to win out, though.

“Why would I want to do something different than what I love and would be good at?” she said. “I realized being a teacher is what I love more than anything.”

Emma will graduate next spring with a bachelor’s degree in education with a certification to teach early childhood through grade 6.

She loves the personal relationships she has built with her professors, department, and classmates.

“The community at UMHB is very intent on growing you deeper into your relationship with the Lord, and I love that,” she said.

While here, she has gotten involved in Young Life, a ministry for high school students, and is serving as a children’s worship leader at her church.

She says she is blessed to have the scholarship help she receives from the Loyalty Fund.

“If I didn’t have scholarships, I wouldn’t be able to come here,” she said. “It amazes me that there are donors out there who love UMHB so much that they give their money so students, like me, can go here.”

Emma Crosier Senior, early childhood major Arlington, Texas

PHILANTHROPY

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On February 1, 1845, a charter was signed that started a small Baptist institution in

Independence, Texas. Today, we celebrate 175 years as we travel back to where it all started.

Join us for a special Charter Celebration Weekend in Independence, Texas, as we honor the rich heritage of Mary Hardin-Baylor.

10 a.m. CHAPEL SERVICE in the Historic Independence Baptist Church Worship led by Matt Crosby ’01 and a message from Dr. Leroy Kemp, Honorary Alumnus Special Recognition of the Class of 1970 as members are inducted into the Heritage Club

11:30 a.m. CELEBRATION LUNCH Special lunch at Independence Baptist Church.

REGISTER ONLINE AT

umhb.edu/charter

900 College Street • Belton, Texas 76513

Electronic Service Requested