VOLUME 127 ISSUE NO.1 • 2015 APARTMENT LIVING IN THE HEART OF CAMPUS

November 6-7; 11-14 Nov. 7, 14

———— PLUS———— Andrew Bucci: CONNECTING The FASTEST REDISCOVERED CULTURES Campus in America Through Language April 15-16; 20-23 audience 20years ago: This iswhatIshared with thatinaugural willingto get thejobdone. servants the “plumbline”was inthehandsofGodly Lord sentamessengerto remind themthat in lightoftheirlimited resources. Butthe ofrebuilding thetempleenormous task thepeoplewereoverwhelmed withthe Zechariah Chapter 4,which describeshow On thatoccasion,Ifocused attention on to seeifitstill helduptoday. during my address inaugural 20years ago, whattheLordexamine guidedmeto say Because ofthisanniversary, Iwent back to see what Godhas plannedfor the years ahead. we are andIcannot just wait to getting started, decades soundlike alongtime,butIfeel like atBelhaven University.years ofservice Two- D the importance ofonesmallliberalthe importance arts president, Ihave zealouslyoverestimated mightbethat,asthenew statement Now, response your thatbold first to of Christian service. ingrained theirlives into theessence the world with leaderswhohave this city, thenationand thestate, for center equipping beasignificant to are staggering —itisour responsibility us, becausetheconsequences offailing We have before task anoverwhelming with aclock 20 commemorating Dedication thisFall, Iwas presented of uring ouropeningService

THINKING ABOUTHIGHER ED enrolling students...andevenaddedfootball. over1,000full-time relationships campusnow ofsignificance,foundedanonline international across campusesinmajorcities established formed Southeast, the areascutting-edge ofstudy, developedanarrayofgraduateprograms, sciences,pioneeredthe Worldview Curriculum,created newdegrees in SchoolofNursingandbroadened Arts,addedthe our Schoolofthe achievedtop-levelrecognitionconstructed manynewbuildings, for God’sWith enrollment helpwehave:quadrupledthe to4,300students, Taking plumbline holdofthe us —Godwillbe honored, ourstudents the commitmentsLord hasgiven in beingacollegewhich stays trueto College. Together, ifwe never waiver ofBelhavennew stage inthehistory of theplumblineaswe beginthis I hopeyou are hold ready take to Belhaven graduate. have a because they beentouched by will interact witheach other differently churches willbestrengthened andpeople values are children, modeledto our our homes willbeenriched asChristian will bebetter andsafer live, places to ofGod. Ourcommunities for theglory other ofsociety corners willbechanged andahost of medical andlaw offices I believe ourbusinesses, schools, churches, city, nationandaround theworld, state, number ofgraduates each year the into As Belhaven Collegesprinkles oursmall of any setting. prepared Christians change to theshape same way, many itdoesnot well- take offood.change Inthe theflavor largenot quantities totally ofsaltto take we are Itdoes bethesaltofearth? to not Jesusteach us,asChristians, that less thanwhatIhave just described.Did But infact, Ibelieve ourjobisnothing private colleges. the biguniversities oratleast theelite Ihave suggested isreserved forinfluence neighborhood. Surely, thetypeofsocietal college tucked away in aquiet residential President oftheUniversity Roger Parrott, Ph.D. That hasnot changed. But ourGodlycallingisstill just asurgent. added football. over 1,000 full-timestudents... andeven founded anonlinecampus now enrolling international relationships ofsignificance, cities across theSoutheast, formed programs, campuses established inmajor of study, developed anarray ofgraduate created new degrees incutting-edgeareas sciences, pioneered Worldview Curriculum, the School ofNursing andbroadened the recognition for added ourSchool oftheArts, many new buildings,achieved top-level enrollment to 4,300students, constructed With God’shelpwe have: quadrupled the “College.” changed, includingthenameofBelhaven That was 20years agoandmuch has line andwould not let go. Belhaven holdoftheplumb Collegetook changed for Christ, becausethepeopleof now, ourworld willbesubstantially higher education—and100 years from thebestwill experience ofChristian WATER FEATURE IN THE PATIO OF THE DUDLEY & ROBBIE HUGHES UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

Features INSIDE CONTENT

Departments

THINKING ABOUT HIGHER EDUCATION (INSIDE COVER) The New Dudley Connecting The Fastest Campus CAMPUS NEWS 14 & Robbie Hughes Cultures Through in America ALUMNI NEWS University Village Language 20 PARTING ART 24 2 6 8

Follow Belhaven News BELHAVEN.EDU/NEWS @BELHAVENU FOR TWITTER AND LINKEDIN Andrew Bucci Back to Belhaven Department of /BELHAVENUNIVERSITY Rediscovered Homecoming 2015 Theatre Announces FOR FACEBOOK 2015–16 Season

28 (BACK COVER) 10 13 2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 1 DUDLEY & ROBBIE HUGHES UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

NEW ORLEANS-STYLE COURTYARD

The Dudley & Robbie Hughes University Village is unlike any other residence hall on Belhaven’s campus. The $9 million dollar, U-shaped, three story building provides top-quality apartment- style living in the heart of campus. The exterior’s whitewashed brick pulls together other white stucco and brick buildings in an elegant blend of architecture.

This building is named in honor of two people with Godly vision to see over the horizon, a spirit of trusting stewardship and a passion to make a significant difference for Kingdom work. Mr. Hughes died during the construction of the building, but Robbie is actively engaged as an Executive in Residence in our School of Business. As we celebrated their generous $4 million gift that made this marvelous new apartment complex possible, Mrs. Hughes was quick to add that she wants all the honor, and our thankfulness, to go to God.

2 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 DUDLEY & ROBBIE HUGHES UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

The high-end apartments house 132 students in 33 quality suites. For students, this facility provides apartment-style living for both men and women. The floors are divided by gender. Both men and women resident assistants and a full-time professional resident director manage the University Village.

The New Orleans-style courtyard is an oasis filled with lush vegetation and shade trees. The courtyard is a place to study, enjoy the weather or spend time with friends. The courtyard’s beautiful fountain is aesthetically pleasing in both sight and sound. At night, the fountain is illuminated by flames, giving the courtyard a warm glow.

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 3 The spacious living room has stylish and comfortable furniture. A breakfast bar, perfect for sitting and enjoying a meal, separates the kitchen from the living room. Residents have the opportunity to cook their favorite meals using the full kitchen equipped with oven, stove top, microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher.

4 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 All utilities, including cable and ultra high-speed Internet, are covered in the semester rental price, along with campus parking and campus security. Every suite has a 48” high-definition television and DVR. The University Village is the only residence hall having a remote DVR in each bedroom. The complex also provides a fitness center, gathering lounge and study rooms reserved only for residents.

APARTMENT LIVING WITH GREAT AMENITIES

Each apartment is fully furnished and designed for each resident to have their own private bedroom. The suite has two full bathrooms, a kitchen and living room. Students no longer have to leave their rooms to wash their clothes, because each suite comes with a front loading washer and dryer.

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 5 hese beginnings fostered what would become his aspiration of connecting Connecting T the world through language.

His love of language led him to Belhaven where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies. The program gave him Cultures the opportunity to study abroad in Port Villa, Vanuatu during the summer. “It is said that there are not enough years in our lifetime to translate all the unknown languages of Through the world,” LeMottee stated. “And those are the ones we know about. On the island of Vanuatu alone, there are an estimated 111 languages and 60 have yet to be translated.”

Langua ge In only three months, LeMottee researched, learned and translated the national language, Belhaven alum Gary LeMottee is a Mississippi Bislama, to then share stories and books with locals. He teamed up with Summer transplant from Texas with an inherent interest in Institute of Linguistics (SIL) International linguistics. His background and appreciation of for his study abroad program, because they serve worldwide communities in language language began with his mother. She has a master’s development. SIL International saw in the subject and is fluent in Spanish, German, LeMottee’s potential at deciphering language and immediately put him to work. English, French, Italian and Portuguese. Growing up, if LeMottee mentioned being bored, his mother Since many of the people who speak Bislama cannot read, and audio recordings would give him a French dictionary and encourage are the best way for locals to enjoy books. him to read and study it. LeMottee had the task of sifting through and translating each line of text from the classic Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan. After each chapter was formatted and reviewed, it was time to record. LeMottee gathered and

6 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 worked with local villagers who its various cultures isn’t the same as going would record lines of story text in there. Nothing could do more to open one’s Bislama. After translations were understanding to both the similarities and reviewed and music was added, differences of mankind than living and SIL International distributed the working in another culture, not just visiting.” audiobooks. LeMottee added, “We put the audiobooks on a solar LeMottee is fluent in Spanish as well as powered MP3 player and then gave English and now Bislama. According to them to tribes so they could listen.” Leavelle, the benefits of a linguistics focus can pay-off for her students, especially LeMottee. The radio has played a vital role in giving the “It is not difficult to get people from other “Studying about the villagers the opportunity to hear stories. The countries who are fluent in English, but people of Vanuatu consider literature from Americans who are fluent in other languages world and its various other countries a treasure and have a radio are scarce and getting rarer. Being fluent in station dedicated to broadcasting stories read a language such as Chinese, Bislama, Korean cultures isn’t the in their language. Each week, they aired a or Russian, coupled with cultural awareness new chapter of the book LeMottee translated and sensitivity, could open up many possible same as going there. and recorded. careers.”

Nothing could do While not at work, he spent his time Sharing stories is something LeMottee is immersing himself in the local town, visiting passionate about. He wants to use his skills more to open one’s markets and picking up on as much of the to share stories with tribes who cannot understanding to language as he could. He learned to speak read. “I want to go back to Vanuatu for a Bislama by talking to local villagers. “Some of few years and translate more books and both the similarities the first words I learned were, ‘How do you say short stories. After that I would like to work this?’ I would point at objects and ask strangers with the United Nations, UNICEF or work and differences of how to pronounce the words in Bislama. I in educational translations in different would then record and write it down on my countries, especially third world countries.” mankind than living iPhone Notes app and practice it later.” LeMottee is now working on a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics at Biola University. He and working in Cynthia Leavelle, Director of English then plans on earning a Ph.D. in Intercultural Language and Culture Project, believes that Studies at the same university. l another culture, not study abroad programs can give students important real-life experience that can shape just visiting.” their future. “Studying about the world and

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 7 THE FASTEST CAMPUS IN AMERICA Belhaven took a momentous step forward when it partnered with C Spire to make it the first university in Mississippi to have ultra, high-speed fiber internet. Not only that, but also Belhaven became the first university in America to have fiber optic internet in every residence hall.

8 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 “Belhaven is clearly setting the pace for institutions of higher learning across the country.”

“We’re charting new territory every room has a DVR to record high- Vice President of Enterprise Markets for higher education with definition television and each bedroom for C Spire. “Belhaven is clearly setting super robust access that will in the University Village also has a the pace for institutions of higher help us improve high- remote DVR. learning across the country.” performance teamwork, The agreement, announced on April 6, According to Caraway, students have teaching, 2015, by University officials and C Spire replaced cumbersome backpacks learning, representatives, also provided wireless laden with heavy books and now are research and phones, voice-over IP phone service more likely to bring lightweight iPads, scholarship at and dedicated high-speed fiber optic tablets or laptops to class, purchase our school,” said e-textbooks, participate in Skype President Dr. study groups or post their homework Roger Parrott. to online services such as Blackboard. “Only a handful of In fact, Caraway said a 2014 study other universities in by Presta Electronics found that 73 the country have percent of students need technology Internet speeds even to study, and over 70 percent use a close to what C Spire internet access to the 400 full-time computer or tablet to take notes. will be providing faculty and administration. on our campus.” Belhaven’s move comes as C Spire Faster Internet connections have and the city of Jackson continue to All 700 residential grown in importance in recent years on make steady progress with qualifying Belhaven students college campuses across the nation. homeowners in more areas of living in the The average student now owns seven Mississippi. Thus far, five of 13 areas— University’s six Internet-connected devices, including or fiberhoods—in the city have reached residence halls phones, computers, gaming consoles, their pre-registration targets and received the next streaming TV boxes, printers, tablets are moving into the engineering and generation services, which and e-readers and uses them over construction phases of the massive included 1 Gbps (Gigabits 125 hours each week, according to a fiber optic infrastructure technology per second) broadband Internet 2014 nationwide online survey of 1,209 initiative. Commercial service is access, up to 6.5 times faster than students between the ages of 18 and expected to be available later this year the speediest broadband connections. 34 by Crux Research and re:fuel agency, in most areas. a New York-based marketing firm. According to a 2014 analysis by “This can be a major economic Testmy.net, a data speed testing Understanding the changing tide in development tool moving forward service, Lamar State College held the higher education, Belhaven realized the because we’ll have the infrastructure No. 1 spot of the top 100 colleges importance of giving students every at our university and in other parts in the U.S. with the fastest Internet available advantage when it comes of the city,” said Parrott, who is the access, with download speeds to utilizing multiple devices. Without longest serving university president averaging 154.8 Mbps (Megabits per a high-speed Internet, these devices in the state. “It will help more of our second) and upload speeds of 47.8 might as well be rendered useless. graduates stay here or even start their Mbps. In contrast, Belhaven students “As student demand for total access own high-tech businesses. There’s will have download and upload speeds grows and technology is more deeply no doubt that access to high-speed of up to 1,000 Mbps. The wireless ingrained into their daily lives, colleges bandwidth and the latest technology signal strength is much stronger need to stay ahead of the curve will create an environment where more now and every residence hall room with ultra-fast, high-quality Internet high-paying jobs exist and talented has direct access points. In addition, solutions,” said Brian Caraway, Senior people want to live.” l

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 9 Belhaven University hosted a major art exhibition from one of Mississippi’s modern masters and most celebrated visual artist, Andrew Bucci (1922–2014). Over the course of eight decades, he produced a dazzling and timeless body of work, while establishing a style that was purely his own. He left behind a treasure trove of artwork, and art lovers around the state and country are rediscovering the legacy of Andrew Bucci.

Jack Kyle, Senior Director of Arts Local artists, gallery owners and many people “A look at Bucci’s work indicates that the Development at Belhaven University, became who love Bucci’s art rallied together to make artist was quite impressionable,” observed interested in organizing an event for Bucci after the exhibition a reality. On May 29, 2015, Erika S. Olinger, Owner of Cole Pratt meeting the artist last year during the USA Andrew Bucci: Rediscovered opened to the Gallery in New Orleans. “Influences of International Ballet Competition in Jackson. public. This was the first exhibition of the Picasso, Braque, Matisse and others of the (Bucci’s painting, Figure in Green, was selected artist’s work since his death and the first School of Paris are clearly visible.” Olinger as the signature image for the 2014 IBC show that exclusively presented his work in has studied the works of Bucci and has a commemorative poster and program.) Jackson, Mississippi. According to Kyle, the deep appreciation for his art. She adds, name of the exhibit was selected because, “The figure, color and landscape defined “I was surprised to discover that, although “It is a fresh introduction to his artistic talent Bucci’s artistic career. As he matured in his his works are in permanent collections of and serves as a catalyst to reawaken the art style, these three often converged.” many major museums, he had never had an world to Bucci’s importance as an artist.” exhibition devoted exclusively to his work in Bright, vivid colors were the first thing Jackson,” Kyle said. “That’s when I conveyed Paintings selected for this exhibition reflected to immediately catch the viewer’s eye at to Mr. Bucci my interest in organizing an a range of styles over a prolific career—from the exhibit. Olinger points out, “Bucci exhibition of his art at Belhaven University, Matisse-inspired still-lifes and rare family was enthralled with color and wanted to and I also invited him to curate it. He portraits to dazzling modernist landscapes. understand what it was about through enthusiastically accepted.” Bucci had begun The exhibition, located in Belhaven’s Bitsy practice and repetition. He used color to selecting works from his personal collection Irby Visual Arts and Dance Center, consisted expand and push out his surfaces, as well when he died on November 16, 2014 after of 29 oil-on-canvas paintings, one major work as to contract and push inwards.” a brief illness. Family members wanted the on paper and six needlepoints. All of the exhibition to proceed, and they continued works were from Bucci’s estate, and many were preparations with Belhaven University. displayed to the public for the first time.

10 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 11 His landscape paintings were another in fine arts education for students from influential relationship that was reflected in highlight of the show. Olinger believes Mississippi, the United States and abroad. their paintings and continues to be studied that one of the most significant attributes I am delighted that Belhaven University is by art scholars and historians to this day. of Bucci’s work is the emotional impact presenting this exhibition of Andrew Bucci, these types of paintings have on the viewer. one of Mississippi’s most outstanding artists. During his creative legacy, he received “Joyous, uplifting, happy, healing… these are Without doubt, this exhibition will serve as a Mississippi’s most prestigious arts awards and all words that have been used to describe catalyst to ignite the interest of our students, honors. In 2009, he received the Governor’s Bucci’s landscapes.” art lovers and art scholars alike in recognizing Award for Excellence in the Arts from the the artistic genius of Andrew Bucci.” Mississippi Arts Commission. In 2012, he Andrew Bucci: Rediscovered was part of an received the Mississippi Institute of Arts initiative at Belhaven University to advance Bucci was influenced early in his career and Letters Lifetime Achievement Award. and support the arts, called the Marie Hull by Marie Atkinson Hull, who was a 1909 His painting of a magnolia blossom appears Society for the Arts. The University has a Belhaven (College) University graduate and on the 5-cent U.S. postage stamp, issued notable focus on producing top artists and one of Mississippi’s foremost artists of the in 1967 for the 150th anniversary is one of only 34 universities in the U.S. 20th century. Around 1940, Bucci began of Mississippi statehood. l accredited in all four of the major arts. taking art lessons from Hull in her home on Dr. Roger Parrott, President of the University, Belhaven Street in Jackson. Over the course said, “Belhaven University is a leader of their lifetimes, they forged a mutually

12 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 15–17 HOME COMING 2015

* For more information, see the website www.belhaven.edu or smartphone app OR call 601.949.3789

THURSDAY SATURDAY 4:00 p.m. Women’s Soccer 8:30 a.m. Women/Men’s Cross Country Meet vs. University of the Ozarks & vs. Mississippi College 9:15 a.m. (Choctaw Trails Clinton) 7:00 p.m. Men’s Soccer vs. University of the Ozarks 9:00 a.m. 50 Year Club Fall Meeting 10:00 a.m. Alumni Homecoming Brunch* FRIDAY 1:00 p.m. Football vs. Warner University 6:00 p.m. 2005 Class Reunion* 5:00 p.m. Women’s Soccer vs. Univ. of Texas at Tyler 6:00 p.m. Math and Science Reunion Reception* 6:00 p.m. 1974–1977 Class Reunion* 6:00 p.m. 1965 Class Reunion Reception* 7:00 p.m. Men’s Soccer vs. Univ. of Texas at Tyler 7:00 p.m. “The World’s Largest Man” Dr. Harrison Scott Key 7:30 p.m. “Alumni Collaborative Piano Recital” book reading and reception* featuring alumni Nicole Harwell

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 13 BELHAVEN LAUNCHES COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM

Computer science expert and alum, Dr. David O’Gwynn leads new program

Dr. David O’Gwynn (’99) returned to his CAMPUS NEWS alma mater to take the role of chair and assistant professor of Belhaven University’s new computer science program. “Computer science has changed dramatically from the academic programs of the past,” said Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven University. “I’m thrilled that our new major will be on the front edge of what students need to get the best jobs in the computer science industry.” gaming industry is concentrated in a few very Operations Group. Dr. O’Gwynn worked large game companies, the independent, or on projects dealing with cyber situational The core curriculum of the new program ‘indie’, game design community is growing awareness and the support of national is centered around network services and and thriving. Belhaven, with its ethos of cyber defense. He received his Ph.D. in incorporates concentrations in cyber security cross-disciplinary curricula, is uniquely suited computer science from the University of and indie gaming. Students pursuing an for preparing students to enter into the Alabama at Birmingham in 2011, his M.S. in emphasis in cyber security are studying highly entrepreneurial world of indie game computational engineering from Mississippi network defense, cyber intelligence, malware design.” Students pursuing a concentration State University in 2003 and his B.S. in reverse engineering and incident response, as in indie gaming, not only study the mathematics from Belhaven University in well as network intrusion and defense. “One mechanics behind gameplay and visual design 1999. His Ph.D. thesis was on a topological needs only scan the headlines to understand components, but they also are learning about approach to shape analysis and alignment. that our networked world is a very hostile the business and marketing side of gaming. From 2005–2011, he worked for the place,” said Dr. O’Gwynn. “Businesses University of Alabama at Birmingham and governments alike are under constant “When Belhaven considered reestablishing as a teaching and research assistant. In attack in the cyber domain from criminals, a computer science program, it was an easy 2003, he worked for Watkins-O’Gwynn extremists and others. We are preparing our decision to pursue Dr. O’Gwynn,” said Dr. Consulting Electrical Engineers as a students for that world, giving them the tools Dennis Watts, Associate Provost. “David system administrator. He also worked for to protect and defend the systems they will brings a wealth of knowledge and experience Mississippi State University as a research build and maintain.” in computer science. His addition to our assistant in 2000–2003. His academic science and mathematics faculty continues to articles and research were included in IEEE “I’m also very excited about the cross- advance the institution’s STEM capabilities High Performance Extreme Computing discipline emphasis for indie gaming.” and, therein, our students’ opportunities for Conference (HPEC 2012, 2013 and 2014), Dr. O’Gwynn understands the profitability employment in STEM disciplines.” 42nd AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting of the computer gaming industry and how its and Exhibit, ACM Southeast and Lincoln power and growth potential extends into the Dr. O’Gwynn worked at Massachusetts Laboratory Journal. usual entertainment domain as well as non- Institute of Technology: MIT Lincoln entertainment domains, such as education, Laboratory, where he was a technical training and therapeutics. “While most of the staff member of the Cyber Systems and

14 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 BELHAVEN NAMED MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL Award honored the top 15 percent of colleges, universities WHITE HOUSE and trade schools in the country RECOGNIZED BELHAVEN FOR INNOVATIVE SCIENCE UNIVERSITY DESIGNATED Nationally recognized for its service to the EDUCATION COLLEGE OF DISTINCTION U.S. military, Belhaven University was Engaged students, great awarded the prestigious title of 2015 Military President Obama, the First Lady and Vice teaching, vibrant communities Friendly School. The award honored the top President Biden recognized Belhaven 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade University for its commitment to increase and successful outcomes schools in the country that are doing the the number of college graduates in the fields most to embrace America’s military service of science, technology, engineering and The University was honored for the fifth members, veterans and spouses as students mathematics (STEM). “America needs to consecutive year as a College of Distinction. and are ensuring their success on campus and become the leader in science and technology The 2015–2016 College of Distinction after graduation. again, and Belhaven has the ability to help designation is given to select schools to achieve this national priority,” said Belhaven honor their excellence in student-focused Belhaven Adult and Graduate Studies have University President Dr. Roger Parrott. higher education. a history of supporting military personnel in their goals for higher education. The adult Participants were asked to commit new action Belhaven was recognized in all four studies program makes attending Belhaven to one of four areas: building networks of distinctions: engaged students, great more affordable for military by providing colleges around promoting completion, teaching, vibrant communities and the Yellow Ribbon Program, grants and creating K-16 partnerships around college successful outcomes. The goal of Colleges of other incentives. Belhaven military benefits readiness, investing in high school counselors Distinction is to provide students, counselors not only help with the financial side of as part of the First Lady’s Reach Higher and parents with information about schools education, but also extend into other areas. initiative, and increasing the number of that excel in these key areas. Books are included with tuition and a college graduates in the fields of science, student’s transcripts are requested and paid technology, engineering, and mathematics. Tyson Schritter, Executive Editor of Colleges for by Belhaven. of Distinction, said, “We take an unbiased Belhaven University committed to look at the admission process and look at Belhaven Online is another reason the redesigning its general core science the myths surrounding college admissions, university made the military friendly list this curriculum for non-science majors. The provide tools for self-assessment and provide year. The online program fits into the busy goal of the redesign was to emphasize the insights from college admissions professionals, and mobile lifestyles of the military and important role of science in our society and high school counselors, students and parents. provides a flexible schedule for them economy as well as inspire 10 percent of Schools designated as Colleges of Distinction to earn a degree. our students to pursue STEM degrees. The create well-rounded graduates and are among University’s commitment to STEM has already the very best in the country.” Now in its sixth year, the Military seen a positive increase. “With our new Friendly Schools designation provides science facilities and aggressive young science Colleges of Distinction was established as service members transparent, data-driven faculty, Belhaven’s enrollment in STEM- a web-based guide for high school juniors ratings about post-military education and related academic majors increased 34 percent and seniors, who are seeking a school career opportunities. The school survey, this year, plus 45 students in our brand new that is nationally recognized and highly methodology, criteria and weightings School of Nursing,” adds Dr. Parrott. “This recommended by professionals in the field were developed with the assistance of an new cutting-edge curriculum for non-science of education. Colleges and universities independent Academic Advisory Board, majors sets us apart as a university that is were nominated for participation by high comprised of educators from schools across serious about equipping our students to value school counselors, and then evaluated using the country. science that is part of our everyday lives.” qualitative and quantitative research.

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 15 “Nursing is all about life-long learning,” said and hold the power to communicate ACCOUNTING MAJOR Dr. Rex-Smith, “When I care for acutely ill and honor God through dance.” AWARDED TOP patients at the bedside, I do much good. If SCHOLARSHIP I can extend my reach by educating the next Belhaven dance faculty and guest artists Based on her high GPA group of nurses, then I have made a more provide students with opportunities to significant contribution to health care.” investigate and develop their choreographic and exemplary character “voice” through well-rounded curriculum in She joined the faculty at Belhaven University dance crafting courses. Dance mentors also The Mississippi after 22 years working at the University of offer practical applications to learning, re- Society of Certified Massachusetts in Boston, where she focused staging dances or setting new choreographies Public Accountants on acute care, critical care nursing, and as well as encouraging dialogue about the (MSCPA) awarded spirituality and health. Dr. Rex-Smith earned process and end production. Meredith Keeton her B.S.N. at Seattle Pacific University, a a prestigious M.S.N. in Medical-Surgical Nursing at Boston Every semester, the department provides scholarship, given to University and a Ph.D. from the University of a platform for emerging choreographers only one accounting California, Los Angeles. to present their creations and receive student at each of constructive feedback. Newland adds, “We the universities and colleges in Mississippi. are intentional to include assignments that Keeton, a junior accounting major, was given DANCE DEPARTMENT include an array of choreography from the scholarship based on her high GPA and NAMED TOP TEN around the world as well as assignments exemplary character. She received a total CHOREOGRAPHY SCHOOL that explore various approaches and tools amount of $3,000. Based on the type of degree of dance making. We require our students to provide intelligent communication Dr. Geoffrey Goldsmith, Professor and offered and the quality of about viewing dance and to articulate their Chair of Accounting, said, “Meredith met the choreography intentions and choices for their own dance and exceeded all of the qualifications. She is compositions. We take this part of the field an outstanding student!” According to Dr. Belhaven University’s Dance Department of dance seriously; however, we still strive to Goldsmith, the scholarship not only helped was recognized as a Top Ten Choreography have some laughs and fun in the process.” Keeton finance her education, but it will also School among other prestigious universities be a tremendous addition to her résumé when of dance, such as The University of Arizona, she begins her career in accounting. “It is an Temple University, California State honor for her to win the scholarship; it will University and University of North Carolina- put her on the radar of CPAs with the state’s Greensboro. The Seattle-based newspaper MSCPA leadership,” added Dr. Goldsmith. Seattle Pi determined the top schools based on the type of degree offered and the quality of NURSING EDUCATION the choreography taught at each institution. AWARD PRESENTED TO “It is great to see our dance program BELHAVEN PROFESSOR recognized among the best in the country,” said Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven Dr. Amy Rex-Smith, University. “We stand out even further as Professor of Nursing the only Christian university working at the and Director of highest levels in dance.” RN-BSN Program at Belhaven University, Cynthia Newland, Associate Professor and received the Chair of the Dance Department, said, “The Excellence in Nursing inclusion of Belhaven’s Dance Department Education award from on this top ten list comes as an honor, the Massachusetts affirming our desire to establish a competitive Chapter of the American Nurses Association dance program. Our goal as instructors is to (MAANA). The MAANA hosted a dinner produce technically trained, refined dancers ceremony to honor her on April 10, 2015. and performers who understand their craft PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE

16 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 BELHAVEN ALUM STUDENTS RESEARCH AWARDED FULBRIGHT HUMAN TRAFFICKING ARTS RESEARCH GRANT IN MISSISSIPPI

Stephanie Miracle (’04) was awarded a U.S. Social work students collaborated with Fulbright Research Grant to study dance in Beautiful Ones Ministries and Shared Essen, Germany. This prestigious grant enabled Hope International to research and raise her to spend a year at Folkwang University, awareness about human trafficking in studying the lineage and legacy of Pina Bausch. Central Mississippi. “Raising awareness is GWEN WHITE INDUCTED Bausch is one of Germany’s most influential the first step to prevention for any issue,” INTO MISSISSIPPI SPORTS choreographers of the 20th century and his said Dr. Angela Gaddis, Chair and Associate HALL OF FAME dance company, Tanztheater Wuppertal, is Professor of Social Work. “If there is a lack world-renowned. of knowing that the problem exists, then no action will take place to address it as a Former Belhaven Women’s Basketball coach Stephen Wynne, one problem. Raising awareness can move people Gwen White was inducted into the 2015 of Miracle’s dance to action.” class of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. professors while at The Belhaven Hall of Fame member was one Belhaven University, Social work majors Rebekah Allen, Haley of six inductees in this year’s class honored was the first to Crosby and Mary Ali Stewart worked with in front of a record crowd. introduce her to Beautiful Ones Ministries during their

the work of Bausch. internships. Dr. Gaddis guided the senior- A true pioneer of women’s sports in Mississippi Wynne and his wife, level students during the research process. as an athlete and a coach, White coached Britta, had both been The report examined the prevalence of at Belhaven from the first collegiate season dancers in Cologne, domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) and in 1974–75 through the 1983–84 season, Germany and created choreography in the the access to services for victims. It revealed compiling a 174–152 record. White led the style of Bausch’s dance theatre. “I felt very that poverty and education gaps, prevalent Blazers to three 20-plus win seasons and six strongly connected to this approach to making in Mississippi, make children in the area winning records in her 10 years. choreography and wanted to know more and particularly vulnerable to trafficking.

was directed to Pina Bausch,” said Miracle. “Coach Gwen White is a pioneer for The social work students interviewed a women’s athletics in our state,” said Belhaven Miracle believes that her time at Belhaven total of 36 local professionals—from law Vice President for Athletics Scott Little. “She prepared her for studies at Folkwang University enforcement, the judicial system, government excelled as both an athlete and a coach, and and said, “Now that I am here, I can see how agencies, nongovernmental service providers has faithfully impacted the lives of countless my experience at Belhaven prepared me for this and the community—about DMST occurring students over her years of coaching.” Fulbright year. The rigorous technical regiment in the target areas. The individuals

of classical ballet and classical modern mirrors interviewed have identified a total of 90 White retired from coaching after 51 years that of Belhaven. I feel that I am returning DMST victims in recent years. The students in 2012. She joined an elite list in the 2015 to my roots and the teaching philosophies of found that there are currently no treatment class, including: Brett Favre, an all-time great Belhaven professors like Laurie Worill-Biggs, programs or shelters specifically for human quarterback for the University of Southern Amy McIntosh, Marc Arentsen, Stephen trafficking victims in Mississippi. Mississippi and a 20-year veteran of the Wynne, Lou Campbell and Cynthia Newland.” NFL playing for the Atlanta Falcons, Green The compiled data was presented to a task Bay Packers, New-York Jets and Minnesota Cynthia Newland, Associate Professor and force created by Mississippi Governor Phil Vikings; Mike Dennis, star running back for Chair of the Dance Department, said, “Since Bryant to combat human trafficking in Ole Miss who also spent time in the NFL graduating from Belhaven, she has pursued and the state. The information will be used to with the Los Angeles Rams; Fred McAfee, a utilized her God-given gifts as a dance artist develop new programs targeted at prevention, speedy running back for Mississippi College, in New York City and Washington D.C. The identification and treatment of human who played for the New Orleans Saints; and dance department celebrates Stephanie’s many trafficking victims. Clarence Weatherspoon, a basketball star at accomplishments and contributions to the field the University of Southern Mississippi who of dance, while upholding Kingdom values.” later played for the Philadelphia 76ers.

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 17 NEW FACULTY MS. DANA ARMSTRONG, Assistant Professor of DR. DAVID O’GWYNN, Assistant Professor of Nursing, has been a registered nurse for 22 years and Computer Science, spent eight years in academic taught at Hinds Community College for six years. research, instruction and mentoring and four years Prior to Belhaven, Dana received her B.S.N. and working in cyber security at MIT Lincoln Laboratory M.S.N. from the University of Mississippi. before coming to Belhaven. David received his B.S. from Belhaven University, his M.S. from Mississippi State DR. ELIZABETH BRANDON, Associate Professor of University and his Ph.D. from the University of Alabama at Biology, taught at Mississippi College for seven years Birmingham. COMMITMENTprior to Belhaven and is doing research in obesity as it relates to end-stage renal disease. Liz received her DR. AMY REX-SMITH, Professor of Nursing and B.S. from Delta State University and Ph.D. from the Director of RN-BSN Program, brings 22 years of University of Alabama at Birmingham. academic nursing experience from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Amy received her B.S.N. DR. LEANN CARTER, Associate Professor of from Seattle Pacific University, her M.S.N. from Education, comes to us from Blue Mountain College Boston University and her Ph.D. from the University of and brings ten years of experience preparing students in California, Los Angeles. the classroom and online settings. LeAnn received her B.A., M.Ed. and Ed.D. from the University of Mississippi. DR. BRAD SMITH, Director of Online Psychology Programs and the Care and Counsel International MR. DUANE DIEHL, Night Librarian, has 18 years of Institute, has been a licensed psychologist since 1997. experience working in specialty, public and academic Brad received his B.S. from Tufts University, M.Div. library settings. Duane received his B.A. and M.A. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and M.A. from Trevecca Nazarene University and M.L.I.S. from and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts. the University of Tennessee. MRS. DEBORAH SMITHERMAN, Assistant Professor DR. SUSAN DUETT, Assistant Professor and Director of Nursing, has 35 years of nursing experience of Health Administration, taught at the University of in various settings including hospitals, insurance Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). Susan received companies and home health. Deborah received her her B.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi B.S.N. and M.S.N. from The University of Mississippi. and a M.B.A. from Mississippi State University. DR. DAVID SOLLISH, Associate Professor of Musical MRS. DEBI FATHERREE, Assistant Professor of Theatre, comes to Belhaven from Waldorf College Nursing, previously served at Woman’s Hospital for where he served as Head of the Musical Theatre seventeen years as Director of Clinical Education and and Design/Technology programs. David received as Perinatal Educator. Debi received a B.S.N. from his B.F.A. from West Virginia University, M.S. from Mississippi University for Women and a M.S.N. from Illinois State University and Ph.D. from Bowling Green the University of Mississippi. State University.

DR. VIRGIL MENSAH-DARTEY, Assistant Professor of DR. EVERETT WADE, Assistant Professor of English Business Administration, has experience as a Belhaven (Memphis), comes to Belhaven from the University of adjunct, a consultant and an online educator. Virgil Memphis, where he received a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. received his B.S. from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and his M.S. and Ph.D. from DR. CYNTHIA WILKINS, Assistant Professor of Cornell University. Teacher Education & Director of Graduate Education, has 29 years of teaching experience including service DR. JOEL OAKLEY, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, as an adjunct for Belhaven. Cynthia received her B.S. brings nine years of teaching experience in advanced from Baylor University, M.Ed. from Mississippi College mathematics courses. Joel received his B.S. and M.S. and Ph.D. from Mississippi State University. from Mississippi State University and his Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.

18 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 COMMITMENT

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 19 CLASSNOTES BETTY (MONETTE) WHITE (55’) celebrated 57 years of marriage this year to husband, Dr. John White. Betty has had a wonderful singing career sharing her voice and gift in opera companies and choral societies across the country. They reside in Salem, Ore. and spend time in Palm Desert, Calif. where she is active in the two choirs of St. Margaret Episcopal Church. Lindsay Gill to Study Medieval RICHARD AESCHLIMAN (‘61) married Betsy Christiansen on May 30, 2015, and

they reside in Lawrenceville, Ga. ALUMNI NEWS English at University of St. Andrews Gill wants to breathe new life into a beautiful, but dead language. TOM MAYNOR (’61) was granted elder She believes Old English literature has the potential to be revived emeritus status after 42 years of service in the First Presbyterian Church, EPC Session in 2015. and its elements to be used in modern poetry. Belhaven alumnae LINDSAY GILL (‘14) is students!” RONALD SIEGENTHALER (’61) and pursuing a Master of Literature in Medieval Gill compares her aspirations in writing to BERTHA (LITTLETON) SIEGENTHALER English at the University of St. Andrews in creating a tapestry; old medieval styles can be (’59) have retired and moved from Delray Scotland, one of Europe’s oldest and most woven together with new elements to form Beach, Fla. to Black Mountain, N.C. prestigious centers for teaching and research. a unique work of art. “To fully appreciate any novel or piece of literature, one must PEGGY ROBERTS LITTLE (‘62) was Gill wants to breathe new life into a beautiful be prepared to study it, piece it apart and honored September 30, 2014 at a festive but dead language. She believes Old English understand its world—to take a microscope luncheon in celebration of her retirement literature has the potential to be revived and to the tapestry,” said Gill. Research is an from 17 years of service in the Atlanta, its elements to be used in modern poetry. integral part of the degree program at St. Georgia office of the Administrative Committee Andrews. She plans to study the connection of the Presbyterian Church in America. The University of Leicester and University between Old English and Shakespeare, of Dundee sent Gill acceptance letters, but particularly the Old English linguistic LANIER ELLIS (‘64) retired in 2008 as an she selected St. Andrews because of its long and thematic threads that persisted into Associate Reformed Presbyterian pastor and history of academic quality and focus on Shakespeare’s time and plays. is now the Charlotte Host Family Program medieval English. “St. Andrews was founded Coordinator, matching international students in 1413 as Scotland’s first university. It has a “There is a specific type of poetic formatting, at the University of North Carolina Charlotte spectacular academic record and is steeped a type of alliteration, a type of word language with a local American family or single for in history. The medieval English program that Old English uses, like compound words friendship while they study in Charlotte. includes modules on Old English, an interest and word rhythms. Modern poetry doesn’t Lanier is married to KAREN GIBSON I’ve had for years. I hope to develop my career do that. They started using Continental (‘65). They have three grown children and and writing in new directions from what I forms with the influx of the Normans into seven grandchildren. glean in this program.” England around 1066. Since then, we have only been using Continental forms and have KEN (’64) and LESLIE (HALL) WILSON She recently graduated from Belhaven left everything behind with the forms and University with a double major, earning the processes that those poets used that are her degrees in creative writing and history. actually more natural to the English tongue. Dr. Randall Smith, Chair and Professor I think it would be interesting to experiment of Creative Writing, recognized her with that and bring it to modern poetry.” potential and said, “From the start, Lindsay demonstrated the creative intuition of a She is setting her sights toward a future that writer and the keen intellect of an academic— involves more than just writing. After her thus, her eventual double-major in writing masters work, she aspires to earn her Ph.D. and history. Belhaven produces amazing and teach at the university level.

20 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 (‘65) celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a celebration that included their 24 grandchildren. Ken was honorably retired from 40 years on the Pastoral staff at Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Ala. in 2005.

REGINA MANNING (’66) and her husband have retired after 22 years in the Navy and 22 years teaching history and science at Lakeside Junior High School in Orange Park in Fla. GAVULIC NEWEST MEMBER OF BELHAVEN JOHN ROLLO (’68) is retiring from SPORTS HALL OF FAME Mission to the World of the PCA this fall Belhaven University recently recognized a standout athlete and announced the newest after 40 years serving in various capacities member of the Belhaven Athletics Hall of Fame, former softball pitcher Lyndsey at home and abroad. This past December Gavulic. She was presented with the Hall of Fame Award on April 11, 2015, as part he retired after 42 years from Wycliffe Bible of the annual Green-and-Gold Week. Translators. John and his wife, CLAUDIA (’71), are the proud grandparents of four Gavulic represented the softball team from 2003–2006, starting all four years for wonderful grandchildren. Belhaven under coaches Leslie Blanton, Andrea Roberts and Rick Fremin.

TONY CASORIA (’72) has retired after 12 Gavulic came to Belhaven as a freshman and quickly took control of the circle for the years as pastor at two south Florida churches Green-and-Gold, starting every game. Her poise, power and rise ball became well-known and 27 years as the pastor of Center Grove and respected within the conference and region. As a junior, she set the Belhaven Presbyterian (PCA) in Edwardsville, Ill. He single-season record for strikeouts with 286, a record that remains today. and his wife, Nancy (’72), are now living in Hendersonville, N.C. As a senior, she continued to dominate the circle for the Blazers, picking up 20 wins to give her 63 for her career. Gavulic also set the NAIA single-game record for strikeouts JUDI PATETE HORTON (’72) now with 19, which she held until this past season. Gavulic wrapped up her career for the owns The Oxbow Lodge at Lake Bruin Blazers in 2006 as the leader in every major pitching category, including games, (lakebruinoxbowlodge.com), as well as a innings pitched, wins, strikeouts, earned run average and batting average against. property in Pensacola, Fla. She hosts reunions, She still remains in the top three in every career pitching category. retreats, parties, weddings, business meetings and the like. She finished her career as a four-time All-Gulf Coast Athletic Conference recipient and was a two-time all-region recipient. MARGARET C. COOK (’74) has moved back to Jackson, Miss. to teach, preach and write after 22 years pastoring the Ryegate and South Ryegate Presbyterian (USA) Churches LISA BURKE STOVER (’78) was hired as CALVIN TERRELL (’84) was awarded the in rural Vermont. the Director of Business Intelligence at The Atmos Richard Best in 2015. The award is Health Plan in St. Clairsville, Ohio. given for outstanding customer service. STEVE AND DENISE SHUMAN (‘74) have lived in Laurel, Miss. since 1991 where JULIA (JULIE) MCRAE BARHAM (‘80) JOEL BEZAIRE (’98) received the Steve pastors the Covenant Presbyterian and JAMES NEIL BARHAM (‘84) have Bovender Chair at University School of Church PCA. At its September 10, 2013 moved to Neil’s home town of Alexandria, Nashville. This Chair is awarded every three meeting, Grace Presbytery elected Steve as its La., where his mother still resides. Neil years to a teacher who “models the best in Stated Clerk. For the previous six years, he continues the job he had in Miami, but now innovative teaching practices and thorough served as the Recording Clerk. does it remotely. Their two daughters plan to involvement in the life of the school.” Joel go to college next year. and his wife, Jennifer, have also welcomed RICHARD BURGUET (’77) and ANNE Julian Thomas to their family. Julian joins his BURGUET (’74) celebrated 37 years older brother, Liam. of marriage this year.

2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 21 Lowery Excels in Physical Theatre Group

JONATHAN LOWERY ‘06, Belhaven University JILL PELHAN DAY (’99) and her husband BILL BROADHEAD (’03) has completed a theatre alum, is ,Brad, welcomed daughter Charlotte Katherine master’s degree and is working on his Ph.D. at utilizing physical in 2014. Kate is also welcomed by 10-year-old the Univ. of Southern Mississippi. He is the theatre to push brother, Andrew. new principal at Crystal Springs High School. the boundaries of dramatic DAVID O’GWYNN (’99) is returning NATHAN RIBELIN (’03) and K.B. arts. After to Belhaven to take the role of chair and (LUNDELIUS) RIBELIN (’04) welcomed graduating, he assistant professor of computer science. Jubilee Lux Ribelin on February 12, 2014. participated in She is welcomed by her brother, Calvin and an internship DAMIEN ROSETTI (’00) earned his sister, Felicity. with PUSH Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership Physical Theatre from Arkansas State University and was EMILY HUGHES RUSS (’04) lives in and in 2007, also named a National Certified School Little Rock, Ark. with husband, Ryan, joined the Counselor by the National Board of Certified (former Belhaven RD) and two children, group full- Counselors. He is currently employed by the Eliza (3) and Jon (2). Emily is a stay-at-home time. Biloxi Public School District as a mom and a part-time bookkeeper for their career technical education counselor church. Ryan is a therapist at Capstone Lowery said, “It’s very hard to describe at Biloxi High School. Treatment Center. PUSH with words because what we do is so visual. We mash together MANDY (LANIER) BAILEY (’01) has GREG HAWKINS (’05) many different performance styles been promoted to assistant principal in the and KRISTY HAWKINS and use the physicality of movement Forrest County School District (Hattiesburg, (’05) welcomed Emily Grace to tell stories without words. Each Miss.). Additionally, she will complete her Hawkins into the world on performance is a collaboration that Educational Specialist degree from William February 11, 2015. requires the audience to invest part Carey University this fall and will enroll in of their imagination to fill in the the university’s Doctor of Education program DANIEL MCPHEARSON (’05) and invisible details.” immediately thereafter. HANNAH JOHNSON (’10) were married on March 1, 2014. Hannah is a physical Lowery and the members of PUSH SARAH LINK (’02) has been named therapist at UMMC, and Daniel is an account competed in Season 1 of TruTV’s Fake associate executive director by the board manager with The William Morris Group. Off, a next-generation talent show with of directors of the Mississippi Optometric cutting-edge acts that weave iconic Association (MOA). She previously served BRIAN BOLTON (’06) married Debra Hall pop culture into new performances. The as MOA Membership Coordinator. She is a on the 20th of June, in Memphis, Tenn. show has a collection of professional juried member of the Craftsmen’s Guild of performance troupes from around the Mississippi in the metal-jewelry category and SHELBY (ROBERTS) SEGREST (’07), country that compete before a live is a volunteer running coach for third–fifth and husband, Hudson, and children, Ella audience and are then judged by a grade girls with Girls on the Run of and James, welcomed their third child, panel of celebrities. The PUSH team Central Mississippi. Matthew Elkin Segrest on March 11, 2014. made it all the way to the finals and They live in Birmingham, Ala. ended up finishing in second place. CLEVELAND M. PATTERSON, III (’02) received a Juris Doctor degree from CAROL CORROTHERS (’10) completed Lowery was part of the second-ever the Southern University Law Center in her Master of Science this past spring. class of theatre majors. He studied Baton Rouge, La. in 2012. He is currently an dance as well as circus arts at Belhaven Assistant District Attorney for the Mobile, MARY BRYAN (’11) and husband, Josiah before he graduated. He attributes Ala., County District Attorney’s Office. Bryan, have welcomed three children into much of his success to his time at the their family. Calvin was born June 8, 2011. University. “Well, it started with my MYRTIS RANKIN (’02) has been named Fred was born on June 25, 2013 and Elizabeth years at Belhaven. I would never have vice president and business development was born on July 11, 2015. Mary has recently gotten into physical performance officer at Bancorp South in Jackson, Miss. taken a part-time job as a certified hula-hoop if it hadn’t been for the theatre fitness instructor, barre fitness instructor, and a WATER in MOTION® instructor. This fall, department’s mime troupe, The Joshua TAPLEY (SEAFORD) WHALEY (’02) and Squad, and Dr. Lou Campbell, head of husband, Matt Whaley, welcomed their second she will also start work as a dance instructor at the theatre department at the time.” child, Tobin James Whaley on July 27, 2013. a Christian dance studio called Art and Soul.

22 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 ELLIE HONEA (’11) served for two years in outside healthcare providers to expand JACOB BENTON (’14) was promoted to Japan (music and the arts in missions/church- access to primary and specialty care across elementary athletic director after having taken planting) and is currently raising support to the region. the job of head boys and girls soccer coach at continue serving long-term. The ministry is led Hartfield Academy in Flowood, Miss. Jacob by ABI (LAVALLEE) LOWTHER (’98) and RODDY MERRITT (’13) accepted a married ELIZABETH (BET) JOHNSTON position in May at the Methodist Children’s her husband, Roger, and Alumna RACHEL (’14) and they have welcomed their first child, Home of Mississippi where he assists abused REESE (’10) is on the team as well. Sawyer Elizabeth, to their family. and neglected children. He is also pursuing a EMILY SCHRECK (’12) is teaching career as a singer/songwriter. MICHAEL BAILEY (’14) was promoted to at Northside Christian Academy in director of patient throughput operations at Lexington, S.C. ETHAN SAMSEL (’13) of Clinton, Miss., St. Dominic Hospital. received an award from Mississippi College DEMARCUS AKEEM SUGGS (’11) School of Law during its annual Law Day AMBER PALMER (’14) is now pursuing is currently dancing professionally with the ceremony. Samsel was the recipient of the a master’s degree in business administration Dayton Contemporary Dance Company in Mississippi Bar Award Litigation Section, at Mississippi State University and works as Dayton, Ohio. presented to two 2L students who have the special assistant to the chief of staff at excelled academically and show promise in Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. the area of litigation. TOBEY HOUSTON (’13) has been Amber and her husband welcomed their promoted to vice president of network second child on June 1, 2015. has development for Merit Health. She previously ANTHONY WITHERSPOON (’13) won a special election for mayor of Magnolia, served as director of physician outreach/ CHLOE BROWN (’15) is currently Miss. Witherspoon took office immediately market development. In her new role, working on a master’s degree and coaching and will serve the remaining three years of Houston leads network and ambulatory care cross country in Montgomery, Ala. She will former mayor Melvin Harris’ term. strategies and develops relationships with have an art show in November at the Cedars Gallery in Fondren (Jackson, Miss.).

cultural figure in the South,” said Levingston. “Her influence and impact Marie Hull Legacy Celebrated on all the arts not only in Mississippi, but throughout the region, was at Mississippi Museum of Art tremendous. Hull’s works themselves, whether moving portraits, daring By Dr. Roger Ward, Deputy Director and Chief Curator, abstracts or glorious landscapes, create a legacy not only of her masterful Mississippi Museum of Art artistry but of the rapidly changing time and place in which she lived and created her work.” MARIE ATKINSON HULL (1890–1980) is an acclaimed artist/teacher and considered one On the Road with Marie Hull, the second of the two exhibitions, is of Mississippi’s most significant artists. She was conceived and curated by Dr. Roger Ward, Deputy Director and Chief a 1909 Belhaven (College) University graduate and a longtime resident Curator of Mississippi Museum of Art. Its subject is Hull’s amazing of Jackson’s Belhaven neighborhood. Hull was beloved by generations vitality, which found expression through her constant travel. of friends, students, and colleagues, and today her work is admired as much as ever. Famous for her portraits of sharecroppers, farmers and An indefatigable draftsman, she left an extraordinarily rich record of her domestic help during the Great Depression, Hull was also admired for her experience in her sketchbooks. No less so is this the case for her extended floral still-lifes. Her impressionist and abstract expressionist paintings are sojourn in France, Spain and Morocco when she made over 600 drawings acknowledged today for their originality and skill in demonstrating her and watercolors of the picturesque hilltop towns of Brittany and the command of color. Auvergne, of La Mancha and Andalusia, and of the dazzling kasbahs and minarets of Casablanca, Fes and Marrakech. September 28, 2015, is the 125th anniversary of the birth of Marie Hull and to celebrate, the Mississippi Museum of Art will host two exhibitions “Both the state and this institution owe a great deal to Marie Hull,” presenting more than 150 works, the most ever assembled. Both are on said Betsy Bradley, Director of the Mississippi Museum of Art. “She view September 26, 2015 – January 10, 2016 at the museum in Jackson. was a founding member of the Mississippi Art Association in 1911, the forerunner to the Mississippi Museum of Art, and her lasting impact on The first exhibit entitled Bright Fields: The Mastery of Marie Hull, a the creative landscape continues to reverberate. This fall’s exhibitions are Myra Hamilton Green and Lynn Green Root Memorial Exhibition, is the the Museum’s way of paying homage to the life and work of one of the larger of the two. The exhibit is curated by acclaimed concert pianist and state’s most enduring cultural ambassadors.” Mississippi native, Bruce Levingston, a life-long admirer and collector of Hull’s work. “Marie Hull was not only a great painter, but an important 2015 ISSUE 1 | BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN 23 ART PARTING

(Above) Wang gifted an original oil painting to Dr. Roger Parrott and T. Calvin Wells, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. (Left) Still life oil paintings gifted to the university as well as an example of Wang’s portraiture talent. This selection is from the portrait of Peng Liyuan, the President of the People’s Liberation Army Academy of Art and the wife of current Chinese leader Xi Jinping. She is often referred to as the “Chinese First Lady” in the media.

Mr. Rong Wang is an internationally famous oil painter from the People’s Republic of China, whose daughter Xhaoxin (Zow shen) is studying English as a second language at Belhaven University.

Mr. Wang is President of Aide Art of China, a Christian art academy that serves as an art-training conservatory for some of China’s most promising oil painters. The Aide Art Academy promotes peace, love, patriotism and Christianity throughout Mainland China. Under Mr. Wang’s leadership, Aide Art of China has funded and assisted hundreds of aspiring art students.

As a highly-decorated and acclaimed artist, Mr. Wang is regularly commissioned by the People’s Republic of China Ministry of Foreign Affairs to capture prominent dignitaries as they visit China. Recent paintings completed by Mr. Wang include works for the President of Cameroon; the President of South Sudan; the Prime Minister to the Queen of Denmark; the President of Argentina; the President of Eritrea; the President of Macedonia; the President of Tunisia; the President of Malta; the Russian ambassador to China; the President of Tanzania; the President of Chile; and the President of Suriname. His work for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has given him many connections throughout the country and within the Chinese government.

Mr. Wang and his artworks have been widely acclaimed by Central China Television, Central Network Television, China Education Television, China Daily News, Journal of Chinese Calligraphy and Painting, Chinese Art Magazine, China Reform, China Entrepreneur and China Art News, in addition to hundreds of regional and local publications throughout the country. Mr. Wang hopes to make numerous connections and potential contacts for future exchanges of art, culture and goodwill between China and the United States.

24 BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY TARTAN | 2015 ISSUE 1 HighOnline DualScholars Enrollment Gap Year and AA Degree Options he curriculum is academically rigorous, Tbiblically-rich, and prepares students for the challenges of today’s world. Weekly discussions develop strong relationships between students and faculty. Integrated studies analyze Western Civilization through the lens of biblical truth. Enroll in the High Scholars program, where college credit is transferable and affordable.

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Learn more at www.belhaven.edu/high-scholars or call 601-968-5942.

Volume 127 | Issue No.1 • 2015

THE TARTAN STAFF BOARD OF TRUSTEES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND DESIGN | Bryant C. Butler T. CALVIN WELLS | Chairman of the Board The Belhaven Tartan is published by Belhaven EDITOR | David Sprayberry JIMMY HOOD | Vice Chairman of the Board University, 1500 Peachtree Street, Box 158, Jackson, DESIGNER | Corrie M. Hung HUGH POTTS, JR. | Secretary of the Board Mississippi, 39202 for distribution to alumni, parents WRITERS | Ben Dishong, Roger Parrott, David CHARLES CANNADA | Past Chairman of students, and friends of the university. Please send Sprayberry, Roger Ward, Beth Whitney James M. Bateman, Forrest Berry, Joel Bomgar, alumni updates, address corrections, and other news PHOTOGRAPHERS | Bryant Butler, Gary LeMottee F. Bond Christie, Charles Doty, F. Earl Fyke, III, to Belhaven Tartan, care of the address below. You Rachel Neville, James Patterson, Tom Roster, Stephen M. Edwards, Doug Hederman, can reach us by phone at 601-968-5930 or by e-mail at Bob Smith, David Sprayberry, Hubert Worley Wayne Husband, Stuart Kellogg, Jay Kyle, [email protected] or by fax at 601-968- ALUMNI NEWS | Beth Whitney Liza Looser, Sean Michael Lucas, Verne Kennedy, 8946. Visit our web site at www.belhaven.edu. Periodical Virginia Morris, Leisha Pickering, Randy Pope, III, postage paid in Jackson, MS. POSTMASTER: Send ADMINISTRATION W. Lynn Stringer, Joseph Stroble, Gaines Sturdivant, address changes to Belhaven University, 1500 Peachtree ROGER PARROTT | President of the University Alan H. Walters, Dolphus Weary, Rick Whitlock, Street, Box 158, Jackson, MS, 39202. DAN FREDERICKS | Senior Vice President, Provost KEVIN RUSSELL | Vice President Mark Windham, Richard Wilson, Wirt A. Yerger, III, for University Advancement Jerry Young VIRGINIA HENDERSON | Chief Financial Officer EMERITUS AUDREY KELLEHER | Vice President of Adult James Baird, Wilson Benton, Jr., Lee Breeland, and Graduate Marketing and Development William T. Dawson, S. A. Robinson, Jr., SCOTT LITTLE | Vice President for Athletics William F. Winter and Student Life JEFF RICKELS | Assistant to the President NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE 1500 Peachtree Street, Campus Box 158 Jackson, Mississippi 39202-1789 PAID PERMIT No. 95 JACKSON, MS

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