SPRING 2018

Dr. Ben E. Hancock Jr. President

Dr. Delmas Crisp Provost

Kim Hasty Director of University Relations

Roxana Ross Editor

Nate Jervey On the cover: The MU community is full of people who Athletics Editor are working to improve wellness across campus and beyond. Check out some of their stories in this issue. Jason Canady Graphic Designer, Photographer

Gabrielle Isaac Allison ’15 Kirbie Dockery ’03 Doo Lee ’14 Michael Molter ’94 About Methodist University: Methodist University is related by faith to the North Carolina Annual Badanile Nyathi Conference, Southeastern Jurisdiction, The United Kseniia Petrova Methodist Church. Methodist University is an Contributing Writers and Photographers independent corporation rather than an agency of the Conference and is responsible for its own debts and obligations.

Methodist University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, national or ethnic origin, MU Today Magazine is published religion, sexual orientation, or disabilities for for friends and alumni of Methodist otherwise qualified persons in the administration University by the Office of University of its admissions, educational policies, scholarships, Relations. To be added to our mailing loan programs, athletics, employment, or any other list, call 910.630.7200 or email university-sponsored or advertised program. [email protected]. Spring on the campus of Methodist University is a wonderful time showcasing a world of color and beauty.

T-PAIN & Hunter Hayes TABLE OF CONTENTS Concert 36 Wellness Keep what works ...... 4 Lipford talks nutrition...... 10 Interdisciplinary takes on wellness...... 20 The 2019 Doctor of Physical Therapy Class poses for a News photo after its White Coat Ceremony. RSB Symposium winners...... 28 Dr. Christian receives Monarchs respond to hurricanes...... 32 medallion Dr. Mary Atwater '69 returns...... 34 Baseball's Iron Man 40 Annual Report of Donors visits MU MU Today is downloadable. Cal Ripken Jr. was the keynote speaker at the Go to Methodist.edu Report...... Print Version Only and download a version to your Construction update...... Print Version Only 4th Annual Presidential Lecture Series desktop, tablet or smartphone. Alumni News Page 44 Class notes...... 54 Remembering...... 62 Construction update on 75 The Matthews Ministry Center PRINT VERSION ONLY Nutrition Myths Monarchs embrace holistic MU's Dr. Gray Lipford dispels some myths approaches to wellness 4 about nutrition Page 10

PRINT VERSION Faculty across departments ONLY answer the question We asked, "What does wellness mean in your Dr. Mary Atwater ’69 field?" returns as Convocation speaker 34 Page 22

2 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 3 Monarchs embrace

Keep what works, change what doesn’t

Physical simple way to break down Methodist we’re also meeting the needs of our students and AUniversity’s wellness philosophy is “eat well, faculty or coaches, too.” Mental move well, feel well, be well.” Using a holistic, Along with the ISSW, the Doctor of Physical well-balanced approach to wellness can help keep Therapy Program and the Student Health Office the body, mind, and spirit healthy and in harmony, are also moving toward a joint health and wellness and the MU community is full of people who are fair planned for this fall, one that will combine and working to improve wellness across campus and build on the best parts of two separate health and beyond. wellness fairs that the areas have offered in the past. At the forefront of the wellness movement is the “In prior years, the DPT program held a student- Institute of Sports Science and Wellness, and one of led health fair in June that has seen reasonable its goals is “to promote physical, emotional, social, community participation, but has also missed out intellectual, environmental, and spiritual wellness on the opportunity to involve most undergraduate among Methodist University students, faculty, and students and many faculty and staff,” said Assistant staff.” There are also entire offices devoted to specific Professor of Physical Therapy Dr. Blake Justice. Spiritual aspects of wellness, and initiatives and programs “Student Health Services Director Sandy Combs Social started by faculty and staff that look to provide and Coordinator of Student Health Alicia Kuch, on more opportunities to address wellness in our the other hand, have provided a student-centered community. Health Fair in October for several years that has In March 2017, the ISSW kicked off the Healthy been successful in reaching the undergraduate Campus 2020 initiative with a signing day event in students.” Berns Student Center. The center also supports and Since Combs retired this May after 50 years encourages ongoing research on wellness-related at Methodist, Justice is now working with Kuch topics. It recently initiated two research studies to combine their efforts and create a new, larger, aimed at assessing current levels of wellness among and more dynamic health fair in the fall. They students, faculty, and staff. are currently looking for vendors and other “Last year the University made a pledge to take community members who can come and offer part in Healthy Campus 2020,” said Associate health information and possibly assessments. Environmental Professor of Physical Education and Exercise Health-related programs on campus, like nursing Science Dr. Jamie Robbins, who is one of the forces and physical therapy, will also set up to offer behind the ISSW. “To reach this goal, we created assessments and other activities. Intellectual walking/running trails, conducted yoga in the quad, “What we are trying to develop here is a quality and began marketing wellness on campus. We also health fair that provides a broad spectrum of created an exercise station on campus in Fannie offerings and encourages participation from both Farmer Park, and promoted a week of wellness in on- and off-campus communities,” Justice said. April to encourage people to recognize areas where To read about more ways these and other they could improve and make changes. So often Monarchs are encouraging wellness, check out the these initiatives appear to be focused on students, following stories in this section. but we want to change that. We want to make sure

4 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 5 Mental

McLoughlin leads by example and shares the benefits of counseling

ayla McLoughlin isn’t afraid to talk to people. As president going to make sure your experience is what you need to become Kof the Student Government Association, resident assistant, the best version of yourself.” Leadership Fellow, and member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Like many of her fellow students, McLoughlin wants to McLoughlin frequently addresses groups of people. make the world a better place after she graduates this year. She But when she found herself worrying over more and more understands now that job will be a little easier if she remembers things in a way that seemed, well, worrying, she knew it was to take care of herself, too. time to schedule one talk she was reluctant to have – with a “Heather has given me countless tools to carry with me counselor at the Center for Personal Development (CPD). long after I leave Methodist,” she said. “I will hold these lessons “Finding a safe space where you feel you can let it all and tools given to me by Heather and the rest of the CPD staff out without judgment or repercussion is an amazing thing, forever. I now have a passion for wanting to continue the lessons especially as a student leader,” she said. “I know that student I have learned in order to be able to share them with others. leaders also aren’t the best at asking for help, and many students I will also continue to advocate for mental health services, on campus may feel like the CPD has nothing to offer them. But especially for young people.” I have seen the wonders of the CPD firsthand and I have also Regan says she’s very happy to know that the CPD’s efforts seen the misconceptions of mental health firsthand.” will continue to bear fruit with McLoughlin and others like her. At her first meeting, McLoughlin knew she made the right decision, and she’s been a believer and advocate ever since. She Photo: Christi Lowe Productions and Michelle Bir even volunteered to talk about her experience for a video about the CPD, which is played for freshmen as part of a Student Affairs presentation at New Student Orientation. “I didn’t really think about wanting to visit CPD until my sophomore year, but I was hesitant and never ended up making an appointment,” McLoughlin said. “When I came back in the summer before junior year for RA training, I told myself I really was going to make an appointment. I walked into the CPD session and met Heather Regan, the director. I immediately clicked with Heather and felt like she was someone I would really learn a lot from.” As a free service that was easy to access on campus, visiting the CPD made sense to McLoughlin, who, like many other students, wasn’t familiar with any other local options for counseling. Before she went in, she felt intimidated by the Kayla McLoughlin records a video promo about the Center for prospect of talking with someone she didn’t know about things Personal Development. that made her feel vulnerable. “One of the hardest things about being a counselor is that we “After being exposed to the CPD, I learned that you really often don’t know what happens to a student after they graduate shape your own experience,” she said. “The only person who or stop coming,” Regan said. “Sometimes I get an email from knows you is you. The people at CPD are just there to help us a previous student like I did last week, citing their success better understand ourselves and how we can overcome some of and letting me know that five years after graduation they’re our own personal battles. Each counselor is different and you still using the counseling tools they learned here. It makes the have to find someone you can relate to.” difficulties of our job so worth it. Counseling isn’t just talking McLoughlin stresses the importance of students finding the about feelings, though that is very important, but counseling is right counselor for their particular needs. also exploring healthy coping mechanisms and strategies that “I always tell people to give it more than one shot if you feel you can use throughout life, whether in the classroom, a job like the first time wasn’t what you thought it would be,” she interview, or as you’re about to walk down the aisle.” said. “Sometimes you just need to find the style that works best for you, and each counselor offers something different. No two Right, McLoughlin gives a speech during the 2018 Loyalty Campaign stories are the same, and the CPD understands that. They are Kick-Off event.

6 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 7 Mental

CPD reaches out to students with residence hall programs MU students enjoyed creating stress balls they can use to relieve anxiety.

esidence hall leaders at Methodist University are trained that he thought it was important to invite the counselors to Rto recognize potential mental health issues before the first participate to make sure his presentations were credible. student arrives on campus in the fall. “I thought that more people would come if the professionals The Center for Personal Development (CPD) is the campus were going to speak,” Baibane said. “Afterward, I got really good counseling and psychological service located in Pearce feedback on my programs. Students actually learned from them. Hall, where members of the MU community can find a safe, It was not just a presentation with someone talking. It was a confidential place to be heard and helped. But for many conversation where people could ask questions and express their students, their first exposure to the CPD actually happens in thoughts.” their own residence hall. After such collaborative programs in the residence halls, The Center focuses on supporting residential students, students feel more encouraged to come to the CPD on their own and because of that, the staff collaborates work with Housing because they become familiar with the staff. and Residence Life. Before the school year even starts, as a “I believe the programs help take away the stigma that many part of the training for resident assistants, RAs are trained to people have about counseling,” Director Heather Regan said. recognize potential mental health issues and learn basic conflict “The students are able to learn in a group of peers. We always management skills, such as helping residents set up boundaries have good discussions. In addition, it helps normalize their with parents or roommates, or tips for handling stress and attitude toward talking to a professional. They learn that you do academic pressure. not have to be mentally ill in order to come to the counseling “A part of residential life experience is to learn outside of service.” the classroom and to learn how to adjust to living with other The CPD’s staff consists of three full-time professional people, or how to handle conflicts,” said Nan Fiebig, the assistant counselors: Valarie McCants, Elizabeth Warren, and Regan; and director of Housing and Residence Life. “To ensure students two master’s level interns who are in the process of earning their have access to experts on these subjects, we ask our colleagues degrees in counseling. The CPD is open to all undergraduate from the Center for Personal Development to come in and to and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff. talk to the students about different issues and ways to solve “We help students with problems related to relationships, them.” anxiety, studying, time management, human sexuality, and Then, throughout the year, the CPD continues to reach transition in general,” Regan said. “Especially freshmen or out to students. By partnering with RA programming in the international students’ transition to a new way of life. There is residence halls, CPD staff comes into the residence halls and no problem that is stupid or too small to bring to us. We are here holds evening programs that address specific topics. Resident to help.” assistants can bring ideas and develop them with the Center, or The center also helps students with substance abuse issues request a topic to the counselors, who will design a program. In and provides educational materials on this and other topics. the last year, the CPD brought programs into the residence halls More self-education materials such as listings for hotlines and on topics such as meditation, mindful eating, relationships, and online sources can be found in the resources section of the communication skills. CPD’s website, methodist.edu/counseling. People who want one- West Hall RA Ahmed Mahmoud Baibane presented two on-one, face-to-face counseling or assistance are encouraged to such programs to his residents, both of which he created with make appointments by calling or emailing the office. the CPD, on the topics of anxiety and meditation. Baibane said Contributing author Kseniia Petrova is a mass communications Top photo: Resident Assistant Nicole Triano helps students Celeste Tice and Bethany Drake with their 8 major at Methodist University. creations. Bottom left: Edona Sefa and Keseniia Petrova display their stress relievers. Bottom right, interns METHODIST UNIVERSITY 9 Emily Jones '14, left, and Katie Frankum talk to students in Garber Hall. Physical

Lipford dispels nutrition myths for students

r. Gray Lipford’s background as a personal fitness “I learned that I was eating way too much meat, so my family Dtrainer gave him firsthand experience with clients who now has meatless Wednesdays,” Bush said. “We get our protein didn’t understand nutrition. There are a lot of myths and from complementary groups, mostly grain and beans, and cutting misunderstandings out there about food and eating, and he out the meat cuts down on the fat we eat.” teaches students every day in his nutrition classes how to think Lipford says the three most common misperceptions he finds critically about things they read, heard, or were told about in students are confusion between nutrients and foods, the idea nutrition. that more protein is better, and that carbohydrates are fattening. “Almost everything you read on the internet is wrong,” Nutrients vs. foods he said. “Nutrition is applied chemistry, but most people “Foods are what we eat, and nutrients are the chemicals that aren’t chemists. Magazines jump on the make up the food. For example, people will bandwagon of diet fads, because otherwise say they’re avoiding carbohydrates, but all they’d just print the same information over foods, except pure oil and meat, contain and over again. Meanwhile, everybody carbohydrates. Fruits and vegetables are wants to lose weight, and magazines or good for us, and get most of their calories internet sites want to make money, so there from carbohydrates. Protein is another one. are plenty of people ready to sell things by Meat and beans are both protein, but meat telling people what they want to hear.” gets the majority of its calories from fat while Lipford, who is an associate professor most of the calories in beans come from of physical education and exercise science carbohydrates. By focusing on food’s overall at Methodist University, said that the basic qualities, not just one component, diet can be dietary recommendations haven’t changed i mprov e d .” much in decades, but the problem is that More protein is better most people don’t actually follow the “Recently, protein has been made into recommendations, especially about portion a nutritional superhero. Commercials tell sizes. people to ‘power up with protein,’ but most “Foods are just tools,” he said. “The body Americans already consume more protein needs all the tools to do work. It can make do than they need. For them, increasing protein Dr. Lipford offers the following suggestions for healthier eating: without all of the tools for a little while, but Dr. Gray Lipford prepares a healthy meal intake does nothing toward improving health. not if the same tools are missing every day. in the Green and Gold Cafe. Instead, it can do the opposite. The body 1. Eat more fruits and vegetables It’s like having 50 hammers and no screwdriver.” has no place to store protein for easy use later, like it can with The amount of these a person can eat is limited only by his or her appetite. And it doesn’t really matter to a great extent With many student athletes in his classes, topics such as carbohydrates. So protein gets converted to fat. In fact, any excess whether they are fresh, frozen, or canned (though for some, a lower-sodium canned variety is a better choice). If you can eat a increasing carbohydrates to improve performance often go against calorie that goes unused is converted to fat and stored, regardless variety of different types, that’s even better. However, how you prepare the fruits and vegetables is important. popular trends and can have immediate influence on his students’ of its source.” 2. Be careful what you add to your foods lives and activities. Carbohydrates are fattening Condiments, mainly those made from fat and oil, should be used sparingly because they add a lot of calories. Items like “Almost all of our athletes are power athletes, not endurance “Carbohydrates are not fattening. Too much carbohydrates butter, margarine, mayo, full-fat salad dressings, pesto, cream sauces, cheese sauces, tartar sauce, and anything fried (which is athletes, and most don’t eat enough carbohydrates to support the are fattening. However, too much fat is also fattening, as is basically dunked in oil) fall into this category. There are condiments that are low in calories such as salsa, mustard, or ketchup. kind of performance they want, I think. People don’t understand too much protein. None of these, however, are fattening if 3. Avoid liquid calories that fruits and vegetables are made of carbohydrates, not just the consumed in needed amounts. Those amounts differ depending These are typically sugary drinks like sodas, sweet tea, and alcoholic beverages. Liquid calories won’t make you feel more full, breads that should be eaten in moderation. We talk a lot about on a person’s size and activities. For example, most fruits and but contain a lot of calories and few other nutrients. One exception is low-fat or non-fat milk. Diet soda isn’t really healthy, but it is a better choice than non-diet soda, as long as you don’t use a diet soda as an excuse to eat more calories elsewhere. how to make healthy choices while living a student’s lifestyle. vegetables get nearly all of their calories from carbohydrates. 4. Use moderation with pasta, bread, potatoes, and rice The idea is that nutrition is not just about what not to eat, but Do you know anyone who is too fat because they eat too many To be clear, these are normally healthy foods, but only if consumed in moderation. Because they are highly palatable, however, also about what you should eat. It’s about getting the best bang for apples and bananas, or too much broccoli and squash? Probably they are easily eaten to excess. A slice of bread is considered a serving, so a sandwich would contain two servings, for example. your buck.” not. That’s because those foods also contain a lot of water and Six servings is the recommended intake for a standard 2,000 calorie diet. Whole grains such as whole wheat pasta, brown rice, Student Martin Bush said he made some changes to what he fiber, making the person feel full before they eat too many or whole wheat bread contain more nutrients, including fiber, than more refined versions. You should aim to get about half of eats after learning from Lipford. calories, most of the time.” your grain intake or more from whole grain varieties.

10 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 11 Physical

Nimocks Fitness Center promotes physical wellness for all

tudents who have come to Methodist University to exercise intramural and club sports they want to play,” he said. “We are Stheir minds can also find plenty of opportunities to exercise always looking for ways to make Nimocks into the gym that the their bodies at Nimocks Fitness Center. Being physically fit MU community wants it to be.” can also help improve other areas of wellness in a person’s Some of the smaller improvements the Nimocks team is life. The mind-body connection means that physical activity planning include new scoreboards for the basketball court, new is an important component to relieving stress, improving speakers, and the purchase of new small equipment such as performance, and staying healthy. balls, jump ropes, cornhole boards, and camping equipment. Open to all members of the MU community, including Revamping the reception area is also on their list. alumni, the Nimocks Fitness Center has a variety of machines “I want Nimocks to be more inviting,” Bobbitt said. “I want for cardio, weightlifting, and other forms of workouts. All the to create a more friendly lobby with a bigger desk that would be machines can be adjusted to a person’s size and abilities. There more welcoming to students as soon as they come in.” is also a basketball court with movable baskets, which is also The usage figures for the facility suggest that the campus used for activities, such as indoor soccer, softball, volleyball, and community already feels pretty welcome, as the gym is one of ultimate Frisbee. Nimocks also offers dance classes. the most utilized facilities on campus. According to Bobbitt, the Associate Dean of Students and Director of Campus center counted 50,406 visits last year, made by approximately Recreation Clifton Bobbitt recently finished overseeing a major 1,500 people who signed in at the gym. At busy times, when the five-year upgrade and replacement project for most of the gym’s facility is considered full, all the machines and stations are in machines. use, so the gym has extended its hours on certain days. Classes “Ninety percent of the machines were replaced with new ones like salsa dancing and yoga also bring in attendees to an extra in the last five years,” Bobbitt said. “This has been our priority room off the main exercise area. because the old machines were all eight to nine years old, and it “I think Nimocks’ popularity shows the MU community was time.” appreciates the facility and the recent changes,” said Assistant To keep the center well-equipped and responsive to changing Director of Campus Recreation Racheal Holler. student interests, the Nimocks team is constantly focused on The gym also partners with other departments for events. improvement. The staff monitors trends in the workout world, “We partner with the athletics program a lot,” Bobbitt said. travels to other school gyms, and decides which equipment “Occasionally, we host athletic groups who come and practice should be added to MU’s facility. Students, faculty and staff who here if it is raining outside. We also partner with the Institute use the gym also provide major input on possible changes. for Sports Science and Wellness, with the campus health center, “Our primary focus is implementing a variety of physical and various academic classes. I’ve done talks with the counseling activity into each student’s life, and the best way to know what center staff about ways to work with their clients to encourage will encourage students to come to the center is asking them them to get more physically fit, which can help with other areas what equipment they want to have in the gym and which of wellness.” Above, Assistant Director of Campus Recreation Racheal Holler Contributing author Kseniia Petrova is a mass communications Briana Morris performs a TRX row while Director of Campus checks on Noah Sachs as he uses the shoulder press machine. major at Methodist University. Recreation Clifton Bobbitt instructs.

12 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 13 Spiritual

MU students like Joel Murphy, shown here, were encouraged to walk the labyrinth and pray. Mindfulness exercises offer paths to spiritual wellness

indfulness is a form of meditation, an ancient wellness mile Stations of the Cross walk along one of the campus trails Mtechnique that has become popular in America. People built by the ISSW. Starting at Nimocks Fitness Center, walkers often think of Eastern religions when they talk about meditation, could pick up a handout and take the self-guided walk that but there is a long tradition of Christian meditation in the followed the traditional 14 stages of the Crucifixion. Methodist Church. Methodist University’s Religious Life office “At each Station, the walker saw a sign that reminded them offers several ways for the campus to practice mindfulness to remember some aspect of Jesus’ suffering,” Taylor said. throughout the year. “The process asks you to connect his journey to your own life Whether it’s walking a labyrinth, contemplating a Bible verse, in a meditative and contemplative way. It’s a sort of sensory or inhaling the pungent scent of vinegar at a Station of the Cross, experience, too. For instance, there was a bucket of nails at the the goals are the same: to clear the mind of distracting thoughts, cross, and people could pick up a nail and take it with them. We center the consciousness, and focus on the divine. intentionally used the one-mile course because the last leg “The labyrinth is a very ancient practice in many comes up that hill from Downback so you, too, had cultures, including Christian,” said University to walk up that hill.” Chaplain Rev. Kelli W. Taylor. “During each Like many faculty members who have Holy Week, before Easter, we borrow a cloth incorporated mindfulness into their classes, labyrinth from the North Carolina UMC Taylor includes mindfulness exercises Conference and bring it to campus.” on student retreats, using a Benedictine After the 24-foot canvas labyrinth technique called lectio divina, Latin for is spread out on the floor of Hensdale “divine reading,” which also traces back Chapel, members of the community are to older Jewish traditions. invited to walk the path and pray, using “It’s a way of reading scripture and the labyrinth as a spiritual tool. taking one verse and meditating on it,” “It’s about having that one path in and one Taylor said. “Then you say a prayer in path out,” Taylor said. “The labyrinth often response to the scripture, and then the provides people with a feeling of safety and last stage is contemplative, resting with the peace. People are invited to release their concerns scripture to see if one word comes out to you. on the way in, receive clarity in the center, and then It’s very quiet.” return on the same path, often with new insights. It’s a way English and Writing Professor Robin Greene to pray with your entire body, a type of prayer walk.” started some of the first mindfulness exercises on campus in her Student Iaroslav Borisov was one of the people who walked the classroom, where students are encouraged to take a moment at labyrinth in the chapel this year. the beginning of class and focus their awareness on the present “I was a bit surprised to see it in the chapel, but I found it moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting their very interesting,” he said. “We don’t find time to talk with God feelings, thoughts, and presence before class starts. and ourselves as often as we should. It was like, you enter this “Students often come to class unfocused and find it challenging labyrinth and you look into your soul and speak to yourself, and to pay attention,” Greene said. “They’re distracted and unable to God. All the extraneous things go away while you go deeper, to unhook from their busy lives. When we meditate before class and only the most important ones remain in your mind: beloved — usually for just four minutes — I ask students to attend to people and the Spirit. I asked God to help them and care for their breathing and thoughts, and just mindfully rest with them. them.” This short technique encourages students to be more present, University Chaplain Rev. Kelli W. Taylor stands in the middle of the cloth Last spring, also during Holy Week, Religious Life partnered and that makes a difference in decreasing stress and increasing labyrinth used during Holy Week. with the Institute of Sports Science and Wellness to build a one- concentration.”

14 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 15 Intellectual

Justice plans research program to help improve wellness for clergy

lergy members can spend much of their careers taking care Cof others at the expense of their own health and wellness. Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy Dr. Blake Justice saw it happen to a friend and wants to help. “I lost a friend and former pastor to a stroke,” Justice said. “I feel like he probably worked himself to death. He always ate on the go and was so busy seeing to the needs of everyone around him that he didn’t take care of himself.” photo credit: Lake Junaluska At the time, Justice was working at Pfeiffer University, where he knew another minister, Scott Middleton, who came to the same realization. Middleton stepped away from full-time ministry to run Agapé Senior nursing facilities, a business he opened after seeing a need while visiting members of his congregation. “He had friends forced into retirement over health issues,” Justice said. “And I had just lost my friend, so it was the confluence of the right people at the right place and the right t i m e .” Above, the beautiful and peaceful view from Lake Junaluska. They created the Pfeiffer Agapé Senior Clergy Health Institute, which began with two groups of participants. In the summer of 2013, each cohort went through a 10-day retreat at but since joining Methodist University, he’s felt it’s time to return to spoke at a clergy gathering in Columbia, S.C. about his experience Lake Junaluska, a scenic conference and retreat center in the the original project’s goals. He’s currently looking for grant funding with his clergy friend’s untimely death, and the story struck home mountains of western North Carolina. The program partnered to create a similar outreach program for clergy in the North for Taylor. with some of the churches in the South Carolina United Carolina UMC Conference, though he can see a similar need in “I had recently lost a dear clergy friend of my own, who was Methodist Church Conference to find participants for the secular fields. also in her thirties, so immediately I felt a connection to his retreats and a year-long follow-up program. “I’d like to work with those serving in rural churches because message,” she said. “I knew this was an opportunity I had to take The purpose of the retreats was to help the participants they seem to be quite isolated,” he said. “Being a part of the UMC, advantage of.” decompress while learning how to take better care of their and being personally impacted by the loss of my friend, I want Taylor said the Clergy Health Institute was transformative for her. physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing when they returned to start with clergy; that’s an area that’s close to my heart. But the “It was not, as I had expected, a boot camp to lose weight,” to their normal lives and routines. problem is the same in the corporate world. You wind up with high- she said. “Instead, it was an educational and spiritual experience “As an exercise physiologist, I focused on physical wellness, level management people burning out, completely and slavishly that gave me tools to be healthier and stronger, in body, mind, but we had other people who came in, other pastors, therapists, devoted to their job. If they took better care of themselves, they and spirit. As I begin to practice what I had learned at CHI, etcetera and we’d talk about relationships, stress, angst, strife, would be better leaders.” transformation continued in all three of those areas.” and all sorts of true difficulties,” Justice said. “We were really His plan is to recreate something similar to his previous project, Taylor agrees that the creation of a similar program at MU trying to address the whole wellness wheel, and we were able to with less emphasis on physical wellness and more emphasis on, would be a blessing to the larger community. come up with a workbook we were able to work through.” other aspects, like occupational wellness, and relationships with “Many of the concepts of CHI align with the goals of the After the retreats, the program followed up with participants family and congregations. At the same time, the project would be Matthews Ministry Center: building healthy relationships, for one year, mainly through monthly mailings containing an opportunity for some long-term research on clergy’s quality of increasing spiritual competency, equipping persons for ministry, lessons and other information to continue their progress. life and how to make improvements in that area. and witnessing to the goodness of God,” she said. “It is our vision “The idea was to create a network for them to be able to “I could see using the Matthews Ministry Center as part of this, and hope that the Matthews Ministry Center will be a facility not reach out to that could provide help, as well as accountability to minister to people in ministry,” he said. only of the University, but of the community as well. It will be a groups,” Justice said. Methodist University Chaplain Rev. Kelli W. Taylor can envision place of welcome and care for all God’s people. What better way to Justice’s personal journey took him away from the project that, too. Coincidentally, she was one of the participants in the begin that care, than to care for the shepherds, the clergy, who then original program when she was a pastor in South Carolina. Justice care for God’s people.” Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy Dr. Blake Justice when he was called to Germany to teach at a Christian school,

16 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 17 Social

Counselors talk social wellness in the age of social media

ocial media often can be both a help and a hindrance on the and your life, eventually you will always feel like you’re not Spath to social wellness. enough, no matter how many likes you get on the latest photo,” “Social media can be a part of social wellness or social illness,” Warren said. said Elizabeth Warren, a counselor and therapist at the Center for Students who come to counseling are generally good about Personal Development. “An introvert might find that spending time keeping their phones in their bags or pockets during a session, on Facebook makes him feel drained, but an extrovert might feel but sometimes counselors have to remind them to put their energized.” phones away. Social wellness can be as simple as sitting with one person and “I see it as more of a problem in the classroom setting,” Regan drinking coffee, or it could be interacting said. “When I go in to teach, if students are with a group of thousands online, on their devices I find it disrespectful. You depending on an individual’s personality, know they’re not learning because they’re “If you go into social media with the intention according to CPD Director Heather Regan. so engrossed in what they’re doing on their “Some people have social anxiety, but phone.” of connection, as opposed to seeking attention, they still need social community,” Regan The age of social media and smart phones validation, or to compete with other people, then said. “Everybody needs community. But has also changed how students react to and it can be healthy.” someone with social anxiety might do perceive traditional concerns, like bullying better socializing on a group on Facebook and homesickness. Regan said that today’s — Elizabeth Warren, rather than in person.” students have much of their social wellness Counselor and Therapist at the The pros and cons of social media’s effect or illness tied to things that only happen on social wellness all come down to balance online. Center for Personal Development and intent. According to Regan, some “It’s a lot easier to bully from behind a research shows that too much social media keyboard than to their face,” Regan said. or gaming can rewire a person’s brain. This “And I think that now, when a lot of kids get can lead to attention deficits or the need for out of relationships, they find it harder to constant external stimuli. detach and move on because it’s so easy for “If a person is on social media a lot, it’s them to stay in touch or check on their ex even more imperative that part of their self- online.” care routine include quiet time to balance At the same time, Warren said she sees out those effects,” Regan said. fewer homesickness cases than the Center Students can become obsessed with “likes” and other had experienced in the past. notifications that social media provides as a sense of validation and “Being able to talk with family and friends far away via Skype, achievement, or they can develop a warped concept of themselves FaceTime, or WhatsApp has helped, I think,” Warren said. “We’ve by constantly comparing their lives to the lives others in their posts. even utilized those apps ourselves to talk with students over the “If you go into social media with the intention of connection, summer, so students can continue with regular counseling sessions as opposed to seeking attention, validation, or to compete with while they are off campus.” other people, then it can be healthy,” Warren said. “Before students Social media, smart phones, and apps aren’t all bad, Warren come to Methodist, their self-confidence and intentions have often said, as long as they’re used for the right purposes at appropriate already been influenced by their environment at home. Parents times. She often gives students a list of health and wellness apps who teach their children to have a healthy self-image, and who they can download to help with things like meditation, tracking model appropriate social media behavior set a good example. If habits, or motivation. Apps that track how often the user picks up they see parents posting selfies and constantly refreshing for likes, their phone and how much time they spend on different activities that’s a bad habit they could pick up.” on their phone, like Facebook, can make people more mindful of Some people can begin to need likes and other notifications as a their behaviors and help them make better choices. source of mental stimulation, almost like an addictive drug. Above, Counselor Elizabeth Warren says there are ways to be “If you always need those things to feel good about yourself smarter about how students and parents use their smart phones.

18 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 19 Dr. Meredith Gronski, right, evaluates play-based fine motor Environmental skills with a child as part of an evaluation for Cumberland County Schools, while Speech Language Pathologist Desdy Paige, left, and School Psychologist Heather Ayers take observation notes as a part of the interdisciplinary evaluation. Clinical work benefits faculty and community health

n the School of Health Sciences, every faculty member who is also a clinician is allotted time to Ido a day of clinical work in the community. This arrangement benefits the wellness of the faculty members by giving them an outlet to practice and grow outside the classroom and provides a needed wellness resource to fill gaps in service and staffing in the local health care community. Dr. Meredith Gronski, director of the Occupational Therapy Program, says it’s all about balancing teaching, scholarship, and a clinical career. “I’ve always practiced in schools,” Gronski said. “When we moved to Fayetteville, I went to the public schools here to see if there was a need. In fact, there’s a huge need for allied health professionals.” For two mornings each week, she does eligibility evaluations as part of a team in Cumberland County Schools, working with exceptional children to see if they need special education. Using a play-based, interdisciplinary evaluation approach, children 2 to 5 years old are individually evaluated by a team which includes Gronski in her OT role, as well as a school psychologist, speech language pathologist, and sometimes a physical therapist. The group assesses children’s cognitive, communication, motor, or self-care skills. The group is part of the Early-In Special Education Preschool Department at CCS, which works to make sure children with disabilities receive early intervention to boost their skills and prepare them for kindergarten. “It works really well to have someone like me come in just to fulfill the evaluation role, so other OTs don’t have to disrupt their caseload,” Gronski said. “There’s already a shortage of OTs in Cumberland County as it is.” Tammy Linnen is the lead occupational therapist for CCS. She said the school system’s OT office fields a staff of 20 occupational therapists and certified OT assistants for the entire county school system. “This is such a key time in the student’s educational program and the multidisciplinary approach allows for optimal data collection,” Linnen said. “It is essential that we have personnel on this team who have strong data collection skills. Having access to Meredith, in the consistent role of performing assessments on this team, helps us gather the needed data to start our youngest group of students on a path to success. Dr. Gronski is a valued part of our team, and we look forward to a long relationship together.” Dean of the School of Health Sciences Dr. Todd Telemeco believes that faculty who are actively engaged in clinical practice are prepared to bring their experiences into the classroom. The clinical experiences shared by faculty help to translate didactic information into real examples of clinical application, which is the goal of professional education. “Students repeatedly report that these clinical scenarios serve as anchors to allow information to be learned and retained, which is reflected in the achievements of the students who are currently completing their clinical rotations,” he said. “In addition to classroom benefits, faculty who are engaged in clinical practice also serve as ambassadors to the external constituents. Their interactions with health care colleagues serve to enhance the reputation of the programs within the School of Health Sciences with our clinical partners. It sends a clear message that Methodist University is committed to serving the community through clinical practice.” Gronski said sometimes being involved in the community this way can have unexpected benefits. “As a result of my relationship with CCS, the Occupational Therapy Program at Methodist is going to work with a taskforce of OTs at CCS to design additional programs for adolescents to facilitate best practices for their transitions through middle and high school and with life skills,” she said. “Some of our students will be able to participate in those initiatives as part of their capstone projects.” CCS will also be a frequently used site for student fieldwork placements.

20 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 21 Methodist University professors answer our question: What does wellness mean in your field? Interfaith’s Holi celebration promotes wellness Dr. J. R. Hustwit, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities ccording to many sociologists, religious This is Holi, a holiday in South Asia that usually occurs in early To commemorate the power of love and devotion to triumph Arituals can help a community and March and welcomes spring in a celebration of life, renewal, and the over evil, Hindus light bonfires in the evening, and the following individuals blow off steam and relieve stress. triumph of good over evil. day, they enjoy time with family, relaxing refreshments, and Methodist University Interfaith The holiday is named for the Hindu demoness Holika (or Putna playfully dousing the public in powdered dye (and then water to Initiatives bring various religious in some regions). Holika was trying to destroy a boy who was ensure a proper mess). One special aspect of Holi is that all class celebrations and activities to campus for a faithful devotee of Lord Vishnu. In most versions of the story, distinctions and social taboos are dissolved for one day. Students everyone to enjoy each year. The spring Holika’s plan was to trick the child into sitting on her lap, while may paint their teachers, tenants douse their landlords, and semester at MU is marked by one of these she herself sat on a bonfire wearing a fireproof cloak. But when the employees can color their bosses. All people are of equal status celebrations. bonfire roared to life, the fireproof cloak flew from Holika’s body beneath the thick paste of color. No one is allowed to get mad, and J. R. Hustwit Springtime in India always brings a riot and protected the devout boy instead. all is done in joy. of colors — not necessarily from spring flowers, but from packets of In other stories, an adolescent Lord Krishna was embarrassed MU commemorated its Holi celebration on March 15, making it brightly colored powder that people throw at each other. by his dark blue skin, so his mother suggested that he cover his face a five-year tradition on campus. Religious celebrations and activities in any color he liked to woo his beloved Radha. He did, and they like these give our students the opportunity to purge negative eventually wed, so the colorful painting of faces became a tradition. feelings; relieve stress; bond with like-minded people; and gain wellness in physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of their lives.

Above, Associate Professor of Religion and Philosophy J.R. Hustwit, along 22 with Methodist University students,participate in Holi on March 15. METHODIST UNIVERSITY 23 A writer’s guide to wellness for the long haul Robin Greene, professor of English and writing, director of the Writing Center ost people don’t see the connection involves connection and discipline — and for me, wellness means Mbetween wellness and writing, but for that I engage in a weekly regimen of yoga, meditation, walking, me, there’s a very strong one. and hiking. It also means eating healthy foods, reading, weaving, As a writer, wellness allows me to sustain laughing with friends, making love, and living fully in body and my writing practice every morning. It mind. allows me to know my body, to connect Of course, the act writing is itself a wellness practice. Writing with my thoughts and feelings, and to stay connects me with the essence of who I am, so the practice of daily in touch with myself and the world. writing sustains me, even as I look for other practices to sustain it. Wellness also keeps me from yielding Writers are writers even when they’re not writing. To keep going Robin Greene to depression, from mood slumps, from for the long haul, they need strength and perseverance, clarity gaining weight and feeling tired, and from being limited by the and mindfulness. For me, wellness supports these fundamental aches and pains that accompany aging. Like writing, wellness qualities. A philosophical examination of the well psyche Stress the connection between mind and body wellness Dr. Kevin Hoffman, chair of the Philosophy and Religion Department Dr. Mark Kline, chair of the Department of Psychology

ny philosophical account of wellness that not only calculates cost and benefit, but also distinguishes ellness is hard to define generally. Is and improving weaknesses. As an alcohol researcher, I have Abegins with Plato’s “Republic.” There, between kinds of pleasure and estimates the worth of one Wit the lack of disease or disorder, or adopted what is called a "Harm Reduction" philosophy. The idea Socrates describes the rational, spirited, sort over another. For example, the rational part informs us is it something more active like personal is to identify ways to modify behavior and environments so that and appetitive parts of the psyché (soul). that ‘winning’ at all costs is worthless and pursing it as such is growth and improvement? There is much potential harms from substance use are reduced. I have worked From the appetitive part stem desires of dishonorable. The feelings of a genuinely spirited person follow debate in medicine and psychology about with this using something called "norms-based" interventions for various sorts: for food, sex, or money, suit and threaten us with the prospect of shame. Likewise, desires this. In both fields, thoughts about wellness binge drinking. The idea is to promote more positive ideas about means by which we fulfill a myriad of for drink or money, as such, recognize no limit, but can be were spurred by research on the topic of non-abusive alcohol use and thus reduce overall levels of binge appetites. The spirited part includes the coached by the spirited part just as our feelings can be persuaded stress, which demonstrated a definitive drinking. If rephrased in terms of wellness, I would say we are range of cognitive or evaluative emotions by reason. People for whom all three parts harmoniously agree mind-body connection related to health. It focused on promoting healthy forms of alcohol use so as to avoid that engender what we care about, e.g. are well. Those at odds with their own selves, who allow their Mark Kline was found that efforts to reduce the stress potential problems in the future. This is the essence of wellness in Kevin Hoffman winning a competition or fearing the death appetites to rule or yield to unexamined emotions, and who response led to increased health. psychology: promotion of healthy behaviors to improve the life of a child. The spirited part alerts us to strangers, seeks honor, and generally let their reason wither on the branch, are sick. Of course My personal views on wellness are shaped by the emerging and health of others. loves loyalty. Socrates describes this as our inner guard dog. a common indictment against philosophers is that “People just field of positive psychology, which focuses on building strengths Now, we know desires can be unruly or misdirected, and guard aren’t rational.” But the diagnostic response sticks around like a dogs mean or ill-informed. Fortunately, we have a rational part gadfly: “Why not?” Spiritual wellness promotes peace Rev. Kelli W. Taylor, vice president for Religious Life and Community Engagement Influences and experiences improve artists’ wellness and work he human spirit is the most neglected encouraged through all that we do. Interfaith conversations help Kerry Jenkins, associate professor of graphic design Taspect of our selves. Just as we exercise us appreciate those spiritual practices we hold in common even to condition our bodies, a healthy spirit is amid diversity. For example, letting go of blame and negative ellness for people employed in the and trends (cultural, visual, and economic) from around the nurtured by purposeful practice. When we feelings after a hurtful incident is a practice that is reflected graphic design industry reaches world. One of the more renowned graphic designers is Austrian- W care for our spirit, we experience a sense by many spiritual traditions, including Christianity, Islam, beyond the typical expectations of diet and born Stefan Sagmeister. A group of MU graphic design students of peace and purpose even when life is Buddhism, and Judaism. Modern science shows the health exercise. A complete state of wellness for and I had the opportunity to see him present to the Raleigh challenging. The spirit can carry us through benefits of forgiveness are numerous: better immune function, a graphic designer has to include mental chapter of American Institute of Graphic Arts. His work is very anything. longer lifespan, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health as well as physical. much influenced by his constant travels around the world. He Spiritual wellness includes knowing health, and fewer feelings of anger or hurt. I’m not alluding to talent or creativity. stated in his presentation a career work habit that has left me Kelli W. Taylor and appreciating who you are and seeking The result of spiritual wellness is, perhaps, expressed most Mental wellness for a designer has jealous ever since. meaning and purpose for your life. Those who are spiritually clearly in Romans 8:19, which says: “If it is possible, as far as it everything to do with influences and He said that for every seventh year of his design studio well apply a value system to their decisions and bring respect and depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Kerry Jenkins experiences. business, he closes up shop. For the entire year, he does no client forgiveness into their relationships with others. To be focused and John Wesley, an 18th-century Anglican priest and founder of Graphic designers need constant visual stimulation and work at all. Instead, he travels and pursues personal projects. at peace, the spiritually well practice spiritual disciplines which Methodism, cared about people’s souls and bodies. Wesley often education throughout their careers. The more paths for sources Some of these have become financially profitable as a result, but can include studying sacred writings, taking time for prayer/ advocated a holistic approach towards spiritual and physical of this input adds to their ability to provide solutions for clients that’s not his incentive. meditation, maintaining a work/play balance, and fostering health, emphasizing vigorous exercise, fresh air, and healthy diet. and employers. Graphic design — due to the globalization It’s all about the constant visual stimulation and education. supportive relationships. In a letter written in 1778 to Alexander Knox, a theological writer, inherent in the last three or more decades — now demands a vast Now that’s wellness. Methodist University Religious Life offers many opportunities Wesley wrote: “It will be a double blessing if you give yourself up understanding of not just target audiences, but various cultures for spiritual engagement through worship, study, service and to the Great Physician, that He may heal soul and body together. conversations grounded in faith. An understanding of the And unquestionably this is [God’s] design. [God] wants to give Christian faith, Christian ethics, and the role of service are you . . . both inward and outward health.”

24 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 25 Check-up on our 2017-2018 year of wellness at Methodist University

mages in this spread represent scenes from the Doctor of Physical Therapy IProgram's Health and Wellness Expo, Student Development's Health Fair, the Healthy Campus 2020 Signing Day, Yoga on the Quad, the opening of the new walking trails around campus, Nurse Sandy Combs' 50-year celebration, and the recently completed exercise stations in Fannie Farmer Park.

26 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 27 Third annual Reeves School of Business Symposium recognizes seven

harlie Brock, serial and French, and later received a master’s degree from Harvard Centrepreneur and CEO Graduate School. She taught Latin and French at The Fayetteville of Launch Tennessee, was Academy and in Cumberland County Schools. She served two the keynote speaker at the terms on the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners third annual Reeves School and two years on the Fayetteville City Council. She is a former of Business Symposium and president of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra Association. Awards Dinner, held Nov. The Outstanding Woman Entrepreneur of the Year was 11, 2017. He spoke about Molly Arnold, who sees herself as a reluctant entrepreneur “Transforming Cities through because she started her coffee house, Rude Awakening, from a Innovation and Leadership,” desire to renovate old buildings downtown. Along with Rude with advice for leaders, Awakening, she owns White Trash & Colorful Accessories in entrepreneurs, and University Charlie Brock downtown Fayetteville. Arnold won the 2013 NAACP Nelson members who are looking to transform their communities. Mandela Award and the Fayetteville National Organization for Seven awards were also presented at the event: Women’s Susan B. Anthony Award in 2011. She has served on The Alumni Business Person of the Year was Regina McLaurin, the board of directors of Linear Park since 2006 and served as a who graduated from Methodist University in 1970. She is currently board member in the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, Fayetteville the chair of the Board of the Parking Industry Institute, a national Downtown Alliance, and she is currently a member of the scholarship foundation, and is a board member of BB&T in Cary. National Organization of Women. McLaurin retired as the chief financial officer and vice president of The ilverS Spoon Award was given to Terry Hutchens, who McLaurin Parking Company after the family sold the business to is the managing partner of the Hutchens Law Firm. Hutchens The Car Park of Boise, Idaho. McLaurin received the 1993 Elected received his undergraduate degree from North Carolina State Official Planning Award for the State of North Carolina’s Planning University and his M.B.A. and J.D. from Wake Forest University, Association, and also served as president and board member of the where he was a member of Phi Delta Phi Honor Society. Hutchens National Parking Association. is a past member of the North Carolina Board of Transportation The usinessB Person of the Year was Tommy Arnold, who has and the North Carolina Board of Economic Development. He is been a Chick-fil-A franchisee for 41 years. He owns Chick-fil-A currently a member of the Cumberland County North Carolina restaurants on Skibo Road and Raeford Road. Arnold operated Real Property Bankruptcy Sections and the American Bar the Cross Creek Mall location from 1976 to 2014. He opened Association, as well as the North Carolina State Bar. Established in The Excellent Seven the Skibo store in 1994 and the Raeford Road location in 2014. 1980, the Hutchens Law Firm specializes in civil practice, creditors’ His daughter, Kelly McKeown, is the Chick-fil-A franchisee in rights, real property (foreclosures), mediation, personal injury law, Above, the RSB award winners from left to right, Sanford. Arnold is a native of Hope Mills and graduated from and workers’ compensation. Molly Arnold; Tommy Arnold; Rollin Walker Shaw; Terry Hutchens; Regina Western Carolina University, where met his wife, Peggy. The mall-BusinessS Excellence Award went to the late David McLaurin; Deborah Taylor, who received the award for her late husband, The Entrepreneur of the Year was Jim Pittman. In 1995, “Bud” Taylor, who died in May 2017. Taylor was the owner of David "Bud" Taylor; and Jim Pittman. Pittman left the security of his professional 10-year career as a D.K. Taylor Oil Company, a business started by his father in 1932. CPA and took a chance on opening a new type of sign franchise He graduated from Methodist in 1968 with a degree in business in Fayetteville. With very limited resources, he and his wife Dell administration. From 1993 to 2012, Taylor served on the Methodist Marie opened FASTSIGNS in December 1995. He graduated Board of Trustees, after which he was awarded trustee emeritus from UNC-Chapel Hill with a business and accounting degree status and continued to support the University. Taylor was a in 1984. Pittman is a past member of the MU Foundation Board. member of the board of directors for Branch Banking and Trust He is involved in his church, civic clubs, and the Fayetteville for 41 years and served as its advisory board chairman. He was a community. member of Hay Street United Methodist Church. The award was The reaterG Good Award was given to Rollin Walker Shaw. accepted by his widow, Deborah Taylor. Shaw graduated from Wellesley College with degrees in music

28 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 29 2017 Projects for Peace recipient brings computer literacy to Burundi

Above, Christiane Kamariza, center, speaks with local leaders, principals, and province ENM students at the Harnett County Waste Water Treatment Facility, which treats most of the sewage needs of Fort Bragg. Top row: Dr. representatives on the first day of training. Kurt Smith, Jaimee Haburn, Jennifer Vazconcelo, Emily Nelson, Jesse Winters Second Row: Jeff Kayila, Mia Currin, Eddie Garcia, Sharon Moran, Lawrence Hill and Sheryl Brock is being held by her classmates. tudent 40, but there were 41,” Kamariza said. “The additional young man SChristiane told me that he was not selected for the first training, but still Environmental and Occupational Management students tour facilities Kamariza spent wanted to meet me. I admired his attitude and decided to put him or several years, Dr. Kurt Smith has been teaching pollution last summer in the first training. Surprisingly, he later scored the highest, with Fscience as part of the Environmental and Occupational overseeing her a 90 percent on the final exam.” Management curriculum each fall. In that class, students receive winning Davis A gas crisis that hit the country that summer made the project in-depth tours and presentations from resource professionals Projects for more difficult than anticipated, affecting costs for transportation at the Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant, the Harnett County Peace project in and running the generator that powered the training center, but Waste Water Treatment Plant, and the Ann Street Landfill. her native country of Burundi. The goal of Kamariza’s project, Kamariza found ways to adjust her budget and persevered. Students also visit multiple sites in Fayetteville to learn about “Computer Literacy for Peace and Development,” was to use By the end of June, the 41 participants, 26 men and 15 women, stormwater control measures throughout the city. computer training as a catalyst for sustainable peace and had received five weeks of daily training, Monday through Friday. Each of these excursions is designed to bring principles development by equipping youths with computer skills that will Half of the group trained in the morning, and the other half trained and concepts learned in the classroom to life by seeing and help them create and acquire jobs. in the afternoon, sharing 10 laptops throughout the program. interacting with professionals in the field. These trips have “When I arrived in Kirundo province in May, the lack of “Two other trainers and four assistants volunteered to help translated into great community relationships with Methodist computers in schools was still the same as it was in 2012 when I me throughout this project,” she said. “The students were very University, and they have served as points for networking for was schooling there,” Kamariza said. “I realized I was the one to enthusiastic about learning with few absences throughout the students, career path identification, internships, and full-time bring the solution to my community, and learned that many of the training. AJDAE was also very helpful and all the volunteers were employment. Most of the trips are completed in half a day. high school graduates trainees were waiting for this project to see members of AJDAE.” “Students are generally amazed to see the processes that are a computer for the first time.” At the end of the training, all trainees knew more about used to handle and manage stormwater, waste water, drinking In addition to the $10,000 grant from the Davis Foundation, computers and could master the Microsoft Office Suite and the water, and the energy industry to support community needs,” Kamariza’s project also was given a $1,400 Dream Support Internet. In addition to taking a final exam, all the trainees were Smith said. “They can begin to see links between chemistry, Grant from the National Society of Leadership and Success. She required to use their new skills to prepare and present a personal textbook descriptions of waste management, environmental also credits her project’s success to non-monetary support she project or business plan during the last week. monitoring practices, and first-hand accounts offered by received from the local government in Vumbi Commune and the The project continued beyond the summer, with graduates of professionals in the field.” Association des Jeunes pour le Développement et l’Autocréation the program returning to help train new students. The project also d’Emploi (Association of Youth for Development and Self- sparked a desire for several of the participants to attend college. Left, students endured an extensive background check to tour the Employment), another organization in the area. “Since I left, the AJDAE and previously trained students have Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant in Holly Springs. Pictured Forty unemployed high school graduates were initially selected worked together to train another group of 23 youths,” she said. here is the cooling tower, which is the highest structure in Wake for the program, from a pool of 562 applicants, but the first group “The team is currently taking the computers to local schools County. Left to right Deanna Hayes, Lindsey Pritchard, Tyler actually totaled 41. where teachers teach computer courses without a computer to Goode, Michael McGirr, and Dr. Smith. “When I arrived in Burundi, I went to meet with the selected demonstrate on, in order to assist the teachers during lessons.” Inset, Kamariza reminds the students of the lessons of the previous day. 30 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 31 Pangea zooms in on the world

nce a year, Methodist University’s International Club “We like to select pieces that represent the origins of one of the Oinvites everyone to its biggest show of diversity, Pangea. participants,” said student Yana Marchenko. “I try to support it as The event inspires different feelings in those who watch it, but much as I can when my friends ask me to help with their piece. never indifference. It is colorful, entertaining, multicultural, If I am creating a piece by myself, it is usually based on a certain educational, and most of all, it is memorable. emotion, because I like to experiment with it and see what kind of Most of the performers are international students, but that’s things a performance can transfer to the audience.” not a requirement to participate. There are more than 200 Pangea is an event in which students can express themselves, international students at MU, and they all bring a piece of their show their culture, and learn about others. homeland with them to the United States. Pangea is a place “The Pangea stage is the place where I am free, and I am proud of where they can share their culture and show people their national showing who I am,” Phiri said. “I am showing a little bit of where I identity through dancing, singing, reading poetry, theatre come from. The Earth is a big globe and I am showing just a piece of productions, and other forms of art. it .” Top, students from the Hispanic Club manned a table with international foods and treats at the yearly Pangea event. Proceeds benefited “Pangea is more vibrant and rhythmical than many other Some students who cannot perform on the stage can chose to relief efforts in Puerto Rico. cultural events that take place in the MU community,” said contribute behind the curtain. Fernando Chivela, vice president of the MU International “I did not exactly participate, but I was helping backstage,” Methodist responds to relief efforts after hurricanes Club. “We entertain the audience and manage to spread global student Busani Mhlanga said. “I wanted to be a part of Pangea, he Methodist University community could not remain awareness through art.” but I knew I could not perform. Pangea is important for the Tindifferent to the difficult situations that Hurricanes Harvey, Pangea focuses on cultures from outside the U.S., but over the international community at our school because it is one of Irma, and Maria caused in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico in the years, it was brought to the students’ attention that the culture of the few times we can display not just our culture, but our fall. Students, staff, and faculty organized various campaigns to the United States of America should be represented in Pangea as talents, especially if you are not the outgoing type who involves help these areas and to support victims. well because it is a foreign culture for international students. themselves on campus.” “When Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, we immediately searched “Most of the participants in Pangea are internationals because our database on campus to identify students who were from they are used to sharing their culture,” said Praise Phiri, president Texas,” said Rev. Kelli Taylor, vice president for Religious Life and of the MU International Club. “This year, we also recruited Community Engagement. “We wanted to reach out to them, to American students. We put in performances done by make sure that they had contact with their families and confirm Alpha Sigma Alpha and Alpha Delta Pi if their families were OK. In addition, we checked on any alumni sororities.” from the University who might live there.” Another campus organization, the Hispanic Club, cooked Every Pangea has a specific theme The first step for the Center for Community Engagement Latino cuisine as a fundraiser for relief efforts in Puerto Rico. that unites the performances. This year’s was to discern what was needed. Based on students’ advice, the The Study Abroad office also helped the Center for Community theme was “The Lion King.” University started a collection of items for basic health kits to Engagement by contacting people who might have information “We use the theme to prepare the send to Texas. These kits contained a toothbrush, toothpaste, about needs in Puerto Rico. decorations and for the masters of bandages, a washcloth, a towel, a bar of soap, and shampoo. “We have students from Puerto Rico, and we reached out to ceremonies to make transitions,” said “We packed 127 kits, totaling approximately 600 items,” Taylor them,” said Study Abroad Director Jennifer Ramos. “We also have Roua Adam, the club’s director of said. “Those all were donated by students and staff in about a a study program in Puerto Rico so we have a connection with a public relations. “However, it does week. We had about 50 volunteers to help to pack those kits. We university there. The previous director of Study Abroad, Magda not necessarily mean the show zipped all the items together, put a personal note inside written Baggett, is also from Puerto Rico. I spoke with her to find out is only about ‘The Lion King.’ by one of our students saying, ‘We are thinking of you,’ and sent what was needed as well as with another friend who just moved We chose a theme that Members of the community came to enjoy Pangea 2017 on the them to a shelter in Texas, where people were living until the here from Puerto Rico.” was very famous to night of Oct. 5. In two acts, the audience traveled the world. They flood water let them go back to their houses.” As the island was in critical condition, there were many make connections, saw traditional dances, listened to folk songs and poems, and Irma was the next hurricane that came to the East Coast. different needs. something that watched a fashion show of traditional international attire. The Center for Community Engagement went through a similar “It was a long list of needs,” Taylor said, “Students chose the everyone has “Pangea is my favorite event that Methodist has,” said student process, identifying students from the region in case someone had need to which they believed our campus could best respond. probably Jonathan Fintak. “I like it because many of the performers are my family affected. Although that hurricane was not as severe, the Batteries are something affordable for students, something that watched or friends, and I like watching the performances from around the University also collected and sent kits. A prayer wall was set up they can buy and contribute. We wanted something that our heard about.” world. I think that it could really help American and international where people could write prayers. students could take part in. And they made a difference. Batteries All the students to become closer. I wish it were mandatory for all When Hurricane Maria left the whole island of Puerto Rico are important when you are without electricity.” performers students to attend.” without power and destroyed much of its infrastructure, the The campaign was named “Power for Puerto Rico,” and go through Contributing author Kseniia Petrova is a mass communication center reacted immediately, but ran into difficulties because it was multiple departments were involved in collecting batteries, which auditions before major at Methodist University. difficult to assess people’s needs for the first couple of weeks. were eventually sent to a collection center in Fayetteville and then they are approved. The first group that was able to take action was the MU shipped to Puerto Rico. The organizers look Top, Mariam Gamal, Akanni Evans, Praise Phiri, and Jennifer Rotaract Club. Through their connections to the local Rotary, they Contributing author Kseniia Petrova is a communications major for performances that are Delaney emceed the event. were able to collect and donate toiletries and baby diapers. at Methodist University. bright, concise, educational, and well-rehearsed. Left, Ahd Al Tamimi models clothes from Yemen. Inset, Sharon Moran, right, organizes toothbrushes before they are packed and shipped off to Texas. 32 The health kit packing event provided 127 health kits to people in need. METHODIST UNIVERSITY 33 ifty years ago, Dr. Mary Atwater inadvertently stood out at “While I was at Atlanta University, I had a master’s degree Dr. Mary Atwater ’69 FMethodist. She was the first black student to enroll, and one student who then came to University of Georgia, and she was the of only a handful of black students on campus by the time she first African-American female student to ever get a doctorate in discusses progress graduated with her chemistry degree in 1969. She would go on science education at UGA,” Atwater said. “I didn’t tell her until to stand out as an expert in the field of multicultural science she was finished that she was the first because I didn’t want to and diversity education. In February, she returned to campus for the first time discourage her. Sometimes that can be a little intimidating. I since receiving her diploma and stood out again, this time as the didn’t want to put that extra pressure on her. She did extremely Spring Convocation speaker. well. There weren’t that many African-American students in During her presentation, “What Does Black History Month graduate programs there.” Mean to You?” she spoke about her experiences at Methodist These are the experiences that helped shape Atwater’s focus and how times have changed. Afterward, she spent time with on multicultural science education. At UGA, she was a part of students, faculty, and staff who came up to introduce themselves a group in the College of Education that led the way in defining and take selfies with her. and promoting multicultural education, including her specific “Dr. Atwater is an amazing woman,” said student Rachel Dr. Atwater shakes the hand of Rachel Townsend, interest in multicultural science education. She is now one of the Townsend, who is also the new Miss Methodist. “I greatly the first black Miss Methodist in the pageant’s history. best known scholars in that field, which focuses on how culture enjoyed meeting her and hearing her perspective on Methodist. impacts science learning, assessment, evaluation, curriculum, It was interesting to see how far we have come as a university in teacher education, and policy issues. regards to our diversity. I believe some aspects of separation still “With diversity comes better ideas,” she said. “Industry has remain on our campus, but I look forward to seeing it become a already found that out. If we have more diverse culture and more united campus.” languages, the ideas are better. It’s not better in a very sterile, Atwater said she was glad Townsend, who is MU’s first homogeneous environment.” African-American Miss Methodist, introduced herself, as well Atwater also helped start a national organization, the as so many other people who showed her how much MU had Association for Multicultural Education. She has written two grown and diversified since her time here. National Science Foundation grants for black scholars in science “When I walked up on the stage, I asked how many people education, and is a former president of the National Association in the audience were students, and when people stood, many for Research in Science Teaching. happened to be phenotypically African-American,” she said. “I “I always pick things that I think need to be done in my thought, ‘It has changed a whole lot.’ There was nobody to talk profession and then I go about doing them,” she said. “I’ve tried to the first year I was a student. No black faculty, no students. Dr. Atwater now teaches at the University of Georgia. to mentor faculty members of color, and females, to become Everybody was nice to me, but people didn’t talk to me very leaders in that organization. I was the first black female to be much about things that were important to me.” Atwater took a position at Fayetteville State University, president of NARST. But we need more mentoring in that area. The day after Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered, Atwater but then went back to finish her doctorate. While teaching My father always raised his children to never say that you never said she didn’t see any sign or recognition on campus. One chemistry at FSU, she realized that, while she was a whiz at could do something. That used to get on my last, last nerve. But student expressed condolences in passing, but referred to King as chemistry, she had a lot to learn about teaching. Her desire at some point I came to believe that effort pays off, and as a result “your president.” to improve in that area led her to discover the field of science of that, if I believed something needed to be done, and I thought “I was so taken aback she didn’t know who he was,” she said. “I education, so she transferred to North Carolina State University, I could do something about it, then I went about doing it. Even think she understood that Martin Luther King was an important where she received a prestigious Danforth Graduate Fellowship if the odds of being able to do it seemed almost overwhelming. leader to African-American people, but I don’t think she really and finally got her doctorate in 1980, not in chemistry but in Sometimes that was a little disappointing, but that’s what I did.” knew. Otherwise, it was like nothing had happened.” science education. As a teacher, Atwater says she doesn’t like giving grades, but In talking about her undergraduate days, Atwater repeatedly Her next position was in New Mexico, where she was hired encourages students who want to get into the science, technology, stressed the difference between the past and present. Then, in a grant-funded administrative position but also taught as an engineering, and math fields to study hard and get good grades Methodist was a young, growing institution tied much more assistant professor. early on, starting as early as possible. heavily to the local white Methodist churches. As a small “They were very interested in why they were losing Latino “The first thing about going into STEM fields is that you private school, the civil unrest and protests that rocked larger and Native American students in the electrical engineering really have to enjoy the area,” she said. “Second of all, you have public campuses didn’t make an appearance. After graduating program,” she said. “They wanted me to research the issue. I told to prepare yourself to go in if you want to make it a career. If from Methodist, Atwater’s love of chemistry brought her to them I would do it, under one condition: If I could find some you don’t, then you won’t have the opportunity. By the time you the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to pursue her reasons why students were leaving the program, they would make it to me as a doctoral student, I want you to be able to think chemistry doctorate. actually implement a solution.” critically and be able to use information in novel ways. And you “It was a different era than now, you have to understand that,” Atwater couldn’t stand the idea of wasting her time then, have to be able to write.” she said. “When I was at UNC-Chapel Hill, it was a very liberal or now. She did the research, made suggestions that were Dr. Narendra Singh, chair of the Department of Chemistry and institution, people were protesting about everything. Students implemented, and the program’s number increased. After the Physical Science, was among those who spoke with Atwater after were arrested.” grant ran out, she was offered a position at Atlanta University she spoke, and invited her to come visit the department in the Moving around with a husband in the military meant she (now Clark Atlanta University), where she built the graduate future. had to settle for her master’s degree at first, in physical organic science education program. Lured by the prospect of a doctoral “Dr. Atwater was bold, daring, and clear in her thoughts,” chemistry. The military sent her family to Oklahoma and program, she eventually moved to the University of Georgia, he said. “She was a fascinating speaker and a great advocate Germany before she returned to Fayetteville. An “Army brat” where she was the first black person ever to be tenure-track in of education, especially for science and math education for all herself, her parents had settled in Fayetteville, but she was used to science education at the university. minorities.” often being the only black student in her travels before college. Dr. Mary Atwater, left, the first black student to enroll at Methodist 34 University, speaks during Spring Convocation on black trailblazers METHODIST UNIVERSITY 35 who paved the way for the many who followed them. T-Pain performs for Methodist University students. SPEND THE EVENING WITH US

MU@Night, Fort Bragg, and e-Learning classes are designed for Aug. 20 - Autumn Term I courses begin. exploring new careers, upgrading professional skills, or providing individual enrichment. New for 2018-19: Bachelor of Science in Oct. 22 - Autumn Term II courses begin. Above, five-time Grammy Leadership Communication online degree completion program. Apply today for our evening and online courses nominee Hunter Hayes performs for MU students in the Riddle offered on main campus or at our Fort Bragg Center. location. DEGREE PROGRAMS OFFERED Accounting Business Administration Elementary Education* Entrepreneurship Environmental and Occupational Management Global Studies* Health Care Administration History Justice Studies Leadership Communication Political Science Social Work* Student Involvement brings hip-hop, country, and rock artists to Riddle Sociology * May require some day courses wo-time Grammy winner and hip-hop artist T-Pain, Hunter's song ‘Invisible.’ I constantly keep this quote in the back Tcountry singer Hunter Hayes, and rock band We The of my mind when I go about my daily life, so I was ecstatic when Kings performed at Methodist University March 22. The lineup he performed ‘Invisible’ during the acoustic session,” Triano brought an evening of diverse musical styles to said. “I was even more excited when I got to take the March F. Riddle Center. a selfie with him. He is a genuinely nice guy and Before the show, some students got to take one of the realest artists in the music industry. It backstage photos with T-Pain or attend a meet- was great to have him at MU.” and-greet with Hayes. Tickets to this special T-Pain, whose real name is Faheem Rashad show were free to students and not available to Najm, has been featured on more than 50 chart- the general public. topping singles, including on Flo Rida’s debut “The concert was a fantastic experience for single “Low.” He’s known for his trademark all students at MU because we were able to giant top hat and Oakley sunglasses and for bring three different genres of music to one popularizing the use of the Auto-Tune pitch concert and I believe this fits the personality correction effect. of Methodist,” said Student Government Hayes, a five-time Grammy nominee and the Association President Devan Cox. “We have a very diverse CMA New Artist of the Year in 2012, is best-known for his hits student population at Methodist and to be able to bring in three “Wanted” and “I Want Crazy.” artists was incredible.” We The Kings is best known for the band’s 2007 single Student Nicole Triano’s favorite part was the meet-and-greet “Check Yes Juliet” and won MTV Video Music Award’s Most Contact the MU@Night and Extended Learning office at 910.630.7190 with Hayes, where he also played an acoustic set. Innovative Music Video for their song “Say You Like Me.” or the Fort Bragg office at 910.436.3624 for more information. methodist.edu | 910.630.7190 “One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Never be afraid to do 5400 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, N.C. 28311 something different. Dare to be something more,’ which is from Inset, MU student Nicole Triano takes a selfie with Hunter Hayes.

36 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 37 Winter ceremonies add first graduate commencement ceremony Undergraduate Commencement moves to Crown Coliseum

ith a record number of Wgraduates and audience members in attendance, the 55th annual Spring Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony was held at the Fayetteville’s Crown Coliseum on May 5. The graduate students’ ceremony was held separately the previous afternoon in Huff Concert Hall. Two hundred and twenty-six students received their bachelor’s degrees, and 48 graduate students received their degrees, including the first class of Doctor of Physical Therapy students. In his last official speech to students, retiring President Ben Hancock delivered U.S. Senator Richard Burr, left, addresses the graduates. Center, Distinguished Graduate Nicholas Kress speaks to his classmates. the undergraduate commencement address. Right, graduate Amanda Pulliam poses with Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lori Brookman. “I don’t have an epiphany for you today. I don’t have a new speech,” he said. “The past 10,000 hours, you’ve prepared to walk across this stage. Now you’ll have to ethodist University held the inaugural graduate both innovate and to evolve technology and advance our laws.” find a new one thing. For the First Lady and I, as we step down at the end of May, Mcommencement ceremony as part of the 45th annual Student Erica Polite received the Sam Edwards Award, given we will have to find a new one thing. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.” Winter Commencement Ceremonies on Dec. 15 and 16, 2017. At to an outstanding MU at Night student as determined by a faculty The undergraduate ceremony also included honors for A. Howard Bullard Jr., a Friday afternoon ceremony, 60 graduate students received their vote. Four ROTC cadets were commissioned into the U.S. Army, a member of the board of trustees and a long-time supporter of the University, master’s degrees in Huff Concert Hall. Dr. Sammy Choi, chief of and the flag of Tanzania was presented by the first MU student to who was given an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. The speaker at the the department of research at Womack Army Medical Center on graduate from that country, Jephter Kayila. The graduates were graduate ceremony was Dr. Dickson Schaefer, an orthopedic surgeon who is also Fort Bragg, delivered the graduate commencement address. also addressed by their elected Distinguished Graduate Nicholas a member of the board of trustees. On Saturday, 166 students received their undergraduate Kress, who received his accounting degree with a concentration in Kayla McLoughlin was awarded the Lucius Stacy Weaver Award, and there degrees. U.S. Senator Richard Burr gave the commencement PGA golf management. was a tie in the voting for Distinguished Graduate, which was shared by Brent address and received an honorary doctorate. Saturday morning, Dr. James Howell, senior pastor of Myers Breedlove and Summer Combs. As the first students from their home countries “Your generation is not impacted by the limitations we grew up Park United Methodist Church in Charlotte, delivered the to graduate from Methodist, Douah Coulibaly and Dulcine Dietouan presented with,” Burr said. “We will need the smartest minds to continue to baccalaureate sermon in Huff Concert Hall. the flags of their countries, Mali and Ivory Coast. Following the graduate commencement, the Rev. Dr. Jesse Brunson delivered the baccalaureate address in Huff Concert Hall.

From top, Dr. Hancock gives the undergraduate Physician Assistant Program graduates Donovan Grierson, Top, students ride down the escalator commencement address. Brent Breedlove and Summer left, Avni Garg, Brian Erdmann, Tyler Dial, and Katie Denton in the Crown Coliseum before the start Combs take their turns addressing their classmates as turn their tassels at the inaugural Graduate Commencement of graduation. Left, Hannah Boyles the Distinguished Graduates. Below, the view from the Ceremony, held Dec. 15 in Huff Concert Hall. and Amanda Allred turn their tassels. top during the ceremony in the Crown Coliseum.

38 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 39 Faculty recognized Dr. Hancock congratulates Dr. Robert Christian Wells ’69 named Loyalty Campaign at annual awards after presenting him with the University Supporter of the Year ceremony Medallion, Methodist University's highest honor.

everal faculty members were recognized as part of the on time scales, and within the field of mathematics education, SUniversity Awards Ceremony on April 11. Dr. Robert procedural versus conceptual error analysis and the use and Christian, professor emeritus of English, was also given a special understanding of manipulatives. recognition and the University Medallion in honor of his 50-year career at Methodist. Dr. George Hendricks, professor of social work, was given the Exemplary Teacher Dr. Lori Brookman, professor of biology, was Award from the General Board of Higher awarded the Alfred E. Cleveland Endowed Education Ministry of the United Methodist etired United Methodist Church minister Woodrow W. are conducted in the month leading up to and weeks following Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award Church. The award is given to a professor Wells Jr. ’69 has been named as the 2018 Loyalty Campaign Feb. 27, a gift may be made year-round to the Loyalty Campaign. is the highest teaching award sponsored by who exemplifies excellence in teaching; R Supporter of the Year. Wells was honored at the Loyalty Campaign The goal of Methodist University’s 63rd annual Loyalty Campaign Methodist University. The winner must have civility and concern for students and Celebration held in February at the Fairfield Inn & Suites. is to raise $210,000 for student scholarships by the fiscal year end, completed three full academic years of full- colleagues; commitment to values-centered “Woody has a long history of service and support of which is June 30. The community is invited to help the University time teaching at Methodist University and is education; and service to students, the Methodist University,” said Assistant Director of Annual Giving reach that goal by donating to the campaign online at methodist. recognized based on his or her knowledge, teacher’s institution, and the community. Stacey Prevette. “He and his wife, Carole, both graduated from edu/giving. Last year’s campaign raised a record $202,000. method of instruction, rapport with students Hendricks, who is also dean of the School of Public Affairs, Methodist. After being ordained as a pastor in 1970, Woody Tim Price, vice president and co-owner of Lafayette Ford and fellow instructors, teaching behavior and attitude, concern holds a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Social Work from East served the United Methodist Church for 42 years before Lincoln, served as this year’s Loyalty Campaign Chair. Members for teaching, a stimulating classroom environment, student Carolina University, and a doctorate from Walden University. retiring in 2012. He wrapped up his pastoral service right here of the Price family are longtime supporters of the Loyalty achievements, and loyalty to the University. His research interests and dissertation research include the in Fayetteville, at Haymount United Methodist Church. We Campaign. Tim’s father, Don Price, served as the chair in 2012. Brookman, who is also associate vice president for Academic academic achievement of homeless children. are proud and honored to have Woody as a longstanding and “I am honored to serve as the 2018 Chair of the Methodist Affairs, received her bachelor’s degree and her doctorate from involved member of our community, our Methodist University University Loyalty Campaign for Student Scholarships. It is my Virginia Polytechnic Institute. Her academic specialty and Dr. Michael Potts, professor of philosophy, family, and as our 2018 Loyalty Campaign Supporter of the Year.” pleasure to support the tradition of giving that Lafayette Ford research interest is microbiology, specifically the structure and received The President’s Award for Since retiring, Wells has been an active member of the Lincoln established more than 60 years ago and continues with function of cellular components of microorganisms as well as Excellence in Research and Creativity. The Methodist University Alumni Association Board of Directors, my family,” said Tim Price. their metabolism. award winner is chosen from a committee and has served as a Loyalty Campaign volunteer the last two Though the Loyalty Campaign was originally about raising composed of the University’s president, years. In 2015, Wells was honored with the Alumni Association’s funds to help the college operate, in 2005 the focus shifted to Dr. Kathleen Fick, associate professor of provost, the associate vice presidents for Outstanding Alumni Service Award. He also serves on the student scholarships, to which MU dedicates more than 26 mathematics, was awarded the Distinguished academic affairs, and the previous recipient. advisory board of the Salvation Army of Fayetteville. percent of its budget each year. With more than 95 percent of Professor of the Year Award. The winner of The winner is a faculty member who has In the month leading up to Feb. 27, 20 teams made of up of 140 Methodist University students receiving financial aid, many this award is selected from full-time faculty excelled in any form of research or creativity. community volunteers personally reached out to more than 1,200 students would not be able to attend the University without members who have made a distinct difference Potts has a bachelor’s degree from David Lipscomb College, individuals and businesses in our community to ask them to make scholarships like the ones funded through the Loyalty Campaign. in the teaching climate at the University. a Master of Theology from Harding University Graduate School a gift to the Loyalty Campaign for Student Scholarships. More In the 2016-2017 academic year, MU awarded $21.4 million in Fick holds a bachelor’s degree from of Religion, a Master of Arts from Vanderbilt University, and than 5,000 alumni and friends were also solicited nationwide. financial aid to students. Buena Vista University and a master’s and a doctorate from the University of Georgia. He has authored Though the main fundraising efforts for the Loyalty Campaign doctorate from Auburn University. Her and edited numerous books, articles, and other scholarly academic specialty and research interests are, within the field of publications and presentations, as well as having written novels Above, from left, Fairfield Inn and Suites General Manager and Foundation Board President Adam Collier, Loyalty Campaign Chair mathematics, boundary value problems and dynamic equations and poetry collections. Tim Price, Woodrow W. Wells Jr., Board of Trustees Chair John “Mac” Healy, and President Ben Hancock Jr. at the Loyalty Campaign Celebration Feb. 27. 40 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 41 Left, MU History Professor Dr. Peter Murray, speaks as part of a panel discussion on Chagall.

who discussed the lithographs as part of the "reception” of the Book of Exodus. “I was so happy to see so many people at the interdisciplinary panel that I organized, especially the relatively high number of people from Fayetteville and even other parts of the state,” Dodworth said. “I talked to several secondary teachers who made “The Story of The Exodus,” a series of 24 lithographs by Marc the drive to Fayetteville for the event, and to go to the gallery and Chagall, ended a two-month run April 6 at the David McCune check out the exhibit.” International Art Gallery at Methodist University. This was the Dodworth also took one of his English classes to the exhibit first time the exhibit ever traveled to the United States from a when the class was covering the exact time period and genres/ private collection in Italy. movements related to Marc Chagall and his work. The University also held several events Rev. Taylor said she loved how the exhibit provided multiple related to Chagall and Exodus during the opportunities for collaboration across the campus community. exhibit. Chagall's granddaughter, Bella “Each collaboration provided a unique vantage point from Meyer, spoke Feb. 9 at the Cameo Art House which to view the Chagall lithographs, with moments of surprise Theatre in downtown Fayetteville. Her lecture and insight,” Taylor said. “One such moment came during included family photos and insights into her the University chapel service as Rabbi Eichenholtz called the grandfather's kind-hearted nature. congregation to meditate on the lithograph depicting the plague Among the other events was a discussion on of darkness. The auditorium lights faded to darkness, symbolizing Dr. Brian Britt Expressionism and Modernism in relation to the darkness when Death swept through Egypt. After several Chagall, which took place at the screening of minutes of silence, the MU Chorale broke through the darkness a film in the Center for Global Education’s Foreign Film Festival in joyous song, signifying the joy of the Israelites who knew at titled “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari,” with Dr. Cristina Francescon, that moment that God was acting on their behalf for liberation. Dr. Cameron Dodworth, and Dr. Carl Dyke. Locating songs of celebration in the midst of darkness alongside Top, Marc Chagall's granddaughter Bella Meyer, speaks at Dr. Kelly Walter Carney, Dr. Peter Murray, Dr. Stephanie the Chagall interpretation was powerful.” the Cameo Art House Theatre in downtown Fayetteville on Hooper Marosek, and Carrah Royal participated in an Docents for the exhibit were trained by author, lecturer, and Feb. 9. interdisciplinary panel discussion on how their research and Chagall historian Vivian R. Jacobson. The exhibit was organized academic interests connected to the life or work of Chagall. by The Art Company of Pesaro, Italy, and sponsored in part Rabbi Eve Eichenholtz from Fayetteville’s Beth Israel by The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, the Congregation and MU Chaplain Rev. Kelli W. Taylor led a guided Cumberland Community Foundation: David and Helen Clark Art meditation service, “A Chagall Visual Prayer Book,” and this year’s Museum Fund and Community Arts Endowment, and the Union- McCune Gallery Womack Lecture Series featured Dr. Brian Britt of Virginia Tech, Zukowski Endowment for Multi-Cultural Understanding. hosts Chagall exhibit’s first U.S. show

Left, fans of Chagall’s art view the exhibit. Right, Rabbi Eichenholtz called the congregation to meditate 42 on the lithograph depicting the plague of darkness. METHODIST UNIVERSITY 43 "What a great day we had at Methodist University. Everyone there was so welcoming and the beauty of their campus is second to none. I was honored to speak at Methodist and I hope that the attendees enjoyed having me as much as I enjoyed being there."

— Cal Ripken Jr. Major League Baseball Hall of Famer

Ripken hits a grand slam as the fourth Presidential Lecture Series speaker

ational Baseball Hall of Fame member Cal Ripken Jr. visited Methodist University Sept. 19 as the 2017 NPresidential Lecture Series speaker. Ripken met with several small groups across campus, including spending time with the baseball team at Armstrong-Shelley Baseball Field House, before giving his main lecture in Huff Concert Hall. Ripken’s speech, “Get in the Game: Success in Sports and Life” was a crowd-pleaser, drawing frequent laughter as he seemed to relate effortlessly to the crowd filling the auditorium. He told behind-the-scenes stories from his days on the field and his childhood while outlining some of the characteristics he felt contributed to his long, successful career. Afterward, he sat down to answer a few questions from President Ben Hancock and the audience.

Inset left, Cal Ripken Jr. fields questions from Dr. Hancock and the audience. Right, Ripken is presented with a Methodist University baseball cap. THE PRESIDENTIAL LECTURE SERIES IS PART OF THE ARTS & LECTURE SERIES

44 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 45 A letter from Dr. Hancock on his retirement as fourth president of Methodist University

Dear Members of the MU Family, and successes dependent on one another. As Fayetteville’s home- grown University, we must continue our commitment to meeting It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as the president the needs of the area, whether they be cultural, business, or health of this great University for more than seven years. Thanks to the sciences. It matters that we provide world-class art exhibitions, dedication and service of so many who love Methodist, I believe music performances, and lectures to our community. It matters we are the best we have ever been. that we graduate the next generation of professionals to work Evidence of our progress can be measured in terms of new in our health care facilities, schools, businesses, and other programs in the health sciences (including our first two doctoral organizations. programs), engineering, digital forensics and cybersecurity, When I first visited the campus in 2010, Trustee Al Cleveland entrepreneurship, and Master of Education, and the continued stated it best – “it is all about creating and maintaining a culture contributions of our professional management programs, applied of excellence.” Al, we have followed your wise counsel, and thanks forensic science, and honors program, to name a few. We are to your words of inspiration, and the thoughts, prayers, and the most diverse in our history, attracting a record number support of so many others along the way, we are delivering on of students from most of the 50 states and over 60 different the promise we make to every individual who enters our campus Cumberland Community Foundation presents a check for $150,000 for the Robert H. Short/Cumberland Community Foundation Scholars countries. And we offer more intercollegiate athletic opportunities gates: to provide the very best educational experience in America. Program to Methodist University. From left are Jerial Bogan, Eva Williams and Gail Riddle, all of the Cumberland Community Foundation for students than any other university in North Carolina. I feel truly blessed to have been given the opportunity to serve Board of Directors, and Dr. Ben Hancock. New facilities that have been constructed as a part of the first MU at this unprecedented time of growth and success. I am MU students received more than 100 Short/CCF Scholarships over the last five years phase of our 20-year Master Plan are a physical manifestation of humbled as I think of the many giants who have been there to our current Strategic Plan. We are grateful for trustee leadership make much greater contributions than I over the first 60 years of ince it was implemented in 2013, the Robert H. Short/ such as these are an integral part of maintaining excellence in and the contributions from so many individuals, companies, and this University’s existence, including my time as president. I can SCumberland Community Foundation Scholars Program our University. His generosity and legacy will continue to aid and foundations that have supported our mission through support of proudly state that I have the Best Job in America because we have has been awarded 116 times to Methodist University students, impact many future generations for years to come. Methodist is these facilities and programs they house. the best trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, and students in America. benefiting more than 50 Monarchs. All of the recipients were beyond thankful for gifts such as these that are transformational But even with the many successes we have experienced in What a powerful tradition. And what a powerful foundation from local high school students who were able continue their education for our students.” recent years, the continued pursuit of excellence will ensure that which to move forward boldly for the next 60 years. Indeed, the without leaving Cumberland County, thanks to this scholarship The late Robert H. Short was a successful businessman and the best is yet to be. The “signature people” who have made our best is yet to be. program. a brilliant investor who left a $10 million gift to Cumberland many accomplishments possible will continue to invest in the next First Lady Debbie joins me in wishing every member of the This year, 17 students received the award. Their awards bring Community Foundation in his will. Short always regretted not generation of signature programs and facilities that will ensure MU community Godspeed on your journey, and we look forward the cumulative total of benefits to local students attending attending college, so his gift created CCF’s largest scholarship what MU offers is relevant and state-of-the-art. to our paths crossing again in the future. We love our University Methodist University to $588,336. endowment and supports the Robert H. Short/Cumberland It has always been about the students and their MU Journey, and we love all of you. “The Robert H. Short scholarship program is a benefit and Community Foundation Scholars Program, which is dedicated to and as long as we stay student-centered as our primary focus, investment in our talent, youth, and local community,” said helping local students attend their local colleges in Cumberland our progress will continue. The current four pillars of the Director of Advancement Services Jessica Gebhart. “Scholarships County. Journey provide distinctive pathways for a well-educated student: leadership development; global education; research and creativity; and community engagement. But these four elements are not Ben Hancock Trustees name Crisp interim president enough if we also hope to prepare our students to lead lives of President, Methodist University meaning and purpose. As a faith-based institution, we understand [email protected] he Methodist University Board of Trustees to begin the process of finding the next President that one’s faith also belongs at the table as we discover who we Thas named Dr. Delmas S. Crisp Jr. as interim of Methodist University,”' Healy said. “While we are and who we want to become, ensuring a value-centered president of the University. Board of Trustees want to fill this very important position as soon as approach to our critical thinking and decision-making processes Chairman Mac Healy made the announcement possible, we will take as long as we need to get the March 23. Crisp, the University's provost, will right person in place for Methodist’s future.”' and ultimately the lives we lead. We also know that in addition to Check out the next issue of MU Today as finding our “one thing” in terms of the meaning of life, we need to assume the title of interim president on June 1, Crisp previously served briefly as interim help others find their “one thing” as we listen to their stories. we look back on Dr. Hancock’s tenure. following President Ben Hancock's retirement on president following the retirement of President May we also remember that there has never been a great May 31 after an eight-year tenure. Elton Hendricks in 2010. Upon his arrival in 2011, university without a great community. Our efforts are intertwined, “Upon learning of Dr. Hancock’s plan to retire, Hancock named Crisp executive vice president and the Board of Trustees immediately went to work then named him provost in 2017. Dr. Delmas S. Crisp Jr. 46 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 47 hen the news was made public Major League Baseball’s common denominator between the two men is the love for the Ripken brings strong work ethic WCal Ripken Jr. was coming to Methodist University, Tom game of baseball. Physically, they are noticeably different. At 6’4", Austin’s phone began to ring. Ripken stood tall among Austin and his Monarch players. “Suddenly, people I hadn’t heard from in years contacted me “I wasn’t surprised how big he was until I stood next to him, to Methodist University to see if I had tickets for the event,” said the head baseball coach. then you say, ‘Yeah he’s big,’” said Austin. “As a big player, Cal “People were saying, ‘Wow, Cal Ripken Jr. is coming to Methodist Ripken revolutionized the position of shortstop. There was always University!’ Anytime you can get a Hall of Famer to set foot on this thought that a player his size had to play third base. He your campus, especially someone like Ripken who is known became a trendsetter for that position,” Austin said. worldwide to the sport of baseball, it’s great for the school.” “What Cal Ripken brought to us here at Methodist was the Austin described his own feelings mindset: Every day I’m going to work when hearing the news of Ripken’s and I’m going to work my tail off. I visit as, “ecstatic, and unbelievable “He knelt down in the grass in his suit! might not get the best result every day, excitement.” That says a lot about a man.” but I’m going to work every day and give Ripken retired from baseball in — Tom Austin, the best that I have. That’s a powerful October 2001 after 21 seasons with the Head Baseball Coach message to our young people.” Baltimore Orioles. His name appears Austin’s players were all smiles as they in the record books repeatedly, notably shook the hand of their idol. as one of only eight players in history “Though this was the sport of to achieve 400 home runs and 3,000 hits. On July 29, 2007, he baseball, we had a great tie-in to other sports due to Cal’s work was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Though ethic in athletics. That made this event very successful.” Ripken’s illustrious career includes accolades like American To Austin, the one thing that stood out about Ripken was his Rookie of the Year, two-time American League Most Valuable humility. Player, Golden Glove awards, and 19 All-Star selections, he is “He was an incredibly down-to-earth guy with no hint of most known for his record of 2,632 consecutive games played. arrogance or pompous attitude. None. We asked him if we could His 2,131st consecutive game was voted by fans as MLB’s “Most take a picture together and Ripken promptly took a knee on the Memorable Moment” in baseball history. grass so everyone could gather around for the picture.” Both Ripken and Austin enjoyed long careers in the sport Because Cal kneeled down, they all kneeled down. of baseball. When the two men were introduced, Ripken “He knelt down in the grass in his suit!” Austin said. “That congratulated Austin on his professional longevity. Another says a lot about a man.”

Contributing author Jason Canady is a graphic designer and Cal Ripken Jr., center, poses for a picture with coaches Tom Austin, Spencer Martin ’08, photographer at Methodist University. and the baseball team.

Ripken talks baseball with the Ripken takes a tour of the Armstrong Fieldhouse. Monarch baseball team. L to R, Coach Tom Austin, Ripken and Coach Spencer Martin. After his tour of the Armstrong Fieldhouse, Ripken spoke to students at the Reeves School of Business.

48 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 49 An interview with new Athletic Director Dave Eavenson ’96

y all accounts, the Having been at Methodist for so long, and been around athletics B2017-18 year was for so long, how did that help with the transition? another successful one for the Methodist University Number one, I grew up around athletics my whole life with my Athletic Department. dad and grandfather both being athletic directors. I saw what the Not much seemed to be job was – the job has evolved over the years. It’s not what it was out of the ordinary – the in the ’80s or the ’90s, or the 2000s – even the mid-2000s. But I department captured the knew what it was and I knew what came with it because it’s what USA South Men’s President I’ve known all my life. I think anytime you move positions within Cup for athletic excellence, a university it definitely shortens the learning curve because you three teams have already understand the university. You understand how it works, you secured spots in NCAA understand the details of the job at that university. You’ve got postseason play with two being an AD or being a coach and there are things you’re going to teams awaiting word at do regardless of where you are. The fact that I’ve been here so long press time. Conference and I understand how the University works, it certainly made championships, all- the transition a little smoother for me because I didn’t have that conference performers, school records. On the surface, it seemed learning curve to overcome. like just another year for MU. It may not be obvious to the So that makes that piece of it … you know people always ask casual observer that behind the scenes, a great deal had changed. what do you do in the first 100 days, well if you’ve never been at Dave Eavenson ’96 Long-time Athletic Director Bob McEvoy retired last spring, and the University before, that answer is different than if you’ve been stepping into his place and filling that role was Dave Eavenson. somewhere before. I didn’t have go through the processes of how An MU grad and former assistant football coach, head football the budget works, how this system works, how Jenzabar works, because of a position. When I was the assistant AD, or when I was to me. Regardless of what they do or what position they hold at coach and assistant AD, Eavenson was well prepared for the role. how the portal works … I already know those things so we could the football coach, or assistant football coach, I just have a passion the University. Whether they’re a vice president, or in charge of What follows is a conversation with Eavenson roughly one year dive in immediately in July and start our planning for the year as for athletics, and sometimes that passion comes out at games and maintenance, you treat ’em right as a person and with dignity and into the job. opposed to “how does this work?” when it comes out at games, and people may be like ‘who’s that respect … so I don’t think I’ve changed, at least I hope I haven’t. guy screaming and yelling over there?’ But I’m just enthusiastic I’m sure someone will call me on it if I have. Obviously, you have been around here for a long time, but what You’re probably recognized as one of the biggest advocates and and passionate about our kids and our coaches and what they’re has been the biggest change for you in taking the head job? fans of the Methodist student-athletes. Have you had a hard doing, and I want to see us have success, and I want to be there for Now with roughly a year under your belt, what is it you want to time maybe holding your tongue and not yelling at an official them when they fail. You’ve got to be with them more when they tackle going forward? What changes can you see on the horizon Anytime you take a leadership position, at the end of the day, or voicing your opinion in a way that you want to, given the fail. It’s easy when it's successful. You can give ’em a high five and for the department? the buck stops with you. Whether you go from an assistant coach position you now hold? say, ‘great game,’ but to stand there when we get our tails kicked to a head coach, or an assistant anything to the boss – it’s on you. or lose a heartbreaker, it’s more important to stand there for those I have a list that sits right there on my desk, and it's multiple So that’s different. But, I’ve been there before and I understand Yeah, I do this because I love it. I love athletics and athletics than it is when we win. I always think it’s good to see a smiling pages long, and you can sit and reflect on what can you get done the expectations. I knew exactly what I was getting myself into. are so good for the folks involved. Whether they know it or not, face say ‘We’ll get the next one’ or ‘Keep your head up.’ It’s way immediately, what is going to take some time to get done, and You know, there are always challenges in any job you take, but athletics will bring them so many positive things in their life more important to be there at that point in time. what’s something that you’re working toward the future. I think this is an awesome place to be. We’ve got really good people down the road. It teaches them about adversity, and I just love the vision is we want to be an elite program. I think that’s what here, awesome support and we’re a good team. And, I think being around and seeing what it does to this age group. People With the elevation in position, have you noticed any difference every coach wants, we want to be elite in what we do. People ask, with Deputy Athletic Director Jarman and me, we work so well ask, ‘why didn’t you go to high school?’ I love this age group, the in your relationships with people in the department or across “Is that winning national championships?” Well, that’s part of it, together, we complement each other. Our strengths are opposite 18-23 age group. You can impact any age, but this is an important campus? but being elite is more than just winning, it’s how we do business. each other and I think that is what makes us work together. But I phase when they’re on their own away from home, trying to figure We have a great culture. don’t think this works without the two of us in the situation we’re their life out and what direction they want to go, you can have a I really haven’t changed, I do business pretty much the same I’m a process person, I believe we all know what the end in. I don’t think it goes if it’s not the two of us. I think we work huge impact at this level. In terms of separation, I just try to be way. To me it’s just how you treat people. Treat people the game is. We all know where we want to go and what we want to well together, and I think there’s a good future for all of us here at me. I do get enthusiastic, and I do get fired up. I don’t apologize same way whether you’re the boss or whatever you do. Treat accomplish. We want to affect lives, change lives, be successful on Methodist based on the structure we have. for it, you know at the end of the day, I’m me. And you do have everybody fairly and treat ’em right. I learned that a long time the field, be successful off the field, give back to the community, to separate some things, but I don’t want to change who I am just ago from my dad. Just because you hold a title, that’s irrelevant serve our community, and serve in the right way – do it because

50 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 51 we want to do it. It’s a daily process for our staff and our students Anything else you’d like to make mention of? to do things the right way, to get us where we want to go. I think if someone asks me what my vision is – I want to develop a I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Bob McEvoy. You know, holistic athlete, a holistic coach. I want it all. I want them to have that was one of the things I said in the interview process was that an awesome experience when they come in here. If they come Bob did such a great job in the role for such a long time, that the in and win four national championships in four years and don’t ship was already on the right course, so to speak. He left things in graduate, and they don’t have success anywhere else, or they don’t such a good place, and I had the opportunity to learn from him get involved in anything else, well that’s not the whole package. and work with him for so long it provided a really good blueprint I want it all for them, and I know it may be unrealistic. Can we for how to keep things going. accomplish that right now? I think we can, I think it starts today Also, we’re so alike. I may be a little more animated and a little and I think it goes to tomorrow and it goes to the next day and we more boisterous, but our morals and core values are so closely take the battles one at a time. aligned, that stepping into his shoes wasn’t a big leap and also I want it all for them. When they student - athlete chose to meant that the staff and our athletes weren’t going to see much come here, the coaching staff that we have, that we’re so fortunate change in how we do business and what we will continue to value to have – I mean look at the longevity of the people that stay here. and what we will continue to strive for. I mean, it’s incredible. When you have people that who someplace that long, there’s a reason they choose to do that. But I still think Nate Jervey is the sports information director and athletics editor that it’s because of all the other good things we have going on for Methodist University. here. Is it perfect? No, but I don’t believe that anywhere is perfect. We have so many positives that we can build on. I think the sky’s the limit and the future is extremely bright for us. ◆ STEM camp: June 11-15 ◆ PGA Summer Experience: July 8-11 & July 11-14 Jarman moves from coaching to deputy athletic director ◆ Summerjam! music camp: July 9-14 he end of the 2016-17 “The program is in good hands and she has it on the right track Tacademic year brought with a lot of young players on the roster,” said Jarman. ◆ Gen. Shelton Leadership Challenge: July 15-20 forth multiple changes in Jarman juggled administrative duties and coaching for 13 years the Methodist University prior to the move to full-time administrative duties. She believes ◆ CSI-MU Forensic Science camp: Department of Athletics. the decades of coaching certainly helped as she moved into the One of the largest changes new role. July 16-17 (Middle School) & Aug. 6-7 (High School) was Vice President and “At first, I missed the relationships with the student-athletes Director of Athletics, on the team,” Jarman said. “But I realized that now, I’m helping ◆ Athletics: Visit the Summer Camps page at Bob McEvoy, who retired coaches instead of helping the student-athletes. I can now talk to a MUMonarchs.com for a complete listing of all after 25 years of service at coach and say ‘Hey, this situation happened to me, this is how we various positions within can solve the problem.’” athletic summer camps. the department. In addition to her new role, Jarman added a promotional In his place, a pair of aspect to Methodist. At most home athletic events, students and individuals stepped up to fans have the opportunity to win a prize, whether it be on-field/ fill the void at the helm of court activities or a drawing. Jarman has brought in various athletics – Dave Eavenson companies located on Ramsey Street to add to the excitement of and DeeDee Jarman – as each gained promotions after serving events. previously as assistant athletic directors. “We wanted to improve attendance at events and I think the For Jarman, the promotion meant that after 20 years on the promotions help bring a few more people in,” said Jarman. “I like sidelines, she would have to step away from coaching the women’s to think the atmosphere of the crowd changed a little and will basketball program. continue to improve as we make changes to how we do it.” “At first, I had mixed emotions about walking away from After working for McEvoy for years, Jarman believes he was a coaching,” said Jarman, whose new title is Deputy Director of large influence on her today. Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator. “Being a competitor, “Bob was a great mentor, and we learned a lot from his the change was difficult on game days. It was one of the hardest leadership,” said Jarman. “We are building on traditions that he decisions of my life, but Cheryl made it a lot easier.” started and established.” Cheryl McNair was the top assistant for the women’s basketball “The ultimate goal is to ensure our programs are some of the team for 20 years before moving up as the interim head coach to best in the south region and to strive to meet the high standards For more information, visit www.methodist.edu/summer replace Jarman. that have been set.” or call 800.488.7110 or 910.630.7000. Contact individual camp organizers to check availability. Check out the next issue of MU Today for a full report on Monarch Athletics from 2017-2018. 52 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 53 CLASS NOTES

George Pearce ’67 was inducted into Renny Taylor ’86 the 2016-2017 Nash Jimmy Crayton ’01, ’16M was named Chief the inaugural Manteo High School Central High School Teacher of the Year and of Police in Wallace, N.C. He was also elected Athletic Hall of Fame in Manteo, N.C. the 2016-2017 Nash-Rocky Mount Public to serve as president of the North Carolina He coached at Manteo High from Schools district Teacher of the Year received Homicide Investigators Association. 1967-94, and won state championships yet another prestigious honor, as Taylor was in 1974 and 1976 for baseball. most recently named the 2017 North Carolina History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Taylor is a World History and Advanced Placement U.S. History teacher at NCHS in Rocky Mount, Eddie Barber ’68 was re-elected N.C. Connie Francis ’02 was inducted into the North Carolina Mayor of the Town of Emerald Isle, USSSA Hall of Fame for her exploits at the highest levels N.C. on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2017. He will of slow-pitch softball. The former Methodist University be serving his second four-year term. JoLie Kurtz ’91 accepted a position as a fast-pitch softball star was inducted along with five others Barber was first elected Mayor in Project Manager with Johnson & Johnson's in the Class of 2017 during the N.C. USSSA Hall of Fame November 2013. Research and Development Division. She will banquet in Durham, N.C. be a part of its Medical Devices and Emerging Products area. She remains based out of Jacksonville, Fla. Clay Cosner ’73 has completed 35 years of federal service. He credits Caroline Goddard ’93 is the Stafford County Malia Allen ’04 has joined The Fayetteville Observer Methodist for stimulating his interest School Board’s Va. appointment as the in Fayetteville, N.C. as events and special publications in lifelong learning. principal for Anthony Burns Elementary manager. She will oversee 40 under 40, Readers’ Choice School. Goddard previously served as and Kidtopia events, in addition to special premium principal at Ellis Elementary in Prince publications. Allen has worked in marketing and communications for seven years and has operated Rev. Dr. Jerry Jackson ’75 retired William County and as assistant principal at several retail and event-related businesses, including the from the active ministry after 47 Garrisonville Elementary School. She was an downtown store Bumbledoo. years as a United Methodist Pastor on elementary teacher and reading specialist at July 1, 2017. He served 13 churches Park Ridge Elementary School prior to her appointment at GES. during his ministry in Eastern Peter Egazarian ’04 was chosen to lead the Massachusetts North Carolina. At his retirement College of Liberal Arts men’s golf program. Previously the celebration, he was presented the Andrew Farriss ’98 was named head football head teaching professional at Taconic Golf Club, Egazarian’s highest civilian award given by the team will compete in NCAA Division III. State of North Carolina “The Order coach at Northern Nash High School in Rocky of the Long Leaf Pine” by Gov. Roy Mount, N.C. Previously a math teacher at Cooper for his service to the people Northern Nash and offensive coordinator and of North Carolina and the United defense & offensive line coach, Farriss spent States, to Methodist University, and 13 years as an assistant coach at Hunt High to the United Methodist Church. School in Wilson, N.C. Over 200 people from across North Carolina were present when Rep. Billy Maj. Robert Gill ’04 put his minor in leadership from Richardson presented Jerry the award. Methodist University to use on the Caribbean island of Dominica in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria with the Joint Task Force - Leeward Islands as the officer in charge of the task force’s security element. Gill and his Marines support Felix Sarfo-Kantanka ’99 has joined Dominion Deborah Walker Guyton ’77 JTF-LI by providing security and stability on the ground at Energy as external affairs manager for the was selected as Bladen County’s landing zones and at the U.S. Department of State’s evacuation greater Charlottesville, Va. area. He will focus Principal of the Year for the 2017-18 control center, assisting the voluntary departure of American on local government affairs. school year. She is the Principal of citizens and others via JTF-LI air support from Dominica to the Bladenboro Primary School. neighboring island of Martinique.

54 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 55 CLASS NOTES

Brandon McClain ’04 has been Courtney Bartee ’08 was named principal Ramona Jackson ’11 was recently selected as principal of Jesse Stuart of Red Oak Elementary School in Rocky appointed by the Governor of West Elementary School (Ky.). He has Mount, N.C. Bartee has worked with Nash- Virginia to serve on the state Tourism served as assistant principal at Hanson Rocky Mount Public Schools for more Commission. Elementary since 2012. He previously than nine years, serving as a teacher at taught special education at the school. Benvenue Elementary School for five years and as assistant principal at M.B. Hubbard Elementary School for more than four years.

Robbie Fritz ’05, ’12M was named the Thomas Hutton ’10 was named Executive Trisha Barfield ’12 received a Juris Doctor Director of Instruction at Greensboro Director of the Southern Texas Section of from Elon University School of Law in Country Club, N.C., in June. the PGA. December 2017. She was in the top 25 percent of the graduating class and was inducted as a member of the Order of the Barristers, a national honor society that recognizes law graduates who have achieved excellence in courtroom advocacy.

Ben Hoover ’06 joined Brooks Denise Busbin Locklear, PA-C ’10M was Julissa Corona ’14 a student in UTEP’s Master SHARE YOUR NEWS Insurance Agency, a nationally awarded Physician Assistant of the Year of Social Work Program, is one of 10 students Did we miss something? recognized multi-line wholesaler as 2017 from the North Carolina Academy of in the United States selected as a delegate for We would like to hear about vice president/broker. Hoover joins Physician Assistants. the Women’s International League for Peace Brooks in Manalapan, N.J., from Risk and Freedom Corona will participate in the your personal and professional Placement Services, where he served 10th Practicum in Advocacy at the CSW, accomplishments. Send alumni as Regional Marketing Manager, at which is sponsored by the U.S. Section of the announcements or corrections to The Sea Pines Resort. WILPF. The practicum offers participants an Kirbie Dockery by emailing opportunity to observe how the UN works [email protected]. to address issues requiring multilateral engagement and coordinated action. Rhyan Breen ’07 was appointed to Martin Jackson ’10M joins the Cape Fear the North Carolina Youth Advisory Farm Credit staff as a Special Asset Loan Council. He will represent Wilson, Officer. With an undergraduate degree from Mikie Morrison ’14 has been named General N.C., on the statewide advisory panel. N.C. State, MBA from Methodist University, Manager of the Burlington Royals. Morrison Breen is an attorney at Farris & Farris and previous experience in banking and has worked in the Royals organization since and serves as a board member for the finance, Jackson has desired a career in 2013 in various roles. Most recently, he served YOUTH of Wilson and Methodist agricultural lending. as the club’s assistant general manager for the University Legal Studies. 2017 season.

Andrew Gurley ’07 was named Ryan McGinnis ’10 has been named head golf head football coach at Croatan High professional at Chariot Run Golf Course in Daniel Renz ’14M accepted a promotion as an Insider School. The longtime Croatan football Laconia, Ind. Threat Analyst with the U.S. Army Insider Threat Hub at team’s assistant coach takes over the the Pentagon. He will be one of the first analysts in the position from David Perry, the only history of the hub. It is a new entity organized under the coach in Croatan’s 20-year history. Army Office of the Provost Marshal General (OPMG) and was created following the Fort Hood and Washington Navy Yard shootings, as well as the leaks of classified information by Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning. The mission of the Insider Threat Hub is to deter, detect, and mitigate Insider Threats to Army personnel, systems, facilities, and the National Security.

56 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 57 BIRTHS ENGAGEMENTS & WEDDINGS

Marianne Atwell Zabbo ’01 and her Jason Goodhind ’10 and his wife Stephen Fox ’11 announces his husband Michael welcomed their daughter welcomed Chasen Wright Sept. 23, 2017. K. Courtney R. Drake ’69 married Carolyn Brown Aug. 18, 2017 in Salisbury, N.C. engagement to Kristi Jean Louise June 8, 2016. She weighed 5 He weighed 8 lbs. 10 oz. and measured with children and grandchildren in attendance. Court is retired. lbs. 8 oz. and measured 19 inches. 21 inches. Sheffield.

Kirbie Britt Dockery ’03 and her husband Tiffany Webster Warren ’11 and her Megan Tingler ’14 Steve celebrated the birth of their second husband Matthew celebrated the birth is engaged to Daniel son, Lucas Barrett, Feb. 22, 2018. He of their daughter Olivia Susan Sept. Wagner and planning weighed 8 lbs. 8 oz. and measured 21 5, 2017. She weighed 7 lbs. 4 oz. and an Oct. 5, 2018 inches. Kirbie and Steve both work at measured 20.5 inches. Tiffany is a wedding in Siloam, Methodist. fifth grade teacher for Wilkes County N.C. Megan is a nurse Schools. and Daniel is in the Army.

Stacey Sheppard Walsh ’04 and her Stephanie Wood Honeycutt ’13 Logan Dulaney ’17 husband Derek welcomed Layla Noel Dec. and her husband Tyler welcomed announces his engagement 28, 2017. She weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. and LauraBeth Nicole Jan. 13, 2018. She to Kaytlan Rouse. measured 20 inches. weighed 6 lbs. 14 oz. and measured 20 inches. Stephanie is a physical education teacher for Cumberland Kaitlin Flaherty ’11, ’12M married Elliott Bisplinghoff ’09 County Schools. Oct. 14, 2017 in Raleigh, N.C. The wedding party included Emily Jackson Farrell ’11, Dana Powell Burkholder ’12, Kasey Nichols Murphy ’11, ’12M, Lindsey Davis ’09, and Chase Cates ’09. Kaitlin is the Director of Tennis at Seven William Helms ’06 and his wife Oaks Swim & Tennis Club and Elliott is an insurance agent Rebecca celebrated the birth of son Levi for Farm Bureau N.C. Patrick Sept. 20, 2017. He weighed 8 lbs. 11 oz. and measured 21 inches. Will is a fourth grade teacher and also serves as assistant cross country and track and field coach at Methodist. Rebecca Brittany Wiggs ’14 and Adam Monts is a physical therapist for Cape Fear de Oca ’10 were married July 1, 2017 on Valley Health System and also serves as Topsail Island, N.C. Brandon Iseman adjunct faculty in the Doctor of Physical ’10, Matt Hanshaw ’11, Michael Wilcox Therapy program at Methodist. ’10, Justin Gray ’11, and Jared DuBose ’11 served as groomsmen. Rev. Dr. Jerry Jackson ’75 officiated and Doris Jackson Munoz ’06 served as wedding coordinator.

58 59 IN MEMORY IN MEMORY

Paul J. Gorski ’64 died Feb. 4, 2018. Paul was born on May 22, 1941 David L. Yount ’68, of Southern Pines, Brent A. Matthews ’74, was born Nov. 1, Thomas A. Matuseski ’04, of Boynton in Rodelheim, Germany. Following graduation from Methodist, N.C. died October 17, 2017. After high 1951 and died Dec. 24, 2017. Matthews Beach, Fla., formerly of Florida, N.Y., died Gorski was commissioned into the Air Force. He spent most of his school, he served his country in the U.S. grew up in Forsyth County, N.C. He was Jan. 28, 2018. He was born March 23, 22-year career in Special Operations Squadrons. Navy in the early 1960s. Following an the founder and president of Diversified 1981 in Warwick, N.Y. Matuseski led his honorable discharge, Yount earned his Foam, Inc. in Yadkinville, N.C. teammates to the New York State High bachelor’s degree from Methodist and School Championship in 1999, his senior The Rev. Dr. Henry B. Grant, Jr. ’66, died master’s degree from UNC - Pembroke. year, and was chosen the New York State on Dec. 1, 2017. He was born Feb. 13, 1943 at High School Player of the year. Watts Hospital, Durham, N.C. After 30 years as a United Methodist minister, Henry retired from both ministry and family therapy in Dr. John C. Clamp ’70 died on Feb. Herman L. Adams, Jr. ’76, passed away Carrie Horne ’05, of Fayetteville, N.C., 2007. 6, 2018. He was born Aug. 5, 1949 in peacefully in his home. Adams was born formerly of Stedman, N.C., died Sept. Nuremberg, Germany, and spent his in Kinston, N.C. He was drafted into the 26, 2017. She was born Aug. 6, 1982. early years in Germany and France. He U.S. Army on Oct. 4, 1961 and served his Horne was employed at the Cumberland received his B.S. in Biology at then- country with honors for 21 years, 13 of County Health Department as a Health Methodist College in Fayetteville, which as a member of Special Forces and Inspector and also owner of Carrie Small Willie E. Bethune, Jr. ’67, of Fayetteville died N.C. and M.S. and Ph.D. at N.C. State the final five years as an original team Photography. Nov. 1, 2017. He was born March 3, 1942. University. member of Delta Force. After graduation from Methodist, he served for six months in the Army Reserve, and then worked for Nations Bank and United Nell Brown Thompson Palmer ’73, Carolina Bank for twelve years. of Charlotte, N.C. died Dec. 8, 2017 at Ernest W. Parker ’79, died Nov. 5, 2017 at Dylan J. Knox ’10, died Oct. 8, 2017. Burke Hospice in Valdese, N.C. and his home. Born Aug. 11, 1934 in Sampson Knox was born in Raleigh, N.C. and after Palliative Care Center following a brief County, he was an Army Veteran and moving to Lillington with his family, was illness. Palmer was born on Jan. 23, 1951 retired Assistant Resident Engineer with captain of his high school tennis team. in Wayne County, N.C. She taught school the N.C. Department of Transportation. Having worked as a tennis pro at several William B. Church, III ’67, of Cincinnati, in Fayetteville, N.C. for one year, then clubs on the east coast for many years, he Ohio, died Jan. 26, 2018. He was born August went to work at Methodist University as was employed at the time of his death by 16, 1944. Bill served his country in the U.S. an Admissions Counselor. North Hills Club in Raleigh, N.C. Army. He was general counsel of Hamilton county public defender’s office for numerous years. He also composed and performed LTC James K. Waters, Jr., USA (Ret.) ’73, died Jan. 14, 2018. He was born on April 25, 1944 in Lewistown, Pa. Waters Christian and folk music all over the city. Malcolm Elroy Gore ’80, more Kevin M. Mroczko, of Linden, N.C. enlisted in the Army in Harrisburg, Pa. in 1965. He served affectionately known as "Easy", was born died October 15, 2017 at Betsy Johnson two combat tours in Vietnam and went to Officers Candidate March 19, 1958 and died Aug. 11, 2017. He Hospital in N.C. He was born on March 1, School at Ft. Benning, Ga., and was commissioned as a 2nd was employed by Breakaway Messenger 1980. Mroczko was a student at Methodist Emmett Wayne Beard ’68, died on Lieutenant in the Infantry Branch. Service in New York for 20 years. Gore University and was respected and loved by Wednesday, July 12, 2017. Beard lived his was a prolific writer who inspired others to faculty and classmates. entire life in Eastover, N.C. Beard taught for CW4 Alfred E. Marlowe ’74, died Oct. live, be kind, and always do your best. 30 years in the Cumberland County School 6, 2017. He served 20 years of military system, with a majority of those years at service serving first in the U. S. Marine Armstrong Junior High School in Eastover, Corps, and concluded his service in the N.C. U. S. Army as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. He retired as an army aviator in 1975.

Rev. Thomas Conway ’68, of Lake Junaluska died Sept. 22, 2017. He was born March 2, 1937. Conway is survived by his wife of 56 years and two sons. Tom received his master’s degree from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also did post-graduate work at Duke University.

60 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 61 DR. SUE LASLIE KIMBALL Professor Emeritus of English Sue Laslie Kimball Kimball taught at Methodist for 20 years, from died March 16, in Fayetteville. She was 96. 1979 to 1999, and was the founder of the Southern Kimball earned her undergraduate degree in Writers Symposium. She was also responsible for the education from the University of Kentucky. She proposal and subsequent efforts to have the Mallett- spent many years as a middle and high school Rogers House moved to campus and restored in instructor and later earned her master’s degree in the late 1980s. She hosted a call-in radio show in English from St. Mary’s College in Kansas, and Fayetteville entitled “Doctor Grammar,” and as a her doctorate in English from the University of professor, Kimball earned seven fellowships from Alabama. the National Endowment for the Humanities. Photo Credit: The Fayetteville Observer

FRANK BARRAGAN JR. Methodist University Board of Trustees Company. He and his wife Ruth, who preceded him Chairman Emeritus Frank Barragan Jr., 99, died in death, returned to Savannah in 2008. FRANK J. ORIANS March 14 in his hometown of Savannah, Ga. While living in Fayetteville, Barragan served Frank J. Orians, who worked as the director of a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient. Originally from Savannah, Barragan came to as chairman for multiple terms on the Methodist Veterans Services at Methodist for 15 years, died Following his military career, he worked as Fayetteville in 1966, where he became president, University Board of Trustees. In 1993, he was Aug. 13, 2017, at the age of 74 in Bluffton, S.C. the director of Veterans Services at Methodist CEO, and later chairman of the North Carolina named chairman emeritus, and in his honor, the Originally from Detroit, Mich., he was a graduate University and as director of Evening College Natural Gas Corporation. A graduate of Armstrong Frank Barragan Jr. Scholarship Fund at Methodist of Campbell University and a veteran of the United Admissions. He was active with Rolling Thunder in Junior College, Barragan also served with the United University was endowed. States Army. He served during Vietnam and retired Fayetteville and H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group). He States Eighth Air Force in England during World In lieu of flowers, friends may consider making as a major. During his tenure, he served as a medic was also a member of the VFW, the DAV, and Parker War II before returning to Savannah, where he a donation in his memory to the Frank Barragan Jr. and as a Green Beret with the Special Forces. He was United Methodist Church in Raeford. began his career in the gas industry at Savannah Gas Endowed Scholarship Fund at Methodist University.

WILLIAM “BILL” F. BETHUNE DR. JOHN “JACK” PEYROUSE JR. William “Bill” F. Bethune, who was a major took art courses at then-Methodist College, to hone contributor to the William F. Bethune Center for his painting skills and fell in love with the school. Professor Emeritus of Theatre Dr. John “Jack” passion for the theatre. He counted playwright as Visual Arts, died Sept. 9, 2017, in Southern Pines after Having worked inside the college’s cramped art Claude Peyrouse Jr. died July 9, 2017, in Greenville, one of his accomplishments, including “The Will of a prolonged illness. An artist himself, he was a loyal studio, Bethune had a vision to help the school S.C. He taught theatre at Methodist from 1977 to RD,” based on the life of R.D. Taylor, a 19th century supporter of the art program at Methodist University. create the arts center he felt it deserved. His vision 1996 and served as chair of the Theatre Department. theatrical impresario. In 1993, he was awarded the Bethune was a retired educator and principal was to make it the most attractive building on A native of Ovid, Colo., he held a Bachelor of Outstanding Faculty Award at Methodist. with the Cumberland County School System. He campus. Arts and a Master of Arts from the University of For the last 20 years, he lived in Greenville, Denver, a Master of Arts from the University of leading, producing, and participating in various Arkansas, and a doctorate from the University theatrical activities, and he was an adjunct professor of Nebraska. He spent his adult life pursuing his of theater at Furman University until 2008.

KATHRYN FRUTCHEY CHRISTIAN JIM SYPULT Kathryn Frutchey Christian, 79, died peacefully from nursing, she returned to Methodist University Jim Sypult, who was head football coach at His Monarch teams won 89 games prior to his at her home Feb. 20, after a long and courageous for more than 12 years, working at Davis Memorial Methodist University from 1992 to 2010, died Jan. 8 retirement in 2010. journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Library in circulation services and the archives. while on vacation in Peru. He was 72. Before coming to Methodist, Sypult was a starter Christian graduated with a Bachelor of Science She was an active member of Hay Street United Sypult was the school's second football coach, for the West Virginia University football program in Nursing from Hood College in 1961, the same Methodist Church and long-time member of United inheriting a program that had a record of 2-28 in its and captained the team in 1966 while earning a year she married Dr. Robert Christian, longtime Methodist Women. She loved to attend many first three seasons. Sypult’s first team went 0-10, but bachelor's and master’s degree. He also distinguished professor at Methodist University. Her career in cultural events at Methodist University and in the within two seasons was playing .500 ball and in 1997 himself as a collegiate coach at Fairmont State nursing included working as a college infirmary Fayetteville community. posted a 9-1 record with a No. 20 ranking among (1973), Middle Tennessee State (1974-78), and nurse at then-Methodist College for nine years. She Memorial contributions may be sent to the NCAA Division III schools. In 2000, he was chosen Davidson College (1979-91). also worked in the labor and delivery department Kathryn F. and Robert S. Christian Endowed conference Coach of the Year. at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, and later in Scholarship Fund at Methodist University. the office of Dr. Linda McAlister. After she retired

62 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 63 FANNIE L. THOMASON Fannie Longley Thomason died in her school with her husband, was vice president of Fayetteville home March 27. She was an early board Women of the Church, and served on the church’s member of the Fayetteville College Foundation, the decorating committee. As one of the early board organization that would later become the Methodist members of the Fayetteville College Foundation, College Foundation. she also chaired the college’s first community fund Originally from Wilmington, she moved to drive. THE PROFESSIONAL MBA PROGRAM Fayetteville with her husband, the late Raymond Thomason served as president of The Junior Braddy Thomason, in 1946. She was a graduate of League of Fayetteville and of the city-wide Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C. Parent-Teacher Association. She also served on In Fayetteville, she became heavily involved in the advisory board and as a general officer of the civic, religious, and philanthropic organizations. Salvation Army. She was a founding member of the She was a member at First Presbyterian Church in Lafayette Society, as well. Fayetteville for 65 years, where she taught Sunday

THOMAS L. WALDEN

Trustee Emeritus Thomas L. Walden, 89, of Church in Raleigh since 1967, Walden served in Youngsville, N.C. died Jan. 24. almost every laity position at the church. After his A member of Methodist University’s Board of Laity retirement, he expanded his involvement across the Friends since it was established in 1995, Walden also conference. He was a dedicated lay leader of the United had a history of visiting Methodist University each Methodist Church. summer to help with remodeling and renovation Walden was recognized twice with the Outstanding work on campus. In 1999, he joined the Board of Kiwanian Award, in 1960 in Tennessee, and in 1966 in Trustees, on which he served until 2013, when he was Kentucky. He was also awarded the Kentucky Colonel unanimously approved to become Trustee Emeritus. Award and Tennessee Colonel Aide-de-Camp Award Walden was a graduate of University of Tennessee for his civic involvement in those states. In 2001, he with a doctorate in pharmacy. He was retired from was named Trustee of the Year for the Health and Upjohn Pharmaceutical Company, and was a retired Welfare agencies of the United Methodist Church lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. in the United States. He was awarded the Methodist As a member of St. Mark’s United Methodist University Medallion in 2013. NOW ONLINE! ROY WHITMIRE Why the online MBA Program* at MU? Roy Arthur Whitmire, who was chief financial military in 1974 after 28 years of service. Following officer for Methodist from 1975 to 1990, died July his military career, he became the vice president ◆ Earn your MBA degree online in 16 months 28, at Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, N.C. for business and chief financial officer of Methodist † A retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, College. ◆ Benefit from low tuition: $15,500 Whitmire graduated from the University of After his second retirement, he worked as a real ◆ Increase salary potential Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in government estate broker with Prudential, John Koenig Realtors studies. In 1967, he graduated from the University in Fayetteville. In 2004, he moved to Hendersonville ◆ Further career goals of Alabama with an MBA. He retired from the to be closer to family and the mountains. ◆ Develop leadership skills ◆ Study from anywhere ◆ Enjoy personal growth ◆ Network with professionals *Pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges †Based on 2018-19 tuition rate

64 METHODIST UNIVERSITY 65 www.methodist.edu/mba | 910.630.7493 | [email protected] BRINGING MU TO YOU Can’t make it to campus? Don’t worry, we are Bringing MU To You. Methodist University regional events bring alumni, parents, and friends of MU together for educational, social, and cultural opportunities. Attending a regional event is an excellent way to build and grow social and professional networks, remain informed about news from campus, and display pride in your alma mater. Whether you’re new to an area or have been a longtime resident, it’s never too late to start attending regional events.

NCCUMC

Linda Wise ’83, Elizabeth Wise ’18, Rev. Gil Wise ’83

The late Tom Walden and Rev. Dr. Jerry Jackson ’75 at the NCCUMC.

WNCCUMC Wanda Musgrave, Janet Leeland, Rev. Kelli Taylor, and former MU Trustee Bill Musgrave during the WNCCUMC event. FROGLAND JAM Alumni and friends gather for Frogland Jam hosted by Ed “Tuna” Schedule of upcoming events: Keil ’70. June 14 | Greenville, N.C. NCCUMC Annual Conference For more information about these alumni events or to host one in your area, please June 22 | Lake Junaluska, N.C. contact Kirbie Dockery, Director of Alumni Affairs, at 910.630.7167, 800.488.7110 ext. WNCCUMC Annual Conference 7167, or [email protected].