COVID-19 LEADING THE TEACHER OF AT THE HEART RESPONSE FRONTLINES THE YEAR OF WINNING
SUMMER 2020
From College to University SUMMER 2020 | 1 In This Issue MILLIGAN MAGAZINE Summer 2020 | Volume 22, Number 1 Features Departments
4 COVID-19 Response 2 Letter from the President 14 Milligan University 8 Faculty News 18 Leading the Frontlines 10 Campus News 22 Teacher of the Year 23 Athletic News 24 At the Heart of Winning 26 Class Notes
From the President
Dear Friends,
The year 2020 has not gone as planned for anyone, and it is in times of challenge and adversity that we are reminded of our need for God. What a comfort to know that He holds our past, our present, and our future. In the midst of uncertainty and unrest, we have tremendous hope in knowing that God is in control. How reassuring this is for Milligan and for us as believers. In the midst of this unprecedented season, we reflect on the many ways our Milligan and Emmanuel family has triumphed. I applaud the work of our students, faculty, and staff who finished the 2020 academic year strong, online and from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. We celebrate the 241 students who graduated this spring, among them our first graduates in engineering and physician assistant studies programs. We celebrate our alumni working to save lives and help those in need during this pandemic. We celebrate the generosity of alumni, friends, churches, faculty, staff, parents, and students who financially support our mission when the impact of COVID-19 could be felt in every facet of life and work at Milligan. Thank you. The Milligan spirit is alive, well, and stronger than ever. Of that, we can be proud. On June 1, we officially became Milligan University. In the years of exploring, discussing, and praying for the Lord’s leading in this decision, we could not have known the ultimate timing of this transition, but God did. It is through the Lord’s provision that we embark on a new and important era in the life of Milligan. As a Christian institution, there is no better time than now to expand our reach as Milligan University. There is no better time than now to share hope with a world in need. There is no better time than now to pray and work to rectify the problems of racial injustice. May Milligan University influence the world in bigger ways that bring justice, reconciliation, understanding, and most of all, love for one another. There is no better time to share the love of Christ than right now. While we still don’t know what the future holds, we know that Milligan is part of God’s plan. We will carry on our noble mission of educating men and women to be servant-leaders, and we are making plans to safely begin our semester on time and on campus. The world needs servant-leaders who are equipped to lead and to serve. Our mission must not falter. It must not stop. It must not fail. Our Milligan family is strong. We share a bond that can’t be broken, and this community, even socially distanced, can and will continue to bring hope, help, peace, and reconciliation through the power of the Prince of Peace. What a strong way to begin a new era. Forward ever,
Bill Greer (’85), Ph.D. President PRESIDENT Bill Greer (’85) [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING A. Lee Harrison (’94) [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Rhajon Smith (’98) [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT Theresa Garbe (’91) [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING EDITOR Chandrea Shell (’00) [email protected]
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS COPY EDITOR Allie Greer [email protected] Features: 4-7, 16-17, 18-20, 22
SPORTS INFORMATION DIRECTOR Daniel Manget [email protected] Feature 24-25
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Keila Lau-Lopez (’18) [email protected]
COVER PHOTO: Jeremy Hughes CONTRIBUTORS: Photos on 2, contributed Photo on 3, staff Photos on 6-7, contributed, staff Photos on 8-13, contributed, staff Photos on 14-17, contributed, staff Photos on 19-20, contributed Photo on 21, contributed Photo on 22, staff Photos on 23-25, contributed, staff Photos on 26-27, contributed
OUR MISSION As a Christian liberal arts university, Milligan University seeks to honor God by educating men and women to be servant-leaders. OUR VISION As a premier Christian liberal arts university where Jesus Christ is exalted and excellence is the standard, Milligan will change lives and shape culture through a commitment to Christian leadership. GENERAL INFORMATION The Milligan Magazine is published regularly by Milligan University for alumni and friends of the university and is distributed free of charge. The magazine highlights the university’s vision to change lives and shape culture through a commitment to servant-leadership. Copyright © 2020 Milligan University.
800.447.5922 | www.milligan.edu [email protected]
POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Advancement, P.O. Box 9, Milligan, Tennessee 37682. The 2020 RISE Above Research Conference will be presented online Today we made the difficult via ZOOM on Thursday, decision to extend Spring APRIL 23. Break an additional week and transition to online classes for two weeks. Wherever we are, no matter how far apart we may be, we are united by our membership in the community that is Milligan University.
My prayer for us all is that during this time apart, COVID-19 we actually grow closer together. Love one another, be kind to one Response another, help one another, and live in the way Christ would have us live, and as scripture teaches us.
“Celebrating Milligan’s Wonderful “Four years of growth and I Wednesday Quarantine Style!” couldn’t have done it without the most supportive family and friends. @milliganuniversity thanks for the people and experiences you gave me.”
Stay well. Take care of yourself and each other.
4 | MILLIGAN Magazine Today we made the difficult decision to extend Spring Break an additional week and transition to online classes for two weeks.
hile change was on the horizon with the transition to Milligan WUniversity on June 1, the Milligan community, like the rest of the world, quickly adapted to far more unprecedented and sudden changes this spring in response to COVID-19. On March 12, President Greer announced an extended spring break and a transition to online courses, and by March 20, the administration decided it was safest to complete the semester online. Even in the midst of a global pandemic and a drastically different end to the semester, Milligan’s administration, faculty, staff, and students continued to uphold the university’s commitment to scholarship, community, and faith. This semester affirmed this community’s resilience and optimism, and it reinforced the importance of Milligan’s mission—to prepare the next generation of servant-leaders.
Scholarship
Each year, the spring semester spotlights the many academic achievements of our students, and with creativity and innovation, Milligan still offered those events this spring. Dr. Joy Drinnon, director of undergraduate research, organized a virtual presentation of our annual RISE Above Research Conference on Zoom. “Research skills are critical for students preparing for graduate work; therefore, we made certain our students could present their research,” said Drinnon. “This year’s theme reflected the many changes our Emmanuel students experienced in the midst of the pandemic.” graduates, please The theme for this year’s conference was “ReVision,” and students join us at the were encouraged to revision an old topic or pursue an innovative new Emmanuel Village design. Over 25 research projects were successfully presented, and topics “Four years of growth and I at 10 a.m. for a included how AI can help predict the spread of COVID-19; predicting couldn’t have done it without a theoretical 2020 March Madness winner; and engineering water special graduation purification systems for rural communities in Sneedville, Tennessee, the most supportive family and parade in your and Turkana County, Kenya. friends. @milliganuniversity honor. Please wear thanks for the people and Milligan celebrated the end of the spring semester with a virtual your regalia! Awards Convocation and Blessing Service. This service combined experiences you gave me.” the annual awards ceremony, where more than 80 awards and scholarships were presented, with a worship service to honor the year’s graduating class. Bo Pless (’20), of Elizabethton, Tennessee, received Milligan’s most distinguished student honor, the Ivor Jones Outstanding Senior Award. The May 2020 graduating class will always hold a special place in Milligan’s 154-year-old history, as they represent the last class to graduate from Milligan College before we officially became Milligan
SUMMER 2020 | 5 This year’s graduating class will always hold a special place in Milligan’s 154-year-old history, as they represent the last class to graduate from Milligan College before we officially became Milligan University on June 1.
As Milligan completed the spring semester remotely and online, the Milligan community remained bound to each other and continued to celebrate beloved traditions. Students participated in a virtual Wonderful Wednesday, faculty celebrated graduates through a video compilation, and Emmanuel graduates enjoyed a drive-through parade in the Emmanuel Village on commencement day.
University on June 1. In addition, this in their regalia, Emmanuel graduates, Milligan celebrated this beloved tradition year’s graduating class included the first faculty, students, and friends drove through entirely online. graduates of three historic programs the close-knit residential community. “Even as our semester finished online, at Milligan—the bachelor’s degree in Graduates stood outside of their our administration was determined to engineering and master’s degrees in apartments or drove through the streets to surprise our students with Wonderful physician assistant studies and humanities. celebrate this important milestone while Wednesday,” said Jason Onks, director of remaining socially distant. While Milligan’s spring commencement campus activities. “Wonderful Wednesday could not be held on its originally Degrees were conferred this May, and began in a time of national uncertainty scheduled date of Saturday, May 9, graduates received a special mailing 50 years ago as a way for students to Milligan plans to honor these graduates containing their degree, a t-shirt, alumni take a mental break and celebrate as a with an on-campus ceremony at a gift, and other mementos to honor their community before the final push to the later date. special place in Milligan’s history. end of the semester. This year, as we faced another time of global uncertainty, it was On May 9, Milligan faculty Community important that our community not lose congratulated graduates through a video this opportunity.” compilation on social media, and Brutus, Community is essential to the mission Milligan’s mascot, walked across Seeger of Milligan. As our students returned This year’s theme was “Brutus’ Day Chapel’s stage to accept a degree from to their homes across the country and Off.” Many events were scheduled President Greer on behalf of the class the world, our administration and throughout the day for students and of 2020. faculty worked tirelessly to keep our alumni to engage with each other online community connected. and through Milligan’s social media For Emmanuel Christian Seminary accounts. The events included an online at Milligan graduates, a drive-through Wonderful Wednesday continues scavenger hunt, baking challenge, toilet graduation parade occurred in the to be the most anticipated day each year. st paper trick shot challenge, trivia, an Emmanuel Village on May 9. Dressed This spring, on the 51 annual celebration,
6 | MILLIGAN Magazine esports competition, and a Netflix watch Faith of all involved having their trip cut short party of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. to return to the United States before travel As students departed campus for spring from Europe was halted. With an online format, this year’s virtual break, nine Milligan students and Dr. Wonderful Wednesday provided a special Kristen Mudrack, assistant professor As all Milligan students returned from opportunity for alumni to participate. of chemistry, traveled to Sosnoweic, spring break to an online course format, Poland, for a service learning trip. For chapel remained a core component “We enjoyed having our alumni six months, the team gathered on campus of the Milligan experience. Each week, participate in several activities throughout weekly to plan for their upcoming work in a Milligan students, faculty, and staff helped the day,” said Onks. “For many alumni, Polish Christian church and with students in create an online worship service so the their favorite memories at Milligan involve two local schools. However, two days before entire Milligan community could worship Wonderful Wednesday. Several showed their arrival, Poland’s prime minister ordered together remotely on Thursdays. off their Buff pride alongside our students that no foreigners be allowed in schools as and their families.” To assist Milligan and Emmanuel part of the country’s response to COVID-19. alumni and students working in ministry, Milligan’s commitment to “While COVID-19 altered our original the Ministry Resource Center at community extended beyond the plans, God opened other doors for us to Emmanuel Christian Seminary at campus. Amid the upheaval, Milligan’s serve this community,” shared Mudrack. Milligan hosted various Zoom lunch students and faculty remained committed “I expected this trip to take Milligan students meetings to provide helpful resources to to serving others. out of their comfort zone. At Milligan, we church leaders as they adjusted to leading Engineering students and faculty, led by prepare students to be servant-leaders. This virtual worship services. Dr. Landon Holbrook, assistant professor trip provided a hands-on opportunity for Milligan’s strong commitment to faith of mechanical engineering, went to work them to apply their faith and leadership in a served as a strong foundation as our in their garages and basements to design, new culture and setting.” community faced great change this produce, and donate face shields for Milligan’s team adjusted by inviting Polish year. Even in the midst of uncertainty, essential workers. students to a social at the church. Many of God’s grace and mercies continued to Over a few weeks, the engineering area the local students had never stepped foot in shine through. produced 20 masks a day and donated a church. Over 35 adolescent students, along over 170 shields. To put their productivity with some teachers and parents, arrived at in perspective, Dr. Greg Harrell, area the social, where Milligan’s team prepared chair of engineering, noted that this American snacks and organized many of number equates to 10 percent of the face the activities originally planned to be used in shields Boeing, the aerospace corporation, the schools. This adapted approach allowed “While COVID-19 produced in the same time. a unique opportunity where Milligan’s team altered our original plans, could share their faith and connect the “While COVID-19 altered Milligan’s face shields were delivered God opened other doors for community to the local church. our original plans, God to workers at Ballad Health, Morristown- us to serve this community.” Hamblen Healthcare Systems, Mudrack noted the trip did not go as opened other doors for us to medical clinics, a dentist office, planned, but she was amazed at how well the serve this community.” and a nursing facility. group adapted to these changes and made the most of their time. The largest change Milligan’s nursing program donated hand sanitizer and 100 masks to Ballad Health, and many courses incorporated community service into the curriculum. Sophomore Anna Swiney created 30 packs to deliver to her local homeless population, and junior Chase McGlamery helped deliver meals to Johnson County, Tennessee, students.
SUMMER 2020 | 7 Faculty News
School of Arts & Humanities School of Business School of Social Kellie Brown, co-chair & Technology Sciences & Education of the area of music, published the book, Greg Harrell, engineering programs director, John Paul Abner, The Sound of Hope: Music presented two courses in the North Carolina professor of psychology as Solace, Resistance and State University Energy Management Diploma and occupational therapy, Salvation During the Holocaust Program. The courses were directed towards conducted three Parent and World War II, with professional engineers and focused on industrial Child Interaction Therapy energy systems analysis and management. He trainings in Omaha, NE McFarland Publishing. completed a comprehensive cogeneration system (January); Huntingdon, The Milligan Library evaluation for the Power Resource Group CPP WV (February); and hosted a virtual release Farmville Power Plant located near Farmville, Knoxville, TN (March). party in July that included NC. Additionally, he contributed to the major Also, Abner and Dr. Robin short readings and a time for questions. overhaul, publication, and deployment of the Gurwitch produced three, United States Department of Energy (USDOE) 25-minute videos for the Kayla Walker Edin, MEASURE Tool used for steam-cogeneration Navy Seal Foundation to aid parents impacted by associate professor of system modeling. This tool was originally the COVID-19 crisis. English, presented two developed by Harrell, Linnhoff-March, papers at the 135th annual and USDOE. , professor of education, visited convention of the Modern Tausha Clay a school in Vantaa, Finland, in January with Language Association , engineering professors Angela Hilton-Prillhart and Mark (MLA) in Seattle, WA, Hongyou Lu program associate and Dula. Clay and colleagues were able to visit 1st th in January. Her first -9 instructor of East Asian paper, titled “Re-placed: grade classrooms and interview students, teachers, studies, co-authored a peer Making Room to Write and administrators. In March, she presented reviewed journal article, and Research,” discussed “Using Small Groups to Differentiate Instruction” titled “Technologies and best practices for teaching graduate students how at the Teach Read Lead Literacy Conference Policies to Decarbonize to write and how to overcome anxiety about the held at Milligan. In March, she served as the Global Industry,” high-stakes writing process. Her second paper, Tennessee State Lead for the CAEP/STATE published in Applied titled “Chaucer and Consent,” was part of a review process for an educator preparation Energy this May. She panel discussion on “Repurposing Chaucer,” provider in Nashville, TN. presented “Practicing examining Chaucerian scholarship’s ethical Interculturality Through a commitments and creative adaptations in today’s Angela Hilton-Prillhart, Dynamic Communication undergraduate college classrooms. area chair of education, Process” at the American Council on the published a paper, titled Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) “Response to Convention last November in Washington, D.C., Intervention (RtI) and School of Bible & Ministry and she received the Certificate of Appreciation the impact on school from ACTFL’s Teaching and Learning of psychologist roles: Paul Blowers, professor of church history at Cultural Special Interest Group (SIG). Perceptions and Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan, will acceptance of systems publish a new book this summer, Visions and Faces change,” in the peer- of the Tragic: The Mimesis of Tragedy and the Folly of reviewed publication Salvation in Early Christian Literature, with Oxford School of Sciences Contemporary School Psychology. University Press. & Allied Health She presented a lecture, “Increasing sight-phrase reading skills using tablet-based interventions,” Ron Kastens, director Christine Browning, at the Symposium to the National Association of of the ministry leadership associate professor of School Psychologists, a peer-reviewed national program, led a winter counseling, attended The conference, in Baltimore, MD, in February. She retreat for Milligan’s Allender Center at the presented a lecture, “Therapeutic Implications for undergraduate ministry Seattle School of Theology Children with Adverse Childhood Experiences students in January, and and Psychology in Seattle, (ACES),” to faculty and staff at Emmett in late February, he led a WA, in October 2019 and Elementary School in February. ministry expedition with in February, where she 11 students to Mission received certification in Shauna Nefos Webb, associate professor of Church in Venture, CA. Narrative Focused Trauma counseling, was honored by her alma mater, He also co-led an online Care Level II. Messiah College, as the 2020 Young Alumni of workshop in April on the the Year. enneagram and careers for Milligan’s Ministry Joy Drinnon, professor of psychology, gave Resource Center. a faculty lecture with Ted Thomas, professor of humanities, on the effects of COVID-19 on genocidal aggression at this year’s Rise Above Research Conference. She also was featured in a recently released documentary on the Point-in- Time homeless count.
8 | MILLIGAN Magazine A Good and Faithful Servant: The Legacy of Marshall Leggett
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” Matthew 25:21
For President Greer, Leggett’s arrival on campus coincided with his first year as a college student. Greer experienced first-hand the impact of Leggett’s leadership and genuine concern for Milligan’s students. This relationship later grew into a mentorship and friendship. Once Greer became president of Milligan, he took great comfort in Leggett’s frequent phone calls. “Rarely did a semester go by that I didn’t hear from Marshall, and he always called at just the right time, when he knew those things were on my mind,” reflected Greer. “His work at Milligan had such a profound impact, and I know he was proud of the way we have built upon the foundation that he so carefully laid.” Derry touched on Leggett’s visionary leadership and r. Marshall J. Leggett was a man of many talents—a talented his ability to empower those around him. Dpreacher, writer, dramatist, leader within the Stone-Campbell “It was a highlight of my career to serve with Marshall, a leader movement, and a beloved president of Milligan College. In every with great vision and who inspired others to give their very best,” role he assumed, Leggett channeled his efforts and talents toward he said. “Marshall was an outstanding man in so many ways—a the benefit of others, impacting the lives of many. dynamic preacher and genuine minister, a visionary and dedicated This spring, the Milligan community mourned the death of president, a true friend, a loving father, and loyal husband. I think this esteemed former president and chancellor, who served as the the true secret of his greatness was the way in which he lived out the college’s 13th president from 1982-1997. Leggett passed away greatest commandments in his love for God and for others.” on Monday, March 2, at age 90, in Dallas, Texas, after suffering Weedman highlighted the outpouring of tributes Leggett a stroke. received on social media from the Milligan community. He noted “Dr. Leggett had a profound impact upon Milligan, arriving a few themes that emerged in many of these reflections. Many during a particularly challenging time for the school,” said President noted Leggett’s humor, especially around his height; others Greer. “Because of his efforts, a number of new programs were emphasized the power of Leggett’s preaching style; Leggett stood added, enrollment grew, the campus was improved, and finances out to many because of his dramatizations of Restoration leaders were strengthened. He came to Milligan following many years of where he dressed up and donned a wig; but most described his impactful ministry. He loved the church and made it a matter of character. As many Milligan alumni noted, Marshall and his wife, priority that Milligan strengthen its relationship with Restoration Jean, were a gift to Milligan and an answer to prayer. During their Movement churches.” time at Milligan, they left a profound legacy on the school and its community. Several current and former Milligan administrators and various alumni attended Leggett’s memorial service on Saturday, In addition to his wife, Leggett is survived by two daughters, Terry March 7, in Ft. Worth, Texas. President Greer and former and Sandy, and three grandchildren. Milligan administrators Dr. John Derry, retired president of Hope A full remembrance of Dr. Marshall Leggett’s legacy at Milligan International University, and Dr. Gary Weedman, retired president is available at www.milligan.edu/news. of Johnson University, delivered remarks at the memorial service.
SUMMER 2020 | 9 Campus News
MBA New Accelerated Traditional MBA
Beginning this May, Milligan’s esteemed Master of Business Administration (MBA) program offered an accelerated traditional MBA, designed for recent college graduates who have not yet accumulated significant work experience. Milligan continues to offer the executive MBA for working professionals. “We are pleased to provide an accelerated SEMINARY traditional MBA to qualified students who want to attain the best business practices before they enter the workforce full-time,” Emmanuel Offers said President Greer. “Milligan’s MBA program teaches cutting-edge business principles with a focus on Christian ethics Christian Spiritual and leadership development.” The accelerated traditional MBA is Formation Concentration a 12-month, 32-credit hour program, and each cohort begins in May. The Beginning fall 2020, Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan will offer a new GMAT is not required for acceptance concentration in the Master of Divinity program. The new concentration, Christian into the program, and applicants are not Spiritual Formation, will provide a professional course of study focusing on the processes required to be employed. With a focus on and traditions of practice that support a transformative, flourishing, and joyful life of recent college graduates, the course Christian discipleship. schedule accommodates part-time jobs The Christian Spiritual Formation concentration will be strongly grounded in the and athletic participation. Bible and theology, contemporary knowledge of human development, and the history “The strength of our MBA program stems and practice of Christian spirituality. from our qualified faculty, who bring a broad “Spiritual formation is at the core of what we do at Emmanuel, and it is a central range of business, industry, and consulting task of the church,” said Dr. Gary Selby, professor of ministerial formation. “As we experience to the classroom,” shared Dr. prepare the next generation of men and women in ministry, we aim to strengthen David Campbell, director of Milligan’s MBA spiritual formation in a way that is informed by Scripture, theology, and traditions of program. “Similarly, our students come Christian spirituality, as well as the most current knowledge about human, social, and from a variety of professional and academic psychological development that we have available to us.” backgrounds. The program’s emphasis on classroom discussions creates tight-knit The concentration will include a variety of courses that share a common cohorts and beneficial networks.” understanding of spiritual formation as holistic, incarnational, and communal. Coursework will be rooted in knowledge but also in experiential, embodied practices. Tuition and fees for Milligan’s MBA Students will be introduced to the history of Christian spirituality, explore traditions of program are competitive and, on average, spiritual practice, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to cultivate formation in the are less than half of the cost of many MBA local church and in other organizational settings. programs. Financial aid is available for graduate students.
10 | MILLIGAN Magazine STUDENT LIFE Activity Scholarships Begin This Fall
This winter, Milligan announced the addition of a drumline, fly fishing team, and disc golf team beginning fall 2020. ACCELERATED DEGREES Each activity will be open to students across academic disciplines, and scholarships will be available to incoming students. Three-Year “We are excited to offer students the opportunity to participate in these activities at the collegiate level,” said Vice President for Bachelor’s Degree Athletics and Student Development Mark Fox. “I am pleased to welcome Dave Whaley to lead the drumline, to have current Incoming students will have the option to complete select Milligan cycling and triathlon coach Zach Nave manage the fly undergraduate degrees in three years beginning this fall. fishing team, and to bring Timothy Barr to campus to lead our Designed for highly motivated students, the accelerated degree disc golf team.” path saves time and money and allows students to enter the workforce or graduate school early. Milligan’s drumline will enhance students’ musical abilities, develop leadership skills, provide performance opportunities, “We are pleased to offer accelerated degree programs that and contribute to the cultural life at Milligan. The drumline uphold our strong commitment to preparing students with will perform at major campus events, including Homecoming, the skills and experiences their career paths demand,” said Wonderful Wednesday, and athletic events. Members also will President Greer. “Students in accelerated programs also have serve as ambassadors for the college by performing at various the same opportunities to engage fully in campus life—by community events. competing in athletics, leading a club, conducting research, and enjoying Milligan traditions.” Whaley previously served as the percussion director at Dobyns- Bennett High School and John Sevier Middle School for seven The three-year bachelor’s degree option will be available years. He is a member of the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra to traditional students who select an undergraduate major in and is affiliated with the Percussive Arts Society. He also is an business administration, computer science, exercise Innovative Percussion educational artist. science, information systems, and psychology. The competitive fly fishing team will compete in regional and Milligan’s accelerated degree programs require full-time national competitions and will be active with the local Trout enrollment for three consecutive fall and spring semesters, Unlimited Overmountain chapter for preservation and cleanup as well as two summer online terms. Students will complete efforts. Milligan is the first college to offer scholarships for fly fishing 128-credit hours in courses connected to Milligan’s core to incoming students. With 20 years of fly fishing experience, curriculum, the student’s major, and optional minor or elective Nave will serve as team director, as well as continue oversight of courses. Students in the accelerated track will receive a faculty Milligan’s fly fishing student club. advisor who will provide careful and informed academic advising to ensure they meet all program requirements. The disc golf team will be able to practice on Milligan’s Dual enrollment or AP credits can reduce a student’s load nine-hole course and will compete in regional competitions. even further. Barr has over 30 years of experience with disc golf and has been instrumental in bringing major tournaments to the region. Students will pay regular tuition and fees for their fall and As a tournament director, Barr has hosted 65 professionally spring semesters and will be eligible to apply for institutional, sanctioned events, including the 2017 United States Women’s state, and federal aid. For summer terms, students will pay the Disc Golf Championship. already-reduced Milligan summer tuition rates.
SUMMER 2020 | 11 Campus News
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PA Grads Attain 100% Pass Rate
Milligan graduated its first class of physician assistant (PA) students this May, and these 24 graduates received a 100% first-time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). PANCE is a multiple-choice certification ART exam which assesses PA graduates’ basic medical and surgical knowledge. Milligan graduates exceeded the 2019 national Students Bring pass-rate average of 93 percent for all PA program first-time test takers. Home ADDY Awards “We are very excited about this significant accomplishment from our first Milligan students earned five series designed for the Birthplace of class of PA graduates,” said Andrew Hull, ADDY Awards and a Judge’s Choice Country Music Museum in Bristol, director of Milligan’s PA program. “Our Award at the annual American Virginia. Shumaker also received a Silver program provides a unique experience th Advertising Federation Northeast ADDY for her design work for the 50 where students are trained not only to Tennessee (AAF NETN) awards banquet anniversary of Milligan’s humanities be excellent medical providers, but also held on Saturday, February 29. program. Shumaker graduated this spring encouraged to be servant-leaders in their with a degree in graphic design and fine profession and community.” The American Advertising Awards arts in photography. honor the best and most creative advertising work from students and Rising senior Sydney Rhoton, of professionals in advertising. Gray, Tennessee, won two Silver ADDYs. She earned an ADDY for color Recent graduate Taylor Williams photography and for a poster design PANCE Pass Rate (’20), of Greeneville, Tennessee, won a created for Milligan’s 2019 “Short Film Gold ADDY for cinematography and a Festival.” Rhoton is a graphic design Judge’s Choice Award for his short film major with minors in public relations “Worthless Idea.” Williams graduated and photography. with a fine arts degree with a focus in cinema. “I am so proud of our students and
their success in this year’s competition,” 93% Average pass rate “Being recognized for this project said Art Brown, assistant professor of was really special to me, and I think the communications. “It’s rewarding to see subject matter is relatable to anyone who’s their creative work recognized by the struggled with the worth of their creative judges, and it’s an important opportunity ideas,” shared Williams. for advertising and creative professionals 100% Recent graduate Amy Shumaker (’20), in our region to see their work. Their Pass rate for Milligan graduates of Bristol, Tennessee, was awarded a Gold successes also reflect the strength of ADDY for her social media graphic Milligan’s programs.”
12 | MILLIGAN Magazine EXERCISE SCIENCE Professor Finds Physical Education Improves Test Results
High stakes testing has become the norm in Her presentation, “Quality Physical American public schools. As a result, educators Education: A Positive Approach to Cognition,” continue to seek ways to improve students’ addressed the academic benefits of high-quality academic performance. physical education programs. Leslie Hanneken, associate professor of “Positive health behaviors are essential human performance and exercise science, to increase academic performance,” said Sign your child up has focused her research efforts at Milligan Hanneken. “Body movement serves as a on how physical education can enhance method to support the brain and aids executive so we can celebrate academic achievement. function, increased cognition, and retrieval of their milestones: first stored information.” year, kindergarten, 5th Hanneken’s current research focuses on the connection between the brain and body and Hanneken holds both bachelor’s and master’s grade, high school, th the cognitive benefits of exercise. She presented degrees in physical education from East and 16 birthday! her research during Milligan’s Faculty Lecture Tennessee State University. She also received Series in January. her Ed.S. in educational administration from milligan.edu/alumni/be-a-buff-club/ Lincoln Memorial University.
EGYPT& THE GREAT NILE ALUMNI & FRIENDS TOUR NOVEMBER 1-11, 2021 $3499 from New York
HOSTED BY PRESIDENT BILL & EDWINA GREER PROFESSORS LEE & PAT MAGNESS www.milligan.edu/alumni CAIRO n LUXOR n EDFU n KOM OMBO ASWAN n MEMPHIS n SAKKARA For more information: [email protected]
SUMMER 2020 | 13 14 | MILLIGAN Magazine SUMMER 2020 | 15 Book Wordmark - Represents Academic Learning & the Bible - Unites all areas of campus - New design builds off wordmark, signifying the longevity of the Milligan brand
Shield - M for Milligan and U for University form together to make the book
une 1, 2020, was a historic day “Milligan University is a name that Jin Milligan’s 154-year history as reflects both who we are today and the the college officially transitioned to journey that led us to this moment,” Milligan University. said Greer. “The university name is integral to a number of our strategic In entering a new era, Milligan’s goals, and it allows us to expand the mission of honoring God by educating importance of the Christian liberal men and women to be servant-leaders arts and our mission of educating men continues, and this transition helps and women to be servant-leaders.” ensure Milligan’s impact will be even greater in the future. With this transition, Greer emphasized that Milligan remains SITAS In advance of June 1, President focused on providing a holistic ER MI IV LL Greer hosted a virtual reveal of approach to higher education. N IG U A Milligan’s new logo and visual brand M N on May 13, the college’s annual “With Milligan’s united U I E day of giving. As President Greer commitment to scholarship, L
N
L I
S stood in the McGlothlin-Street community, and faith in mind, the
I G S
I Theatre, Milligan students, faculty, new Milligan University logo was S • alumni, and friends watched the born,” said Greer. C .• live announcement on Milligan’s O II N X Facebook page. Milligan University’s logo includes D. XX MDCCCL an M and U which connect to form Greer opened the ceremony by a book, representing both academic highlighting the decisions that led to learning and the Bible. The shield, or this historic milestone. chevron, is often used in academic
16 | MILLIGAN Magazine Several beloved, retired Milligan faculty sported their new Milligan University shirts in celebration of this historic transition in Milligan’s history. These faculty include Dr. R. David Roberts (’64) and his wife, Donna (Sahli ’64) Roberts (top right); Coach Duard Walker (’48) (bottom left); and Dr. Jack Knowles (’69) (right).
regalia and represents Milligan’s wordmark has been revitalized with a bold strength and longevity. font, signifying the strength and momentum of Milligan’s athletic teams.
The logo and visual components were With Milligan’s developed by the Milligan Marketing and “ Public Relations Office and were based on united commitment to a review of institutional branding research scholarship, community, and feedback from various constituents, including faculty, staff, students, and and faith in mind, the alumni. The goal for rebranding involved new Milligan University representing Milligan’s mission and heritage and pointing towards the university’s vital logo was born. role in the future.
“ More activities to introduce the new The shield unites all areas of campus— logos are planned as students arrive both academics and athletics. Milligan’s on campus in August and with alumni New university gear (above) and mockups academic wordmark remains the same but throughout the year. of MU athletic uniforms (below). now includes “University.” The athletic
SUMMER 2020 | 17 Leading the Frontlines: Milligan Mission Guides Health Executives
or over 150 years, Milligan has prepared servant-leaders to meet the challenges that face each generation. FToday, healthcare providers serve on the frontlines of this generation’s great challenge—fighting a global pandemic that quickly brought the world to a halt.
As COVID-19 made its way to Northeast Tennessee, Ballad Health’s executive team quickly began to implement protocols for a pandemic they knew to expect but suddenly had to manage and overcome. Ballad Health is an integrated healthcare system serving 29 counties across the Appalachian Highlands, including counties in Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, and Kentucky.
Ballad Health’s aggressive and proactive approach to treating this pandemic and reducing its spread is essential for the safety and prosperity of the region surrounding Milligan University. Many of Ballad Health’s workers have strong ties to Milligan.
At the executive level, Milligan alumni Eric Deaton, Clay Runnels, and Jamie Swift have been at the forefront of Ballad Health’s’ initiatives and response teams.
18 | MILLIGAN Magazine For Eric Deaton (’83), Health’s providers as they come into executive vice close contact with infected patients remains president and a top priority. chief operating officer at Ballad Dr. Clay Health, his Runnels role completely (MBA ’06) shifted in serves as Ballad response to Health’s chief this pandemic. physician Instead of executive. In this focusing role, he provides on daily oversight to operations, strategic planning, and service line all of Ballad Caring for development, Deaton focused his efforts on Health’s clinical “ services, service others at a navigating a team of caregivers to address and time when the mitigate the potential impact of COVID-19 on lines, Ballad the Appalachian Highlands. Health Medical caregiver is at Associates, health research, and graduate risk is a true test “This role has been challenging but medical education. rewarding as we planned for the possibility of selflessness. of a potential surge of patients and the During the pandemic, his role transitioned I am blessed impact it may have on our health system and from this administrative model to an emergency to work with a community,” said Deaton. operations stance. His focus turned to the hospital system’s incident command structure great team of In such challenging times, Deaton appreciates and ensuring the clinical response to the physician and his experiences at Milligan. “Not only during pandemic was timely and successful. nurse leaders the management of this pandemic but also throughout my career, Milligan gave me a “Caring for others at a time when the who care foundation to understand business principles caregiver is at risk is a true test of selflessness,” deeply about and how to apply them. Milligan also instilled said Runnels. “I am blessed to work with a their calling great team of physician and nurse leaders who Christian values in me that developed as healthcare compassion and the initiative to act in a way care deeply about their calling as healthcare that is right and fair to all concerned. My providers and have bravely upheld their call providers and education taught me to constantly strive to be a to serve.” have bravely servant-leader and put others before myself.” In this time of disruption, Runnels upheld their Deaton’s association with Milligan has appreciates the foundation he received call to serve. at Milligan for his career and “ remained strong since his graduation. He -Dr. Clay Runnels currently serves on Milligan’s Board of Trustees, professional development. and Deaton is most appreciative to the people Milligan has brought into his life, particularly “The emphasis on servant-leadership at his wife, Rives (Blanton ’84) Deaton. Milligan reinforced my belief system and has colored my career. Never in my career has While delivering healthcare to the community servant-leadership been more critical has been essential during the pandemic, to success.” COVID-19 also places a high risk on the healthcare workers and physicians caring for In upholding the health of the region’s care COVID-19 patients. The well-being of Ballad providers, Runnels appreciates having a refuge
SUMMER 2020 | 19 to return to at the end of each hectic day. Through the love and support of his family, Runnels can recharge standards and protocols to protect patients, healthcare and is grateful that this time has strengthened his workers, and the Appalachian Highlands community. family’s bonds. “Stress and fear related to the many unknowns For Jamie (Dickeson are high during the time of a pandemic. It’s been ’99) Swift, assistant critical to lead, not from afar, but alongside our team, vice president and listening to their fears, concerns, and ideas, and chief infection working with the team members and community to prevention officer, make the best decisions possible as we respond during her experiences in this pandemic.” Milligan’s nursing program laid the Swift hopes that the current worldwide spotlight on groundwork for her healthcare and nurses inspires the next generation of leadership and inspired frontline workers. her professional path. “The field of nursing is so broad and amazing. “It was during my Nursing students should take heart that the work, the public health clinical career, and your passion will make this degree and rotation at Milligan that I discovered the world of profession all worth it.” public health, infection prevention, and epidemiology that truly changed the course of my career and led me In leading Ballad Health through this uncertain and to where I am today,” shared Swift. challenging pandemic, these leaders are grateful that faith is celebrated as one of Ballad Health’s corporate values. Deaton, Runnels, and Swift acknowledge that their faith has served as a strong and essential pillar for “ Milligan’s nursing program them as they face many unknowns. holds students to the highest “While I’ve trained for a pandemic, one is truly standard, teaching us not only the never prepared to face such an event,” shared Swift. “Without my faith to keep me grounded, I can’t bedside nursing skills but the imagine making it through some of the days. I know leadership and management skills that God has placed me here in this role at this time, that are required for times like these. and through it all, He is my strength.” -Jamie Swift For Runnels, prayer has relieved the anxiety and concerns that arise when tasked with leadership. “Prayer reminds me who is ultimately in control. “More importantly, Milligan’s nursing program “ I chose healthcare as a calling and not just a job. holds students to the highest standard, teaching us not Leading with faith is the only way for me to be at only the bedside nursing skills but the leadership and my best.” management skills that are required for times like these.” Deaton finds great comfort in God’s timing and presence. Beyond his personal faith, he is inspired by An as infection preventionist, Swift provides Ballad the amazing caregivers he works alongside each day. Health with the principles and practices of infection prevention, control, and epidemiology. Her skill set has “My faith is strengthened by their ability to show been essential to the region’s response to the pandemic compassion and provide excellent care every day.” and has guided Ballad Health as they create new
20 | MILLIGAN Magazine Support the NEXT generation of servant-leaders.
“Thank you for supporting scholarships at Milligan. The scholarship I received opened up a world of opportunity and growth for which I am eternally grateful. I am now able to use my Milligan education to serve others.”
Luis A. Treviño BA 2015 JD 2018 Major—political science Attorney—Family Violence Minors—Bible & legal studies Prevention Services, Inc.
Send your tax-deductible contribution to the Milligan or Emmanuel Fund in the enclosed envelope or contact Rhajon Smith, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, at 800.447.5922 for more information. SUMMER 2020 | 21 Teacher of the Year 5 Milligan Education Alumni Named Teacher of the Year
illigan’s area of education continues to excel in preparing Melissa Preudhomme (’15, MEd ’16) earned the honor Mteachers to lead and serve. This year, five Milligan for Lake Ridge Elementary School and was honored as the K-4 education alumni were honored as Teacher of the Year Teacher of the Year for Johnson City Schools. throughout school districts in the Appalachian Highlands region. In addition to our alumni’s strong representation of the “We are so proud of our alumni and the amazing way they program, the Tennessee State Board of Education ranked represent Milligan’s area of education in their professions,” said Milligan’s area of education in the highest performance category Dr. Angela Hilton-Prillhart, chair of Milligan’s area of education. of “Exceeds Expectations” on their 2019 Educator Preparation “Their work is a testament to how our students strive to be caring Report Card. educators and servant-leaders who desire to make a difference.” Students in Milligan’s area of education also achieved a The five alumni include the following: 100 percent pass rate on the edTPA assessment for the third consecutive semester. edTPA is a national subject-specific ( is a music teacher at Grandview Ben Davenport ’15) assessment that is used to measure a student teacher’s preparation Elementary School in Telford, Tennessee, and was honored as and career readiness. Grandview’s Teacher of the Year. He shared this moment with his wife, Kelly (Sams ’09, MEd ’10) Davenport. Kelly is a music and chorus teacher at David Crockett High School in Jonesborough, Tennessee. She was named Teacher of the Year for David Crockett High School and was honored as Washington County’s Teacher of the Year for grades 9-12. Noah Edwards (MEd ’10) received the honor at Happy 100% Valley High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee. pass rate edTPA Scores Holly Kent (MEd ’14) was honored as Teacher of the Year for Happy Valley Elementary School in Johnson City, Tennessee.
22 | MILLIGAN Magazine Athletic News Baseball winningest active women’s basketball coach in the Halloran finished the event by swimming to All- NAIA, finishing his career with 522 wins and only American status in the 200 backstroke. Both men’s One of several spring seasons to be cut short 351 losses. and women’s teams finished inside the top 20 after due to the coronavirus pandemic, the baseball taking third at the AAC Championships. team still enjoyed plenty of success prior to the Golf abrupt finish. The Buffs were 14-8 (5-1 AAC) and Tennis Both teams enjoyed rolling at the top of the AAC on a three-game success in the fall Following the theme of spring success that winning streak. Milligan’s 6-2 start to the season before seeing their was forced into an early finish, the tennis teams marked its hottest start since 2015 and culminated season end early concluded their seasons on high notes. Both teams with a walk-off win over No. 9-ranked Indiana in the spring. The were 5-6 overall and were coming together with Tech. The year ended on a high note as the Buffs men placed sixth several wins in their last handful of matches. The defeated regional opponent King University 9-0 in at the AAC Fall men were winners in four of the last five while the the final game of the season. Championship women were winners in three of the last five. Men’s Basketball behind a 43rd-place finish from senior Junior Charlie Moseley (Bristol, TN) led The team finished Caleb Milligan the men with an overall singles record of 7-3, 19-12 (15-9 AAC) (Knoxville, TN). while freshmen Derian Janeke (Middelburg, which landed The women Mpumalanga, South Africa) and Carter Rigsby the Buffs third in were the AAC (Yucaipa, CA) followed close behind at 6-4. Junior the Appalachian Fall Championship runners-up behind a sixth- Rachel Dove (Shelbyville, KY) led the women Athletic place finish by sophomoreAlayna Perryman with a record of 7-4. Conference. (Newport, TN). Track & Field Seniors Jacob Cawood In the spring, Milligan managed to get only Another national (Kingston, one tournament under its belt. The men were championship title th TN), Mike 14 while the women were fifth, marking a top- from sophomore Featherston five finish from the women in all six events of Rasheem Brown (Greensboro, the season. The women finished No. 24 in the (Grand Cayman, NC), and Desean national poll. Cayman Islands), Green (Houston, TX) highlighted the postseason Softball along with awards, with Cawood making All-AAC first team, national runner-up Featherston making All-AAC defensive team, The team finishes by junior and Green making All-AAC second team and managed to play Tim Thacker defensive team. The team boasted its most success only 10 games (Knoxville, TN) coming out of the winter break as the Buffs went before seeing its and sophomore 10-11 in January, winning five straight games on season come to Gabrielle two occasions. The loss in the semifinals of the a halt, but the Mardis (Johnson conference tournament snapped a three-game fifth game on the City, TN), highlighted Milligan’s end-of-season winning streak for the Buffs. schedule turned efforts at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field National out to be a big one. Women’s Basketball Championships. Brown secured his third NAIA When the Buffs title in only his third national championship meet, The women suffered from a slow start; defeated Columbia running away with the 60-meter hurdles title with however, they finished the season on a strong College on the a championship record time. note. After winning six straight games near the road, 6-4, Head end of January, the Buffs far exceeded their Coach Wes Holly Thacker and Mardis nearly matched Brown’s expectations in the AAC tournament, defeating picked up career coaching win No. 900. Holly is finish, landing as the runners-up in the mile and the No. 13-ranked team in the AAC on the way to the third winningest active coach in the NAIA. 3k, respectively. Thacker’s time of 4:06.70 was advancing to the championship game. The team The Buffs wrapped up their season 5-5 overall only 0.61 seconds off the winner. (4-4 AAC). ended up AAC tournament runners-up with a In all, the Buffs produced 11 All-Americans at final season record of 15-19 (10-14 AAC). Senior Swimming the indoor championships, and several Buffs had Kaely Gose (Gate City, VA) highlighted the already qualified for the NAIA Outdoor Track & postseason awards with a selection on the All-AAC Junior Margaret Halloran (Lexington, SC) Field National Championships when the season first team. capped off another successful swim campaign was discontinued due to COVID-19. under first-year Head Coach Spencer Scarth. Head Coach Rich Aubrey stepped down at One of 12 Buffaloes represented at the NAIA the end of the season to pursue his new role as Swimming & Diving National Championships, Milligan’s campus minister. Aubrey was the fifth
SUMMER 2020 | 23 AT THE HEART OF WINNING
“PEOPLE are more important than “If we are not successful on the court, Our coaches know much about winning, program. PROGRAM is more important most kids won’t listen to what I have to say having combined for 2,171 victories and a than winning. WINNING IS VERY, about issues off the court,” says Robinson, winning percentage of 57.8. VERY IMPORTANT.” who won his 400th career game near the end of the 2019-20 campaign. Milestones can be important These words are written on the opening page of Head Men’s Basketball Coach Bill In the same light, Buckley, who became With many wins come many milestones, Robinson’s player handbook, and these the first Milligan soccer coach ever to and while all agree winning is important, sentences capture the significance of a coach reach 100 wins last season, says she puts these coaches have varying views on the reaching a milestone win. the biggest emphasis on impacting lives. significance of reaching milestones. The more a team wins, the more impact th In the past two years, five Milligan head Bays, who won her 200 match midway it can have. coaches reached a century mark in their tally through the 2018 season and now has 242 of career wins. These coaches include Rich Aubrey retired from coaching this spring victories in her career, puts more emphasis Aubrey, women’s basketball; Doneva Bays, as the fifth winningest active NAIA women’s on winning and less emphasis on reaching volleyball; Lisa Buckley, women’s soccer; basketball coach with 522 wins last season. those century marks. Wes Holly, softball; and Robinson. His secret to success is similar. “Big wins, like the first time we had a 20- All five coaches agree—winning games “One of our team’s primary goals was to win season or the first time we made it to the and reaching milestones are great but not as use athletics to grow people. To accomplish conference tournament championship game, great as the relationships built along the way. that, you have to take it seriously. I tell are more meaningful than any milestones,” Bays says. “We made back-to-back national Winning is important recruits you have to pretend the scoreboard matters. In the overall scheme of things, it championship appearances in 2018 and Up front, these five coaches emphasize doesn’t, but when you pursue excellence, it 2019, and all the wins were important for us winning for a variety of reasons. gives everyone a reason to fully invest in the to reach that goal. Every win has gotten our process. When you fully invest, that’s when program to where it is today.” you experience growth.” 24 | MILLIGAN Magazine OF WINNING AT THE HEART OFFive Milligan Coaches WINNING Emphasize Relationships as Key to Milestones and Wins
Holly, whose 903 wins rank him as the Holly’s most recent milestone came “It all comes down to the players and third winningest active NAIA softball coach, after completing the 2019 offseason with people, all the assistants and support staff, all says the milestones are important reminders 898 wins. He then started last season by the way down to family,” Aubrey says. of the hard work your program is putting in. waiting through five postponed or canceled Aubrey’s 500th win came on the same “It lets you know what you’re doing as a doubleheaders until his team won its second night one of his players, two-time NAIA All- game. Holly says the wait was worth it, and coach is allowing your team to be successful. American Sarah Robinson (’20), recorded the team was appreciative that they were th It shows you are improving your team.” th her 1,000 career rebound. Aubrey says it able to be a part of his 900 win. made the win extra special. People are most important Buckley, too, credits her players. “All of For Robinson the success is all about the At the end of the day, these coaches all them,” she says, “the ones who didn’t see players. “I want the kids to get the success agree that relationships are the best part many minutes and the ones who saw every when we win, and I will take the blame of their job, and the players on the team minute. They’re the first thing I think about when we lose. That is the way it has to be for and staff around them are the most when it comes to a milestone win.” a program to be successful.” important part of their success. All agree th win came on October 23, Buckley’s 100 In reiterating his player manual, Robinson it takes much more than just a head coach 2019, during her team’s seven-game winning concludes, “A wise coach once told me to reach each milestone. streak. She now stands at 102-89-23 overall, that it’s not how many wins but how many making her the winningest soccer coach, “I give all the credit to the students weddings you get invited to. That, to me, is men’s or women’s, in Milligan history. because I have had a lot of good players true success. It’s about relationships.” come through this program and a coach is In labeling credit, Aubrey and Robinson only as good as his or her players,” Holly each start by discrediting themselves, noting says.“They put in a lot of hard work to make that they have never scored a point or pulled this program as successful as it is.” in a rebound in all their years as a coach. The players do all of that.
SUMMER 2020 | 25 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Johnson City, TN Permit No. 3
Office of Institutional Advancement PO Box 9 | Milligan, Tennessee | 37682
Change service requested
HOMECOMING UPDATE:MILLIGAN NO CELEBRATION THIS FALL For the safety of students and alumni, Milligan will not celebrate HomecomingRETURNS on campus this fall. Even though we won’t be together in person, you can stay connected and HomecomingHOMEfind updates at milligan.edu/alumni.
MILLIGAN RETURNS Plans are to provide an on-campus fall semester with Milligan’s distinctive educational 28 | MILLIGANHOME Magazine experience while ensuring everyone’s health and safety. Details at milligan.edu/returnhome.