In This Issue’S Cover Story, Some of the Travelers Talk About Their Unforgettable Award; 3D Journeys Under Way; Special Experience

spring 2011 a magazine for alumni and friends

, yes ens e Jan Term trip op lers hearts of trave

IN5 Learning THIS by serving ISSUE 12 Happy Birthday, Hawkes 16 Vision 2020: New strategic plan looks ahead L A G RANGE C OLLEGE f r o m t h e p r e s i d e n t COLU MNS

A Magazine for Alumni and Friends A world-class education Vol. 15, No. 2

Upon returning home, they use phrases President like “absolutely amazing” and “simply Dan McAlexander breathtaking.” Senior Katie Hein says, Vice President for Advancement “I did more things in 14 days than most Will Jones people will ever get to experience in an Editor entire lifetime.” Dean Hartman Assistant Editor These are student reactions to January Debby Durrence Interim Term, specifically to time spent Development Writer in a study-abroad experience. Now Karen Clark entering its second decade, the col- Recruitment Writer lege’s Jan Term encourages students to explore unique course Lee Davis content and topics outside of their majors, and it encourages Alumni and Community Relations Editors them to expand their boundaries. Martha Pirkle, Susan Hancock Webmaster During the four weeks between fall and spring semesters, David Beard ’01 our students are likely to be investigating animal behavior Designer in Costa Rica, studying the book of Revelation in Turkey, or Stacy Gorman Jackson ’00 exploring sustainable housing in Botswana. (Read about this year’s journey to China on page 7.) LaGrange College (USPS 299-300), including Columns, its official publication for alumni and The only program of its kind in the state, Jan Term symbol- friends, and the Progress Report and Annual izes our commitment to transforming lives through a global Donor Roll, is published quarterly by LaGrange education—a commitment we intend to strengthen. Beginning College, 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA with the entering class of 2011, the college will offer support 30240-2999. Periodical class postage paid at of up to $2,500 to all students who originate their freshman LaGrange, GA, and additional mailing offices. studies at LaGrange College and wish to experience a foreign POSTMASTER: Send address changes to or domestic Study-Away journey their junior or senior years. LaGrange College, 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240-2999. This pledge is just one part of our institution’s new strategic plan, which was approved last fall by our Board of Trustees. Correspondence should be directed to the Com- Entitled Vision 2020: From Promise to Prominence (and out- munications and Marketing Office at the above lined on page 16 of this issue), the plan describes new direc- address, e-mailed to [email protected], tions and initiatives that will help the college make bold steps or faxed to (706) 880-8763. forward. Classnotes should be sent to the Alumni and We are excited by the projects under way and the progress Community Relations Office at the same ad- being made, all in support of our vision: transforming our stu- dress, e-mailed to [email protected], or dents’ lives. Thank you for your part in ensuring a world-class faxed to (706) 880-8757. education for each of them. Indicates additional material on the College’s Web site found at www.lagrange.edu

Dan McAlexander President A four-year liberal arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church, LaGrange College is consistently ranked in the top 10 and as a “best value” among Southern colleges by U.S.News & World Report. The college, an award winner in sustainability, is the oldest private institu- tion of higher learning in Georgia and has an enrollment of more than 1,000 students. i n t h i s i s s u e

Cover 3 Notebook Political Science class wins Jan Term participants marveled at the wonders of China during the college’s first trip to that country. In this issue’s cover story, some of the travelers talk about their unforgettable award; 3D Journeys under way; Special experience. (Photo by Dr. David Ahearn) Page 7 Olympians come to campus; more by Debby Durrence Vision 2020 4 Around Campus New club offers Board approves free bikes on loan; Jan Term classes feature new strategic service; Mentoring Mondays launched; more plan designed to bring the future 18 Alumni and Friends Wall of into focus. Distinction celebrates donors; Longtime by Dean Hartman postmaster retires; Basketball player scores PAG16E 1,000th point; more 21 Classnotes Julia Dyar has book published; Classmates gather for getaway; Alumni share their moves and milestones; more

Three Jan Term classes stress servant-leadership. PAGE 5.

Happy birthday, Hawkes When Hawkes Hall opened its doors in 1911, it began a century of housing students in its dorm rooms and its classrooms. Now, 100 years later, former students remember their time spent within those red-brick walls. PAGE by Debby Durrence 12 n o t e b o o k

Political science class wins national award Students in Dr. John Tures’ fall semester political science class recently won honors in a national contest designed to get younger people interested in their eco- nomic future. With their essay and video presentation, the team received a third-place award and a $2,000 cash prize in the iOMe Challenge contest. The students had just two weeks to put together a 10,000- word, 25-page essay on the national savings rate. To connect with the audience, they opted to spoof an episode of the popular Discovery Channel show “MythBusters,” testing if such a savings rate crisis has happened before in America, is currently happening and what happened in other countries with similar shallow savings rates. First place went to Texas Tech, and second place went to the Uni- versity of Nevada at Reno.

Storytelling event garners honor, marks milestone The Azalea Storytelling Festival celebrated two milestones this year—its 15th birthday and its designation as a Top 20 Event for March by the Southeast Tourism Society. The annual event, a past win- ner of the National Storytelling Leadership Award, was held March 4-6 at Callaway Auditorium, and featured some of the most popular storytellers from past years, includ- ing Donald Davis, The boys are back Kathryn Tucker The LaGrange College baseball team has returned to the diamond, kicking Windham off its season on Feb. 11 at Oglethorpe University, winning 7-2. The team is and Ed Stiv- returning after clinching the Great South Athletic Conference tournament title ender. Carol last year for the third time since 2006 and reaching the NCAA regional tourna- Cain ’82 of ment. Women’s softball also took the field in February, with the 2010 GSAC

s n a p s h oPlayer t of the Year Katie Ison returning for her senior year. Donald Davis n o t e b o o k

Hogansville returned as emcee. project. Stars) in Mexico. “We are so excited and honored to “Judy Boggus and Ann Beason of LaGrange seniors Andrew Christie, receive the Top 20 designation this year,” LaGrange are our co-chairs,” Pirkle Drew McAdams, Jon Milner and Josh said Joyce Morgan, one of the festival’s said. “They have worked closely with Stripling were part of the 44-man Team co-founders. “It is a validation of what Celeste and other community members Stars and Stripes roster that defeated the we’ve always known—that this is one of to make sure this is a success. We are CONADEIP All-Stars 48-7 on Dec. the preeminent storytelling events in the thrilled with the turnout at the first lec- 18 at the Tec de Monterrey Stadium Southeast, if not the country.” ture, and the trip sold out in 36 hours.” in Toluca, Mexico. Last year, Richard Okpani and Alex Sapp represented Professors’ work selected by LaGrange in the game. education council The players were nominated by A classroom exercise created by head coaches at NCAA Division III col- Dr. Sarah Beth Mallory, Chair of the leges, with almost 200 players submit- Biology Department, and Dr. Sharon ted to kick off the selection process. Livingston, Visiting Assistant Profes- sor of Education, has been chosen by Special Olympians come the Council for Aid to Education for to campus inclusion in the organization’s library photo by Brooke Vallaster The men’s and women’s basketball as a model performance task, accord- teams hosted the fourth annual Red ing to Lisa Bolitzer, research associate Choir receives ‘inaugural’ invite and Black Day in February, working at the council. The college’s Chamber Singers were with about 100 Troup County Special Mallory and Livingston’s project excited when they received an invitation Olympians. was a design for learning, teaching and to perform during a luncheon immedi- Mark Isenhour, Head Women’s assessing around the subject of Georgia’s ately preceding the swearing-in of Na- Basketball Coach, has organized his political and environmental water- than Deal, Georgia’s new governor, on players for the event every year, say- resource struggles. Jan. 10. The choir was the only college ing they often are more excited about The two have been active in sup- choral group invited to perform during their time on the court with the young plying information about theory and inaugural activities. players than they are about their regular practice related to performance tasks But Mother Nature had other ideas. season games. as mechanisms within the Collegiate A crippling winter storm blew into The visitors cheered while the col- Learning Assessment paradigm. the state the day before. All inaugura- lege players staged a short game and a tion activities, except for the actual shooting match, then they joined the 3D Journeys under way ceremony, were canceled. Panthers on the court for games and The new educational travel pro- Debbie Ogle, Director of Choral skill training. gram 3D Journeys is off to a strong Activities, said they were disappointed After their work in Mari- start after more than 135 people but were delighted to have been in- otti Gym, all the participants ad- attended the inaugural lecture on vited. She was told a make-up event is journed to the dining hall for lunch. Jan. 24, hearing Dr. Lisa Crutchfield, planned for later in the spring. Assistant Professor of History, discuss “It was certainly an honor to be Georgia colonial history. asked to sing for those people closest to With the theme of the Georgia him—his family, staff and transition coast, other lectures will discuss the team,” she said. “We’ll just have to wait ecology of the barrier islands, photogra- and see what happens.” phy and literature by Georgia authors. A trip to Coastal Georgia will be April Panther football represented 18-20, hosted by President Dan McAl- in bowl game exander and first lady Celeste Myall. For the second year in a row, Martha Pirkle, Director of Alumni LaGrange College football helped repre- and Community Relations, said volun- sent the United States of America at the teers have been the driving force of the 2010 Tazón de Estrellas (Bowl of the

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 3 a r o u n d c a m p u s Mentoring Mondays making connections A new initiative is working to local community members,” he said. connect students with successful Mentoring Monday sessions are alumni and friends of the college. from 3 to 5 p.m. every Monday in Mentoring Mondays kicked off the SOURCE Center on the second this semester and is already show- floor of Smith Hall. Some events ing signs of success, said SOURCE may include additional features. Center Director Todd Prater. “When Michelle Bedingfield “We’ve had some very positive was here from Harmony House, reactions from alumni, as well as a local domestic violence shelter, our students,” he said. “We have she led an seminar on unhealthy programs booked seven weeks out, relationships prior to the mentor- and our first ones generated a lot of ing sessions,” Prater said. “We plan interest.” these to be as meaningful to our The weekly program is designed students as possible, all in a very to give students a chance to meet casual atmosphere.” various professionals to discuss op- Some of the first speakers/ portunities after college and how to mentors included Kimberly Mc- prepare for them. Kay Martin ’02, a certified pub- “The expectation is that Men- lic accountant; Theresa Horton, toring Mondays will be the catalyst Todd Prater, SOURCE director, watches as Mi- a physical therapist with Ultra for more in-depth conversations chelle Striplin Bedingfield ’93 of Harmony House Care Inc.; and Susan Summerour with individual students throughout talks to student Molly Korb during a recent Men- Middlebrooks ’94, a social worker at toring Monday session. their academic careers and create Burwell PsycoEducational Center. relationships that will help them ment—serves as a student’s connection Prater said he is excited about the succeed in their professional endeavors,” to all aspects of college life, said Prater. response to Mentoring Mondays. Prater said. “One of our goals is to facilitate “We hope that it will become a SOURCE—an acronym for relationships that will assist students in staple of the SOURCE Center,” he said. Student Opportunity, Undergraduate developing networks within the college “The plan is to have an event happening Resources and Community Engage- community, as well as with alumni and in the center every Monday.” Group promotes pedal power The latest club on campus aims Last semester, the group started a to help students go places … on their bike rental program that allows students bicycles. to sign out a bike “to ride to classes or Bike enthusiast Trevor Jones ini- even do their shopping” for as long as tially started the group to promote the they need—for free. joys of cycling, but it quickly moved New bike lanes near campus have into a higher gear. helped encourage group rides, and the “When you talk to people about club plans to lobby the city for more. their bikes, it brings back their child- The group’s leadership also hopes to hood,” he said. “I like bringing back use their bicycles as tools to work with The new bike club on campus encourages the ac- those simple values and encouraging underserved children in nearby commu- tivity with group rides. It also organized a bicycle people to have fun.” nities. And, a bicycle polo match is on rental program that allows students to sign out a The junior enlisted sophomore tap for later this spring. bike for transportation or recreation. Paige Castle to help form the club, “We’re bringing people together who ing, their normal response is, ‘I haven’t which has since taken on the added wouldn’t normally hang out together,” ridden in so long.’ And then they go dimensions of wellness, community Trevor said. “A bike is so universal. home and get their bikes out of the ga- service and sustainability. “When I talk to people about rid- rage and rediscover how fun it can be.”

4 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 a r o u n d c a m p u s Students learn by serving during Jan Term Servant-leadership engaged students like the Boys and Girls in three of this year’s January Interim Club, The Active Life se- Term classes, with a strong emphasis on nior center and Circle of the serving. Students weatherproofed at- Care, a group that works tics, prepared food in soup kitchens and with pregnant teens and assembled Red Cross disaster kits— new moms. while learning about their community In the resulting and themselves. reports and journals, Mc- The three classes were inspired by Mullen saw the message the vision of bringing a comprehensive was being driven home. servant-leadership component to the “One of the biggest LaGrange first-year student experience. revelations for my classes Assistant Professor of Business was they discovered that Studying hunger in America took Megan Sachs, center, and Christa Von Borstel to a local soup kitchen. Linda McMullen and her class explored some of their perceptions 26 Ways to Make a Difference, with the about people who are Housing class. “26” representing the member agencies underserved were wrong.” “My other two Jan Terms were of United Way of West Georgia, Inc. One student in particular shared math classes … and this class was pretty She chose her emphasis because of her that she had never been exposed to out of the box, which is exactly what five-year involvement with United Way anyone in that category. Her experience a Jan Term class is supposed to be for and her passion for servant-learning. motivated her to seek out and collect everybody,” he said. “For me, the attraction is not about donated items for those she had met. His students examined the financial community service,” she said. “It’s about “It made such an impression on burdens and environmental conse- an ethic that some of your responsibil- her,” McMullen said. quences of substandard housing. Their ity as a citizen is to partner with other Assistant Professor of Religion hands-on component included assisting people and help them become stronger Alvin Lingenfelter and his students with energy audits and working with and healthier citizens.” spent the month looking at the issue Community Action for Improvement And that concept of partnership of hunger in America. The Our Daily (CAFI) to help weatherize homes, is what she tried to help students Bread class including laying vapor barriers, caulk- grasp. examined ing windows and doors, and helping to After spending initial class the facts change out appliances. periods jointly with the other two and then “These students crawled under groups, her students selected a served the houses and into attic spaces; they put on United Way agency to work with, hungry and Tyvek suits and braved tough condi- and then spent three hours each the groups tions … and spiders,” he said. “They did day at their chosen site. that sup- incredible work.” Students opted for programs port those A particularly meaningful day was with food spent at the Furniture Bank of Metro At right, Jasmine Farmer works with a needs. Atlanta, a warehouse offering donated child at a United Way agency. Below, Nate Their furniture to those facing challenges. In Crawford helps to weatherize an attic while learning about sustainable housing. work took the span of six hours, the group helped them from organize everything from mirrors and local soup tables to bed frames and cabinets in six kitchens acres of warehouse. They also helped and community meal programs to “customers” load their selected items. food banks and farms. “With some exceptions, these Assistant Professor of Math- students were from comfortable middle- ematics Dr. Jon Ernstberger took class homes,” Dr. Ernstberger said. most of his students out of their “Most had never faced anything comfort zones—and his—with like this. I think it was a real eye- the Affordable and Sustainable opener.”

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 5 a r o u n d c a m p u s New book examines early church and Roman Empire For his latest book, Dr. John Cook faced the challenge of “writing a lot about a very little.” Taking readers back to the period from roughly 41 to 137 A.D., he had limited source material to draw on in examining the approach of the Roman government to the early followers of Christ. “Roman Attitudes Toward the Christians: From Claudius to Hadrian” represents Dr. Cook’s fourth published book, and the third to take a look at the interaction between a new religion and the pagan world. “This is all so interesting to me because there always have been persecu- tions of Christians down through his- tory,” he said. Professor of Religion and Philosophy at the college, he believes Dr. John Cook, left, has published a new book that examines Roman attitudes toward early Christians. Public Services Librarian Dr. Arthur Robinson, right, helped him with translation issues for the work. the confrontation and cooperation seen during the period is a vital topic for those wishing to understand the devel- “There was a vicious persecution with the Latin, I probably couldn’t have opment of the early church. in 64 under Nero, and it’s possible that done this book,” he said. “And it just The converts Dr. Cook describes Mark is written in response to that. So goes to show how important collabora- were sometimes ignored or tolerated, when Jesus says, ‘Take up your cross,’ tion is in projects like this. sometimes persecuted and tortured— that would have meant a lot to Chris- “The nice thing about the college is perhaps most notoriously by Nero, tians of that time because Nero cruci- that people are helpful. This faculty is noted for dressing them in animal skins fied Christians and then used them as so collegial.” to have them torn apart by dogs and for human torches.” He also says that his New Testa- burning them. Though often the realm of histori- ment and Church History classes “The Christians were so different ans, Dr. Cook believes his source texts provide valuable insights. from anything the Romans had met also beg to be examined by religious “There’s not a single course that I before,” he said. “I have become increas- scholars. teach in New Testament where I don’t ingly convinced that once Christian- “Because this involves the history talk about Nero’s persecution, and so I ity separated from Judaism and began of Christians and their encounters with get good feedback,” he said. converting pagans that some Romans the Roman Empire, it can’t be left en- Next, Dr. Cook will turn his schol- quickly began to suspect it had the tirely to the classical historians,” he said. arly attention to another topic that blends potential of tearing the fabric of Roman “Every generation has to read and religion and history: He is under contract society apart. re-read these texts. The development of to write a book about crucifixion. “In the book, I look at the ques- Christianity and the history of this pe- “I’m going to look at the Roman tion of Roman law, of how courts riod are highly controversial, and there’s and Greek practice of crucifixion, and could be used against a religion, and good reason for that. The resources are also look at some of the medical as- then I turn it on its head and look hard to get at, and they’re spotty in pects—and even look at the practice in at how the Christians could use law some cases.” the Muslim world, Japan and China.” against pagans and Jews.” Writing the book took him out For him, such work brings added Dr. Cook also believes that the of his comfort zone, he said, crediting meaning to the biblical texts. persecutions of Nero and Trajan may be Public Services Librarian and classicist “These books make the New Testa- crucial for interpreting certain texts of Dr. Arthur Robinson for his help with ment come alive for me. Those people the New Testament, including Mark, 1 many translation issues. really took their faith seriously, and they Peter and Revelation. “If I hadn’t had him to help me were willing to take up their cross.”

6 COLUMNS, Spring 2011

s, ye s e en op rs trip ele Jan Term rav of t hearts

Katie O’Dell and Maryl Burke pause for a photo outside the Wong Tai Sing TempleCOLUMNS, in Spring Kowloon. 2011 7 by Debby Durrence frigid wind whipped the group as they stood at the base of one of the most famous sites in the world. Jessica Shaver, a senior political science major from Prattville, Ala., was awestruck as she looked up at the Great Wall of China. The travelers from LaGrange “It was amazing,” she says. “The dance and play a game similar to history at that place is incredible. A hacky sack with Chinese resi- dents while in a park in Beijing. group of about five of us decided to climb all the way to the top, which was I really wanted.” City, Yonghe Temple and a silk shop. quite a feat with the freezing tempera- When she heard about the January “The Forbidden City was beauti- ture and terrifying wind. It was defi- Interim Term trip to China, she was ful,” senior Katie Hein writes in a class nitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience thrilled. blog on the college’s website. “I was that I’ll never forget.” “I wanted to go immediately be- very impressed by all the detail on the The moment was especially powerful cause I adore travel and that’s one place buildings.” for Katie Bomar, a senior religion and I never thought I’d be able to go,” she On the last day in Beijing, the philosophy major from Palmetto, Ga. says. “Because of therapy, I was in good group was given a free day, but most of In May of 2009, Katie was critically enough shape to travel.” them stayed together. They visited the injured in a traffic accident. She suffered As she stood at the foot of the Great Temple of Heaven, a large park area. a severe brain injury and was in a coma Wall, she turned to Dr. David Ahearn, There, they had the first of several fun for 40 days and in the hospital for four Chair of the Religion and Philosophy interactions with the Chinese people. months, followed by weeks of intense Department and leader of the trip. “We joined in with some locals physical therapy. “I told him that a year ago, my goal playing a hacky sack-type game,” Katie “It was like my brain was sent back for the day was to get from the bed to says. “We also did some dancing and to where I was 5 years old,” she says. “I the bathroom. But now, look at me— exercising that looked a lot like our had to learn to walk and talk all over I’m in China!” Zumba, except it was for old people. It again. I came back to school as soon as For the first time, students, teach- was a blast!” I could because that’s the only thing I ers and friends of the college traveled to Jessica says that scene was played knew China for a Jan Term experience, ex- out in almost any park they visited. amining such subjects as Chinese “There were always retired people medicine, art and architecture dancing, practicing Tai Chi and playing and traditional and new re- games,” she says. “They all seemed so ligion. But participants say happy and laid back, and were com- it’s the personal lessons pletely fine with us joining in. It was learned in their interac- such a casual thing, to just dance in the tions with the Chinese middle of a park despite all the people people that will stay walking by and watching.” with them for the rest of their lives. The ugly and the awesome Leaving Beijing, the LaGrange First explorers traveled to Xi’an, where they impressions were greeted by a cloud of air pollution. After a 13- Katie quoted her roommate as say- hour trip, the ing, “I’m inhaling the cancer.” group landed in “That was a very accurate descrip- Beijing for a three- tion,” she says. “Everything there was day visit. While gray, and a film of dust and grime there, the travelers vis- covered everything.” ited Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden However, a visit to view the Ter-

8 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 racotta Warriors replaced all thoughts of bad air with the sheer wonder of legions of sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China. The figures, dating from 210 B.C., were discovered in 1974 by local farm- ers. Varying in height according to their roles (with the tallest being the gener- als), the army includes warriors, chari- ots, horses, officials, acrobats, strong- men and musicians. It is estimated that the three pits contain more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses. Most of them still remain in the pits near the emper- or’s burial ground.

Food and religion in Chengdu The next stop was Chengdu. Some of the highlights of the visit included a The cold but excited group huddles for a photo at the Great Wall. They are, from left, visit to the Panda Research Center, Jinli front row, Kathryn Shroeder, Katie Hein, Mary Kate Henry and Victor Arias Allen; Old Street, a Sichuan Opera production middle row, Daniel Yim, Jessica Shaver, Katie O’Dell, Elizabeth Shroeder, Katie Bomar, and the famous Leshan Giant Buddha. Jeannie Smith and George Lankford; back row, Maryl Burke, David Ahearn, Philip However, Katie writes that her favorite Shroeder, Charles Smith, Kyle Wetzel and Andrew Gawler. part was simply roaming the streets. some crepes from a street-side cart!” gious,” Jessica says. “But in the Chris- “There were tons of markets and While in Chengdu, the group went tian churches we visited, there were street vendors where you could buy to services at a Methodist church in the several services always filled beyond just about whatever you wanted. In city. The size of the congregation took maximum capacity. It was inspiring to Chengdu, I found my sense of adven- them by surprise. see such a resurgence, despite their past ture. I tried some really interesting “I wasn’t expecting to see many struggles.” food, such as a whole quail on a stick, followers, especially considering China’s some grilled squid, and some really awe- history with all things foreign and reli- The marvels of Hong Kong After four days in Chengdu, the Enjoying a street lunch in Chengdu in the Sichuan Province are, from left, Jeannie group moved on to the last stop of their Smith, Kyle Wetzel, Maryl Burke, Katie O’Dell, guide Eric Zuang and Andrew Gawler. trip—Hong Kong, “where we crammed the top 10 things to do in Hong Kong into two days,” laughs Katie. The first day, they visited the Stan- ley Market, Victoria’s Peak, a temple and the famous Night Market. “Imagine a street full of tents filled with vendors selling everything from fake jade jewelry to remote control toys,” Katie says. “It was absolutely insane.” The following day included more Hong Kong markets and a dim sum lunch. The last night of the trip was highlighted with a viewing of the nightly Symphony of Lights in downtown Hong Kong. The show uses colored lights, laser

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 9 This church in Chengdu has more than 5,000 members. beams and searchlights synchronized to music and narration to celebrate the energy and spirit of the city.

Lasting impressions Dr. Ahearn says it was interesting The Leshan Giant Buddha is carved out of a cliff face that lies at the confluence of the to watch the students’ reactions to what Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers in the southern part of Sichuan province. It is the larg- est carved stone Buddha in the world. they learned. “What struck everybody was the universe. I think that was eye-opening The travelers say moments like scale of China—the development is for a lot of our students.” those will stay with them forever. overwhelming,” he says. “In Beijing, Dr. Ahearn says one of his most “I did more things in 14 days than there were more than 200 construc- memorable experiences was worshipping most people will ever get to experi- tion cranes building skyscrapers every- in Chengdu. ence in an entire lifetime, and I feel so where.” “We visited a Methodist church incredibly blessed,” says Katie Hein. They also were surprised at the that has more than 5,000 members,” “When people ask me how my trip was, Chinese attitude toward America. he says. “It was incredibly moving to I find myself using words like ‘awesome’ “You get a sense that in China, be sitting there in that packed church, or ‘amazing,’ but honestly, those words America does not matter,” he says. “The singing those familiar hymns—and to don’t do it justice. And I don’t know if I Chinese think they are the center of the realize that we were in China.” will ever find the words that can.” n

A new world view Beyond the wonders of China, Jan Term allowed LaGrange students to explore a range of other destinations and topics. Senior Kaylen Short enjoyed the Beauty and Art of Barcelona, and his photo, at left, hints at the one true international language: chocolate. In the center, a re-enactment of the Battle of New Orleans is captured by senior Katie Hearn. Her Testing the Myths of the War of 1812 class traveled to key sites of the now nearly 200-year-old struggle. The Ireland of Yeats and Joyce was the topic examined by senior Amber Kelley, evidenced by her shot of the Emerald Isle’s coastline.

10 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 College has historic ties to China missions The history of Christianity in Kandice Cook looked into the story China is a rich one, full of triumphs of Dr. Fred Manget and his wife, Louise and tragedies, often stained with blood Anderson Manget, namesake for the and repression. college’s Manget Building. Mrs. Manget But students in Dr. David was the daughter of a Methodist minister Ahearn’s United Methodist Studies who served in LaGrange. She graduated class recently discovered that the work from LaGrange Female College in 1894. of missionaries with LaGrange College She and Dr. Manget were married in connections is deeply interwoven into 1909 and moved to China. Auburn University Archives that Chinese tapestry. Once there, Dr. Manget turned his Virginia Atkinson, Class of 1880, worked Kelsey Tinker and Kaylen Short study into a makeshift operating room, in China as a missionary most of her life. researched the life and work of Young and Louise was his surgical nurse and 1880. In 1884, Atkinson saw an appeal John Allen, who served in China from administered anesthesia to the patients, from Allen, asking for women mis- 1860 until his death in 1907. Allen’s despite her lack of medical training. sionaries to China. She answered the wife, Mary Houston Allen, attended By the start of the First World War, he call and spent almost the rest of her LaGrange College, then LaGrange was primarily treating soldiers, and had life there. Female College, in 1855. turned his study-clinic into a 60-bed When tensions between the United “This area of Georgia is rich with hospital. He later founded a hospital for States and Japan reached a breaking Chinese missionary history, but there the treatment of opium addiction. point in 1941, missionaries in the region has only been a limited amount of During her research at the Pitts were urged to return to America. How- research about it,” says Kelsey. Theological Library at Emory University, ever, Atkinson was reluctant to leave, Their goal in studying Allen was Kandice came across an ornate Chinese and it was only the promise of Dr. Fred to connect him directly to the college, scroll bearing a certificate of award to Manget to personally take her back to Kaylen says. Fred Manget, given by Chiang Kai-Shek. China when it was safe that persuaded “I got so excited when I found a “The award was the highest given her. She never returned, dying in letter between Mary and Dessie Byrd by the Republic of China—equivalent December 1941, after being in America where Dessie says how much she was to our Congressional Medal of Honor,” less than a year. going to miss Mary after she trans- says Dr. Ahearn, Chair of the Religion Dr. William H. Park served as a ferred,” he says. “This confirmed that and Philosophy Department. “The medical missionary in China for 40 Mary Houston was an important part Mangets led a true life of service in the years. In her research, Molly Korb of the early days of LaGrange College ‘Doctors Without Borders’ model.” learned that Park’s daughter, Margarita, and as such, so was Young John Allen, Elissa Marks studied Virginia attended LaGrange Female College who was the one who insisted that she Atkinson, who graduated as valedicto- from 1902-1903. Margarita and her attend the female college here.” rian from LaGrange Female College in husband joined her parents to serve as missionaries. From left, husband-and-wife team Mary Houston Allen and Young J. Allen, as well as The students called the experience Louise Anderson Manget, Class of 1894, served as missionaries in China. Mary Allen one of the most rewarding of their aca- attended LaGrange Female Academy in 1855. demic careers. “I never knew sitting in a chair all day, scavenging through newspaper clippings and old photos could be so ex- hausting, but I would go again tomorrow if asked,” Kelsey says. “It was an adven- ture. We didn’t know what to expect, and we didn’t leave empty-handed. “I have learned so much about Georgia, China, LaGrange College and the people from these places, and I feel very fortunate to have been in a class with this opportunity.” Allen photos from ‘The Man Who Seeded China’ by Warren A. Candler COLUMNS, Spring 2011 11 by12 Debby COLUMNS, DurrenceSpring 2011 For 100 years, Hawkes Hall has been a stately presence on the LaGrange campus. It has sheltered students in its dorm rooms and housed classes that nurtured young minds. During its early years, Hawkes also was home to an indoor swimming pool, as well as the library and offices of the president and registrar. The history of the college is in- grained in the red bricks that enfold the building—the third structure to be built at what was then called the LaGrange Female College. It became a home away from home for hundreds of young women who formed lifelong friendships during their time on the Hill.

Strong ties Miriam Lowe Adamson ’49 thinks back fondly on her time in Hawkes. “I lived there my sophomore year with Clare Foster Nesmith, who remains my best friend to this day,” she says. “Hawkes also contained the July 1911 Bulletin of The LaGrange College library, some classrooms and a small Rufus Smith, president of LaGrange Female College (which later became LaGrange swimming pool in the basement.” College), stands in a field on the Vernon Street side of the brand new Hawkes Hall soon after its opening in 1911. Although the students enjoyed happy times together, their closeness “There was the time when one of stairs to the third floor of Hawkes sing- also helped in times of tragedy. In De- our classmates ran away and got married. ing. I have never forgotten that night cember 1946, a fire raged through the They remained married until her hus- and how beautifully she sang. In my Winecoff Hotel in Atlanta. band’s death more than 50 years later.” minds’ eye I can see her right now and “Some of the 119 victims were hear that song.” young people attending a conference. A Christmas angel For many years, teachers also lived Many of us knew at least one of those Sally Curtis Askew ’62 vividly in Hawkes with the students. That who died. That was a horrible day.” remembers a special Christmas treat in probably tried the patience of one or But there were also celebrations, she 1958. two of them, Askew says. says. “There was a woman named Claire “Dr. Jennie Lee Epps lived on the Walker in my freshman class,” she says. same floor as I did. One night someone “She had the most gorgeous soprano covered the toilets with plastic wrap, voice I had ever heard. Just before and Dr. Epps didn’t notice until too Christmas break after Quiet Hour one late. She laughed about it, but I am sure night, I heard this voice singing ‘O she was disgusted with juvenile antics Holy Night.’ Claire was standing on the like that. But she continued to live in For many years, the quadrangle side of Hawkes with all the students until her Hawkes featured a three-tiered porch. final illness a few years later.” The verandas were removed in the early 1950s.

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 13 The history of toilet tissue, rooms rearranged while “They may the tenant was in class,” she says. “But Hawkes more often, we would simply hang out not have been together in someone’s room, studying, Before the opening of school in aesthetically snacking, talking about boys and about the fall of 1910, the announcement was pleasing, life, watching a soap opera (we had a made that a new building would be com- ‘Ryan’s Hope’ fan club that year) or a pleted on campus before the following but I’m now movie on TV, listening to music, and February. Park A. Dallis, the architect forming fast friendships.” employed earlier to devise a master plan sentimental for the campus, designed the building. about them.” Those famous fire escapes The plan was for the structure to For many years, the metal fire be positioned at right angles to College Lori Medlock Anderson ’83. escapes on Hawkes provided the setting Home (Smith Hall) and the College for all kinds of student activities. Building (Dobbs Building). A single- ‘Second Floor Hawkes’ “They may not have been aestheti- story porch with brick columns would Cathy Wright Sargent ’81 viv- cally pleasing, but I’m now sentimen- span the south side, facing Vernon idly remembers her freshman year in tal about them,” says Lori Medlock Street. On the courtyard side, there Hawkes. Anderson ’83. would be a three-tiered porch that “I lived in room 214, a corner room “We sat on the fire escape that would connect to its neighbors. on the Chapel end of the building. overlooked the patio when the weather The building was the first built Most of the girls on the second floor was pretty and watched all the action on campus wired for electricity at the quickly became a band of friends who on campus—also on the other side time of construction. It was named in called ourselves ‘Second Floor Hawkes.’ that overlooked the Chapel whenever honor of Harriet Hawkes, the mother She says her floor’s resident advisor a wedding was held. The fire escape of Albert King Hawkes, an Atlanta lived across the hall. doors were supposed to be locked at a optometrist and manufacturer, who was “We loved her, and would gather certain hour, so it was a nightly custom a major donor to the building fund. in her room for big-sisterly advice. to ‘rig’ the door with a coat hanger so The new building was officially Oddly enough, there was only one we could sneak back in after the front opened at graduation in June 1911. closet in that room. The opposite closet door was locked. In the early 1950s, the front veran- space seemed to be walled up. She told “Not that I or any of my friends das were removed and fire escapes were us that was because a girl hanged her- ever did that,” she says with a laugh. added. In 1959, when the new gym self in that closet years ago. I’m sure Spring was a busy time around and Manget opened, the Art Depart- there’s no merit to that story, but it was Hawkes, she says. ment relocated to the ground floor of fun to hear.” “When the weather started to get Hawkes, where it stayed until 1982, Sargent says the requisite pranks warm, every afternoon after classes when the Lamar Dodd Art Center were played. opened. Hawkes now houses the Educa- “There were clothes stolen out tion Department. of the bathroom while one showered, The most recent renovation was buckets of cold water thrown upon one completed in 1992. Upgrades included while she showered, rooms rolled with new air conditioning and heating systems, new wiring and plumbing, 1) The metal fire escapes at each end refinishing of hardwood floors and the of Hawkes were favorite gathering addition of thermal windows and an places for students. In this photo from elevator. The building was equipped with the 1980s, college workers use the fire updated fire protection systems, includ- escapes to help replace the mattresses ing sprinklers. The brick was cleaned and in the dorm. 2) In its early days, the college’s library the roof replaced. The old fire escapes was housed in Hawkes. were removed and stair towers were con- 3) The basement of Hawkes also fea- structed at each end of the building. tured an indoor swimming pool that held 30,000 gallons of water.

*Information drawn from a history of the college being written by Clark Johnson. 14 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 1 we would change into our swimsuits, running in, all in a panic. She insisted the tiles would drop back into place. I take a radio and Cokes, and lie out in that he go with her to one of the girl’s don’t think they believed him, but the the sun on ‘Hawkes Beach,’ the little rooms because they wanted him to look student lived in that room the rest of bridge that connects Hawkes to Smith. at the ceiling tiles in her closet. As he the school year.” If you wanted to know anything that stood there, the tiles started rising up was going on, all you had The story continues to do was stand under the Every fall, a new bridge and eavesdrop on the group of students moves conversation.” into Hawkes. For some, Although the build- this is their first time on ing lacked the modern the Hill. For others, it is bells-and-whistles found in the continuation of a fam- present-day dorms, it had ily tradition. something money couldn’t “We have had a good buy—a charm that comes many students move into with history. Hawkes Hall where their “We had no air con- mother, grandmother or ditioning, an old radiator aunt had lived,” McCart- for heat, plaster walls that ney says. “I always try to a single nail would shat- put them into the room ter and one pay phone that that belonged to their fam- everyone on the hall shared, The bridge that connects Hawkes to Smith Hall was a favorite ily member. They are so but our rooms had high sunbathing spot that students called ‘Hawkes Beach.’ thrilled to be in the same ceilings, huge windows and room.” so much character,” she says. “I lived a few inches, hovering there and then Anderson says the memories made there all four years and loved it.” slowly coming back down in place. In a in Hawkes can last a lifetime. few minutes it did it again.” “I remember being a student when Front-row seat McCartney says the girls had heard my mom and her college friends would Kirby McCartney, Student Life all the ghost stories about Hawkes and come back for Homecoming,” she says. Administrative Assistant, has been the were sure the closet was haunted. “They all wanted to take a peek at the resident director in Hawkes since 2003. “The painter called a friend who rooms they lived in in Hawkes. Now She says she’s seen some interesting worked in air conditioning. He said I’m their age and completely under- things during that time. when the air conditioner starts up, the stand how they felt. I made friends in “One afternoon a painter was work- suction would pull the tiles up, and as Hawkes who remain my friends to this ing in Hawkes Parlor and the RA came it evened out, the suction reduced and day. It’s a very special place.” n

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 15 2 3 studies at LaGrange College and Vision 2020 wish to experience a foreign or domestic New strategic plan Study-Away journey their junior or senior years. charts course to the future b. Honors Program: A team has been appointed to form One year ago, a junior-senior honors program, with a particular focus on scholarship, service and leadership. Launch a group of 30 campus leaders date is fall 2012. met to begin work on an important c. SOURCE: The center called SOURCE (Student task. Their mission: to chart a course to Opportunity, Undergraduate Resources, and Com- move LaGrange College forward to a more robust munity Engagement) will be fully established and position in Southeastern private higher education. funded to support students and build networks for Initially, the group divided into five work teams with a success. (See the story on page 4.) focus defined by a question: d. Emphasize experiential learning through undergrad- • Who do/should we serve? uate research and service-learning opportunities. • How do/should we serve our communities? e. Efforts for Spiritual Life and Servant-Leadership will • What are our greatest strengths and weaknesses? be enhanced. • How will we enhance the total learning experience? f. Student Activities and Programming also will con- • How can/should our mission be revised? tinue to be enhanced. The subgroups worked for six weeks, then began to blend their work with that of the whole group. By April 2010, the 2. Program Portfolio first draft of a new strategic plan was ready for an initial Develop and/or strengthen undergraduate, adult and gradu- review by the college’s Board of Trustees. ate educational programs Since that time, faculty, staff and other constituent with strong student groups have reviewed the plan and provided additional demand and delivery feedback. The Cabinet and Expanded Institutional Plan- models appropriate to the ning Council convened in multiple meetings in September target population. to consider that input and to develop recommendations for a. Develop a pro-

adjustments to the document. cess for review er way:

When the Board gathered for its fall 2010 meeting, a new for all exist- d strategic plan for the institution was approved. “Vision 2020: ing academic

From Promise to Prominence” was launched. programs and un Designed to be a living, changing document, the plan complete it by describes a set of directions and initiatives that will help the A shortage of trained nurses plagues 2012. the health care delivery system—and college make bold steps forward. Below, you’ll find a sum- b. Create a process is predicted to continue for some time. mary of the plan’s four broad goals and some of projects that for feasibility As a result, the college’s nursing pro- gram is exploring additional delivery will be advanced through each. studies for new sites to address the need and meet programs by the demand, particularly in the metro 1. Differentiation spring 2011. Atlanta area. Clarify and strengthen c. Initiate at least the distinctive, differen- one new program to meet unmet undergraduate tiating qualities of the student demand at the college for launch by 2012. LaGrange College educa- d. Generate additional appropriate program offerings

tional experience. er way: in the health sciences, including the possibility of

a. Study Away: Ef- d additional options in nursing. fective with the e. Establish at least one new program for working adult entering class of un students every two years. 2011, the college f. Launch at least one alternative delivery program by Prospective students and their par- will offer support ents are learning about the college’s 2012. of up to $2,500 new study-away commitment via a g. Develop a plan for targeting new sites for working to all students new ‘passport’ brochure. Distribution adult and/or graduate program offerings. of the piece began this month. The who originate commitment also was a theme in the their freshman college’s recent television campaign.

16 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 3. Market Positioning Science Building, and Strengthen and expand the college’s reputation in Georgia and the addition of a new select contiguous states. laboratory science a. Secure deeper penetration in established markets, structure. b. The campus will er way:

develop a brand identity and marketing message, and d develop and implement a strategy to identify and engage Applied Policy

reach precisely defined target audiences. Research Inc. to better un b. Intensify efforts to build United Methodist Church award financial aid. connections and to support the work of the church. c. Cost containment Campus physical plant needs are part and contract review of the impetus for a possible fund- c. Leverage “travelers” (admission counselors, advance- raising campaign. A feasibility study ment personnel, coaches) to cultivate personal con- and negotiation will has begun to examine goals and po- tacts in target schools and communities. continue to provide tential projects, including renovation/ significant improve- restoration of the Dodd Art Center, d. Add private Price Theater and Callaway Science Christian acad- ment in quality of Building, and the addition of a new emies to other goods and services at laboratory science structure. private institu- a carefully controlled tions and home- cost per student. d. The Climate Action Plan will serve as a starting

schooled students er way: point for increased efforts to reduce our use and as sources of pro- d spective students. waste of resources and to encourage broader sustain-

e. Increase use of un ability efforts throughout the organization. the Web, social e. The college will commit to compensating its fac- networking and An intensive marketing campaign ulty and staff at competitive levels and will work to launched in October, including broad develop a widely supported and fair plan for perfor- other recent and TV and radio coverage in the Atlanta emerging tech- region. New media also were incorpo- mance accountability as part of the compensation nological tools in rated, including a Facebook campaign review process. that garnered 5,526 unique visits to marketing efforts. the college’s website. Measures for Success: 4. Resource Development and Progress achieved through the objectives outlined above will Management result in improvements in key indicators. Below, a sampling Over the preceding decade, the college demonstrated its com- of such measures and targets for them are listed. mitment to improving the physical plant through investing a. Enrollment: A growth target of 1,200–1,300 stu- more than $66 million in it. Over the coming decade, the dents by fall 2015 and 1,500–1,600 students by 2020. college must address new construction in order to attract and b. Retention and Graduation: A retention rate of 76 serve its student populations. It also must remain committed percent by 2015 and 82 percent by 2020; a six-year to controlling costs and improving efficiencies. graduation rate of 55 percent by 2015 and 65 percent a. A feasibility study for a comprehensive fundraising by 2020. campaign will be completed by March 2011, and c. Endowment: $65 million by 2015, $90 million by the results will be presented to the Board at its April 2020. meeting. Potential projects include renovation/res- d. Alumni Giving: Increase to 15 percent by 2015 and toration of the Dodd Art Center, Price Theater and 21 percent by 2020.

eyond considering strategies for advancing the institution, campus leaders and constituents also examined the college’s Bmission and vision statements as part of the strategic planning process. After the intensive review, new language was pre- sented to the Board of Trustees for approval in October. The new versions of those guiding statements appear below.

Mission: LaGrange College challenges the minds and inspires the souls of its students. Founded in 1831 and committed to its relationship with the United Methodist Church and its Wesleyan and liberal arts traditions, the college supports students in their search for truth. An ethical and caring community that values civility, diversity, service, and excellence, LaGrange Col- lege prepares its students to become successful, responsible citizens who aspire to lives of integrity and moral courage.

Vision: LaGrange College will be distinguished as a college that transforms the lives of its students and its communities.

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 17 a l u m n i & f r i e n d s Study lounge honors education visionaries A ceremony was held Dec. 7, 2010, rectors. He has served as in the Frank and Laura Lewis Library a trustee of the college to dedicate the Johnson Study Lounge since 2005. in honor of Mr. and Mrs. John W. As the celebration Johnson Jr. began, Vice President The Charter Foundation contribut- for Advancement Will ed a generous gift to LaGrange College Jones said, “You have during the Defining Moment campaign made a wonderful and requested that the donation provide investment in our stu- a lasting tribute to the Johnsons. dents. Thanks to you, Mr. Johnson, who passed away Feb. CharterBank and the 24, founded CharterBank in 1954 and Charter Foundation the Charter Foundation was established will have ripple effects The Charter Foundation donated a gift to the college that resulted in in 1994. His wife, Elsie, was a school- throughout time and the naming of the Johnson Study Lounge, honoring Elsie Johnson and teacher, and the couple committed their this region.” her late husband, John W. Johnson Jr. Pausing for a photo following the dedication ceremony are, from left, President Dan McAlexander, lives to the cause of excellence through In his remarks, daughter-in-law and son, Tracy and Bob Johnson; the honorees, Mr. and education. President Dan McAl- Mrs. Johnson; and daughter-in-law and son, Lydia and Curt Johnson. Joining them for the special occa- exander thanked the sion were their sons Bob and Curt, their Johnsons and “all of Library has had on this campus. families and local Charter Foundation your family at CharterBank and Char- “This is a place that fosters the kind board members. Bob is CharterBank’s ter Foundation. I know you recognize of teamwork that you and CharterBank CEO and Chairman of the Board of Di- what a transforming effect the Lewis hold in high regard.” Dedication recognizes longtime business leader The year was 1919 when Hutchin- a major gift to the college, supporting Committee. In 2008, he was awarded son Traylor Insurance Agency opened construction of the Frank and Laura the Fuller E. Callaway Jr. Award for and insured its first Model T. Lewis Library. Lifetime Service to the college. In 1967, Charles Smith joined In recognition of the company’s “My roots with LaGrange College the agency and maintained majority generosity during the Defining Moment go back a long way,” he said. “Hutchin- ownership until 1999, when his sons, campaign, and as a tribute to Charles son Traylor was insuring Smith Hall as Wesley and Edward, became owners Smith’s lifelong contributions to the far back as March 1925. and operators of the business. He is now institution, the library’s circulation “It has been a great privilege to be chairman of the company. desk was named in his honor during a associated with LaGrange College, and Hutchinson Traylor contributed ceremony last November. I thank you for this honor from the bot- Smith’s son Edward ex- tom of my heart.” pressed his appreciation for the Shortly after completion of the Charles Smith and his wife, Jeannie, admire the marker rec- ognizing his remarkable efforts on behalf of the college. gesture. Lewis Library, Smith resigned from the “We want to thank the col- board to become the college’s construc- lege for making this a special tion manager. His first project was the day for our family,” he said. restoration of Banks Hall. As a member of the President Dan McAlexander Campaign Steering Commit- praised the longtime volunteer and tee, Charles invested much of servant-leader for his dedication to the his time and effort into raising institution. funds for Defining Moment. “He treats the college as though it is He served as a college trustee his,” the president said, “and we thank from 1989 to 2009, chairing you for your ongoing work for us.” the Building and Grounds

18 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 a l u m n i & f r i e n d s Ceremony unveils Wall of Distinction Donors and their families and friends gathered on Feb. 22 for the dedication of the Wall of Distinction. Located on the upper floor of the Frank and Laura Lewis Library, the Wall celebrates the generosity of those who made significant contributions during Defining Moment: The LaGrange Col- lege Campaign for Distinction. The symbolic marker features the names of more than 160 donors, includ- ing LaGrange alumni, friends of the college, corporations and foundations, who donated between $10,000 and $49,999 during Defining Moment. Their contributions have provided student scholarships, enhanced aca- demic programs and funded resources for the Lewis Library, including study During the dedication ceremony, senior art major Tommy Arnold shares the extraordinary impact the carrels, e-mail stations and programs Lewis Library and its resources have had on undergraduate research at the college. like undergraduate research. Martin Luther King Jr. editor of Citations, also welcomed the Will Jones, Vice President for “In my personal favorite, ‘I’ve Been guests. Advancement, welcomed the honorees to the Mountaintop,’ Dr. King talks “I’m one of the flowers that Mr. with a favorite quote. about Bull Connor, the police commis- Jones was talking about. Thank you “All the flowers of tomorrow are sioner in Birmingham, Ala. When King for watering me,” he said, as the crowd planted with the seeds of today,” he marched in chuckled. said. “You’ve all helped to grow bright Birmingham, Tommy de- futures for our students by creating Connor called “I’m one of the flowers that scribed the work such a nurturing place for them here at out the dogs, Mr. Jones was talking about. of Citations. LaGrange College. This facility stands but still they Thank you for watering me.” “This is a as a testament to the success of Defin- marched. He publication that – Tommy Arnold ’11 ing Moment.” brought out documents out- Charles Smith, a member of the the fire hoses, standing under- campaign steering committee, expressed but still they marched. Dr. King said graduate research done by students on his gratitude for the donors’ generos- that Connor didn’t understand history, this campus,” he said. “The increase in ity by recalling a famous speech by Dr. that he didn’t know the physics of a fire the quantity and quality of this research

Pausing for a photo following the dedication are, from left, honorees that water couldn’t has expanded tremendously since the Dr. Leland M. Park and Jim and Carolyn Monfort Becker ’59. Dr. Park put out.” opening of this library. You all helped is the great, great grandson of LaGrange College’s second president, Smith compared create this place that makes that caliber Major John Park. that fire to the knowl- of research possible.” edge that is inherent The Defining Moment campaign within the walls of raised more than $67 million for the the college. college between July 1, 2004, and June “Thank you 30, 2010. for your commit- For other naming opportunities ment and support of available at LaGrange College, contact LaGrange College,” the Development Office at (706) 880- he said. 8039 or via e-mail at development@ Tommy Arnold, lagrange.edu. a senior art major and

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 19 a l u m n i & f r i e n d s Postmaster ends long career After 29½ years as the college Post- master, Austin Cook III ’69 retired at the end of 2010. Cook was known for his personal touch and for his memory, often recall- ing students’ names and box num- bers soon after they were assigned to freshman—and then being able to recite them for years afterward. “That was one of those things that Averaging 17 points per just happened,” he said. “I never made game, Katie Covington led the myself try to memorize. It sped up the women’s basketball team to a record 20 wins this season. process … and it was a conversation piece.” Panthers shoot down records Helping to deliver letters and pack- ages was a joy, he said. The women’s basketball team second in the conference. “I liked the nature of the work. recently wrapped a record-breaking Named GSAC Freshman of the Everybody always likes to get mail. season—heading into the conference Year, Alex Wilson broke the school “And I liked the daily social contact tournament with 20 wins, the most for record for three-point shots made in a with the students, faculty, staff and a women’s team in the record books. season (with 62), and she is third in the administration.” The squad also led the nation in country in three-point shooting per- Representatives from those groups scoring among NCAA Division III centage at 48.1 percent. filled the Bailey Room to capacity in teams, averaging 84 points per game. Junior Elizabeth Williams had a December for a retirement reception in The team’s highest total, 117 in a Feb. record number of assists (135) and also Cook’s honor. Many of those present 6 contest against Salem, also set a new had the school’s first triple-double: 13 had known his father, the late Austin school benchmark. points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists. Cook Jr., who was the college’s business “We had pretty high expectations “The exciting thing about all these manager for many years. coming into the season,” said Head records is that we don’t graduate anyone He offered his son a job as postmas- Coach Mark Isenhour. “We knew we this year,” Isenhour said. “We should ter in 1981. Austin III took the position, had a lot of talent and a lot of potential, have all of them back next season.” thinking he’d do it until something and we broke some records. For the else came along he liked better. He says “But the success we’ve had is really men’s basketball nothing ever did—LaGrange College not quantifiable. What I think is so team, Senior Nic was home. special about the season is that the team Whitfield closed Beyond “days of small things,” really bought into each other and into out his career by the train and automobile enthusiast is working toward the common goal of setting a few re- planning a few trips during his retire- improving each game.” cords of his own. ment, including a requisite visit to the Sophomore Katie Covington led He finished with National Corvette Museum in Bowling the team in scoring, averaging 17 points more than 1,000 Green, Ky. per game and leading the Great South career points, be- Nic Whitfield Athletic Conference, which named her coming only the Player of the Year. She broke several seventh Panther with 500-plus rebounds school records during the season, includ- to reach that mark. ing a 40-point game and a record 17 His career standings place him 11th free-throws in one contest. in career points (1,351), fifth in career Sophomore Heather Miller fol- blocks (83) and sixth in field-goal per- lowed close behind Katie, averaging centage (54.3). 15.8 points per game, which placed her

20 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 c l a s s n o t e s

This issue’s Classnotes are from information received through Feb. 7, 2011. (Unless otherwise noted, geographic locations refer to Georgia.)

1946 on Facebook and invite classmates and 1974 Julia Traylor Dyar of LaGrange has writ- friends to “befriend” them. Judy Jordan Johnson of Lawrenceville is a ten a book, “Remembering LaGrange,” retired high school math teacher, having which is being published by History Press 1961 taught for 30 years in the Gwinnett County of Charleston, S.C. Information in the Marie Williams Beiser of Lawrenceville was School System at Central Gwinnett High book comes from columns she wrote for the only incumbent to win in the November School. After serving on the City Council the LaGrange Daily News, “Memoried city elections. She retained her Post 1 seat for six years, she was elected in November Glances,” and covers the years from 1894 as a councilwoman. She was one of Judy as Lawrenceville’s first female mayor. She to 1980. A book signing will be held on Jordan Johnson’s ’74 teachers. is a Baptist and is involved with the World March 17 at the Lewis Library. Changers. 1965 1957 Margaret Lane Monds of Statesville, N.C., Tom and Debbie Jolly Mills live in Marianne Mitchell Adams has moved and retired from teaching in June 2009, after LaGrange. They are the parents of three would love to hear from her classmates being in the classroom for 43 years. She children and have two grandchildren. He and friends. Her new address is 5175 is enjoying spending time with her son, is a member of the Portrait Society of North Feland Avenue, Apartment 124, daughter and three grandchildren. Her Atlanta, the Portrait Society of America Fresno, CA 93711. Her phone number is hobbies include reading, sewing, traveling and the Portrait Institute. He has been an (559) 276-9878. and doing volunteer work. adjunct instructor of art appreciation and leads the drawing and painting workshops 1960 Tom Parker of St. Simons Island was at Southern Union State Community Col- Beverly Childs Cagle of Canton is a retired named President, CEO and Chairman of lege in Wadley, Ala., as well as teaching art teacher. the Board of Southern Medical Associates appreciation at Columbus State Univer- Inc., a leading healthcare provider of deep sity. He has exhibited his work through Dr. Mike and Andrea Cheek Frosolono vein thrombosis (DVT) solutions. He will the Visual Art Alliance of LaGrange, the ’61 have been living in Austin, Texas, for a oversee all sales, operational and corpo- LaGrange Art Museum, the Wildlife Ameri- year. They enjoy the close proximity to fam- rate functions for Southern Medical. can Foundation, Callaway Gardens Invita- ily and their frequent gatherings, and they tional, Rosenfeld Gallery in Philadelphia 1968 delight in the many opportunities Austin and a variety of locations in New York. provides, especially the classical music Dr. Winn Henderson of Sylva, N.C., has scene. They joined a neighborhood United released his 36th book, “Freedom From Ad- 1978 Methodist church and participate in many diction,” which contains an in-home treat- Sally Bohannon Millians of Moreland is congregational activities. He has resumed ment program with the highest cure rate of a system-wide school health nurse for writing with two new books in progress, a any program in the country for more than the Coweta County Board of Education in work of nonfiction, “Through the Wilder- 20 different kinds of addictions. Alumni Newnan. ness,” and the other, a novel. They are who would like a free copy may request it at [email protected]. Reece Walker of Nashville is employed with Lowe’s Home Improvement Ware- Rosemary Johnson Woodall of Batesville, house in Tifton. He is in sales as an Miss., retired as a diaconal minister in electrical pro. June. 1979 1972 William Trotter of LaGrange is a Buyer - Karen Samble, a teacher for 38 years, Utilities for the City of LaGrange. has retired from the Duval County School System. She is now teaching part-time and 1981 tutoring in Jacksonville, Fla. Dr. Moody and Eugenia Bishop McCall live in Atlantic Beach, Fla. He is a veterinarian 1973 for San Pablo Animal Hospital. Several members of the classes of 1973-1975 Bobby Joe Burkett of Hickory, N.C., is now met for a weekend getaway in Blue Ridge. Seen retired. 1982 here are, front row, from left, Bobbi Bravar Dr. Hajime Otani of Mount Pleasant, Gordon Williams Hagler ’75 of Coral Springs, Fla., Susan Samble of Houston, Texas, was Mich., came to campus in November to Wooden ’73 of Tulsa, Okla., Sherry Hart ’74 of name 2010 Writer of the Year by Inspira- present a Cultural Enrichment program on LaGrange, Harriet Harman Rondowsky ’74 of tional Writers Alive! He is a member of St. Atlanta; back row, Betsy Taylor Boyer ’74 of cognitive research. Dahlonega, Joan Rhiner von Lehe ’75 of Cullman, John the Divine Episcopal Church. Ala., Sue Hart Ekkebus ’75 of LaGrange, Della Adsit Ridley ’74 of Kennesaw and Stephanie Bar- rett Westbrooks ’75 of Gainesville.

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1985 Tammy Cottle Forbus and Joel ’91 live in LaGrange. She has joined the staff of Hospice LaGrange, where she has been a volunteer for many years. He is employed by Bowman-Hollis Manufacturing. They are active members of First Baptist Church on the Square and enjoy working with the youth and college-aged groups. They have two daughters, Saralyn, who lives in Winston-Salem, N.C., and Catherine, who Kelly Wilmore ’93, right, accepts an award from is a sophomore at LaGrange College. Joel USDOE Blue Ribbon representative Aba Kumi, Karen Meyrath Shannon ’00 and Chris ’03, of plays drums for Encounter, the contempo- center, as teacher Joyce Ralston looks on. Dallas, with their children, Nicholas, Gregory and rary worship service at First Baptist. Emery Lynn. Dr. Steve Reynolds lives in Green Bay, 1986 Wis., where he is the dean of academic 1997 Dr. John Cary’s new book, “Dixie World,” affairs at ITT Technical Institute. His novel, has been released. You can see the press Barron and Britt Dunagan Wood ’98 live “Something Left Behind,” was published in in LaGrange. He is the general manager release on Amazon’s and Barnes and late 2009. Noble’s websites or www.strategicpublish- for Statewide Mortgage. They have one daughter, Hudson. ing group.com/title/DixieWorld-TheAdven- 1993 turesOfAnImmortalBeing/html. He is living Angie Head Breland of Knoxville, Tenn., 1999 in Masan, Korea, and has spent time in Ti- is an accountant for Humana Insurance Gerard Lange of Atlanta has been a bet and attending a book show in Beijing, Company. photography professor in the Department where his children’s book “Scary Terry” of Art at Barton College since 2006. He was being promoted. It was released in Kelly Wilmore of Greenville, W. Va., is completed his Master of Fine Arts degree February and is being promoted at the assistant superintendent of schools in Photography from Tulane University and Taipei Book Expo and expos in Dubai and and principal of Highland 6-12 School in also participated in additional educational Italy. You can see it at http//sbpra.com/ Monterey. His school was selected as one programs, including Cinematography and JohnHCary. Another novel, “Pest Control,” of only 300 schools (private or public) in Screen Writing Workshops, at the Image will be released soon and “Enemy Family” the entire United States to receive the U.S. Film & Video Center in Atlanta and the is already on Amazon. Friends and class- Department of Education No Child Left University of Georgia Cortona Program in mates can contact him at caryhealth@ Behind Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Cortona, Italy. Prior to his appointment at hotmail.com. Award. The honor is only given to schools Barton College, he worked as a profes- with high poverty rates and high-achieving sional photographer in Atlanta, and taught LaTricia Payne of test scores. Highland achieved a 100 at Tulane University as an instructor and West Point is a percent pass rate in reading/writing and a at Northern Michigan University as an registered nurse/ 96 percent pass rate in mathematics. He assistant professor. He is represented by case analyst at West also was a finalist for the Terrell Bell Award galleries in New Orleans; Athens, Ga.; and Georgia Health in of Excellence for administrators. LaGrange. New York. His work in a variety of media 1994 has been exhibited across the U.S. and internationally. In November, his exhibi- 1989 Dr. Keith Colbert ’89 Robyn James Turner of Acworth is a regis- Keith Colbert of tered nurse at Wellstar Cobb Hospital. tion “Cartograph” opened in the Virginia McDonough is in his Thompson Graves Gallery at Barton Col- second year as principal of Lovejoy High 1995 lege in Wilson, N.C. School in Hampton. He received his teach- Matthew Purvis of Tamarac, Fla., is em- ing certificate from the University of West ployed by Morris Property Management, 2000 Georgia and then earned his master’s where he earned the Certified Manager of Spencer King and his wife, Meg, live in degree in education leadership from Troy Community Associations designation, is- Smyrna, where they both work at Chick- State. He received his doctorate in educa- sued by the National Board of Certification fil-A’s corporate headquarters. He is an IT tion leadership from Nova Southeastern for Community Association Managers. He Senior Analyst. University in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. has seven years of community association Jared Ragland of Washington, D.C., is a management and also has obtained his White House photo editor. In November, 1991 Florida Community Association Manag- his exhibition Apropos opened in the Lula Lebron Gunter Fix of Edina, Minn., is an ers License and his Florida Real Estate E. Rackley Gallery at Barton College in administrative assistant for Productivity Broker’s License. Quality, Inc., located in Plymouth. She has Wilson, N.C. The exhibit showcased his three children, Maddie, Lillian and Louis. 1996 latest digital collage photography. He also Suzanne Holcombe Gillespie of Canton is recently edited a book for National Geo- director of The Kid Connection. graphic, “The President’s Photographer:

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Fifty Years Inside the Oval Office.” to deliver quality care, shelter, food, water, Jonathan and Cassandra Askea Fuller ’07 clothing, health care and education to live in Richmond Hill. He is the associate Tammy Richards Speer of Dallas is a the orphaned and vulnerable children of pastor of Richmond Hill UMC, which is part pre-K lead teacher at Lost Mountain Swaziland. of the South Georgia Conference of the Academy. United Methodist Church. She is a nanny.

2001 Larry Love of Atlanta is licensed as a Meghan Henry Certified Public Accountant in the State of Davis of Bruns- Georgia. wick is co- owner of Color 2007 Me Happy, a Grant Miller moved to Dallas, Texas, to paint-your-own work for Clayton Miller Carpet, his father’s pottery shop in hospitality carpet business. He has been Historic Down- very fortunate to work with President Bush town Brunswick. and his family as their family’s photog- First Friday and Amber Nolen ’04 (far right), works with a group rapher. He has covered other freelance of children and volunteers for Heart for Africa. the Shop Local events for Sarah Palin and events in movement are Washington, D.C. her pet causes, Calvin Williams of Brooklyn, N.Y., is pro- John Powell as is service to Meghan Henry Davis ’01 gram manager for Generational Alliance in of Leesburg is a department others through Washington, D.C. manager for the United States Marine her church, The Corps in Albany. He earned his master’s Chapel. She was featured in the cover 2005 degree in organizational leadership from story “20 Under Forty, Our Annual Celebra- Hanna Andrews Beall of LaGrange LaGrange College at Albany in 2010. tion of Young Leaders” in the Golden Isles, finished her doctorate in education from Heather Adkins Westad of Pine Mountain the magazine for Brunswick, St. Simons, Georgia Southern in late 2010. is teaching second grade at Park Elemen- Jekyll and Sea islands. 2006 tary School in Harris County. Katherine Tucker of Maegan Taylor 2008 Tuscaloosa, Ala., was Brass gradu- Rachel Samples of Jiaxing, Zhejiang, a featured craftsper- ated from China, is teaching oral English for the son in the November the Medical 2010-2011 school year in China. 2010 issue of Bir- College of mingham Magazine. Georgia in 2009 She always loved art December Lindsey Dias of Duluth is a paraprofes- and building things, 2010 with a sional in a kindergarten class at Peachtree but it took a variety of Katherine Tucker ’01 Master of Sci- Elementary School in Norcross. experiences to lead ence in Nurse Maegan Taylor Brass ’06 her to a career in ce- receives the Director’s Award Anesthesia. from MCG Nurse Anesthe- Sara Foshee Dyben of Palm Beach Gar- ramics. She is preparing to take her latest At the gradua- sia Program Director Jim dens, Fla., is a marketing coordinator for line of ceramic dishes to market. tion ceremony, Masiongale. HTL. she received 2002 not only the 2010 Jamie Goodman Ignanga-Moussirou of Director’s Award for the most outstanding Lauren Riddle de la Croix of Atlanta has Auburn, Ala., is a mental health associate student but also the Georgia Association been writing for weddingbee.com since at East Alabama Medical Center. of Nurse Anesthetist’s Award for Student last fall. She is also creating websites, of the Year. She served as the student Rachel Hoogacker Swords of Smiths Sta- president for the Georgia Association of tion, Ala., is a sales support specialist for Nurse Anesthetists while in school. She AFLAC in Columbus. is employed as a nurse anesthetist with 2004 Southern Crescent Anesthesia and lives in Newnan with her husband Matt. Amber Nolen of Alpharetta is the trip coordinator for Heart for Africa, a Christian Jeff and Suzanna Lewis Delaney ’07 live nonprofit public charity. Working alongside in LaGrange. They have three children, churches and children’s homes in Swazi- Clara Hope, Tripp Hudson and Brycen Jef- land, it is providing care and hope for a frey. He is a sales manager for American future for the children. Through short-term General. service trips, child sponsorship and large Jeff ’06 and Suzanna Lewis Delaney ’07 with fundraising programs, the group is working their children, Clara, Tripp and Brycen

COLUMNS, Spring 2011 23 c l a s s n o t e s c a l e n d a r including graphic design and photography, and is writing XHTML, PHP and MySQL for her customers. Her latest freelance job March 10–13, 17–19 is writing for Southern Weddings maga- ‘Dames at Sea’ Called the quintessential tap musical, zine. Her story on The Greenbrier as a “Dames at Sea” is the story of a theater honeymoon spot appeared in a late fall troupe whose big Broadway opening issue. She also is doing illustrations for the is moved to a ship because its theater magazine. gets torn down. Mona Kent, the star, becomes seasick and Ruby, the ingénue, Aaron Hill of Greensboro, N.C., is employed has to go on in her place. by Greensboro College as the offensive line coach and strength and conditioning coordinator. March 28 3D Journeys Lecture Kristen Shackleford of Carrollton is a regis- Coastal Georgia Photography tered nurse at Tanner Medical Center. John Lawrence, Art and Design

Tre Thrash of Hogansville is a teacher for April 12 CAFI Headstart in LaGrange. Epps Lecture Dr. Calvin Thomas Weddings and Engagements Work and Literary Theory Bettianne Hyde Grover ’50 to Robert Oliver Megan Anderson Carter ’09 and her husband, Cur- tis (Photo Courtesy of Axsys Design Photography) Harris in December 2010 April 16 Spring Visitation Day Spencer David King ’00 to Meg Gamble on tember 13, 2010. May 8, 2010 Deaths April 17 LaGrange College Singers Spring Lauren Elizabeth Mitchell ’06 to Michael Miss Jeanette Taylor ’43 Concert James Keyser Jr. on November 6, 2010 Mrs. Ruth Tucker Woodyard ’43 Mrs. Mary Mallet Carr ’44 Catherine Renee Hancock ’08 to Brett The Reverend Gilbert Steadham ’52 April 25 3D Journeys Lecture Daniel Garman on May 7, 2011 Mr. Lyndol Bolton ’54 Coastal Georgia Literature Mr. Guy Carlton Carter Jr. ’55 Cory Benjamin Matticola ’08 to Jennifer Dr. Anthony Wilson, English Mrs. Sandra Sivell Reames ’55 Rebecca Walker on January 1, 2011 Mrs. Eva Anderson Blankenship ’56 The Reverend Hilton Clark Estes ’56 April 29 Megan Elizabeth Anderson ’09 to Curtis Honor’s Day Carter on October 9, 2010 Mr. Donald Thomas DeLoach ’58 The Reverend Robert C. Leach ’59 Mrs. Jane Nixon Muir ’60 April 30 Births May Day To Angela Whitehead Head ’00 and Bobby Mrs. Ina Nell Carter Smith ’60 Dr. James Allen New ’64 ’00, a daughter, Ava Katherine, on July 25, May 19 2010 Mr. Vincent B. Shaffer ’66 Mr. Elvin Steve Hollis ’69 Nurses’ Pinning Ceremony To Karen Meyrath Shannon ’00 and Chris Mr. Charles Benjamin Cleaveland ’70 ’03, a daughter, Emery Lynn, on August 17, Mr. Charles Wayne Everstine ’77 May 20, 21 2010 Mr. Dewel B. Knowles Jr. ’80 Baccalaureate, Commencement Mr. Stuart Myron Pingel ’83 To Rachel Hoogacker Swords ’02 and Mr. Benjamin Stephen Juhan ’86 June 6 her partner, Kathy, a son, Gavin Dean, on Mrs. Valerie Fryer McDaniel ’92 UMC South Georgia Conference Dinner September 29, 2010 Dr. Roger Milliken H’92 Tifton First United Methodist Church Bishop Marion M. Edwards To Ryan McArthur ’03 and his wife, June 14 LeAnne, a daughter, Madison Kate, on UMC North Georgia Conference Dinner October 14, 2010 Classic Center, Athens To Dr. David Dycus ’05 and his wife, Brooke, a daughter, Kennedy Elizabeth, on August 31 October 4, 2010 Classes begin Opening Convocation To Jeff ’06 and Suzanna Lewis Delaney ’07, a son, Tripp Hudson, on February 10, October 21–23 2009, and a son, Brycen Jeffrey, on Sep- Homecoming

24 COLUMNS, Spring 2011 c a l e n d a r

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c l a s s b r i n g s o p e r a t o e l e m e n t a r y s t u d e n t s

While LaGrange literature usually portrays January In- terim Term as a month of “intense” study of a particular topic, students in this year’s Opera Experience class may consider that a gross understatement. The group had only three weeks to prepare performances for local elementary school students and the public. Their final product was “Giants, Witches, and Wolves… Oh My!” a show featuring children’s stories adapted into song and including selections from the musical “Into the Woods” and children’s operas “Little Red Riding Hood” and “Hansel and Gretel.” On an accelerated schedule, the class allowed students to enjoy a taste of opera and of life in a professional company, with a full slate of hourly rehearsals, costume fittings and choreography sessions. But the course also came with a twist: prepare elementary students for the production and engage with them afterwards. “We created materials for area teachers and went into the schools, where we talked to the students about things like what is an opera, a composer, a libretto,” said class member Jocelyn Martin, a junior music major. Produced through the collaborative efforts of the depart- ments of Music and Theatre Arts, the show came to life with three performances in late January. And judging from the at- tentive silence punctuated by loud laughter, LaGrange students did their work both before and during the performance. Jocelyn and other cast members were swarmed by young admirers in the lobby afterward. “To be a part of that and to see the children laughing and just enjoying it, that was just wonderful,” she said.