FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION THE MAGAZINE OF JUDSON COLLEGE MARION, 2016

2016 CELEBRATING 175 YEARS

Thank you for your advocacy and support of Judson College! Your investment in the college pays daily dividends in the lives of students. As you read through this issue of Judson Today, you will learn about the successes of Judson students. You will read the stories of faculty, alumnae and friends who are making a difference. And, you will find plans to keep and secure the college for generations to come. Building on her first 175 years of Christian higher education for women, Judson College has developed a strategic plan to prepare well future generations of students for leadership and service. Through Vision 2020, Judson sets a course to strengthen academic programs; renovate and expand campus facilities; and ensure the institution’s financial security for today and the future. Now in its second year, Blessed Light – The Campaign for Judson College will fund the implementation of Vision 2020. Campaign plans are to achieve a Base Goal of $13,050,000 and, then, the Challenge Goal of $20,400,000. With gifts and pledges nearing $10,000,000, I am pleased to report that the campaign is making good progress! This year, Judson is privileged to have five students from the Kachin Province of Myanmar (Burma). These amazing young women are spiritual descendants of those who first heard the gospel from Ann and Adoniram Judson. The students are studying Education, Music and English. When their studies are completed, they will return to teach and work at the Kachin Theological College and Seminary. We are pleased to be a part of their education—an education made possible by the generosity of alumnae and friends like you. Judson is now in the second year of offering coursework at the Lovelady Center in Birmingham, a faith-based rehabilitation center that is among the Alabama Department of Corrections’ most effective Supervised Re-entry Program (SRP). At the Lovelady Center, women are given an opportunity to prepare for re-entry into society after their lives have been adversely affected by broken relationships, addiction, and—in many cases—incarceration. As said by one student, “I had dreamed of attending college all of my life…. God, through Judson’s generosity, restored my sense of purpose again.” The contributions of friends like you have made this opportunity possible. Let us be found faithful in the keeping and strengthening of Judson College for future generations.

Sincerely,

David E. Potts President

2 2016 graduating class of 2015 JUDSON 2016 2 Rose Sunday is 100

4 Blessed Light–The Campaign for Judson College Editor Terry Smith Morgan 6 "I Saw a Need": Charles F. Dunkin Editorial Assistant Charlotte S. Clements, ‘77 7 Getting Things Done: Fay Kelsoe Contributing Writers Mary Amelia Taylor, ‘09 8 "Together We can Accomplish Really Great Things" Charlotte S. Clements, ‘77

9 Living Her Dream Photographers Autumn Kovach Bill Mathews 10 Empowering Women for Purposeful Lives Kristin Storment Mary Amelia Taylor 11 Blessed Light: Alumnae Division McKenzie Wilton, '19

Layout & Design 12 How You Can Help Judson Scott Camp

JudsonToday is published by the Office of Please send address corrections to: Judson College is an equal opportunity institution and Institutional Advancement, Judson College, Office of Institutional Advancement, does not unlawfully discriminate in its educational and 302 Bibb Street, Marion, Alabama 36756. Judson College, 302 Bibb Street, Marion, employment policies on the basis of race, color, sex, age, disability, or national or ethnic origin. Distributed free of charge to alumnae Alabama 36756. and friends of the college.

2016 1 Century-old tradition links past and present

n August 30, students, faculty, and staff The 100th Rose Sunday service at Siloam members at Judson celebrated the 100th was marked by attention to the legacy of ‘I am constantly reminded of Judson’s anniversary of Rose Sunday. Judson’s founders and the faithfulness of O Begun in 1915, the ceremony of uniqueness both in its founding and God and many generations of Judson faculty, processing from Jewett Hall to Siloam its faithfulness to the vision which staff, and students in continuing that legacy. Baptist Church celebrated its origin in a brought it into existence. Judson has In his remarks, Judson President David practice begun in the early years of the E. Potts remembered the “miraculous” ways magnificently navigated the changeable college by Milo Parker Jewett, Judson’s first that Judson’s founders “pushed back against President. Each Sunday during his tenure, winds of culture by standing firmly and adverse and prevailing convictions of their Dr. Jewett gathered Judson students in the unapologetically on its commitment to culture to establish Judson and other work of foyer of their residence with a tapping of be a place of Lux et Veritas.” the Kingdom.” his cane and invited them to walk with him Milo P. Jewett and members of Siloam to church at Siloam, whose members were Baptist Church worked to establish a instrumental in the founding of their college. Rev. John Nicholson, Pastor, rigorous institution of higher education This tradition evolved into the for women in a time when women’s higher ceremony the Judson community observes education was a radical idea. Perhaps even today. This year, underclassmen continued more radical was their choice to name a time-honored practice of weaving and their college after Ann Hasseltine Judson, holding long ivy chains along the brick Association President Hannah Patterson of America’s first woman to serve as a foreign pathway in front of Judson’s Jewett Hall. Mountain Brook, Ala., led the campus-wide missionary. During the 1830s and 1840s, Senior Class President Emily Dickerson of procession through this ivy-lined path to early Baptist churches and associations in Madison, Ala., and Student Government Siloam. Alabama were divided over the issue of

2 2016 whether missions was a necessary endeavor of recognized that God has done much and the church. Scathing condemnations of each It was a great honor to be able to play will be faithful to perform new miraculous side were recorded by both missionary and a key role in Judson’s 100th Rose works in the future. Potts encouraged anti-missionary groups. Hosea Holcombe, the congregation, faculty, and students Sunday. I feel so privileged to have a champion of missions in central Alabama, to recognize their own parts in God’s criticized the anti-missionary Baptists: been able to serve Judson in the cele- continuing redemptive work: “Let us ask “They…have often boasted that they did no bration of one of her many milestones. God to open our eyes to His miraculous harm. But the ground of their condemnation work in the everyday that we might be agents will be that they did no good.” Perhaps of His healing (both seen and unseen) in this Emily Dickerson, taking their cue from such writings, as well college, in Marion, and around the world.” as Potts’ oft-quoted Matthew 25, Judson’s Senior Class President Though some outward trappings of founders significantly named their college the tradition have evolved over time, the for a woman celebrated throughout the 19th celebration of Rose Sunday serves to remind century in novels, essays, and sketches as the college community of its past and its made, and will continue to make, incredible someone who unflinchingly followed God’s vision for the future. Just as it reminds us of contributions to their communities and to personal call toward “the greater good”. who we are, it motivates us to stride toward the Kingdom. Potts noted that, 177 years later, the the future with joyful trust in the faithfulness The Judson Singers performed Mary Judson College community is still “doing of God and with determination to continue Lynn Lightfoot’s “A Jubilant Song”, good”. As they have invested in the lives of the Founders’ legacy with our own gifts, exhorting the congregation and “all the school children in Perry County, in self-help energies, and resources. J earth” to “Sing to the Lord a new jubilant housing initiatives, in conservation of the song.” The text, adapted from Psalm 96, area’s natural beauty, Judson students have

2016 3 “Mother Judson, Alma Mater, we would win life’s glorious fight. We, like thee, would live for service–like thee, send forth blessed light.”

hese words from Judson College’s Alma ered viewing stands. The building addition ments to student rooms include updated Mater inspired the name for the College’s will contain classrooms, teaching tech- lighting, new flooring, new ceiling tiles, new comprehensive capital campaign: Blessed nology, faculty offices, a concession area, doors, and new color palettes. Suite bathroom TLight: The Campaign for Judson College. restrooms, a locker room, and lighting for improvements include new cabinetry, coun- Judson entered the Public Phase of the the arena. The building will be completed tertops, mirrors, and lighting. Blessed Light Campaign at an event held in in time for Fall 2016 classes to begin. Sarah Fowler, Director of Residence Judson’s Archibald Hall on June 11, 2015. Improved pasture and arena fencing Life, believes the improvements will enhance Dr. David Potts told Judson’s friends and have been completed, as well as the im- incoming students’ experience and increase supporters at the gathering that the College is provement of the arena and road surfaces. Judson’s appeal for prospective students. “We the most unique institution of higher educa- Final additions will include bleachers, land- are very appreciative of the hard work, time, tion in America today. “The purpose of this scaping, and a brick entrance sign naming and dedication that Gary Wyatt and Wyatt Campaign is to keep this special place – this the Piper Equine Center. Construction put into this project. I think our blessed light–in the Black Belt of Alabama for “I can't wait to teach in the new classroom students are excited to see the advancements future generations.” space!” said Dr. Pamela Mitcham, Head of of the College and are thankful that others National co-chairs of the Campaign are the Equine Science Department. “Having care about their success.” Charles F. Dunkin and Fay Pridgen Kelsoe. the instructional space right there at the barn Freshmen Holly Brock of Silverhill, Campaign honorary co-chairs are Paul and is going to prove truly beneficial to the way Ala., and Jessica Thompson of Milton, Fla., Shirley Piper. James Sanford serves as Trustee our students learn. The close proximity to explained the renovation’s benefits from a Division Chair, and Lesley Sheek serves as the horses opens up so many possibilities for student perspective: “All the bright colors are Faculty & Staff Division Chair. Dr. Dorothy learning that a traditional classroom doesn’t making freshmen stay positive about being Burdeshaw and Dr. Cynthia Gore are serving provide. This will really help our students away from home,” said Brock. Thompson as co-chairs of the Alumnae Campaign, and practically apply the science and theories noted: “It feels homey and spacious, and is the Roy Barnett and Catesby Jones are serving as they learn, which will greatly enhance their perfect environment to make friends and be Judson Area co-chairs. academic experience.” able to enjoy the school as a first year.” The campaign will provide funds for Mary Kilpatrick, a senior Equine Science Other facility improvements will include the facility construction and renovation, major and member of Judson’s IHSA Eques- renovation of Julia Barron Residence Hall, annual operating support, endowment, as trian team, expressed her excitement about the completion of the Mary Katherine Archibald well as capital debt reduction. The Cam- center’s progress. “I think it is awesome! The Blount Student Center (“The J”), updates paign has a Base Goal of $13,050,000 and classrooms will be a benefit, the locker rooms to Robert Bowling Library, and renovation a Challenge Goal of $20,400,000. To date, will help the team, and the new sand is easier of Riddle Gymnasium. The Campaign also nearly $10 million has been raised in gifts on the horses and the riders. Even though this includes plans for various campus grounds and pledges. is my last year, I’m excited for it in the long updates, restoration of the President’s Home run for everybody.” and further campus information technology Gifts at Work Last summer, Wyatt Construction reno- upgrades. J With the help of gift support and the vated Anne Kirtley Residence Hall, the fresh- work of many friends, the College has made man residence hall. Workers accomplished significant progress toward the completion of the improvements on an expedited schedule, the third and final phase of the Piper Equine which enabled the College to begin the Fall Center, as well as the installation of outdoor 2015 semester with a revitalized space to wel- lighting for the softball and soccer fields. come freshmen into the Judson community. Phase three of the equine center consists In addition to unseen but critical improve- of an education building addition and cov- ments like new ventilation systems, improve-

4 2016 Campaign goals How will the goals be achieved? The Campaign’s base and challenge cash goals are $11,050,000 and $17,400,000. Planned/Estate Gifts are $2,000,000 to $3,000,000. Campaign Grand Totals are $13,050,000 and $20,400,000. The goals will be achieved through a nine division structure as follows:

Campaign Base Challenge Division Goal Goal Trustees/Former Trustees $ 2,000,000 $ 3,000,000 Faculty/Staff 150,000 200,000 Alumnae 2,500,000 4,000,000 Judson Area Friends 150,000 200,000 Birmingham Friends 1,500,000 2,500,000 Other Friends 750,000 1,500,000 Foundations/Corporations 1,500,000 3,150,000 Alabama Baptist State Conv. 2,500,000 2,850,000 Cash Totals 11,050,000 17,400,000 Planned Gifts/Estate Gifts 2,000,000 3,000,000 Grand Total $ 13,050,000 $ 20,400,000

How will the income from the campaign be used? Blessed Light – The Campaign for Judson College Base Goal is $13,050,000, and the Challenge Goal is $20,400,000 to be raised in three-year commitments to fund the following priorities: 1. Construction and Renovation of Facilities 2. Operating Support 3. Debt Reduction 4. Endowment

Achieving the Base Goal will provide the indicated amounts for each priority: Construction/Renovation of Facilities...... $5,000,000 Operating Support...... $5,300,000 Debt Reduction...... $750,000 Endowment...... $2,000,000

Achieving the Challenge Goal will produce the following additional funding:

Construction/Renovation of Facilities...... $5,600,000 Debt Reduction...... $750,000 Endowment...... $1,000,000

2016 5 “I Saw a Need” Charles F. Dunkin, known as “Charlie” by many, has a propensity for helping, particularly at Judson Charles F. Dunkin

traightforward and unassuming, Charles Though he keeps a full schedule as CEO As national co-chair of Blessed Light: F. Dunkin, known as “Charlie” by of Dunkin-Lewis, Dunkin finds time for The Campaign for Judson College, Dunkin many, has a propensity for helping, other pursuits. One such commitment is encourages others to support Judson with Sparticularly at Judson. A conversation his service on Judson College’s Board of their gifts—both because it’s practical and with him about his involvements at Judson Trustees, of which he’s been a member for because it’s ultimately about something big- is punctuated by statements like “it was over 20 years. ger than financial support. something I felt was needed” or “you see a He joined the board in 1995 and has “No college or institution today can need, and you meet it.” served as Chairman of the Board (2008- survive and prosper without the financial Though it’s a simple strategy, Dunkin 2010) and as Chair of the Building and support of alumnae and friends. And from understands that his efforts to support Jud- Grounds Committee. He currently serves the very beginning, people have made sac- son serve a greater mission: helping students on the Executive Committee. Though rifices and donations to their institutions… become the people they are going to be. committee work is hard, sometimes tedious because what you wind up doing is helping Born in Suttle, Alabama, just a few miles work, Dunkin says he enjoys it because of young people get their feet on the ground from Marion, Dunkin joined the Armed the reward it offers: “I enjoy my involve- and get a good solid education so they can Services in 1953 and served a three-year ment at Judson more than any other outside achieve their very best after school and in term in the contiguous United States and thing I do. I get a thrill out of seeing those life. It’s all about the students.” Alaska. During his military service term, he young people that are going to make good Dunkin notes that deciding to partici- married Gladys Hale, a Sprott native he’d progress, following some of them through, pate in the work that “keeps” Judson for attended high school with; this year, the and seeing what kind of citizens they’re go- future generations is a simple one. “It’s just duo have been married for 62 years. ing to be after they finish school.” a part of life; we just have to get the story In 1956, Dunkin moved to Birming- One way he’s invested in the lives of out to people—so many of them, if they see ham and worked as sporting goods buyer Judson students is by supporting-and the need, they will participate according to and merchandise manager for the sporting lending his name to-the Charles F. Dunkin the dictates of their hearts.” Dunkin’s work goods department of Moore Handley, a Athletic Park on Judson’s campus—an in telling and supporting that story, and his hardware company. In 1960, he joined Joe addition valuable in recruitment and reten- matter-of-fact manner of seeing needs and Lewis and Associates, a factory representa- tion of student-athletes. When the College meeting them, is an inspiration to those tive company in sporting goods. During began plans for a new athletic park in the who would support Judson as it “sends forth the following 55 years, he experienced and early 2000s, Dunkin, then secretary of the blessed light.” J aided much growth in the company, eventu- College Board of Trustees, “saw a need” ally buying the company from Lewis and and stepped forward to help. Work began giving it a new name: Dunkin-Lewis, Inc. on the east side of campus, and the Charles Dunkin-Lewis is one of the oldest and larg- F. Dunkin Athletic Park was dedicated in est manufacturer’s representative agencies in May of 2006. The now beautifully- the country, serving factories in the fishing, landscaped park includes a softball field, hunting, and boating fields throughout walking track, soccer field, and the most of the United States. College’s Equine Center. 6 2016 FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION Up With People show there and was inspired to interview for a spot on its cast. She applied, was accepted, and spent the next year traveling internationally with one of Up With People’s Getting Things five international casts. Kelsoe’s consciousness of cause-and-effect in her own life, coupled with her identifica- tion with a story larger than her own, compels her to provide similar opportunities for others. Three years ago, remembering her debt to her aunt who introduced her to Judson, Fay and her husband Jim established the W.S. and Sadie Pridgen Newell Endowed Scholarship, a Judson scholarship fund for students from the DONE!Fay Kelsoe is a “doer”. Practical and straightforward, the national Big Oak Girls Ranch. “The opportunity to go to Judson was provided for me by my Aunt co-chair of Judson’s Blessed Light Campaign admits that she runs Sadie and Uncle Billy,” she says. “Because on “getting things done.” going to Judson was such a meaningful experience for me, it’s an opportunity I would er life with her family and community in like to provide for others.” Memphis, Tennessee, reflects this ready Another way Fay embraces opportuni- spirit. She and her husband Jim have ties to make Judson available to other young Hthree children: Jacob, Cooper, and Katie, women is through her giving and leadership who are now in graduate and undergraduate in Judson’s Blessed Light campaign. This same programs at the . After theme of gratitude for the work of others- homeschooling all three children over a period -and responsibility in continuing it—inspires of 13 years, Fay now fills roles as a board her words to fellow alumnae: “We need to member of the Memphis Thunder Aquatic continue to give the opportunity for women Club and as a Sunday School teacher to 11th that we were given, because--just look what it’s and 12th graders at Bellevue Baptist Church. done in my life. I just want that opportunity She punctuates this busy schedule with trips to always be provided for other women.” to college swim meets to cheer on her two She talks about the responsibility each re- youngest children, who are both on the UA cipient of a legacy like Judson’s has in continu- swim team. ing it. “I guess the song is right—“If Judson Her propensity to tackle involvements means as much to you as Judson means to head-on is not confined to her adult life. As a me….” There’ll always be one—if. That’s a Judson student from 1979 to 1983, she added big “if” because you’ve got to be willing to do to her studies as a Business and Computer something with that “if”. Again crediting her Technology major such campus involvements Alma Mater with lessons which motivate her as SGA member, Barron Dorm Council to be a “doer”, Kelsoe says: “That’s one thing member, Judson Ambassador, and ballet that I think Judson did teach me: you don’t teacher for children in the Marion commu- helped me grow--not just academically and just sit around and you don’t wait for someone nity. intellectually, but spiritually. [I grew] because else to step up and do what you can actually Though many people are busy and heavily of the personal care of faculty and staff, which do. YOU step up and do it. It’ll get done.” involved in their communities, Fay’s remark- I realized many years later is one of the most As the alumnae campaign has now begun, able trait is that she’s not just a “doer”; she’s unique things about Judson. While I was Kelsoe issues a challenge for other Judson a “doer” with a strong sense of legacy and there, the most important things for me were graduates: “If I had a challenge for anyone purpose. She readily acknowledges others’ the friendships that I made, the times my who graduated from Judson, it’s to look roles in her own success and embraces the role friends and I shared, and the traditions that back on the years they spent there, and their she can play in the success of those who come no one will understand unless they’re a Judson experiences there, and to step up to the plate. after her. Girl. Those are treasured memories.” Judson has given so much to us, and it is now She attributes her decision to attend She also credits her Judson education time for us to repay Judson. My hope is that Judson to the influence of her aunt, Sadie with the confidence she had to apply for what we won’t wait for someone else to do it--that Pridgen Newell, who was a member of the would become a “great growing experience”: we’ll see what it is we can do, and that we will Judson Board of Trustees when she introduced in 1985, she joined the cast of Up With give back to Judson.” Fay to Judson. “Aunt Sadie didn’t attend People, a global educational organization fo- We can’t help but be inspired by her Judson, but she fell in love with Judson and cused on service-learning and musical perfor- example. J everything that it stood for.” Fay did, too. Of mance. Fay was working on a master’s degree her own Judson experience, she says, “Judson at when she attended an 2016 7 “ gave a presentation with senior education ma- Together We can jor Heather Waterhouse at the regional KDE meeting. She loves the way that the small atmosphere at Judson enables her to “coach” her students one-on-one, and she encourages Accomplish Really her students to do the same for their peers through the KDE Mentoring Program that ” Sheek and her colleagues Gwen McCorquo- Great Things Dr. Lesley Sheek dale and Robert Metty supervise. She often asks difficult things of her students, trusting f we all just do a little bit, together we can that they’ll have the confidence to tackle accomplish really great things.” large projects, guide their peers, challenge the When she talks about Blessed Light: the status quo, and always do their best work. ICampaign for Judson College, In this, she leads by example. In addi- Dr. Lesley Sheek always emphasizes team- tion to her teaching roles, Sheek is Judson’s work. Dr. Terry Morgan, Vice President for Teacher Certification Officer, the Chair of the Institutional Advancement, and Charlotte Honors Program Committee, National Vice Clements, Director of Development, recog- President of KDE and co-advisor of Judson’s nized Sheek’s ability to organize and inspire KDE chapter, and a member of numer- people toward a collective goal and asked her ous committees, including Judson’s Teacher to chair the Faculty and Staff Division of Jud- Education Committee and Teacher Advisory son’s capital campaign. Sheek was delighted Council, the Certification Officers and Other to accept: “I really hoped that we could come Personnel in Education (COPE) group, and together as a group-- everybody putting in a the National Field Directors Forum. In each little bit—and accomplish a great outcome. of these roles, Sheek uses her powerful organi- I was thrilled that we met and surpassed our zational skills, attention to detail, and passion goal!” for teamwork to empower others to make a As Associate Professor of Education difference with their own gifts. at Judson and an involved member of the This is an example to her colleagues, too. Judson community, Sheek is used to working In the same way that Sheek makes long-term with others. Her great professional passions Dr. Lesley Sheek investments of her gifts through one-on-one are teaching in the classroom and discussing mentoring and challenging work on com- methods and research with colleagues. mittees, as Blessed Light Faculty and Staff As she completed the final eary of her Division Chair she encouraged her colleagues Early Childhood Education Ph.D. at the Faculty & Staff to make investments to ensure that their col- University of Alabama at Birmingham and lege’s future would long outlast their tenures. planned to return to elementary school class- Division Giving “It was so exciting to me to get to be the rooms, she was painfully aware of how much cheerleader for [the Blessed Light Cam- she would miss the lively discussions she’d Base Goal: $150,000 paign]!” Sheek articulately and passionately had with fellow students about research and called upon her colleagues to demonstrate current educational issues. She visited Judson Challenge Goal: $200,000 their connection to Judson’s mission, believ- and found what she knew she’d been looking ing that a campus-wide commitment creates for. Her conversation with Judson President Contributions to the Campaign a vitally important synergy. “No matter what David Potts about “Knowledge and Faith for our titles are, we all love this place, and we a Purposeful Life” resonated deeply with her. to date: over $250,000 all want it to thrive…, so if we believe in this “It was that ‘Purpose’ that stood out to me- mission—this ‘Knowledge and Faith for a -Yes! That's exactly what I wanted!” She was Purposeful Life’—it’s our job to continue it!” elated at the prospect of getting to employ her Sheek shares her hopes for the Blessed gifts for both classroom teaching and collegial We're powerfully equipping our students here Light Campaign: “I'm so hopeful that the learning to encourage her students to live and to follow their callings in a more holistic way campaign will aesthetically improve the living work purposefully. than we could if we were any other school.” spaces for our students, the student union Sheek joined the Education Department She says her role as a teacher feels most area for the students so that it's more lively at Judson in 2008 and fell more deeply in love like being a “coach.” She looks for ways her for them…so that there's more to appeal with the College’s close-knit atmosphere and students can embrace their talents, challenges to the audience that we're trying to invite, emphasis on faith, which she felt enabled her them to practice their skills, and helps them because we know we have something special to freely and adequately prepare her students find opportunities to succeed. For example, to offer. It really just feels so hopeful to me. I well to “go out and change the world”. “I following a history of outstanding Judson can't wait until we reach our goal!” J think that there's something neat about the student presentations at regional Kappa Delta opportunities that every student has here. Epsilon (KDE) meetings, in November, Sheek

8 2016 rom a very young age, Judson junior Mount Vernon’s Archaeology Department Marianna Nichols nurtured a passion for on a project at a slave cemetery dig site. archaeology and historical interpretation. She describes with a grin the “very labor- FShe chuckles to remember childhood trips intensive” nature of the excavation work to the Muscle Shoals Public Library to check she did: “I was down on my knees with a out books on “Egyptian mummies! Not even trowel, I got a huge blister from using a anything normal!”, and frequent family visits shovel-it was so COOL!” to Colonial Williamsburg further encou- Her Mount Vernon internship isn’t raged her to see history as a living discipline. Nichols’s first time to seize opportuni- “I should probably have realized then that I ties she has encountered during her time wasn’t really cut out for an ‘ordinary’ job,” at Judson. Earlier this year, her paper she says. “Pompeii: Archaeo-logy and the Life of a She didn’t want an ordinary college City” won the award for best undergradu- experience, either. Homeschooled through ate conference 10th grade, the Iuka, Mississippi native was paper at the regional Phi Alpha Theta Ala- finishing her junior and senior years at bama Regional Conference at the Universi- Covenant Christian School in Tuscumbia ty of Alabama at Huntsville. She also spent when she met a Judson admissions represen- several weeks in Italy last summer, taking a tative, who invited her to Scholarship Day. Marianna Nichols non-consortium course on Dante with Nichols added Judson to her college list, Western Kentucky University’s KIIS which included the University of Mississippi (Kentucky Institute for International and the College of William and Mary in Studies) Program. Virginia. She visited Judson, and “really liked Having finished her history courses, it. The more I thought about it, the more I LIVING HER Nichols is learning to navigate among thought, ‘a smaller school is probably best for classes in the Religious Studies Depart- me.’ I wish I could say it was a ment. She excitedly mentioned the pros- sudden great burst of passion, like, ‘YES! pect of getting to work more closely with This is where I’m supposed to be!’ but it was Dr. Eric Gilchrest, Head of the Religious a pretty calm decision—‘I don’t think I’m Studies Department, as they design a ready for a big school yet. I just want to stay potential independent study course about with something small—it’s what I’m used archaeology in Israel for Short Term 2016. to, what I’m comfortable with.’” Nichols DREAM After three years of study at Judson, remembers that level of academic challenge Nichols says that her love for Judson has was perhaps the most important factor in relationship presented her with a once-in-a- grown in ways she didn’t expect. She men- her decision to enroll at Judson. “Are you lifetime opportunity this past summer when tions friendships with classmates (even going to challenge me? Are you going to her advisor, Dr. Joe Frazer, Head of the students of other disciplines), mentoring offer classes that are actually going to prepare History Department, told her about an relationships with faculty, and the small at- me for what I want to do? I felt confident I internship opportunity at Mount Vernon, mosphere as unique benefits of the Judson would receive that at Judson--and I have.” George Washington’s estate in Virginia, and experience. When asked about the distinct Though she initially enrolled as a biology encouraged her to apply. She secured the value of a Judson education, she answers: major, she found herself “drifting toward his- coveted internship and spent the “surreal” “Honestly, not having to worry about guys! tory” as her childhood dreams continued to months of June and July as a historic inter- Judson being a women’s college helps me pursue her. Now in her third year at Judson, preter on Mount Vernon’s Pioneer Farm, a to be dedicated--to focus on myself. At the History and Religious Studies major con- four-acre site that represents the over 3,000 larger universities, you may think you’ll fidently states: “I want to do graduate work acres that the nation’s first president culti- have more social opportunities, and while in archaeology and anthropology with a vated in the latter half of the 18th century. that may initially seem like a good thing, specific focus on ancient religions.” Nichols’s Nichols and the six other Historic Trades I like Judson because, again, it encourages career dream is to become a college professor interns in the George Washington Entrepre- you to focus on academics. I LIKE that. I who can travel with her students to historic neur Internship program dressed in period also like the fact that it’s all about women, sites to study archaeology and anthropology. clothing and performed demonstrations at about standing on your own two feet.” As Nichols attributes much of her success at each of the farm’s sites, pausing to speak with she approaches her final year at Judson, Judson to her relationships with faculty. visitors about the farm’s history and present Nichols seems to be ready to do just that. “I really value professor-student relationships operation. “Now, if you were to ask me, ‘Are you much more than I thought I would when I Nichols didn’t just realize a childhood ready for a bigger school?’ I would answer, enrolled at Judson. If I were only one student dream (being an historic interpreter) this ‘Absolutely. Definitely.’ I want to go to a in a class of 500 taking a freshman level summer; she also forged new professional bigger university for graduate school, and course [at a large university], I wouldn’t have connections and obtained valuable archaeo- Judson definitely prepared me for that.” J been able to develop the type of mutual re- logy experience. When she wasn’t working at spect I have with my instructors.” One such the Pioneer Farm, Nichols volunteered with 2016 9 The Lovelady Center and Judson College Empowering Women for Purposeful Lives It is our mission to help women rebuild their lives and walk forward with faith-driven hope for a future as a contributing member of our community.

n August of 2014, Judson began a partner- partner with and further the ministry of the then the unthinkable became my reality: ship with the Lovelady Center, a Birming- Lovelady Center by providing women with Judson College opened its doors on the ham organization devoted to helping a quality education that will empower them Lovelady campus. They helped me acquire Iwomen re-enter society after incarceration, to serve God and contribute to their families documents, complete paperwork, furnished substance abuse, or escape from domestic and communities in greater ways.” textbooks, and brought in godly professors violence. The Lovelady Center offers a variety Now in its second year, Judson’s partner- who cared about me and my education. All of services including housing, meals, sub- ship with the Lovelady Center offers 100- that I needed to provide was a pen, a piece of stance abuse treatment, counseling, job place- and 200-level General Education courses paper and a heart and mind ready to learn. ment, career training, parenting guidance, to residents of the Lovelady Center. Last I became a college student because of Judson’s and personal budgeting skills. In a statement academic year, 97 Lovelady students were en- belief in Christian education for women and similar to Judson’s own Mission and Vision rolled in various courses including: Business, because they chose to provide sacrificially for statements, the Lovelady Center writes: “It Criminal Justice, English, History, Math, me to attend such an amazing college! I have is our mission to help women rebuild their Psychology, and Religious Studies. taken several core courses toward my degree: lives and walk forward with faith-driven hope Jennifer, a current Judson/Lovelady two classes in World History, Psychology and for a future as a contributing member of our student, describes the transformative effects English; I have made straight A's in all of my community.” of God’s work through the Lovelady Center college courses. As a result of this blessing Susan Jones, Judson Senior Vice President and its Judson partnership in her own life. provided through Judson’s generosity, I now and Dean of Students, notes the alignment She writes, "Never could I have imagined have a full-time job, a vehicle and, most im- of the Lovelady partnership with Judson’s the blessings that I have received since arriving portantly, an intimate relationship with Jesus mission: “Like Judson College, the Lovelady at Lovelady.... I had always desired to attend Christ." J Center understands the transformative nature college, but that seemed absolutely impossible not only of education, but of a relationship to me because of my past, my lack of faith in with Christ. We are delighted to be able to my ability to learn, my lack of funds—but

10 2016 The Alumnae of Judson College have heard the “bugle call” of their beloved alma mater in response to Blessed Light – The Campaign for Judson College. Dr. Dorothy Burdeshaw ’51 and Dr. Cynthia McCaleb Gore ’73 are serving as the Alumnae Division Co-Chairs along with approximately 70 other alumnae serving in leadership roles as section chairs, vice chairs, and class chairs. The alumnae division has a base goal of $2,500,000 and a challenge goal of $4,000,000. The Alumnae Campaign Kick-Off event was held on campus, January 23rd. A number of section chairs, vice chairs, and class chairs came together Alumnae Division to sign letters to their class mates. A special touch that went along with that effort was the writing of personal notes on those letters. When folding and stuffing the envelopes for mailing, the staff noticed that some didn’t even put their name, just “your big sis” or “your little sis”. How very special that Like a bugle we can do that. Additionally, we had approximately 20 class chairs living around the country who weren’t able to come to campus that day but wanted to be involved, so we boxed up their class letters, sent them to our alumnae call to battle, for signing, and note writing, and mailing. One of our more senior alumnae commented that she was “so glad to be taken off the shelf and asked to do something that she could do”. As always, Judson girls rise to the occasion to waking echoes serve their alma mater! far and near… We look forward to a victory celebration on J Day, April 9th. J

2016 11 How Can You Help Judson s we begin 2016, we are reminded that monetary gifts to Judson are an important part of keeping Judson for future generations. Even small gifts from alumnae, if given consistently, contribute Ato the College’s total percentage of alumnae giving—a figure that is often requested by foundations and other non-alumnae donors considering major gifts to the College. It also bears remembering, however, that there are additional, equally important ways to give. Some very effective ways to give to Judson are easily achievable, but they are not often considered conventional ways to “give.” However, they are needed in the recruitment of students and raising of support for Judson. An important opportunity for alumnae and advocates of Judson is to promote Judson by intentionally and consistently developing relationships with people and businesses in their own communities. We’ve gathered some realizable, yet effective ways, for alumnae The Anne Kirtley Chapter of the Judson College Alumnae Association recently redecorated the and friends to give to Judson using their time, resources, and talents old book store in the student center for use as a meeting space for student organizations. right where they are.

Ways to help in student Ways to help Judson financially recruitment • Consider a monthly gift to the Annual Fund or another area of support. See www.judson.edu/giving-to-judson. Even small gifts • Get to know local church and school representatives, and talk given consistently add up easily over time and contribute to the about Judson with them. total percentage of giving. • Take a local guidance counselor or two to lunch, and talk with • Think about ways you can apply what you do professionally them about Judson and what their students are looking for in to help with ongoing projects at Judson. Whether it’s framing colleges. Pass that information along to the Admissions Office! artwork for the Kirtley Hall lobby or other needs, you can use • Invite a Judson admissions representative to a school or church your time and talents to help minimize Judson’s expenses—and where you have influence. build relationships with current students! Be in contact with the • Offer to host admissions representatives who are working college Alumnae or Development office staff, who can help direct your fairs or visiting schools in your area. Call Admissions at (800) 447- gifts, talents, or time to projects where they are most needed. 9472 to coordinate calendars. • Find out if your employer or that of your friends or family • Get to know high schoolers and their families in your church and members is looking for opportunities to give to a nonprofit other community organizations to which you belong. Talk with organization. Many companies encourage their employees to them about their college plans and career goals. give to nonprofits through matching gift and fundraising match • Invest in the lives of 11-12 grade girls by teaching a Sunday School programs. Talk about Judson, and take time to fill out matching class or hosting a Bible study for them at your church or home. gift paperwork, if your employer participates. A little extra effort • Be on the lookout for community scholarships, and share your can maximize your giving to Judson. findings with local high schoolers you know. Talk about Judson! • Use your networking system to help Judson graduates find jobs in 95% of Judson students receive financial aid, which covers an your community. Encourage them to give back to Judson, too. average of 85% of their educational costs. • Pray that God would continue to provide for Judson. Enlist the • Bring prospective students to Judson. The Judson Admissions prayers of your friends and fellow church members. Office hosts preview days for students—visit www.judson.edu/ • Stay in touch with Judson by following news on the Judson website calendar for dates and times. Don’t forget the impact of a private (www.judson.edu) and social media. Alumnae can visit visit, as well. Schedule a time to visit with the Admissions Office. www.judson.edu/get-involved to update contact information, sign up for the Ivy Chain, and find other giving ideas. Visit www.judson.edu/get-involved to learn more about joining Alumnae Ambassadors, writing Ivy Notes, and contributing to other active alumnae-sponsored programs.

These are only a few ways that alumnae and constituents can give intentionally and creatively. Remember that every gift, whether monetary or otherwise—and whether large or small—, communicates, “There’ll always be a Judson.”

12 2016 A Legacy of Giving

A Living Legacy... Elizabeth Holland Hutchins Our lives and our legacy are intertwined with the persons and Class of 1977 organizations with which we have shared our lives. Our legacy lives on in those whom we love and are invested. It is very important to me to know that my financial Ways to Give There are many ways to support Judson, both during and after your support for Judson won't lifetime. When you give a planned gift to Judson College you will have stop at my death. By the opportunity to be recognized as a member of the Covenant Society along with others who financially support Judson’s mission of equipping including Judson in my future leaders through Christian higher education for young women. estate plan, I can provide Planned gifts are a wonderful way to extend your legacy of supporting Judson even after you are no longer here, and/or to recognize and honor for that support to continue. It is a simple others by making memorial gifts. way to demonstrate my gratitude for all Bequest through your Will the opportunities I was given as a Judson We hope you’ll consider including a gift to Judson College in your will or living trust. Called a charitable bequest, this type of gift offers these student and the impact the College main benefits: had on my life. • Simplicity. A bequest can be made by including just a few sentences in your will or trust. • Flexibility. Because you are not actually making a gift until after your lifetime, you can change your mind at any time. Charitable Gift Annuity • Versatility. You can structure the bequest to leave a specific type of If you’d like to support Judson’s mission and receive steady payments property or amount of money, make the gift contingent on certain during your retirement years, a charitable gift annuity may be right for events, or leave a percentage of your estate to the college. you. Through a simple contract, you agree to make a donation of cash, • Tax Relief If your estate is subject to estate tax, your estate is entitled stocks or other assets to Judson College. In return, we agree to pay you to an estate tax charitable deduction for the gift’s full value. or another beneficiary a fixed amount each year for the rest of your life.

Retirement Account Beneficiary Charitable Lead Trust Retirement accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s can be ideal assets to A charitable lead trust allows you to benefit from tax savings that result leave to Judson. If you name individuals as the beneficiaries after your from supporting Judson College without giving up assets that you’d like death, they will pay income tax on the distributions, thus receiving only your family to receive someday. Through this option, you could give a portion of the account after taxes. On the other hand, a charity is assets to a trust that pays Judson College an income for a number of tax-exempt, so it can receive the full amount of any distribution without years that you specify. The longer the length of time, the better the gift paying any income taxes. In addition, your estate will receive an estate tax savings for you. When the term is up, the remaining trust assets go to tax deduction for amounts passing to charity. Including Judson is as your beneficiaries. This is an excellent way to transfer property to family simple as naming Judson College as the beneficiary of all or a portion of members at a minimal tax cost. your retirement account. Charitable Remainder Trust Gift of Life Insurance With a charitable remainder trust, you can receive income each year for Life insurance is a popular low-cost method of providing much-needed the rest of your life from assets you give to the trust you create. Your funds to a beneficiary at your death. Life insurance can be distributed income can be either a variable or a fixed amount. After your lifetime, to a charitable organization such as Judson College, if named as a ben- the balance in the trust goes to the charities of your choice. You receive eficiary of the policy at the time of your death. This can be done with an income tax deduction for the present value of the charity’s future a policy you currently own, or by buying a new policy and designating interest, and this type of trust can be useful in deferring capital gains tax Judson as the beneficiary. on assets sold by the trust.

Additional information is available under the Giving tab at www.judson.edu. For a more in-depth discussion of your best options, please contact your attorney or financial planner.

2016 13 302 Bibb Street, Marion, Alabama 36756

Mother Judson Alma Mater, We would win life’s glorious fight, We like thee, would live for service, Like thee, send forth blessed light….

–Judson College Alma Mater

The Judson Today is produced by the Division of Institutional Advancement. Inquiries related to the publication may be directed to the Advancement Office Thank You! at 334-683-5167 or [email protected]. For information regarding the needs of Judson College or ways in which you may further support the institution, Your generosity impacts the lives of students please contact Dr. Terry Morgan, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, at 334-683-5109 or [email protected]; today and for generations to come. or Mrs. Charlotte Clements, Director of Development, 334-683-5109 . www.judson.edu at 334-683-5285 or [email protected] .