2006 ConvErsE CollEgE summEr Camps

Discover your unique leadership style at the “L3” summer program presented by the Daniels Center for Leadership and Service at Converse College:

• get the skills to make a difference in your school and community. CONVERSE • Make new friends with other teenage girls L3 who are focused on becoming leaders. BULLETIN SPRING 2006 • experience the power of teamwork at its best. • Learn from experienced college women Ladies Learning who learn, serve and lead daily at Converse College. and Leading Designed to enable tomorrow’s women leaders, the residential camp promotes self-awareness and confidence among young women who will June 5-8, 2006 enter tenth grade in the fall of 2006.

Energize your creativity and expand your Converse College Summer June 11-16, 2006 skills while studying with professional artists during this coeducational, residential program Visual Arts Program Join a writing community of for rising high school sophomores, juniors An Exploration of intellectually curious and motivated high and seniors. Learn contemporary practices school students to develop your talents in drawing, printmaking and book arts from the Paper Arts in poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction. Converse art & design faculty in a studio a limited, selective enrollment will environment. ensure that participants receive personal • Learn alternative drawing techniques attention. Students will receive instruction using a variety of media and critique from professional writers; • explore silkscreen printmaking through learn techniques for successful writing, direct drawing and photo emulsion processes editing and publishing; and participate in • examine digital possibilities as they apply a public reading of their work. to drawing and printmaking media • install work in the Milliken art gallery for an end-of-the-week exhibition June 11-16, 2006

Complete information and application materials are available online at www.converse.edu.

NoN-Profit org U.S. PoStage PaiD Permit No. 108 Spartanburg, SC 580 east Main Street Spartanburg, South Carolina 29302 www.converse.edu TheThe PetriePetrie SchoolSchool ofof MusicMusic ConvErsEBULLETIN SPRING 2006

thE trAditions of ConvErsE MusiC 2 the Petrie School of Music ______4 Converse Joins roster of Steinway Schools ______8 Celebrating Mozart’s 250th Birthday ______10 the Pre-College Program of Music and Dance ______12 Music therapy ______

PAgE 2 14 alumni Chart Careers in Music ______17 the thing is, We Weren’t Supposed stEinwAy story to Be Here this Long... ______Join Us! 18 the Seven-Second reverb at ely Cathedral Editor ______Beth farmer Lancaster ’96 20 giving Spotlights Senior Writer ______eric Lawson 22 $6.5 Million renovation transforms Associate Editor – Alumnae Montgomery Student Center A CelebrAtion of lifelong leArning, leAdership And serviCe Bobbie Daniel ’71 ______he nAugurAtion of lizAbeth leming Art Director 24 Converse News t i e A. f John Pryor ______As ninth president of the College Production Assistant 28 alumnae News Donna P. gardner PAgE 4 ______30 award Winners the Converse Bulletin is published ______MozArt’s 250th birthdAy three times a year for alumnae 32 alumnae Board Slate and friends of Converse College ______by the office of Communications, Converse College, 580 east Main 34 Life events Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302, (864) ______596-9704. Converse College does 38 Class Notes not discriminate in admissions or thursdAy, April 27, 2006 employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, 11:30 Am age, sexual orientation, religion or disability. Converse admits only twiChell Auditorium women to undergraduate programs and services in accordance with its lunCheon immediAtely following historical mission. PAgE 8

SPriNg 2006, Volume 118, No. 1 Copyright © 2 0 0 6 b y MusiC thErAPy Converse College

On the Cover: Danielle Gillespie ’07 MMus of North Canton, Ohio (standing), sang the role inAugurAtion events will be held on wednesdAy And thursdAy, April 26-27, of Susanna; and Taylor Johnson ’07 BMus from Orangeburg SC (sitting), 2006. the events sChedule And ACCommodAtions informAtion Are posted At performed as the Countess in Converse www Converse edu inAugurAtion or more informAtion CAll Opera Theatre’s production of the . . / . f , (864) 596-9018 Marriage of figaro. In this scene, they or e-mAil [email protected]. have just written a letter to the Count, setting him up for a rendezvous in the garden in which they plan to catch him in a compromising situation. See page 8 for more on the opera. Cover photo taken by Mark Olencki. PAgE 12 ContEnts 1 Joe Hopkins with the All Steinway School Plaque

More than a century of exceptional music and musicians bears testimony to the quality and influence of the Petrie School of Music at Converse College. With such a remarkable past, The Traditions of Converse it is tempting not to tamper with the present, but Converse has an equally strong tradition of moving forward. the presence of a new visionary administration, increased enrollment in all areas of music and a growing register Music are Near Legendary of support gives hope that we can step boldly into the future. it is time for the Petrie School to reassert its standing as one of the nation’s finest schools of We joined forces with the Spartanburg We are proud of the students and faculty music and perhaps even move to an Philharmonic orchestra and Ballet of the Petrie School of Music, and we unprecedented standard of quality. Spartanburg for a televised performance are grateful for the partnership of our of Carmina Burana March 24 and 25. community who support these efforts. the past year has been one of the most Spring concerts feature the traditional at the very foundation of these successes stellar in the history of this fine School music of Japan and Puerto rico by some are our audience, alumnae and friends, of Music. Students and faculty were of those countries’ finest artists and sustaining the best in Converse music. featured in performance in europe, begin a series of international exchange thank you for supporting Converse North america, Central america, africa opportunities for Converse faculty and students, and thank you for supporting and asia. alumnae performed with the students. in May we will host Miles the Petrie School of Music – the first Metropolitan opera, great european Hoffman of NPr’s “Performance today” Choice for Women in Music. companies, Broadway theatres and as guest artist-in-residence. He will distinguished symphonies. former make his conducting debut with our students and faculty earned local and own Converse Symphony orchestra. national recognition for excellence in We will also bring acclaimed chamber teaching and musicianship. musicians to our campus through the friends of the Petrie School of Music in December, Steinway & Sons Joe Hopkins organization and our Carlos Moseley announced the Petrie School of Music Dean, Petrie School of Music Henry Steinway, former president of Steinway & Sons and Series. great grandson of Steinway founder Henry Steinway Sr., with as the 51st Steinway School (see page Dr. Joseph Hopkins, dean of the Petrie School of Music, at Steinway Artist Dr. Douglas Weeks (at piano) 4 for details). a major component Steinway Hall in Manhattan with Converse President Betsy Fleming, of this effort was the renovation of Dean Joseph Hopkins, Converse trustee Kurt our heating and cooling systems in MEssAgE froM thE PrEsidEnt Zimmerli, and Steinway & Sons President Blackman Music Hall. gifts will also Bruce Stevens support the repair of existing pianos and an endowment to maintain these “Without music, life would be a mistake,” While the Converse community has inspiring teachers as alia ross Lawson instruments in perpetuity. so claimed friedrich Nietzche, the always appreciated the exceptional (1912 -2006), founder of Converse’s renowned nineteenth-century german faculty, students and programs of the Lawson Pre-College Program of Music this winter Converse announced plans philosopher. So, too, is the attitude of School of Music, the world at large has and Dance. We dedicate this issue of for the inaugural Harlaxton international the greater community of Converse taken notice of late. on January 18, the Converse Bulletin to alia Lawson and Chamber Music festival to be held in College. Music enhances every aspect 2006 coinciding with Steinway Day her contagious passion for the arts. Lincolnshire, england May-June 2007. of campus life: a Steinway piano even celebrated by the international music the Petrie School of Music will join graces the public space of the stunning, industry, Converse College announced forces with other recognized music newly renovated Montgomery Student its position as the fifty-first institution institutions to create an extraordinary Center. How fortunate we are to have in the world, and the only women’s opportunity for college musicians, the excellence and inspiration of the college, to achieve all-Steinway status especially students from Converse. Carroll McDaniel Petrie School of Music in a full page message published in Betsy fleming Participants will be coached by Converse invigorating lives—past and present, on The New York Times and made possible President and guest faculty for three weeks, and and off campus, youthful and mature! through the generosity of five Converse students and faculty will perform in How thankful we are for the visionary College supporters. recognition today some of england’s most historic and leadership of Dr. Joseph Hopkins, dean grows from the achievements of those cherished venues. of the Petrie School of Music! who precede us, particularly such

3 2 foCus: MUSIC The grand finale of the Steinway celebration concert was “Fantasie on Themes” from Bizet’s Carmen for 16 hands Converse on four pianos, performed by Dean Joe Hopkins, keyboard faculty and students. douglas weeks named as Converse’s first Becomes First steinway Artist

Women’s College as Converse was named a Steinway School, Dr. Douglas Weeks, chair of performance and Babcock Professor of Piano, was named to Join to the prestigious roster of Steinway artists. Weeks is Converse’s first faculty member to receive the honor. acceptance into the Steinway School Roster worldwide Steinway artist roster indicates high achievement in musical performance and reflects the musician’s confidence in the Steinway piano.

Steinway artists include Vladimir ashkenazy, Van Cliburn, Billy Joel, Herbie Hancock, Peter Nero and roger Williams. irving Berlin, Duke ellington, george gershwin, Vladimir Horowitz, ignace Paderewski, Cole Porter possible for its students and faculty, on December 14, Steinway & Sons and Sergei rachmaninoff were also included thereby insuring a legacy of distinction president Bruce Stevens participated in on the roster. a celebration in Blackman Music Hall for generations to come,” said Stevens. “Steinway & Sons is deeply honored where he named the Petrie School of “i am honored to become a Steinway artist,” that our instruments have been chosen Music at Converse as a Steinway School. said Weeks, who has been playing piano to accompany Converse on this mission Converse is the first women’s college in for more than 50 years. He compares the the world to be awarded all-Steinway of excellence in music education.” broad range of supporters was truly instruments that will be housed in recital two of new pianos came in January amazing and makes this an even more halls on the Converse campus, studios 2005, when Kurt and Nelly Zimmerli excitement of playing a Steinway to driving status and joins a select group of only 50 a sportscar. “it is sheer luxury and sounds so News of Converse’s Steinway status exceptional accomplishment,” said Dr. of music faculty and student practice took a personal approach to jumpstart other Steinway colleges, conservatories magnificent. You can make a Steinway sound was announced to the nation in a full- Joseph Hopkins, dean of the Petrie rooms. the campaign. the Zimmerlis, along and music schools worldwide. the however you wish: the notes can be lush and page advertisement in The New York School. “More than 80 individual gifts with a group from Converse, traveled Steinway roster includes the Juilliard powerful or extremely soft because it is such Times, made possible by several College ranging up to $100,000 from alumnae “Steinway is a powerful partner for the to the Steinway factory in New York School, Yale University’s School of a precise technical instrument.” Music, the China Conservatory of Music supporters. the ad ran in the January 18 and friends of the College were made. Petrie School as Converse strives to to select two Steinway pianos that the edition, coinciding with “Steinway Day” 100% of the Petrie faculty and staff become the first choice for women in Zimmerlis would present to the Petrie and oberlin College Conservatory. it is Steinway works to ensure its artists are able rare for a college as small as Converse in the music industry. participated in the campaign.” music,” said President Betsy fleming. School in honor of their 50th wedding “Since 1889, Converse has been a leader anniversary. Personal selection of a to perform on Steinway pianos wherever to earn the Steinway status; other they travel. “When i am scheduled to play the Petrie School effort to become the campaign enabled Converse in preparing young artists for successful Steinway piano is important because no Steinway Schools in the Southeast have at a particular venue that does not have a eligible for Steinway status began to purchase 23 new Steinway careers in music. today there are few two are exactly alike. While a piano can an enrollment of at least 15,000. Steinway, the company will seek out the in March 2004 with a $1.3 million manufactured pianos, restore many of music schools in the world—and even be tuned and adjusted, “the thing that nearest Steinway dealership and arrange for campaign. the campaign was led by the College’s existing Steinways and fewer independent colleges—that can can’t be changed is its inherent quality,” “By becoming a Steinway School, the a piano to be delivered. the only cost to the Converse trustees Betty Montgomery create an endowment for maintenance match our inventory of premier musical said Sally Coveleskie, Steinway’s director Petrie School of Music at Converse venue is the freight,” said Weeks. has shown a commitment to its future ’72 and Kurt Zimmerli. “the way that of the pianos. Converse now has an instruments.” of institutional sales. “You look for the by providing the best instruments this project was embraced by such a inventory of 76 Steinway manufactured voice of that particular piano.” 4 foCus: MUSIC 5 buying A We visited the Steinway showroom on the day there were seven 7-foot pianos from which to we arrived. it is in an historical building on choose. i was a bit nervous about playing in “Becoming an all steinway school West 57th Street. How can i begin to describe front of the “entourage” so i cut the tension by the awe: the art hanging in the lobby, the announcing names for each piano as i moved architecture of the building, the sense of around the room. i named each one after a shows that converse college ghosts of great pianists moving through famous WoMaN pianist. and i didn’t run out is serious about being the first choice for women i n m u s i c . ” Steinway the rooms, the gorgeous instruments. of names: “Clara” Schumann, “Myra” Hess, With at least five pianists in tow, none “Martha” argerich, “Ursula” oppens, etc. i - Dr. Joseph H. Hopkins, Dean, The Petrie School of Music at Converse College of us dared to play a note on any of confess that i named the one i didn’t like fred. them. this was a feast for the eyes; the Because the Steinway is virtually a handmade feast for the ears would come later. instrument, each piano did have its own personality and character. i decided that my feeling pampered after a marvelous new best friend would be Ursula. Luckily, Doug dinner, we returned to our comfortable was wavering between Martha and fred! So rooms for a good night’s sleep. i’m sure there was no conflict there. We brought Martha in the we were all anticipating the thrilling and fred home to Converse, too. st morning to come; the selection of three 21 Century new Steinway 7-foot pianos for the as we returned home, i couldn’t help thinking studios in Blackman, and a new 5’7” for about how this 21st century trip to New York by Dr. Melanie Foster Taylor, Paula’s studio in the Lawson Pre-College. relates to the 19th century genesis of the Associate Professor of Piano and Piano Pedagogy Steinway piano. the world of beautiful music at the Steinway factory the next morning, we played on beautiful instruments persists thanks to the big hearts of so many generous were escorted to the factory rooms where we through the centuries. the most astounding contributors, i recently had the privilege of were treated to a trek through the production quote is this, from our factory tour guide: “if a traveling to the Steinway factory in New York of the greatest piano in the world. We saw Steinway employee from 1860 were magically City to select a new piano for my studio at views ranging from the “raw” wood pianos dropped into this production room today in Converse. waiting for completion, to the precision work 2005, he would know exactly what to do!” of women shaping the hammers that strike the the enduring nature of the workmanship is traveling is not my favorite pastime, and New strings in the instruments. the bending of the rather like pianists knowing how to play a Bach York is not my favorite place on earth. But i frame was truly astounding: five men working toccata 300 years later. braved my fears for the thrill of solving the on a critical 12-minute time table to move the mystery: Which piano would become my new frame from the gluing station to an ancient best friend? the very thought of an entire room looking mold where they full of sparkling-fresh Steinways from which forced the wood into i could choose my favorite set off Pavlovian various vices to create Dr. Melanie Taylor proudly displays the responses. i could hardly wait to tickle those that famous shape. selection tag for her new piano, “Ursula,” ivories. the room smelled very at the Steinway factory. similar to the smell of on december 14, steinway & sons named the studios to its practice rooms, the incomparable as i set off on the journey, i could not help my father’s workshop in petrie school of music at Converse College to its steinway sound fills the air. thinking about my dearly departed (over 30 the basement. it almost esteemed list of All steinway schools. Converse “steinway is a powerful partner for the petrie years ago) father. He was a trained Steinway made me cry! is the first women’s college in the nation - and piano technician. although he never worked school as Converse works to become the first at the New York factory, the guru of all piano Doug had experienced the first college in the Carolinas – to receive this choice for women in music,” stated betsy fleming, technicians, William Braid White, trained him. i the factory last year distinction, and joins a select group of only 50 All president of Converse. “since 1889, Converse grew up with the smell of glue emanating from when he selected the steinway schools worldwide. has been a leader in preparing young artists my father’s downstairs workshop, numerous new 9-foot for the now with an inventory of 76 pianos for successful careers in music. today piano actions struggling through the backdoor, Blackman stage (the and a regular rotation of fine instruments Zimmerli piano), so designed by steinway & sons, the there are few music schools in the adorning our living room and den. But it was his he played in the petrie school of music is making itself world – and even fewer independent love of music itself that inspired me, and i think selection room during heard throughout the academic world. colleges – that can match our inventory it’s that way with most piano technicians and our tour. By the time from its recital halls to its faculty of premier musical instruments.” tuners. i was anxious to talk to the technicians we got back, he had at the mecca of piano production: the Steinway narrowed his choice factory. to two pianos and was really unable to decide it was fun traveling with an entourage: Doug which one he loved Weeks, Paula Morgan, Dean Joe and Suzanne most. He generously Hopkins, Kurt Zimmerli and Pat Case (from told me to play them all and pick the one i Case Brothers in Spartanburg). Walter and Betty loved most, because he could go either way steinway & sons congratulates the petrie school of music at Converse College on its distinction of becoming an All steinway school. Montgomery and Converse’s new president, with his choice. Converse College • 580 east main street • spartanburg, sC 29302 • (864) 596-9000 • www.converse.edu Betsy fleming, joined us for the selection ©2006 steinway & sons. steinway and the lyre are registered trademarks. process as well.

6 foCus: MUSIC 7 CONVERSE CELEBRATES Mozart’s 250th Birthday with Cake and Figaro

Converse opera theatre celebrated the composers,” said Dr. ronald Boudreaux, with so many recitatives because it did 250th birthday of Wolfgang amadeus associate professor of voice at Converse not overpower the actors.” Mozart (1756-1791) with a birthday party and director of Converse opera theatre. and fully-staged, three-day production of “What better way to celebrate his 250th Converse opera theatre presents a fully The Marriage of Figaro, one of his most birthday than a production of one of his staged production each year in addition celebrated operas. true classics?” to one-act operas and opera scenes. the program provides a distinct advantage Figaro opened on Mozart’s birthday, the production included a 20-member for Converse undergraduate and January 27, in twichell auditorium. chorus, the 28-member Converse graduate vocal students who are afforded the auditorium was decorated for the Symphony orchestra, and a set designed opportunities to build their repertoire birthday party celebration, and the 11- and constructed especially for the and gain experience in a professional member cast took to the stage just after the production. “the orchestra was one performance environment. Performance orchestra led a rousing chorus of “Happy of the smallest we’ve performed with in professional level opera productions is Birthday.” Birthday cake was served to at Converse and is actually the size rare for undergraduate students at many the audience during intermission. orchestra that would have accompanied schools as the number of students far operas in Mozart’s time, ” said Dr. Keith exceeds the availability of roles. Converse “Mozart is among the most significant and Jones, associate professor of voice and students often graduate with performance popular composers of classical music and conductor of the orchestra. “an orchestra experience that sets them apart as they is widely regarded as one of our greatest of this size is also ideal for a production pursue careers in music.

8 foCus: MUSIC 9 the legend of alia Lawson’s Pre- and jazz. the Palmetto Youth orchestras College program began more than sixty and Palmetto Choristers provide large A TRIbuTE To years ago. alia ross (Lawson) knew ensemble opportunities, along with that Converse music students needed our chamber coachings and flute choir. teaching experience and guidance and, We are especially proud to host the Alia Lawson quite obviously, students to teach. the South Carolina instrumental Music Pre-College officially opened its doors Competition, which draws outstanding by Paula Morgan, in the fall of 1944 with eight Converse high school chamber musicians to Director of the Lawson Pre-College Program student teachers and 36 students. today, Converse each spring. can see her now in “old” twichell 16 student teachers teach 56 Pre-College i sitting quite far back, program in hand, students, and an additional 45 faculty in the summer, our student teaching black felt tipped pen jotting something provide lessons in music and dance to opportunities cross over to the full arts down. Back in those Pre-College days, our nearly 900 students. the pedagogy spectrum. Converse students are hired in the 70’s and early 80’s, she insisted program has produced many of our as counselors or teachers in visual arts, that all of us Pre-College teachers finest teachers, and it is interesting to creative writing, music, dance and get her a copy of our end-of-the-year note that 20 of our faculty members theater for our fine arts Day Camp, recital program at least two months are Converse graduates who once which serves rising kindergarten through before our May recital Series. this way, participated in this very program as seventh graders and is a wonderful day- they could all be typed up, printed dressed – gorgeous scarves, interesting were done, Charlie and i would head students. care alternative. and bound together in a booklet form. jewelry, fine shoes, a one-of-a-kind home, having had a wonderful time, We complained that there would end kimono. this was part of who she was, and i would promise myself that this Lawson Pre-College students range in there is a tremendous energy that up being changes, this was too far in always elegant, always appropriate for time, yes, i would get the “thank You” age from six-months to adults in their permeates the Lawson Pre-College. advance to make these decisions, blah- the occasion. During the intermissions note in the mail. i mention this because our faculty members blah-blah. She explained quite simply or after concert parties she had a way so often my well-intentioned, nocturnal continuously bring that if neither we nor our students knew of taking my hand and intertwining her compositions never made their way The Legacy of the new ideas that include what they would be playing two months fingers in mine. She would lead me to onto the page. and alia was so good at the establishment of a who loved her, admired her and had Pre-College Program in advance, chances of them playing a corner or chair and we would visit, this. i have received countless notes for band program open been changed by her gifts and giving. by paula morgan, Director of the lawson pre-College program well at all were just about nil. i’ve since sort of like an impromptu meeting. it all occasions, notes of thanks, notes of to all but specifically learned that she was right. She would usually began with her saying, “Well, praise, notes of encouragement, notes addressing the needs i’m often amazed, but never surprised, sit through program after program after how are things going?” followed by of sympathy. that particular slant of the of our homeschoolers to see the myriad of Pre-College program and as thoughts would come – at some point in the conversation … letters, that special black ink - arrived who are without access connections around the campus and or a student would catch her attention, “Splendid!” and at times “good girl!” in my mail so often and was always so to a band experience. throughout our community. When Mrs. she would make notes in the margins of another intermission move was when welcome. We hope to implement Lawson took the first steps towards the those booklets. the booklets are still in she might take a good bit of my upper a h i g h i n t e n s i t y Pre-College program, do you think she her collection, history intact. arm – almost in a pinch – leading me as you can imagine, the day following curriculum for Pre- imagined the scope of her legacy? as as if by the nose to the person i was alia’s death was quite a day at the College students who the alia Lawson Pre-College Program or haven’t you been standing in the definitely supposed to meet. alia Lawson Pre-College. i received are particularly serious of Music and Dance continues on its Blackman lobby on one occasion or numerous messages, phone calls, e- about their study and journey, we will honor its rich past, another waiting for a concert to begin and then i see the Lawsons together, mails and notes. one from a colleague possibly preparing always guided by our commitment to when you happen to glance out into Lionel and alia, back in “old” twichell said, “Paula, i will be at the service for to major in music in excellence in arts education and to the the circle. and, there it is. the nose sitting in their self-appointed seats. i alia tomorrow. She taught my mother college. We already enrichment of the lives of those we of the long, white Cadillac comes into can’t help but wonder if this will be one at greensboro College.” another was have satellite programs touch. view and the regal vehicle glides into of those concerts when Lionel will be from a former Converse faculty member in voice and violin at its handicapped space and Mrs. Lawson counting the organ pipes – yet again. who felt compelled to write a tribute Dorman High School appears. She was always beautifully to Mrs. Lawson, full of his own special and gable Middle the Lawsons had many an after-concert touches. and then i received a message School, and one faculty party. they were always festive and from a Converse music student currently member is interested in delicious and filled with old friends teaching in our program, asking whether 70s. Private vocal and instrumental taking his expertise in cello instruction and new faces. alia made sure that she counted as Pre-College faculty instruction is our mainstay; however, into the public schools as well. i could newcomers to the College, and especially and could participate in the funeral there is much more. the youngest go on and on! the arts community, were introduced to procession. and it went on and on. What participate in Kindermusik, Suzuki, new friends. and i must take a moment makes a person sit down and respond in dance and our new Childbloom guitar Mrs. alia ross Lawson, our founder, to say, Lionel Lawson was one of the this way? a great lady. program. group classes are available for died on Sunday, January 22, 2006. She warmest and most fun hosts i have ever young voices, flute students and adults was a woman of tremendous energy known. an evening could easily have How many of us are out there who have wishing to begin piano study. We teach and vision. the glorious music at her been spent just in his company, giggling an alia Lawson story to tell, or lots of music theory and composition classes. funeral, provided by Converse students over his latest, outrageous tie, listening them? alia had much to teach, to share, to our dance program offers more than and faculty, was incredibly spiritual and to his tales about Spartanburg history give and to do. She did it all, lived richly twenty classes each week including inspiring. one glance around the church and reaching for a “dollop” every now and enriched countless lives. ballet, lyrical, tap, hip-hop, modern told her story: it was filled with those and then. and when these evenings 10 foCus: MUSIC 117 Converse Initiates Music Therapy Degree by Dr. Elizabeth York, Associate Professor of Music Therapy

Editor’s Note: Dr. York received her growing as people seek out integrative My love of music therapy brought me undergraduate degree in music therapy approaches to treat medical conditions. back to my hometown of Spartanburg from the University of Georgia, and her Dr. Matthew Lee, director of the rusk to lead the Converse program after i left masters in music therapy and PhD in institute in New York has stated, the city in 1968. growing up, i benefited audition for the program, they will be music education from the University of “Music therapy has been an invaluable from excellent musical training in the asked to perform a popular song and Miami. She served a three-year term on the tool with many of our rehabilitation Spartanburg city school system with accompany themselves. as i interview Academic Program Approval Committee for patients. there is no question that the mentors like Peggy gignilliat, John a student, i want to be sure that she the American Music Therapy Association relationship of music and medicine Mabry, Vergene Colloms, Janice Janiec understands the relationship between (AMTA), the body that approves academic will blossom because of the advent of and David Penninger. But at that time, music and her own feelings. programs in music therapy throughout the previously unavailable techniques that South Carolina had not yet discovered country. Currently, she serves on the AMTA can now show the effects of music.” music therapy. When John Mabry the Converse student should be Ethics Board and the Education Council of introduced me to the field as a part of prepared to study a variety of subjects the World Federation of Music Therapy. Music therapists, like other healthcare his choral classes at Spartanburg High for the bachelor of music in music professionals, abide by a Code of ethics, School, i knew that this was my chosen therapy degree. Psychology, abnormal Beginning in fall 2006, the Petrie Standards of Clinical Practice and are path. for eight years i worked as a psychology, art therapy, biology, School of Music will offer the Upstate’s credentialed by a certification board music therapist at the georgia Mental statistics, human anatomy and special first undergraduate music therapy after passing a national examination. Health institute in atlanta and for two, education courses are required. this is degree program. Converse tapped me they are recertified every five years and directed an outpatient day program a four-and-a-half-year-long program. last spring to implement and direct the are expected to complete continuing affiliated with the Dekalb Community Completion of a six-month clinical program, and my first year as a faculty education coursework to keep abreast Mental Health Center. My clinical and internship is required before being member has been both thrilling and of current trends in the field. research interests have been focused awarded the degree. there are roughly challenging. primarily on adults with psychiatric 200 clinical internships available in How can music therapy be so effective? challenges, including persons with the US, and Converse students will the program has been in the planning one reason may be that music, even in probable alzheimer’s disease, and compete strongly for them. stages for two years, made possible by a its simplest form, touches us all in some women survivors of domestic violence. partnership with Spartanburg regional way and evokes behavioral and physical Converse and Spartanburg regional are Healthcare System (SrHS). in addition responses. Music is pervasive. even for the last ten years, i directed the working to identify potential practicum to providing a significant financial those who are profoundly deaf show a undergraduate music therapy program sites and coordinate supervision of our investment in the program’s infancy, the physiological response to the rhythmic at Utah State University. the program students. the hospital employs one support that Converse received from pulse and lower frequencies within the at USU was well established when i music therapist, anne Stafford, but we SrHS was exciting, and one reason range of hearing. they may not appreciate arrived, and enrollment had swelled hope to attract more clinicians to the i accepted the position. Converse’s or need music, per se, but rhythmic to more than 70 students by the time i area to serve as role models and provide music therapy program will be unique perception may be an important tool to left. there, students work in a range of on-site supervision for our students. in that the hospital partnership will order and structure their environment facilities in the Logan (Ut) community provide students access to a state-of- and can be a prompt for exercise, dance, to meet their clinical requirements, our music therapy program is already the-art medical facility as they complete and movement activities. including placements at the regional gaining valuable visibility. in february, clinical requirements for the degree. hospital, in the public schools with Converse hosted a meeting of the Music it may be that because music reaches children with disabilities, and in home therapy association of South Carolina. Public awareness of music therapy has us emotionally, it has the potential to care with families served by Hospice. this meeting gave music therapists been growing steadily since the 1950s. become an effective form of treatment. the opportunity to learn more about it is now an established healthcare in many alzheimer’s patients, music taps So what can students interested in clinical practice in the area and to hear profession that uses musical strategies into long-term memory and gives them Converse’s program expect? the degree about the new Converse program. to achieve therapeutic outcomes with a way to communicate with loved ones. includes music core coursework and With formal approval expected in persons experiencing a wide variety a patient may suddenly remember lyrics courses in the behavioral sciences, as June, Converse will join 70 institutions of health challenges. for example, to a cherished song that can be shared. well as a clinical component where nationwide who offer undergraduate music therapy is being utilized in the in Utah, i conducted research with students receive hands-on experience and graduate degrees in music therapy. treatment of premature infants, people women survivors of domestic violence. in facilities throughout the community. with aiDS, and those with memory for them, writing songs became an Students will become proficient in and neurological impairments such empowering experience because they piano, voice, and guitar, since those as Parkinson’s disease. the demand were free to express themselves using a are the instruments most often used for credentialed music therapists is safe and non-threatening medium. to work with patients. During their Dr. Elizabeth York with Anne Stafford, music therapist (MT-BC) 12 at Spartanburg Regional Hospital System foCus: MUSIC 137 bEhind thE sCEnEs of It Takes the same day. that’s when i fell in love with theatre.” “The Thistle & Shamrock”

1993 was richard’s breakout year. “i in composition and voice performance. But while DRIVE was in europe auditioning virtually she has made varied and creative use of her music everywhere and sleeping on trains. degree, the 1976 graduate’s career path has been My agent encouraged me to submit anything but traditional. to Succeed my photo and bio for the role of Pinkerton in the film version of after graduating and working for a year at Converse, Madame Butterfly,” richard reflected. Margaret traveled guitar-in-hand as a solo act. “it took nearly a year before i was the road soon led to Nashville where she worked ultimately cast. at the time of as a session singer for recordings and jingles. rehearsals, i was playing the role of the highlight of her Nashville experience was a tybalt again in Roméo et Juliette in performance in a national tV special with Dolly Paris, so i rehearsed Butterfly during Parton and Carol Burnett. an interest in the way the day and sang Romeo at night. We such shows were produced led Margaret behind the recorded the CD for Butterfly in Paris scenes, where she worked in television production in July and then filmed the movie in and engineering for a number of years, both in tunisia, africa from october through Nashville and Charlotte. after work days filled with December.” lights, microphones, videotape and editing consoles, Margaret still found time to dig into her music theory While richard’s number of booking books to compose and record several award-winning engagements increased dramatically soundtracks and themes for documentaries and after Madame Butterfly, he still had to promotional videos. for nine months out of any given “there’s no doubt that my big break prove the breadth of what he could year, richard troxell ’88 MMus can be came when i was cast as Lieutenant do. “People in the opera industry were Margaret made the short hop from television to radio found performing in venues around Pinkerton in Martin Scorese’s 1995 saying, ‘Sure you made a movie but and into a situation where her technical experience, the world. this february, he was in film version of Madame Butterfly, can you sing on stage?’ while people passion for music, and composition skills all came Portland, or for a performance of but i had been singing since i was in the movie industry were saying, together. in 1990, she contributed guitar, vocals and Macbeth. two days later, he flew to four-years-old,” richard explained. ‘Sure, you made a movie but it was an keyboard to a national concert tour of “the thistle Los angeles, Ca to reprise the role “throughout my childhood, i sang opera movie.’ the only way i could & Shamrock with fiona ritchie,” National Public of Lieutenant B.f. Pinkerton in the in the local church and performed win was by showing what i could do as a member of the Nashville radio’s weekly Celtic music program. Soon after, she began her long service Los angeles opera’s production Broadway tunes at Lions Club in the auditions. it takes a lot of drive Symphony Chorus, the Charlotte as the radio program’s director of operations and resources. along the way of Madame Butterfly. a three-night events. i fell in love with making to succeed in this profession, and i oratorio Chorus and Chamber she has created original music for special editions of the radio program, while performance as Christian in Cyrano De the audience happy. after high am a very driven person. i take great Singers in the 1980s, Margaret managing its US office and serving as the liaison for musicians, listeners, and Bergerac with opéra de Montpellier school, i worked for a summer at pride in being willing to constantly Kennedy ’76 was enjoying the kind radio station personnel. Her radio role has also given her an opportunity to in france followed in mid-March. a an amusement park in gettysburg, push myself regardless of the success of musical life you would envisage act as an on-air advocate for US Celtic musicians on the BBC radio Scotland whirlwind schedule for certain, but Pa where i was shot off a roof twice i’ve had in the past. that’s the only for someone who double majored program, “traveling folk.” it’s just life as usual for the 44-year- a day in an outdoor Western show way to make it.” (continued p.16) old native of tiny thurmont, MD. and then sang two musical reviews

composer to do justice to it. to this composition. “i love composing for the children’s opera titled Glue that was commissioned music from Within day, it is a piece i hope to finish in voice. in fact, my first commissioned by USC-Upstate. “Glue is a 20-minute one-act fairy memoriam,” she said. piece—for which i charged the price of tale-type story in the same vein as The Magic Flute, By day, Carrie Leigh Page ’02 works Sadly, it was the tragic death of a a Belgian waffle—was written while i and is about conflict resolution for children. after for a consumer bankruptcy firm in friend during Carrie’s freshman year after earning her music education was a Converse student. it was for one premiering in april, it will tour elementary schools Louisville, KY. all other hours are at Converse that ignited her passion degree from Converse, Carrie received of my classmates, and was a simple in the Spartanburg area.” devoted to music composition. “Music for music composition. “i had written the prestigious Moritz von Bomhard piece for horn, piano and voice,” is always around me. it comes from little pieces here and there but that fellowship in music composition at explained Carrie. the requested delivery date for Glue presented a within,” she said. “i literally cannot event gave me a sudden need to the University of Louisville. Carrie’s challenge for Carrie. “i received the assignment in write fast enough. i have little notebooks write more. it was such an emotional focus was composition for voice, with a Carrie earned her master’s in 2005, November and had to deliver it in January, making scattered about filled with ideas.” experience yet i was not ready as a particular emphasis on dramatic vocal and has just completed a one-act (continued p.16) 14 foCus: MUSIC 15 Living a Lifelong dream (Behind the Scenes continued) The฀Thing฀is,฀We฀฀ “i think i have one of the best jobs a my Caroline Whisnant ’82 is His belief in my future helped to keep in the world,” said Margaret, who performing her second season with the me focused during the lean times in ฀ often travels to work at the program’s Mannheim National theatre in germany New York while i was working as a Weren’t฀Supposed฀to฀ production base in Scotland. While and has just decided to stay on for a secretary.” there, she enjoys the acoustic music third. Known to her Converse friends scene, playing and singing in music as amy, she is known professionally as in 2002, Caroline was signed to the sessions with some of Scotland’s Caroline Whisnant. Her career has led roster of New York-based randsman Be฀Here฀This฀Long... by Dr. Christopher Vaneman finest artists. Visit Margaret at home to performances with numerous North artists’ Management. two years later, american, South american and german they encouraged her to move to Dr. Kelly Vaneman is chair of musicology and composition and assistant professor of oboe and and you will find her surrounded musicology, and Dr. Chris Vaneman is assistant professor of flute and musicology. by a surprising array of instruments, opera companies and festivals, and germany to further her career. She including guitars, piano, keyboards, she has won acclaim with critics and made her debut in Karlsruhe in the mandolins, bouzouki, fiddles, tin audiences alike for her performances title role of Elektra. “Since moving to We came to Converse from New York analytical and deeply expressive. i was germany, i have sung in some fabulous whistles, bass, trumpet, cornet, of a wide range of roles. City in the fall of 1997, when Kelly took commuting back and forth to New York shows and worked with wonderful concertina, banjo, banjo-ukes, and a position at the School of Music. We City on many weekends to rehearse and from childhood, Caroline seemed colleagues. one break i did experience ukeleles. Between radio program were in our twenties then and had no perform with groups there, and when destined for a music career. “i took was my audition for oper frankfurt. work and performances for charity, clear idea of what we were in for. as a we began to discuss forming a trio with piano lessons from my aunt; ballet, i was sitting in an e-mail café one fall Margaret is enjoying blending her native Yankee who had lived only in the Melanie the idea of trading that twelve- tap and jazz classes from the Lenoir afternoon in 2004 when my european North and in europe, i was full of the hour drive for a five-minute ride to her skill on these acoustic instruments agent called and asked how i was (NC) academy of Dance; and voice usual prejudices about South Carolina: house was pretty appealing. We called with her mastery of the latest lessons at a very early age. We traveled feeling. i knew something was up by i’d seen Porgy and Bess and Deliverance, the group ensemble radieuse, after the composition software technology. to Charlotte for performances at opera the excitement in his voice. it turned and while i acknowledged that neither brand of beer that was our post-concert Carolina as well as any local concerts. out they needed someone to sing an painted a trustworthy picture of what life quaff in cafes with other musicians when i knew i wanted to be an opera singer Elektra orchestra rehearsal that evening. we had lived in Belgium. from a very early age. My sister (annette fortunately, i was in good voice and had would be like in Spartanburg, i was still our daughter taliesin was born on Whisnant Hook ’73) sang and i wanted a wonderful audition for the company. pretty nervous. But i couldn’t argue with September 11, 2004. the students had (Music from Within continued) to be just like her. i remember trips i was then hired to sing Lady Macbeth the great opportunity. Besides, Kelly’s a year passed, then two, then three. We been bugging us to have a baby for years, to Brevard Music Center to see the in a new production last spring and salary at Converse would be more than never seemed to get around to applying and when she arrived she was embraced it one of the fastest turnarounds operas and hear the concerts. it was i am currently singing their Elektra both of us put together made in New for those other jobs we had planned on by what seemed like the entire Petrie i’ve had. While the project varies, it such a magical world. When we went performances.” York. So we agreed to give it a try, for a pursuing, and application deadlines for School. Within 24 hours of her birth she’d normally takes me two to three hours backstage after The King and I, Val couple of years, maybe, then move on. places like the University of Kentucky or been presented with her very own (hand- to compose each minute of music. Patiachi, who had preformed as the King as she looks back on how her career has New Mexico came and went unmarked. knitted) Pink Panther ears and tail. tally in the case of Glue, i had to write that evening, bowed to me and laughed taken shape, Caroline seems particularly once here, we realized, hey, this is pretty By fall of 2001 we’d both finally attended her first concert at two months the stories as well as the music. for when i bowed back.” satisfied. “there are still things to nice. the campus was lovely, the streets completed the interminable Doctor old, traveled with us to perform on most compositions, i write the initial accomplish, roles to learn, houses to were shaded by tall, ancient oak trees, of Musical arts program at Yale. We tennessee public radio at five months, and sketches by hand and then transfer Caroline earned her master’s in vocal sing in and improvements to make, the people were perfectly normal – they began spending summers teaching and will be accompanying us to england in to my computer where i flesh them performance from florida State but i feel very fortunate to be living my wore shoes and everything – and our playing at the Performing arts institute May as part of a concert tour preliminary out with Sibelius or finale, software University and her certificate of merit dream,” she said. three-bedroom house cost little more in Pennsylvania. By this point, radieuse to the introduction of the Harlaxton packages that are designed for music from Philadelphia’s academy of Vocal than our one-bedroom apartment on had long since run out of decent music international Chamber festival. composition. arts. She worked as a secretary in 207th Street in Manhattan. even earnest, to play (not much had been written for New York City to pay the rent while the cat we’d rescued from the basement the flute/oboe/piano combination), so Kelly is now chair of the Department of “Ultimately, i’d like to be a composer auditioning for roles. after signing with of our apartment building, seemed to we began to commission new pieces Musicology and Composition, and my in residence at a university where i can an agent in 1993, she performed in New think he’d gone to heaven: the green stuff from composers we knew and to make office is directly above hers. We’re faculty teach composition,” she said. York’s tri-Cities opera, the Summer in front of the house where the pavement arrangements, which usually involved sponsors for Mortar Board and fLag, Broomhill festival in Kent, england and broken glass were supposed to be taking a piece originally written for we’ve found a great little episcopal and fall opera Memphis. in 1996, she was called “grass” and was perfectly small orchestra – ravel’s Le Tombeau de church, and most of our dearest friends auditioned for the Des Moines Metro safe to roll around in. Kelly liked and Couperin, for example – and setting it are Converse alumnae and colleagues. opera season (DMMo). “although i was respected her colleagues, and soon i was for trio. By 2003 we had accumulated We stopped paying attention to positions not originally contracted, i was hired teaching part-time at Converse as well. enough new pieces to fill out a CD, and opening elsewhere a couple of years ago. as a last minute replacement in Don managed to get grants enabling us to So if anyone knows of any flute/oboe/ Giovanni. this was especially fortuitous We began to rehearse and perform as record and promote it. in the spring of music history jobs available, don’t bother as Dr. robert Larsen of DMMo became incredibly supportive of my talent and a trio with Dr. Melanie foster taylor, 2004 we performed concerts in england letting us know. We probably wouldn’t hired me for the next five seasons. associate professor of piano pedagogy, and Panama, and then had to take a little get around to applying. who is a fantastic musician – both time off… 16 foCus: MUSIC 17 often in performance tours, there is little Soon, it was time to pull my mind time for preparation and warm-up, and back into focus and get ready to play. i this was the case for the ely concert. stretched my hands and looked around So, in the few minutes left before the the room for my quartet buddies, and performance, i grabbed my fiddle and we walked toward the front, sat down went outside to play a few scales and get and prepared to play. as we breathed my fingers moving. together and played the first chorale-like phrase of the piece, my anxiety began to the araya Quartet, of which i am proud subside. the strength and beauty of the to be a member, was scheduled to centuries-old chapel helped to set the perform the beautiful slow movement mood for the music as we played. of Schubert’s Quartet in D minor, known as “Death and the Maiden.” Mr. Law and the piece grew from a deep and plaintive Editors Note: A Milliken and Daniel Music Ms. Johnson, our quartet coaches, had chorale to a passionately virtuosic Scholar, Hollis Roberts ’06 is a violin advised us that we would need to adjust section. We had always enjoyed playing performance major from Sautee, GA. She our timing in some places of the piece in that movement of the quartet, and that is concertmaster of the Converse Symphony order to allow for the reverberation in the day’s performance was no exception. Orchestra and a member of the Araya cathedral. grateful for the tip, the four of Working with the new acoustics Quartet and Spartanburg Philharmonic us huddled together and looked at our challenged us as we played, but our Orchestra. Hollis has participated in music, discussing the adjustments we communication and understanding of masterclasses with Academy of St. Martin wanted to make. as we were talking, we the piece was strengthened because in the Fields Chamber Ensemble, Emerson realized that making these small changes of the challenge. as i concentrated on String Quartet, Juilliard String Quartet and was not as simple Beaux Arts Trio. In 2005, she was named as it sounded. as The Petrie School’s Presser Scholar and Without time was selected to perform with the National to rehearse our Festival Orchestra in Carnegie Hall. new ideas, we Hollis also teaches violin in the Lawson would need to Pre-College program. rely on strong communication as a participant in the 2005 Converse and instinct in festival tour, i was privileged to be a part order for the of incredible performing experiences performance to with fellow students and faculty. each succeed. place we visited resulted in a special story with meaning for us, and one of a few minutes my personal favorites was ely Cathedral later, it was time near Cambridge, england. for the concert to start. i found Built in the late 14th century, ely is one of myself sitting in the oldest cathedrals that we performed a carved stone in during the tour. it is famous for its alcove where The Araya Quartet (clockwise from top left): Hollis Roberts ’06, violin; Katie The Seven-Second size, ornate carvings and seven-second an ornate statue Garber ’08 of Madison, VA, violin; Jean Loder ’07 of Easley, SC, violoncello; reverberation. our concert was held of a saint had and Katerina Lewis ’06 of Atlanta, GA, viola in the Lady Chapel, which is a favorite no doubt once spot for vocal ensembles to perform stood, years ago. and record because of the beautiful, as i listened to the beautiful voices of playing my part, which was a difficult open acoustics. though i’m a string the chamber singers and looked around one, i also listened closely to the other player and not a vocalist, this venue was at the Lady Chapel, i was overcome parts as we passed the melody back and appropriate for my string quartet and with awe. the massive room had forth. there is always so much to think was especially suited to slow pieces like rightfully kept its grandeur, but was about and respond to when performing Reverb the one we were to play. drained with the weight of 600 years of chamber music. as the piece drew to existence in addition to severe damage a close, the mood lightened and the Upon arrival at ely, we were in desperate from the reformation. everywhere i original chorale returned – this time need of transformation from a group of looked, ornate details were vying for my in a major key. the last chord of the at Ely Cathedral sleepy, tired and hungry college students attention. Little splashes of color told piece echoed throughout the chapel into a professional and put-together me that room had once been brilliantly with a soft calmness that was, for me, by Hollis Roberts ’06 performing ensemble. We had come painted, but most of the paint had long unforgettable. by coach and it had been a long ride. since chipped away.

18 foCus: MUSIC 19

1983 graduate of Lithia High who Honoring a helped establish the scholarship. the Converse fund “We would have 80 to 100 students Commitment in the choral and drama classes, and every one of them wanted to be to perfection there.” Painting the World Purple...

as a choral and drama teacher at Carolen’s students were featured in one young woman at a time Lithia Springs (ga) High School, many one-act plays and musicals. Carolen Belcher Hansard ’56 Her one-act play teams won ten encouraged her students to search consecutive georgia regional titles of fame. today, she teaches piano within themselves to discover their and her male quartet earned numerous privately and conducts the junior choir abilities. “Sure, i was tough on first place region titles. Several of Jennifer Wahl ’06 is a history major and politics minor from smyrna, at Lithia Springs United Methodist ga who has energetically embraced opportunities to learn, serve and them. i knew that in whatever we her students were admitted to the Church. were working on, we were not going governor’s honors program and the lead at Converse. to be perfect, but i did my best to georgia all-State Chorus. Many Marshall and five classmates “Whether in the Campus Life office make sure we were going to be as went on to major in music in college, established the Carolen Belcher perfect as we could,” she said. Her some became conductors and choir or in a politics class, i am surrounded Hansard ’56 endowed Scholarship by mentors who want me to succeed determination made a difference in directors, one attended Juilliard and in May 2005. “We still have a way in every aspect of my college career. as the lives of those Carolen taught, many others are active in community to go to meet the $25,000 minimum a sophomore, i learned that my mom and six former students have chosen theatre. “She put something in each of before the fund can become active,” was terminally ill with cancer and took to honor her by establishing an us that we will carry for the rest of our said Marshall. endowed scholarship for music lives,” said Marshall. leave to be with her. Converse faculty and staff helped me to stay focused education students in the Petrie if you wish to honor Carolen by on my education and encouraged me School of Music. after 27 years of teaching high school contributing to the scholarship give today to find ways to grow personally and music and drama, Carolen retired fund, contact the Converse office of “Students were clamoring to be in in 1994. in 1996, she was inducted Development at (864) 596-9018 or professionally from the experience. online her classes,” said Marshall James, a into the georgia State thespian Hall e-mail [email protected]. today, it has opened up an opportunity www.converse.edu/giving that has shaped and guided my career Please use our secure website to charge your goals. YoUr gift helps to make it gift on Visa, MasterCard or Discover. possible for Converse faculty and staff to be a part of my life.” by gifts of Descendant of Converse Founder Converse as the income beneficiary. Appreciated Assets “During my junior year, i participated in London term. it was surreal to study leaves legacy Through annuity Trust Upon termination of the trust, the You may give gifts of stocks or appreciated British history and economics while visiting the very places that we were learning trust property is securities by calling (864) 596-9018. about. Not every college sends their own professors to teach students during edwin Malloy, Jr. in honor of the relationships his transferred to your study/travel programs, and that made an important difference to me. YoUr was the older son of mother and grandfather held with heirs. in addition, any by cash or check gift helps fund scholarships and hands-on learning experiences that impact Margaret Manning Converse, edwin actively supported future appreciation Please mail your gift in the enclosed every Converse student.” Malloy 1907; and the College as a volunteer and with of the property can business reply envelope: his grandfather, financial gifts throughout his life. be channeled to heirs the Converse fund “YoUr gift funds programs that help me William Sinkler He created a lasting family legacy by without incurring Converse College to grow as a leader and as a person. the Manning, was a establishing a charitable lead trust in further gift or estate 580 east Main Street Converse College institute for Leadership Converse founder. his estate plan, which will provide tax liability. given the Spartanburg, SC 29302 Upon graduation substantial income to Converse for size of gift and estate gave me the confidence and skills to pursue from the US Naval the next 20 years. taxes, the savings leadership opportunities throughout my academy with that can be achieved college career – from College republicans distinction in 1940, “a charitable lead trust is a way to through use of a charitable lead trust to Sga and Crescent to Project Serve. this Malloy was commissioned an ensign make a planned gift to Converse can be significant.” year, i am chairperson of the Spartanburg in the US Navy. He was promoted to and transfer assets to heirs at a Colleges relay for Life for the american commander before retiring in 1946. reduced estate or gift tax,” said for more information about Cancer Society. i also serve as chair of that same year, he joined the family- Dianne ansley, director of planned charitable lead trusts, contact the Honor Board, which has allowed me to owned Cheraw Yarn Mills where he giving at Converse. “the concept is Converse office of Development uphold one of Converse’s most sacred and eventually served as secretary and simple: You transfer cash, securities at (864) 596-9018 or e-mail valued traditions. following my graduation director from 1963 until his death in or other property to a trust for a [email protected]. this May, i look forward to joining you in 2005. set number of years and designate supporting the students who will follow in my footsteps at Converse.” 20 ConvErsEFUND 21 Rose Montgomery Johnston and Walter and Betty Montgomery were presented with framed prints of the renovated student center during the dedication ceremony as a token of the College’s appreciation. They are pictured above with President Betsy Fleming. $6.5 Million renovation transforms Montgomery student Center The montgomery into hub for student Life Family legacy at the time of its construction in 1960, following an 18-month, $6.5 McMillan Smith and Partners, lead study sessions or relaxation. a retro the student center was named for the million renovation that has architects on the project, designed yet contemporary style has been Montgomery family of Spartanburg in transformed Montgomery Student the renovated facility to harmonize achieved with the color scheme and honor of three trustees who had rendered Center into a hub for modern day the historic context of the campus suspended drop ceilings that reveal outstanding service to Converse: John H. student life, the facility was formally with a contemporary chic interior. mechanical supports. Undulating Montgomery, Walter Scott Montgomery, unveiled and dedicated during a incorporation of technology was contours in the ceiling and floors and his son Walter S. Montgomery Sr., then ceremony on february 7. a priority of the project, and define the student art gallery leading chair of the Board of trustees. Since that Montgomery is now home to the to Sneakers and Loafers game time, three other members of the family have “the beautifully renovated student College’s first wireless hotspot. room. an inviting fireplace with served as trustees: Walter S. Montgomery Jr. center is the site for shaping the Sneakers grill has transformed into casual seating is the centerpiece of from 1967-1996, Betty James Montgomery culture of community at Converse,” a cyber café complete with plasma the lobby, which includes an events whose service began in 1997 and continues said President Betsy fleming. “it is screen televisions. in addition to and information desk with a plasma today and rose Montgomery Johnston who a comfortable and engaging space dramatic alterations to existing screen that continuously provides began her term in 2005. where students can meet, eat, relax offices and spaces, the renovation campus information. and discuss local and global issues. also added office space for student the Montgomery family is the only one it is a space for such events as band government organizations, a fitness Molly Stoehr ’06 said that the in Converse history who has provided parties and coffeehouse-style poetry center, computer stations, the new center has already become the continuous leadership and service to the jams. it is where we will celebrate gibbs Chapel, a seminar room, a heart of the campus. “every time i College since its founding. “our family is longstanding Converse traditions conference room, a day student go into Montgomery, i see students proud of its long association with Converse,” and initiate new ones.” lounge and a 250-seat multipurpose checking e-mail while eating said Walter S. Montgomery Jr. “We are room. in Sneakers, working out in the equally proud of the entire Converse family fitness room, worshiping in the who has given so much in vision, leadership, the open floor plan chapel, hanging out with friends in work and treasure.” serves the constant Loafers, shopping in the bookstore, level of activity in the meeting in Sga offices or studying the family’s legacy continued with their center. alcoves just on a comfy couch. the renovation leading support for the 2005 renovation off main hallways allows us to experience all aspects project. provide space for of student life—be it mind, body or casual meetings, spirit—under one roof.” 22 LIFEonCAMPus 23 can extend the muscles, Dr. Jeri King and a group of six Converse students the more they relax and Converse students spent 26 days stress is reduced,” said in oaxaca, Mexico living as locals. Lefrancois, who recently “the class was a total immersion Explore non-Traditional earned certification course, meaning that the students to teach introductory were completely engrossed in the iyengar. local culture,” said Dr. King. “oaxaca learning in January Term is located in the Southern region of the classroom of Mexico and has 16 indigenous groups Dr. James Hymas, with differing languages in addition the four-week January term at Introduction to Bio-Forensics course. associate professor to Spanish, so the students were able Converse is one of the most popular in addition to presentations from of mathematics, was to get the feeling of what it’s like to among students because it is designed forensics experts with local law Members of Dr. James Hymas’ class use a Vegas- transformed into a live in a true Mexican village. they specifically for the pursuit of non- enforcement agencies, Dr. Steele’s style roulette table as they research the mathematics Las Vegas casino as students used experienced life as a local by staying traditional learning opportunities students took part in blood splatter of probabilities. various gambling games to research with oaxaca families and taking through innovative course design, examination, hair analysis and victim gauge the popularity of the euro. Dr. the mathematics of probability. language courses at a nearby language study-travel and internships. identification through bones found at Catherine West, associate professor institute.” a crime scene. of french and director of women’s studies, guided students in the study Dr. Wayne Cheser, associate professor in Alternative Photography Methods, of conversational french in the of education and a licensed US Coast andrew Blanchard, assistant professor second course. guard Captain, took a group of of printmaking and photography, 13 Converse and Wofford College led students on a reverse journey Students of Dr. David Berry, associate students to the British Virgin islands through the advances in photography. professor of music history and theory, where they learned basic navigation. “Students took a digital photograph, analyzed every song ever recorded During their week-long venture, the manipulated it in adobe Photoshop, by the Beatles and discussed the fab group sailed and lived on two 50-foot converted it to a black and white four’s contributions to the world of fiberglass yachts. negative, burned it to a transparency music. and eventually exposed it by sunlight,” While some of their peers were said Blanchard. Dr. Janet Lefrancois, associate conducting research, a group of other professor of psychology, taught the Converse students were getting Janae O’Shields ’07, Lauren Boughman ’08, Ashley Thomas ’08 Seventeen students traveled to italy to basics of iyengar Yoga to a group of 21 hands-on professional experience and Prentiss White ’08 examine a plastic skull model during Dr. participate in one of two courses. one students. Most had never tried yoga through internships as they worked Steele’s “Introduction to Bio-Forensics” course. group, led by Dr. Woodrow Hughes, before and decided to take the class for US senators in Washington, associate professor of economics and to help them relax and stay focused. DC, Copa airlines in Panama, Price Dr. edna Steele, associate professor business, explored the development of “if the body is balanced and aligned, Waterhouse Coopers in Spartanburg, of biology, took a page from the the european Union and interviewed the mind will follow suit. Stress is Meredith Holzbach ’06 at the wheel of a 50-foot and the anderson County (SC) Keithi Staton ’06 practices Iyengar Yoga as Dr. Janet popular television show “CSI” in her business owners and consumers to stored in the muscles, so the more you yacht off the coast of the British Virgin Islands. Solicitor’s office. LeFrancois looks on.

on January 3rd, Dr. Molly Duesterhaus joined as a member of a military family, is just a stopover in their journeys expanse of stories and perspectives Converse College as dean of students. She earned Duesterhaus was able to see much through life. With that in mind, i which will carry with them beyond a doctorate in higher education from Vanderbilt of the country and the world as a believe it is our responsibility to Converse College. and ultimately, University in May 2004, and a master of education child. She and her husband alan, encourage students to discover in this fast moving, ever changing, new dean in higher education and student affairs from the who has a doctorate in higher who they are, to explore their place complex world, we need to empower University of Vermont in May 1992. She completed education administration, have five and purpose and to find their niche students to become confident, of students her baccalaureate at george Mason University in children, ages five to thirteen. on the campus and in the world. active and engaged citizens in their 1990. in addition to serving as an undergraduate We need to create an environment work and play.” named instructor at both tennessee Wesleyan College and regarding her philosophy on student that will enrich their learning Vanderbilt University, she served as assistant dean of life, Duesterhaus commented, “in and encourage growth: to push students at Saint Michael’s College and director of my work with college students, i students out of their comfort zones residential life at Mary Baldwin College. try to always remember that college so that they will learn from a wide

24 ConvErsENEWS 25 in November, an endowed chair of philosophy was established at Converse $1.25 Million fACuLty And studEnt in honor of longtime Spartanburg physician Dr. Harold e. fleming. the Endowment Establishes position was made possible by a $1.25 million gift from Billy and Lindsay Chair of Philosophy ACCoMPLishMEnts Webster of Spartanburg. Mr. Webster is vice chairman of the Converse Board of citizens. Dr. Harold fleming and his family Faculty trustees. Kevin DeLapp, who will earn his have a long-standing and deep commitment Ph.D. from Duke University this spring, has to both Spartanburg and the tradition of the Promotions & appointments: John James (itS) led a presentation edited by Converse’s Dr. melissa been hired for the position and will join the liberal arts education,” Webster said. Wendi arms (music library) has entitled “QX Web additions/ Walker (history/politics) has been Converse faculty in the fall of 2006. been promoted to assistant librarian; Modifications” at Jenzabar’s annual published by University of Missouri the establishment of the endowed chair Dr. William Baker has accepted the Meeting in San Diego, Ca. Press. another essay, “one foot in each “Betsy fleming’s focus on investing in the affirms Converse’s commitment to providing position of chair of the Department World,” was published in Black Earth core of the liberal arts tradition is something a thorough and liberal education for women. of Psychology; Dr. sherry Fohr has Dr. richard Keen (psychology) earned and Ivory Tower: New American Essays that Lindsay and i feel is important to “My first priority at Converse is to ensure Kevin Delapp agreed to serve as chair of the religion the excellence in teaching award from from Farm and Classroom. support, and we chose to do so in a way that this institution prepares women for and Department of Philosophy; Dr. South Carolina independent Colleges that honors one of our community’s leading lifelong learning, leadership and service,” Kelly Harrison-maguire (education) and Universities (SCiCU). the award Elizabeth York (music therapy) said President fleming. “the study and for developing the knowledge and skills has been granted tenure; Dr. anita is in its inaugural year and is given to presented research conducted on the application of ethics are central to every necessary for crafting an ethical life.” rose (english) has been granted tenure one professor at each of the 20 SCiCU efficacy of music therapy and creative academic subject and every profession in and promotion to associate professor; member institutions. arts interventions with women victims our society.” the hiring of DeLapp culminated a national Teresa prater has been appointed a of domestic violence at the World search to fill the position. DeLapp graduated Charles a. Dana Professor of art; and the journal Teaching for Excellence Congress of Music therapy, Brisbane, “it is a tremendous honor to have from the University of California, Santa Cruz Dr. Kelly mcElrath vaneman has been published an anthology of Dr. Tom australia. this endowed chair named for a quiet in 2001 with highest honors in philosophy promoted to associate professor. mcDaniel’s (education) articles entitled community leader and beloved doctor who before attending graduate school at Duke “educators’ Practical guide to Current also happens to be my father,” fleming University. His specialization in philosophy andrew Blanchard (art & design) Legal issues.” continued. “He has always believed that is in metaethics and the history of ethical participated in exhibitions at Central students behaving ethically is the responsibility of theory, and he has research and teaching Michigan University, the ink Shop rick mulkey (english) received a every global citizen and that it is most vital interests in ancient greek philosophy, logic, Print Center in ithaca, New York, the Pushcart Prize nomination for his Billy Webster, President Fleming and Dr. Harold Fleming on the local level as a daily habit. My father moral psychology, and social and political Columbia art Center (Columbia, MD), poems that appeared in the Spring considers education to be the vehicle philosophy. the Spartanburg Museum of art and 2004 issue of Shenandoah, and in graduate soprano Kamila Bobrova was arizona State University. his chapbook, Bluefield Breakdown. invited to sing at the 2006 international Professor Mulkey served as a visiting tatarstan festival in Kazan in March. renovation to “Dropping out: a Look at Client writer and gave a reading of his work at attrition rates,” by Dr. pamela Clark furman University in february. melissa vaughan-Kleppel (Converse ii) (graduate studies) was published in and sydney Weinberg ’08 were selected The Palmetto Family, which is the South Teresa prater’s (art & design) digital for their performances in theatre/Converse’s Log Cabin Carolina association for Marriage photograph, “Spirit Child #1,” won production of Seascape to compete for the and family therapists’ bi-yearly third place at the third Biennial Hub irene ryan acting Scholarship at next year’s publication. City Juried art Competition. regional Kennedy Center american College theatre festival. Completed Dr. Jean Dunbar (math/computer “the flight Patterns of Birds,” a story science) presented a paper, “one Small by susan Tekulve (english) was patty amatriain ’06 and Jennifer Jones Step towards Probing the PPC,” at the nominated for a Pushcart Prize by the ’07 earned first place at the 8th annual British Combinatorial Conference in Connecticut Review. Undergraduate research Conference at the Steeped in Converse history, the Durham, england. University of Maryland for their research log cabin is a long-time favorite of Dr. John Theilmann (history/politics) poster entitled “Production and investigation Converse students and alumnae. Dr. rafael E. Hernandez (foreign presented a paper co-authored with of Prolactin antagonist exotoxin fusion renovations to the cabin began in languages & literatures) presented Jessie Burke ’05, “Prince Pleasers Protein.” June 2005 are now complete, and a research paper titled “the image or Political theorists: Counsel and of iniquity in the Latin american Constraint in the Works of Hoccleve, Brelan riddle ’06, summer uhl ’06 the cabin reopened february 6. Novel” at the 8th annual Comparative gower, and Chaucer,” at the 31st and megan Jacobs ’06 were included in Literature Conference, USC-Columbia Southeastern Medieval association the March issue of Creative Convocation, renovations include a new roof, in february. meeting. He was elected to the SeMa a national all-university/college based restored logs, refinished floors, the executive council for a three-year publication that showcases student artwork. addition of a handicap accessible a story by sam Howie (english), “ice,” term. Brelan was also accepted into the Planes, entrance and new heating, air and was published in the fall/Winter 2005- trains & automobiles exhibition at the lighting. 06 issue of the Potomac Review. Work, Family, and Faith: Rural Southern anchorage Museum of History and art. Women in the Twentieth Century, co- 26 ConvErsENEWS 27 Dear Fellow Alumnae, making a difference in their communities. During reunion Weekend on april 28 – Paint the world 29, these gifted alumnae will be presented Messages of to unveil the renovated Montgomery awards for excellence in their careers, e x c e l l e n c e , Student Center. as alumnae we have so their volunteerism and their continued beauty, service many memories of checking our mailbox, love and support of Converse. in and commitment purchasing those all-important textbooks addition, the slate of new board members are abundantly and selecting the right Converse gift for will be presented. the alumnae Board Purple expressed in this our “little sister.” During my freshman year continues to attract women of all ages spring edition there was even the pressure of passing the who want to support our alma mater. reunion weekend of the Converse required swimming test. over the years, they will represent Converse and you Bulletin. Montgomery has been filled with the through their gifts of time, talents and April 28-29, 2006 sounds of competitive basketball games, contributions to the College. the Petrie School of Music has received laughter and music coming from Sneakers, one of the music world’s unique activities at the Career Services office and Spring is here and reunion is just around distinctions as a Steinway School. at student government meetings. each of the corner. to those of you from classes each Converse occasion, music students us can add our own memories. Now that ending in ones and sixes, come relive the this year, Converse College welcomes back the dazzle and inspire us with their showcase Montgomery Student Center has reopened, memories with your classmates and enjoy of talents. for the generous gifts pledged it has once again become a vibrant hub classes of 1931, 1936, 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, the new beauty of Converse College. i 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, to Converse to attain this Steinway School of student life at Converse. Come see for look forward to seeing you! designation, we offer our deepest thanks yourself and enjoy the changes. 1996, 2001, 2005, and the golden Club for and appreciation. alumnae reunion Weekend. Your alumnae Board has been working rEunion “it’s A sandra sherard Bethea ’67 on february 7, a celebration was held to recognize Converse women who are Converse College Alumnae Association President visit the reunion Weekend website CLAss ACt” AwArds at www.converse.edu/reunion for Help your class compete for Reunion awards! During the Awards complete information and registration. Luncheon on Saturday, two classes will be announced as winners of the “It’s A Class Act” competition based on two specific goals. Greece: Awards are: Gift Award and Participation Award.

Following the Converse needs You! give to The Converse Fund online at www. converse.edu, or use the enclosed capital business reply to mail Footsteps of Paul your gift. MAY 19 – JUNE 2, 2006

trace the apostle Paul’s journey and gain a renewed appreciation for his mission, message, and ministry by exploring the great cities of Classic and Hellenistic greece. explore the Scriptures in their original setting of Philippi, thessaloniki, Berea, athens, Corinth, ephesus, and Patmos, where pivotal events of the early church come alive. Visit Vergina, site of the royal tombs; a new online auction Meteora, with its towering monasteries; and Delphi, shrine of the ancient god apollo. www.conversecollege.cmarket.com

of course, no tour would be complete without a cruise of the wonderful greek islands. Led by Dr. David Sparks, president of • april 1, 2006 preview Items online footsteps Ministries, and his wife elizabeth, who will help relate Paul’s message to today’s world while taking you off the beaten path to experience greek food and culture to the fullest extent. • april 12, 2006 Bidding Begins at 8:00 am • april 28, 2006 Bidding Ends at 8:45 pm for information, contact the alumnae office at (864) 596-9011 or e-mail [email protected]. Join us for An Auction you will not want to Miss! Converse searches for currently underway. interested alumnae required. Strong organizational and are encouraged to apply online at www. communications skills are necessary. Luxury vacations, fine home furnishings, golf packages, original work by professional artists and so much more…for Director of alumnae converse.edu/employment. example: Carolina Panthers Club Level Package to include 12 seats, food, beverages and three parking passes. Luxury responsibilities include, but are accommodations for one week at figure eight, North Carolina. Converse College will soon bid Melissa the position requires the enthusiastic not limited to: serving as primary Johnson a fond farewell as she moves on management and development of the link to alumnae and staff liaison to additional items will be included in the all-Stars athletic Silent auction on campus during reunion Weekend april to the next chapter in her life. for the past College’s alumnae relations program. alumnae association Board; planning 26-28, 2006. six years, Melissa has developed a strong a Ba or higher degree is required and and attending alumnae events and alumnae outreach effort that has helped the candidate must be an alumna of programs; overseeing alumnae-related all proceeds will benefit the Converse College athletic program, which includes: transportation for athletes, new equipment, many alumnae to remain connected with Converse College. experience in alumnae administrative functions; and cultivating and program enhancements. Your support to the Converse all-Stars is appreciated! gifts were donated by members of the their alma mater. relations, development, event planning active alumnae involvement in the life of or related fields preferred. occasional the College through publications, special Converse College Board of trustees, Board of Visitors, alumnae association Board and many gracious friends. the search for an alumnae director is travel, weekend and weeknight work events and career networking. 28 ALuMnAENEWS 29 Distinguished alumna award Mae Kilgo Spirit award Community Service award Career achievement Career achievement in Music Converse 100 award Converse 100 award Star award margaret griffin marianna macIntyre louise Earle oxner ’61 amy Warren Beaty ’81 ross magoulas ’56 Haidee Clark stith ’76 mary oeland Betty arthur Burch ’61 Taylor ’81 the Community Service award is each year, Converse salutes an the Career achievement in first presented during the College’s alexander ’56 Hardaway ’71 the alumnae association’s Mae presented to a Converse alumna alumna who has dedicated herself Music award is presented to ross Centennial, the Converse 100 award for selfless giving to her an alumna who has actively and the Distinguished alumna award elizabeth Kilgo Spirit award is who displays the qualities of a to excellence in her profession Magoulas ’56. Since earning his is given to alumnae who clearly community, Mary oeland admirably served Converse in is given each year to a Converse presented to a Converse graduate vibrant citizen as evidenced in and has distinguished herself bachelor’s in music from Converse represent the qualities of character alexander ’56 is recognized with the area of recruitment is given alumna in recognition of outstanding who has kept the spirit of the College her active involvement in her by notable achievement over a and his master’s in music from and achievement that Converse the Converse 100 award. the Converse Star award. this achievement in her field, service visible to other alumnae and her community, church, and state. for continual period of time. this florida State University in 1959, alumnae hold as their ideal. Haidee year’s recipient is Betty arthur to her community or society, and Presently, Mary is a member of community through her continued her 33 years of continuous service year, we recognize amy Warren ross has used his skills and Clark Stith’76 is one of this year’s Hardaway ’71. loyalty to Converse. Margaret griffin the Christian Unity committee, loyal service to her alma mater. to the community of her native Beaty ’81 for her achievements in talents as teacher, director, and recipients. Burch ’61 of greer, SC is the greenville (SC), Louise earle interior design. performer. a group devoted to fostering an enthusiastic cheerleader Haidee is the executive director recipient of the 2006 award. Marianna Macintyre taylor ’81 oxner ’61 is this year’s winner. racial love and harmony through for Converse, Betty has hosted has served Converse in various after graduating with an art degree of the South Carolina Women’s Lee County (SC) churches; numerous Converse events in after becoming frustrated with the He has taught voice at Berry capacities. as Converse fund in a 1980 interview with the from Converse, amy earned a Business Center, an entrepreneurship treasurer of the Committee for florence, written notes to students greenville County (SC) School College, Converse, the Brevard class chair, she oversaw a 20% greenville Piedmont, Louise graphic design degree from the program of the US Small Business Progress and Understanding, a whom have been accepted to Board’s inability to teach students Music Center, Shorter College, increase in class participation, said that volunteer service is rhode island School of Design. administration and subsidiary of group that seeks to find avenues Converse, and referred students with special education needs, and the College of Charleston. and has volunteered her time and “an essential element of life. it after working for several graphic the South Carolina Manufacturing of creative involvement among in the florence area to Converse. she sought out potential school in august 2005, Berry College talents as alumnae board decade is important for both the giver design firms and advertising extension Partnership. She also different races; and teacher of Betty is an important link for board candidates who could established the ross Magoulas representative, development and the receiver.” in May 2000, agencies, she focused all of her works as a private consultant a Sunday school class (which her fellow Converse alumnae by make a difference. in 1982, then Music Scholarship. committee member, and member she was inducted to the order energies towards interior design. with public and private firms in a has been named in her honor) serving as club chair for the Pee US representative and future SC of the presidential inauguration of the Jessamine, an award that variety of management roles. Her at Bethlehem United Methodist Dee region of South Carolina. She governor Carroll Campbell, Jr. in 1997, she joined the glavé firm He has taught voice at Berry committee. She has hosted get- honors women who are making a previous duties have been with Church in Bishopville (SC). also has served on the alumnae Board encouraged Margaret to seek the in richmond, Va as senior associate College, Converse, the Brevard togethers for her class during difference in their communities by the South Carolina Department at Bethlehem United Methodist, and the records and recognition greer District 18 position on the and design director. She served as Music Center, Shorter College, reunion weekend. She is currently doing work that benefits others. of Commerce where she directed Mary has served as chairperson of Committee. She has also served as board herself. She was the first project manager and senior interior and the College of Charleston. serving on the Converse Board the division of research and grants, the administrative Board and the class fund chair. woman elected to the board, became She has served as president of designer on a number of projects at the Brevard Music Center, he of Visitors. Most importantly, served as chief operating officer, and Council of Ministries; delegate to the first board chairman elected Junior League greenville and the for luxury resorts, an historical has performed in productions Betty’s community involvement Marianna takes to heart the directed the advisory coordinating the annual Conference; president to two terms, and led efforts to net greenville Community Planning society, and a seminary. She later of “Pirates of Penzance,” the includes membership with concept that Converse alumnae council for economic development. of the Women of the Church; $110 million in facilities for greer. Council; chaired the greenville joined rau and associates—also in Mikado,” “the Medium,” and the florence County Medical are the College’s best recruiters by She has worked for the South and member of the Pastor-Parish She ended her term in 2002 after advisory Council, the greenville richmond—where she carried out “the gondoliers.” He performed association alliance, serving as frequently referring students to the Carolina governor’s office as relationship Committee. serving for 20 years. Council on aging, and the responsibilities of project manager in “La Boheme” with the Charlotte president of the trinity Collegiate office of admissions. deputy director for the division of greenville Literacy association; and senior designer. opera, “the gondoliers” with the She is an active member of Junior School Parent guild, board Under her leadership, the board economic development, coordinator Marianna’s passion for supporting served on the Boards of the United Columbia (SC) Lyric, a medley Welfare League, March of Dimes, member for the florence County received national attention from the in 2001, amy teamed with fellow for the governor’s initiative for work Converse is matched by her active Way of greenville, the greenville of gibert & Sullivan selections and the Lee County arts Council Mental Health association, american School Board Journal for rau and associates designer Carter force excellence, coordinated the community involvement She free Medical Clinic, Meals on with the Phoenix (aZ) Symphony foundation through which she completing a nine-year tenure as its transformation into an effective Brown Williams to form Beaty and economic development component has initiated and implemented Wheels, and the Community orchestra, “Die fledermaus” with is leading an effort to fund an treasurer of the florentine Society, team; successfully navigated flare- Brown interior Design. the firm of the division of employment Veteran’s Day programs in various foundation of greenville. She the atlanta Lyric opera, “the endowment for the opera House and being a charter member of ups such as racial tensions, strikes by caters to hospitality business and and training, deputy director for South Carolina towns; chaired the coordinated the greenville reach Mikado” with the Hilton Head in Bishopville. investors anonymous. bus drivers, and the need of facilities has a client roster that includes intergovernmental relations, and the Patriotic Services Committee of the to recovery program (a breast Symphony orchestra, “fiddler the Library of Virginia, Pga governor’s alternate to the appalachian Mary’s service to Converse includes for special needs and disadvantaged cancer outreach of the american on the roof” at the Charleston Spartanburg chapter of the Colonial National resort & Spa (Palm regional Commission. students; and established an Cancer Society), was an organizing serving as class representative Dames of america; led an initiative Beach, fL), the Homestead (a Stage at Dock Street theatre, and international baccalaureate program committee member of UpLift- Haidee has served on the South and active supporter of alumnae to transform a dilapidated house and luxury resort in Hot Springs, Va), “the Music Man” at Spartanburg for greer schools. Breast Cancer Support, and a Carolina economic Developers events. lot into Spartanburg’s first “Pocket Jepson executive alumni Center repertory theatre. longtime volunteer tutor for the association; been active with the During her tenure, Margaret was Park” to benefit a local school at Mary Washington University greenville Literacy association. South Carolina Literacy association, named educator of the Year by district and church. in November, (fredericksburg, Va), and the a resident of Johns island, SC, ross has directed at the Brevard Music the Midlands Literacy initiative, the various organizations, received the she took part in recovery and She has served her church (Christ Village of aberdeen (a planned Center, Spartanburg repertory Small Business Committee of the outstanding Service award from rebuilding efforts in the hurricane- episcopal Church) as the first community in aberdeen, NC). theatre, Berry College, and State Chamber of Commerce; and the SC Strings teachers association ravaged sections of Mississippi, and woman senior warden; chairman Converse. in May, he will direct a served as a Lexington County (SC) (1988), was named an outstanding in 2002 she volunteered a week of of the task force to establish the production of “Pirates of Penzance” Juvenile arbitrator. Citizen by the Woodmen of the World her time in New York City at the site episcopal Book Store, its Board at Spartanburg repertory theatre. (1992), and included in the all-State of the World trade Center attacks. chairman, treasurer, and volunteer During reunion Weekend 2005, He as also served as music director School Board by the SC School for Junior League of Spartanburg, bookkeeper; president of Women Haidee moderated a panel discussion of at rome (ga) Little theatre for Boards association (1994). Upon her she is a sustaining member, has of Christ episcopal Church; and as four Converse alumnae entrepreneurs productions of “the King and i,” retirement, she was presented with chaired fund development, and a member of the church vestry. who shared the struggles and triumphs the order of the Palmetto, the highest received the Provisional of the Year “the Music Man,” “Hello Dolly,” and of being their own boss. She has also award that can be bestowed upon a award and the Mary flowers Scott My fair Lady.” offered internship opportunities for citizen of South Carolina. Smith award. current Converse students. 30 ALuMnAEAWARDS 31 president Elect Converse II 2000’s Decade 1980’s Decade 1970’s Decade 1950’s Decade nancy Bain Coté ’79 representative representative representative representative representative Spartanburg, SC Frances singleton Bryce Copeland mary Helen Haidee Clark stith ’76 Doris marley laird ’51 • 1st Presbyterian Church Woodside ’85 martin ’01 richbourg Earle ’85 Columbia, SC tallahassee, fL Sunday School teacher greenville, SC Simpsonville, SC greenville, SC • founder and current • appeared in the 2005- and Discipleship Small • first student enrolled in • Volunteer, March of • Volunteer, Meals on Director, SC Women’s 2006 editions of Who’s group Leader the Converse ii Program Dimes Wheels Business Center Who in america, Who’s • Current volunteer for • art instructor in • Community volunteer • Licensed pilot • former Coo, Who in american Converse, Spartanburg Cortona, italy for • active member, • Member, St. Mary’s SC Department of Women, Who’s Who in Day School, and Mobile Meals University of georgia in 1989 and at Mitchell road Presbyterian Church Catholic Church Choir Commerce and staff for american education, and • Past president of the Junior League of Converse College from 1989-1990 governor Carroll a. Campbell, Jr. Who’s Who in the World Spartanburg and Spartanburg Day School • owner and operator, frances S. Woodside • Council Member, United Way of the • retired professor of Humanities at fSU Parents’ Club Studio and gallery, downtown greenville, SC Midlands’ education, Jobs and Life Skills

First vice president graduate Degree 2000’s Decade 1980’s Decade 1970’s Decade 1940’s Decade (nominating Committee representative representative representative representative representative Chair) Jeanette Carol Wilesha Davis sally Jeter Elise Warren ’75 Betty Jo putnam palmer Davison Ball ’84 Williams ’96, ’98 mEd Wright ’01 Hammond ’81 Birmingham, aL Carpenter ‘49 Spartanburg, SC Spartanburg, SC Durham, NC Spartanburg, SC • Sales representative, rutherfordton, NC • Business Manager, • english instructor, • educational • active volunteer, Shred first • President, the Spartanburg Day School Spartanburg technical Director, family Life episcopal Church of • active member, Symphony of • Speaker at national and College enrichment Center of the advent, Pine Street independent rutherford County summer conferences • Member, Junior League east Durham elementary School, and Presbyterian Church • 1999 recipient of the for independent School Business Managers of Spartanburg, • founder, touched by an angel Childcare Converse Converse College Career achievement in • Junior League of Spartanburg Sustainer arts X Society Services • formerly with Spartanburg Music award • first Presbyterian Church Long range • Pursuing Higher education administration regional Healthcare System Planning Committee degree at University of South Carolina

second vice president planned giving 1990’s Decade 1980’s Decade 1960’s Decade 1940’s Decade (national Club Chair) representative representative representative representative representative mindy Thompson Erica “Candy” Joy adams Bethea ’93 Elena pribyl rush ’84 Joe ann smith Cole ’62 Kitty peeler Carson ’49 orman ’71 patrice moore ’93 Columbia, SC Spartanburg, SC Charlotte, NC Union, SC Nashville, tN fort Mill, SC • Winter festival 2006 • Director, Community • former soprano soloist, • retired educator • realtor, Prudential • VP/Director of Market chair and economic Charlotte oratorio • active volunteer: Woodmont realty, Share growth, • VP of Membership, Development • active supporter of church vestry, book Nashville, tN Wachovia Mortgage Junior League of Department for the Charlotte music club president, Union • Co-photographer Corporation Columbia Spartanburg County community County arts Council with husband Scott of orman and orman • annual giving Committee member, Junior • admissions Committee member, Hammond • Member, Board of Directors, • elder, Presbyterian Church Board, friends of the Library Board Photographers League of Charlotte School National association for County • Past member, Board of Directors, Nashville • organizational member, friends of the arts • 1st grade Sunday School teacher, Community and economic Development Chapter of the american red Cross for the afro-american Cultural Center of eastminster Presbyterian Church Charlotte, NC secretary 2000’s Decade 1990’s Decade 1970’s Decade 1950’s Decade at-large member grazier Connors representative representative representative representative Wallace Davison ’89 rhea ’74 Jessica Case Cynthia greene nancy Boatwright nancy “nan” Brown austin, tX rock Hill, SC Holland ’03 goldsmith ’96 Holt ’79 Foster ’55 • Payment Processing • Community irmo, SC Charlotte, NC Columbia, SC Spartanburg, SC Manager, Supportkids, Development • Student, University of • interior Designer • Sales associate, Cucina • taught inc. Director, Catawba South Carolina School • Volunteer, Christ • Sunday School teacher, multihandicapped • elder, Westlake Hills regional Council of of Law episcopal Church, the treasurer of Daughters students for 27 years at Presbyterian Church governments • Law clerk, Columbia, SC Children’s Circle at of the Holy Cross, South Carolina School • Member, Junior League • treasurer, Historic Meyers Park UMC trinity episcopal Cathedral for the Deaf and Blind of austin rock Hill • Member, Junior League of Charlotte • Pto volunteer, Crayton Middle School • Board member since its inception, • immediate Past President, ellen Hines Smith girls’ Home Debutante Club of rock Hill

2000’s Decade 1990’s Decade 1970’s Decade 1950’s Decade at-large member golden Club president representative representative representative representative pamela Hughes nancy sibley susanna Knight Jane manning Hyatt ’93 Emily Jones Harriet “sister” Foster ’96 Dunn ‘54 roberts ’00 Belmont, Ca rushing ’73 marshall goode ’59 greenville, SC Spartanburg, SC atlanta, ga • regional Director of Birmingham, aL rock Hill, SC • Private pilot • retired school • teacher, Dekalb County the West for thomson • Communications • owner of gallery 5 • Member, greenville psychologist School System education officer, the • Lives in historic, restored Woman’s Club and • Board of Visitors, • recently completed Community bank building in which Christ episcopal Montreat College master’s degree in foundation of greater she hosts art events and Church • Board of friends of the Historical behavior and learning disabilities, Birmingham parties for non-profit organizations • Programming Contractor for Medals of foundation georgia State University • Member, Converse Board of Visitors • Member of the advisory Board, School of Visual america, Ltd. in fountain inn, SC at Montreat, inc. • Volunteer, March of Dimes and Performing arts, Winthrop University

32 ALuMnAEBOARD 33