ANDERSON UNIVERSITY
| FALL 2020
Follow our Journey!
ANDERSON UNIVERSITY
2020 / FALL MAGAZINE
The Fabric of AU
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retiring executive assistant had “best seat on campus”
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AU’s team of servant leaders rise to face COVID-19
8 VP of enrollment management aligned her gifts to best serve 10 everyone knows his servant heart & work ethic—meet JJ 12
The AU Diary Secret Givers
Jason’s Column AU Q&A Trojans in Motion
stronger
together…
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helping young women draw their strength from the Lord
a life of sacrificial giving funded more than 100 scholarships
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$8 million contribution to AU established the Clamp Divinity School
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AU grad and alumni board member contributed half million dollars for scholarships scholarship fund created in memory of Dr. Charles Wooten
@AndersonUnivSC @AUTrojans
@AndersonUniversitySC @AUTrojans
14 a Christ-centered campus & culture supports academic & personal growth 16
Follow our official social media channels for a glimpse into life at Anderson University. From student events and alumni profiles to campus enhancements, athletic success, and other university news, you will get a clearer picture of what it means to be #TruetoAU.
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@AndersonUnivSC @AUTrojans
@AndersonUniversitySC @Anderson Trojans
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26 - 33 faculty, staff & students share their AU stories @Anderson University (SC) 34 - 39 athletic news
nderson University Magazine is a publication of A the Marketing and Communication Department of Anderson University for alumni and friends.
President: Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D. Editor in Chief: Jonathan Todd P hotographers: Calvin Bowman, Jason Jones Photography, Dawson Powers, Richard Shiro, Stacey Wylie, Sam Shaw
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#TruetoAU #TrojanArmy #LongLiveAnderson
The Fabric of AU
AndersonUniversity.edu 316 Boulevard Anderson, SC 29621 864.231.2000
The Fabric of AU This is a magazine about some of Anderson University’s heroes. They aren’t the kind of heroes that immediately come to mind. They don’t wear capes or leap tall buildings in a single bound. They are the givers, the ones who sacrifice, the true friends, the encouragers, the prayer warriors and the ones who give without trumpets. Each are committed to the example of Jesus, who said, “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.” (Matthew 6:3-4a) We’re not going to recount everything you may be tired of hearing on TV and the internet. But before, during and after COVID-19, the folks you will read about in this edition of AU Magazine—and on www.andersonuniversity.edu—make up the Fabric of AU. They represent our most deeply held values: faith, hospitality, generosity, innovation, hard work and humility. There is not enough paper and ink to tell all of these stories. That’s why we hope you’ll keep an eye out on future Fabric of AU profiles we’ll be adding to our brand-new website. (For example, we’ll soon publish profiles on Scott and Deb Taylor, Bob and Nancy Hanley, Winfred Green and Peter Kaniaris online.)
If you’re reading this magazine, you are an integral part of the fabric of Anderson University. Something within you inspired you to attend AU, send your child to AU, teach at AU, work at AU, and perhaps give to AU.
• Retired history professor Dr. Joyce Wood, who has documented our story in her book, Anderson University, from The Campus History Series.
• J J Harkness, a beloved member of our grounds team who has a fabled work ethic, omnipresent smile and kind words, is the true embodiment of Great Hospitality, always making faculty, staff and students feel at home. • Associate Campus Minister for Women Becky Walker, who is a real-deal Christian love warrior who has ministered at AU and around the world. • The late Bobbie Jo Branyon, a school teacher who gifted millions of dollars from the trust set up by her father so she could support Anderson University. 2 | GR EETIN GS
Director of Campus Recreation & Fitness Winfred Green Winfred Green established our intramural sports and fitness program during his more than 30-year AU career. And did you know that he and AU Postman Scott Taylor played on the same high school basketball team together? Visit AndersonUniversity.edu/magazine
• Recently retired Executive Assistant to three Anderson University presidents, Diane Sutherland, whose career exemplifies a trait shared by many in our community: dedicated service.
• K atie Landry, an Honors Program student at The South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson University, who also finds time to play in the String Ensemble and Orchestra while competing with the Trojan Track and Field team.
Visit AndersonUniversity.edu/magazine
• The late Dr. Charles Wooten, who inspired many of the leaders of our campus, in addition to training generations of professional educators.
• L inda Clark, a longtime member of the Anderson University family who has worked at AU in different capacities for more than 40 years.
• Vice President for Enrollment Management Pam BryantRoss, who came to Anderson University as a basketball recruit in the 1970s and who has continued recruiting thousands to Anderson University for nearly 40 years.
Read about how this endearing couple met and grew together while helping turn AU into a home for students, staff and fellow faculty members.
• The late Shirley James Findley, an Anderson University graduate, who contributed nearly half a million of her estate to her alma mater.
In this printed issue, here are some of the AU people you’ll learn about:
• Members of the Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force, highly experienced professionals who have been working day-in and day-out since early March to keep our campus safe and prepared for the Journey Ahead.
Vice Provost for Academic Advising | English Department Chair Dr. Bob Hanley & AU Teaching Fellows Director Nancy Hanley
• The late Jane Ferguson Clamp, after whom is named— with her late husband—Clamp Divinity School. The couple gave $8 million dollars for the start of AU’s seminary and graduate ministry programs.
Professor of Art Peter Kaniaris Before he was teaching the next generation to paint, Peter Kaniaris bought a one-way ticket to France in 1969 and earned his way back by painting portraits of tourists.
• South Carolina School of the Arts vocal professor Dr. Tommy Watson who, in addition to being an alumnus, trained a national first-place collegiate singer and aspiring music professor. • And Alexy Mollenhauer, a 2020 Anderson University graduate and basketball standout who plays professional basketball in Spain while holding true to her faith in Christ. If you’re reading this magazine, you are an integral part of the fabric of Anderson University. Something within you inspired you to attend AU, send your child to AU, teach at AU, work at AU and perhaps give to AU. If any of the stories in this issue resonate, continue supporting the University through your continued prayers and gifts. You can support our shared mission with the enclosed envelope, or online at andersonuniversity.edu/giving. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon—and we want to hear about your own AU journey. Share it by emailing Executive Director of Public Relations Andrew Beckner at abeckner@andersonuniversity.edu.
Visit AndersonUniversity.edu/magazine
Postman Scott Taylor & Director of Health Services Deb Taylor Read about how this couple started ministry together and continue ministry on AU’s campus, from prayer and Twitter to establishing our Health Services department. Visit AndersonUniversity.edu/magazine
Warmly, - Anderson University Magazine G R E E T I N GS | 3
retiring executive assistant to the President said she had best seat on campus to witness AU’s phenomenal growth Diane Sutherland has provided appreciated support to
Sutherland’s first job was administrative assistant to
Anderson University since she stepped onto campus as a
assistant academic deans and division heads. Her job was to
student in the 1970s.
support the administrators as the institution transitioned
Then-president Mark Hopkins asked her to serve as his
Sutherland made her mark during her tenure serving three
executive assistant in the early 1990s. At first, Sutherland
Anderson University presidents: Dr. Hopkins, Dr. Royce
was reluctant; she liked what she was doing assisting the
and Dr. Whitaker. Dr. Whitaker praised her contribution.
academic deans of the University.
from a two-year school to a baccalaureate institution. Sutherland’s first act of service at Anderson University was to fellow students in her English class in the early 1970s.
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, in 1954, from the
Her professor asked her to tutor two struggling students by
age of six Sutherland grew up in nearby Williamston,
reviewing topics from class and giving them suggestions on
South Carolina.
their compositions. Sutherland said she considered becoming an elementary school teacher before coming to work full-time at AU. On May 1, 2020, Sutherland began her first day of retirement from the University from which she graduated twice and where she worked since 1991. For more than 25 of those years she served as the executive assistant to the President. “It was totally different,” Sutherland said, remembering the look and feel of AU in the 1990s. “There was almost no activity on campus.” These days, campus is alive with activity, boasting more than
thank her for all these wonderful years in “ Iwhich she has encouraged me, supported me, and performed such a critical role for Anderson University. To say that I’m going to miss her is an understatement. God provided someone to take her position, but she will never be replaced.
”
— Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D. President and Professor of Management
Diane Sutherland
3,900 students. Anderson University is the largest private institution of higher learning in South Carolina. Sutherland graduated from Anderson University in 1974,
Ten months after he initially asked, Sutherland accepted
“I thank her for all these wonderful years in which she has
Sutherland attributes the University’s growth to President
and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in
the job and went on to serve two other presidents, spanning
encouraged me, supported me, and performed such a
Evans Whitaker. She remembers overhearing one of the
2006 while working at AU.
a quarter of a century. Sutherland, who announced her
critical role for Anderson University,” Dr. Whitaker said.
retirement in January, pushed her departure date back a
“To say that I’m going to miss her is an understatement.
trustees give Dr. Whitaker his charge when the University hired him: then-president Dr. Lee G. Royce put us back on
As executive assistant to the President, Sutherland’s duties
month to help the president’s office transition during
God provided someone to take her position, but she
solid financial ground, the trustee said; your job is to take
included writing letters for the President and senior leaders
Anderson University’s response to COVID-19.
will never be replaced.”
Anderson University to the next level.
while managing the President’s busy schedule. She organized meetings for the Board of Trust and its committees,
It would have felt “strange to leave at that point,” she said.
Sutherland said she had the best seat on campus in witnessing
“Everything was looking up,” Sutherland said, recounting
gathering and distributing materials and preparing meeting
The final days of April were “a little calmer” as she helped
AU’s growth in enrollment, programs and buildings.
Dr. Whitaker’s taking the helm of the University in 2002.
minutes. These duties only scratch the surface of her
Chief of Staff John Don prepare for Anderson University’s
“We were going to thrive under his leadership,” she said.
service, though.
first virtual Board of Trust meeting.
“What’s happened on campus,” she said, “has been truly amazing.”
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T H E FA B R I C O F AU | 5
highly qualified professionals on the Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force work hard and well as team of servant leaders When COVID-19 first appeared in the news in early 2020, people didn’t imagine that the virus would turn the world upside down. After working on the Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force together since March 2, Executive Director of Public Relations Andrew Beckner, Senior Vice President for Student Development Dr. Jim Fereira and College of Health Professions Dean Dr. Don Peace are amazed by the effectiveness and collective expertise of the group. “We’re in good hands,” Beckner said. President Evans P. Whitaker convened a group to make recommendations for what AU should do to protect the campus. Fereira said the group started with about 10 people and has more than doubled to 23 members. Beckner said that the goal of the Task Force was not only to focus the collective energy and expertise of faculty and staff to protect the health and safety of students, but also to project calm in the face of the crisis. Fereira said the Task Force also worked on moving students out of their residence halls after spring break and helped students complete the academic year online. After the semester’s conclusion, the Task Force worked long hours all summer to help organize Base Camp (new student orientation), transition faculty and staff members back to campus in early July and launch the Journey Ahead, the University’s “stronger together” approach to reopening campus.
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Beckner has been amazed by the expertise of Task Force members and how they have employed their professional relationships to help the campus community weather the COVID-19 storm.
member of the COVID team “ Each brought key skill sets to the table and worked beautifully together. ”
— Dr. Don Peace Dean of the College of Health Professions Dr. Peace is a great example. Before coming to Anderson University, he directed the South Carolina Office of Public Health Preparedness within the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC.) There, he honed skills in emergency management planning and worked with hospitals on the development of pandemic flu response scenarios. Dr. Peace also served as a respiratory therapist, which gave him a deep understanding of COVID-19’s effects on the body, the treatment patients need and the disease’s lasting impact on the lungs. “I worked in critical care,” Dr. Peace said, adding that this experience gives him insight into infectious diseases and how treating the disease—with its long hours—drains staff members of health care systems. Then there’s the psychological and physical toll for caregivers who are still working to fight the pandemic.
Assistant Professor of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Dr. Howard Murphy is another COVID-19 Task Force member whose experiences help the group envision, plan and execute sound emergency plans. Dr. Murphy has 35 years of experience in emergency services management, having served 33 years in the military and 23 years in homeland security. Dr. Peace led the Task Force’s health team, meeting regularly with colleagues at DHEC, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other agencies. Dr. Peace reported back to the Task Force the latest information from public health officials. In a similar way, Dr. Murphy met with county, state and local first responders about the latest pandemic news and actions that could impact the Anderson University community. Beckner and Peace said they were impressed by how everyone in the diverse Task Force worked together to develop a comprehensive and integrated response plan for the University. “Each team member of the COVID team brought key skill sets to the table and worked beautifully together,” Peace said. Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force members have been stretched by the massive workload. Nevertheless, Dr. Fereira said each person on the team approached their role as servant leaders, counting it joy to help protect the University they each love. The Journey Ahead: For the latest information about the work of the Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force, please visit AndersonUniversity.edu/journey-ahead.
Fereira says the Task Force is organized by teams that handle different aspects of University operations. The acronym HELPS refers to the following:
• “ H” stands for “Host.” The Host team creates plans and procedures to enable students to safely move in, live, gather in small groups, worship, exercise and dine on campus. Representatives from Residence Life, Student Activities, Campus Ministries and other offices contribute to these plans, said Associate Vice President of Student Development Jon Gropp, who serves as dean of students. • “ E” stands for “Engage.” The Engage team develops COVID19-related protocols that connect the University to the external community, such as AU’s recruitment and admissions functions and the acquisition of equipment, Fereira said. • “ L” stands for “Learn.” Directed by Provost Ryan Neal, the Learn team directs how the University will continue educating students during the pandemic. • “ P” stands for “Protect.” The Protect team makes sure AU follows best practices regarding the wearing of masks or face coverings, physical distancing, sanitizing and other physical aspects of keeping the campus community healthy and safe. •A nd “S” stands for “Serve.” The Serve team makes recommendations on how to support AU’s employees during the pandemic.
For a look at a timeline of the Anderson University COVID-19 Task Force’s work, visit AndersonUniversity.edu/task-force-timeline
T H E FA B R I C O F AU | 7
basketball, ventriloquism, and faith: the unique Anderson University journey of Pam Bryant-Ross It was 1977, and Pam Bryant was on the fence about pursuing a college degree.
It’s a critical position at the University: she leads teams that recruit and support prospective students.
Anderson, South Carolina, was the closest “big city” to her hometown of Elberton, Georgia. She always liked visiting the area. A forward on her high school basketball team, Bryant was first invited to visit Anderson University by a local pastor.
Bryant-Ross’s journey at AU required her to wear many hats, but it all began with a young woman pursuing her future.
When she stepped foot on campus, she immediately felt at home. “With my trust in the Lord and assurance of a future basketball career at Anderson University, I took a leap of faith that would lay the foundation of my future career and shape the rest of my life,” Bryant-Ross said.
“I had an amazing experience here as a student. It became my second home,” she said. “Because of the investment of so many wonderful people in my life in the late 1970s, I have always felt a sense of paying it forward on behalf of my dear alma mater.”
Then there’s Bryant-Ross’ little friend, Freddy.
“I just seemed to have the natural skill for it, and people really liked the voice and personality of Freddy,” BryantRoss said. Local churches invited her to speak at meetings for children and senior adults and at Sunday evening services. “Things just took off from there,” she said.
At first, she resisted the new opportunity. After all, she’d just started a family.
“Our show consisted of fun and laughter,” she said. “He was always the funny one between the two of us. The way Freddy and I saw it, I would pull his string and he would do his thing.”
Bryant-Ross accepted the challenge and learned all that she could about best admission practices for student recruitment. She used her experience as a coach to motivate the admission team and teach them to recruit students using the same fervor coaches use to draw talented athletes to their programs.
After Bryant-Ross completed her bachelor’s degree, she continued to perform with Freddy as she began searching for a career. During one of her performances, the chair of the Anderson University Board of Trust, who knew her from her student days, arranged for her to meet with thenpresident Dr. Mark L. Hopkins. Dr. Hopkins asked Bryant-Ross to bring Freddy to the interview. Freddy was dressed in interview attire, and the duo captivated their presidential audience. On the same day in 1983, Dr. Hopkins hired Bryant-Ross—and Freddy. They represented Anderson University during performances across the southeast, pitching the institution to receptive audiences.
my trust in the Lord and assurance “ With of a future basketball career at Anderson University, I took a leap of faith that would lay the foundation of my future career and shape the rest of my life.
”
— Pam Bryant-Ross Vice President for Enrollment Management
Pam Bryant-Ross & Freddy
For the next 37 years, following her experience as a student-athlete, Bryant-Ross used the lessons she learned about coaching, communication and faith to recruit thousands of students to Anderson University. She has served as a recruiter, admission counselor, coach, admission director and now serves as vice president for enrollment management.
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After completing her degree, Bryant-Ross took her first step into employment at Anderson University in 1983 as a “college representative,” a position designed specifically for her talent in ventriloquism, a skill that she started developing when she was 12 years old. She stumbled upon a skilled ventriloquist at a tent revival and was inspired.
After a year traveling with Freddy, Bryant-Ross began recruiting students, assisting with the women’s basketball program and helping to launch Anderson University’s softball program. She also served as an admission counselor and head softball coach. When Anderson University transitioned to baccalaureate status in the early 1990s, it experienced a vastly different future. “It was a time of pruning for the Trojan Family, and one that led to my next role as the director of admission in 1996,” Bryant-Ross said.
“But with the guidance of God, I felt called to serve in this capacity,” Bryant-Ross said.
“Recruiting is very intense,” Bryant-Ross said. Then again, so is she. “My coaching background served me well,” she said. Under her leadership, Anderson University’s traditional student enrollment grew from 892 students in 1995 to 1,283 students in 2007. Today, Anderson University is the largest private institution in South Carolina, boasting an enrollment of more than 3,900 students. In 2004, Anderson achieved university status with the introduction of graduate programs. In 2012, Bryant-Ross was named dean of admission, and in 2016 she was promoted to her present position. Bryant-Ross enjoys watching the journey young people experience at Anderson University. “Knowing the purpose behind what I do and the many stories I get to see is why I love this place so much,” Bryant-Ross said. “These brilliant young people make my job worth doing.” Bryant-Ross is proud of helping Anderson University grow. Over the last 37 years, she has only one regret: a selfdescribed “workaholic,” she felt she could have found a better work/life balance over the years. Nevertheless, her two adult daughters—Jessie and Callie Tallman, both Anderson University alumni—assure her they could not have imagined a better childhood than one spent on campus. Bryant-Ross said her favorite job at Anderson University is where her story first began: as a college representative having fun while proclaiming Anderson’s virtues with her best pal, Freddy. “Little did I know that I would be here this long, but as my life changed, I changed,” Bryant-Ross said. “The Lord continued to provide opportunities for me here that made me recognize his divine direction was to keep me here.”
TCHAE MFAPBURSI CNOEFWAU S | | 191
JJ Harkness’s heart for people is just as powerful as his work ethic John Harkness hasn’t missed a day of work for about a decade. Harkness is a tireless, unflappable employee of The Budd Group, which provides custodial and landscape services for Anderson University. But he’s much more than that. In fact, he’s probably the closest thing the University has to a celebrity among AU students, staff faculty and even President Whitaker!
Harkness, a self-described workaholic, does side jobs on the weekends and when he’s not on campus. “I enjoy it,” he said before correcting himself. “Enjoy is just not strong enough.” “I love it,” he said.
You probably know him better as JJ. “He makes a point to know and speak to everyone,” said Associate Director of Marketing Shelli Rutland. Rutland said that Harkness checked on her often during her first summer working in an office alone. “He was one of many people that made me realize that Anderson University is more than a university. It is home.” President Whitaker often refers to Harkness as a model of hard work, commitment and kindness. “He’s an extraordinary person. His example inspires everyone, beginning with me,” President Whitaker said. “I can’t imagine AU without JJ Harkness,” he added. Harkness pressure washes buildings and empties trash cans and recycle bins throughout campus. His supervisor, The Budd Group site manager Justin Faile, said Harkness has a great rapport with Anderson University staff and students. Harkness has won the Student Government Association Second Mile Award twice. “He’s real in tune with students and staff,” Faile said. Harkness says that checking on people is what folks should do. “You got to let people know you love them,” he said. Before working at AU, Harkness was a sanitation worker for the City of Anderson. But for the past 15 years, he’s called AU home, his employment predating The Budd Group’s contract with the University. He is the longest-serving member of The Budd Group’s campus crew, Faile said. 10 | TH E FA B R I C O F AU
makes a point to know and speak to “ Heeveryone. He was one of many people that made me realize that Anderson University is more than a university. It is home.
”
— Shelli H. Rutland AU Associate Director of Marketing
Harkness said he has been a hard worker since he was a boy; he will be 61 in February. Anderson University Executive Director of Facilities and Campus Safety Charlie Dickerson said his celebrity status is earned—even if most people don’t realize just how important he is to the campus community. “To many of us, his work can go unnoticed, but it’s a really crucial job to keep our campus looking beautiful,” Dickerson said. “Can you imagine these things only haphazardly completed—or not completed at all? JJ takes this job very seriously. And while this job is very laborious, having to be completed rain or shine, cold or hot, JJ does it with as positive of an attitude as anyone on campus. He’s always smiling and going out of his way to speak to everyone he encounters. We should all work to put as much passion and commitment into serving AU as JJ does.”
JJ (Johnny Joe Harkness)
T H E FA B R I C O F AU | 1 1
from North Carolina to Gaza, Associate Campus Minister for Women’s Ministries Becky Walker has followed Jesus—and encourages students to do the same no matter where their journey takes them Nearly everyone who steps foot on Anderson University’s campus knows Becky Walker. As she walks across campus, notebook always in hand, she greets each person she passes with an affectionate, “Hey, honey! How are you?”
“I think living with someone like that, where there was constant care and that kind of thing, you’re just constantly thinking of the needs of people,” Walker said. “It was a really big influence on what I do now.”
Walker, associate campus minister for women’s ministries, has balanced different responsibilities during her 13 years at Anderson University. These days, she hops around campus meeting women one-on-one, leading Women’s Ministry, pioneering the College of Christian Studies’ Women’s Ministry concentration and teaching American Sign Language courses.
That’s why, even as a child, Walker was attracted to helping others. Her grandmother’s neighbor was deaf, and she took it upon herself to learn sign language as a middle schooler.
“I draw my strength just from the Lord, from being in a personal, authentic, real relationship with him,” Walker said. “I try to share that with women, (and encourage them) to do the same.” While many students know Walker, few know the ins and outs of her journey to Anderson University. She is brimming with fun facts: she is fluent in American Sign Language and Arabic, she has moved 22 times, she has two master’s degrees and she and her family lived in Gaza, Palestine, for a few years. Walker said God began shaping her heart for ministry when she was just a child. She was one of five children, born and raised in Hamlet, North Carolina. When she was two years old, her father, a railroad worker, passed away in a train accident. Her mother later remarried, and her stepfather also had two kids, making her large family even larger. She grew up constantly surrounded by people—which is partly why she feels at home on a college campus. She said her oldest brother, Billy, was one of the most influential people in her life. He had cerebral palsy, and she and her parents and siblings took care of him. Though doctors told her mother that Billy wouldn’t live to be five years old, he lived to the age of 19.
12 | TH E FAB R IC O F AU
She felt God leading her to seminary, and she followed. She studied religious education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. God kept opening doors, and Walker kept leaping through them. She helped plant a church for the hearing-impaired in Texas, graduated from seminary, worked in vocational rehabilitation, got married, took master’s courses in American Sign Language and moved a few times.
the field. After a brief stint working at her undergraduate alma mater, Walker got a call from Anderson University inviting her to interview for the position she holds today. For the last 13 years, AU has been her home. Walker said she’s blessed by her job because she can point women straight to the Bible and see God change students’ lives. “If you’re not in a ministry, there’s always a ceiling … You can only go so far; you can only do so much,” Walker said.
When she went to college in North Carolina years later, she jumped into interpreting for hearing-impaired students on campus and got involved with local ministries for those with disabilities. She also spent five summers during college doing mission work with the hearing-impaired.
draw my strength just from the Lord, from “ Ibeing in a personal, authentic, real relationship with him. I try to share that with women, (and encourage) them to do the same.
”
— B ecky Walker Associate Campus Minister for Women’s Ministries
She majored in education, but as she neared the end of her undergraduate studies, Walker found herself at the crossroads. It’s a place familiar to many of the college women she meets with today—what’s next? She said it’s not all that complicated. We have one call in life: to follow Jesus. “This has always been my theory: if things are laid in your lap, you do them,” Walker said. “It’s not about what you’re called to do, you just follow Jesus. If you look at characters in scripture, isn’t that what they did? They didn’t have choices; they just did what’s in front of them. They walked through the door.”
Becky Walker
And when she later mentioned international missions to her husband, Dennis, he came home from work the following day, threw paperwork on the table and said, “Let’s do it.” They sold everything they had, packed up with their twoyear-old daughter, and moved to Gaza—where there was a large school with more than 19,000 hearing-impaired students. Walker worked in the school and established a Palestinian sign language training center, which taught deaf people of all ages to read and provided vocational training. When tensions heightened in Gaza, the Walkers came home to the United States. Walker returned to vocational rehabilitation and picked up her second master’s degree in
“In this position, the ceiling just breaks. You can go deep with people, and you can talk very openly about your faith.” At Anderson University, she prays for students on-the-spot and jots prayer requests in her notebook as women share their stories with her over coffee. And she teaches women around her to do the same. This year alone, Women’s Ministry matched 66 women together for one-on-one mentorship. Sure, she gets tired sometimes. But she’s passionate about pointing women to Jesus and strengthening Anderson University’s Christian community—one student at a time. “I love people, and I love people here,” Walker said. “I love that we can talk about God openly and see rescue. We can share hope. It’s a beautiful thing.” T H E FA B R I C O F AU | 1 3
These relationships carry over into my major, my minor, and my extracurricular activities. Fellow students play alongside me in Anderson University’s String Ensemble, race alongside me on the Track and Field team, and create art alongside me in the fine art studios. Our class discussions prompt personal reflection There are distinct moments in my life that I look back on and can clearly see in them the hand of God. My journey to college holds many of these instances, one in particular:
that affects my approach to all my studies. I have clearly seen myself grow academically and spiritually as a result of the
bringing me into the Honors Program at Anderson University. I can remember when I was in high school, expressing frustration to my mother that I wasn’t getting
rich experiences and connections within this program. This I can only attribute to the grace of God in His
answers to some big questions I had. She reassured me that the discussions
provision and direction.
I wanted to have would come with college, and with those words I realized
I am currently exploring grief as an apolo-
exactly what I wanted out of my college experience. I craved opportunities to ask tough questions and exchange viewpoints with peers who were
getic for Christianity in my Honors capstone project. This project, coupled with feedback
different from me and faculty who were both knowledgeable and experienced within their respective fields. My parents and I knew the
from (Associate Professor of Preaching
“The Anderson University Honors Program has encouraged me, challenged me, and ultimately helped me in my walk with Christ as well as my academic flourishing.”
For more visit AndersonUniversity.edu
and Apologetics) Dr. Charles Fuller, head importance of pursuing these desires within a faith-based academic setting. However, I almost missed the deadline for the Honors Program
of the Honors Program, has given me the opportunity and resources to creatively
application, and it was by God’s sovereignty that I was able to enter the program and see these dreams realized.
compose a defense for my faith, which has had immediate effects in my life. The Anderson University Honors Program has encouraged
The Anderson University Honors Program not only provides students with the atmosphere for intellectual stimulation, it intentionally pushes its students to academic rigor while encouraging epistemic humility. I have been challenged with considering my own presuppositions as I have come face-to-face with opposing
my walk with Christ as well as my academic flourishing. I have seen first hand the genuine community of Anderson University and grown in many areas of my life as
viewpoints, whether in the course material or in classroom discussion. This program emphasizes the importance of knowing why I believe what I believe, and what difference it
a result. I can only thank God for leading me here to a University that seeks to honor the Lord by academic excellence and a
makes in my life. I have quickly come to love my fellow Honors students, finding among them some of my greatest friends. Many times, we have stayed up late in the residence halls,
commitment to faith.
discussing what we have read and how our faith is being challenged and shaped. As we urge each other to pursue truth above all else, our relationships have grown in ways that will last a lifetime, revealing just how impactful this program truly is. 14 | AU D I ARY
me, challenged me, and ultimately helped me in
Katie Landry is a junior art major, concentrating in Painting & Drawing. Landry, a native of Ashland, Massachusetts, where she was homeschooled, also plays viola in the AU String Ensemble and Anderson Symphony Orchestra. In addition to participating in the Honors Program, Landry is a member of the AU Track and Field team.
AU D I A RY | 1 5
the late Bobbie Jo Branyon, whose endowment has funded more than 100 scholarships, demonstrated a life of sacrificial giving The late-Bobbie Jo Branyon could have received millions of dollars from the trust established by her father, the founder and owner of C.H. Branyon Pipe Company in Greenville, South Carolina.
University and worked as an elementary school teacher in South Carolina and Florida. Branyon also served as president of the C.H. Branyon Pipe Co.
vice president for institutional advancement during the time of Branyon’s initial gift. She could have received the interest from the trust for more than three decades. Instead, she gave it all to Baptist institutions, Woods said.
had a love for kids and love for God. “ She ” — Bud Branyon Cousin to Bobbie Jo Branyon
“Bobbie Jo could have kept that income stream for 30-plus years, but she released it to support Christian higher education,” Woods said. “Not many people would have done that.” Anderson University students who receive scholarships from the Branyon Endowment are South Carolina Baptist students in need who plan to enter careers in Christian ministry. Her endowment provides scholarships for up to 10 students each year and tries to support students who live in Anderson County. In addition to supporting students financially, Bobbie Jo Branyon prayed for students regularly. “She had a love for kids and a love for God,” said her cousin, Bud Branyon.
Farai Katsande & Bobbie Jo Branyon
lived modestly, but enjoyed the fullness “ She of life that comes through giving.”
bank, and she would add these students to her prayer list.” She prayed for students for a full hour every day. “She was such a joy to be around,” Shirley said. Woods and President Whitaker visited Branyon often. And she always wanted to know about Anderson University’s progress and the accomplishments of the students she helped support. “She lived modestly,” Woods said, “but enjoyed the fullness of life that comes through giving.“ One day, Woods asked her why she chose to give away the proceeds of her trust rather than use it for other purposes. “I didn’t need the money,” she said, “and I wanted to see my father’s wishes fulfilled.”
Philanthropy & Estate Planning For information about giving to AU or setting up an estate gift, contact Associate VP of Philanthropy and Estate Planning Johnna Shirley at jshirley@andersonuniversity.edu or call her at 864-622-6079.
— R. Dean Woods Former Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Instead, she gave it all to Anderson University and three other Baptist institutions that her father supported. Branyon, 93, passed away in June—but the remainder of her $1 million trust will continue to support scholarships at AU.
After her father, C. Henry Branyon, died in 1988, Branyon decided to utilize the trust her father established for her in service to others. Her own estate included Anderson University as a beneficiary following her death.
Branyon was a graduate of Greenville High School and Tift College in Georgia. She later studied education at Furman
Anderson University’s portion of the trust is worth more than $1 million,said R. Dean Woods, who served as the University’s
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“Each year she received letters from her scholarship recipients from Anderson University,” said Johnna Shirley, associate vice president of philanthropy and estate planning at Anderson University. “Those letters meant so much to her. She kept all of those letters in the trust box at the
S EC R E T G I V E R S | 1 7
work and gift of the late Jane Ferguson Clamp established Anderson University Clamp Divinity School Jane Ferguson Clamp passed away on April 5, 2020, and
they took periodic trips back to his family’s homestead,
with her death, Anderson University lost one of its most
occasionally dropping by the Anderson University campus.
special donors in its 109-year history. Dean Woods, former vice president for institutional At her graveside memorial service, the minister described
advancement, recalls the day he and then-president Lee
the 94-year-old as “a person who had a love for the Lord in
Royce received a phone call from an attorney representing
everything she did.”
an anonymous donor. The donor wished to offer Anderson University his entire estate upon his death and he had
Case in point: Clamp and her late husband, David Clamp,
instructed his attorney to inquire of Anderson University
gave more than $8 million to Anderson University to start
if it would be willing to accept a gift that would support
its graduate programs in ministry and theological studies,
graduate ministerial education.
one that has helped train a new generation of ministry leaders spreading the Gospel around the world. In their
Anderson University didn’t have a seminary or graduate
honor, Anderson University established the Clamp Divinity
program at the time. All of that would eventually change
School, a full seminary within the University offering
because of the call. Dr. Royce and Mr. Woods replied to the
masters, professional doctorates and Ph.D. degrees.
attorney that the University was grateful to the unnamed donor and it would be honored to receive the future estate gift. They provided the attorney with language for the
was so grateful to that minister for “ Hepreaching the Gospel that God used to save
donor’s will that would accomplish his goals. Going further back, the donor had come to know Christ in early adulthood through the message of a tent revival
him, he vowed at that early age to put away as much money as he could so that one day he could give it to support the Lord’s work at the local Baptist university – Anderson.
preacher in the Upstate. He was so grateful to that minister
— Evans P. Whitaker, Ph.D. President & Professor of Management
Meanwhile, Mr. Clamp entered the military. After that,
”
for preaching the Gospel that God used to save him, he vowed at that early age to put away as much money as he could so that one day he could give it to support the Lord’s work at the local Baptist university – Anderson University.
he went on to build his life and career. He attended “night classes” at Pace University in New York City where he obtained a degree is accounting. He secured a job with the
While Jane Ferguson grew up in Pennsylvania, her late
United States Civil Aeronautics Board, which regulated
husband, David Clamp, grew up about 15 miles from
U.S. aviation for decades. In the days when loyalty to one’s
Anderson University’s campus in Belton, South Carolina.
employer was at its peak, he continued to work there until
Marrying later in life, the couple settled in Virginia, but
his retirement. (continued p. 20)
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Photo: Jane Ferguson Clamp, Hon.D.H.
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work and gift of the late Jane Ferguson Clamp established Anderson University Clamp Divinity School (cont’d) And, he kept his vow to save as much money as he could.
Mr. Woods were astonished by her loyalty to the extent
Even though he could have eventually lived in a mansion,
that she did not intend to make a claim to any part of her
he lived a good but modest lifestyle while fastidiously investing
husband’s estate. With retirement savings of her own,
in blue chip stocks. Perhaps his only extravagance was buying
she was content to see David’s dream come true.
his parents a home in his native Belton. David, himself, never owned a home of his own. Among Mr. Clamp’s co-workers in the auditing division was Jane Ferguson, yet the two would only know one another in passing, and for years had no idea they would eventually become husband and wife. Years later as senior adults, and after a respectable time following Jane’s first husband’s
“
Jane Clamp is the best example we can hold up to our students for what a spouse should be. — Mrs. Diane Whitaker
”
developed a friendship that eventually led to their marriage. They retired to Waynesburg, Virginia and became very
Not wishing for Mr. Woods and the new president to go back
active members of First Baptist Church. They were joined
home to South Carolina with only a promise of a future gift,
as next-door neighbors by Jane’s sister, Ruth Swisher, and
Mr. and Mrs. Clamp gave the two a check for $100,000 to
her husband, David.
assist with the construction of Thrift Library, as well as their six-year-old Cadillac that was part of AU’s motor pool for several years.
contacted the University, this time to say that the donor was ready to reveal his identity to the University and wanted to
In the ensuing years, Mr. Woods and President and Mrs.
have a more specific conversation with the president about
Whitaker took turns visiting the Clamps, sharing meals with
how his future gift would be used. By that time, Dr. Royce
them and keeping them updated on the University they had
was president of Mississippi College, and Dr. Evans Whitaker
both come to love. Mr. Clamp eventually was diagnosed with
had just been appointed as president of Anderson University.
Alzheimer’s disease and the two moved from their home to a retirement village in nearby Stuarts Draft. Mr. Clamp lived
Shortly, Dr. Whitaker and Mr. Woods traveled to Waynesburg
in a group home for Alzheimer’s patients, while Mrs. Clamp
to meet Mr. and Mrs. Clamp for the first time. It was during
lived a few doors away in an apartment. Mrs. Clamp would
that visit that Mr. Clamp clarified his wishes for how the
often go out the back door of her apartment to smell the
money was to be used. They also learned the extraordinary
confections baking at the huge Little Debbie bakery.
nature and spirit of Jane Clamp. Unconcerned for her
But most of the time, she would visit David, each and every
future, she gave David her total support in leaving his entire
day, feeding him and talking to him long after he could
estate to Anderson University. President Whitaker and
understand all she was saying.
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President Whitaker, speaking of Mrs. Clamp after her death,
most difficult months, Mrs. (Diane) Whitaker said of her,
said, “Mrs. Clamp always insisted we call her ‘Jane,’and I
“Jane Clamp is the best example we can hold up to our
always insisted she call me Evans. Dean Woods and my wife
students for what a spouse should be.”
and I would take turns visiting the Clamps. It was always pure joy sharing a visit and a lunch or dinner with them.
Upon his death a few years later, Mr. Clamp’s dream
Their hearts were so innocent. They consistently prioritized
became a reality. Clamp’s attorney and his wife transferred
others over themselves. They lifted our spirits then, and they
the entire estate valued at more than $8 million to establish a
will continue to lift the spirits and lives of those who will
graduate school of Christian ministry that would eventually
benefit from their extraordinary generosity. They lived great
be named the David Clamp School of Divinity and referred
lives in light of their Savior’s great love. Jane will be greatly
to as Clamp Divinity School. It was Jane Clamp who ultimately
missed and never replaced. She’s one of a kind.”
implemented the contribution of the $8 million to the Anderson University College of Christian Studies.
First Lady of Anderson University
death, David and Jane came to know one another and
Shortly after their move to Waynesburg, the attorney again
While observing how devoted Jane was to David during his
In addition to the Clamp Divinity School, AU’s women’s residence, Jane Ferguson Clamp Hall, is named in her sweet
Jane Clamp received an honorary Doctor of Humanities
memory. Mr. Clamp’s Bible was given to the University and
from AU in 2009, along with her husband, also honored
is on display in the President’s Office. Mrs. Clamp’s sister,
posthumously with an honorary doctorate.
Ruth, and husband, David, continue to live in Staunton, Virginia, and stay in touch with the Whitakers and Woods,
Mrs. Clamp was a member of the Toastmistresses and the
who is now president of the Foothills Community
Waynesboro, Virginia Women’s Club. She was a registered
Foundation in Anderson.
parliamentarian and a volunteer with the Augusta Free Clinic. In addition to supporting the training of professional ministers through Clamp Divinity School, Mrs. Clamp supported local ministry at the First Baptist Church in Waynesboro and First Baptist Church in Staunton, Virginia. The minister
Philanthropy & Estate Planning
giving her eulogy said Mrs. Clamp always made sure the Habitat for Humanity volunteers had money for ice cream. “She was just a sweetheart of a lady,” the minister said. She loved the simplest things in life and was always happy.
For information about giving to AU or setting up an estate gift, contact Associate VP of Philanthropy and Estate Planning Johnna Shirley at jshirley@andersonuniversity.edu or call her at 864-622-6079.
Her choice of “Jesus Loves Me” as her favorite song is a window into the soul of this remarkable selfless woman who shepherded her husband’s gift to AU after his death.
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the late Shirley James Findley was a beauty pageant winner in addition to being a university contributor and grad She was a timeless beauty. Her smiling face, bright eyes, perfect hair and glistening crown would’ve turned the head of anyone. If someone told you that the late Shirley James Findley was a movie star in a classic black-and-white film, you would’ve believed them. All you have to do is look at the June, 1955 black-and-white photo of the stunning Findley in a white outfit, wearing
Last spring, Vicki Grant, Findley’s cousin and executor of her estate, contributed nearly $500,000 of the Findley estate to Anderson University—following Findley’s wishes. The gift builds upon the Shirley James Findley Endowed Scholarship, which has awarded scholarships to students who’ve had financial need, academic promise and high moral character since 1989.
“She taught Sunday school to children of First Baptist (Church of Anderson) for many, many years and had a lasting effect on their lives,” Grant said. Findley also served on the Anderson University Alumni Board from 1999 until 2002.
Findley was a force there for more than three decades before retiring. “Shirley received many awards as a claims representative with the Social Security Administration,” Grant said. “She was a valued employee and mentor to the other employees. A manager once told me, ‘Shirley gets it,’ meaning that she understood Social Security law and regulations much better than most.” In 1989, Findley established the Shirley James Findley Endowed Scholarship. Findley believed Anderson University educates its students well, Grant said. After Findley passed away last June, Grant accepted the mantle of carrying out her will as Findley’s personal representative. In May, the Shirley James Findley Estate presented a check of $456,611.51 to President Evans P. Whitaker and Associate Vice President of Philanthropy and Estate Planning Johnna Shirley.
Shirley James Findley, class of 1954
Findley was a role model at work, too. After graduating from AU with honors, she worked for six years in social services before landing a job as a claims examiner with the Social Security Administration. Her primary goal was to take care of her claimants and make sure they were served correctly, Grant said.
Left to right: Jane Locke (frined), Vicki Grant (cousin), Dr. Evans P. Whitaker, & Johnna Shirley
her MISS TRI-COUNTY sash. In the photo, the Anderson University graduate is holding her pageant trophy with manicured nails. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, Findley was a smart and classy woman and a strong Christian who worked at the Social Security Administration. But she was generous also.
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Grant said she always looked up to her cousin, 17 years her elder. Findley, who was the 1955 winner of the Miss Tri-County (consisting of Anderson, Pickens and Oconee counties) beauty pageant, even inspired Grant to follow in her footsteps and compete in pageants too. She described Findley as a great role model who served as a Bible study leader and Sunday school teacher.
taught Sunday school to children of “ She First Baptist (Church of Anderson) for many, many years and had a lasting effect on their lives.
Philanthropy & Estate Planning For information about giving to AU or setting up an estate gift, contact Associate VP of Philanthropy and Estate Planning Johnna Shirley at jshirley@andersonuniversity.edu or call her at 864-622-6079.
”
— V icki Grant Shirley Findley’s cousin and executor of her estate
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Jason’s COLUMN
By jason rutland, Associate Vice President for Alumni & Parent Engagement Dr. Charles A. Wooten & Dr. Margaret E.Wooten
Contribute to Dr. Charles Wooten Scholarship to further legacy of phenomenal educator, mentor, encourager, listener, and leader As many of you may know, Anderson University lost a great alumnus and colleague earlier this year. Dr. Charles “Chuck” Wooten had served for many years in the College of Education as dean and later as director of the Teaching Fellows program. He retired several times but kept coming back to help carry on the important working of inspiring the next generation of educators. As I thought of the impact that Dr. Wooten had on my life, I knew this column would be dedicated to his legacy at Anderson University. But it quickly became apparent that this story was so much bigger than just my encounters with Dr. Wooten. To get a true sense of his legacy, I felt you needed to hear from a wider circle of people whose lives were deeply impacted. In recent years, Dr. Wooten had worked closely with Dr. Bob Cline, vice president for church relations, and his wife, Angela, in the Teaching Fellows program. “When we make choices, those choices make us, and our lives are defined by them,” Dr. Cline said. “Our friend, colleague and mentor—Dr. Chuck Wooten—made a choice to give his life to Christ and to obey God to the best of his ability. That choice ultimately inspired Dr. Wooten’s life goal that impacted everything he did. That goal was to make a difference. So many of us who knew him and worked alongside him are evidence of his success in achieving that goal. His life made a difference in each one of us.” And you could talk with current and former students who benefitted from Dr. Wooten’s guidance and example and know that statement to be true. He had a profound impact on the Anderson University College of Education over the past two decades. I spoke with one such graduate, T.J. Galloway. T.J. is a 2020 grad who will begin his educational career at D.W. Daniel High School in Central, South Carolina, this fall. “Dr. Chuck Wooten was more than the director of Teaching Fellows at AU to me. He was a spiritual role model, an educator, a veteran who loved his country and a mentor. He poured into me more than I could ever ask for. His sense of humor was like no other, and he told the best ghost stories I’ve even heard. I’ll be who I am in the classroom in large part because of the man I have a picture with on my desk—Dr. Wooten,” Galloway said. 2 4 | A LUM N I N EWS
And T.J. is just one of many. Current Teaching Fellow Abby McNeely echoed many of those same thoughts: “During my time with Dr. Wooten, I often found myself asking, ‘How does he do it all?’ He faced each moment with readiness, energy and expectancy,” she said. “And he was a product of the things that were important to him. From his teaching stories and the way he interacted with us, it was clear that he was a teacher who taught for the sake of students, not for the sake of teaching. He was a veteran who honored his fellow veterans. For me personally, he was the provider of a grandfatherly hug when he knew I needed it. He was a director who expected a lot of us, but showed us an equal amount of grace. Above all, he put Christ first. It’s why he could pour all of himself into everything he did. We admire that legacy, and we love and miss him tremendously.” Dr. Wooten not only impacted students, but also many of his Anderson University colleagues. Dr. Bob Hanley, vice provost for academic advising, and his wife, Nancy Hanley, who was Dr. Wooten’s assistant with the Teaching Fellows program for several years, had nothing but praise to offer. “With over 40 years of friendship, we observed daily Dr. Wooten’s strong witness for Christ and his devotion to family, Anderson University, and his country,” Dr. Hanley said. “Chuck’s enthusiasm for education continues to live through many Teaching Fellows who knew him as a mentor, an encourager, a thoughtful listener, and a leader.” And the accolades could go on and on. How do you summarize such a life of service? Dr. Wooten’s wife, Dr. Margaret Wooten, AU professor emeritus of English, asked her husband one time how he would like to be remembered. His response: “I would want it said that my life has made a difference.” Let me be one of many to say that his mission was accomplished. If you would like to help us honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Wooten and extend his impact to future generations of educators, please consider a contribution to the Dr. Charles Wooten Scholarship. You may give online at www.andersonuniversity.edu/giving or by mailing your gift to the following address:
Because our students are worth your investment Gifts to the Anderson Fund help the University provide life-changing scholarships for our students.
Make your gift today with the enclosed envelope or visit: AndersonUniversity.edu/giving/online. You may also contact our Office of Development at 864.231.2147.
Anderson University Development Office 316 Boulevard | Anderson, SC 29621 Anderson University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or religion in its programs and activities. Please direct inquiries to Dr. L. Dianne King, Associate Vice President for Student Development/Dean of Student Success/Title IX Coordinator, Thrift Library Office 203, 316 Boulevard, Anderson, SC, 29621, (864) 231-2026, ldking@andersonuniversity.edu or to the Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-421-3481 or ocr@ed.gov.
AU Q&A
Linda Clark
Linda Clark has worked as a staff member in different departments at Anderson University since 1970, from the admission office to the Center for Innovation and Digital Learning
How did you come to serve at Anderson University? I started working at Anderson University in October, 1970, when my husband, James, joined the faculty of the music department and remained for 41 years.
What is your current position at Anderson University? From 1970 until 1972, I worked in admission and the Registrar’s office. I worked as the admission administrative assistant and later worked as transcript clerk, when transcripts were typed on a typewriter and GPA was figured on a calculator. I left when my first child was born. In 1973, I worked in the printing and mailing office. I left when my child did not adapt to childcare, when both of my parents died and I began raising my 12-year old brother, who went on to become a graduate of Anderson University. From 1977 through 2013, I served as the administrative assistant for the academic deans and the provost’s office. From 2014 through the present, I work for the Center for Innovation and Digital Learning.
Why did you choose to work at Anderson University instead of another institution? When we moved to Anderson University, the faculty and staff became our second family. We have been blessed to be a part of such a great place of employment for many years. It’s a great place to work: Christian atmosphere, wonderful administrators, faculty, staff and students.
What’s the most memorable thing that happened to you at Anderson University? Being witness to University status and seeing the addition of graduate/doctoral programs. I believe the roles in which I have served and am still serving give me a more complete picture of how the various areas of the University work together. There is great camaraderie among faculty, staff and students. My husband and I have been blessed to be a part of the University.
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AU Q&A
Dr. Tommy Watson
Alumnus and two-decade Anderson University professor of voice Dr. Tommy Watson trained national award winners and aspiring musicians
How did you come to serve at Anderson University? I am a 1996 alumnus. Years later in spring 2001, the music department began a search for a future colleague who would teach voice and direct opera. The successful candidate would also teach other classes relating to voice as was necessary. I became knowledgeable about the vacant position, applied for it, was called to interview for the position, and was subsequently hired.
What do you teach at Anderson University? What does teaching your discipline require of students? Primarily, I teach applied voice lessons, a required music history course for all undergraduate music majors; one or two history classes for the online master’s (degree) students. Every other year I teach opera workshop, song literature, pedagogical song literature and French and German diction. Teaching my discipline requires students to be consistently disciplined in the application of that which they learn in the studio and classroom.
Why did you choose to work at Anderson University instead of another institution? I choose to work at Anderson University because I believe that I have been called to be here by Almighty God to minister to the AU community, particularly our clients and the external community at large. I believe that I make a difference for the better, especially as I have ample opportunities to bear witness to, and share, Jesus as is found in the Gospels.
What’s the most memorable thing that has happened to you at Anderson University? There are many things to remember. I have two equally positive memorable things that happened to me at AU. First, Cory Simmons, a baritone and an applied voice student of mine, was the 2017 first-place winner for his category in the National Student Auditions, sponsored by NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing). He competed against thousands of other qualified students throughout the United States and won first place for the musical theatre category in which he sang. Secondly, another applied voice student of mine, Hannah Wise, a soprano, stated that I was one of two teachers who challenged her most in her collegiate career, and because of her appreciation of the standards and expectations that I set and firmly held in all of the classes that she took with me, she is inspired to ultimately become a university professor because of this. These two students are both 2020 graduates of Anderson University and are testimonies of the quality of education that can be earned in the music department of The South Carolina School of the Arts.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experiences at Anderson University? I happen to be the longest serving faculty member of color in the history of Anderson University: 18 years as a full-time faculty member and an additional two years as an adjunct professor before that. Ah, how time flies!
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AU Q&A
Dr. Joyce Wood
Dr. Joyce Wood is a retired history professor who started teaching at Anderson University in 1982. Dr. Wood, who retired in 2019, is the author of Anderson University from The Campus History Series (Arcadia Publishing 2011.)
How did you come to serve at Anderson University? Peggy Kelly, the wife of biology professor Robin Kelly, taught choral music at Westside High School, the same school in which I was teaching social studies here in Anderson, South Carolina. She stopped me one day and mentioned that there was a teaching position open in the history department at Anderson University and suggested I send a résumé to apply for the position. I did so and never had a response. A couple of years later I was in Salt Lake City, Utah, doing some research during the summer break and received a phone call from Pat Mulligan, chair of the history department at Anderson University. She invited me to interview for another history teaching position that had come open after the passing of long-time history professor Henry von Hasseln. I did so, was offered the position and began teaching there in August, 1982.
What did you teach? I was a member of the history faculty. With a three-person faculty, we divided up the areas and time periods: the courses I taught were largely modern European and world history. I also had the opportunity to teach other types of courses such as cross-cultural studies, which met the international studies graduation requirement for a time, and a course on the history of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.
Why did you choose to work at Anderson University instead of another institution? The opportunity to teach at AU was very much a gift from the Lord and part of His calling for my life. It was more than just a job, however; the wonderful students, staff and colleagues that made up Anderson University are truly an extended family.
What’s the most memorable thing that happened to you at Anderson University? It is hard to select just one event from over 37 years, but the encouragement and support provided by this extended family are a large part of the reason for any success I might have enjoyed. Of particular note was the Michael Boles Excellence in Teaching Award I received in 1998.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experiences at Anderson University? This same support was very much appreciated as I went through the nine-year process of earning a Ph.D., completing it in 2000. Also, I credit the quick actions of retired Anderson University English professor Sarah Sprague and nurses Deb Taylor and Sarah Forsythe in August 2011 in getting emergency medical help for a health crisis that required I be on leave for that semester. Also I appreciated deeply the many prayers of the campus and community that contributed so powerfully to my miraculous recovery and return to teaching. Above all, AU has been for me “The good hand of our God,” from Nehemiah 2:8.
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AU Q&A
Alexy Mollenhauer
AU alumna Alexy Mollenhauer is living her dream as a professional athlete
What was your major? My major (was) secondary English education with a minor in mathematics.
What was your fondest memory at Anderson University? One of my favorite memories at Anderson University was going undefeated in conference my junior year. It was an amazing experience and something I will never forget. That year was the most fun I had playing basketball because of the team chemistry on and off the court. Winning always helps, but we were having fun just playing together. There were definitely some close games, but we were able to accomplish a lot together as a team.
Why did you go to Anderson University instead of another university, and what will you cherish about your experiences the University? The community at Anderson University. The community and family within athletics and academics at Anderson University is what brought me here. I wanted to be in a program that challenged me as a person and player both on and off the court. There are a lot of things I will cherish from my time at Anderson University, but the thing I will cherish the most is the friendships I made with my teammates, coaches, faculty and staff, and all the people I met at Anderson University. I have met some amazing people at Anderson University and their friendships are something I will always have.
hat are you doing professionally now that you graduated, and how is your new adventure going? W What have you learned since you graduated ? I have just signed with a professional team in Madrid, Spain. I will play the 2020-2021 season for the Spanish Pro team, LeganĂŠs. I am excited about this new adventure and getting to travel. The main thing that I have learned and always held onto is Jesus. He is the only thing in this world that is constant and will never change, so I am continuing to learn to trust Him in all things.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience at AU or what you’re doing now? As a whole, I just want to thank the Anderson University community for supporting me in my four years. I loved my time at Anderson University, and I am so thankful for all of you who have been a part of my journey.
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Trojans in motion!
triples and ranking fourth on the team with a .382 slugging percentage. A native of Saluda, S.C., Adams scored 38 career runs and posted a dozen multi-hit games, including three hits on four occasions and closed out the 2019 season on a seven-game hitting streak. He recorded five multi-RBI games and wrapped up the abbreviated 2020 season by reaching base safely in his last eight straight games.
athletic news…
Senior Brent Reynolds, a T.L. Hanna product, made 47 career appearances on the mound, including 15 starts.
Cameron Hall, a native of Spartanburg, S.C., and a transfer from Spartanburg Methodist College, made 28 relief appearances on the mound over the past two seasons for the Trojans. The right-hander earned a save in the home win over Mars Hill a year ago with three innings of relief. Hall recorded 34 career strikeouts and walked just 11 batters in more than 38 innings of work. He did not issue a free pass last season and owned a 3.52 ER A in 2020, while holding opponents to a .250 batting average.
Women’s Golf The 2019-20 campaign may have drawn a curtain on one of AU’s most accomplished golfers, senior Kate Hill. The native of Clemson, S.C., earned postseason South Atlantic Conference honors in each of her first three collegiate seasons, while capturing Second-Team All-South Atlantic Conference honors twice after being named South Atlantic Conference Freshman of the Year in 2017. She was twice named to the SAC All-Tournament Team (2018 & 2019) and as a junior, Hill equaled the fourth-best threeround total in SAC Tournament history and finished in a tie for fifth place at the 2019 SAC Championship.
Baseball First-year Head Coach P.J. Zocchi’s Trojans won eight of their first 10 games last season, including an upset of then eighth-ranked North Greenville in mid-February. Senior Dillon Carpenter opened the season with a 21-game hitting streak and finished the shortened season ranked 11th in the South Atlantic Conference with 21 RBI, while newcomer Nick Vella stood third in the SAC with a .419 batting average, while also ranking in the top–10 in six other offensive categories. Carpenter and junior Chandler Castleberry each reached base safely in all 22 contests before the season came to an abrupt halt. Senior Christian Carpenter shared the league lead with six saves. The Polkton, N.C., native surpassed former AU standout Nick Wates (2000-03) for most career saves with his 20th career save in a 5-3 win over Lenoir-Rhyne in late February. Sophomore Lucas Smith earned back-to-back SAC Pitcher of the Week honors in February, becoming the first Trojan pitcher to capture the accolade since standout Christian Carpenter garnered the award twice last season. Over the two-game span, Smith scattered eight hits over the 18 innings
CHRISTIAN CARPENTER
while allowing just one run. He struck out 22 batters and walked just two. The native of St. Petersburg, F.L., finished the shortened season tops in the SAC with his two completegame gems, while pacing the league with 47 strikeouts. Smith was tied for second in the conference with four wins and was one of only two hurlers in the SAC to toss two complete games this season—and the only one to post a nine-inning complete game. Smith captured Southeast Region Pitcher of the Week honors from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) after recording AU’s first nine-inning complete game since the 2018 SAC Tournament. Senior right-hander Alex Medlin made 23 career appearances on the mound over the past three seasons, including seven during the 2020 season, while tossing 32 career innings. The native of Seneca, S.C., fanned 20 batters while issuing just 16 walks. He made a career-high nine appearances during the 2019 campaign and notched a 2.50 ERA in seven appearances during the 2018 season. Outfielder Cody Adams, a transfer from USC Salkahatchee, started 43 games as a junior and led the team with 10 doubles in 2019, while notching a pair of
LUCAS SMITH
He has four career victories, including one last season and also captured his first career save last year in AU’s wild 16-12 home victory over Coker at Memorial Stadium. Reynolds worked nearly 96 innings during his career and recorded 68 career strikeouts. The left-hander owned a career-best 1.74 ERA in 12 appearances last season. Outfielder Daniel Blazejewski saw action in 25 contests over the past two seasons and was hitting a career-high .294 at the end of the 2020 campaign. The Phillipsburg, N.J., native has notched four two-hit games during his career and drove in eight runs, including a career-high three RBI against King last season. Blazejewski posted a career-high four-game hitting streak in February that included a pair of doubles. Matthew Overton saw action in 97 games over the past three seasons, while drawing a starting nod in 90 contests. The Spartanburg, S.C., native owned a .261 career batting average and finished the 2020 season with a career-best .618 slugging percentage, while notching 18 career multi-hit games and 17 multi-RBI contests. He belted 17 career home runs, including a pair of grand slams in the 2018 season and one against Wingate during the final conference series in March, 2020.
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KATE HILL
to play for his hometown school, Miller earned First-Team All-South Atlantic Conference accolades following his junior year and was named to the 2018 SAC All-Tournament Team after finishing as runner-up at the South Atlantic Conference Championship. He led the team in scoring average both as a sophomore and as a junior, while firing a career-low 67 on four occasions. Miller led the Trojans in 15 tournaments during his career, including all five spring events during his junior season. He posted 18 top-25 finishes, including a dozen top-10 performances. Miller claimed runner-up status at the 2018 SAC Tournament and finished third at the 2018 AU Invitational and the 2017 Lander Bearcat Classic, while finishing fifth at 2019 AU Invitational, the 2019 North Georgia Fall Invitational, the 2019 Bearcat Classic and the 2019 Hanny Stanilaus Invitational. He earned Honorable Mention All-SAC accolades at the conclusion of last season.
JAKE MILLER
Senior Brady Cox competed in 10 tournaments, while posting a 77.18 unadjusted scoring average during his sophomore season and firing a career-best 71 in the second round of the 2017 King Invitational. He also carded a 73 in the first round of the 2017 Donald Ross Intercollegiate. The Anderson, S.C.,
Hill won the 2018 AU Invitational, while claiming twenty top-10 finishes in her career, including a second-place finish at the 2017 AU Invitational and a third-place finish at the 2018 SAC Championship. She fired a school-record 68 in the second round of the 2018 AU Invitational and followed up her school-record four weeks later with a 69 in the final round of the 2018 Patsy Rendleman Invitational. Hill wrapped her junior season ranked 141st nationally and paced the Trojans in 12 tournaments during her career. She earned All-Tournament honors at 2017 AU Invitational and at Tusculum’s 2017 Agnes McAmis Memorial.
Nearly three dozen Trojans combined to repeatedly post more than 60 personal-best efforts through the indoor season, with several notching record-setting marks in multiple events. Senior Kelsey Horner posted personal records in the mile run and both the 3,000 meters and the 5,000 meters, while setting the team’s season top mark in the 5,000 meters, with senior Emily Olson notching personal-best times in the 3,000 meters, the 5,000 meters and the mile run.
Softball
Men’s Golf One of three seniors on Head Coach Danny Neal’s roster, Jake Miller, was second on the team last season with a 72.60 unadjusted stroke average. The Anderson, S.C., native owned a pair of fifth-place finishes, while finishing sixth at the Donald Ross Intercollegiate and eighth at Lincoln Memorial’s Spring Kickoff Intercollegiate in February. Miller, who was named the SAC Men’s Golf Scholar-Athlete of the Year and AU Male Scholar-Athlete, has been a gamechanger during his stellar collegiate career. After electing
Track & Field
BRADY COX
native captured a career-best 18th place finish at the 2018 AU Invitational and also garnered a pair of top-25 finishes. Fellow senior Drake McAlister recorded a pair of top-20 finishes, including a share of 15th place at the 2018 Myrtle Beach Intercollegiate. The Easley, S.C., native fired a career-best 72 in the opening round at Myrtle Beach and nearly equaled it with a 73 in the second round of the King University Invitational.
Anderson University head softball coach Tommy Hewitt’s Trojans dropped four of its first seven contest before reeling off an impressive 13 straight wins, including a doubleheader sweep of then league-leading Lincoln Memorial. The win streak marked the Black and Gold’s longest since the 2015-16 season. For the shortened season, senior Meghan Majeski was hitting .369, second-highest on the team and had swiped 10 bases which ranked third in the SAC. For her career, Majeski stole 76 bases, which ranks second on AU’s all-time steal list and is just eight shy of the top spot. Majeski also ranks sixth all-time with most runs scored and tied for 10th in career batting average (.333).
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MEGHAN MAJESKI
JOIN THE TEAM! Your contributions through the Trojan Athletic Fund have not only increased success in competition, but they have enabled our student-athletes to experience an athletics program that values academic excellence as they strive for championships. Give to the Trojan Athletic Fund today at AndersonUniversity/giving/trojan-athletic-fund. For membership questions, contact the Athletic Department at 864.231.5752 or trojanfund@andersonuniversity.edu HANK SARTAIN
Senior Mattie Hamilton drove in 25 runs, which was tied for fourth in the SAC and second on the team. Hamilton posted a .328 batting average with five doubles and four home runs to her credit. Hamilton is ranked in multiple categories in the AU record books, including RBI (5th) Runs (7th), Slugging Percentage (7th), Total Bases (9th), Home Runs (6th), Doubles (T-7th) and Batting Average (8th). Senior hurler Kayla Pepper, who was named AU Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year last April, earned eight wins in the circle last season, while pitching a team-leading 62 innings. Pepper pitched nine complete games while striking out 72 batters. The southpaw from Anderson, S.C., ranked third in the SAC in wins last season and sixth in the SAC with a 1.81 earned run average. In less than three full seasons, Pepper ranks in the top-10 in earned run average, strikeouts, wins and innings pitched in the school record books.
Men’s Tennis Senior Ignacio Bidegain, who was named AU Male Athlete of the Year at April’s Honors Celebration, lost only one match in both singles and doubles actions out of 15 team matches last season. Bidegain played in the No. 1 slot for singles play and the No. 2 position for doubles action and earned SAC Player of the Week after the Black and Gold’s final week of action. The native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a SAC First Team selection (singles) each season, while garnering national recognition for his stellar play.
Senior Preston Morpeth posted a 7-4 singles record and an 11-1 doubles slate during the 2020 season. Morpeth’s steady play over his career played a huge role in the Trojans’ success. Senior Jeffrey Dayton went 7-3 in both singles and doubles action last season. Dayton earned SAC First Team honors (doubles) following the 2017 season. Senior Jerry Price posted a 2-0 singles record in the No. 3 position, while going 3-2 in doubles play. In October at the South Carolina Men’s Collegiate Championships, Price was presented the Big Jim Russell Award, which is awarded to a player based on his sportsmanship, attitude on and off the court, and participation. Senior Hank Sartain won both of his singles and doubles matches he played in during the 2020 season. Sartain was an active participant on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SA AC) and served as part of the Executive Leadership Council. Senior Jordan Crooks earned a victory in singles action, blanking his opponent, 6-0, 6-0, while dropping just one set, 8-1, in the number three slot in doubles play.
Women’s Tennis Senior Mirna Curcic posted a 10-2 overall singles record and an 8-3 doubles mark to help lead the Black and Gold to 12 victories a season ago. Senior Gabrielle Dacuba defeated her USC Sumter opponents in both the singles and doubles portion during their February matchup.
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GABRIELLE DACUBA
Anderson University
is one of only
32 universities in the United States that is an
Anderson University has earned it three consecutive times—in 2014, 2016 & 2018.
Recent National Recognition • “Best College” among regional universities in the south: #42 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021 • “Best Undergraduate Teaching” among regional universities in the south: #11 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021 • “Best Value” among regional universities in the south: #26 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021
• Online Graduate Business Programs: #2 among private institutions in South Carolina; #3 in South Carolina; #3 in Upstate South Carolina (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)
• “ Most Innovative” among regional universities in the south: #16 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021
• Online Graduate Business Administration Programs: #2 in Upstate South Carolina; #4 in South Carolina; #4 among private institutions in South Carolina (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)
• “A+ Schools for B Students” among regional universities in the South – U.S. News & World Report, 2021
• O nline Graduate Education Programs: #1 among private institutions in South Carolina; #1 in Upstate South Carolina; #3 in South Carolina; #120 nationally (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)
• “ Top Performer: Social Mobility” among regional universities in the south: #64 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021 • “Best Southeastern” universities – The Princeton Review, 2021
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• Online Bachelor Programs: #1 in Upstate South Carolina; #2 among private institutions in South Carolina; #3 in South Carolina; #80 nationally (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)
• “Student Engagement” ranked #27 nationally for Student Engagement – The Wall Street Journal, 2020
• Online Graduate Nursing Programs: #1 among private institutions in South Carolina; #1 in Upstate South Carolina; #3 in South Carolina; #66 nationally (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)
AU is the first university in South Carolina and one of the first in the nation where all incoming freshmen receive the latest iPad which is used in specially designed courses.
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