ETSU Today - Summer 2023

Band to March in 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Top Adventure College

Historic Funding for Gatton

Go Beyond the Classroom

SUMMER 2023

ETSU Women’s Basketball celebrated a historic season under the leadership of Coach Brenda Mock Brown. See story on page 12.

PHOTO BY DAKOTA HAMILTON

Pictured on the cover: ETSU students celebrate when the announcement is made that the Marching Bucs will perform in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. | Cover photo by Charlie Warden

Inthe last edition of ETSU Today, I introduced our new university tagline: Bucs Go Beyond. This concise yet powerful phrase encapsulates not just our rich history of achievements, but also serves as an energetic rallying cry, urging us to consistently strive for higher levels of excellence. Unsurprisingly, our campus community has answered this call with numerous noteworthy successes throughout the past few months.

Our accomplishments, led by the diligence, talent, and hard work of our ETSU family, have shone brightly. Our women’s basketball team, for instance, etched a new record for the most single-season wins in program history. Adding to this, our ETSU Marching Bucs earned a coveted position as one of 10 marching bands across the nation selected to perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in 2024.

These accomplishments are not isolated events, but are deeply rooted in the unwavering commitment, generosity, and creativity of our regional community, our alumni, and our supporters across the globe. Our ability to cultivate meaningful partnerships and foster ongoing collaboration forms the bedrock of our mission and stands as one of ETSU’s most formidable strengths.

For example, through our extensive community network, ETSU Health provided health care services to nearly 355,000 patients throughout our region in the last year alone. During that time, ETSU Health’s partnership with the Ballad Health Niswonger Children’s Hospital added the region’s only board-certified pediatric rheumatologist as well as critically needed providers among several pediatric specialties, including neonatology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology.

The veterans resource fair hosted on campus last spring by ETSU’s Office of Military and Veteran Services served as yet another excellent demonstration of this collaborative spirit. More than 70 organizations participated in the event, which represented the largest gathering of veterans service representatives in the region and served as a conduit to vital resources and networks of support.

The recent historic investment in ETSU’s Gatton College of Pharmacy provided by the Tennessee General Assembly also is indicative of the deep connection between ETSU and the community it serves. The provision of a generous $2.5 million in annually recurring state funds fortifies our ability to provide world-class pharmacy education and improve health care access in our rural communities. This milestone was made possible only through the collective efforts of our local elected officials, students, faculty, staff, and community leaders.

Our region’s vibrant spirit was further celebrated when ETSU was named the Top Adventure College in the Southeast, an accolade that would not have been possible without the collective support of our community. That spirit also was on full display when our students were recognized by Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett for leading the state in promoting voter turnout and civic engagement via social media.

These accomplishments beautifully reflect our Bucs Go Beyond ethos, our deep roots within our communities, and our steadfast determination to reach ever greater heights.

Brian Noland President

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

Godspeed, and Go Bucs!

BUCS ON PARADE

BUCS ON PARADE

ETSU TO MARCH IN 2024 MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE

ETSU TO MARCH IN 2024 MACY’S THANKSGIVING

DAY PARADE

Confetti, cheers, and a surprise announcement topped off a historic season for the ETSU Marching Bucs.

On April 6, the campus community was invited to gather in the D.P. Culp Student Center for a “special recognition” of the marching band. With the largest band in ETSU history, it had been a memorable year and one worth celebrating. However, the students, faculty, and staff had no idea that a special guest had flown in to deliver important news.

“It is with great pleasure that I announce today that for the first time in this school’s history, the East Tennessee State University Marching Bucs have been selected to represent this university and the great state of Tennessee and perform in New York City in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” Wesley Whatley, Creative Producer of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, told the crowd.

The crowd erupted. Band members hugged and high-fived. Some wiped away tears of joy.

Not only will this be the first Macy’s appearance by the Marching Bucs, but ETSU’s marching band will become the first collegiate band from Tennessee to perform in the parade in over 50 years.

“Less than 10 years ago, our marching band had ceased to exist,” ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland said. “In just a few short years, Dr. Joe Moore, the ETSU Music Department, our student body, and our community have managed to not only relaunch the band but grow it to its largest membership in the university’s history. Now they have secured one of the most prestigious performance spots in the nation. Their story is a testament to the grit and excellence that characterize ETSU.”

Each year, the Macy’s Parade Band Committee looks for bands that have the stage presence and musical and marching abilities to captivate millions of live spectators and viewers nationwide. The ETSU Marching Bucs were selected

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

Macy’s Wesley Whatley (left) presented a drumhead and a check for $10,000 to Marching Bucs’ leadership team to begin the band’s parade fundraising efforts. He is pictured with (left to right) Bucky, Dr. Logan Ball, Reilly Fox, Dr. Joe Moore, and ETSU President Brian Noland.

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

from more than 100 applicants as one of 10 selected bands to march in the 98th edition of the annual holiday spectacle. The band will join the revelry along with other iconic parade staples: floats, giant character balloons, clowns, and superstar performers galore on Thanksgiving Day 2024, helping to create an unforgettable experience for millions.

“This is an opportunity to go beyond our local performances and be seen on a national stage and for our students to be able to put ETSU on the map for all of these people,” said Dr. Joe Moore, Director of the ETSU Marching Bucs.

For many of the marching band members, performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a dream come true.

“I’ve grown up watching the Macy’s Day Parade, grown up looking at the other bands, and saying, ‘I really want to do that,’” said band member Jordan Taylor-Austin. “Being in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an incredible honor for me, and I’m just really humbled to be part of a group that’s selected to be part of the parade. It’s one of those feelings you don’t forget.”

Another band member, Mattie Traylor, from South Carolina, will become the third member of her family to march in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Her mother marched with her high school in 1991, and her older sister was in the 2019 parade.

“It is really cool to be a part of this with the Marching Bucs and carry on that tradition,” Traylor said.

As part of the announcement, the Macy’s team presented the ETSU Marching Bucs with a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade drumhead and a $10,000 gift to kick off fundraising for the trip. The band will spend the next 18 months planning for their parade appearance through rehearsals and creative fundraising events, which will not only bring the school and the community closer but also prepare the students for the march of a lifetime.

“Under Dr. Moore’s leadership, the band has grown into the largest marching ensemble in school history, consistently delivering dynamic, impactful performances at games and exhibitions across the country,” said Whatley. “The Macy’s Band Selection Committee is proud to welcome the Marching Bucs to the Big Apple for the first time to perform for millions in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!”

BE PART OF THE MARCH TO MACY’S

While the excitement for the journey to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is still sinking in, the logistics and cost for transporting the band, instruments, flags, uniforms, and more, as well as arranging for accommodations, meals, and other expenses are beginning to take shape, and the band is hopeful that there will be community support to ensure that all who wish to participate, can.

The anticipated cost is approximately $350,000, and there will be many ways to offer support in the coming days, weeks, and months.

“Every gift will help to make a student’s dream come true and showcase the amazing talent of our university and our ETSU Marching Band,” said Moore. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support we have received so far and appreciate all who will support and will continue to support this band.”

Visit etsu.edu/bucsonparade for details.

Melissa Nipper is Executive Director of Communications in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

PHOTO BY RON CAMPBELL

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

DISCOVER ADVENTURE IN OUR BACKYARD

ETSU NAMED 2023 TOP ADVENTURE COLLEGE

Set in an outdoor lover’s paradise, East Tennessee State University has been named the 2023 Top Adventure College by readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.

The annual tournament was organized in a bracket-style format and pitted ETSU against competitors such as Clemson University, the University of Tennessee, Virginia Tech, and previous winner Maryville College. Multiple rounds of head-to-head matchups determined this year’s best outdoor university in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

ETSU’s main campus is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains National

Park, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Roan Mountain State Park, and the Cherokee National Forest. It is also bordered by numerous lakes, rivers, and hiking trails, including more than 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail.

Although the area has plenty to explore, opportunities for outdoor adventure abound right on campus. The five-mile University Woods and Trail System is open for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Members of the campus community can take on a new challenge at the nine-hole disc golf course or tackle the Basler Team Challenge and Aerial Adventure Course, featuring climbing, rappelling, and bouldering.

Located in the Basler Center for Physical Activity, the Outdoor Adventure Center offers gear and bike rentals and hosts frequent group outings, such as backpacking and whitewater rafting trips.

“Our Outdoor Adventure program offers a vast array of options for different outdoor activities and has been adding new elements each semester,” said Assistant Director of Outdoor Adventure Eric Payne. “We are able to provide almost any outdoor pursuit to students, as ETSU is in the heart of the outdoor world.”

Payne mentioned that on campus and off, many learning experiences await students.

“Any hard skill — climbing, fishing, paddling, or camping — can be learned. We also focus on environmental knowledge like plant and animal identification and care of the natural world,” he said.

In addition to recreational fun, ETSU is committed to providing outdoor education and research opportunities

PHOTO BY MATTHEW CARROLL

to students, allowing them to go beyond the classroom. Students interested in solving environmental problems, exploring geography, digging into paleontology, and studying the environment and conservation efforts have access to a curriculum that is innovative and hands-on.

The ETSU Gray Fossil Site and Museum is a world-class paleontological site just a few miles away from ETSU’s main campus. The site preserves a one-of-a-kind window into the Appalachian region, making it an invaluable educational resource.

Students can also turn their love for the great outdoors into a fulfilling academic pursuit through the Park and Recreation Management Program. The program provides students the opportunity to receive instruction in the planning, organization, leadership, and management of park and recreation agencies and programs.

“Each semester we guide students through ‘Commercial Recreation and Tourism,’ a course that functions as a living laboratory for students,” said Park and Recreation Program Coordinator Dr. Jason Davis. “We’re using the natural

environment as our classroom. Through activities like caving, ziplining, and whitewater rafting, our students have the unique chance to combine learning and play.”

Rachel Howard is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY LARRY SMITH

HISTORIC STATE FUNDING

ETSU GATTON COLLEGE OF PHARMACY RECEIVES HISTORIC FUNDING

It has been a historic year for East Tennessee State University Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, and students will reap the benefits.

After years of efforts by area legislators to secure backing for the college, the Tennessee General Assembly earlier this year approved $2.5 million in annual funding — the first state assistance for the college since its founding in 2005.

For in-state students, the tuition cost to pursue a pharmacy education at ETSU is now $27,000 per year, over 30% less than before. For out-of-state students, the tuition cost is $33,000 per year, nearly 15% less. The tuition decrease is effective for fall 2023.

The tuition reduction over the course of the four-year PharmD program is significant: for in-state students, the tuition cost has decreased over $46,600; for out-of-state, over $22,600. In addition, the state funding will go toward bolstering the college’s scholarships by $720,000, which will help lower costs even more for prospective students.

ETSU student pharmacists were recognized at the Senate and House Floor Sessions during the Tennessee Pharmacists Association (TPA) Legislative Day on the Hill on February 28, 2023.

ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland (left) and State Representative Gary Hicks (middle) met with House Speaker Cameron Sexton.

“State funding is a new and exciting chapter in our college’s history and vital for the legacy we leave behind,” said Dr. Debbie Byrd, Dean of ETSU Gatton College of Pharmacy. “This annual appropriation provided by the Tennessee General Assembly will sustain our mission to serve the rural and underserved by lowering tuition and attracting more students to ETSU and the profession of pharmacy.

“In addition, this investment in our future will help prevent the ‘brain drain’ of rural Tennessee residents who leave East Tennessee in search of cheaper tuition in metropolitan areas as well as meet the workforce demand in the region,” Byrd said.

State Representative Gary Hicks expressed his excitement about the funding, saying it will go a long way to ensure students receive an affordable, quality education.

“Students who could not even consider ETSU Gatton College of Pharmacy in the past can now come study in our region, fall in love with its people, and, hopefully, make their careers here,” said Hicks. “I am very excited to see this come to fruition.”

State Senators Rusty Crowe and Jon Lundberg echoed Hicks.

“ETSU has proven itself and established a national reputation of excellence,” said Lundberg. “It’s now time for the state to

make the investment – and commitment – to support that mission.”

Crowe said he’s hopeful the funding will put the college’s tuition more in line with that of other pharmacy schools in the state.

“Our entire Northeast Tennessee legislative delegation, as well as Dr. Noland, the pharmacy school faculty, and students have fought for this for many years,” Crowe said. “I’m very proud of all who finally made this happen and know it will benefit our students and will especially help the rural areas of our state as our Gatton pharmacy students graduate and move to practice in those areas.”

ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland said the funding will have a major, positive impact

on Northeast Tennessee and thanked the region’s legislative delegation for its work in making this dream become a reality.

“Through this historic appropriation, students in our region will have greater access to affordable pharmacy education that is close to home,” said Noland. “I would like to thank state officials and particularly Representatives Gary Hicks, Tim Hicks, and Rebecca Alexander, as well as State Senators Rusty Crowe and Jon Lundberg, for serving as champions for the college, our students, and the overall health and wellbeing of our region.”

At left, Dr. Debbie Byrd, Dean of ETSU Gatton College of Pharmacy, met with State Senator Rusty Crowe

At right, Dean Byrd met with State Senator Jon Lundberg.

Dean Byrd met with Representatives Tim Hicks (left) and Rebecca Alexander.

State funding is a new and exciting chapter in our college’s history and vital for the legacy we leave behind.”

Dr. Debbie Byrd, Dean of ETSU Gatton College of Pharmacy

Jonathan Roberts is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

ETSU EXPANDS COMMUNITY-ENGAGED LEARNING

including police departments, juvenile courts, private security agencies, and prosecuting attorneys’ offices at the local, state, and federal levels.

A recent graduate course in biology featured a partnership with Steele Creek Park. Students created a natural history of the park, as well as digital tabs about trails, including details on length and elevation, and a maintenance survey that allows employees and visitors to report any issues.

A partnership with the Johnson City Police Department that allows students to shadow officers.

A project with Bristol’s Steele Creek Park where students organized a natural history of the park.

Work with the ETSU Research Corporation that afforded students the opportunity to create webpages and produce videos and social media advertisements for a large-scale event.

For those who think college is all about required reading and lectures, East Tennessee State University is urging them to think again.

These projects and many more are at the center of ETSU’s focus on providing community-engaged learning opportunities as part of the institution’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). This large-scale initiative is called Go Beyond the Classroom.

“ETSU was founded to serve this region and to uplift the people in this region,” said Dr. Susan McCracken, Vice Provost

for Community Engagement and Director of the QEP. “The sense of service and being connected to the community is part of who we are. In recent years, there has been a lot of conversation on campus about how we do that in a more intentional way.”

The goals of Go Beyond the Classroom are straightforward.

Students will link their coursework to the community, reflect about how their community work will influence their future, and be able to articulate how such community-based experiences prepare them for a diverse society.

Across the university, a key goal is to help students shift seamlessly from enrollment to employment.

That has played out in a variety of ways on campus.

For ETSU’s criminal justice and criminology program, for example, it means 200-400 hours of field experience. During the summer, seniors complete work hours with an array of agencies,

A capstone project in brand and media strategy allowed students to complete work for a fall 2022 event called “Growing the Future: Symposium on Innovation and Education for the Bioeconomy.” The symposium brought together national leaders in education, government, and industry to highlight global bioeconomy opportunities and initiatives in the Appalachian Highlands, and students crafted and launched a full-scale marketing campaign – one that resulted in attendance of more than 200, surpassing the class goal by 30 percent.

“What I would like students to know about our community-engaged learning initiative,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, “is that this is going to broaden the opportunities that they have at ETSU to participate in internships, capstone projects, study abroad, and study away at all levels of their undergraduate education.”

She added: “The legacy of Go Beyond is that community-engaged learning becomes the hallmark of the ETSU undergraduate experience.”

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by O.J. Early

Isaiah Bishop and Officer Corey McKinney SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE.

FEELING A SENSE OF BELONGING ACCESS ETSU SUPPORTS INCLUSION AT THE UNIVERSITY

For

“It is really about people’s efforts to ensure that everybody feels a sense of belonging, that they are welcome and that they can contribute,” she said.

Such a sentiment helps guide Access ETSU, a program that has for years provided supplemental support to young adults with intellectual disabilities.

Access ETSU partners with area school systems, local agencies, and much of the university community to connect students to a range of opportunities related to academics, career development, and social skills.

Students who partake in the initiative are part of a two-year education plan that is personalized and planned based on the individual’s needs. Each student takes courses at ETSU and participates in vocational preparation related to their interests and strengths. These students are also assigned a BucMate, a fellow ETSU student who offers important daily support, including help with organization and time management and having fun together on campus.

Testimony from Access ETSU students speaks for itself.

“They were helpful. They have been supporting me since day one,” said Fergus Carleton. “Even the BucMates help me out in my classes.”

“I think the people are sweet and kind and want to be my friends,” added Abigail Sanders.

“This gives students who would not have traditionally had a path to a university education the opportunity to come take courses and develop skills,” he said. “I have taught Access ETSU students, and it is a wonderful experience.”

Access ETSU is open to potential students between 18 and 25 years old who have graduated from high school and/or exited from special education services, have a documented intellectual disability, and have a personal desire to continue their education. ETSU students, regardless of their academic major, who are interested in accessibility, inclusivity, equity, and disability justice may also apply to be BucMates.

Learn more about the program at etsu.edu/coe/access.

Dr. Dawn Rowe, the James H. Quillen Chair of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Professor in ETSU’s Clemmer College of Education and Human Development, and Program Director for Access ETSU, inclusion isn’t so much about a space.

Dr. Daryl Carter, Professor of History, Associate Dean, and Director of the Black American Studies Program, is one of the many faculty and administrative leaders at the university who support Access ETSU.

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photos by Charlie Warden

Dr. Dawn Rowe

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Access ETSU students work with fellow students called BucMates.

EMERGING LEADERS GET A BOOST BRENDA WHITE WRIGHT EMERGING LEADERS ACADEMY CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

For the past decade, students in a special program at East Tennessee State University have served in multiple leadership roles on campus, and many are now making a difference in their chosen fields.

The Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) holds as its mission “to identify, encourage, and support students as they develop knowledge and skills to become effective servant leaders at ETSU and beyond.”

Taking a forward-thinking approach, the Academy starts with an overnight “Advance,” where students begin to explore their personal leadership styles, strengths, challenges, and passions, and learn about group dynamics while working as a team. The Advance culminates in a service project involving current and alumni members on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Students then meet weekly, learning the skills to lead in the 21st century from community experts and interactive activities.

Before graduating from the Academy, participants develop a personal leadership philosophy and action plan. “We see their philosophies play out in how students direct their lives following the ELA experience,” said Dr. Leah Adinolfi, Dean of Student Engagement. “Not only do they step into leadership at ETSU,

but so many of them go on to become doctors, pharmacists, educators, and nonprofit leaders, carrying on that practice of service to others.”

The ELA is open to students who have not yet held organizational leadership positions in their time on campus. Joy Fulkerson, Director of Leadership and Civic Engagement at ETSU, directs the program and explained that the idea for the ELA came from discussions among staff, who had observed a need for a broader base of students in leadership roles.

“There seemed to be a handful of student leaders who were called to leadership positions in multiple groups,” said Dr. Bonnie Burchett, Director of Housing and Residence Life. “That led to the idea of growing the number to encompass a more diverse population of leaders.”

When the planners looked for an exemplary leader after whom to name the program, White Wright seemed an obvious choice. The Kingsport resident is an award-winning motivational speaker and leadership development and diversity trainer with over 40 years of experience in business management, organizational development, human resources, multicultural issues, youth initiatives, resource development, and media.

Dr. Brenda White Wright (center) is pictured with members of the Emerging Leaders Academy, which bears her name.

“I have made a lifelong commitment to serving and supporting the successful growth and development of young people. Combined with my pride in being a three-time graduate of ETSU, having the Emerging Leaders Academy named in my honor is one of God’s greatest blessings in my life,” said White Wright, who participates in all aspects of the ELA. “I believe it’s important that the students get to know and interact with the person behind the name. Although we start as strangers, we end the program as family.”

Lexi Petrak, who participated in the inaugural cohort in 2013, credits the ELA with much of her success both as a student and

professional. “This program prepared me with the skills and confidence to become President of Buctainment and a Senator in the Student Government Association,” she said.

Later, that preparation guided her through a career change, and today she is ETSU’s Assistant Director of Campus Visits, using the ELA’s servant leadership philosophy to mentor students.

“It is so rewarding to see the growth that occurs,” said Scott Jeffress, Executive Director of ETSU’s Roan Scholars Leadership Program. “For some, that growth comes from hearing new ideas and perspectives; for others, from the increased self-confidence the program inspires. For nearly every student, growth results from the challenging but supportive community created by Dr. White Wright and other ELA volunteers.

“As we celebrate these past 10 years, it’s exciting to think about how much more growth there is to come!”

Jennifer Hill is Senior Writer in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photos by Larry Smith

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Service is a key component of the Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy.

Pictured left to right are Scott Jeffress, Bonnie Burchett, Brenda White Wright, ETSU President Brian Noland, and Joy Fulkerson.

THE MICROWAVE SEASON INSTANT SUCCESS IN A NEW ERA OF ETSU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

When ETSU Athletics announced the hire of new women’s basketball coach Brenda Mock Brown on August 8, 2022, no one truly knew what to expect in year one. But then again, maybe some did.

Taking over a women’s basketball program less than three months away from the first game of the season — against defending national champion South Carolina, no less — is not an easy task. This is especially hard when that same team finished with a 6-22 overall record the previous season.

This year’s team went on to finish with a 25-10 record — 19 more wins than last season. The 25 wins set a new school record. Many other records and milestones were shattered along the way, including the nation’s largest win turnaround this past season and the seventh-biggest season-to-season turnaround in NCAA history.

Despite how much the deck seemed stacked against the ETSU women’s basketball program, the opening press conference revealed a ray of confidence from those who know the program best.

“She checks all the boxes,” said Athletic Director Dr. Richard Sander at the time of Coach Mock’s hire. “Her passion is to make every student-athlete the best they can be, which is right in line with our values. I have no doubt that she is going to turn this program around and get us back to where we belong – competing for and winning SoCon championships.”

That “competing for” was perhaps interpreted by some as “later down the road” and not “right away.” But this program of student-athletes and coaches — surrounded by a supportive community and fanbase — decided to waste no time making a splash.

Fast-forward to December, just two months into the first season of the Brenda Mock Era, and the Buccaneers are celebrating a 13-3 start in non-conference play. This set the school record for non-conference wins in a single season. At this point, ETSU had beaten three teams that were in last year’s NCAA Tournament, broke school records for win margin (69) and fewest points allowed in a game (26), and the big one: shocking SEC opponent Vanderbilt with a 44-31 win on December 1 inside Brooks Gym.

In an interview, star players Courtney Moore, Neveah Brown, Kendall Folley, and Jayla Ruffus-Milner said collectively that the turning point of the season was “The Vandy Game.” In the words of Brown, the win was “a big statement.” Her teammates nodded in agreement.

Things were looking great heading into January, but the Southern Conference schedule brought some early adversity. Three straight losses and a season-ending injury to Ruffus-Milner — who was among the nation’s leading offensive rebounders at the time — put ETSU’s back against the wall.

But the story didn’t end there.

After the 0-3 start, ETSU went on to win eight of the next nine conference games and were suddenly back in the thick of things. In fact, that eighth win came during the final regular season home game against Furman, which drew the largest crowd of the season at 922 fans. That win put ETSU in a three-way tie for first place in the SoCon standings.

I encourage my staff and the [players] to really reflect on what they’ve accomplished because it’s nothing short of remarkable.

The conference awards were also kind to ETSU, as Jiselle Thomas, Kendall Folley, and Journee McDaniel were honored. Coach Mock was voted as the Southern Conference Coach of the Year by her peers.

ETSU went on to finish third in the SoCon standings and pull off an impressive 63-47 win in the quarterfinal round against Samford. That win tied ETSU for the school record in single season victories. The last team to do that was the 2009-10 team that went to the NCAA Tournament.

Although the Bucs were eliminated in the semifinal round, postseason basketball was not off the table. ETSU was selected for the Women’s Basketball Invitational (WBI) in Lexington, Kentucky, and finished third in the tournament with dominant wins over FIU and Georgia Southern. This successful run brought the first postseason wins since the legendary 1994-95 season.

It is safe to say that “legendary” also describes this 2022-23 team – but if you ask anyone involved with this program, the best is yet to come.

Mike Ezekiel is Associate Director for Communications in ETSU Athletics.

PHOTO BY DAKOTA HAMILTON

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE.

When you get Coach of the Year – nothing is done in isolation. I like to say ‘Coaches of the Year.’ To be encouraged by the coaches and the staff was really one of the most memorable moments of the season. That’s when you know you’ve really won.

Coach Brenda Mock Brown

MOCK TRIAL A WIN FOR STUDENTS YOUNG TEAM GAINS NATIONAL ATTENTION

For the students involved in East Tennessee State University’s Mock Trial team, the experiences and hands-on learning opportunities are immense.

“It has been more than I could ever imagine,” said team member Caleb Vaughn, a political science and theater and dance major.

ETSU’s Mock Trial team is already receiving national attention And believe it or not, such acclaim has occurred quickly – organizers only founded the group last year.

The group won the Spirit of American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) Award, an accolade given to the team that best exemplifies the ideals of college mock trial, including civility, fairness, and professionalism, at an AMTA regional tournament in Dayton, Ohio.

It was the team’s first tournament since forming in 2022.

“I know firsthand the benefits of mock trial for students,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, ETSU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and a former mock trial coach. “It is obviously a great preparation for students who want to go to law school, but mock trial

helps prepare students in so many other ways, too.”

Such training and competition help students hone their communication skills and sharpen critical thinking, as well as afford them the ability to learn how to work as a member of a team.

For student and treasurer Jasper Budd, participation helps him practice public speaking.

“It’s an opportunity to get out and work on how to deliver my statements and get used to talking in front of people,” he said.

Trent White, President of the team and the 2023-2024 Student Government Association President, said mock trial is “an avenue to put into practice what we are learning in class in an actual courtroom setting.”

“We are arguing back and forth and arguing case law that we learn in class,” he said. “It is very productive for me.”

The experiential learning that mock trial members enjoy is at the center of the university’s approach to education. The goal is to help students move seamlessly from either enrollment to employment or to a graduate program.

“It has been an absolute honor to witness the commitment and dedication these students put forth in preparing for their first competition. As a new team, the learning curve can be steep. These students learned to craft persuasive legal arguments, analyze complex rules of evidence, and zealously advocate for their client in a very short period of time,” said Lindsay Daniel, ETSU Associate Counsel. “These students jumped in and thrived. I am so proud of how they represented themselves and the university. I am excited for the future of Mock Trial at ETSU.”

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Lindsay Daniel

Students gathered for a photo before the ETSU Board of Trustees recognized them for their accomplishments.

THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS ARE CHANGING LIVES CELEBRATING THE DEDICATION OF THE JAMES AND NELLIE BRINKLEY CENTER

An important space on campus has a new name, as East Tennessee State University celebrated the legacy of two individuals with the dedication of the James and Nellie Brinkley Center.

Known for more than 20 years as the Millennium Center, the Brinkley Center is named in memory of benefactors James and Nellie Brinkley. The late James Brinkley attended University School on the (then) East Tennessee State College campus. It was there where he first met his future wife, Nellie.

He began his academic journey at ETSC; however, his education was interrupted by service in the United States Navy. After serving in the Pacific and receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to campus and completed his undergraduate degree in business administration in 1960.

For 25 years, James worked with the Social Security Administration in Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida, and Nellie became a real estate agent. Together, the couple opened car washes and developed a manufactured home community in Orange Park, Florida.

The Brinkley Center will provide classroom and academic office space for the ETSU Department of Computing, which is part of the College of Business and Technology and offers both B.S. and M.S. degrees in computer and information science and a graduate certificate in data analytics.

The department also partners with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee to offer the BlueSky Tennessee Institute, where computing students can earn a degree in 27 months and receive a job offer from the health care company.

“Computing programs prepare students for careers in computer science, cybersecurity and modern networks, information systems, and information technology,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at ETSU. “These are fast-growing fields and demand is high for graduates. To meet that demand, we need state-of-the-art classrooms and computer lab space for teaching and research.

“This building has afforded us room to grow and to offer our students, staff, and faculty a dedicated space for not only classrooms, but communal areas where they can network and build community. On any given day, these halls and rooms are full of students who are preparing for high-impact careers in our region and beyond,” McCorkle added.

According to the websites CollegeFactual.com and Universities. com, the ETSU computing program is ranked the No. 1 “2021 Best College for Computer Information Systems in Tennessee” and the No. 2 “Best Computer and Information Sciences College in Tennessee for 2021,” respectively.

“Acts of generosity, kindness, and service have fueled the success of this institution for the past 114 years,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “These acts have made a positive and lasting impact on the lives of countless students and have helped advance the university’s mission to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond.

“Mr. and Mrs. Brinkley are among those who have helped build this legacy. Through their generous contributions, they have impacted many lives for the better by providing educational opportunities through scholarships. They have made the dream of a college education a reality for those who thought they could not afford it.”

Joe Smith is Executive Director of Advancement Communications for University Advancement. | Photo by Charlie Warden

ETSU President Brian Noland is pictured with Jimmy Brinkley, son of the late James and Nellie Brinkley.

MEET THE ETSU BOARD OF TRUSTEES: AAMIR SHAIKH

Aamir Shaikh of Knoxville made campus involvement a hallmark of his undergraduate years at East Tennessee State University. He’s poised to continue making an impact on the campus as a

As an undergraduate, Shaikh served as President of the Student Government Association in 2019-20. As president, he focused on addressing food insecurity faced by ETSU students, and his efforts helped expand the services of Bucky’s Food Pantry, which gives students access to groceries and snacks during set hours and by appointment. He also focused on expanding mental health resources and increasing health care accessibility for students.

As his time as president was winding down, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Shaikh and the SGA to do things differently.

“It was definitely a difficult proposition to finish up my term as president remotely,” he said. “But what we didn’t foresee was that it brought so many opportunities to serve the students. Transitioning from oncampus to virtual learning environments brought about so many challenges for students. To ease many of these circumstances, our administration wrote and passed the legislation that made classes Pass/Fail for that first semester of COVID. Although it was difficult for all, this was one of many ways we were able to be there for our peers.”

In addition to his participation in SGA, Shaikh served as President of the Multicultural

Association of Pre-Health Students and Vice President of the Honors College Student Council. He also provided guidance to his fellow students as a Diversity Educator and as a site leader for an Alternative Breaks trip to Washington, D.C., after having one of the most meaningful experiences of his time at ETSU during his freshman Alternative Breaks trip to the nation’s capital.

Shaikh graduated from ETSU’s College of Public Health in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences. His initial graduation ceremony was held remotely, and he was honored to be the featured commencement speaker during the in-person ceremony for the Class of 2020 in May 2021.

Today, Shaikh, who just completed his first year at the Quillen College of Medicine, continues his tradition of service as the Student Trustee on the ETSU Board of Trustees for 2023-24.

“ETSU has been one of the biggest blessings of my life, and to be able to give back to the university through this position is not a role I take lightly,” he said. “I have always seen the potential for ETSU to be a source of inspiration and enrichment for the broader East Tennessee region. As the Student Trustee, I want to do everything I can to enable that vision.”

In addition to his work as a Student Trustee, Shaikh, who enjoys a good run as well as reading and writing in his spare time, is working in research and volunteers with underserved populations in different roles.

“I have a vision for my future,” he said, “but as the past few years have shown us all, you can never be too sure about the path ahead. I know I will always seek to be humbly in service of whichever community the road takes me to.”

Jennifer Hill is Senior Writer in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

MEET THE ETSU BOARD OF TRUSTEES: DR. STEPH FRYE-CLARK

“Sweep your own doorstep first” is the adage ascribed to by one of the newest members of East Tennessee State University’s Board of Trustees.

“Since beginning my employment, I have believed in ETSU’s mission and committed to improving the institution,” said Dr. Steph Frye-Clark, an Associate Professor of Tuba and Euphonium in ETSU’s Department of Music who succeeds Dr. Virginia Foley as Faculty Trustee. “Throughout that time, I have continually pursued opportunities where I may be of service.

“Through my term as Faculty Trustee, I hope to continue the work achieved by the predecessor Faculty Trustees. In addition, I look forward to assisting the university in navigating the contemporary and complex landscape of an ever-evolving and diversifying student body and the increasing complexities of higher education. I am proud to be ETSU’s first queer-identifying Faculty Trustee and firmly support work that preserves and protects this institution’s reputation through promoting and protecting its mission.”

Frye-Clark believes that ETSU’s dedication to shared governance is one of its greatest strengths, and before their election as Faculty Trustee, they took part in that governance as a member of the Faculty Senate representing the College of Arts and Sciences since 2021.

“The Faculty Senate, Staff Senate, and Student Government Association are valued and have their voices heard by the administration,” they said, adding that ETSU’s faculty and students also number among its strengths. “The faculty at ETSU are outstanding. I am continually amazed by what folks across campus are accomplishing, both in the classroom and through research and creative activity.

“The student body that ETSU serves is comprised of many first-generation college students and students from Central Appalachia. These students come to ETSU, work incredibly hard, and often return home to serve their region. Not only are they the backbone of this region, but they are the future in which Central Appalachia’s fate rests.”

In addition to serving through Faculty Senate, Frye-Clark was one of two Provost’s Academy Scholars at ETSU in 2022. Each scholar completes a special project critical to the needs of the Provost’s Office, and Frye-Clark’s project focused on faculty evaluation and success.

One of the biggest highlights of FryeClark’s tenure at ETSU is their work on a cross-disciplinary project, “Amplifying Queer Composers,” which has been supported by a Research Development Committee grant from the university. Through this project, they worked with Dr. Kelly Foster, Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology and Director of the Applied Social Research Lab.

“We explored the queer composer experience through qualitative interviews and commissioned three new pieces of music for the Department of Music low-brass students and me,” Frye-Clark said. “The project included faculty, staff, and students from our two departments working collaboratively and brought to light once again that representation truly does matter.”

Frye-Clark, an internationally recognized performer and educator who joined the ETSU faculty in 2013, is a member of the acclaimed Mirari Brass Quintet and has performed with symphonies throughout the U.S.

In their spare time, Frye-Clark enjoys being active and outdoors whenever possible, especially with their wife and two children. “We love taking advantage of the beautiful area where we live, exploring trails, waterfalls, and downtown Johnson City.”

Jennifer Hill is Senior Writer in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

Class of 2023!

East Tennessee State University celebrated more than 2,000 members of the Class of 2023 during its May Commencement exercises.

On Friday, May 5, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy honored 66 student pharmacists who became part of the college’s 14th graduating class. Later that day, 70 graduates of the Quillen College of Medicine were awarded their Doctor of Medicine and took the Hippocratic Oath.

On Saturday, May 6, Brenda Mock Brown, Head Coach of the ETSU Women’s Basketball Team, was the keynote speaker for the morning commencement ceremony. Dr. Dennis Depew, Dean Emeritus of the ETSU College of Business and Technology, was the keynote speaker for the afternoon ceremony.

PHOTO BY RON CAMPBELL

PHOTO BY RON CAMPBELL

PHOTO BY MATTHEW CARROLL

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

IN ALL SHE DOES: POSITIVITY RENOWNED ARTIST PAINTS MURAL AT ETSU

A partnership with Taylor Swift. Producing street art for Super Bowl 2020. Crafting murals and launching a viral #WhatLiftsYou social media campaign following the devastating school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

Kelsey Montague, one of the best-known illustrators in the world, has taken her creative craft across the globe.

Add East Tennessee State University and Johnson City to her portfolio.

Montague completed a mural at the university in the spring of 2023. Located near the Ballad Health Athletic Center (formerly called the Mini-Dome) and the parking garage, the navy and gold mural features design elements unique to both ETSU and the region: the Ballad Health Athletic Center, Tennessee’s Tri-Star, the ETSU Carillon, 1911 (the year ETSU was founded), the Appalachian Mountains, and rhododendrons.

“All my work is positive in some way. I always want my work to be uplifting,” she said.

Despite her work with celebrities and international causes, this marked only

the fourth mural she has painted for a college and the first in the South.

“I am a huge fan of universities. The energy and the creativity are always so exciting,” she said. “I hope the university community knows that this is for them.”

ETSU, in turn, has asked the community to use the new mural to spread positivity online.

“We encourage visitors to snap a selfie in front of the mural and then share it on social media with #ETSUPride365,” said Barbara Mason, Director of Trademark Licensing at ETSU and the one who helped bring Montague to campus. “We invite you to become part of this exciting piece of art, as well as help us promote the community that we all call home.”

The community is accepting the invitation.

During spring 2023 commencement activities, hundreds of students and their families took a moment to get photos in front of the mural.

“Whoever walks by this, it’s a gift,” said Montague. “It’s for you.”

Over the years, Montague’s paintings have proven wildly popular. Visitors to Nashville may have noticed her work in the Gulch. Before the art, painted on plywood, was moved, long lines often greeted those hoping to take a selfie in front of the mural.

Those wishing to see the ETSU mural for themselves are invited to stop by Parking Services Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., for a parking pass. Parking is free and open to the public outside those hours. Parking Services is located at 132 Stout Drive.

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

I hope the university community knows that this is for them.

Kelsey Montague

Kelsey Montague poses with her ETSU mural.

THE 1911 SOCIETY WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

Named in commemoration of the year when ETSU was founded, the 1911 Society recognizes the university’s most notable graduates from undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Honorees receive special recognition and tartan stoles to wear during Commencement. Their contributions will be showcased on the 1911 Society wall located on the third floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center.

Dr. Rhiannon Dunn of Johnson City, Tennessee, earned her Ed.D. in educational leadership. She has earned the Outstanding Graduate Student Award from the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis and received various scholarships, including a dissertation scholarship, the Joan Brandon Hull Scholarship, multiple external scholarships, and a Quillen Scholars Award. Dunn actively contributed to Clemmer College’s CAEP accreditation committees as both a doctoral student and an intern supervisor. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society for Educators and the Golden Key International Honors Society. With an extensive background as a teacher, teacher leader, and mentor teacher at Science Hill High School in Johnson City and a strong commitment to education in multiple placements spanning almost two decades, Dunn plans to continue her leadership in the field.

Piper Floyd of Kingsport, Tennessee, studied computing and foreign languages. Floyd was awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship for her year abroad in Spain. She has also participated in an international Hackathon composed of students from Iraq and the Palestinian Territories, where they created a website focusing on the global water crisis. As an ambassador in the ETSU College of Business and Technology Leadership Academy, she provided opportunities for women in STEM by co-founding the Women in Tech event at ETSU and by volunteering as a computing instructor to migrant women during her time in Spain. Additionally,

Floyd conducted undergraduate research in machine learning, for which she became the first ETSU student to win the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. She will attend EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) in Switzerland in the fall of 2023 to pursue a master’s degree in robotics and a minor in space technologies.

Katelyn Haun of Dandridge, Tennessee, graduated with a BBA in general management and marketing communications. She is continuing her education at ETSU in the Master of Business Administration program in the fall of 2023. As an undergraduate, Haun served as president of both Alpha Delta Pi and College Panhellenic and as a member of the Preview and Orientation Leader Organization. Her greatest accomplishment was helping create EPIC, a seminar for Fraternity and Sorority Life members on risk management and community awareness. She was awarded the Alpha Delta Pi National Dorothy Shaw Leadership Award and Orientation Leader of the Year and Sorority Woman of the Year honors. While she was chapter president, Alpha Delta Pi was named Chapter of the Year.

Jeremiah Heyward of Knoxville, Tennessee, majored in kinesiology with a concentration in exercise science. During his time as an undergraduate, he was student leader with the Preview and Orientation Leader Organization (POLO), organizing the event, communicating with other POLO leaders, and serving as the person to welcome students and families to campus. He also served as a Buccaneer Involvement Guide, Peer Mentor, and on New Student Family Programs and as an intern with Game Day Operations in the Athletic Department. These leadership opportunities allowed him to impact the lives of new and current students, enhancing their college experiences. His leadership led to an opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to participate with other young men of color in a listening session with Vice President Kamala Harris focusing on the topics of mental health, economics, and criminal justice reform.

Sadie King of Kingsport, Tennessee, graduated with a B.S. degree in rehabilitative health sciences and a double minor in communicative disorders and nutrition. During her undergraduate career, King has been a part of the Dr. Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy, Preview and Orientation Leader Organization, and Buccaneer Involvement Guides, and has served in the Student Government Association as a senator and secretary of state, taking on the role of homecoming director for two years. She was also selected for ETSU’s “First and Triumph” video series that recognized her successes as a first-generation college student. In addition to being active on campus, King worked part-time to assist individuals at The Crumley House who have experienced a traumatic brain injury. She is continuing at ETSU for her graduate degree in speech-language pathology.

Dr. Jarred Millard of Burns, Tennessee, earned his M.D. from the Quillen College of Medicine. Before medical school, he spent nine years working as a first responder, both as a paramedic and a critical care flight paramedic. He stayed involved with EMS locally and globally throughout his time at ETSU by serving as an instructor for the EMSXTLS conference, as well as traveling to Georgetown, Guyana, to train the country’s first class of Advanced EMTs. He served as class president for all four years of his medical education and is one of the founders and first

Dr. Rhiannon Dunn

Dr. Jarred Millard Mason Mosier

president of the ETSU Street Medicine Outreach. He was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society in recognition of his compassionate patient-centered care and service to others. He will complete his residency training in emergency medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Mason Mosier of Piney Flats, Tennessee, is graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in political science and media and communications. At ETSU, Mosier demonstrated his leadership skills by actively engaging in community service, political organizations, and university programs, including the Student Government Association, the Honors College, and The Washington Center. He served as the SGA president for two years and was the first outreach intern in his U.S. Representative’s Office. He combined his fields of study in his thesis, titled “Rules of the Game: Establishment vs. Anti-establishment Politics.” Furthermore, Mosier was appointed the community service chairman in his fraternity, Sigma Chi. He took part in various leadership programs and study abroad opportunities in Israel and Rome. He was recognized for his exceptional leadership in 2022 with the Ronald and Edith J. Carrier Award. Mosier plans to study abroad and pursue a career in business management.

Samuel Alejandro Garcia Olmos of Caracas, Venezuela, is graduating with a

Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and a minor in culture and health. As a member of the Roan Scholars Leadership Program, he participated in The Washington Center’s academic internship program at the National Hispanic Medical Association, where he advocated for Hispanic health. He participated in research at the Quillen College of Medicine with Dr. Xiaohui Wang’s investigation of liver response to sepsis. Additionally, he served on the executive board of Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Interfraternity Council and as a senator and vice president for finance and administration in the Student Government Association. He volunteered with the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce and The Venezuela Project, which his family created to help his home country.

Paulina Ramirez of Medellin, Colombia, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with minors in culture and health and psychology. She has held several leadership positions in the Student Government Association and served as a PEAKS mentor for the Honors College. Ramirez has conducted cardiovascular research under the guidance of Dr. Krishna Singh and presented her findings at various conferences, including the Tennessee Posters at the Capitol event, the American Physiological Society at the Experimental Biology Conference, and ETSU’s Boland Symposium. She is committed to community service and has volunteered and interpreted

at the Remote Area Medical Clinic and Providence Medical Clinic. She aims to obtain an M.D. degree and specialize in cardiology to combat health care disparities in the Appalachian area.

Jessica Rodriguez-Potter of Cleveland, Tennessee, majored in psychology with a concentration in child psychology and a double minor in early childhood development and trauma and resilience. Rodriguez-Potter was involved in undergraduate research under the mentorship of Dr. Diana Morelen and presented research at ETSU’s Appalachian Student Research Forum and Boland Symposium. Rodriguez-Potter served with the Preview and Orientation Leader Organization and the Center for Academic Achievement, where she was an academic coach and the Honors College representative on the student advisory board. She also interned as a medical advocate and labor doula with Atlanta’s Embrace Refugee Birth Support group. Rodriguez-Potter was awarded the Critical Language Scholarship and will spend 10 weeks in Tanzania before returning to Atlanta to continue her services with Embrace as part of a graduate fellowship. She hopes to use these experiences to advocate for maternal and child welfare in the humanitarian aid sector.

William (Billy) Thompson of Ocala, Florida, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences with a concentration in human health and a minor in psychology as a Midway Honors Scholar. During his time in the Honors College, Thompson conducted epilepsy research under the direction of Dr. Chad Frasier in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Quillen College of Medicine. He has presented his research at ETSU’s Appalachian Student Research Forum and at the American Epilepsy Society’s annual meeting. He also completed a senior thesis on cellular energetics in epilepsy. He was involved in multiple experiential learning activities, including a studyaway program in New York City and study abroad in England and France. Additionally, Thompson and his wife founded a nonprofit outreach, the Amazing Gracelyn Organization, that serves the citizens of Cocke County, Tennessee.

Photos by Charlie Warden

William (Billy) Thompson

Piper Floyd Katelyn Haun Jeremiah Heyward Sadie King

Samuel Alejandro Garcia Olmos

Paulina Ramirez Jessica RodriguezPotter

BUCS RETURN HOME SAMUELS,

PIERCE NAMED DIRECTORS OF DEVELOPMENT FOR ATHLETICS

Little did Eryn Samuels and Desmond Pierce know when they were both student-athletes at ETSU, they would reunite in Johnson City nearly 10 years later. This time they have traded in their volleyball and running gear for Director of Development positions for the ETSU Athletic Department, a role they both began last April.

After seeing different parts of the country since graduating from ETSU, Samuels and Pierce are excited to be back home.

“ETSU is very easily one of my favorite places,” said Samuels. “I have a very strong heartbeat for this community and this institution. When this job popped up, I was excited because ETSU is home.”

For Pierce, returning to ETSU was also a homecoming for the Morristown native.

“Knowing I can impact the lives of current student-athletes and coaches at a place where I competed really means a lot. I am very thankful ETSU gave me an opportunity to compete in cross country and track, but also provided me with an education and my degree,” Pierce said.

Samuels, who played volleyball from 2011-15, graduated from ETSU with a degree in public relations and a minor in marketing in May 2015. Samuels was a member of the Bucs’ 2012 team that won the ASUN Tournament and secured the program’s firstever bid to the NCAA Tournament. Following graduation, Samuels went to work at Florida State, the University of Texas, and most recently at the University of New Mexico.

“I wasn’t a scholarship athlete. I had a scholarship with Multicultural Affairs in its gospel choir, but I had the privilege to connect with Lindsey Devine (former ETSU volleyball head coach) who saw a lot of potential in me,” said Samuels. “Coach Devine wanted me to be a part of the volleyball team and welcomed me with open arms.”

Following graduation, Samuels moved to Tallahassee, where she worked at Florida State in the Seminole Boosters and Athletic

Ticketing offices. From there, she spent time in Austin, where she worked at the University of Texas Athletics Ticket Office as a marketing and sales representative. Samuels was also an Area Representative with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Texas. Her final stop before coming back to ETSU was at the University of New Mexico, where she was an Assistant Athletic Director for Development and Premium Seating.

Pierce was a member of the Buccaneer cross country and track and field programs from 2010-14. He ran for Hall of Fame Coach Dave Walker and current head coach George Watts. Pierce helped guide the Blue and Gold to the 2011 ASUN Indoor Track and Field Championship and the 2012 ASUN Outdoor Track and Field Championship. He won nine conference medals over his track and field career, including a gold medal in the 2011 800m indoor.

Pierce’s first job after graduating from ETSU was at nearby King University, where he was the assistant cross country and track and field coach for two years and later was named head coach in March of 2018. Following his time at King, Pierce moved to Nashville, working at Trevecca Nazarene University as an Assistant Athletics Director of Compliance and Policy for three years. This past year, Pierce worked at the University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department as an Assistant Director of Development, Major Gifts.

“Being a student-athlete gives value,” said Pierce. “We know what we went through, and we want to make it better for the next group of athletes who come to ETSU. I bring energy every single day for both the community I love, as well as ETSU.”

Samuels agrees.

“I think there is a tremendous story to be told here at ETSU,” Samuels said. “I take pride in this community that gave me a lot of opportunity.”

Kevin Brown is Assistant Athletic Director for Communications in ETSU Athletics.

Eryn Samuels

Desmond Pierce

TWO ARTISTS, 34 YEARS APART

Nestled in downtown Greeneville, a community undergoing considerable change aimed at growth in tourism and business, are a pair of vibrant paintings.

One stands as the start of a mural trail in the town. Anchored by a dark green background, the work includes a coonskin cap—a nod to David Crockett—along with a silhouette of President Andrew Johnson and a lovely pink-and-purple iris.

The other is an impressive rendering of the USS Greeneville, an attack submarine named for the town following a successful public relations campaign in the 1980s and 1990s. With an inscription that reads “volunteers defending frontiers,” the art shows the submarine emerging from the sea, flanked by a dolphin and white waves.

Both murals, painted three years apart and designed to highlight an outdoor space just outside the Greene County Partnership building, have something in common.

The artists are graduates of East Tennessee State University, crossing the stage nearly 34 years to the day after one another.

Joe Kilday, a member of the class of 1978, painted Greeneville’s namesake submarine. Samantha Culbertson,

who graduated in 2012, created the mural that is a nod to local history depicted in a modern style.

“I felt compelled to attend college. My aunt saw a drawing I did when I was young, and she encouraged my mom to get me to take a painting course,” said Kilday, who eventually won an artsrelated scholarship to ETSU.

Kilday joined the Navy in the 1970s, taking a break from his college studies before returning and earning his degree.

Culbertson felt a call toward drawing as a child, doodling on scraps of paper.

She found her way to ETSU, receiving a degree in Fine Arts.

I learned a lot in my time at ETSU. I’m grateful for the opportunities I had there.

Joe Kilday

ARTIST JOE KILDAY

ARTIST SAMANTHA CULBERTSON

“I had a wonderful time there, learning as much as I could about traditional art, art history, and how it all comes together,” she said. “I have been fortunate to stay in this area and find a niche for myself.”

Over the years, both artists have crafted works seen by thousands.

Culbertson served as Art Director and a graphic designer for a regional marketing firm, co-founded a women-owned art agency, and continues to produce a wide range of designs, including logos and presentations, as well as website and email design.

Kilday is well-known to scores of Greeneville residents. He is a veteran and retired quality control specialist whose artwork appears at the corner of Summer and Main streets, at the Greeneville-Greene County History Museum, and even in the State House in Nashville.

“I learned a lot in my time at ETSU,” he said. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I had there.”

Street art is transforming downtowns both in the Appalachian Highlands and across the United States. Signaling civic

pride and a culture that supports the arts, it is beautifying neighborhoods and aiding in tourism marketing.

“This kind of embrace of the arts is helping young artists like me,” said Culbertson. “I am thrilled about that, and so thankful for the training I received at ETSU early in my career.”

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

I have been fortunate to stay in this area and find a niche for myself.

Samantha Culbertson

DATELINE: ETSU

 JANUARY 23

Dr. Richard “Doc” Sander is named the university’s permanent Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. Sander had been serving as Interim Athletic Director since August of 2022.

 JANUARY 25

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett, right, visits ETSU to congratulate the university for its efforts toward voter registration. Hargett, pictured with Dr. Joe Sherlin, presented ETSU with an award for work completed during National Voter Registration Month in September 2022.

 FEBRUARY 8

Quillen College of Medicine announces a new accelerated M.D. program. Tri-TRAILS, a three-year directed pathway, also provides participating students an opportunity to match into one of five residency programs.

 FEBRUARY 15

ETSU’s online Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program is ranked fourth in the nation by NursePractitionerOnline.com.

A pair of global companies, Forbes and Statista, include ETSU in the “Best Midsize Employers” category for 2023.

 FEBRUARY 23

Dr. Andrew Dunn, Chair of the Department of Media and Communication, is named an ACE Fellow by the American Council on Education.

 FEBRUARY 22

The Southern Conference announces that ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland will represent the conference on the NCAA Division I Board of Directors, with his four-year term beginning after the board’s August 2, 2023, meeting.

ETSU announces the appointment of Christina Graham as its new Chief Financial Officer and Vice President for Business and Finance, replacing Dr. B.J. King, who retired after 25 years of service at ETSU.



FEBRUARY 23

ETSU formally recognizes an art installation, part of the global Peace Crane Project, on the walls of the D.P. Culp Student Center.



FEBRUARY 24

Cesar Gracia, Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety, is nominated as a finalist for Campus Safety Magazine’s Campus Safety Director of the Year.

Assistant Professor Dr. Kara Boynewicz, left, earns the American Physical Therapy Association’s Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy Dissertation Award for her research on motor development and neurobehavior in infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome.

 FEBRUARY 27

Ascension, a contemporary a cappella ensemble that is part of ETSU’s Department of Music, wins second place in the quarterfinals of the International Championship of Collegiate a Cappella.

 MARCH 7

For the 13th consecutive year, ETSU secures the Military Friendly® designation and moves up on the list, shifting from bronze to silver, the second-highest designation available.

 MARCH 10

The Appalachian Regional Commission releases a new Appalachian Diseases of Despair report, co-authored by Michael Meit from the ETSU Center for Rural Health Research.

 MARCH 13

William Miller, a fourth-year medical student at Quillen College of Medicine, is a recipient of the National Outstanding Student Award from the American College of Emergency Medicine Physicians.

 MARCH 15

ETSU’s cybersecurity team places third in the regional round of the 2023 Southeast Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

 MARCH 17

For the second year in a row, Quillen College of Medicine’s graduating class achieves a 100% match rate.

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MARCH 21

The ETSU College of Nursing hosts the inaugural Pattie Lathan Browder Lecture, featuring Dr. Patricia V. Burkhart, who delivered a lecture titled “Nurses Live Their Stories as Caring, Competent Professionals.”

 MARCH 24

ETSU launches the inaugural Appalachian Highlands Economic Forum, with keynote speaker Mark Vitner, Chief Economist at Piedmont Crescent Capital and former Senior Economist at Wells Fargo Bank.

 MARCH 28

ETSU receives the “Voter Friendly Campus” designation for the fourth consecutive term. The designation is given by Fair Election Center’s Campus Vote Project and NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.

 MARCH 30

ETSU Department of Theatre and Dance opens Little Shop of Horrors to sold-out audiences at the Bert C. Bach Theatre at the Martin Center for the Arts.

ETSU announces that Dr. John Nelson is named Director of the Appalachian Highlands Center for Nursing Advancement.

 MARCH 31

The East Tennessean, ETSU’s student-run newspaper, celebrates its 100th anniversary.

 APRIL 20

Medea, an ancient Greek play, is brought to life by the ETSU Department of Theatre and Dance.

 APRIL 22

Jason Derulo, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, and Andi perform at the Student Government Association’s spring concert held in the Ballad Health Athletic Center.

 MAY 4

Taylor Coston, pharmacy and public health student, earns the prestigious U.S. Public Health Service Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award.

 MAY 8

Ballad Health and Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy host the inaugural conference for the Center for Pharmacy Education, Advocacy, and Outreach at Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, Tennessee.

 MAY 23

The ETSU Foundation welcomes 74 new donors –the largest in the Foundation’s history – into the ETSU Distinguished President’s Trust (DPT) Carillon Society during a celebration luncheon.

 JULY 1

Dr. Debbie Byrd begins serving as Interim Dean of the College of Nursing, following the exit of Dr. Leann Horsley. Dr. Byrd will simultaneously maintain her current role as Dean of ETSU Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy.

Medea

Jason Derulo LAUREN LACAR @LAURENLACARMEDIA

A NAME SAYS A LOT ETSU EDUCATION COLLEGE GETS A NEW NAME

Not long after the end of World War II, author David Sinclair Burleson noted that what was then East Tennessee State College (ETSC) had always aimed to assist the region while at the same time evolving with changing times.

“While from its beginning in 1911 the school has sought to adapt itself to conditions in the area and thereby render its best service,” wrote the longtime ETSC professor and dean, “yet the administration has kept in mind that changing conditions make new demands and call for growth and development internally as well as externally.”

Such a conviction guided East Tennessee State University officials in opting to change the name of the education college. The name moved from the Claudius G. Clemmer College of Education to Clemmer College in 2018. Now, it will be called the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development.

“The name Clemmer College simply did not fully reflect the variety of programs, research strands, interests, or specializations within the college,” said Dr. Janna Scarborough, Dean of the college. “After reviewing peer institutions, examining popular names put forward by faculty and staff in a survey, and working with university leadership, we arrived at where we are.”

A bevy of professional careers are open to those who study at Clemmer. While the college is perhaps best known for training hundreds of educators in the region and beyond, dozens more career paths exist.

A sample includes mental health technicians, early interventionists and child care professionals, park rangers, personal trainers, managers for sport programs, and child

life specialists. Additionally, programs prepare students for graduate and professional programs, including counseling, physical therapy, occupational therapy, sport science, educational leadership, and more.

The college offers 10 undergraduate majors and concentrations, 16 minors, and 23 graduate degree programs.

The name change, approved by the Board of Trustees, took effect in summer 2023.

“Education and human development strive to optimize the elements that help people live healthy and fulfilling lives,” Scarborough said. “We believe this new name captures well the incredible professional preparation programs our talented faculty and staff offer.”

University leadership applauded both the name change and the behind-the-scenes work leading up to the announcement.

“I commend Dean Scarborough and university leadership for all the work they did in researching and ultimately arriving at this new name for our education college,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “The Clemmer College of Education and Human Development accurately reflects the profound and important work our faculty and staff do every day.”

Learn more about the college at etsu.edu/coe

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

Dr. David Harker Dr. David Harker

By his

own account,

Dr. David Harker took charge of East Tennessee State University’s Department of Philosophy and Humanities at a time “when it is becoming increasingly apparent that we all need to get better at listening to those with whom we disagree, and then reflecting on our reasons for believing as we do.”

“Philosophy and the humanities,” said Harker, “have a really important role to play in this.”

Named Chair of the department in the summer of 2022, Harker has as one of his primary goals to provide students and members of the community with more opportunities to talk about important issues.

“I think we can also help steer conversations in ways that place greater emphasis on evidence and reason, rather than emotion, prejudice, or a misplaced sense of loyalty,” said Harker, a Professor at ETSU since 2006 who earned a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago. “This all strikes me as very important for today’s world.”

From “Philosophy as Conversation,” a course aimed at discussing the beliefs and values of the students in the class, to “Bioethics,” a class that examines the philosophical issues surrounding medicine and biotechnology, the department offers a range of courses. Students have the option to major in philosophy, religious studies, or justice, ethics, and law. Minors are available in philosophy, religious studies, ethics, and humanities.

Data make clear that philosophy students enjoy high levels of professional success. Philosophy graduates pursue many avenues, including graduate school, teaching, medicine, law, and both public- and private-sector work.

Outside the classroom, Harker’s research on the philosophy and purpose of science has reached a deep level of

relevance, both in the United States and throughout the world.

“Vaccine skepticism and vaccine hesitancy are big problems, and they are also really complicated,” he said.

Harker has considered some of the reasons why such indecision exists.

“There is nothing very intuitive about the idea of injecting something into your arm helping protect you from disease,” he said.

Misinformation – and confusion about how science works, both in terms of information gathering and as a social activity – also plays a critical role.

Harker, whose 2015 book Creating Scientific Controversies: Uncertainty and Bias in Science and Society earned rave reviews, is also interested in how we can all respond better to new information and thereby improve our decision-making, skills lauded in higher education.

Those who earn a college degree, the argument goes, should be well-equipped to make decisions based on reliable evidence and objective reasoning. For

Harker, what’s troubling is when someone dismisses established expertise.

“When it comes to vaccine hesitancy,” he said, “one of the biggest problems now is that people trust their own evaluations of the evidence rather than entire communities who have collectively spent decades studying the relevant methods, evidence, and so on.”

Through it all, philosophy can help.

“Everyone should take at least one course in philosophy. Philosophy develops really valuable skills, but it also opens our eyes to different ways of thinking about even very familiar concepts,” he said. “Philosophy is also really fun. Who would not want to spend time puzzling over the possibility that they could be a brain in a vat, or wondering whether computers will ever think or whether we are morally obligated to donate all our money to charity?”

O.J. Early is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Ron Campbell

A CAMPUS ALIVE WITH IDEAS

The spring 2023 semester at East Tennessee State University was a remarkable one, with a wide range of renowned speakers sharing their insights and experiences with the campus community. These notable figures shared their wisdom and stories with eager students, faculty, and community members alike, helping to make ETSU a hub of intellectual discussion and inspiration. From bestselling authors to popular podcasters, each of these speakers captivated their audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the ETSU community.

JERRY

GREENFIELD

Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, spoke during ETSU’s Civility Week, an intentional period of connection, conversation, and reflection. Greenfield’s talk focused on the importance of creating a values-led business that prioritizes benefiting communities. Attendees also had the chance to enjoy a scoop of some iconic Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, served by Greenfield himself.

DAVID BROOKS

David Brooks, a prominent New York Times columnist and best-selling author, headlined this year’s Festival of Ideas, which celebrated a theme of curiosity, connection, and community. Brooks is known for bringing audiences face to face with the spirit of the times with humor, insight, and quiet passion. During his talk, he challenged the audience to participate in a purposeful exchange of experiences.

SARAH STEWART HOLLAND AND BETH SILVERS, ‘PANTSUIT POLITICS’

ETSU welcomed Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers, co-hosts of the popular podcast “Pantsuit Politics.” In addition to being influential podcasters, Holland and Silvers are both lawyers, in-demand speakers at events across the United States, and authors of two well-received books. Their engaging session explored ways to bridge political divides and foster productive and respectful discussions in a time of intense polarization.

JOHN ASHCROFT

Former United States Attorney General John Ashcroft was the keynote speaker at the end-of-year banquet for ETSU’s Pre-Law Society and Pi Sigma Alpha. Ashcroft hosted a casual breakfast with the students and later delivered a keynote address that resonated with aspiring lawyers and political science students. His words left an impression on the future legal minds at ETSU.

DEBORAH DOUGLAS AND AMBER PAYNE, THE EMANCIPATOR

Deborah Douglas and Amber Payne, co-editors-in-chief of the new online publication of The Emancipator, spoke about their goals to reframe the national conversation around racial injustice. Douglas and Payne discussed the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and telling stories that are often overlooked by mainstream media. Their talk was a powerful reminder of the

importance of diverse perspectives, highlighting the need to challenge conventional narratives and promote understanding and empathy.

DANIEL WALLACE

The 9th annual Jack Higgs Memorial Reading during ETSU’s Spring Literary Festival was delivered by keynote speaker Daniel Wallace, the celebrated author of Big Fish and recipient of the esteemed Harper Lee Award. Wallace’s memorable address featured an exclusive reading from his new memoir, This Isn’t Going to End Well. He also discussed his large catalog of literary work and participated in a question-andanswer session during the festival.

Rachel Howard is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

GREENFIELD

ASHCROFT

BROOKS

SILVERS AND HOLLAND PAYNE AND DOUGLAS

WALLACE

PHOTO BY BRIAR WORLEY

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY LARRY SMITH

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY RON CAMPBELL

PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

ETSU HEALTH BACKS INTERPROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

In April, ETSU Health launched the ETSU Health Professional Leadership Academy to further develop the leadership skills of those working to improve health outcomes in the Appalachian region. Early returns indicate that the program is a rousing success.

“I think we’ve created a monster,” said Dr. Larry Calhoun, one of the leaders of the academy. “It’s created an energy external to the (Quillen) College of Medicine with people asking when we’re going to do this again, and we have a pretty extensive waiting list, and we haven’t even touched the surface of opening it up to other people.”

The Professional Leadership Academy was founded by East Tennessee State University’s Dr. Bill Block, Dean of the Quillen College of Medicine and Vice President for Clinical Affairs. It was led by Calhoun and Dr. Amy Johnson, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs in the Quillen College of Medicine.

to various speakers, and receiving one-on-one leadership coaching. They represented the clinical and academic components of ETSU Health, all five of ETSU’s health sciences colleges, and Ballad Health.

Dr. Blair Reece, one of the academy’s participants, called it a great opportunity and one that changed the way she looks at leadership.

“I now see leadership as a learned skill – and a skill that I should be studying and practicing,” said Reece. “I was able to identify some of my own weaknesses and given tools to try to improve.

Calhoun and Johnson expected to take about three semesters off before the next leadership academy, but the next group won’t have to wait that long.

“I was fairly confident in us having a really good curriculum, but what I was sort of blown away with in a number of different ways was how eager people were to embrace this program,” said Johnson.

The academy’s 30 participants spent six weeks in leadership activities, listening

“The speakers from ETSU and the community were both engaging and inspiring, sharing with us their challenges and lessons learned over long, successful careers,” Reece continued. “It was also a great opportunity to meet and interact with accomplished individuals in the other health sciences. There is an abundance of talent and innovation at ETSU, and it was wonderful to immerse myself in that.”

Reece also said she was grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to more of her colleagues being able to participate – an opportunity that will come much sooner than initially planned.

“We’re going to bring the academy back much quicker,” said Johnson. “We’re still talking with Dr. Block, but with the momentum this has gotten, not just from the participants but people in the community as well, we can’t wait.”

Jonathan Roberts is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photos by Ron Campbell

There is an abundance of talent and innovation at ETSU, and it was wonderful to immerse myself in that.

Dr. Blair Reece

A LIFELONG LOVE OF ETSU

PATSY LEACH HAS DONE IT ALL, FROM BAND MASCOT TO PERSONNEL DIRECTOR

As longtime Director of Personnel at East Tennessee State University, Patsy Leach went by the book. In fact, she wrote the book.

In the late 1970s, when President Arthur H. DeRosier, Jr., named her permanent director, many of the pieces that are now commonplace in a human resources office were either non-existent or in need of modernizing.

Patsy computerized what was then called the Personnel Office. She compiled various documents and authored new ones, creating ETSU’s first comprehensive personnel manual. She began an orientation program for new faculty and staff so that the university’s full benefits package could be explained. She standardized and codified hiring procedures.

But her own beginning as a member of the ETSU staff was quite different. In 1969, the Fairhaven United Methodist Women prepared a picnic for Johnson

City’s Business and Professional Women’s Club. ETSU’s Acting Dean of Women, Ella Ross, was there. She knew Patsy well, because Patsy had literally grown up on the campus.

That day, Dean Ross asked Patsy where she was working. Patsy told her, adding that she was not happy in the job.

“Would you like another job?” Dean Ross asked. She needed some help in the dean’s office since Willene Paxton had taken a leave of absence to complete her doctorate. Patsy answered the question with an enthusiastic “Yes.”

Dean Ross said she would talk to President D.P. Culp and that Patsy would get a letter in a few days. And that’s exactly what happened. No job application was completed. No résumé changed hands. No references were checked. No interview occurred.

But Dean Ross’ wisdom and confidence were well placed. After that first job

as her Administrative Assistant, Patsy would remain a beloved member of the ETSU staff until her retirement in 2005.

When ETSU created an Office of Research, headed then by Dr. Jerry Rust, Patsy joined his staff. As the campaign for a medical school gained momentum, Patsy provided facts, statistics, and reports to support the case.

Her command of numbers and policy issues, her knowledge of the campus, and her rapport with faculty and staff made her the obvious choice when a vacancy occurred in the Personnel Office. Perhaps her strongest qualification, though, was a deep love for ETSU.

That love certainly ran in the family. Patsy credits her uncle Earl Scott and his brother Raymond for keeping East Tennessee State open during the tough years of the Great Depression. They ran J.A. Scott and Sons, a grocery store opened by their father in 1905 and first located where the ETSU Family Medicine

building is now, on West Walnut Street. Patsy and her parents, Wiley and Rita Broyles, lived right next door.

“The Scott brothers would allow faculty and staff to buy groceries on credit until the state of Tennessee could recover enough to issue paychecks regularly,” Patsy said.

“When there was only one classroom building, Gilbreath Hall, groceries would be delivered to the Home Economics Department so that meals could be prepared for the teachers,” recalled Earl’s wife, Rowena.

Patsy was born just as the Depression was starting to ease. Her birth was a heralded event. Not only would she be the only child Wiley and Rita had, she was the very first baby born in Johnson City in 1938, at 11:54 a.m. on January 1.

including second president Dr. Charles C. Sherrod, often played croquet in a lot behind the Broyles family’s home.

Patsy holds the distinction of having known every president East Tennessee State has ever had. Sidney G. Gilbreath, the founding president of what was then the East Tennessee State Normal School, brought his car to Patsy’s father to be serviced.

“The last time I saw President Gilbreath was at the 1957 graduation,” Patsy remembers. “I was a junior and helped carry the daisy chain.”

Graduates from that era recall the daisy chain as a highlight of commencement. One of the duties of Lucylle Campbell, who worked in the Registrar’s Office, was to line up the graduating class. And she added a special touch.

“She would make two chains of flowers to be carried by six junior women dressed in white who escorted the graduates into Brooks Gym,” Patsy said.

This was not Patsy’s first brush with pageantry, however. Years before, the head majorette of the East Tennessee State College band, Billie Hawkins (later Mauk), taught two-year-old Patsy how to twirl a baton, which she would do for civic groups and church organizations in Johnson City, eventually earning the designation as mascot of the band. She says as far as she knows, she is the only person ever to serve in that capacity.

Patsy graduated from ETSC in 1958 with a double major in business and English. A year later, she married Oscar J. “Bud” Leach, Jr., who would complete his degree through the G.I. Bill® the next year. Both their children, Todd and Jayne, have had fulfilling careers at ETSU.

Bud, a manufacturing engineer who had designed packaging molds for Kit Kat Bars and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, died in the fall of 2021. He and Patsy had been married for 62 years.

Inside the front cover of Patsy’s 1954 Junior Buccaneer annual, which she edited while a student at the Training School (now University School), is a full-page, handwritten letter that begins, “Dearest Patsy.”

Its author was Leslie Cole, from Patsy’s senior class. They had attended the senior prom together that year.

In honor of her well-timed entry into the world, her family received a quart of milk every day for a month from Pet Dairy; free laundering of Patsy’s baby clothes for two weeks from White City Laundry; an electric bottle warmer from Tennessee Eastern Electric; a $3 layette from Parks-Belk; a free grease, wash, and oil change for the family car from Tennessee Motors; $5 toward the purchase of baby furniture from Lyle Furniture; a loaf of bread each day for a month from Honey Krust Bakery; and a case of Dr Pepper.

Of her storybook upbringing, she said, “I was an only child but everybody’s child.” East Tennessee State faculty and staff,

A few years later, Patsy took her place on a church piano bench and played every Sunday until 2017, when she retired as Director of Music at Fairhaven United Methodist, the same church where she had received that impromptu job offer. Now in her 80s, she continues her work as a Lay Servant for the Holston Conference, filling in for ministers who are ill or on vacation and writing her own sermons.

She says one of her best decisions was to join the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority at ETSC. “It was and is very strong on scholarship and leadership. I learned how to make life a better life and to make the lives of other people better.”

Les, who participated in ETSC’s ROTC program while earning a degree in chemistry, would go on to marry Judy Shell, a nurse. They were married for 64 years, until her death in 2022.

After a steak dinner in Roan Mountain in the summer of 2022, Patsy Leach and Leslie Cole rekindled their high school romance. They were married on November 12, 2022, at The Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City. Patsy sang at her own wedding.

“I became an instant great-grandmother,” she proclaims, with the happiest look in her eye imaginable.

Fred Sauceman is Senior Writer at ETSU and Executive Editor of ETSU Today. | Photos courtesy Patsy Leach and the Archives of Appalachia.

Patsy as band mascot, age 2 ½.

Patsy (far right) has known every ETSU president. As fellow student Nancy Carson looks on, Patsy receives the Faculty Award from President Burgin E. Dossett.

A COMMITMENT TO INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS ETSU STUDENTS WINNING PRESTIGIOUS SCHOLARSHIPS

She spent part of her summer in Tanzania thanks to a prestigious scholarship.

Jessica Potter, a child psychology major and Honors scholar, studied Swahili in the East African country from mid-June through early August.

“We are so proud of Jessica and what she has accomplished,” said Dr. Christopher Keller, Senior International Officer at ETSU and Dean of the Honors College. “Jessica has worked hard and is very deserving of this. The award is a perfect fit to help her realize her personal and professional goals in the nonprofit and NGO (non-governmental organization) sector.”

Potter captured a Critical Language Scholarship, a deeply competitive award offered to U.S. college students annually through the U.S. Department of State. The award provides students an in-country language immersion experience in which they gain proficiency in one of the many critical languages offered by the program: Arabic, Azerbaijani, Bangla, Chinese, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Swahili, Turkish, and Urdu.

Potter stands as the first ETSU student to receive the award.

Potter spent 10 weeks in Arusha, Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in the northeast area of the country. Her interest in Swahili is tied to a previous internship and a future fellowship at Friends of Refugees, a nonprofit organization in Atlanta that assists female migrants and refugees from East Africa.

“I am incredibly thankful and excited for the opportunity to travel to Tanzania and learn Swahili this summer,” said Potter. “I would not be here without the support of wonderful mentors and friends, and I hope my experiences honor the people I care for and will serve in the future.”

The award signals the university’s growing commitment to assist students in winning nationally competitive scholarships.

“ETSU’s Office of Prestigious Awards is committed to helping our students apply for and be awarded some of the most impressive nationally competitive scholarships available,” said Dr. Carson Medley, Interim Director of Prestigious Awards at ETSU. “Our work in this area over the last couple of years is bearing fruit, and Jessica is proof that we have outstanding students who can compete for these awards. This is only the beginning.”

Indeed, university faculty and staff have already been guiding students toward renowned scholarships.

Piper Floyd, a 2023 ETSU graduate, landed a software developer internship with Wells Fargo and received the Benjamin A. Gilman

International Scholarship that provided funding for her yearlong education abroad program in Spain.

She also won a coveted 2022-23 Goldwater Scholarship, a widely respected award handed out to about 400 STEM-focused undergraduates nationally each year.

She was the first ETSU student to receive this honor. For Keller, these are exciting developments that signal great opportunities.

“ETSU is increasingly becoming a destination school, and we have students who are going out and winning competitive national and international scholarships,” he said. “Our faculty and staff are working hard to assist students in these endeavors, and we are optimistic for what the future holds.”

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

Jessica Potter speaks to the ETSU Board of Trustees about her competitive, international scholarship opportunities.

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Lamb Hall renovations are the latest in efforts to modernize campus and enrich the student experience.

It has been a long time coming, but the renovations to Lamb Hall – a $26 million project East Tennessee State University embarked on in 2017 –have largely been completed.

Both the College of Clinical and Rehabilitative Health Sciences and the College of Public Health moved back into the building last spring, and students, faculty, and staff will take full advantage of the modernized space in the fall.

“With the college in a period of tremendous growth, Lamb Hall’s renovation is a testament to the progress we’ve made since it was originally constructed in 1960,” said Dr. Lynn Williams, Interim Dean for the College of Clinical and Rehabilitative Health Sciences. “The transformation of our educational and research spaces creates a vibrant learning environment focused on students, enhancing the faculty’s ability to educate future generations and contribute to our mission of transforming lives.”

Dr. Randy Wykoff, Dean of the College of Public Health, called Lamb Hall “a magnificent combination of the building that launched thousands of highly successful careers and a new, stateof-the-art learning platform that will provide a world-class learning environment for thousands more.”

“ETSU has a long history of preparing health professionals to meet the needs of the region, the state, the nation, and the world,” Wykoff said. “From its initial construction to the present times, Lamb Hall has been a key player in that mission, housing at one time or another almost all of the health science programs. Now, as a fully renovated facility, the building provides a remarkable 21st century platform to continue that mission

for new generations of health science students.”

ETSU Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Ross said the first request for state funding to renovate the building was made in 1994. Nearly 30 years later, that dream is a reality.

“Considering the time span of almost three decades for this project to achieve planning, funding requests, state approvals, design, and construction, it is no surprise to anyone to learn that many people have been involved,” said Ross. “I have been privileged to work with Laura Bailey and many talented individuals in Capital Planning at ETSU, design and construction professionals, Deans Randy Wykoff and Lynn Williams, and President Noland to complete this project.

“However, many of our predecessors such as President Emeritus Paul Stanton, former Senior Vice President for Academics Wilsie Bishop, former Provost Bert Bach, former CCRHS Dean Don Samples, and Project Liaison and former Dean of Pharmacy Larry Calhoun initiated the process,” he continued. “The effort is multigenerational in many ways and gratifying for all of us to see the project at the finish line.”

Ross noted that the renovations are part of a larger overhaul of the experience that health sciences students will enjoy for years. “The entire experience for Clinical and Rehabilitative Health Sciences and Public Health students, it’s transformed in the last four years – and not just this building,” said Ross. “The outdoors, the residence halls, the academic spaces and the labs, and even the restaurant spaces and retail. That’s exciting to me.”

Jonathan Roberts is a Marketing and Communications Specialist in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

PHOTO BY LARRY SMITH

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

Becoming Bucky

ETSU HOSTS ITS FIRST-EVER MASCOT COMPETITION

Last spring, ETSU pulled out all the stops to select a student to represent the university as Bucky, the university’s beloved mascot.

“Becoming Bucky: An ETSU Reality Show” introduced the ETSU community to five students who auditioned and battled it out to be Bucky and earn up to $12,000 per year toward tuition and a $2,000 annual stipend – plus the distinction of becoming a campus icon. It was ETSU’s first-ever mascot competition.

After a round of live auditions, the five finalists (Anxiety, Braids, Death Drop, Memphis, and Spidey) were introduced to campus at a Silent Disco hosted by Party Bucs, a student organization. Since mascots’ identities cannot be revealed, the competitors wore masks and used their chosen stage names throughout the competition.

The competition heated up with a launch party for the campus community on March 22. There, the five finalists performed in front of a live audience in a charades competition, with special guest “guesser” ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland.

The winner, who will become Bucky this fall, was introduced at the SGA spring concert on April 22.

All the competitions and special events were filmed and edited by the Office of University Marketing and Communications and were hosted by Jillian Carter and Hunter Jones, leaders in BucWild, one of the largest student organizations on campus.

The five episodes had more than 50,000 views across ETSU’s social media channels. The reality competition was also the winner of a gold award in the “Special Event, More than 7 Days” category at the 2023 Tennessee College Public Relations Association’s Communications Awards.

Photos by Larry Smith

WATCH BECOMING BUCKY

Hunter Jones and Jillian Carter are pictured with the Becoming Bucky contestants (left to right) Braids, Death Drop, Memphis, Anxiety, and Spidey.

BONE-CRUSHING EXCITEMENT

ETSU’S GRAY FOSSIL SITE HAS BANNER YEAR

Overseen by the Don Sundquist Center of Excellence in Paleontology at East Tennessee State University, the Gray Fossil Site and Museum has been a center of research and teaching for over 20 years, with scientists identifying dozens of extinct animal and plant species. And the last year has been an incredible one, with researchers discovering species ranging from large predators to tiny critters previously unknown to science.

Making headlines throughout the United States was the unearthing of an animal named Borophagus, a member of an extinct group commonly called “bone-crushing dogs,” named for their powerful teeth and jaws. This is the first evidence of any animals in the dog family from the site.

Emily Bōgner, a doctoral student at the University of California, Berkeley, and alumna of ETSU’s paleontology master’s program, and Dr. Joshua Samuels, Associate Professor in the ETSU Department of Geosciences and curator at the Gray Fossil Site and Museum, conducted the research, published in the Journal of Paleontology

“The identification of a bone-crushing dog adds to the list of terrestrial apex predators at the Gray Fossil Site, the other being a sabertooth cat,” said Bōgner. “With two large predators on land and alligators in the water, herbivores at the site would have had to be on high alert.”

Comparing this single limb bone with those of a wide range of modern and fossil dogs allowed the researchers to predict the size of this extinct dog. Estimated to have weighed between 115 and 160 pounds, the Borophagus was similar in size to the largest living wolves.

The ancient forest of Gray also represents a new habitat for these bonecrushing dogs, which more commonly inhabited grasslands.

But it is far from the site’s only big news.

Researchers also identified an extinct species of painted turtle, one that is entirely new to science and unique to Northeast Tennessee. Scientists named it Chrysemys corniculata, or the “horned painted turtle.” The name refers to a conspicuous pair of pointy projections on the front edge of the shell.

This research was published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society by Dr. Steven Jasinski, Professor at the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and alumnus of ETSU’s paleontology master’s program.

Add to the list, too, fossil moles.

A new study published in Palaeontologia Electronica is the first to analyze the fossil moles of the Gray site. By comparing fossil bones and teeth with other living and extinct mole species, the researchers noted four different types of extinct moles, including two species that are entirely new to science: one that dug in the dirt and one that swam in the ancient pond.

Samuels and Danielle Oberg, a doctoral student at the University of Arkansas and alumnus of ETSU’s paleontology graduate program, conducted the research.

“The Gray Fossil Site and Museum is a truly dynamic hub for science and education,” said David Moscato, Science Communication Specialist. “Our researchers, staff, and volunteers work so hard to preserve this incredible place, and I invite the public to come out and see for themselves all the exciting work happening here.”

Learn more about the site at etmnh.org

Emily Bōgner (left) and fellow student Julia Schap (right) during their time as graduate students in ETSU’s Paleontology Program.

Artist’s illustration of the ancient bonecrushing dog which was likely very similar to the Gray Fossil Site dog. Artwork by Mauricio Antón.

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

PHOTO BY DR. JOSH SAMUELS

LEADING EMBEDDED IN THEIR DNA ETSU’S ROTC CELEBRATES 70 YEARS

In the spring of 2023, 11 cadets at East Tennessee State University received their commission as second lieutenants. Hailing from across the Southeast, these recent ETSU graduates joined a proud tradition – one that has been happening on campus for 70 years.

This year marks seven decades since what was then East Tennessee State College held its first commissioning ceremony in 1953.

“As we consider the past 70 years, ETSU’s Army ROTC program has not just been a source of outstanding officers for the United States military,” said Lt. Col. Kent Monas, a Professor of military science at ETSU. “The program has also been a successful academic department, housed within the College of Business and Technology, and an excellent contributor to ETSU and the region.”

The story of the university’s ROTC program is one of achievement and, especially early on, considerable perseverance.

The United States established the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps through the National Defense Act in 1916. The goal was straightforward: train men on college campuses for commissioning into the military. But for East Tennessee State College, and many other programs

throughout the country, the task was not easy.

In 1950, then-college president Burgin Dossett received an invitation to an ROTC conference at Georgia Tech. The start of the Korean War nixed the conference, but Dossett pushed hard to see a program established in Johnson City.

The path wasn’t easy, and East Tennessee State College faced rejection early on. Finally, an application was accepted, and the U.S. Army assigned a unit to the school on May 12, 1952. The program became mandatory for all physically qualified male freshmen, and, a year later, the college held its first commissioning ceremony.

Over the decades, ETSU has produced scores of soldiers. A total of 11 graduates became generals in the Army, and nine

gave their lives in active duty, eight in Vietnam and one in Desert Storm.

Since 1953, the ROTC unit has commissioned more than 1,500 second lieutenants.

“Today’s battalion cadets continue to train and prepare for challenging careers in the service of our nation, while the skills they develop in ROTC allow our alumni to be successful as Army officers and civilian leaders,” said Monas. “Building on a strong tradition of excellence and continued growth in cadet numbers, the future looks bright for ETSU Army ROTC.”

The latest round of cadets receive their commissioning at ETSU. Front row, left to right: Carson Frizzell, Connor Ruzek, Corbin Bumgarner, Aurelia Ballantine, and. Connor Norton. Back row: David Palmer, Parker Palmer, Kerry Wood, Colin Russell, Jonathon Samples, and William Heck.

O.J. Early is Communications Manager in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden

UNDERGRADUATE JOURNEY 2.0

For incoming ETSU students, the first-year experience is defined by catch-up conversations over dinner in the Dining Hall, athletic games, late-night pizza in the residence halls, workouts at the Center for Physical Activity, a leisurely sunny afternoon in University Commons, and other fun.

Of course, those are the non-classroom activities.

The typical freshman class schedule usually includes composition class in Burleson Hall, prob/stats in Gilbreath Hall, and biology or chemistry across the way in Brown Hall.

But soon that experience is going to be profoundly altered as the dirt is turned for two major building projects.

On tap to begin this fall is the construction of the new Academic Building that will rise in the heart of campus adjacent to the Quad and Sam Wilson Hall. The Campus Center Building will be demolished to make space for the new construction. This work will be done in view of Brown Hall, where a renovation on the north side of the building commences in 2024.

Dr. Joe Bidwell, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, describes both as game-changers for ETSU undergraduate students.

“Their ETSU story begins in these buildings, and very soon, that story will be transformed,” Bidwell said.

The 62,000-square-foot Academic Building will provide stateof-the-art instructional space, flexible classrooms, learning laboratories, student gathering area and collaboration atriums, and study spaces for undergraduate and graduate students in Literature and Language, Mathematics and Statistics, and

Communication and Performance. The project will also allow for renovations to Burleson and Gilbreath halls.

“Not only will this boost the classroom experience of our students, but they will love the open collaboration spaces where deeper connections with classmates can be formed,” Bidwell said.

The work in Brown Hall will be done in two phases, with the first beginning this fall as $47.7 million in extensive enhancements are made to the teaching labs, classrooms, offices, research areas, and collaborative spaces for Biological Sciences and Chemistry. ETSU is seeking approximately $45.9 million in funding for the second phase to provide needed renovations for Physics and Astronomy on the south side.

“ETSU is a hugely popular destination for students pursuing a career in the sciences or the health sciences fields, and these aspiring researchers and clinicians clock many long hours in Brown Hall,” Bidwell said. “We want them to have a learning environment that is second to none.”

While the state has provided funding for both projects, a private fundraising requirement – $3.9 million for the Academic Building and $1.9 million for phase one of Brown Hall –must be met. To learn more about making a gift toward the fundraising requirement for these buildings, contact Denise Asbury at asburyp@etsu.edu or (423) 439-5676 or Mona Salyer at salyerrd@etsu.edu or (423) 439-5775.

Appendix B2 RENDERINGS

Joe Smith is Executive Director of Advancement Communications for University Advancement. | Images are provided by Clark Nexsen

Renderings of Brown Hall renovations

A rendering of the new Academic Building

WHO’S GOING TO ETSU?

LYDIA HAMBY

Performing on stage with bluegrass superstar Rhonda Vincent and The Rage in concert at ETSU’s Martin Center for the Arts stands out in Hamby’s mind as not only one of her biggest highlights, but also a turning point.

“Rhonda Vincent has been a mentor to me and somebody I’ve looked up to in bluegrass ever since I started,” she said. “Getting to play with her was a dream come true and something I never thought would happen. I remember I was in line at Cookout right after that concert and thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh; this is real. I never want to stop this.’

“It’s so fulfilling, getting to meet people and bond over the love of music,” she continued. “When you meet other people at these shows, you’re there for the same reason – you’re sharing this art that’s so close to your heart. I knew that if I was to ever quit doing that, it would be such a loss for me. So, I thought, ‘Well, I just won’t quit. I’ll just do this forever because it’s amazing.’”

As Hamby’s graduation date drew near, the thought of leaving ETSU bothered her.

Most graduating students look forward to jumping straight into their chosen careers, but Lydia Hamby loved her undergraduate time at East Tennessee State University so much that she didn’t want to leave just yet. So, she’s staying.

Hamby, who graduated in May 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in human services and a minor in bluegrass music, came to ETSU as a junior right out of high school after earning an associate degree through dual enrollment from McDowell Technical Community College (MTCC) in Marion, North Carolina. She loved the psychology and sociology classes she took through MTCC, and talked with a professor about career possibilities in child life specialties or music therapy.

As she looked at colleges, Hamby was drawn to ETSU for its human services major and the hands-on experience it offered through internships and service projects that prepare students for such careers as drug and alcohol counselors, family support specialists, case managers, social services specialists, child abuse workers, and more.

And because she came from a musical family, learning classical piano starting at age 3 and later picking up mandolin in church, ETSU’s Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies minor was the proverbial “icing on the cake” – one last time to take music lessons before settling into a career and family life.

Hamby learned and grew through her human services classes and internships but found her career goals shifting as bluegrass became more than a bonus.

“Bluegrass is really what’s been like family for me,” she said. “It’s what’s made ETSU home. I’ve learned so much. It changed my life. I want to do it for a career now.”

Hamby felt the love of performing take root through playing mandolin with the premier ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band. She and the Pride Band have sung the national anthem and Dolly Parton’s “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” at ETSU’s commencement ceremonies, toured in the Bahamas, and participated in the 40th anniversary celebration of bluegrass at ETSU.

“I wasn’t ready to graduate,” she said. “ETSU has been everything to me. These past two years, I made friendships that I never thought were going to be so deep in such a short amount of time. The Bluegrass Program changed my life. The Human Services Program just made me such a way better person than I was when I got here. And so I’m not going to leave. I’m looking forward to the next two years in the master’s program here in Appalachian Studies and seeing where it takes me from there.”

Jennifer Hill is Senior Writer in the Office of University Marketing and Communications. | Photo by Charlie Warden SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE.

PHOTO BY CHARLIE WARDEN

THE MAGIC OF 24 HOURS

Another ETSU Day of Giving is in the books.

The history books, that is.

During the 24-hour online fundraiser held on April 18, ETSU raised $358,000 for various programs and initiatives across campus – an increase of 12% from the previous year.

“On Day of Giving, our donors have the opportunity to give to whatever area they wish,” said Tyler Gaby, Assistant Director of Annual Giving. “Many gave to one of our scholarship programs or to the program where they graduated, while others supported initiatives such as Esports, Bucky’s Food Pantry, the Buccaneer Student Crisis Fund, or the Marching Bucs, who have been invited to

appear in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.”

And while the amount raised was a major feat, another triumph, Gaby says, was the level of participation. The 2023 event welcomed 1,060 gifts.

“During Day of Giving, we hear from students who have received scholarship support while at ETSU who want to give back,” Gaby said. “From the Class of 2023 alone, we received nearly 100 donations from our graduating seniors.”

As always, the Day of Giving created great synergy across campus. The ETSU Esports team casted with guests on Twitch throughout the day talking about the impact of donor support. Colleges

pushed out their own campaigns and various challenges were issued. Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Joe Bidwell agreed to take a pie in the face from the department with the highest participations, a victory bestowed to the Department of Theatre and Dance.

Mark your calendars: the 2024 Day of Giving will be held again on April 18. Do you want to be part of the 2023 Day of Giving magic? It isn’t too late. Visit etsu.edu/give and designate your gift wherever you choose.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION WELCOMES NEW

OFFICERS, DIRECTORS

A new slate of officers and directors will lead the ETSU National Alumni Association during the upcoming year.

Tom Tull ’95 has been elected as President. Tull is a longtime member of the Ballad Health team where he currently serves as Vice President and Chief Experience Officer. Dr. Virginia Bieber ’90, ’93, ’03 is the new PresidentElect. The Honorable Ken Bailey from the Class of 1992 will be Secretary/ Treasurer, and Bryan Daniels ’95, ’97

will continue his service to the board as incoming Past-President.

The newest alumni to serve four-year terms on the board as directors include Becky Buller ’01, Melanie Stanton ’91, ’95, ’22, Brian McCormack ’05, and Robyn Ivester ’91.

Returning directors include Dr. Kyle Colvett, Tammy Morreale, Pauline Douglas, Jan Brown, Michael Fishman, Andrew Hall, Tammy Hawes, Dr. Gaurav

Bharti, Dr. Dorsha James, and Paul Bashea Williams.

Representing the SGA on the National Alumni Association board are Trent White, incoming SGA President, and Executive Vice President Brooke Patterson.

For more information, about the ETSU Alumni Association, contact the Office of University Alumni at (423) 439-4218 or alumni@etsu.edu.

The 2023 Day of Giving Committee

Joe Smith is Executive Director of Advancement Communications for University Advancement. |

Photo by Ron Campbell

A WORD FROM:

VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT AND PRESIDENT OF THE ETSU FOUNDATION PAMELA S. RITTER

Dear Alumni and Friends,

In just a few weeks, the Fall 2023 semester at East Tennessee State University will commence, and like everyone else, I simply cannot wait.

While thousands of students are returning for another academic year, this fall will also mark the arrival of hundreds of new Buccaneers who are starting the first chapter of their ETSU story. Every page of that story and every step of that journey will be touched by you – our donors and friends –in some way.

Hundreds of those students will be here because they received a scholarship named for an individual or a business. As they walk across campus, they will see names like Ballad Health, William B. Greene, Jr., Jim and Mary B. Martin, and James and Nellie Brinkley that are affixed on buildings in celebration of their legacy of support to ETSU. The D.P. Culp Student Center – a facility whose recent $45 million renovation was funded entirely by students – will become their second home. They will see work being done on our new Academic Building and Brown Hall that is being supported by donors. In classrooms across campus they will be led and mentored by faculty whose research and scholarly initiatives have received private funding. They will enroll in programs like Pharmacy or Brewing and Distillation Studies that exist because of our donors.

Every page, every step, every day…made possible by people like you.

I assure you that your generosity does not go unnoticed by our students. From day one, they recognize that they are here on this campus in pursuit of the greatest dream ever, all because someone – usually someone they have never met – believed in them and believed in this campus. That alone becomes the textbook for one of the most valuable lessons they learn in college: the importance of investing resources and time in others. Our students are active servants on campus and in our community, and they continue this spirit of stewardship wherever they go. As ambassadors, they embody ETSU’s mission of improving the quality of life of others. And they follow in your footsteps by becoming donors themselves to this institution. During our 2023 Day of Giving, over 120 students gave to this campaign, with many as first-time donors to ETSU.

Thanks to you, a promising and life-changing journey is ahead for our students and faculty during the 2023-24 year. We greatly appreciate all you do to pave the way and shape that journey.

Sincerely,

Pamela S. Ritter Vice President for University Advancement President/CEO of the ETSU Foundation

PHOTO BY LARRY SMITH

1950s

LTC (Retired) Samuel Kincheloe, Class of 1959, was inducted into ETSU’s Army ROTC Hall of Fame Class of 2022. Lieutenant Colonel Kincheloe received a reserve commission as a Second Lieutenant and entered active military service in October 1959. His degree is in Business Administration.

1960s

Col. (Retired) John Carpenter, Class of 1967, was inducted into ETSU’s Army ROTC Hall of Fame Class of 2022. Colonel Carpenter was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. His degree is in English.

Bill J. Carlyle, Class of 1968, has retired as Head Coach of the Walters State Community College men’s basketball team. He led the team for 46 seasons. Carlyle was named Coach of the Year 19 times by either the TCCAA or NJCAA. The Senators averaged 20 wins a season under Carlyle, and over 200 of his players signed with four-year colleges. Carlyle is in the Cumberland College Athletic Hall of Fame, as well as the Tennessee Community College Hall of Fame. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Physical Education.

1970s

Dr. Connie Davis Hauser, Class of 1971, had the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of the Cumberlands named after her. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of PT Pros. She was one of the first physical therapists to set up her own practice in the state of Kentucky. Her degree is in Physical Education.

Deborah Andrews Krueger, Classes of 1971 and 1997, was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina Dental Hygienists Association. Krueger was the first graduate of ETSU’s Dental Hygiene program and is employed by the University of North Carolina Medical School/CG Sheps Center, as a research hygienist investigating oral inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease for the National Institutes of Health, and is a teacher for dental professional courses. Her degrees are in Dental Hygiene and General Studies.

William R. Derby, Class of 1972, was one of 23 U.S. veterans selected by the Korean Veterans Association who served in Korea to revisit South Korea. He is the Publisher of the News & Neighbor and The Business Journal of TriCities TN/VA. His degree is in Journalism.

Lou E. Knight, Class of 1973, wrote her first novel, The Fallout of Deception, A Different Kind of Kidnapping. She retired from Eastman Chemical Company as a Senior Communication Specialist. Her degree is in Industrial Technology.

Lendward “Lenny” Simpson, Jr., Class of 1973, was presented the 2022 Award of Honor from ETSU’s National Alumni Association. He currently serves as President of Simpson and Associates Sports Marketing LLC, the One Love tennis organization. Formerly, Simpson was a professional tennis player. His degree is in Physical Education.

Dr. Joy Davis Kimbrell, Classes of 1976 and 1980, was named the first “Professor Emerita of Nursing” from Cumberland University’s School of Nursing. Dr. Kimbrell has served the Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing & Health Professions since 2005 in many different roles including as faculty member, Program Director, and Interim Dean. Her degrees are in Nursing.

Randel S. Hodge, Class of 1978, has retired as a Graphic Designer for Ballad Health. Hodge also served as a referee for TSSAA football games. His degree is in Art.

Dr. A. Stephen May, Class of 1978, was presented an award for his extraordinary service to the citizens of Sullivan County throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by Tennessee Health Commissioner Dr. Morgan McDonald. His degree is in Pre-Medicine.

1980s

J. Betsy Bowers, Classes of 1980 and 1992, was named the 2022 Distinguished Alumna in Higher Education by ETSU’s National Alumni Association. She currently serves as Vice President for Finance & Administration for the University of West Florida. Her degrees are in Accounting and Business Administration.

M. Steven DeCarlo, Class of 1980, was named the 2022 Outstanding Alumnus by ETSU’s National Alumni Association. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer for AmWINS Group, Inc., and is Vice Chairman of the ETSU Board of Trustees. His degree is in Accounting.

Dr. Harold D. Dillon, III, Classes of 1980, 1993, and 2011, has been named Chief of Staff at the Quillen VA Medical Center. He is an Air Force Veteran having completed residency training in Ophthalmology with the Air Force in San Antonio, Texas, along with multiple Air Force assignments including service as a Pilot Physician. His degrees are in Psychology, Medicine, and Business Administration.

Justice Jeffrey S. Bivins, Class of 1982, was named the 2022 Distinguished Alumnus in Public Service by ETSU’s National Alumni Association. He currently serves as Chief Justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court. His degree is in Political Science.

Alesia Carr Dinsmore, Class of 1982, has been named Principal of the Year by the Sullivan County Department of Education. Dinsmore is Principal at Rock Springs Elementary in Kingsport. Her degree is in Education.

Stephanie McClellan-Houk, Class of 1982, was awarded the ET Icon Award from the East Tennessean student newspaper. This is an inaugural award given for a person’s impact on local journalism. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

James L. Cagle, Jr., Class of 1983, was named to the 2023 Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list. He serves as Senior Vice President/Senior Resident Director/Wealth Management Advisor for Merrill Lynch. His degree is in Political Science.

Daniel J. Graves, III, Classes of 1983 and 1990, is a member of the EaglePicher

National Alumni Association Awards Banquet

Friday, November 17, 2023

Technologies Supply Chain Team which provided top quality mission critical components for NASA’s MARS 2020 Perseverance Rover. His degrees are in Engineering Technology.

Linda J. Preston, Classes of 1983 and 1985, is a Professor of Physical Education at York University Faculty of Health in Canada. Her degrees are in Physical Education.

Dr. Abraham Verghese, Class of 1983, has recently published a new novel, The Covenant of Water, an Oprah Winfrey book club selection. He completed an Internal Medicine residency at Quillen College of Medicine.

Col. (Retired) Edward E. Agee, Jr., Class of 1984, was inducted into ETSU’s Army ROTC Hall of Fame Class of 2022. Colonel Agee was commissioned an Infantry officer in 1984. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Christine Anderson, Class of 1984, had her weaving showcased at Falmouth Community Media Center in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Anderson is currently an artist based in Massachusetts. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree.

Janet K. Jennings, Class of 1984, is working as Chief Financial Officer for the City of Bristol, Virginia. Her degree is in Accounting.

William L. Sorah, Class of 1984, retired as City Manager of Bristol, Tennessee, after serving 31 years with the city. Overall, Sorah worked for 45 years in local government service. He holds a Master of City Management degree.

Donald S. Coleman, Classes of 1985 and 1990, has retired from Northeast State Community College. He served as Dean for the Division of Health-Related Professions. His degrees are in Education.

Col. (Retired) Timothy S. Damico, Class of 1985, was inducted into ETSU’s Army ROTC Hall of Fame Class of 2022. Colonel Damico received his commission as a Second Lieutenant. His degree is in Physical Education.

James L. Campbell, Class of 1986, started a new position as Advancement Director - Eastern Atlantic Region at Haggai International. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Lorrie Anne Goff, Classes of 1986, 1988, and 2001, has retired from the Johnson City Police Department after 34 years of service. Her degrees are in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, and Sociology.

Cheryl Ottinger Lang, Classes of 1986 and 2004, has been promoted to President of Tindall Corporation. Her degrees are in Accounting and Business Administration.

Aaron C. Clark, Classes of 1987 and 1990, serves as head of the Department of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education at North Carolina State University’s College of Education. He has also been named Co-Director of North Carolina State’s Engineering Education program. His degrees are in Industrial Arts Education.

Drema D. Bowers, Class of 1988, has started a new position as Assistant Director of Student Support at Harvard Divinity School. Her degree is in Social Work.

Eric S. Cooter, Class of 1988, is a First Officer for a Phenom 300 jet at Elite Jets based in Naples, Florida. Cooter, a certified flight instructor, notched his first solo flight on his 16th birthday and has served as a chaplain and cadet in the Air Force Civil Air Patrol since 1979. His degree is in Business Management.

Martha L. Edde, Classes of 1989 and 1991, retired from ETSU after working as the Assistant Dean for Student Success and Director of Medical Professions Advisement. Her degrees are in General Psychology and Counseling.

Dr. Kelly Weaver Nix, Classes of 1989 and 1995, was recognized by the Boy Scouts of America in Fairmont, West Virginia, as the 2022 recipient of the Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award. She is a Teaching Associate Professor and Organizational Leadership Program Coordinator at the John Chambers College of Business and Economics at West Virginia

University. Her degrees are in Physical Education.

Dr. Teresa Owens Tyson, Class of 1989, has been named Fierce’s Healthcare 2022 Woman of Influence. She is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Health Wagon. Her degree is in Nursing.

Timothy A. Ward, Class of 1989, has retired as Greeneville, Tennessee’s Chief of Police. He served 33 years with the department. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

1990s

Kenny A. Chesney, Class of 1990, was presented an honorary doctorate recognizing his ongoing commitment to his music, the future of country and bluegrass music, the No Shoes Nation, and the millions of fans who have found their lives inside his songs. The presentation was made during the 40th anniversary celebration of ETSU’s Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies program. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Julia Cantrill Holt, Classes of 1990 and 1993, is a Speech Language Pathologist at Johnson City Speech and Language Therapy. Her degrees are in Speech and Hearing and Communicative Disorders.

Dr. Karin J. Keith, Classes of 1990, 1993, and 1995, has been named Associate Provost for Faculty at ETSU. Dr. Keith has been a faculty member for 12 years. Her degrees are in Home Economics, Marketing, and Elementary Education.

Trent K. Parker, Class of 1990, is working at Johnson Service Group as a Logistics Assistant. His degree is in Mass Communication.

John R. Stout, Classes of 1990 and 1998, is a Senior Vice President for Morgan Stanley and is part of The Bays Mountain Group based in Kingsport. The group’s members have been named to the Forbes 2023 list of America’s Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams. His degrees are in Accounting and Business Administration.

Maury T. Walker, Class of 1990, is a Security Officer for the Detroit Pistons. Walker retired as a Special Agent for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. His degree is in Criminal Justice.

Mark A. Fulks, JD, PhD., Class of 1991, is a certified Mediator and Arbitrator in the Federal Mediation and Arbitration Program. He currently serves as ETSU’s Chief University Counsel. His degree is in Political Science.

Gary S. Orenstein, Class of 1992, has been named Vice President, Sales and Marketing, for Spartech, a leading manufacturer of engineered thermoplastics and custom packaging solutions. His degree is in Business Administration.

Loren J. Riddick, Class of 1992, received the 2023 Anthony Dunnings Community Service Award from the MLK Day Community Celebration Committee in Blount County, Tennessee. His degree is in Marketing.

Lydia J. Sinemus, Classes of 1992 and 1997, is the Human Resources Director at Virginia’s Department of Energy. Her degrees are in Geology and Environmental Health.

Philip J. Anson, Jr., Classes of 1993 and 1994, has been recognized by Florida Trend as one of the most influential business

leaders in the state of Florida. This is the fourth time in five years Anson has received the award. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer for STS Aviation Group headquartered in Jensen Beach. His degrees are in Management and Business Administration.

Dr. Wendell W. Becton, Class of 1993, is a Sports Medicine physician at Crossroads Orthopedic Clinic in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

Dr. Becton is a Colonel in the Illinois Army National Guard and serves as the Chief Flight Surgeon for the state. Previously, he was also a team physician for the St. Louis Cardinals from 2007 to 2013. His degree is in Medicine.

Harry Sy, Class of 1993, started a new position as Quality Manager at Electronic Coating Technologies. His degree is in Business Administration.

Tracey Y. Robertson, Classes of 1994 and 2004, is working as a Nurse Practitioner at Holston Medical Group Pulmonology in Kingsport. Her degrees are in Nursing.

Jeffrey A. Blake, Class of 1995, is a Senior Vice President for Morgan Stanley and is part of The Bays Mountain Group based in Kingsport. The group’s members have been named to the Forbes 2023 list of America’s Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams. His degree is in Finance.

M. Leeanne Francis, Classes of 1995 and 1998, has been named Assistant Principal at Woodland Elementary School in Johnson City. Her degrees are in Interdisciplinary Studies and Early Childhood Education.

Dr. Christopher M. Hampton, Classes of 1995, 1997, and 2007, is Superintendent of the Kingsport City School System. His degrees are in Special Education, Counseling, and Educational Leadership.

Thomas L. Tull, Class of 1995, was a featured speaker at the NGPX conference on building culture. Tull serves as Vice President, Chief Experience Officer, for Ballad Health. He holds a master’s degree in Business Administration.

Major Daniel R. Hubbard, Class of 1996, was awarded the Silver Star for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against

an armed hostile force while serving as Commanding Officer, Company B, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM during the Battle for Baghdad. His degree is in General Studies.

R. Wade Creswell, Class of 1997, has been elected Roane County, Tennessee’s County Executive. His degree is in Nursing.

Dr. Kristi D. Presley, Class of 1997, was named a teacher of the year for Johnson City Schools, winning the title for the kindergarten to fourth-grade division. She teaches at Woodland Elementary. Her degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Steve E. Willis, Class of 1997, has been named Assistant City Manager for Johnson City. He also served as Johnson City’s Human Resources Director from 2015-2021. His degree is in General Studies.

Jeff L. Amburgey, Class of 1998, won second place at the Daddy Rack Whiskey 2022 whiskey-themed songwriting contest for his song entitled “Fill My Whiskey Glass.” Amburgey has also been promoted to a Data Security Architect at Eastman Chemical Company. His degree is in Computer and Information Science.

Miranda Gray Cooper, Class of 1998, has been promoted to Vice President of Member Experience at Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Dustin J. Duncan, Classes of 1998 and 2000, received the 2022 Community Champion Award presented by the Elizabethton, Tennessee Chamber of Commerce. Duncan serves as the Community Partnership Director/College and Career Advisor for Elizabethton High School. His degrees are in Physical Education.

J. Eric Fletcher, Class of 1998, has been named Northeast Georgia Market Executive for Farm Bureau Bank. His degree is in Economics.

Joy L. Fulkerson, Class of 1998, has been elected Director-At-Large by the Girl Scouts Council of the Southern Appalachians to

guide the Appalachian Highlands region through September 2025. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Dr. Nancy B. Young, Class of 1998, was inducted by Governor Brian Kemp into the Georgia Board of Dentistry. Members of the GBD are appointed by the governor to protect public health in the practice of dentistry by regulating and enforcing the standards of practice. She currently serves as Interim Dean of the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. Her degree is in Physical Education.

Rebecca Thomas Dunkelberger, Class of 1999, started a new position as an Academic Recruiter at ETSU’s Gatton College of Pharmacy. Her degree is in Elementary Education.

Karen A. Clossey, Class of 1999, started a new position as Senior Medical Writer at BioBridges. Her degree is in Environmental Health.

Betty C. Cobb, Class of 1999, has retired as Manager of the Johnson City Public Library after 25 years of service. She holds a Master of Instructional Media degree.

2000s

Joseph F. Brandon, Classes of 2000 and 2018, hosts Overthinking Everything: Deconstructing a Culture of Cultism, which launched in 2022 as a YouTube show and podcast. His first book is scheduled to be released in 2023, along with a companion life coaching program. His degrees are in Mass Communication and Education.

James C. Chadwell, Class of 2000, has been named Head Coach of Liberty University’s football team. His degree is in Economics.

Brian D. Clough, Class of 2000, has been named Partner at C & C Financial Services, LLC. His degree is in Business Management. Yahrasiel Colbert, Classes of 2000 and 2006, is an Agency Consultant for the Horace Mann Companies at Horace Mann. Her degrees are in Physical Education and Educational Leadership.

Johnnie I. Barrett, Class of 2001, has been promoted to the rank of Colonel in the United States Air Force. This is the highest field-grade officer in the Air Force. Barrett is currently stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Her degree is in Nursing.

Alison Greenwell Johnson, Classes of 2001 and 2004, has been named Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer at Johnson City Medical Center. Her degrees are in Business Management and Nursing.

This year's limited-edition ETSU holiday ornament, hand-painted by local artist Penny Livingston and the second in the series, features the historic Amphitheatre. Look for it in the fall at Bowman Jewelers and Monkee’s of Johnson City.

George R. Scott, Class of 2001, has been promoted to Partner at Cornerstone Wealth Management Group. His degree is in Accountancy.

Dr. Tiffany Charest Skinner, Class of 2001, has been named Dean of South College’s Department of Nursing. Her degree is in Nursing.

Dr. Mark W. Fugate, Class of 2002, is leading a new practice called CHI Memorial Vascular Surgery Specialists in Chattanooga. His degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Heather Mabrey Toth, Classes of 2002 and 2013, is an Audiologist practicing at Duke Otolaryngology. She has also been appointed to the Forbes Health Advisory Board. Her degrees are in Speech and

Audiology.

Devin C. Chidester, Class of 2003, has started a new position as Senior Legal Counsel - Regulatory and Risk at Wells Fargo. His degree is in Chemistry.

Dr. Tiffany Collier Love, Classes of 2004 and 2006, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for her work in Social Work.

Dr. Love received this honor during a trip to Washington, D.C., where she met with TN Senator Marsha Blackburn and was invited to tour the White House. Her degrees are in Early Childhood Development and Social Work.

Jarrod D. Suits, Class of 2004, has been named Director of Advancement for the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Nathan R. Holt, Classes of 2005 and 2008, was elected to serve his third term as a Greene County Trustee. Earlier this year, Holt was named “East Tennessee Trustee of the Year.” His degrees are in Accounting.

Dr. Dorsha N. James, Class of 2005, works as the Medical Director of Student Health Services at Tennessee State University. Her degree is in Medicine.

Dr. Kristen Lawson McHenry, Classes of 2005, 2013, and 2017, has been named to the board for the Commission for Accreditation for Respiratory Care. Her degrees are in Allied Health and Educational Leadership.

Dr. Lee M. Cigliano, Class of 2006, has been inducted into the Tennessee Community College Athletic Association Hall of Fame. He retired from coaching men’s basketball at Cleveland State Community College. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Matt C. Combs, Classes of 2006 and 2012, is the 2023-24 Principal of the Year for Washington County, Tennessee Schools. He is Principal at Jonesborough Elementary School. His degrees are in Interdisciplinary Studies and Educational Leadership.

Brittany Moore, Classes of 2007 and 2020, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. Her degrees are in Mass Communication and Business Administration.

Lisa E. Carter, Class of 2008, was named the 2022 Outstanding Alumna by ETSU’s National Alumni Association. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Ballad Health Southern Market. Her degree is Nursing.

Dr. Marie F. Jones, Class of 2008, is Director of the Library at Brevard College. She co-authored the book, To Be the Best by Any Measure: Creating and Sustaining a High Performance Organization. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Dr. A. Brianna Sheppard-Willis, Classes of 2008 and 2014, has been elected the 2023 Chair of the Appalachian Translational Research Network. She serves as a Research Scientist at West Virginia University Health Institute. Her degrees are in Psychology.

H. Matt Adams, Classes of 2009 and 2014, has been named Vice President of Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank. His degrees are in Interdisciplinary Studies and Computing.

Gavin J. Andrews, Class of 2009, started a new position as Assistant Director of Housing at Mars Hill University. His degree is in Sport and Leisure Management.

Lauren Laethem Broyles, Class of 2009, returned to ETSU to give a lecture for a Speech Language Pathology class. She is a Speech Language Pathologist for Knox County, Tennessee Schools. Her degree is in Communicative Disorders.

Danielle M. Foreman, Class of 2009, has been named Senior Manager for Meetings & Events at Fidelity Investments. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Akiah C. Highsmith, Class of 2009, is a Litigation Attorney for Baker Donelson Law Firm. His degree is in Engineering Technology.

Alicia S. Keplinger, Class of 2009, was named Teacher of the Year at Hunter Elementary School in Elizabethton. Her degree is in Early Childhood Development.

2010s

Mitchell P. Owens, Class of 2010, has been named Assistant Principal at Mount Pleasant High School in Mount Pleasant, North Carolina. His degree is in History.

Taronda Wiles, Class of 2010, was inducted into the Dan River High School Hall of Fame in Ringgold, Virginia. Wiles is the high school’s all-time leading scorer in women’s basketball with 1,153 points and was the 2006 Co-Female Athlete of the Year. At ETSU, Wiles led the Buccaneers to two regular season titles, three straight tournament titles, and was named the ASUN Co-Player of the Year in 2010. She was also named to the ASUN Conference Women’s Basketball 2001-2010 All-Decade Team. Her degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

B. Collin Brooks, Classes of 2011 and 2021, was named one of the National School Public Relations Association’s 35 Under 35 He serves as Director of Communications for the Johnson City Schools System. His degrees are in Mass Communication and Brand & Media Strategy.

Jonathan P. Brown, Classes of 2011 and 2013, is working as Group Supervisor Program Security for Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory. His degrees are in Interdisciplinary Studies and Public Administration.

Brian P. Broyles, Class of 2011, has been promoted to Associate Vice Chancellor of Advancement for the University of Tennessee - Knoxville. His degree is in General Studies.

Dr. K. LaNae Bess Calloway, Classes of 2011 and 2015, works as a Pharmacy Manager at Sam’s Club in Daytona Beach, Florida. She was presented with the company’s “Healthcare Hero” award for her selfless efforts and dedication to patients and members during and after Hurricane Ian. Her degrees are in Chemistry and Pharmacy.

Andrew D. Clark, Classes of 2011 and 2013, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. His degree is in Accounting.

Ruafika A. Cobb, Class of 2011, has been named North Carolina’s Western Region 2023 Principal of the Year. She holds a Master of Educational Leadership degree.

Peter S. Cook, Class of 2011, served as Master of Ceremonies for a storytelling concert for the deaf community. Cook is a nationally acclaimed deaf storyteller. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Reading. Charles E. Haskins, II, Class of 2011, had his paintings featured in an exhibition at Ohio University’s Southern Art Gallery. Haskins’ paintings have been on display throughout Southern Ohio, at the Geer Museum, and at events like Comic Con, Nelsonville Music Festival, and the Irving Halloween Festival. He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree.

Terence N. Maxwell, Class of 2011, represented Team USA at the World Masters indoor track and field championships in Poland. Maxwell was a member of ETSU’s Atlantic Sun Conference outdoor championship team. His degree is in Sport and Leisure Management.

Dr. McKayla Johnson Riggs, Classes of 2011 and 2015, has joined Kettering Physician Network Gynecologic Oncology at the Kettering Health Cancer Center in Kettering, Ohio. Her degrees are in Biology and Medicine.

Dr. James E. Stukes, Classes of 2011 and 2022, has been named to the 2022-2023 All Southern Conference Faculty and Staff team. He is Assistant Dean for Student Success at Wofford College. His degrees are in History and Educational Leadership.

Julieann F. Anderson, Class of 2012, is Director of Risk Management at Mount Regis Center. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Nathan G. Carman, Class of 2012, has been promoted to Sergeant for the City of Johnson City Police Department. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

M. Dalton Collins, Class of 2012, is an Assistant Attorney General for the District of Columbia. His degree is in Political Science.

Samantha Adkins Culbertson, Class of

2012, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. Her degree is in Fine/Studio Art/Graphic Design.

Dr. Megan D. Edwards, Class of 2012, serves as Knox County, Tennessee’s Public Health Officer. Her degree is in Medicine.

Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson, Class of 2012, is the Activist in Residence at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas. Her degree is in English.

Dr. Emily Eisenhower-Baxter, Class of 2013, has been named President of the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians for 2023. She is the youngest female president and the second youngest president of the organization. Her degree is in Chemistry.

Andrew R. Childress, Classes of 2013 and 2015, started a new position as Director of Financial Planning and Analysis at Accupac. His degrees are in Accounting.

Jayson D. Crusenberry, Classes of 2013 and 2019, has been promoted to Director of Communications and Destination Marketing for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. He holds a degree in Mass Communication and a Business Administration Graduate Certificate.

O.J. Early, Classes of 2013 and 2016, has been promoted to Communication Manager with ETSU’s Office of Marketing and Communications. His degrees are in Mass Communication and History.

Catherine Weinhold Hill, Class of 2013, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. She holds a Master of Science in Technology degree.

Katie Weinhold Hill, Class of 2013, is an Architect at Cain Rash West Architects in Kingsport. She holds a Master of Science degree in Technology.

Brandon P. Keen, Class of 2013, has been promoted to Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Keen Promotions. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Lurelle L. Maxey, Classes of 2013 and 2016, married Jared McKay on October 15, 2022. Her degrees are in Psychology and Counseling.

John D. Kaywood, II, Class of 2013, has been named Executive Director of the Kingsport Theatre Guild. His degree is in Theatre.

Heath A. Owens, Class of 2013, started a new position as Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst Magazines. His degree is in Business Marketing.

Jami L. Bennett, Class of 2014, won the award for Best Student Documentary at the Grierson Awards in London, England, for her short documentary Ten by Ten. Her degree is in Anthropology.

Brooke E. Davis, Class of 2014, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree.

Ashley J. Ellenburg, Class of 2014, has been awarded the 2023 Veterans of Foreign Wars National Law Enforcement Public Servant Citation for the State of Tennessee. Ellenburg is a Police Officer for the Johnson City, Tennessee Police Department. Her degree is in Criminal Justice.

Dr. Stacie Henderson McCray, Class of 2014, was presented with the Extra Mile Award from Holston Medical Group for displaying genuine compassion and excellence. She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree.

Jeffrey A. Peters, Class of 2014, was named Teacher of the Year at Hunter Elementary School in Elizabethton. His degree is in Physical Education.

Kayla M. Clawson, Class of 2015, has been named Principal of Keenburg Elementary School in Carter County, Tennessee. She holds a Master of Secondary Education degree.

Rachel Michaels Ely, Class of 2015, is Director of Student Affairs at Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Dr. Eric D. Howard, Class of 2015, has been named Head of the Odyssey School, an independent, non-profit PreK-12 school in Asheville, North Carolina.

Dr. Colby L. Newsome, Class of 2015, was named Director of Inpatient Pharmacy at Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. His degree is in Pharmacy.

Mikaylee Coffey Yonce, Classes of 2015 and 2018, has been promoted to Senior Martech Analyst at Bounteous. Her degrees are in Digital Media and Digital Marketing.

Carly A. Baskette, Class of 2016, has opened Mood Ring Vintage in Knoxville. Her degree is in Business Marketing.

Rima Tsunoda Day, Class of 2016, had her artwork entitled “Anne-Marie” featured in the Nashville Art at the Airport collection. She has studied fashion design both in her native city of Tokyo, Japan, and later in New York City, and worked as a freelance custom ballet costume-maker in New York City and Connecticut. Her degree is in Art.

R. Brett Dial, Class of 2016, opened The Moon Coffee, a coffee shop located in

downtown Johnson City. His degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies.

J. Ryne Nicholson, Class of 2016, has been named Director of Football Equipment at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. His degree is in Kinesiology and Sports Studies.

Katie M. Parks, Class of 2016, has been promoted to Consumer Engagement Manager, Therapeutics for Crown Laboratories. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Cassandra D. Stamper, Class of 2016, has been promoted to IS&T Portfolio Manager at MultiCare Health System. Her degree is in Communication Studies.

Joshua L. Stansberry, Class of 2016, started a new position as Sales Account Manager at Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. His degree is in Mass Communication.

Chelsea D. Taylor, Class of 2016, has been promoted to Public Relations Manager at MediaSource. Her degree is in Mass Communication.

Kreneshia Whiteside-McGee, Class of 2016, has been featured in an Essence magazine article promoting her multimedia art exhibition, Y’all Don’t Hear Me: Black Appalachia, where she displays the works of seasoned and emerging artists that highlight the values and legacy of Black Appalachian culture. Her degree is in Anthropology.

Alexander C. Cassell, Class of 2017, has earned a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Penn State. His degree is in History.

Travis D. Darrow, Class of 2017, is a Case Manager for the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. His degree is in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Dr. Anicka K. Kolarik, Class of 2017, has been promoted to Director of LGBTQ+ services for Cherokee Health Services. Her degree is in Medicine.

Dakota C. Love, Class of 2017, has been promoted to Fund Expense and Billing Analyst at Fidelity Investments. His degree is in Finance.

Garrett V. Tumlin, Classes of 2017 and 2019, is a Communications Specialist at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. His degrees are in Media & Communication and Brand & Media Strategy.

Natasha R. Aguilar, Class of 2018, is a Senior Operations Analyst at Lima One Capital. Her degree is in Sociology.

Brennan A. Davis , Classes of 2018 and 2020, has taken on a new title as Digital Marketing Operations Manager at Grand Circus. His degrees are in Marketing and Brand & Media Strategy.

Alison J. Gibson, Class of 2018, married Christian A. Givens, Class of 2017. Christian is pursuing his Family Medicine residency at UT Chattanooga-Erlanger and Alison is a Digital Content Analyst for Kennametal Inc. Her degree is in Digital Media. His degree is in Physics.

Logan A. Fleenor, Class of 2018, is working as a Subcontract Administrator at Parsons Corporation. His degree is in Finance.

Austin D. Herink, Classes of 2018 and 2019, is Associate Director for Internal Operations and Analyst for Coach Jedd Fisch at the University of Arizona. Herink

was a former quarterback for the Bucs. His degrees are in Sports Management. Dr. Derek E. Murrell, Class of 2018, was named 2022 Young Professionals Volunteer of the year. This award was given by YP of Johnson City, a network within the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Murrell is a Research Scientist at Crown Laboratories. His degree is in Biomedical Sciences.

Oluremi O. Osibanjo, Class of 2018, is a Digitalization and Innovation Engineer at Wacker Chemical Corporation USA. He holds a Master of Science in Technology degree.

Erika Schmidt Puzanov, Class of 2018, has joined CHI Memorial Infectious Disease Associates in Chattanooga. She will provide primary care services to patients with HIV. Her degree is in Nursing.

Jordan N. Baker, Class of 2019, was named a 2022 Business Journal 40 Under Forty Honoree. Her degree is in Elementary Education.

Britney R. Edmiston, Class of 2019, has been named Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer at Bristol Regional Medical Center. She holds a Master of Science degree in Nursing.

Hannah Allen Ford, Classes of 2019 and 2021, is working as a Partner Campaign Manager at Vintory. Her degrees are in Marketing and Business Administration.

Lucia K. Hernandez, Class of 2019, was selected for the Cherokee Development Program for Harrah’s Cherokee Casino in North Carolina. Her degree is in Business Management.

Michael T. Keeton, Classes of 2019 and 2022, has been named Continuous Improvement Specialist II at Ballad Health. His degrees are in Cardiopulmonary Science and Public Health.

Tiffany Laughren McInturff, Classes of 2019 and 2021, is the Accountant/Town Clerk for the Town of Unicoi, Tennessee. Her degrees are in Marketing and Business Administration.

Lindsey B. Muller, Class of 2019, is a Resident Services Coordinator at Project Access. Her degree is in Social Work.

Dr. Sinthea D. Reynolds, Class of 2019, has been named Vice President for Finance and Operations at Cleveland State Community College. Dr. Reynolds has served the college as Bursar since 2014. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

2020s

Emily Brooks Estes, Class of 2020, is working as a Behavior Specialist for Bristol, Virginia Public Schools. Her degree is in Communication Studies.

Whitney Price Gillen, Class of 2020, is a Staff Accountant at Davidson, Holland, Whitesell & Co., PLLC, Certified Public Accountants and Strategic Advisors. Her degree is in Accounting.

Jacob M. Higgs, Class of 2020, is working as a Junior Content Producer at Creative Energy. His degree is in Media and Communication.

Aaron S. Hix, Class of 2020, has been promoted to Treasury and Financial Analysis Advisor for Food City/ KVAT. His degree is in Finance.

Danansi K. Kouame, Classes of 2020 and 2022, is working as a Business Development Specialist with Reefer Van Network. His degrees are in Management and Business Administration.

Kirsten N. Litz, Class of 2020, married Gavin N. Norwood, Class of 2021, on April 1, 2023, in Gatlinburg. Her degree is in Media and Communication. His degree is in Computing.

Autumn M. Lockwood, Class of 2020, is Assistant Sports Performance Coach for the Philadelphia Eagles and has been noted as the first Black woman to coach in a Super Bowl game. She holds a Master of Sport Management degree.

Emilie Reade Martin, Class of 2020, has been named Executive Director of Partners of Healing in Tullahoma, Tennessee. Her degree is in Biology.

Hannah M. Wallace, Classes of 2020 and 2022, accepted a position with Warner Brothers/Discovery as a Production Coordinator on the Multi-Platform Production Management team. Her degrees are in Media and Communication and Brand & Media Strategy.

Cory L. Whitfield, Classes of 2020 and 2022, was featured in an interview regarding career advice on Mastersinsocialworkonline. org. This site is a guide to Social Work and Mental Health degrees and careers. His degrees are in Social Work.

Ryan E. Abel, Class of 2021, is Media Development Executive at PHMG. His degree is in Media and Communication.

Sydney L. Butterfield, Class of 2021, has been named Washington County, Tennessee’s Health Director. She holds a Master of Public Health degree.

Raffaella Giuliano, Classes of 2021 and 2023, signed with Lazio Women, a professional Italian soccer team. Her degrees are in Finance and Brand & Media Strategy.

Haley L. Mullins, Class of 2021, married Noah S. Arni, Class of 2021, on October 28, 2022. Her degree is in Media and Communication. His degree is in Sport Science and Coach Education.

Dr. Brandon J. Hudson, Class of 2021, accepted a full-time Assistant Professorship at Tusculum University, where he teaches undergraduate and graduate classes in Sport Management. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership.

D. Faith Little, Class of 2021, is Digital Content Producer at WJHL. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

Kallie J. Smith, Class of 2021, is Vice President for Membership and Events at Jackson County Chamber of Commerce in Florida. Her degree is in History.

Olivia T. Sturgill, Class of 2021, is an Investment Accountant for the Tennessee Department of Treasury. Her degree is in Accounting.

Dr. Jordan C. Wines, Class of 2021, has joined Greeneville Hearing Center. He holds a doctorate in Audiology.

Allison N. Winters, Class of 2021, accepted a position with the Kingsport Times-News as a Business Reporter for Scott County, Virginia. Her degree is in Media and Communications.

Jarrod

OBITUARIES

1940s

Mary K. Gentry; Rochester Hills, Michigan

October 14, 2022; BS ’45 Elementary Education

Robert L. Cross; Johnson City July 17, 2020; BS ’48

Pauline O. Cross; Johnson City December 4, 2020; BS ’48 Elementary Education, MA ’61 Education

Rose M. Moseley; San Antonio, Texas December 3, 2022; BS ’46

Virginia D. Hicks; Johnson City January 13, 2023; BS ’45 Secondary Education

Benjamin C. Waddle; Hattiesburg, Mississippi

December 15, 2022; BS ’49 Health & Physical Education

1950s

Paul G. Proffitt; Greeneville

May 4, 2017; BS ’57 Music

Dorothy J. Dugger; Bluff City

August 6, 2017; BS ’59 Business Education

Joan Weaver; Atlanta, Georgia

November 11, 2022; BS ’57 English

Carole G. King; Erwin

October 29, 2022; BS ’58 Elementary Education

William J. Jones; Lakewood Ranch, Florida

October 25, 2022; BS ’59 Business

Administration

Dr. Adelbert F. Thompson; Nashville

October 27, 2022; BS ’58 Physical Education, MA ’66 Educational Administration and Supervision

Edna S. Lewis; Jonesborough

December 8, 2022; BS ’51 English

Frederick L. Quarles; Greeneville

November 25, 2022; BS ’56 Industrial Arts/ Technical Education

Otis B. Overybay; Kingsport

December 4, 2022; BS ’53 Education, MA ’69

Education

John P. Watkins; Knoxville

January 14, 2023; BS ’56 Art

Mary L. Bales; Morristown

January 1, 2023; BS ’57 Business

Administration

Col. James D. Treadway; Huntsville, Alabama

December 22, 2022; BS ’57 Biology & Chemistry

Lois V. Wagner; Denver, Colorado

February 4, 2020; BS ’52 History

Nancy W. Hyder; Johnson City

February 16, 2023; BS ’54 Art

Marie C. Bolton; New Kent, Virginia

team. His degree is in Sport and Recreation Management.

Caleb

January 27, 2023; BS ’55 Music

James D. Hankins; Greeneville

August 11, 2022; BS ’56 Biology

Don C. McKenzie; Johnson City

January 30, 2023; BS ’56 Social Science

Mary E. Pruitt; Bristow, Virginia

March 3, 2023; BS ’55 Business

Administration

Robert W. Leonard; Greenville, South Carolina

March 13, 2023; BS ’56 Business

Administration

Charles L. Fletcher; Talbott, Tennessee March 23, 2023; BS ’57

Myrtle D. Saucer; Orange Park, Florida

April 9, 2023; BS ’53 Home Economics

Doyle E. Morelock; Kingsport April 21, 2023; BS ’54 Business Administration

Dorothy R. Miller; Johnson City

April 13, 2023; BS ’55 English

Margaret O. Cambron; Johnson City

March 24, 2023; BS ’56 Elementary Education

Charles E. Fritts; Savannah, Georgia March 20, 2023; BS ’57 English

Robert Dehart; Charlotte, North Carolina April 18, 2023; BS ’58 Business Administration

Nancy F. Greene; Kingsport March 7, 2023; BS ’58 Economics

Eva N. Carico; Roanoke, Virginia April 12, 2023; BS ’59 Biology and Social Science

Carolyn W. Horrell; Johnson City March 22, 2023; BS ’58 Music, MA ’70 School Library Professional Graduate Certificate

1960s

Luther H. Icenhour; Bristol, Virginia September 28, 2022; BS ’60 Economics

Glen A. Milburn; Bulls Gap

July 8, 2009; BS ’60 Elementary Education

William C. Plemmons; Marshall, North Carolina

October 11, 2022; BS ’60 Business Education

Jerry S. Webb; Johnson City

October 4, 2022; BS ’61 History

Thomas R. Riddle; Gray

October 27, 2022; BS ’65 Health Education

Melvin O. Luttrell; Maryville, Tennessee

October 9, 2022; BS ’67 History

Donald W. Tetrick; Elizabethton

October 7, 2022; BS ’68 Management

Richard F. Alverson; Coshocton, Ohio October 3, 2022; BS ’69 General Psychology

James A. Hite; Bristol, Tennessee October 4, 2022; BS ’64 Art, BS ’75

Mathematics

Paula C. Gregory; Monroe, North Carolina

October 30, 2022; BS ’61 Sociology

David E. Crockett; Elizabethton

November 8, 2022; BS ’63 History

William S. Fox; Sevierville

November 12, 2022; BS ’64 Mathematics

Elizabeth A. Catron; Winston-Salem, North Carolina

November 18, 2022; BS ’66 Management

George S. Chilton; Oak Ridge November 15, 2022; BS ’68 Economics

Dr. Ralph E. Myers; Big Canoe, Georgia November 11, 2022; BS ’68 Chemistry

Terry L. Neal; Virginia Beach, Virginia

October 28, 2022; BS ’68 Accountancy

Ronald A. Johnson; Morristown

October 21, 2022; BS ’61 Physical Education, MA ’72 Physical Education

Mary W. Collins; Rainbow Lake, North Carolina

October 25, 2022; BS ’64 English, MA ’68 Reading

Dr. James M. Cross; Johnson City October 26, 2022; BS ’65 History, MAT ’70 Elementary Education, EDS ’75 Educational Administration and Supervision

Retired LTC. Thomas P. Ramey; Blountville December 8, 2022; BS ’62 Social Science

John L. Starnes; Tampa, Florida December 5, 2022; BS ’64 History

Phyllis A. Holmes; Jonesborough December 10, 2022; BS ’65 Home Economics

Marjorie G. Stansberry; Erlanger, Kentucky November 19, 2022; BS ’65 Elementary Education

Kenneth K. Webb; Knoxville December 17, 2022; BS ’65 Industrial Arts Education

Donald C. Thayer; Abingdon, Virginia December 11, 2022; MA ’66 Educational Administration

Steven J. Head; Johnson City December 10, 2022; BS ’67 Business

Donald K. Masters; Bakerville, Tennessee December 11, 2022; BS ’69 Environmental Health

Raymond Hill; Butler, Tennessee December 10, 2022; BS ’61 Social Science, MEd ’90 Educational Administration and Supervision

Mary I. Olinger; Kingsport November 27, 2022; BS ’62 Elementary Education, MEd ’83 Elementary Education

Dorothy A. Hanna; Kingston, Tennessee December 27, 2022; BS ’60 Physical Education

Lowell V. Hobbs; Jacksonville, Florida January 9, 2023; BS ’60 Mathematics

Sam B. Pearson; Kingsport January 16, 2023; BS ’60 Business Education

Cecil H. Jeffers; Elizabethton January 3, 2023; BS ’61 Business Administration

Bernard W. Oliver; Kingsport January 4, 2023; BA ’63 Chemistry

Harry E. Harman; Johnson City December 31, 2022; BS ’64 Finance

Samuel G. Anderson; Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

December 30, 2022; BS ’65 History

Jimmie T. Bishop; Bramwell, West Virginia

January 13, 2023; BS ’66 History

Sharon N. Mooney; Bristol, Tennessee

December 17, 2022; BS ’66 Biology

Ernest E. Craft; Knoxville

January 3, 2023; BS ’67 English

LTC. Martin N. Crook; Hixson, Tennessee

November 19, 2022; BS ’67 General Psychology

Philip G. Deely; Roswell, Georgia

November 30, 2018; BS ’67 Political Science

William H. Jeffers; Winston-Salem, North Carolina

January 16, 2023; BS ’67 Industrial Technology

Betty J. Latture; Franklin, Tennessee

December 20, 2022; BS ’68 Elementary Education

Stuart B. Palfreyman; Summit, New Jersey

January 20, 2023; BS ’66 Environmental Health, MSEH ’71 Environmental Health

Martha C. Lewis; Salisbury, North Carolina

February 22, 2023; BS ’61 Social Science

James E. Crigger; Mount Carmel, Tennessee

February 2, 2023; BS ’64 Industrial Arts Education

Alta P. Barwick; Johnson City

February 7, 2023; BS ’67 Social Work

Gary H. Lewis; Georgetown, Delaware

January 31, 2023; BS ’67 Accountancy

Curtis P. Turner; Shreveport, Louisiana

March 24, 2023; BS ’61 Business

Phyllis A. Russell; Bristol, Virginia

May 17, 2021; BSN ’62 Nursing

Fred D. Sisk; Fredericksburg, Virginia

March 13, 2023; BS ’62 Geography

Edward S. Penesk; Pace, Florida

March 3, 2023; MA ’64 Mathematics

Lois M. Church; Independence, Missouri

March 14, 2023; BS ’65 English

Jewel F. Shipley; Johnson City

March 19, 2023; BSN ’65 Nursing

Karl B. Shinn; Jacksonville, Florida

January 29, 2023; BS ’67 General Psychology

Jimmy D. Huffman; Eden, North Carolina

April 18, 2023; BS ’62 Management

David E. Hawkins; Johnson City

March 31, 2023; BS ’62 History

Charles L. Wilson; Clayton, North Carolina March 6, 2023; BS ’62 Marketing

Judy G. Cochran; Oak Ridge

April 18, 2023; BS ’66 Social Work

A Hughland Smith; Redlands, California March 6, 2023; BS ’67 History

Chalmer M. Boggs; Big Stone Gap, Virginia April 7, 2023; BS ’67 Health Education

Lawrence W. Pierce; Atlanta, Georgia April 1, 2023; BS ’69 Health

Priscilla H. Keene; Bluff City, Tennessee August 17, 2022; BS ’64 English, MA ’73

Richard K. Rowe; Columbia, South Carolina

April 8, 2023; BS ’68 Biology, MSEH ’72 Environmental Health

Mia Ricafort Bertani, Class of 2022, is Social Media Coordinator for Brookdale. Her degree is in Media and Communication.

A. Bowen, Class of 2022, is General Manager of the Kingsport Axmen baseball

A. Ishola, Class of 2022, is a Software Engineer at Siemens. His degree is in Computing.

1970s

Barbara D. Lee; Kingsport

May 21, 2022; BS ’71 Speech and Hearing, MS ’83 Speech and Hearing

Vicky L. Harrison; Elizabethton

October 6, 2022; BS ’70 Industrial Arts

Education, MA ’74 Industrial Education

Sandra J. Carden; Johnson City

October 24, 2022; BMT ’70 Medical Technology

Elizabeth S. Patt; Knoxville

September 10, 2022; BS ’70 History

Joseph J. Biddle; Spring Hill, Tennessee

October 26, 2022; BS ’71 Journalism

Susan E. Boyd; Bakersfield, California

July 22, 2020; BA ’72 History

Maj. William R. Grubbs; Angeles City Pampanga, Philippines

October 7, 2022; BS ’72 Management

Charles G. Hess; Raven, Virginia

October 17, 2022; BS ’73 Political Science

John S. Bingham; Kingsport

October 16, 2022; BS ’74 Marketing

Cynthia D. Gober; Elizabethton

August 29, 2022; MA ’75 Physical Education

Joseph V. Conrey; Spotsylvania, Virginia

September 16, 2022; MFA ’76 Art

Marvin D. Lewis; Pennington Gap, Virginia

January 18, 2022; BS ’77 Geography

Sandra H. Davison; Kingsport

September 28, 2022; ASN ’79 Nursing

Bobby E. Cardwell; North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

October 29, 2022; BS ’71 English

John D. Hull; Greeneville

November 5, 2022; BS ’71 Industrial Technology

Jerry D. Shook; Linwood, North Carolina

October 27, 2022; BS ’71 Economics

Charles S. Elton; Leesburg, Virginia

October 28, 2022; MS ’72 Mathematics

David R. Frazier; Johnson City

November 16, 2022; BS ’73 Management

Ronald C. Bowling; Lexington Park, Maryland

November 29, 2022; BS ’70 Sociology

Polly A. Rowe; Doran, Virginia

October 25, 2022; BS ’73 Elementary Education

Jerry L. Weston; Kingsport

November 11, 2022; BS ’73 Physical Education

Linda G. Guy; Lubbock, Texas

November 21, 2022; BSN ’74 Nursing

Edwin A. Meeks; Johnson City

October 28, 2022; BS ’75 Management

Belinda M. Boronkay; Manassas, Virginia

October 25, 2022; MA ’76 Elementary Education

Gail L. Miller; Dandridge, Tennessee

October 31, 2022; BSW ’77 Social Work

Barbara A. Clark; Johnson City

December 12, 2022; MA ’70 Library Science

Gary W. Pitts; Boone, North Carolina

December 8, 2022; BS ’70 Biology

Gary V. Fields; Kingsport

November 22, 2022; BS ’71 Journalism

Michael G. Miller; Morristown

November 26, 2022; BS ’72 Environmental Health

Victoria F. Jackson; Knoxville

November 21, 2022; BS ’74 Elementary

Education

Katherine E. Dibble; Jonesborough

December 11, 2022; MA ’75 Instructional

Communication

David L. Coffey; Petersburg, Virginia

December 6, 2022; BS ’76 Accountancy

Hilda M. Hoskins; Kingsport

December 2, 2022; ASN ’77 Nursing

Robert H. Miller; Proctorville, Ohio

November 30, 2022; BS ’77 Speech

Pathology

Reba J. Ramsey; Sneedville, Tennessee December 29, 2022; BS ’70 English

Robert L. Waye; Kingsport

January 4, 2023; BS ’70 Physical Education

Edmund H. Faulk; Kingsport February 13, 2021; BS ’71 Political Science

Dr. Joel D. Gonce; Kingsport

December 25, 2022; BS ’71 Biology

Brenda M. Horton; Bristol, Virginia January 16, 2023; BS ’71 Elementary Education

Arlie O. Pritchard; Williamsburg, Virginia October 19, 2018; BS ’71 Political Science

Dr. David A. Smith; Sparta, North Carolina

February 2, 2015; BS ’71 Chemistry

Barbara L. Broomall; South Bethany, Delaware

December 21, 2022; AS ’72 Dental Hygiene

Seldon L. Carsey; Bowling Green, Ohio January 5, 2023; MSEH ’72 Environmental Health

Sandra K. Crye; Benton, Tennessee December 13, 2022; BS ’72 Home Economics

Melody H. Bettis; Charlotte, North Carolina

June 7, 2018; ADH ’73 Dental Hygiene

Michael D. Light; Kingsport January 13, 2023; BS ’74 Political Science

Billy K. Reece; Carthage, Tennessee January 3, 2023; BS ’74 Art

Ronnie R. Campbell; Raphine, Virginia December 13, 2022; BS ’76 Criminal Justice and Criminology

Hal D. Turner; Johnson City December 27, 2022; BSW ’76 Criminal Justice

Clarence S. Cutshall; Maryville, Tennessee January 17, 2023; BS ’77 Management

William P. Marrs; Rockwood, Tennessee

December 29, 2022; BS ’77 History

James G. Clinton; Sweetwater, Tennessee December 22, 2022; BS ’78 Industrial Technology

Linda J. Moore; Grove City, Pennsylvania February 3, 2023; BA ’70 Sociology

Arthur L. Ratcliffe; Appalachia, Virginia October 27, 2020; BS ’71 History

Lynda H. Dickenson; Castlewood, Virginia February 18, 2023; BS ’72 Business Education

Barbara J. Rauschenberger; Nashville January 26, 2023; BS ’72 Nursing

Major Gen. (Ret.)

Gary L. Harrell; Johnson City

February 14, 2023; BS ’73 Industrial Technology

John S. Mitchell; Tampa, Florida January 30, 2023; BS ’73 Business

Gary A. Hamilton; Maryville, Tennessee

January 3, 2023; BS ’74 Criminal Justice and Criminology

Nancy B. Jackson; Cedar Bluff, Virginia

February 17, 2023; MA ’76 Reading

Claude H. Hill; Kingsport

January 24, 2023; BS ’78 Biology

William C. Dunn; Land O’ Lakes, Florida January 19, 2023; BS ’79 Health Education

Thomas L. Dye; Honaker, Virginia

February 10, 2023; BS ’70 English, MA ’74 Educational Administration

Tommy G. Haun; Greeneville

February 9, 2023; BS ’72 Biology, MA ’75 Educational Administration

William E. Hogan; Parrottsville, Tennessee

January 30, 2023; BS ’72 Mathematics, MEd ’84 Educational Administration

Joan M. Brown; Tazewell, Virginia

March 3, 2023; MAT ’70 Elementary Education

Linda G. Crawford; Church Hill

March 6, 2023; BS ’70 Elementary Education

John W. Czimcharo; Howell, New Jersey

February 25, 2023; BS ’70 English

Baird B. Harned; Kingsport

March 25, 2023; MA ’70 Library Science

Joanne G. Greene; Charlotte, North Carolina March 22, 2023; AS ’74 Dental Hygiene

Linda J. Feagins; Kingsport March 2, 2023; BS ’76 Special Education

John L. Kalogeros; Johnson City March 8, 2023; BS ’77 History

Dr. Jackie R. Garland; Bristol, Tennessee March 24, 2023; MA ’74 History, EDD ’79 Educational Administration and Supervision

Billy R. Gillis; Greeneville

March 11, 2023; BS ’75 English, MA ’86 English

John F. Patterson; McDonough, Georgia April 17, 2023; BS ’70 Health Education

Ella L. Norris; Kingsport March 25, 2023; BS ’70 History

Charles A. Hill; Snellville, Georgia

March 31, 2023; BS ’70 Industrial Technology

Gary L. Delp; Valdese, North Carolina

April 13, 2023; BS ’71 Art

Rees G. Russell; Charlotte, North Carolina

April 12, 2023; BS ’72 Marketing

Karen Louise Kelley-Van Pernis; St. Johns, Florida

April 12, 2023; BS ’73 General Psychology

James E. Ezell; Chesterfield, Virginia

April 13, 2023; MS ’74 Biology

Shields Jarrett; Roanoke, Virginia

March 24, 2023; BS ’79 Corrections

1980s

Stella M. Francis; Jonesborough

September 24, 2022; ASN ’80 Nursing

Nancy K. Howren; Johnson City

November 25, 2022; BS ’81 Elementary Education

Sandra V. Cook; Grundy, Virginia

October 25, 2022; BSN ’88 Nursing

Rodney D. Shaw; Johnson City

October 28, 2022; AAS ’89 Law Enforcement, BS ’90, Graduate Certificate, ’99 Business Administration

Richard S. Weathersby; Tullahoma, Tennessee

October 10, 2022; BS ’80 Physical Education

Janet A. Gouge; Johnson City

October 1, 2022; MAT ’82 Education

Roger K. Linkous; Kingsport

September 23, 2022; BBA ’85 Management

Beverly A. Looney; Fall Branch

October 12, 2022; BS ’85 Elementary Education

Larry V. Linville; Unicoi

February, 22, 2023; BBA ’80 Accountancy, MBA ’87 Business Administration

Wendell L. Cox; Henderson, Tennessee

September 29, 2022; BBA ’87 Management

Marianne H. Gubler; Johnson City

October 3, 2022; MA ’87 Art

Constance L. Broce; Bristol, Tennessee

October 11, 2022; BS ’88 General Psychology

Marjorie S. Stratton; Jonesborough

January 7, 2023; ASN ’83 Nursing

Bobby D. Holt; Greeneville

January 1, 2023; BBA ’84 Finance

Patricia A. Harroll; Limestone

January 23, 2023; BS ’85 Elementary Education

Edythe K. Helton; Seymour, Tennessee

January 12, 2023; MEd ’86 Educational Administration

John S. Ratcliff; Greeneville

December 19, 2022; BS ’89 Criminal Justice and Criminology

William E. Stanley; Johnson City

December 21, 2022; BS ’81 General Psychology, MEd ’93 Counseling

Charlie S. Isakson; Elizabethton

February 5, 2023; BS ’80 Mass Communication

Roy S. Snell; Johnson City

February 19, 2023; BS ’84 Speech Pathology

Cynthia B. Summers; Johnson City

February 16, 2023; AS ’89 Dental Hygiene

Sandra H. Lewis; Johnson City

January 29, 2023; BS ’83 General Psychology, MEd ’86 Education

Dennis W. Ward; North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

March 11, 2023; MCM ’82 City Management

Edward Begley; Arlington, Texas

February 23, 2023; BBA ’84 Management

Dossie A. McReynolds; Kingsport

February 20, 2023; BS ’84 Home Economics

Glenna A. Neill; Morristown

March 22, 2023; MA ’84 Business Education

Anthony S. Mitchell; Bristol, Tennessee

February 21, 2023; MEd ’85 Secondary Education

Van R. Wilson; Johnson City

March 14, 2023; BS ’86 Computer and Information Science

Sara M. Bostic; Knoxville

March 6, 2023; BS ’87 Mass Communication

Helen M. Miranda; Johnson City

March 11, 2023; ASN ’87 Nursing

Vanessa C. Chambers; Bristol, Virginia

February 26, 2023; ASN ’88 Nursing

Erma L. Hyers; Johnson City, Tennessee

March 12, 2023; MEd ’88 Special Education

1990s

James G. Morgan; Kingsport

February 6, 2023; BGS ’98 General Studies

Joan E. Mullin; Abingdon, Virginia

February 19, 2023; BSN ’92 Nursing, MSN ’99 Nursing, Graduate Certificate ’02 Health Care Management

Dr. John W. Ralston; Eagleville, Tennessee

November 20, 2022; BS ’99 Chemistry, MD ’03 Medicine

Debra H. Hodges; Johnson City

November 5, 2022; BGS ’99 General Studies

Stacy Seal; Sugar Hill, Georgia

October 21, 2022; BS ’92 Physical Education

Dr. Christopher A. Wiltcher; Gallatin, Tennessee

October 18, 2022; MD ’91 Medicine

Dr. John A. Owston; North Versailles, Pennsylvania

October 16, 2022; MEd ’94 Reading

Dr. Carl S. Rapp; Abingdon, Virginia

October 14, 2022; EdD ’97 Educational Leadership

Lester A. Drinnon; Morristown

December 9, 2022; BS ’99 Computer and Information Science

Betty J. Burris; Kingsport

November 28, 2022; MEd ’90

Dr. William G. Thompson; Rogersville, Alabama

December 16, 2022; MED ’90 Educational Administration and Supervision, EdD ’02 Educational Leadership

Forrest M. Rensner; Kingsport

December 26, 2022; BS ’97 Engineering Technology

Audrey A. Sinisi; Jonesborough

January 26, 2023; BSN ’94 Nursing

John P. Montoya; Pueblo, Colorado

February 18, 2023; BS ’94 Engineering Technology

Larry S. Freeman; Johnson City

March 12, 2023; BS ’95 Health Education

William E. Entrekin; Gray

March 12, 2023; BS ’96 Engineering Technology

Vaughn K. Lester; Bristol, Virginia

March 4, 2023; MS ’97 Engineering Technology

David C. Ellis; Elizabethton

March 18, 2023; BS ’91 Biology

Dr. Keith G. Wallace; Fort Lauderdale, Florida

May 31, 2016; MD ’92 Medicine

Scott D. Zimmerman; Talbott, Tennessee

April 4, 2023; BS ’95 Engineering Technology

Christie B. King; Marion, Virginia

April 4, 2023; AAS ’99 Dental Hygiene

Dr. Deborah B. Hayes; Johnson City April 22, 2023; BS ’98 Special Education, MEd ’06 Special Education, EdD ’14 Educational Leadership

2000s

K. O. Purdie; Cleveland, Tennessee October 12, 2022; BBA ’08 Marketing

John L. Patrick; Kingsport

November 9, 2022; BBA ’08 Management

Eric A. Crabtree; Gadsden, Alabama

December 5, 2022; BS ’02 General Psychology

Pamela A. Godwin; Johnson City

November 21, 2022; BSW ’04 Social Work

Jonathan P. Puckett; Maryville, Tennessee

January 26, 2023; BBA ’01 Marketing

Dr. Manette Monroe; Kissimmee, Florida

August 8, 2022; MD ’05 Medicine

Joyce Z. Loebner; Sneedville, Tennessee

February 9, 2023; MED ’06 Educational Media and Educational Technology

Leslie N. Hedges; Elizabethton March 2, 2023; BS ’00 Physical Education

Christyna E. Jensen; Chattanooga

March 24, 2023; MEd ’01 Reading

Cindy L. Turner; Johnson City

August 6, 2022; BS ’07 Sport and Leisure Management

William B. Hilton; Nashville

April 6, 2023; BS ’00 Mass Communication

Melissa C. Stuart ; Chuckey, Tennessee

April 6, 2023; BBA ’01 Management

NaRasha N. Turner; Johnson City April 5, 2023; BBA ’04 Management

Jennifer M. Meade; Bristol, Virginia

April 10, 2023; BS ’06 Criminal Justice and Criminology

Lead D. Walker; Bulls Gap, Tennessee April 10, 2023; MA ’07 Reading

2010s

Dylan C. Chambers; Atlanta

October 3, 2022; BS ’14 Mass Communication

Seth M. Elfstorm; Maryville, Tennessee November 21, 2022; BS ’15 Physical Education

Daniel P. Gant; Knoxville December 16, 2022; BS ’15 Engineering Technology

James E. Walton; Gilbert, South Carolina March 17, 2023; BGS ’19 General Studies

Joyce K. Kaye; Knoxville

March 31, 2023; MSN ’11 Nursing

Rose S. Gibson; Lebanon, Tennessee April 4, 2023; BS ’11 Professional Studies

William A. Burk; Kingsport

April 10, 2023; BS ’12 Political Science

2020s

Belinda E. Wells; Oak Ridge, Tennessee

November 8, 2022; MSN ’20 Nursing

Bailey E. Yearout; Weaverville, North Carolina

December 26, 2022; BS ’20

Mathematics

FACULTY, STAFF, AND RETIREES OBITUARIES

Dr. D. Glenn Pennington; Johnson City

October 18, 2022; Retired Faculty – Surgery

Kenneth L. Smith; Erwin

October 6, 2022; Retired Staff –Maintenance

Elaine M. Evans; Jonesborough

October 3, 2022; Staff – Medical Library

Charleen Stamper; Johnson City

September 30, 2022; Retired

Dr. Edwin W. Williams; Johnson City

October 22, 2022; Retired Faculty – English

Nancy N. Stevenson; Bristol, Tennessee

November 8, 2022; Retired Staff – Executive Offices

Dr. Ernest A. Daigneault; Houston, Texas

November 17, 2022; Retired Faculty –Pharmacology

Walter Andrews; Hampton

January 7, 2023; Retired Staff – Facilities

Patricia F. Maupin; Jonesborough

January 12, 2023; Retired Staff –Administration

Cathy L. McGinnis; Elizabethton

January 11, 2023; Retired Staff –Administrative Aide

Sam Tomlin; Kingsport

December 15, 2022; Retired Faculty –Associate Professor

Bruce A. Goodrow; Rogersville

February 13, 2023; Retired Faculty – College of Public Health

Steven B. Greenwell; Bowmantown, Tennessee

February 6, 2023; Retired Staff – Electronics Technician

Irene “Reny” Higgs; Johnson City

February 13, 2023; Retired Staff – Mass Communications

James D. Hoffmann; Alpine, Tennessee

January 24, 2023; Retired

Diane B. Nave; Johnson City

February, 28, 2023; Retired Staff – University Relations

Steven D. Scalf; Johnson City

March 17, 2023; Retired Staff – Painter

Sue Smith; Elizabethton

January 21, 2023; Retired Staff –Financial Aid

Nicholas A. Vanover; Vansant, Virginia

April 11, 2023; Former Faculty – English

Ignacy Fonberg; Jonesborough

April 13, 2023; Retired

Betty Edwards; Johnson City

May 17, 2023; Retired Faculty – University School

Chikenia T. Livingston; Johnson City May 18, 2023; BA ’20; Staff –Parking Services

Dr. Steven L. Berk; Lubbock, Texas

May 26, 2023; Former Faculty Member and Administrator – Internal Medicine

John E. Price; Springfield, Virginia

February 13, 2023; BS ’92 Criminal Justice and Criminology

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. ETSU may also offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of ETSU may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

East Tennessee State University does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants for admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs and activities sponsored by ETSU. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Compliance Coordinator, PO Box 70271, Johnson City, TN 37614, 423-439-8544. ETSU’s policy on non-discrimination can be found at: etsu.edu/universitycounsel/compliance. ETSU is an AA/EEO employer. ETSU-PRZ-22843-23