Georgetown College Alumni Magazine | Spring 2022 by Georgetown College

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

SPRING 2022

PRESIDENT

ALLEN

LOOKS AHEAD

Who's Who:

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

BUTLER GIVES BACK

A DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR DIPLOMAT

A MESSAGE FROM THE

PRESIDENT

Dear Alumni and Friends, Change can bring anxiety, but also hope. This truth has never been more evident to me and the rest of the Georgetown College family than it was this January 1, 2022, when I accepted the position of president. Being named the first female president of this glorious institution as it nears its bicentennial anniversary is both humbling and thrilling. This milestone in the College’s history is not mine alone, however. We are celebrating many firsts and accomplishments that include both fresh and familiar faces. We look to new horizons with great hope as we enter a new era.

PRESIDENT ROSEMARY ALLEN SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT John Davis EDITOR Deb McIntyre DESIGNER Chris Franklin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jay Buckner Olivia Coleman-Dunn, ‘15 Chris Franklin Tim Jordan Deb McIntyre CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jay Buckner Jane Cutter, ‘71 John Davis Olivia Coleman-Dunn, ‘15 Tim Jordan

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 1

PHOTOS O’Neil Arnold Jay Buckner Richard Davis Tim Jordan Deb McIntyre FOR COMMENTS, QUESTIONS, AND INFORMATION, CONTACT: Office of Marketing and Communications 400 East College Street Georgetown, KY 40324-1696 502-863-7922

In this edition of the Georgetown College Alumni Magazine, you’ll read about several leadership changes as some with familiar names take on new roles while some fresh faces are welcomed into the campus community. As I stepped into the role of president, Dr. Jonathan Sands Wise, who was acting Provost and Executive Vice President during the leadership changes, was officially named into that role. His former role as Vice President of Enrollment Management is now filled by Linda Olsen, and he is assisted by a new Associate Provost, Georgetown College’s Spanish professor Dr. Laura Hunt. In addition, Rush Sherman stepped into the Chief Financial Officer position on June 1 when David Wilhite retired after 18 years of service to the College. After 25 seasons under now retired Coach Bill Cronin, the Tiger football team will be led this fall by Chris Oliver, formerly at rival Lindsey Wilson College. The College welcomed an entirely new Marketing and Communications team, a new Title IX Coordinator, Laura Young, and three new trustees full of fresh enthusiasm for service to this College were welcomed back to the board. Our Day of Giving, March 17th, was a roaring success. The theme “Year of the Tiger,” coincided with the Chinese zodiac 2022 symbol and the event took place on St. Patrick’s Day. Great inroads were made towards various projects of the College as a result of this annual event. A new campaign, “Donate to Celebrate” brought in gifts from alumni, students, and friends rejoicing at their own personal milestones. Two alumni are featured in this issue for their philanthropic efforts on the part of the College. Jay Butler, ’80, a retired educator, is active in nonprofit and ecological efforts in Wyoming. Mike Calhoun, ’71, a retired basketball coach, has spent 25 years here on campus where he is known as “Money Mike” for his success in bringing funds to support the College’s mission. Alumni like these who continue to share their gifts, both monetarily and in service, are the heart and soul of this institution. Future alumna, Abir El Hirch, of Morocco, the first international student to be awarded the Distinguished Scholarship for incoming freshman, is also featured in this issue. This issue celebrates athletic teams and individuals who made the national spotlight. Also highlighted are familiar campus activities: Founder’s Day, a Black History Month discussion event, the George Walker Redding and Danford Thomas Memorial lectures, a Women’s History Month event, and the Faculty and Staff Recognition Luncheon. Perhaps the most celebratory event was Commencement. Degrees were granted to 221 students on Saturday, May 7th. This jubilee event was a fitting close to the spring semester allowing us to look back at challenges and look forward to the opportunities awaiting us. We have great expectations for the future. With Gratitude,

For address changes, e-mail tammy_owens@georgetowncollege.edu Georgetown College magazine is published by the Georgetown College Office of Marketing and Communications.

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CONTENTS

A Letter from the Director of Alumni Relations

Staff Spotlight

Giving Day

Commencement Spring

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES 09

Provost & Executive VP Jonathan Sands Wise

Head Football Coach Chris Oliver

VP of Enrollment Management Linda Olsen

Associate Provost Laura Hunt

“I'm confident that over time, competing for championships will be a reality here again."

Title IX Coordinator Laura Young

— Coach Chris Oliver

VP of Administration and Finance Rush Sherman

President Rosemary Allen

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

AROUND CAMPUS George Walker Redding Lecture

Butler Gives Back

Women's History Month

Recognizing Faculty & Staff

Danford Thomas Memorial Lecture

New Board of Trustees Members

Black History Month

Class Notes

A Distinguished Scholar Diplomat

In Memoriam

Founder's Day

CFO on the Go

Tigers Earn National Notice

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

A LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF

ALUMNI RELATIONS MY FELLOW ALUMNI,

ccording to the ancient Chinese calendar, this is the year of the Tiger. As we walk into this season of new leadership, new insights, and new direction, I humbly ask for your continued involvement and support. We want you to be woven into the fabric of Georgetown College, and we encourage you to tell us your accomplishments so fellow alumni can celebrate where Georgetown College has taken you in life. We began the 2020-2021 fiscal year with launching the Heart and Mind Alumni Tour, and we look forward to kicking off the new alumni tour in July 2022 (more details to come). Homecoming 2021 was a roaring success. Homecoming 2022 is set for September 29 – October 2, and we invite each of you to celebrate with us! We will have the Distinguished Alumni Awards, Songfest, the inauguration of President Rosemary Allen, and so much more. It will be a Homecoming to remember. You won’t want to miss it.

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OLIVIA COLEMAN-DUNN

I am grateful for our Alumni Board, led by President Alan Redditt ’00, as they have been committed to raising the profile of Georgetown College through our quarterly meetings and through their unwavering dedication to our beloved alma mater. It is my hope that this magazine ignites enthusiasm from you and all our alumni. Through its pages we can celebrate YOU and this institution we all love. Each graduate of Georgetown College tells such a wonderful and unique story. The common thread that we all share together is that we are all Tigers. It is my goal to hear and celebrate as many of those stories as possible. Go Tigers! Sincerely,

Olivia C. Dunn ’15, Director of Alumni Relations

“ Nice meeting you! My name’s Mike. What’s yours? Tell me about yourself,” says Mike Calhoun, ’72, to about any stranger he meets. The tall man with a wide, friendly smile and warm handshake makes himself an instant friend to anyone he meets who will take a moment to talk. “Money Mike,” as he’s lovingly referred to by his colleagues in the College’s Advancement Department, has been a goodwill ambassador for his alma mater for the past 25 years. His title is senior major gifts officer, but he manages to be involved in about any activity that promotes the College with no signs of slowing down. The campus, frankly, just wouldn’t be the same without him.

S T A F F SPOTLIGHT:

MIKE CALHOUN '72

“Mike is a master of relationships, a quality that comes from his genuine, kind, engaged interest in people. I’m so grateful that he is out there building quality relationships on behalf of Georgetown College. That’s what this institution values above all else,” says President Rosemary Allen.

Mike’s early years were spent in Norwood, Ohio, in the greater Cincinnati area. A basketball player intent on a career as a coach, Mike first attended the University of Cincinnati but then transferred to Georgetown his sophomore year. On campus he majored in physical education and sociology while playing basketball under legendary Coach Bob Davis and with standout players like Kenny Davis, ’71, and the late Jim Reid, ’70, who later coached the Tigers through 23 successful seasons.

“Mike works tirelessly to ensure the College is successful. His decades of devotion, relationship building, and fundraising are cornerstones of his success; his work ethic is inspirational,” says Senior Vice President of Advancement John Davis. Colleague Tammy Owens, director of donor relations, describes Mike as loyal, trustworthy, and humble. “His affinity for Georgetown College shines through every interaction and his kindness is genuine, no matter what your connection is to the College.”

Provost and Executive Vice President Jonathan Sands Wise sums up his feelings about Mike in this way: “It’s always a joy to work with Mike to support this college. He is always incredibly appreciative of what others do; he knows everyone and works so well with our alumni; he is humble and puts others first. He truly lives out the Christian mission of the institution that he serves so well.”

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For 25 years Mike lived his dream of coaching basketball, as assistant coach at Franklin County High School in Frankfort, Ky., and at three universities: Samford, Murray State, and Indiana State. He completed his career as assistant and then head coach for Eastern Kentucky University. His wife Sharon (Dotson) Calhoun, ’72, was still teaching middle school. With three kids to put through college, Mike found a second career here, working first as the director of the Leadership Office. In 1999 he was named Director of the Athletic Foundation, then in 2000 he became a gift officer, and has taken on roles in alumni development at various times.

His love for all things Georgetown rubbed off on his children, all of whom are graduates. Kevin Calhoun, ’98, married classmate Alison (Witt) Calhoun, ’98, and is the assistant athletic director and men’s head tennis coach at Transylvania University; Kristen (Calhoun) Fardo, ’99, is a preschool teacher in Kentucky; and Karen (Calhoun) Lilge, ’01, is a preschool teacher in Georgia. “One of Dad’s favorite things to do now is declare holidays and family birthday dinners to be Georgetown College alumni events. When the six of us are Mike as part of the men’s together, they certainly are,” says Kevin. Tiger basketball team, 1972 “My sisters and I felt that we were the luckiest people in the world to have our daddy at college with us,” says Kevin. “We loved eating lunch with him in the cafeteria and having our friends get to know him. The devotion and loyalty my dad has towards Georgetown College is deep. He believes in the mission and values of the College and lives what the College taught him and teaches it to those who follow him: faith in God, loyalty to others, sacrificial service, and a commitment to learning.” Kevin says Mike passed those values to him and his sisters and continues to share it with his four granddaughters and grandson.

GIVING GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 5

TOTAL GIVING DAY GIFTS

TOTAL GIVING DAY SUPPORT

GOAL: 800 ACTUAL:

$222,299

838

105% 100% OF GOAL THANKS!

DAY '22 CHALLENGES BE THE "FIRST" CHALLENGE 1148.5% | $115,848

Matching gift received: $10,000 Total support: $125,848

SIGMA KAPPA HOUSE RENOVATION CHALLENGE 123.8% | $3,096 Matching gift received: $2,500

BLACKBURN CHALLENGE

Total support: $5,596

Matching gift received: $30,000

TIGER MATES CHALLENGE

114.6% | $34,384

Total support: $64,384

CHAPEL RENOVATION CHALLENGE Matching gift received: $10,000 Total support: $20,542

LAMBDA CHI ALPHA HOUSE RENOVATION CHALLENGE 158.4% | $3,960 Matching gift received: $2,500 Total support: $6,460

Matching gift received: $10,000

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION CHALLENGE 69% | $5,865 Total support: $5,865

Donations from: • 37 States • class years 1952 – 2021

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

105.4% | $10,542

290% | 58 of 20

COMMENCEMENT SPRING '22

espite the rain that drove most of the festivities indoors, Commencement activities were truly a celebration of the graduating class of 2022.

A picnic on the back lawn of the President’s House included a welcome from Alumni Director Olivia Coleman-Dunn, ’15, and a charge to the class from professor Dr. Richard Kopp. Senior superlatives, a GC tradition, were handed out amid applause and laughter. A Senior Celebration allowed seniors to introduce their parents and friends to professors and staff members. Before the Baccalaureate sermon by the Rev. Richard Gaines, a former member of the College’s Board of Trustees, Christian service awards were announced. Dr. Susan Bell, psychology professor, won the George W. Redding Award for faculty; Dr. Ticha Chikuni, executive director of admissions, won the Gardner-Marshall Staff Award; and senior Avery Renner of Louisville was given the Norman and Martha Yocum Lytle Award for graduating seniors. Crowds packed the Davis-Reid Alumni Gymnasium to witness the conferring of degrees to 171 undergraduates and 50 graduates on Saturday morning, May 7th. “Golden Agers,” members of the graduating classes of 1970-1972, were recognized in celebration of the 50th anniversaries of their own Commencements, since the 2020 and 2021 celebrations were cancelled due to the pandemic. The President’s Award went to senior Carrie Jo Cecil from Louisa, Ky. and the Don and Chris Kerr Cawthorne Award was given to Dr. Bill Stevens, biology professor. The Rev. Mary Alice Birdwhistell, ’09, delivered the address. An honorary doctoral degree was bestowed upon Margaret (Thornton) Greynolds, ’59. A professor from 1969-2000, she chaired the communication arts department for more than 20 years and was the speech and debate coach. Margaret earned Hall of Fame honors in the Kentucky High School Speech League, the Kentucky Forensic Association, the National Forensic Association, and Pi Kappa Delta, the American forensic honor society, after receiving numerous awards in those and other organizations. After Commencement a reception was held in her honor for invited guests. Once the undergraduate degrees were presented, Dean of Education Dr. Kim WaltersParker, ’83, gave the Graduate Dean’s Honor Award to Tyler Harris, a teacher at Trinity High School. Master of Education degree candidates then underwent the hooding ceremony by professors Dr. Jane Arrington, Dr. Todd Hamilton, and Dr. Harold Peach.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 7

Former GC Trustee, the Rev. Richard Gaines, gave a stirring Baccalaureate sermon.

The Rev. Mary Alice Birdwhistell, ’09, delivered the Commencement address.

Joabe Barbosa playfully took a selfie during his Senior Address.

Dr. Bill Stevens accepted the Cawthorne Award from Provost Jonathan Sands Wise.

President Allen presented an honorary doctorate to Dr. Margaret Greynolds, ’59.

Carrie Jo Cecil was greeted onstage by President Allen for her award.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 8

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Dr. Jonathan Sands Wise Provost & Executive Vice President

r. Jonathan Sands Wise is a familiar face—and figure—on Georgetown’s campus. A man of tall stature, he is easily spotted as he strolls across campus, and is particularly identifiable with his signature hat.

Associated with Georgetown College since 2008, Sands Wise has filled many roles before being named Provost and Executive Vice President in January. As Provost, he serves as the College’s chief academic officer. His career at Georgetown began as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Philosophy before being promoted to Assistant Professor. Then, after serving as the Associate Dean of Academic Success for a little over one year, he was asked to become the Vice President of Enrollment Management in 2015. For the past six years, Sands Wise has overseen admissions, financial planning, academic success, and (from 2018-2020) the College’s marketing and communications operations. One year ago, he was appointed as Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate and New Programs, while still serving as Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management. As Associate Provost, he was the point person for a multiinstitutional Financial Sustainability Collaborative and also provided leadership to the College’s COVID response efforts. “The most challenging time [of the pandemic] was that first summer and fall of 2020 when we had to make very large decisions based on constantly changing information,” he said. “By looking at all of the possible scenarios we might face and determining changes we could make on campus to operate as safely as possible in any of those scenarios, we were able to make broadbased plans that were reactive to the reality. We were forced to make plans and adjust on the fly. In general, that was the most important lesson we learned: that we had to constantly adapt, and that has remained true for the past two years. The adaptability that is possible at a small campus with the wonderful faculty and staff that we have has been our greatest strength as we have faced the ever-changing reality of the COVID pandemic.”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 9

When President Rosemary Allen announced his appointment as Provost, she noted that he “kept unwavering focus on providing supportive leadership that helped keep this College stable in a time of uncertainty. As Provost, he will bring his extraordinary creative capacity and gift for solving problems to the task of leading the academic program.” Those skills will be useful in his new role. “Dr. Allen has asked me to focus on finding potential new programs and partnerships that are good fits for our mission and institution while also providing attractive new opportunities for potential students at the undergraduate and potentially the graduate level,’ he said. “I am excited to help find some opportunities that can expand on whom we serve and continue to make a difference in this world for God through our amazing students.” Noting that this is now the third position in which he reports to Dr. Allen, Jonathan said that he has had the chance to share her vision for the future of the College and to understand how she works.

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Reflecting on his previous positions at Georgetown, he said, “Every role has given me an opportunity to understand the strengths and struggles of our institution, and to have a different perspective on how we serve our students. I have had the unique chance to understand why students and parents choose GC, and to see the difference that this college makes in students’ lives. Seeing the academic area from outside, as it were, has allowed me to appreciate what a wonderful faculty we have and what a great educational experience we offer our students.” Sands Wise’s appointment as Provost comes after years of success as VP of Enrollment. During his tenure, Georgetown College saw an upward enrollment trend, achieving recordbreaking enrollments. This past fall, 1,224 students enrolled full-time, marking the single highest enrollment in a decade. As a faculty member, Sands Wise co-directed the Christian Scholars Program for several years, and as VP of Enrollment he worked with Dr. Allen and the faculty to develop several new Programs of Distinction. Over the past six years, with the support of Dr. Allen and Sands Wise, faculty have started Science Honors and Independent Honors, Health Scholars, Allied Health Scholars, the Pre-Law Program, the Maskrafters Academy for Theatre and Film, and the Prototype Program for the Arts. These programs provide students with exceptional experiences that prepare them for graduate work and for success in their future careers.

With an undergraduate degree in philosophy from Houghton College, and a Master’s and Ph.D. in philosophy from Baylor University, Jonathan recognizes the importance and value of a Christian education. “Georgetown College is renowned for the exceptional educational experience that our faculty provide,” he said. “Few schools so ably combine a challenging academic program with personal and supportive teaching, and the result is a Christian liberal arts program that prepares our students to succeed. I am excited to work with our faculty to continue this legacy of excellence in new and innovative ways.”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

A native of Harmony, Pa., Jonathan lives in Georgetown with Elizabeth, his wife, and two school-aged daughters. He is active in local organizations and has been a member and officer of the board for Quest Farm, a local nonprofit serving adults with developmental disabilities. He also served as both vice president and president of the board for Elizabeth’s Village, an organization in Georgetown that helps women and children in need. He attends Faith Baptist Church, where he has served as deacon, taught the college Sunday School class, and regularly sings in the choir.

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Chris Oliver Head Football Coach, GC Tigers

n the world of athletics, they say to never follow a coaching legend: you cannot achieve the same level of success, you won’t do things the right way, and you’ll need lots of luck.

The king of the 100-yard domain at Georgetown College for the last two-and-ahalf decades was the legendary leader Bill Cronin, a venerated National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) hall-of-famer who paced the sidelines at Toyota Stadium for more than 30 years as an assistant, offensive coordinator, and head coach. During his tenure, the Tigers achieved unprecedented success: 218 wins, 14 Mid-South Conference titles, and two NAIA national championships in 2000 and 2001 during an impressive run of appearances in four consecutive national championship games. That is legendary. But someone had to follow the legend and become the Tiger’s 28th head coach. The next man up is Chris Oliver, former head coach at rival Lindsey Wilson College, and he doesn’t count on luck. He relies on intense preparation, smart strategy, unyielding discipline, and an impeccable attention to detail. At first glance, his easy smile and approachable nature might cause you to think Coach Oliver is not so much the competitive type. Like many of his opponents who underestimated him, you’d be wrong. He has a cerebral kind of competitiveness that translates to his players’ physical competitiveness. He might be new, but he is already running his program with the sure confidence of a coach who has already reached the pinnacle of his profession, which he has, a national championship, in fact. Like a chess grandmaster playing checkers on the porch of Cracker Barrel, Oliver is a tactician, a strategist who begins defeating his opponents long before game-week preparations. He out-strategizes, out-thinks, outmaneuvers, and out-works opponents with his impeccable attention to detail and ability to adapt when needed, whether that’s by changing some minor detail in how he recruits in the off-season, or by bringing decoy pressure from a 3-3-5 defense to rattle the opposing quarterback.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 11

His calendar is full, but he knows what every day holds and what needs to happen. He leaves little to chance and nothing to luck, except maybe the margin of victory, if that. He is fully in the moment because he trusts his preparations, and he expects success. “I would like to think I’ve had more success than someone who is less detail-oriented, and I think that that's been a big part of our ability to achieve our goals over the years,” says Oliver. “Being more organized and prepared for success translates to winning games, and it’s keeps us all moving in the direction of our goals.”

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

In 2010, Oliver lost at Lindsey Wilson College to Georgetown by a 48-0 score. Since then, his coaching acumen has become evident as his teams beat the Tigers for eight consecutive years en route to a 2020 NAIA national championship. Along the way, he won five conference championships, seven playoff berths, and 105 wins, the most by any college in Kentucky during that span. To say he can build a program from scratch is an understatement. He built it, he grew it, he sustained it, and he elevated it. “The football tradition here speaks for itself, and I'd like to think that some of my experience also speaks for itself. I'm confident that over time competing for championships will be a reality here again.” While Oliver plans to compete to win, his first priorities are to support his players’ academic success and personal development. “Our first goal is to graduate young men with an outstanding education that's going to set them up for success,” says Oliver, who adds that the College’s academics, graduation rate, and “four straight years of the highest job placement rate in Kentucky” shows Georgetown’s commitment to reaching that goal. These accolades also give the program a distinct recruiting advantage and help achieve its second goal to compete for championships. “My wife and I put a lot of prayer and thought into this decision, and it was not easy, but we believed the Lord laid this in front of us. A lot of things came together that convinced us that this is where we should be,” says Oliver. “We made this move to a school at the same level, and we intend for this to be a long-term decision, not a steppingstone.

The results start on August 25 when GC plays at Kentucky Christian University.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

Vice President of Athletics Brian Evans is excited for the future of football at Georgetown. “Coach Oliver’s been able to do some things over the last 12 years at Lindsey Wilson that are pretty remarkable, building that program so quickly and doing it the right way. That was important to me. That is something that had been a staple of our program, doing things the right way and getting results. I am very blessed that we get to replace a legend with a legend in the making. It’s not very often you get to do that.”

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Linda Olsen Vice President of Enrollment Management

ne of the fresh faces on campus is Linda Olsen, vice president of enrollment management. Linda joined the College staff in January, succeeding Jonathan Sands Wise, who had held the position since 2015. Linda grew up in Montgomery, Ala., achieving her bachelor’s degree at Huntingdon College, a small liberal arts institution much like Georgetown. “I met some of my closest friends there and made wonderful memories, all of which impacted who I am today,” she says. After graduating she was an admissions counselor for Huntingdon, beginning a career in education that would take her to Tennessee, Florida, and finally to Georgetown. After earning a master’s degree in school counseling from Middle Tennessee State University she worked as a high school guidance counselor in Florida, helping students explore and apply to colleges. “I developed connections with admissions representatives, allowing me to personalize the college search for my students.” Because of those connections she was offered an administrative position with Eastern Florida State College, serving as the Director for Admissions and Advising and on a leadership team that bridged relationships between admissions, financial aid, advising, student success, and academics. Meanwhile, she worked toward a doctorate at the University of Central Florida, studying Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 13

From Florida Linda moved to Murfreesboro, Tenn., closer to her parents and two of her three children, serving as Admissions Director at Middle Tennessee State University. Her sister-in-law, Christy (Morgan) Calder, who attended Georgetown College in the late 1990s, alerted her to a position here. “She (Christy) loved her time at Georgetown and encouraged me to look into this opportunity. I’m so glad I did.” Linda has found the College rich in the assets that students seek out for study and to call home after high school. “The students here are inspiring. They give me hope for what they will accomplish once they graduate. This is a school where relationships begin and develop into lifelong connections. From peer friendships, faculty mentorships, to professional internships, Georgetown’s students have numerous opportunities, academically and socially, to be challenged to think and grow while being supported in a caring Christian environment.”

Dr. Laura Hunt Associate Provost

familiar face in a new place on campus is Dr. Laura Hunt, who was named associate provost when Jonathan Sands Wise was appointed provost. As a result, her office has moved from Pawling Hall to the second floor of Giddings Hall, but the same open door and welcoming attitude remains.   Laura joined the faculty in the fall of 2008 as a Spanish professor. During her 13 years on campus, she has taken on increased responsibilities. She chaired the World Languages Department for seven years, then in 2017 added Faculty Director for Study Abroad to her list of duties, and in 2019 was made Assistant Dean for Accreditation, helping then-Provost Dr. Rosemary Allen ensure the College remains accredited and complies with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges’ (SACOC) guidelines. In her position of associate provost, the Spanish professor (who continues to teach one class per semester) wears several hats. She still advises students on study abroad opportunities and is the institutional accreditation liaison, but she also facilitates faculty programming, experiential learning, and student retention and is academic ombud. In this role she counsels students who have issues with academic fairness (such as grade questions and accusations of honor code violations). “Students can come to me and have an impartial, confidential space where they can explore their options and I can help them navigate through the process.”

One of her passions is helping students achieve their desire to study abroad, an experience that cemented her own career decision. She is on the board of directors for the Kentucky Institute for International

Studies and helps students find programs that match their academic needs with their dreams of travel and learning about other cultures. Trips abroad can also factor into the experiential learning pedagogy that she firmly follows. Professors seek her out to find ways to move students from the classroom and doing hands-on learning in internships, field trips and service learning, or in taking advantage of volunteer opportunities. “There are a lot of different ways we can increase those chances for our students and they’re so meaningful.” Laura’s journey to Georgetown College began in Wisconsin and Indiana, where she grew up. After high school she attended Furman University, intending to study biology. Like most liberal arts schools, it required a proficiency in a foreign language, so she took the placement test for Spanish. “I tested into the highest class you could get into, which I thought was a mistake,” she recalled. Her Spanish professor recognized her talent and encouraged her to continue studying the language. She decided to major in Spanish with a concentration in environmental studies. A trip to Spain her senior year sealed her decision to become a Spanish professor. “That was kind of it, for me.” She applied to graduate schools from an internet café there.   Laura then moved to the Bluegrass region where she achieved master and doctorate degrees from the University of Kentucky. After working as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Eastern Kentucky University, and Centre College, she interviewed for a tenure track opening at Georgetown, and everything “clicked."   Laura has been thrilled to teach and work here. “As we all say, ‘Georgetown gets under your skin.’ I think Georgetown has the kindest faculty, staff, and students of any institution in Kentucky. We are like a family here. Because it is so small, it is easy to collaborate on any project and to make big things happen in a short amount of time. We have really special relationships with students here. Teaching 14 our students is the most important thing”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

She is also responsible for professional development for her colleagues. “We have a lot of faculty with so many talents. We all become better teachers when we share those strategies in workshops and trainings. We have the best teachers at GC, and I learn so much from them."

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Laura Young Title IX Coordinator

aura Young is a fresh face to most students, but familiar to staff and faculty who remember her work as Assistant Registrar and Administrative Assistant in the Registrar’s Office from 2015 to 2019. Now she has returned as the Title IX coordinator, working as part of the Department of Human Resources and the Office of the President, and serving the needs of both students and employees of the College. Title IX is a 1974 amendment of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which reads, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Under the requirements of Title IX, schools that receive federal funds have a legal obligation to protect students from gender-based violence and harassment – including sexual assault. Laura’s job is to fulfill that obligation. She is a native of Lexington, Ky., and received a bachelor’s degree in social work from Western Kentucky University (WKU). During her undergraduate years she did practicum work with low-income residents in the Community Action of Southern Kentucky and helped coordinate the local Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. As a member of WKU’s Social Work Student Union she also volunteered in many community programs, including “Take Back the Night,” which addresses sexual violence. Laura is excited to return to Georgetown College. “It feels like coming home to the family I created on campus,” she says. Her office on the ground floor of the John L. Hill chapel is an inviting room with warm lighting, soft hues, a comfy couch with pillows, and a basket of fidget toys. She hopes the space invites visitors to relax and share any experiences or concerns regarding sexual harassment and assault. She has been busy adopting and implementing an updated Title IX policy for the College and is putting together staff and faculty training events for the summer. She also is working with student groups and community organizations that will help promote and foster awareness and education about sexual assault. She is building a team of campus advisors who can help complainants and respondents with emotional support and advice during the required legal grievance process. “My goal is to meet students where they are and offer relatable education on uncomfortable topics. I aim to help foster an environment where transparency is encouraged, and survivors are empowered.”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 15

Rush Sherman Vice President of Administration and Finance

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

he departure of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) David Wilhite due to retirement (see page 28) brought another fresh face, Rush Sherman, to campus as Vice President of Administration and Finance. He brings more than 25 years of financial expertise to the College. For the past six years Rush was the CFO for Spalding University in Louisville where he is simultaneously earning a doctorate in leadership studies. Prior to working in higher education, Rush held financial planning and analysis positions at ResCare, Inc., Humana, and a nonprofit organization, Almost Family, Inc. President Rosemary Allen announced Rush’s hiring in March with a strong vote of confidence. “I am convinced that this hire is a big win for Georgetown College. Rush was instrumental to reorganizing Spalding’s finances and stabilizing its financial position. He brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to our executive cabinet team.”

Rush believes his years in the healthcare industry prepared him perfectly for higher education finance. Both industries have undergone strategic, operational, and financial changes that require continuing innovations and positive outcomes for students, patients, and customers. “Georgetown College is in a unique position to grow in its future,” says Rush. Through the development of new programs, the College will expand its offerings in many areas where there is a desperate need for 21st century professionals. Through workforce partnerships, along with online, hybrid, and face-to-face instruction, the future is very bright.”

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A graduate of Bellarmine University’s undergraduate and graduate programs, Rush has spent his entire adult life learning and working in the Louisville area. But the respect he garnered for Wilhite’s service and leadership contributions in higher education as well as the reputation of Georgetown College piqued his interest in the position. “I have several friends and family members who have been connected to Georgetown. Their love and appreciation for the institution and its mission compelled me to investigate the opportunity when it came my way.”

FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

Dr. Rosemary Allen President

Forging the Future and Cultivating the Core

t’s spring again. As the earth comes to life once more, President Rosemary Allen is in her happy place–the garden behind her home on Main Street, cultivating the shoots of promise found in her flowers. In many ways, her beloved perennials are metaphors for how she sees Georgetown College, her home for nearly 38 years. Both are enduring with strong roots that produce year after year, and yet need cultivation and care to thrive.

On January 1, 2022, Dr. Rosemary Allen was appointed the 26th president of Georgetown College, the first female president in its 193-year history. While this milestone was celebrated with much enthusiasm from students, colleagues, alumni, and friends, she viewed it as a “natural evolution” of a career devoted to education. “None of it was planned. You’ve got to go where you feel the Lord is leading you, and I really feel that in various ways. I’ve just been so incredibly blessed that there is this alignment between my circumstances and my desire to serve.” As a girl growing up in Michigan, Allen fostered no ambitions that would even hint at where life would take her. She was the youngest of five children. Though neither of her parents completed college, they were strong advocates for education. Three of her four grandparents were college graduates, including her maternal grandmother, Ethyl Adams Crosby, a pioneer for her time, who received a degree from University of Michigan in 1903 and became a teacher. When Allen was very young, her Grandma Crosby came to live in her home. A family of bibliophiles, her siblings, parents, and grandmother loved reading to her. The retired teacher, however, taught Allen the elements of language that helped her discover the magic of words on her own. “She knew how to read to me in a way that taught me how to read.” One day Allen pulled out one of the primers her grandmother kept conveniently on the lowest shelf in her bedroom and started reading a story about a white rabbit – one she’d never had read to her – and knew she was truly a reader.

The light went on for her during a required teaching assistantship that put her in a classroom for the first time. The thought of speaking before a classroom was initially daunting. “I’m a fairly reserved individual and thought I’d be horrible.” She even tried to find a way out of the obligation, offering to do extra assignments or research, but there was no way out. The first day she overprepared and it seemed to be a disaster. But by the third class, she stopped trying too hard and just let instinct take over. “It took me precisely one week to discover that teaching literature is the most wonderful thing in the history of the universe. I loved it.” In 1984, while Allen was working on her dissertation at Vanderbilt, a professor casually mentioned a teaching opportunity he’d learned about – a friend needed someone to teach English classes for a year while he did research for a National Endowment for the Humanities grant. That friend was Dr. Steve May, who was teaching at Georgetown College. Not familiar with the institution, Allen looked it up on a map and found that it was near Lexington. “For a little girl who used to love horse stories, I loved the idea of being in horse country. I’d visited as a child and thought it was really pretty and a great place to spend a year while I finished up my dissertation.” Allen settled in May’s office and was welcomed into the English department faculty which included John Sadlon, ’72, Frank Ellers, ’54, Mary Brady, Ralph Curry, and Gwen Curry, ’54, who took the young woman under her wing. “There weren’t a lot of young women professors on campus at that time. Gwen felt a definite responsibility to make sure that I felt included and supported.”   Allen had not intended to stay for more than that one year, but when an adjunct position opened, she took it and taught part-time in her second year. After that, she taught two additional years as a fulltime visiting faculty member. With no permanent position available at the College, she left in fall of 1988, when a temporary position was

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“That taught me the importance of people who empower you to figure things out by yourself.” In the pedagogy of education, that’s an elemental technique called “discovery learning,” and it’s a concept that Allen used decades later as a successful college professor. “The most rewarding aspect of teaching is the relationships with the students. It’s a joy to be able to see them when the light comes on and they discover their own capacity.”

In high school in the small town of Frankenmuth, Mich., and even while earning a double major in history and English at Hillsdale College, Allen did not plan to be an educator. She admits to having no firm career goals. “I just knew what I liked to do – read.” She loved stories and learning things. Allen’s passion for absorbing 17 knowledge shone throughout her undergraduate career (she was valedictorian of her graduating class) and onto the campus of Vanderbilt University, where she attended graduate school. Even then, she had no clear plans at first to become a college professor.

Dr. Allen helped many students discover the joys of Renaissance literature. This photo was taken in approximately 1989.

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FRESH & FAMILIAR FACES

offered at Vanderbilt. Allen thought her days at Georgetown were over, but providence sent her back to the Bluegrass state. Frank Ellers suddenly retired, and Allen was invited back in spring 1989 to fill the vacancy as a permanent, tenure-track faculty member. Realizing her heart had already embraced the students and staff of the College, she was grateful to accept and return to a place that already felt like home. Coming alongside her as a colleague that fall was husband Todd Coke, a fellow Vanderbilt graduate specializing in American literature.   Allen went “all in” as a professor, specializing in the Renaissance era, thrilling in helping students wade through the complexities of Shakespeare and Milton. She helped them understand that reading is not just for pleasure, but also an intellectual exercise. “There’s so much you can get out of the study of literature, and you can return to it again and again. It helps you deal with ambiguity of meaning and with how you construct meaning. These are wonderful educative processes for students to undertake.” She also taught journalism and was faculty advisor of the student newspaper, The Georgetonian, for 14 years. She still maintains as much connection to the paper as is appropriate to her role, providing help and advice when she can.    She intended to teach for the rest of her career, but once again, the hand of providence intervened. “I didn’t pursue administration; it pursued me,” says Allen.  During her 2004 sabbatical, President William Crouch Jr. asked her to take a oneyear appointment to the provost position, made vacant by the departure of Dr. Bill Pollard, until a replacement could be found. The search for a replacement never happened. Allen found she enjoyed—and was good at—leading the College’s faculty and its educational mission. She was invited to stay on in that position.

her favorite Shakespeare and Milton courses. Five years ago, she also took on something new and started teaching the firstyear Foundations class that introduces critical reading and thinking. She is a teacher at heart and remains so even now that, after serving as interim president twice, she has been appointed to the top administrative role at the College.  She’s on the schedule to teach Shakespeare in the fall of 2022. Her years at Hillsdale College, a small liberal arts school in Michigan, made her a firm believer in the value of the liberal arts still offered at institutions like Georgetown. “I loved the capacity to try so many things out and learn what really does work for me.” Though an introvert by nature, Allen thrived in the intimate setting, forming close friendships, playing intramurals, being in theatre productions, and playing the flute in the band and orchestra. At Georgetown she sees this joy of self-discovery in its students and how it leads them to find fulfilling life vocations, especially through the various honors and specialty programs. “The academic majors themselves are not necessarily designed to be purely vocational. But these programs can help students navigate their way through how a liberal arts curriculum really does prepare them well for professional opportunities.”   So where will Allen guide the College, now that she is holding the reins? The answer to that question is revealing itself to her as 2022 unfolds. “First of all, we have to continue to build the strength of the core of this institution. This College is still here and is still supporting students because it has a very solid core of people who are dedicated to its mission and have spent their entire lives pursuing it. We have to continue to support and foster that attitude.” She doesn’t expect to achieve that through her own efforts, however. Allen is a strong believer in collaboration and cooperation. She praises the team of administrators who work with her and to whom she can go for advice in their areas of expertise. “None of us should ever think that we know everything we need to know in order to run the College. We really need to be a community, a group that genuinely sees ourselves as united in a common mission.”

Though she had to give up advising The Georgetonian for a possible conflict of interest, Allen still has continued to teach

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President Allen received the most donation votes for the Karaoke in the Caf campaign and obliged by singing “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” to the delight of the College community on Giving Day.

One advantage Allen has in her new role is a clear understanding of the strengths and challenges of the College, gained from serving as provost through several administrations. “We are an institution with a deep and rich history that we want to protect and be kind to – particularly the Christian mission. We don’t want to see that slip away, but we do still have to understand that we’re living in a world that’s very different from the world that I stepped into 37 years ago. It’s not the same college in many ways, while it’s still exactly the same college when you look at the strength at its core: the people, the dedication, the support for faith, and the focus on education.”

1978

1984-1989

1998

Graduated from Hillsdale College with a BA in English and history

Visiting and adjunct professor at Georgetown College

Recipient of the Manning Distinguished Mentor and Teacher Award

1984

1989-2004

Obtained a Ph.D. in English Literature (British and Commonwealth) with a primary focus on Renaissance literature from Vanderbilt University

Tenured professor at Georgetown College

Jonathan Sands Wise, Provost and Executive VP

"I believe this College is destined for a bright future, and I hope to help it shine on."

“Dr. Allen brings to her position … not only excellence as a faculty member, experience in administration, and the faith of the faculty, staff, and students … she also brings a wealth of ideas about how to make Georgetown College thrive. She brings her patience, her empathy, and her strategic and passionate commitment to being the best Christian liberal arts college that we can be. She is not only a good choice, she is the necessary choice.”

John Davis, Senior VP of Advancement

Challenging these core strengths is the aging infrastructure, institutional debt, and the changing demographics of today’s students. The dormitories on South Campus, built in the 1960s, are showing their age, and Knight Hall currently is held in reserve until funds can be raised for renovations.   Though the College is reaching out to the graduate students who thrive in online programs, the College remains dedicated to giving undergraduate students an on-campus college experience that is life changing. “We know what that is, and it’s tied to our capacity to develop a really high-quality, Christian, residential, liberal arts experience,” says Allen. The President acknowledges that funding the significant fiscal needs of the College can’t all be done through donations and grants, though they are extremely important. She believes building graduate-level academic programs that increase revenue, but don’t rely on current physical infrastructure, are a key to financial strength for the future. She anticipates expanding the digital footprint by using the faculty’s expertise in online learning to offer graduate degrees, certificate programs, and coursework in professional and personal development. “These new streams of revenue will increase our financial strength and help us continue to be a vital institution in the future.”

David Wilhite, Chief Financial Officer “Dr. Allen has been at the College for 35 years and because of that, has a very unique perspective regarding its history, culture, and environment. She is a great listener, her communication skills are top-notch, and she possesses a genuine love for Georgetown and everything that it entails. I have seen her in action in many different situations over the years, and her ability to receive and evaluate information, consider options, and make good decisions is nothing but outstanding.”

Facebook posts upon the announcement of Allen’s appointment: Alice White “As the parent of a graduate, I have full confidence in Dr. Allen as president! A cheer went up in this house when we heard the news. 2022 and moving forward will be good years for Georgetown College.”

Kimberly Hardy Martin, ‘91 “Wonderful news! Georgetown College is in fabulous hands.”

Brandy Osborne, ‘99 “I could not be more happy, nor more sure of the right person for this role. Dr. Allen was a beloved professor when I was a student and a kind friend and supporter since my graduation over 20 years ago. She exemplifies all that is truly special about Georgetown and will lead our school to greater heights.”

Seth Molloy Flynn, ‘04

May – July 2019 and Nov. – Dec. 2021 Acting President

2004-2021

January 1, 2022

Provost

Appointed President

“Professor, mentor, and friend! I couldn't be happier about this selection. Dr. Rosemary Allen will never truly know the impact she had on my life …. she nurtured my love for literature and contributed greatly to my pursuit of majoring in English. I put those skills to use every day – at work and at home. Never undervalue the worth of a liberal arts degree. I look forward to the journey Georgetown College will take under her guidance. KUDOS!”

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Having served under four College presidents, Allen has had sufficient time to formulate her vision of how she wants to lead. “Never think of yourself as a successs. I am not satisfied with what I’ve accomplished in my years in College administration, and I’m not even sure that I want to be satisfied. We have to keep aspiring to more, and we have to keep working with focus and dedication. I’ve seen some dark times here, and we’ve come through them. I believe this College is destined for a bright future, and I hope to help it shine on.”

“Dr. Allen is a trusted leader who truly believes in the mission of the College and works tirelessly to ensure its future. Accountability, community, and devotion are staples of her leadership.”

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G E O R G E

WA L K E R

REDDING LECTURE D

r. Beth Allison Barr, professor and associate dean of the graduate school of Baylor University, opened this year’s George Walker Redding Endowed Lecture in the Ward Room of the Ensor Learning Resource Center February 17th, by showing the audience a provoking photo of a Shrine Madonna from the medieval period. These sculptures, revered from the late 13th century into the 15th, depicted Mary, the mother of Jesus, and opened to reveal complex carvings and paintings. In the shrine Barr used to illustrate her message, Mary is holding the Christ child in one arm and an apple in her hand, illustrating how she, in giving birth to Jesus, redeemed the sin of Eve when she ate the original fruit. Inside are symbols of God and the Holy Spirit. “It’s the whole Godhead literally enthroned inside the Virgin Mary,” explained Barr. Christians during the medieval period, as evidenced in church documents and sermons cited by Barr, appeared more open to the feminine side of Christianity than many evangelical Christians are today. She stated that some of the most frequently used Biblical texts in sermons of that era were those where God would refer to himself symbolically as a female, nursing, caring for, and saving her children from harm. Summarizing a 15th century sermon, Barr indicated that perhaps a woman had to be the vessel to bring redemption to the world. Eve believed Satan and ushered in sin. Mary, conversely, believed the words of the angel Gabriel and her belief in his message ushered in salvation through Jesus. “The medieval world emphasized God as a woman. There is biblical amnesia in the modern view of God.” Barr noted that using the terms “father” and “mother” are both symbolic and that the titles themselves limit our understanding of God’s nature. The misogyny that has been present in most societies since recorded history and still lingers in many Christian organizations and denominations, has caused rifts recently in the Christian church. This has been the catalyst for many to leave the church and even their faith behind. “The problem in the church is never with God; it’s always with people …. Could forgetting our history have brought us to this place?” Barr asked.

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According to Dr. Barr, shrine Madonnas like this one demonstrate the high regard in which the medieval church held the importance of women in God’s plan of salvation.

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WOMEN IN A MOVEMENT T

he Rev. Dr. Jewel M. London urged listeners to “Fight Like a Girl,” in her empowering speech at chapel on March 24th. London is the pastoral assistant at The Church Without Walls in Houston, Texas, which serves over 10,000 families. She spoke and led discussions at several events on campus as part of “Women in a Movement,” a celebration of Women’s History Month organized by Robbi Barber, assistant dean of students and director of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. In her message, London referenced the stories of Deborah and Jael in the book of Judges, to demonstrate how God chose women to save the nation of Israel. “God can and will use the uniqueness of what we are to fulfill his purpose and his calling on our lives,” London said. Ministering for 25 years, London told stories of women who were interested in pursuing ministry. These women felt a calling from God to go into vocational ministry but were stopped either by the teachings of their church or by their own feelings and fears. She urged listeners to recognize the need for women to fight for God’s kingdom, understand that God often makes unlikely choices for leaders, and to wait on God’s divine timing. She said, “Reclaim your space on the battlefield. Fight like a girl to regain your calling.” Her message was followed by a brief question-and-answer period. Later London also spoke to the Introduction to Biblical Studies and Gender and Society classes and led the evening Bible study for NOIRE, a Christian ministry for minority women on campus.

“Dr. Jewel’s presence has blessed Georgetown College in a multitude of ways, spreading positivity and encouragement to students, staff, and administration. The campus looks forward to seeing her again in the near future,” said Barber.

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According to Barber, London’s visit inspired many students. Bishop Scholar Nena Claycomb said, “Dr. Jewel’s speech was very motivational. It was definitely needed for this current season of my life. Having a speaker that not only connects, but whose speech resonates with students is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can impact people in more ways than one.”

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DANFORD THOMAS MEMORIAL LECTURE SERIES

The Sun Does Shine:

How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row

s Anthony Ray Hinton recalled his 28 years on Alabama’s death row, tears slid down his cheeks and the faces of many audience members in a moving and unforgettable night in John L. Hill Chapel, April 7th, during the annual Danford Thomas Memorial Lecture. Hinton’s story of being falsely accused of two murders in 1985 and the subsequent injustices that followed were riveting, but his account of befriending a fellow death-row inmate, the son of a Ku Klux Klan leader who was later executed for the brutal murder and lynching of a black teenager in 1981, was a testament to the power of love to triumph over hate. He urged his listeners to seek justice, not vengeance, to forgive those who wrong them, and do what they can to change the country into one that lives out Christ’s plea to “love your neighbor.”

with author

Anthony Ray Hinton

Hinton was removed from death row and released in 2015 due to the ongoing efforts of the Equal Justice Initiative, which provides legal assistant to incarcerated people. The group has been responsible for helping more than 150 people be released from death row. Hinton’s book, The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row, chronicles his story.

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In recent years Georgetown’s faculty have used a related book, Just Mercy, as part of the Foundations program for first-year students. The book—a personal account of the work done by the Equal Justice Initiative by Hinton’s attorney, Bryan Stevenson—includes details about the fight to release him. The course helps students focus on what it means to be human, examines the pursuit of civil rights in America, the struggle against racism, and problems in the justice system. Students also have made trips to civil rights museums and memorials during the course.

Anthony Hinton’s personal story of the decades he spent falsely convicted of murder and living on Alabama’s death row moved many listeners.

At the end of the lecture, Hinton answered questions from audience members, some of whom shared their own stories of interactions with the justice system. Following that, the speaker met with College trustees, administrators, and city and county officials at a private reception where he also signed copies of his book.

The Danford Thomas Memorial lectureship was established in 1920 by his family to bring speakers of public 23 interest to the College. Dr. Horace Hambrick, currently a Georgetown Trustee, is a descendant of the Thomas family that established the trust that funds this lecture series. Past speakers have included Helen Keller, Sam Donaldson, Admiral Richard E. Byrd, and Tony Campolo.

Georgetown residents Alonzo and Tonya Allen had Hinton’s book signed by the author at an event held on campus after the lecture.

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he highlight of the Black History Month events on campus was a discussion with Dr. Derek B. King Sr., nephew of Martin Luther King Jr., in the John L. Hill Chapel February 17th. The event was titled “What about our history?” Participants included Dr. Frank Houston, College religion professor, and Dr. Lindsey Apple, ‘64, retired College history professor, who acted as facilitator. Apple asked the panel to speak about the Christian church’s role in the early years of the Civil Rights Movement. King said his uncle recognized the revolutionary time in history, saw the “revolutionary spirit in Jesus” and believed Christ was calling him and others to right the wrongs in society. Houston added that King’s peaceful resistance movement was “a different approach to bring about change” that hadn’t been tried before. Dr. Derek King explained that his uncle wanted to use Scripture and nonviolent protests to persuade society of the need for change, while still acknowledging the righteous anger of those under the intense racism and discrimination of the times. “No one since Martin Luther King has been able to persuade people and help us harness our anger, which is ongoing.” “The principles of love and nonviolence are still appealing. The Civil Rights Movement awakened the church, but the people

involved were still a minority,” said Houston. “The church today has been lulled into apathy. There’s a tension between who we are as Christians and our mission to reach the world for God and the need to relate to the culture and not be isolationists.” King agreed that Christian activism doesn’t have to be either social or spiritual. It is both. “There’s too much making you feel good in the church now and not enough conviction. Pastors need to be committed to social change, human dignity, and Kingdom building.” He noted that his uncle and Malcolm X were not enemies even though the media tried to push that narrative. “Their approaches were different, but their aims were the same.” In a question-and-answer time that followed, an African American student asked for advice for others like her on campus who are still working for equality. “Speak truth to your power,” King said. “You have more power than you realize. Look for like-minded people. There’s no real change without dissatisfaction.” He emphasized the importance of getting to know a variety of students. Get to know people. Racism is learned and can be changed.” Apple recalled some of the first groups of African American student athletes at Georgetown College in the early 1970s. “They stuck together and asked for change. They made a difference on campus.” GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 24

The culmination of Black History Month events on campus was the dialogue “What about our history?” held in the chapel among Professor Emeritus Dr. Lindsey Apple, ’64, Dr. Derek B. King Sr, and Dr. Frank Houston, religion professor.

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A D I STI N G U I S H E D SCHOLAR DIPLOMAT

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bir El Hirch is Georgetown College’s first international student to be granted the Distinguished Scholar Award, a four-year, full-tuition scholarship. Abir holds big dreams in her small frame. She can be spotted flashing a friendly smile all over campus as she goes to class and participates in several organizations. Abir comes from the country of Morocco in North Africa. While her dreams aren’t unusual for a young optimist like herself, she has the drive and skills to achieve them.

The 18-year-old freshman, who wants to improve the lives of people around the world, plans to achieve that by studying chemistry and learning how to develop drugs that can relieve people of the effects of diseases such as diabetes and cancer, that 25 have affected her own family, and mental health conditions which she and her age group struggle to conquer. She also has a goal to become a United Nations ambassador, so she plans to take prelaw courses at Georgetown College and study at Oxford University.

Abir spent her entire life in Rabat, the capital of Morocco on the Atlantic coast, in a multigenerational family household that currently numbers 13, from “baby” cousins to her grandparents. Her father is in the Moroccan military and her mother is a chef. Being surrounded by people is part of what she calls the “comfort zone” that is part of her personality. While living in her familiar space she was already working to help others. She was active in an organization which develops confidence and skills in children and teens that they can use to become successful entrepreneurs. Also, Abir participated in Oxfam Morocco, an international nonprofit that educates the public about world hunger and poverty. She was also copresident of a charity called Ben and Silya that collects donations of money, food, and clothing for Moroccan nonprofit organizations that serve the underprivileged. “Helping people and giving little bits of myself makes me happy and keeps me going. I see happiness as a whole and my community right at the center of it.”

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Abir’s life wasn’t all studying and volunteering. For summer vacations, her grandparents often took her and her younger brother abroad, including nearby Spain, France, Germany, and Switzerland. That international perspective has helped shape her in a tangible way. “Being outside of my country helped in how I see myself and how I see the world. That’s why I wanted to study abroad.” She likes to set goals for herself and then work hard to make them a reality. Studying abroad was one of those goals. She attended a private school and participated in a challenging International Baccalaureate Program. Her scores on the national college entrance exam allowed her the leverage to competitively apply to colleges both at home and abroad. According to Provost Jonathan Sands Wise, former vice president of enrollment management, Abir came to the attention of the enrollment office when she participated in a virtual college fair. “She was identified as a potential fit for Georgetown College, so we got her e-mail address and reached out to her. We often identify potential international students in this way.” Dr. Tichaedza “Ticha” Chikuni, executive director of admissions, contacted Abir, inviting her to apply. “What stood out to me about her was how genuine, authentic, and determined she was about her education. I was keen to hear the story of this amazing student from Morocco.” Her interest in combining chemistry and pre-law into a future career intrigued him with its uniqueness and vision. Sands Wise says the College seeks out academically strong applicants, but also those who are “good people and leaders who want to be involved on campus and in their communities and want to make a difference.” After getting to know Abir, Chikuni encouraged her to apply for the Distinguished Scholars award and she did, even though an international student had never before received the award and there were at least 30 other applicants. “Realizing the potential Georgetown College saw in me gave me a lot of confidence in my abilities and that was one of the things that made me fall in love with the College.” Abir says people ask her how a girl from Morocco found a small institution in Kentucky to attend. “I always say, ‘I didn’t find Georgetown; Georgetown found me.’” Since arriving here in August, her first solo trip abroad, she has hit the ground running, participating right away in the Black Student Union, the staff of The Georgetonian (student newspaper), and the Student Ambassadors and Student Call Team for the Admissions Department. She also assisted in the chemistry department and joined the newly reorganized Student Mental Health Advisory Council (SMHAC). Chemistry professor Dr. David Fraley appreciates Abir’s cheery face and positive attitude in his class. “She always has positive contributions to lab discussions, asking good questions.” College Lead Counselor Bethany Farley, SMHAC advisor, remembers how enthusiastic Abir was at the first meeting. She actively shared her perspective and ideas and volunteered to be the Ambassador of Events and Programming. “Do you know what it’s like to leave a conversation which was sprinkled with positivity? That’s Abir to me,” says Farley. “Abir brings valuable insight as a student from Morocco. Our campus needs to hear and see other perspectives and grow in inclusivity.” Chikuni is thrilled to have her as an ambassador for his office. “She has a genuine way of conveying her love for Georgetown College and continues to showcase her amazing abilities to connect with people, engage with students and families, and is always eager to learn!”

While she is focusing on her Georgetown experience for now, Abir has already set goals for graduate school and thinks about ultimately settling in Switzerland, a country she fell in love with for its calm serenity, cleanliness, and natural beauty. She misses the beach and mountains of her native country, her family, and the flavors of her mother’s home cooking, but is content to live in the moment and enjoy being a Tiger for now. Her role as one of the international students on campus already makes her an ambassador to her fellow students, faculty, and staff. She empathizes and connects with people on a personal level, especially those that share her vision of the world’s citizens living in peace with aspirations and hope. “If only our eyes could see the humanity in those we distinguish ourselves from,” says Abir. “Deep within, we are all different. By recognizing other people’s humanity, we are acknowledging our own.”

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Abir is also in the Oxford Honors program, which prepares its students to spend a semester at Oxford University. She is already looking forward to that experience, planned for her junior year in the fall of 2023. Here at the College she has found a home away from home in the Phi Mu sorority. “It has provided me with a wonderful support system and sisters that give me so much love and inspire me to love myself and be a better person every day,” she says.

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eorgetown College kicked off the spring semester with a Founders’ Day Convocation on January 25th. This was Dr. Rosemary Allen’s first convocation as president, and she welcomed a former student, Scott Fitzpatrick, ‘87, to present the Founder’s Day address. Fitzpatrick, who is the vice president for advancement with Founders’ Day speaker was Scott Fitzpatrick, the Blue Grass Community Foundation, ’87, Blue Grass Community Foundation’s vice recalled many notable figures from the president of advancement. College’s past, and his own time on campus. Dr. Laura Hunt, Spanish professor and now associate provost, was presented with the Curry Award for Faculty Excellence by Provost Dr. Jonathan Sands Wise. The

Curry Award is named in honor of the late Dr. Ralph Curry and his wife, the late Dr. Gwen Curry,’54, both of whom served as chairs of the English Department at the College, among other important positions, advocating for faculty and students alike. Dr. Curtis Sandberg, vice president of student life and dean of students, inducted sophomore Riley Davis, ’24, from Bright, Ind., as the new Student Government Association’s president.

Student Government Association President Riley Davis ( far left) and her fellow officers were inducted by Curtis Sandberg, dean of students and vice president of Student Life.

F O U N D E R S ' D AY

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President Rosemary Allen with Dr. Laura Hunt, winner of the Curry Award. Provost Jonathan Sands Wise was the presenter.

AROUND CAMPUS

fter 18 years of crunching numbers at Georgetown College, David Wilhite, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), retired at the end of May. His position was filled by Rush Sherman, (who is featured among many “fresh” faces in this issue).

David, a Kentucky native, received a degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky. He worked in various industries for 20 years before joining the staff at the College in 2004 as Controller. Previously he was the CFO of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute and felt ready for a new challenge when he learned of the opening at the school he says had a “great reputation.” David, who succeeded CFO Jim Moak, Jr., is grateful he was given the opportunity. “It has turned into something much more than I ever expected. There is something about the energy on a college campus that makes it such a great place to work and especially in the case of Georgetown College. I’ve been blessed to be a small part of helping the College fulfill its mission with young people.” During his tenure here David became so supportive of the college that his two sons became Tigers. Nathan Wilhite, ’14, is a Lexington, Ky., accountant, and Oliver Wilhite, ’16, is a Covington, Ky., attorney. “I always tell anyone that will listen that they received a wonderful education here, which is setting them up for success for the rest of their lives.” While they were students on campus, David would memorize their class schedules and sometimes look out of his office window (then in Highbaugh Hall) at the right times to see them walking across campus and “check in” on them without their knowledge. David has seen the College come through some lean times financially, not unusual for any institution with a 193year history. “I’ve had the opportunity to work through a lot of these situations over the past 18 years, and at times it has felt like a roller coaster, but overcoming adversity has always been one of the College’s strengths.”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

He has been a member of the Executive Cabinet for the past six years and while he looks forward to enjoying retirement with wife Elaine, and their family, which includes daughter Claire, he will miss daily interactions with other College employees. “This is a special place, and I know that there are a lot of folks that will continue to work hard to ensure its ongoing success.”

n r e a c i E t s o r N e l g i a T tion Na

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 29

In just their fourth season as a varsity program, the coed cheerleading squad won the MSC Championships for the second year in a row. In the national meet they were ninth out of 15 teams.

everal Georgetown College athletic teams and individuals shone the spotlight on the College at the national level during the 2021-22 season. Two football players were named AllAmericans in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) by the American Football Coaches Association. Davalin “D.J.” White, ’22, was named to the All American First Team in his defensive position and Marcus Omosule, ’24, also defense, was named to the All American Second Team. The men’s basketball team won the Mid-South Conference (MSC) Championships for the 12th time in the team’s history. While falling in the first round of NAIA Championship Tournament, they ended the season with an impressive 25-8 season record. The women’s team was runner-up in the conference championships and earned a slot in the national championships, though they also were defeated in the first round. Their record was 22-12. The men’s volleyball team quickly made a name for themselves in just their second season as Tigers by winning the MSC Championships. In the first match of the NAIA Championships in which they were ranked 14th, they came from behind to upset a third-ranked team but lost in the next match. Their season ended with a 28-6 record.

In women’s track and field, Sarah Bolton, ’23, broke several Tiger records this spring and won the heptathlon event at the MSC Championship Meet. She qualified for the NAIA Championship Meet in heptathlon and in high jump. Jalynn Landversicht, ’23, also qualified in high jump.

"D.J." White, '22

Marcus Omosule, '24

Sarah Bolton, '23

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

Jalynn Landversicht, '23

ife-long learner, teacher, rancher, mentor, conservationist, volunteer, philanthropist – all these adjectives describe Jay Butler, ’80. But however he may be remembered in the future, his primary desire is to “give back” to the people and places that have shaped him and to pass down the values they have taught. At Georgetown’s Homecoming last fall, he and his wife Linda traveled from their ranch in Wyoming to be present at the ribbon cutting ceremony in the Asher Science Center. Jay, along with his father, Dr. John Butler and his wife Dr. LuAnnette Butler, gave funds for refurbishing Asher 112, the largest classroom space on campus and the one used for faculty meetings during Dr. Butler’s tenure as academic dean at Georgetown (1974 to 1980). LuAnnette Butler was a psychology professor at Georgetown from 1968 to 1980. Previously, the Butler family donated funds to renovate a biology lab on the science building’s first floor. Both Jay and his father are retired educators of the life sciences. Jay was born and reared in Sioux Falls, S.D., the eldest of three children. His mother, Dorothy, who passed away in 2020, was a native of Wyoming. She was raised on her family’s large cattle ranch south of Casper, originally obtained by her grandfather, Tom Robinson Sr., through the Homestead Act in 1916. The initial 320 acres expanded over the years as other homesteaders gave up and headed back east, selling their adjacent land to Robinson. He obtained cash for those purchases by drilling wells for other landowners in the Powder River Basin, which averages less than 14-inches of rain annually. As a child, Butler would leave Sioux Falls every summer and spend weeks on the ranch with his grandparents. “I have wonderful memories of riding my horse, Buck, and moving sheep and cattle while on horseback and working with my grandfather on all kinds of ranch projects,” he recalls. His child-sized handprint remains impressed in the cement at the base of a windmill, a monument to those golden summers.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

During that period, Dr. John Butler was a biology professor at the University of Sioux Falls before taking the academic dean position at Georgetown College in 1974, the middle of Jay’s junior year of high school. “At first I resented having to move,” Jay says about being uprooted, “but afterwards I thought it was one of the best things ever.” A westerner with a bent for biology like his dad, he loved exploring the different ecosystems of the area as well as the culture of the Bluegrass region.

Though tempted to return to the familiar and attend college in Sioux Falls, Jay elected to get his bachelor’s degree at Georgetown. Here he found friends in the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity and flourished in the sciences under the tutelage of beloved professors such as Dr. John 31 Blackburn, Dr. Dwight Lyndsay, and Dr. Thomas Seay. “Living on campus is a really positive experience. You can get involved with all the activities and build stronger friendships.” He is still in contact with English professor Dr. Steven May and has gone on gold panning

expeditions with him. “I think a lot of students tend to flounder at bigger universities. The personal relationships with the faculty members, such as Dr. Lindsey Apple, ’64, made a huge difference for me. It was a very good decision. I have only positive things to say about my college experience at Georgetown.” One short-term course changed the direction of Jay’s life. He spent a month with other students in Arizona studying the ecology and geology of the desert while in the Grand Canyon. He fell in love with the area and chose Northern Arizona University (NAU) to obtain his master’s degree after graduating from Georgetown in 1980. There he was able to further explore the region on class field trips. At NAU he met his wife Linda, who was obtaining a master’s degree in art. During the next three decades of his life Jay taught science to teenagers, along with helping to raise daughters Karen and Beth. He first taught biology at Judson School, a private boarding school in Arizona, and then eighth grade life science at Douglas Middle School in Converse County Wyoming when he took over the operation of Robinson’s Pronghorn Ranch, the family homestead that now covers 18,000 acres. As a teacher he reveled in watching his students experience the thrill of discovery on field trips he led, including Costa Rica and Belize while at Judson, and trips to Yellowstone with his eighth graders. Even after he retired as a teacher in 2011, Jay stayed active as an educator, serving on the Converse County School District’s Board of Trustees for a term and as a volunteer and trustee for the Douglas Boys and Girls Club of America for the past 10 years. Like many active people, Jay’s retirement has been busier than when he was working full time. His reverence for the life systems of the planet naturally led him to seek ways to make the land entrusted to him as environmentally sustainable as possible. He allowed wind towers erected on the ranch to generate clean electricity for the region “They’re not a perfect source (of energy); there is no perfect source,” he explains. He, along with other area ranchers, has participated in the National Audubon Society’s Conservation Ranching Initiative. This group helps ranchers incorporate bird-friendly grazing practices. By following strict protocols and habitat management plans, ranchers can have their beef products labeled “Audubon Certified,” which increases their value.

“The sage grouse are one of the key species of grassland ecosystems and we want to be sure and maintain a viable habitat for them.” He has also been planting cottonwood trees in the areas along the rivers and streams in the arid region. The trees provide habitat, food, shelter, erosion control, and shade, all of which help many types of life thrive. “You want your ranch to be sustainable and you want to make sure it’s left in good shape for down the road.”

Another cause Butler is passionate about is feeding the hungry. He is active in Food from the Farm and Ranch and Food from the Field, projects initiated by Wyoming’s First Lady Jennie Gordon. The programs urge local livestock producers as well as hunters to donate meat to local schools, nonprofit organizations, and food pantries. Volunteer food processors package the meat. Butler has personally donated to the program and encourages other ranchers and hunters to do so. More than 100 animals have been donated thus far. The Pronghorn Ranch is so named because of the pronghorn antelope that range abundantly on its acres. Mule deer are also plentiful. Butler hosts hunters in groups that stay in accommodations he has on the property, and he always encourages participants to donate to the Food from the Field program. In addition to his philanthropic gifts to Georgetown and NAU (he and Linda endowed an art scholarship there), Jay also finds fulfillment supporting the Douglas Boys and Girls Club. The food programs benefit the children and teens who attend after-school, summer, and other programs at the club. The organization, founded in 1860, emphasizes academic success, good character, citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. He is the current chairman of the board of directors and helped get a facility erected a few years ago, which is now already at capacity. His next major goal is to establish an endowment that will make sure there are funds to expand and maintain the work being done among the youth in the city. “Making a positive relationship in kids’ lives is what I love the most; watching them grow up and seeing them later and hearing that they are appreciative and glad to see you.” Butler strongly believes in supporting the institutions that have helped him achieve success. “I think a lot of it is just paying back some of my thankfulness to Georgetown College for giving me such a good start in life. We alumni owe part of our success to the College. As we have financial successes, then we’re able to be philanthropic. I think a lot of students in my era are at that point in our lives. Why not reward the school that got you on your way to being the person you are today?”

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

According to Butler, wildfires frequently occur, burning thousands of acres in a short time. While regular grass grows back quickly, the native sage brush, chief food source for the greater sage-grouse and other grassland birds, whose populations have been shrinking, is much slower to return. To save the birds and the ecosystem they inhabit, Butler and others have been cultivating the plants and then working with a habitat restoration team to replant them in grazing areas.

Jay Butler in his 1980 Georgetown College Belle of the Blue senior portrait. On campus he was active in Phi Kappa Tau and in science organizations.

RECOGNIZING

FACULTY & STAFF T

he annual Faculty and Staff Recognition Luncheon was held April 28th.  Board of Trustees Chairman Robert L. Mills, ’67, gave opening remarks. Provost Dr. Jonathan Sands Wise presented the Rollie Graves Technology Excellence Awards to Kristen Loxley, chemistry stockroom manager, and Dr. Harold Peach, graduate education professor. During lunch the following employees were recognized for their years of service to the college: Joanie Alexander, Christine Collins, Marion Compton, Terry Evans, Erin Hoff, Dr. Amanda Hughes, Brad Kaufman, Maria Taylor, and Meghan Trella (5 years); Sandra Baird, Dr. Brian Jones, Dr. Joanna Lile, ’05, and Jason Snider, ’10, (10 years); Dr. Jay Castaneda, Dr. Carrie Cook, Dr. Susan Dummer, Daniel Graham, Darrell Kincer, Dr. Meghan Knapp, Bryan Langlands, and Dr. Dan Vazzana (15 years); Dr. Christel Broady, Jo Anna Fryman, Kimberly Gift, Dr. Regan Lookadoo, and Dr. Chris Nix (20 years); Bobbi Boblett, Dr, Karyn McKenzie, Dr. Ed Smith, ’88, Dr. Roger Ward, and Dr. Homer White (25 years); and Dr. Richard Kopp (30 years).

Board of Trustees Chairman Robert L. Mills, ‘67

Employees who retired after this academic year were Dr. Jane Arrington, graduate education professor; Dr. Jeff Asher, religion professor; William Cronin, head football coach; Jane Wechman, ’81, administrative assistant for the Graves Center for Calling & Career; Dr. Libby Whitis, business administration and economics professor; and David Wilhite, chief financial officer.

5 Years of Service

10 Years of Service

15 Years of Service

20 Years of Service

25 Years of Service

30 Years of Service

Kristen Loxley GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2021 2022 33

Dr. Harold Peach

NEW MEMBERS

ELECTED TO GEORGETOWN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Three new trustees began their terms on January 1, 2022

GUTHRIE ZARING, ‘87,

is returning to the board after serving from 2014-2020. As an undergraduate, Guthrie, a biology major and chemistry minor, was president of the Georgetown College Student Foundation as well as a member of the American Chemical Society and Phi Kappa Tau. He is a realtor, representing luxury home and farm buyers in the Louisville area. Guthrie currently serves as president of the Pyramid Club, LLC, a private investment club based in Louisville; as vice-president of the Headley Whitney Museum of Art; and on the board of governors for both the Speed Art Museum and the Baptist Health Foundation. He was previously an institutional trustee to the Kentucky Independent College Fund and the Association of Independent Kentucky College and Universities; president of the Historic Homes Foundation in Louisville; and chairman of the Board of Regents at Farmington Historic Plantation. Guthrie also served as the first national president of the Georgetown College Alumni Board. He and his wife Lisa are the parents of three children and live in Louisville.

JOHN WARD, ‘88,

earned a double major in business administration and information systems. He is returning to the board after serving from 2006-2019. As an undergraduate, John was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha. Currently he serves as the senior vice president of Regional Health System Operations at TriHealth, Inc. in Cincinnati. He is on multiple boards and advisory boards in Northern Kentucky, and has served on multiple committees as a part of the Health Collaborative in Cincinnati. John is married to the former Julie Walton, ‘88. They are the parents of Lauren Ward, ’14, and Ryan Ward. John is the son of the late Dick Ward, ’60, and Karen (Gallegly) Ward, former ‘59. John and his brother, Jeff Ward, ’90, provided funding for the Dick and Karen Ward Room in the Ensor Learning Resource Center. GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

WILLIAM J. (BI) HOUSTON,

is a 1974 graduate of Transylvania University and has an MBA from Vanderbilt University. He has served as a trustee since 2005, including as a past board chairman, and is beginning his second consecutive four-year term. BI is a Chair with Vistage International. He is the former chief executive officer of Allied Ready Mix and president of Houston Consulting. In addition, he is on the board of Harman Management Corporation and is a past board member of Restaurant Supply Chain Solutions - KFC. BI and his wife Debbie have three married children and eight grandchildren. Two of his children, Porter (Houston) O’Brien, ’04, and Crawford Houston, '08, and one daughter-in-law, Margaret (Whitt) Houston, ’07, are Georgetown graduates.

CLASS NOTES G

eorgetown College is often called a family, and part of being a family is celebrating each other.

Help us to congratulate and celebrate with the following alumni and friends in this edition of Class Notes.

MARGARET “MAGGIE” (DONALDSON) MILLS, ‘69

Selected as an Alumni Honoree at the 2022 Belle of the Blue & Beaus Too Pageant. Maggie was crowned Belle of the Blue in 1969.

MARK BIRDWHISTELL, ‘77

Selected as the 2021-2022 Distinguished Alumnus for the University of Kentucky’s Martin School for Public Policy and Administration. Mark is the Vice President for Health System Administration and Chief of Staff for University of Kentucky Healthcare.

VICKIE (PATTERSON) GROSS, ‘80

Selected as an Alumni Honoree at the 2022 Belle of the Blue & Beaus Too Pageant. Vickie was Miss Congeniality in 1978 and was the first African American to receive this honor.

KEN DAVIS, ‘71

Georgetown College honored Kenny Davis, '71, by retiring his No. 10 Tiger jersey recently. Davis was an All-American player who was captain of the 1972 USA Olympic men's basketball team. At the presentation are, L-R: Bob Mills Jr., GC trustee chair; Davis' wife Rita '71; Davis; Brian Evans, vice president of athletics; President Rosemary Allen; and Tiger alumnus Chris Coffey, '20. GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 35

DR. KIMBERLY WALTERS-PARKER, ‘83 Named Dean of Education at Georgetown College.

TRACI (KNAPP) KNECHTGES, ‘92

Named Vice President of Systems Transformation at Stanley Black & Decker. Originally from Ohio, Traci and her husband David moved to Orlando, Fla., in 2016.

SHAN HOUSEKEEPER, ‘03

Named Head Football Coach at University of the Cumberlands (Williamsburg, Ky.). Prior to this role, Shan served 14 years on the coaching staff at Georgetown College and was named 2021 Mid-South Conference Bluegrass Division Assistant Coach of the Year.

HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS? Share it with us at gogc.me/classnotes

*HILLARY MCWHORTER, ‘09

Selected as a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The award is the highest recognition for outstanding teachers of STEM subjects in grades kindergarten through high school in the United States.

*PRISCILLA KELLER, ‘10

Selected as a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the highest recognition for outstanding teachers of STEM subjects in grades kindergarten through high school in the United States.

MIKE EICHBERGER, ’12 AND HAYLEY BARBATA, ‘10

Mike and Hayley were engaged to be married in November 2021. Mike is a member of the College’s Alumni Board.

KIMBERLY (HORNE) CHANDLER, ESQ. ‘10

Kim and husband Kent welcomed home their first child, Beckham, in January 2022. Kim serves as the Assistant Director of Athletics for Compliance at Georgetown College.

MICHAEL HATFIELD, ’18, AND LEXI (ROUSE) HATFIELD, ‘19 Michael and Lexi were married December 29, 2021.

JOSHUA COPLEY, ’19, AND BELL (WHITE) COPLEY, ‘19

Joshua and Bell welcomed home a new baby, Mackenzie Austin Copley, in October 2021.

LARRY BURNS, ‘20

Larry joined the U.S. Navy in April 2022.

*denotes graduate school alumni

MASON HEAD, ’13, AND ALLIE (ENGLERT) HEAD, ‘13

Mason and Allie welcomed home a new baby, Isla Eleanor Head, in September 2021. Mason is a member of the College’s Alumni Board.

BROOKS BARBER, ’14, AND KATELYN (SALLENGS) BARBER, ‘14

Brooks and Katelyn welcomed home their second child, Veronica Rose Barber, in December 2021.

DR. TURNER ALTMAN, ’17, AND VICTORIA (MAY) ALTMAN, 16

Turner, optometrist, and Victoria, optician, opened their own optometry office in Pikeville, Ky., the Altman Eye Center.

Chandler Family

Head Family

Barber Children

Copley Family

*LISA HAMILTON, ‘20

Lisa was named Teacher of the Year at Scott County High School in Georgetown. She is completing her second master’s degree at Georgetown College. Lisa is the wife of CG’s chemistry professor and department chair, Dr. Todd Hamilton.

NICK ROUSH, ’21, AND SOPHIE (HUGHES) ROUSH, 20 Nick and Sophie were married on December 29, 2021.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022

1960s 2020s

DR. JC CAMPBELL, ‘11

JC was promoted to Assistant Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion at Oakland City University in Oakland City, Ind.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

IN MEMORIAM 1946

Jeanne Fightmaster Osborne 11/19/21 | Cynthiana, Ky.

1948

Helen L. Birch Wilson 10/19/21 | Louisville, Ky.

1949

Linda Overall Bell 2/11/22 | Frankfort, Ky.

1951

Charles A. Jarvis 6/4/21 | Rochester, Mich.

1953

Dr. Ray Alexander, Jr. (+emeritus faculty) 10/24/21 | Georgetown, Ky. Dr. Joseph L. Hood, Ph.D. 11/24/21 | Centerville, Ohio

1954

Nancy J. Homan Goatley 10/20/21 | Springfield, Ky.

1955

Robert Lewis Loving 9/16/21 | Middletown, Md. Nansara “Nan” Penick Baker 9/26/21 | Lexington, Ky.

GC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 37

Straude E. Wiseman Jr. (+former staff) 10/15/21 | Paris, Ky.

1956

1959

1978

Laura L. Allman Minnick 11/30/21 | Paris, Ky.

FRIENDS & FORMERS

1960

1980

Joseph E. Sparks (friend) 9/7/21 | Breeding, Ky.

Geraldine “Gerry” Biggs Montgomery (+trustee spouse) 11/17/21 | Paducah, Ky.

Charles Dale Schweizer 12/10/21 | Hamilton, Ohio

1961

Larry Conrad Phillips 10/17/21 | Fernandina Beach, Fla.

1962

*Mary Orem Peyton 2/19/22 | Campbellsburg, Ky.

Nancy Thomas Homan Grider 1/18/22 | Louisville, Ky.

1966

James Edwin Corya 3/17/22 | Fort Wayne, Ind.

1967

William “Billy” Gatton Jones 11/9/21 | Lexington, Ky. Robert “Bob” P. Boren 3/21/22 | Brentwood, Tenn.

William “Buddy” E. Johnson, Jr. 1/6/22 | St. Peters, Mo.

1995

Dr. Bobby W. Burchette (emeritus faculty) 10/9/21 | Lexington, Ky. Walleen E. Enlow Morris (former ‘57) 10/17/21 | Lexington, Ky. Bradley Alan Hamilton (former ‘83) 12/14/21 | Lexington, Ky. Christopher (Chris) York Flounlacker (former ’22) 1/2/22 | Pensacola, Fla.

Douglas J. Moncrief 2/22/22 | Lexington, Ky.

John Anthony Conn (former staff) 1/8/22 | Georgetown, Ky.

1997

Lawrence “Larry” E. Forgy (former trustee) 1/13/22 | Lexington, Ky.

April Michelle Nease 11/17/21 | Lexington, Ky.

Jeana Cook Oldham (former ’72) 1/29/22 | Louisville, Ky.

2005

*Linda Clark Williams 1/27/22 | Lexington, Ky.

William H. McIntyre (friend) 2/2/22 | Georgetown, Ky.

1972

2008

Lorenzo “L.D.” Dow Rasdall, Jr. (friend) 2/20/22 | Bowling Green, Ky.

2010

Kay Wiseman (former faculty’s spouse) 2/23/22 | Georgetown, Ky.

James “Luigi” Woodson Powell, Sr. 10/1/21 | Louisville, Ky.

Larry A. Conrad 10/1/21 | Paris, Ky.

1973

*denotes graduate school alumni

1991

Bonnie Sharp Neuville (former faculty) 9/21/21 | Georgetown, Ky.

1968

1957

Dr. Margaret Alexander Kort 3/3/22 | Bolivar, Mo.

1990

Marilyn Ann Humphrey (+former staff) 2/19/22 | Bellevue, Ky.

Dr. Kenneth K. Owen 10/10/21 | Paducah, Ky.

1958

Stephen Paul MacArthur 1/9/22 | Grove City, Ohio

Thomas Owen Miller 11/1/21 | Nicholasville, Ky.

William Marshall Sutton 12/18/21 | Springfield, Ky.

Robert Bruce Lankford (+former faculty) 11/20/21 | Georgetown, Ky.

Paula Bielefeld Fraley 9/24/21 | Niceville, Fla.

John E. Durham 11/16/21 | San Francisco, Calif.

1975

Rhonda G. Faw Cassel 8/22/21 | Dayton, Ohio

Cortney L. Mangold Henry 11/4/21 | Shelbyville, Ky.

Kimberly “Kimi” Jo Holsclaw 10/26/21 | Lancaster, Ky.

Larry D. Rush (former faculty’s spouse) 3/14/22 | Georgetown, Ky. John A. Wood (former trustee) 3/15/22 | Waco, Texas

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C O M E

Sept. 30th - Oct. 2nd, 2022 • Homecoming & Inauguration of President Rosemary Allen

Georgetown College Alumni Magazine | Spring 2022

Articles inside

Butler Gives Back

Tigers Earn National Notice

Founder's Day

CFO on the Go

Black History Month

A Distinguished Scholar Diplomat

Women's History Month

Danford Thomas Memorial Lecture

George Walker Redding Lecture

VP of Administration and Finance Rush Sherman

Title IX Coordinator Laura Young

Head Football Coach Chris Oliver

Associate Provost Laura Hunt

Commencement Spring

Provost & Executive VP Jonathan Sands Wise

VP of Enrollment Management Linda Olsen

Staff Spotlight