CONNECTION ..... ..... WINTER 2019
THE MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
Russell Library, 1967
4
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CONTENTS Up Front News and notes around campus
10 Cover Story An Era of Change
14 Feature Story Men of the Hour
15 Sports GC Hall of Fame Additions
16 Willard Riner 18 Homecoming Schedule 20 Student Profile 22 Faculty Profile 26 Alumni Weekend Photo Highlights
28 Alumni Awards 33 Class Notes
CONNECTION Winter 2019 Vol. XXVIII, No.1 Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Published by University Communications. 231 W. Hancock St. Milledgeville, GA 31061
President Steve Dorman Vice President for University Advancement Monica Delisa Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications Omar Odeh Editor/Director of Marketing and Publications Victoria Fowler, ‘12 Writers Margaret Brown Brittiny Johnson, ‘15 Cindy O’Donnell Aubrie L. Sofala, ‘12, ’16 Al Weston Design Jon Scott, ‘83 Brooks Hinton Photography Jillian Bolak, ’16 Eric Jones, ’08 Brittiny Johnson, ’15 Anna Leavitt Aubrie L. Sofala, ’12, ’16 Please send change of address and class notes to: University Advancement Campus Box 96 Milledgeville, GA 31061 connection@gcsu.edu
Alumnus awarded prestigious Marshall Scholarship It’s an esteemed award created for intellectually
application was one of a few selected for the
distinguished young Americans to study at a
Atlanta region, encompassing seven states. The
university in the United Kingdom. The Marshall
Marshall scholarship receives approximately 1,000
Scholarship is extremely competitive, but Kevin
university-endorsed applications annually from
Morris, ’17, was recently granted the award—a first
across the U.S.
for a Georgia College alumnus or student. Past Marshall scholars include Pulitzer-prize winning In fall 2019, he hopes to pursue a master’s degree
authors, two U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justices
at the School of Slavonic and Eastern European
(Neal Gorsuch and Stephen Breyer), 12 MacArthur
Studies at the University College London (UCL),
Genius Grant awardees, and a Nobel laureate.
where Morris can enhance his research skills and learn more about various regional histories.
“I have a community of people and organizations at Georgia College which made this moment
No person shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information be excluded from employment or participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination, under any program or activity conducted by Georgia College.
This year 48 Marshall scholarships were awarded
possible,” said Morris. “My involvement in the
nationwide. It is one of the most selective awards
Honors program played a huge role in providing
for U.S. graduate students, with an average four
me with the community of brilliant and
percent acceptance rate. Marshall scholars are
perspicacious people who inspired me to work
selected based on academic merit, leadership
harder, dream bigger, and push myself to produce
potential, and ambassadorial potential. Morris’
my best work.”
connection magazine | 4 | gcsu.edu
Faculty, students take the lead in water research
History professors, students build new BBQ website
Algae—what most people know to be pond scum, seaweed, or kelp—are mostly invisible to the naked eye, yet supercritical for human existence, producing about half of all oxygen on Earth. Aquatic Ecologist and Biology Professor Dr. Kalina Manoylov and her students gather samples of water at the Oconee River where they study algae to determine effects of a nearby wastewater treatment plant. They also work at two other sites—the estuaries of Port Wentworth, Georgia, and Three Runs Creek on the border of South Carolina—helping researchers understand effects of dredging in the Savannah River. “Humans have altered everything,” she said. “Eventually, you will see different organisms and fish in the river. We’re constantly doing something to the environment, and the environment is responding. My job is to document what’s happening.” Manoylov has monitored changes in algal communities in the Savannah River since 2011, before the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers began dredging and widening four years later. Another important water study involving algae is at the Oconee River Greenway in Milledgeville. This project is
Georgia College professors and students recently launched the state’s first and only barbecue website called “Georgia BBQ Trails: Georgia History and Culture Through BBQ.” “It’s something that was missing in Georgia,” said Dr. Craig Pascoe, professor of history. “There’s a lot of places that do reviews, but no one approaches it the way we do—in an educational, informative way.” Pascoe’s lifelong passion with barbecue led him to teach a “Southern Foodways and Traditions” course that includes history of the smoked meat.
interdisciplinary, involving Manoylov’s lab students and Dr.
To help create the website, he teamed up with colleague Dr. James
Samuel Mutiti’s hydrology class. Data is being collected
"Trae" Welborn, assistant professor of history, to fill the historic void
for a spring 2019 proposal for funding from the
of barbecue websites in other states. Many are heavily based on
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), called “Clean
reviews and lists.
Water of Baldwin County.” What Georgia BBQ Trails will offer is a list of authentic, locally-owned barbecue places on an interactive map. “Gone, but not forgotten,” barbecues are also featured. Several students worked on the project. Junior communication major Ansley Robinson compiled content for the website. Putting it all together into a visual masterpiece was senior communication major Christopher Mott. Two other communication students helped establish the basic website design during spring 2018: Makala Hayes and Mallory Haynes. You can find Georgia BBQ Trails at georgiabbtrails.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/georgiabbqtrails. connection magazine | 5 | gcsu.edu
Heritage Hall Georgia College’s new space pays tribute to significant individuals, milestones It began as a vision from campus administration to create a gathering place for the university’s students, alumni, friends, and community members. They also saw the need for a place to showcase the college’s milestones and the remarkable individuals who facilitated the growth of the university. The warm, inviting space known as Heritage Hall was unveiled during Alumni Weekend in November 2018. The main entry of Heritage Hall reveals a timeline mural, dating back from the university’s inception in 1889 until present, that depicts the impact of philanthropy on the university’s growth. Staff from Georgia College’s Facilities Planning, the Ina Dillard Russell Library, and University Advancement were crucial in orchestrating the precise portrayal of Georgia College’s donors, community leaders, and achievements through the years. The University Galleries feature a scrolling donor list. Images of past presidents, faculty and staff, and donors adorn the walls. An interactive table allows visitors to access yearbooks, a list of gift givers, videos, stories about donors and students, biographies on the Foundation and Alumni Boards, and social media posts. Across from the galleries is the newly-renovated Pat Peterson Museum Education Room—funded through the support of Foundation Board Member Hugh Peterson and his family. The room is used for staff, alumni, and community functions. Heritage Hall also showcases a sample of Special Collections for visitors to explore, including the Flannery O’Conner Gallery of Southern Literary Works, the Golden Slipper Award, works of Pulitzer Prize winner and author Alice Walker, and more. “When we first started talking about renovating the library’s entrance to Heritage Hall, we wanted to create something more than a donor wall where supporters are only listed by their gift amount,” said Monica Delisa, vice president of University Advancement. “Instead, we wanted to show the impact of philanthropy at the university throughout time,” she said. “So, we endeavored to illustrate the story of the university through the impact that donors have made across the life of Georgia College.” Heritage Hall celebrates how generosity has impacted the university throughout the years. This includes a gift of $450,000 from the Georgia College Foundation’s Board of Trustees to help make the renovation possible. “We want to show the impact of philanthropy on the Georgia College path to preeminence,” said Delisa. “It has been rewarding and exciting to really look back and see how donors have changed the trajectory of the university over time and how they have changed the lives of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff.” Now, as visitors journey through Heritage Hall, they can pull up information about Georgia College, connecting with its past and gaining an understanding of how vital a gift to the university can be.
Communities In Schools receives
$2.5 million to focus on local schools
Communities In Schools (CIS) of MilledgevilleBaldwin County, in partnership with Georgia College, will receive $2.5 million in funding over the next five years to launch a new program for Baldwin County students. Funding from the Department of Education’s Full Service Community Schools (FSCS) grant and in-kind
The Campus Kitchens Project launches at Georgia College The passion and dedication of two
But the goal is to expand their
students led to a new way to fight
services even further once the CK is
hunger in Milledgeville while cutting
fully functional.
down waste from the university’s dining hall.
The inspiration to bring this idea to life came from senior environmental
contributions from partners will help create a new initiative called Wraparound Baldwin (WB). The program goal is to increase services, literacy in K-2 students, and parent engagement with the school system. “The U.S. Department of Education received 121 applications for FSCS grants, but they were only able to fund 15 projects,” said Donna Douglas, Georgia College grant and contract administrator. “It was a very competitive process, and we are excited to
As part of the national network of
science majors Julia Steele and
receive this grant and what it means for Baldwin
The Campus Kitchens (CK) Project,
Cameron Skinner. The pair have
County.”
students will use recovered food
worked for about two years to gain
from the university’s dining services,
support on campus and have
The program focuses on several initiatives, including
repackage it, and deliver it to
collaborated with The Campus
literacy supplemental instruction, a summer
people in need in Milledgeville.
Kitchens Project national
education and literacy program, a kindergarten
headquarters in Washington D.C.
transition program, and a school-based health clinic.
Officially launching in September
Efforts will also be made to engage parents with the
2018, the project started out small,
Nationally, The Campus Kitchens
school system and in the educational process of
serving about 40 people at the Life
Project boasts more than 32,000
students.
Enrichment Center (LEC)— a private
volunteers at 63 campus locations—
nonprofit program for adults with
Georgia College marks the 64th
Along with working to increase literacy, the funding
intellectual disabilities living in and
location.
will create a health clinic at the Early Learning Center
around the Baldwin County area.
in Milledgeville to diagnose and treat basic ailments of children in the district. connection magazine | 8 | gcsu.edu
Georgia College 2018 State of the State Poll Georgians remain positive about the state’s economy and say
Sociology. “Most respondents also say they are satisfied
education and health care rank as the top issues facing the
with the economic development efforts in their area.”
state, according to a recent poll conducted by Georgia College. However, the majority of Georgians are dissatisfied with public The Georgia College Department of Government and Sociology
education and, like last year, would be willing to invest more
released its fifth edition of Georgia's State of the State Poll
money to improve the system. Only nine percent of Georgians
(GSSP), which takes the pulse of residents on key issues. The
report strong satisfaction with public education, with 24.9
poll focuses on the economy, job performance of elected
percent indicating a strong dissatisfaction. Just over 65 percent
leaders, and more.
of respondents say they’re willing to pay more taxes to improve education.
“Overall, Georgians continue to be optimistic about the direction of the state,” said Dr. Min Kim, co-author and interim
For the full poll results, visit gcsu.edu/poll.
chair of the Georgia College Department of Government and
Physics students energize science for elementary school kids
Sociology student records history in Milledgeville Senior sociology major Tavaris Johnson hopes his fellow students take the time to really get to know their community. Johnson has created a Facebook page with hundreds of followers called “Humans of Milledgeville.” It introduces students to people they pass by every day.
Georgia College physics students spent time helping local
He got the idea from a former student’s webpage, “Humans of
elementary kids learn the power of science this fall. It was all
Georgia College.” Both are modeled after the popular
part of Dr. Hasitha Mahabaduge’s third Renewable Energy
Facebook page by Brandon Stanton, “Humans of New York,”
Workshop.
which catalogues the inhabitants of New York City.
Their audience was a group of 60 gifted first and second
“I just like being around people. I’m extroverted. I thought, I
graders from Midway Hills and Lakeview Primary Schools in
can be the liaison between the community and campus,”
Baldwin County.
Johnson said. “College students spend time downtown and on campus, and that’s it. We live here for at least four years, and
“It’s a good time,” said senior physics major Robert Andrews.
we don’t know anything about the 30,000 people who live
He enjoyed the demonstrations as much as the youngsters.
around us.”
“I’m not really used to working with kids,” Andrews said. “So,
Johnson wanted to burst the bubble that kept him and fellow
it’s nice to bring physics down to their level. It teaches them
students from seeing citizens as real.
how stuff actually works.” So, the budding sociologist made it his business to learn more The biggest challenge for his thermodynamic and research lab
about the people living around him. Now he posts stories of
students, Mahabaduge said, was simplifying information so 7-
every-day residents in Milledgeville – like those of a street
and 8-year-olds could understand. They used creative games
preacher, local barber, and community gardener. They will be
and household items to illustrate difficult concepts.
turned into PDFs and digitally saved at Russell Library.
Mahabaduge plans to hold a similar event this spring.
Search “Humans of Milledgeville” on Facebook to find his page.
connection magazine | 9 | gcsu.edu
A
walk into the archives of Special Collections gives you an instant glimpse into the past. There are rows of old newspaper clippings, an orange vase with long, delicate peacock feathers billowing out, and even former President Rosemary DePaolo’s
nametag sits idle on a shelf. The history of the university is held intact among the archives, and every so often there comes a time to revisit the past. A little over fifty years ago, the university saw transitions that would shape the history of the public liberal arts university that stands today. In January 1967, the once all-female institution made the decision to admit males, and this spurred a litany of additions, firsts, and innovations. The increase in enrollment and the changing look of the student body gave way to the creation of new academic programs including an associate’s in nursing, a master’s in business administration, and the addition of the criminal justice program. During this time of growth, former President J. Whitney Bunting made it his mission to strengthen ties between the community and the university—eventually hiring a campus director for the Adult and Community Services, which later became the Office of Academic Outreach. In 1964, the university admitted Cellestine Hill Hunt, the first African-American to attend the college who, in 1968, would also become the first African-American to graduate—paving the way for many others.
F I R S T
G E O R G I A
C O L L E G E
B A S E B A L L
T E A M
Larry Barlow, Larry Herndon, Steve Blair, Wayne Allen, Sammy Jones, Jimmy Wildman, Don Moore, Standing: Mr. Floyd Anderson, Jimmy Corbett, Richard Erwin, Bill Fogarty, Charles Bryant, Jerry Seymoure, Danny Edmonds, Al Dixon, Mike Bryans, Larry Bosserman In 1967, Floyd Anderson came to
what is now known as West Campus. He was
and am still very proud of everything,”
Milledgville to build an athletics program
instrumental in the development of West
Anderson said. “We had the firsts of many
from the ground up. For the wide-eyed 42
Campus and its recreational fields. “There
teams, and they weren’t all champions but
year-old who wanted nothing more than to
were key people in the college and in the
they were good representatives of the
teach for a living—it was a dream come
town that I had to work through that helped
school and became leaders.”
true.
us make that happen. There were also some that said ‘You’re a fool. You don’t have a court
In the new era of athletics and male
“It was a challenge coming in when they
and you’re going to play?’ But I just knew that
enrollment, former president Bunting was
made the switch to co-education,” said
we could borrow it and make it work until we
appointed to guide the college in its new
Anderson, who served as athletic director
got something else.”
path. While enrollment continued to climb
for 24 years. Anderson said there were some
to 1,401 in the fall of 1967, which was the
on campus who didn’t agree with the
Anderson was also the head coach of the first
highest since 1939, Bunting began to focus
change, making his job to form an athletics
baseball team. The 13 players still attend an
on relations between the college and the
department difficult. “I just worked hard and
annual barbecue at his house, which
wider community.
everyone seemed to cooperate and get it
Anderson says is a huge point of pride.
done. I had the help of the athletic
“I am very proud of them,” said Anderson.
After taking office in 1968, one of Bunting’s
committee, the student body, the dean, and
“I wanted to show them how I grew up and
first orders of business was to meet with
the president.”
was trained. I knew that if we’re going to do
Milledgeville’s civic and business leaders. In
this, I’m going to do it to the best of my
“Centennial History of Georgia College,”
ability.”
Bunting is described as going into the
Under his helm, women’s gymnastics, men’s baseball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s
meeting wanting to know how the college
soccer, men’s and women’s basketball,
During Anderson’s time with athletics, he
women’s volleyball, and men’s golf were all
also was responsible for hiring some of the
initiated. Anderson had to get creative when
most influential coaches in Georgia College
“’What can the college do for you?’ Bunting
it came to sports facilities as the college
history: John Kurtz (baseball coach), Geza
recalled that ‘They were somewhat
didn’t have fields or courts. Games often
Martiny (women’s gymnastics coach),
astonished that I asked, because in their
had to be played using Baldwin High School
Michael Peeler (former athletic director and
opinion the college had previously kept to
gyms or at Georgia Military College.
golf coach), and Stan Aldridge (former
itself. They looked upon it as a rather
“I would go and talk to a member in town
athletic director and basketball coach).
isolated, ivory tower intuition.’”
could help the community.
who was on the Board of Regents and talk about the 600 acres of land the university had
“I think everything I managed to do
out near Highway 49,” said Anderson about
exceeded what I thought I could do. I was connection magazine | 12 | gcsu.edu
***
One office that began to grow was the Adult
looking for a full time job makes the search
and Community Services, which received a
much easier. Students of any major work
campus director in 1972. That office is now
with us. They learn skills beneficial to all
the Office of Academic Outreach. The office,
walks of life."
much to Bunting’s mission, offers free programs to Pre-K through 12th grade
Since it’s inception, the Office of Academic
students. Georgia College students also
Outreach has provided services to
benefit from the office, as students become
approximately 7,000 individuals a year in the
involved through volunteering, service-
area, according to Eilers.
learning, and as paid employees through work-study or graduate assistantships.
“We average around 60 Georgia College students being involved in a year, and that
"My students and I go into the community
number has also fluctuated greatly,” said
as the face of Georgia College. After
Eilers. “That would be thousands of GC
working a program, sometimes years later,
students over the years reaching out into the
my students or I will be in a local store and
community, gaining valuable experience
feel hands around our waist of a child that
beyond what they would experience in the
has seen us and needs to give us a hug, or
classroom, and offering an invaluable
we hear a sharp intake of breath, see a face
resource to area teachers and community
light up, and hear 'Georgia College!' when
groups.”
they see us,” said director Ruth Eilers. "That
One of the office’s annual programs is the
Eilers and her team in the Office of
elementary students. During the field trip,
resource to underserved populations throughout middle Georgia— at no cost. Eilers said because they use the Georgia Standards of Excellence and teacher input to guide their programs, teachers get muchneeded resources in the classroom that might otherwise be impossible. On the flip side, Georgia College students have the opportunity to work with experts in the community, which leads to discussions on how to create better, more successful communities. "We have paid staff that often work with us for several years, volunteers, and servicelearning students. The most obvious benefit that students gain is hands-on application of classroom studies,” said Eilers. "I personally
American to graduate from the college. Hunt went on to become a Ford Foundation Fellow, where she advocated to increase racial and ethnic diversity of university and collegiate faculties. She was also one of the
impact alone is a pretty powerful one.”
Academic Outreach provide a valuable
her bachelor’s, becoming the first African-
day at Lake Laurel offered to Baldwin County students hike the trail, learn about pond life, participate in environmental games and learn about nature while in nature. But Eilers said she’s also looking toward the future of new, creative ways to learn such as integrating food science into their programming.
first African-American women to be on a commercial platform at what is now the Bank of America. Hunt passed away June 17, 2008. In November 2018, Hunt won the Alumni Heritage Award after being nominated for the award by her 1968 classmates. Her daughter Maia Hunt Estes accepted the award on her behalf. Estes spoke of the difficulties Hunt endured
"Partnerships breed partnerships as well. Working with one group inevitably leads to conversations about other needs or ideas from both sides, and this organic percolation of ideas helps GC and the community grow through new projects. It leads to benefitting more members of the community and more GC students, faculty, and staff,” said Eilers. "Building a love for the place you are is beneficial."
being the first African-American to enroll at an all-white, southern university, including threats which Hunt’s sister remembers to this day. Estes also remembered the lifelong friends and lessons her mother learned while at Georgia College. “I have to say thank you, because I have to thank you for all the things not on her resume,” said Estes. “Yes, she was a Ford Fellow. Yes, she was active in the Civil Rights
***
believe there is no better way to learn a topic than to teach it to someone else.
In 1964, Cellestine Hill Hunt walked onto the
Taking a topic that may seem advanced and
campus of Georgia College as the first
learning how to effectively convey it to a
African-American to ever be enrolled at the
younger person is a wonderful way of
university. During her four years, she studied
ensuring the concept is fully understood.
psychology and was part of the psychology
Secondly, we provide job experience.
and sociology club. During her summers in
Learning those basic skills needed to be
school, she dedicated herself to registering
successful in the job force before you go out
voters in Milledgeville. In 1968, she earned connection magazine | 13 | gcsu.edu
Movement. Yes, she registered voters in the summer when she was in school. Yes, yes, yes, yes. But, I have to thank you because what she taught me, and what she took through the world, is you can walk into any room and you belong just as much as anyone else that is there.” n
MEN OF THE HOUR Looking back at how co-education bolstered enrollment, expanded programs In the spring of 1967, local newspapers
hotly debated on campus, the former
faltering interest and was last completed
from Eatonton to Macon were littered
president of the Alumnae Association had
in 1970.
with headlines of the monumental change
a positive outlook.
to the nearly 80-year-old Woman’s College of Georgia. The university was going co-educational.
With the swift change also came a larger “I’ve been looking forward to having my
emphasis on academic and facility
two daughters come down here,” said Mrs.
expansion. In the late 1960s and early
Jane Willis. “Now my son can come, too.”
1970s, extensive remodeling and enlargement of the Russell Library was
The transition came quickly, as the Board
Former university president J. Whitney
completed. With more students, there
of Regents made the decision in January
Bunting ushered in this new era of co-
was a need for more options in sciences,
1967 that 35 males would enroll in the
education and swelling enrollment. He
so Herty Hall saw an enlargement. In
spring quarter. Even more, the university
predicted that by 1975, the university
January 1969, the university was
was faced with a name change and
would reach an optimum enrollment of
authorized to begin offering its first
eventually settled on Georgia College at
3,500 students. Total enrollment by that
Master of Business Administration, which
Milledgeville—which would later be
period was 3,770.
was followed by an offering of a Master of
shortened to Georgia College. At the time
Arts in 1971. With an increase in graduate
of the first enrollment of men, there were
While enrollment was up, the period of
and undergraduate offerings, also came
approximately 1,100 females on campus.
co-education did see the decline and
the need for more faculty.
elimination of some traditions of the The change was strongly endorsed by
university. The beloved Golden Slipper, a
What began as a somewhat controversial
many, while some worried of the staying
theatrical competition between freshmen
step for an institution steeped in history
power of the tradition and historical
and sophomores, saw its last performance
paved the way for the liberal arts
context of the institution. But while it was
in 1972. The Annual Hike also saw connection magazine | 14 | gcsu.edu
university that exists today. n
A T H L E T I C S
The GC Hall of Fame committee inducted a twomember class this year, featuring two of the best hitters in Bobcat Athletics history. For Georgia College Softball, Joni Frei picked up the honor, as did Justin Mills from Bobcat Baseball. One of the top hitters in program history, Frei was a two-time National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Region honoree. She played her best when it mattered most, taking spots on the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Championships All-Tournament Team and on the NCAA Regional All-Tournament Team, joining with fellow GC Athletics Hall of Famer Jennifer Joiner to guide her Bobcat squad to a National Runner-Up spot in 2003. The first three-time All-Peach Belt Conference (PBC) player in program history, Frei is the school's all-time total bases leader with 306, and she ranks second with 24 career home runs. She ranks in the school's top-10 in virtually every offensive category, including second in both runs scored and doubles. A complete student-athlete, she was the first Academic AllDistrict honoree in program history as well. A consensus First Team All-American in 2007, Mills was a fixture in the lineup for some of the best baseball teams in program history. He was the PBC Player of the Year in 2007 as well, leading the Bobcats to the PBC Regular-Season title by hitting .319 with 85 runs, 49 RBIs, and 38 stolen bases.
GC Hall of Fame Adds Two Bobcat Greats This past November Georgia College athletics inducted its eighth class into the GC Athletics Hall of Fame. For the first time, the inductions were included as part of Georgia College’s Alumni Awards in the Magnolia Ballroom, making for an excellent night of fun and fellowship, full of memories and honoring relationships.
Mills owns the school record for triples with fellow GC Athletics Hall of Famer Keith Slocumb, and he adds NCAA-era records for runs scored (226) and stolen bases (106). He owns the NCAA-era record for single season runs and steals as well, both coming in that epic 2007 campaign. n
connection magazine | 15 | gcsu.edu
THE “GENERAL MANAGER” OF GC BASEBALL
Willard Riner The 50 years of baseball at Georgia
GC Baseball, clearly an honor that goes
Hall of Fame and the titular head of the
College provides a long and storied
above all others in its exclusivity. A retired
Georgia College Baseball field – John
history, including multiple Peach Belt
number means something significant. The
Kurtz Field – Kurtz and his 577 career wins
Conference (PBC) regular season and
desire to let everyone know the value of
over 18 years put Georgia College
tournament championships, National
the person that wore that number, to the
Baseball in the national conversation, a
Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
extent that no one would wear the
spot where the program has remained
(NAIA) district titles, multiple trips to the
number again, shows an extra level of
ever since.
College World Series, and a slew of All-
respect to that influential person.
Americans and Georgia College Athletics Hall of Fame selections.
The second retired number – No. 40 – The No. 31 belonged to a familiar name
belongs to a lesser-known name in the
in collegiate baseball in the southeast:
annals of GC Baseball, Willard Riner.
Considering all of that, there are
legendary head coach John Kurtz. An
Dubbed the “general manager” of
surprisingly just two retired numbers for
inaugural member of the GC Athletics
Georgia College Baseball by coach Kurtz,
connection magazine | 16 | gcsu.edu
projects like treating fire ant hills around
Athletics Hall of Famer and director of
the ballpark and helping to remove rocks
athletics at the time, Dr. Stan Aldridge,
from the playing surface before and after
recalls the end of that role for Riner.
practice. As he got more and more involved, he gradually found a seat in the
“He came back from a road trip and
dugout, becoming “invaluable not only
mentioned that he wouldn’t be doing the
because of his support of the program,
batboy job anymore. He said he had
but his energy and spirit helping the
gotten hit by a bat, so he needed to
players and coaches enjoy the day and
leave that to the younger guys. He said it
keep things in proper perspective,”
with a smile on his face,” said Aldridge.
according to Riner’s bio in the annual Georgia College Media Guide. In
In the spring of 2000, the baseball
addition, one of the jobs Riner took the
program, now under the guidance of
most pride in was hanging the American
Steve Mrowka, retired No. 40 to honor
Flag out in center field at every contest.
Riner and began an endowed scholarship in his name. In a fitting note, the Bobcats
At home games, after his pregame duties
picked up 39 wins that season and
were complete, Riner would often be
advanced all the way to the NCAA
found in an area of Kurtz Field that came
Regional title game.
to be known as “Riner’s Hill” near the cement bench put in place to honor Kurtz after his death in 1993. “His relationship with John wasn’t just at the field,” said Kathy Kurtz, widow of coach Kurtz. “When we built our house, he was there. He helped with painting and straightening up, doing whatever he could to help. I’ll never forget, the
“
Just the kindest, sweetest man you’d ever meet.
”
Kathy Kurtz
morning after John died, I looked out the front window and there was Mr. Riner sitting in his car out on the road, feeling
Mrowka used a youth camp, combined
sad. Just the kindest, sweetest man you’d
with eager donations from Colonial and
ever meet.”
Bobcat Baseball alumni, to fund the
scholarship. Given annually to a member Riner would bring his “folding chair, a
of the Baseball team who “excels
cigar, and a smile” according to longtime
academically and demonstrates
Riner began his relationship with the
broadcaster and GC Athletics Hall of
exceptional athletic talent and work
program, its players, and coaches after he
Fame member Scott MacLeod. “It
ethic,” this scholarship has awarded over
retired as a long-time employee of the
seemed like his perch there, where he
$4,000 in the past four years.
produce department at Piggly Wiggly.
could oversee all of the goings on at the
Looking for something to fill all of his
park.”
new-found free time, Riner started
If you would like to help Riner’s legacy live on by contributing to this scholarship
hanging out during practices and games,
Also accompanying the team on road
and investing in the future of Georgia
and struck up a strong friendship with
trips, Riner would sometimes serve as bat
College baseball, please contact
coach Kurtz.
boy for away games, including the World
Elizabeth Hines at
Series trip in 1995. One of the local Riner’s assistance with GC Baseball
papers in Idaho took to giving Riner the
evolved gradually, starting with small
title of “World’s Oldest Batboy.” GC
vconnection magazine | 17 | gcsu.edu
elizabeth.hines@gcsu.edu. n
Wednesday
Friday
February
13
February
Women’s Basketball
Alumni Registration
vs. Clayton State
Magnolia Ballroom
th
5:30 p.m.
15
th
2 – 5 p.m.
Centennial Center
6 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs. Clayton State Centennial Center
Thursday February
14
th
6:30 p.m.
Saturday February
16
th
Blue and Green Day
9 a.m.
Tent City Opens Centennial Center Parking Lot
Baseball vs. Georgia Southwestern John Kurtz Field
10 a.m. Alumni Registration Magnolia Ballroom
7 p.m.
10 a.m.
Homecoming Concert Doors Open
Parade Line-up
Centennial Center
Irwin St. Parking Lot
7:30 p.m.
10 a.m.
Homecoming Concert
NPHC Historical Plaza Ribbon Cutting
Centennial Center
and Reception
Glow Run 5K
8 p.m.
West Campus
Meet and Greet Social Donahoo Lounge
NPHC Plaza
11 a.m. Homecoming Parade Begins
11 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
Tailgating Begins at Reunion Tents
Women’s Basketball
Centennial Center Parking Lot
vs. Augusta
7:30 p.m.
Centennial Center
A Taste of Milledgeville
Women’s half-time: Intro. of Duke and
Front Campus
Noon Community Stage Entertainment Centennial Center Patio
Noon Tent City Family Zone Grassy Area near Centennial Center
Duchess Courts
5:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball
For more information about
and Queen Courts
Homecoming 2019 and to register for events, visit
Baseball Doubleheader
SGA Election Results
2 p.m. Cornhole Tournament (RecSports) Centennial Center Patio
Donahoo Lounge
Men’s half-time: Intro. of King
After Men’s Game:
John Kurtz Field
Reunited Celebration
vs. Augusta Centennial Center
1 p.m. vs. Georgia Southwestern
8 p.m.
Parade Winners Georgia College Early College’s King and Queen Intro. Duke and Duchess Winners King and Queen Winners
homecoming.gcsu.edu.
S T U D E N T
P R O F I L E
Graduate student writes about Peace Corps travels connection magazine | 20 | gcsu.edu
Jennifer Watkins’ love for traveling has put her in
years in a private school there—after Burma’s military
unfamiliar territories and uncomfortable situations—like
dictatorship had fallen, opening the country’s Buddhist
working in countries where she doesn’t know the language.
monasteries and old temples to tourism.
These are not obstacles to her but opportunities to learn.
Watkins writes with simple eloquence, as if she’s having a casual conversation over coffee. Recently, she wrote about
“I guess I just like to try new things and see where it goes. I
winning a prize in the foreigner’s category for the mayor’s
like exploring new places,” said Watkins, a graduate
mini-marathon in Mandalay, Myanmar. She also detailed a
student in Georgia College’s Masters of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) creative writing program.
male-only, West African tea ceremony she was invited to attend in Guinea.
Love of adventure led Watkins first into theatre and then to traveling. She joined the Peace Corps for two assignments, where she discovered a passion for teaching. Then, when sharing her experiences, Watkins found she also liked writing. This brought her to Georgia College—the only writing program in the United States with a Peace Corps fellowship.
“I love acting, but I don’t love auditioning. I tend to be more quiet than I need to be for theatre,” said Watkins, who got her undergraduate degree in theatre and French from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces. “Writing is a better fit for me,” she said.
Along the way, Watkins taught theatre stage combat in
Like all adventures in her life, writing is also something
Florence, Italy, not knowing Italian. She learned soccer in
Watkins jumped into. And it suits her. She has a knack for
Niger, West Africa, in order to do a Peace Corps job. And
storytelling.
she taught high school math—not her best subject—in Burkina Faso, West Africa, for another Peace Corps job.
Critiques from classmates can be hard, since she’s writing about herself. But Watkins said the M.F.A. writing program
All were ways to experience something different.
is a supportive place, where criticism is meant to make writing better, not tear it apart. She hopes to get published
Watkins’ parents had been to Ghana with the Peace Corps.
soon.
Her sister and brother-in-law went to Panama as Corps volunteers. Following in their footsteps, Watkins worked in
“Most of the writing I’ve done up to this point has been
Niger from 2007 to 2009 as an education volunteer,
sharing with my friends and family about travels,” she said.
bringing West African girls into the city to acclimate them for high school. She added theatre to the camp’s soccer routine, using skits to teach things like the importance of hygiene and sleeping with mosquito nets. She loved the countryside, which reminded her of home in Thoreau, New Mexico, which has a stark but dynamic landscape of desert flowers, dust devils, and tumbleweeds, browns and sage greens, canyons, and red mesas. “In some ways, the country in West Africa reminded me of
“I’m having to focus on style and shaping. It’s challenging, but in a good way.” Georgia College’s Peace Corps fellowship is an assistantship. So, teaching is part of Watkins’ time here. She tutored in the Writing Center and now teaches writing to seventh graders at the university’s Early College program. Watkins is also co-managing editor of the writing journal, Arts and Letters. She reads submissions and does layout, design, and advertising—more things that are new to her.
New Mexico. It was familiar to me,” Watkins said. “I was welcomed into the community, fed, and taken care of.”
And the South’s new to this New Mexico girl too, giving her more places to explore before graduating in spring 2020.
Now, Watkins mesmerizes fellow graduate students with writings of West Africa and Myanmar in Southeast Asia, where she also lived and taught. She used her Peace Corps
After that? The only thing certain is it’ll be unexpected, and an opportunity to learn more. n
experience to get certified and taught English for three connection magazine | 21 | gcsu.edu
F A C U L T Y
P R O F I L E
connection magazine | 22 | gcsu.edu
RETIREMENT
couldn’t stop HARRIETT WHIPPLE BOTANIST TEACHES 50 YEARS AT GEORGIA COLLEGE educational learning, and practical
Whipple had a master’s in forest
application of classroom studies—Dr.
pathology from Clemson University in
Whipple was doing this before those
South Carolina, where the ratio of men
were even buzz words!” said Ruth Eilers,
to women, she remarked, was 90 to 1.
director of Academic Outreach.
Then she got a Ph.D. in botany at the University of North Carolina at Chapel
M
any of her peers stopped
The community program impacts about
Hill, a place where she liked watching
working at retirement. But
7,000 people per year. Even at
basketball.
when Dr. Harriett Whipple
conservative estimates, according to
retired in 2007, she continued teaching
Eilers, Whipple’s efforts touched the
Her love for sports continued at Georgia
part time for another 10 years.
lives of “hundreds of thousands of
College. Whipple played first base and
community members” over 50 years.
was the only woman on the faculty
“I kept chugging along. I’m the last
softball team. She also practiced tennis
one,” said Whipple. “Worked up to last
“From the beginning, reaching out to
every day on courts outside Beeson Hall
year, my 50th at Georgia College,
the community was important to her,”
which was a dormitory at the time. In
because I love the students and the
Eilers said, “and she got her classes
exchange for a free apartment in the
people here.”
involved in all sorts of science
hall’s basement, she became advisor to
outreach.”
the Christian Association.
botany to implement new ideas like
Whipple came to campus by bus in
It was there Whipple first met former
integrating instruction and reaching out
1968 for a job interview. A former
student and longtime friend, Sherrill
to the community.
professor of hers at Furman University in
Crowell Jones of Milledgeville. Jones
South Carolina offered her the position.
was president of the Christian group.
Whipple started Academic Outreach her
Dr. George Christenberry had moved on
Recently, they flipped through a 1969
first year at Georgia College. Over the
as dean at Georgia College, and he
yearbook together—reminiscing,
years, it went by many names, like
wanted to hire a botanist.
laughing at old hairdos, and pointing to
A maverick in her youth—Whipple used
Community Action Team for Service
people who’ve retired or passed away.
(CATS) and Science Education. But its
To accept, Whipple had to learn how to
Jones is a retired elementary principal,
objective never changed—to provide
drive in two days. She laughs,
who worked 30 years in the Baldwin
fun, outdoor learning for area residents
remembering she aced the written exam
County education system. She recalled
and teaching opportunities for Georgia
but barely passed the driving test. She
teaching Whipple’s son in first grade.
College students.
got her license, bought her first car, and
And Whipple taught Jones’ son at
arrived on campus at a time when
Georgia College.
“Talk about learning beyond the
women scientists were even more rare
classroom, community-based
than today.
connection magazine | 23 | gcsu.edu
“Oh, look. This is priceless,” Jones said, pointing to a picture of herself as a senior, hair teased high on her head. She gestured to a student handbook, which she said was “like the Bible.” In it, rules and regulations included which restaurants to patron and how to behave
That’s when she decided to fully retire and
“Experiential Integrative Workshops”—where
on a date.
spend more time with family—a son and
history, art, math, literature, and science were
daughter, four grandchildren, and daughter-in-
taught together in one course. They’d go to
In 1968, Georgia College was in its second
law Katie Whipple, who teaches music therapy
ponds or for walks in forests to experience the
year of co-education. There were less than a
at Georgia College.
outdoors and identify plants, like Christmas
thousand students, about 95 percent still female.
Fern or Wild Ginger. At 77, Whipple no longer teaches college. She is no longer faculty advisor for Alpha Delta
It made a difference in how Jones later taught
Back then, the four classes competed for the
Pi Sorority, a position she held more
first graders.
Golden Slipper award; freshmen wore beanies
than 40 years.
during “Rat Week;” and everyone looked forward to the Annual Hike, where students
“She is an amazing mentor and has been for But she’s not exactly idle either.
split into crazy-titled groups—like the Irish,
not just hundreds but, I would say, thousands of students,” Jones said.
Royals, Elephants, or Thunderbirds. They
Whipple still decorates Georgia’s Old
dressed funny, competed in silly games, and
Governor’s Mansion at Christmas and
“Anybody who’s taken a class under her feels
voted for king and queen.
Centennial Center for commencements.
privileged,” Jones continued. “They love her.
She acts as a consultant for Academic
They love the way she teaches. I think she is
Whipple said she came to Georgia College to
Outreach and sits on boards at Lockerly
probably one of the most admired professors
get “her degree in M.R.S.” She met her
Arboretum and the Boys and Girls Club of
on this campus, past and present.”
husband, Fielding Whipple, over breakfast
Baldwin County. She also teaches Sunday
downtown. The restaurant was crowded, and
school at First Baptist Church.
Whipple said softly, “Thank you.”
She misses her college classes—especially
“Absolutely,” Jones said. “She’s a friend to so
courses that prepared elementary education
many, not just students. She’s made an impact
students in science.
on the entire community.”
he motioned for her to join him. Two weeks later, they were married. “I knew he’d be a good catch,” she said. Fielding got sick last year and recently passed away, after 47 years of marriage. Around that
Jones recalled the only class she took with
time, Whipple had knee-replacement surgery.
Whipple. It was a summer unit called connection magazine | 24 | gcsu.edu
n
U P DATE C A PITA L
$22,091,445 $4,902,108.36 TOTAL NEEDED TO REACH GOAL
C A MPA IGN
Total fundraising for FY18 $6,055,617.
As of Dec. 31, 2018, the total raised for the campaign was $25,097,891.64 out of $30,000,000. Join us as we seek to raise the additional $4,902,108.36 to meet our goal by June 30, 2020. Visit campaign.gcsu.edu for more information about Follow Your Passion. Find Your Purpose.
$25,097,891.64 CURRENT DOLLARS RAISED
connection magazine | 25 | gcsu.edu
Alumni Weekend in Photos
connection magazine | 26 | gcsu.edu
connection magazine | 27 | gcsu.edu
Eight individuals recognized during
Alumni Weekend
connection magazine | 28 | gcsu.edu
he Alumni Awards Ceremony, honoring seven
I have to say thank you. Thank you for all the things
alumni and one friend of the university, was
that weren’t on her resume.”
T
held Nov. 3, during Alumni Weekend. The
event paid tribute to their achievements, perseverance,
Estes’ mother instilled powerful values in her.
and service to others and their community. “She would say, ‘You can walk into any room, and you belong just as much as anyone else,’” Estes said.
Cellestine Hill Hunt, ’68
“She knew what it meant to love fiercely and taught Cellestine Hill Hunt, ’68, was bestowed the Alumni
me that her love and truth were unconditional.”
Heritage Award. The award is given to an alumna who, in four or more decades of service, has
Cecile Hattaway Parker, ’56
demonstrated in her own life those ideals that best exemplify the traditions and heritage of the
Cecile Hattaway Parker, ’56, received the Honorary
university. Hunt exhibited those ideals in her service
Alumna Award for rendering outstanding service to
to the community and her alma mater.
the university through her work with the Alumni Association, of which she serves on the Board of
She was the first African-
Directors. Parker graduated from Peabody High
American student to attend
School then attended Middle Georgia College. She
Georgia College in 1964.
was the secretary to past Georgia College Presidents
In 1968, she became the
Drs. Edwin Speir and Rosemary DePaolo from 1987
university’s first African-
until 2003. During part of that time, the college
American graduate, as well,
transitioned to become Georgia’s designated public
earning a bachelor of arts
liberal arts university.
degree in psychology. Hunt went on to become a Ford
“This was a busy and sometimes stressful time.
Foundation Fellow, where
Everything had to be changed—the name, stationery,
she advocated to increase
and signage. Our colors changed from brown and
racial and ethnic diversity of university and collegiate
gold to blue and green, and our basketball team
faculties. She passed away June 17, 2008, and is
changed from Colonials to Bobcats,” she said.
survived by her daughter Maia Hunt Estes, who
“However, it was great to feel a part of the changes
accepted the award on her behalf.
and how we would grow and become Georgia’s public liberal arts university.”
“I want to thank the class of 1968, who honored my mother. She would be overwhelmed,” said Estes.
Parker regards Peabody School as a treasured memory.
“And, to be honest, she would also be a little conflicted. It’s hard to be the first, and its hard to be
“Peabody will always be a bright spot in my life,” she
doing it by yourself.”
said. “Our classes included things that other grammar and high schools did not have, including
As challenging as it was for her, she persevered and
swimming, dance, and art lessons. We were exposed
earned her degree.
to an excellent education from every one of the student teachers and professors. Plus, I made
“Mom would’ve been here accepting the award,
friendships that are still going today.”
because she made friends at Georgia College,” said Estes. “There are women here whom she trusted. So,
connection magazine | 29 | gcsu.edu
Leaders Fellowship and an author of several children’s religious dramas. Career awards for Newman-Powell include Outstanding Young Educator of the Year, National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development medal, Thelma Raley Endowed Faculty Chair at Polk Community College, and the National Council of Teachers of English Nell Ann Pickett Award for Distinguished Service to Two-Year Colleges. “When I entered college as a freshman, there was a cultural mindset that even college educated women were more ancillary than true partners,” said Newman-Powell. “However, being surrounded by strong, capable women of the class of ’68 and influenced by administrators and professors dedicated to empowering young women led me to see possibilities I had not envisioned before.” After earning four degrees, including a Ph.D., and teaching at the college level for 34 years, she suddenly experienced a call to ministry—a career inconceivable to her as a first-year college student. “The Woman’s College of Georgia was an important part of my ‘of course you can do it’ journey,” said Newman-Powell.
Dr. Georgia NewmanPowell, ’67, (’68)
for two-year college representation in the largest academic professional association in the nation. In 2001, she returned to
Dr. Georgia Newman-Powell, ’67, (’68)
Georgia College as associate professor of
was presented with the Alumni
English and coordinator of student
Achievement Award, granted to alumni
retention. At age 58, she began four
who have excelled in their profession,
years of post-doctoral religious study and
attained prominence, and had a positive
a two-year hospital residency leading to
effect on the state, region, and nation.
her second career as a hospital chaplain with clergy ordination in the Episcopal
Newman-Powell became a college
church. Newman-Powell is an advocate
professor of English at age 23. Since
for racial justice and reconciliation as well
then, she held national leadership roles
as a leader in interfaith alliances. She is
and was instrumental in securing the vote
also a member of Atlanta Interfaith
“I have no secret to success, just awareness that success is individual only in part,” she said. “The sacrifices of supportive others – one’s sacrifices of personal privilege and certainly great blessings are all a part. So, striving less to achieve honor than simply to live honorably, to affirm the support I receive along the way, and to be mindful of ways that I can best support others – I hope to make my niche in the world a little better.”
As creator of Georgia College’s mascot
pushed me to get my master’s. It was just
Thunder, Hendrix captured the Bobcat
the simple fact that professors were being
Jason Hendrix, ’09, received the
spirit. He has been active on campus
patient and kind with me when I didn’t
Outstanding Young Alumni Award,
volunteering with the sports information
deserve it. And now, years later, this is
granted to Georgia College alumni who
department and mentoring College of
who I am.”
have graduated within the past 10 years,
Business students. He also served on the
achieved notable recognition in a
Young Alumni Board.
Jason Hendrix, ’09
Today, Hendrix sees himself as a mentor in his profession. He serves as a guest
professional or business career, and show “When I attended Georgia College, I
lecturer at Florida State and Florida A&M
battled a lot of maturity issues,” said
Universities and Tallahassee Community
He received his master’s degree in sports
Hendrix. “It took me until my senior year
College.
management from Florida State University
to grow up and get everything together.
promise for continued success.
“Sitting back and doing average work,
in 2011. Hendrix has worked in the athletics media relations industry,
“It’s not just the education, the people, or
not being able to pass these skills onto
progressing from graduate assistant to
the time I spent on campus. It was a real-
the next person, is not an option in my
staffer to assistant director to director at
life investment from professors who were
life,” he said.
various NAIA and NCAA Division I
real with me that made a difference.” “These things encourage me daily to do
institutions until becoming the director of communications for Florida Sports
His professors exhibited patience and
my best by empowering the next
Foundation, where he leads the state’s
kindness that carries into Hendrix’s work
motivators and leaders of our industry,”
communications efforts in sport
today.
Hendrix said. “I see myself teaching people what I have learned and the
development and the tourism industry. In 2016, Hendrix was recognized as a “30
“These two traits remain the biggest
experiences I have gained through my
under 30” recipient by the College Sports
motivators in my life,” he said. “It was the
hardships and trials, while having a
Information Directors of America.
professors’ patience and kindness that
positive impact on them.”
lunchroom at Blandy Hills Elementary
He holds a bachelor’s degree in English
School in Baldwin County.
and master’s degrees in English and math from the University of Georgia. Fuller also
“I enjoyed watching the students grow,”
served as a U.S. Navy officer, teaching
said Nunn. “As a nurse, it was also
English at the U.S. Naval Academy in
interesting to see some of the early
Annapolis, Maryland. He was discharged
development of health issues.”
from active duty in 1969. Fuller returned to graduate school, where he retrained in
She volunteers, serving meals to senior
math. Four years later, he became an
citizens with Meals on Wheels.
associate professor of math at Gainesville College. Now, Fuller volunteers as a math
“I like serving meals very much, because I
tutor at Georgia College’s Learning
get to go to people’s homes to visit with
Center and loves it.
them,” said Nunn. “It’s good to have an outsider check on people every now and
“I’ve never had a job before in which I
Dr. Maidana Knott Nunn, ’57
then.”
literally woke up each morning looking
Dr. Maidana Knott Nunn, ’57, received
She is also a member of the American
working, the clock seems to move too
the Ethel Rae Mozo-Stewart Alumni
Legion.
fast,” Fuller said. “The students whom I
forward to going to work. In which, as I’m
Community Service Award. Established in
work with at Georgia College are
memory of an alumna from the Class of
She frequently gives financial gifts to
invariably polite and grateful, making my
’46, the award is granted to graduates,
GCSU Foundation to memorialize
work environment one which seems like
associates, and honorary alumni to honor
departed acquaintances who served in
heaven on earth.”
the spirit of volunteerism. Award
higher education, music, or theatre. Her
recipients have a proven history of
unselfish devotion, expressed through
He especially appreciates that golden
exemplary service that resulted in visible
generous gifts, leaves a legacy that
moment when students understand what
improvements within the community.
reflects the core values of Georgia
he’s trying to convey.
College. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in
“Multiple times every day I have the
psychology from Georgia College, Nunn
“I hate to see students graduating from
fulfillment and pleasure of seeing the
earned her Bachelor of Science in
college with a big debt,” she said. “I
light bulb turn on with students I’m
Nursing Education from the Medical
hope scholarships enable students to
working with, and that is one of life’s
College of Georgia School of Nursing in
start their careers fresh without a large
great highs,” said Fuller. “When it
Augusta. She also earned a Master of
financial obligation.”
happens, I know I’ve been a collaborator
Science degree from the University of Maryland. Then, Nunn earned a
with them in producing something that is,
Donald “Dee” Fuller, Jr.
Doctorate of Nursing Science from Boston University. While Nunn was in
Donald “Dee” Fuller, Jr., a Peabody
Boston, she fulfilled her long-time wish to
School graduate, was presented the
travel as a U.S. Air Force nurse. She
William Bone Golden Key Award,
served 21 years, traveling extensively and
honoring friends of Georgia College who
retiring as a colonel. Nunn also worked as
rendered outstanding service to the
a nurse and clinical instructor at Central
university and its community.
State Hospital for 34 years. Fuller is also a 2005 recipient of the William Since retiring, Nunn has volunteered,
Childes Award from the Bobcat Club and a
serving ice cream to students in the
2008 winner of the Bobcat Award.
connection magazine | 32 | gcsu.edu
at the moment, the best that they are capable of.” n
1970s Ida Beal Harding, ’71, is retired from two careers—one in higher education and another at IBM as a project manager. In 2008, she helped found a nonprofit which drills wells in Niger, West Africa. She considers this cause her third career, as she is also a board member and director of Volunteer Management there. The organization celebrated its 10th anniversary in September and has drilled 547 wells to date. In addition, Harding is a Project Management Institute volunteer, serving on a university accreditation committee and cancer support community in Los Angeles, California. She travels frequently and has been to 70 countries.
Dr. Ken Simpson, ’76, received his doctor of chiropractic from Life College of Chiropractic in 1981. He recently retired from private practice in Milledgeville. He also practiced several years in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He and his wife of 40 years, Tina Brabson Simpson, ’76, ’03, were the original developers/owners of Subway restaurant franchises in Milledgeville and Madison, Georgia. Ken also started and owned Strictly Southern, a Southern and Confederate gift shop in downtown Milledgeville. They spend their retirement playing with their five grandchildren, traveling, camping, and writing.
1990s Dr. Jeff Hall, ’91, ’95, is the principal at Maxwell High School of Technology in Gwinnett County. He was named the 2018 Trade and Industrial Educators of Georgia (TIEGA) Administrator of the Year. The award commemorates exceptional individuals who have contributed to the success of Career and
2000s Michael Haun, ’04, just celebrated two years at the Atlanta Community Food Bank and recently became head diving coach for Emory University. During the same time period, Michael and his wife Tifanie Schmalenberger Haun, ’06, doubled their number of children by adding two foster children to their household. Jonathan Lupo, ’06, ’08, was recently chosen as director of Business Recruitment for the Douglas County Economic Development Authority. He began his new job Sept. 24, 2018. Lupo manages all requests for information and proposal projects. He also plays a key role in the Economic Development Authority’s marketing and branding initiatives.
2010 s Laura Lindsey, ’10, was named a 2018 March of Dimes Nurse of the Year at the ninth annual March of Dimes Georgia Nurse of the Year Awards Gala. More than 800 nurses from across the state were nominated. Lindsey, who works as a registered nurse at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, was recognized and honored as the best in neonatal intensive care. Robert Clifford Moseley, ’10, ’12, recently earned his doctor of philosophy in energy science and engineering at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He also married Cierra Jolee Cathey, ’13, in September 2018 at Chateau Elan in Braselton, Georgia. The couple has recently made their home in Durham, North Carolina, where Robert began a post-doctoral position at Duke University. He applies theoretical and experiment methods to answer
connection magazine | 33 | gcsu.edu
CLASS NOTES
Lloyd Moate, ’73 became an internal review officer at Polari Missile Facility Atlantic after graduating from Georgia College. Moate was transferred to the Naval Research Facility in Panama City, Florida, where he was promoted as head of the Command Evaluation Office. He attended classes at the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California, and the Professional Military Comptroller School in Montgomery, Alabama.
Technical Education (CTE) through the quality of their work and involvement in the CTE community. Hall is in his eighth year as principal of Maxwell High School of Technology in Gwinnett County and 21st year in education.
questions related to the evolution and robustness of genetic networks. Cierra works for the Sazerac Company as the national marketing and brand specialist for the Buffalo Trace Distillery bourbon profile.
CLASS NOTES
Patrick Hall, ’14, recently accepted a position as Circle K International (CKI) director at Kiwanis International in Indianapolis, Indiana. Circle K International is the world’s largest student-led collegiate service organization with over 13,000 members across 14 countries. Kathryn Stanley, ’14, joined the Home Depot team in August as a manager of public relations and product innovation. Prior to joining Home Depot, Stanley worked at Ketchum, a leading global public relations and communications firm, where she served in corporate and public affairs. She also worked at B2B and B2C industries, including the agricultural, airline, action sport, clean tech, retail, academic, financial, food and beverage, insurance, technology, and automotive sectors. At Georgia College, Stanley was an active member of Phi Mu, SGA, ODK, Lambda Pi Eta, PRSSA, and Women in Public Relations.
Ayana L. Shepherd, ’17, and her fiancé Michael Anderson welcomed twins Declan Michael and Delaney McKenna Anderson on July 2, 2018.
Mallory Chapman, ’14, and Ian Agnew, ’14, married Sept. 15, 2018, at Three Oaks Farm in LaGrange, Georgia. Thanks to Mark Moughamian, ’15, the couple met in 2010—their first year at Georgia College. Members of the wedding party included Haley Bogan, ’14, Lauren Lee, ’14, Tanner Mortensen, ’14, and Taylor Ray, ’14. The couple resides in Atlanta where Mallory is an assistant marketing manager for TOTO USA. Ian is a mechanical engineer for sonnenBatterie.
Victoria Bailey, ’15, married Kyle Olson, ’15, Dec. 30, 2017, at Sacred Heart Cultural Center in Augusta, Georgia. They met in their first-year chemistry class in 2011. Members of the wedding party included Ruchi Patel, ’14, Lauren Hoover, ’15, Paige Eber, ’14, Michael Simmons, ’15, Matthew Brady, ’17, William Cann, ’14 and Evan Crane, ’15.
Please submit your news for Class Notes at:
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In Memoriam Catherine Vincent* Coressa Veal* Joseph McMillan Floy Ford Wells, ’17 Vera Brinson Rowe, ’22 Mabelle Swan Noack, ’36 Frances Ivey Miller, ’37 Elizabeth Worthy Andrews, ’39 Dixie Barnett Carey, ’39 Mildred Strickland Cooper, ’39 Dora Turner White, ’39 Marie Slade Brandenstein,’40 Uldeane Rice Peacock, ’40 Helen Price, ’40 Helen Mumford Scherer, ’40 Sara Brandon Meredith, ’41 Runette Hitchcock Davis, ’42 Mildred Trussell Gatehouse, ’42 Blanche Muldrow Shamma, ’42 Olympia Diaz LaFunete, ’43 Norma Willis Lankford, ’43 Wynelle Shadburn Northcutt, ’43 Laura Boddiford Tribble, ’44 Dorothy Sapp Deane, ’46* Ruth Sheppard Decker, ’47 Barbara Camp Durshimer, ’47 Marion Virginia Hood Wilson, ’47 Thelma Frazier Evans, ’48 Sara Tate Herndon, ’48 Margaret Vaughan Brown, ’49 Joan Carter, ’49 Ann Shuman Green, ’49 Marian LaNelle Bailey Lasseter, ’49 Dorothy Kennedy Walker, ’49 Elizabeth Matthews Wren, ’49 Sara Pool Young, ’50 Christine Rice Tiller, ’51 Mavis Fleeman Daniell, ’53 Martha Davis Mixon, ’53 Elsie Haines Brown, ’55 Agnes Burgamy Dent, ’56* Manita Berrong Folendore, ’56
Sybil Grimsley Liggin, ’56 Billi Lewis Blus, ’58 Richie Duckworth, ’58 Sara Williams Lofty, ’59 Mary Trussell Turner, ’59 Constance Vincent Warr, ’60 Barbara Low Miller, ’61 Eulalle Massee Woeltjen, ’61 Martha Hampton, ’63 Judy McCrone, ’63 Marguerite Jones Truax, ’63 Judy Smith, ’65 Margie Tankersly, ’65 Judy Machen Rader, ’67 Billie Goode Mosteller, ’68* Joy Gugel Duchman, ’69 Raymond Fiveash, ’70 Andrea Mees Garmon, ’71 W. J. Langston, ’71 Patricia Stone Wayne, ’71 Gregory Hollis, ‘72 Madalyn McAdams Monroe, ’73 Steve Batson, ’74 Edward Kozlowski, ’74 Clyde Moore, ’75 Gregory Garnto, ’76 Betty Etheridge Gill, ’76 Leavy Riggs, ’78 Glenn Davis, ’79 Jean Cummings Smith, ’83 Nina Booker Peterson, ’80 David Askew, ’81 Wynette Whitesley Samper, ’83 Patricia Smith Byrd, ’85 Wesley Jones, ’90 Jana Bruner, ’92 Christina Clements Thigpen, ’93 Emma Wall Chambers, ’94 Angela Hill Sams, ’99 Andrew Mobley, ’06 Horace Harwell, ’13
*Denotes alumni of Peabody School. This list recognizes deceased alumni that the university has been made aware of as of Dec. 7, 2018.
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A special bond that lasts forever It was during her first year at Georgia College that Judith Hadley Maxwell, ’64, and her team won the Golden Slipper award. She remembers it vividly. Maxwell was a pianist, pretending to play “Somewhere over the Rainbow” while sitting on another student who acted as her piano bench. “Everyone had a part in it,” she said. “Golden Slipper week was sheer excitement. Everybody worked together, and even the professors helped.”
‘I didn’t know learning could be so much fun.’ This was because we not only learned the theory, but we also applied it,” she said. While teaching, Maxwell faced a unique challenge. The principal of the school informed her that the boys shop class was canceled, and he wanted her to teach 16 boys how to type. She had never taught an all-boys class before. “This was one of the most challenging and fun years of teaching I’ve had,” she said. “When I returned to the school for its 25th reunion, one of those boys’ mothers ran up to me with a big hug saying, ‘Thank you for saving my son’s life.’”
There was also less homework assigned during that week. “Afterwards, we all would gather around and celebrate,” Maxwell said. “My mother even came down and brought her homemade coconut cake.” Winning the Golden Slipper Award was one of the contributing factors that played into her decision to stay at Georgia College for four years instead of her original plan of attending two years for business. Her professors also made the difference in her pursuing a four-year teaching degree in business education. “When I first started at Georgia College, I did not even realize that teaching was one of my gifts,” said Maxwell. “All the professors got me on the right track, so I appreciate that.” Maxwell was especially fond of Dr. Rosa Lee Walston, HA ’72, professor emeritus of English. “Her love of learning commanded my respect,” she said. “It inspired me to apply myself.” Soon after she graduated, Maxwell emulated the positive learning environment she experienced at Georgia College as a high school business teacher and head of the department. “I remember one of my eighth grade students in typing class who remarked,
The woman’s son was drafted. However, because he was the only one in his unit that could type, he stayed in the U.S. while everyone else shipped off to war in Vietnam. Although retired, Maxwell still teaches Sunday School as well as the Good News Club after school program. She also served on the 50th Class Reunion Committee at Georgia College. “Our class had that special connection that people don’t have today,” she said. “Being a small, all-girls school brought us closer. We had camaraderie and the Golden Slipper was a focal point. It just holds a special meaning and connection that becomes easily rekindled every time we get together.” Maxwell feels it was a good four years. Now, she and her husband Joe want to honor Georgia College by including it in her will. She hopes students who receive her scholarship will relish the educational opportunity it affords. “I want to invest in the future of someone else with the same benefits that helped me,” she said. “I just want to give them an opportunity to do something with their lives in an environment that teaches and encourages students to do their best.” You can leave a learning legacy as well and create opportunities for future generations. Contact Dan Lavery at 478-445-1236 or dan.lavery@gcsu.edu to find out how.