RECORD THE
Summer 2019
FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY
UNIQUELY MADE The Surprising Passions God Stirs In Us
FOR LOVE OF THE GAME
SMALL TOWN COOL
PASSION PLAY
FERVENT ABOUT FAMILY
STORMING THE GATES
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{ FROM THE PRESIDENT } ON THE COVER: “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; And confirm for us the work of our hands; Yes, confirm the work of our hands.” - Psalm 90:17 (NAS). Brian Lee ‘01 brings every ounce of passion and skill to bear on revitalizing buildings in Hillsboro, Illinois. JRandlephoto: jrandlefoto.com THE RECORD (USPS 2292-2000) is published three times a year for alumni and friends of Greenville University by the Office of Advancement, Greenville University, 315 E. College Ave., Greenville, IL 62246. Phone: (618) 664-6500. Non-profit class postage paid at Greenville, IL 62246. Vol. 110, No. 2 Greenville University online: www.greenville.edu Email: therecord@greenville.edu
TWO LITTLE WORDS, ASTOUNDING REACH During her college career, G.U.’s 2019 Presidential Citation awardee Sophie Yaunches performed with the University’s student improv troupe Joyous Chaos. Like all good improv comics, she learned the “yes, and” rule: agree to a story someone else initiates and keep it going by adding to it. Her improv partner might start the skit with coughing and wheezing: “You know, don’t you, that I’ve been waiting an hour to see the doctor?” Leaping into character as a receptionist, Sophie might respond, “Yes, and . . . congratulations! For that you’ve earned our level one prize, a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee. With just five more minutes, you’ll earn our level two prize, a set of steak knives . . . ” “Yes, and . . .” Affirmation and participation—you are no stranger to it. When you pray for Greenville University or share about G.U. with a prospective student, when you alert G.U. to an internship at your business or attend an alumni gathering, when you help fund a scholarship like the McAllaster Honors Scholarship that Sophie received, you say, “Yes, I value Christ-centered higher learning in the liberal arts, and I want to keep it going.” Sophie followed the lead of scholarship donors and responded by achieving a near perfect GPA and playing trumpet in G.U.’s Marching Panther Regiment. She led others as a resident chaplain and soaked up all that she could from a transformative semester of study in Nicaragua. She returned and said “yes” to befriending students on the margins, new students and international students; she initiated conversations and welcomed them into community. “She empowered others,” said her Residence Life supervisor; she advocated for the “least of these.” She frequently prayed with and for classmates. She urged others to pay attention and respond with “yes” when God stirred their hearts. “I encourage you always to say yes,” Sophie wrote in a blog she kept as a G.U. student. “No matter where you are, God will speak to you if you simply listen. Don’t let the things of this world block your view of Him, and you will be amazed at how brightly He’ll shine in your life.” On behalf of Sophie and all the students at G.U., thank you for the “yes,” and thank you for the “and . . .” God stirs hearts, rouses actions and stories evolve. With each bit of encouragement you offer, you keep stories like Sophie’s going. Blessings,
Vice President for Advancement Scott Giffen ’00 Director of Development Heather Fairbanks Director of Major and Planned Gifts Brett Brannon ’97 Campaign Manager Jennifer Wilson Manager of Advancement Services Matthew Young Manager of Alumni and Church Relations Cyndi Oglesby ’85 Gift Officer Pat Bond ’62 Managing Editor Carla Morris ’77 Contributing Editor Rachel Heston-Davis ’06 Graphic Designer Scott Brown Photography Anna Brannon ’17, Russell Lamb ’20, Genesis Martinez ’19 Writers Rachel Heston-Davis ’06, Carla Morris ’77 Pictogram credits from the Noun Project, the nounproject.com. Page 10: Child by Musmellow; Church by Marc Serre; Family by Gan Khoon Lay; Heart by AB; House by AdbA Icons; Volunteer by Nick Bluth. Page 7: Strategy by Bybzee; Shoot by Eucalyp. Our mission: Greenville University empowers students for lives of character and service through a transforming Christ-centered education in the liberal arts, sciences and professional studies.
Ivan L. Filby President 2
Send address corrections, correspondence and alumni updates to the Office of Advancement, 315 E. College Ave., Greenville, IL 62246; or call 618-664-6500; or email alumni@greenville.edu.
GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU
Views and opinions expressed by individuals in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Greenville University.
{ IN THIS ISSUE }
UNIQUELY MADE FOR LOVE OF THE GAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The man who transcended borders and built friendships with a bat, a ball and a glove. SMALL TOWN COOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 All-in commitment to a cultural movement of hope. PASSION PLAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 More players, more playing time and more media attention—welcome to Panther basketball. STORMING THE GATES OF GRAMMAR . . . . . . 8 A father’s greatest barrier and his son’s good work. FERVENT FOR FAMILY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 If we don’t do it, who will?
MORE Homecoming 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Remembering Orley Herron . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
NEWS Campus News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 In Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
LEARN MORE AT: greenville.edu
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For Love of The Game By Rachel Heston-Davis and Carla Morris
It’s a sight Robert “Ish” Smith ’57 still treasures: 44,000 spectators filling Dodger Stadium, awaiting the first pitch of the 1984 Summer Olympics baseball tournament. Forty-four thousand! Prior Olympics had showcased baseball as an exhibition sport, sometimes a single four-inning game. But this packed stadium in Los Angeles on the last day of July marked the launch of a week-long tournament that could legitimize baseball in the eyes of a watching world and nudge it one step closer toward recognition as an official “gold-medal” sport. As president of the International Baseball Association, Smith had labored long and hard to bring baseball to the Olympics. The sight of a major-league stadium packed with enthusiastic fans encouraged him. “At that point, I knew we were going to succeed,” he recalls. But international sports and Olympic competitions are political affairs. Persuading decision-makers is no small task. Setting his sights on the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, meant keeping the issue alive through countless conversations and lobbying efforts at home and abroad. By the time Smith penned a 1985 editorial for The New York Times, he had already travelled more than 600,000 miles in this quest.
“Baseball has passed every Olympic test, met every criterion set up for it,” he wrote. “The International Olympic Committee will have to search long and hard to find excuses not to include it in 1988.” Smith reminded readers of the successful tournament in Los Angeles. Certainly 385,000 fans filling Dodger Stadium over eight days demonstrated international baseball’s ability to produce “a high class, Olympic-caliber competition.” Baseball did not debut as a medal sport at Seoul, but it did four years later at the Barcelona games. There, Smith directed the first medaled baseball tournament in Olympic history. Last February, attendees at the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame honored Smith for his unfailing devotion to international baseball. It was said he fit the bill of an
amateur baseball icon “like a treasured souvenir ball tucked tightly into a glove” and that his deep love for the game broke down barriers. An interviewer recently asked Smith if receiving honors gets old. “Not at all,” the 83-year-old Smith replied. “So many of them came many years ago, to have one or two in this part of my life makes it very special.” Robert “Ish” Smith served as Greenville University’s president from1993 to 1998. He is a member of the NAIA Hall of Fame and holds the Olympic Order, the highest honor given by the International Olympic Committee. He also holds a place in the hearts of alumni as a champion for servant leadership.
Rising Dreams Hard working Vanja Radulovic ’21, of Zagreb, Croatia, enriches classmates, teammates and co-workers with his international perspective. This conference champion soccer Panther, recipient of the donor funded W.T. Hogue International Award, envisions building a career in the business sector. What Vanja wants you to know: “I feel blessed and really grateful.” Thank you for giving.
G.U. Core Value: Service THE RECORD | SUMMER 2019
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Small Town Cool All-In Commitment to a Cultural Movement of Hope By Rachel Heston-Davis
A “sold” sign in the front yard and a packed moving truck at the curb signaled more than relocation for Brian and Kristen Lee. Like the keys to the family’s “new” place, they marked a fresh chapter in a story about lifestyle choices. Eight years ago, Brian ’01 and Kristen (Huber ’02) Lee moved from East Nashville, Tennessee, to Hillsboro (then, population 6,200) in south central Illinois, to join a cultural movement of hope already in progress. They had lived in the greater Nashville area for eight years when an emerging cultural shift toward small community life piqued their interest. As local shops popped up nearby and neighbors got to know each other, Brian felt for the first time that “our neighborhood was small enough, and the community close enough, to recognize people and to be recognized.” He and Kristen found this atmosphere fulfilling.
So, when an opportunity arose to purchase and renovate a building in downtown Hillsboro, back “home” near Kristen’s family, the couple decided to try small-town life more fully. In doing so, Brian and Kristen flouted the popular narrative bemoaning the demise of small-town America. They joined a national trend identified by University of Minnesota sociologist Ben Winchester: small-town residents who leave for the city in their 20s return later in their 30s and 40s with degrees, work experience, professional connections and families in tow. Brian and Kristen brought every ounce of their passions and talents to bear on revitalizing downtown Hillsboro. Brian renovated their building, turning a portion into a chic loft apartment for their family, and started the blog Small Town Cool to document Hillsboro’s rejuvenation. Over the next few years, the Lees encouraged
Rising Dreams A two-sport athlete, business management major Adereio Jones ’20 dreams of entrepreneurship. He wants to expand his already established clothing line and open a store. The recipient of multiple donor-funded scholarships, Adereio says scholarships have helped him stay in school. What he wants you to know: Each award “fuels me to always strive to get good grades.” Thank you for giving.
other Hillsboro dwellers in renovation and entrepreneurship, including fellow G.U. alumni Devin ’11 and Emilie (Garman ’10) Moroney and Matt ’08 and Missy (Weatherby ’08) Sands. Brian, Devin and Matt opened The Gold Pan: Record Store & Recording Studio in the Moroney’s own renovated downtown building. When it comes to reviving a small rural town, Brian says, positivity is huge. “That was actually my inspiration to start blogging. I knew there were some really cool things going on [in Hillsboro] and I felt like getting those things out in front of people could help to change the temperature of hope for the future.” Brian also highly recommends an “all-in” attitude. He draws on qualities fostered at Greenville University, like commitment to excellent work, to fuel success. “Good enough” is not good enough when you’re starting a small business or redesigning a historic storefront, Brian says; he completes every project at his top ability. He also leans heavily on habits of self-motivation and selfteaching, skills he gained at G.U. when he learned to record his own music. Like families across the nation, the Lees enjoyed trading city for town. They found a lower cost of living and a higher threshold to renovate and create, not to mention greater opportunities to really know their neighbors. Pretty cool! Visit the Lees’ blog at mysmalltowncool.com.
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Photo: JRandlephoto: jrandlefoto.com
A family affair: Brian and sons work on the “first bones” of a candy counter for the restored lobby of Hillsboro’s Eisentraut Theatre.
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Kenny Greene ‘17 with Coach Barber. Two years ago, Kenny’s half-court, game-winning, threepoint shot at the buzzer drew the attention of ESPN. G.U. beat Eureka 145-142.
Passion Play Fifty Seconds of Heart-Pounding Thunder By Carla Morris
“It’s the most extreme form of team basketball,” Panther guard Daniel Saeli ’19 told a reporter for NBC affiliate WANDTV. “There is no selfish way to play ‘The System.’”
relentless press “the most entertaining brand of basketball in the land.” Forbes Magazine said the Panthers’ offense operated “at a level never before seen in college basketball.”
Media attention descended on Greenville University last semester after the Panthers stepped up the frenetic pace of their unique style to score 200 points in one game. Frank Cusumano of KSDK News dubbed the players’ revolving 50-second shifts and
Media outlets scrambled for a word with Coach George Barber to hear about “The System,” an approach that gives more athletes more playing time, Barber’s purpose. According to Forbes, G.U.’s 201819 team maintained the largest roster in the
G.U. Core Value: Innovation 6
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country. Seventeen players suited up for the 200-point game; 30 players filled out the program overall. Doubling the usual roster exposes more students to Barber’s influence in the locker room too. His favorite inspirational quotes line the walls: “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” “Faith, hope, and love . . . and the greatest of these is LOVE.” “De-emphasize the win. Play with freedom.” Against this backdrop, with open Bible in hand, Coach peers over reading glasses to look his players in the eyes. Convinced he has their full attention, he proceeds: “Alright . . . Romans 12:2: ‘Don’t copy the behaviors and customs of the world.’ Even in sport—that’s my addition—‘But let God transform you into a new person by changing the way that you think.’”
Likewise, Barber goes hard maximizing teachable moments. A player’s four years fly by quickly, and he’s determined to make the most of them. Sometimes the “Barberisms” linger for former Panthers like Jamal Daniels ’17: “I can’t promise you that you’ll go to the NBA,” Barber told Daniels, “but I can promise you that you’ll be a better man playing for me.” Daniels took it to heart. “My first week in Greenville, [Coach] gave me a Bible with my name engraved on it, and that was special for me; I’ll never forget it.” Like an explosive 50-second “short” shift, the small gesture packed punch.
Rising Dreams
The scripture is appropriate. Asking players to expend more energy than they ever dreamed possible in shockingly short shifts demands a new way of thinking.
Lady Panther basketball player Katie Wolfram ’20 of Las Vegas, Nevada, envisions serving athletes one day as a physical therapist. A recipient of the McAllaster Honors Scholarship and the Harold N. Cooley Endowed Scholarship, this dedicated student worker in G.U.’s Office of Advancement wants you to know: “The Greenville University Fund makes a huge difference to me.” Thank you for giving.
Cusumano asked senior Johari Dix, “Are you actually tired after a 50-second shift?” “Yes sir,” the guard replied firmly. “We’ve got to go hard that 50 seconds.”
EXTREME PANTHER BASKETBALL PERSONNEL
PLAN
PERFORMANCE
32 players from 10 states
Defense: Full court pressure 100% of the game
NCAA record holder for scoring average: 135.1 points per game
15 players per game Three groups of five players alternate in shifts 14 players average between 11.8 and 19.6 minutes per game
Offense: Shoot within 12 seconds of taking possession of the ball
Most combined points scored in a Division III game:
Take at least 100 shots
• G.U. 200, Fontbonne University 146
Take 50 three-point shots
• Panther field goal attempts: 154
Grab at least 35% of available offensive rebounds
• Panther three-pointers: 91
Force 32 turnovers Outshoot the opponent 25:1
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Storming the Gates of Grammar By Carla Morris
G.U. junior Michael Gonzalez tells the story of a 16-year-old boy in Guanajuato, Mexico, who refused to let tough economic circumstances destroy his vision for a better future. A costly visa to the U.S. was out of the question, but he felt hopeful when he connected with a coyote—a smuggler paid to guide undocumented immigrants over the border. The boy crossed near Tijuana. After a treacherous week lost in the surrounding hills and canyons with little more than the clothes on his back and a container of water at his side, doubt overtook him. When the opportunity arose, he hitched a ride back to the border and returned to Guanajuato. But he tried a second time and succeeded. Connections led him to Chicago, where he secured work at a supermarket. Each night he prepared for the next day by washing the one shirt he owned and hanging it to dry over the tub. His first paycheck went toward a T-shirt, underwear, pants and a haircut.
The boy, now all grown up, will add another chapter to this story next May when his son Michael, a first generation university student, graduates from Greenville University with a major in Spanish education. Michael’s dad gained legal residence under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Michael’s mother—a native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico—secured a visa when she was 24. To Michael, they modeled determination and bravery in their youth and dedication and self-sacrifice as parents. “What was the hardest part about leaving Mexico?” Michael once asked his mother. “Having to adapt to the language,” she said. Michael has made it his business to help others push through language barriers. This year, he began teaching a class in G.U.’s University Pathways program, an intensive English language course that prepares students for university-level skills.
Rising Dreams McAllaster Honors Scholar and student manager of G.U.’s Advancement Call Center Faith Hohman ’20 describes her internship with an immigrants’ rights coalition a complete “wild card.” Going into it, she didn’t know what to expect. Now, she imagines work in immigration law. What Faith wants you to know: “Thank you for giving me the chance to discover my passions. These lifechanging experiences do not happen without you.” Thank you for giving.
“All of my students are from China,” says Michael, who counts it a privilege to build relationships as he teaches. At Level 1, students’ limited skills often mask bold dreams and plans they cannot fully express. At Level 5, however, confidence to detail their desires takes hold. Michael knows that words and sentences are the building blocks of conversations, and conversations are the basis for relationships. It’s hard for him to imagine Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25 to welcome the stranger without conversation being part of the process. “This is something we all need to do because it is what we are called to do,” says Michael. “We need to experience new things and learn from others because at the end of the day, it prepares us for what is to come.” And, what is to come? Michael quotes Revelation: “A great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.” His ready response dignifies the daily drill of tenses, pronouns and pronunciation. It gives a glimpse of language at its fullest.
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Michael Gonzalez guiding Level 1 students in the complexities of grammar. He equates their embrace of a new culture and immersion in the English language with bravery.
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Fervent About Family By Rachel Heston-Davis
Not just her own family, although five children and a spouse are surely enough to keep a mind occupied. “Family” is always on Katie (Rathgeb ’05) Myette’s mind. Katie also prays for and serves 210 foster and adoptive families in The Restore Network, a nonprofit that recruits Christian households to serve as foster families, adoptive families and support teams to foster children in Illinois. The organization operates in four southern Illinois counties with Katie as executive director.
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A former elementary school teacher, Katie and her husband Ben ’05 helped start The Restore Network in 2009 in response to the overwhelming needs for more foster families in their area. When it comes to housing foster children in a timely manner, Illinois ranks last among all states; nearly 40 percent of Illinois foster children will shuffle between four or more households.
“The Restore Network is committed to changing the culture of foster care in Illinois,” Katie says. Katie recalls when she, Ben and others in her church initiated the Restore Network. “We were convinced that scripture was clear that the church was to care for the vulnerable. As we looked around us, we were convicted that the needs were tremendous.”
From this conviction grew a passion to adopt children into their own growing family. The Myettes are now a busy, selfdescribed “loud” family of seven. Welcoming the vulnerable brings challenges, Katie admits. She and Ben parent their children through emotional ups and downs borne of childhood trauma. Though difficult, Katie asserts the work is necessary and rewarding. She believes God prepared her for this work long before she married Ben and
before she thought of having children. While on mission trips to underprivileged areas of the world as a teen, Katie recalls being “filled with a burden for vulnerable children.” It happened again when Katie met traumatized children in her first student teaching assignment through G.U. Also at G.U., Katie developed a mindset that would prove invaluable to her future work with Restore Network: engaging as a lifelong learner. Meeting the needs of children in foster care is complicated and ever-changing, Katie says. “Restore
“Family is not an
Network will never ‘arrive.’ We will always be changing, improving and learning how to best serve children in foster care.” Working to support families in crisis can seem like a case of the harvest being large and the workers being few. Katie often feels the weight of a world with too much hurt. She leans hard on Christ in those moments. “We remember how He has worked in mighty ways for vulnerable children and families in the past, and we trust that He is working now—even when we can’t see it,” she affirms.
Rising Dreams
impermeable sanctuary
Some say protecting the planet is the greatest legacy we can leave our children. Gabe Carter ’22 imagines parlaying his environmental biology and political science double major into eventual work with a government agency that addresses environmental concerns. Gabe values his Christ-centered education and meeting people who share his interests. What this young biologist and student researcher wants you to know: “If I didn’t receive the Distinguished Scholar Scholarship, I wouldn’t be able to attend college at all.” Thank you for giving.
that one must be born into, but a hospitable people who share a readiness to welcome others home.” - Restore Network
29 Partner Churches
234
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Homes Licensed or Pending Licensure by Restore Network
Children Reunited With Their Parents
28
2,093
Adoptions
Volunteer Hours
321
Children in Restore Network Homes
Data source: The Restore Network’s 2018 Annual Report
G.U. Core Value: Christ-centered Wesleyan THE RECORD | SUMMER 2019
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HOMECOMING 2019 HIGHLIGHTS OCTOBER 17-20
Register online at greenville.edu/homecoming
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17
Jazz Band Concert – 7 p.m. Take in the swinging sounds of G.U.’s very own big band at Whitlock Music Center.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
Homecoming Chapel – 9:30 a.m. Join us in Whitlock Music Center to honor our 2019 Alumni Awardees, followed by donuts and coffee by Hogue Tower. Homecoming Parade – 4 p.m. Cheer on the Marching Panther Regiment, athletes, Alumni Awardees and a host of other groups in this annual march down College Avenue. After the parade, enjoy a fun evening meal at Panther Palooza in Armington Center. We invite members of the Class of 1969 and the Wilson T. Hogue Society to eat together in the Krober Room. Men’s and Women’s Soccer See your alma mater’s teams take on Eureka. The men’s match begins at 5 p.m.; the women’s match begins at 7 p.m. Greenville University Choir Concert – 7:30 p.m. Hear beautiful voices echo through the rafters of the James E. Wilson Recital Hall in Whitlock Music Center. Then enjoy a special by-reservation-only dessert reception under the stars in the Center’s courtyard.
LEARN MORE: greenville.edu/homecoming
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
Children’s Races and Panther 5K – Registration opens 7 a.m. Bring your running gear, or take a place by Hogue Tower to applaud runners at the finish line! Fun Run (ages 7 and younger): 8 a.m. College Avenue Dash (ages 8-12): 8:15 a.m. Panther 5K: 8:30 a.m. G.U. Summer Research Experience – 10 a.m. Visit Snyder Hall of Science to see the results of this summer’s student research projects at this come-andgo event. Football Panthers vs. St. Scholastica – 1 p.m. Enjoy a tailgate lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. and stay to cheer on the Panthers at the John Strahl Athletic Complex. Alumni Dinner – 5 p.m. Join friends in Armington Center to celebrate the 2019 Alumni Awardees, recognize reunion classes and welcome members of the Class of 1969 into the Wilson T. Hogue Society. Childcare is available by reservation for children age 6 and under.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20
Homecoming Brunch – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy one last meal together in Armington Center before the weekend closes out. Brunch is served for just under $10 each, payable at the register. Special alumni seating will be available in the Krober Room. Concert Band Performance – 3 p.m. The weekend’s closing event features the G.U. Concert Band in its annual Homecoming celebration performance. Afterward, savor a sweet treat in the Whitlock Music Center lobby before heading home.
{CAMPUS NEWS }
TAKE A HIKE
INTRODUCING URBAN WALKABOUT Student leaders at G.U. traditionally launch the school year with WalkAbout, an annual wilderness backpacking expedition in the Smoky Mountains. This May, G.U. offered its first-ever urban twist on the tradition. Director of Residence Life and Housing Naomi Brown ’14 says the hiking adventure in St. Louis integrated elements of its wilderness counterpart—time for students to meditate, contemplate, build relationships and step outside of comfort zones as they accomplish daily hiking goals. Urban hiking first gained widespread attention in 2004 with an article in Backpacker Magazine entitled “I Climbed Los Angeles.” Urban hikers say a slog through the city can be as exhilarating and strenuous as a hike in the hills. “Who needs mountains when you’ve got steps, walls and streets?” asks The Guardian. G.U.’s traditional wilderness WalkAbout will still take place in August.
BRINER SCHOOL DUO PUBLISHES CASE STUDY Ivey Publishing has just released a case study coauthored by G.U. student Shirley Estes ’19 and David Anderson, associate professor in the Briner School of Business. The paper examines the influence of social issues on retailers’ policies. Entitled “The Kroger Co.: Public Relations and Social Responsibility,” it reviews gun violence in 2014 and the subsequent push by gun control advocates to pressure retailers into prohibiting customers from carrying guns in stores. The paper appears on Ivey Publishing’s website as a resource for undergraduates studying marketing and/ or public relations.
PATTON INDUCTED INTO THE NCCAA HALL OF FAME Greenville University head men’s and women’s cross country and track and field coach Brian Patton ’88 was inducted into the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Hall of Fame May 30, in Greenville, South Carolina. Patton has headed the cross country and track and field Panthers since 1994. Over the years, he and his staff have garnered numerous awards including 10 NCCAA National Coach of the Year awards. Patton is a 25-time recipient of the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s Cross-Country Coach of the Year Award. A certified public accountant, Patton and his wife Heather have two sons, Elijah and Caleb.
NCCAA Hall of Fame Coach Brian Patton
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{CAMPUS NEWS} G.U. FORENSICS CONFERENCE ADDRESSES SEXUAL ASSAULT
Debbie Smith’s testimony gave a face and personal experience to the science and psychology of sexual assault.
Local and regional criminal justice professionals joined students and professors on campus April 5-6 to examine the tough subject of sexual assault. The conference mixed hard science and psychology with expertise from authorities in federal investigation, forensics pathology and victim advocacy. Presenter Debbie Smith (at left), rape victim and namesake of the Debbie Smith Act, spoke passionately about the vital role professional investigators and lab technicians play in solving assault cases. “As a victim, I want it all to be available to me, and I want it to be top notch, and I want them to be at their very best to ensure justice is done.”
PRESIDENT AND FIRST LADY FILBY MINISTER AT FM CONFERENCE Greenville University’s President Ivan and First Lady Kathie Filby were featured speakers at a church conference and retreat sponsored by the Wabash Conference of the Free Methodist Church. The Filbys ministered to about 50 pastoral couples April 8-9, in Nashville, Indiana. Conference Superintendent John Lane reported a refreshing “openness” among attendees to hear from the Lord. “People went away encouraged and with the conviction that the Lord surrounds us, even as we surround one another.” Kathie, an ordained elder in the Gateway Conference of the Free Methodist Church, serves as conference evangelist. Ivan’s degrees include a master of arts in evangelism studies from Cliff College in the U.K.
First Lady Kathie Filby
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{CAMPUS NEWS } BASTIAN SCHOOL PROFESSORS SPEAK AT CONFERENCE ON UNITY
G.U. STUDENT RESEARCHERS CONTINUE TO IMPACT NEUROSCIENCE Jessie Chappel ’20 was named recipient of the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. The award goes to undergraduates who show exceptional promise for becoming the next generation of research leaders in the natural sciences, mathematics and/or engineering. The news came just after the American College of Clinical Pharmacology published an article citing a paper authored by former G.U. student researchers Michael Shawn Mengarelli ’15, Juliana Phillips ’17 and Kellie Steele ’18. Like Chappel, the trio conducted their research as students under the guidance of Assistant Professor of Biology Bwarenaba Kautu.
Featured speakers at One Future STL April 1 included Adjunct Professor David Hawkins, G.U.’s “preacher in residence,” and Assistant Professor Ben Wayman ’02, G.U.’s James F. and Leona N. Andrews Chair for Christian Unity. The pair helped pastors and church leaders consider Jesus’ words and what they mean for people who have a heart for the health and vitality of greater St. Louis.
Jessie Chappel
David Hawkins
VP OF ADVANCEMENT MYETTE BIDS FAREWELL
The educational materials and archival resources G.U. adds to the Wesleyan Holiness Digital Library will support international ministerial preparation, academic excellence and spiritual development for students worldwide, especially those served by developing institutions.
Vice President of Advancement Linda Myette ’73 retired May 31st, after serving Greenville University for 20 years. “It has been my honor and privilege to work with a smart and talented group of advancement professionals, dedicated senior leadership and most of all with you, our alumni, donors and friends,” she said. “I pray that the Lord guides you and blesses you in years to come as you help to write the Greenville story for students through your support and your prayers.” Beginning June 1, Scott Giffen ’99 assumed duties as vice president over advancement.
DARE TO GO DIGITAL The Ruby E. Dare Library has partnered with the Wesleyan Holiness Digital Library to host its own digital repository for select documents. Dean of Library Services Gail Heideman MA ’17 and staff are currently finalizing a collection development policy and undergoing related training. Heideman hopes to begin digitizing items by fall, starting with students’ departmental honors and master’s theses. The Wesleyan-Holiness Digital Library is a free, multidisciplinary, open access, digital resource of books, literature, multimedia material and archives collected into a single institutional repository.
Linda Myette
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ALUMNI NEWS
What’s New With You? Submit your information online at greenville.edu/alumni.
Estherville, Iowa. doug.burton@mchsi. com
1950s After a 57-year career teaching math, Michael Hattar ’58 still holds that math is fun. He has published five math books and traveled worldwide speaking at instructor conferences. Semi-retired, Hattar currently teaches part time at Rio Hondo College and Mt. San Antonio College in Southern California.
University of Nevada-Reno. ’89 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
’79 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
1990s
1980s Stephen and Sandy (Mason ’83) Nealey were married July 8, 2018. A new book by Donald EastonBrooks ’88, based on a decade of research, provides teachers with valuable insight into techniques for engaging diverse learners. Ethnic Matching: Academic Success of Students of Color (Rowman & Littlefield, 2019) explores the positive, long-term impact of pairing students of color with “same race” teachers and shows how “intentionality of culturally responsive practice” can enhance the academic experience of students of color. Topics include challenges associated with recruiting and retaining excellent teachers of color, as well as current work being done on the local, state, and national levels to promote diversifying the field of education as a way to provide equitable education for all students. Easton-Brooks is dean of the College of Education at 2
1960s Larry and Beverly (Metzger ’68) Greenwood celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows August 10, 2018. Bev wore her vintage wedding gown. They also enjoyed a trip to Israel last winter. 1965 Pigeon Rd, Coffeen, IL 62017. lbg6468@yahoo.com. ’69 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
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’94 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
Kory Best ’96 now serves as global account manager with Securitas Security Services. 3 Daniel Hummer ’97, associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Morehouse College, has received a three-year $1M collaborative research grant from the National Science Foundation. Hummer’s team uses cutting-edge genetic and neuronlevel brain imaging tools to identify neurons essential for regulating sleep homeostasis—a mechanism that causes sleep drive to accumulate during wakefulness and dissipate during sleep. Though scientists understand much about how the brain regulates sleep, they know little about the neural processes
PINXIT PHOTOGRAPHY
ALUMNI NEWS
1 Rev. Doug Burton ’76 recently celebrated 15 years of ministry to the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in
Dawn (Mitchell ’90) Haynes can be contacted at jansnow67@gmail.com.
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Donal Easton-Brooks ‘88
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Daniel Hummer ‘97
underlying sleep regulation. The project provides opportunities for undergraduate students to work across three research laboratories and receive hands-on training in genetics, sleep recording and innovative neuroimaging techniques. Johnny Matthews ’98, MBA ’17 is chief information officer at Kaskaskia College. ’99 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
2000s Rev. Bryan Langdoc ’01 led members of the Indiana Statehouse in prayer at the invitation of State Representative Beau Baird (R-Greencastle). “It was an incredible honor,” Langdoc said of the opportunity to open the General Assembly with an ecumenical prayer. He expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him “in such an awe-inspiring place.” Langdoc received his master of divinity from Duke University in 2014. He serves as senior pastor at Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church in Greencastle. 4
Brian ’01 and Kristen (Huber ’02) Lee are doing their part to revitalize downtown Hillsboro, Illinois. They have purchased and renovated three buildings, which now house small businesses and the loft home they share with their three children. Learn more at mysmalltowncool.com. Read more about the Lees on page four.
5 Hon. Jeremy Richey ’03 serves as circuit judge in the Illinois Sixth Judicial Circuit Court. The Sixth Circuit includes Champaign, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, DeWitt and Douglas counties. Richey is the resident judge for Moultrie County and also hears cases in Piatt County. He is a 2006 graduate of Southern Illinois University School of Law.
children’s book, Under the Dancing Tree (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc., 2019). The tale expresses the timeless love between a father and his daughter as she experiences the wonders of growing up. Mattis says his participation in the Scriblerus writing club as a student at G.U. moved him to begin honing his craft “in earnest.” chipmattis.com.
Kelly Sager ’03, a graduate of Greenville University’s Organizational Leadership program, now serves as president and chief executive officer for HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville. Sager previously served as chief nurse executive for HSHS Southern Illinois Division. In a press release, James Dover, president and CEO of the HSHS Southern Illinois Division, referenced Kelly’s long history of dedicated service and deep commitment to the hospital’s Christ-focused mission.
Ginny (Sparks ’04) Smith is director of academic advising in the College of Business at Illinois State University.
Melissa (Kindermann ’04) Brandenburg currently lives in Springfield, Illinois, serving as supervising investigator with the Office of Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor. She previously served as investigator. Melissa and her husband are the parents of two boys, Bo (age three) and Luke Theodore (age 18 months). melissambrandenburg@ gmail.com. 6 Edna Hardaman ’04 has published a book of poetry, Entrance to Your Heart, (AuthorHouse, 2018).
Chip Mattis ’04, has published a
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’09 REUNION YEAR October 17-20, 2019
2010s Caleb and Elizabeth (Lock ’10) Klauzer, a son, Joseph Roland Klauzer, born July 9, 2018. Big sister Lydia welcomed him home. Dan and Emily (Williams ’10) Riewerts, a daughter, Clara Jean Riewerts, born August 23, 2018. Brandon Leonard ’11 graduated from St. John’s College of Nursing. He works at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. Randy and Lindsay (Smith ’12) Tomera were married March 2, 2019, at Christ the King Episcopal Church in Normal, Illinois.
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Edna Hardaman ‘04 THE RECORD | SUMMER 2019
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ALUMNI NEWS
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Jaron Davis ’06 and Rachel (Heston ’06) Heston-Davis, a son, Alaric Luke Heston-Davis, born November 3, 2018. rach.h.davis@gmail.com.
ALUMNI NEWS
TRAVELING ULTRA-LIGHT IN RETIREMENT Excellent timing has its rewards, and the rewards of retirement for Jerry ’70 and Nancy Malone have everything to do with being in the right place at the right time. “Right place” for the Malones is wherever Christian servants need help. They’ve supported Christian missionaries, ministers and organizations worldwide.“Right time” is now, while they are physically fit and financially able. The pair prepared by adopting a minimalist approach, selling their home and reducing possessions. “Our entire lives have been focused on service, so why should our retirement be any different?” says Nancy. She and Jerry worked on campus early this year filling gaps in various areas. They researched for G.U.’s Athletic Hall of Fame, hosted visiting athletic teams and officials on game day and transported guests to the airport. They’ve filled gaps and met needs in London, Israel, Greece, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic. Follow the Malones’ travel and service on their blog, Malones on the Move, njmalone.jimdo.com.
8 The Kenosha News recently honored Jeff Langley ’13 for his outstanding contribution as a teacher in the community. The paper cited Langley’s above-and-beyond effort to include, engage and encourage all of the students with whom he works. Langley directs theater arts at Christian Life School. He and his wife Christina recently welcomed a son, Jacob “Jack” Flint Langley, born December 7, 2018. langley.jeffreyd@ gmail.com.
She is a marketing supervisor for BEST Transportation of St. Louis. Lincoln ’17 and Darlene (Wilson ’16) Johnson have relocated to Rockford, Illinois, to accommodate Lincoln’s studies in the rural medicine program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford. The Rockford campus is home to the National Center for Rural Health Professions (NCRHP). “Medical school has always been the dream for me,” says Lincoln, adding his excitement at continuing down the path God has provided.
Singer, songwriter and worship leader Lloyd Nicks ’14, MS ’19 recently released a single, Nothing But the Blood Live. 9
10 Michelle Biernbaum ’17 has contributed to an article about CRM software that appears in the April 2019 issue of Chauffeur Driven Magazine.
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“I hope you are all making plans for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of returning to the Greenville University campus for our 50th Homecoming Reunion, October 17-20, 2019. Hoping to see you!” - Dennis Daniel ‘69
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CLASS OF ‘69, JOIN ME . . .
Jeff Langley ‘13
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Lloyd Nicks ‘14
Michelle Biernbaum ’17
PRO-STUDENT, PRO-FACULTY, PRO-COMMUNITY REMEMBERING ORLEY HERRON
“He was extraordinary and met each day with great verve that spurred us all on to accomplish the vision he set before us,” says Herron’s successor, G.U. President Emeritus W. Richard Stephens ’53. Herron is remembered most for his positive attitude and charisma. Both sprang from his confidence in the transforming power of Christ to equip believers for every task. His confidence in Christ’s power bore tremendous fruit at G.U. Herron arrived at a time of low morale after former G.U. President Glenn Richardson’s illness; he infused enthusiasm and hope into campus life. With relentless
charisma, he strengthened universitycommunity relations and eased friction between the University’s administration and students. When new generations of students questioned rules and regulations, Herron graciously cast a vision for a “principled campus” that emphasized internalized biblical principles rather than outward rules. Stephens describes Herron’s winsome approach as “pro-student, pro-faculty and pro-community.” A confident attitude in Christ’s power fueled his passion for getting things done. He led implementation of the professional faculty council model and reorganization of trustees into a working committee structure. The number of faculty possessing doctorates increased significantly under Herron’s leadership, and the Board of Trustees recruited more members from business and executive roles.
“I’ve never met a man with more energy, humor and capacity to make things happen,” Stephens says. Herron’s legacy also includes Snyder Hall of Science. He arrived after G.U. had given up previous plans for a science building. Herron combined a $300K bond issue with existing funds to lay plans for an affordable science building. Construction began during his term. Snyder Hall of Science still houses G.U. STEM programs today. Herron departed Greenville University for the presidency of another institution in 1977, but left a legacy of hard work, trust in Christ and joyful connection with others. That legacy continues to shape the atmosphere of Greenville University. “He encouraged all of us to be better human beings,” Stephens says, “releasing us to reach higher than we ever thought we could.”
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ALUMNI IN MEMORY
Greenville University’s seventh president, Orley R. Herron, Jr., passed away February 14, 2019, at his home. A civic leader and long-time administrator in education, Herron left an indelible mark on Greenville University during his presidency from 1970-1977.
ALUMNI IN MEMORY
IN MEMORY Raymond Mayhew ’37, age 103, of Seattle, Washington, died January 1, 2019. A chemist, he held over 50 U.S. patents. Margareteva (Simmons’42) Berggren Lowe, age 99, of Desoto, Texas, died October 30, 2018. A schoolteacher, she enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, sketching, oil painting and farm life. Kneldrith “Kay” (Harden ’44) Kline, age 95, of Wichita, Kansas, died February 22, 2019. She was a teacher, speaker, artist, counselor, composer, playwright, director, advocate and friend of the arts. Daughter Celeste (Kline ’81) Cranston recalled her mother’s history with Greenville University: “Both of her parents were graduates (as were both my father’s parents), and all five of her children, as well as several grandchildren and nieces and nephews.” Doris (Watkins ’45) Mathews, age 96, of Greenwood, Indiana, passed away March 27, 2019. She earned her master’s in English education and enjoyed sewing, genealogy and music. Ida (Maxwell ’47) Cowsert, age 93, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, passed away February 11, 2019. A schoolteacher, she remained active in church work all her life. Her husband Eugene ’46 survives. Marie (Clouse ’52) Owen, age 89, of Tuscola, Illinois, passed away February 22, 2019. Passionate about education, she taught fifth and sixth grade math and science. She loved a good bridge game, her dogs and international travel. John Hendricks ’54, age 85, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away November 25, 2018. He earned advanced degrees from California Graduate School of Theology, and held an honorary doctorate of divinity from Spring Arbor College. His 58-year career in the Free Methodist Church included pastorates in Michigan, Florida and Illinois. Anita (Liechty ’56) Ficklin, age 84, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away February 20, 2019. A teacher and guidance counselor, she later served as a court appointed guardian with Child Advocates in Marion County, Indiana. Her husband Fred ’63 survives.
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Irwin Knigge ’57, age 83, of Rapid City, South Dakota, died April 4, 2019. He pastored briefly and then worked for Naumaning until his retirement in 2000. His wife of 62 years, Eileen (Sellers ’72), survives.
Jerry Painter ’68, age 73, of East Peoria, Illinois, passed away January 26, 2019. He worked in information systems at Caterpillar for 30 years. He loved spending time with family, traveling, coaching his son’s baseball teams and working with youth in his church.
Mary (Smith ’58) Gunas, age 82, of Danielson, Connecticut, passed away February 8, 2019. A schoolteacher who faithfully championed education, she gained recognition as the top fundraiser for a local high school. Gunas loved music and the arts.
Wayne Brown ’69, age 76, of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away March 27, 2019. He pastored United Methodist congregations in Las Vegas and Henderson, and served on local and conference boards and committees. He supported the community as a firefighter, city commissioner and chemical dependency counselor.
Charles Faulkner ’60, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away November 19, 2018. A longtime resident of Carmel, Indiana, he owned C.O. Faulkner Sales Incorporated for 30 years. He later enjoyed retirement in Florida and chairing the Legend Lakes Homeowners Association. His wife Faye (Kelley ’60) and sons Doug ’86 and Dave ’86 survive. Ronald Leidner ’61, age 76, of Hookdale, Illinois, died December 17, 2018. His broad work experiences included manufacturing, teaching and public utilities. He retired in 2004. Leidner’s wife of 56 years, Judy (Criner ’69), survives. Louis Moore ’61, age 89, of Washington, Indiana, died November 4, 2018. A U.S. Navy veteran, he later worked as a supervisor for the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services, retiring in 1987. Bob Newton ’61, age 79, of Castle Rock, Colorado, passed away in September of 2018. He worked as a pharmacist for 50 years before retiring in 2015. His wife Marilyn (Cribb ’60) survives. Charles Waymire ’61, age 80, of Dayton, Ohio, died November 15, 2018. He served 53 years as a marriage and family counselor. His wife Elizabeth (Wright ’62) survives. Joy (Franz ’66) Mason, age 74, of Schaumburg, Illinois, died March 12, 2019. She taught junior high school English, later served as a church camp administrator and as a receptionist at Motivational Excellence Incorporated. Maxine (Cook ’67) Heffron, age 87, of Greenville, died March 28, 2019. She taught fourth and fifth grades at the Pocahontas Elementary School until her retirement in 1987.
Mary (Vimont ’69) Kubricht, age 71, of Longview, Texas, passed away February 23, 2019. A longtime teacher, she served her local church and with mission teams to Austria and Slovenia. Her husband Paul ’69 survives. Julia “Jill” (Lawrence ’79) Halterman, age 61, of Hermitage, Tennessee, passed away November 5, 2018. She helped establish the Illinois State Police Crime Lab where she also worked for 16 years. She earned her juris doctorate at age 45 and then worked for the State of Illinois as an attorney. Edward McGrath ’88, age 81, of Keene, Texas, died March 2, 2019. Redginal “Redgie” Aaron ’10, age 30, died in Indianapolis, Indiana, on January 28, 2019. Aaron most recently worked for United Healthcare in Indianapolis. A foster father, Aaron began the nonprofit Champions of Hope to serve the foster care community. Former faculty member, composer, arranger, producer and Grammy Award winning bassist Jorge Casas, age 69, died January 31, 2019. “Even after he left us to continue performing full time, Jorge taught bass lessons for us through Skype,” recalled Louise Weiss, chair of G.U.’s music department. “His personality made connecting to students easy.” Professor Emeritus of Physics Harry Tomaschke passed away April 19, 2019. He taught 31 years at Greenville University. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Harry Tomaschke Scholarship Fund at Greenville University.
WHY I GIVE “If, as alumni, we do not extend higher learning with Christian values to today’s young people, then who will?”
We believe in Greenville University, a school that teaches biblical values and develops adult Christians of character called to serve. We have great memories of our time at G.U. and still maintain many relationships.
We encourage all alumni to support young people drawn to a school that shines brightly in a dark world. We all have an opportunity to make a difference.
—Steve ’80 and Jane (Thompson ’80) Ellsworth It’s easy to support tomorrow’s students today through a will, trust, life insurance and/or gift annuity. To learn more, email Brett Brannon at brett.brannon@greenville.edu or call 618-664-6500. G.U. Core Value: Character THE RECORD | SUMMER 2019
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GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY SUMMER 2019
GREENVILLE, ILLINOIS 62246 greenville.edu
SCIENCE THROUGH THE EYES OF FAITH CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 8-10, 2019
Speakers include Nobel Laureate Dr. William Phillips Time, Einstein and the Coolest Stuff in the Universe • Are We Alone in the Universe? • From Stardust to the New Jerusalem, and more Contact: Alisa Gunter, alisa.gunter@greenville.edu, 618-664-6525 Learn more at stef2019.com 22
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