The RECORD, Fall 2021 by Greenville University

RECORD THE

Fall 2021

FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY

TRAILBLAZERS GU President Suzanne Davis leads the way with faith-fueled innovation

BREAKING NEW GROUND

INNOVATION FOR TIMES LIKE THESE

LET’S DO THIS!

SMART MOVES

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

Editor’s note: Former GU President Robert “Ish” Smith wrote the introduction to this issue of The RECORD before his hospitalization and subsequent death in August. Always willing to lend a hand, he expressed gladness for the opportunity.

INNOVATOR-IN-CHIEF . . . and MVP for times like these February 12, 2021, proved a red-letter day for Greenville University. That day, GU’s Board of Trustees named Suzanne (Allison ’00) Davis as the University’s 13th president. It may have been one of the Board’s easiest and best decisions, given all the new president brings to her assignment—leadership as GU’s chief of staff, founding dean of GU’s Briner School of Business, vice president for university relations, executive vice president, and acting president. To coin a baseball term, “She’s touched all the bases.” This fall, at Homecoming, the University will formally inaugurate Suzanne and celebrate God’s faithfulness preparing her for leadership in a season marked by unprecedented challenges. GU’s Board Chair Kathleen (Stewart ’91) Turpin calls the higher education landscape today “highly tumultuous.” She welcomes Suzanne’s gift for seeing opportunities that others miss and for bringing new ideas and innovative solutions to the table. “The Lord has called her for such a time as this,” says Kathleen. “I am confident that she will lead the University well.” For what it’s worth, I fully agree. It was my joy to serve as president when Suzanne studied at GU. Her experiences then very much color her view of GU now as a place where students cultivate far more than skills and knowledge. She gave her life to Christ at GU and began her journey following Him. “GU changed my entire outlook on life,” she recalls. “I came in chasing the wind and left with meaning and purpose.”

ON THE COVER: Suzanne Davis, J.D., MBA, GU’s 13th president. The University will host a formal inauguration October 29, 2021, during Homecoming weekend. 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. 112, No. 3. Greenville University online: www.greenville.edu Email: therecord@greenville.edu 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. Chief Development Officer Scott Giffen ’99 Executive Director of Advancement Operations Evan Abla Director of Advancement Brett Brannon ’97 Director of Athletics Advancement Johnny Garvilla Manager of Advancement Services Matthew Young Advancement Services Coordinator Brianne Hair ’05 Senior Development Specialist Heather Edwards Development Officer Pat Bond ’62 Philanthropic Officer Caressa Davis Director of Alumni & Church Relations Dewayne Neeley ’98 Manager of Alumni & Church Relations Cyndi Oglesby ’85 Executive Director of Campaign Breck Nelson Managing Editor & Writer Carla Morris ’77 Contributing Editor & Writer Sarah Thomack Graphic Designer Scott Brown Photography: Lauren Joseph ‘15, Sarah Thomack 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.

Robert “Ish” Smith ’57 Greenville University President 1993-98

Views and opinions expressed by individuals in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Greenville University.

TRENDSETTERS GROUNDBREAKERS PATHFINDERS EXPLORERS DISCOVERERS MOLD BREAKERS INNOVATORS FRONT RUNNERS PIONEERS

LET’S DO THIS! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMART MOVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

BREAKTHROUGHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

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A WAY OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

d in pr fel er g og low ne rvin i ram vo g n e . Th lunteers on GU’s E , for s a nk y s r e ou, volunte

TRAILBLAZER Kate Arthur ‘21 broke new ground as the first woman to graduate from Greenville University’s Smart Engineering program. More than 30 experts on GU’s Engineering Advisory Board have forged a unique curriculum that blends technical skills with passion and calling. The innovative program is currently six months along in an 18-month process toward accreditation. Kate received the donor-funded Science Society and Trustees Scholarships. Thank you for giving.

{ IN THIS ISSUE }

n vis ified n a st or q u e d u y B ality A oar engineer Roberta d rob n d en a t sure a relevan

LORI GAFFNER, THE FRIEND WHO WELCOMED US ALL . . . . 10 AT HOME WITH GU’S FIRST COUPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 CELEBRATING THE CHAMPION OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP . 20 NEWS Homecoming 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Campus News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 In Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 LEARN MORE AT: greenville.edu

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

A WAY OUT An intimate tale about breaking new ground by Carla Morris Simple stories sometimes pack a surprising punch. Here’s one: My brother died. My father died. I hurt. I set up my tent in the camp of the angry. Then Jesus Christ, lover of my soul, came to me, whispered my name, and led me out. Suzanne (Allison ’00) Davis tells the story as only one who lived it can. She calls her spiritual awakening “a journey that I will never take for granted.” Part of that journey occurred when she was a student at GU studying philosophy and political science and competing in track and volleyball. Part of it occurred

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

on her nightly drives from campus to a hospital in St. Louis to visit her dying brother. Like another brother, he suffered from a genetic neuromuscular disease that caused seizures and strokes. “That’s when I really started dealing with some of life’s toughest questions,” she says, “like, ‘Why is there suffering?’ and ‘How can there be a good god?’” Suzanne arrived at GU as a freshman in 1996, disappointed over the loss of an athletic scholarship from a Division I school, rebellious, an atheist, and “chasing the wind.” In time, however, she said “yes” to Jesus and to professors and coaches who helped her “see beyond my own nose.” By graduation, she

possessed skills, intellect, a growing faith, and an outlook that would help her earn advanced degrees in law and business. “I’m not sure where I would be without the people who poured into me as a college student,” she says.

Since her return to GU in 2012, Suzanne has made it a priority to help students see beyond themselves. Sometimes expanding their worlds means connecting them with experts in their fields or having them work alongside business owners and entrepreneurs to solve marketplace problems.

For Davis, expanding students’ worlds sometimes means connecting them to entrepreneurs, inviting them to join her in business meetings, or encouraging them to explore ideas like vocation and God’s call. Serendipitous conversations sometimes pack a surprising punch, too, like the one Suzanne shared years later with GU Professor Richard Huston. The two had run into each other unexpectedly. She told about practicing law and teaching business part time at a state university. He said GU’s business department had an opening; would she be interested in teaching at her alma mater?

Sometimes it means inviting students to join her in business meetings, or inviting them to think deeply about vocation, purpose, and God’s call. Today, when the conversation turns to the value GU brings, Suzanne speaks from experience. “People here challenged me to look beyond a job and a paycheck; they helped me thrive. I’m privileged to help today’s students do the same.”

Helping students discover

A WAY IN Only three percent of youth raised in foster homes graduate from college. TRAILBLAZER Olivia Mansfield ’24 is determined to defy those statistics and succeed. The Children’s Home Association of Illinois (CHAI) recently featured the GU sophomore and member of GU’s track team in a mini documentary that shows Olivia on campus and at the John Strahl Athletic Complex. Olivia says she’s “abundantly blessed” for many reasons, including GU donors who fund her Panther Preferred Scholarship that enables her to stay in school. The scholarship goes to students who demonstrate strong character and academic determination. Thank you for giving.

“The more I prayed about it,” she recalls, “the more I couldn’t let it go.”

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BREAKTHROUGHS

Faith-fueled Innovation for Times Like These The phone rings. The caller, an administrator from another university, has hit a wall trying to solve a problem. “I know you’ve led GU through this. Can we talk?” From her vantage point ahead of the curve, GU President Suzanne Davis often responds to questions about implementation. What do inquiring presidential minds want to know? Here’s a sampling: • • • • •

How did you right size your budget? How did you leverage advisory boards to give students what students need? How did you onboard community and professional partners to work with students? How did you use an “entrepreneur in residence” to expand learning opportunities? How did you and your local chamber of commerce create a shared position that benefits the city and students?

•

How did you manage to deliver inperson learning during the pandemic, when most everyone else resorted to all online? How did you work within the constraints of the federal financial aid system, yet restructure your distribution of scholarships to better help students? How did you identify and pursue relevant partnerships that meet students’ needs not just now, but in the future?

“Presidents from across the country keep calling to discover how we’ve pulled off the last year-and-a-half.” - GU’s Chief Academic Officer Brian Hartley ‘79

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What Observers Say “President Davis has shown deep personal commitments to Christian higher education and CREATIVE SOLUTIONS to long-standing problems—all with a heart for people!” – W. Richard Stephens ’53, GU President Emeritus

F1RST EVER Last fall, Will Sunderland ’21 spearheaded GU’s first ever all-

“GU’s bachelor of science in nursing is truly one of the MOST INNOVATIVE programs and degrees. Suzanne’s fingerprints are all over this.” – Jerry Gaffner, Chairman of the Board, Holy Family Hospital

campus mental health awareness week that brought mental health experts and speakers to campus. Activities focused on helping students expand their understanding of mental health and increase their awareness

“President Davis has led the University at warp speed in CREATIVE AND COUNTERINTUITIVE WAYS. Students at GU get rich experiences in the real world blended with the traditional liberal arts, delivered in innovative ways.” – Dennis Spencer ’75, GU Trustee

of mechanisms for support. Students like Will, who plan and produce events, gain valuable experience managing workers, schedules, volunteers, and budgets. If you value learning mixed with doing, help students today with

“I like to say, ‘In higher ed, we may not be fast, but we sure are slow.’ Most colleges and universities repel the idea of being FIRST TO MARKET with any new concept. They are content to ride along in the wake . . . Not so with Suzanne.” – Mark Biddinger, GU Chief Financial Officer

your gift to GU’s Experiential Learning Fund. Thank you for giving.

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“Suzanne Davis is A WARRIOR . . . Greenville University is blessed to be under her leadership.” – Jaime Quesada ’22, Vice President, Greenville Student Government Association

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“Suzanne is a champion for INNOVATIVE IDEAS and the leader that is needed for our current time. We are blessed to have her.” – Jerry Hood ’82, GU Trustee, SMART Experience Initiatives Advisory Board

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d gra , t ill Su igh nderland, above r

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LET’S DO THIS!

New partnerships energize communities and expand learning opportunities by Sarah Thomack Plant genetics, toasted cheese sandwiches, contemporary music—the more GU looks, the more avenues emerge for partnerships that help students grow. Here’s a sampling of recent joint ventures that invite students to apply GU’s hallmark faith, character, and service beyond campus.

The Contemporary Music Center (Nashville, TN) Benefits aspiring musicians, technicians, and professional studies majors • Study options: music performance,

technology, music business

• Full semester working with industry

professionals

• Hands-on experience that culminates in a

road tour

The Center for Pastoral Formation (Greenville, IL) Free Methodist Church USA (Indianapolis, IN) Benefits GU ministry students, ordination candidates, seasoned pastors, and laypersons • In-person and virtual learning experiences • Global connections • Learn from leading Free Methodist and other

Wesleyan scholars and church leaders

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

St. John’s College of Nursing (Springfield, IL) Benefits future nurses and area hospitals • Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) in four years • Hands-on experience via simulation and computerized

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• Wide range of clinical experience options

Grow Pro Genetics (Hamel, IL) Benefits students majoring in the sciences and/or agribusiness • Wheat breeding tests and product development on campus • Internship opportunities • Initiated by Grow Pro station manager, GU alum Eli

Gravert ’11

GU’s Toastiez Restaurant (Greenville, IL) Benefits students, local suppliers, and the community • Located near campus in the SMART Center incubator

space for start-up restaurants

STARTING FROM SCRATCH Four GU students can now include “launched start-up restaurants” on their resumes, a rarity for college students. Shubin Ma ‘22, Kyle Sunderland ‘23, Lucas Hermo ‘23, and Mathew Rodriguez ‘23 assisted piloting two eateries located on the street level of Greenville’s SMART Center. The first, Rocket Bowls, relocated to nearby Edwardsville. A grand opening for the second, Toastiez, took place in June. The start-up team developed expertise in restaurant design and efficiency, food prep, health codes, time management, customer service, event planning, point of sale monitoring, inventory management, cost of sales, profitability, and more. Lucas, Shubin, and Matthew all receive donor-funded international student scholarships. Thank you for giving.

• Local products: Marcoot Jersey Creamery, The Milk

House, Wayne’s Market

• Students gain experience in management, customer

service, and more

• GU students work alongside skilled educators • Fills a need in the community

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L AI

• Top quality program in beautifully appointed facility

The Kindergarten Readiness Program (KRP) benefits future teachers, local families, and preschool children

Bond County School District #2 (Greenville, IL)

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to r) Shubin, Kyle,

nd s, a a c u L

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TRAILBLAZER and GU marketing major Jeremy Whisenton receives the donorfunded MOSAIC Diversity Scholarship. Thank you for giving.

SMART MOVES The candies in glass jars glisten like little chunks of rainbow. Tasty, yet low in sugar, Jerbear Gummy Bears signal “happy” to children and “healthy” to their parents. They bring a smile to their creator’s face too, especially when he recounts their beginnings . . .

batch. Seven attempts paved the way for his signature recipe. He debuted the treats at a school event. People liked them. Buoyed by that success, he then sold the gelatin-based, preservative-free bites at local fairs and community events.

Jeremy Whisenton ’22, then a 16-year-old diabetic, devised the recipe in response to his mom’s not-sotasty attempts. His curiosity and drive for improved results moved him to experiment with batch after

Today, five years later, Jeremy manages Jerbear Gummy Bears and More from Greenville University, where he majors in marketing, hosts a radio show on WGRN, captains an esports team, and participates

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

in Joyous Chaos, GU’s improvisational comedy troupe. While these activities often bring him to the SMART Center on Greenville’s historic town square, his entrepreneurial pursuits make him truly fit in there. The SMART Center showcases a unique collaboration between GU, its visionary donors, and the greater Greenville community. The Center’s multi-use spaces accommodate learning and productivity aimed at adding value to the local economy. Jeremy is among the entrepreneurs, business professionals, and students who frequent the Center. He works his gummy-bear magic on the third level in a fully equipped test kitchen. The commercial appliances and generous preparation areas have helped him realize efficiencies that translate into greater profitability.

“This space [has shown] me what an ideal working space looks like. I now have something to work towards.” Jeremy has also expanded his professional network. He understands how conversations turn into relationships, and relationships turn into business-growth opportunities. Since arriving in Greenville, Jeremy has received invitations to vendor shows and recommendations on where to sell Jerbears. It helps that market realities work in his favor: “Low-sugar candy that still tastes good is rare,” he says. One can say the same about the innovative university-donorcommunity collaboration that fuels learning and productivity at the SMART Center—rare, perhaps, but oh so good.

VISIONARIES FROM THE CLASS OF ‘52 Career schoolteacher Marie (Clouse ’52) Owen didn’t know Jeremy Whisenton by name, but she knew passionate pursuit when she saw it. She knew curiosity paved the way for deep learning, and she knew that students benefit from teachers who impart values as much as they impart skills and knowledge. Marie’s experience as a student at Greenville College helped her know these things. When she included GU in her estate plan, she ensured similar experiences for Jeremy and others who frequent the SMART Center. Forgeman Don Jones ’52 didn’t know Jeremy either, but he knew the delight of turning a vision like Jeremy’s into a plan and then working that plan to achieve a thriving enterprise. Don challenged the GU community and its students to dream big. He made GU’s acquisition of the SMART Center possible and applauded the Center’s entrepreneurial connections.

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

Remembering the Friend Who Welcomed Us All TR

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BLA

ZER Quinton Packer

‘2 1

THE DIVINE NUDGE:

JOINING THIS WITH THAT What compels coaches to combine faith with sport and creatively minister through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes? What moves passionate motorcyclists to “rumble around the world” as Bikers for Christ? Probably the same inspiration that moves ministry major and recent graduate Quinton Packer ’21 to meld his love for Jesus Christ with his love for anime. As a student, Quinton created and shared devotions that drew from the popular Japanese-based animation. He also used anime to support a Vespers message that he delivered last spring. “We are given different gifts and called in different ways,” he reminded his peers. The words proved poignant in part because Quinton—widely known for welcoming others, including them, and making them feel heard—has a condition that puts him on the autism spectrum. He is the grateful recipient of the donor-funded Panther Preferred and Full Salvation Union Scholarships. Thank you for giving.

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

Lori (Nielsen ’83) Gaffner (March 11, 1961 - June 4, 2021) I Corinthians 15 assures us of Lori’s victory over death: “Death has been swallowed up in victory! Where O death is your victory? Where O death is your sting?” For more than 33 years, Lori served the GU community with grace as an instructor, chaplain, counselor, friend, and the warm voice that welcomed us all to worship. Lori placed her hope completely in the Lord Jesus Christ. Although we miss her deeply, we rest assured that she has heard the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

strengths through a “strengths finder” assessment. I envied Lori’s strengths. She seemed to possess all the good ones— the ones that sounded like versions of the fruits of the spirit.

When I returned to GU in 2012, Lori and I taught a course together that called us to identify our

Adapted from remarks made by GU President Suzanne Davis at Lori’s memorial service.

Though we struggle now with a life cut too short, we can follow Lori’s lead and sing in our hearts, “It is well with our souls.” That bit of Lori in each of us reflects her remarkable legacy. I say, “Well done, good and faithful servant, beloved professor, and welcoming friend. Well done, indeed.”

TO OUR 2021 ALUMNI AWARDEES

Outstanding Young Alumna

Distinguished Alumna

Dr. Gene A. Kamp Loyalty Award

Nicole (Tucker ’08) Crites, senior manager and recognized “rising star” in the grocery industry

Donna Saylor ’72, urban missionary and champion for inner-city ministry

The City of Greenville, longtime partner facilitating GU’s growth and service to students near and far

Nominate an alum today for GU’s 2022 Alumni Awards. Learn more at greenville.edu/alumni or call 618664-7119. Nomination deadline: January 31, 2022. GU Core Values: Character & Service

OCTOBER

29-31,

2021

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY HOMECOMING & PRESIDENTIAL

INAUGURATION

• Class Reunions for the Classes of ’71, ’96, ’01, ’11 • Soccer, football, basketball, and more • Fun, food, and fellowship with classmates

HIGHLIGHTS

For information, updates, and registration, visit greenville.edu/homecoming, call 618-664-7119, or email alumni@greenville.edu. Friday, October 29 • Inauguration of President Suzanne Davis (2 pm) • Homecoming parade • Panther Palooza • Concerts

Saturday, October 30 • Panther football and soccer • Tailgate lunch • Athletic Hall of Fame dinner Sunday, October 31 • Alumni awards lunch

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

At Home With GU’s First Couple “I’m more of an acquired taste, but everybody loves Phil,” jokes Suzanne Davis. The pair share a 20-year marriage, two adopted daughters (twins, now grown), and a life together following God’s call to encourage others toward Jesus Christ. Here’s a snapshot of GU’s first couple.

GU President Suzanne Davis has established a three-year plan to increase the value of learning experiences for students. Three paths define this work:

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

A FAMILY AFFAIR “Home” for Suzanne incudes horses. She grew up riding horses and worked at a boarding and training facility throughout college. For GU’s equestrian president, prayer and worship often occur on horseback. Phil may fit so easily into the GU picture because he’s done it a long time. His parents served on faculty, and his dad coached track. Phil attended Greenville schools

1. IMMERSE students more deeply in experiences that blend learning with doing. This means blending learning with doing in every academic program.

2. INNOVATE to create new opportunities that help students blend learning with doing. This means building community partnerships that open doors to new venues where students can learn and grow.

and graduated from GU in 1996. The Davis’ daughters are GU alumni, too.

ENDURING GU CONNECTION As a new college graduate, Phil worked in environmental biology with the Zahniser Institute, a GU partner. Later, when he transitioned into youth ministry, he stayed connected to campus with young people in tow for GU’s AgapeFest. Suzanne credits GU for connecting her to important lessons like “All truth is God’s truth,” and “When I put God in the center of my life, my world gets bigger.”

SCORE! Ice hockey, football, volleyball—Phil just loves sports. In 2016, he returned to coach Panther volleyball. More recently, he helps coach Lady Panther volleyball. An outside hitter in her Lady Panther volleyball days, Suzanne captained the team and earned MVP in her senior year. She also ran sprints in track and threw the javelin.

GOING FOR THE ASSIST “I’m a helper by nature,” says Phil. His gifts and skills include mentoring and spiritual development. Frequent beneficiaries of Phil’s helping hand include GU students in chapel and vespers services, and the regional Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). “I want to do things that bring value to students,” says Suzanne. “I want to create a place where we care for them and where they’re well connected to the next phase of life.”

TR AIL BL A

2 rs ‘ ZER Moriah Summe

BRAND NEW Moriah’s special project this fall has “new” written all over it—the launch of new programming associated with GU’s new donor-funded Women in Leadership Scholarship awarded to select newcomers to GU. President Suzanne Davis tapped Moriah Summers ’23 and fellow student Jenna Haselhorst ’23 to help engage the awardees in experiences that cultivate growth in leadership. Moriah and Jenna, both recipients of

3. INTERCONNECT communities and opportunities near and far. This means expanding our welcome to people, ideas, and experiences. When we do this, we will expand growth and career opportunities for students.

Greenville University empowers students for lives of character and service through a transforming Christ-centered education.

the donor-funded Panther Preferred Scholarship, enthusiastically embraced this novel challenge to serve their peers. Thank you for giving.

THE RECORD | FALL 2021 THE RECORD | 2019 PRESIDENT’S REPORT

{CAMPUS NEWS}

PANDEMIC CAN’T STOP THE PANTHERS ON THE CASE When departments team up, they can solve almost any case. Department Chair for Criminal Justice and Social Work Michael Laughlin and Biology Professor Eugene Dunkley combined forces to produce a day of learning mixed with fun when they co-hosted GU’s inaugural forensics camp in June. Activities featured hands-on learning experiences for high school students. They took fingerprints, analyzed blood spatters, referenced computer evidence, and learned about managing crime scenes. Guides for the day included detectives from a nearby sheriff’s department, the chief of police with the Greenville Police Department, and crime scene investigators from the Illinois State Police.

The pandemic changed how athletes competed last year. Mask mandates, altered schedules, and frequent COVID tests proved challenging. Still, seven GU teams came out on top. GU men’s and women’s cross-country teams, and indoor and outdoor men’s and women’s track and field teams won St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) Championship titles. The Lady Panthers in volleyball (pictured above) won their conference regular season championship and the conference tournament.

HAWKINS TO HELM CHAPEL

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GU’s 2021 Commencement speaker, Rev. David Hawkins, both a familiar face to students and pastor of Living the Word Church in Collinsville, Illinois, will serve as interim chapel director for the 2021-2022 school year. Hawkins, often a favorite guest speaker in chapel, will now serve as the primary chapel speaker and bring in other speakers from the community. Also new this fall, the entire GU community will gather for chapel in H.J. Long Gymnasium on Wednesdays. The gym and rec center are the only campus venues that can accommodate students, faculty, and staff assembled at the same time. On Mondays, a time for worship and scripture will take place in Whitlock, and small groups throughout campus will meet on Fridays.

{CAMPUS NEWS} FACULTY ACHIEVEMENTS The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) approved GU Director of Social Work Helo Oidjarv as a site visitor to evaluate social work programs at other schools.

Sonya Jones ’96

GU Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Sonya Helo Oidjarv Jones ’96 joins the University’s sport and kinesiology faculty this fall. She holds two master’s degrees from the University of IllinoisSpringfield and brings a depth of experience both as an educator and as athletic director. Reality TV fans will remember her as a first-place runner-up on the NBC TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Department Chair for Criminal Justice and Social Work Michael Laughlin ’99 received the Sage Junior Faculty Professional Development Award from the Academy of Criminal Justice. The award provides partial funding for travel to attend the ACJS National Conference and specialized training/ conference sessions. Michael Laughlin ’99 Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Vocal Studies Grace Denton earned her doctorate in voice performance and pedagogy from the University of Mobile. She also holds a master’s of music in voice performance from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. Grace Denton

Associate Chief Academic Officer Kathryn Taylor ’89 will participate in the Senior Leadership Academy (SLA). This yearlong program, co-sponsored by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), serves mid-level administrators in higher education who aspire to senior leadership positions. A competitive nomination and vetting process determines selection.

Kathryn Taylor ’89

UNIQUE GIFT EXPANDS OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS Biology Professor Eugene Dunkley used to imagine how the All-in-One Fluorescent Microscope BZ-X 800 could benefit students, but acquiring one remained a dream. Then Dr. Lew Whaley ’76 turned those dreams into reality. Whaley stepped up to fund the microscope that was installed last April. Dunkley reported that students couldn’t contain their “oohs” and “ahs” when they saw what the microscope could do. “It was like being at a fireworks show,” he said. “They were just so excited.” The microscope allows for greater and more detailed research. It enables students to take high quality photos of cells, to grow cells, and to do things like test the effects of caffeine or alcohol on different cells. It also allows them to study live tissue. Professors and students in the department are grateful to Dr. Whaley for the doors he has opened to exploration and for the inspiration to explore more.

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{CAMPUS NEWS}

LEADING, SERVING Student government leaders serve their peers and gain management experience in the process. This year’s Executive President Jenna Haselhorst ’23 and Executive Vice President Jaime Quesada ’22 will manage teams, schedules, budgets, events and more. Both receive donor-funded scholarships. Thank you for giving.

Pursuit member Matt Williamson ‘24 receives the Panther Preferred Scholarship. Thank you for giving.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN GU’s worship band Pursuit led worship at eight camps in the Midwest and Pennsylvania this summer. Band members also served as counselors and engaged middle school and high school youth in camp activities. Pursuit guitarist Zane Simmons ’23 welcomed the opportunity to give back through the camp experience: “It was really amazing to see everything come full circle for me personally because camp is the environment that really changed me.” To book Pursuit for your event during the school year or summer, contact Nathan Kriebel ’16 at nathan.kriebel@greenville.edu

PANTHERS SWEEP ATHLETIC/ ACADEMIC AWARDS

NEW LOOKS ON CAMPUS From replacing HVAC computers in Whitlock Music Center to remodeling the Fitness Training Annex, maintenance crews stayed busy all summer. They replaced entry doors and refinished the floor in H.J. Long Gymnasium, replaced roofs on multiple buildings including Snyder and Mannoia Halls, and resurfaced and replaced pavement around campus. They also remodeled bathrooms in Burritt Hall in advance of Burritt’s 100th anniversary next year. 16

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Anna Finch ’21 and Collin Kessinger ’21 swept the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Post-Graduate Scholarship Awards this year. The award recognizes athletes who earn two varsity letters and maintain at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA. Anna played middle-blocker in volleyball. Collin ran in track and cross country. Awardees can use the $1,000 scholarship during the first two years of postgraduate studies. Collin will pursue his master’s in electrical engineering, and Anna will pursue a master’s in education. Under special NCAA rules brought about by COVID, both may compete in their respective sports as Panthers one more year. Katie Wolfram ’20 won the post-graduate scholarship in 2020.

ALUMNI NEWS

What’s New With You? Submit your information online at greenville.edu/alumni.

1950s

1980s

1 GU President Emeritus W. Richard Stephens ’53 received the 27th (2020) Annual Gerald Turley Memorial Award. The award, presented by the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, honors a Greenville citizen who has demonstrated personal sacrifice, involvement, innovation, and community leadership to promote the success of Greenville.

2 Mike Hopper ’81 serves as senior pastor at the Wesley Free Methodist Church in Anderson, Indiana. Contact Mike at swimfast.hopper@gmail.com.

1960s Barb (Buschart ’68) Larson recently moved to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota to be closer to her daughter as they welcome a new granddaughter. 2850 Market Place Dr, Little Canada, MN 55117.

1970s Contact Pamela (Turck ’70) Williams at pam@stanwilliams.com or 43635 Cottisford St, Northville, MI 48167.

2000s

Brandon Hill ’93 serves as vice president for student development at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma.

Erin (Helmuth ’00) Kinzel recently started her own business, Kinzel Consulting, to help small business owners and nonprofits with marketing and communication needs.

Chrisy (Luttrell ’96) Ennen received ordination in the Presbyterian Church U.S.A. last year. She currently serves as minister of word and sacrament at First Presbyterian Church of Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Amanda (Landis ’06) Bridgford works as a special education teacher at the Denver School of Science and Technology. ’01 REUNION YEAR October 29-31, 2021

Greenville Advocate, Dave Bell

’71 REUNION YEAR October 29-31, 2021

’96 REUNION YEAR October 29-31, 2021

1990s

Cherry (Walker ’71) Cox shares that she has retired for the third time. Contact Cherry at 506 Tullie Dr, Longview, TX 75601 or cwcox_506@ aol.com. Don Butterworth ’75 celebrates 40 years as a librarian at Asbury Theological Seminary. Contact Don at 2365 High Bridge Road, Wilmore, KY 40390 or d0npatt1@windstream.net.

Karen (Snyder ’99) and Binu Alexander were married August 27, 2018. Both serve in Bible translation in South Asia. karens@cam42.net.

CH R I ST I A N ET H I CS A N D MO R A L P H I LO SO P H Y An Introduction to Issues and Approaches

Craig A. Boyd and Don Thorsen

W. Richard Stephens ’53

Mike Hopper ’81

Craig A Boyd ’85

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

ALUMNI NEWS

Contact Rev. E. Wayne Ryan ’58 at ewryan54@gmail.com or 111 Grand St, Burlington, IA 52601-6110.

Craig A Boyd ’85 published his fifth and sixth books: Christian Ethics and Moral Philosophy: An Introduction to Issues and Approaches (Baker Academic Books, 2018) with Don Thorsen, and The Virtues: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford University Press, 2021) with Kevin Timpe. Craig is professor of philosophy and humanities at Saint Louis University. 3

The Greenville Chamber of Commerce presented Steve ’98 and Karen Smith the 28th (2021) Annual Gerald Turley Award for innovation and leadership that contributes to the greater community’s success. The Smiths started Enertech, now Enertech Global, which provides jobs locally and globally. Enertech Global builds geothermal heat pumps and distributes solar PV products.

2010s 4 Audra Elizabeth (Newby ’10) Clodfelter recently assumed the role of executive director at the Olney and Greater Richland County Chamber of Commerce.

An article about artificial intelligence (AI) in the March 2021 issue of Iowa Magazine features the research of Dustin Swarm ’10, ’18. Dustin works with the DeRoo Research Group at the University of Iowa. He teaches computers “to categorize celestial objects on their own and then flag for further examination the ones that don’t fit into neat categories.” He presently examines data supplied by the satellite Chandra X-ray Observatory, a collection of 300,000-plus space objects. Brandon Leonard ’11 works in the HSHS Neuroscience Center as an RN for HSHS Medical Group in Springfield, Illinois. A graduate of St. John’s College of Nursing (SJC), he also serves as president of St. John’s alumni board. Leonard plans to begin SJC’s Family Nurse Practitioner program this fall. Raelynn Ann (Hinerman ’14) Cain married Micheal Cain, Jr. on March 27, 2021, in Mandeville, Louisiana.

ALUMNI NEWS

5 Jon Barth ’15 MAE-Coaching authored two books, The 1% Journal:

6 Andrew Scott ’16, MBA ’19 serves as executive chef and kitchen manager at GU’s Toastiez restaurant in Greenville. Toastiez is located in Greenville’s SMART Center, a business incubator space near campus. The restaurant employs students and gives them opportunities for hands-on experience in retail business operations. 7 Alex Staton ’16 serves as senior SEO and content marketer at Ramsey Solutions in Franklin, Tennessee.

Mason Tennell ’16 and GU Biology Professor Eric Nord recently joined their fellow researchers in seeing the culmination of years of work published. This May, science journal PLOS ONE published the article “Response of benthic macroinvertebrates to dam removal in the restoration of the Boardman River, Michigan, USA.” It documents a study that spanned six years, from 2011 to 2016. Researchers, including Mason, examined how

Audra Elizabeth (Newby ’10) Clodfelter

366 Challenges for Teachers and Coaches to Increase Their Impact (Rise Above Leadership, 2018) and The 1% Journal for Students: 366 Challenges to Learn for Impact (Rise Above Leadership, 2020). Both books address the “transformational habit” of daily journaling. Jon has over 15 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in public education, plus experience coaching junior high school, high school, and college athletes.

Jon Barth ’15

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

removal of the Brown Bridge Dam in late 2012 affected insect communities upstream and downstream from the dam. GU partners with the project’s coordinator, the Au Sable Institute. ’11 REUNION YEAR October 29-31, 2021

2020s Donovan Graydon ’20 serves as a senior instructor at Soccer ShotsGwinnett in Georgia, a program that works to positively impact children age eight and under by teaching them soccer skills. Curt Iffert ’20 now serves as vice president of operations at Citizens Electric Corporation. Ashley Marie Dryden ’21 serves as a probation officer with Effingham (Illinois) County. 8 Samantha Siefken ’21 received GU’s President’s Citation at the University’s 2021 Commencement. Samantha’s father, Dr. Phil Siefken, received the same recognition when he graduated in 1986. Samantha currently serves with Students International on a year-long internship in the Dominican Republic. She works in rural health clinics and provides health care to impoverished communities.

Contact Kristina Unverfehrt ’21 at kfb84320@gmail.com.

Andrew Scott ’16

Alex Staton ’16

Samantha Siefken ’21

IN MEMORY

Berdaline (Gerig ’50) Cleveland, age 96, of Spring Arbor, Michigan, died March 31, 2021. An accomplished musician, she played organ and piano in the Free Methodist churches where she and husband, Don, served. Retired schoolteacher Anne (Davis ’52) Billings, age 89, of Avon, Indiana, died April 11, 2021. She spent the last 15 years of her 30-year teaching career at Stephen Decatur Elementary in Indianapolis. Ruby (Erickson ’52) Henry, age 92, of Riverside, California, passed away November 8, 2020. She served as a registered nurse. Rev. Clancy Thompson ’52 died May 11, 2021. A Free Methodist pastor and onetime missionary to Brazil, he also served with Free Methodist Missions as area director for Latin America and later as global director. Rev. Richard Adomatis ’54, died August 12, 2020. An entrepreneur, he started and managed multiple businesses related to the real estate industry. He volunteered with many community groups and causes including chaplaincy at state prisons. Don Rupert ’54, age 86, of Ridge Manor, Florida, died June 27, 2021. The Goodyear retiree loved gospel music and maintained a database of the genre that others (including artists) consulted often. His wife, Jackie (Penrod ’54), survives. Retired schoolteacher Laurel (Peterson ’56) Schwartz, age 86, of Wadena, Minnesota, died January 17, 2021. She loved traveling throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

Shelby Young ’56, age 87, of Aurora, Illinois, passed away July 22, 2021. His long retail career included serving as president of Allied Radio and creating Playback, Inc., which operated 73 stores in the Midwest. He also owned and operated YES (Your Electronic Store) before retiring. Donald Jones ’57, of O’Fallon, Illinois, died May 31, 2021. A Korean-era veteran of the U.S. Army, he taught high school, coached, and served as a school administrator. Former schoolteacher Marjorie (Applegate ’59) Mowry-Rice, age 86, of Sherwood, Michigan, died June 25, 2021. She enjoyed interacting with people and spent some of her retirement as hostess at a bed and breakfast inn. She loved faith and family. Retired pediatrician Dr. Dave Dawdy ’62, passed away June 25, 2021. A U.S. Army veteran, he practiced 40 years with Associated Pediatrics in Westerville and Columbus, Ohio, retiring in 2013. His wife, Jan (Finke ’63), survives. Retired industrial hygienist Ray Hickey ’62, age 92, from Hanging Dog, North Carolina, died June 15, 2021. He served as a U.S. Army medic in Japan after World War II. Former schoolteacher Dennis Frazier ’64, of Jerseyville, Illinois, died July 10, 2021. He also coached football and track, and ran a tax business for more than 40 years. He loved people. Norman Schloeman ’64, age 79, of Wright City, Missouri, passed away June 22, 2021. He served as an accounting manager for 23 years and farmed part time for most of his life. Paul Dresser ’69, age 75, of Flushing, Michigan, died July 21, 2021. He previously served as a teacher, coach, and driver’s training instructor for the

Carman-Ainsworth School district. He held membership in the United Soccer Coaches Association for more than 40 years. Retired schoolteacher Jaynece (Blankenship ’67) Dothager, age 94, of Greenville, Illinois, passed away June 20, 2021. She started teaching at age 19 in a one-room schoolhouse and taught throughout the Vandalia (Illinois) school district until retirement. Wayne Hudson ’76 of Hillsboro, Oregon, died July 20, 2021. He worked with Intel Corporation as an electrical technician and later as a test engineer before retiring in 2008. Lifelong farmer Rick Payne ’77, age 65, of Hillsboro, Illinois, passed away July 3, 2021. He worked as transportation director for the local school district and then worked for Caterpillar. He served on the local school board as well. His wife Cheryl (Gurley ’78) survives. Nicole “Nikki” Rankin ’98, age 46, of Greenwood, Indiana, passed away May 22, 2021. She worked in data control as an analyst with Johnson County Special Services. Teacher Kelly Hall MA ’10, age 59, of Greenfield, Illinois, died March 6, 2021. She served as a middle school reading specialist and thoroughly enjoyed helping students succeed. Former GU professor Rev. James Stuart, age 84, passed away May 29, 2021, in Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand. The theologian touched many lives through his work as a teacher, lecturer, community organizer, chaplain, minister, and friend. This list includes notifications received from 5/13/21 to 8/6/21.

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

ALUMNI IN MEMORY

Louise (Vore ’47) Snyder, age 95, of Hammond, Indiana, died May 16, 2021. She and her husband, Al, served as medical missionaries. Family and friends remember her as a musician, athlete, artist, and teacher.

Student managers (l to r) Dave Siple ‘58, “Ish” Smith ‘57

CELEBRATING GU’S CHAMPION OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP Robert “Ish” Smith, 1936-2021 By Carla Morris

Former GU President Robert “Ish” Smith seemed comfortable taking the lead. He presided over U.S. and world baseball organizations. He forged paths that brought baseball to the Olympics. He directed tournaments at three Olympics (with games that played to crowds of 40,000 or more) and garnered awards for steering the process. His work out front landed him in halls of fame and among the elite recipients of the Olympic Order.

But Coach needed Ish’s help and valued his help. Helping Strahl led to opportunities for Ish to grow—advanced degrees, collegiate coaching jobs, and administrative roles. Strahl ultimately opened doors that led Ish to engaging global leaders, influencers, and decision-makers. Along the way, Ish discovered that helping both informed and improved leadership.

Students who attended GU during the Smith era (1993-1998) will recall His work out front landed him in their president’s passion for servant halls of fame, yet his heart for leadership. Those of us who enjoyed serving others never wavered. working with Ish more recently will A sports lover, Ish arrived at GU recall his unflagging willingness to in 1955 wanting to play basketball help in any way he could. He shared and baseball. His mediocre skills university news with alumni, penned notes, encouraged would likely keep him on the bench, but it’s hard to deny staff, and prayed. He led by example even when his stride passion. Panther Coach John Strahl floated an idea. Ish weakened and his eyes dimmed. Presidential still, he showed could help Strahl by managing Panther teams. Ish wasn’t us that leading and serving belong together. sure what managing meant, but he agreed. In no time he was packing uniforms for trips, picking up sack lunches, toting equipment bags, and signing out keys for school cars. Management, it turned out, just meant helping. Still, when I asked Ish about the drive behind all this, he talked not about leading, but about helping.

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

WHY I GIVE Ron Pitcher ’79, CRA President, Pitcher Insurance Agency

I value high educational standards and true Biblical Christianity. I’m proud to sponsor the Pitcher Insurance Agency Business Scholarship to help aspiring business professionals grow their minds, hearts, and souls at such a noble and Christ-Centered institution as Greenville University. You can help today’s students and tomorrow’s students by funding a scholarship. To learn more, email Evan Abla at evan.abla@greenville.edu or call 618-664-6503.

GU offers transformational Christ-centered learning experiences that empower, enrich, and endure.

THE RECORD | FALL 2021

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Come celebrate history in the making with me! On behalf of Greenville University’s Board of Trustees, I invite you to join us at the inauguration of Suzanne Davis, GU’s 13th president. Be among the campus community, alumni, and friends to celebrate this historic occasion on October 29, 2021, in the Crum Recreation Center. Learn more at greenville.edu/homecoming.

Kathleen (Stewart ’91) Turpin Chair, GU Board of Trustees

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY | GREENVILLE.EDU

The RECORD, Fall 2021

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