For Alumni, Parents and Friends
Winter 2014
High Point University Magazine
90 Years and Counting
HPU Continues to Move Forward with Faithful Courage
Generous Giving: HPU is a worthy investment Arts and Sciences: New undergraduate science faculty Commencement: HPU’s largest graduating class
Colin Powell to Address the Class of 2014
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General Colin L. Powell, former secretary of state, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and national security advisor, will serve as the commencement speaker on Saturday, May 3, 2014. For more than 50 years, Powell has devoted his life to public service and has held senior military and diplomatic positions across four presidential administrations. From 1987 –1989, Powell served as President Ronald Reagan’s national security advisor. He served from 1989 –1993 as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for both President George H.W. Bush and President Bill Clinton. He was not only the youngest officer and first ROTC graduate to ever serve in the position, but also was the first African-American to do so. Under President George W. Bush, Powell was appointed the 65th Secretary of State. He led the State Department in major efforts to address and solve conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan, Congo, Liberia, in the Balkans, Cyprus, Haiti, Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere. Powell joins an extraordinary lineup of HPU commencement speakers, including Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan, Dr. Bill Cosby, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, NASA Astronaut Dr. Buzz Aldrin, CEO of the Coca-Cola Company Muhtar Kent, and former First Lady Laura Bush.
For Alumni, Parents and Friends
High Point University
Winter 2014
Magazine
High Point University Board Leadership Board of Trustees Dr. Richard Vert (’57), Chairman Board of Visitors Scott Tilley, Chairman Alumni Board Randy Bledsoe (‘78), President Panther Club George W. Holbrook, President SEND QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT HPU MAGAZINE TO: Pam Haynes, Director of Media Relations High Point University 833 Montlieu Avenue High Point, NC 27262 USA 336-841-9055 phaynes@highpoint.edu SEND INFORMATION FOR CLASS NOTES AND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Jill Thompson Director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving High Point University 833 Montlieu Avenue High Point, NC 27262 USA 336-841-9044 jthompson@highpoint.edu
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Faithful Stewardship: Why alumni, parents, friends and notable leaders recognize HPU as a worthy investment
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Inspiring Environment
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Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak addresses HPU’s largest graduating class
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High Point University website: highpoint.edu Facebook.com/HighPointU Twitter.com/HighPointU HPU Magazine is published for alumni, parents and friends of High Point University. HPU Photographer: J. Chadwick Christian Numbers to know: Receptionist: 336-841-9000 Admissions: 800-345-6993 Alumni and Parent Relations: 336-841-9127 Athletics: 336-841-9281 Campus Concierge: 336-841-4636 Security: 336-841-9112
Caring People Toms Shoes selects HPU junior for giving trip
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A Mission of Significance Dear HPU Friend: At High Point University, we are committed to helping students travel the journey from success to significance. We want our students to not only be effective, but transformative; not only productive, but truly generative. PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE WORLD OF TOMORROW
President Nido Qubein
HPU students are preparing themselves not for the world as it is today, but for the world as it is going to be. We can no longer be merely continental in our thinking; we must be global. Generations of new graduates face competition from every corner of the world. Technologies are evolving at a pace that demands constant skill building. That’s why we focus on a holistic, experiential and values-based education. The welleducated leaders of tomorrow will not just possess knowledge, but will also use that knowledge prudently to improve themselves, strengthen the communities in which they live and make the world a better place. Innovation is not a buzzword. It’s real. It exists inside the classrooms and is realized through innovative internships which show students how the professions and industries of tomorrow will operate. It is reflected in the way our faculty continually explore methods to guide and coach students in creative forums and state-of-the-art laboratories. We acknowledge that a university education of significance must provide ample value with distinctive lifelong benefits. EXPANDING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, SERVICES, FACILITIES
High Point University is committed to developing and supporting the highest quality programs, services and facilities. Academics come first, and most of our investments aim to underscore that. Thanks to a strong partnership with leaders in the city of High Point, the new Schools of Health Sciences and Pharmacy are firmly on schedule to open in the next few years on new land. In addition, the new Center for Student Success and the Athletic Performance Center are now being constructed. All this is possible due to the generosity of alumni, parents and friends who committed some $220 million to HPU. CELEBRATING HEROES, MODELS, MENTORS
At HPU, students are fortunate to be exposed to some of the best thought leaders and innovators of our time. In the course of a year they hear and see scores of visiting professors, performing artists, leading business executives, bestselling authors, television newscasters and famous personalities like Colin Powell, Steve Wozniak, John Maxwell, American Red Cross Chairman and Ambassador Bonnie McElveen Hunter, Malcolm Gladwell and CNN Correspondent Pamela Brown. These individuals are living models of success and significance, and they stand as examples of what students can become.
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Over the years, our students have embraced the example of heroes and mentors of all kinds, illustrating through their acts of generosity the importance of having positive role models in our lives. We give God the glory for the opportunity our students have to provide 100,000 service hours and raise almost a million dollars annually to feed the hungry, tend to the needs of the less advantaged, invest in the community and promote fairness and justice for all.
ADVANCING THE AMERICAN DREAM
During a recent appearance on CNBC’s Squawk Box, one of the interviewers argued with me that the American Dream has become a myth. I firmly disagreed, indicating that during my President’s Seminars for both freshmen and seniors, I remind students that they can pursue their dreams if they are willing to make good choices, work hard enough and open themselves to meaningful change. After all, the American dream isn’t only about increasing material wealth. I like the way James Truslow Adams (who popularized the term in his 1931 book “The Epic of America”) defined it: “not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position.” Ask immigrants like me if they agree with Mr. Adams and a resounding response will be heard: Of course, the American dream is alive and well! As a school that seeks to plant seeds of greatness in the minds, hearts and souls of its students, we proudly promote patriotism, free enterprise and individual initiative — the cornerstones of the American dream.
HPU IN NATIONAL NEWS
We are fortunate that our faculty, staff and students attract national attention. Some examples: The inspiring story of Collin Smith and his angel helper Ernest Greene brought Good Morning America, ABC News, Fox & Friends and even an international filmmaker to campus. The HPU Survey Research Center poll results are reported frequently with faculty-led and student-generated surveys about pertinent subjects and national developments. And the Biography Channel aired a 30-minute program on my life and focused squarely on High Point University. Please browse through this magazine to see a sample of what’s happening in our fellowship. Visit our website (www.highpoint.edu) and visit the campus to see how this institution of higher learning has exited the ocean of “sameness” and entered the smaller lake of “differentiated distinction.” Parents and counselors advocate HPU's attitude of optimism, spirit of collaboration and belief in America. We thank them — and you — for the generous support and the genuine encouragement which we receive with grateful hearts.
Sincerely, Nido R. Qubein nqubein@highpoint.edu
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90 years of
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Standing stoically by the entrance to campus, the historical marker recognizes the humble roots of High Point University that began nearly 90 years ago. The sign reveals a small town college that transformed itself into a nationally recognized university in a growing city known as the home furnishings capital of the world. Since that time, thousands of students have walked the hallowed halls and grown into responsible citizens who positively impact the world. Each year, many alumni return to campus to reminisce, while others arrive for the first time to begin their own journey. They all reflect a simple message: High Point University helped me discover not only who I am, but more importantly, who I could become. On Sept. 14, 2014, HPU will celebrate its 90th anniversary. Much has happened in 90 years, and yet innovation and action continue to permeate the campus. Parents, alumni and friends, inspired by the values-based, holistic educational mission, continue to invest in HPU with unprecedented giving. As the 90th anniversary approaches, the campus, led by President Nido Qubein, will honor the founders of HPU by marching onward with faithful courage.
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Faithful Stewardship W
hy alumni, parents, friends and notable leaders recognize HPU as a worthy investment.
On their way to the Life Skills seminar in the Charles E. and Pauline Hayworth Performing Arts Center, High Point University freshmen pass a Bible verse displayed in the lobby. “To whom much is given, much is required.� Those words apply as much to the university as they do the students. Generous contributions from friends, parents, grandparents and alumni, totaling $220 million in recent years, have helped High Point University serve a student body that has grown rapidly over the past eight years. In 2005, traditional undergraduate enrollment was 1,450. This year, the campus welcomed 4,000 students, an increase of nearly 176 percent. Student resources have expanded accordingly. The number of full-time faculty members has jumped from 108 in 2005 to 240 this year. The campus now has 107 buildings on 370 acres instead of 22 buildings on 92 acres eight years ago. And the university is currently planning construction of state-of-
the-art facilities for Schools of Health Sciences and Pharmacy, which will open in the next couple of years. Meanwhile, the number of study abroad programs (38) has more than quadrupled. So has the university’s operating budget (from $38 million to $178 million), allowing it to invest in the best and latest technology to prepare students for their future careers. None of this growth in academics, facilities, scholarships and student life would have been possible without donors who value and support the mission of High Point University. HPU promises and prepares students to lead lives of success and significance in demanding global environments through holistic education, experiential learning and valuesbased living. The university acknowledges every gift, large and small, with gratitude and appreciation. Every donor makes a difference. Together, we ensure the successful future of this institution.
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The Ron & Joyce Wanek Foundation Donates $10 Million Ron Wanek, the chairman of Ashley Furniture Company, knows what it takes to build a business from the ground up. Wanek grew up on a dairy farm in Minnesota. In 1970, he linked up with investors to launch Arcadia Furniture in Wisconsin. He had just 35 employees making mostly occasional tables in a 35,000-square-foot facility. Six years later, the group bought out Ashley Furniture, and Wanek eventually became majority owner. The rest is history. Four decades later, Wanek has built Ashley into the largest furniture manufacturer in the world, with global operations and more than 20,000 employees. Forbes Magazine recently named him one of the 400 richest Americans. Through his friendship with HPU President Nido Qubein, Wanek learned how High Point University’s curriculum values free enterprise and instills the entrepreneurial spirit in students. “The educational emphasis on communication and leadership that is the focus of High Point University is providing essential skills to tomorrow‘s leaders,” he said, shortly after the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation presented a $10 million cash gift to the university. It is the 10th single donation of $10 million or more to High Point University during the presidency of Dr. Qubein, who became its seventh president in January 2005. Wanek
and Qubein have known each other for almost a decade through Qubein’s speaking engagements and business connections. Qubein spoke at Ashley’s groundbreaking for the company’s manufacturing and distribution facility in Advance, N.C. in April along with N.C. Governor Pat McCrory. That one facility will eventually grow to 3.8 million square feet, a far cry from the humble little building where Wanek and his first employees started back in 1970. The business world has changed drastically since then, requiring leaders to think on their feet and respond faster than ever to changing market forces. With his gift, Wanek has ensured that High Point University students will be well prepared to follow his track of success, no matter what career path they choose. To honor Mr. Wanek, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name the former University Center as the R.G. Wanek Center. “The Latin meaning of the word philanthropy is to be a friend of humankind,” said Qubein at the unveiling of the Wanek Center. “Is there a cause nobler than that? Some people do this through their kindness, their knowledge or their blessings, and some through all of the above. We honor Ron and Joyce Wanek and their family, who are true friends to this university.”
The educational emphasis on communication and leadership that is the focus of High Point University is providing essential skills to tomorrow‘s leaders. – Ron Wanek Chairman Ashley Furniture
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Alumni
Doug Witcher
After Doug Witcher graduated from HPU in 1977, he launched a 30-year career in the insurance industry. In 1994, he founded Smart Choice, which has grown to become a major insurance network serving more than 3,700 agencies in 42 states. His commitment reflects his deep appreciation for the opportunities that HPU provided to him during his time as a student. This year he made a commitment for a $2 million unrestricted gift to the general fund. “I came to this university not knowing what I wanted to do with life,” said Witcher. “Equally important, I did not know who I was as a person or understand the gifts and skills God had given me. However, after I graduated, my life was forever changed by the
leaders at this university. As a result I have been blessed with the opportunity to play a role in a changing industry and better the lives of thousands of independent insurance agents across the country. I have also had the privilege to make a gift to this university for its role in helping me understand who I am, what skills God has blessed me with, and providing me with an education that has allowed me to use these skills and gifts to serve God by making a difference.” In addition to his experience in the insurance industry, charitable giving is an integral part of both Witcher’s life and his company’s philosophy. He is the 2013 campaign chairman for the United Way of Greater High Point and has avidly supported many different causes in the community.
Anne Kerr Walker Anne Kerr Walker has committed a gift of $1 million to her alma mater. She and her husband, Dr. Lawrence Crumpler Walker, are active supporters of HPU and its vision.
for Orange County.” She was elected to the HPU Board of Trustees in 2011 and is president of the Steel Magnolias, a group of women who graduated from HPU primarily between 1955 and 1965.
Walker graduated from HPU in 1960 and was a long-time educator in the public school system where she taught English and journalism for more than 30 years before entering the real estate industry.
“I feel it is my obligation to give back to the university that has meant so much to me over the years,” says Walker. “The beautiful campus, the extraordinary academic opportunities that are available to the students, and the tremendous impact the university has made in our area make me very proud to be a trustee and a graduate of High Point University. I am grateful to be able to contribute and be a part of the university’s phenomenal growth and success.”
She has held positions on many boards and organizations, including president of the North Carolina Association of Educators’ English Teachers and charter president of the Hillsborough Jaycettes. During her time as a teacher, she was named “Outstanding Young Educator
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give back Richard and Sylvia Budd Richard and Sylvia Budd established a new scholarship fund valued over time at $5 million. The funds will support students studying business and communication and be open to all eligible entering freshmen at HPU. Budd is a 1963 graduate who has been successful as an entrepreneur and community leader. He is a life member of HPU’s Board of Trustees and has served as chairman of the Board of Trustees. “We believe in the stewardship of the university,” says Budd,
“and joyfully support its mission of providing holistic education to generations of students who will influence the future of our country and our world.” “Richard and Sylvia Budd have been faithful advocates of the university and influential guiding lights as we seek to transform the institution and sustain its impactful future,” says HPU President Nido Qubein. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment of resources and for their continued faith in our work.”
James H. Millis, Jr. James H. Millis, Jr., a 1976 graduate, has established a new scholarship to honor the service of former HPU faculty member Shirley Rawley. This new gift of $300,000 will support the academic endeavors of qualified English majors at the university who demonstrate academic achievement and community service. Millis has been an influential advocate of the university's recent transformation and has, with his family, committed in excess of $10 million toward academics and student life. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees.
“From the very beginning of my tenure here, Jim Millis has been a faithful partner and a generous philanthropist. His interest in HPU is unshakable and his commitment is unwavering. We are most thankful for his support,” says HPU president Nido Qubein. This gift benefits High Point University’s efforts to grow its scholarship pool. So many qualified students cannot attend HPU without financial support. The university committed $22 million this year in scholarships.
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Center for Student Success Parents of High Point University students know that HPU is a worthy investment and have been inspired to cover the $16 million in site and construction costs for the Center for Student Success.
THE CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS: Scheduled for completion in early 2015, the 40,000-square-foot facility will serve as a central hub of activity for students preparing for job interviews, seeking career development opportunities and looking for ways to diversify their career skills. It will house The Career & Internship Services Office, The Office of Study Abroad, The Office of Undergraduate Research, The Center for Entrepreneurship, The Service Learning Program, The Freshman Success Program and more.
The Cathy Bernard Family Cathy Bernard, mother of junior Amanda Bernard and 2013 graduate Alex Bernard, has donated $1 million to the Center for Student Success. The gift not only funds the new facility, but it also honors Dr. David Bergen, chair of the Department of Human Relations, Sociology and Nonprofit Studies, who made a positive impact on the life and education of Alex during his time at HPU. A portion of the building will
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recognize Bergen for his dedication to students and undergraduate teaching. Bernard is president of HCM Corporation, a real estate investment firm in Washington, D.C., where she has been an active leader for the past 30 years. She reflects the university’s commitment to free enterprise and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit.
David and Christine Cottrell David and Christine Cottrell, parents of HPU student Leah Cottrell, are supporting the Center for Student Success with a lead gift of $3 million. The Cottrells founded RetailData in Virginia in 1988, where David is chairman and Christine is CEO. Their belief in HPU’s entrepreneurial spirit is what inspired them to give to High Point University. “When we heard Dr. Qubein speak about his visionary HPU dream and his appreciation for the American dream, we looked at each other and decided that we were in,” said David Cottrell at the groundbreaking of the facility during the 2013 Fall Family Weekend. “My family is a product of the American dream. We believe in the mission of High Point University and are proud to be one of the families who brought this to fruition.”
The Cottrell’s company is a “true garage start-up.” Founded in 1988, Christine Cottrell left her position as Director of Pricing at Richfood Inc. (now SuperValu) to start RetailData Services in her garage. She maxed out her credit cards and purchased the most powerful PC available at the time — a Compaq 386 with a printer for $10,000. Christine‘s goal was to radically change and improve the methodology for collecting competitive retail prices by implementing scanning technology and electronic data delivery. Christine was recognized as the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year for the state of Virginia in 1998. As founder/CEO, Christine maintains an unsurpassed “passion for the business” and continues to strive to make RetailData the standard of the industry.
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Tim and Sarah Belk Tim Belk, chairman and CEO of Belk Stores, and Sarah Belk have donated $1 million to the Center for Student Success. They are parents of recent High Point University graduate Thomas Belk.
the successful and innovative chairman and CEO of America’s largest privately owned mainline department store, Mr. Belk oversees the multi-billion dollar operations for more than 300 stores in 16 Southern states.
The Belks understand and endorse the HPU approach to holistic education. They experienced it first-hand through their son’s four years on campus. As
The Belks served on the Parents Council for a number of years and are advocates of HPU’s transformational growth.
Jack and Nancy Dwyer Jack and Nancy Dwyer, parents of sophomore Emily Dwyer, have donated $1 million to the Center for Student Success. Jack Dwyer is the chairman of the board and sole owner of Baltimore-based Capital Funding Group, which
provides loans to the health care industry. He began his career in health care finance more than 25 years ago when he founded Capital Funding Group in 1993. He has been involved in the financing of more than $3 billion in FHA-insured mortgages.
David and Cindy Maxsimic David and Cindy Maxsimic, of Falmouth, Maine, have contributed $100,000 to the Center for Student Success. They are the parents of HPU student Stephanie Maxsimic. The Maxsimics appreciate HPU’s educational philosophy that prepares students to live the American dream. Cindy
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is a successful real estate broker affiliated with Re/Max Heritage in Yarmouth, Maine, and David serves as President, International at WEX, Inc. WEX provides financial and information management solutions to help companies strengthen balance sheets and achieve unparalleled control and security.
And we also thank… Many families of current students have invested generously in the Center for Student Success and scholarship growth. Whether anonymous or identified by name, HPU thanks each of them for investing in our future. • A family from Atlanta has given $2 million to the Center for Student Success. • A family from Charleston, W.Va. has given $1 million to the Center for Student Success. • A family from Keswick, Va. has given $1 million to the Center for Student Success. • A family from Pittsburgh has given $500,000 to the Center for Student Success. • A family from New York has given $500,000 to the Center for Student Success. • Dr. Edward Jones, ’49, left a $2 million scholarship to HPU through his trust. • Louise and Carl Downing of Asheboro, N.C. are establishing a $500,000 scholarship fund with a bequest from their estate plan.
Southern Home Furnishings Association Supports Students with $375,000 Scholarship Fund The Southern Home Furnishings Association has established a $375,000 scholarship fund at High Point University to support students preparing to become future leaders in the home furnishings industry.
for all of its members including manufacturers and lawmakers, and to promote honest dealings and integrity in the ranks and to the public.
The scholarship benefits students in the School of Art and Design who major in furnishings/product development and design (FPD) and demonstrate financial need or merit. The FPD major is a new program at HPU that launches in fall 2014 and complements its existing programs in home furnishings and interior design.
“We feel that High Point University will instill these principles in students as they become part of the home furnishings industry, and we are more than happy to provide this fund to help students achieve their goals and ambitions,” says Alan Dossenbach, past president and 2013 board member of SHFA and president of Dossenbach’s Finer Furniture in Sanford, N.C.
As a regional affiliate of the National Home Furnishings Association, the Southern Home Furnishings Association (SHFA) serves furniture retailers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. SHFA was founded in 1931 with several core principles, including to encourage a spirit of progress in the furniture industry, secure fair treatment
“There are so many opportunities in the home furnishings industry today that will lead to successful careers for tomorrow,” adds Britt Sams, 2013 SHFA president and owner of Sams Furniture and Mattress Center in Henderson, N.C. “It was a privilege for SHFA to donate this money to help educate the future generations and leaders in our growing industry.”
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A SOLID
FOUNDATION IN THE SCIENCES
Undergraduate sciences prepare students for 21st century careers The number of students studying undergraduate sciences at High Point University is growing rapidly. Exercise science is now the third largest major on campus, and biology ranks No. 5. To foster that growth, graduate degree programs in fields such as physical therapy, physician assistant studies and pharmacy are about to start, and new teacherscholars, including department chairs for biology and chemistry, have arrived to engage more students in scientific research than ever before. “We wanted to invite additional leadership to enhance our science departments,” says Dr. Carole Stoneking, dean of the David Hayworth College of Arts and Sciences. “Our new chairs are instrumental in reviewing curriculums and establishing new initiatives which can better prepare our students for 21st century careers.”
Dr. Angela Bauer, chair of the biology department, joins the HPU family from the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay where she researched the potential health effects of exposure to endocrine disruptors, or chemicals in the environment that disrupt hormone function. She also conducts studies in the scholarship of teaching and learning in order to discover how she can best help all students learn. Bauer came to HPU to work in an environment that was centered on educating the whole student, inside and outside of the classroom. “In addition to providing top-notch classroom instruction, our faculty spend a great deal of time outside of the classroom advising students, preparing them for their future professional paths, connecting them with the community, and working with them in the labs on numerous research projects,” says Bauer. “Our commitment to students goes beyond academics. We care about the whole person.”
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Bauer is creating a clear path for students who are interested in careers in the health sciences. With faculty experienced in research, collaborative lab opportunities and access to internships, she says students who obtain a science degree from HPU can thrive in multiple fields. Dr. Brian Augustine, new chair of the department of chemistry, taught at James Madison University and served as a Fulbright Scholar in South Africa. Augustine is working on a project that would allow gold to stick to plastic. Gold is an excellent conductor of electricity, but it’s limited by not being able to stick to many surfaces. Augustine says an HPU graduate, Laura Lee, ’12, actually helped to discover that it could be done while she was working as a summer intern at James Madison University. In addition to his current work, he conducts research on surface modification of novel nanocomposite polymers and the fabrication of microfluidic devices made from those polymers. In laymen’s terms, he works to create small “labs on chips” that allow scientists to analyze data even if they have a small amount of material to work with. For example: analyzing DNA from a small amount of blood found at a crime scene.
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“I’m excited about the culture on the HPU campus,” says Augustine. “I value our students, faculty, and the tone the president sets for all of us. I like the feel and energy of everyone pulling together.” He is spending his first year as the chemistry department chair meeting with prestigious graduate programs to develop systems that put HPU students in selective spots. Dr. Aaron Titus, new chair of the department of physics, came to HPU in 2002 and chaired the Department of Physics and Chemistry before they were separated into two distinct departments in 2013. Titus’ primary interests are computational physics and video analysis and their uses in undergraduate research and educational technology. Some of his students’ projects are in physics of sports, such as the dynamics of an end-over-end placekick in American football, the motion of a hula hoop or the torque on a soccer ball kicked with backspin. “I’m most enthusiastic about two things in our program,” says Titus. “First, I have three colleagues with expertise in experimental physics, theoretical physics and astrophysics. Together we’re creating a dynamic, contemporary program. Second, our majors are already being accepted to excellent summer research internships and graduate programs.” ■
The INTERSECTION of SCIENCE & POLICY When Nikki Sanford graduated from HPU in 2013 with a double major in physics and math and a minor in chemistry, there was a wealth of opportunities in the sciences awaiting her in research and other respected fields. But she discovered there were other paths, too — the ones less traveled — for top science graduates to make an impact in a nontraditional way. For her, the road led unexpectedly to Capitol Hill after she landed a selective opportunity through the American Institute of Physics. Through the AIP, she was funded by the Nobel Laureate physicist Dr. John Mather to reside in Washington, D.C. and intern on Capitol Hill in the Congressional House Science, Space and Technology Committee. She attended and conducted research for the committee’s hearings, and experienced the legislative processes that connect science and policy. Upon completion of the internship, she became a student at William and Mary Law School where she’s preparing to launch a career that revolves around that connection in patent law, which promotes the progress of science by securing rights for a limited time to authors and inventors.
The Road to Research Senior Gavin Coombs will graduate from HPU in May with a list of national distinctions in the scientific research field. Coombs was selected as one of 15 students from hundreds of applicants to perform research on communicable diseases at Johns Hopkins University last summer. He was then selected to present his findings at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students in Nashville, Tenn., and was further honored with a $25,000 scholarship from the UNCF Merk Science Initiative.
Research Experiences at World Class Facilities CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Switzerland, is one of the world’s largest and most respected facilities for scientific research. That’s where senior Kevin Sanders completed his REU (research experience for undergraduates) after going through a competitive application process. Sanders was one of 12 students selected from hundreds of applicants for the REU. In Switzerland, he focused on a computer science project that makes research more readily available to millions of people online called Zenodo.org. At the same time, he remotely performed particle physics research for a separate project at the University of Michigan, which hosts the REU partnership with CERN. highpoint.edu || 19
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Designing the factor
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Visual Merchandising and Product Development Majors Launch in School of Art and Design
The city of High Point’s rich heritage in the furniture industry is a defining factor for HPU’s interior design and home furnishings programs. With numerous furniture companies headquartered here and a twice-yearly international furniture market that attracts 100,000 industry leaders, the opportunities for internships and careers are often a stone’s throw from campus. Faculty in the School of Art and Design have dedicated their time and expertise to expanding current programs and establishing new majors that keep graduates ahead of the curve. Last fall, the school launched a new major in visual merchandising and design geared toward the retail sector. HPU will also transform its current home furnishings major into a furnishings/ product development and design major, allowing students to focus on the creation of products that fill our homes and lives. Showrooms to Storefronts Visual merchandising is a vast field with multiple avenues for graduates, says Dr. Jane Nichols, chair of home furnishings and interior design. “If you’ve ever walked by a store window that caught your eye and said, ‘I’ve got to have that,’ then it was put together by a great visual merchandiser,” says Nichols. “Visual merchandisers are employed by many different companies, from furniture manufacturers with design centers and showrooms, to all manner of retail stores from Louis Vuitton to Disney to Hallmark.” The new major is a mix of business and design courses that offer the core knowledge needed in the field. A paid internship program that faculty are establishing will give students the out-of-the-classroom experience and professional connections they need to launch a career.
“Our faculty and our connections to the industry have allowed us to create partnerships with furniture design centers and manufacturers across the country,” says Nichols. “Those businesses will host our students during the summer, giving them practical work experience. Beyond that, they’ll have study abroad opportunities where they can delve further into furnishings and textiles in London, Paris or Italy. It’s a total experience that makes our students wellrounded professionals and top candidates for fulfilling careers.” Concepts to Products In addition to visual merchandising, the home furnishings major is transforming into a furnishings/product development and design (FPD) major that teaches students to create pieces for any product line, from casegoods all the way to accessories. The new major commences this fall, but a technology lab that distinguishes the program from others in the country is already being used by students. The lab houses a 3-D printer, laser cutter and CNC router purchased through a grant from the Knabusch-Shoemaker Fund. These technologies give students the ability to turn their vision into reality and transfer concepts on paper into tangible products. “Over the last two years, our faculty have spent countless hours re-imagining the educational experience of our students,” says Dr. John Turpin, dean of the school. “New courses, programs, technologies and experiences are being carefully integrated to prepare our graduates for an ever-changing, complex and competitive market.” ■
New features in the design lab: • The 3-D printer allows students to load data into the machine as two types of biodegradable plastic are fed through to print a 3-D, physical object that they can touch, evaluate and add to their portfolios. • The laser cutter instantly cuts through materials such as wood, plastics and acrylics, and etches designs into glass, aluminum and stainless steel. • The CNC machine is a robotic router used to carve or engrave designs and shapes, such as a rounded knob or the curved edge of a chair. “This equipment opens up so many possibilities for students to build their portfolios,” says Brandon Jones, instructor of interior design who oversees the lab. “Instead of stopping when they’ve put the design on paper or a digital screen, they bring it to life.”
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HPU Ranks #1 Three Times High Point University has been named No. 1 again in “America’s Best Colleges,” published annually by U.S. News & World Report. The rankings represent the university’s strong reputation in stellar academics, graduation and retention rates, expanding experiential learning opportunities and faculty who go above and beyond the call to educate the nation’s future leaders.
#1
Best Regional College in the South (second consecutive year)
In addition to being named No. 1 three times, HPU received other top rankings this year that reflect value to students and parents. The university was named the No. 4 private school in N.C. for best Return on Investment. The ROI list rankings note that an HPU degree prepares students to secure jobs in their field that pay well based on Payscale.com data.
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#1
Up and Coming School in Regional Colleges in the South (second consecutive year)
#1
for Best Undergraduate Teaching in Regional Colleges in the South
The holistic approach to educating the whole student has earned HPU recognition as a 2013-14 College of Distinction for the third year in a row. The Colleges of Distinction list is based upon exemplary commitment to four distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities and successful outcomes.
PARENT PERSPECTIVE “I knew within minutes of Dr. Qubein beginning his speech at Open House that HPU was the place for my son. He was sitting on the edge of his seat with a huge smile. My son is now a senior, and part of me would like to turn back the clock to enjoy the experience of HPU over again.” – Sandy Hull, Minnesota, mother of senior Bennett Hull
“If you have to relinquish the reins of parenthood (and apparently, we do), then there is no better community in the world than High Point University in which to do it. If you want to see the changing face of higher education from the frontline, visit HPU and spend 30 seconds with any one of the people there. My daughter could not have made a better choice.” – Mark Middlebrooks, Colorado, father of sophomore Sierra Middlebrooks
“High Point University was a great investment for my daughter, who now has a wonderful career at ESPN after graduating in 2012. The time she spent in the HPU classroom with her professors and on campus proved truly valuable as her HPU degree takes her to new heights.” – Susan Reilly, Connecticut, mother of Jacquelyn Reilly, now a motion graphic designer at ESPN Studios
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HPU IN THE NATIO Graduates Inspire the Nation Two HPU graduates, Collin Smith and Ernest Greene, have inspired millions of people by sharing their story of love and sacrifice on ABC’s World News with Diane Sawyer, Good Morning America and Fox & Friends’ Christmas Special. Smith was a three-sport athlete in high school before a tragic car accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. It could have ended his formal education, but Smith persisted, never giving up on his dream of a college degree. Greene was a member of Smith’s church when the accident occurred. Though the two hadn’t formally met, Greene, a retired engineer, felt a calling to help. He has volunteered his time to be by Smith’s side ever since. During their time at HPU, he arrived at Smith’s house each morning at 6 a.m. to get Smith ready for the day, drive him to campus and take notes in every class. When Smith received his degree at HPU’s 2013 Commencement ceremony, Greene was surprised with an honorary degree of his own.
Their powerful tale is set to be made into a movie by Los Angeles-based Coram Deo Studies, titled “Package Deal.” To see the national news coverage, visit www.highpoint. edu/collinandernest.
HPU CONNECT
Qubein Featured on CNBC’s ‘Squawk Box’ HPU President Nido Qubein made a live appearance on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” to discuss the vitality of the American dream and the importance of a holistic education. The interview prominently featured HPU and was viewed in millions of homes. CNBC reaches 395 million homes worldwide, including more than 100 million households in the United States and Canada, according to the network’s website. CNBC also provides daily business updates to 400 million CONNECT households across China.
HPU
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ONAL SPOTLIGHT Biography Channel Features HPU and President Nido Qubein The extraordinary life accomplishments of Nido R. Qubein recently captured the attention of an Emmywinning producer. Interested in sharing Qubein's story with millions of viewers, a production team visited the HPU campus for several days to document the life of one extraordinary individual. Camera crews filmed the campus and interviewed students, faculty and staff while the directors sat down with Qubein to discuss his journey to the United States, to a successful career in business and speaking, and to his current role of leading the transformation at HPU. The result? A 27-minute documentary titled: Nido Qubein, A Life of Success and Significance. The Biography Channel originally aired the documentary, which prominently features the High Point University campus and its people. It has since been shown to students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents who responded
with encouraging support for both Qubein and the mission of HPU — to plant seeds of greatness in the minds, hearts and souls of young people. The film is available for your viewing and to share with your family and friends by visiting www.highpoint.edu/ president. You can also request a free DVD copy by contacting communication@highpoint.edu.
HPU CONNECT
HPU Poll Puts Public Opinion into Perspective Five years ago, the Survey Research Center (SRC) was established at High Point University as a new way for students to conduct research on public affairs and politics. More than 25 local, state and national public opinion surveys later, the SRC’s HPU Poll has become a prime source of information cited by major news outlets like the Huffington Post, Politico, the Washington Post, the New York Times’ FiveThirtyEight blog and Yahoo! News.
Students take to the phones to poll North Carolinians and, in some cases, residents across the country, on dozens of topics each year. Questions range from presidential and congressional approval to holiday spending. And the SRC supports collaborative research projects for students and faculty in addition to the HPU Poll. Together they translate their research questions into hard, trustworthy data. It’s one of the many reasons you’ll constantly hear about HPU in the national news. As its reputation continues to grow, so too do the plans for the future. “HPU created the Survey Research Center to provide opportunities for students,” says Dr. Martin Kifer, director of the SRC. “We are constantly finding new ways to showcase their work for a national audience.” highpoint.edu | 25
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Who You Spend Time With
Is Who You Become Career office develops outstanding students by surrounding them with students who excel Cups of coffee pass through the line at Starbucks as iPhones are checked and laptops are plugged into countertop power outlets. Energy is everywhere. What looks like the scene of an international airport is actually the concourse of the Slane Student Center. This early morning buzz is the perfect environment for senior Matt Jakubowski to set up the HPU Career Bar. It takes no time at all for passing students to stop and inquire about the Career Bar and its purpose. The answer is simple: Jakubowski, an achieving senior who already has one job offer on the table, is a member of the Career Peer Ambassadors (CPAs) — a group of students who help other students prepare for life after graduation. One student sits down beside Jakubowski and asks for help polishing his LinkedIn profile. It’s the kind of interaction that the
Office of Career and Internship Services had in mind when they launched the program — connecting successful upperclassmen with peers who can benefit from their advice. “Younger students appreciate advice from upperclassmen and take it seriously,” says Bridget Holcombe, director of the Office of Career and Internship Services. “The CPAs can reach their peers in a way that we sometimes can’t and have enhanced the connectivity between our office and students.” “It’s rewarding to help a fellow student the same way others helped me,” adds Jakubowski, who interned at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., one of the world’s largest insurance brokerage and risk management firms, and was offered a full-time job at the company after he graduates in May. “Each student I’ve helped has said the time we’ve spent developing
Senior Matt Jakubowksi, a Career Peer Ambassador in the Office of Career and Internship Services, works with business major Nick Bamatter on his LinkedIn profile at the HPU Career Bar.
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From top, clockwise: Melia Sigmon, a Career Peer Ambassador, welcomes students to the HPU Career Bar. Senior Jacob Meadows talks to a recruiter from BB&T at the Career and Internship Expo. Sophomore Gina Palombi introduces herself to a recruiter at the expo.
résumés or figuring out how to further their job search has been beneficial.” Holcombe’s office has a knack for engaging students in creative ways. The four-year plan they’ve devised connects her office with students from the moment they arrive on campus until the moment they depart to enter graduate school, the professional world or to start their own venture.
A job exposition held on campus in the fall brought dozens of employers face to face with students to discuss openings and opportunities with their companies. “We’re here because this is a prestigious university, and we have a sturdy relationship with HPU,” says BB&T’s Charlie Rogers. “The students are well prepared, intelligent and overall great candidates.”
Employers looking for top candidates visit campus often, and partnerships with major companies are fostered by other members of the office like Susan Brien, associate director of employer relations. Brien is expanding both local employer relations and those in the Northeast, where she worked for more than a decade.
Other companies who have recruited HPU students include Lenovo, Merrill Lynch, Key Bank and Ernst and Young, among so many more.
“Many companies select schools as ‘feeders’ to send them interns or job candidates after graduation, and we are working to become that school for as many companies as possible,” says Brien.
“We care about our students and their future,” says Holcombe. “Identifying their strengths and presenting them with an abundance of opportunities are always our focus.”
We’re here because this is a prestigious university, and we have a sturdy relationship with HPU.
Identifying our students strengths and presenting them with an abundance of opportunities are always our focus.
CHARLIE ROGERS, BB&T
BRIDGET HOLCOMBE
Assistant Vice President and Executive Search Consultant
Director of the Office of Career and Internship Services
It’s all part of the master plan that the Career Bar embodies — making professional development opportunities visible and easily accessible on campus.
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Learning from National Leadersers Carter Adams, an Orlando, Fla. native majoring in political science, discovered that politicians aren’t the “untouchables” they are sometimes perceived to be when he served as a congressional intern in Rep. Daniel Webster’s office. The experience not only gave Adams the opportunity to work directly with constituents, but also the chance to be mentored by Congressman Webster and other national leaders he encountered, such as House Speaker John Boehner and former vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan. “Those people became true mentors to me,” says Adams, a sophomore. “I could send any questions I had to them.” An impactful moment occurred when Arizona Senator John McCain sat beside Adams on the Senate train. Both had just attended a senate vote on the immigration bill in the Capitol, and Adams saw it as the perfect opportunity to ask for advice on a career in public service. “Senator McCain told me to always go with my gut feeling about what is best for your country,” says Adams. “We generally think that politicians aren’t reachable, but I learned that is not the case. They are in D.C. talking to young people like myself and mentoring us every day in addition to the many other things they do.” The connections that Adams made are invaluable, along with the professional skills he gained such as learning to communicate with the public as well as major political figures. “Public service is my calling,” he says. “This summer, I learned how all of the small pieces in the legislative branch work together, and I think that process is a wonderful thing.”
Carter Adams CONGRESSMAN DANIEL WEBSTER’S OFFICE Washington, DC
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Sophomore Carter Adams learned from several national leaders on Capitol Hill while interning for Congressman Daniel Webster.
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Breaking News in the Big Apple Interning with America’s No. 1 news station in New York City is a monumental opportunity — it opens doors and creates connections that are invaluable for a communication major. But it’s intimidating, too. Getting every fact and piece of the story right is crucial. Senior Shawntay Henry, from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, realized all of these things when she landed her internship with Fox News’ Long Form Documentary Unit, which produces Fox Files. She also realized how much her HPU classes prepared her to succeed at a national news network. “My convergent journalism classes with Dr. Nahed Eltantawy have proved to be most rewarding,” says Henry, an electronic media major. “I was relieved to find out how well she had taught me to write slugs, do research and pull everything together. I was able to assist other interns instead of being nervous or overwhelmed.” Henry's days at Fox included doing large amounts of research for Fox Files segments and writing "slugs" for stories. She researched broad, challenging topics, including serial killers who most often kill during the summer months. “Knowing that my work has been seen by others is thrilling and rewarding,” she says. It doesn’t mean she wants to do long-form documentary work forever. In fact, her internship helped her realize that she’s ready to work on the breaking news side of the industry or be in front of the camera. “I learned a lot from this internship, especially from my boss, Pamela Brown, who is the senior producer,” says Henry. “She pushed me to be the best I could be and didn’t cut me any slack. I think there’s something about High Point University pushing their students to be extraordinary. Other people can see that in me, which led me to this extraordinary opportunity.”
Shawntay Henry FOX NEWS CHANNEL New York, NY
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Senior Shawntay Henry excelled at her internship at Fox News in New York City thanks to her classes at HPU.
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Resounding Success Junior Ashley Siebeneichen didn’t just learn about music, composing and Broadway at her summer internship; she lived it — in New York City. Siebeneichen, a native of Hagerstown, Md. and a music and theatre major with a concentration in vocal performance, was selected by world-renowned composer and lyricist Charles Strouse to serve as his intern in New York. Strouse composed “Annie,” “Bye Bye Birdie” and other famous Broadway plays. The internship put her in the middle of the famed industry and allowed her to assist with the off-Broadway show, “How 2 B a New Yorker,” produced by Carolyn Rossi Copeland Productions — a company that serves as executive producer to works by Strouse. She also assisted Strouse in converting handwritten music into music software. Strouse is a longstanding member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and one of America’s most successful musical theatre composers. He served as a true mentor to Siebeneichen and opened the door to the world where she’ll launch her career. “This experience opened my eyes up to everything that happens before the curtain can rise,” she says. “That’s why I wanted to come to New York — to figure out different paths in theatre and music, to get a broad perspective, and to find out where my heart is.” “Ashley is an excellent musician,” says Strouse. “She’s given me a lot of support in my music, and I look forward to working with her again soon.”
HPU CONNECT
Ashley Siebeneichen TONY AWARD-WINNING COMPOSER CHARLES STROUSE New York, NY
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Ashley Siebeneichen prepared for her Broadway career while working with Tony award-winning composer and lyricist Charles Strouse.
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Creating Content for Millionsers Seeing the words “By Olivia French” in a national publication read by more than 7 million people is a sure sign to this communication major that her career is off to a phenomenal start. French, a student from Ridgewood, N.J. studying journalism, was published twice in Scholastic Parent and Child Magazine after being selected as their summer intern in the publication’s New York City office. At the magazine, French wrote headlines and stories, reviewed products, copy edited, assisted with photo shoots and learned how to put information together in ways that are interesting and consumable for readers. The most important aspect of her internship was working alongside top editors and experiencing the total process of creating a publication from beginning to end. In addition to the stories she published, she contributed
to the production of three issues and brought back a wealth of knowledge to HPU. “When reading magazines, it’s easy to think that they all magically come together,” says French. “Now I’ve seen and experienced the hard work that goes into every single page. I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to learn the various aspects of the publishing process. I loved every step, and I couldn’t wait to go to my internship each morning. Now I can’t wait to further my career as a professional journalist.”
HPU CONNECT
Olivia French SCHOLASTIC PARENT AND CHILD MAGAZINE New York, NY
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Junior Olivia French contributed to the production of several issues of Scholastic Parent and Child Magazine, including publishing two stories in recent issues.
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Building a Career at Caterpillar, Inc. Junior Alex Nelson had plenty of his own responsibilities during his internship with Caterpillar, Inc., one of the world’s leading machinery and engine manufacturers. As the lead communication and human resources intern, he also guided 30 other interns at four U.S. CAT Building Construction Products Division facilities through the company’s expansive summer internship experience. Nelson, a communication major with a minor in management, worked on important company policies and projects such as succession planning, diversity and leadership summits. He also coordinated and scheduled events, meetings and logistics for the interns to maintain a positive culture and led bi-weekly intern teleconferences so each intern could offer status updates on their projects. “This internship taught me to operate in a professional, corporate environment,” says Nelson, from Clayton, N.C. “I was told several times that the internship was essentially a three-month interview. I brought 110 percent each day and encouraged other interns to do the same. I could easily see myself working at Caterpillar someday as the experience and exposure I gained were remarkable, and the company has a promising strategy for continued global success.” Nelson says his experiences in and out of the classroom at HPU cultivated his attitudes about the corporate world and shaped his approach to his responsibilities at CAT. “HPU set an incredible example for me,” Nelson says. “I’ve watched and been part of it, and now I’m spreading the notion in the corporate world that everyone can be extraordinary and live a life filled with success and, more importantly, significance.”
Alex Nelson CATERPILLAR INC. Sanford, NC
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HPU CONNECT
Junior Alex Nelson served as the lead intern at Caterpillar, Inc., one of the world’s leading machinery and engine manufacturers, and guided 30 other interns at four U.S. facilities through the company’s expansive summer internship experience.
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LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP CEOs offer insight at roundtable
Believe. That was the message from three successful business leaders at High Point University’s Leadership Roundtable discussion. They told the crowd of more than 500 that the key is to believe in yourself, believe in your team and believe in your core values. The event was featured in the December issue of Business North Carolina and aired statewide on UNC-TV. The three panelists were Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, former U.S. Ambassador and founder and CEO of Pace Communications; Kelly King, chairman and CEO of BB&T Corporation; and Ric Elias, CEO and co-founder of Red Ventures. “One of the smartest things I’ve done is to hire people smarter than me, give them all the resources I possibly can, then get out of their way,” said McElveen-Hunter. “We have an environment where people are allowed to make mistakes. Sometimes failure is the best thing that can happen to us. It can be one of our defining moments.” “There are only three things that are non-negotiable — our vision, our
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mission and our values,” added King. “It’s not about what you achieve, but how you achieve it. Along the way, you lose creativity if you are afraid to fail. If you are trying to be happy, you’re more willing to take risks.” “Ultimately you have to be authentic,” added Elias. “Leadership is a journey that never ends, and the only thing to keep you grounded is to be authentic.” The panelists encouraged students to dedicate their time to serving others and to embrace an entrepreneurial spirit. They took the time to meet with HPU students before the event began to talk one-on-one about everything from home and work balance, to how they launched their businesses and the challenges they overcame. “When you’re engaged with prominent CEOs and they’re engaged with you, you realize that they are a normal person just like you,” said HPU junior and entrepreneurship major Arielle Stratton. “Then, you realize that you have the potential to succeed as they have. It was important to hear them
Above: Dr. Nido Qubein, HPU president, moderates a business roundtable held on campus that featured panelists (from left) Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, CEO and owner of Pace Communications; Kelly King, CEO of BB&T Corporation; and Ric Elias, CEO and co-founder of Red Ventures.
encourage us to be entrepreneurial and take risks.” “The most important ideas I took away from the event are that the word ‘can’t’ doesn’t exist, and that failure is a comma, not a period,” said junior Alex Nelson. This is the second roundtable HPU has held. In spring 2013, the university hosted North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory and several highly regarded business leaders, including racing CEO and businessman Richard Childress, as panelists in an entrepreneurship roundtable discussion. ■
MENTORS COMMUNICATION MAJORS In the first eight months of her career at CNN, 29-year-old Pamela Brown was faced with covering the Boston Marathon bombings, the Cleveland kidnapper and the Oklahoma tornado. It was a grueling start for a young journalist, but she persevered and shared her challenges, mistakes and triumphs along the way with communication majors when she visited HPU. “Winning and being perfect are futile,” Brown said in a presentation to students. “Failure builds character.” Throughout her visit, Brown spoke with students in the President’s Freshman Seminar and several communication classes before delivering a presentation to the university community. Each time, she told students that mistakes and setbacks happen to everyone, but how you handle those situations is what defines your career. From many days of work without sleep to on-camera errors at previous stations, it all prepared Brown for CNN — her most fulfilling yet challenging endeavor to date. She
now contributes extensively to CNN’s “New Day” with Chris Cuomo, Kate Bolduan and Michaela Pereira. Brown launched her career in broadcast journalism in Washington, D.C. at ABC7/WJLA-TV and NewsChannel8. She eventually became an Emmy-nominated Sunday evening anchor and special projects reporter, covering several national and international stories. At the news desk, she anchored breaking news and continuous coverage of several high profile events, including Super Storm Sandy. “It’s been surreal covering these major stories in front of a national
audience, especially since I was just in your shoes not long ago,” Brown told students. “But I’ve learned that if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. I’ve also learned that sometimes there is no failure, just opportunity.” “Pamela gave a lot of great insight on what we should be doing now to prepare for our future,” said junior Jodi Guglielmi, who was part of a group of communication majors who had lunch with Brown. “She told us many candid stories about her career, which I really appreciated and related to. The main message I took away is that the sacrifice of hard work and staying driven pays off.” ■
I’ve learned that if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. And that sometimes there is no failure, just opportunity. – Pamela Brown CNN Correspondent
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MEDIA FELLOWS TAKE ON HOLLYWOOD
Students dive into the entertainment industry
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PICTURE IT: A soccer player gets injured and can’t play at an upcoming game. Instead of watching from the sidelines, he races to check out a video camera and documents a day in the life of the HPU soccer team. Not only is he there to support his team, he’s also using his time to do something creative; something educational; something fun. This type of passion and dedication is what it takes to be selected for the Media Fellows Program in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. The program is full of go-getters just like the soccer player, sophomore Collin Sweeney. It’s not surprising that in its third year, the program is already making an impact on campus.
Media is a global pursuit; we want students to have the opportunity to experience other cultures in order to learn. – Charisse McGhee-Lazarou, director of Media Fellows
Learning from Industry Leaders Charisse McGhee-Lazarou served as a vice president of Primetime Programming at NBC before she became director of Media Fellows at HPU. She explains that the program is designed for students who demonstrate enthusiasm and talent in the field of media — TV, broadcast and print journalism, digital media, documentaries and the methods of effective storytelling. The industry veteran knows what it takes to rise to the top of major media corporations and tell stories that change people‘s lives. She designed the program so that each cohort — eight women and eight men — is selected from incoming freshmen interested in studying one of the five communication tracks. From there, the group learns and grows together throughout their four years. They take many of the same classes and collaborate on dozens of projects as if they’re co-workers in a major studio. “To sum it up, it’s a unique approach to experiential education in media,” says McGhee-Lazarou. Hands-on Experience The program itself is unique because of the demands of the industry, adds McGhee-Lazarou. “Communication is the second most popular major on campus, and media happens to be unique in an academic setting,” she says. “It’s an academic field, but almost like a trade in that there’s a real hands-on application to it; it’s a discipline that focuses on output. Students studying media learn by doing.” Students are given different
assignments each year in the program, including service and capstone projects with community organizations. In 2012, students attended the Republican and Democratic National Conventions to create a documentary about the concept of the American dream. They interviewed protestors, pundits, political figures and voters in the process. A Global Pursuit During the summer of 2013, McGhee-Lazarou took nine Media Fellows to Los Angeles to attend media seminars and the Television Critics Association Press Tour, where they got a sneak peek at the fall TV lineup. They networked with NBC executives and explored the business behind “show biz.” “They had a great deal of behind the scenes access,” McGhee-Lazarou says. “The trip was meant to be a professional experience, but also a time for them to bond as professionals who are focused on the same industry.” In fall 2013, they traveled abroad to Winchester, England to create a documentary that compares and contrasts the aspirations of young people in the states to those of young people in the U.K. “Media is a global pursuit; we want students to have the opportunity to experience other cultures in order to learn,” McGhee-Lazarou adds. This spring, they’re continuing the millennial aspirations documentary across European cultures in Prague. Focused on Outcomes Current students in the program offer much praise and gratitude
to McGhee-Lazarou and other communication faculty for the closeknit community and rare opportunities they’re given through Media Fellows. “For me, being a part of the Media Fellows Program isn’t just about education in the classroom,” says Brailey Lisath, a sophomore studying journalism and currently in Prague with the group. “It is a holistic experience that combines real-world opportunity with companionship. Being able to learn alongside this group of people has pushed me to work harder and to think outside of the box.” Students like Melia Sigmon also feel fortunate to be a part of the experience. Sigmon, a junior studying electronic media with a minor in marketing who also serves as the general manager for HPU TV, says being a Media Fellow has added numerous professional work experiences to her resume. “Working with other Media Fellows under Charisse McGheeLazarou is preparing me for the professional world,” Sigmon says. “She gives us advice that’s deeply rooted in how ‘the biz’ actually works. Thanks to friendly competition and unlimited support from other Media Fellows, I’m excited to pursue new opportunities and get more involved on and off campus. It’s a rewarding experience.” “This program is a distinguishing point for HPU,” adds McGhee-Lazarou. “Media Fellows set an example for every student. They are trailblazers. I want all communication students to graduate as professionals who are confident, successful and prolific.” ■
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BRINGING HISTORY BACK TO Dr. Frederick Schneid is recognized as a top scholar in the field and in the classroom.
Dr. Frederick Schneid and his students were exploring a mountain pass used by the Austrians to attack Napoleon in Northern Italy in 1796 when he received the call from West Point. It was impeccable timing — West Point was requesting that Schneid, a renowned historian, create interactive maps of some of the very mountains
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he was observing to accompany a new military history being produced by the academy. “My students and I were standing on a tower at Brescia Castle and looking at a portion of the Alps that West Point was asking me to map,” says Schneid. “It’s a massive project and the first of its kind for West Point.” A year prior, the academy selected Schneid as one of 40 historians around the world to write a chapter for the new three-volume History of Warfare, and one of six to write about the Napoleonic Wars. That day in the Alps, they asked him to take his work further and transform it into something that every cadet will use on iPads and tablets. Interactive is a term that Schneid has mastered in the classroom. After 19 years of teaching history at HPU, he knows that the most effective way to impart an appreciation for history is when you can bring the subject
to life. When students can retrace the footsteps of Napoleon’s army in 1796 — even when they aren’t in Italy, it creates another facet for understanding history. So Schneid doesn’t point to a map on a wall when he teaches. He finds the best technology and satellite imaging to create 3-D maps that move, rotate and jump off the screen to put students in the middle of historic places such as the beaches of Normandy or the French Palace of Versailles. “Maps are an essential part of teaching history,” says Schneid, chair of the history department. “But transitioning from the standard two-dimensional maps on an overhead to using three-dimensional Google Earth with street view is a wonderful way of allowing students to gain a broader perspective of events and decisions that were made at that time.” The passion and the expertise of Schneid has a profound effect
on students, and it’s a clear representation of HPU’s No. 1 ranking in Undergraduate Teaching by U.S. News & World Report. “Dr.Schneid knows and enjoys his subject,” says Rob Smith, a 2013 graduate who received her master’s degree in history from HPU and is now a high school history teacher. “His love for the topic made us as students interested, engaged and always wanting to learn more. I use many of the things I learned from Dr. Schneid in my own classes today.” Beyond the imaging, Schneid creates 3-D tours of the same locations, such as a narrated tour of the path that Napoleon’s army traveled through the Apennines in 1796. When he pushes the play button, video guides students through the valleys. He’s also used the historical imagery feature from Google Earth to compare photos of Berlin in 1943 to 1945, showing the devastation of World War II.
His interactive maps of Napoleon’s Army is one that will be included in the West Point project, which was released to cadets in a Beta version in 2013 and is scheduled to be published for the public in late 2014. The fact that he was invited to participate is a reflection of his scholarly achievement in the field. Throughout his career, Schneid has published numerous scholarly articles, 16 books and organizes the annual Gunther E. Rothenberg Seminar on the HPU campus, where leading scholars present their research to students. All of those things make him a stronger, more effective teacher, he says. “Students benefit when professors are actively engaged in their field, not only from the knowledge and experience, but also from learning practical aspects of the profession,” says Schneid. “It was an honor to
participate in the West Point project and many other projects throughout my career, but also an honor to share the experience with students who are learning to conduct their own research.” ■
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BUILDING TEACHER LEADERS
Shirley Disseler chairs an international LEGO Education board that gives aspiring teachers unprecedented access to new tools
Dr. Shirley Disseler has witnessed the power of the “brick.” She’s seen children pick up what seems to be a shiny, plastic toy and use math and science skills — without even realizing it — to transform it into a moving robot. Then she sees new knowledge and concepts illuminate their minds. “When I look at a LEGO, I see a building block of learning,” she says. Disseler, an assistant professor of education at High Point University, is passionate about science, technology,
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engineering and mathematics (STEM) education — the fields that drive 21st century learning and jobs. Her passion is evidenced by her position as one of only 10 professors from 1,100 applicants around the world selected to serve on the Global LEGO Education Advisory Panel (LEAP). It’s an opportunity that allows her to assist LEGO in developing new products to be used in the classroom. With 17 years of public school teaching and curriculum development under her belt, she joined
HPU’s School of Education to share her expertise with aspiring teachers. Through undergraduate and graduate programs centered on STEM, Disseler focuses on one key component: “It’s not about 2+2=4,” says Disseler, one of 19 dynamic education professors at HPU. “It’s about why does 2+2=4, and can you prove it?” Developing Teacher Leaders The LEGO Education opportunity sent Disseler to its headquarters in Denmark, where the iconic LEGO was
created in the 1940s. She worked with education leaders from across the globe, including teachers from the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, China and more to understand how teaching styles and methods vary. In the new School of Education, equipped with SMART Boards, a lab modeled after an elementary classroom, a resource center and a children’s book library, Disseler says she teaches education majors not only how to teach, but how to be teacher leaders who solve learning challenges. Her global experience in education gives her students an opportunity to absorb teaching models from around the world and influence LEGO Education’s product development. “In Copenhagen, the teacher does not stand in front of the classroom,” she says. “They put their students in groups, give them a lesson, and move from group to group as the students work through it. Finland doesn’t do homework and spends less time in class, yet they are more prepared than children in the United States. They center on creativity and play.” That’s where LEGO comes in, says Disseler. It’s not about a specific brand or toy. It’s about teaching education majors to take hands-on methods that foster creativity — something that’s required to be globally competitive — and prepare children with 21st century learning skills. Taking it to the Community To put her beliefs about the learnby-play process into perspective, Disseler brought back numerous LEGO kits and products and challenged HPU education majors to hold “LEGO Build Days” for local children. The HPU students went to nearby classrooms and invited elementary students to campus for workshop builds. In total, more than a dozen LEGO Days were hosted by the students in the spring alone. How effective were they for children?
Being a great educator is not about teaching students that 2+2=4. It’s about showing students why 2+2=4 and how to prove it. – Dr. Shirley Disseler, assistant professor of education “Even in classrooms that weren’t always well behaved, manipulative products like LEGOs instantly increased the engagement and attention levels of the children,” says Ellie Tehan, a student in the fifth year STEM graduate program created by Disseler. “Through the LEGO workshops, I saw that children need their own hands-on learning experiences to be able to grasp the common core curriculum. One teacher told us that the event had a profound effect on all of her students, including one who hadn’t picked up a pencil all year.” Global Development in Denmark The reaction from children and the outcomes of the LEGO Days are documented by Disseler and HPU students, who then report the findings to the global LEAP board. Disseler is constantly working with LEGO to develop products conducive
to learning, giving HPU students the opportunity to shape a product that improves learning for children. “LEGO Education will send their ideas for a new product to me, and I’ll discuss it with my HPU students. We’ll give them feedback based on what they’ve seen,” she says. “That alone is amazing.” The experience has been eyeopening for both the children and the soon-to-be-teachers, who now have a connection to a global education company and a cutting-edge perspective on preparing children for success. “We’ve seen a lot of kids who have never held a LEGO, and we’re working to change that,” says Tehan. “Having the opportunity to bring new LEGO products to students before they are released is an opportunity I wouldn’t expect to find anywhere other than High Point University.” ■
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GLOBAL
TRANSFORMATION As HPU’s 38 study abroad programs multiply, so too do the impactful experiences that students collect on their journey.
Clockwise from top left: Jonathan Overton visits the Plaza de Espana while studying in Seville, Spain. Lauren Young explores the diversity of species while studying abroad in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Art students traveled to Venice, Italy for a “Drawing on the Masters” short-term trip to explore some of the best art in the world created by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
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Elizabeth Gamble rides through the African plains on the rough back of an elephant. John Marsicano shakes the hands of top executives at two PR firms in London. Ariel Gariepy practices her Spanish skills with a local at a café in Seville, Spain. And Morgan Falls eats lemon ants on a stick in Ecuador. These minor moments are pieces of a major transformation experienced by HPU students who study abroad. They return with opened eyes — more globally aware of how people around the world live, eat and communicate, more marketable to employers, and better prepared to take on the challenges of the world. The number of locations for HPU students to study abroad have multiplied, and so too have their testimonies of nothing less than life-changing experiences. It starts with a supportive team of faculty and staff in the Office of Study Abroad,
led by director Heidi Fischer, and an individualized plan for each student based on their major. "From the first time they step into our office, to the moment they are greeted at the airport abroad, our students are supported by a family of professionals and fellow students who have been there and learned the ropes of navigating a new country,” says Fischer, a native of Germany. “The rest of the journey leads students down a path that is beneficial for their lives and their futures.” The next page offers testimony from a student who found her place in the global community. With 38 study abroad opportunities offered at HPU, which one will change your life?
Arriving as a stranger, leaving as a friend By Ariel Gariepy, senior I entered HPU with certainty that I would pursue a degree in international relations and, someday, a career in the international community. My adviser, Dr. Mark Setzler, associate professor and chair of political science, empowered me to make the decision to study abroad as a means of enhancing not only my degree, but my career. He sat down with me and helped me map an academic plan that allowed me to double major in International Relations and Vocal Music Performance, minor in Spanish and spend four months studying abroad in Spain. When the spring semester of my junior year arrived, it was finally time to fulfill the promise I made to myself as a freshman. I took a leap and chose to study in Seville, Spain at the Spanish American Institute of International Education. Making the choice to follow a path that was outside of my comfort zone wasn’t easy. But today, I can say that it was the best decision of my life. Within days of arriving, I discovered that I had little to fear other than the day I would be without my Señora’s delicious cooking. The program placed me in a city apartment with another student and a house mother, or Señora. Living under her roof, I grew to love her like my own mother. She cooked for us tirelessly, rarely repeating a dish, and
made time to sit with us at meals and converse with us in Spanish about anything from our classes to her book club meetings. She never let me leave the house without a jacket and a scarf, and insisted we wear sunscreen at the river. Forming a relationship with my Señora and her family immediately made me feel more connected to the foreign city I would be living in for four months. My professors at the Spanish American Institute also made an immense effort to connect with me on more than just a student-teacher level and ensured that I lived in the city as a true Spaniard. The school planned daily activities, like ice skating in el Parque Maria Luisa after class and weekend trips to Granada, Portugal and Morocco. Their desire for us to connect with Seville was so strong that they connected each of us with a language exchange partner in order to improve our fluency and bond with a local. My partner was a beautiful Sevillana named Mamen who was studying for an English language exam. We would meet for coffee and take turns speaking in Spanish and English, all while laughing at our embarrassing misuse of common words. All of these aspects of my time abroad connected me to the city of Seville in a way that I never thought
possible. I arrived a stranger, but when I departed, I left behind a new family that will forever be part of my heart. The most important thing I learned in Spain is that I made the right decision to pursue a career in international relations. My time there confirmed that and taught me that there is little to fear but much to gain from pushing the limits of our comfort zones and exploring the world. I am blessed to have a city thousands of miles away that I will always call my second home, and I am grateful that I have a support system at HPU that made this experience possible. ■
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LIFE LESSONS
from Dr. Qubein The President’s Seminars for freshmen and seniors teach practical skills for the real world. I leave the President’s Seminar each week feeling like I can conquer the world with the lessons I’ve learned. – Elizabeth Reichart, freshman
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We are not preparing students for the world as it is. We are preparing them for the world as it is going to be. – Dr. Nido Qubein, HPU president
Music plays and inspirational messages and images scroll across a large screen in the Hayworth Fine Arts Center as freshmen crowd in to fill the seats. The discussion dies down as a video of a performance artist appears on the screen, and by the time the video is over, all eyes are on the stage as Dr. Nido Qubein begins class. This is the scene from the President’s Freshman Seminar. On this day, Qubein is discussing presentation skills and the importance of presenting one’s self with professionalism and confidence. He interacts with the students, using humor, calling on volunteers to illustrate his points and using different forms of media to drive the message home. These are lessons Qubein has shared with top executives around the country, and lessons he feels responsible to share with the students of High Point University through his freshman and senior seminars each week. “I am with these students every day. I talk to them as they walk to class, and I watch them become people who lead lives of success and significance,” says Qubein. “I want to impart everything I can to our students by giving them the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to thrive after they finish their journey at HPU.” The Value of Soft Skills Qubein, who has led a successful career in business and professional speaking before becoming president of HPU in 2005, has long known something that career experts and scientific studies are now starting to talk about. Soft skills — interpersonal skills, team working skills and the ability to sell yourself and your ideas to employers — are all key to a successful career path. Forbes Magazine highlighted this in an interview with millennial career expert Dan Schawbel who says the biggest challenge for people in their 20s and early 30s looking for jobs is that they often lack these skills. That’s where the President’s Seminars come in. He takes his time to speak to students twice per week by leading a freshman seminar in the fall and a senior
seminar in the spring. During that time, he shares with students his experience in communication, leadership and how to impact the world. “The president wants us to find meaning in our own lives and the lives of others,” says freshman Elizabeth Reichart. “I leave his seminar each week feeling like I can conquer the world with the lessons I’ve learned and the tools President Qubein has given me to share those lessons.” Impactful Transitions During the freshman seminar, Qubein focuses on topics that new students can benefit from immediately, such as time management and fiscal literacy. For seniors on the brink of graduation, he switches his focus to managing professional relationships and tackling life after college. “The senior seminar was a great supplement to what we learned as freshmen,” says Dan Kissel, a 2013 graduate now working at Bank of NY Mellon. “Dr. Qubein’s lessons and stories about how to make success a reality were invaluable to me. Guest speakers he brought in also offered advice from individuals around the world. This was a course I always looked forward to attending and never failed to leave motivated and empowered.” This is just one example of how students benefit from having a university president who believes in holistic education. The seminar not only teaches students how to think critically and creatively, but also gives them the practical skills they need to function in the real world. “We are not preparing students for the world as it is,” says Qubein. “We are preparing them for the world as it is going to be. It’s an unfortunate truth that many people don’t realize the value of skills like managing your time effectively, giving back to your community and knowing how to connect and engage with people around you. But at HPU, we highlight these skills. That gives us an opportunity to send our graduates into the world fully prepared.” ■
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Eric Melniczek, career counselor in the Office of Career and Internship Services, published a book titled “Transition to the Real World” that features stories, tips, statistics and advice aimed to help post-graduates thrive.
Dr. Holly Middleton, assistant professor of English, is a founding co-editor of the open-access scholarly journal Literacy in Composition Studies, which launched in spring 2013.
Strategic communication majors created a turn-key campaign for the High Point Area Arts Council that fosters the organization’s engagement with the public through social media and community events.
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Dr. David Bergen, chair of the Human Relations, Sociology, and Nonprofit Studies Department and professor of human relations, presented “Assessing Student Leadership Development in Practicum and Internship Experiences: The Value of Rubrics in the Appraisal Process” at the National Society for Experiential Education conference (NSEE).
Dr. Pamela Palmer, assistant professor of Nonprofit Leadership and Management, authored a book chapter titled, “Capacity Building for Community Engagement.” The chapter explains her framework for establishing, maintaining and sustaining nonprofit organizations for community engagement.
Dr. Joe Blosser, Robert G. Culp Jr. Director of Service Learning, presented the paper “Applying Faith at Work: A Study in Christian Ethics” at the 2014 Re-Imagining Faith Conference. The paper builds on the research project his current Business Ethics Service Learning class is conducting with the High Point Chamber of Commerce.
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Lou Anne Flanders-Stec, director of the Center of Entrepreneurship, was named a 2013 Women in Business honoree by the Triad Business Journal. She was one of 18 women on the list.
Interior design students designed and produced two rugs with Abu Rugs in Jamestown, N.C. The rugs were shown at the High Point Market.
Junior and history education major Cyril Jefferson is the 2013 recipient of the United Way’s Bob Brown Scholarship. The $20,000 scholarship, named in honor of HPU trustee Bob Brown, recognizes dedicated members of the community who are involved in a United Way agency.
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Dr. Yan Yang, assistant professor of journalism, is one of 25 professors nationwide to be awarded the prestigious National Association of Television Programming faculty fellowship for 2014. Yang will represent HPU at the NATPE convention, which is the largest market for TV programming.
Dr. Paul Namaste, assistant professor of sociology, presented the paper “Renewable Energy: Policy and Production Perceptions among North Carolina Residents” at the annual meeting of the MidSouth Sociological Association. It gauges people’s priorities for environmental protection, increasing supplies of fossil fuels and the development of alternative energy.
Dr. Charmaine Cadeau, assistant professor of English, published her second fulllength collection of poetry, “Placeholder,” at Brick Books.
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Inspiring
Environment Visitors to HPU often remark that campus feels “entrepreneurial” or “innovative.” There’s no doubt that the campus spirit is energetic, engaging and poised to ignite purposeful action. The inspiring environment at High Point University is designed, at its core, to encourage students to take advantage of their most precious resource: time. With abundant academic resources that include freshman success coaches, residential library learning commons, and a multitude of faculty mentors, students learn to make connections, utilize resources and make things happen. From starting their own businesses to creating non-profit organizations, HPU encourages students to change the world. As President Qubein reminds students often, “The time is now. The person is you.”
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Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak addresses
HPU’s largest graduating class
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Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak gave the ultimate lesson in innovation and invention to High Point University’s Class of 2013 during his commencement address at the 89th Graduation Ceremony on the Roberts Hall lawn. A total of 936 degrees were conferred to the largest graduating class in HPU’s history. Despite advances in technology, there are many problems that remain in the world, said Wozniak. It’s up to the Class of 2013 to solve those issues. “Try to think of new ways to solve the old problems,” he told graduates. “Very often we look at something we have and say ‘I could make it better.’ That’s innovation. But you know what? Sometimes we say ‘I could do something totally different that makes things a lot easier for people,’ and that’s true invention.” Wozniak helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s first line of products and influenced the popular Macintosh. In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc. with Wozniak’s Apple I personal computer. The following year, he introduced his Apple II personal computer, featuring a central processing unit, a keyboard, color graphics, and a floppy disk drive. The Apple II was integral in launching the personal computer industry. CONNECT
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Try to think of new ways to solve the old problems. Very often we look at something we have and say ‘I could make it better.’ That’s innovation. But you know what? Sometimes we say ‘I could do something totally different that makes things a lot easier for people,’ and that’s true invention. – Steve Wozniak, Apple Co-Founder
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I invite you to consider how you will impact this world. We need you, graduates of 2013, to shine a light of hope and healing in this dark world. – Bishop Larry M. Goodpaster Baccalaureate Speaker
After leaving Apple in 1985, Wozniak has been involved in various business and philanthropic ventures, focusing primarily on computer capabilities in schools and stressing hands-on learning and encouraging creativity for students. His speech concluded an extraordinary commencement weekend where graduates and their families heard from two more impactful leaders. Beginning with the Commencement Luncheon on May 3,
Dr. Nido Qubein, HPU president, encouraged students to make “the real world” whatever they choose. “The real world is the one you create for yourself,” Qubein said. “The real world is the pathway that you light for your own life and the road that you pave for your own future. You cannot have anybody else define what the real world is for you. People will always try to get you down to their level of understanding, and you must shun that. You must have faithful courage.”
Left to right: Mary Funke smiles while walking to the stage to receive her degree. Megan Callahan gets a congratulatory hug after the ceremony. Jasmine Williams smiles as Commencement begins. Patrick Budd cheers on his fellow classmates.
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At the Baccalaureate Service, Bishop Larry M. Goodpaster of the United Methodist Church encouraged students to live an involved life. “I invite you to consider how you will impact this world,” Goodpaster said. “We need you, graduates of 2013, to shine a light of hope and healing in this dark world.” ■
The real world is the pathway that you light for your own life and the road that you pave for your own future. You cannot have anybody else define what the real world is for you. People will always try to get you down to their level of understanding, and you must shun that. You must have faithful courage. – Dr. Nido Qubein, President Commencement Luncheon Speaker
963 returned The Class of 1 g the 2013 n ri u d s u p m a to c for ent Ceremony m e c n e m m o C n. They led io n u re r a e -y 0 their 5 e ceremony, th f o g in n e p the o d into the were inducte a lub and made Cornerstone C early $600,000 donation of n to HPU.
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Brightening Campus and the Classroom
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Take a stroll around campus, and you’ll find a variety of lush species dotted throughout the grounds. A hint of pink here, a splash of red or purple there. Sure, they are inviting and make the campus a beautiful place, but there’s far more to the story than just plants and flowers when looking at the Mariana H. Qubein Botanical Gardens and Arboretum as a whole. In fact, the gardens and arboretum are directly linked with many classes on campus — a perfect example of how everything at HPU is connected to education. Take classes taught by Dr. Niky Hughes, assistant professor of biology, and Dr. Gerald Smith, professor of biology, for instance. Through courses such as environmental science, botany, plant taxonomy and more, students can calculate species diversity, profile trees and learn the characteristics of leaves, twigs, bark and reproductive qualities. The culinary herb garden provides fresh materials for students who are studying medicinal plants. Smith notes that learning various plant qualities is especially helpful for those in professional health services. “To have knowledge of plants for medicinal uses — especially for veterinarians — is useful in being able to recognize and identify plants that are harmful for livestock to ingest. Courses such as plant taxonomy are beneficial in providing students with this information. Opposite page: The Sculpture Garden (left) is a place where art students can display large-scale pieces. Adrian Boggs, instructor of design, (middle) leads a class through the creation of several new pieces that will be displayed in the gardens. Elissa Sachs and Abigail Rollenhagen (right) are members of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, which planted a new Pink Ribbon Garden that honors loved ones affected by cancer.
Nature is our laboratory, and plants are one of the greatest gifts in nature.” Evergreen shrubs on campus also provide year-round access for labs and analyses, and when it’s cold or wet, students are still able to utilize the gardens. “When it’s raining, we are quick to utilize the interactive arboretum map to conduct our experiments on tree community ecology and biodiversity,” Hughes says. “Using a laptop, students can point and click on every single tree on our campus and identify it to the species level without having to leave the lab.” In sculpture classes taught by Andrea Wheless, professor of art, students have worked on several pieces, including four sculptures that have become part of the sculpture garden. Wheless says the experience teaches students how to think like an artist, how to negotiate large-scale works, how to come up with and follow through with ideas and deal with problems that are part of any major project.
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HPU First Lady Mariana Qubein adds that while the gardens serve as a peaceful place for reflection and fellowship, they also symbolize the university’s commitment to holistic education — inside and outside the classroom. “The gardens have an obvious instructional element in studying the marked labels and the hard work it takes to make something grow,” Qubein says. “Life isn’t easy; gardens are a perfect example of how life takes different turns and somehow the plants find a way either to survive or give up. Some plants are stronger than others and take over; some are delicate. They can make you become more introspective. Gardens are God’s creation for us, and we can use it to maintain and improve our lives and environment.” ■
300
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600 PLANTS added in 2012-13
2,000
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WARM WELCOME FOR THE
Classof2017
Top, left to right: An HPU poncho keeps senior Brittanie Joyner dry while helping freshmen move into their new home. Freshman Adam Riehl and his parents show off their HPU pride on move-in day. Diane Schofield is greeted by her daughter, Mary Schofield, a member of orientation crew, as Mary’s sister, Emily Schofield, moves in and becomes a freshman at HPU. Bottom: Sophomore Nick Fisher and junior Sara Foster unload the vehicle of a freshman and move items to their room.
This is a valuesbased institution. We treasure the value of learning, the value of service and the value of generosity among others. – Nido Qubein, HPU President
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Rain didn’t dampen spirits during High Point University’s Move-In Day and Orientation Weekend. The Class of 2017 was welcomed with open arms and cheers from upperclassmen, faculty and staff who volunteered to move them into their residence halls when they arrived to campus on Aug. 17. “We were made to feel welcome and at home when we arrived,” says Lauren Holton, a North Carolina native who drove her son Jacob to campus that morning. “It only took about three minutes for the crew to unload the car. I was impressed with the whole process, but not surprised because we’re impressed every time we come here.” While college move-in days can cause nerves to fray, new HPU students and their parents had the help of the Orientation Crew — a
pack of energetic students, faculty and staff who work all day to make move-in as smooth as possible. They unloaded luggage from vehicles for families and transported the items to freshman rooms. “I loved the feeling I got moving in last year, and I wanted to be a part of it this year,” says sophomore Alex Adams, who volunteered for Orientation Crew. HPU President Nido Qubein assured both parents and freshmen that they had made the right choice to attend HPU during the Opening Convocation ceremony. “This is a values-based institution. We treasure the value of learning, the value of service and the value of generosity among others,” Qubein said in his address to the class. ■
HPU CONNECT
freshmen
MEET THE JIANELA RINCON | Wilmington, NC
One of the newest members of HPU’s women’s lacrosse team, Jianela Rincon, is a 2013 North Carolina Horatio Alger Scholar. She was named a scholar, in part, for her work to implement lacrosse programs in Wilmington, N.C. middle schools. The Horatio Alger Association awards students who demonstrate integrity, perseverance, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, a commitment to a college education and the desire to contribute to society. Rincon was one of only 13 North Carolina students selected for the 2013 scholarship.
The Class of 2017 embodies strong character, academic achievement and a desire to better the lives of others. Below is a glance of just a few of the leaders in this year’s freshman class.
BRITTANY VOSE | Cromwell, Conn Psychology major Brittany Vose created and continues to organize a walk for pancreatic cancer research in her hometown. Vose lost her father to the disease when she was just 5 years old. When she realized there wasn’t an awareness event for pancreatic cancer in Connecticut, she took it upon herself to create one. Over the past four years, she has raised more than $100,000 for pancreatic cancer research. She will continue to hold the walk every summer when she returns home from HPU.
CONNOR MCKEMEY | Fort Mill, SC
CORRINE ECKERT | Glenn Ridge, NJ
Communication major Connor McKemey has overcome unbelievable odds to attend HPU.
Networking with business leaders, meeting former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and working with the New York Yankees are just a few of the accomplishments freshman Corinne Eckert already has under her belt.
In 2008, McKemey suffered third degree burns over 87 percent of his body in an outdoor fireplace accident. Suddenly, the three sport athlete was told sports were no longer an option; his bones were brittle, he had lost more than 50 pounds and portions of his hands were gone. Still, he worked to get his health back and played on his high school varsity lacrosse team for three years. Today, he serves as the HPU men’s lacrosse team manager. He attends team practices and games and helps the coaches with anything they need. He hopes to become a lacrosse coach after graduation.
Eckert is a member of the Beyond Sport New York Young Advisory Panel, a select group of young people chosen because of their work to change the world through sports. They are given the opportunity to attend international events and network with top sport and business leaders. She is currently working with the New York Yankees on developing a baseball program for developmentally disabled people at Yankee Stadium.
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Students and faculty take the stage
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The warm spotlight of the stage is a familiar feeling to students in the Department of Theatre. Whether they land a leading role in “Into the Woods” or serve as a stage manager for a production of “Waiting for Godot” that stars Equity actors, the opportunities to experience theatre both in front of and behind the curtain are endless. The 2013 –14 season kicked off with a new experiential learning initiative called The Extension Project. This summer program allows theatre students to take on professional roles in a major production while classes aren’t in session. Faculty who are members of Actors’ Equity, along with guest artists with film and TV experience, star in the play so that students can manage all aspects of running the show. Junior Rachel Garrett served as the stage manager for “Waiting for Godot,” the project’s premier play. Other students focused on lighting, sound and stage design. Each night when the curtain closed on the production, students took the stage to direct and perform their own one-act comedic response play to “Waiting for Godot,” called “Standing Up V and E.” “Through this program, I was able to do more at a faster pace,”
says Garrett. “I learned things I don’t think I would have had the chance to in a traditional class setting. We also worked with Equity actors and learned about the different rules that apply, and now I can say I’m experienced in an Equity setting.” Along with faculty, guest actors for the play included David Wells, whose credits include “Charlie Wilson’s War,” “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Basic Instinct,” House,” “CSI” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” as well as Michael Kamtman, who has performed at the North Carolina Shakespeare Festival, Triad Stage and Paper Lantern Theatre. “It’s important for our students to see us do what we teach and put passion and dedication into it,” says Jay Putnam, assistant professor of theatre. The traditional theatre season kicked off with productions of well-known plays —“Diary of Anne Frank” and “Into the Woods” — that students starred in and performed for the community. Both were full of emotional moments, memorable characters and plenty of challenges for students to take a classic tale and turn it into something new and original.
But the opportunity to create something completely new came when students wrote their own plays and watched them come to life. “Theodore’s Grace” written by sophomore Mackey Quirk, and “Definition of Madness” written by senior Jefferson Meyers, were both performed at the end of October. Ed Simpson, chair of the department, says performing new works gives acting students the total experience of theatre. “It’s the best way to learn theatre,” says Simpson. “They get to put themselves into the roles without any preconceived notions and go through the process with re-writes and all.” It proved to be a banner season for a department that was honored as the best theatre program in the state by the North Carolina Theatre Conference in 2011. “One of the most rewarding aspects of studying theatre at HPU is the opportunity to put into practice the skills and techniques students are learning in our classrooms, shops, studios and more,” says Simpson. “It’s an exciting and vibrant opportunity to blend academic study with experiential education." ■
Top, left to right: Ed Simpson, theatre department chair, starred as Vladimir in a summer production of “Waiting for Godot.” Justin Beard was cast as The Wolf and Roxanne Daneman as Little Red Riding Hood in the department’s November production of “Into the Woods.” Ashley Siebeniechen played the role of Cinderella and Courtney Feinman played the role of The Witch in “Into the Woods.” Bottom, left to right: Nina Yassick plays Margot Frank and Kelsey Swann takes the leading role of Anne Frank in the Department of Theatre’s rendition of “Diary of Anne Frank.” David Mikulay portrays Otto Frank in a scene where he tells Anne that she can’t leave the annex until the Nazis have been defeated. Jared Goldenberg starred as Peter Van Dann in the play and is pictured with Swann on the set of the annex.
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Students shared messages of hope and inspiration through the “Dear World” project when photographer Robert X. Fogarty brought the interactive event to campus.
Famed hip hop artist J Cole headlined the 2013 fall concert at HPU. His hit songs include “Work Out” and “Crooked Smile.”
Malinke rhythms, dance and call-and-response singing engaged and energized students at the West African dancing and drumming event held on campus.
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Fall Family Weekend welcomed 5,000 visitors to campus for three days of fellowship, updates from the president, academic panels, athletic events and a groundbreaking for the Center for Student Success.
Daniela Cepeda Tarud, 2013 Queen of the Carnival, performed for students and discussed the history, origins and evolution of dance in the Caribbean Carnival. She was elected queen in Baranquilla, Colombia, a city honored as the 2013 American Capital of Culture in Latin America.
The Women’s and Gender Studies Program and Greek Life hosted Stacy Nadeau, one of Dove’s original “Real Women,” who gave a presentation to students about celebrating the diversity of body shapes and sizes in the media and everyday life.
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At HPU’s Arbor Day Celebration, 200 dogwood trees were given to community members and 5 large Oak trees were planted on campus.
More than 10,000 community members enjoyed Christmas lights, hot chocolate, cookies, carriage rides, live carolers and visits with Santa, who gave a gift to each child, as part of HPU’s Third Annual
Community Christmas.
The Department of Music held special operatic performances of “Hansel and Gretel” for 500 elementary students and another performance for the community. It marks the first time the department has produced a fully staged opera.
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Students celebrated Jewish traditions on campus with two Hanukkah dinners and presentations of the story of Hanukkah.
The annual Alumni Weekend brought more than 1,000 graduates back to HPU in October to enjoy a variety of events at their alma mater.
Rev. Preston Davis joined HPU in the fall as minister to the university. He is an ordained United Methodist pastor whose sermons are focused on helping students to grow in faith and wisdom.
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Hundreds of students involved in many sporting opportunities
In addition to having 16 NCAA Div. 1 sports, HPU also offers 26 club sports and hundreds of intramural opportunities for students looking to stay active, compete at regional levels or meet new people on campus. From football and basketball, to rowing and horseback riding, the wide range allows more than 600 students to participate in a club sport at any given time of the year, and even more for intramurals. On the small chance that a sport isn’t offered, students often have the opportunity to start their own team.
INTRAMURAL SPORTS
FLAG FOOTBALL: HPU’s Rec Services, which oversees intramural sports, took two flag football teams to Wilmington, N.C. in 2013 to compete in the 22nd Annual NIRSA Southern Atlantic Regional Flag Football Championships. Both teams advanced further than ever before, with HPU’s co-ed team earning second place in their division.
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BASKETBALL: Basketball is the most popular intramural sport on campus with more than 700 students participating. The spring season is underway, and the sport is divided into four leagues: men’s competitive, men’s recreation, women’s recreation and co-recreation. The teams that win HPU’s playoff tournament will travel to the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association’s championship tournament.
CLUB SPORTS
FIELD HOCKEY: Club field hockey qualified for the national tournament in Virginia Beach after an impressive 6-2-0 season. The team had an enormous outpouring of support with many fellow students and family members making the journey to Virginia to attend the tournament.
EQUESTRIAN: The club equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Last year, several team members qualified for regionals and zones, and one member qualified for nationals. They competed in five horse shows this fall and plan to compete in three more this spring before regionals at Virginia Tech.
SWIMMING: The swim club’s season made a splash by coming in first place over seven other teams (Elon, College of William & Mary, Longwood, Virginia Commonwealth, UNC Charlotte, Wake Forest and UNC-Greensboro) at a November invite. In April, the team will compete at nationals in Atlanta, where they’ll have the chance to swim in the 1996 Olympic pool.
ROWING: The club rowing team is open to all individuals regardless of experience. In fact, most members never participated in the sport before college. This fall, the team went up against some of the best crews in the world at the Head of the Charles, the world’s largest two-day rowing competition. The team also hosted its own regatta in October with N.C. State University, Wake Forest University and UNC-Wilmington attending. They finished the fall season at Head of the Hooch in Tennessee, and the spring season is underway.
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HPU senior recognized for
CLASS
Senior Becca Hemby has been recognized as an exemplary student-athlete during her time at High Point University, excelling both on and off the field. This fall, the women’s soccer player was recognized for her hard work and achievement when she was named a candidate for the women’s soccer Senior CLASS Award.
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Hemby was one of just 30 candidates in the nation and is HPU’s first candidate in the history of the award. An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School®, the Senior CLASS Award focuses on the total student-athlete experience and encourages students to use their platform in athletics to make a positive impact as leaders in their communities. Senior CLASS Award candidates have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: community, classroom, character and competition. “This is a prestigious honor and I feel blessed to be a candidate for the award,” says Hemby. “I am very proud to represent High Point University.” In the classroom, Hemby holds a 4.0 GPA while majoring in Mathematical Economics. She was named a second-team Academic All-American in 2012 and is a threetime Big South Presidential Honor Roll selection and Millis Scholar-Athlete. During her four years at HPU, Hemby has also developed into one of the best women’s soccer players in the Panthers' Div. I era. She was
named firstteam All-Big South in 2012 after leading the Panthers with 11 goals and 26 points. The midfielder tied the HPU Div. I single-season record for goals scored and notched three game winners. Hemby has been a two-year captain and two-year team MVP. “Becca is one of the most competitive players I have ever coached,” says Marty Beall, head women’s soccer coach. “Her desire to become the best she can be is second to none. Becca’s goal right now is to play at the next level and she is doing everything she can to make that happen. She is studying game film, working hard in the weight room and paying close attention to her nutrition.” “I really think that the number one priority when you go to college is to get an education,” Hemby said. “I feel like I have been given a tremendous opportunity to attend High Point University so I wouldn’t waste it. I put in all of my effort so I can get the most out of it.”■
The High Point University women’s lacrosse team’s ascent to the national spotlight came to fruition in 2013 when the team made its first appearance in the NCAA Tournament, playing Loyola University in a firstround game in Chapel Hill, N.C. What is truly remarkable is that the Panthers accomplished this feat in just their third varsity season. The team’s achievements have been nothing short of astonishing. HPU went 15 – 4 in its first varsity season of 2011, setting a record for wins by a first-year NCAA Div. I program. The team went 15 – 4 again in 2012, beating teams like Navy, George Mason and Oregon in the process. The Panthers were members of the National Lacrosse Conference (NLC) and won the NLC Tournament in 2011 and the regular season in 2012. The Big South Conference started women’s lacrosse in 2013 and another major prize became available: an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament for winning the Big South Tournament. The Panthers made it happen, going 6 – 1 in the
regular season on the strength of six All-Conference selections, including Big South Defensive Player of the Year Jasmine Jordan. In the Big South Tournament, HPU rolled to a 17 – 7 win over Longwood in the semifinals before taking on rival Davidson in the pouring rain for the championship. The teams were tied, 6 – 6, with less than 20 minutes to go before the Panthers got two goals from junior Alec Perry and one from freshman Emily Meier to earn a 9 – 7 win. Perry and Meier were both named to the All-Tournament team along with Jordan and junior defender Cissy Woodyard. Head coach Lyndsey Boswell was hired in 2009 and built the program from the ground up, leading the Panthers to a 40 – 17 record in three varsity seasons. She has put together extremely challenging schedules, including hosting Florida, North Carolina, Ohio State and Virginia Tech at Vert Stadium in 2013. With High Point University’s increasing national notoriety and the recognition that the Panthers have received, the future is even brighter in 2014. ■
Top to bottom: Jasmine Jordan was the 2013 Big South Defensive Player of the Year. Alec Perry evades a Loyala defender in the NCAA Tournament.
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TOUGH & TALENTED:
NEW RECRUITS DRIVE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL Toughness and work ethic. Those were the two traits head coach DeUnna Hendrix looked for when she was on the road recruiting the 2013 –14 High Point University women’s basketball team. Hendrix found five studentathletes who embody those traits: DeAnneisha Jackson, Kaylah Keys, Maja Michalska, Latrice Phelps and Teddy Vincent. They also all have in common a winning pedigree. All five have won championships with their high schools, club teams or junior colleges. Those five, combined with HPU's seven returners, have the HPU community buzzing about women's basketball. “There are a lot of basketball skills we can teach them when they get here,” Hendrix said. “But you cannot teach toughness, work ethic or winning. Every player we brought in already had those things instilled in them, and they are making the team better right away.” • Jackson, a 6-foot-2-inch, forward from Angier, N.C., was the MVP of the North Carolina Coaches Association East-West All-Star game. • Keys holds the all-time scoring record for both men and women at Harding Academy with 2,538 points and was the MVP of the state championship in 2010.
• Joining HPU all the way from Piastow, Poland, Michalska helped her club team to top-10 finishes at the Polish Championships every year since 2008. • Phelps won the 2013 NJCAA National Championship with Louisburg College in 2013. The forward posted a double-double in the title game. • Vincent was on the All-District team in 2012 after helping Westview High School to the District Tournament. The talented class joined seven returning players for the 2013-14 season. Senior Tayler Tremblay and redshirt-juniors Lindsay Puckett and Stacia Robertson all rank in the top 20 on High Point’s Div. I scoring list. Tremblay also ranks in the top five in career assists for the Panthers. As the team’s lone senior she is motivated to lead the team to a Big South Conference Championship. “This team is incredibly balanced,” Hendrix said. “We have talent at every position and every person on the team contributes; it doesn’t matter if they are freshmen or seniors. They have really bonded together and push themselves and each other to be better every day.” ■
From top to bottom: Redshirt-juniors Lindsay Puckett (left) and Stacia Robertson are two of High Point's best pressure defenders. Tayler Tremblay, the team's lone senior, is the point guard and floor general for the Panthers. Freshman Maja Michalska fights for a loose ball. Junior Latrice Phelps brings championship experience to the front court.
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KICKIN' IT IN THE MAJOR LEAGUES Shawn Sloan, 2013 graduate and former men’s soccer player, made program history last February when he signed a professional contract with the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer and became the first-ever High Point player to sign an MLS contract. Sloan was selected by the Crew in fourth round of the 2013 Major League Soccer Supplemental Draft with the 66th overall pick. “It was so surreal to sign that contract,” Sloan says. “When I was little I always dreamed of being a professional athlete. When that opportunity presented itself, it was a great feeling. The reality of it didn’t hit me until a couple days later when I was on the practice pitch playing soccer and it was my job.” The Geneva, Ill., native played in all eight of the Crew’s Reserve League matches, starting four, and scored his first goal in Reserve League play against the New York Red Bull Reserves on March 31. He made an appearance with the senior team as a substitute in a friendly against English Championship side Wigan Athletic on July 13. “My experiences this season have been absolutely fantastic,” Sloan says. “Playing in the Reserve League games allowed me to see the great talent throughout MLS, and getting to play a quality side like Wigan was an amazing experience. They won the FA Cup last year and beat teams like Manchester United and Chelsea. It was just unbelievable to have the chance to play against players I have seen for years on television.” In addition to his work on the field, Sloan has also been very involved in the Crew’s community relations work around the city of Columbus. Sloan has taken part in events with the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio and
has taken several trips with the team to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He has also been very involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Sloan finished his High Point career as one of HPU’s top soccer players in history, earning four All-Big South first-team honors in four seasons. The midfielder had 75 points on 24 goals and 27 assists in four years at HPU. He is second in the High Point Div. I career record book in both points and assists and third in goals. He tied for eighth in the nation in assists with 10, and his rate of 0.67 assists per game was third in the nation in 2012. Sloan’s academic success was equally as impressive. He graduated from HPU with a 4.0 GPA while majoring in biochemistry and was named Academic All-American and Big South Scholar-Athlete of the Year twice. He plans to attend medical school when his soccer career is complete. Sloan is the third player drafted into the MLS out of High Point University in the past three seasons. Former HPU forward Karo Okiomah was selected with the 12th pick of the supplemental draft by the Houston Dynamo in 2012 and former midfielder Scott Rojo was drafted 44th in the supplemental draft by Toronto FC in 2011. ■
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Alumnus Tubby Smith Inducted to UK Hall of Fame
Coaching Career Stretches to Texas Orlando “Tubby” Smith, one of High Point University’s most notable alumni, received yet another honor for his illustrious career before this basketball season started. Now the head coach at Texas Tech, Smith was inducted to the University of Kentucky Hall of Fame honoring his successful run as head coach there from 1997–2007, which included the 1998 NCAA title. An honorable mention All-American out of Great Mills High School in Maryland, Smith‘s career in college basketball started as a freshman at HPU in 1969. He was a guard for the Panthers and averaged 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds during the 1969 –70 season. Smith started off his sophomore year at HPU recovering from wrist surgery, but he still managed 12.6 points per game. He was one of HPU’s top scoring threats his junior and senior seasons, averaging 16.4 points on 45.9 percent shooting in 1971 – 72 and averaging 17.3 points on 49.2 percent shooting along with 5.2 rebounds in 1972 – 73. Smith scored 1,589 points in his four seasons for the Panthers, which still ranks seventh in team history, before moving on to become a national champion head coach. His college days kick-started Smith’s coaching career. Smith played under head coach J.D. Barnett his junior year at High Point, then Barnett gave Smith his first college coaching job in 1979. Barnett was head coach at Virginia Commonwealth University and Smith served as his assistant from 1979 – 86. Smith went on to become one of the top college basketball coaches in the nation with head coaching stops at Tulsa (1991 – 95), Georgia (1995 – 97), Kentucky (1997 – 2007), Minnesota (2007 – 13) and now Texas Tech. Among Smith‘s many exploits, he was named National Coach of the Year and SEC Coach of the Year in 1998, 2003 and 2005.
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Known for speaking fondly of his days at High Point, Smith has stayed in touch with his alma mater. The university hosted “Tubby Smith Night,” which included a halftime celebration during the HPU men’s basketball game against Wake Forest on Dec. 5, 2011. Now that Smith has continued his career in Lubbock, Texas, Panther fans will have another team to route for this season: the Red Raiders. But Coach Smith will always be a Purple Panther. ■ Right: HPU alumnus Tubby Smith‘s coaching highlights include the 1998 NCAA title while at Kentucky, and he is now the head coach at Texas Tech.
Tubby Sm it for High P h is pictured as a fr oint durin e g the 1969 shman guard His experi -7 e career th nce led to an illustr 0 season. at ious coac while at K has included the 1998 NCA hing entucky a A title s well as Coach of th th first seas e Year accolades. ree National on as hea d coach a He is now in his t Texas Te ch.
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i n s p i r i n g a t h l e t i c s ENVIRONMENT
Great Expectations:
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Returning Players are Key for Men’s Basketball
The High Point University men’s basketball team is ready to make noise in Big South play this season. The Panthers were ranked No. 1 in the conference's preseason poll and feature the Big South Preseason Player of the Year, John Brown. Brown, who was averaging nearly 20 points and 10 rebounds per game in the first two months of the season, is a sophomore forward who earned all kinds of accolades last year. He was named Freshman All-American and Big South Freshman of the Year. He also became the second freshman ever to be named to the All-Conference first team. An electrifying player to watch, Brown was featured on ESPN SportsCenter’s top 10 plays three times and was also featured on ESPN SportsNation as a freshman. In the Panthers’ win over Ferrum back in November, Brown had eight slam dunks. He averaged 16.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in 2012 – 13. Brown isn’t the only weapon in head coach Scott Cherry’s arsenal: the back court features an experienced group of guards. Sophomore Adam Weary was a Big South All-Freshman selection who ranked third on the team with 10.2 points per game last year. He’s scoring even more this year. Senior point guard Dejuan McGaughy is a ball handler with shooting range and senior Derrell Edwards is one of the team’s defensive specialists.
Junior guard Devante Wallace was hampered with injuries last season, but is healthy again and showing off his three-point shooting skills in 2013 – 14. He is flanked by freshman Anthony Lindauer, who is touted as a threepoint shooting specialist. Behind Brown in the front court, the Panthers have received steady production from sophomore Lorenzo Cugini as well as freshmen Cliff Cornish and Tarique Thompson. Cugini has all-around skills, including threepoint shooting ability. The biggest player on the team at 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds, Cornish provides a great presence to score around the basket and grab rebounds. Thompson is an undersized forward who uses his mobility and shooting range for the Panthers. Along with High Point’s preseason attention, the team is getting the most TV coverage it has ever had, including at least two regular-season games on national TV. The Panthers’ matchup at Georgetown on Dec. 5 was televised on Fox Sports 1 and HPU’s home game vs. Radford on Jan. 10 was on ESPNU. Three other HPU home games — Winthrop on Feb. 1, Charleston Southern on Feb. 13 and Campbell on March 1 — are part of the Big South’s ESPNU Wildcard package and may be selected for television. The Panthers won the Big South North Division last year with a program-record 12 conference wins. They advanced to the CollegeInsider. com Tournament, which was the team’s first postseason appearance since moving up to Div. I in 1999 – 2000. The goal this year is the first NCAA appearance. ■
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Caring
People
Living a life of success and significance is the common pursuit of HPU students. While everyone must define their own meaning of success, living a life of significance can be measured by a simple question: How am I making the world a better place for others? For student Gwendolyn Pitt, pictured right, she and several of her peers impacted the world by raising thousands of dollars so they could travel to Guatemala to install stoves and water purifiers and distribute toys, shoes, clothes and medicines to families in need during the 2013 fall break. The experience not only forged new relationships between the families and the students, but it filled each person involved with love, purpose and perspective. Alternative break trips are one example of the hundreds of ways that the HPU community contributes more than 100,000 hours of service in the city of High Point, across the country and around the globe. Through experiential learning and values-based living, students graduate from HPU as responsible citizens of the world who understand the importance of giving back to others.
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Shoes Selects Junior for Giving Trip Junior Ellen Barker, president of the High Point University TOMS Campus Chapter, walked side by side employees of TOMS Shoes through the gates of a Nicaraguan school on a sunny morning braced for the experience of a lifetime. Despite months of preparation for this moment, she couldn’t hold back her tears when she saw dozens of smiling faces and cheering children waving banners to welcome Barker and 10 TOMS employees. She was about to do something she had long dreamed of: slide a shoe onto the small foot of a child who otherwise didn’t have access to new shoes to protect their feet and prevent soil-based diseases. It was an act that brought her hard work on the HPU campus and her dreams of changing lives to fruition. Top: Thanks to her work with HPU’s TOMS Campus Chapter, Barker was selected to distribute shoes to children in Nicaragua while also engaging with them through sports and games. Left: Barker blows bubbles with students after distributing shoes at their school.
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Hand-selected by TOMS Employees Barker bought her first pair of TOMS when she was in high school because she valued the company’s “one for one” motto: For every pair of shoes it sells, it gives another pair to a child in need. When she came to HPU, she found a thriving TOMS Campus Chapter that had landed a spot on the “Top 10 TOMS Events of the Year” for its awareness week. She got involved in the chapter and soon became president, leading the group through several philanthropic events each year. “What’s cool about our HPU chapter is that we’re part of a global movement,” she says. “There are thousands of people involved in this, yet the TOMS headquarters really noticed the HPU chapter and how hard we’ve worked to give back.”
In the last weeks of her sophomore year, she received a Skype call from TOMS Campus Programs for what she thought was a routine check-up regarding the HPU chapter. “But when I logged on to Skype, there were several employees of TOMS Campus Programs gathered around the webcam,” says Barker. “They started talking about how much they enjoyed reading my blog posts and seeing pictures of our events. They told me that I was one of four people across the country they had hand-selected to go on a giving trip with them. I was so happy that I was completely incoherent!” She spent the next months channeling her anticipation into the One Day Without Shoes event that included a barefoot march through campus led by Prowler the Panther. It landed a spot in the Top 10 list of organizations across the country with the most pledges to go barefoot. Landing in Nicaragua When the moment arrived and Barker was in Nicaragua, she didn’t hesitate for a moment to connect with natives of the country in every way she could. “We gave out the shoes to many children, and you could tell they were so proud of them. They wanted to keep them nice and clean to show their parents,” she says. “Every place we went, from schools to farms and small villages, they were all so appreciative.”
The group often stayed for several hours to engage and play games with the children, including jump rope and soccer. By the end of the trip, Barker made many new friends she will never forget and experienced Ellen Barker is president of HPU’s TOMS Campus Chapter. a new culture. “One of the girls I really A Career in Giving connected with was 14-year-old Barker brought all of her experiLouisa,” says Barker. “She knew a ences back to campus to share with little bit of English and said one of her chapter. While TOMS are often her goals was to become fluent in worn for fashion purposes, the HPU English. It was a great connection chapter places a heavy emphasis on because she helped me practice the giving back aspect. my Spanish while I taught her some In addition to transforming her more English words. Every time I views of the world, the trip gave taught her a new English word, she Barker, an accounting major, insight would give me a high five.” into the kind of company she hopes There was also Wilson, a farmer to work for someday. in a village who was teaching a “TOMS is a for-profit, and I really group of single mothers about want to be in the business world,” agriculture. There was a little boy she says. “TOMS is exactly the kind named Daniel who was wearing a of company that I want to work for — pair of worn-out shoes with large one that is unique, progressive and holes in them before the group full of youth and innovation. I just love arrived. Each made an impression the business culture there, which is on her heart. different from what people think of “It was just life changing. That’s regarding accountants. I’m very social, the only way I can explain it. I may but I like the detail-oriented nature of have given them shoes, but the accounting. Working for a company opportunity to help them impacted with a global vision like TOMS is a me more than they‘ll ever know.” major career goal of mine.” ■
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BONNER LEADERS SERVE HUNDREDS IN HIGH POINT
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The program creates a cohort of service while giving students leadership opportunities. Molly House puts a mound of play dough into the right hand of 6-year-old Henry and tells him to squeeze it into a shape. It should be an easy task — even fun, perhaps — for a child. But it isn’t for Henry. He battles the effects of cerebral palsy every day. “He looks nervous at first when I ask him to use his right hand because he almost can’t use it all,” says House, a junior. “But then he overcomes that fear and starts working so hard at it.” House is one of six students selected to serve in HPU’s first cohort of Bonner Leaders along with seniors Alison Hansen and Christine Hamrick, and juniors Briayna Cuffie, DuChante Davis and Ashlyn Henning. Created by the Bonner Foundation, the national program is designed to deepen community engagement in higher education. HPU is one of a few dozen campuses across the country to be selected as a Bonner site. Becoming a Bonner Leader gives students like House, a business administration major, an opportunity and responsibility to practice leadership through service in the High Point community. Bonner Leaders pick sites to focus their energy on, such as the Learning Together program at the Macedonia Family Resource Center where House serves. She offers homework help and tutoring assistance to children and their mothers, who sometimes can’t speak English. In addition to helping children like Henry — physical therapy is a constant practice for him, even during
homework time — House serves as a volunteer coordinator for the program and works to strengthen the organization’s business model. “The opportunity to focus on leadership service in a large capacity is something I’ve always wanted,” says House. “It lets me leave my mark on High Point while developing leadership skills that are beneficial in the world of business.” Their service betters the community, but it also allows HPU students to develop professional skills in their fields. For House, she’s gaining leadership skills that stand out to corporate employers. For Davis, an education major, he’s recruiting high school students to serve as volunteers for West End Ministries, which provides assistance to homeless women and children and numerous resources to families, including a community center. The experience will be invaluable to him when he walks into his first classroom someday. “High school students respond better to people closer to their own age,” says Davis. “The local high schools here know that and have welcomed us into their classrooms
to talk to youth about volunteering at West End. This organization has students who want to work for it, and we are learning to place volunteers in roles they enjoy to retain them. The artistic students help create art for the walls while students who like the outdoors enhance the playground.” The value of the program for the community is obvious — children are mentored; the homeless receive help; and everyone comes together to make life better for others. But there’s an intrinsic value for the HPU students in the program to dive into real-world work at these agencies, according to Dr. Joseph Blosser, the Robert G. Culp Jr. Director of Service Learning, who oversees the Bonner program at HPU. “Whatever their field, we believe our students have something to contribute to the community,” says Blosser. “From business and communication to interior design, there’s a need for their skills, along with professional development opportunities waiting for them. The Bonner program connects our students with those opportunities, which enhances the community and makes them more prepared for the workplace.” ■
The Bonner program connects our students with opportunities that enhance the community and make them more prepared for the work place. – Dr. Joseph Blosser, Robert G. Culp Jr. Director of Service Learning
Juniors DuChante Davis (left) and Ashlyn Henning (right) discuss plans for the playground at West End Ministries with program director Chris Gillespie as part of their Bonner Leader service.
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Behind the doors of the Community Writing Center, faculty and students are illuminating the beauty of reading one story and one child at a time. Gathered in a circle, children read aloud the timeless tale of “Curious George” with Dr. Cara Kozma, assistant professor of English, and HPU students Briayna Cuffie, Patrick Duggan and Miles Cooper. They erupt with laughter during the funny parts and throw up their hands when they have questions. And that’s OK. The center, located just down the street from campus, is meant to be a safe, comfortable place where children in the community can learn to love reading and writing. “Sometimes students come into high school and college and feel like reading and writing is a punishment or something they don’t want to do,” says Kozma. “We really want to start young and show children that reading and writing is fun and something that will help them be successful in life.” Kozma and Dr. Charmaine Cadeau, assistant professor of English, Opposite page: worked to get the Community Writing Top: Sophomore Alex Dellacanonica reads Center off the ground. The center with fourth grader Devan Blackwell and first is funded by a High Point University grader Kamryn Dixon. Think Big Grant, which awards Bottom Left: Sophomore Kyle Rother helps Jonah Hill with the second grader’s homework. funds to professors with innovative projects designed to inspire learning. Bottom Right: Dr. Cara Kozma, assistant It is operated and staffed by HPU professor of English, and junior Miles Cooper read to children in HPU’s new Community Writing Center. 86 | highpoint.edu
students throughout the year who tutor elementary through high school students after school, Mondays through Thursdays. Cuffie, a junior, and senior Alison Hansen work as the volunteer coordinators at the center while students in HPU’s Service Learning Program also serve there regularly. The center offers a short group program using creative writing and reading activities, followed by homework help for students. “To have someone to be able to help you in a different way so that you really understand and feel like you can do it yourself makes you feel more confident as a student,” says Cuffie. “I benefitted from a program like this when I was younger. It was important to me and still helps me now to have had that supplement as a child.” There are also several evening programs for parents that focus on résumé building, how to talk about books with children and digital literacy. The center is free and open to families in High Point. “This is a great opportunity for our English and education students in service learning courses to use what they’re learning in their classes, and it allows them to give back to the community and get to know their neighbors,” adds Kozma. ■
We want to start young and show children that reading and writing is fun and something that will help them be successful in life. – Dr. Cara Kozma, assistant professor of English
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When Jenny Silk signed up to be part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Piedmont at the activities fair during her first days as a freshman, she saw it as a great opportunity to give to others. What she didn’t expect was that this volunteer experience would end up impacting her life in ways she never imagined. Silk, a senior from Aurora, Ohio majoring in biology, has always had a passion for helping children. She’s frequently volunteered to help physically and mentally disabled children, and she worked with hospitalized children at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in the neonatal intensive care unit. With plans in motion to attend medical school after graduation and become a pediatrician, it’s no surprise that she opted to join BBBS and connect with local children in another way. “For me, I feel like I can make the biggest impact for those who don’t have a voice,” Silk says. “Kids sometimes don’t have someone to stand up for them and to lean on for support — that’s what drew me toward BBBS. I can make an impact on the lives of young children right here in the High Point community.”
More than three years later, Silk has stood by her little sister Jania, who she was paired with on her first day of BBBS. At least once a week, Silk visits Jania to help her with homework, play games and do other things she enjoys. The two have forged a bond that enriches both of their lives. “When Jania’s at home, she doesn’t have that opportunity for special one-on-one attention,” Silk adds. “Her face just lights up when I see her. It’s an honor to participate in such a program.” “Jenny and Jania are an amazing pair and have a very strong friendship,” says Teresa Jackson, case manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Piedmont who coordinates opportunities for students at HPU. “Jenny is enthusiastic and encouraging; she gives all of herself to Jania.” Silk, a member of the HPU Biology Club, has opened up other opportunities to Jania and children in the program. She established a science fair that is held for the children on campus every semester, giving them learning opportunities they don’t have elsewhere. “There are more than 300 HPU students involved in BBBS, and they all exhibit a strong responsibility of
supporting their little brothers or sisters,” says Jackson. “Every year I am impressed with their level of commitment for giving back to the community and their dedication to the children in Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Piedmont.” “Jenny treats Jania with respect and has even thanked Jania for being her little sister,” adds Jackson. “And Jania surely needs Jenny. Without her, she would not have an opportunity to grow into the beautiful individual that she is; she’s come out of her shell, improved her social skills and her academics.” Likewise, the experience has helped Silk grow personally and reassured her that becoming a pediatrician is the perfect career path for her. “I joined with the intent of making a difference in someone else’s life, but it has also made a difference in my life,” says Silk. “Jania has made more of an impact on me than I could ever express. She’s a little girl who’s faced many difficult situations but continues to have an amazing spirit. She’s helped me appreciate the little things in life, and she has inspired me to continue giving back to others.” ■
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BIG IMPACT
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SigSminaturele While many wear a nametag, Valerie Baxter’s smile defines her role on campus.
You won’t catch Valerie Baxter without a smile on her face as she greets visitors and students driving onto campus. As one of the first people they see, she’s a sure sign that they’ve arrived at a place that is warm, inviting and energetic. “I love what I do and the people I’m around,” says Baxter. “This campus is full of amazing students and tremendous faculty and staff.” Baxter, who has served the HPU campus as a security officer since 2011, is a well-known presence. Even for those who haven’t yet learned her name, they know she has a knack for making people feel special and inspired — through her friendly wave, her kind words and much more. She says coming to work at the university was one of the best decisions she ever made. “I have a security background; I’ve had several security jobs,” says Baxter. “I even took a contract job in Kuwait doing security there for a few years. But the job and the people at HPU have made a huge impact on my life. I’ve seen students grow up on campus. I’ve watched their progress. They really make me happy.” She’s made the HPU family happy, too. When the university shared Valerie’s photo on the HPU Facebook page, she received more than 500 likes and 60 comments from individuals sharing their experiences with her. Kaitlyn Cappa, a 2013 graduate who now works in Long Island, recalls being serenaded by Baxter on campus one day. “On my birthday, Valerie stepped out of the security welcome center and sang Happy Birthday to me. She is such an amazing woman,” says Cappa. 90 | highpoint.edu
Baxter takes her job in security seriously, especially when visitors need assistance. “When we arrived for a pre-acceptance visit and didn’t know where to park, she called for a personal escort to take us to visitor parking,” says Julie Treu, mother of a current student. “What a peach!” The people she impacts have said thank you in many other ways as well. Not long after she came to HPU, Baxter recalls working a late shift. Still smiling well past midnight, a student pointed out her ever-present grin and asked if she could take Baxter’s picture. She then asked Baxter for her favorite quote. The end result? Baxter now has a special card created by the student with her picture and the quote: “If unique is what you seek, by all means, be yourself.” The beauty of her work is that she’s never in the same place. Baxter encounters different people every day as she moves from one welcome entrance to another. She always takes her post — wherever it may be — with a warm smile on her face, ready to give a hug at a moment’s notice. As Baxter continues to help keep the campus secure, she hopes to be an example of the exceptional security department at HPU. She says it’s important to serve as a positive influence to others, and she’s taken a lot of cues from Dr. Nido Qubein, president of HPU. “You know, when I started working here, I wanted to choose to be extraordinary,” Baxter says. “Now, it’s no longer a ‘choice’ for me; it’s my own standard. I strive to live that way.” ■
Becoming Teammates Women’s lacrosse adopts Makayla Compton through Friends of Jaclyn The women’s lacrosse team has a new member. The team adopted Makayla Compton, a 15-year-old from Lexington, N.C., through the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation. It’s a non-profit organization that pairs children and families battling pediatric brain tumors with college and high school sports teams. “Friends of Jaclyn is an amazing organization that gives support to individuals and families who are dealing with cancer,” says head coach Lyndsey Boswell. “Being involved also provides great perspective for members of our team. We’re looking forward to giving Makayla day-to-day support and getting her involved with practices, getting her out to games and on the sidelines with us.” Members of the team and coaching staff met Makayla and her father, Brian, for the first time in December at the Wanek Center on campus. “We’re excited to get Makayla involved with our team and watch her in her journey as she gets better,” said senior Christie Dougherty. “Our team strives to make a positive impact for Makayla and her family, and I’m excited
There were several special guests in attendance when the women’s lacrosse team first met and adopted Makayla Compton as a teammate through the Friends of Jaclyn organization. Jaclyn Murphy, who the foundation is named after, and her father, Dennis, came to HPU from New York. Jaclyn is a cancer survivor and is now a student at Marist College. Also in attendance were Dave and Olivia LaVack, father and sister of Mason LaVack, who the lacrosse team adopted back in 2010.
to see how the team reacts to having Makayla as part of our program.” Makayla was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a brain tumor, on April 18, 2011 and had her first surgery two days later. She went through radiation and chemotherapy treatments and was cancer-free as of October. “She’s still in the five-year window of remission but everything is looking good so far,” said Brian Compton. “This team is a great fit for Makayla. She needs friendship and to get out and do things. I know that Makayla can learn something from the team, and the team can learn something from Makayla, too.” The team previously adopted Mason LaVack through the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation. He passed away in 2011. The team dedicated its 2012 season to Mason and won the National CONNECT Lacrosse Conference regular season title. ■
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It’s a sight to see — more than a dozen students lined up, waiting for their hair to be chopped off. The students each donated at least 8 inches of their hair to make wigs for cancer patients during the annual Cuts for Cancer event on campus. “When you hear those scissors slicing through your hair and that first pony tail is cut off, your head becomes lighter and at that moment, you understand you are making a difference that can be seen,” said senior and organizer Emily Dunn. “You’re directly changing one cancer patient’s life in a way that cannot be explained.” Senior Gary Liang was the only male to donate his hair to the cause in 2013. He says that is one reason he did it. “I am blessed to be a part of the High Point community, and I want to give back to this wonderful community,” said Liang. “I also want to encourage all the men out there to show that not only women can donate their hair. We men can also make an impact.” “I donated my hair because I was fortunate to have hair long enough to make a difference in someone else’s life,” said sophomore Kelly McEvoy. “I also donated my hair in honor of my cousin Casey who underwent chemotherapy and lost her hair during her senior year of high school. She remained bald through her freshman year of college. She has been an inspiration to me to help anyone I can who is affected by cancer.” During the event, the students heard from recent graduate and cancer survivor Alexa Crawford. Crawford was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when she was 16-years-old. She overcame the disease and thanked participants for their donations. ■
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Top to bottom: Wade Rothrock hands Leah Villarreal her donated locks. Gary Liang displays his hair donation. Students prepare to donate their hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths.
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BUILD HOMES in High Point Faculty joined Habitat for Humanity of High Point, Archdale and Trinity this year to build homes for families in the Washington Terrace subdivision, located a few miles from campus. During summer and fall breaks, the group built frames, installed roofs, prepped window frames, taped exterior walls and added finishing touches to multiple homes. “High Point University has been an integral part of our builds,” says Carmen Jackson, the Americorp Construction Crew Leader in charge of the builds. “We’ve worked with a lot of students, and having the help of faculty as well was great. They took initiative, and we accomplished so much while they were here.” The project was organized by Tim Linker, director of HPU’s Office of Sponsored Projects. “Working with my colleagues to help build a house in High Point was a great experience,” says Dr. Eric Hegedus, chair of the department of physical therapy and volunteer in the project. “I think it’s important that we get off campus and work together in the community, and the experience was made better because the Habitat crew was so knowledgeable and committed.” ■ From top to bottom: Tim Linker, director of HPU’s Research Administration and Sponsored Programs, and Dr. Daniel Hall, assistant professor of economics, prep window frames on a home in the Washington Terrace subdivision. Dr. Eric Hegedus, founding chair of the department of physical therapy, prepares to take on any building assignment. Dr. Daniel Erb, dean of the School of Health Sciences, works on the roof of a Habitat for Humanity home in High Point. In the group photo, from left to right, are Dr. Virginia McDermott, Allison Walker, Dr. Laura Linker, Dr. Barbara Mallory, Dr. Jennifer Brandt, Dr. Daniel Erb, Dr. Eric Hegedus, Tim Linker, Dr. Daniel Hall and Dr. Alexis Wright.
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The HPU Civitan Club hosted a homelessness awareness campout where more than 100 students and community members slept outside in 40 degree weather to raise awareness of homelessness in the area.
The Greater High Point – Davidson Chapter of the American Red Cross presented HPU with the “Partners in Service Award.” In the last year, students presented $22,000 to the chapter for Hurricane Sandy Relief and netted 409 units at blood drives.
Senior Kathleen Kelley biked 180 miles in HPU gear to support the American Lung Association’s “Trek Across Maine.”
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Kappa Sigma fraternity brothers and graduates came together during Alumni Weekend to remove more than 200 pounds of garbage from a local stream. The fraternity “adopted� the stream late last year and has participated in a series of cleanings to restore it.
The Diversity Club made a donation to Open Door Ministries that provided 500 individuals and families with meals on Thanksgiving Day.
The baseball team shared their passion for the sport at the Miracle League of High Point, which provides children with mental or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league.
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Education majors mentored more than 50 students at Florence Elementary and Montlieu Academy of Technology through the Book Buddies
program, which offers one-on-one attention in reading to children.
The March of Dimes annual “March for Babies Walk” on HPU’s campus raised $43,000.
Students stuffed 600 stockings for the Salvation Army’s Stuff a Stocking Campaign during the holidays, ensuring that 600 children in the community received a gift for Christmas. Groups that led the efforts were the women’s lacrosse team (pictured), volleyball and the Student Government Association.
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Through the HPU chapter of Elevation Church, more than 200 shoe boxes were filled with gifts and necessities for children in developing countries.
Kappa Delta sorority raised more than $10,000 for Family Service of the Piedmont during its “Super
Hero Dash.� The race invited community members of all ages to dress up as superheroes and fight against child abuse.
HPU ROTC and students thanked veterans for their service by hosting a luncheon for them on campus during Veterans Day. Each veteran was presented with an HPU blanket as a symbol of the security and comfort they have provided to Americans.
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Alumni Perspective By Michael Graff, Class of 2001
Young Alumni Acheivement Award Executive Editor, Charlotte magazine
In early October, I had the honor of sitting in a movie theater on the campus of High Point University to watch giant pictures of me flash across a giant screen, and the one question that kept popping in my head was this: When the heck did we get a cinema? We didn’t have one when I was a student. We also didn’t have a coffee shop or a farmers’ market or a sports grill or an arcade or anything that’s now inside the Wanek Center. But I suppose I didn’t have a graying beard back then, either, so
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I was back on campus to receive the Young Alumni Achievement Award. My hesitation to accept the prize was confirmed when I met the three other men who were honored that night — Alumnus of the Year Dr. Alphonsus Obayuwana, Alumni Service Award winner Terry Terrill, and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Dr. Dick Vert. In that order, these are people who’ve saved lives in Africa, molded scores of young high school baseball players into men, and served thousands of schoolchildren. I was clearly the weak link, and I knew that. My parents, my brother, my best friend from college and my college mentor, Mr. Michael Gaspeny, were there. And we all watched my life since graduating in 2001 unfold in pictures on a movie screen. It’s an odd feeling to reflect at 33 years old. I’ve had a good career as a journalist, traveling all around the country chasing stories. I’ve written about mountaintops and ocean bottoms. I’ve met everyone from murderers and presidents. And I’m now the executive editor of Charlotte magazine, one of the best city magazines in the country. I’m fortunate. But as I stood there and took the award, I realized I owed most of it to HPU. I was a junior in the fall of 1999, a skinny boy in a Maryland ballcap sitting in the class of a man who scared me. Dr. Marion Hodge had messy, white hair and wore a necktie. More than
appearances, though, he was an intimidating figure to me because he knew words. He knew words like I wanted to know words. In my advanced writing class that year, he was frustrated with another batch of stale essays, so he leaned over the lectern, and he begged us: “Be weird.” And he said it again: Be weird. And again: Be weird. No two words have meant more to me as a writer. I’ve carried them with me throughout my career. I graduated with an English degree and went into a journalism field that’s filled with talented people from big journalism schools. But for everything their programs taught them, most of my peers struggle to break from journalism norms. They struggle to be weird. Last year, I heard those words again. I was working on a story of Earl Badu, a former walk-on basketball player at the University of Maryland who played on the Terps’ 2002 national championship team. He was a bright young man, destined to be a lawyer. But in September 2012, Badu took his own life by jumping off a bridge. I never met Badu, but for some reason, his death hurt me. I wanted to know why he did it. I pulled court records. I got police reports. I called his high school coaches. But as I got to Badu's inner circle, people shut down. His parents politely declined interview requests, and most of his best friends never responded.
I nearly gave up. In fact, at one point, I called my editor to tell him I couldn’t write it. He kept me on the phone, though, and during the course of the conversation he said, “This might be a little weird, but what if we tried this …” I smiled. I thought of Dr. Hodge. And I agreed to write the story anyway, to turn the family’s silence into its own character, to use it as a way to explain suicide as a quiet killer. On a Thursday morning in March of last year, my 7,000-word piece named “The Last Shot,” was published online by SB Nation. It became one of the most-read stories of the year, anywhere. Within 12 hours, I had more than 100 emails from people telling me what Earl’s story meant to them. I still receive emails from people who tell me that the story made them reconsider committing suicide. Sitting in that theater that night in October, it occurred to me that if I’d never gone to High Point, if I’d never taken Dr. Hodge’s class, if I’d never heard him say, “Be weird,” I never would’ve written Earl’s story. Later that evening, as I stood next to my fellow alumni award winners for photos, it became clear that High Point University has, in many ways, saved lives. And I believe that will continue to be true for generations, because from the first day the university opened in 1924 to today’s miraculous transformation, our alma mater has always been sustained by thoughtful, action-oriented people. ■
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2013 Alumni Achievement Awards Dr. Richard ‘Dick’ Vert CLASS OF 1957 Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Dick Vert’s long and successful career started in the Guilford County School System. He then taught in Maryland before joining the Recruit District Advisory Council of the U.S. Navy and became the council’s first civilian chairman in 1984. He was also awarded the Superior Public Service Award from the Secretary of the Navy. Finally, in 1991, he joined the investment firm Legg Mason Wood Walker, which eventually merged with Morgan Stanley. Throughout it all, he remained loyal to his alma mater. In 1991 he was elected to the Board of Trustees, serving as treasurer and vice chairman until he accepted the position of chairman of the board in September.
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“As you can see, High Point University has readily intertwined all of our lives,” said Vert at the October 2013 alumni awards ceremony. “Our longtime and best friends are people that we met here and still continue to talk to and confide in today. It used to be that when someone would ask us, ‘Where did you go to college?’ We said ‘We went to that little ole school in North Carolina — High Point College.’ That’s no longer true. Even where I live in Maryland, it’s almost a daily occurrence that we see a High Point University decal on a car, or a banner flag, or something that says HPU on it. It happens all of the time.”
Dr. Alphonsus Obayuwana
Terry Terrill
CLASS OF 1973 Alumnus of the Year
CLASS OF 1976 Alumni Service Award
Dr. Alphonsus Obayuwana has received numerous awards throughout his career as an OB/GYN in recognition of his professional excellence, scientific contributions and selfless service to others. He holds membership in major nonprofit organizations that make frequent trips to Africa in order to provide free medical care. He is the former President of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas and is the Founding Secretary of the Association of Scientists and Physicians of African Descent. He also recently wrote and published a book, titled “The Five Sources of Human Hope: Mirror of Our Humanity,” based on 30 years of research on human hope. “Even 40 years ago as I look back, I can remember Dr. Roy Epperson and Dr. Christopher Wilson who showed me the wonder of organic chemistry,” said Obayuwana. “And the “ah-ha” moments that I had in the biology lab, which were held on Fridays by Dr. Leo Weeks and Dr. John Ward. And there was Dr. Charles Mounts who got a chemistry major like myself to become an enthusiast of Shakespeare. There was also Dr. Inslee Grainger, head of the foreign language department, who gathered all of the foreign students for Thanksgiving dinner at his house to celebrate the diversity. That diversity you can still see being celebrated on the Kester International Promenade in this community. That legacy has stayed with me, and for it, I am grateful.”
Terry Terrill is Maryland’s winningist baseball coach with a 984 – 285 record, earning him a place in several Halls of Fame, including the Maryland State Coaches Hall of Fame. Terrill also makes sure his players give back to the community, taking several of his teams on good will trips to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic where they combine baseball along with community service by distributing free athletic equipment and visiting orphanages. “I grew in my faith as a young Christian here,” said Terrill. “I had many opportunities in fellowship, Christian athletes and going to that little chapel that’s still on campus. That was a big impact in my life. I’ve just always been grateful for High Point, and I know myself and a lot of alumni are extremely proud to be called Purple Panthers.”
To make an alumni award nomination, visit www.highpoint.edu/alumniawards or email alumni@highpoint.edu.
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Graphic Design Grad Lands Dream Job at ESPN Studios
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Jacquelyn Reilly hustles through the packed halls of ESPN studios past reporters, directors and camera crews to get to her control room for the 3 p.m. live broadcast of Sports Center. The 2012 graduate of High Point University has spent the morning generating hundreds of graphics for the 3 to 6 p.m. segments that cover the screen and provide viewers with statistics, game recaps and information sports fanatics crave. It’s high pressure and intense, but it’s the type of job that Reilly wanted
as a graphic design major at HPU and the kind of job that HPU prepared her to tackle. “Choosing High Point University was the best decision I’ve ever made,” says Reilly, from Radnor, Penn. “My time there showed me what I was capable of.” Top notch faculty, facilities Reilly chose the graphic design major due to her love of art and creativity. She knew she would get invaluable industry experience at HPU
when she met Professor Allan Beaver, artist in residence, who once ran his own advertising firm in New York City and worked with major artists like Andy Warhol and campaigns such as Subaru, Jockey and Matchbox Cars. “Mr. Beaver was a tough teacher, but his intensity was balanced with friendliness,” says Reilly. “He has high standards and gave me difficult projects that pushed and challenged me. That’s paying off now at ESPN where I’m expected to handle tough assignments every day.” It’s also the environment at HPU that encouraged Reilly to be so successful. She admits the impressive ESPN campus can be intimidating for anyone during a job interview, but the first class facilities at HPU made her feel comfortable when speaking with her future boss and co-workers. “When I saw ESPN headquarters — how impressive and beautiful it was — it reminded me of High Point University. I knew I wanted to be there, and I knew I could get my foot in the door if I worked hard enough.” Leveraging lessons in perseverance, persistence Reilly first noticed the ESPN headquarters while driving to visit an HPU friend who lived in Avon, Conn. That sparked her interest, and she began connecting with ESPN through her friends, LinkedIn and any outlet she could find. There was an online application, multiple in-person interviews and phone calls. It wasn’t a simple process. It took a lot of hard work and persistence, but that didn’t prevent her from pursuing her dream. “It was a 10-month process,” she says. “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done with their application process, but I kept connecting with people I had linked and networked with. Eventually, they brought me in, and on my third interview they said
Choosing High Point University was the best decision I’ve ever made. My time there showed me what I was capable of. – Jacquelyn Reilly, 2012 graduate they recognized my persistence and determination and wanted that on their team. It all goes back to what HPU and Mr. Beaver taught me — if you want something, you have to earn it and work hard for it.” Extraordinary education leads to extraordinary results Her persistence and lessons learned at HPU brought her to a fulfilling career and life. Today, she creates the graphics for the world’s leading sports broadcasting network that millions of people watch every day. She works in a control room that mimics a space command center with monitors flickering and buttons that few know how to operate. It’s a huge responsibility; even the sponsorship graphics are worth millions of dollars to ESPN, and one mistake could cause the company great losses. But Reilly thrives there, and she does it with pride.
“My success at ESPN is similar to my success at High Point University in a way,” she says. “This is a company with a great culture that wants to make sure its employees are happy so they’ll work hard and be successful. It’s the same chapter in a different book, and it’s a beautiful story. I was happy as a student at HPU, and I know I’ll be happy here for a long time.” She remains close with her HPU friends and sees them reaching their goals as well, including her former HPU roommate, Megan Hennessey, who is the social media manager at the Waldorf Astoria in New York. “One of the things I loved most about HPU is that it’s like one big family,” says Reilly. “I had small classes and knew everyone. One of my professors even brought me a cupcake on my birthday, and the class sang to me. I will always miss that, but I am happy to see those family members going on to be successful, too.” ■
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’93 Graduate Aims to Help, Hire Current Students
Christian Clymer graduated from High Point University 20 years ago. Since that time many faces and places have changed on campus, but one thing has remained constant — the prestige and talent of HPU students. When Clymer needed a summer intern to work on his digital media team at PhRMA (Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America) in Washington, D.C., he went straight to HPU’s Office of Career and Internship Services to find the right candidate.
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“I heard about all of the changes at HPU, including with the School of Communication,” says Clymer. “It was a no-brainer to reach out to HPU and start a relationship so we could tap into their pool of talent.” The search led him to Becky King, a senior communication major with plenty of video editing, script writing and digital media experience. After applying, King interviewed with Clymer and his colleagues, showed them several video projects she completed at HPU and landed the position.
The internship made a significant impact on King — professionally and personally — early on. In the first few weeks of the internship, she and PhRMA staff filmed and produced a promotional video for Special Olympics D.C. with the goal of bringing more athletes to next year’s event. “We met many athletes who were so brave and inspiring despite having major challenges to overcome,” says King. “To be involved in the process of making and creating a final product for Special Olympics D.C. really touched my heart.” Her other projects included an awareness piece about colon cancer and the Undy 500 in Denver, as well as projects about new medicines and developments for treating heart disease and stroke. At the end of the internship, she left PhRMA to return to her senior year at HPU with professional experience and a new perspective on how to make an impact in the communication industry. Since that time, her experience has led to her to a part-time videographer position with WFMY News 2, the CBS affiliate in Greensboro, N.C., while she finishes her final semester. “Meeting Christian and seeing how much he wanted to help me and other HPU students succeed was very heartwarming,” says King. “I look forward to doing the same in my own career someday.” ■
CONNECTION Senior Learns from Seasoned Alum at D.C. Internship Savannah Simons was confident when she began her news internship at the WTOP newsroom in Washington, D.C., but not above the nervousness that a major radio station brings to rookies in the studio. While she put her skills gained in the classroom into action, she discovered that HPU had given her another valuable asset to help her succeed – a connection. Sitting just a few feet away from Simons was Amanda Meadows, a 2005 graduate who is the traffic reporter for ABC 7/ WJLA-TV in the metropolitan market. Meadows delivers live, on-camera traffic reports – crucial information in the bustling city of Washington, D.C. – each morning at the ABC affiliate. Afterward, she heads to WTOP to deliver on-air reports at the station. For Simons, Meadows was the perfect mentor. The two had taken the same classes and learned from the same professors at HPU. Meadows had achieved her dream of working in a top 10 market while Simons was in the process of achieving that dream. “I immediately felt a sense of relief and familiarity when I found out Amanda graduated from HPU,” said Simons. “Even though we had just met, our connection made me feel comfortable asking her questions and seeking advice. Learning from her and getting to know her was extremely helpful.” “It was a full circle moment for me when I met Savannah,” said
Meadows. “I thought it was great to see a current student landing such a prestigious internship and telling me so many great things about the university I love and miss. We built a great rapport, and I was able to show her a few things for stories, especially when roads were flooded in D.C. over the summer. My world of traffic and her world of news stories completely collided.” In the end, Simons left the internship with a wealth of hands-on experience and professional
contacts. But she also left with the realization that HPU alumni are working in top companies across the country, and they serve as a resource for students like her. “I really look up to Amanda because she’s made huge progress since she graduated,” said Simons. “I realize now that there is an entire network of HPU graduates. I look forward to meeting more of them, learning from them and becoming as successful as they are.” ■
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NOTES Affairs at HPU. Bill left that job to do doctoral work at Memphis University. Bill serves on the Board of Deacons at Emerywood Church and teaches a Sunday School class of young adults.
Joe Knox (1955) & June Rogers Knox (1955) celebrated 57 years of marriage on Sept. 1. The couple says that they loved every minute at HPU. June, a sister of Alpha Gamma Delta, gets together with her college roommate, Carolyn Featherston Vargas, at least once a month. Joe remains very connected to his brothers of Pi Kappa Alpha. Every fall, his Pikes take a trip to Myrtle Beach, S.C. James Ardell Sink (1958), CEO of Mark Media Radio Stations, was honored in Greensboro by the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters with the prestigious Wade H. Hargrove Community Leadership Award, one of the top honors given by the association. Sink began his radio career in the 1950’s at WBUY in Lexington, N.C. He founded WKYK in 1967. Edna Rose Duncan Guy (1960) and Bill Guy (1961) recently celebrated 52 years of marriage. The couple continues to be active in the community, at HPU athletic events and both are members of book clubs. Edna Rose retired as chairperson of Western Guilford High School Social Studies Department. Bill was formally the Dean of Student
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Danny Sewell (1960) played with a team representing North Carolina and won first place in the National Senior Games 3 on 3 basketball in the 75 and over age division. The event was held in Cleveland, Ohio in August 2013. Danny has played on three teams winning Gold Medals at the National games. In October, he played in the state senior basketball games at East Carolina University. Remaining active in sports, Danny has coached J.V. girls’ basketball at Nash Central High School for the last five years where both he and his wife Shelby substitute teach. He will coach the varsity girls’ basketball team this year at Faith Christian School in Rocky Mount. Danny also referees high school volleyball. CJ Neal Lipski (1965) established the Neighborhood Diaper Bank of Jackson County in Oregon in August of 2012 to provide support for local agencies helping families who cannot afford disposable diapers for their young children or incontinence supplies for adults. As of September 2013, more than 40,000 items had been distributed. Sharon Oliver Grubb (1968) now has three grandsons. Jackson Davis is 9 years old, Joshua is 7 and Zachary is 2. She retired from the Burlington County Special Services School District after 26 years. Sharon has
been a member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Cinnaminson, N.J. for 28 years and has been lay leader and lay speaker for many of those years. She has been married to Theron Grubb for 43 years and is Vice President of Grubb Filtration and Testing Services. Nancy Taylor (1968) moved to Santa Rosa, Calif. last year to be closer to her daughter and grandson. She recently accepted a nursing position at the VA Clinic in Santa Rosa. Taylor loves making new friends by playing tennis and singing in her church choir. Sheri Howell Haymore (1976) published her first novel titled “A Higher Voice.”
Lane Evans (1980) was awarded the distinguished United States Professional Tennis Association Service Award at the United States Tennis Association-North Carolina Tennis Weekend, held in Pinehurst, N.C. Al Seymour (1980) is a Platinum Financial Services Advisor at Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Seymour has received
recognitions from the Million Dollar Round Table as a Life and Qualifying Member 2013 Court of the Table as well as from the 2013 Annuity Elite in the Top 1%. Margaret (Peggy Pesce) Menard (1981) celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary to her husband Matthew Menard. After working many years part-time as a licensed Addictions Counselor, CSC-AD, and raising her three children, Gabrielle, Jonathan and Tim, Peggy returned to teaching. This past August marked her 10th consecutive year of teaching at Great Mills High School in St. Mary’s County in Maryland. She is a dually certified teacher in both Special Education and Social Studies and credits her wonderful education at High Point in preparing her for her dual vocations as both a licensed teacher and addictions counselor. She sends out her fondest regards to her former Alpha Gamma Delta sisters and her Pi Kappa Alpha big brothers. Deena Bouknight (1986) released her debut contemporary novel, “Broken Shells.” Deena lived in Western North Carolina for 10 years and now resides in South Carolina with her husband and two adopted children. She is a freelance writer, contributing to regional, national and international publications for more than 30 years. She has written a children’s book, “A Wintry Day Walk,” and contributed to three non-fiction books: “Portraits of Grace,” “Humor for a Sister’s Heart,” and “Big Book of Christmas Joy.” She also teaches literature and writing. Mark Murphy (1988) assumed command of the Navy's Center for Service Support (CSS) on May 10, 2013. The mission of CSS is to provide sailors in the Naval Administration, Logistics and Media Services the
knowledge and skills to support the fleet's war fighting mission. Paige Alvarez Hanks (1990) is leading an unwavering charge toward college readiness as Principal at Press Elementary in McKinney, Texas. Press has become the 181st school in the nation, and the first McKinney ISD school to be named a No Excuses University (NEU) Network School.
of congress from all over the country; and organizations like the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the Democratic Governors Association and the California Teachers Association. They also assist clients with earned-media strategies, manage crisis communications, provide media training and draft various communications including speeches and press releases. Chip (1992) and Gretchen Shea (1990) will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in December of 2013. They were married at the then High Point College chapel in the company of their family, friends and many college staff. They have raised three sons now 23, 22 and 20. Chip is a high school chemistry teacher in Cary, N.C., and Gretchen is the Director of Youth Ministries and Congregational Christian Formation at a church in Raleigh.
Teresa Huffman (1990) is the Vice President of Human Resources at Culp, Inc. based in High Point, N.C. She is responsible for all HR functions for Culp’s 1,100 employees worldwide, including 450 in China, 150 in Canada and 500 in the U.S. She credits the wonderful experience she received at HPU as an undergraduate and then again as a graduate student when she received her MBA in 2011 for helping her to become a successful leader in business. Rich Davis (1991) is co-owner of the strategic communications firm Dixon/ Davis Media in Washington, D.C. The firm is a Democratic media-consulting and advertising agency, producing award-award winning advertising for clients including Obama for America 2008 and 2012; U.S. Senators Kay Hagan (N.C.), Claire McCaskill (Mo.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.); Governors Kathleen Sebelius (Kan.) and Martin O’Malley (Md.); members
Rebekah Lee Ricardo (1994) is working as a grants analyst for the Winston-Salem Police Department. In 2012 she was awarded the Director's Award for Excellence in Public Safety from the North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program. Elizabeth Kinney (1996) accepted a new position as the History Instructional Coach at Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy in Lexington, N.C. After 15 years of teaching at Central Davidson Middle School, Kinney is excited to have the opportunity to work with freshman and sophomore high school students. Brian Ersalesi (1997) is the Supervisor of K-12 Language Arts Literacy for the Rutherford Public Schools in Bergen County, N.J. Previously, Brian was a teacher of English, theatre arts and media for the Midland Park Public Schools.
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NOTES Cindy Cipriano Bullard (1998) lives in North Carolina with her husband and son. “The Circle” is Cindy’s first novel, and the first book in the Sidhe Series. Two of her short stories, "What Lance Saw," and "Miller's Island," were published in the children's anthology, “Doorway to Adventure” (September, 2010). Heather Bowers Cross (2000) was promoted by Carolina Bank to Senior Vice President Market Executive for the High Point Office. Cross joined Carolina Bank in 2012 as Vice President/Commercial Loan Office. She resides in High Point, N.C. Kimberly D. Lambeth-Thompson (2000) completed her Masters of Science Degree in Information Technology on Aug. 26, 2013 at Florida Institute of Technology. The commencement was held at the Melbourne Campus on Dec. 14, 2013. Emily Hunter (2001) earned her Juris Doctor from Mercer University and is an associate attorney at Kluttz, Reamer, Hayes, Randolph, Adkins and Carter, L.L.P. in Salisbury, N.C.
and in 2012 closed the biggest deal of the year in BB&T’s lease of the massive American Express center. He leads CBRE’s efforts with Habitat for Humanity and Soles4Souls, and he also coaches youth soccer. Gina Spencer (2003) is principal of Pickett Elementary School in Lexington, N.C. The school has been recognized as one of the 2013–2014 Title I Reward Schools. A Reward School is a Title I School that, based on recent student performance data, has been identified as being among the highest 10% of all Title I schools in the areas of most improved in student performance and/ or highest performance of students for all subgroups assessed. Bradley Komisar (2004) currently works for BiltRite Furniture as manager of operations.
Justin Boyd (2007) has recently moved to the Raleigh office of Rives & Associates, LLP, a full-service public accounting and consulting firm. Boyd is the senior tax manager in the audit and tax services department and will provide tax planning, consulting and preparation services. He is also a senior manager of the insurance services division, delivering auditing and tax services to mutual and captive insurance companies.
Jason Walters (2005) has been named a partner in the law firm of Davis & Hamrick, LLP in WinstonSalem, N.C. Walters primarily practices civil litigation defense. Shawan Gabriel (2005) is currently serving as the CEO/President of Big Brothers Big Sisters Services in Winston-Salem, N.C.
Shannon Moxley Jones (2001) recently published her first book titled, “Why Do I Exist.” The book inspires and provides steps on how to make your dreams a reality. It is based on her personal story.
Amanda Wodke (2005) married Brandon Stanbery on March 30, 2013. They honeymooned in St. Lucia and now reside in Amherst, Va. Amanda is teaching technology and coaches the varsity swim team. Amanda also received her Master’s in Counseling from Lynchburg College in 2012.
Richard Mossman (2003) was named a partner of CBRE in 2012. Mossman handles real estate for some of the region’s biggest names (BE Aerospace, Honda Aircraft Co., etc.)
Will Tarrant (2006) ran in the New York Marathon on Nov. 3. Tarrant resides in Texas, where he is the Co-Founder of Service Metrics Group, a company that measures the experiences of customers, employees and other stakeholders for a variety of organizations and industries including hospitality, gaming, travel, tourism, retail and entertainment.
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Allison Wharton Uza (2006) happily married Andy Uza in Ruffin, N.C. on June 1, 2013. The couple resides in the city where they met, Baltimore, Md.
Antoinette Robinson Burnett (2007) had a solo show in the “B Smith Restaurant” in Washington, D.C.'s historic section of Union Station. The show included 10 photographs, including eight made with film negatives she shot while studying at HPU. The most recent shot was taken of President Obama during the 2008 inauguration. The show featured African Americans and was tied to the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.
Daniel Cline (2007) married Bethany, the love of his life, on Oct. 5, 2013. Kiernan Gordan (2007) graduated in May from Ohio State University with a Ph.D. in the sociocultural aspects of sport. In his dissertation, he examined people's connections with sport stadiums through their memories and emotions and how that influences their consumption of sport and related activities. He recently joined the Sport Leadership and Management faculty at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Adam Moffitt (2007) is regional manager for the Triad business development efforts at Hill, Chesson & Woody (HCW), a health and welfare benefits brokerage and consulting firm that designs, manages and implements employee benefit programs. John Taylor (2007) teaches physical education at Beloved Community Charter School, a Title I school for at-risk youth in Jersey City. He was awarded a PE grant from the Presidential Youth Fitness Program. This grant will pay for FitnessGram testing software, testing materials, training seminars, webinars and awards for the next three years. Taylor previously worked on the Style Network’s “Too Fat for 15.” Erica Wingo (2007) joined Bernhardt Furniture in 2013 as Senior Director of Merchandising, Residential Case Goods and Division. Wingo graduated at the top of her home furnishings
class in 2007 and was immediately hired by Hooker Furniture, where she enjoyed a successful career and served as Merchandising Director before joining Bernhardt. Cole Atkins (2008) was named one of eight 2013 –14 Roads Scholars, a program that awards grants to support post-collegiate runners that are attempting to take the next step into becoming world-class road runners. Since earning his undergraduate degree in International Business in 2008 and his Masters of Business Administration in 2010, Atkins has been a member of the ZAP Fitness training center, which is a professional running organization composed of elite post-collegiate distance runners. Christoffer Riis Jensen (2008) an exchange student from Denmark, recently launched his own website, smarthotelsearch.com. Jensen’s goal is to offer one place to get the best deals on hotels. He says he didn’t act upon the idea until one day when he was sitting in his home office and his eyes fell upon a book of Dr. Qubein’s titled, “The Time is Now, the Person is You!” Dan Costello (2009) is the volunteer coordinator at Microsoft in Silicon Valley. He works to ensure the company is making a positive
impact on the global, national and local levels through philanthropy, volunteerism and analyzing human rights practices. Being aware of his community and giving back are values Costello says he developed during his studies at HPU. Brandon Myers (2009) is in his third year of medical school St. George’s University. Brandon is currently completing rotations at San Joaquin Hospital in Manteca, Calif. Bryan Rothamel (2009) is the lead play by play announcer for VISAA.tv, an online network for the private high schools of Virginia, and ODAC.tv, the online network of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, an NCAA Division III conference. Jessica Taylor (2009) showcased her showroom designs, J. R. Designs, at the High Point Furniture Market in October 2013. Lisa Chandler (2010) has been named the Executive Director of The First Tee of the Sandhills. Chandler was a four-year member of HPU's women's golf team and graduated from High Point in 2010 with a degree in communication. The First Tee is a youth development organization that impacts the lives of young people by providing programs that build character, instill lifeenhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.
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NOTES Nikole "Nikkie" Groat (2010) currently works at Crown Realty & Development in Southern California, where she acts as the Executive VP, as well as oversees the on-site IT department and property management. Groat thanks HPU every day for giving her an amazing education and providing the tools needed to have a successful career. Alexandra Hamel Ferguson (2011) gave birth to her first child, Andrew James Ferguson, on Aug. 30, 2013. Casey Gilger (2011) recently started a new job at GEICO as an auto service agent which he loves. His non-profit organization, The Corey Gilger Foundation, raised $6,000 at their annual golf tournament at Andrew's Air Force Base golf course in Maryland on Sept. 28. These funds will help families who are financially affected by childhood cancer. Wendy Klutz (2011), a graduate of the Masters of Educational Leadership program, was just named Human Resource Director for Davidson County Schools in North Carolina. She serves as a member of the Teacher Education Council in the School of Education at HPU. Janeen Leppert (2011) was awarded the Fairfield County Business Journal’s 40 under 40 award which recognizes the most successful young professionals. Leppert is the youngest award winner this year and has organized fundraisers, community events and business after hour and membership recruitment drives. She is the executive director of the Wilton Chamber of Commerce in Connecticut. Andrew Realon (2011) enrolled in Elon University’s School of Law. He is planning on taking the North Carolina Bar exam in the summer of 2014.
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April Gravely (2012) recently joined the Carolina Farm Credit team as a Loan Assistant for the service center in Pilot Mountain, N.C.
Alyssa Romeo (2011) has published her first novel, “The Wish.” The novel follows American college student, Emilie Russo, during her time in Rome and what happens when she falls for a British actor studying at the same university. Romeo credits the publication to her experiences at HPU, particularly to her semester studying abroad. She says she hopes this is the first of many novels, with a sequel already in the works. “The Wish” is available as an e-book on Amazon and Barnes and Noble’s website.
Casie Hammons (2012) has been hired by the Winston-Salem Symphony as Development Manager. Hugo Hormazabal (2012) is teaching elementary school in Montessori education in Lessburg, Fla. He plans to teach for another year and then begin applying to law school.
Skyler Bauer (2012) has been working as the Activities Coordinator at Shell Point in Fort Myers, Fla. since graduation in 2012. Cursty Boober (2012) married Zachary Boober (2012) in March 2013, and they are expecting a baby boy in March 2014. Zachary is a special needs teacher and Cursty is a soon to be stay-at-home mother. Without HPU, Cursty and Zachary would have never met, and they are grateful to God and their school for bringing them together and allowing them to make a future together. Natalie Cammisa (2012) joined the Ironman team as the Event Coordinator for Iron Girl where she travels all over the U.S. to host short course triathlons for women.
Kendall Lawson (2012) is the owner and CEO of three Scooops beachwear. It is a clothing line of unisex beachwear based off of comfort, style and relaxation. Lawson grew up on Virginia Beach and wanted to create clothing for people along the East Coast. Keeping that in mind, Lawson works with other Triad companies to produce his clothing line, including Soccer Shop in Winston Salem and Signature Embroidery in High Point. He says he never would have started his own company if it hadn’t been for HPU. Erin Lonon (2012) is currently in her second year of graduate school at the University of Maryland. She is pursuing her doctorate of physical therapy degree.
Jacquelyn Reilly (2012) accepted her dream job with ESPN in the Motion Graphics Department. She oversees motion graphics in the production room for several live shows such as “NFL 32,” “SportsCenter” and many live games. Ashley Snoddy Scarborough (2012) married Ryan Scarborough (2008) on July 31, 2010. Rebecca Seger (2012) graduated from HPU with a bachelor’s degree in music. She is currently a graduate student at Eastern Kentucky University where she is part of the University Singers. This past spring Rebecca and her fellow singers had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Annie Beuker Trinklein (2012) and Victor Trinklein (2012) were married in August 2013. The couple lives and have launched careers in High Point, N.C. Annie won the semi-annual Raymond Waites design competition in 2012. Desiree Dupree (2013) was accepted into Howard University’s School of Law.
Ana Elliott (2013) was accepted to the CIEE Teach Abroad program to teach English as a second language at the Chongqing Vocational School in
Chongqing, China. She began teaching vocational college courses in the flourishing city over the summer and will continue through July 2014. Brittany Freels (2013) has been accepted into a Doctor of Physical Therapy program at The University of Maryland School of Medicine and will begin classes in May 2014. Joe Hutzler (2013) was hired as the morning and afternoon sports anchor for HMTV6 in Hagerstown, Md. He also recently became the play-by-play announcer for 1340AM WEPM Sports in Martinsburg, W.Va. He broadcasts high school football and basketball and co-hosts a Saturday morning show. Johanna LaPlant (2013) teaches middle school special education in Kingfield, Maine. Corey Law (2013), aka “Thunder Law,” was selected as one of four new members of the Harlem Globetrotters. It was his dunking ability, powered by a 44-inch vertical leap that got Law invited to the 2013 College Slam Dunk Championship and caught the eye of the Globetrotters.
Sarah Roof (2013) is now an assignment editor at WCVB. She works in the hub of the newsroom, searching for interesting stories and breaking news, confirming facts and making sure the big stories of the day aren’t missed. Roof says she loves her job, but that she never even considered journalism until attending HPU. Bradley Taylor (2013) enrolled in the M.Ed. program for Higher Education Administration at North Carolina State University and is working as the Graduate Assistant for Central Campus in the Duke University Housing, Dining and Residence Life Department.
Caitlin Mucha (2013) has been hired as an account executive at Yelp in New York City. Tyler McCoy (2013) has been hired as the Wardrobe PA for ABC’s new television show “Back in the Game.” Tyler says this job has proven to become a dream come true.
Chris Terzigni (2013) and his fourth grade students at Archer Elementary in Greensboro started a project to finish the Boston Marathon for all the runners who weren’t able to finish the race before the tragic explosions occurred. The school district honored the class by presenting a special award for service, and Terzigni was named Archer Elementary’s new Service Learning Coordinator.
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Where in the World is HPU? Everywhere, it seems. From East Coast to West Coast, Africa and Italy, members of
the HPU family submitted photos of themselves sharing their HPU pride with people all over the world. Submit photos of your family in HPU gear to communication@highpoint.edu.
Senior Emily Slivka and her parents showed off their HPU pride while traveling in Italy.
HPU’s impact is being felt around the world. Cindy Miller was distributing Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes at a hospital in Zambia when she met Moses, a 17-year-old wearing a High Point University shirt, and his sister. Moses said he previously received a shoebox with the HPU shirt inside. He is a Sunday school teacher and was grateful for the shirt.
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Many families include HPU in their photos and Christmas cards. The family of Emily Doherty (top) from Middletown, Conn. took their holiday photo on the Kester International Promenade in HPU apparel, as did the family of Kyle Conner (middle) from New Canaan, Conn. The family of Hannah Moffatt (bottom) from Yarmouth, Maine sported HPU gear in their holiday greeting card as well.
tweetcently @HighPointU Pamela Brown
Giving keynote speech to students, faculty & community members at High Point University. Great group! instagram.com/p/gv9_jXrLOn/
Will Chambers
Bridget Donahue
@PamelaBrownCNN
@bedonahue
@HighPointU stellar faculty, world class facilities, amazing students, an inspirational president, the list goes on and on #OneHPU
@WillyC_29
So pumped for all of the freshmen moving into @HighPointU today!! 1
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4:14 AM – 10 Sep 13
Megan-Eileen Waldrep
1:00 PM – 15 Nov 13
Lauriana Zukowski Joseph Plunkett @joeyplunkett7
Just got back from a wonderful weekend at @HighPointU family weekend. Great to see my brother and the improvements at my #almamater!
FAVORITE
8:46 AM – 17 Aug 13
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@LaurianaZ
I love this school. I love this school. I love this school. @HighPointU #HPUMoveIn2013 #HPU2017 pic.twitter.com/bKEtfWDwUj
@Megan_Eileen_
Still have over 3 semesters until I graduate and I already feel bulletproof and ready for Corporate America #ThankYou @HighPointU 2
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Lillian Bijl
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@lillianb_ 8:07 AM – 1 Oct 13
Grateful for my amazing advisor @HighPointU and our Skype advising session today. Working with me since Day One to make it all happen.
Virginia Elam @comeoutvirginia
I know I’ve said this once and I’ll say it again, High Point University has some of the most caring professors I know. 2
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5:56 AM – 3 Dec 13
Ryan Anderson
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Meghan Hancock shared High Point University’s photo. September 10 at 8:52am ¡
SO PROUD to be an alumni of this extraordinary university! #1 Regional College in the South, #1 Up and Coming Schools AND #1 BEST Undergraduate Teaching! #OneHPU đ&#x;™Œ đ&#x;™Œ đ&#x;™Œ
@Ryan18A
One year ago today I was accepted to my dream school, @HighPointU, and now I’m living my dream and couldn’t be happier.
karenbrown10209
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Today I am #thankful to be a part of the #HPU family! I am grateful for my son’s opportunity to be in college here and all the ways it is blessing his life đ&#x;™Œ đ&#x;™Œ Very grateful for this amazing president of HPU as well! #grateful #collegelife #highpointu #HPUfamily #SoBlessed #Nov22nd @highpointu đ&#x;™Œ đ&#x;™Œ đ&#x;™Œ
12:31 PM – 19 Nov 13
HPU SOCIAL
4 weeks ago ¡
My Grateful Heart
www.highpoint.edu/socialmedia
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Department 833 Montlieu Avenue High Point, N.C. 27262-3598 USA 336-841-9000 highpoint.edu
From the Cultural Enrichment Series to the annual Commencement Ceremony on the Roberts Hall lawn, world-renowned thought leaders and speakers are attracted to campus. Guest speakers are selected as part of an intentional effort to provide students the opportunity to understand diverse viewpoints, positions and backgrounds.
President George W. Bush
President Bill Clinton
New York Mayor
Cal Ripken, Jr.
Buzz Aldrin
Laura Bush
Baseball Hall of Fame
Astronaut
Rudy Giuliani
First Lady
Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan
Steve Wozniak
Co-Founder of Apple Computer, Inc.
Bill Cosby
Actor, Comedian
Thomas Friedman
Pulitzer Prize-Winning NY Times Columnist
Best-Selling Author
Mitch Albom
U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Clarence Thomas
Steve Forbes
Seth Godin
General Colin L. Powell
Malcolm Gladwell
Best-Selling Author; Marketing Pioneer
USA (Ret.), Former Secretary of State
CEO, Forbes Magazine
New York Times Best-Selling Author