Brown Bulletin The Power of Photography
Images of Homecoming The Cathedral: Complete A Day in the Life of JBU Students Winter 2008–2009
a publication for alumni & friends of JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY
The Completed Cathedral 24
letter
from the
president
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
Editor
Andrea Phillips
JBU Staff Writers
Director of Design
Rachel Fiet Anna Mulder
Dear Friends of JBU, This Brown Bulletin is filled with images of life at John Brown University, from images of an ordinary day at JBU to images of special days of celebration such as the rededication of the Cathedral Group and Homecoming. Indeed, I expect that we will see more and more beautiful images of JBU as our new major in photography continues to grow. We trust that these images will convey to you the reality of our life here together at JBU, a reality that is animated by our consistent commitment to educate students to honor God and serve others.
Design Assistance
Hayley Smith Allen Dempsey Troy Black
Production Assistance
Brown University. It is published at 2000 West University Street, Siloam Springs, Arkansas 72761.
And, it is a commitment seen even in the beautiful images of the restored Cathedral Group itself because these pictures represent how we have kept faith with the founder’s vision, not just for the buildings, but for the purpose of Christ-centered education at JBU.
Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
Dr. Charles W. Pollard
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departments
aphillips@jbu.edu Alumni information: Jerry Rollene jrollene@jbu.edu Admissions information: (888) 528-4636
A Day in the Life of Students at JBU JBU photography students put their skills to work, capturing images that represent an average day in the lives of students on campus. by Andrea Phillips
Director of University Communications
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JBU in Focus
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The Economy and JBU by Patricia Gustavson
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Chaplain’s Corner by Rod Reed
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Images of Homecoming 2008
www.jbu.edu/admissions
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The Cathedral Vision: Complete
To submit alumni news and photos:
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jbuinfo@jbu.edu
www.jbualumni.com
JBU Athletics “New Hall of Fame Members” by Anna Mulder and Simeon Hinsey
alumni@jbu.edu
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Phonathon: Building Relationships, Pursuing Results by Chad E. Cunningham
For information about giving to JBU: www.jbu.edu/giving
Godspeed,
The Power of Photography There’s a new major at JBU this year: Photography. Because photography is a powerful medium for communication and persuasion, JBU faculty are particularly interested in helping students learn to be responsible photographers, not to mention excellent ones. by Neal Holland
To submit story ideas, photos, feedback: Andrea Phillips
Thank you for the many ways you support and encourage the work here at JBU. May God continue to bless and keep you and your loved ones.
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The Brown Bulletin is the official publication of John
It is a commitment seen in the images of students at work in the classroom, or eating together in the renovated cafeteria, or worshiping in chapel, or serving children through our CAUSE ministries. It is a commitment that is also seen in pictures of the faculty, staff, and trustees who have served JBU for 25 years or more and whom we have honored by inscribing their names in the new Cathedral plaza.
Now, during the Advent season, we are also reminded again of the miracle of the incarnation, the miracle that Christ took on flesh and became the “image of the invisible God.” In Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection, we see God’s consistent commitment to redeem His people, even at the cost of the suffering of His son. Christ is the incarnate image of the love of the invisible God, and His incarnation remains the reason that we continue to affirm “Christ Over All” at JBU.
Meagan Dees Anna Mulder
Homecoming 21
features
Andrea Phillips
Lead Designer
“He is the image of the invisible God” Colossians 1:15
Student Life 14
(800) 446-2450
John Brown University provides Christ-centered education that prepares people to honor God and serve others by developing their intellectual, spiritual, and professional lives.
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Alumni News
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Flashback: Once New at JBU
On
the
C Ov e r : Junior photography major Jeran Anderson Photo by Andrea Phillips
jbu in focus
Letters One Marriage Success Story I had literally just sent an e-mail to our pastor when I decided to read the Bulletin. In an age where there is sexual addiction, marital problems, etc., my topic was a request for scheduling a renewal of our marriage vows. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1994 and was in remission until 2006. The Lord has blessed us by helping Alan and me to become even closer than we were when we were married on December 27, 1975. I attended JBU during the 1969–1970 terms. I transferred to Cedarville College and graduated from there in the spring of 1971. In 1977, the Lord took our twins to heaven before they were old enough to live here on earth. We adopted our son Brian in 1978 when he was seven days old. He is 30 now and is working in Tucson, Arizona. We adopted another newborn in 1987, a girl who was three days old. Our daughter has fought a battle with Ankylosing Spondylitis and had a hip replacement in her freshman year of college. She is now a junior and wants to teach ancient history at the college level. This would allow her to work while dealing with a complicated disease. I thought you would like to read a success story in light of Alumni Serious about Offering what is written about in the Freedom from Sexual Addiction summer Brown Bulletin.
Brown Bulletin
Vowing To Save Marriages in Northwest Arkansas
Summer 2008
a publication for alumni & friends of JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY
Janet (Swiger) Currence ’71 Hurricane, WV
JBU Creates Major in Renewable Energy
Flashback Alumni Found I always look forward to sitting down with my Brown Bulletin to see what is going on at JBU and, perhaps more importantly for me, scanning the latest on alumni news. The “I Do” article on weddings at JBU was very interesting. In the Mick and Patty (Bunnel) Leibold wedding [in which all the attendants were identified as JBU alumni], the flower girl and ring bearer later became JBU grads as well. Jared Redyke graduated in 1994 and Claudia (Benware) Ford graduated in 1998. Keep up your good work. Janie Bunnel Ives ’66 Tulsa, OK
CORRECTION In the caption for the photo of Franklin Graham with John Brown Jr. that appeared in the Summer 2008 issue, we referenced a photo taken 50 years ago with Billy Graham and John Brown Sr. on the JBU campus. That historic photo actually features Billy Graham with John Brown Jr. Founder John Brown Sr. met Billy Graham early in Graham’s ministry, but Graham did not visit the JBU campus until after the founder’s death.
This fall, JBU announced the addition of a Bachelor of Science in Renewable Energy to its program offerings. JBU is the first university to offer a renewable energy degree in Arkansas and one of only a few U.S. institutions offering a four-year degree in this field. Students can begin the renewable energy program in fall 2009. “Renewable energy sources are becoming an important share of the mainstream energy supply in the United States,” said Fernando Vega, director of the renewable energy program. “Economic, political, and environmental concerns are among the drivers contributing to this rapid growth. JBU is developing this program and will be seeking to integrate sustainability topics into other curricula to match the demands of this emerging trend.” JBU’s program in renewable energy will include courses in wind, solar, and biomass energy as well as practical experience in designing, constructing, and monitoring renewable energy generators. Students will choose among one of three focuses within the renewable energy degree: design, management, and international development. JBU’s renewable energy program will study the growing worldwide demand for conservation and energy efficiency, increasing energy costs, environmental benefits of renewable sources of energy generation, climate change/global warming, and the importance of renewable energy as an aspect of Christian stewardship. The program will be an interdisciplinary program that builds on some of JBU’s established programs, including science, engineering, intercultural studies, and business. Those interested in learning more about the renewable energy program at JBU can get detailed information at www.jbu.edu/science/renew or by calling 877-JBU-INFO.
JBU Enrollment Sets Record High
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY: Letters are published with the permission of the author. Some letters are edited for length. Not all letters can be published. Published letters will be selected based on the value of their content, tone, clarity, and other such characteristics. Send your letters by e-mail to Andrea Phillips at aphillips@jbu.edu or by U.S. mail to: Andrea Phillips, Brown Bulletin Editor, John Brown University, 2000 West University Street, Siloam Springs, AR 72761.
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JBU’s traditional undergraduate enrollment for the 2008–2009 academic year hit an all-time high with 1,289 students according to the “11th Day Report,” a report that all institutions of higher education must file with the government each year. “This year’s incoming class is very strong both academically and in diversity,” said Don Crandall, vice president of enrollment. “They have an average ACT of 25.6 and average high school GPA of 3.65. Our new students represent 35 states and 27 countries. We are pleased to see that despite the state of the economy, people are still seeing the value of a quality education at a private
Christian university.” JBU maintained its 86 percent student retention rate this year. With enrollment in adult undergraduate programs at 449 and graduate programs at 308, JBU’s total enrollment for this year is 2,046. This is the third year in a row that JBU’s total enrollment has passed the 2,000 mark.
JBU Ranked Third by U.S. News JBU’s academic excellence was displayed in its recent third-place ranking among Baccalaureate Colleges in the South on the U.S. News & World Report “America’s Best Colleges” list. JBU’s assessment score of 92 places it among the top seven baccalaureate colleges in the country (out of 319 colleges and universities). “It is wonderful to receive outside affirmation of JBU’s academic and institutional strength, but even the best college rankings cannot always capture the commitment, community, and excellence of the people who make up an institution. I am deeply grateful for the faculty, staff, students, and alumni who continue to excel in their chosen fields and who remain committed to serving others. They best represent JBU’s commitment to top quality, Christcentered education,” Dr. Charles Pollard, university president, said.
KLRC Sets Record in Ratings JBU’s radio station, 101.1 FM KLRC, recently set a record for the highest rating for any noncommercial radio station in Northwest Arkansas. The latest publicly released Arbitron figures give KLRC a 7.6 share of the listening audience in Northwest Arkansas, which positions them in second place in a market of more than 25 stations heard in the region. KLRC’s record share, or percentage of audience, is the highest in the history of the station. The 7.6 share represents one of the highest ratings for Christian radio anywhere in the nation. “This is a huge tribute to the work of an amazing team under the programming leadership of our program director, Mark Michaels. It’s also very direct evidence of how God is using and blessing KLRC. There’s no other logical explanation for how a noncommercial 6,000 watt station can reach so many people,” said Sean Sawatzky, KLRC general manager. KLRC is programmed and staffed locally. In addition to serving the Northwest Arkansas community, it also serves JBU as a training tool for advanced broadcasting students. KLRC plays a station mix of contemporary Christian Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
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jbu in focus music featuring artists such as Third Day, Jeremy Camp, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, and Natalie Grant. KLRC was also recently voted by the readers of Celebrate magazine as the number one “must have” music station in Northwest Arkansas. Ratings produced by RRC from Data © 2008 Arbitron, Inc. All estimates are MSA, AQH Share for Adults 12+ Monday–Sunday unless otherwise noted.
being done at the university. It is a pleasure to recognize their commitment by naming this facility in their honor.” JBU has initiated the design and development phase for the $8.5 million project. No date for the groundbreaking has been set, pending the additional funding needed to complete this project. It is anticipated that the location of the auditorium will be west of the Maybee/Chapman parking lot near the Broadhurst apartment complex.
JBU Biology Professor Greuel Elected Fellow of the ASA JBU biology professor Dr. Brian Greuel was elected Fellow of the American Scientific Affiliation (ASA) by the ASA. The honor was announced at the annual ASA meeting at George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon, August 1–4, 2008. “We are pleased that Dr. Greuel has received this richly deserved recognition,” said Dr. Cal Piston, division chair of natural science at JBU. “He has been a leader in our academic division both in scientific research and developing the understanding of the integration of science with Christian faith.” Greuel, who has taught biology at JBU for 11 years, is one of five who joined the current list of 171 Fellows. “This honor recognizes his stature in the scientific community, his contributions to issues of science and Christian faith, and his support of the ASA,” said Randy Isaac, executive director of the ASA. The ASA is a fellowship of men and women of science and disciplines who share a common fidelity to the Bible and a commitment to integrity in the practice of science.
Alumni Pledge $5 Million for Performing Arts Center JBU alumni Bill and Donna Berry ’56 ’57 recently made a $5 million lead gift commitment toward the construction of a new 500-seat auditorium and performing arts center at JBU. The Bill and Donna Berry Performing Arts Center will be a venue for JBU theater productions, music recitals and performances, speakers and lecturers, small chapel programs, large campus meetings, and other special campus events. The 23,950-square-foot facility will provide much-needed performance space for the university. “We are deeply grateful for this very generous gift from Bill and Donna Berry,” said President Charles Pollard. “They have been a source of great encouragement to us all with their faithful commitment to Christ and to the work 6 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
CIRCULATION CLASSROOM CONCESSIONS CONTROL BOOTH DRESSING ROOMS OFFICE SEATING STAGE/STAGE SHOP
JBU’s graduate counseling program to provide regular counseling services to anyone in the community. Interns are supervised by fully licensed counselors, who are also available to provide counseling services when needed. Services are provided at a low cost, with prices based on each client’s need and circumstances. “The CARE Clinic has been designed to give graduate counseling students at JBU an easily accessible opportunity for further training and supervision, while making affordable counseling available to anyone in the community,” said Dr. Ryan Martin, CARE Clinic executive director. JBU graduate students in counseling must complete three to four semesters of direct client contact until they reach a total of 500 hours of counseling experience in order to graduate. All faculty and local counselors who staff the clinic are licensed by the state of Arkansas.
STORAGE TICKETS/COAT ROOM TOILETS
JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY BILL & DONNA BERRY AUDITORIUM SEPT 19, 2008
SCALE : 1" = 20'
KLRC Launches Online Alternative Music Station Award winning radio station 101.1 FM KLRC expanded its market past the borders of Northwest Arkansas when it launched a new online Christian Alternative music station, MyPositiveEdge.com (MPE), on September 12. With a new format and 24/7 online access, MPE will allow JBU broadcasting students more “hands-on” radio experience. Broadcasting students taking practicum hours will be the on-air DJs for the new radio station. “For several years, we have heard of the desire and need to have a radio station with positive music that was specifically designed for high school and college-aged students,” said Jeremy Louis, MyPositiveEdge.com program director. “This new station is an answer to many prayers. By utilizing Internet streaming technology, MPE is not only able to be “Northwest Arkansas’ Hit Music Alternative,” but will be heard all over the world as well. We are excited to see what God will do through this new ministry to youth and young adults.”
Fort Smith CARE Clinic Opens to Community JBU’s graduate counseling department has opened a new CARE Clinic, a counseling clinic, for the Fort Smith community. This is the second CARE Clinic operated by JBU, with the first one located adjacent to the JBU campus in Siloam Springs. JBU hopes to open a CARE Clinic in Rogers in the future. JBU’s CARE Clinic model uses counseling interns from
President Charles Pollard and Ryan Martin cut the ribbon to mark the opening of JBU’s CARE Clinic in Fort Smith.
New Career Development Center Web Site Connects Students and Alumni with Employers, and Vice Versa For JBU students and alumni, searching for job openings, posting resumes, and using other online career guidance tools just got easier. A completely revamped Career Development Center web site is now available at www.jbu.edu/ life/studev/cdc. The new web site incorporates software by College Central Network (CCN), which offers job and resume listing services for both large and small universities. The new career page features separate search menus for students, employers, and alumni. Chris Confer, director of career development, said that alumni were visiting JBU’s Career Development Center (CDC) web site, looking for resources to help in their career transitions. Employers were also contacting the CDC wanting to hire JBU students and asking for a jobposting board. The new web site helps students and alumni learn
about jobs and post their resumes for employers to see. It also makes it easier for employers to find JBU students qualified to fill their company’s positions, whether internships, part-time positions, or full-time positions. In addition to the CCN feature, the new CDC site also offers links to other job search sites, information about employers and positions, resume writing tips, interview tips, and resources to help with career planning. Portions of this article first appeared in JBU’s student newspaper, The Threefold Advocate.
Homecoming Marked by Openings and Dedications JBU Homecoming 2008, October 10–11, was not only a time for alumni and friends to gather and reminisce, but also it was a time to celebrate the development of JBU’s campus and the generous gifts that are furthering JBU’s mission. The festivities started on Thursday afternoon when residents of JBU’s North Hall gathered with board members, faculty, and staff to dedicate the new wing of North, completed Vice President for Student Development Steve Beers welcomes the students, alumni, and friends in August thanks to who gathered on the lawn of North Hall for the an anonymous $3 dedication ceremony. million gift in 2007. The student-organized service recognized that the hall is more than a building, but a community of students. It culminated with a prayer over the residents and for future residents of the hall. On Friday morning, JBU honored its “living stones,” those who have served JBU as faculty, staff, or board members for 25 years or longer. Honorees were invited to a reception in the new plaza built in the center of the Cathedral Group. Within the new cement and brick walkway are individual bricks inscribed with the names of the honorees, who also received medallions to commemorate their service. Following the reception, alumni and board members joined the campus President Pollard addresses alumni and friends community in a special during the reception for JBU’s “living stones.”
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jbu in focus dedication chapel service in the Cathedral to celebrate the completion of the Cathedral Group renovations and the fulfillment of John Brown’s vision for the iconic buildings. In his chapel message, President Charles Pollard compared the “living stones” of 1 Peter 2:5 to those members of the JBU community, past and present, who have made an impact on the campus and the lives of students to the glory of God. (A concrete panel in the walkway leading to the Cathedral displays the verse.) You can download and listen to Dr. Pollard’s message at www.jbu.edu/life/christform/ chapel/media.asp. Later on Friday, the Construction Management (CM) department dedicated the third floor of the engineering
chaplain’s corner building as the Bob and Von Sheridan Construction Management Floor in tribute to Bob and Von Sheridan ’54, who have supported JBU students and the CM program for more than 25 years. The ceremony, which took place on the third floor, was simulcast in a display screen in the first floor lobby where numerous alumni could view it.
Know an Outstanding Alumnus? JBU is looking for the next Alumnus of the Year. If you know an alum who reflects the ideals of JBU, is a leader, and graduated at least 25 years ago, nominate him or her. Go to www.jbualumni.com for more information.
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Bob and Von Sheridan
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For more information about these and other news stories, visit www.jbu.edu/news
The Economy and JBU
by Patricia Gustavson, Vice President for Finance and Administration The current economic environment presents significant challenges to each of us as individuals and to every kind of organization. At JBU, our responsibility to be good stewards is never so evident as when we are under pressure. The policies and practices that JBU has established over the years are now keeping JBU financially healthy, but we do not take the current economic situation lightly. The economy impacts not only the university’s own assets and liabilities but also those of our donors and of our current and prospective students and their families. We understand that the entire JBU community, including our employees, students, alumni, and friends, puts trust in us to manage JBU’s finances wisely in challenging years as well as when things are going well. Like most university endowments, JBU’s $60 million of investments are well diversified across many managers and asset classes. We invest for the long term. We intentionally have funds in asset classes that underperformed the S&P 500 when the U.S. stock market was soaring, but they are positioned to soften the blow when that market falls. Of course, the current economy leaves very few places to hide. But our broad diversification is considered a prudent and safe investment policy over time. Another way that we protect both the value of the endowment and our spending level for budget is through five-year averaging. As JBU budgets spending from our endowment funds, our spending rate on new endowment funds is 5%; it is a fraction more on older endowment funds. We do not spend 5% of the current endowment value, but 5% of the five-year 8 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
average value. Even if an endowment is brand new, we can calculate what it would have been worth a year ago, two years ago, and so forth. By using this average, we do not spend too much in years when market values may be high or too little when values may be depressed. This makes our spending much more stable, rather than rising and falling with short-term market movements. In addition to careful investment management, JBU budgets conservatively. Each year, we leave budget “buffers” that can cover unexpected budget expenses . We also plan the budget based on past average enrollment levels rather than highestever numbers. JBU’s score on the Composite Financial Index, a tool for measuring the financial health of colleges and universities, is always in the top quartile of our peers. This is accomplished by steady policies for protecting assets, limiting debt, staying within our fiscal means, and protecting against the “rainy day.” In addition to being fiscally prudent, this is good scriptural stewardship. There are many things that help me to be confident. JBU is blessed with experienced, astute leadership and with a talented board of trustees who provide thoughtful and diligent oversight. We have a very long history of careful and effective financial management. But most of all, I am confident that God continues to hold JBU in His hand and continues to call us to fulfill the mission He has given us. Patricia Gustavson has served JBU faithfully for 29 years. She has served in her current position since 1984. She recently announced that she will retire in 2009.
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The Gift of the Unexpected and Undesired by Rod Reed University Chaplain In the past few months, most of us have experienced some significant news that we didn’t expect or want. Mortgage crises, falling home prices, failThis year JBU welcomed ing banks, stock market crashes, family tragedies Rod Reed as the new —the list could go on and on. It is hard to find a university chaplain. Reed comes to JBU with family that is not affected by one or more unexmore than 20 years of pected and undesired situations. And for most of experience in church us, the natural human response—trying to avoid and college ministry. the pain—happens automatically. Our prayer lives Before coming to JBU, usually reflect that. When difficulties arise, our first he served as the campus prayer is often that God would resolve the diffipastor and dean of culties and return our lives to a state of comfort. spiritual formation at We see in scripture that God often answers those Fresno Pacific Univerprayers. Many of Jesus’ miracles were answers to sity for 11 years. Reed has a master of divinity prayer for healing or provision. in theology from Bethel However, I think we misread scripture and Theological Seminary. misunderstand God’s intent for us if we assume that He is working on a PhD God’s purposes are always to relieve our pain. And in practical theology when we assume that those are God’s purposes, from the University of it can lead us to bitterness and disillusionment Bristol (United Kingwith Him. Additionally, we can miss out on many dom) with a research of God’s blessings if we only pray for deliverance focus in spiritual or provision. formation in American Christian universities. In John 16:33 (NIV), Jesus comforts his disciples He is the chairperson of who have just been told of the many trials they will the Campus Ministries have to endure as His followers by saying these Commission for the words,“I have told you these things, so that in me you CCCU. Reed and his may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. wife Michelle have three But take heart! I have overcome the world.” sons and one daughter. Peace comes not from the absence of trouble. We have peace and security in Christ in the midst of troubles. In fact, we see in James 1 that God uses times of trouble to bring us to maturity in faith. An author friend of mine has told me many times that lasting spiritual growth rarely happens apart from struggles. So, when our primary goal is to escape difficulties, we may be short-circuiting God’s purposes for our growth. This is not to say that we shouldn’t pray for healing, or financial recovery, or the sale of a home with a burdensome mortgage. It does mean, however, that in addition to those prayers, we should seek God’s purposes in the midst of those difficulties. Ask God what He wants you to learn in this time that you might not be willing or able to learn in easier times. Often our ears and hearts are more willing to hear when we have a very real sense of our need. So when you are in the midst of trouble, take heart, seek Christ, for He has overcome the world, and in Him you may have peace.
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Our innate ability to understand images helps us to interpret photos and form judgments about that same news, entertainment, or art. Because an unedited photograph captures the exact image of a moment in time, photography can be seen as the most realistic of the visual media. It reflects reality as the eye sees it; it is not a description or metaphor of reality as are other more “artistic” forms of communication. This quality of realism alone makes photography very powerful. When realism is combined with the subjective nature of photography—that photographers can frame reality in a way that interprets the moment and conveys specific messages—photos have the potential to inspire good or incite destruction. One of the most striking cases for the power of the photograph can be made from the Farm Security Administration’s (FSA) use of photography to frame the tragedy of the Great Depression for Americans in the 1930s. The FSA developed a photography program, hiring writers and photographers to report on the plight of poor farmers, believing that the stories and photos would move Americans to support Roosevelt’s New Deal. None of these photos was more successful than Dorothea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” (shown below). This famous photo features a mother in a ragged sweater, with a furrowed brow, seated with a baby on her lap, her hand at her jaw as she stares in the distance, seemingly pondering her plight. Her children flank her with heads on her shoulders, faces hidden, as if seeking consolation from the woman who has nothing to give. This photograph possesses incredible power; it has the capability of stopping time, helping us to visualize history. It helps us to empathize with the misery of the Great Depression and, in particular, the misery of this struggling mother. She is at once an individual and a stereotype for the pain of that particular challenge in our nation’s history. The image is so vivid, so powerful, because it is real. It is essential to bear in mind, however, that the documentary photograph is not merely a reflection of reality. This work is driven by the photographer’s desire to create a functional, subjective interpretation of the reality captured in the image. That snapshot of time is only one piece of
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A photograph can be simply a nice thing to look at, eliciting pleasurable emotions by displaying the beauty of nature, the common humanity of an unfamiliar people group, or something that merely piques our interest. Modern photography, however, also plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of our own time and place as we consume photography daily with our news, entertainment, and art.
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by Neal Holland, Associate Professor of Visual Arts Photos submitted by current JBU students as class assignments
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photos by: Donny Epp, senior Matt Feyerabend ’05 Dani (vanEttinger) Jernigan ’06 Sarah (Cross) Masciana ’03 Ben Rasmussen ’07 Amanda Reed, freshman Phil Roberts, sophomore Colby Webb ’05 Tim Woodring ’07 Ben Young, senior
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and integrity. In helping to implement the new photography major at JBU, this tension of subjectivity and reality has never been far from my mind. It is a great responsibility to teach students how to properly use such a powerful media. Many of our students are preparing for jobs in commercial photography, advertising, or photojournalism. Many others are interested in producing social documentaries or supporting mission work. As educators, the critical question we must continually ask is this: How can the university best prepare students to use their photography skills to influence their audiences appropriately? Currently, JBU photography students are exposed to a wide variety of photography uses and styles, so they can learn the full potential and influence of the medium. They take courses in digital photography and manipulation, traditional photography methods, fine art photography, social documentary, and photography for a variety of commercial uses. Students are allowed to explore, define and redefine photography and its uses by practicing in all of these arenas. One goal of the university has been to give photography students opportunities to study internationally, emphasizing the way photography can be used to encourage and support mission activities. In 2007, student photographers went to Spain with graphic design students. There they worked with Avant Ministries to produce an evangelistic booklet for Spanish youth that featured the photography and design of our students. The booklet has been widely adopted, not only in Spain but also throughout many other Spanish-speaking countries. Avant Ministries was pleased and our student photographers and designers together were able to use their skills to influence youth for the glory of God. Our hope is that students learn the lesson of this experience—that God can use their talents to bring about great good in the world for the cause of Christ—in the JBU classroom as well as through foreign study. As a field, photography is an excellent example of JBU’s Head, Heart, Hand motto at work. Students are learning the principles of visual art and communication, the ethical and spiritual principles that should guide their art, and the skills to become good photographers. And the photographs themselves can be a means of informing the head of the viewer, moving the heart of the viewer, and motivating viewers to use their hands in response to the visual message. This is the power of photography and, arguably, its highest purpose. 16
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the full event. It is a limited view of the whole landscape. And photographers choose the exact moment and the exact view to represent their interpretation of the subject. In Lange’s case, she was hired by the FSA to take photos that would help Americans understand the plight of migrant farm workers. The photographer’s purpose —to subjectively interpret reality—takes priority in this landmark image. If you dismiss the subjectivity of the media, you negate the purpose for which the photo was taken. The balance of subjectivity and realism exists in modern photography as well. Think about the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Few of us had the opportunity to visit the storm-ravaged areas for first-hand knowledge about the impact. Our only visual source of information was the photography that was delivered to us. Those photos gave us a real glimpse of the calamity, but we would be naive to deny any subjective intentions in the snapshots of reality. Photographers intended to capture photos that would shock us, inspire us, or move us to specific emotions or actions. Subjectivity doesn’t make photos less real, but responsible viewers should be savvy enough to recognize the subjective aspect of photos. Subjectivity in photography might sound like a negative trait, but that need not be the case. The photograph’s subjective nature is the true power of its form. In fact, subjectivity is the power of any art form. It is believed that Lange’s “Migrant Mother” photograph inspired John Steinbeck to write The Grapes of Wrath. Images of Katrina’s aftermath moved viewers to pour relief aid and money into the New Orleans area. Most who saw the photos felt the impact of the disaster more profoundly than they would have by simply reading or hearing about it. Subjectivity and reality always exist side by side in the visual arts. Photographers are somewhat divided over the appropriate use of subjectivity in photography, but it is hard to deny that every photo is in some way subjective. This tension does present a thoughtful, responsible photographer with a perpetual challenge: how to use the subjectivity of photography with honesty
Photo by Emily Rupert
Photo by Clayton Chamberlain Photo by Corey Lenihan
Photo by Troy Zellers
JBU Photo by Ashley Knapp
STUDENTS AT
Photo by Ashley Knapp
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
Sometime between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.—depending on when their first class starts—JBU students start their day in residence halls, townhouses, duplexes, or apartments. Most are sharing space with roommates, learning to compromise, learning to communicate, and hopefully learning to respect each other’s differences and preferences. If they’re not hurrying off to class, they may make time for breakfast, and perhaps personal Bible study or worship time to start the day. Classes at JBU take place in traditional classrooms, and also in science labs, in computer labs, on the construction site, in the boardroom, and even outdoors on the quad on days when the beautiful Arkansas weather proves irresistible. As it has for nearly 100 years, JBU continues to educate each student’s head, heart, and hand, preparing them to be critical thinkers as well as successful leaders and workers in God’s service. Home economics as a major has been retired. Renewable energy has been created. Agriculture and carpentry have been replaced with computer-related studies such as digital media and graphic design. At 10:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, students fill the Cathedral of the Ozarks for chapel services. At 11:15, they file out of the Cathedral, heading for classes, work, lunch, or a little free time.
Photo by Melody Mitchell
Photo by Kara Bird Photo by Emily Rupert
While many things have changed at JBU over the years, one thing remains constant: JBU is still a place where 18- to 21-year-olds live, learn, and prepare for the futures God has for them. As a class project, we asked JBU photography students to capture day-to-day activities in pictures to illustrate campus life as today’s JBU students know it. Photo by Melody Mitchell
14 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
Photo by Melody Mitchell
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
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Photo by Clayton Chamberlain
Photo by Annaka Ailie
In the Walker Student Center, students can get several things done in one location: They can grab a snack or a meal at California Café. Students check their mailboxes, hoping for real letters or packages from home rather than fliers or junk mail. Students can use their laptop computers to access the wireless Internet and work on assignments, check their e-mail, get the latest news online, or simply update their page on Facebook.com. Work-study is still an important part of the JBU experience. Like generations before them, students today work in the business office, sort mail in the mailroom, serve in the cafeteria, help with groundskeeping, or assist in academic offices. Today’s students, however, also have opportunities to work on the JBU web site or in Information Technology Services, repairing computers and managing technology tools that are standard in every JBU classroom and office.
Photo by Annaka Ailie
Photo by Kara Bird
Photo by Jennie Anderson
Photo by Melody Mitchell
Photo by Daniel LaBelle
Photo by Robert Headrick
In the afternoons, students are in classes again. Lectures, labs, projects fill the day. One of the distinctives of JBU’s academic atmosphere is the availability of professors who take a sincere interest in helping students learn academically, spiritually, and professionally. For some students, the afternoons are a time to work out, to enjoy team sports, to study with friends, to get involved in club activities, to rehearse for performances, or simply enjoy the outdoors. A stroll across the quad on a nice day allows you to see students studying on the grass, playing Frisbee® golf, relaxing in hammocks they’ve set up for themselves, or practicing their slacklining skills.
16 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
Photo by David Storer
Photo by Anna Carol Brymer
Biology test tomorrow !
Photo by Emily Rupert
Photo by Clayton Chamberlain
Photo by Amber Wilson
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009 17
Photo by Grace Pennington
Photo by Bri Suitt
The End! zzz...
Photo by Clayton Chamberlain
Photo by Melody Mitchell
Photo by Anna Carol Brymer
Photo by Mandy Lawrence
As the sun begins to set, students migrate to the caf for dinner with their friends. The all-you-can-eat format allows students a variety of options, including several hot entrees, vegetables, pizza, a salad bar, sandwiches, ice cream, and cereal, which is available at every meal. After dinner, students scatter, each to activities that highlight their interests and choices: Students interested in drama head to the Jones Recital Hall for the latest show or rehearsal. RAs serve as counselors and party planners, encouraging their residents and leading events. Those interested in art, missions, politics, or social justice are gathering for club meetings to discuss their last event or plan their next outreach. Missionary kids, whose families are just waking up half a world away, call home free of charge on their computers using Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) software such as Skype. Friends can be found relaxing in front of TV screens, playing video games, surfing the web, text messaging their friends, or doing all of these things at once into the late hours of the night. Day ends, and the campus slowly becomes still, but students are still awake. They are back in the lab or in their rooms putting the final touches on projects due tomorrow. They are in the common areas of the residence halls, getting to know their potential mates. They are closing their day with a passage of scripture and prayer, allowing God to shape their minds and hearts. Long after the rest of Siloam Springs has fallen to sleep, JBU students gradually make their way to bed, having come one day closer to the future God has for them, hoping that they’re ready to face the activities and challenges of the next day.
Photo by Melody Mitchell
Photo by Antony Floyd
18 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
Photo by Emily Rupert
Photo by Jennie Anderson
Photo by Casey Shivers
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009 19
Student Blog Many JBU students keep blogs as an electronic diary, an online journal, or a personal web page to chronicle their lives on campus. This is an entry posted on one such blog by a JBU student, sophomore James Cooke. When we saw it, we asked James’s permission to share his essay with you.
God must have a sense of humor. Last year, when I came to JBU, I joined the ranks of those who use pirated software. I justified it by saying that I was only going to “try it out.” Plus it was software from the giant Microsoft, who probably charges ten times what it’s actually worth. And tons of college students do it. It’s not like I have that much money lying around to buy the software anyway; I am a poor college student after all! So my good intentions were to use the software for a while. But I didn’t think about the fact that downloading the newer MS Office software completely upgraded my old version of the software, and left no trace on my computer. I couldn’t just uninstall my new version [because then I’d be without any version of a] word processor, which is needed by any college student. So I just kept [the illegal software]. It kind of bothered me, but I just ignored that. This summer I started thinking about it again. I have also been thinking a lot about the “poor college student” mentality. I also have been hearing a lot and thinking about the blessings of God in our lives. So I reached a conclusion: I don’t think having illegal software on my computer is a good idea. But [how to unload the illegal] Office 2007? Some of my files are the new version, which isn’t supported by anything else yet. And I used the new version of Outlook, the e-mail program. I don’t know any easy way to get my e-mails off of there and go back to the old version. So this prompted two more thoughts: Should I really [get rid of the Office programs]? Do I really care that much? I decided it does matter. So, I checked into [prices for academic versions of the software] online, and found them to be quite reasonable: about $120 for MS Office Pro. I made a deal with God. (Yes, this is where the humor comes in.) I have been selling stuff on eBay. One of the things I sold was my old camera. As I watched the bids go up, I told God if it sold for $120–the price of the software–I would use the money to buy the software right away. Well, my camera sold for $77. I was off the hook, right? Not really. I had decided to buy the software regardless. (My “deal” with God was really just for fun. I think God likes to joke with us; hearing our needs all the time has to get boring.) Well,
20 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
today I was shopping for the software. I found a site that had MS Office Pro for…guess how much…$77! I think I seriously laughed aloud. I know that isn’t very spiritual, and many would probably just say it’s because of some natural reason. I don’t really care. I think we don’t give God credit for as much as we should. Anyway, so why did I bring this up? I have a premise: If you live life like you are a “poor college student,” guess what you’ll be: A poor college student. If you are living with the thought that you are poor, you are going to make decisions like that. You will make decisions like knowingly using pirated software, or not tipping what a waiter/ waitress deserves, or not tithing, or not being a generous giver. What I want us to think about is how decisions affect us. If we cling so tightly to what we do have that we only spend it on ourselves (and even participate in less-than-legal activity) how can God bless us? Do we really expect Him to bless us when we don’t even see what we DO have? When we cheat others out of what we should be giving to them, or even what they lawfully deserve? Three reasons why I think we don’t see God miraculously provide for us: 1. Most of the time, we really aren’t poor, and we have the means to pay for whatever the need. God has already provided. 2. We don’t expect God to provide, and we don’t allow Him to. We cut corners. We don’t let Him come through, because that would require faith, something that can be hard to come by. 3. We miss it when He does provide. We don’t connect the check from our grandmother that covers our books [with God’s provision]. I do believe God is constantly providing for us; we just choose to think that the way things work out is “natural.” So that is my story. I am going to live like a child of God— the King of the universe. He promises to take care of my every need, so I think I’ll stop trying to take care of them myself. Are there more ways I don’t trust God to provide for me? Probably. Guess what? He can and will reveal that to me. He is gracious enough to show us these things slowly, one step at a time. This is a step He has shown me, and so I take it without hesitation. What step would He have you take?
The picture-perfect weather lured everyone outdoors.
Several alumni like Dirk Baumann ’82 participated in the JBU career fair, talking with students about jobs and internships with their companies.
The 2008 JBU Homecoming Court: (l. to r.) Bethany Shorey, Henry Fennell, Faith Kinyanjui, Clayton Anderson, Meredith Ghrist, and Ben Bergstrom.
Students and alumni enjoyed a volleyball game Saturday afternoon.
Kay Emery ’58 visits with alumni friends in Walker Student Center.
Paul Smith directs alumni and students during choir rehersal for the Showcase performance.
Members of the class of 1983 reunited at the soccer game on Saturday.
Students show their JBU spirit, cheering on the volleyball team.
Gary Guinn ’74 visited with Joy (Ernst) Kendall ’00, Charlene (Handiboe) Birky ’00, and Megan Low ’05 Saturday afternoon.
Joallen and Dr. John Moose ’90 strolled across the quad Friday afternoon.
The largest choir in JBU’s history, which included alumni and students, performed at Showcase.
The Aquino family gathered together for a picture in the new Cathedral plaza.
Alumni who traveled to Ireland as students gathered at the home of Billy Stevenson Friday night.
Soccer coach Bob Gustavson laughed with alumni at the athletics banquet.
Scholarship donors Lola Woodard (center) and Linda Casey spent time with scholarship recipient Natasha Bevis at Friday’s scholarship dinner.
Barney Smiley ’51 and former basketball coach Sam Starkey visited at the Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Dr. Pollard shared campus news and stories with a roomfull of interested alumni.
JBU students challenged alumni to a rugby game Saturday morning. The alumi won!
Following the Showcase performance, alumni gathered for a reception in the student center.
George Townsend ’58, Jane (Becker) Weathers ’64, and Margaret Siemens Weathers ’47 sign the decade guest books at the registration area in Walker Student Center.
Future alumni enjoyed games and activities at KidZone throughout the weekend.
Friday’s Chapel
Alumni board member Jake Naramore ’03 presents the alumnus of the year award to Dr. Les Hromas ’51.
Soccer alumni pose following an exciting match.
JBU Heritage Society 2008
John Brown III ’71 and Stephania Brown ’72 met students who are scholarship recipients at the Scholarship Recognition Dinner Friday night.
Both of JBU’s soccer teams—men and women— won their games Saturday. Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009 23
The Cathedral Vision: COMPLETE
This fall, JBU saw the completion of the Cathedral Group renovation project, fulfilling founder John Brown’s vision of the iconic campus buildings and ensuring that they will stand strong for generations to come. The Cathedral of the Ozarks, the engineering building, and the art building (formerly the science building) have stood as the center of campus for more than 50 years. Prior to the renovations, their unfinished cinderblock exteriors showed the wear of weather and age, their original roofs needed to be replaced, and interior portions of the buildings were in need of updates. The contributions of JBU faculty, staff, students, and alumni, together with gifts from friends of the university, made the $6.2 million renovation plan a reality. In addition to the interior and structural renovations (including the preservation of the stained glass windows), the buildings received external renovations that are remarkable. The external appearance of the buildings has been transformed by the addition of limestone facades that protect the buildings as well as beautify them. A new plaza before the entrance welcomes students and visitors as they come to the Cathedral for opportunities to learn and worship. 24 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
The Cathedral Vision: COMPLETE On Friday, October 10, the JBU community gathered for a special chapel service to rededicate the Cathedral. As part of the dedication of these buildings, President Charles Pollard recognized those faculty, staff, and board members who have served JBU for 25 years or more, calling them “living stones” in reference to 1 Peter 2:5. In his chapel message, President Pollard compared the “living stones” of 1 Peter to those members of the JBU community, past and present, who have made a lasting impact on the campus and the lives of students to the glory of God. The more than 100 “living stones” were each honored with a brick inscribed with his or her name, placed in the cement and brick plaza walkway as an enduring tribute. Each also received a medallion to commemorate their service.
Members of the Brown family (left), including John Brown Jr., John Brown III, and Barney Smiley ’51, gathered to mark this momentous day.
Download and listen to Dr. Pollard’s chapel message at www.jbu.edu/ life/christform/chapel/media.asp Board members Nick Petelski ’61, Dick McCartney ’47, and Galen Gilbert ’40 (above) and Alice and Boyce McQuay ’58 (above right) take note of the names inscribed on the bricks in the walkway. The Cathedral’s stained glass windows were repaired and restored, and each received a clear outer window to protect the stained glass panes from the elements.
During the chapel service (top), John Brown Jr. expressed his gratitude for those who have served the university faithfully.
JBU’s “livings stones” enjoyed a reception (top right) in the new plaza before the chapel service. At the reception, 25-year honorees received commemorative medallions (right) to recognize their place in the university’s history.
At last, the Cathedral Group buildings that have been central to the JBU experience for generations have a magnificent appearance that reflects their importance on campus and their place in JBU’s history.
Phonathon:
JBU Athletics Inducts New Hall of Fame Members by Anna Mulder, JBU junior, and Simeon Hinsey ’01, Sports Information Director
Building Relationships, Pursuing Results
1983 Soccer Tea
m
J
oining the ranks of the greatest athletes in JBU history, six individuals and two teams were inducted into the Golden Eagle Hall of Fame during Homecoming this fall. Inductees included John E. Brown Jr., Sam Starkey, Dr. Ed Renfrow, Mike Castleman ’65, Mark Latham ’77, Steve Matchell ’78, and the 1983 and 1984 men’s soccer teams. 1984 Soccer Team These inductees were chosen on the basis of their exceptional contributions to the achievement and prestige of the JBU athletics program. The individuals and teams nominated were outstanding athletic performers, coaches, or friends with a unique identification with the athletics program. They also exemplify the ideals and standards of JBU.
A highly influential contributor to JBU athletics, former JBU president John E. Brown Jr, reinstated intervarsity athletics in the fall of 1958 with men’s basketball, track, and cheerleading. Thirty-seven years earlier, intervarsity athletics had been discontinued because of athlete injuries and lack of practice time. After becoming the first men’s basketball head coach at JBU in 1958, Sam Starkey turned the program into the one of the top basketball programs among small colleges. During his four years as head coach of the team (1958–1963), he led JBU to victory at the Council for Advancement of Small Colleges (CASC) National Championship in 1961 and to District 17 playoffs as a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) the following year. John E. Brown
Dr. Ed Renfrow helped reinstate the cross country and track program at JBU in 1981. He served as head coach for the next seven years while also teaching in the physical science division. After concluding his role as coach, Renfrow continued to teach and later became sports information director in 2003. He retired in 2004 after 23 years of service to JBU.
Jr.
Sam Starkey
w
Ed Renfro
Mike Cas
tleman
A tri-sport athlete, Mike Castleman excelled in baseball, basketball, and track and field (1960–1964). He was the first player ever to hit a home-run for JBU during varsity baseball’s inaugural year. In track and field, he participated in various events including the long jump, the 100-yard dash, and relays. He also played both the point and shooting guard positions on the JBU basketball team. Castleman came back to JBU in the mid-90s as an assistant women’s basketball coach. Mark Latham was a successful swimmer at JBU for four years (1973–1977). The men’s swimming program was discontinued for a time, but when it was reinstated in 1984, he returned to coach the men’s program and create a new women’s program, which he also coached. As one of only two former men’s basketball players who have scored more than 2,000 points in a career (2,047), Steve Matchell set a standard for men’s basketball at JBU during his four year career (1974–1978). He shares the highest scoring average for a career with 17.8 points per game. In addition, he holds the individual record for field goals and points in a single game with 21 and 47 respectively.
Mark Latham
Steve Matchell
National champions of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) in back-to-back years, the 1983 and 1984 men’s soccer teams had a combined twoyear record of 22 wins, 10 losses, and two tied matches. They were led by head coach Bob Gustavson.
Roy Englebrecht ’67 was a manager, trainer, and statistician for the men’s basketball program (1963–1967). He also was an umpire for JBU home baseball games and a member of the track team. After graduating, he served as the voice of JBU basketball on local radio station KUOA for a year.
28 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
by Chad E. Cunningham ’97 Assistant Director, JBU Scholarship Fund
Calvin Coolidge, former U.S. president, once said: “Press on. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.” The truth in this statement is meaningful for the JBU Scholarship Fund (JBUSF) phonathon. Each night our student callers dial the phone in an effort to connect with alumni and raise funds for the JBUSF. Some nights are difficult, but the callers press on, looking forward to great conversations, knowing that gifts to the scholarship fund enable many students to experience a JBU education. The JBU phonathon is about so much more than asking for money. Our desire is to connect on a personal level, inform alumni about recent JBU news, and enable others to engage with the university. It’s about capturing up-to-date information—addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses—so alumni can receive information about events and opportunities to support JBU, not to mention receive the Brown Bulletin. It’s about learning how God is using our alumni, parents, and friends to impact the world. The other day, one of our 26 student callers told me, “This is the best job I’ve had. It is so cool to talk to so many great people; it’s exciting.” Each of our callers possess a genuine desire to contribute to something bigger than themself. And the JBU phonathon is one way for them to realize that the JBU community extends far beyond the borders of campus. It’s not uncommon for us to hear students say, “Before I took this job I had no idea how important fundraising is for JBU.” Every dollar given through the phonathon goes to students who have financial need. And since 85 percent of JBU students receive some form of scholarship or work-study, keeping this fund healthy is vital. (If you were among the 15 percent not receiving a scholarship when you were a student, keep in mind that a tuition subsidy provided through donations has always paid a portion of every student’s tuition costs. Recently, the tuition subsidy has reduced every student’s tuition by approximately $4,000 per year.) Each caller has a unique story: Students are from America, Canada, Belize; they are graphic design and illustration majors, business and accounting majors, engineering majors, chemistry majors, and English majors. They are freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Yet they are united by the JBU experience and a desire to connect with people who give generously for student scholarships. They are a key part of the process of providing a life-transforming education to other students. So the phonathon is not so much about asking for money, though that is necessary. It’s about building relationships with alumni, friends, and parents who share a JBU connection. It’s about enhancing a lifelong JBU relationship. It’s about watching God move in the hearts of people to give generously to the mission of JBU.
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
29
from the
director’s desk
alumni NEWS
y h W
I Give Back to JBU
Gaylord Browne ’72 – Gaylord was inducted into the Truman High School Hall of Fame in October. Gaylord starred at John Brown University in both baseball and basketball and was drafted by the Yankees. He and his wife Kathy live in Blue Springs, Missouri.
Don Klein ’74 – Don ( ), a member of The Sound Generation, is now CEO of Greater Nashville Association of Realtors, one of Middle Tennessee’s largest professional trade associations. He was recently certified by The Pacific Institute as a facilitator for Investment in Excellence, TPI’s curricula.
Our JBU “Thankful List” In the fall of every year, my wife Donna ’77 and I ask our teenage daughters to make out their Christmas lists. This year, one of our twins, now 18 years old and away at college, was the first to give us her list. It was amazingly short, but along with that list, she included another page titled, “My Thankful List.” She included things that she is thankful for, like “Knowing I can always talk to you” and “Knowing that you have loved me more than I deserve” and “Being able to see God so clearly through the way my parents live.” It’s the kind of list that melts your heart and causes even a dad to tear up as the words sink in. It reminds a parent that you must have done something right, and that “God is so good!” Donna and I will treasure it for the rest of our lives as a special family memory. Every homecoming, I am reminded that JBU is a family, too! This fall, when the alumni family came back “home” to campus, they were greeted by a number of visual reminders of the many items we would put on our “JBU Thankful List.” At the top of that list has to be the long awaited completion of founder’s vision for the Cathedral Group buildings. Dr. John Brown Sr. imagined that they would have a natural stone exterior. Now the buildings have it. The Cathedral Group rededication service held during homecoming was an expression of thankfulness for the way God used so many alumni, friends, faculty, students, and foundations to provide the resources needed for this major renovation. Another blessing we are thankful for is the newest residence hall, North Hall. The new wing, completed this summer, provides housing for 80 more students. It is a reality because a friend of the university believes that living on campus has a huge impact on a student’s JBU experience. We are thankful also for the remodeled Construction Management Floor in the engineering building, made possible with financial support of Bob and Von Sheridan; for the amazingly successful $10 Million Challenge, and now the $20 Million Challenge, which together have so far provided new scholarships for 300 students; for the 240 students who went overseas this past year on mission trips, academic programs, or the choir tour; and for the $5 million lead gift commitment from Bill and Donna Berry for a new $8.5 million Performing Arts Center to be built at JBU. The “JBU Thankful List” could go on for several pages, but the most important blessing for which we are thankful is YOU! Your prayers, involvement, and support have made JBU what it is today.
Jerry Rollene ’75
Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
30 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
1970s
1980s
Chris & Kathie (Kitchen) Clendenen ’83 ’83 – Chris and Kathie are excited to announce the newest addition to their family: an 18-year-old son named Brandon Luke Clendenen, adopted March 11, 2008, weighing 190 lbs., measuring 74 in. ( ) Brandon began living with the Clendenens as a foster child in December 2006. He is a junior at Siloam Springs High School, plays trombone in the band, and is involved in several youth groups. He is a new Christian and “on fire for the Lord.” The Clendenens, who have another adopted child and four biological children (all of whom are grown), are advocates for foster care. They are trying to build a ministry to encourage the church to become more involved in foster care and to support those who are opening their homes to foster children.
It helped make me who I am. JBU has developed the Head, Heart, Hand for so many students. Some of the most important years in a person’s life, years that will determine their habits, beliefs, and values are those years in college. Since JBU has contributed so much
Joe Wallenciak ’81 – Joe is now the director of JBU’s Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), and he travels to Guatemala frequently for projects. He sent a story about Berta ( ), a lady who works in the Guatemala City garbage dump digging for trash and selling what she can. She attended the medical clinic that was part of the JBU SIFE project in Guatemala in May. Medics alerted Joe that Berta needed emergency attention, suspecting she had a ruptured gall bladder. Berta had already gone to the government hospital where she was told she had an infection and needed to buy antibiotics. JBU SIFE members took her back to the government hospital. When they refused to see her, SIFE members took her to a private hospital and assumed financial responsibility. Berta was immediately diagnosed with severe intestinal blockages. Tests then revealed that Berta had a severely inflamed appendix that had become entangled with her intestines. Surgery was successful, and Berta is back home, praising the “angels” that God sent to help her. “The doctor told us that she would have died within hours if we had not brought her in,” Joe said. “These are the kinds of things that emerge from SIFE work. We are very blessed to have been a part of this experience.”
1990s
in January 2009. The book has been described as “a companion to military wives the world over, written by 15 military wives from each branch of service….[It is] a collection of devotions that squarely addresses the challenges unique to those whose husbands serve our country.” In her message sent for alumni, Sarah wrote, “The Army moved us to South Carolina in January for Doug’s Captains Career Course, then on to Ft. Carson in Colorado Springs in June. Drop us a note!” The Balls’ e-mail address can be found on AlumNET. Rich & Cynda (Armstrong) Mullikin ’91 ’89 – Rich and Cynda celebrate the birth of their son Andrew Glen ( ), who joins his 10year-old brother, Smythe. Andrew was born November 17, 2008, weighing in at 6 lbs. 8 oz., measuring 20 in. long. “He’s healthy, sleeping, and eating well, and all the pipes are working,” say Rich and Cynda. “Can’t ask for anything more than that.”
Kimberly (Moore) Shattuck ’98 – Kimberly and her husband, Owen, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Sarah Joy ( ), on April 17, 2008.
Clark Sheehy ’98 – JBU basketball coach Clark Sheehy and his wife, Elisa, welcomed son Cameron Allen ( ) into their family July 20, 2008. Cameron weighed 7 lbs. 12 oz. Cameron is also the grandson of retired coach John Sheehy and wife, Linda.
Doug & Sarah (Rittenhouse) Ball ’97 ’97 – Levi David Ball joined the Ball family on January 29, 2008. Doug and Sarah now have four children: two boys, two girls. Another noteworthy accomplishment is Sarah’s contribution of six devotions to a book, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. The book ( ), written and compiled by Jocelyn Green, is scheduled to be published by Moody Publishers
Carrie (Penner) & Jeremy Snell ’98 – The Snells welcomed Emily Katherine ( ) to their family on July 1, 2008. She arrived weighing 7 lbs. 14 oz. and measuring 20½ in. The Snells now live in Bentonville, Arkansas. Their address can be found on AlumNET.
to who I am today, I will always be grateful
and committed to being a life long supporter. I challenge my fellow Alumni and friends to contribute to the university that has helped make you who you are today! Understand that no contribution is too small as you will be investing in the development of the Head, Heart, Hand for
future students.
Jake Naramore 2003 JBU Graduate
Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009 31
2000s
Ruth (Bonge) Graham ’00 – Ruth and her husband have a 2-year-old son. They expect their second child in December.
Dana Nance ’06 – Dana was named Walmart Teacher of the Year for the Rogers (Arkansas) school district ( ).
Emma Kalka ’07 – Emma works for Apple Tree and Ryan PR Company in Seoul, South Korea. She is an account executive, writing copy, editing, and acting as a liaison between the firm and the foreign press.
Danae (Millard) Wheeler ’05 – Danae was married on Saturday, August 23, 2008 to Jeremy Wheeler of Ashtabula, Ohio. ( ) The wedding took place in Littleton, Colorado. Guests included the couple’s families, friends, and JBU classmates. They purchased a home in Henderson, Colorado, where they now live with their three pets.
Alice Mahony ’05 – Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe recently appointed Alice to the Arkansas State Board of Education. Alice co-founded the El Dorado Education Foundation, which began the Chair Programs (a program designed to build math, science, and foreign-language skills). The foundation also provides grants to teachers with their own creative approaches to education. Alice also serves as the chairman of the board for the
In Loving Memory
El Dorado Chamber of Commerce and is on the El Dorado Promise Committee.
Brandon Wise ’02 – After serving as the associate pastor at Crystal River United Methodist Church in Florida for the past three years, Brandon was appointed as the associate pastor at Heritage United Methodist Church in Clearwater, Florida, beginning July 1.
Remembering
E. William “Bill” George
Chris Merrick Major: Biology Hometown: Springdale, Arkansas Graduated: May, 2008 Now: Attending University of Arkansas medical school
E. William “Bill” George ’48 went home to be with the Lord October 20, 2008. Bill worked at JBU-owned radio stations in California and Oklahoma. He consulted at JBU stations in Texas, Florida, and Missouri. Bill also worked with Brown Military Academy, Southern California Military Academy, the western operations of John Brown Schools, and the John Brown Schools Foundation. Bill lent his leadership and expertise to JBU’s development office and served as a consultant to the university since the 1990s. He is remembered as JBU’s longestsitting board member, serving more than 50 years. In 1994, Bill was given the privilege and great responsibility of serving as JBU’s interim president before the arrival of president Lee Balzer later that year. In addition to his JBU service, Bill also volunteered with civic organizations, served on a number of boards, and faithfully gave his time to the churches he and his wife Mary Eva called home. He received a number of awards and honors, including an honorary doctorate degree from JBU in 1998. He is survived by his wife, two children (Eric and Marsha ’79), two grandchildren (Ryan and Lindsay), and a great-granddaughter, Sophia. Friends of the Georges posted the following tributes online. “[Bill was] one of the most optimistic, humble, and godly men I have ever known. Not only did I experience these characteristics firsthand, but I also observed and witnessed them from a distance in the manner in which [he] loved [his] wife, [his] family, and all the many people associated with John Brown University.” “My memories of Bill go back many years, when I was a young man and interested in gospel music and gospel radio. He took me under his wing and gave me a real education on being a gospel music disc jockey, but, most of all, along with that, always being sure that there was always ministry involved on my radio programs. He was a pillar in the industry and my respect for him goes beyond words that I have.”
Refer a prospective student to JBU!
go to www.jbu.edu/refer or call 1-877-JBU-INFO
32 Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009
“Bill was one of those people who seemed as busy in retirement as when he worked, committing himself enthusiastically to numerous community activities. We will remember him with a twinkle in his eye, a good word for everyone, a gentle man and a complete gentleman.”
“Bill will be sorely missed. He was a kind and gentle man who went way out of his way to greet even the people who would not normally be recognized and appreciated. He always made people feel important and honored. I will miss his warm, strong handshake and gentle smile. I know [he] will hear those words of our Saviour, ‘Welcome, Bill, thou good and faithful servant; Enter in to the joy of your Lord.’” “One of my forever memories of Bill is the warm and gracious welcome that would always greet us at [their] home. Whether it was the first arrival of the summer, or the third time in three days, when the brown JBU station wagon would pull into [their] driveway, the ever-present smile on his face would say, “Welcome!” Bill’s commitment to JBU and the values it upheld were an inspiration to all that knew him. Students far into the future are indebted to him for his efforts to ensure that a quality, Christian education would be theirs at John Brown University.”
These tributes and many others posted by friends and family can be viewed in their entirety at www.wassonfuneralhome.com
Lloyd G. DeArmond ’44 of Joplin, Missouri, passed away April 27, 2008, at the age of 81 following a long illness. Lloyd was born in Pittsburg, Kansas, and lived in the Joplin area most of his life. He owned and operated DeArmond Electric for 57 years. Lloyd was a member of the Fellowship Lodge 345 and served as Worthy Patron of the Ruth Chapter 177 Order of the Eastern Star. He was a member of Park Plaza Christian Church. He is survived by his wife, a son, 5 daughters, 10 grandchildren, and 6 greatgrandchildren.
E. Paul Ettinger ’58 suddenly passed into the presence of Jesus on July 26, 2008 in Phoenix, Arizona. His career in electrical engineering took him from St. Louis to Dallas, and then to San Diego. He retired in Sun City, Arizona in 1996. He is survived by his wife June (Moore) ’57, son David ’81 and his wife Renee ’84, a daughter, and 5 grandchildren.
John A. Newcomer ’73 died October 18, 2007. After 25 years at Fifth Third Bank in St. Joseph, Michigan, he and his business partner Dan Posthuma ’74 started Doxology Records, a Christian recording company. Because of a patriotic project produced by Doxology Records, John and his wife, Susan ’73, and Dan and his wife, Sara ’73, were invited to the White House in 2003. John went on to be a physician recruiter for Southwestern Medical Clinic, a Christian medical clinic with an emphasis in medical missions. He is survived by his wife; three sons; two brothers, including Gary ’73; and his father. John and Susan had lived in Baroda, Michigan, since graduating from JBU.
Bill and Mary Eva established an endowed scholarship in their names at JBU. Those wishing to make a memorial gift can contact JBU University Advancement at 800-446-2450. Brown Bulletin Winter 2008-2009 33
“Using our IRA to fund gifts to JBU has been simple and beneficial for us. We are thankful for this unique opportunity to give to JBU.” John and Joallen Logan Moose Below: Dr. and Mrs. Moose at the JBU Scholarship Recognition Dinner with students who benefit from scholarships funded by the Mooses’ gifts.
The ever-popular charitable IRA legislation has been extended for 2008 and 2009.
Once New at JBU At Homecoming this October, JBU held ceremonies to celebrate the completion of North Hall and the Cathedral Group renovation. With 51 percent of JBU’s buildings built or renovated in the last six years, we wanted to remember other building ceremonies from JBU’s history.
Beth Hough, wife of board member Cass Hough (right), cuts the ribbon to open South Hall (later named Mayfield) as John Brown Jr. and Chairman of the Board Bob Hyde ’37 look on in 1964.
If you are 70½ or older, this legislation allows you to make lifetime gifts from your individual retirement account (IRA) to charitable organizations, like John Brown University, without claiming it as taxable income or using it as a deduction.
Benefits: •
In most cases the charitable distribution counts toward your minimum required distributions.
•
The transfer generates neither taxable income nor a tax deduction, so you still benefit even if you do not itemize your tax deductions.
•
The transfer may be made in addition to any other charitable giving you have planned.
•
You may transfer any amount up to $100,000 in 2008 and 2009 directly from your IRA.*
Since 2006, this opportunity has proved to be a popular and beneficial way to make a gift. Take advantage of the many
A large crowd turned out for the opening of California Dorm in 1927. Sam Walton attended the dedication ceremony for the Walton Lifetime Health Complex in 1988.
benefits you receive with the Charitable IRA Rollover.
*The transfer must come directly from your IRA administrator to your intended charity. Contact our office or your IRA administrator for details on how to accomplish the transfer.
If you are interested in this uncommon opportunity to help further JBU’s mission or if you have questions, please contact: Paul J. Eldridge, Senior Director of Development and Planned Giving, or James Elliott or Eric Greenhaw, Regional Directors of Development, at (800)446-2450.
Founder John Brown and members of the community look on as the founder’s wife, Juanita, turns a shovel of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Cathedral of the Ozarks (1945).
Founder John Brown stands at the center of the ceremony to mark Bulletin inWinter the placing of the J. Alvin Hall Brown cornerstone 1920.2008-2009 35
Family Weekend 2009
Save the date!
Student Talent and Variety Show Basketball & Rug by Games
February 20-21
Family Brunch & Much More
For more information and registration go to www.jbu.edu/parents
JBU
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