CAMPAIGN SPECIAL EDITION FA L L 2 0 1 1
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY
KEEPING FAITH COMPLETED $118 MILLION GIVEN FINISHED ONE YEAR EARLY $18 MILLION OVER ORIGINAL GOAL
STUDENT LIVES IMPACTED
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Keeping Faith Campaign Completed: A Celebration of Gratitude October 1, 2011
Dear Friends of JBU,
We have been wonderfully blessed to receive over $118 million in gifts and pledges over the last six years, a campaign result that is $18 million greater than our original goal and a year earlier than we expected.
We have prepared this special edition of the Brown Bulletin to celebrate the completion of JBU’s Keeping Faith Capital Campaign. We have been wonderfully blessed to receive over $118 million in gifts and pledges over the last six years, a campaign result that is $18 million greater than our original goal and a year earlier than we expected. We are so deeply grateful to God and his people for this overwhelming support of the work here at John Brown University. Psalm 67 speaks to what should happen when God blesses his people. God makes “his face to shine upon us” so that his truth might be known – “your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all the nations” and so that his justice might reign – “you judge the people with equity and guide the nations upon earth.” In other words, God blesses us, not for our own comfort or satisfaction, but so that we can be a blessing to others. As we come to the end of this season of blessing at JBU, we should renew our commitment to give witness to God’s truth and work for his Godspeed,
Dr. Charles W. Pollard President, John Brown University
justice: whether through mission trips to Guatemala or Northern Ireland or through research projects in renewable energy or child development; by capturing the beauty of a fall day in a photograph or by leading a congregation in worship; in understanding the causes of depression or in befriending a lonely person in the community. We know that God keeps faith with us better than we keep faith with him, so we are deeply grateful for his mercy, grace and provision over the last six years. He has provided generously for JBU through this campaign and through the people he has brought together here, and now we should, in turn, give abundantly of ourselves to bless others with the knowledge, skills, commitments, and relationships gained through our experience of JBU. If we continue to follow that call, then we will keep faith with the historic mission of JBU – educating head, heart and hand to serve Christ who is over all. So, as we come to the end of this campaign, we join the psalmist and sing, “Let the people praise you, O God; let all the people praise you!” (Psalm 67:5)
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FALL 2011 The official magazine of John Brown University, the Brown Bulletin is published by University Communications for alumni and friends in the JBU community. This is a special issue — look for the next regular issue in January. Dr. Chip Pollard President Dr. Jim Krall Vice President for Advancement
With over $118 million given, the Keeping Faith Campaign is complete. We have created this special issue of the Brown Bulletin to share with you stories of impact — how the Keeping Faith Campaign resources are helping JBU achieve its mission of training students to honor God and serve others.
EDITORIAL STAFF Lucas Roebuck Editor and Director of University Communications Contributors Tracy Balzer, Marquita Smith, Jessa Eldridge, Johanna Merwin Production Support Rachel Fiet, Matt Snyder, Sherry Miller, Jean Atkins, Virginia Wietecha, Rebecca Ridings, Paul T. Semones Photography Luke Davis, Mark Jackson, Grace Bentley
THE IMPACT OF KEEPING FAITH 2 | Bill George Arena: Impact the JBU Community
By Lucas Roebuck ’97 – One year old, and the Bill George Arena is already getting a good workout.
4 | Berry Performing Arts Center: Showcasing JBU By Jessa Eldridge ’11 – The BPAC provides a much needed venue for showing off JBU’s best talent.
6 | Balzer Technology Center: Building the Future By Marquita Smith – Brand new this fall, the BTC is already impacting student’s JBU experience.
8 | COVER STORY: Keeping Faith Impacts Students By Jessa Eldridge ’11 and Johanna Merwin ’12
13 | Programs that Minister to the JBU Community By Tracy Balzer – The Keeping Faith Campaign helps support several key programs.
14 | The Story of the Givers
By Jessa Eldridge ’11 – The life stories of some of the people who generously give to JBU.
Thanks Ken Leonhard, Robert Headrick Submissions of news items, story ideas, letters and corrections can be made via electronic mail to: Lroebuck@jbu.edu or via U.S. postal service to Brown Bulletin 2000 W. University Siloam Springs, AR 72761 © 2011 John Brown University
15 | By the Numbers
Statistics on the historic Keeping Faith $110 Million Campaign.
16 | Visualizing Keeping Faith
By Dr. Jim Krall – A walk around campus shows the physical impact of Keeping Faith.
ON THE COVER Photography by Luke Davis ’00, photo editing by Lucas Roebuck, ’97: Smart, styling and ready to change the world, current students and recent JBU alumni are posed to go out and make a positive difference.
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BUILDINGS ARE MADE FOR PEOPLE
mpaign included The Keeping Faith Ca id for with six building projects pa e structures es Th Keeping Faith gifts. ality of qu the ct positively impa without nts de stu education for all g JBU. din en att of increasing the cost
KEEPING FAITH WITH THE PAST CATHEDERAL GROUP RESTORATION In May 1945, ground was broken to build the Cathedral, the first of a three building “Memorial Group” in memory of the JBU’s war dead. Originally, each building’s cinder block construction was to be covered with a stone face to preserve the exterior as well as give the buildings a distinct look on campus. However, it was not till 2007 that each building received its limestone covering, thus completing the original vision John Brown Sr. had for the memorial group of buildings. “These buildings draw your attention to the grandeur of God and to His beauty, order and symmetry,” said faculty emeritus Jim Walters.
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BGA Provides a Place for the Greater JBU Community to Come Together Before the Bill George Arena was complete, more than a decade had passed since JBU outgrew the venerable Cathedral of the Ozarks as a gathering place for the entire JBU community. The number of traditional undergraduate students was pushing 1,200. Add faculty, staff and community members, and the Cathedral’s 1,000 seating capacity meant that many had to be excluded from the most popular chapels and other events. Even formal ceremonies like graduation had been held in a makeshift auditorium in the Walton Lifetime Health Complex because of the sheer numbers of students, family, faculty and guests. “We simply had no place we could comfortably put 2,000 people under one roof,” said Dr. Steve Beers, vice president for student development, who oversees JBU’s facilities. “The Bill George Arena’s impact has really been the unmistakable power of a physical community, of bringing all of JBU together.” Since opening in the Fall of 2010, the $9.5 million Bill George Arena has been given quite the workout. Two huge chapel programs benefited from the extended seating capacity. JBU hosted speakers Franklin Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS Shoes. If these services had been held in the Cathedral, people would have been turned away. Approximately 1,500 attended the Mycoskie event and 1,800 attended the Franklin Graham event. Mycoskie spoke as part of the Soderquist Center’s annual Leadership Week. “I loved seeing students challenged
by Blake to make a tangible difference in the world,” said Bryson Moore, Director of Emerging Leaders and Communications for the Soderquist Center. “The extra capacity of the George really means JBU has more opportunities to impact the lives of students.” The first graduation ceremony held in the Bill George Arena featured an address from Mary Eva George, wife
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IMPACTING THE JBU COMMUNITY
BILL GEORGE ARENA
Main: Franklin Graham addresses a packed-out Bill George Arena. Insets: (Top Left) Exterior of the Bill George Arena. (Top Center) Mary Eva George addresses commencement. (Top Right) President Chip Pollard and Franklin Graham listen as Chancellor John E. Brown Jr. and Louise Brown share a story. (Middle Left) Blake Mycoskie addresses students during Leadership Week. (Bottom Left) The first men’s basketball home game in the George Arena.
of the late Bill George. Bill George faithfully served JBU for five decades, including acting as board member and interim president. The Bill George Arena has already hosted one A-list Christian band, Phillips, Craig and Dean. This month, the Grammy award-winning band Switchfoot, very popular with current students, will rock “The George.”
Of course, the Bill George Arena is also the new home for several JBU NAIA Golden Eagle teams. Men and women’s basketball teams, volleyball and cheerleading teams all use the facility. The first basketball game in the arena was the traditional Toilet Paper Game season opener, another packedout Bill George Arena event. Television stations from California to
Florida, including KABC-7 in Los Angeles, carried footage of the thousands of rolls of toilet paper being tossed on the John Sheehy Court. “The national attention spotlighting the inaugural season of the Bill George Arena was just awesome,” said Rachel Fiet, assistant director of university communications. – Lucas Roebuck ’97 Fall 2011 |
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SHOWCASING THE BEST OF ANJBU ANONYMOUS
BERRY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Main: Rehearsal for “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” Insets: (Top Left) “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” (Top Center) Paul Smith conducts in the Choir Rehearsal Room. (Top Left) Exterior of the Berry Performing Arts Center. (Bottom Left) The Cathedral Choir performs at the BPAC dedication. (Bottom Center) Practice in the Instrumental Classroom. (Bottom Right) Bill Berry speaks at the dedication of the BPAC. Facing Page: (Top) “Arsenic and Old Lace” is performed in the BPAC. (Bottom) The cast of “Arsenic and Old Lace” takes a bow in front of a standing ovation.
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Play performances in the Cathedral were a balancing act between improvising and perseverance. With no adequate space, students would often practice in the music department’s lobby, other classrooms or in the Walton Health Complex. With different ensembles, Cathedral choir, women’s chorus, voice and piano students, studio recording and play practices all demanding space, a new facility was sorely needed.
The demand was answered in the Fall of 2010, the Berry Performing Arts Center was opened, one of three new buildings funded by the Keeping Faith Campaign. Faculty felt the impact immediately. “This building allows us to magnify the talent that was already there,” says Donna Rollene, who teaches voice masterclass and theater workshop. Before the building, some larger shows would have
{ K E E P I N G FA I T H – B U I L D I N G I M PA C T } to be performed at the Sager Creek Arts Center downtown because the Cathedral lacked the needed facilities. “Students now have a venue they feel free moving in, a venue that gives a close sense of community,” Rollene said. “Before, large sets would be crammed onto a small stage causing actors to often crash into each other.” Music student Kristen Landrum ‘11 played Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker in the Jones Recital Hall. “The audience was so close that I was afraid that I would break the fourth wall or sling a dish at someone accidentally,” Landrum said. While the BPAC enhances performance quality, music students have taken advantage of the new space by using the facility to expand their performance abilities. “We were able to hold a dueling piano recital,” pianist Lindsey Hohulin ‘11 said. “[It was a] rare opportunity that allowed all the pianists to perform on two pianos simultaneously. We never would have been able to hold such a performance in the Jones Recital Hall.” Music professor Terri Wubbena barely contains her joy when mentioning the new building. “There is a deep appreciation that comes with this building, a deep thankfulness to God and to those who have made it possible,” she says. “I’ll continue to get excited, but it’s not about me. It’s about the students and what God is doing through them.” JBU students needed a building that could match their ever-developing talent. Music student Andrew Layden ‘13 explains that having a venue acoustically designed for a choir makes learning music simpler. Once a choir member
knows the music and can hear the harmony, singing no longer becomes about notes but a joyful celebration. “We are able sing with our minds and hearts, and that is where ministry is done,” Layden says. The Berry Performing Arts Center has served both the campus and larger community through a variety of shows. Kara Gould, associate professor of communication and broadcasting said during the opening night of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers she ran into many neighbors, friends and church members from Siloam Springs. “It occurred to me that everyone wanted to celebrate the new venue,” Gould says. “They really wanted to take part in what was happening on the JBU campus.” On April 16, 2011, JBU Great Abandon Dance Ministry performed ‘Deliver Us’, a production that exhibited stories of modern day slavery and sex trafficking through the arts. Many members in the surrounding community joined the audience, making the 500-seating limit burst into a standing room only event. “For JBU students the need to end slavery wasn’t a new idea, but it was a huge step in raising awareness and getting people in the community involved,” said senior Matt Musgrave ‘11, who led music during the event. In one short year the building has played host to midnight movies, faculty meetings, special chapels, marriage seminars, one-act performances, large dramas, choral concerts, performing artists, chamber orchestras and more. The show goes on at the BPAC, a venue that impacts performers and audience members alike. – Jessa Eldridge ’11
RESIDENTIAL MINISTRY NORTH HALL WEST WING As JBU’s student population has grown, so has the need for on-campus housing. The $3.5 million west wing of North Hall, which houses 80 students, was built with funds given as part of the Keeping Faith campaign. “In North Hall ministry is everywhere. Because we work with students at such a transitional phase, there is always an opportunity to minister and teach. Students are learning everything from owning their faith to regulating their time. It is an exciting place to be in the lives of students at such a critical point in their growth,” said North Hall Residence Director Patrick Bergquist.
A PLACE TO EAT KRESGE DINING HALL JBU students have always enjoyed fellowship as part of their meals. Before 1973 and the construction of the Kresge dining center, student meals took place in the basement of the California dorm. As a part of the Keeping Faith campaign, Kresge was given a $1.3 million major renovation. “We really thought through where students would get food and how they would get food,” says Andre Broquard, associate dean of residence life. “Those are the little things that mean a lot.”
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Balzer Technology Center Brings New Pride to Engineering and Construction Management
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
‘ART 2’ RENOVATION Built in 1956, the northeast building of the Cathedral Group first housed the university library. In 1981 the building was converted for the engineering program. Now it’s being renovated into a cutting-edge facility for the visual arts. The renovation was made possible through an anonymous $2.5 million gift to the Keeping Faith Campaign. “I’m definitely excited about the new space,” senior Anna Andrus ’12 said. “We are literally doubling what we have, which is amazing.”
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Senior engineering major, Bethany Miller ‘12 is completely floored by the new Lee and Alice Balzer Technology Center. The ceiling fans, open floor plans, contemporary furnishings and bright colors all raise the building’s charm factor. “I’ve always loved the program and its phenomenal professors. Now, we have a phenomenal building to add to all that,” she said. The 40,000-square-foot facility which houses John Brown University’s growing engineering, construction management and renewable energy programs opened to students in August. And, the excitement and pride among students and faculty about the center is palpable, Miller added. The $11 million project included an anonymous lead gift of $8 million to help fund the construction and the building endowment. “God placed it on the heart of our lead donor to give. And the rest is history,” said Dr. Larry Bland, head of the engineering department. “All of this project is a definite gift from God.” The building has approximately 25,000 square feet of classroom and office space with another 15,000 square feet of laboratory space. Formerly, the programs were spread out in three aging buildings, none specifically designed for teaching engineering or construction management. “From the start of site excavation to occupancy was 8 ½ months,” said Bland. “The design phase carefully considered the pedagogical needs that are unique to our majors.” The new building has its perks, still Miller says she misses the camaraderie in the old space. “In some of the classrooms we were
squashed together, and it created some closeness as we worked on our projects,” she said. Still, nobody wants to be the first to break anything in the new digs, she explained with a smile. Mechanical engineering major, Blake Garrison ‘12 said the new building offers a much better learning environment. One of his favorite features includes the study lounges, furnished with tables, chairs and large white boards and markers for completing difficult homework assignments. Before students created makeshift study areas in the lobby of the old building, he said. “We’re proud of our engineering students and their successes,” said Bland. “We have students working on ‘lunabotics’ for NASA. Our undergrads have
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ENGINEERING & BUILDING THE FUTURE
BALZER TECHNOLOGY CENTER
found jobs at firms like Texas Instruments, T.D. Williamson, Baker Hughes and Lockheed Martin and Boeing.” The engineering program is one of JBU’s largest and oldest. Established over 75 years ago, the program now has over 100 majors and six faculty members. The construction management program has 50 students and three faculty members. Both Miller and Garrison chose JBU because it was a Christian campus with a strong engineering program. Besides both hailing from Colorado, the two also share another common link. Their younger siblings are a part of the 2011 freshman class, the largest in JBU history. “My little sister is here this year mostly because of my positive experience,” Miller said.
Garrison said this place touched him so that not only is his little sister here, but his mother will complete her degree here as well. “When I started the program I never imagined such a facility,” he said. “I’ve watched it go up over the past months and I’m just grateful to have the opportunity to experience it before I graduate.” Engineering students are not the only students excited about the center. Construction management students are now able to plan and execute projects in one interconnected space, said Professor Jim Caldwell, construction management department chair. “Our construction management program is over 70 years old this year, and the work of our students can be seen in communities around the world. From Nairobi, Kenya, to Dallas,
Texas, our alumni have gone on to manage projects valued in the billions.” From generating designs, estimates, and schedules in the computer lab to planning the execution in the Eagle Construction conference room, the steps can now be managed in an integrated facility, Caldwell explained. “We have several donated structural building assemblies that the students will be able to construct in our high bay lab,” Caldwell said, adding that it will improve instruction for OSHA safety training. Program graduates have been placed with companies such as Turner, Nabholz, and Flintco. And, former students are helping to build the region’s new Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, set to open Nov. 11, in Bentonville, Ark. – Marquita Smith Fall 2011 |
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HELPING STUDENTS CHANGE THE WORLD
mpaign includes The Keeping Faith Ca for scholarships. n more than $43 millio nts afford the topThese gifts help stude higher education ranked Christ-centered m on a trajectory JBU offers, putting the serving others. of honoring God and
Chris Eads: How to Find Beauty in the Unfamiliar Mildred Martin Patterson Endowed Scholarship for Music Students Many state schools offered Chris Eads ’11 full tuition coverage as well as a new Macbook and a monthly stipend. However, unlike the state schools he was considering, JBU had a strong music program with a worship ministry degree. So, Eads contacted admissions and applied to JBU. With loans and scholarships, he was able to attend in the Fall of 2007. “I wouldn’t have been able to come to JBU without financial aid. It’s an incredible blessing,” Eads said.
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“I wouldn’t trade my choice... the education I got at JBU is worth so much more.” Eads became a Christian after his parents divorced and his grandmother began taking him to church. Although they supported his decision to come to JBU, his parents could not understand why he would choose a school that did not pay him to attend. “They didn’t really know why I wanted to major in worship ministries,” Eads said. During his junior year, Eads married Sarah Kientz ’10, a fellow music student. Although being a married student was not easy, Eads found that the challenges of education came with encouragement. “I never imagined I’d have an education that allowed me to relate to my God and my community equally well in a charismatic church setting and in a high-liturgy Anglican setting. But because of JBU, that’s possible,” Eads said. “Probably the most valuable aspect of my education was the broadening of my understanding of Christianity as it pertains to both high theology and everyday life.” When asked what made JBU unique enough to turn away full scholarships, Eads said it was “the level of investment the professors have in their students. I’ve had professors take me to coffee or invite me over for dinner, which are both fairly superficial things by themselves, but they do so in order to get to know me.” Eads graduated May 2011 with a double major in Worship Ministries and Biblical Studies. He plans to attend graduate school. “My professors challenged me, but I’ve definitely done my fair share of challenging others as well…I feel like that’s one of my callings in life,” he explained. “I want to be able to help others see the beauty in unfamiliar traditions.”
Chris Eads and Morgan Honnold
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Jeremy Enders: JBU Kept Providing More Eagle’s Nest Endowed Scholarship JBU Scholarship Fund Jeremy Enders ’14 wears his father’s military jacket proudly, not just because his dad flew helicopters for the army for thirty years, but because God healed his father after an electrical short caused a near-fatal crash in 2004. However, his father suffered a broken back and has residual numbness in his legs, so it fell to Enders’ mother to financially support the family. In 2009, the Enders family hit another difficulty when the market began to crash and the economy took a downturn. By now Enders was a senior in high school, and with tight family finances, he greatly needed scholarships. After applying to several different schools and meeting personally with the financial counselors, Enders realized that many universities had few resources to offer. JBU was different. “Many schools were retracting funds from available scholarships, but JBU was the only school that kept providing more,” Enders says. “They kept working with me, not against me, so that my family could find a way to send me here. I am very thankful for that.” Enders is now an honors student double majoring in international business and business administration with the hopes of one day starting a humanitarian for-profit company that works in impoverished countries. “I am now the sophomore senator for the student government associa-
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tion and am really looking forward to getting involved in SIFE or LSI,” Enders says. “I want to not only help people and communities grow, but I also want to inspire other companies to do the same.” Hundreds of JBU students have benefited and will benefit from the scholarships created in the Keeping Faith Campaign.
Maria Johnson: God Doesn’t Waste Our Pain Bryant Family Endowed Scholarship JBU Scholarship Fund “God doesn’t waste our pain,” Maria Johnson ’12 said. “Today, I am walking out a plan God obviously has for me, one that my fears and lack of resources were holding me back from. I am in the midst of one of my biggest steps of faith and obedience.” Johnson was not raised in a Christian home, and a traumatic childhood event left her victim to heartache and pain and self-destructive behavior for years.
When she was 22, Johnson was hospitalized for a bleeding ulcer and deep depression. The woman in the next bed shared with Johnson the love, joy and acceptance that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. Overwhelmed by the hope of Christ, Johnson accepted Jesus as her Savior. Through the years, Johnson and her husband took every opportunity to listen to and love people. Knowing full well the power of encouragement in her own life, Johnson taught discipleship classes, mentored young people, and ministered in Washington County Jail. Then, in 2007, Johnson experienced a family crisis that shook her trust in God. Hurt and broken, Johnson took a custodial job for Samaritan House and met interns from JBU who encouraged her to finish a degree in counseling. The administration at Samaritan House also urged Johnson to complete her degree, but she was certain she would not find the funds for a college education. “I saw all the reasons why it wasn’t a practical decision,” Johnson said. “But if it is God, He’s going to make a way. I was still trying to support my own kids through college, but counseling is what I’ve been doing for years. I love people and I love being a part of their lives.” Johnson applied to JBU and the financial aid package she received stood as confirmation from God to respond to the urgings of those around her. Due to the additional resources that became available due to the Keeping Faith Campaign, Johnson enrolled at JBU. She is studying Family and Human Services and plans to receive a master’s degree in Family Counseling. Ultimately, Johnson wants to build cottages on her land to house and mentor young mothers and children while equipping them to succeed in life. “JBU is another step in God’s redemptive plan for my life. I am truly grateful,” Johnson says.
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS $10 AND $20 MILLION CHALLENGES December 2006 marked the completion of JBU’s $10 Million Challenge which nearly doubled the university’s endowed scholarship funds in only half the time allotted to complete the project. April 2007 marked the beginning of yet another matching fund initiative for $20 million. Both initiatives began with an anonymous pledged of half of the final challenge amount. In order to receive the full gift pledged ($5 million and $10 million dollars respectively), JBU had to match the pledge in current and deferred gifts designated to new or existing endowed scholarships. The matching funds were awarded to the university as corresponding funds were received from other donors. “Endowed scholarships are key to the vitality of a university. These scholarships give students the resources they need to pursue a college education,” said Dr. April Moreton, Director of Development at JBU. “The $10 Million and $20 Million Challenges have significantly increased these scholarships at JBU, guaranteeing that current and future students will have the necessary resources to fulfill their educational dreams.”
Jeremy Enders
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Morgan Honnold: The Gift of Higher Education Beverly Meador Sloan Endowed Scholarship ErinWebb Memorial Scholarship John Brown University Scholarship Fund Morgan Honnold ’12 never wanted to go to college. Since she was nine years old, Honnold planned to go to India to combat social injustice and serve the poorest of the poor. After graduating from high school, Honnold went to India, only to find that she kept hearing about a school called John Brown University. “Two important things happened while I was in India,” said Honnold. “First, I met and worked with several JBU alumni who were loving the Lord and people of India in incredible ways. Second, I realized that I could not take for granted the invaluable gift of higher education which was so readily available to me in America. After much prayer and Godly counsel, Honnold returned to the states and enrolled in a community college in Kansas City, Mo., to earn an associate’s degree in liberal arts. Honnold left America again in 2009 for Bethlehem, Israel. While she
was there, Honnold studied Arabic and worked with different non-profit organizations in the area, one of which was run by two JBU alumni. After returning to the States, Morgan began her search to finish her Bachelor’s degree. “As I was looking at what kind of a school I wanted to transfer to, I knew I wanted a small, private, liberal arts Christian college but most of those schools were outside of my financial capacity,” said Honnold. “I knew that graduating with debt wasn’t an option if I wanted to live overseas.” Finally, the JBU seed planted in India and Israel spouted. Honnold met another JBU alumni in Kansas City who urged her to visit the campus. When Honnold visited JBU, she knew it was where she wanted to go to school. She applied in faith, knowing the JBU price tag was much more than she could afford. Honnold is a student at JBU because of the JBU Scholarship Fund and Endowment. “My time here isn’t just a foundation for my academic career, it’s a part of the foundation of my faith. What the Lord does in and through me here at JBU will impact what the Lord will do in and through me wherever I go.”
Nathan Fields: All Truth Is God’s Truth Jewell Taylor Littlejohn Harrison Memorial Endowed Scholarship Billy Graham & Ruth Bell Graham Evangelism Endowed Scholarship King Foundation Scholarship Broadhurst Foundation Scholarship Nathan Fields ’09 was a popular, enthusiastic student at JBU. He was crowned Homecoming King in ’07, worked in oncampus ministries like Chai Time and Act against AIDS, served as an RA in J. Alvin for two years and lived in the Ministry House. His heart for ministry began before coming to college, and JBU was the perfect environment to cultivate such a desire. “I had a passion for missions before I got to JBU, but the school kept me fervent and passionate so it wasn’t just some naïve interest,” Fields says. “The JBU community kept me informed on global events and focused on the gospel.” During Chai Time, a ministry composed of students who pray for missionaries overseas, Fields learned about Anna Neale ’06, a JBU grad who had worked in China. Fields contacted Anna Neale to see how Chai Time could best pray for the work she was doing and quickly became interested in going to China. After graduation, when the chance came to teach English in China, he snatched up the opportunity. He began working in the Fujian province as a teacher. Having an education degree provided a firm foundation for teach-
{ K E E P I N G FA I T H – S T U D E N T I M PA C T } ing, and Fields was encouraged by the spiritual support from JBU. While in China, he lived only three hours away from Anna Neale and the two were engaged in 2010. Nathan Fields and Anna Neale were married on July 16, 2011 and plan to return to China to continue serving as missionaries. “If it wasn’t for JBU, I wouldn’t have developed such a deep love for the Church. The community at JBU built in me an Sovannary understanding that we are Cheng not alone. JBU instilled in me theological training and a love for learning,” Fields says. “Also, JBU nourished the understanding that all truth is God’s truth and all people should have an opportunity to know the truth of Scripture.” Sovannary Cheng: God Can Change the Impossible Kenneth C. Naramore Endowed Scholarship Peter andYvonne Nicolay Endowed Scholarship JBU Scholarship Fund Sovannary Cheng ’14 was born in Phnom Pehn, Cambodia and will graduate from John Brown University as the first generation in her family to receive a college degree. After her family moved to Bentonville, Arkansas, Cheng’s neighbor introduced her to an uplifting radio station called KLRC. From listening, Cheng heard about a private Christian college called John Brown University. “I became interested after learning about KLRC and its ministry in Northwest Arkansas,” she says. Unfortunately, Cheng’s family could not afford to send her to
JBU and looked at different colleges in Arkansas, even considering Northwest Arkansas Community College. Still determined, she decided a different college would only delay her education at JBU, not eliminate it. “I had decided if I could not come to JBU right after high school, I would take some classes at NWACC and would transfer to JBU when our finances became more stable,” Cheng explains. Due to the Keeping Faith Campaign, Cheng’s family was offered additional financial resources, making it possible for her to attend. When she got to JBU, she was voted the Freshmen Senator in the Student Government Association and joined several on-campus ministries. What excites Cheng about being at JBU? “Being a JBU student,” she says. “Being a student in a caring community that reaches out to spread God’s love.”
Maria Johnson
ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS THE JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP FUND The JBU Scholarship Fund (JBUSF) plays a crucial role in providing financial aid given annually to students. Each year, JBU must raise almost a million dollars for the JBU Scholarship Fund in order to meet students’ financial needs. “This is an annual fund,” said Chad Cunningham, assistant director of annual giving. “This means each year we meet with the same challenge, and each year the gifts immediately go to helping students offset the cost of tuition.” The JBUSF provides support for JBU students through need-based scholarships and the work-study program. “Alumni and friends remained faithful to the JBUSF during the campaign,” said Dr. Jim Krall, vice president for university advancement. “It was encouraging to see such continued support, and we are truly blessed.” Steve Onnen, director of the JBUSF, said, “The annual fund continues before, during and after all other JBU campaigns.” Fall 2011 |
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Why We Give... We started giving to John Brown
University years ago because we deeply believe in its mission to provide Christ-centered education that prepares people to honor God and serve others. We want to help JBU continue this important mission in the future. That is why we decided to support the university through our estate plan.
JBU graduates Dr. Lee Netherton (‘63) and Nancy Culberson Netherton (‘63) have been married for more than 40 years. Lee spent most of his career teaching in JBU’s science department and Nancy spent most of her career being involved in the music department. Lee and Nancy have two children — Renee and Rob.
Planning Your Gift Consider joining the Nethertons in JBU’s Master Builders Society by including JBU in your estate plan.
For more information, contact JBU’s Office of Planned Giving toll free at (800) 446-2450, or visit our website at www.jbu.edu/giving/planned
2000 West University Street Siloam Springs, AR 72761
{ K E E P I N G FA I T H – P R O G R A M I M PA C T } KLRC, A MINISTRY OF JBU Award-winning radio station KLRC is experiencing growing ministry and influence in Northwest Arkansas because of the listener support that is part of the Keeping Faith campaign. (Contributions to the station’s Sharathon during the campaign — $4.1 million — were counted toward the Keeping Faith total.) One of the ways the station has impacted the community is through “Pay It Forward,” a month-long initiative that encourages listeners to perform random acts of kindness to friends, neighbors, and complete strangers. The most popular part of “Pay it Forward” is “Drive-Thru Difference” day. Listeners are encouraged to pay for the car behind them in the drive-thru line. “We’ve heard from employees at Starbucks and Chick-fil-A who have told us they’ve had as many as 100 consecutive cars participating,” said KLRC General Station Manager Sean Sawatzky. Debby Wieneke, Exec. Director of Habitat for Humanity of Benton County, expressed her appreciation for KLRC as well: “I cannot begin to tell you how many people have come up to us or called to let us know they heard our info on KLRC. What a blessing this has been to us. God bless you all.” DIRECTOR OF DISCIPLESHIP Thanks to the $20 Million Challenge, the Director of Discipleship position exists to help provide opportunities for spiritual formation initiatives for students. In this role, Frank Huebert mentors student ministry leaders and works with hundreds of JBU students in a variety of ministry settings: small group Bible studies, outreach and evangelism, mission trips, and more. “College may be one of the most critical junctures in these students’
lives. It will be a place where they will make some of the best friends of their lives, choose vocations, possibly find a spouse, finally become an adult, hear clearly God’s call on their lives, and make their faith their own,” Frank said. “Each day I get to develop students as leaders, mentor them to be strong Christian adults, and disciple them to be whole-hearted followers of Christ.” FACULTY EXCELLENCE PROGRAM The Faculty Excellence Program exists to provide opportunities for quality research and scholarship, motivated and informed by a Christian perspective. Through funding provided by the $20 Million Challenge, faculty contract extensions and expense stipends are made available to support faculty members in unique scholarly efforts, often during the summer months. Not only do faculty go on to produce award-winning publications and presentations, the program enables JBU to attract and retain the best faculty. LEADER SCHOLARS INSTITUTE JBU provides a unique opportunity for students to pursue and develop their calling as servant leaders in the world. The $20 Million Challenge helps fund the Leader Scholars Institute (LSI), a program that equips students with the theory and practice of ethical leadership in order to produce dynamic and effective leaders for the future. Students are nominated for the program by their churches, camps, and schools; the university then invites these nominated students to become Leader Scholars in the LSI program to receive scholarships for their participation in the program. “From projects defining leadership to
R PROGRAMS MINISNTE Y TO OUR COMMU IT
mpaign The Keeping Faith Ca programs ny ma included support for ways to us rio va that ministered in These ity. un mm the greater JBU co ce and rvi se the th programs enhance bo on ssi mi U’s JB academic aspects of
practical application through service projects and mentoring, I grew as a Christian leader equipped to impact those around me,” says recent graduate Andrea Kahnk ‘07. “I count it a blessing to be a part of a program that embraces JBU’s mission of head, heart, and hand.” CRE — DR. GARY J. OLIVER ENDOWED CHAIR IN MARRIAGE, FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP STUDIES JBU’s Center for Relationship Enrichment is experiencing an expanded ministry, due to the anonymous donation of $2 million for the creation of the Dr. Gary J. Oliver Endowed Chair in Marriage, Family and Relationship Studies. Dr. Oliver is a university and seminary professor, psychologist, author, executive director of the Center for Relationship Enrichment (CRE) and professor of psychology and practical theology at JBU. Dr. Oliver is also the first person to hold this endowed chair. “The study of families and relationships teaches us how to support healthy families and how to heal broken relationships,” said Dr. Oliver. “I am humbled to know that thanks to this generous gift, the important work we do will continue long after my tenure.” – Tracy Balzer Fall 2011 |
Brown Bulletin | 13
{ K E E P I N G FA I T H – G I V I N G I M PA C T }
PRAY. PROMOTE. PROVIDE.
nds of JBU Alumni, parents and frie many ways. in ty support the universi JBU. Some on or Some pray for God’s fav U story. JB at gre tell others about the provide me so n, And in a capital campaig od work at JBU. financially to support go
Debbie Walker and Pat Walker
Willard and Pat Walker Pat and Willard Walker were married only a few months after Pat walked into a Kansas department store looking for work. It was 1941, and Willard, who was an employee at the time, took one look at Pat and said, “I’m going to marry that girl.” He did, and the two had a blessed 61 years of marriage. Pat and Willard were raised during the Depression Era, and both were given educational and vocational opportunities by others in their community. After the Walkers began reaping the financial benefits of investing in Wal-Mart, they decided to give back by establishing the Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation. Since the beginning, The Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation has invested in human lives by philan14 |
Brown Bulletin | Fall 2011
More than 16,000 alumni, parents, board members, friends, foundations and corporations gave to the Keeping Faith Campaign. Each donor has a story of why they decided to support the mission of JBU with their gift. Here is a sample of those stories. thropically providing for healthcare and education. “Many people struggle through economic situations that prevent them from receiving healthcare or education,” says the foundation’s executive director Debbie Walker. “Private philanthropy is a way to reach and impact those individuals. JBU has been a great fit for the organization. ” In addition to giving significantly to the Walker Student Center and Bill George Arena, the Walker foundation established an endowed scholarship for the Biblical Studies division. The endowment was established as part of the $10 Million Challenge and increased as part of the $20 Million Challenge. “Education is one of the largest components in helping people grow,” Walker says. “Many of the gifts given to JBU were given out of trust, friendship and respect for the organization.” As students in the Biblical Studies division prepare to become youth ministers, family counselors, advocacy workers, chaplains, pastors and international relief workers The Walker Foundation’s legacy will continue to spread. John Pickle “I’ve never made a lot of money,” says John Pickle ’61, “but because I believe in holistic education—head, heart and hand—I provide what I can towards scholarships at JBU.” Growing up near Siloam Springs, John knew all about John Brown University, and with his father working as a faculty member, the decision to attend was easy. After graduation, he completed four years in the military, obtained a Ph.D. in entomology and spent the next thirty years involved in agricultural produc-
tion, before retiring in 2003 to work as a substitute teacher. “I required a two year medical treatment that stopped the teaching, and when I got my strength back after radiation therapy, I ran for a local political position which I won and held for two years,” he says. During that time, even while undergoing medical issues, John gave to the JBUSF when finances allowed. “I give to JBU because of the solid education they provide,” he says. “When you educate the whole person, you instill values that become part of that person. My advice to students and alumni is this: keep the foundation of head, heart and hand.” Paul and Linda Galyean The land had been in their family for over one hundred years, and now the state wanted to build a highway through it. Although they were devastated to lose their home and land, Paul and Linda Galyean chose to seek God’s will. The Galyeans used a portion of the proceeds from the land sale to set up an endowed scholarship for JBU students. Because Paul and Linda were married while attending JBU, they understand the challenges many married students face. In 2008, the Galyeans established the Paul and Linda Thomas Galyean Endowed Scholarship to help married JBU students, and the scholarship was matched dollar for dollar as part of the $20 Million Challenge. When asked what led them to establish an endowed scholarship at JBU, they replied, “Our parents, Audrey and Eilene Thomas and Clifton and Darline Galyean, were our best friends and always helped us along life’s way. As graduates of JBU we know first-hand the value of a college that provides a threefold educa-
{ K E E P I N G FA I T H – G I V I N G I M PA C T } tion - Head, Heart, and Hand. We give to JBU because we put our hope in God who richly provides for us, and we give with humility and confidence that our gift will help somebody along life’s way, and that they will someday multiply our gift by helping others at JBU. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” Sid and April Smith What prompts people who aren’t alumni to support JBU? Most often it’s the contagious enthusiasm of seeing a family member thrive in the JBU community.When Margo Smith began looking at colleges, she and her parents, Sid and April Smith were pleased to discover the high academic standards at JBU. “Even more important than excellent academics, however, was the expression of Christian Faith that comes from the heart,” says April Smith. Sid and April serve on the Parent Council and have seen first hand the excellence that characterizes JBU in every area. April adds, “I love the motto, “Head, Heart, Hand,” because it captures the spirit of JBU: excellent academics, genuine love and servant leadership. There is such a healthy standard among the students, faculty and administrators of what it means to live the Christian life.” After Margo’s brother Dylan also enrolled in JBU, their grandparents, Herman and Suzanne Kanis decided to come to campus for a visit. Encouraged and impressed by both the Christian community and the academic strength, the Kanis’ decided to support JBU. “The spiritual foundation on campus was evident,” Herman says. “As a grandparent one of our number one goals is to see such a foundation established in our grandkids.” Barbara Bragg Student work study was a little different in 1951. For Barbara Bragg ‘55, it meant she spent fifteen hours a week either pulling laundered sheets off hot rollers, managing the switchboard,
Taylor, Ryan, Caitlin, Erin, Mike and Peggy King
working in the library or running the film projector for a professor. Growing up in Farmington, Ark. as an only child, Barbara went to a small high school and knew she wanted a close community experience for college as well. It only took one random family drive around campus for her to decide to attend John Brown University. Barbara relied heavily on financial aid before graduating in 1955, which is why she now strongly supports the JBU Scholarship Fund and even established the Barbara and John Bragg Endowed Scholarship during the $10 Million Challenge. She also supported the Cathedral Group project. Ask her why, and you’ll simply hear her say, “It needed to be finished.” Now that the three buildings are completed and covered in limestone, Barbara says that supporting the project was the right decision. For her, supporting John Brown University stems from a desire to serve God and bless others. “I am most happy when helping someone, in whatever way I can,” she says. Mike and Peggy King When Mike King ’81 attended JBU, construction management was called ‘building construction’. Today, King is
excited about the additional changes to the program: the new Balzer Technology Center. Now that Mike and Peggy King’s daughter attends JBU, their relationship with the university has only deepened. As a member of the JBU Board of Trustees, Mike King knew that the spiritual and academic environment on campus would fit well with his daughter. “From a parent’s point of view, the spiritual foundation is a vital part of education,” he says. “There have been exciting changes on campus since I’ve graduated, and the Keeping Faith Campaign has provided so much growth.” The Kings supported the Keeping Faith Campaign by giving to the Cathedral Group project, the Balzer Technology Center as well as setting up the Ken Schoenwald Memorial Endowed Scholarship and the King Enterprise Group Endowed Scholarship, both of which were part of the $20 Million Challenge. “It has also been such a blessing to see the Board of Trustees totally committed to the campaign and vision of JBU. They were deeply involved through prayer, gifts and encouragement,” he says. “Taking part in this campaign has been wonderful, and Peggy and I are thrilled to still be a part of JBU.” – Jessa Eldridge ’11 Fall 2011 |
Brown Bulletin | 15
{ FRO { M K E TEH PE I NEGD FI TAO I TRH —B YL UTCHAE S NRUOMEBBEURCSK } ‘ 9 7 }
The New JBU.edu BY THE NUMBERS
$0
$0
$118,195,624
$100
$118 16,326 DONORS
$0
$100 (INCLUDING 10,517 FIRST TIME DONORS)
$100
TOTAL GIFTS & PLEDGES
$0
$100
$10 $118
$10
Original Goal
Expan
Expanded Goal
$8
Expanded Goal
NUMBER OF ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS AMOUNT OF ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS
$8
Original Goal
Original Goal
$10
Over Goal
CAMPAIGN ALLOCATIONS
$2,000,000
300
BUILDINGS 36%
$1,668,320 $1,568,426
$1,500,000
$42,467,821
$1,334,660 $1,230,270
206
$1,070,000
$1,000,000
$872,460
156
166
143
$756,610
PROGRAMS & MISC. 27%
122
$618,670 103
95
$500,000
$32,364,637
181
$43,363,166
SCHOLARSHIPS 37% $0 2004-05
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
2009-10
TOP TEN CAMPAIGN PROJECTS BY DOLLAR AMOUNT • $20 Million Challenge • Balzer Technology Center ($11 million) • $10 Million Challenge • Bill George Arena ($9.5 million) • Berry Performing Arts Center ($8.5 million) • Cathedral Group Restoration ($6 million) • JBU Scholarship Fund ($4.9 million) • North Hall New Wing ($3.5 million) • “Art 2” Building Renovation ($2.5 million) • Dr. Gary J. Oliver Endowed Chair ($2 million)
2010-11
0
2011-12
CAMPAIGN GIFTS AND PLEDGES BY YEAR $32,000,000
$29,575,761 $25,930,023
$24,000,000
$19,931,108 $16,390,890
$16,000,000 $11,265,991
$8,000,000 $0 05-06
16 |
Brown Bulletin | Fall 2011
$15,101,852
06-07
07-08
08-09
09-10
10-11
Ove
{ ADVANCEMENT – DR. JIM KRALL }
A Walk Around Campus Shows the Impact of the Campaign The sun was warm, but the fall air had a crisp feel, making for a perfect afternoon. Wanting to get out of the office for a few minutes, I decided to take a walk around campus. As I walked, I was reminded of how greatly JBU has been blessed. Enrollment is strong, we were just named number one in the Southern Region by U.S. News and World Report rankings, and the educational experience the students receive is exceptional – in and outside of the classroom. We are blessed with great faculty and staff that invest in the students’ lives. We reached the goals of the Keeping Faith Campaign and I am thankful for the impact the campaign has had on this special place. I walked past the new buildings that have been built as part of the campaign — the Berry Performing Arts Center, the new Balzer Technology Center (housing engineering and construction management), the new Bill George Arena and the addition to North Hall. I continued past the former engineering building, previously the library (19561981), which is undergoing remodeling to become an additional Art building. All of these new classrooms, performance areas, labs and studio spaces exist as a result of the campaign and offer great new venues for students to use their God-given talents. I walked toward the Cathedral and as I stepped through the plaza (built as part of the Keeping Faith Campaign), I looked down at the various names inlaid on the bricks—Panage, Oiesen, Wills, Thomas, Setian, McCullough and many others—names of those who have devotedly served JBU for twenty-five
years or more. This area also holds the names of John Brown Sr., John Brown Jr. and John Brown III. All have been faithful through their good work at JBU—keeping the university true to our calling of “Christ Over All”. Looking up at the Cathedral, the building where students come for corporate worship, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness during this campaign. Our cup overflows with His goodness. As I walked back to my office, I noticed students who were also taking advantage of the beautiful day. Some were studying or reading while others simply enjoyed the company of friends. Seeing them reminded me how deeply this campaign has impacted their lives — scholarships giving the needed funds for them to attend JBU; excellent facilities, faculty/staff and programs that provide the space and instruction for a high caliber Christian education; and endowments to financially sustain the new scholarships and buildings for the future. I couldn’t help but think that without your generosity, prayers and encouragement, JBU would not be what it is today.You, as alumni, parents and friends, are all vital to carrying out the great work that happens in students’ lives at JBU. Thank you for partnering with us and for your generosity to JBU. Even though the Keeping Faith Campaign is complete, it is exciting that our work at JBU is not complete; more students will come, bringing with them the challenging opportunity for us to provide them with a “Head, Heart and Hand” education. – Dr. Jim Krall is vice president for university advancement.
Looking up at the Cathedral, the building where students come for corporate worship, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness during this campaign. Our cup overflows with His goodness.
John Brown University 2000 W. University Street Siloam Springs, AR 72761
MOMENTUM AT JOHN BROWN UNIVERSITY
RANKED #1 ACADEMIC SUCCESS COLLEGE IN THE SOUTH BY U.S. NEWS
LARGEST CLASS FALL 2011 INCOMING STUDENTS MOST IN UNIVERSITY HISTORY
Nationally-recognized achievement in competitions (Reynolds Governor’s Cup, SIFE, American Advertising Federation, NASA), prestigious scholarships (Truman, Fulbright, White Coat), and research funding from National Science Foundation and EPA.
STILL DISTINCTLY
CHRIST-
CENTERED ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD