Lees-McRae College Magazine | Spring/Summer 2013
May School of Nursing and Allied Health Construction Begins Fall 2013 1 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
The Alumni Magazine of Lees-McRae College
Editor Megan Hall ’10
Graphic Designer Lauren Foster
Contributing Writers Caroline Hart, Nolan McDaniel ’13, Whitney Noble, Jillian Rosato, Michelle Vance Scott ’86/’90, Nell Smith ’14, Ken Sullivan ’59, Meghan Wright ’06
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Contributing Photographers Heather Angel ’12, Josh Brown, Jason Els ’15, Dr. Michael Joslin, Jillian Rosato, Meghan Wright ’06
President Dr. Barry M. Buxton
Board of Trustees, Executive Committee Mr. Harvey Lowd, Chair Mr. W. McNair Tornow, Vice Chair Mr. Tommy Brigham ’72 Dr. Ed Shelton ’60/’95(H) Dr. Edward E. Hood, Jr. Mrs. Barbara Miller Whitton Mrs. Donna Mason ’78 Mr. Les Broussard ’90 Mr. Cary Green ’92 Capt. Ken Sullivan ’59 Mr. Parker Grubbs ’95 Mr. Scott Barrett
Alumni Board Executive Committee Catherine Button Campe ’89/’91, President Karen Gobble Meade ’86, President Elect Martha W. McAfee ’86/’03, Vice President Deena Powell Chambers ’75, Secretary Jillian Rosato, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations
Office of Advancement Caroline O. Hart, Vice President of Advancement Frankie Needham ’55(H), Director of Advancement Services Jillian Rosato, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Michelle V. Scott ’86/’90, Assistant Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Holly Minton, Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations
About the Publication The Pinnacles is published for alumni and friends of the College by the Office of Communications. Please send all communications including questions, class notes and letters to the editor to: The Pinnacles Lees-McRae College P.O. Box 128 Banner Elk, NC 28604 or communications@lmc.edu
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Contents Features 12 May School of Nursing and Allied Health 17 Bobcat Bucket List 20 Successful Alumni of Lees-McRae
Departments 4 9 22 24 30
Lees-McRae Elevated Bobcat Athletics Elevated Opportunities Elevated Alumni Elevated Generations Elevated
Reflections from the Rock House Growing Stronger With Purpose
We enjoy continued good fortune at Lees-McRae College. Through hard work, fiscal discipline and sound strategic planning, we just completed our third consecutive year of living within our means while paying down our long-term debt. I believe a sound business model is the foundation for a stronger, more vibrant Lees-McRae. With the continuing generosity of our donors, we are growing stronger with purpose to ensure that Lees-McRae is a desirable destination for young men and women and that the value of a Lees-McRae education remains worth the investment. In fact, it gives me great pleasure to report that we ended our fiscal year on strong financial footing. I say this to ensure you we remain good stewards of our resources, because we know what takes place here is of such great importance. A successful Lees-McRae not only benefits our students, it has a positive “ripple effect� throughout the High Country. With 20 percent of Avery County residents living below the poverty line, a healthy, vibrant Lees-McRae College can make a big difference in lives beyond our campus. I sincerely believe we are living our college motto (In Montibus, Ex Montibus, Pro Montibus) every day, and we are in transition to meet the highest standards of best practices, transparency and return on investment. The recent groundbreaking for the May School of Nursing and Allied Health is a case in point. We believe this project will be a transformational event in the life of the College that will have profound effects beyond our campus. When fully implemented, we anticipate 200 additional students will attend Lees-McRae to train to be nurses, or to study Healthcare Administration, Athletic Training, Health Sciences and Emergency Care Services. Excellent professional opportunities await our graduates, and the programs and people associated with the May School of Nursing and Allied Health will improve the status of healthcare in our community. Later this year, we will host the groundbreaking for the Lauritsen Technical Theater and Design Studio, which will greatly enhance our facilities for students in Performing Arts and also strengthen the highly-acclaimed Summer Theater at LeesMcRae. In the fall, we will dedicate the Robb Center for Career Exploration. This facility is dedicated to preparing Lees-McRae students for careers after graduation. We recognize if we are to be a good value in higher education, we must focus on outcomes and prepare our graduates to compete successfully in the job market. Summer is a very busy time at Lees-McRae. As a result of the continuing generosity of The Cannon Charitable Trusts and The Cannon Foundation, Inc., we will be investing $375,000 in our buildings and grounds. One of our goals is to be among the most beautiful college campuses in North Carolina. This effort will include new residence hall bathrooms, remodeled classrooms, new roofs, road paving and the long-awaited completion of our steam plant transformation. Soon we will be a much more energy efficient campus! All of these improvements are directed toward the needs of our students. These new facilities and programs are intended to make Lees-McRae an attractive educational destination, a good value and an institution worthy of support. In short, Lees-McRae continues to grow stronger with purpose. Be assured we do not rest on our laurels. Your support, encouragement and dedication to this venerable institution will help foster a bright future. Upward and onward!
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Lees-McRae Elevated The Lees-McRae College Board of Trustees welcomed six new members over the last several months. Glenda Abbate, Bob Capps, Cary Greene, Bob Meier, Chuck Raymond and Sandy Rouse are the newest members. Glenda Abbate and her husband, Florio, reside in Weston, Fla. and Banner Elk, NC. Glenda is originally from Texas and graduated from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas, and did graduate studies at Hardin Simmons University, also in Abilene, and Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Fla. She is a retired teacher, community volunteer and fundraiser for children’s charities. Bob Capps received a BS Degree in Advertising from
Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va. in 1966. For the past three years, Bob has served as the Chairman of the Business Advisory Council of Lees -McRae College. Other leadership positions held within the Episcopal Church include Senior Warden, Chairman of the Search, Long Range Planning, and Christ the King Endowment Fund, Inc. committees. He is a corporate sponsor of the Charlotte Cycling Team and has a son-inlaw serving on the Lees-McRae Cycling Advisory Council. Bob has been married for 45 years to Mary (Polly) Wright Galt and they have one daughter, Caroline, and two grandchildren.
Cary Greene is currently President and Chief Executive
Officer of Narcote, LLC (a technical textile solutions company specializing in performance film laminates and coatings, with offices in Tennessee and manufacturing partners in Asia). Prior to Narcote, he was with North American Fibers and North American Polyester (a domestic manufacturer of filament rayon and staple cut polyester). In 1991, Cary received his BS in Marketing from Lees-McRae College and a MBA with an emphasis in finance in 1994 from Mercer University. Cary is also an accomplished pilot and serves on the board of an aviation
Abbate
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Capps
Greene
charter business, Corporate Skies, Inc. Cary, his wife, Angela, and their two children reside in Jonesborough, Tenn. and are active in their church, St. John’s Episcopal of Johnson City, Tenn.
Bob Meier is President and CEO of Northern Trust – Georgia. Prior to joining Northern Trust in 1997, Bob was associated with NationsBank where he managed a portfolio of commercial loans and worked with high net worth families and business owners in southwest Florida. He attended Lees-McRae College and received a BA in Economics from Wake Forest University. Prior to his banking career, Bob served on active duty as a U.S. Naval Officer and retired from the Naval Reserves in 1997. Chuck Raymond and his wife, Kimberly, reside at Grandfather Golf and Country Club. He has been the CEO/ President of Horizon Lines, Inc., a shipping firm from 2003 to 2011; CEO/President of CSX Lines, a containerized shipping division of CSX Corporation from 2000 to 2003; and Chief Transportation Officer for Sea-Land Service, Inc., a transportation division of CSX Corporation from 1988 to 1999. Chuck enjoys sailing, golf and reading. Sandy Kinney Rouse attended Lees-McRae College. When she retired from banking in 1994, she was working for Mercantile National in the National and International Commercial Lending Divisions, Capital Markets and Credit Departments. Sandy and her husband, Tommy, reside in Dallas with their two French Bulldogs, Annie and Gracie. They enjoy traveling and spending time at their North Carolina mountain home with family and friends.
Meier
Raymond
Rouse
Commencement 2013 Lees-McRae College conferred degrees upon 168 graduates during commencement exercises on May 11.
Deborah Buxton Honored with Carraway Award Preservation North Carolina awarded Deborah Buxton, wife of President Barry Buxton, and Lees-McRae College a 2012 Gertrude S. Carraway Award of Merit for the restoration of the Daniel Boone VI Cottage. The Carraway Awards are presented each year to people and organizations demonstrating genuine commitment through extraordinary leadership, research, philanthropy, promotion and/or personal participation in historic preservation. This charming structure, built in 1935, is filled with wormy chestnut paneling and hand-hewn beans, four stone fireplaces, Tennessee marble floors, and hand-wrought iron by Daniel Boone VI. The cottage was originally known as the Practice House or the Jenks Cottage, depending on the time of year. Used primarily by the Home Economics Department as a practice space for women to learn housekeeping, cooking, sewing, and home planning and management; in the summer, the cottage was occupied by Miss Anna B. Jenks and Miss Alice Southworth, part-time residents of Banner Elk. Over the years, the house had fallen into disrepair, but with the vision of Deborah Buxton and the help of countless sponsors, volunteers and designers, the cottage was restored and has become a perfect reflection of the ideal “Appalachian Retreat� filled to the rafters with antiques, exquisite artwork, master crafts and gorgeous fabrics. The house was open for tours as a designer show house in fall 2010, a project that was co-chaired by Dianne Davant of Dianne Davant and Associates and Pam McKay of The Art Cellar. Tours of the house raised funds for building restoration and historic preservation on the Lees-McRae College campus. It is now used as a guest house for campus visitors.
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Director of Financial Aid Named President-Elect of NCASFAA
Suzette Fronk Named Vice President of Finance and Business Affairs Effective October 1, 2012, Suzette A. Fronk was appointed vice president of finance and business affairs. Fronk comes to Lees-McRae College from Ohio Northern University where she served as assistant vice president of financial affairs and director of budget and planning. Prior to her service at Ohio Northern, Fronk spent more than a decade at University of Toledo where she was assistant director of contracts and fiscal planning, assistant athletic director for business affairs, and business manager of the College of Engineering. At Lees-McRae College, Fronk oversees the financial operations of the College and develops strategic financial and facility service plans. She serves as the chief financial officer and treasurer of the College, overseeing all business affairs, human resources, information technology, telecommunications, facility services, campus security and contracted services. Fronk holds a BS in Business Marketing from Miami University and both an MBA and JD from the University of Toledo. She has four children and four grandchildren.
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Lees-McRae College Director of Financial Aid Cathy Shell has been elected President-Elect of the North Carolina Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NCASFAA). As the 2013-14 PresidentElect, Shell will serve as the understudy to the President and as Parliamentarian of the Association. She will then be the President of NCASFAA for the 2014-15 year and will officially assume those duties in July 2014. Shell’s career at Lees-McRae College spans 29 years and includes serving as an Alpha 101 instructor and freshmen academic advisor, cheerleading coach, Director of Student Accounts Receivable and Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management. Having served as Independent Sector Representative, Chair of the State and High School Relations Committee, an instructor for New Aid Officer workshops, both presenter and moderator for NCASFAA concurrent sessions, and on several committees for the past eight years, Shell has gained a thorough knowledge of the interworking of the NCASFAA and she understands how important the opportunities for professional development and training provided by NCASFAA are to those in the financial aid profession.
Lees-McRae By The Numbers
95%
14 to 1 Student : Faculty Ratio
of students receive financial aid.
2,200 volunteer hours
Represented
Not Represented
Approximately 800 students representing 39 states and territories and 10 foreign countries.
$15.4
million
The campus community volunteers more than 2,200 hours of service each year on Mountain Day.
The amount Lees-McRae College contributed in 2007 to the Avery County economy. *Statistic collected during an economic impact study of the College.
More than 35 pets live on campus.
Announcing Online Programs Beginning August 2013 The RN to BSN Degree Completion Program will be the first fully online program offered by Lees-McRae College. For more information about online programs, please contact Lees-McRae College Admissions at 800.280.4562.
Extended Campus Elementary Education Alumni Named Teacher of the Year In 2013, 11 alumni of the Extended Campus Elementary Education program at Surry Community College were named Teacher of the Year at their respective institutions and two alumni have received county-wide honors as well. “What sets our program apart from others and allows us to develop such superior teachers is the personal attention from staff and faculty,” said Robin Buchanan, chair of the Division of Education. “This, combined with the programmatic emphasis on the Reflective Teacher model, helps our students achieve their full potential and enter the field of education prepared and ready to have a positive impact on the children.”
“Student teachers from Lees-McRae College are prepared for education in the 21st century,” said Kimberly Simmons, North Carolina Educator Evaluation Consultant, NCDPI. “I am so impressed with Lees-McRae’s program. They are leading educator preparation with innovative strategies and a strong commitment to pushing forward in a time of educational change.”
The Teacher Education program has achieved the high standards required to maintain accreditation by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC) and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). LeesMcRae’s program is one of only four in the state of North Carolina that has The recipients of this honor are as follows: Amanda Adams (White Plains Elementary chosen to participate in NC FALCON, School), Brandy Rogers Lawson (Lawsonville Elementary School), Brooke Golding North Carolina’s Formative Assessment (Pilot Mountain Middle School), Lori Beasley (Dobson Elementary School), James Learning Community’s Online Eaton (Gladesboro Elementary School), Sarah Johnson (Rockford Elementary Network. This program supports the implementation of formative assessment School), Amy Jones (Flat Rock Elementary School), Beth Scott (Fall Creek Elementary in North Carolina classrooms and School), Daphne Wright (Pilot Mountain Elementary School) and Melissa Varney professional learning community where (Westfield Elementary School). challenges and successes can be Additionally, Stacy Hodge was named Teacher Assistant of the Year at Rockford shared with expectations of positive collaboration. Elementary School, Pedro Caro (Franklin Elementary School) was named Surry
County Teacher of the Year and Karen Joyner (Courtney Elementary School) was named Yadkin County Math Teacher of the Year. The extended campus four-year degree in Elementary Education is designed for students who already have a two-year degree. This full-time program takes two years to complete and results in a BA or BS in Elementary Education.
Serving as the lead pilot university to embed this training in their education program, Lees-McRae students not only participate in the professional development series, but are trained in using specific strategies to determine student performance in their classroom, create unit curriculum plans, and prepare to implement plans during their student teaching. The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 7
Top Scholars to Attend Lees-McRae in Fall 2013 We are thrilled to welcome the Class of 2017 to campus this fall, and we are especially excited to welcome five students in particular -- the recipients of the Elizabeth McRae, Shelton and Video Essay scholarships.
Shelton Scholar This award, established in September 2012, was named in honor of Ed and Dotti Shelton for their generous and humble leadership, guidance and support of LeesMcRae College. Dr. Shelton, an alumnus of the class of 1960, was awarded an honorary degree in Political Science in 1995, and was presented with an honorary Doctorate of Humanities in 2011. He also serves on the College’s Board of Trustees. His wife, Dotti, an artist, has donated several paintings to Lees-McRae over the years, both for display and auction at the Scholarship Gala. Incoming freshman athlete Anthony Carroll (Stevensville, Md.) was honored as Lees-McRae’s first Shelton Scholar, a scholarship valued at more than $130,000 over the course of four years. Carroll attended Kent Island High School where he maintained a 4.192 GPA and participated in cross country and track. The Shelton Scholars program is the highest honor to be bestowed upon an entering freshman. This prestigious award will provide full tuition, room and board for four years.
Anthony Carroll
Emma McGovern
Elizabeth McRae Scholarship The Elizabeth McRae Scholarship is the second largest scholarship awarded by Lees-McRae. This scholarship covers full tuition for a full-time student. This scholarship is renewable for all four years. The Elizabeth McRae scholarship was named for Mrs. Elizabeth A. McRae, one of the two namesakes of the College. Mrs. McRae was a summer school teacher at Lees-McRae in the early 1900s. Knowing the devoted character of her work, Rev. Tufts, named the institute for her. A few years later, he added the name of Mrs. S.P. Lees, a generous benefactor. One of this year’s recipients, Emma McGovern (Lexington, NC), attended North Davidson Senior High School. With a 4.438 GPA, she is a soccer player who plans to major in Communication Art & Design. This year’s second recipient, Jordan Mayer (Timberlake, NC), attended Person High School and is an active tennis athlete. Jordan graduated with a 4.35 GPA and plans to study Psychology.
Jordan Mayer
Video Essay Scholarship In April 2013, the College hosted its inaugural My Future Elevated Video Essay Scholarship competition, which garnered more than 80 submissions. With scholarships up for grabs, prospective students were asked to get creative and submit a video to YouTube that answered one of two questions: Why are you a good fit for Lees-McRae College? How will attending Lees-McRae College elevate your future? Once all submissions were received, a panel of judges consisting of College faculty and staff narrowed down the videos to six finalists. The videos were then posted on the Lees-McRae Admissions Facebook page for popular vote.
Mekayla Boswell
After two nerve-wrecking weeks and nearly 7,400 votes, the polls were closed and the winners were announced. Melissa Hooper (Cary, NC) was named the Fan Favorite and Mekayla Boswell (Mocksville, NC) was named Fan Favorite Runnerup. Hooper, who was homeschooled, is interested in wildlife biology, while Boswell, who attended the North Carolina School for the Arts, is interested in musical theatre. Melissa Hooper 8 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
Bobcat Athletics Elevated
Bobcat Athletes Earn Academic Success This year the Lees-McRae College athletic department has experienced record-breaking academic success on local and national stages, showing that hard work and dedication breeds success. In the fall semester, the department achieved a single-semester school record of a 3.13 grade point average. Then the student-athletes did the unthinkable and proceeded to break their own record in the very next semester, with a departmental grade point average of 3.143. “We continue to build on the foundation of student-athletes within our athletic department,” expressed Craig McPhail, director of athletics. “The work of so many has us rejoicing in this accolade. I am proud of the efforts of our young people as they manage the daily rigors of being a student-athlete.” During the 2013 spring semester, fourteen of the Bobcats’ 20 intercollegiate athletic programs posted a combined team GPA of 3.0 or higher, including seven teams with a GPA over 3.2. Overall, 147 student-athletes (includes multiple sport participants) registered a grade point average over 3.2; 179 (includes multiple sport participants) posted a GPA of 3.0 or higher. As if breaking school records was not enough, the Bobcat student-athletes then progressed to national recognition for their academic achievements, receiving an NCAA Division II Presidents’ Award for Academic Excellence. As one of 26 schools to be honored, Lees-McRae was the lone representative from Conference Carolinas and the Southeast region. The award, which is in its second year of existence,
honors athletic programs with four-year Academic Success Rates of 90 percent or higher. Lees-McRae ranks 12th nationally with a 93 percent Academic Success Rate, which is 21 percentage points higher than the national average of 72 percent and 38 percent better than the federal graduation rate. “This is a great achievement and shows the dedication we have to our student-athletes, and their commitment to being great in and out of the classroom,” praised McPhail. “From our coaching staff, to faculty and academic support staff we are all very proud of this honor and look forward to keeping academics and athletics at a very high level at Lees-McRae.” The Bobcats can attribute much of their success this year to the CATS (Challenging Athletes to Succeed) program, which partners with the Burton Center for Student Success to provide student-athletes with services that assist in balancing athletic responsibilities with academic success. Lees-McRae’s coaching staff and the department as a whole bought into what the CATS program can do in 20122013, totaling more than 7,000 study hall hours during the academic year as part of their commitment to success, both on the court and in the classroom. “Our staff and their ability to monitor and maintain this high level of achievement in the classroom fortifies my belief that we have the right folks in the right place,” praised McPhail. The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 9
Bobcats Earn Three Spring Sportsmanship Awards The Lees-McRae College athletic department continues to be a leader, both on and off the field, in Conference Carolinas, receiving three Sportsmanship Awards in the sports of men’s lacrosse, women’s lacrosse and softball this spring. “I am glad to see our peers recognize our sportsmanship and character,” expressed Director of Athletics Craig McPhail. “As a fan of sports, we all want the games to be played with the highest of regards. This is a tribute to our quality coaching staff, and the student athletes that wear the green and gold.” The sport-specific Sportsmanship Awards are determined using a voting process implemented by Athletics Directors, which calls for a coach and student-athlete representative to vote together and evaluate the sportsmanship exhibited by conference opponents’ players, coaches and fans during the regular season. After votes have been submitted, the conference office averages the results and the institution with the highest average for each conference sport is awarded the respective Sportsmanship Award.
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Former Lees-McRae Cyclists Ride in Tour de France When the Tour de France celebrated its 100th anniversary in July, it did so with a pinch of Bobcat pride. Former Lees-McRae cyclists, Brent Bookwalter ’06 and Andrew Talansky, made their alma mater proud as they competed in the historic race. Bookwalter and Talansky were two of only six American riders in the 2013 Tour de France, which covers 3,404 kilometers of France’s most beautiful roads over the course of 23 days. Bookwalter (BMC Racing), who made his third appearance in the tour, represented his team well, consistently riding near 85th place following a crash during stage five. Bookwalter also performed well in several other top races this year. Talansky (GarminSharp), who made his first appearance in the tour, was found to be a break-out young rider and dubbed the top American in the race. This performance follows a year of top career finishes at only 24 years old. Congratulations, Bobcats!
Women’s Soccer Team Volunteers at Hospitality House in Boone
The View from the Top By Nolan McDaniel ’13 Tradition has a way of bringing people back to glory days, to memories of champions, discipline and gritty hard work. It has a way of motivating the pursuers of present excellence and the dreamers of future greatness. Tradition shows us the many ways that those before us have reached such heights. Tradition is a word that one would absolutely use to describe the Lees-McRae College cycling program. The program has heralded ten team national championships, been home to fifty individual national champions and produced a multitude of professional riders. It is clear, through riders such as Kerry Werner and Spencer Oswald, that the tradition of this program is most certainly alive and well. In January of this year, Werner traveled with the Lees-McRae cycling team with one goal in mind: defend his USA Cycling Collegiate Cyclo-Cross National Championship. Werner dominated the race from the outset and accomplished what he set out to do. Werner took the lead in the second lap of the race, and he never relented. His performance led a young Lees-McRae team to finish third in team standings that weekend. There is no doubt that Werner has successfully added to the tradition of excellence at Lees-McRae.
On the topic of champions, the Bobcats added another name to their long list of the best. Sophomore cyclist Spencer Oswald, a racer from Dubuque, Iowa, won the individual time trial at this year’s USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships. His performance helped the Lees-McRae team post a strong effort at the event, coming just 50 points shy of reaching the podium. What is even more remarkable about Oswald’s performance is that he did not just win the individual time trial – he dominated the event. He finished at an incredible time of 27:15.94, an entire minute and thirty-two seconds before the second place finisher. Oswald joins a long list of champions after his win, and he has two more years to race for the Bobcats. Tradition is certainly present in the mountains of Western North Carolina, and the riders that are returning to Lees-McRae in the fall are working hard to keep that tradition alive while also building upon it. This past season was very successful, but the riders are thirsty for improvement and excellence. Perhaps riders that train at 3,600 feet know better than anyone else – there is no place that feels higher than the top of a podium.
The Lees-McRae women’s soccer team, known for being active in the local community, took time out of their busy athletic and academic schedules to spend time with those in need, volunteering during Bingo Night at the Hospitality House in Boone. The girls had a great time, passing out prizes and calling numbers while getting to know the residents and staff. The Hospitality House is an organization committed to helping rebuild lives. They provide an emergency shelter, shelter for families, those in transition, as well as permanent supportive housing. They also provide three meals a day, laundry and showers for those in the community that are in need. “We have had a lot of great moments the last few years here at Lees-McRae, but I have never been more proud as a Bobcat to see our young ladies be as caring as they interacted with the residents,” praised head coach Nick Whiting. “It was easy to tell what a special group we have.” The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 11
May School of Nursing and Allied Health On Thursday, June 20, Lees-McRae officially broke ground on the May School of Nursing and Allied Health which will be built on West Main Street, across from the A.C. Chaffee Administration Building. Designed by McMillian Pazdan Smith, this 18,000 square foot facility will soon be the cornerstone of the College’s expanded science and allied health programs.
this opportunity, as well as student interest, marketplace demand and the generous donation from Daniel and Dianne May, the College is considering the addition of a prelicensure undergraduate nursing program as well as allied health programs in healthcare administration and emergency care management. These programs would all be housed in the May School of Nursing and Allied Health.
The ceremony included remarks by Barry M. Buxton, President of Lees-McRae; Rick Owen, Banner Elk Town Manager; and Glenn Johnson, Avery County Commissioner. Additionally, the College was blessed to welcome Daniel and Dianne May, generous benefactors of the project, to campus for the ceremony. Daniel and Dianne reside outside of Naples, Fla. but maintain a residence in Linville Ridge as well. Dianne is an active member of the Lees-McRae Board of Trustees and sits on the Enrollment Management and Communications committee.
“The sacred flame that burned in the heart of [our founders] Edgar and Bessy Tufts has not died,” said President Barry M. Buxton during the groundbreaking ceremony. “That sacred flame lives on in the heart of another couple – Dan and Dianne May – who have recognized that Lees-McRae cannot succeed in a highly competitive higher education environment without first class facilities. Without the passion, the dedication and the foresight of this extraordinary couple the new school of nursing and allied health at Lees-McRae would not be possible.”
“Today, we are declaring to build and implement a school of nursing and allied health on the campus of Lees-McRae College,” said Caroline Hart, vice president of advancement, in her opening remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony. “[Today] we are celebrating on the very site of the May School of Nursing and Allied Health.”
In addition to their generosity to the May School of Nursing and Allied Health, the May family has contributed new roofs and sidewalks as well as landscaping and energy conservation. The Mays also donated funds for the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which opened its doors in May 2012 and has since helped with the rehabilitation of more than 1,000 animals.
With the construction of the May School of Nursing and Allied Health comes the opportunity to expand the College’s already robust science and allied health offerings. Based on 12 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
“We’re just so happy we were able to help Lees-McRae and the community,” said Dianne May, trustee and benefactor
Rendering courtesy of McMillan Pazdan Smith
for the May School of Nursing and Allied Health. “It will be a revitalization of the campus. We can see such progress and we’re thrilled to be a part of it. It is just wonderful.” The state-of-the-art building will provide classrooms, lab space and technology specific to nursing and allied health curriculum. Lees-McRae currently offers science programs such as biology with concentrations in nutrition and health sciences. The health sciences curriculum prepares students for graduate schools in the areas of medical, pharmacy, physician assistant and veterinarian studies. Additionally, the College offers allied health programs such as athletic training (accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education). “I believe the May School of Nursing and Allied Health is a vital asset to the revitalization and continued success of Lees-McRae College,” said Ed Shelton ’60/’95(H), Trustee of Lees-McRae College. “There is great student interest in health-related programs and no shortage of demand for additional healthcare professionals. We are grateful to Daniel and Dianne May for their love of Lees-McRae College and their unconditional support, and we are grateful to McMillan Pazdan Smith for their incredible vision and guidance.” The College is thrilled to partner with the design firm McMillan Pazdan Smith. This architectural team has a proven record of excellence in healthcare facilities and particularly in higher education.
“We are excited about working with Ron Smith and his colleagues at McMillan Pazdan Smith on the May School of Nursing and Allied Health,” said President Buxton. “The firm has an impressive track record of working with small private colleges to facilitate cost containment while building structures that are consistent with the architectural heritage of the institution. Their vision for this important building is dynamic and exciting and we know it will continue our efforts to elevate Lees-McRae College.” With offices located throughout the Southeast, McMillan Pazdan Smith’s portfolio includes many other higher education healthcare and research facilities including the USC School of Medicine - Greenville, Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Wofford Milliken Science Center. “The Lees-McRae family has articulated a vision and demonstrated true leadership in the creation of the May School of Nursing and Allied Health,” said Ron Smith, AIA, managing principal at McMillan Pazdan Smith. “We have the honor of creating a flexible educational environment that will incorporate advanced teaching technologies and strong fiscal stewardship. Our intent is to add aesthetic value to an already beautiful campus.” For more information about nursing and allied health at LeesMcRae, visit www.lmc.edu/nursing-allied-health.
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Clockwise from top: - President Barry Buxton, benefactors Daniel and Dianne May, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Harvey Lowd breaking ground on June 20 - President Barry Buxton speaking at the ceremony - Interior rendering of a lab space - Exterior rendering of the May School - Interior rendering of a classroom - Interior rendering of a conferencing space Renderings courtesy of McMillan Pazdan Smith
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Campus Revitalization Upon his arrival at Lees-McRae, President Buxton implemented a revitalization plan to serve as a blueprint to renew campus spirit, strengthen existing infrastructure, create new opportunities for students and ensure the institution’s financial sustainability. In the past two years, the accomplishments of the Revitalization Plan have touched every corner of the campus. Now, Lees-McRae is incorporating the remaining revitalization goals into a pragmatic Strategic Plan to build a stronger, more unified College. As LeesMcRae makes this transition, we are blessed to continue to experience the generosity of foundations, alumni and friends of the College.
Miller Commons Dedicated on May 16, Miller Commons, formerly known as Heritage Dining Room, is an upscale space adjacent to MacDonald Dining Hall that can be used by students, faculty and staff for formal occasions.
Funds provided by Trustee Barbara Miller Whitton
Lauritsen Technical Theatre and Design Studio With the professional summer theatre company and top-rated performing arts department in mind, Lees-McRae is raising funds to build a space where students can efficiently and safely design and store scenes and props. To donate to this project, contact Caroline Hart, vice president of advancement, at hartc@lmc.edu or 828.898.8777.
Leadership funds provided by Jim and Kay Lauritsen, Broyhill Family Foundation and Trustee Ed Hood and wife, Kay
Athletic Complex Each year, the Lees-McRae Athletic Complex welcomes more than 120 athletic teams from across the country. To keep it looking its best, the Athletic Complex received several upgrades, including a repaved parking lot and a new gymnasium floor.
Funds provided by Trustee McNair Tornow and wife, Debi, and an anonymous donor
Robb Center for Career Exploration Robust career services afford students the necessary skills to be competitive in the job market. The historic stone cottage, which is currently being renovated, will provide a central space for these invaluable resources. The Robb Center for Career Exploration is scheduled to be open for students by fall 2013.
Funds provided by friend, Dick Robb, Trustee Dell Williamson and wife, Barbara
Avery Residence Hall Bathrooms Lees-McRae’s largest residence hall, Avery, received full renovations to its bathrooms and several rooms were converted to be living and learning environments.
Funds provided by The Charles A. Cannon Charitable Trusts The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 15
Bobcat Bucket List Since opening its doors to the inaugural Class of 1900, Lees-McRae has changed. Buildings are no longer built by stone hauled in by horse and wagon. Modern-day students play on iPads in dorms that were once not even equipped with internet. With buildings in the heart of campus dating back to the early 1900s, it’s easy to visualize the Lees-McRae of yesterday and realize some things never change. Allow yourself to drift back to the campus in the clouds and reminisce about a different time in your life. A time when you didn’t know what you wanted to pursue, a time when pulling an all-nighter was part of your routine, a time when the sound of bagpipes signified the beginning or end of another year at Lees-McRae. This is our (and your) Bobcat Bucket List. A compilation of everything we think you should experience at least once, or again and again, during your time as a student at Lees-McRae or your visits as alumni.
Fall in Love with Lees-McRae’s History With Lees-McRae founder, the Rev. Edgar Tufts, sitting quietly on a bench in Swank Park holding his trusty Bible, memorialized in a statue, it’s easy to fall in love with the history of the College. Take a moment to learn about Edgar Tufts and his vision, about the historic stone buildings spread across campus and about the legacy of Lees-McRae. Everyone has their own story and everyone is also part of the story of Lees-McRae. What memories did you take away? What legacy did you leave behind?
Photo by student Jason Els ’15
The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 17
Wander Along Hemlock Trail
Cheer on Your Bobcats during Homecoming Cheering on the Bobcats while sitting on Bobcat Bank, located above TateEvans Field, is a time-honored tradition for Lees-McRae students. This tradition is especially treasured during the Homecoming soccer games. From far away Banner Elk residents often hear the faint sound of students chanting, “Bobcats, Bobcats, Bobcats, Oi, Oi, Oi.�
Tag the Rock
Make Lifelong Friends
Take in a Show
Hang out with Sassy
Play in the Snow
Roll Up Your Sleeves for Mountain Day of Service Mountain Day of Service, held each spring, is a day dedicated to community service in honor of Lees-McRae founder, the Rev. Edgar Tufts. Throughout the day, groups of students, staff, faculty and volunteers spend time around campus working on projects such as painting, spring cleaning and planting flowers. Campus and all its volunteers contribute more than 2,200 hours of service each year on Mountain Day. 18 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
Strike a Pose with Edgar Tufts
Frolic Down the Yellow Brick Road
Dance to the Sound of the Bagpipes
Meet Emily
Rumor has it, Emily, LeesMcRae’s resident ghost, spends most of her time in Tate Residence Hall where she died from tuberculosis in the 1930s. But have no fear, Emily is a friendly ghost known only for trickery, not harm. If you can’t find her looming in her favorite residence hall, head over to her grave, which is located on campus.
When ‘twas thy Holy Spirit came Into my heart with quick’ning power And set aglow a sacred flame I cannot tell the day or hour Nor why it is thy Spirit chose To make a home within my breast And drive away my deadly foes Of sin and lust, and give me rest.
Take a Hike in the High Country
Find Furry Friends
Learn the College Hymn
What is on your Bucket List?
Explore Wildcat Lake
Connect with the Office of Alumni Relations on Facebook (Lees-McRae College Alumni Association) or email communications@lmc.edu.
The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 19
Successful Alumni of Lees-McRae
Nolan McDaniel ’13 By Nell Smith ’14
“I truly believe there is no place like LeesMcRae,” said Nolan McDaniel ’13. “I feel fortunate to have studied at a College that allowed me to set my own pace and determine my own rigor.” A native of Morristown, Tenn., McDaniel left the comfort of his Bobcat roots to start a journey as a student at the University of Tennessee Law School. McDaniel hopes to one day work for the International Justice Mission, an organization that rescues children out of international prostitution rings. McDaniel spent his days at LeesMcRae deeply involved in most every facet of campus. Despite a challenging schedule of classes to accommodate his double major, McDaniel was active
Nolan McDaniel (left) with faculty mentor Laura Padgett (right) during his 2012 Alpha Chi induction. 20 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
across campus. His activities included serving as a Resident Director, tutoring students in Writing, Literature, Religion, and Psychology at the Burton Center for Student Success, acting as a Student Ambassador in the Office of Enrollment Management and remaining a successful member of the Honors Program. In addition to these endeavors, McDaniel was also a member of the prestigious Order of the Tower. With membership offered by invitation only, McDaniel’s appointment in this presidential society allowed him the opportunity to attend special dinners with honored guests and also act as a marshall during ceremonies, such as commencement. Adding to his ever growing list of accolades, McDaniel served as president of the Lees-McRae College Chi chapter of Alpha Chi National College Honor Society and was named the recipient of the H.C. Evans, Jr. Fidelity Award. Named after the late Dr. H. C. Evans, ninth president of LeesMcRae College, the Fidelity Award recognizes academic excellence, campus citizenship, friendliness, and service to the college and community. The recipient is selected by the graduates themselves, approved by the faculty and administration, and represents the highest ideals of the graduating class.
“I am very grateful for my time at LeesMcRae, especially my time spent with professors and classmates,” said McDaniel. “[My] favorite memories are those gained from the honors program trips to Washington, DC and Charleston, South Carolina, serving as a Resident Assistant, and spending time studying with other students in the English program.” McDaniel continues, “Lees-McRae is the reason I have the opportunity to attend law school, a dream I’ve had since I was eight. [Lees-McRae] is a very special college that deserves the dedication of the minds it helped mold.”
Tim Michael ’80 “More people need to find out about and experience Lees-McRae!” said Tim Michael ’80. “I am amazed at how it has changed over the years, but everyone is so nice and truly cares. The faculty have a one-on-one relationship with students and President Buxton has a wonderful vision for Lees-McRae’s future.” Michael received his Associate of Arts when Lees-McRae was still a two-year institution. After his time as a Bobcat, Michael earned his business degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Now the president of Capital Automotive Group and dealer principle of Capital Ford in Raleigh, NC, Michael purchased his first dealership at the age of 25.
Honors Program Graduates
“My [family] was in the car business in Winston-Salem,” said Michael. “I like the challenge of putting together a team, so when the opportunity presented itself, I bought my first dealership. I think it’s very important not to overcomplicate things in business, to not reinvent and to remember listening skills. I am successful because I work with an amazing team. I make sure my employees have all the tools they need to be successful, so we can all be successful together. I’m very lucky.” Capital Ford is ranked nationally in the top 25 dealerships and is currently ranked no. 19 out of 500 on WardsAuto List. Capital Ford was also awarded the prestigious Ford Triple Crown, meaning the dealership earned the President’s Award and Sales Leadership Award while being a member of the Premier Club, all in the same year. During his time at Lees-McRae, Michael spent time hiking and skiing, and enjoying the beauty of the mountains. “I lived in Avery [Residence Hall],” said Michael, “and my room had one of the best tennis court views. We always made sure [the girls team] had a very good cheering and support section.” Soon Michael and his family will be spending more time at his alma mater. Michael’s son, Jordan, will be joining the Bobcat family as a freshman in fall of 2013.
Since its inception, the Honors Program at Lees-McRae has evolved from a small program of eight students to now more than 80 students. Honors students enjoy a unique mix of special housing, dedicated study spaces, colloquia and social opportunities including annual overnight field trips as well as bi-annual day trips to local destinations. “Each year I travel with a group of 20-25 honor students to major east coast cities,” said Dr. Craig, director of the honors program. “In recent years we have visited Savannah, Charleston, Atlanta and Washington, DC. These honors trips provide extremely valuable learning opportunities for students to visit museums and learn about important cultural sites.” Honors Program students experience benefits long after their time at LeesMcRae. Having the HON designation on their transcript has aided many alumni in their quest for graduate study. The list below of Honors alumni includes a myriad of examples of such endeavors, many of which take place, or have taken place, at some of the top universities in the country.
Honors Alumni Spotlight • Three alumni attend law school including University of Tennessee College of Law, Marquette University Law School and New York Law School • Three alumni attend medical school, two for osteopathic medicine • Four alumni attend veterinary school including University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine • Two alumni attend pharmacy school including University of South Carolina Pharmacy School • Two alumni attend divinity school including Duke University Divinity School
Tim Michael ’80
• Seven alumni attend a variety of top universities for additional graduate work including Harvard Graduate School of Education, Savannah College of Art and Design, University of Arizona, and Corrymeela Peace and Reconciliation Centre in Belfast, Ireland
Opportunities Elevated Be Proud, Get Active! Great changes, improvements and bold visions are now in play at Lees-McRae College. To know these things and understand their impact on our beloved alma mater will instill a renewed pride for Lees-McRae, and, I hope, inspire you to get engaged. A good place to start reconnecting and learning about what is going on is the College’s exceedingly informative and new website. On the website you can see and follow the impressive revitalization of all things Lees-McRae, and soon make your own informed decision about expectations and prospects for a proud new era. Additionally, the new Class Agent Program, designed to personally connect with you, will assist in getting you informed regarding both the College and, more specifically, your own classmates. Under the leadership of President Barry M. Buxton, financial stability and enrollment have shown considerable progress in the past three years. The College is successfully operating in the black and has paid down approximately $5,000,000 in long-term debt, all the while tending to numerous and very expensive deferrable maintenance projects. Several new construction projects have broken ground with more coming. Enrollment statistics are improving and tracking toward the best freshmen class in years. Confidence and support is raining in from private donors, foundations and friendly benefactors -- all people and organizations without established obligation to Lees-McRae. They are most impressed by the remarkable work being done and the bright future being fashioned. I am disappointed to report, in my own humble opinion, that alumni are evidencing regretful levels of participation in the current life and affairs of the College. Alumni participation is around 9% annually. I challenge you to show your support for today’s Lees-McRae College and be aware of what’s happening at our beloved alma mater. Get an oar in the water and help propel Lees-McRae to its deserved level of success! You will enjoy the great satisfaction that will surely flow from our more active participation. My goal is simple -- raise measured alumni participation! Other donors and supporters, especially foundations, look at alumni participation statistics as a key indicator of an approving and engaged core constituency when determining their own gifts. Any gift, no matter the dollar amount, is proof of that participation. Do what you can afford, but please do something.
Ken Sullivan ’59 Alumni Representative, Board of Trustees
The Fund for Lees-McRae As of May 31, 2013
$847,538 0
$100,000
$200,000
22 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
$300,000
$400,000
$500,000 GOAL
$600,000
$700,000
$800,000
$900,000
What Kind of a Legacy Will You Leave? A bequest is a gift made through your will or trust. There are several ways to make a bequest: • • • •
Specific dollar amount Percentage of your estate Specific asset Residue of your estate
Barbara and Dell Williamson
Bobcat parents and families are important, too!
For more information on how to create a lasting legacy through a bequest, please contact the Office of Advancement at 828.898.8777 or visit www.lmc.edu. We look forward to helping you!
Class Agents
Family Council New for the 2013-2014 academic year, the Family Council has been created to represent the Family Association of Lees-McRae College. The goal of the Family Council is to enhance the LeesMcRae experience for students and their families by helping parents connect with parents, alumni, students, staff, faculty and administrators. While not a policy-making group, the Family Council provides advice to the College in areas such as admissions, career services, student life and college relations. We are always looking for engaged Bobcat parents and families to be involved, so if you are interested or know someone who would be a great council member, please contact Jillian Rosato, director of annual giving and alumni relations, at 828.898.2534 or rosatoj@lmc.edu.
Ms. Renee Burton Charlotte, NC Kyle Burton-Harper ’16
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Meade Mocksville, NC Brandon Meade ’14
Ms. Judi Sheffer Silver Spring, Md. Emma Sheffer ’15
Ms. Anne Gregory Durham, NC Eleanor Bruton ’14
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Carrigan Knightdale, NC Jamison Carrigan ’15
Ms. Margaret Brannon Banner Elk, NC Alex Brannon ’14
One of the newest initiatives in Annual Giving and Alumni Relations is the Class Agent Program. Class Agents are a fun, purpose-driven group that is 34 strong and still growing! The goal is to have at least 50 class years worth of alumni represented, engaged and encouraged by their peer leader. Class Agents understand the importance of communicating alumni participation in three important areas: promoting alumni events, encouraging annual giving and capturing current contact information. Class Agents are well-trained, informed and articulate about all of the amazing transformations going on at Lees-McRae. During Homecoming 2013, at the Green & Gold Awards Brunch, the inaugural Class Agent Award will be given to the Class Agent whose class has the highest giving participation percentage for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2013. Below is a list of Lees-McRae’s Class Agents. If your class year is missing, act now! Contact the Office of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at 828.898.2489 to elevate your class within the Alumni Association.
Rose Bisanar Bowden ’41 Carson Oakley ’47 Karol Ogburn Laws ’50 Dalton Beaman ’51 Lucile Gragg Beaman ’52 Ronnie Current ’53 Bill Cochran ’54 Pat Smith Tilley ’55 Sarah Moore Province ’56 Wendell Boggs ’57 Betty Jones Walker ’59 Carol Lowe Timblin ’60
Don Rich ’64 Walt McMillan ’66 Bill Crouse ’71 Gail Miller ’72 Robert Cobb ’75 Hugh Brank ’80 Sidney Yarbrough ’86 John Blalock ’91 Morgan Beck Herdklotz ’93 Gary Moss ’99 Meaghann Engnell ’01 Natalie Ellison Renk ’03
Nat Joiner ’04 Sarah McAllister ’05 Nicole Short Grandelli ’06 DJ Menifee ’07 Justin Bulla ’08 Alexandra McLeod Craig ’09 Josh Kurtz ’10 AnnMarie Hall ’11 Megan McClellan ’12 Moriah Browne ’13
The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 23
Alumni Elevated Meet your Alumni Board President
Catherine Button Campe ’89/’91 Charlotte, NC
President-Elect
Karen Gobble Meade ’86 Mocksville, NC
Vice President
Martha W. McAfee ’86/’03 Greenville, SC
Secretary
Deena Powell Chambers ’75 Statesville, NC
Directors
Hello Bobcats!
James Boyd ’87 Robert Boyd ’86 Tommy Byerly ’66 William (Bill) Cochran ’54 Scott Coffey ’12 Robin Evans ’86 Stuart Fowler ’75 Talia Freeman ’06 Dawn Grimaud ’91 AnnMarie Hall ’11 Katherine (Katie) Hall ’88 Morgan Herdklotz ’93 Jennifer (Jenny) Hix ’72 Amy Kincaid ’12 Jarrett Koski ’12 Karol Laws ’50 Michelle Lucas ’12 Julia McCombs ’75 Virginia (Gail) Miller ’72 John (Pat) Monroe ’64 Gary Moss ’99 Jean Neal ’52 Martha Penny ’59 Donald (Don) Rich ’64 Benjamin (Ben) Simpson ’04 Ken Sullivan ’59 Rob Thomas ’78 Samantha Waisner ’08 Austin Wright ’10
It is a personal joy to serve in a leadership role for the Lees-McRae Alumni Association. The honor to do so gives me numerous opportunities to be in Banner Elk. Have you been on campus lately? What is happening on campus is nothing short of extraordinary. President Buxton and his team have worked diligently for the past three years to not only beautify the outward appearance of campus, but also to strengthen Lees-McRae’s finances, put a dent in deferred maintenance issues and preserve the College’s historic buildings -- all accomplished without using dollars from the operating budget. In the meantime, $5 million has been paid on Lees-McRae’s long-term debt.
24 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
Summer is a beautiful time to come home to campus. The first annual alumni weekend, ESCAPE, is in the history books! Alumni representing all decades “escaped” to campus in July to enjoy cookouts, a neighborhood block party, fellowship, great music and friends. Autumn is on its way and there is no better place to be the first weekend in October than Homecoming! It promises to be jam-packed with new things for alumni to enjoy. Check out www.lmc. edu/homecoming for the Homecoming schedule. I encourage you to preregister for Homecoming. See you in October on Bobcat Bank and on Tate Lawn! Best regards,
Catherine Catherine Button Campe ’89/’91 Alumni Association President
Alumni Chapters
New Alumni Directory
The Lees-McRae College Alumni Association is proud to have a rebirth in Alumni Chapters. We have started chapters in five thriving locations in North Carolina and Tennessee. These cities/areas are Greensboro, WinstonSalem, Charlotte, east Tennessee and the High Country.
Lees-McRae alumni are scattered across the country and even around the world. But no matter where their lives lead them, Bobcats all share a common bond – the place in which they started. That’s why we have been working on a new project designed to help bring our Bobcats back together.
Alumni Chapters provide opportunities to reconnect with friends, meet fellow alumni in your community, network among peers and participate in social and education programs throughout the year. Do you want to get involved with an Alumni Chapter near you? By joining a regional chapter leadership team, you can play an integral role in organizing events and developing programs to keep area alumni connected for life. To learn more about this exciting initiative contact Jillian Rosato, director of annual giving and alumni relations, at rosatoj@lmc.edu or 828.898.2534.
Get Connected!
This new Alumni Association publication will include comprehensive listings of contact information, career overviews and family highlights of our classmates. Plus, a special section about the College will help you reminisce as you read about our past and learn what’s in store for our future. In June, our provider, Harris Connect, began contacting alumni to verify our information is accurate and complete. Harris Connect specializes in alumni and membership publications and the data specifications involved with this type of project. For questions or to learn more about this project, please contact Jillian Rosato, director of annual giving and alumni relations, at rosatoj@lmc.edu or 828.898.2534.
Count Me In! Alumni participation in giving is essential to the rising success of Lees-McRae. • •
FY2013 alumni participation giving percentage was 9% FY2014 participation giving percentage goal is 11%
Can we do it? Yes, we can! One gift, regardless of the amount, puts you in the count for Lees-McRae. Act Now: Visit www.lmc.edu/give. It’s that easy! FY2014 gifts must be received before May 31, 2014.
Show Your
B bcat Spirit! Become involved in the life of Lees-McRae College!
• • • • • •
Recruit a student Register to be a mentor Participate in a career fair Become a Class Agent Host an event in your area Participate in Homecoming
The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 25
Bobcat Honors Homecoming 2012
Lynn Swisher Neese, immediate past president of the Alumni Board, was presented with the Alumni Service Award during Homecoming 2012.
Neese is a 1988 and 1990 graduate of Lees-McRae College. Over the last several years, she has hosted multiple alumni events in her home, and served on the Alumni Board, initially as the Greensboro Chapter Representative. “This is a great honor, and I thank all of you. I love this school, and it means a lot to me,” said Neese accepting the award. While at Lees-McRae, most people knew her as “Swish” and she still goes by this today. Having stayed at Lees-McRae through the two-year to fouryear transformation, she is connected to many alumni. She has planned reunions for both of her classes at Lees-McRae and makes sure to reach out to those who haven’t returned to campus in a long time.
Lynn Swisher Neese ’88/’90 2012 Alumni Service Award
She served on a committee to help plan Frolic Week and Homecoming for several years. In 2009, Neese was elected Vice President of the LeesMcRae Alumni Board. In February 2011, she took on the role of President of the Lees-McRae Alumni Board. She currently lives in Greensboro, NC with her husband Tommy and their three children: Rice, Riley and Rhodes.
Rick Owen, Banner Elk Town Manager, was honored with the 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award during Homecoming 2012. Owen is a 1988 and 2000 graduate of Lees-McRae College. A native of Banner Elk and Beech Mountain, Owen has served as Town Manager of Banner Elk since 2010. He also serves as Mayor of Beech Mountain, a position he has held for 11 years. He graduated from the UNC School of Government Municipal Administration course earlier this year. Owen is married to Nancy and they have one son, Hampton. He is the son of former Banner Elk Mayor Deka Tate, a member of Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, and has over 20 years of experience in resort management.
Rick Owen ’88/’00 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award
26 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
“To be recognized by this group of people, I can’t even tell you how much this means to me,” said Owen. “I am humbled to know that this group of people thinks of me as a distinguished alumnus of Lees-McRae College.”
Mike Eades ’83, Men’s Basketball 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee
Mike Eades established himself as one of the best floor generals in program
history during his tenure in Banner Elk, dishing out 283 assists in 54 career games for the Bobcats. During his career as a Bobcat, Eades set a school record with an average of 5.2 assists per game and ranked second in program history in career helpers. After his time at Lees-McRae, Eades went on to start at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for one season, averaging 7.3 points in 26 games. He has gone on to a successful career as a leading basketball official in the NCAA, regularly officiating games in the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference. He has officiated countless NCAA March Madness games, including the Elite Eight match-up between Cincinnati and Ohio State in Boston, Mass.
Manuel Jessup starred for two seasons as a Bobcat, averaging nearly 16
points per game while shooting at a 48.8 percent clip from the floor. The Winston-Salem, NC native went on to star at Coastal Carolina University, posting the fifth and sixth highest point single-season point totals in that program’s history, while ranking ninth all-time in steals (147).
Manuel Jessup ’76, Men’s Basketball 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee
After his playing days, Jessup transitioned into the business world, holding several top management positions with Chico’s women’s clothing, Sara Lee Corporation, and Levi Strauss & Co., including a stint as both the Corporate and Global Vice President of Human Resources at Sara Lee.
Rita Smith has been a cornerstone of the Lees-McRae athletic department
for the last 28 years, serving the College in various capacities as the Chair for the Division of Sport and Wellness Studies, Director of Athletic Training Education, Assistant Professor of Athletic Training Education, and Senior Woman Administrator for Athletics. She was instrumental in the development of the athletic training program at Lees-McRae and served as the College’s first full-time athletic trainer. She has served the athletic training community for over 30 years, working countless camps and holding positions both as an athletic trainer and an instructor for sports medicine/athletic training. She has been a licensed and certified athletic trainer for over 25 years, serving at Lees-McRae for 24.
Rita Smith, Athletic Administration 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 27
Photo Captions: (clockwise from top) Greensboro Alumni Reception, Alumni Ski Weekend, Alumni Day at the Winston-Salem Dash Baseball Game, ESCAPE 2013, ESCAPE 2013, Alumni Day at the Durham Bulls Baseball Game, Alumni Day at the Durham Bulls Baseball Game
28 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
Homecoming Weekend October 4-6, 2013
Class Reunions The following classes are having reunions during Homecoming! Contact your class reunion planner for details.
1963 Becky Ikard McRee | 828.464.6569
1968 Michael Herbaugh | 703.922.3406 raisinb@earthlink.net
1988 If you are interested in planning, call 828.898.2534.
1993 Betsy Hall Walker | 828.260.5395 betsywalker@hotmail.com
2003 Natalie Ellison-Renk | 910.547.7087 natpat_lmc@hotmail.com
Photo Captions: (top to bottom) Homecoming Parade 2012, Class of 1959 Reunion at Homecoming 2012, Bobcat Bash at Homecoming 2012
Generations Elevated 1951
1971
2009
James Gray (Sandston, Va.) and his wife, Esther Gray, have three children, two sons and one daughter. He is active with hunting, golf and volleyball.
Margaret “Meg” Hall (Morristown, Tenn.) says her two years at Lees-McRae were the greatest not only for the education, atmosphere, and campus goings on and the dorm life but she also met her future husband there and they married the same week as graduation. They have two children, 33 and 31, and a handsome grandson, age 5. They are retired, at last.
Kristi Henne (Roanoke, Va.) graduated from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in June 2013. She is now attending a family medicine residency.
1954 Saundra Ward Morton (Burlington, NC) is a retired medical secretary and has been married for 55 years to Bill Morton. She and Bill went to 10 countries in Europe for 17 days to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. She loves to travel, cook and be active at church functions.
1963
1972 David Burke (Keswick, Va.) retired in June 2012 after 35 years in public school education. He now substitute teaches 10-12 days a month.
Doug Shepherd (Morganton, NC) has been retired for the past seven years. He is enjoying his two granddaughters: Kate (6) and Leah (3). His daughter, Lori, is a UNC graduate in dental hygiene, and his son, Josh, is a UNC graduate in business administration and an MBA (Harvard Business School). His wife, Jo Ann, is a geriatric social worker at Broughton Hospital with plans to retire in two years.
George Homan II (Mount Crawford, Va.) is the President and CEO of Friendship Industries.
1968
Mary Scott (Beech Mountain, NC) came back to Banner Elk and Lees-McRae College to attend school beginning the fall of 2012. She was unemployed for two years so she decided to come back to a school she loves and hopefully achieve her bachelor’s degree in psychology in order to change careers.
Michael Herbaugh (Fairfax, Va.) earned an Associate of Arts degree from Lees-McRae College in 1968. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tennessee in 1971, and a Master of Arts degree from Webster University in 1985. Mr. Herbaugh was a successful veteran of the United States Marine Corps and was a Captain at the time of his honorable discharge. He was a Federal government employee for 36 years and, as a civilian, worked for the Marine Corps Air Station, Beaufort, SC; Quantico Marine Corps Base, VA; Air National Guard, Pentagon; the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Defense, and the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction. Michael also worked as an environmental consultant to the Department of Defense. Highlighting his civil service career, Michael was awarded the Department of Defense Superior Civilian Service Award in 2004 and the Department of Defense Distinguished Civilian Service Award in 2012, the highest Department of Defense civilian award. Michael retired in 2012. 30 | The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013
1975 Jeff Bell (Clinton, NC) retired after 34 years in education.
1976
Randy and Cree Bumgarner Smith (Savannah, Ga.) are enjoying their time with two grandchildren - boys age 8 and 11.
2002 Lauren Campbell (Altamonte Springs, Fla.) married Jimmy DeMelfi on March 23, 2013. She is currently a realtor in Orlando, Fla.
2005 Megan Meir (Greenville, SC) married Kristian on September 2, 2012 in Greenville, SC amongst their family, friends and a few of her fellow Bobcats. Her Pure Romance business is thriving with a growing team and great training opportunities. She is empowering women and strengthening relationships every day!
2012 Cynthia Marshall (Thurmond, NC) is a 1st grade Teacher’s Assistant at Rockford Elementary in the Surry County School district and she loves it! She is going to have her first baby around the first week of December! Megan McClellan ’12 (Hampton Cove, Ala.) has worked on the Disney Dream cruise ship as a Youth Activities Counselor for the past year.
Alumni Super Note
James Berry ’69
Giving back to your alma mater can come in many forms. For James Berry ’69 it is in the form of work and sweat. Jim, from Murrell’s Inlet, SC, has come back to campus the past two summers for a week to work with our maintenance staff. “I love it!” said Berry. “There is no finer school than Lees-McRae College. This is a treat for me, to be able to come back to campus see everything.” Jim was a principal for 20 years but has always been able to do something with his hands. He said it was his way of having something to fall back on. Now he uses his skills to give back to Lees-McRae. Whether it is painting, building a new podium or repairing buildings around campus, his love for Lees-McRae can be seen all around. Jim also gives annually to The Fund for Lees-McRae.
Alumni Super Note SnowBEs
In Remembrance of Alumni & Friends Gifts made in remembrance of a fellow classmate or friend of the College are listed in the Honor Roll of Donors which can be found online at www.lmc.edu.
Alumni
(back row, left to right) Stephanie Taylor Creekmore ’99, Lisa Dunham Wheatley ’99, Najshula Hall Lassiter ’01, Melanie Wilkins Bennett ’00, Billie Kay Charney Roland ’03, Ashley McFalls Lane ’98; (front row, left to right) Tennille Kilby Cates ’98, Velvet Deese McBride ’00, Kimberly Moran Keith ’01, Courtney Poe DeTemple ’98.
SnowBEs -- It’s a Lees-McRae Thing They call themselves the SnowBEs. And they are an impressive group of alumnae friends. SnowBEs is a contraction of Snowing in Banner Elk. Along the way, the group adopted the Bee as their logo for things and they have developed two shirts for their group. For more than 12 years, they have rotated annually among their homes from the Washington, DC area to South Carolina during the first weekend in December. After LeesMcRae, they decided that instead of doing a gift exchange between themselves, they would participate in some sort of community service. “We always love to shop, so we’ve done various things such as purchased Christmas for a family, for multiple children at an orphanage, shopped for items needed for a women’s shelter, and this year we helped serve food to the homeless,” stated Melanie Wilkins Bennett ’00. “We spent the December 2012 gathering at Lisa Dunham Wheatley’s house in Maryland. Her church is affiliated with feeding the homeless through The Elizabeth House.” The SnowBEs provided assistance with preparing the meal, making bag lunches, serving guests dinner, and accepting/storing food donations brought in from the public. It was a great experience they all enjoyed together, as Lees-McRae friends.
William L. Puckett ’46 1.09.12 Julie Polyak Burton ’58 1.14.12 Bettye J. Maggi Mastrine ’69 1.15.12 Arvel Bert Edwards ’61 1.20.12 Charles B. Dolinger ’52 2.17.12 Jacob T. Bradsher ’39 2.22.12 Dorsey Craig Beamer ’51 2.28.12 Jack Masters ’56 2.29.12 Billie Bert Swanson ’52 3.09.12 Christopher Andrea Williams ’12 4.05.12 Harold L. Vaughn ’49 4.07.12 Jo Osborne Hughes ’45 4.20.12 Elsie Kinder Patrick ’56 4.22.12 Dorothy Holly Whitt Reece ’48 4.24.12 Ward R. Robinson ’40 4.26.12 Ralph Buchanan ’31 5.07.12 Martha Jones Lyle ’49 5.11.12 Clara V. Gilliam House ’47 5.14.12 Robert W. Riddle ’48 5.24.12 Doris Beam ’36 5.25.12 Richard P. Roe ’52 5.26.12 Thelma Rogers Fish ’44 6.06.12 Ralph Gerald Bare ’55 6.08.12 Jerome Holler ’49 6.14.12 Eddie Burleson ’53 6.17.12 June Elizabeth Royle ’59 6.19.12 Jeanette Harviel Watson ’52 7.01.12 Birt Shelby Woody ’36 7.07.12 Beatrice R. La Neave Long ’45 7.17.12 Jack C. Robinson ’49 7.18.12 James Edgar Hayes ’53/’57/’86 7.19.12 Sara Jean Barr Maxwell ’47 7.27.12 Dorothy Marie Bach Hogan ’48 8.22.12 Blanche Ross Killough ’40 8.28.12 Leonard F. Blanton ’41 8.28.12 Betty Bright Kegley ’49 9.04.12 Matthew Trivette ’76 9.07.12 George Allie Moore ’39 9.11.12 A. D. Harrell ’35 9.11.12 Thomas E. Twiggs ’54 9.12.12 Frank Lee ’36 9.13.12 Mary Ward Rogers ’48 9.21.12 Doris Posada ’56 9.29.12 Laurin Sutherland ’42 10.13.12 Bruce Shaw ’53 10.14.12
Clyde Shaw ’76 Andrew Henderson ’44 C. Rolene Dellinger Ward ’49 Annice Parham Bolen ’52 William R. Eastridge ’48 Charles Wesley Garland ’36 William W. Whitney ’38 Reuben J. Wallace ’48 Gwen Griner Pazel ’52 George D. Fawcett ’50 Steven K. LaBell ’69 James Dixon Teachey ’85 Jean Webb Sykes ’44 Leif Erickson ’56 William Hines Smith ’50 Evan Souther ’36 Fred Street ’52 Patricia Tugwell Burkhart ’84 Ruby Sargent Rea ’49 John Caraway ’53 Peggy Dixon Moffett ’50 Harold H. Kinney ’53 Barbara Sharpe Latta ’56 Karyn Dianne Coughenour ’97 Michael Scott Baker ’83
10.14.12 10.17.12 10.17.12 10.27.12 11.16.12 12.04.12 12.06.12 1.06.13 1.09.13 1.20.13 1.30.13 2.06.13 2.10.13 2.14.13 2.24.13 3.27.13 3.27.13 3.30.13 5.19.13 5.29.13 6.03.13 6.12.13 6.23.13 6.23.13 7.06.13
Friends Mildred Perry Stuart Martin Berger Ruth Leffler Edgar O. Redwine Florence P. Hudson Johnny Hayes Leonard Solomon Glen E. Cross Esther M. Boling Juanita Shomaker Herbert L. Gaynor William Hale Ann Bennett Willis Roger E. Bullock Marilyn D. Fillers O’dell Smith C. Woodrow Teague Joanne M. Franklin
1.11.12 2.04.12 3.15.12 3.29.12 4.08.12 6.20.12 7.20.12 7.24.12 8.01.12 9.14.12 9.26.12 10.20.12 11.10.12 12.11.12 3.05.13 3.24.13 4.12.13 4.26.13
The Pinnacles | Spring/Summer 2013 | 31
Office of Advancement P.O. Box 128 | Banner Elk, NC 28604
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Parents: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer maintains an address at your home, please send the correct address to Lees-McRae College, Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 128, Banner Elk, NC 28604.
Donations Elevated
Don Rich ’64
Don Rich entered Lees-McRae College in the fall of 1962 from his hometown of Sophia, NC. When thinking back on his time as a student-athlete, Don recalls, “Lees-McRae gave me an opportunity to grow academically, thrive athletically and ultimately enjoy a long, successful career teaching and coaching in Randolph County, NC schools. I participate in giving to the College because I feel a debt of gratitude to the experience I had as a student.” While at Lees-McRae, Don played baseball, basketball, and ran track and cross country. In fact, Don’s successes in and out of the classroom at LeesMcRae led him to earn his bachelor’s degree on a baseball scholarship at Wake Forest University. “I feel blessed in regards to being exposed to the character of my classmates and teammates. The impact of what I learned from them was the basis of my success in college. I really loved our camaraderie,” said Don. “That’s why [my wife] Betty and I give annually to The Fund for Lees-McRae and the Bobcat Club. It’s our way of continuing the circle of giving in support of today’s student-athletes.” Don is retired these days. He and his wife of 46 years, Betty, live in Sophia where they raised three successful and beautiful daughters. Don is an inaugural member of the Randleman High School Hall of Fame -- along with a group of his beloved coaches and none other than NASCAR legend Richard Petty. He also takes well deserved pride in being a member of the Fred I. Dickerson Athletic Hall of Fame at Lees-McRae.