LeTourneau University NOW! Fall 2020 by LeTourneau University

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LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY VIRTUAL TOUR REDISCOVERING WHAT MATTERS MOST WITH DANIEL WOYT

The LeTourneau Landscape An amazing aerial view of the LeTourneau campus shows a unique perspective of all that God has provided throughout the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost 75 year history.

LETOURNEAU NOW

FULL FRAME

FALL 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANT BRIDGMAN

FALL 2020

CONTRIBUTORS

THE MAGAZINE OF LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY

DALE A. LUNSFORD, PH.D. Publisher

DONALD K. EGLE Executive Editor

LEAH GORMAN Managing Editor

JEREMIAH SHEPHERD Creative Director / Photographer

KATE DAY MARK ROEDEL NATHAN O’DAY GRANT BRIDGMAN Copy Editors

GAIL RITCHEY Class Notes

NIEMAN PRINTING Printing

NOW EDITORIAL CONTACT INFORMATION: WEB: www.letu.edu Email: NOW@letu.edu ADMISSIONS OFFICE PHONE: 800-759-8811

Grant Bridgman Grant Bridgman is the Assistant Director for Enrollment Marketing at LeTourneau University. He is an LETU double alum, having received his Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry through the residential program and an MBA through the online program. He began his career with LeTourneau in 2011 and he truly believes in quality Christian higher education and is honored to work at an institution that pursues excellence within that field. Dr. Daniel Ostendorff Dr. Daniel Ostendorff is the Director of Alumni Engagement for LeTourneau University. Prior to joining the Alumni Office, he served as a full-time faculty member for the last six years. Daniel has spearheaded numerous events on the LETU campus, as well as helped lead student study abroad trips to Germany, Poland, Greece and Israel. He is passionate about connecting with LeTourneau University alumni and connecting them back to their alma mater. Leah Gorman Leah Gorman joined LeTourneau in 2018 as the Senior Director for Communications. She is an LETU alum, having received her MBA in 2007, and is excited to be a small part of what happens at LeTourneau.

ALUMNI OFFICE PHONE: 800-259-5388 DEVELOPMENT OFFICE PHONE: 800-259-LETU LeTourneau University is the Christian polytechnic university in the nation offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a wide range of disciplines online and at LETU’s 196-acre residential campus in Longview, Texas, located 120 miles east of Dallas and 60 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana. Academic majors include aviation, business, communication, computer science, criminal justice, education, engineering, health care administration, human services, kinesiology, the liberal arts, nursing, psychology, the sciences and theology. LeTourneau NOW is published by LeTourneau University, 2100 South Mobberly, Longview, Texas 75602. Sent free upon request to Editor, P.O. Box 8001, Longview, Texas 75607. Postmaster: Send address changes to LeTourneau NOW, P.O. Box 8001, Longview, Texas 75607. Email us at NOW@letu.edu.

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Jeremiah Shepherd Jeremiah Shepherd is the Creative Director at LeTourneau University. He has been a creative industry professional for more than 10 years and his career with LeTourneau began in 2017. He enjoys using his God-given creative abilities to enhance the mission and vision of LeTourneau University.

Nathan O’Day Nathan O’Day is the Assistant Director for Digital Marketing at LETU. A double alum, he is passionate about telling excellent stories through videography & all things digital, and loves getting to pour back into the place that poured so much into to him as a student.

CONTENTS

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Rediscovering What Matters Most After a rapid rise in his career, a trans-Atlantic flight reminded Daniel Woyt of what matters most.

Snapshots: Humanities The Humanities faculty at LeTourneau instill the essential academic abilities that provide the foundation for every course of study at the university.

With Determination and Faith From simple beginnings to space shuttles, the story of Winton Hancock.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold now is the day of our salvationâ&#x20AC;? - 2 Cor. 6:2

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LeTourneau University Virtual Tour Experience 12

Nursing

Business

Engineering & Engineering Technology

Arts & Sciences

Theology & Vocation

Psychology & Counseling

Aviation & Aeronautical Sciences

Athletics

Education

In Every Issue 6 From the President

Class Notes

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

THE MAGAZINE OF LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES BILL ANDERSON PATRICK BERTSCHE PHIL BURKS TOM BURT DOUG DOUGLAS DAVID DYKES, D. MIN KIMBERLY FISH ROGER KIEFFER LOREN LEMAN JULIE LIVESAY JIM MAULDIN, M.D. LARRY MERCER, D. MIN KENNETH MOORE NIKITA MUMPHREY ROGERS POPE, JR. JOHN ROSS, D.D.S. JAMES SCHREDER MICHAEL P. SCHUTT JOHN SOLHEIM WAYNE STEEGE DON STEPHENS MERLE STOLTZFUS WAYNE TRULL WENDY TURNER BOB WALKER TRUSTEES EMERITUS BILLY J. HARRIS BUD MCGUIRE

NOW EDITORIAL CONTACT INFORMATION: WEB: www.letu.edu Email: NOW@letu.edu ADMISSIONS OFFICE PHONE: 800-759-8811 ALUMNI OFFICE PHONE: 800-259-5388 DEVELOPMENT OFFICE PHONE: 800-259-LETU LeTourneau University is the Christian polytechnic university in the nation offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a wide range of disciplines online and at LETU’s 196-acre residential campus in Longview, Texas, located 120 miles east of Dallas and 60 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana. Academic majors include aviation, business, communication, computer science, criminal justice, education, engineering, health care administration, human services, kinesiology, the liberal arts, nursing, psychology, the sciences and theology. LeTourneau NOW is published by LeTourneau University, 2100 South Mobberly, Longview, Texas 75602. Sent free upon request to Editor, P.O. Box 8001, Longview, Texas 75607. Postmaster: Send address changes to LeTourneau NOW, P.O. Box 8001, Longview, Texas 75607. Email us at NOW@letu.edu.

Unprecedented? Possibly this is the most overused word of 2020. I’ve used it too often. As I reflect at the end of the year, I’ve decided the real truth of 2020 is not unprecedented at all. Our LeTourneau NOW Magazine readers do not need a reminder of the ongoing challenges, but for context, please indulge me for a moment. Last March, with concern about the growing pandemic, we ended all classroom instruction and closed the residence halls. LETU students completed the remainder of the Spring semester through online instruction. We refunded $1.5 million in room and board payments while keeping our staff employed even if they were unable to work from home. The university experienced significant financial stress as did the millions of families who found themselves unemployed by the pandemic shutdowns. The early part of the summer was spent planning for an unknown fall and trying to determine the conditions necessary to return to in-person living. We committed to our students early that we would do everything possible to re-open the campus. This important work came at a time where our nation was overwhelmed with social and political unrest, the absence of civil discourse, fear and anxiety, health crises, state and national lockdowns, volatile financial markets, crumbling employment numbers, economic instability, and a contentious presidential election. This is only a shallow summary of the experiences that all of us have navigated in our homes, churches, communities, and businesses. LeTourneau University responded to the past year’s events with significant changes to how we operate. However, our mission remains strong and the following pages in this magazine are a small expression of the impact LeTourneau University has in the lives of our students. Has the past year been unprecedented? I’m not convinced that it was unprecedented at all. Instead, 2020 appears to be another moment in time where we are reminded of our need and dependency on God. Ecclesiastes 1:9 reminds us that “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” The world will see 2020 as a year to forget. However, for believers and followers of Jesus Christ, 2020 is a year to remember. For all that 2020 has changed, the steadfast power, promises, and presence of our Savior remains. This fall, the LETU community rallied and convened together to accomplish something that many said was not possible: in-person higher education. As I write this letter, our students are preparing for their final exams (on campus) and will complete the Fall 2020 semester before Thanksgiving. I want to express my sincere gratitude and thankfulness for the LeTourneau University family and acknowledge God’s grace, wisdom, and protection. Most importantly, I am thankful for the saving grace that is only found in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May the memory of 2020 be an enduring reminder of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Dale A. Lunsford President, LeTourneau University

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH PHOTOGRAPHY SHEPHERD BY GRANT BRIDGMAN

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JANUARY 2021 24-27: Go Week - 57th Year FEBRUARY 2021 24: Day of Prayer: Chapel 25: Day of Prayer: Prayer Night APRIL 2021 14-17: Homecoming & Family Weekend “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” SUMMER REGIONAL MEET-UPS SEPTEMBER 2021 17: First Day of Class Celebration and more exciting activities.... For more information visit www.letu.edu/75

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

THE

LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY

VIRTUAL TOUR EXPERIENCE

The virtual tour experience at LeTourneau explores campus, tours buildings and labs and introduces the people that make the LETU community a place like no other.

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NURSING letu.edu/tour/nursing

letu.edu/tv/profiles-nursing letu.edu/academics/nursing 12

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

DERECK REEVES Nursing ‘21 Ore City, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “The professors are very hands-on and very tactile when it comes to everything. If you need it explained in several different languages, they’ll be more than happy to take the time, not only to explain it in those different languages, but also to learn how to communicate it in them as well, too.”

GABRIELLE HALL Nursing ‘22 Longview, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “Our professor breaks down everything the best way he can, and we have to go back and really study. When we get to lab it’s very hands on, and he’s right there with us working with us.”

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JENNIFER MARTIN Nursing ‘21 / Women’s Soccer Allen, TX

What’s the LeTourneau community like? “Living at LeTourneau is amazing. My freshman year I roomed with people that I didn’t know, and we were immediately the best of friends. I know these are people who I will be friends with for the rest of my life.”

ER TRAUMA BAY SIMULATION 360° letu.edu/tv/er-simulation-360

Experience one of the many simulations LeTourneau University nursing students participate in as part of their hands-on training. This on-campus lab facility includes modern simulation equipment, and our simulated scenarios manufacture ‘real life’ situations frequently occurring in hospital or clinical settings. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

FALL 2020

Rediscovering What Matters Most After a rapid rise in his career, a trans-Atlantic flight reminded Daniel Woyt (‘95) of what matters most. By Dr. Daniel Ostendorff

It was 2001 and Daniel Woyt, a 1995 Business Management graduate, was returning from a corporate meeting in Paris. As the Vice President of Operations for a French-based company named Bureau Veritas, Woyt spent a week every month in a different country. His rise from small-town, East Texas kid to globe trotting, senior executive of a multinational corporation felt like a story straight out of a Hollywood movie. He embraced the role, leaving behind his East Texas drawl, donning the suits and refined speech to fit the part. Thinking back on this time, by all appearances “we had a good life,” shares Woyt. And yet, as he sat in his seat on that trans-Atlantic flight, Woyt was discontent. Looking back, he reflects, “I knew this was not me.” He pulled out a notepad and began writing a letter to himself. Twelve pages later, Woyt expressed what was most important to him. It was clear his priorities had gotten out of order. That letter laid out Woyt’s five key priorities: faith, family, health & wellbeing, life’s tickets, and a job. “The first four have to come before the last. I let the job become the top priority, rather than the last one,” shares Woyt. Raised in a Christian home, Daniel Woyt attended high school in Jacksonville, TX, located just south of Tyler, where he was an all-star athlete. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart, and now wife of 30 years, Angela. After graduation, they both attended local public universities. Realizing that he was making more money at a parttime warehouse job than he would make as a public-school teacher, Woyt began looking for

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something that would provide for his future family. He knew an education and training, what he now refers to as “life’s tickets”, were important. He’d heard about a two-year Corrosion Technology program at Kilgore College with a promising starting salary. With this ticket in hand, Woyt landed a job with world-renowned Norwegian classification society, Det Nortske Veritas (DNV), shortly after graduation. While working at DNV, Woyt met a halfdozen LeTourneau graduates who were also working for the company. Fairly quickly, it became clear that he would need another of life’s tickets to move up in the company - a completed Bachelor of Science degree. He signed up for LeTourneau’s Graduate and Professional Studies (GAPS) program. The program offered online and night classes

in the Houston area to help working adults undertake or complete their degree programs. “It was intense, but fun,” remembers Woyt, “The instructors were great and the classes engaged the real world experiences I was dealing with day in and day out at my job.” It was a busy season. A full-time job at DNV meant that Woyt left the house before 4am every morning and, on nights where the 4-hour LeTourneau class met, didn’t get home until 11pm, only to have to be back on the road by 4am the next morning for work. Add on to that the introduction of Daniel and Angela’s first child, a baby girl named Amber, in 1993 - and life was full. On weekends, when meeting up with fellow LeTourneau students to tackle group projects, Daniel

brought Amber along with him. “The birth of our daughter,” Woyt reflects, “was the motivation I needed to finish up the degree. I was on a mission. I needed that ticket.” With perseverance and a commitment to excellence, Woyt completed his degree and graduated from LeTourneau University in 1995. With his degree in-hand, Woyt rose quickly within DNV. In 1997, French-based competitor, Bureau Veritas, offered Woyt the role of VP of Operations for North America. A few years into this new position that, Woyt found himself sitting aboard that plane, crossing the Atlantic, writing a letter to himself. He’d lost sight of the things that mattered - faith, family, and his health & wellbeing. Something had to change. When he got home, he handed the handwritten letter to his wife. Together, they decided Woyt would resign from his job and look for something different. Within weeks of resigning, a local company, METCO, approached Woyt and offered him an executive position at the company. A few months later, the president of the company resigned and Woyt was offered the position. Woyt led the company into the largest growth of its history over the next nine years, quadrupling the company’s sales. More important than that growth was the opportunity the position gave Woyt to focus on the priorities that mattered most. Because METCO was a regional company, Woyt could now leave the house before dawn, work a full day, and be home in time to pick up his now four children (Amber, Austin, Abby, and Aly) from school and coach their little league sports teams. Instead of president of a company, Woyt’s neighbors and friends simply knew him as “Coach”. They could attend church as a family and become an active part of their local community. It was a new kind of busy, but busy as a family. After ten years at METCO, Woyt took another risk – launching out on his own. That was eight years ago. Today, Woyt Industries operates globally with a team of just over 30 employees, most all of which are under 30. The team includes Woyt’s daughter, Amber - who attended those

LeTourneau group meetings as an infant, her husband, Myles, Woyt’s son, Austin, and Woyt’s older brother, Alan. Woyt intentionally hires and promotes under-30-year olds, giving them the same opportunities he experienced early in his career. He’s committed to training them and, if they choose to leave, he always lets them know they’re welcome to come back. Every Friday, Woyt challenges his employees in the on-premises gym in what is known as “Fat Fit Fridays”. Inspired by his early years as an executive where he sacrificed his health for the busyness of work, Woyt wants to help his team develop healthier habits. He invites his employees to beat him at weightlifting, running, and more - and sometimes they do. Woyt Industries experienced rapid growth early on. Realizing that it was quickly becoming the world he had left, Woyt “fired” several clients and scaled the company back. “That decision pulled us back to healthy working hours,” Woyt reflects. It’s something he remains committed to for himself, his family, and his team. Woyt is once again travelling - working with over 100 US military installations around the world. The difference is that his

family travels with him and, together, they’re serving clients around the world. As Woyt looks back on his journey, he’s thankful for where he’s come. The experiences he had early on have created opportunities that have shaped his priorities, led him to pour into his employees, serve his clients, and provided opportunities he never imagined for serving his community, loving his family, and caring for friends. Woyt’s Bible sits at the head of his bed. “It reminds me about what matters and that, regardless of what my day consisted of, my faith and my family are my most important priorities,” reflects Woyt. “You see, I needed life’s tickets - a degree and certifications in my field - for my job, and I need to be healthy and well to do that work and to love my family and live out my faith.”

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BUSINESS letu.edu/tour/business

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RENATA TRUJILLO Marketing ‘24 Longview, TX

Why did you choose to major in Marketing? “I was considering a lot of majors within the business area, and I decided....” “Any program in business, as it is, is really easy to go into different areas, and I thought it would be so versatile to do in any company. Any program in business as it is it’s really easy to go into different areas and I thought that would be a good way to start.”

NATALIE DAVENPORT Political Science Business Administration ‘23 Troup, TX

What’s the most exciting thing you’ve been involved with during your time at LeTourneau?` “I am a peer advisor for the School of Business. That means I get to be a point man and a guide for the freshmen that come into the School of Business so they have someone on their team that’s also a student. They can come talk to someone who literally just took that class, and I get to kind of be a guide academically, spiritually—kind of a big sister figure, if that’s what they need. I love being a PA.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANT BRIDGMAN

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HUMANITIES

SNAPSHOTS

by Leah Gorman

he Humanities faculty at LeTourneau instill the essential academic abilities that provide the foundation for every course of study at the university. They are blessed to work with some of the most talented students in the world as they navigate the many majors and minors offered. Graduates are respected pastors, professors, public servants, researchers, lawyers, and entrepreneurs. In addition to being known for their professional expertise, our graduates are known for bringing their commitment to Christ into the workplace. In every workplace and in every nation, our graduates are making a difference.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT: letu.edu/arts-and-sciences

RANDYCOMPTON, PH.D. Professor of English “The way we prepare students for every workplace, every nation begins in the way we model that in the classroom. Inside and outside the classroom, Christ is the cornerstone, the core.” Dr. Randy Compton received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Covenant College, a Master of Arts in English from Angelo State University, a Ph.D. in English from the University of North Texas and a Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary. He began his career at LeTourneau in the Fall of 2007. “Everything we do is built on that foundation and works from that center. We show the connectiveness of all the disciplines to Christ and Christ’s mission in the world.”

KARLPAYTON, ED.D.

MARKMOLAND, MPP

Associate Vice President for Accreditation and Quality Assurance, Institutional Accreditation Liaison, Professor of Communication Studies

Assistant Professor of History and Political Science, Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice and Human Services, Chair of Nontraditional Criminal Justice

“We prepare students to go immediately into the workplace and all of our programs are built on a solid foundation of Christian work ethic, Christian worldview.” Dr. Karl Payton began his career at LeTourneau in the Fall of 2002. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Speech Communications from Trevecca Nazarene University, a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication from Western Kentucky University and a Doctor of Education in Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction in Higher Education from Texas A&M University-Commerce. “My faith is the impetus for what I do; I can’t tell everybody, but I can prepare others to tell people that I’ll never see. LeTourneau University is authentically and unapologetically a Christian institution and that gives us the unique ability to share our faith and be a part of students’ lives.”

“We ground students in the idea of seeking to understand people at a human level, and regardless of their circumstances, they are made in the image of God.” Mark Moland joined LeTourneau in the Fall of 2015 after a 21-year career serving in the United States Coast Guard. He received his Bachelor of Science in Government from the US Coast Guard Academy, a Certificate of Christian and Classical Studies from Knox Theological Seminary, a Master of Public Policy from Duke University and holds a Doctorate of Public Administration from California Baptist University. “We teach students the concept of Shalom, and that is not just the absence of conflict or general peace, but the way things ought to be and how they can incorporate Shalom into the workplaces and cities in which they are called.”

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JOHNBARRETT, PH.D.

JIMTAYLOR, DMA

Associate Professor of Political Science, Department Chair of Humanities and Social Sciences, Program Coordinator for Political Science

Associate Professor of Music, Director of Fine Arts

“We are not just teaching skills and acquiring knowledge but having in-depth conversations of how your faith fits into your work. Faith is woven into everything that we do here, and that is fostering a sense of community.” Dr. John Barrett received of a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University, a Master of Arts in International Economics and International Affairs from Johns Hopkins University and a Ph.D. in Religion, Politics and Society from Baylor University. He began his career at LeTourneau in the Fall of 2015. “We help equip students’ faith, help them to have a clear vision of their place in the world as Christians and how they can serve Christ while living out their calling in their careers.”

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“The students at LeTourneau are just remarkable. My faith is a part of all my life. I love having the input of faith and worship into these students.” Dr. Jim Taylor began his career at LeTourneau in the Fall of 2017. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition from Florida Atlantic University, a Master of Arts in Studio Writing and Production from the University of Miami and a Doctorate in Choral Conducting from the University of Alabama. “Being part of an ensemble is very much a part of being in the Christian life. We are seeking to advance His kingdom with whatever gifts we have.”

LESLEYANNEWILLIAMS, PH.D.

AARONBROWN

Assistant Professor of English

Writing Center Director, Assistant Professor of English

“I see God’s hand in people. I love to see how we who are created in God’s image are creators ourselves.” Dr. LesleyAnne Williams earned a Bachelor of Arts, University Scholars, in Classics and Religion from Baylor University, a Master of Philosophy in Theology and Religious Studies from the University of Cambridge, UK, a Master of Medieval Studies and a Doctorate in Medieval Studies both from the Medieval Institute at the University of Notre Dame. She began her career at LeTourneau in the Fall of 2015. “We want students to learn not only how to make a living, but how to live well as human beings and as Christians in this world. Whatever profession a student goes into, we want them to be able to engage in and create Christian culture, and that will have a major impact on the world.”

“LeTourneau is the kind of place where we can explore anything and everything couched with the narrative of God. We look at the world through a Christian lens, while standing on a foundation of truth, curiosity, of intellectual pursuits exercising the minds that God has given us.” Aaron Brown joined LeTourneau in the Fall of 2019. He received a Bachelor of Art in English from Wheaton College and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Maryland. “I believe this fits so well with LeTourneau; God has made us to be makers- we are created to create. That’s what I like to share with my students, to model that in their educational careers.”

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ENGINEERING & ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY letu.edu/tour/engineering

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

KENDRA MURPHY Materials Joining ‘21 Shingle Springs, CA

How does your faith connect with your chosen career path? “Faith teached me that patience is important to work through things I may not understand and have the humility to understand that I am not going to do it perfectly every time. I have been given this opportunity to be here to learn, and that is the same that is in Christian faith. Being a Christian actually goes hand in hand with engineering.”

MATTHEW STRONG Engineering Physics ‘23 Malaysia

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “I am very happy to be a part of this LeTourneau community because it provides an education that not only focuses on the technical side of things, but it focuses on developing me wholly as a person so that when I do go wherever I go, I can use the giftings in a Christ-like manner worthy to build His kingdom in all nations.”

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STEPHEN DILLARD Mechanical Engineering ‘21 Denton, TX

What’s the LeTourneau community like? “I love the community on campus. It’s very welcoming and supportive. The professors are very interested in not only helping the students but also getting to know them and making sure that it’s not just their academic lives that are thriving, but also their spiritual and relational lives. And in the classroom, you get a very hands-on approach and interaction with other people to complete a goal.”

CIVIL ENGINEERING CONCRETE PRESS 360° letu.edu/tv/concrete-press-360

Some days at LeTourneau University, it’s less ‘traditional classroom’ and more ‘concrete crushing.’ Our Civil Engineering students work on unique & challenging hands-on projects beginning in their freshman year—because we believe the best way to learn is by doing. Watch them put their latest concrete mix design to the test.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

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ARTS & SCIENCES letu.edu/tour/sciences

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LETOURNEAU NOW PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

SKYLAR WEISS Biomedical Science ‘24 Big Sandy, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “The professors are out for your best interest. They treat you like a friend and an equal, and they want to take the time to make sure you understand and know the material well.”

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CADEN DALTON Cyber Security ‘21 Longview, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “We do a lot of hands-on, and it has been great to work in a group of people to try to figure out solutions to various problems.”

HALIM CHOI English ‘21 South Korea

What do you like most about LeTourneau? “I really enjoy LeTourneau Singers. I remember the first day I was singing. I heard the harmony, and I felt like something was ringing my soul. As humans we need to have that soul restored and rest in the fresh air, and I definitely think that LeTourneau singers, as we sing together, it provides that. It can be hard for an exchange student to adjust in a different environment, but I think singing brings all people together really well. We’re singing the same thing. Harmony becomes one really naturally. It’s one of the classes I really enjoy.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANT BRIDGMAN

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A LU M N I N E WS & U P DAT E S

serving churches in Bethlehem, Stroudsburg, and Coopersburg, Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Yvonne, live in Coopersburg.

Nancy (Meyer) Magi (’68 ED) recently retired as librarian at Allen County Public Library and lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Francis Dieter (’49 MES) widowed Navy vet, celebrated his 99th birthday in Dallas, Texas watching a driveby celebration of his friends and fellow churchgoers. When the last car had gone by, he said, “You don’t really know how many friends you have until they all gather up.”

James Lewis (’58 MES) received the 2020 Edgar Hetteen Memorial Award of Merit for his distinguished accomplishments throughout his 30year career at Dayco Corporation and his work with Polaris, Artic Cat, and Bombardier. Among his accomplishments were six U.S. patents, and he was the first engineer to design “Top Cog” belts for snowmobiles which are today’s standard on all snowmobiles. He is now retired and he and his wife, Quepha, live in Springfield, Missouri.

David Hentschel (’62 MES) retired in 2007 and has now completed a 35-year project of the frame up restoration of his SBC powered, 5 speed, 1967 Camaro convertible! He and his wife, Saleta, live in Raymore, Missouri.

Felton Bollinger (’67 ATBS) retired on November 30, 2020, after 35 years with Wycliffe. For 34 of those years, he served as Aviation Business Manager at JAARS. He and his wife, Rachel, live in Waxhaw, North Carolina.

Thomas Shorb (’67 ATBS) has retired after 45 years of pastoral ministry at Calvary Bible Fellowship Church,

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Bill Cristobal (’72 ATBS) retired in August after 46 years of missionary service with JAARS/Wycliffe. He and his wife, Sue, served in Ecuador, Philippines, Honduras and Papua New Guinea. He now volunteers when needed and they live in Waxhaw, North Carolina.

Jacob Hunker (’73 ME) recently retired from Forney Corporation, Addison, Texas, as a Packaging Engineer. He and his wife, Vickie, live in Mesquite, Texas.

Norman Baker (’96 MTAT) says after a 25-year corporate aviation career, “God has called us to serve in missions.” Norm will be serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) International. He and his wife, Stephanie (Siber) Baker (’96 ACCT) currently live in Argyle, Texas, with their children Caleb, Emily and Benjamin.

Marta (Montenegro) Martin (’97 HIPL) is taking a sabbatical from practicing law and is Campus Coordinator at her children’s school. She also runs Florelle Fine Herbs and Flowers with her mother-inlaw. Together, they grow and sell specialty herbs and flowers in Houston alongside their family.

Supritha “Pritha” Arsikeer (’00 MBA) is now self employed as a mediator in Keller, Texas.

Toney Glendall (’73 MABA) is a preacher at Neighborhood Bible Fellowship, Carbondale, Illinois and has started a new podcast ministry at: www. glendalltoney.com

Daniel “Dan” Pleshko (’85 MT) retired from Lockheed Martin in May 2020. He has started a new supply chain consulting firm, DP-GSCO, LLC, Fort Worth, Texas, to help companies navigate through the impacts of COVID-19.

Brian Kelly (’87 DT) was recently promoted to Director of Safety and Security for Wylie ISD, Wylie, Texas.

Brian Voss (’91 ME) has received a promotion to the position of Field Services Director for Orano TN, Aiken, South Carolina.

Craig Robertson (’92 ACCT) has recently become a Partner/ Certified Risk Manager in his family’s owned company, Robertson Insurance & Risk Management, Lititz, Pennsylvania.

Davis Merrell (’00 BBM) was recently named Dean of Industry and Public Service at Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, Texas.

Brian Phillips (’01 MK) is now the Jr. High Pastor at Maranatha Chapel, San Diego. He and his wife, Tracy, and children Alex (10) and Ashley (9) live in Temecula, California.

Andrew Branch (’02) was appointed Chief Business Development Officer, Northwest Arkansas National Airport, Bentonville, Arkansas, in April 2019. His goal is to increase enplanements to one million in the next few years. He is also a 2020 member of Leadership Benton County and named in the Class of 2020 Forty Under 40.

Jason McCool (’02 WE) is a Project Engineer in structural engineering for Robbins Engineering, PLLC, Little Rock, Arkansas. He is also active in Christian apologetics and lives in Cabot, Arkansas with his wife, Betty.

and his wife, Nicola, and children Winston, Evelyn, Orson and Isaac live in North Pole, Alaska.

live in Ocala, Florida with their children, Levi (10), Elias (7), Addie (5), Jack (3) and Havilah (1).

Elaine Cox (’03 BBA) has recently become the Region 4 Education Service Center Secretary of Reading/ Language Arts Solutions, Houston, Texas.

Misty Pearson (’08 ME) is the Mockup Manager in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at NASA, Houston, Texas, and was an integral part of the SpaceX Dragon capsule launch in May 2020. She was overseer to replacing the station’s galley rack, part of its kitchen. She explains the job as clearing out a rack of stowage for a new rack to be put in a place out of the crew’s way in a house that is already full. Misty loves training astronauts how to move about inside of the Mockup Facility and is very thankful for the way LETU prepared her for her job today.

Georgina McCorkle (‘03 BBA) was recently promoted to Executive Director at The Auberge at Cypresswood, Houston, Texas. She and her husband, Scott, and daughter, Kathryn (14), live in Cypress, Texas.

Mark Evers (’06 BBA) graduated in 2020 with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University. He has been hired as the Director for Financial Planning at Imperium Wealth Management, San Antonio, Texas.

Mark Faires (’06 ASFS) is serving in Alaska with SEND North as a pilot/mechanic. He has also recently founded Vassal Ministries, to provide ministry support to missionaries, churches and organizations serving in remote Alaskan villages. Support includes aviation, hospitality and hands on service. He

Melissa (Steele) Russell (’10 PSYCH) has recently taken the position of Conservatorship Specialist I for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), Longview, Texas. Clint Benson (’10 BBA) was recognized in the Smith County, Texas, Commissioners Court, June 30, 2020 for 20 years of service in the Sheriff’s Office. Clint has spent most of his career in the Sheriff’s Office and recently became a Chief Investigator for the Smith County District Attorney’s Office, Tyler, Texas.

Jennifer Simmons (’10 BBA) was named Wisdom High School, Beginning (First Year) Teacher of the Year, for 2019-2020. She had been in accounting for more than 25 years before pursuing her lifelong desire to be a teacher. She teaches Business Education at Houston ISD, Houston, Texas.

Zach Soles (’10 AFFS) and his wife, Faith, are missionaries with ITEC. Zach recently received his Remote Pilot Certificate and is currently designing and testing a payload dropbox for the UAV to carry and drop an IV bag. Zach and Faith

Arlon Henderson (’12 BBM) has been promoted to Procurement Specialist at Baker Hughes, a GE company, Houston, Texas.

Charles Harris (’12 AAMG) received a promotion in June 2020, to Operations Manager at Epic Flight Support, Bend, Oregon.

Tania Johnson (’13 BBM) was recently promoted to Manager of Eligibility Operations at Texas Children’s Health Plan, Bellaire, Texas. Bradley “Brad” Andrus (’15 MJE) has taken a position with Wolf Robotics, Fort Collins, Colorado, as an Applications Engineer. He and his wife, Sarah, recently finished building their own home in Thornton, Colorado. Joel Sung (’15 AATC/AATM) is now working as an Air Traffic Control Specialist with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), South Bend, Indiana.

Jarrod Blackburn (’16 MEM) has taken a job as Assistant District Service Manager with Siemens, Deer Park Texas. He and his wife, Wendy Blackburn (’16 BBA) live in Crosby, Texas.

Brianna Williams (’16 KES) is the Health Science Technology Teacher at Sulphur Springs ISD, Sulphur Springs, Texas.

James Galan (’16 AAMM) is the Shift Lead Aircraft Mechanic at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He and his wife, Elisa, and children, Jude and Sela, live in Prescott Valley, Arizona.

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A LU M N I N E WS & U P DAT E S

Michael Harmon (’17 BVA) received a promotion to Automation (ERAM) Manager with the FAA. He and his wife, Rebecca, and children, Cheyenne, Landan and Janie, live in Fort Worth, Texas

Jamie Ladd (’18 MSC-MA) is now the 9th grade School Counselor at Pine Tree High School, Longview, Texas.

Jeremy Carter (’19 MEA-MED) is now teaching 2nd grade Math/ Science at Salyers Elementary School, Spring ISD, Spring, Texas.

James Harling (’20 CVE) recently took a job with Aqueous Engineering, Tyler, Texas, as a Civil Engineering EIT.

WEDDINGS

Alex Smith (’19 BSME) and Meagan Cufr (’20 NURS) were married June 20, 2020, in Huntley, Illinois. Alex is a Mechanical Engineer for Southwest Research Institute and Meagan is a nurse in the Telemetry Unit at Methodist Stone Oak Hospital. The couple lives in San Antonio, Texas.

Colton Gehman (’20 AAMM/ TSBS) and Jessica Cleveland (’20 COMS) were married August 9, 2020. They love living and working in Lincoln, Nebraska! Colton is an Airframe Technician at

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Duncan Aviation, and Jessica is a Social Media Coordinator at Transformation Marketing.

MEMORIALS

Bobby Zager (’49) died at the age of 92 on October 7, 2020. His career ranged from highway construction to oil and gas technical sales and he enjoyed playing the guitar and was a volunteer docent at the East Texas Oil museum, Kilgore, Texas. He is survived by his daughter, Pamela, and husband David Cowart, siblings, Betty Zager Anderson, Billy (Mary Ann) Zager, nieces a nephew and extended family and friends.

Donald Edgar (’57 WE) of Eureka, Missouri, died October 27, 2020 at the age of 83. He was known as “The Walker” for his daily walks and enjoyed keeping connections with family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, whom he met while attending LETU, Wanda Lou (Gibson) Edgar, daughter Donna Edgar-Fain (Howard), two grandchildren, and one great grandson.

Roger Helm (’63 MT) of Plainfield, Illinois, died suddenly June 25, 2020. He will be remembered

for his Dr. Who collection, his Friday red sock day and traveling to 42 countries and all 50 states. He is survived by his sons, Roger Jr. (Eveline), Thomas, one granddaughter, two great-granddaughters and dearest uncle of many.

Robert “Bob” Thornbloom (’63 ME) died June 3, 2020 in Northbrook, Illinois. Bob was raised in the Belgian Congo and later served there as a missionary with his wife, Jan, for 44 years. Bob had been called the master of “fiasco engineering” because of his technical genius and an ability to use whatever he had available. His mission was serving others and he was known for his storytelling and love

of singing. He is survived by his children, Beverly Hawkins ( John), Twyla Becker (Chris), Mark (Dena), four grandchildren and three sisters.

of Frankston, Texas, died February 29, 2020. During his life he worked at the Johnston Space Center, Houston, Texas performing pre-flight testing with an engineering team on the Apollo 11 spacecraft. He also served as a missionary bush pilot in Senegal, West Africa, and Brazzaville Congo, Africa and then as an engineer for Aerospatiale and Turbomecha, Grand Prairie, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Linda, sons, Jonathan (Annie), David (Krysta), brothers Billy (Nelda), Mike (Pat), five grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary Sprano (’69 EN/BUBS) of Pulaski, Virginia died on

Please share your class October 8, 2020. She supported Word of Life Ministries, Schroon Lake, New York, as Registrar in Financial Services for 42 years and was an EMT with Schroon Lake Fire Department. She is survived by her father, Edward Sprano, and brothers, Michael, Peter and Timothy, and many nieces and nephews.

William “Bill” Wier (’69 ET) of Brenham, Texas, died August 23, 2020. Bill was a big personality and was involved in many business and personal endeavors. He also had a passion for woodworking. He is survived by his wife, Shari, his sons, Keith (Amanda), Kevin (Mary Jane), Kelly (Christina), three brothers, six grandchildren, one greatgrandson, and many extended family and friends.

David “Harry” Harrison (’70 ET) died September 9, 2020 in Willmar, Minnesota. He is remembered for his great sense of humor and numerous hobbies. He is survived by his wife, Bernadette “Berni”, daughters Kelli, Ivy ( Joshua), Andrea (Chad), five grandchildren, two siblings, and other relatives and friends.

Bradley Sink (’75 ME) of Rome, Pennsylvania, died September 3, 2020 at the age of 72. Brad owned and operated Allis Hallow Equipment and was active in his church. He is survived by his wife, Beatrice, mother, Lulu, brother, Dana Thomas Sink III, sister, June, five nephews, one niece and their families.

Joe Hogate (’76 AU) died June 9, 2020, in Biltmore Lake, North Carolina. While in Longview, he developed a missionary loaner car program for a local mission and opened his own automotive shop on Eastman Rd. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca, his mother, and his brothers Paul and Mark Hogate.

Joel Cronbaugh (’76 BI) of Norway, Iowa died May 5, 2020. His kindness, humor and storytelling were some of his memorable traits. He was also known for his passion for anything that had a motor and solving elusive electrical problems with motors in minutes. He is survived by nieces and nephews: Tara Cronbaugh, Todd Miller, Anya Schmitz, Barbara Wolfe, Steven Cronbaugh and many great-nieces and nephews.

Doug Redman (’81 MT) died January 28, 2020 in Surry, Virginia. He enjoyed playing his stand-up string bass and was a private pilot for several years. Doug is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sue, his brother Thomas Redman (Ann), and other family members.

notes & photos with us on the Alumni Association web page, letu.edu/alumni or by emailing Gail Ritchey at gailritchey@letu.edu

The loss of a loved one, friend or colleague often inspires us to ensure that their memory lives on. Many people find that supporting LETU is an ideal way to honor someone who has passed away. Gifts made “in memoriam” offer a lasting honor to a loved one while providing family and friends with the satisfaction of knowing they have helped others. If you would like to give a memoriam to LETU, please call 1-800-259-5388 or donate online at www.letu.edu/ give. The family will be notified of your generosity when a memoriam is made.

Joseph “Joe” Farlow (’84 AU) of Greensboro, North Carolina, died November 2, 2020. He had a love for cars and was a member of The Piedmont Motor Club for over 30 years. He is survived by his father, David Farlow and sister, Jewel Farlow.

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THEOLOGY & VOCATION letu.edu/tour/theology

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JONATHAN CROSS Theological Studies ‘22 Monroe, LA

Why did you choose LeTourneau? “I chose LeTourneau because I was looking for a place with a thoroughly Christian community, where that was very central to what they do, and I was also looking for a place that focused on engineering and the sciences. That’s what LeTourneau does.”

RACHEL BARLETTA Psychology / Theology ‘21 Wellington, OH

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “Learning at LeTourneau is very personal. You know everyone in your classes, and it is very community centered. The faculty are passionate about what they are teaching and about seeing students succeed. The atmosphere is very giving. People will go out of there way to help each other.”

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BAILEY FRYE Theology ‘24 Pflugerville, TX

What’s the LeTourneau community like? “The community here at LeTourneau is so welcoming and loving—I can’t imagine myself anywhere else.”

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SHANNON SANDERS Psychology, ‘22 Longview, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “I love LeTourneau, and I don’t think I could have picked a better school. They are friendly, they are helpful, and I can come to any of my professors and they will take the time to sit down with me and talk through any problems I may have, personally or academically. Coming back to school at this age has been a blessing—LETU is my heart. I can’t even express to you how amazing it is to go from being a high school drop-out in the 11th grade and then coming here and getting this rich, intricate knowledge. I am just amazed at all the things I am learning. I am really grateful for the education I am getting.”

KOLTON EBERLAN Psychology, M.A. Lufkin, TX

What’s it like learning at LeTourneau? “A LeTourneau education is challenging, but that is good because whenever you complete your degree you will be ready for the world, both spiritually and academically.”

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DAVID MILLER Psychology Grad Student Longview, TX

How does your faith impact your chosen career path? “I accepted Christ into my life about four-anda-half years ago, and after that, my whole world changed. The way He plays into my degree here is that the professors teach us to see problems through a Christian worldview. I have come to realize that all humans are broken and it’s through the grace and love of Jesus Christ that we are made complete. Coming out of the military and into the LeTourneau community was definitely a transition, but as time went on I realized that although we may be at different parts of our journey, we are all seeking the same thing in education and a relationship with God. Jesus sat with those who were broken and listened to them, and I see the clinical part of our program in the same way. We are sitting with those who are broken, listening to their troubles and helping to guide them to healing.”

COUNSELING CENTER WALKTHROUGH 360° letu.edu/tv/counseling-center-360

Dr. Jeffrey Quiett, Professor of Psychology & Counseling, tours LeTourneau’s Center for Counseling and talks about how the center serves students, the local community, and how it provides real-world training opportunities alongside industry-experienced faculty. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

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With Determination and Faith From simple beginnings to space shuttles, the story of Winton Hancock (‘53). By Dr. Daniel Ostendorff

he 1950 Harley Davidson 125 sped down the highway, a single suitcase strapped to the back, while the young Winton Hancock (‘53) kept his eyes ahead and his hands firmly gripped to the

handlebars. With a top speed of 50mph, that averaged 45mph on this 600-mile journey, it took Hancock two days and 14 hours to make the journey from his home in Fayette, Missouri, to Longview, Texas. Exhausted and stiff from the drive, he pulled onto campus late one Saturday afternoon, passing the old Army guardhouse and underneath a sign that previously read “Harmon General Hospital,” only recently changed to “LeTourneau Technical Institute.” Thankfully, someone was in the office and escorted him to his new home in one of the former army barracks affectionately known as “The Last Resort.” “It was not exactly luxurious,” jokes Hancock thinking back on those early days.

Born in 1932, Winton Hancock grew up in a family of modest means, but with a strong commitment to their Christian faith. At the age of 11, he committed his life to Christ. While he did well in school, college was financially out of reach for him. Mr. Brown, his 10th grade history teacher, encouraged Hancock to continue to work hard and pursue an engineering degree. By his Senior year, he had offers from several colleges. That same year, his parents—who knew of R.G. LeTourneau from his speaking ministry, learned that five full scholarships were being offered to the then two-year-old LeTourneau Technical Institute. His parents urged him to apply and in late August 1950, as he got ready to head to a different college, Hancock learned that he had received one of the scholarships. A week later, he loaded up his Harley 125 and made the trek to Longview.

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When classes began in September, so did his work at the LeTourneau factory down the street. Along with other students, Hancock attended classes half the week and worked in the factory the other half of the week. “Starting pay was $0.75 per hour,” remembers Hancock, “Work was challenging, but it taught wonderful lessons.” Over the next several years, he spent nearly a year working in the plant machine shop, a year working on the assembly line, and six months in plant maintenance before finally working as a ‘dozer operator in his final year. In addition to his work at the factory, Hancock was a starter for the men’s basketball team and served as Assistant Coach under Coach Don Taylor. While today our Men’s Basketball team is the NCAA conference champion, Hancock recollects that back then “Kilgore and Tyler junior colleges whipped us

consistently.” Hancock remembers one time, just before graduation, that he had to have an unexpected surgery. Just as he had given his motorcycle everything it had for that fourteen-hour drive from Missouri, a theme of Hancock’s life is his tenacity for going all in and giving it everything he has. After three years and two summers of classes, he graduated in May 1953 with 160 credit hours—well over the required hours for the degree. As he walked across the stage, it was R.G. “Pop” LeTourneau who handed him his diploma. From scholarship recipient to college graduate, LeTourneau had made an impossible dream come true. The following month, Hancock went to work for the LeTourneau company. His first job had him working with a team clearing land between Atlanta, Maud, and Texarkana, Texas—where Wright Patman Park sits today. Working night shifts with another mechanic, Hancock repaired the machines used during the day. “One night, I fell off of the top of a machine I was servicing,” shares Hancock, “It was about 30 feet to the ground. There must have been a guardian angel with me that night, because I was able to pick myself up and go back to work.” Those first six months out of college were demanding, with several 100-hour work weeks. The first Christmas after college, Hancock traveled back home to see his parents in Missouri. This time, rather than riding a Harley 125, he drove a new Ford he was able to pay for with LeTourneau wages. “I paid cash,” Hancock shares, “drove it to Missouri and presented the keys to my parents. They had never had a new car.” Hancock drove back to East Texas in his parents’ 1939 Oldsmobile, his ‘new’ transportation. After working for the LeTourneau company, Hancock took a job with Alco Products Incorporated (formerly the American Locomotive Company), located just outside of Albany, New York. Hancock went on to work at a number of jobs over the years, including for the Xerox company. In April 1979, he quit his job at Xerox, ran in the Boston Marathon (finishing in the top 30%), and left the next day for a new job in Orlando, Florida, with the National Aeronautics and

Space Administration (NASA) in their space shuttle program. It was two years later, in 1981, that NASA celebrated its first shuttle launch. Hancock went on to be involved in the first fifty shuttle missions until his retirement in 1993. Thinking back on that era that included the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy, it is not surprising that Hancock’s memories of the time are that it was “a challenging, sometimes stressful job.” Today, at the age of 88, Hancock continues to work part time. “A few months after I retired in 1993,” shares Hancock, “I realized my body wasn’t ready for retirement.” He now works for a small training company. In this new role, Hancock has traveled to 49 of the 50 states and over 15 countries training operators and inspectors of heavy machinery over the last two decades. The owner of the company has asked Hancock if he would continue on for another three years. With a smile, Hancock adds, “Can you imagine a rational person working for a paycheck at the age of 90?” Thinking back over his life, Hancock is grateful to the Lord. “My life has been filled with countless blessings,” shares Hancock, “Most of the blessings are a direct result of having committed my life to God at the age of 11. However, a good many things occurred from my association with LeTourneau.” Over the years, Hancock has worked as a mechanic, a professional engineer, and as a mentor and trainer. “LeTourneau prepared me to be versatile and hopefully useful,” Hancock says, “If I could make it, anyone can.”

At the age of 88, there is no question that Hancock has been more than useful, with a supervisor asking him to continue working into his 90s. Hancock’s life-long commitment to God, his faithfulness to the task at hand, and his ingenuity in tackling whatever challenges arise are a great example, and challenge, for us all.

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RILEY WISHON Professional Flight ‘21 Celina, TX

Why did you choose LeTourneau? “I took an Aviation course as a dual credit student in high school and I loved it. I went to look at other schools and they were lacking what I had at LeTourneau—the community, the caring professors and environment.”

JT DECKER Professional Flight ‘23 Colorado Springs, CO

Why did you choose to major in aviation? “Aviation opens up an industry to many fields, from missions to piloting, and you get a chance to interact with so many different people and have the opportunity to spread the Gospel as you build your career.”

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RYAN CARDOZA Mission Aviation ‘22 Lemoore, CA

How does your faith connect with your chosen career path? “I think everything that we do is an act of worship to the Lord, and aviation is one of those methods that I get to use and am pursuing to use to serve the Lord. My vocation is not as much of a job as it is how I am going to serve the Lord, and Mission Aviation is one of those ways I get to do that.”

SEMINOLE FLIGHT 360° letu.edu/tv/seminole-360

Join us for a virtual flight in one of the Piper PA44 Seminoles LeTourneau University Aviation students fly as part of our world-class program. Grab a VR headset to get the full experience! PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

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JADE MERRELL Kinesiology Softball ‘23 McKinney, TX

What would you tell a prospective student about LeTourneau? “If you want to become closer to Jesus and have a community feeling, then LeTourneau is the school for you. Professors here are very nice. They are willing to work with you and care about you and your success.”

LORIEN NIGHTINGALE Aircraft Maintenance Cross Country / Track & Field ‘21 Njoro, Kenya

How does faith impact your sport? “From the leadership, down, all of our coaches are so good about sharing their faith with the team, and they are always open to talking with you, praying with you and caring about you.”

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GABRIELLA PITMAN Elementary Education ‘23 Fort Washington, PA

What is your favorite thing about LeTourneau? “I love that LeTourneau has us doing the stuff in our major as soon as possible. As a freshman, we had to plan a class lesson, and that gave me a taste of what teaching would be like.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMIAH SHEPHERD

FALL 2020

It begins with a plan! The LeTourneau University Foundation wants to be a resource to you—and it begins with you and your unique needs and wishes! We can assist you in arriving at your ideal estate and legacy plan. As we work alongside your advisors, we can help you assure that the stewardship you have sought to consistently demonstrate throughout your life is reflected in your estate planning. The design of your giving solutions can then be one that first serves you. That purpose fulfilled, those giving solutions can then become a means to paving the way to obedience on the part of future generations. The LeTourneau University Foundation is the arm of the university charged with assisting our many alumni and friends with more complex forms of advantageous giving as we grow the university’s endowment. With more than 20 years of experience in estate and succession planning on our team, the LeTourneau University Foundation can help you in these all-important areas. Do you have a comprehensive plan in place? Do you have questions about the most tax-efficient ways to give? We would love to be of service to you in this most strategic way. For assistance or questions, please reach out to our Executive Director Tom Bevan and the team he has supporting him at (903) 233-3833 or via email at leavealegacy@letufoundation.org.

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How can we help? •

Seasoned guidance for what estate and legacy planning looks like—unique to your situation.

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Identifying the “building blocks” to any effective and intentional estate plan.

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Special situations, such as minor or special needs children, succeeding your business.

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Assuring that what God has done in your life becomes a powerful motivation to those who will follow you.

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Supporting intentional tax-efficient giving from within your plan.

What makes our due diligence so important right now? Consider just some of what the current tax code allows for … •

An unprecedented Federal Estate Tax threshold: $11.4 million level for individuals, doubled for married couples!

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Giving from appreciated assets: where you can eliminate the capital gains taxes on their appreciation! This can save at least 20% in unnecessary tax!

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“Two-Way” Interest Gift Designs: Gift designs such as Charitable Remainder Unitrusts, an alternative to a Donor Advised Fund, can provide supplemental or spousal income, with full control over the giving you want to accomplish once that income period ends!

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Giving from IRA’s: Beginning at age 70 1/2, giving from your IRA can qualify against your Required Minimum Distribution, starting at age 72, at up to $100,000 per individual, per year, and be considered a “non-event.”

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Higher Deduction Limits for Public Charities: Sunsetting in 2020, limits for charitable contributions to public charities (such as LETU) are lifted from 60% to 100% of your 2020 Adjusted Gross Income.

For additional information, visit letufoundation.org/ NOTE: While the LeTourneau University Foundation can be relied upon for its accuracy, always consult your tax advisor for the actual tax benefits that apply to your unique situation.

Take a moment to view these videos and hear more from Dr. Terry Zeitlow and Tom Bevan about the LeTourneau Foundation. •

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letu.edu/tv/now-connect-oct2020

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LeTourneau NOW P.O. Box 8001 Longview, TX 75607

RELATIONSHIPS MATTER Almost every LeTourneau University student learns about LETU through a relationship with one of our alumni, a friend, a family member, a youth pastor or other person in their lives. One of the greatest donations YOU can make to LeTourneau University is to tell others about us. Recycle this magazine by sharing it with others.

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C H R I S T I A N

P O LY T E C H N I C

U N I V E R S I T Y