The Update: 2014 Spring Edition

The Update Morris College

2014 Winter-Spring Edition

Morris College Commissions 52nd Officer, First Lt. DeKendrick Summerson

President’s Message Dear Alumni, Members of Supporting Churches, and Friends: Morris College is into its 106th year of leadership and service to higher education. I am into my 40th year of leadership and service as president of Morris College. While institutions of higher education are faced with a number of challenges in a world that is rapidly changing, the college continues its objective of creating opportunities for students to be successful. I have whole-heartedly supported this objective throughout my presidency. The success of students, and ours, pivots on the discipline and critical thinking being taught here. As students pursue their goal of attaining a quality education, we want them to develop into publicly engaged and community oriented individuals. More so, we want them to reflect these things through the leadership and service they provide.

As an institution with a strong academic program, preparing students for leadership and service is a compatible component of what we do at Morris College. The two fit together like “hand and glove.” We strive to accomplish this as a student-centered institution and a teaching-centered institution.

As a student-centered institution, the college continues to emphasize the personal development of its students through academic advising, career and guidance counseling, as well as spiritual and social development.

As a teaching-centered institution, we continue to emphasize a broad understanding of the liberal arts and sciences, professional and technical skills necessary to meet societal demands, and training to help prepare students for responsible citizenship in a global society.

From preparing “students to succeed” and “to make an impact in a new century,” to developing “tomorrow’s leaders” and the “art of communication and expression,” to shaping “tomorrow’s teachers,” and to providing “scholarship with a sense of purpose,” academic excellence is the chief objective at Morris College. This chief objective, of course, is the avenue by which the college is assured that it is fulfilling its mission and preparing its students for leadership and service.

Although I have always taken very seriously my responsibilities in steering Morris College on a steady course through the waters of higher learning, I am truly grateful to all of our constituents and supporters.

Your contributions, along with those of our trustees, faculty, staff, and certainly our students are of great benefit to the college. Your continued support will ensure that those who come to the college to better themselves will have a chance to pursue successful careers and render important leadership and service.

Thank you for helping to make it possible for current students and others yet to come to have a chance to “Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve!” May God bless you all!

Luns C. Richardson President

COLLEGE PRESIDENT Dr. Luns C. Richardson EDITOR AND DESIGN Vicky Sutton-Jackson Director of Public Relations

Inside This Issue

The Update Morris College

2014 Winter-Spring Edition

EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Dr. Leroy Staggers Academic Dean Dr. Gerald R. Polinsky Management Specialist Rev. Melvin Mack Director of Institutional Advancement/Church Relations Morris College Commisions 52nd Officer, First Lt. DeKendrick Summerson

PHOTOGRAPHY Charlie Mathis, Mathis Photography Studio PRINTER PrintSouth Printing, Inc. - Richard Coulter

Mid-Winter Banquet

Pg . 7

Homecoming 2014

Pg. 12

Rufus Mitchell Retires

Pg. 14

Community Day

Pg. 17

Alumni Weekend 2014

Pg. 29

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dr. Charles B. Jackson, Sr.,Chairperson Dr. Willie E. Givens, Jr., Chairperson Emeritus Dr. Luns C. Richardson, College President Mrs. Margaret Bailey, Faculty/Staff Representative Dr. Ronald Barton Mr. Brandon Brown, Student Representative Dr. Jacqueline W. Canty Dr. James L. Carter Dr. Bryant Cheek Dr. James H. Cokley Rev. Ricky Ezell Mr. Samuel Foster Rev. Donald E. Greene, Jr. Dr. Mack T. Hines Reverend Isaac Holt, Jr. Mrs. Barbara Jackson, Alumni Representative Dr. Solomon Jackson, Jr. Dr. W. T. Johnson Dr. Clifford Jones Mrs. Debra Jordan Dr. Milton R. Key Attorney Thomas B. Levy Rev. James B. Lewis, Sr. Deacon Leroy Martin Dr. Waymon Mumford Mrs. Audrey Potts Neal Dr. Marion Newton Dr. Emma Owens Dr. Ellie W. Palmer Dr. Leo Richardson Dr. William A. Salley Ms. Juanita Sanders Attorney J. David Weeks Rev. George P. Windley, Jr.

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Fall Har vest Rally 2013

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Fall Har vest Rally 2013 Dr.

Young

Plants

Seeds

Dr. Jerry Young, senior pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson, Miss., gave the keynote address at the Fall Harvest Rally.

Young discussed the relationship between education and Christianity, citing that many of the first institutions of higher education (Harvard, Princeton, and Yale) were founded by ministers for the purpose of teaching individuals to read the word of God. He said, “There is no conflict between faith and reason. Faith is the completion of reason.” Young said faith should motivate us to plant seeds that will grow. He said, “Luke 6:38 is a command to give. It is imperative, it is inclusive, it is personal, it is practical, it is possible, and it is profitable.”

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Online Giving is available. Go to the homepage and click on “Giving.”

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Fall Har vest Continued The Response

Morris College Chorale

Morris College THE UPDATE

Morris College Gospel Choir

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F a l l

H a r v e s t

P a r a d e

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Rep. Dillard to Honor Students: “Fan Your Flame”

The honor students with President Richardson and Rep. Dillard, center. Rep. J. David Weeks, far left.

South Carolina Rep. Chandra Dillard addressed the honor students and the campus community on Thursday, Oct. 10 at the Fall Honors Convocation.

Dillard applauded the honor students for their significant accomplishments and presented them with a question, “How do you continue on the journey you’ve begun in order to realize the dreams that dwell within you?” She provided the answer, “You must fan your flame.”

She shared that all journeys begin with anticipation and excitement but midway through the journey fatigue, frustration and challenges set in. She said to keep the fire going, “Fan the flame.” Dillard described the flame as that special something given by the creator that sets us apart from others: “mojo, burning desire, that light inside of you.”

Dillard provided four tips to keep the fire burning: 1. Surround yourself with positive people (only share time with those who value you). 2. Manage your time wisely and set priorities (don’t sweat the small stuff ). 3. Take time to enjoy every stage of life (“the fire you’ve built—your liberal arts education”). To this Dillard added, “It is easy to complete assignments but harder to realize the lesson.” 4.

“Go back to the source of the fire, the One who gave you your flame and spend time with Him.” She concluded by saying “Don’t compare yourself to the best others can be but the best you can be—fan your flame.”

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Academic Dean Dr. Leroy Staggers presented the honor students: The President’s List, The Dean’s List, The O.R. Reuben Scholars and The Morris College Scholars.

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Dr. Luns C. Richardson recognized the honor students as he commended them for bringing honor to their families, the college and the community. He paraphrased Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, encouraging them to “Learn more. Come up a little higher and never stop learning.”

Rep. J. David Weeks, alumnus of the college, briefly addressed the honor graduates. He advised them to undergird their education with the college’s motto, “Enter to Learn; Depart Serve.”

Jackson Returns for Religious Emphasis Week The campus will be spiritually invigorated during Religious Emphasis Week, Tuesday, February 18 – February 21 when Dr. Charles B. Jackson, Sr., chairperson of the Morris College Board of Trustees and senior pastor of Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, S.C., returns as the Religious Emphasis speaker.

Dr. Jackson is a native of West Columbia, S.C. He earned his undergraduate degree from Benedict College in Columbia, S.C. and the Master of Divinity degree from Morehouse School of Religion of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Ga. Jackson was presented the Distinguished Board of Directors Award from the Morehouse School of Religion for high academic achievement. He completed a year of certification of residency in clinical pastoral education at the South Carolina Academy for Pastoral Education. He has received honorary Doctor of Divinity degrees from Morris College and Benedict College.

He is married to the former Robin Hoefer and they are the proud parents of two adult children and four grandchildren.

Dr. Jackson will preach at 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. , Tuesday –Thursday. The closing message will be on Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. All services will be held in the Neal-Jones Auditorium.

Hines to Speak at Mid-Winter Banquet Rally Dr. Mack T. Hines, Jr., pastor of Saint Paul Baptist Church in Mullins, S.C., will be the speaker at the Mid-Winter Banquet on Friday, February 28. The event will be held in the Garrick-Boykin Human Development Center at 7:30 p.m.

Dr. Hines is a native of Florence, S.C. He received the Bachelor of Arts degree from Allen University in Columbia, S.C., the Bachelor of Divinity degree from Morris College and the Doctor of Divinity degree from Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury, N.C. Hines taught in Florence School District #1 for 12 years. He currently serves as moderator of the Florence and Affiliated Counties Baptist Education Union, president of the Mullins Area Ministerial Alliance, and charter member of the Little Pee Dee Manor House and chairman of the Wilsonian Clergy.

Hines is married to the former Gladys Jackson of Darlington, S.C. They have three children and three grandchildren.

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He is immediate past moderator of the Pee Dee Baptist Association and past secretary of the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of SC and currently serves as vice-chairperson of the Morris College Board of Trustees. He was honored by the college with an honorary doctorate degree for outstanding leadership and inducted into the Morris College Hall of Fame. In 2006 he was honored with the Order of the Palmetto. He is a life member of the NAACP and master mason.

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Morris College Receives High Safety Rating Morris College recently received the rank of “#8 Safest School in South Carolina” by StateUniversity.com.

The college was selected among 40, four- year universities and colleges in the state.

According to StateUniversity.com, the school safety ratings are based on Clery, FBI and Census data to evaluate 1,407 colleges and universities safety ratings within their states.

Each school’s rating is based on the number of weapon occurrences, drugs, burglary, vehicle theft, arson, larceny, robbery, forcible and non-forcible rape, murder and non-negligent manslaughter and aggravated assault.

The crime level of the city each school is located in also plays a role in the calculations. According to StateUniversity.com, “Each city’s safety ranking is based on the same categories that are displayed for crimes that take place on campus. Local crime is weighed less than campus crime in a school’s overall safety ranking. This allows for a more advanced understanding of the potential dangers that not only affect the students on campus, but even those living near it.”

The 2013 rankings were pulled from data collected between January 1 and December 31, 2012.

Sumter County Museum Honors Bethune Dr. But ler gives t r ibute

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Thanks to the sponsorship of Morris College, the Sumter County Museum presented the exhibit, Mary McLeod Bethune: From Mayesville to National Hero, on Friday, Nov. 15 in the Heritage Education Center at the museum.

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Dr. Jacob E. Butler, chairperson of the Division of Social Sciences, brought Mary Bethune Cookman to life in his moving presentation.

Brandon Brown, a senior history major who is interning at the museum, introduced Dr. Butler. To learn more about the museum and its programs send an email to info@ sumtercountymuseum.org.

Dr. Jacob Butler, left, with Mrs. Minnie Annie Rivers, director of the Sumter County Museum and senior, Brandon Brown

Co-op Prepares Seniors for Professional Social Settings

The Co-op Program sponsored a professional etiquette workshop for seniors on Oct. 24. Liz Stover, founder and executive director of Elite Manners School of Etiquette was the guest speaker.

Stover is certified in business and school etiquette.

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D e m o n s t r a t i n g

S e r v i c e Co-op Corp Shares Giving Spirit Co-op Corp gave back to the community during the Christmas holiday by providing meals to families from the Department of Social Services.

Pictured from left to right: Patricia Holman, friend with Jerell Wesley, Briana Bennett, James Oliver, friend, and Ashley Vinston. Not pictured are Brandon Brown, Ellis Clayton, and Kaynnera Capers.

Pan-Hellenic Reaches Out to Community ThePan-HellenicCouncil demonstratedtheirmission ofcommunityserviceduring the2013holidayseason. The councilprovided groceries for two in-need families at the North Hope Center for Thanksgiving. For the Christmas season the group

Morris College THE UPDATE

presentedtoystochildrenat theCrosswellFosterHome inSumter. ToysforTotsisan annual project implemented at Christmastime.

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Middle photo: front row, left to right , Emmitt Vogt, Chris Jones and Shanaka Hayward and Jarren Johnson. Second row, Raymond Hemingway, Shareka Simpson, Evan Robertson, Keith Werts, Hope Center Director, Mary Lee, Tyiesha Smith, Aposia Singleton, Desirae Lowery and Kerry Peterson.

Bottom photo: left to right, David Barnes, Kerri Peterson, Chris Jones, Volunteer Coordinator of Crosswell Children’s Home, Susie Alred, Desiraè Lowery, Terri Davis, Tyiesha Smith, and Tevin Hill

D e m o n s t r a t i n g C h a r a c t e r Athletes Are Champions of Character The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has named Morris College a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution for 20122013. This is the 12th consecutive year the college has earned the award.

Five core values are met by institutions earning the award: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.

Front row, left to right , Likil Mason, Diamond Jackson, Diamond Holmes, Bylee Hawkins, Tysheema Elmore, Tiara Howard, and Casmeyona Austin .

Back row, Tameka Harris, Hannah Thomas, Tykeria Green, Jayla Moon, Aaliayah Hill, Tiare Tatum and Ashley Jaggers.

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Front row, left to right, Frank Jared Charles, Fabian Maple, Clinton Chisolm, Avery Johnson, and Andreaus Canty. Back row, Dominque Howard, Marcus Mikell, John Nelson, Jermaine Mikell, Ramel Dials and MIchael James.

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H o m e c o m i n g

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2 0 1 4

President’s Brunch/Parents’ Day

H o m e c o m i n g

2 0 1 4

Morris College THE UPDATE

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News Briefs Glenmore and May Sharp Trust Donation

The Glenmore and May Sharp Trust donated $10,000 to Morris College in honor of the late Mr. Robert Glenmore Sharp. Mr. Sharp was owner and operator of Suburban Propane Gas, Inc., a company he began in 1947. With Sumter as its headquarters, the company grew into nine offices throughout South Carolina with more than 100 employees. In 1991, he merged the company with South Carolina Electric and Gas (SCANA Corporation).

President Richardson regarded Mr. Sharp as a good friend whose life was interwoven around helping people. Not only did he include the college among his many philanthropic interests and support, but this hardworking, persevering, and proficient businessman meritoriously served the citizens of Sumter and South Carolina with distinction. The contribution was given by his wife, Mrs. May B. Sharp, and family.

Canty Celebrates 45/50 Anniversary

The Dr. Ralph W. Canty, Sr. celebrated his 50th year in Christian ministry and his 45th year as pastor at Savannah Grove Baptist Church in Effingham, SC. The celebration, sponsored by his church family, culminated with a special worship service on Sunday, December 1.

Dr. Canty, a native of Sumter, S.C., received the B. A. degree from Morris College, the B. D. from the former Morris College School of Religion, the D. MIn. degree from Hood Theological Seminary and the honorary divinity degree from his alma mater.

Throughout his pastoral ministry, Canty has been a leader with vision. The current moderator of the Pee Dee Baptist Association, he has served as president of the South Carolina Baptist Congress of Christian Education, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. and the Black Concerned Clergy Association of Sumter. He is also affiliated with various civic, educational boards and organizations, including the Sumter School District Board of Trustees.

A former member of the college’s board of trustees and the South Carolina House of Representatives, his creativity and commitment is evident in his service and generosity. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including being named one of Ebony magazine’s “One Hundred Most Influential African Americans. The president/owner of Job’s Mortuary, Inc., Dr. Canty is married to Toye Jane Richburg Canty and is the father of five children.

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Rufus H. Mitchell Retires

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The Dr. Rufus H. Mitchell recently retired as the senior pastor of the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Starr, S.C. During a weekend retirement celebration on December 13-15, 2013, the honoree, along with his wife, was recognized for 53 years of dedicated service.

Born in Walhalla, SC, Dr. Mitchell received the B. A. degree from Morris College, the B. D. degree from the former Morris College School of Religion , the M.Ed. degree from the University of South Carolina, and the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity from his alma mater.

Dr. Mitchell has served as president of the Seneca River Congress of Christian Education and two terms as moderator of the Rocky River Baptist Association. A former member of the college’s board of trustees, he is currently in his third term as a member of the Anderson County Board of Education. A retired educator, he retired in 1994 from Tri-County Technical College. Dr. Mitchell is the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including holding the title of pastor emeritus of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church.

He is married to Addie Brown Mitchell, and they are the parents of two sons and one grandson.

President of Dillard University to Deliver 2014 Commencement Address The Annual Commencement Convocation for the Class of 2014 will be held at the Sumter County Civic Center on May 3. The address will be delivered by Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough who began his appointment as the seventh president of Dillard University on July 1, 2012. Previously, Dr. Kimbrough served as president of Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. Known as the Hip Hop President, he is one of the youngest college presidents in the nation. Prior to Philander Smith College, he served in administrative capacities at Albany State University, Old Dominion University, Georgia State University and Emory University. After graduating from the Benjamin E. Mays High School and Academy of Math and Science in Atlanta as the salutatorian and student body president, Kimbrough earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Georgia in 1989. He continued his education at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, completing a Master of Science in College Student Personnel Services in 1991, and in 1996 he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education from Georgia State University.

Dr. Kimbrough has maintained active memberships in several higher education organizations, including the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, Association of Fraternity Advisors, and Brothers of the Academy. He presently serves as chair of the archives, history, and public information committee of the United Negro College Fund, and is a past member of the board of directors. A 1986 initiate of the Zeta Pi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at the University of Georgia, Kimbrough was the Alpha Phi Alpha College Brother of the Year for the Southern Region and served as the Southern Region assistant vice president.

Based on his strong fraternity experience, Kimbrough has forged a national reputation as an expert on fraternities and sororities, with specific expertise regarding historically Black, Latin and Asian groups. Dr. Kimbrough has given over 500 presentations on fraternalism life at campuses and conferences across the country.

He is the author of the book Black Greek 101: The Culture, Customs and Challenges of Black Fraternities and Sororities. After five months, the book was an Essence magazine top 10 best seller, and is currently in its tenth printing.

Dr. Kimbrough has been recognized for his research and writings on HBCUs and African American men in college, including the creation of the Black Male Initiative at Philander Smith College that has been a model for similar programs. Kimbrough also has been noted for his active use of social media to engage students in articles by The Chronicle of Higher Education, CASE Currents, and Arkansas Life. He was cited in 2010 by Bachelorsdegree.com as one of 25 college presidents to follow on Twitter (@HipHopPrez). He is currently a member of the board of directors for the Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Arkansas United Methodist Foundation. He was named one of the people who made a difference in Arkansas in 2005 by the Arkansas Times newspaper, named by Powerplay magazine in 2006 as one of the 25 most influential African Americans in Arkansas, and listed by Arkansas Business as one of 40 under 40 in 2006. In 2007 SYNC Weekly included him as one of central Arkansas’s most notable residents, and Garden & Gun magazine in 2010 named him as one of five “rock climbers,” residents who prove Little Rock has plenty to brag about.

Dr. Kimbrough and his wife, Adria, have two children: Lydia Nicole and Benjamin Barack.

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Dr. Kimbrough was named the 1994 New Professional of the Year for the Association of Fraternity Advisors, and the 1998 National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Dissertation of the Year award runner-up. He was selected as a 2001 Nissan-ETS HBCU Fellow, and a 2002 participant in the Millennium Leadership Initiative sponsored by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. In 2009, he was named by Diverse Issues in Higher Education as one of 25 To Watch. Finally, in 2010, he made the coveted Ebony Magazine Power list of the 100 doers and influencers in the African American community, joining the likes of President and Mrs. Obama, Jay-Z, Richard Parsons, Tyler Perry, Debra Lee, Michael Jordan, and Tom Joyner.

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Student News Hey ward

Crowned

Morris College THE UPDATE

Miss Shanaka L. Hayward, a senior from Orangeburg, S.C. is Miss Morris College, 20132014. She was crowned on Friday, Oct. 18 in the Garrick-Boykin Human Development Center on the Morris College campus.

Hayward is the daughter of Rochelle Hayward and Alphonso Riley. She is a graduate of Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School. She entered Morris College in the fall of 2010. A mass communications major, she has plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career as an executive in advertising/marketing.

Hayward is very engaged in college life. She is on the Dean’s List, a member of Student Leaders, the Morris College Ambassadors and the Nu Gamma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She completed an internship at the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce.

Hayward was accompanied by attendants, Ashleigh Brown, a senior from Charleston, S.C. and Terri Davis, a senior from Sumter.

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Miss

Morris

College

Student News

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Student News Lovely, Hopkins, and Platt Crowned

Left to right, Derwin Platt, Jalee Lovely and Kimberly Hopkins with President Luns C. Richardson.

President Richardson had the honor of crowning Jalee Lovely, a senior from Bishopville, S.C., Miss Homecoming 2013 at the Pre-Fall Harvest Worship Service and Rally on November 21.

Kimberly Hopkins, a senior from Columbia, S.C. was crowned Miss Co-Ed. Lovely raised the highest funds in the competition for Miss Homecoming while Hopkins raised the second highest.

Derwin Platt, a sophomore from Duluth, Ga., was crowned Mr. Co-Ed. He raised the highest amount of money among the competitors for Mr. Co-ed.

DeKendrick Summerson Becomes Second Lieutenant

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Morris College Commissions 52nd Officer

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Parents, Mr. Willie Frazier and Mrs. Annette Frazier, pin their son at the ceremony.

DeKendrick G. Summerson of Mullins, S.C. was commissioned as a second lieutenant into the Quartermaster Corps of the Army National Guard on Friday, December 6. The ceremony was held in the O.R. Reuben Chapel on the Morris College campus.

Second Lieutenant Summerson completed the Leadership Development Assessment course at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Wash. in August of 2012. During his time at Lewis-McChord he served in several leadership roles as a cadet: platoon leader, squad leader and quick reaction force commander.

Faculty & Staff Ne w Fac ulty & Staf f Left, Dr. Karis Clark, assistant professor, in the Division of Education . Right , Todd Owens campus safety officer .

Left, Daniel Piram , campus safety officer. Right, Wayne Richbow, campus safety officer .

Fac ulty & Staf f Notes

Ms. Margaret Bailey, director of Career Services, was recently published in HBCU Careers Magazine.

Bailey’s feature, Community Service—“Finding Your Cause,” advocates for finding and using one’s passion to help community service projects and/or organizations.

Dr. Karis Clarke, (pictured above) assistant professor in the Division of Education, was recently published in the ASCD Express newsletter. Her article, Three Common Approaches to Teacher Leadership, describes approaches to teacher leadership and the implications for student achievement. ASCD was formerly the

Morris College THE UPDATE

Dr. Radman Ali, chairperson of the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Dr. Marc David, chairperson of the Division of Religion and Humanities, Dr. Vanessa Lancaster, director of Teacher Education, and Dr. Ann E. Trahanovsky-Orletsky, associate professor, attended “Making Accreditation Happen for You.” The conference was held at North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, N.C. in November. The conference provided technical assistance on the upcoming changes to the national certification of teacher education programs impacted by the newly formed Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

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Faculty & Staff Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Clarke has also been selected by NAEYC to serve as a conference reviewer for three years. She will be responsible for reviewing proposed sessions for the national conference. She recently attended the Annual South Carolina Association for the Education of Young Children Conference held in Columbia, S.C. at the Embassy Suites. The conference addressed meeting NAEYC Professional Preparation Standards for NAEYC Higher Education Accreditation.

Dr. Arland H. Compton, Jr., part-time college physician, was inducted into the Sumter Sports Hall of Fame in November for commitment, service and contribution to the success of Sumter High School athletics. Compton served as the school’s team physician from 1977 to 2000.

Mary Dow, serials librarian, attended the 33rd Annual Charleston Conference: Issues in Book and Serial Acquisition from November 6-9 in Charleston, S.C. The theme was “Too Much is Not Enough!”

Dr. Paul N. Ezeji, associate professor of Health Science, attended the 86th South Carolina Alliance for Health Physical Education and Dance Conference in Myrtle Beach, S.C. in November. The conference encouraged school and community collaboration.

Carol Fleury, reference librarian, attended the South Carolina Library Association South Eastern Library Association Joint Conference in Greenville, S.C., November 13-15. The theme was “Libraries Change Lives.” The sessions provided information on ideas and tools to improve patrons’ research.

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Dr. Gerald Polinsky, management specialist, presented at the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Legislative meeting held in Columbia, S.C. on Dec. 6. Polinsky spoke on Letter Writing Campaign: A Campus Perspective.

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K. David Singleton, director of the Upward Bound program, attended the 32nd Annual Conference of the Council for Opportunity in Education. The conference was held in Chicago in September. The theme of the conference was “Looking Back & Moving Forward.

Financial Report Summary

July 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013 Unrestricted and restricted contributions to the college from Private Sources total $662,298.78.

Total Received from Private Sources and Restricted Federal Grants is $4,330,055.78.

Unrestricted Contributions (Private Sources) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $. . . 623,515.43 ...

SC Baptist Churches and Associations $ 442,936.15 $ 91,535.08 Alumni Faculty, Staff and Students $ 37,347.20 $ 18,822.00 Out-of-State Churches $ 18,800.00 Trustees The Carolinas 2013 (Proceeds from the President's Educational Banquet, NBCUSA, Inc. in Charlotte, NC) Individuals Organization

$ $ $

12,500.00 1,525.00 50.00

Restricted Contributions (Private Sources) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$. . 38,783.35 UNCF (CESA) $ 14,545.00 Scholarship Contributions $ 23,038.35 Regular Endowment Contributions $ 1,200.00 Total Unrestricted and Restricted Contributions (Private Sources) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Federal Grants Restricted (Restricted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Title III HBCU Program $ 1,564,440.00 Title III SAFRA $ 752,692.00 DOE Environmental Management $ 719,940.00 Title IV Upward Bound Program $ 363,216.00 Title IV Student Support Services $ 267,369.00

$

662,298.78

$ 3,667,657.00

Total Restricted Federal Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 3,667,757.00

Total Gifts and Grants From July 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 4,330,055.78

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Alumni News Sumter Alumni Chapter Holds Annual Little Miss/ Master Pageant

Morris College THE UPDATE

Left to right, Lailah Primus, second runner-up; Asia Grant, winner; and Ariyelle Wells, first-runner up.

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The Sumter Alumni Chapter sponsored its annual Little Miss/Master Pageant on Oct. 26. The event was held in the Neal- Jones Auditorium. The fundraiser raised $40,303.50 for the Fall Harvest Rally.

The pageant winner is Asia Jene’ Grant. She is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Antwan (Stephanie) Grant. She is the granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. Willie (Gladys) Grant and Mr. & Mrs. Raymond (Joann) Alston. Asia is a nine year old honor student at Wynbrooke Theme School in Stone Mountain, Ga. She reported $18,500.00 at the pageant.

The first-runner up is Ariyelle CaLay Wells. She is the daughter of Mr. Arthur Wells & Ms. Kenyell Carson, the granddaughter of Ms. Leila Carson and the late Mr. Kenneth Carson. She is an eight-year-old third-grader at Lawrence Manning Academy. Ariyelle reported $8,360.00 Second runner-up is Lailah Christine Primus. She is the daughter of Mr. Jarvais Primus and Mrs. Tiffany PerkinsPrimus, the granddaughter of Mrs. Earnestine Primus and the late Mr. James Primus, Sr., Mrs. Veronica Perkins and Attorney & Mrs. Lynne Perkins. The four- year old attends kindergarten at Children for Christ Christian Academy in Decatur, Ga. Lailah reported $6,342.00.

Kimmora Muldrow is the daughter of Mr. Herman Muldrow and Ms. Stacey Wilson. She is a six-year-old firstgrader at R. E. Davis Elementary School in Sumter. S.C. She reported $4,234.00.

Noelle Kannise Bradford is the daughter of Minister Napolean & Dr. Karen H. Bradford. She is the granddaughter of Mr. Napoleon F. & Mrs. Ella Bradford and Mr. Clarence and Mrs. Irene Hilton. She is third-grade student at Millwood Elementary School in Sumter, S.C. Noelle reported $2,466.00.

Madisen Blair Winn-Dennis is the daughter of Ms. Melissa Dennis & Dr. Leon (Christine) Winn. The eleven-yearold sixth-grader attends Manning Elementary School in Manning, S.C. Madisen reported $170.00.

Jim Green, III is the son of Mr. & Mrs. Jim Green (Veronica). She is a six-year old first-grader at Pocalla Springs Elementary in Sumter, S.C. Jim reported $148.00.

Ken’sya Riley is the daughter of Ms. Melissa Riley. She is a five-year-old kindergartner at Pocalla Spring Elementary. Ken’sya reported $83.50 The 2012 winner Janaya Simone House was presented and assisted in the crowning ceremony. Ms. Bevlin A. Y. Collier served as chairperson for the program. Mr. Stanley Scriven is the president of the chapter.

Alumni News Sumter Alumni Chapter Holds Annual Little Miss/ Master Pageant More Fantastic Contestants

Noelle Bradford

Kimmora Muldrow

Ken’sya Riley

Madisen Winn-Dennis

Jim Green, III

. . . Pageant Highlights

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Alumni News Florence Alumni Chapter

Morris College THE UPDATE

The Florence Alumni Chapter held their annual fundraiser on November 3, 2013 at Monumental Baptist Church in Florence, S. C. Dr. Vandroth Backus is the pastor. Funds raised went toward the Fall Harvest Rally. The Morris College Gospel Choir was featured on the program.

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The chapter honored Mrs. Carolyn Jackson, Class of 1969; Mrs. Sadie Smith, Class of 1950 ( not pictured); and Dr. Mack Hines, Jr. , Class of 1980.

Honorees, Dr. Mack T. Hines, left, and Mrs. Carolyn Jackson .

Alumni Ne ws The Atlanta Alumni Chapter’s Annual Holiday Celebration Lithonia, Ga. , 12–14–13 Hilton Garden Inn Stonecrest

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Alumni News Class Notes Rev. Aaron Brown, Class of 2004, married Devora Simmons on Oct. 26 at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Charleston, S.C. A formal reception was held at the Charleston Convention Center.

Brown is the pastor of Unity Baptist Church in Eutawville, S.C. Eliza Myers Cave, Class of 1938, celebrated her 100th birthday on Dec. 27. Kline Mayor William Cave gave her the key to the city.

Camilla Cheeseboro, Class of 2005, was recently named Agent of the Year by the S.C. Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. She also earned the title of senior agent of the year from the Alston Wilkes Society of South Carolina.

Cheeseboro is a senior agent in Sumter County.

Darren Holmes, Class of 1996, has been promoted to program manager with Data Solutions & Technology Inc. in Lanham, Md. Holmes manages government and corporate customers.

Stephanie Jordan, Class of 2002, has been promoted to Santee Branch Manager at SAFE Federal Credit Union. She most recently served in the position of Branch support.

Jacques McCoy, Class of 2013, was recently featured in The Item’s newspaper for being the only male teacher at Rafting Creek Elementary School in Rembert, S.C. for the 2013-2014 school year. McCoy teaches fifth-grade math and science.

Yolonda Mitchell, Class of 1993, has been hired as the information systems and applications program manager at Guam Regional Medical City in Tamuning, GU. She will lead a team of clinical and systems analysts who will implement and support the healthcare organization’s EHR software applications.

Morris College THE UPDATE

Martin Quick, Class of 1992, was recently selected as a fellow for the Princeton Theological Seminary Inaugural Black Theology and Leadership Institute. He was one of 50 chosen from across the United States to be a part of the week-long program in Princeton, N.J. Quick is a currently a graduate student at Lenoir-Rhyne Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, S.C.

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Isaac Wilson, III, Class of 2011, has written and released, “The Bully and Me.” The children’s book shares a young boy’s experience with being bullied and his fruitless efforts to tell others. For details about the book, go to www.listen365. org.

Iva Mae Kirven Woods, Class of 1950, celebrated her 100th birthday on October 15, 2013. A formal celebration was held in her honor on November 10.

MEMORIALS: COLLEGE ALUMNI

James Albert passed away January 10, 2014 in Sumter, SC. He attended Morris College. A faithful member of Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, Mr. James owned and operated James Albert Trucking Company.

James C. “Jake” Boyce, Jr. ‘68 passed away November 20, 2013 in Spartanburg, SC. He was a retired agent with the SC Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services and a veteran of the United States Navy. He earned the Master of Divinity degree from Erskine Theological Seminary and pastored several churches as an ordained AME Zion minister.

In 1995, he established New Life Ministries of Spartanburg, Inc. and also started a free summer camp for children ages 5 to 15. Rev. Boyce previously served as chaplain of the Morris College National Alumni Association and chaired its worship committee. He was president of the Spartanburg Alumni Chapter at the time of his passing.

Juanita Swinton Gist ‘59 passed away September 25, 2013 in Sumter, SC. A dedicated educator, she began her distinguished career at Lower Lee County School in Lee County and concluded it at Hillcrest High School where she retired in 1990.

She furthered her education at Western Michigan in Kalamazoo, MI. The recipient of numerous teaching awards, Mrs. Gist touched the lives of many students throughout her life.

Janie Mae Harvin Green passed away October 19, 2013 in Sumter, SC. Mrs. Green was a well-known and highly respected seamstress and presser. An outstanding member of Beulah AME Church, she was exemplary in her service to God and people. She attended Morris College.

Esau Greene ‘87 passed away November 9, 2013 in Pinewood, SC. He resided in Brooklyn, NY where he was employed by the United States Postal Services.

Susanna Jones Isaac ‘45 passed away December 3, 2013 in Fredericksburg, VA. Elder Isaac taught for more than 35 years as an educator before retiring from the former Sumter County School District Two. She served in many capacities as a faithful member at Ebenezer Presbyterian Church (USA) in Sumter, SC. Darnella Dupree McCants ‘64 passed away November 30, 2013 in Fort Worth, TX. Mrs. McCants began her teaching career at Wilder Elementary School in Sumter and was a devout

Juanita Cain Nelson ‘55 passed away December 14, 2013 in Summerton, SC. Mrs. Nelson taught in Clarendon County School District One for 32 years before retiring in 1980. She was actively involved as a member of Laurel Hill AME Church.

Thomasena Hughes Peterson ‘49 passed away December 17, 2013 in Hartsville, SC. Mrs. Peterson was highly respected throughout the community as a gifted educator whose illustrious career in the Darlington County School System ended while a teacher at Washington Elementary School. After 39 years in the classroom, she continued tutoring students free of charge in her home and lovingly gave of herself to her students and her community. Among her many awards and recognitions, she received a Presidential Citation and was a Morris College Hall of Fame Inductee.

A member of the chorale during her student days, she enjoyed singing and listening to music. Mrs. Peterson was president of the Hartsville-Darlington Alumni Chapter, at the time of her passing, and invited the chorale to the Darlington County area each spring to perform. She was a tireless promoter of education and an avid supporter of and fundraiser for the college.

Dr. Richardson gave remarks during her funeral.

Arabella Hester Rich ‘55, a former trustee of Morris College and longtime president of the Anderson County Alumni Chapter, passed away September 1, 2013 in Anderson, SC. Her teaching career began in Sumter County and concluded in Anderson School District Five after 31 years of compassionate and committed service.

Dr. Rich was actively involved in the Baptist church throughout her life. Among her many years of service, she was president of the following organizations: YWA of the Rocky River Baptist Association, the State YWA, the Woman’s Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina, and the Progressive National Baptist Convention Women’s Department. She was an executive board member of the North American Baptist Women’s Union Baptist Alliance and the National Council of Churches of Christ, USA. She also served on several boards, including chairperson of the Board of Commissioners of the Anderson Housing Authority and the Benedict College Board of Trustees. She also served in numerous capacities of the teaching profession, including state vice president of the Association of Classroom Teachers.

Among her many recognitions as a distinguished educator and denominational and community leader, Morris College conferred upon her the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. Her name also appears on the student center located on campus. The MCNAA presented her with its Distinguished Alumni Award.

She was married to Dr. James O. Rich ‘55, pastor emeritus of St. Paul Baptist Church, Anderson, SC and past president of the Baptist E&M Convention of SC. Dr. Richardson gave an inspiring tribute during her funeral.

Rosa Lee Rich ‘61 passed away November 24, 2013 in Sumter, SC. Upon graduating from Morris College, she relocated to New York and was employed as a juvenile counselor for the City of New York. Ms. Rich was the sister of Dr. James O. Rich of Anderson, SC.

Morris College THE UPDATE

Ruth Johnson Hawkins passed away January 13, 2014 in Florence, SC. Her career as an educator lasted more than 30 years. Williams Jr. High School, Florence, was her longest teaching position. Mrs. Hawkins served as president of the Pee Dee Baptist Association Women’s Department and was affiliated with several fraternal organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mrs. Hawkins, an active member of Savannah Grove Baptist Church, was married to Rufus Hawkins ‘50 and was the sister of the late Westcott A. Johnson, a graduate of the college and a former president of the Baptist E&M Convention of SC and a former chairman of the Morris College Board of Trustees. She attended the college and furthered her education at South Carolina State University, Winthrop University and the University of South Carolina. Dr. Richardson presided at her funeral. Dr. Ralph W. Canty, Sr., pastor of the church, delivered the eulogy.

member at Union Station AME Church.

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Loree Drakeford Robinson ‘57 passed away November 10, 2013 in Garfield, NJ. Upon graduation, Mrs. Robinson moved to New Jersey and taught in the Patterson Public Schools for 42 years with distinction and dedication until retiring in 1999.

She was the widow of the Rev. Joseph J. Robinson ’57.

Christopher Walker ‘61, of Johns Island, SC, passed away August 30, 2013. He was the founder and owner of Walker’s Mortuary “Chapel of Peace.”

Respected throughout the community as a caring person, he enjoyed cooking and grilling. Mr. Walker was a family-minded individual who served families with integrity and loyalty.

Magnolia Robinson Williams of Sumter, SC, passed away August 24, 2013. Mrs. Williams attended the college in 1948. An icon of Rafting Creek Baptist

Church of Rembert, she vibrantly used her talents to help make a significant difference in the lives of so many people. Her sense of family impacted Sumter County and was shown through the several organizations she affiliated with and supported.

Innovative and proficient, she became president of Williams Funeral Home, Inc. during the illness and passing of her husband and partner, the Rev. Frank Edward Williams, Sr. She used her managerial skills to diversify the business while continuing its dignified and trusted services.

A great asset to the community and to the college, she was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including a presidential citation from the college.

Dr. Richardson gave remarks at her funeral on behalf of the community.

Hazel Herbert Willis ‘43 of Sumter, SC passed away December 9, 2013. He was a veteran of the United States Army during World War II. Following his honorable discharge at the end of his tour of duty, he was a corrections officer with the District of Columbia Department of Corrections for more than 35 years. He retired from that position at the rank of major.

Mr. Willis received the MCNAA Fund Raising Committee Award, the MCNAA Professional Alumnus Award and the Presidential Citation for his loyalty and commitment to the college.

In addition to being enthusiastically active with the MCNAA and the Sumter Alumni Chapter, he was energetically involved as a member of the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church where he served in various capacities.

MEMORIALS: COLLEGE FRIENDS Frank Butler passed away January 11, 2014. Rev. Butler pastored several SC churches, including First Washington Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC where he retired from in 2012. He was an active participant with the Baptist E&M Convention of SC, the NAACP and the Young People Christian Assembly at Benedict College. He earned a BS degree from Francis Marion University and a MDiv degree from Duke Divinity School.

Vivian Deborah Stephens Davis passed away October 18, 2013 in Richmond, VA. Formerly of Aiken, SC, she

was a minister and author who published a volume of inspirational poetry entitled, “Deep Water in a Shallow Well.” Minister Davis was the daughter of the late Rev. Augustus T. and Eunice Stephens.

Leslie W. Griffin, Sr. passed away December 31, 2013 in Sumter, SC. Chief Griffin served the Sumter Police Department as its chief from 1968 to 1984. He exhibited the demeanor of a true public servant. Morris College is honored to have known Chief Griffin and to call him a friend.

Mary Winkfield Solomon was funeralized August 30, 2013 in Columbia, SC. Formerly of Columbus, GA, Mrs. Solomon was a dedicated educator whose career began in Columbus. After moving to Columbia, SC in 1946, she taught at Howard Elementary School and retired after 30 years as a guidance counselor at W. A. Perry Middle School.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she was involved in numerous community organizations, including the Columbia Chapter Jack and Jill of America., Inc. She was married to the late Walker E. Solomon.

TRIBUTES RODNEY JOHNSON

August 1955 — October 2013

Morris College THE UPDATE

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Mr. Johnson was the director of the college’s Management Information Systems and Computer Center for almost 30 years. During that time, he grew to become very knowledgeable of and very resourceful in the information technology process and procedures at Morris College. Energetic, brilliant and professional, he eagerly assisted the college in its objectives to expand its infrastructure and to develop and implement an integrated college management information system.

His expertise and general good humor as director of the center were of tremendous service to the college.

Additionally, he coached cross country, track and field and assisted with the basketball team. Mr. Johnson will be missed.

JAY A. GROSS September 1947—September 2013 * * * * *

Mr. Gross knew the techniques and intricacies of photography, but it was his imagination and creativity that made his images leap out at you, engage you, and cause you to say, “Wow!” The pictures he took for several years for our recruitment publications were superb. They reflected the pride and dedication he had for his work. Though he will be missed, Morris College will always admire his brilliance and talents as an amazing fine-arts photographer.

S

te a D e Morris College h t e National Alumni Association v Sa

2014 Alumni Weekend April 10-13, 2014

Spartanburg Marriott

299 North Church Street, Spartanburg, SC (800) 327-6465 or (864) 596-1211 Special rate available until: March 31, 2014 Room rate—$114.00 per night plus tax (Free breakfast 2 per room)

Morris College THE UPDATE

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OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS MORRIS COLLEGE 100 West College Street Sumter, South Carolina 29150-3599

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